How Apple and Google will Track Coronavirus via Bluetooth

Apple and Google are developing a voluntary coronavirus tracking system for iOS and Android operating systems. With the new applications, users will be able to share data via Bluetooth Low Energy. While the work was continuing, it was clear how the coronavirus would be followed within the scope of the project.

Technology giants are also taking important steps in the fight against coronavirus. Finally, Apple and Google announced that they are developing a coronavirus tracking system for iOS and Android operating systems . The new app will enable users to share data via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and apps approved by healthcare organizations.

Details about how the application will work were a matter of curiosity. According to the shared information, one of the main components of the system will be the proximity profile (PXP) of Bluetooth LE, the basic technology that Bluetooth uses for device discovery and monitoring. By measuring how much power is received from a Bluetooth radio signal (RSSI value), it can be estimated how far someone is. The application can be compared to Apple AirPods' operating system in order to connect with a nearby device.

Coronavirus tracking system from Apple and Google:

The issue Apple and Google will be working on in the coming weeks will be on the level of sensitivity and range, since it will not be useful to notify everyone about the contact with someone who has been infected with coronavirus within 100 meters . On the other hand, it does not help if the phones warn within a few centimeters.

The range limitations of Bluetooth LE , however, can be advantageous, especially in helping to alert the virus. On the other hand, Bluetooth already offers a better solution than QR codes used in countries like South Korea.

So much so that it has the capacity to work at a greater distance than optical scanners required by Bluetooth, QR or barcode technology . Considering that distance is an important part in preventing the spread of the virus, technology that does not require users to approach patients or their phones will also offer a plus.