• Forums
  • Shop
  • iPhone 13
  • AirPods Deals
  • iPad Deals
  • Best Apple Watch
  1. Home
  2. /
  3. News
Another one

Canada launches contact-tracing app built with Apple/Google technology

Canada joins others in implementing Apple and Google's tech to fight COVID-19.
Joe Wituschek
18 Jun 2020

Apple and Google Partner On COVID-19 Contact Tracing TechnologySource: Google

What you need to know

  • Canada has announced a nationwide contact-tracing app.
  • The app is built using Apple and Google's exposure notification technology.
  • It will launch with beta testing in Ontario.

Justin Trudeau, Canada's Prime Minister, announced today that it is launching a nationwide contact-tracing app to help its citizens stay safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

Reported by iPhone in Canada, the Prime Minister said that the app will allow users to report if they are infected and that those who were in proximity of them will be notified that they were in contact with someone who tested positive.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces a new 'completely voluntary' contact tracing app will begin testing in Ontario. Read more: https://t.co/hJQsokr4Wn pic.twitter.com/GSwNTObtVE

— CTV News (@CTVNews) June 18, 2020

Trudeau announced that the app will launch with testing in Ontario, but that he expects it to be available to all Canadians in "the coming weeks".

"There are already a number of other provinces, including BC, who are working with us on this, but it will be available to everyone in the coming weeks."

Canada's contact-tracing app uses the exposure notification technology developed by Apple and Google. This technology uses Bluetooth, rather than GPS, to track instances of exposure between people. It also ensures anonymity for those reporting themselves as infected. Canada's app was built by Shopify, Blackberry, and the Government of Ontario.

"The contact-tracing app was developed by Shopify, BlackBerry and the Government of Ontario and will be voluntary for people to use, while led by the government's Canadian Digital Service initiative. The B.C. government has also been working with contact tracing app partners on the matter as well."

Canada joins a number of other countries that have opted to use Apple and Google's decentralized approach to contact-tracing in order to protect user privacy and encourage widespread adoption. The UK also just announced that it was abandoning its centralized approach and opting for Apple and Google's solution.

Nintendo recap: Stock controversy and Zelda port rumors
From the Editor's desk

Nintendo recap: Stock controversy and Zelda port rumors

This week we got some bad news for a game's collector's edition and also learned of controversy surrounding a purchase of Nintendo stock. Plus, Zelda rumors continue to fly.

How to use Apple's Accessibility Assistant shortcut
A more accessible world

How to use Apple's Accessibility Assistant shortcut

Apple released new versions of their Accessibility Assistant shortcut for Mac and Apple Watch, joining the iPhone & iPad version. We cover how the shortcut works, plus provide links to the Accessibility shortcuts available in the Gallery.

Do game sequels need to reinvent the wheel every time?
womp womp

Do game sequels need to reinvent the wheel every time?

Adding new things to every sequel isn't sustainable, but taking too much away is equally disappointing.

Prop up your MacBook in style with one of these stands
💻 👍 ❤️

Prop up your MacBook in style with one of these stands

Looking for a stellar stand for your MacBook or MacBook Pro? It's more than just a way to show off your toy: It can help optimize space, reduce desk clutter, help with storage, and more.

Keep in Touch

Sign up now to get the latest news, deals & more from iMore!

I would like to receive news and offers from other Future brands.

I would like to receive mail from Future partners.

No spam, we promise. You can unsubscribe at any time and we'll never share your details without your permission.

  • News
  • COVID-19
Joe Wituschek

Joe Wituschek

Joe Wituschek has been in the technology industry for over a decade. Formerly Apple, Joe now covers the company as a news writer for iMore. Connect with Joe on Twitter @joewituschek.

  • iPhone
  • iPad
  • Apple Watch
  • Mac
  • Apple TV
  • Reviews
  • How To
  • HomeKit
  • Forums

Other Categories

  • About Us
  • Newsletter
  • Fitness
  • Apps
  • Gaming
  • Deals
  • Advertising Inquiries
  • Licensing and Reprints
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Android Central
  • Windows Central
  • Thrifter
  • TechnoBuffalo
  • MrMobile
Log in or Sign up
  • t
  • f
  • y
  • i
  • r

Brightness

  • © Future US, Inc.
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • About Us
  • Careers
  • Licensing
  • External Links Disclosure
  • Accessibility Statement
  • © Future US, Inc.
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • About Us
  • Careers
  • Licensing
  • External Links Disclosure
  • Accessibility Statement