Singapore has started dispensing Bluetooth contact tracing token devices all across the country to its five million locals to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.
These tokens are a physical version of the app that came out in March and can be worn or carried in any way. Like the app, token makes use of Bluetooth to find the nearby device.
The government is optimistic that token will be positively affecting the deteriorating economy by resuming business activities back towards normal.
In the beginning, tokens are more likely to be distributed in areas where there are a greater number of elderly inhabitants. As they are more vulnerable to the virus and not all of them own a smartphone.
Soon tokens will be accessible to the entire nation, including foreign citizens as well.
Currently, citizens make use of a specific safe entry system to check into populated places like shops, banks, gym, etc. This system uses QR codes to help login and record user’s existence, but due to the prevailing conditions now it is necessary to use tokens and apps in areas with greater risk.
According to feedback by consultants the contact tracing token is believed to be a better option if anyone is concerned regarding privacy issues.
It can be physically handed over to the health department if the person is tested positive. Moreover, it is not mandatory to own a smartphone for the token to function. It can be easily carried in a bag and even reliable for those who have any functionality issues with the app. However, with the app a person can be traced instantly through GPs and by internet connectivity information about the user is constantly updated
Singapore was the first-ever government to launch the trace together an app in March and has been passionate about it than many other nations. An estimated figure of 2.4 million people downloaded the app on its launch with 1.4 million, making use of it in august from recent studies. The government is determined to increase this number to achieve positive outcomes.
England and Wales are planning to launch it by the mid of this month while Australia is also struggling to make both apps and token effective.
Read more: Two Suspects in motorway gang rape case identified
