Apple announced today that the latest update of Apple Maps includes vaccine locations from VaccineFinder, a site by Boston Children’s Hospital that provides information on vaccine eligibility and availability. People can use Apple Maps to search for near vaccination sites or use Siri and ask, “Where can I get a COVID vaccination?”
As of the moment, more than 20,000 locations are listed, with more to be added in the coming weeks.
In Apple Maps, vaccine sites will show the operating hours and contact information, as well as a link to the provider’s website to look for vaccine availability and appointment booking.
With the latest update, Apple joins the band of tech companies that offers numerous ways for people to check their eligibility, locate vaccination sites, and make vaccination appointments.
Facebook also announced that it plans to add VaccineFinder information to its COVID Information Center. The update will show users when and where they can get vaccinated, as well as provide links to make appointments.
The COVID Information Center will soon be available on Instagram, as well as working on expanding government and health authority WhatsApp chatbots that will assist people in registering for vaccines.
Google also announced that users can use Business Messages in Google Maps and Google search to contact pharmacies owned by Albertsons Companies — including Safeway, Jewel-Osco, Vons, Albertsons, Acme, Shaw’s, and Tom Thumb — and inquire on vaccine eligibility, availability, and appointment booking.
The government plans to release its vaccine-finding website by May 1st and announced that all adults residing in the US will be eligible for vaccination. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 28% of adults in the US have received their first vaccine dose.
