In order to get the latest updates related to the COVID-19 pandemic, people in the country should download the newly-launched AarogyaSetu app.

On Thursday, the Centre launched a mobile application, AarogyaSetu, for tracking cases of coronavirus infections in the vicinity. Developed by the National Informatics Centre, the app gives an indication to the user if he/she came in contact with a COVID-19 infected person.

The app has been launched for Android and iOS users. Once installed in a smartphone, the app detects other devices with the same app installed that comes in the proximity of that phone and can calculate the risk of infection based on edge Bluetooth technology, algorithms, and artificial intelligence.

The personal data collected by the app is encrypted using state-of-the-art technology and stays secure on the phone until it is needed for facilitating medical intervention. The app is available in 11 languages.

''This app is a unique example of the nation’s young talent coming together and pooling resources and efforts to respond to a global crisis. It is at once a bridge between public and private sectors, digital technology and health services delivery and the potential of young India with a disease-free and healthy future of the nation,'' a government release said.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad stated that the country is also going to launch the Aarogya Setu Interactive Voice Response System.

"Today an initiative has been launched between Govt of India & Tamil Nadu, Aarogya Setu IVRS. It will activate once you give a missed call & identify your location. All options for assistance, healthcare & guidance will be available to you on it," Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said.

"We are also going to launch Aarogya Setu Interactive Voice Response System in other states soon, today was a pilot. While Aarogya Setu is for smartphones, the IVRS version will be available even for nonsmartphones. Both of them will complement each other," Prasad added.

Until now, the total number of positive coronavirus cases has jumped to 5734 with 166 deaths.