Apple has started displaying COVID-19 testing sites in Maps. People in all 50 states and Puerto Rico can use Apple’s default navigation app to quickly find a place to get checked, whether it’s a hospital, urgent care clinic, pharmacy or dedicated testing site. The facilities also fall under a new “COVID-19 Testing” search category that’s prioritized alongside other essentials like groceries and healthcare.
The listings should include details on what you’ll need to know before going in, such as any requirements for appointments or referrals.
The news comes shortly before Apple and Google release their beta contact tracing system and reflects the sudden shift in priorities for mobile OS developers. They’re realizing that COVID-19 could be a practical concern for a while to come, and mobile technology may well play a critical role in helping society recover.
Last week, Tim Cook announced that Apple has donated more than 20 million masks to healthcare professionals around the world, and is designing and donating face shields as well. Apple launched a COVID-19 app to help its customers respond appropriately to symptoms, in line with CDC guidance. We have also seen Apple donate tens of millions of dollars to coronavirus related charities.
