To enhance network quality in the country, a mobile application called ‘Druk Speed Test’ was launched in the capital today. The app, a first of its kind in the country, was developed by the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA). According to BICMA, the app allows users to report connectivity issues to them.
The Druk Speed Test mobile app has two features; firstly, it features a network speed test to check the network or internet connection. Secondly, it includes a call experience feedback feature that lets users report any connectivity issues directly to BICMA.
According to BICMA, the app is different from other freely available internet speed testing apps.
Through the app, BICMA will have access to data generated by the app’s tests. This will enable a better understanding of the network performance of the two telecom companies in the country.
It will also assist in monitoring and prioritising improvements in areas with connectivity challenges.
“What ministry and BICMA do is that we go around and check whether the quality of service provided by the telecom companies is good or not, which is whether the coverage is good or not. It is the right of every individual to have good connectivity. To ensure this, BICMA used to conduct time-consuming checks in the past, and when there were complaints, it was challenging to determine their validity,” said Karma Dorji, Minister for Industry, Commerce and Employment.
With the app, connectivity issues can be addressed effectively, especially as the country progresses towards digital transformation.
However, according to BICMA, users who are not digitally literate may encounter some difficulties while using the app.
“If users are not digitally literate, they may encounter some issues while using the app because it is somewhat technical. Additionally, we aim to collect data from rural areas of the country where network quality is expected to be very poor. Therefore, we anticipate challenges in the rural population,” said Sonam Phuntsho, deputy chief Communication Engineer at BICMA.
Data conducted through the Druk Speed Test Mobile App will be accessible to BICMA for analysis and intervention. This sets it apart from other global speed testing apps whose data remains inaccessible to BICMA.
To ensure the app’s effective utilisation, BICMA plans to carry out advocacy programmes to help people make the most of the app to improve network connectivity in the country.
The app is available for both Android and IOS phone users and is downloadable from Playstore and Appstore.
Tashi Dekar
Edited by Sonam Pem
