Abstract: Some embodiments described in this disclosure provide methods and/or systems to facilitate communication between devices. A first device may detect a first event based on an action performed by a user using the first device. The first device may then send information of the first event to a server. The server can then attempt to match the first event with an event from a set of events based on the information of the first event. The first device may receive a response from the server that indicates whether or not the first event matched a second event that was sent to the server from a second device.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for reducing misinterpretation of gesture-based input to portable electronic devices are described.

Abstract: A fixed bump button may: (1) report its identification to a server connected to the internet when the button is bumped by a mobile device; and/or (2) emit a beacon signal identifying the button to a mobile device.

Abstract: A first device periodically transmits a first audio signal that encodes a first code over an audio channel that is shared between the first device and a second device, and the second device periodically transmits a second audio signal that encodes a second code over the audio channel. When the first device receives the second audio signal over the audio channel, the first device extracts the second code from the second audio signal and sends the second code to a server. When the second device receives the first audio signal over the audio channel, the second device extracts the first code from the first audio signal and sends the first code to the server. If the server receives the first code from the second device and/or the second code from the first device, the server can conclude that the first device is in proximity to the second device.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for reducing misinterpretation of gesture-based input to portable electronic devices are described.

Abstract: A “bump” occurs when two devices at the same place at the same time indicate their intention to establish a connection for transferring information. A process for validating bumps is described.

Abstract: A fixed bump button may: (1) report its identification to a server connected to the internet when the button is bumped by a mobile device; and/or (2) emit a beacon signal identifying the button to a mobile device.