We are grateful for Dr Touros' interest in our article and his considered response.

Our article is a brief overview of a complex subject area which has scope for further detailed discussion. There is an emerging division between professional and patient-centred apps similar to that between prescribed and over-the-counter medications. As medical professionals we can make regulatory demands in our sphere of influence but apps for the general market will emerge independently of our influence; we will need an awareness of such apps to manage the complex issues that arise when patients raise questions about diagnosis and management after interacting with them.

We requested an update from NHS Choices and have been informed that the Health Apps Library is being upgraded following work on the assessment process by the National Information Board. The first apps are expected to have completed the new evaluation process in April 2016.