Apple, Google Team Up to Develop Contact Tracing Software

Rival tech companies, Apple and Google, are reportedly working together in order to develop contact tracing software. Contact tracing is “the process of identifying persons who may have come into contact with infected persons” and in the past has shown to help slow the spread of infectious diseases. Now, Apple and Google are attempting to develop software that will help COVID-19 patients track those they may have recently come into contact with and notify those who may have been exposed. The companies are diligently working with governments and public health experts to bring the app to life. Guidelines for the app include the exclusion of ads and protections in place which will prevent the companies from collecting any data from users. Presently, a contact tracing app only exists in Australia and is reportedly doing well. Across the pond, companies in the UK are also working to develop similar software.