Singapore launches coronavirus tracing mobile app

Singapore’s Government Technology Agency (GovTech) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health has launched a mobile app for tracing the spread of coronavirus. The app is called TraceTogether and it can only be downloaded with a Singapore mobile phone number. Once installed, the user is requested to consent to enable push notifications and location tracking. The app works by sending short distance Bluetooth signals between users who are about two meters apart. In case of an outbreak, one can access their movement data to find out if they were in close proximity to coronavirus patients. Tracing through the app is on a voluntary basis and the location data will be stored on the user’s phone. Google Play statistics show that the app had over 50 0000 50,000 installations by 20 March.