[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":400},["ShallowReactive",2],{"slug-putting-wear-os-by-google-to-the-test-the-ticwatch-pro-2020-review":3},{"post":4,"relatedPosts":173,"relatedBooks":307},{"id":5,"date":6,"date_gmt":7,"guid":8,"modified":10,"modified_gmt":11,"slug":12,"status":13,"type":14,"link":15,"title":16,"content":18,"excerpt":21,"author":23,"featured_media":24,"comment_status":25,"ping_status":25,"sticky":26,"template":27,"format":28,"meta":29,"categories":30,"tags":35,"project_category":44,"contact_email_category":47,"yst_prominent_words":48,"class_list":54,"better_featured_image":75,"acf":109,"yoast_meta":118,"_links":120},31037,"2020-11-10T10:00:00","2020-11-10T09:00:00",{"rendered":9},"https:\u002F\u002Fmedicalfuturist.com\u002F?post_id=31037&_wpnonce=f95ab18de0&status=auto-draft&type=post","2020-11-10T09:02:58","2020-11-10T08:02:58","putting-wear-os-by-google-to-the-test-the-ticwatch-pro-2020-review","publish","post","https:\u002F\u002Fmedicalfuturist.com\u002Fputting-wear-os-by-google-to-the-test-the-ticwatch-pro-2020-review",{"rendered":17},"Putting Wear OS By Google To The Test: The TicWatch Pro 2020 Review",{"rendered":19,"protected":20},"\n\u003Cp>Recently, The Medical Futurist himself had \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002FBerci\u002Fstatus\u002F1323306999279398916\" target=\"_blank\">a negative experience with Fitbit\u003C\u002Fa>. Even after being among the first to order the new Fitbit Sense in August, the delivery never happened even after 2 months. Customer support was not very much helpful either. Dr. Meskó has owned around 10 Fitbit trackers since 2009; and doesn’t miss to highlight how the company was the first to integrate in its fitness tracker a smart sleep alarm or \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmedicalfuturist.com\u002Fthe-smart-sleep-alarm-is-the-holy-grail-of-health-tracking\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">the Holy Grail of health tracking\u003C\u002Fa>. But this recent experience was one of the worst he had; and as a result, Fitbit lost one of their most faithful customers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>So to help him find a replacement smartwatch, The Medical Futurist team went hunting for such devices and stumbled on the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mobvoi.com\u002Fus\u002Fproducts\u002Fticwatchpro2020\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TicWatch Pro 2020\u003C\u002Fa>. Developed by Mobvoi, this is actually the first device to run Wear OS by Google that we test. Since \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmedicalfuturist.com\u002Fgoogles-acquisition-of-fitbit-boon-or-doom-for-the-fitness-tracking-industry\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Google’s acquisition of Fitbit\u003C\u002Fa> in 2019 for a whopping $2.1 billion, it would be interesting to see how the search giant’s own dedicated fitness operating system (OS) fares with this merger.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The only way to find out is to strap the device on our wrist and put it to the test. Here’s how that went.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-smartwatch-768x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-31039\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-smartwatch-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-smartwatch-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-smartwatch.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003C\u002Fdiv>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Getting Google-fit\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The great thing about Wear OS is that it integrates neatly with \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.google.com\u002Ffit\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">Google Fit\u003C\u002Fa>. All workouts, step counts and heart rate measurements from the smartwatch sync up with the Google Fit platform; no need to individually pair the measurements, it’s done natively. For fitness tracking – which is one of the main reasons you would look into such a device –  Wear OS offers a range of options to choose from. A few taps from the device and it’s ready to track whatever you feel like to do; whether it’s volleyball, crossfit or even floss dancing! Once selected, the on-screen information will display real-time data; such as calories burnt, steps taken, heart rate and pace (where applicable). \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>After a workout, you can then review the data on the watch itself or view it on your phone’s Google Fit app. This is particularly handy after a run or hike as the smartwatch’s GPS-tracking feature lets you visualise the path you took on a map in the app. The phone app also provides additional details such as elevation, detailed variations in heart rate and changes in pace. It would however be welcome if you could visualise all this from the watch itself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-tracking-768x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-31041\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-tracking-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-tracking-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-tracking.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003C\u002Fdiv>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>One tracking hiccup was with strength training as the experience is rather mixed. Once launched, the software automatically records your exercises and repetitions, but it’s rather a hit-or-miss affair. When it works, it can be impressive, detecting exactly the exercise performed; but it often misses rep counts that have to be adjusted. At other times, it misses an exercise altogether from the set, with no means to add it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Moreover, the focus is rather on working out. There is a handy “Fit Breathe” app that helps you relax via guided deep breathing sessions and a hand wash timer; but the crucial smart sleep alarm is sorely missing. Somehow Google failed to integrate Fitbit’s iconic software in its own fitness-focused OS; which was a let down at The Medical Futurist.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Not just stuck to Google\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Thankfully, Wear OS does not keep you confined to Google’s fitness ecosystem; meaning you can also find Wear OS versions of some of your favourite mobile apps be it for messaging, music playback and yes, wellness. You’ll find Wear OS versions of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.strava.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Strava\u003C\u002Fa>, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.nike.com\u002Fnrc-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nike Run Club\u003C\u002Fa> and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsleep.urbandroid.org\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sleep As Android\u003C\u002Fa>. The TicWatch Pro 2020’s parent company, Mobvoi, also has dedicated Wear OS fitness apps; and these seem more optimised for the device and really help get the most out of it by providing features Google omitted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For instance, the TicHealth app sends hourly reminders about taking steps to reach your daily goals. This is particularly helpful if you are working from a desk; where you can easily forget to stretch your legs as time flows by. Another app, TicPulse, regularly monitors your heart rate without any prompt (compared to the need to manually measure it with Google Fit) and even sends warnings when it’s abnormally high or low while at rest or sustained during exercise. This is a great digital health feature that Google itself could have integrated natively.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"432\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2019\u002F11\u002Fwearables-768x432.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-25285\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2019\u002F11\u002Fwearables-768x432.png 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2019\u002F11\u002Fwearables-370x208.png 370w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2019\u002F11\u002Fwearables-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2019\u002F11\u002Fwearables-512x288.png 512w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2019\u002F11\u002Fwearables.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003C\u002Fdiv>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Mobvoi also remedied the lack of a smart sleep alarm with its TicSleep app that lets you monitor your sleep and wakes you up at the optimal time by only wearing your watch. In comparison, Sleep As Android will need the watch to be connected to your phone via Bluetooth overnight, which is not ideal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Ultimately, if you dig around, Wear OS opens up to more wellness features than it initially lets on. Google’s own apps might not be the best to exploit these, but thankfully, third parties can. Then again it’s yet another app that you’ll have to download and store on the watch, such as Mobvoi’s multitude of fitness software. It would have been more convenient to have all of these features in one app from the get-go, preferably from Google itself given its resources.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>A watch that ticks\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>With smartwatches and their multiple sensors, the smart features they offer have a significant impact on their battery life. Such watches are notorious for needing frequent recharges, sometimes multiple times a day; at the risk of dying and not being able to perform its most basic function: displaying time. This goes against the main purpose of a watch, which is to conveniently tell the time; at any time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The TicWatch Pro 2020 has a clever way to circumvent battery life issues plaguing high-tech watches while still boasting smart features. It does so by packing Mobvoi’s Dual Display technology, which essentially means that the smartwatch features two screens, one layered on top of the other. The top, low power consuming screen – which looks like those traditional calculator LED displays – is always-on and shows basic information like steps taken, date and time in Essential Mode. When using the TicHealth app, it can even show some workout data. Under this LED screen rests the more power-hungry 1.39” AMOLED display, which activates via a screen tap or button push and toggles to Smart Mode.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-LED-screen-768x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-31043\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-LED-screen-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-LED-screen-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002Fticwatch-LED-screen.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003C\u002Fdiv>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>This is one of the most impressive features of this device as it really does help in boosting the battery; easily allowing at least a whole day of use by toggling between the screen modes. This allows the watch to function without compromising on basic features thanks to the always-on, yet low-power LED screen and easy toggle to the feature-rich AMOLED display.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>With this mode enabled, the TicWatch Pro 2020 actually looks like a regular watch with a sporty, rugged look. Just like the display, its straps have a duality by being hybrid in nature; the outer layer is made of leather for a classy look, while the inner layer is silicon-based for added comfort, especially for workouts. Nevertheless, an additional strap dedicated for workouts would have been very much appreciated; given that you are already paying top dollar for this $260 package.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Another downside to this smartwatch is its large size. This design might not be the most aesthetically-pleasing for the smaller-wristed among us. Additionally, it lies on the heavy side of the spectrum at around 58 grams; and this needs an initial adjustment period. But users can get used to these aspects over time; and overall, the watch is of a sturdy build quality and has a rather premium look to it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>More than fitness\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Smartwatches brought about a whole new era in fitness. They enable users to quantify and visualise their fitness activities with data made readily available via embedded sensors. This helps fitness enthusiasts and beginners alike to gauge their workouts, adjust to their potentials and subsequently improve. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Mobvoi’s TicWatch Pro 2020 is no different and offers decent tracking features if you go through some hoops. It will also allow other expected smartwatch features than just fitness measurements. When paired to your phone, you’ll be able to read social media notifications; check emails; control music; and even answer calls directly from the watch as it features both a microphone and a speaker. The integration of the Google Assistant also opens it up to more voice command controls such as making a call, sending a text or asking for directions. To kill time you can even install some casual touch-based games like \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fplay.google.com\u002Fstore\u002Fapps\u002Fdetails?id=com.balysv.loop&hl=en&gl=US\" target=\"_blank\">Infinity Loop\u003C\u002Fa> and the tamagotchi-esque \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fplay.google.com\u002Fstore\u002Fapps\u002Fdetails?id=net.freedomforge.petquest&hl=en&gl=US\" target=\"_blank\">PetQuest\u003C\u002Fa>. Killing time with a watch might sound like an oxymoron but here we are!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If you’re looking for a smartwatch with decent build quality and battery life, the TicWatch Pro 2020 is one to consider. Google’s Wear OS is serviceable at best, especially given the company’s resources. But there are ways to circumvent its shortcomings thanks to the ability to download third-party apps. If you don’t mind digging around for such software that would suit your fitness tracking needs, it will ultimately deliver a more compelling experience; one that could entice The Medical Futurist’s transition from Fitbit.\u003C\u002Fp>\n",false,{"rendered":22,"protected":20},"\u003Cp>Recently, The Medical Futurist himself had a negative experience with Fitbit. Even after being among the first to order the new Fitbit Sense in August, […]\u003C\u002Fp>\n",16,31081,"closed",true,"","standard",{"_acf_changed":20,"footnotes":27},[31,32,33,34],4879,491,496,494,[36,37,38,39,40,41,42,43],4727,649,6315,6317,6319,1432,266,407,[45,46],947,951,[],[49,50,51,52,53],5529,1883,2351,2765,3293,[55,14,56,57,58,59,60,61,62,63,64,65,66,67,68,69,70,71,72,73,74],"post-31037","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lifestyle-medicine","category-empowered-patients","category-health-sensors-trackers","category-telemedicine","tag-google-fit","tag-fitbit","tag-fit-breathe","tag-mobvoi","tag-wear-os","tag-watch","tag-google-2","tag-smartwatch","project_category-company","project_category-patients",{"id":24,"alt_text":76,"caption":77,"description":78,"media_type":79,"media_details":80,"post":5,"source_url":108},"TicWatch review 2020","TicWatch Pro 2020: a smartwatch with decent build quality and battery life","Smartwatches brought about a whole new era in fitness. Mobvoi’s TicWatch Pro 2020 is no different and offers decent tracking features - review.","image",{"width":81,"height":82,"file":83,"sizes":84,"image_meta":106},1920,1080,"2020\u002F11\u002F220_tmf-01.png",{"medium":85,"large":91,"thumbnail":96,"medium_large":100,"1536x1536":101},{"file":86,"width":87,"height":88,"mime-type":89,"source_url":90},"220_tmf-01-370x208.png","370","208","image\u002Fpng","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002F220_tmf-01-370x208.png",{"file":92,"width":93,"height":94,"mime-type":89,"source_url":95},"220_tmf-01-768x432.png","768","432","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002F220_tmf-01-768x432.png",{"file":97,"width":98,"height":98,"mime-type":89,"source_url":99},"220_tmf-01-150x150.png","150","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002F220_tmf-01-150x150.png",{"file":92,"width":93,"height":94,"mime-type":89,"source_url":95},{"file":102,"width":103,"height":104,"mime-type":89,"source_url":105},"220_tmf-01-1536x864.png","1536","864","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002F220_tmf-01-1536x864.png",{"aperture":107,"credit":27,"camera":27,"caption":27,"created_timestamp":107,"copyright":27,"focal_length":107,"iso":107,"shutter_speed":107,"title":27,"orientation":107},"0","https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F11\u002F220_tmf-01.png",{"cta_type":110,"cta_color":27,"subtitle":27,"related_books":111,"related_posts_footer":114,"related_posts":20},"subscribe",[112,113],30419,24761,[115,116,117],13582,14531,27325,{"yoast_wpseo_title":119,"yoast_wpseo_metadesc":78,"yoast_wpseo_canonical":15},"Putting Wear OS By Google To The Test: The TicWatch Pro 2020 Review - The Medical Futurist",{"self":121,"collection":127,"about":130,"author":133,"replies":136,"version-history":139,"predecessor-version":143,"wp:featuredmedia":147,"wp:attachment":150,"wp:term":153,"curies":169},[122],{"href":123,"targetHints":124},"https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fposts\u002F31037",{"allow":125},[126],"GET",[128],{"href":129},"https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fposts",[131],{"href":132},"https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Ftypes\u002Fpost",[134],{"embeddable":26,"href":135},"https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fusers\u002F16",[137],{"embeddable":26,"href":138},"https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fcomments?post=31037",[140],{"count":141,"href":142},13,"https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fposts\u002F31037\u002Frevisions",[144],{"id":145,"href":146},31089,"https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fposts\u002F31037\u002Frevisions\u002F31089",[148],{"embeddable":26,"href":149},"https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fmedia\u002F31081",[151],{"href":152},"https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fmedia?parent=31037",[154,157,160,163,166],{"taxonomy":155,"embeddable":26,"href":156},"category","https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fcategories?post=31037",{"taxonomy":158,"embeddable":26,"href":159},"post_tag","https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Ftags?post=31037",{"taxonomy":161,"embeddable":26,"href":162},"project_category","https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fproject_category?post=31037",{"taxonomy":164,"embeddable":26,"href":165},"contact_email_category","https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fcontact_email_category?post=31037",{"taxonomy":167,"embeddable":26,"href":168},"yst_prominent_words","https:\u002F\u002Fapi.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-json\u002Fwp\u002Fv2\u002Fyst_prominent_words?post=31037",[170],{"name":171,"href":172,"templated":26},"wp","https:\u002F\u002Fapi.w.org\u002F{rel}",[174],{"id":117,"date":175,"date_gmt":176,"guid":177,"modified":179,"modified_gmt":180,"slug":181,"status":13,"type":14,"link":182,"title":183,"content":185,"excerpt":187,"author":23,"featured_media":189,"comment_status":25,"ping_status":25,"sticky":26,"template":27,"format":28,"meta":190,"categories":191,"tags":194,"project_category":201,"contact_email_category":202,"yst_prominent_words":203,"class_list":224,"better_featured_image":234,"acf":255,"yoast_meta":262,"_links":265},"2020-04-02T10:00:00","2020-04-02T08:00:00",{"rendered":178},"https:\u002F\u002Fmedicalfuturist.com\u002F?post_id=27325&_wpnonce=3d5fe45165&status=auto-draft&type=post","2021-01-21T09:57:47","2021-01-21T08:57:47","digital-health-apps-to-use-during-the-covid-19-quarantine","https:\u002F\u002Fmedicalfuturist.com\u002Fdigital-health-apps-to-use-during-the-covid-19-quarantine",{"rendered":184},"Digital Health Apps to Use During the COVID-19 Quarantine",{"rendered":186,"protected":20},"\n\u003Cp>While most of us are experiencing our very first pandemic, we are simultaneously living in an ongoing “\u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.technologyreview.com\u002Fs\u002F615368\u002Ffacebook-twitter-social-media-infodemic-misinformation\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">infodemic\u003C\u002Fa>”. The latter refers to the widespread misinformation circulating on the web around the novel coronavirus, especially on social media. We saw the likes of reports claiming the COVID-19 being part of a biological weapons program (debunked, as the natural origins of the virus \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sciencedaily.com\u002Freleases\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F200317175442.htm\" target=\"_blank\">have been proven\u003C\u002Fa>) or even more, let’s say, creative ones \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.newsweek.com\u002Fyoutube-video-suggests-5g-internet-causes-coronavirus-people-are-falling-it-1493321\" target=\"_blank\">suggesting 5G networks cause the infection\u003C\u002Fa> (it goes without saying that there’s no relation whatsoever).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Despite those misconceptions and hoax stories, there are a lot of helpful resources involving smartphone apps and even social media. These include software to keep track of the COVID-19 spread, apps to receive healthcare remotely and even physical phones for contact tracing. However, some of these apps might hide malicious software that can harm your device. We’ll guide you through finding trusted apps and point out to some useful resources out there that you can use during this pandemic, all accessible via your smartphone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Ca class=\"img\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.patreon.com\u002Fposts\u002Ffree-e-book-and-35809296\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"279\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F04\u002FScreenshot-2020-04-26-at-17.13.01-768x279.