The Toronto-based start-up iMerciv has used the “Microsoft AI for Accessibility” program to build features into its pedestrian app MapinHood that help people to avoid crowded streets. The “social distancing” mode uses historical data about pedestrians to suggest alternative routes to busy roads, based on the time of day. Users are then guided through side streets where it is easier to comply with physical distancing rules. What's more, the “Round Trip” feature provides routes for “safe” walks for a selected period of time.

The Californian tech company NetObjex has developed a blockchain-based app called “Covid PreCheck” which enables workers to prove that they represent a low risk of infection and can return to the office. The app refers users to nearby centres where they can take an antibody test. The results are transferred to the app which generates a QR code that employers can scan. The code shows if the respective employee has taken the immunity test and has been certified as having a low infection risk.

The Dutch broadcaster VPRO has held a song contest involving AI programs rather than real singers. The contest was organised in response to the cancellation of the ESC and featured 13 teams from Europe and Australia. They were asked to use data and algorithms to create the kind of music that would stand a good chance of winning the ESC. Top spot was awarded to the team from Australia with “Beautiful the World”. For this song, the AI was trained with old ESC hits as well as the sounds of koala bears, kookaburras and Tasmanian devils.

The UK-based charity “The Pavement” has produced a one-off magazine for homeless people in order to offer them help in getting through all the changes brought about by the corona crisis. Entitled “Health & Wellbeing in a Crisis”, the special edition is full of ideas to help people stay mentally and physically strong during the pandemic. What's more, the booklet helps readers to navigate the increasingly digitally-focused world, especially when internet access is out of reach.

The organisers of the Tribeca Film Festival have provided a set of colourful 3D avatars that users can integrate into videos to describe their lockdown time. The campaign aims to make digital tools available to help people at home to express themselves. The animated 3D avatars represent people playing sports, dancing and applauding. The figures can be integrated into everyday scenes using the smartphone. Users are called upon to show their everyday lives during the pandemic and post it on Instagram using the hashtag #TribecaMakesMeWanna.