Sometimes, checking in to malls and other public venues can be frustrating. When the QR code refuses to be scanned (ugh) or you fumble trying to find your NRIC, it can be embarrassing to hold up the line.
Especially when everyone behind you is staring at your blunder.
But you won’t have to worry about that anymore with the new system!
The SafeEntry check-in will now be an easier and smoother process with the new tap-in function to be rolled out from 19 April 2021.
The Smart Nation and Digital Government Group (SNDGG) announced today (16 Mar) that public venues will be required to deploy the new SafeEntry Gateway in addition to the current SafeEntry check-in methods.
According to CNA, the new method will be used at shopping malls, cinemas, gated tourist attractions, supermarkets, public libraries, selected museum and galleries, meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibition (MICE) event venues, places of worship and others.
In addition, healthcare settings such as public and private hospitals, national specialty centres, community hospitals and polyclinics will also need to deploy the SafeEntry Gateway.
Even popular wet markets like the Geylang Serai Market and Chong Pang Market will also be involved.
How the New System Works
All visitors have to do is simply tap their phone (with the TraceTogether app open) or TraceTogether token on the gateway box to check-in.
As reported by The Straits Times, the box works by exchanging Bluetooth signals with the TraceTogether app or token within a 25cm range.
When detected, the box will beep and show a green light.
The new system will also help users know whether their TraceTogether token is low on battery. Tokens that do not trigger the beep or light are out of battery.
To check whether your token is working, make sure that there is a green light that blinks every minute. The battery life is expected to last from four to six months depending on the model.
CNA also reports that SNDGG is planning to set up token replacement stations at certain venues where the SafeEntry gateway is deployed so that they will be able to “expeditiously” replace unusable tokens.
Currently, faulty tokens or ones that have run out of battery can be replaced for free at any community centre.
New System for Business Owners
There’s also another version to the SafeEntry Gateway called the SafeEntry (Business) app.
The app which was intended for businesses residing in Singapore is now updated so that customers can also scan their TraceTogether token or tap their phone against the operator’s phone to check-in.
According to CNA, businesses can apply for one SafeEntry Gateway box for each existing manned public entry point at no charge, for up to four boxes.
Other locations like schools, gyms and dining outlets can also apply for one box at no charge. These venues are not required to use the SafeEntry Gateway system.
Businesses will not need to set them up for check-out as the gateways only need to be deployed for SafeEntry check-in.
SafeEntry Gateway Box Trial
Of course, the system has to be tested out before rolling it out to other venues.
For those who are more kiasi, you’ll breathe a sigh of relief since the pilot programmes have already been conducted at the Downtown East and Nex malls. Three SafeEntry Gateway boxes were placed at various entrances of the malls.
The Straits Times states that the new system had received good feedback when it was trialled at Downtown East from October to December last year.
It was also trialled at Nex mall from 15 February 2021.
If you’re unsure whether your phone can support the new gateway system, worry not as all SafeEntry QR code check-ins will remain available! You can also make use of the TraceTogether token to scan in.
Feature Image: kandl stock / Shutterstock.com (Image is for illustration purpose only)
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