Apple HealthApp (Photo : Facebook)
A new MIT Technology Review report implies that Apple is teaming with scientists to develop a new Cupertino ResearchKit app. The DNA test app would allow iPhone users to test their genetic code.
The new ResearchKit platform from Cupertino allows physicians and scientists to collect data through smartphone apps. Similarly, users could collect genetic data from Apple medical ResearchKit apps.
Apple's academic partners would gather and test DNA code. The data would likely then be saved in iCloud, and some findings might appear on the iPhone screen of a consumer.
MIT cited someone with "knowledge" of Apple's plans, revealing that its goal is to allow users to "show and share" DNA test data to other people. They include doctors, researchers, scientists, friends, and relatives.
Cupertino introduced ResearchKit in March, giving users the option to allow health and fitness apps to talk with each other. Thousands of iPhone owners quickly registered for medical research studies.
Software via the Apple Health App can access data such as weight, glucose levels, and blood pressure. It can also request other data, such as access to iPhone's gyroscope, microphone, and GPS sensors.
The first ResearchKit apps include studies for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, asthma, breast cancer, and Parkinson's disease, according to PC Mag. A new Apple app for DNA testing could be next.
However, Apple's medical mobile apps do not make it the first tech giant to enter the genetic world. Google introduced Calico in 2013, which attempts to unlock the human genetic code. Also, the IBM Watson supercomputer was used to provide observations based on a user's genes.
Apple has not made any official announcements about a future DNA test app, according to Engadget. However, the company has reportedly planned app-based studies at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
