The new NHS Covid-19 tracing app launches today after several months delay.
The latest version of the app, which is being rolled out across England and Wales is set to play a key role in slowing down the surge in the infection rate.
A QR code scanning feature is also available for venues to display allowing people to check-in and share their contact details for tracing efforts. This will then centralise the track and trace effort as many venues are currently using a number of different methods to record individual contact details.
The new app will use Bluetooth technology to monitor contacts and alert a user if they have been exposed to the virus by coming into contact with an infected person.
If a person develops symptoms, they can check with the app and book a test. Should it come back positive, close contacts will be informed to self-isolate for two weeks by an app notification.
The launch comes as positive case numbers continue to rise, with 6,178 positive tests recorded yesterday – the highest daily number since May.
Use of the software is voluntary, so its success will depend heavily on how many people choose to download and use it. Will you be downloading the app today?
