Abstract: Systems, apparatus, methods, and non-transitory media for programmatically associating nearby users are discussed herein. Some embodiments may include user-wearable gesture exchange device including a motion sensor and circuitry. The motion sensor may be configured to generate motion data values indicating motion of the gesture exchange device. The circuitry may be configured to monitor motion data values generated by the motion sensor for detection of a gesture exchange signature, such as a handshake, being performed by the user. In some embodiments, the gesture exchange device may be configured to establish a wireless communication connection with a second gesture exchange device for exchange of user data, such as in response to detecting user performance of the gesture exchange signature and/or determining that the second gesture exchange device is within a predetermined proximity.