Google is famous for rolling out new updates for its Google services and
it is being reported another update will soon be rolling out, called
'Nearby', which is a contextual awareness feature.
Android Police
claims that it has obtained details tipping that the rumoured 'Nearby'
will be arriving with the next Google Play Services update for Android users. However, it does not reveal an exact time frame for the release
of the update.
The yet-to-be-announced 'Nearby' feature is said to
allow enabled devices to connect and share with people, places and
things in close proximity.
The report also includes the text of
the 'Nearby' onscreen message that gives an overview of the feature and
said, "Nearby lets you connect, share, and do more with people, places,
and things near you. When Nearby is turned on for your account, Google
can periodically turn on the mic, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and similar features
on all your current and future devices. Google+ and other Google
services need this access to help you connect, share, and more. When you
turn on Nearby, you're also turning on Location History for your
account and Location Reporting for this device. Google needs these
services to periodically store your location data for use by Nearby,
other Google services, and more."
Also claimed by the report is that the alleged Nearby feature uses two technologies from firms -
Bump and SlickLogin - which were acquired by the Mountain View giant in
recent times.
Notably, Bump was acquired
by Google in September, the maker of smartphone apps that allowed
users to share file by bumping devices together. SlickLogin was acquired
in February, and allowed end users to log-in easily into
password-protected websites
by using a uniquely generated sound.
The report also suggests
that the 'Nearby' feature will allow users to choose who they are
visible to. As of now, there is no word from Google on the 'Nearby'
feature rollout, but we can expect a release soon.
On Monday,
Google added a new feature to its Google Now app for Android
that alerts user when to get off public transport at the stop nearest
to their saved destination. Last week Google had rolled out its Public
Alerts service incorporating tweets from disaster-struck locations.
Google Expands Gemini in Google Docs to Android Devices, Available in Over 20 Languages11 June 2025
Search
