'New Govt App To Include Covid Test Results'

A new app aimed at making it easier for people to access various government services and pay utility bills will also allow users to check their Covid-19 test results and make appointments for coronavirus vaccinations, the government said on Tuesday.

The iAm Smart app is available for download from Wednesday, and serves as an authenticator of users’ identity when they deal with a host of government departments, such as when they file their taxes or renew their driver’s licence.

Users can also pay their electric and gas bills via the app.

Innovation and technology secretary Alfred Sit said new features will be gradually introduced to the app, including an electronic vaccination record for Covid-19 inoculations that will be available next month.

He said this would help ensure people get the second dose of the right vaccine, at the right time.

People who have gotten Covid-19 tests can also get their results via the app.

Sit said he belives the app will be well-received, but did not put a target on the number of downloads the government is aiming for.

He also assured people that the personal data they put into the app will be well protected.

"We do understand our Hong Kong citizens do have concerns on the privacy protection, that is a norm in society," he said.

"But we are going to have all necessary procedures and measures to protect the data privacy for the people."

He said the app does not trace the location of users, and the app has been checked by an independent body to make sure it complies with international standards on privacy protection.