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-27791\"\u002F\u003C\u002Fa srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F04\u002FScreenshot-2020-04-26-at-17.13.01-768x279.png 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F04\u002FScreenshot-2020-04-26-at-17.13.01-1536x557.png 1536w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F04\u002FScreenshot-2020-04-26-at-17.13.01.png 1544w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Beware of the harmful coronavirus… and apps…\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Since we’re battling against both a pandemic and an infodemic, how can one choose trustworthy apps or online resources since they can themselves be sources of misinformation? As \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Feconomictimes.indiatimes.com\u002Fmagazines\u002Fpanache\u002Fstay-clear-of-coronavirus-themed-android-app-it-infects-mobile-devices\u002Farticleshow\u002F74509389.cms\" target=\"_blank\">noted by cybersecurity solutions firm SonicWall\u003C\u002Fa>, some are abusing from the panic caused by COVID-19. SonicWall noted that an app going by the name of Coronavirus hides a malware that allows hackers to remotely control the user’s phone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"763\" height=\"509\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F03\u002Fbig-tech.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-27327\"\u002F>\u003Cfigcaption>Source: https:\u002F\u002Fblog.goodaudience.com\u002F\u003C\u002Ffigcaption>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003C\u002Fdiv>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Apple is \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cnbc.com\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F05\u002Fapple-rejects-coronavirus-apps-that-arent-from-health-organizations.html\" target=\"_blank\">taking such issues seriously\u003C\u002Fa>. The tech giant is cracking down on potentially malicious software on its app store. It is \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.cnbc.com\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F05\u002Fapple-rejects-coronavirus-apps-that-arent-from-health-organizations.html\" target=\"_blank\">reportedly\u003C\u002Fa> only allowing apps from recognized institutions like governments, health organizations or hospitals. It might not help support independent developers, but Apple is apparently betting on playing it safe.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Apple’s direct competitor, Google, is also taking its own measures. The company’s own app store, Google Play, opened a section dedicated to COVID-19. Called “\u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fplay.google.com\u002Fstore\u002Fapps\u002Ftopic?id=campaign_editorial_3003109_crisis_medical_outbreak_apps_cep\" target=\"_blank\">Coronavirus: Stay informed\u003C\u002Fa>”, the page contains a curated list of apps that it certifies will help you “stay prepared and informed.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Staying up-to-date with interactive dashboards\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>You now know how to find reliable apps from your smartphone; but there are also useful sites online to keep you updated on the coronavirus situation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>One of our favourites at The Medical Futurist is the \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fgisanddata.maps.arcgis.com\u002Fapps\u002Fopsdashboard\u002Findex.html#\u002Fbda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6\" target=\"_blank\">online dashboard\u003C\u002Fa> from Johns Hopkins University. By aggregating data from \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsystems.jhu.edu\u002Fresearch\u002Fpublic-health\u002Fncov\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">trusted sources\u003C\u002Fa>, this interactive map displays detailed information about active, recovered and fatal cases across the globe. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Microsoft also has its own version as an \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bing.com\u002Fcovid\" target=\"_blank\">interactive Bing map\u003C\u002Fa>, which features the addition of related news. It draws its information from sources like the CDC and WHO. However, while it \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.theverge.com\u002F2020\u002F3\u002F16\u002F21181303\u002Fmicrosoft-bing-covid-19-pandemic-map-news-stories-videos\" target=\"_blank\">might not have the most timely updates\u003C\u002Fa>, Bing’s map gives a general idea of the current situation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"404\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F03\u002FBing-COVID-19-Map-768x404.jpg\" alt=\"COVID-19 Quarantine Dashboards\" class=\"wp-image-27329\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F03\u002FBing-COVID-19-Map-768x404.jpg 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F03\u002FBing-COVID-19-Map-1536x808.jpg 1536w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F03\u002FBing-COVID-19-Map-2048x1077.jpg 2048w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F03\u002FBing-COVID-19-Map-scaled.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \u002F>\u003Cfigcaption>Source: https:\u002F\u002Fwww.bing.com\u002Fcovid\u003C\u002Ffigcaption>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003C\u002Fdiv>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For people in the U.K., the government \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gov.uk\u002Fgovernment\u002Fpublications\u002Fcovid-19-track-coronavirus-cases\" target=\"_blank\">launched a similar COVID-19 dashboard\u003C\u002Fa>. It features data on reported cases, new cases and numbers of related deaths in its territories.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Another useful online source accessible from your phone is Google’s very own \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.google.com\u002Fcovid19\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">COVID-19 Information & Resources site\u003C\u002Fa>. It’s a great one-stop-shop for everything COVID-19 related; you’ll find information about the disease, data about the spread, how to protect yourself, and even videos to help you cope with the lockdown.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Staying healthy indoors\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Staying shut indoors can be taxing both physically and mentally. You can’t really go jogging in the park or to the gym, and seeing the same walls all day long doesn’t help much either. Thankfully, digital health can help you stay in shape.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>During the pandemic, Fitbit noted \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog.fitbit.com\u002Fcovid-19-global-activity\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">a decline in average step counts\u003C\u002Fa> worldwide of up to 38%. This means that people are less active during these trying times. To prevent people from turning into their \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fwatch?v=h1BQPV-iCkU\" target=\"_blank\">counterparts depicted in Wall-E\u003C\u002Fa>, the company is offering a free 90-day Premium trial with hundreds of workouts that best suit your needs. Nike is also working towards the same goal, making its \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fnews.nike.com\u002Fnews\u002Fnike-digital-health-activity-resources\" target=\"_blank\">Nike Training Club Premium workouts free\u003C\u002Fa>. With \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fplanetfitness\u002Fposts\u002F10157386688639856\" target=\"_blank\">free, daily livestreamed workouts\u003C\u002Fa> on Facebook, Planet Fitness wants you to stay active, healthy, and feel great right at home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>For healthcare professionals on the frontlines in the U. S., \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.headspace.com\u002Fhealth-covid-19\" target=\"_blank\">Headspace\u003C\u002Fa>, a mental wellbeing app, is offering its Premium service for free. “Healthcare providers are on the front lines of this public health crisis, making sure our communities receive necessary and critical care,” \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.usatoday.com\u002Fstory\u002Ftech\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F21\u002Fhealth-and-wellness-apps-offer-freebies-coping-coronavirus\u002F2892085001\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">said Dr. Megan Jones Bell\u003C\u002Fa>, chief science officer for Headspace. “That’s why it’s crucial for us to find ways to support their mental health and provide them with tools for managing the very real personal toll this crisis takes on them in particular”. For the general public, Headspace launched “\u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.headspace.com\u002Fcovid-19\" target=\"_blank\">Weathering The Storm\u003C\u002Fa>” with free meditations, sleep, and movement exercises.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"432\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F03\u002Fminfulness-meditation-yoga-app-768x432.jpg\" alt=\"COVID-19 Quarantine: Mental wellbeing\" class=\"wp-image-27331\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F03\u002Fminfulness-meditation-yoga-app-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F03\u002Fminfulness-meditation-yoga-app-370x208.jpg 370w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F03\u002Fminfulness-meditation-yoga-app-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F03\u002Fminfulness-meditation-yoga-app.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \u002F>\u003Cfigcaption>Source: https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mindful.org\u002F\u003C\u002Ffigcaption>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Other companies are also giving away freebies. Balance, a personalized meditation app, is \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fbalanceapp\u002Fstatus\u002F1239253806824722433\" target=\"_blank\">offering a free one-year subscription\u003C\u002Fa> to everyone. The digital behavioral healthcare solution Sanvello \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.sanvello.com\u002Fcoronavirus-anxiety-support\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">opened up its Premium offer\u003C\u002Fa> to help reduce stress and anxiety. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Since \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.ahajournals.org\u002Fdoi\u002Fpdf\u002F10.1161\u002FHYP.0b013e318293645f\" target=\"_blank\">studies show\u003C\u002Fa> that taking some time to relax can lower both blood pressure and cardiovascular disease risk, why not try it out?