With the COVID-19 pandemic, some interesting changes are coming to iOS.
In addition to Face ID changes for mask usage, a feature spotted in the new iOS 13.5 beta allows for sharing Medical ID information.
The feature prompts users to review their Medical ID settings when opening the Health app, introducing options to share Medical ID info during an emergency call and on the Lock screen.
Given the text accompanying the feature, enabling the option sense Medical ID information to dispatchers who answer emergency calls. Apple says it will provide emergency services personnel with key info like allergies, language, and medical conditions.
The feature can be toggled on or off when adjusting medical settings after installing the update. It can also provide access to Medical ID information even when the iOS device has been locked.
According to Apple, when the Medical ID sharing feature is enabled, a call or text to emergency services shares location and encrypted Medical ID info with Apple.
The company has stated that the feature can use your location to determine whether Enhanced Emergency Data is supported in your area, and if so, the Medical ID info is forwarded to a partner for delivery to medical services.
The feature can also be entirely disabled through the following path:
Emergency Calls & SOS in Settings > Privacy > Location Services > System Services
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via MacRumors