APPLE has unveiled a number of promotions to help raise money for HIV/AIDS work in developing countries, including an update to Apple Pay and the App Store.
Apple has taken the wraps off a number of promotions for World AIDS Day.
The US technology company will donate $1 to (RED) for every purchase made using Apple Pay at an Apple Store, on apple.com/uk or through the Apple Store app.
To use Apple Pay, simply Double-Click on the Home Button on your iPhone. If you have set-up the contactless payment solution, your default credit or debit card should appear on screen.
Simply hold the iPhone close to the contactless reader and touch the Touch ID fingerprint scanner to authenticate.
For those who were thinking of making some holiday purchases on any of these platforms anywhere, it’s a simple way to contribute to the HIV charity.
App Store visitors around the world will also notice a takeover of the Today tab, which now features stories dedicated to the cause including a behind-the-scenes look at how developers are supporting (RED).
Gaming developer King is also rolling out limited-edition bundles across its popular titles — Candy Crush Saga, Candy Crush Jelly Saga and Candy Crush Soda Saga — with all proceeds from those in-app purchases going to the Global Fund.
Elsewhere, more than 400 Apple Stores across the globe will turn their iconic Apple logos red or display red logos in the windows for the next week.
Apple also sells a number of (RED) products within its store, including cases for iPhone, iPad, as well as straps for the Apple Watch.
There is also a Product (RED) finish for the iPod Touch.
Apple says it has raised $30 million for (RED) over the last 11 years.
That equates to 144 million days of ARV medication that prevents the transmission of HIV from mothers to their unborn babies.
According to the Cupertino-based company, Apple customers have helped provide an equivalent of 475 million days of lifesaving medication in the last 11 years.
Apple Vice President of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives, Lisa Jackson said: “Connecting through our products and services helps make it easy for our customers to join us in the effort to create the first AIDS-free generation.
“By working with (RED) to stop the transmission of HIV from moms to their unborn babies, we’re already seeing a significant impact in areas where help is needed most.
“We’re committed to continuing the fight and empowering future generations through these vital efforts.”
(RED) has raised over $500 million for the Global Fund since it was founded.
The funds have financed Global Fund programs offering prevention, testing, treatment, counselling and care services in areas where it is needed most.
Today, 20.9 million people have access to lifesaving medication, up from 19.5 million at the end of 2016, and 700,000 in 2000.
The percentage of pregnant women living with HIV, and receiving treatment has also increased dramatically: 76 per cent in 2016, up from 47 per cent in 2010. In 2005, 1,200 babies were born each day with HIV.
Today, that number is down to 400, and UNAIDS predicts that that number could be near zero by the year 2020, with the world on track to end AIDS as soon as 2030.