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>Primary care from your home\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Stuck at home and don’t want to risk going to the hospital? How about bringing the hospital to you? That’s the promise of telemedicine and it saw an unprecedented demand with COVID-19.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Up until a few months ago, the concept was adopted by some countries like \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmedicalfuturist.com\u002Fdigital-health-in-rwanda\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">Rwanda\u003C\u002Fa> and \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmedicalfuturist.com\u002Fa-promising-hub-for-digital-health-kazakhstan\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">Kazakhstan\u003C\u002Fa>, and there are other \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmedicalfuturist.com\u002Fremarkable-examples-of-telemedicine\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">notable examples\u003C\u002Fa> in remote regions. With the need to assess people while keeping the medical personnel and patients safe in the pandemic, remote consultation solutions \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fqz.com\u002F1821549\u002Ftelemedicine-faces-unprecedented-demand-in-the-wake-of-coronavirus\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">picked up steam\u003C\u002Fa>. PlushCare’s telemedicine appointments went up by 70%. Amwell, another service, had its app use increase by a whopping 158% in the U. S. since the country was affected by the virus in January.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"432\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2018\u002F11\u002F054-telemedicine-1-768x432.png\" alt=\"COVID-19 Quarantine: telemedicine\" class=\"wp-image-22474\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2018\u002F11\u002F054-telemedicine-1-768x432.png 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2018\u002F11\u002F054-telemedicine-1-370x208.png 370w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2018\u002F11\u002F054-telemedicine-1-512x288.png 512w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2018\u002F11\u002F054-telemedicine-1.png 870w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003C\u002Fdiv>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>There’s a plethora of such apps out there but Healthline made a handy \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.healthline.com\u002Fhealth\u002Fbest-telemedicine-iphone-android-apps\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">curated best-of list\u003C\u002Fa>. Some like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.lemonaidhealth.com\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Lemonaid\u003C\u002Fa> offer both remote consultations and medicine delivery so that you don’t have to go out to fetch your medication.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If you’re concerned about COVID-19 symptoms, you can try this online \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fc19check.com\u002Fstart\" target=\"_blank\">Coronavirus Checker\u003C\u002Fa> from Emory University’s School of Medicine. After a few screening questions, the tool will provide a summary of your risks, as well as recommendations from the CDC.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u003Cstrong>To track…\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Going beyond apps, physical phones are themselves helping to fight COVID-19. Some governments resorted to unconventional means to track down potentially infected people: surveillance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftheconversation.com\u002Fcoronavirus-south-koreas-success-in-controlling-disease-is-due-to-its-acceptance-of-surveillance-134068\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">South Korea\u003C\u002Fa> used CCTV footage, bank transactions and phone usage to track who might potentially be at risk. Using data from these sources, South Korean health authorities can pinpoint who was in close contact with an infected person or a hotspot for the disease and identify who to test. Further West, Israel’s Prime Minister allowed the country’s internal security agency to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.theverge.com\u002F2020\u002F3\u002F17\u002F21183716\u002Fcoronavirus-covid-19-israel-natanyahu-cellphone-data-tracking\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">use phone location data\u003C\u002Fa> to fight COVID-19. Those who might have been in contact could be alerted via text to quarantine themselves.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>In Singapore, the government set up the \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.tracetogether.gov.sg\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">TraceTogether app\u003C\u002Fa>. Residents can download and consent to use it so as to facilitate contact tracing. The app records one’s location via Bluetooth and wireless signals and detects other users in proximity. The Ministry of Health will then \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.channelnewsasia.com\u002Fnews\u002Fsingapore\u002Fcovid19-trace-together-mobile-app-contact-tracing-coronavirus-12560616\" target=\"_blank\">contact those who might have been exposed\u003C\u002Fa> to the disease. The app’s record can further build a network of those potentially affected.