Apple and Google have agreed to work together on software to trace people infected with Covid-19 and their contacts. They are releasing APIs supporting Bluetooth and cryptography on smartphones running the iOS and Android systems, to help governments and health agencies reduce the spread of the virus. According to a joint statement, user privacy and security are "central to the design".
Apple earlier partnered with the US government on an app to help people recognise Covid-19 symptoms and find help if needed. Google has been active as well providing its location data to help governments track the effectiveness of cofinement measures.
Many countries are now looking to develop contact tracing apps to help stem the spread of the virus. A Bluetooth low energy protocol often is used to broadcast the person's status and alert others to contact. The two largest developers of phone software said they would be launching a "comprehensive solution" that includes APIs and operating system-level technology to assist in enabling contact tracing.
First, in May, both companies will release APIs that enable interoperability between Android and iOS devices using apps from public health authorities. These official apps will be available for users to download via their respective app stores.Second, in the coming months, Apple and Google will work to enable a broader Bluetooth-based contact tracing platform by building this functionality into the underlying platforms. This is a more robust solution than an API and would allow more individuals to participate, if they choose to opt in, as well as enable interaction with a broader ecosystem of apps and government health authorities.
To encourage transparency and privacy in the apps, the companies pledged to to publish information about the work and work with interested stakeholders on developing the technology.
As part of this partnership, Google and Apple are releasing initial draft technical documentation including Bluetooth and cryptography specifications and framework documentation.
