The idea addresses a subtle but important gap in public health communication: reinforcing social distancing guidelines during moments when people naturally forget them, particularly during social activities like taking group selfies. While official health messaging exists, this approach embeds reminders directly into everyday technology interactions without being overly intrusive.

How the Idea Works

A potential method would be to integrate with smartphone camera software to detect when users attempt to take a group selfie. Using existing facial recognition and proximity sensors, the system could identify when multiple faces appear close together in the camera view. Just before the photo is taken, a discreet pop-up could appear with a reminder like "please practice social distancing." The feature wouldn't prevent the photo from being taken—just serve as a timely nudge.

• Minimum Viable Product: Basic facial detection that counts faces in selfie mode plus simple distance estimation, with the option to toggle the feature in Settings
• Future Improvements: Context-awareness (only showing during health crises), customizable messages, or integration with official health alerts

Why This Approach Makes Sense

Unlike existing solutions like contact tracing or digital wellness features, this would intervene at the exact moment when social distancing might be overlooked, making the reminder more relevant. Smartphone manufacturers already have the necessary technology (used for portrait modes and photo organization), so implementation could leverage existing APIs. The feature would be most useful during declared health emergencies but could be turned off when not needed.

The idea doesn't solve public health messaging alone but complements it by targeting a specific behavior. Testing would be needed to ensure reminders don't become annoying—perhaps by making them opt-in or tying them to official health alerts.