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Five ways the coronavirus is changing how China uses tech

From contactless food delivery to gaming overload, here's how tech is changing because of the viral epidemic

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Five ways the coronavirus is changing how China uses tech
This article originally appeared on ABACUS

The outbreak of the deadly coronavirus in China has left millions stranded at home, wreaked havoc on many industries, and could impact China’s economy for a long time.

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For those stuck at home and trying to avoid infection, it’s also changed how people use technology. Tech companies have been forced to get creative in how they provide their services. Those that previously relied on physical gatherings, such as gyms, are now trying out virtual offerings.

Here are some of the biggest changes in China tech over the last month.

Food delivery without seeing the delivery driver

With people stuck at home and food supplies being rapidly snatched up from stores, brave food delivery personnel have stepped up to feed the hungry and the lazy alike. 

As stores get depleted, delivery companies are stepping up to provide meals. (Picture: Reuters)
As stores get depleted, delivery companies are stepping up to provide meals. (Picture: Reuters)
But like everyone else, couriers have to protect themselves from the coronavirus. Meituan was among the first to introduce “contactless” food delivery, which basically means leaving the meals at a designated area for the customer to pick up. The company also installed meal retrieval cupboards around hospitals for Wuhan medical staff.

Meituan Dianping: Settle all your local needs on one app

Last week KFC and Pizza Hut started offering the same service, and the measures are going beyond food delivery. Several ecommerce companies will also offer contactless delivery to avoid infections, according to announcements from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.

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