Apple has released a new iOS beta which allows users to opt in to contact tracing systems without the need for an app.
The beta for iOS 13.7, available to developers now, builds on the contact tracing API developed jointly between Apple and Google and released with iOS 13.5 in May.
“iOS 13.7 lets you opt-in to the COVID-19 Exposure Notifications system without the need to download an app. System availability depends on support from your local public health authority. For more information see covid19.apple.com/contacttracing,” the company said in notes to testers.
While users will now be able to opt in to the notifications without an app from a public health authority, one will still be needed to verify positive cases. Australia’s system is not using the Apple-Google API, with deputy Chief Medical Officer Nick Coatsworth saying in June that it does not provide the details of potential exposures to tracing teams.
