Google patents drag-and-drop content sharing with nearby groups

Proximity-based content sharing systems for mobile tend to focus on one-at-a-time transfers -- However, Google this week has been granted a patent for an interface that would simplify sharing content with nearby groups. Users would only have to drag private items into a public space to share them with everyone inside of a certain range; the reverse would hide those items once again. The approach wouldn't be limited to files, either, as it could be used for invitations to chat sessions or events. While innovation in the mobile space is continuing, the shift is towards the platform and software running on those devices. Android has already captured about 80% market share and Apple and Microsoft need to innovate to stay in the game.