GOOGLE is using location data gathered from phones to help public health officials understand how people’s movements have changed in response to the global coronavirus pandemic.
The reports use data from people who have opted in to storing their location history with Google to help illustrate the degree to which people are adhering to government instructions such as, where possible, working from home.
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The Covid-19 Community Mobility Report dated July 10, 2020, looks at data between Friday, May 29, and Friday, July 10.
The data shows there has been an increase in the number of people visiting parks with a 26 per cent rise compared to the baseline.
Similarly, there has been a rise in the number of people visiting residential areas (19 per cent increase compared to the baseline).
Public transport has seen a 62 per cent drop in the number of people using it and workplaces have seen a 54 per cent decrease compared to the baseline.
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Retail and recreation - which comprises of places such as restaurants, cafes, shopping centres and libraries - has seen a 47 per cent decrease compared to the baseline.
The data comes as the government has announced it is mandatory for people to wear face masks in shops and supermarkets from July 24.
Those who don't comply could face a fine of up to £100.
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