Google's hyperlocal social network 'Neighbourly' makes debut in Delhi and Bengaluru

Google has rolled out its hyperlocal social network app Neighbourly in Delhi and Bengaluru.

The real-time app allows users to share experience and crucial info with other people in the neighbourhood. The users will get automatic suggestions about the nearest neighbourhood, where they can browse, ask and answer questions on the app.

The neighbourhood network app was first launched in Mumbai in June. With over 1.5 million downloads and half a million people on the waiting list, the app got a good response from people.

"Since June, seven cities have gotten early access to Neighbourly. We’ve seen people integrate Neighbourly into their daily routines asking just about anything, from the source of a strong LPG smell to why there are elephants on the street outside," said Arnold Binas, Engineering Manager, Neighbourly in a blog post.

The search giant plans to expand it to other major cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Indore and Kolkata in coming days. Any city that wants Neighbourly in their region needs to join the waitlist. A user can also switch between two neighbourhoods, if he lives in one neighbourhood and work in another, as per his convenience.

Currently, Neighbourly app is available on the Google Play Store for only Android smartphones.

There won’t be any privacy concerns as no user profiles, personal information or contact details are shared on the app, added Binas.

The hyperlocal social networking app opens a new source of ad revenue for Google, which can sell high-priced targeted local ads while collecting more information about user preferences.

According to industry experts, once it gains popularity among users, Google may club it with its other verticals like search and payment.