The Play Store offers over one million apps many of which are created to be used in specific locations or situations. 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.
But, getting the right apps at the right time can be tough if you don’t already know about them. However, Google introduced a new Android feature, ‘Nearby’, which notifies you of things that can be helpful near you.
Select Google devices, including Google Cast and Android Wear watches, will also let you set them up simply by tapping a notification when you’re near them.[related-posts]
Earlier this year, google experimented with surfacing websites relevant to a place in Chrome through the Physical Web project. In addition to displaying relevant apps, Nearby will surface these websites directly from Android.
How to use Nearby
- Turn on Bluetooth and Location, and you will receive notifications if a nearby app or website is available.
- Once you’ve opted-in, tapping on a notification takes you straight into the intended experience. If you’re not interested, just swipe it away.
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.
