Apple's iOS 12.5 update brings COVID-19 notifications to older iPhones

Apple's recent release of iOS 12.5 brings with it an important new feature for those toting older iPhones – COVID-19 Exposure Notifications.

Previously only available on devices running iOS 14 or newer, this new iOS 12.5 release means people with an iPhone 5s or newer can be notified when they come into contact with someone confirmed to be carrying COVID-19.

iOS 12.5 lets you opt-in to the COVID-19 Exposure Notifications system for your iPhone. System availability depends on support from your local public health authority. For more information see covid19.apple.com/contacttracing

The feature, which is a joint effort between Apple and Google, provides users a notification that they have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus, allowing them to then self-isolate and seek a test themselves.

Across the world, governments and health authorities are working together to find solutions to the COVID‑19 pandemic, to protect people and get society back up and running. Software developers are contributing by crafting technical tools to help combat the virus and save lives. In this spirit of collaboration, Google and Apple are announcing a joint effort to enable the use of Bluetooth technology to help governments and health agencies reduce the spread of the virus, with user privacy and security central to the design.

Those with older iPhones will see the new iOS 12.5 update available via the usual mechanism.