Google introduced the idea of "Instant Apps," a way of quickly downloading apps by breaking them into small runnable pieces, during its I/O conference in May. However, the search engine giant did not address the way users would access these apps.
Now, Google has moved forward to close the gap by releasing a new Android feature called "Nearby," according to Google Android official blog. The new feature suggests helpful apps based on the user's current location.
Although the search engine giant did not specify that "Nearby" works with Instant Apps, it follows a natural sequence. Instant Apps is still being tested, but it will be incorporated into the "Nearby" feature in future.
To begin with, users would receive alerts through a notification of an important app before downloading and launching it. The download process is faster thanks to the Instant App technology.
Furthermore, Google will suggest mobile websites at an appropriate time through "Nearby." The feature's ability to suggest websites is attributed to previous tests via the Physical Web project, and it will require the location to use beacons compatible with Nearby, according to Google Developers official blog.
Some developers have already created "proximity-based experiences" by use of beacons and "Nearby," including United Airlines, The Broad Museum, CVS, The University of Notre Dame, and Airside's Mobile Passport.
Thanks to "Nearby" feature, when a user is near a store that offers its own application, the app may be suggested to the user. At a museum, users might be notified about the app that offers the audio tour. When boarding a flight, a user's Android device may suggest installation of the airline's app for in-flight entertainment.
Meanwhile, some Google devices like Android Wear watches and Google Cast will rely on a similar feature to suggest the installation of their own applications within proximity. The "Nearby" feature functions like Apple iOS's app suggestions, which was introduced back in iOS 8, and it is located on the Lock Screen. These suggestions are as well updated as one goes from one location to another.
In iOS's app suggestions, a user swipes up on the icon to run it in case it is installed, or by visiting the App Store for the download. On the contrary, suggestions in "Nearby" on Android are somehow intrusive since it uses push notifications.
Watch the footage below for more information on Google's "Nearby" feature: