Google testing new device pairing app via Wi-Fi Aware tech

The search engine giant has introduced a new prototype application Wi-Fi Aware aka Neighbor Awareness Networking (NAN) that can pair with any compatible devices nearby with less fuss.

"Wi-Fi Aware networking works by forming clusters with neighboring devices, or by creating a new cluster if the device is the first one in an area. This clustering behavior applies to the entire device and is managed by the Wi-Fi Aware system service; apps have no control over clustering behavior. Apps use the Wi-Fi Aware APIs to talk to the Wi-Fi Aware system service, which manages the Wi-Fi Aware hardware on the device," the company said.

The Wi-Fi Aware application WifiNanScan offers a wider range of connections compared to Bluetooth and users will also be able to transfer large-sized data such as multimedia content not just between two phones, but also other types of compatible devices.

Some of the use-cases of Wi-Fi Aware application (courtesy, Wi-Fi Alliance)
1) Faster connection and transfer of data between the phone and a printer to get the printout
2) Schools or work-places can install Wi-Fi Aware devices at entrances to record student or employee attendance with time stamps
3) With Wi-Fi Aware app can also be used by users to browse the food menu or book a table in front of the restaurant even if the latter is closed for the hour
4) Connect with people nearby to play a favorite game on mobile devices
5) Streamline airport security, customs, and immigration processing flows using mobile identification (ID) such as a driver’s license or passport without requiring travelers to present a physical ID
6) Enable a friend in the vicinity to simultaneously hear songs being played on a user’s device
7) Find friends at a concert and share photos or coordinate a place to meet

WifiNanScan app. Credit Google Play store

For now, the WifiNanScan app is available for Google Play for developers for testing on Android phones. Also, the Android 12 developer preview is already released come with support for Wi-Fi Aware tech and this app will be used to established secure and strong wireless connection between devices.

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