Google today announced Nearby, a way for Android devices to show people relevant apps, web sites, and other information based on location.
It takes the idea of the physical web, which displayed web sites of nearby businesses, a step further.
For example, Android owners who walk into a CVS may be prompted to print their photos while in the store, or people visiting The Broad in Los Angeles may be prompted to download the audio tour. Nearby might also suggest users set up Google Cast or Android Wear devices when in range.
In order to take advantage of Nearby, people will need to have location and Bluetooth enabled, as it relies on Bluetooth beacons. The suggestions will be delivered via push notifications that can be acted upon or ignored.
Google said developers need to add Nearby to their beacons/locations before people will begin to see them.
Nearby has started rolling out to users as part of the upcoming Google Play Services release and will work on Android 4.4 (KitKat) and above.
