Google Chrome for Android just got a lot more real – literally and figuratively.

Let's get physical

Google's Physical Web, the clever feature that lets smartphones connect with other online devices close by, is now available on Android.

This means your Android phone can potentially connect with seemingly inanimate object such as parking metres and information booths.

The Physical Web also works indoors at locations such as shopping centres and convention centres.

Roll out

While the feature has been in beta for iOS devices for some time, the Android update marks a wider roll out of the service. Google says it currently has 1500 active beacons in place.

Some users might view the ability to log in to your nearest bus stop as a gimmick, the technology could potentially help drive traffic to bricks-and-mortar retailers down the track.