India launches Corona Virus tracker APP

In an effort to keep the population informed, the Indian government has launched the ‘Aarogya Setu’ app which will use a smartphone’s location data and Bluetooth to check if you have been near a COVID-19 infected person or not.

While the location data is used to determine where exactly the person is, the app uses Bluetooth connectivity to tell you if you have been within 6-feet proximity from the infected person. Based on this, the app shows if you are at a ‘high risk’ or not. In case you are in a high risk area, the app advises you to go for a test and call the toll-free number 1075 to schedule an appointment at a nearby testing center.

This new move from the government is an effort to limit the spread of the disease to new areas using technology. And also a database of all the relevant public information about the novel Coronavirus.

The app would be available on the Play Store on Android and App Store on iOS with supports for up to 11 Indian languages. Follow Spotlife Asia for the latest updates.

Where to download the Aarogya Setu app?
There are many third-party applications on the Play Store with the term “Aarogya” or “Arogya” in them. Download only the official Android version of the app, and the iOS version is available as well. Apart from the Aarogya Setu app, the government has an official portal, MyGov.in, that also has updated essential information related to the virus.

Besides the main tracker feature, the app also lets you take a quick test to check if you have matching symptoms. It also gives alert notifications if you come, even unknowingly, in the vicinity of an infected person.

The app description states that “the App is aimed at augmenting the initiatives of the Government of India, particularly the Department of Health, in proactively reaching out to and informing the users of the app regarding risks, best practices and relevant advisories pertaining to the containment of COVID-19.”