(Photo via Apple) Looking for the nearest COVID-19 vaccination center? Look no further than Apple Maps.
The updated application now features immunization sites from the online VaccineFinder service.
Simply navigate to the Find Nearby search menu or ask Siri "Where can I get a COVID jab?"
In-app cards include operating hours, addresses, and phone numbers, as well as a link to the provider's website, where users can learn more about available vaccines, and book appointments.
The initial rollout includes more than 20,000 locations, with additional venues coming soon.
Healthcare providers, labs, and other businesses not included in VaccineFinder can submit information on COVID-19 testing or vaccination sites directly to the Apple Business Register page for validation and possible display.
"The update is the latest effort for Apple to help users better navigate the pandemic and take the proper steps to protect their health," according to a company press release, which highlights other app functions like COVID testing locations and local business updates.
Photo via Apple Folks can also rely on Siri to identify outdoor dining options or provide a list of nearby restaurants offering takeout.
The smart assistant's audio briefs cover up-to-date pandemic news from trusted providers, and it can offer CDC guidance and resources when asked about coronavirus symptoms.
"Additionally, Apple released a mobility data trends tool from Apple Maps to support the impactful work happening worldwide to mitigate the spread of COVID-19," the company said.
"This mobility data may provide helpful insights to local governments and health authorities, and may also be used as a foundation for new public policies by showing the change in volume of people driving, walking, or taking public transit in their communities."
Rival Google Maps launched its first COVID features last year, collecting coronavirus information from businesses and providing users important travel information before they step outside.
It later introduced a COVID-19 layer highlighting the seven-day average of new cases per 100,000 people.
(Photo via Apple) Looking for the nearest COVID-19 vaccination center? Look no further than Apple Maps.
The updated application now features immunization sites from the online VaccineFinder service.
Simply navigate to the Find Nearby search menu or ask Siri "Where can I get a COVID jab?"
In-app cards include operating hours, addresses, and phone numbers, as well as a link to the provider's website, where users can learn more about available vaccines, and book appointments.
The initial rollout includes more than 20,000 locations, with additional venues coming soon.
Healthcare providers, labs, and other businesses not included in VaccineFinder can submit information on COVID-19 testing or vaccination sites directly to the Apple Business Register page for validation and possible display.
"The update is the latest effort for Apple to help users better navigate the pandemic and take the proper steps to protect their health," according to a company press release, which highlights other app functions like COVID testing locations and local business updates.
Photo via Apple Folks can also rely on Siri to identify outdoor dining options or provide a list of nearby restaurants offering takeout.
The smart assistant's audio briefs cover up-to-date pandemic news from trusted providers, and it can offer CDC guidance and resources when asked about coronavirus symptoms.
"Additionally, Apple released a mobility data trends tool from Apple Maps to support the impactful work happening worldwide to mitigate the spread of COVID-19," the company said.
"This mobility data may provide helpful insights to local governments and health authorities, and may also be used as a foundation for new public policies by showing the change in volume of people driving, walking, or taking public transit in their communities."
Rival Google Maps launched its first COVID features last year, collecting coronavirus information from businesses and providing users important travel information before they step outside.
It later introduced a COVID-19 layer highlighting the seven-day average of new cases per 100,000 people.
