Apps on Google, Apple APIs not allowed to track location, indie software Aarogya Setu does
06 May, 2020
Apple and Google won't allow location tracking in software that use the API (needed to make apps) being jointly built by the two tech giants to help health agencies decrease the spread of the coronavirus.
However, the development is unlikely to have an impact on programs like Aarogya Setu.
Last month, Apple and Google had said they'll launch a thorough solution that includes application programming interfaces (APIs) and operating system-level technology to aid in enabling contact tracing.
Application program interface or API is a couple of functions and procedures used for building software and apps.
According to sources, the positioning history restriction would apply limited to apps that want to utilize this specific Google-Apple APIs, and can not impact any existing apps which have their own APIs for contact tracing.
This means the development is unlikely with an effect on Aarogya Setu, considering that it uses its APIs. Indian government's mobile application Aarogya Setu, developed for tracking coronavirus patients, has recorded about nine crore downloads. The application alerts people if anybody within their vicinity has tested positive for COVID-19.
Apple and Google, on Monday, published the COVID-19 Exposure Notification Terms of Service and policies to make sure transparency about how exactly the API will continue to work, and help developers understand the standards to utilize the API.
Putting it simple, they have spelt out the conditions and conditions for developers for using the API.
According to the policies, software made using the said API must be created by or for a government public health authority, and will only be used for efforts on COVID-19 response. Also, the software can collect limited necessary data and can only use that information for COVID-19 response efforts.
All other uses of data, including targeting advertising, is not permitted. Also, the applications are not allowed to seek permission to gain access to location services.
Source: www.deccanchronicle.com