Contact tracing apps help flag when users have come in close enough contact with those infected to catch COVID-19. But a tracing app needs a critical mass of folks using it to be effective – at least 60% of the population, by some estimates.
Apple and Google thought they could lower the bar by pooling their communities – in other words, just about everyone with a smartphone – with a single, unified framework. But even that can’t overcome our mistrust. According to a recent study, just 29% – less than half the number of Americans needed – would consider using COVID-19 contact tracing apps. The most common reason for refusing to participate? Privacy, of course.
It’s too early to say whether the app will reach critical mass, though prospects are somewhat brighter across the Atlantic due to stricter privacy laws.
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