New App Based Covid Tests

For both pre-departure and day two lateral flow tests, a mobile app has been developed to process and certify results.

Instead of more expensive PCRs, the latter will be required for vaccinated international arrivals in the UK starting 24th October.

Randox, a diagnostics company, developed the app, which uses ID verification technology.

The lateral flow tests, which cost £20 each and can be obtained through Randox, are then used in conjunction with the app to collect the individual’s ID and securely upload the test results.

Users’ identities will be verified by scanning passports into the system, with facial recognition software being added to future editions of the app to further boost security.

The app is only for Randox Certifly lateral flow testing, and it provides findings in 15 minutes.

CertiFly’s AI software is used to process test findings before they are manually validated by a healthcare expert.

A Day 2 or fit-to-fly certificate will be delivered to the user, and it will be kept in the app for future access.

Each CertiFly lateral flow testing kit comes with a one-time-use QR code that can be entered into the app.

The Randox Health website sells testing kits that comprise a swab, extraction buffer tube, waste bag, tube holder, packaging insert, and test cassette. The app works on both iOS and Android devices.

“The characteristics of the app maximize security and allow the quick flow of correct and safe information to provide clients with a verified results certificate, without the need for time-consuming and costly video consultations,” said Alex Rusak, vice president of business development.

“With the ability to process more than 100,000 certificates in 24 hours, the Randox CertiFly app rapidly provides validated test results, with the ultimate goal of making sure that travel is accessible, affordable, and importantly, safe.”

Fintan O’Rourke, CertiFly’s head of worldwide alliances, added: “We are encouraged to see testing policy adapt to make international traveling easier and we believe that it’s crucial for technology to adapt alongside this to keep the country as safe as possible.

“Technology plays a vital role in ensuring the integrity of Covid-19 testing and that’s why CertiFly has developed an app with Randox to reduce the risks associated with fraudulent testing.

“We have built in the same verification technology that banks use to eliminate identity fraud and a two-step validation process for test results, with AI analysis followed by verification from a healthcare professional. As restrictions evolve, is it important to maintain rigorous testing standards in support of the UK’s fight against Covid-19.”