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n\u003Ciframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Help fight the spread of COVID-19 with TraceTogether!\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fembed\u002Fbuj8ZTRtJes?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen>\u003C\u002Fiframe>\n\u003C\u002Fdiv>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>What might sound like a politically-correct Orwellian novel is now turning into reality and this option is being considered by many.  \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.coepi.org\u002F\" target=\"_blank\">CoEpi\u003C\u002Fa>, an open-source project, launched recently to develop an app similar to TraceTogether. Researchers at MIT are working on \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fplay.google.com\u002Fstore\u002Fapps\u002Fdetails?id=edu.mit.privatekit\" target=\"_blank\">a similar project\u003C\u002Fa>, allowing users to log their movements and compare with others infected with COVID-19.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">… Or not to track?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>However, there are concerns about the effectiveness of this method as well. \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fjournals.plos.org\u002Fplosone\u002Farticle?id=10.1371\u002Fjournal.pone.0219890\" target=\"_blank\">A study published last year\u003C\u002Fa> showed that determining positioning via smartphone is possible with an accuracy between 7 and 13 meters. However, considering that COVID-19 spreads between people \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.who.int\u002Fnews-room\u002Fq-a-detail\u002Fq-a-coronaviruses\" target=\"_blank\">within a few feet from each other\u003C\u002Fa>, a more accurate method would be more reliable. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>In South Korea, “safety guidance texts” sent by authorities contained private information of people that others could access. This led to the exposure of embarrassing \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.theguardian.com\u002Fworld\u002F2020\u002Fmar\u002F06\u002Fmore-scary-than-coronavirus-south-koreas-health-alerts-expose-private-lives\" target=\"_blank\">private information and rumor-mongering\u003C\u002Fa>. China employed similar methods, but private data were not totally anonymized and other information might be \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.nytimes.com\u002F2020\u002F03\u002F01\u002Fbusiness\u002Fchina-coronavirus-surveillance.html\" target=\"_blank\">collected by authorities\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cdiv class=\"wp-block-image\">\u003Cfigure class=\"aligncenter size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F01\u002FLocation-tracking-768x384.jpg\" alt=\"COVID-19 Quarantine\" class=\"wp-image-25875\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F01\u002FLocation-tracking-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F01\u002FLocation-tracking-1536x767.jpg 1536w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F01\u002FLocation-tracking-512x256.jpg 512w, https:\u002F\u002Fcdn.medicalfuturist.com\u002Fwp-content\u002Fuploads\u002F2020\u002F01\u002FLocation-tracking.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \u002F>\u003Cfigcaption>Source: https:\u002F\u002Fwww.nytimes.com\u002F\u003C\u002Ffigcaption>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003C\u002Fdiv>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Concerns over privacy and the need for such a method are warranted. It will pose a challenge to get people to tolerate such surveillance or even to reliably report on their infectious status, and might even have a \u003Ca rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Ftheconversation.com\u002Fcoronavirus-south-koreas-success-in-controlling-disease-is-due-to-its-acceptance-of-surveillance-134068\" target=\"_blank\">cultural factor\u003C\u002Fa> to it. Serious times call for serious measures; these current measures might serve as a test of the public’s trust in authorities. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp style=\"text-align:center;\">\u003Ciframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fplugins\u002Fpost.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmedicalfuturist%2Fposts%2F2802757973152153&show_text=true&appId=302609456435813&height=631\" width=\"\" height=\"671\" style=\"border:none;overflow:hidden;display:block;\" scrolling=\"no\" frameborder=\"0\" allowTransparency=\"true\" allow=\"encrypted-media\" >\u003C\u002Fiframe>\u003C\u002Fp>\n",{"rendered":188,"protected":20},"\u003Cp>We’ll guide you through finding trusted apps and point out to some useful resources out there that you can use during this pandemic, all accessible via your smartphone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n",27337,{"_acf_changed":20,"footnotes":27},[192,193],6479,521,[195,196,197,198,199,200],759,760,1549,3083,207,630,[],[],[204,205,206,207,208,209,210,211,212,213,214,215,216,217,218,219,220,221,222,223],2655,3131,3079,3133,1571,3091,1583,3093,1587,3095,1597,3119,1693,3121,1979,3125,2027,3127,2495,3129,[225,14,56,57,58,59,60,226,227,228,229,230,231,232,233],"post-27325","category-covid-19","category-future-medicine","tag-apps","tag-applications","tag-coronavirus","tag-covid","tag-digital-health","tag-digital-technology",{"id":189,"alt_text":235,"caption":27,"description":27,"media_type":79,"media_details":236,"post":117,"source_url":254},"digital health apps for 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