Colombia had to abandon contact tracing from its coronavirus app because it didn't work properly
Colombia has removed the contact-tracing feature from its official coronavirus information app after the feature experienced glitches.
Contact tracing involves identifying, testing, and isolating people exposed to the virus before they spread it to others, something that governments globally have said is vital to keep their economies safely opened until a vaccine exists. Apps that tap the Bluetooth sensors in smartphones to detect encounters with those who test positive could speed the process, experts say.
But Colombia's struggle to use alternative technology highlights the challenges that await governments reluctant to accept Apple's and Google's terms. But Munoz said Colombia encountered multiple challenges with the contact tracing feature that relied on HypeLabs, including inaccuracies in logging contacts using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Colombia is one of several governments that has been hoping to gather such location data for use detecting coronavirus hotspots where businesses may need to be shut down or deep cleaned.Other developers are moving ahead to build contact tracing apps without Apple-Google technology. The Silicon Valley giants are authorizing their tools only for government contact-tracing apps. But several developers told Reuters they are fielding requests from large businesses that want apps for their workplaces.
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