Technological advancements have become a blessing during COVID-19. This boon is a global phenomenon, perhaps because our lives are dependent on it— from communication to gaming to music to shopping, and now, even schooling! Things that were hard to imagine a few years ago have now become commonplace. Technology's transformation and utility have only become more prominent during the pandemic. 

Remember those days when we used to pick a random date and plan for a movie hangout with friends? Today, Netflix has brought plenty of options to choose from at our fingertips.

Instead of sitting at a movie theatre and staring at a screen for 2-3 hours accompanied by a box of popcorn, we can now lie down in our cosy rooms and binge watch favourite series or movies, of course with a bowl of chips, drinks, etcetera. The added comfort of just pausing for whatever urgent thing comes up to just come back when free is an unparalleled joy. Thousands of hours of entertainment and relaxation. 

Keeping up with the happenings of the lives of our near and dear ones has become easier thanks to Facebook creating a huge platform for us to stay connected globally.

Food and groceries at our door steps have been made possible with tech too, especially in this pandemic ordering food is now faster than ever. We have various food delivery services available in our pockets, just a click away, via a variety of food delivery apps like FoodPanda, HungryNaki, PathaoFood, ShohozFood, Cookups, Kludio Asia Limited, and Munchies. Even groceries can be delivered at the same time. We do not have to visit a grocery store; all we need to do is just make a phone call and products are delivered.

Just a year or two ago, we never imagined doing schooling on our devices right? In bygone days, we were not allowed to use phones at our classrooms and now entire schools, even university classes, corporate meetings and conferences are continuing at Zoom, Meet and other platforms.

During COVID, one of the emergency services that we all need is doctor's services. Years ago, calling a doctor and seeking immediate advice or help was unimaginable. But our smart devices help us with that at all hours, conveniently, by dialling 16263. 

YouTube videos and other health apps not only teach us about good dietary habits, but can also provide a way to remain fit, and learn new things. 

I know these technology advancements are nothing new. But during the pandemic, this has been a blessing. When almost the entire nation came to a standstill, these technological benefits have given us a way to respond and fight this coronavirus outbreak.

Photo: Collected