The government appears to have hedged its bets on its  coronavirus tracking app by giving a contract to the Swiss firm Zuhlke to build iOS and Android-based contact tracing  apps for the NHS.

NHSX, the NHS’ tech development unit, has produced its own app – currently being trialled on the Isle of Wight – which does not use iOS or Android technology.

The NHSX app has caused controversy because it stores the data gleaned under the app on a central database which could then be abused.

Under the iOS/Android app the data is stored on the mobile device – which gives the owner of the device control over it.

There are also concerns that iPhones switch off Bluetooth if it is not being used, while the NHSX app needs Bluetooth to be on all the time.

The French government asked Apple if it would modify the Bluetooth switch-off feature for its own contact tracing  app. Apple said No. 
 
The contract with Zuhlke started on March 23rd with a September 16th end date.

It was published on the government website on May 5th at https://www.contractsfinder.service.gov.uk/Notice/cb8cc8c3-b7f1-4cca-b335-77f090f1c073

It is entitled: ‘NHSX Proximity (Contact Tracing) App and is worth £1.1 million