Exposure Notifications – Apple and Google Share Concepts and Sample Code

Apple and Google have provided additional resources for developers working with the new COVID-19 Exposure Notification API. Exposure Notification framework is being developed by both companies to provide a reliable way of notifying individuals in case of potential exposure to coronavirus.

The first version of Exposure Notifications API was released last week along with beta updates. On Monday, Apple and Google provided new sample resources for developers. These include sample UI assets and codes for both Android and iOS. These are starting points for developers to work on, and boost their application development process.

Sample UI for Exposure Notifications

Apple and Google shared sample design concepts for both Android and iOS platforms. These designs provide an idea of what notifications and settings will look like within the apps, once they are available for public use. However, these apps will widely vary on whichever public health authority is working on it. In the shared screenshots, developers can clearly grasp on how to use the tool for welcoming users to their exposure notification apps.

These designs also shows how users will be able to manage the notifications system on their phones. There was a new toggle in iOS 13.5 which allows users to manage COVID-19 exposure notifications. Users will have to enable this feature manually as the notifications are completely opt-in.

New Policies for using the API

The two companies have also released a set of policies that any developer working with the API must follow. Any app which is not in accordance with these new policies will not be approved for use. These include the following requirements for developers:

• The app must be for the use of a government health authority and can only be used for responding to cases of COVID-19.
• Ask for the consent of the user to employ the API.
• Ask for the consent of the user before sharing any positive results with the public health system.
• Gather the minimum amount of information necessary. Apps are forbidden to use the info for advertisement or any other purposes.
• There can only be one app per country.

The companies say that they will continue working on updates for their software and kits for software development. Lastly, it is important to note that the sample reference apps released by the companies with not be available to users at any point. The companies are making them available to developers with full source codes to develop their own apps for responding to COVID-19 in a timely manner.