It is a mobile app generated by the Ministry of Electronics and IT that encourages citizens to identify the risk of a contracting novel coronavirus, had made more than 10 million downloads since its launch five days ago.
The app is available on both Google Play (for Android phones) and Apple App Store (for iOS), respectively. It is accessible in 11 languages - 10 Indian and English language.
Aarogya Setu is designed to keep you updated with someone who has tested positive in case of crossing a path. Monitoring is done via Bluetooth and a social graph created by the place, which can display your test with anyone who tests positive.
After installing the Aarogya Setu App, you will have to switch on Bluetooth (you will be advised to keep it on at all times) and location. Then, set ‘Location sharing’ to ‘Always’ (you can adjust this anytime later).
It has a self-test device. There are many questions that a user is asked to answer. If any of the answers indicate COVID symptoms, the details will be sent to a government server. The data will then help the government to take prompt action and initiate the separation (isolation) process where appropriate.
If you test positive, unknowingly, you will be cautious. Instructions accompany application alerts on how to isolate yourself and what to do if you develop symptoms. Data is shared only with the government. The application does not allow your name and number to be publicly disclosed.
The steps required to use the application are as follows:
- After running the app, allow it to reach your device’s location, as indicated.
- You will receive an OTP (one-time-password), enter it in your mobile, and you are on.
- Select your gender from the given options.
- Enter your full name, then age, and then occupation, as asked.
- You will be asked about the history of your foreign travel in the last 30 days. Give the correct answer. Your international travel history, if any, will be matched with those who have tested positive with the help of the ICMR database.
- Then, the app asks you whether you are ready to volunteer in your time of need. If you answer yes, the 20-second evaluation test begins.
After you install the Aarogya Setu app on your phone, it will detect other smartphones nearby, including the app. If any of these contacts are tested positive, it can determine the risk of infection based on sophisticated criteria.
The basis of this measurement – which is done using Bluetooth, algorithms, and artificial intelligence – is the interaction between the smartphone user and others.
Conclusion: The app is on both Google Play and Apple App Store. It is possible in 11 languages. It is invented to keep the user notified in the case / he/she has crossed paths with someone who has tested positive. Tracking is done via a Bluetooth and location-generated social graph, which can interact positively with anyone.
