Apple and Google Join Forces to Build COVID-19 Contact Tracing System
Apple and Google are collaborating on a Bluetooth-based contact tracing solution to help public health agencies slow the spread of COVID-19 while prioritizing user privacy.
Apple and Google partner to develop a comprehensive COVID-19 contact tracing system that uses Bluetooth technology to help governments and health agencies reduce the spread of the virus. Public health officials identify contact tracing as a valuable tool to contain the pandemic, prompting the tech giants to combine their resources to build a secure solution. Privacy, transparency, and user consent remain central to the design of this joint initiative.
The two-phase rollout begins in May with the release of interoperable APIs that allow Android and iOS devices to communicate through official public health apps. Users download these apps from their respective app stores to participate in the voluntary tracking program. This initial step provides health authorities with the immediate tools they need to monitor and notify individuals of potential virus exposure.
In the following months, Apple and Google plan to integrate this Bluetooth-based contact tracing functionality directly into their underlying operating systems. This deeper platform integration offers a more robust solution than a standard API, enabling broader participation and seamless interaction with various health apps. The companies pledge to publish openly about their work as they consult with developers, governments, and health providers to combat the global crisis.