Google gets up close and personal: New 'nearby' feature set to take on Apple in home automation
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Google is set to launch a new 'smart tracking' system that will know if you are near friends, shops or even home appliances.
Called Google Nearby, the new feature for Android handsets is expected to be unveiled at Google's developer conference later this month.
It is expected to compete directly with both Apple's Homekit home automation software and its iBeacon smart shopping system.
Google Nearby is expected to compete directly with both Apple's Homekit home automation software and its iBeacon smart shopping system.
HOW IT WILL WORK
The app will use the phone's GPS, Bluetooth and even microphone to work out exactly where they are.
It can them automatically trigger commands - for instance, listen for them to say 'open the garage door' when they are at home, or automatically turn on the lights when they walk up the driveway.
The system is expected to work with appliances such as Google's own Nest smart thermostat.
'We've received information indicating that Nearby will come with an upcoming Google Play Services update,' said AndroidPolice.
'The key takeaway from this is that Nearby will allow enabled devices, with extreme precision, to know when they are near each other, and interact according to the context.
'Users, according to our information, will also be able to choose who (and presumably what) they are visible to.'
According to the app, which was accessed by the website, 'Nearby lets you connect, share, and do more with people, places, and things near you.
Google already owns Nest, a smart learning thermometer, which could work with the new service to heat a home as the user approaches, for example.
'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.'
They believe the system could be used in both commercial and home settings - for instance, turning on lights when you get home, or to know when a users visits a certain section in a store.
AndroidPolice offers the example of being able to say 'OK Google, open the garage door.'
With Nearby enabled, your phone would listen for that command when you pulled in your driveway, but not when you're three states away on a trip.
The features are similar to those offered by Apple.
Last week the firm launched HomeKit, a system to allow users to control appliances by turning their iPhone into a remote.
As reported in the Daily Mail last week, Apple has been working with appliance manufacturers to allow iPhones to control heating systems, security alarms and ovens from a distance.
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