Corona-Warn-App

The Corona-Warn-App is a COVID-19 contact tracing app used for digital contact tracing in Germany. Despite early concerns over privacy and data security, of 1 July 2020 it had been downloaded by over 14 million persons.[1] Experts believe that time saved by using the app can be critical for improving the effectiveness contract tracing efforts.[2]

Corona-Warn-App
Developer(s)SAP and Deutsche Telekom
Initial release16 June 2020 (2020-06-16)
Stable release(s)
Android1.2.0 / 10 August 2020 (2020-08-10)
iOS1.2.0 / 11 August 2020 (2020-08-11)
Repository
Operating systemAndroid and iOS
TypeCOVID-19 app
LicenceApache License
Websitewww.coronawarn.app/ 

Use of the app is voluntary and the government says the app complies with Germany's strict privacy laws. It works by using Bluetooth to exchange codes with app users that are within 1.5 meters of each other for a period of at least 10 minutes. Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 can share this information voluntarily with the app. Other app users are then notified about when, how long and at what distance they had contact with the infected person within a 14 day period. Testing is available for users on a voluntary basis. Employers can require that Corona-Warn be installed on company phones, but can not compel its use on private phones.[3]

The open source app, which cost €20m to develop, is intended to supplement human contact tracing efforts which Germany put in place in February, during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. Virologists say at least 60% of Germans must use it for it be effective. The effort has been supported by billboard and broadcast advertisements in cooperation with the German Football Association (DFB) and prominent companies.[2]

The app only works in Germany, and Jens Spahn, Federal Minister of Health, has said the development of a Europe-wide system is a future goal.[2]

References
  1. "Is Germany's 'Corona-Warn-App' a success? | Studio Berlin". KCRW. July 1, 2020.
  2. Connolly, Kate (June 16, 2020). "Germany appeals to nation to download coronavirus app" – via www.theguardian.com.
  3. "COVID-19 Germany: The New Corona-Warn-App – What Employers Need to Know". JD Supra.


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