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Apple adds COVID-19 vaccination location tools to Siri, Apple Maps

Here’s hoping this comes in handy.

Apple on Tuesday announced that the company has added COVID-19 vaccination location support into Siri as well as Apple Maps. Users in the U.S. can ask Siri or search within Apple Maps to locate a provider. Users are then told the location’s operating hours and provided with links to other important information.

COVID-19 vaccine location information is powered by VaccineFinder. This is a free, online service that the Boston’s Children Hospital developed.  All users have to do is select COVID-19 Vaccines in the Find Nearby menu in the Search bar in Apple Maps or ask Siri “Where can I get a COVID vaccination?”

There’s also a phone card within Apple Maps for each site, as well as the site’s operating hours, address, website link, and phone numbers. There is also a link to the provider’s website, providing users with information about available vaccines and booking appointments.

The tool is initially being rolled out in 20,000 locations, and healthcare providers, labs, or other businesses can submit information on COVID-19 testing or vaccination locations via the Apple Business Register page. This information is then validated and could be displayed to users.

If you’ve had a chance to try the service, please let us know about your experience in the comments.

Via The Mac Observer, VaccineFinder, and Apple