Apple Maps has been updated to show nearby COVID-19 vaccine providers in the United States. The information can be ascertained either by looking at the Apple Maps app or by asking Siri for details.
In addition to highlighting the location of vaccine providers, Apple also shares information about location operating hours and more.
How to Find Your Nearest Vaccination Location
In a press release announcing the update, Apple notes that:
"The Apple Maps placecard for each vaccine site will include the operating hours, address, phone numbers, and a link to the provider's website, where Maps users can learn more about available vaccines and book appointments. The initial rollout includes more than 20,000 locations, with Apple adding more sites in the coming weeks."
The map data in question comes from VaccineFinder, a free online service that was developed by Boston Children's Hospital. More location information will continue to be added over the coming weeks as it becomes available.
To access the details, either search for nearby COVID-19 vaccination locations in the Search Bar on Apple Maps or by selecting COVID-19 Vaccines in the Find Nearby menu. Alternatively, you can ask Siri, "Where can I get a COVID vaccination?"
Any healthcare providers, businesses, or labs can submit information relating to COVID-19 testing or locations for vaccination using the Apple Business Register page.
Apple's Steps to Battle Coronavirus
Since the coronavirus pandemic broke, Apple has taken multiple steps to help battle it. On the technology front, it notably teamed up with Google parent company Alphabet to release an API for contact tracing. Apple has also donated tens of millions of face masks, and face shields around the world to help protect against the spread of coronavirus.
As with any other business, Apple has experienced challenges as a result of the pandemic---even though its overall market cap has increased during the period. Apple employees have mostly been working from home during the time, the launch of the iPhone 12 series was delayed due to manufacturing challenges, and Apple Stores were shuttered for many months.
The Vaccine Rollout
Fortunately, things now seem to be headed in the right direction as far as the rollout of vaccinations around the world is concerned. Thanks to Apple's latest Apple Maps update, now it's even easier to find where your nearest vaccination location is.
In addition to helping you find vaccination locations, Siri can also rapidly identify outdoor dining options, and provide a list of nearby restaurants offering takeout---for vaccine celebration purposes, that is.
