The central government has launched an official app which will use the smartphone’s location data and Bluetooth to check if you have been near, or in contact with, a Covid-19 patient. The app, Aarogya Setu also uses a database to keep a tab on the registered cases across the country.
The app helps in assessing the risk of meeting a person with coronavirus infection. It does its job by using the cutting edge Bluetooth technology, algorithms and artificial intelligence.
Once the app is installed in phones, the app automatically detects other devices with the same app installed when it comes into the proximity of that phone.
Important things you should know about the app:
1. It’s currently available for Android and Apple smartphones and is free to download.
2. Can download it from the Play Store and the App Store and you need to register with your phone number.
3. The app has an option to enter your health stats and other credentials as well.
4. The app has been developed by the National Informatics Centre that comes under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity).
5. Aarogya Setu uses the government database of known Covid-19 cases in the country.
6. Aarogya Setu uses your phone’s location to determine where you are and Bluetooth connectivity to check if you have been within six-feet of a Covid-19 affected person.
7. Based on these two, the app tells you if you are at ‘high risk’ or not.
8. For the app to work you need to give it location access and keep Bluetooth on all the time.
9. If you are at ‘high risk’ or in a ‘high risk’ area, the app will ask you to go for a test and call the toll-free number 1075 to schedule an appointment at the nearest testing centre.
10. Aarogya Setu also suggests tips on how to take basic precautions to prevent getting the virus.
11. The app will share your data with the government in case you test positive for Covid-19 or if you came in contact with the covid-19 positive patient.
12. The app’s privacy policy mentions that it does not share data with other third-party apps. Your data is shared only with the government. The app does not allow your name or number to be disclosed to the public at any time.
13. The chatbot in the app can answer basic queries and help you check symptoms. It also gives you state-specific helpline numbers.
14. The app is currently supported in 11 languages.
