Earlier today, Apple seeded the first beta of iOS 15.1 to developers. And, as is typical, Apple is making some changes and improvements to the software. The pre-release version of the next update to the mobile operating system adds one definitely noteworthy feature to the mix. Storing vaccination cards for COVID-19 right on the device.
Today, Apple issued an update for developers that informs them that iOS 15.1 supports uploading COVID-19 vaccination status to the Health app. Once that information is uploaded to the Health app, that information can then be shared to the Wallet app as a vaccination card. That card can then be presented when necessary, including a scannable QR code.
This update, barring any changes on Apple’s part, should go live to the public whenever Apple launches iOS 15.1.
Per today’s developer update:
With iOS 15, users can download and store verifiable health records, including COVID-19 vaccinations and test results, in the Health app. Verifiable health records in the Health app are based on the SMART Health Cards specification. Users can choose to share verifiable health records stored in the Health app with approved third-party apps requesting this information, like airlines, event venues, and other businesses that facilitate in-person interactions. And in an upcoming software update, they can also choose to add verifiable COVID-19 vaccination records as a vaccination card in Apple Wallet to present to businesses, venues, and more.
Organizations that issue SMART Health Cards will soon be able to use a new button to let users know that they can securely download and store their vaccination information in the Health app and quickly add and present it from Wallet. Artwork and usage guidelines will be available soon.
This feature, when it it’s live to the public, will be dependent on individual state support, so that may take some time.