THE new government Covid-19 test and trace app will be focused on Isle of Wight residents, not tourists from the UK or abroad.

The Isle of Wight is to host a trial of the new Google-Apple designed app, which is said to be compatible with 90 per cent of smart phones.

The trial is due to start today and the app follows on from the NHS-X app, which was trialled on the Island and cost £10m before being shelved.

Scroll down for a demontration video showing to use the app...

Residents are being encouraged to sign up for the app which has 'Me Features' to protect the individual and 'We Features' to protect the community and help people isolate and get tested.

The Me Features include data on the level of Covid 19 in your postcode and alerting people when they have visited a venue where there has been a coronavirus outbreak.

The We Features include help with getting tested, symptom identification and isolation protocols.

A new feature of the app will allow users to check in to participating venues and businesses anonymously, using their phones.

Businesses who want to join in will be able to download a unique QR code to display at entrances.

MP Bob Seely said: “The Island has again been asked to help trial the trace and test app. We’ve been asked specifically because of the very strong community support last time, which has been recognised by the government.

"They have come back to ask for our support again. Much of the feedback that Islanders previously gave has been incorporated into the new app.

“This time, to broaden the testbed, the app will also be tested in an urban area, as well as with emergency workers.

“The app has changed. It looks in some ways similar to the previous one, but the technology behind it has changed — in part because of what was learned from the previous test - and it has many more functions.

“A letter will be arriving to every Island household from Friday onwards. Please download this new iteration of the app.

"I am hoping very much that we can support this improved version as much as we did the previous version. We are doing this for the same reason we did it the first time around. Firstly, it helps protect Islanders. Secondly, as visitors come back to the Island it will help protect both them and us. Third, because it is good for our nation.

“You’ll get alerted if you have been near other app users who have tested positive for the virus, or in venues in which there has been infections. It will ask how you are and give advice.

“Personal data does not leave the device and users control their data.

“As part of the app’s capabilities, QR codes — the square matrix barcode — can be used by businesses to help customers sign in. This will give us all extra confidence that a test and trace system will enable us to get back to normal life whilst being considerate to others and thoughtful of our health.

"I am asking all businesses — and especially those in the hospitality and visitor sector - to download and advertise the QR Code.

“Next steps will include getting visitors signed up as well. I know that Visit Isle of Wight has also very sensibly suggested that the ferries should also use the QR codes. I will be following this up with them.

“More broadly, in the coming months we will move from coming out of generalised lockdown to a system whereby we protect specific groups more whilst enabling others to get back to a greater sense of normality.

“We need to get back to a position where people can get on with their lives whilst doing our best to suppress the virus and protect the most vulnerable. The app, and the test and trace scheme, is the best way of getting back to doing the things we love.”

The IW Council said Island residents would receive a personal invitation to join in the trial by post.

Dave Stewart, Leader of the Isle of Wight Council said: “Earlier this year, as part of the response to coronavirus, the Island took part in testing the first NHS COVID-19 app.

“As a direct result of our incredible, collective effort an improved app has been developed and now, we along with others are being asked to help test this app once again.

“We are starting to see our communities open up again, and a return to a more normal way of life.

“But coronavirus has not gone and until a vaccine or treatment is found, testing and contact tracing is the best way to stop the virus from spreading further. This app is another tool in our toolkit for helping to contain the virus.”