Google is Introducing ‘Nearby’ Notifications For Android


 Thanks to iBeacons, iOS devices have a unique feature in which if it detects you’re near somewhere that might have a related app, it will show up on your lockscreen. A good example would be Starbucks where if you are in proximity, the Starbucks app icon will show up on your lockscreen where you can launch it and use it to pay for your drinks.

Now it looks like Google will be bringing a similar feature to Android called “Nearby”. However from what we can tell, Google’s version will work regardless of whether you have the app or not. One of the examples they gave (see screenshot above) was how if you’re at the airport, you could be prompted to download the United Airlines app.

According to Google, “The right app at the right moment lets you get more done. For example, at a store, you may want a barcode scanner to check prices and reviews for an item. Or when you’re at a museum, an audio tour would enhance the experience as you make your way around the exhibits. But, getting the right apps at the right time can be tough if you don’t already know about them. So, we’re introducing a new Android feature called Nearby, which notifies you of of things that can be helpful near you.”
This feature isn’t limited to just apps as it will work with Google Cast and Android Wear where you can pair devices easily when the notification pops up. Users will need to enable Bluetooth and Location and also will need at least Android 4.4 KitKat and above for it to work. The feature is being rolled out as we speak as part of the Google Play Services release.
Filed in Cellphones. Read more about Android and Google.

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