Apple and Google are now working in collaboration in order to enhance COVID-19 contact tracing. The project will be a number of application programming interfaces or APIs. The two tech giants will use Bluetooth-based COVID-19 contact tracing methods by integrating support into the operating system of a device. Additionally, the two organizations will work with stakeholders to address privacy concerns. Google and Apple will also publish information about their work.
The two companies released a statement about the efforts, "Through close cooperation and collaboration with developers, governments and public health providers, we hope to harness the power of technology to help countries around the world slow the spread of COVID-19 and accelerate the return of everyday life."
Tech-Integrated Contact Tracing
Apple and Google Announced a COVID-19 Contact Tracing Partnership
Trend Themes
1. Bluetooth-based COVID-19 Contact Tracing - Opportunity to develop innovative Bluetooth-based contact tracing solutions to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
2. Tech-integrated Public Health Solutions - Disruptive potential for integrating technology into public health systems to enhance contact tracing efforts.
3. Collaborative Development of Contact Tracing Apis - Opportunity for developers to collaborate with Apple and Google to create advanced contact tracing APIs for more efficient tracking and monitoring of COVID-19 cases.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare - Disruptive innovation opportunity for healthcare industry to implement tech-enabled contact tracing solutions for more effective disease control.
2. Mobile Technology - Opportunity for mobile technology industry to create contact tracing apps and integrate them into operating systems to support Bluetooth-based contact tracing methods.
3. Data Privacy and Security - Emerging industry focused on developing advanced privacy and security measures for contact tracing applications to address concerns and protect users' data.