Hawaii partnered with Google to develop a new mobile app to track and trace passengers that arrive on the islands to encourage travelers while also stemming the spread of COVID-19, according to a report from Simple Flying.
1. The app, launched Sept. 1, cost $638,000 to create and Hawaii used funding from its Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act budget to develop it.
2. The app is a digital version of forms travelers fill out already when visiting Hawaii. The state hopes the app will encourage more individuals to visit the islands while also preventing COVID-19 outbreaks.
3. Passengers can enter information using Facebook, Google or email within 24 hours of departure and then will receive a QR code that will be scanned at the airport. The app doesn't actively track phone locations.
4. Information entered into the app is stored on Google Cloud and law enforcement can access the data to update individuals on potential outbreaks or new quarantine rules.