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02:05
A new COVID-19 track-and-trace mobile app is being launched in France where users will be made aware if they have been in contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19. The plan has its critics, but it has now passed its first vote in the lower house of the French parliament.
What is the story in a nutshell?
France is working out how to ease lockdown restrictions while at the same time keep a check on the spread of the coronavirus and is bringing in a track-and-trace mobile app to do that.
Why does France want a COVID-tracing app?
So it can monitor who has been in contact with whom and which people may have infected others as the country opens up and more people travel around France.
What sort of app has the government gone for?
The government's StopCovid app is entirely voluntary, so requires the public to endorse the project. This app uses Bluetooth, will anonymize the users, and will send notifications if the person has been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19.
Why do critics oppose the decision?
They believe it is intrusive and violates privacy, with some people calling it "Big Brother." They say there are serious questions over the storage and use of the data. Opposition MPs also say that, while the elderly are more vulnerable to the virus, they are also the demographic less likely to have smartphones.
French ministers say it will be a temporary app that will be discontinued. /Thomas Samson/AFP
How has the government defended its choice?
Ministers say the app is transparent and anonymous. They say that anyone can delete the app at any time and it is not compulsory. The digital technology minister also noted that it is temporary – as soon as the pandemic is over it will be discontinued.
Have other countries gone for a different type of app?
Authorities in 23 countries across five continents have sought access to contact-tracing technology from Apple and Google. Some countries are trying to develop their own apps because the tech giants are insisting authorities do not use their technology to collect GPS location data.
What happens now?
In France, the app will now be available possibly as early as the weekend. The government will be encouraging users to download it to help the track-and-trace initiative, but ministers will remind the public that the app is not obligatory.
