The China Aid site reported on March 6, 2023, that “if religious believers want to participate in religious activities, they must make online reservations before they can attend services in churches, mosques, or Buddhist temples. Local believers must register and make an appointment through an application called “Smart Religion,” developed by the Ethnic and Religious Affairs Commission of Henan Province… Applicants must fill in personal information, including name, phone number, ID number, permanent residence, occupation, and date of birth, before they can make a reservation. Those who are allowed into the church must also have their temperature taken and show a reservation code… The big data platform “Smart Religion” of the State Administration of Religious Affairs also introduced big religious data and artificial intelligence. The overview of this product utilizes technologies such as big data, artificial intelligence, electronic maps, mobile web, and 720-degree VR panoramic map. Through precise positioning and video surveillance of the venues used for religious purposes in Chang’an district, and through religious multidimensional data analysis to improve religious affairs management.” – Source.

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