While Apple had recently introduced the iBeacon feature for iOS, Google to seems to be working on a similar feature for Android.
According to sources, Google may soon introduce a new feature called Nearby that would let Android users to automatically connect with other Android users within the given range. The feature notifies users of Android users in the vicinity after checking for other devices connected in the area and allows the user to connect to the devices.
The Nearby feature is expected to be announced at the upcoming Google I/O. the feature could be employed for issuing location-based alerts like reminders and ads and may also find its way into Google+.
The excerpt reads, “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.”