Three new functions added to "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile app to enhance user experience (with photos)
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The three new functions are:
* Auto check-out: Besides using the "Leave" button as before, the user can also choose the new auto check-out function to check out of a venue automatically at a pre-set time;
* Simplified steps for entering different venues: After scanning a venue QR code, the user no longer needs to click the "Leave" button before entering a different venue. Instead, the user can scan another venue QR code directly; and
* Review of personal visit records: Visit records are added to the mobile app for the user to review.
A spokesman for the OGCIO said, "Since the launch of the 'LeaveHomeSafe' mobile app in mid-November, the OGCIO has been listening to the opinions of the public and the industry, and exchanging views with different sectors, including academics and technology experts, with a view to continuously improving and enhancing the functions of the app to encourage the public to download and use it."
The spokesman added, "In view of the severe epidemic situation in Hong Kong, we hope that members of the public can join hands and fight the virus together. The Government will continue to maintain communication with different sectors and further explain to the public, to encourage more venues to post the venue QR codes and call on the public to use the 'LeaveHomeSafe' mobile app when they need to go out so that they can be alerted to their risk of exposure, making contact tracing more effective and reducing the risk of further transmission of the virus."
The "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile app has had more than 360 000 downloads since its launch. At present, over 63 000 public and private venues have participated in the scheme, among which about 50 000 are private venues. The mobile app can also be used directly in some 18 000 taxis.
The OGCIO has previously reduced the access permissions required for the "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile app. The app now uses a mobile phone's built-in memory to remove the need for permission to access USB and photo storage. The mobile app also uses all available network connection on the phone directly to revoke the permission to view Wi-Fi connections. The spokesman reiterated that the sole purpose of the access permissions required by the app is for its effective operation. The app does not have a tracking function, and venue check-in data will be encrypted and saved on users' mobile phones only. Such data will not be uploaded to the Government or any other systems and will be erased automatically after 31 days.
Ends/Friday, December 11, 2020
Issued at HKT 11:20
Issued at HKT 11:20
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