Apple and Google are working to build a COVID-19 Tracker

Not everyday we see rival companies working hand-in-hand, but due to this pandemic, two of the biggest rivals, Google and Apple set aside their differences and are jointly making a COVID-19 Tracker.

Both companies will release APIs (Application Programming Interface) in May that is able to work with both Android and iOS. They say that the app both companies are building is to build a secure form of contact tracing. 

According to Apple, privacy, transparency and consent are the utmost importance and are working well with stakeholders to make the app possible and that they are publishing their reports/work for others to analyze

Across the world, multiple companies and health officials are working together to defeat COVID-19, and end the pandemic for the world's benefit. The tracker that is jointly made by Google and Apple can help track the spread of the virus by telling users if they, the users, suspect someone who is infected and has contact with them, or if they are sick themselves. 

Contact Tracing is a vital step in preventing the virus to spread any worse. One example of successful contact tracing is in South Korea, where they prevented the virus from spreading outside their own borders.

The tracker will rely on Bluetooth services which is normally used for short-distance communication between devices. When one is tested positive for the virus, they can tell this on the app, and then people near that person in the previous 14 days will be alerted. However, fear not, as your own information remains private.

Apple and Google will notify you when the app is available, where it can be downloaded into Apple's App Store and Google's Play Store respectively.

Sources: Apple.com, TechnologyReview.com