DTA releases COVIDSafe update

The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) has released the newest update of the COVIDSafe application, introducing improvements to the security and stability of the app.

Security improvements include the introduction of guidance about Bluetooth pairing to help individuals to make decisions about their privacy, as well as improvements to strengthen security for Android users.

The latest update incorporates new code from the UK's NHS (National Health Service) App designed to improve Bluetooth performance on iOS devices.

The update also introduces additional accessibility functionality, including voiceover functionality and improved recognition of buttons, headings and checkboxes. The contrast between text and background has also been expanded to improve readability.

Meanwhile the DTA is working with both Apple and Google on further enhancements that will improve COVIDSafe's performance.

The latest release comes 10 days after the DTA released the source code of the COVIDSafe app on GitHub. The DTA plans to accelerate the release of updated source code from new versions of the app to within a few days of the release of the app itself.

The agency is continuing to invite feedback from users and technology experts based on reviews of the source code and their experience with the app. The DTA is taking an iterative approach to the app and plans to release regular updates throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

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