How Does the NHS Covid-19 App Actually Work?
Since the ‘voluntary’ NHS Covid-19 contact-tracing app launched on 24 September 2020 (4 days since this was written), Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said the app had been downloaded 12.4 million times.
The main function of the app is to inform users whether they should self-isolate, based on whether their phone detects they were near someone later found to have Covid-19. It works by detecting via Bluetooth when a fellow app user is nearby, or from a user checking in at a venue via a QR code. Should the app detect that the user has been close or in the same venue as another user who has registered as testing positive for covid-19, they’ll receive an alert to self-isolate.
However, the Department for Health and Social Care has emphasised that using it is voluntary, and the guidance the app issues about whether to self-isolate or get a test is not enforceable by law.
To download the app yourself, go to Android's Google Play or Apple's App Store and search for "NHS Covid-19".
Adidas Introduces Energy Rod Technology to their Trainers
Adidas’ new trainer, the Adidas Pro has been introduced with a new feature; a series of curved carbon-infused rods running throughout the shoe.
Sam Handy, vice president of design at adidas running said “the origin of the energy rod is to try and mirror the metatarsal bones of the foot.” The aim of this is to help give the greatest possible energy return when combined with the foam and other parts of the shoe.
This technology is in rivalry with the ‘proven’ carbon-fibre plated trainers that forced World Athletics to introduce new shoe rules in January this year. Some critics said shoes with increased efficiency are a form of technological doping, and records set with using them should be discounted.
Perhaps we could all be winning marathons now… or not.
Social Media Companies Attempt to Lessen US Political Frictions
In just over a month, US voters will be heading to the polls to vote in this year’s Presidential Election. But with tensions already running high between the Republicans and Democrats, social media companies are already laying out their stance on how their platforms can be used by the runners.
Earlier this month, Mark Zuckerburg, Facebook chief wrote: "With our nation so divided and election results potentially taking days or even weeks to be finalised, there could be an increased risk of civil unrest across the country."
The root of this concern relates to President Trump’s erratic use of social media. Twitter and Facebook have both now said - unequivocally - that they will not allow him to declare victory (or pre-emptive victory) on their platforms. News site Axios has also reported that Google will block election ads after election day as a response to the same concern.
This then poses the potential of Mr Trump claiming victory but being blocked from spreading the word on social media.
Amazon Announces Their New Alexa-Powered Robots
As if being listened to all day by our phones and home assistants wasn’t enough, Amazon has now announced its development of the ‘Ring Always Home Cam’; an autonomous drone that is designed to fly on pre-set paths indoors or when a Ring Alarm detects motion. Yes, that’s right, a flying drone security camera. It’s set to launch in the US in 2021 at the price of $249.
As well as this, the Echo Show 10 smart display was announced. Although not as high-tech as the flying security camera, it’s designed to move with you, is programmed to monitor security cameras and act as one itself, provide an additional screen to watch entertainment, and so much more… And, this is already available for pre-order in the UK at just £240!
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