A FRAMEWORK FOR SUPPORTING MULTI-DEVICE COLLABORATION

A framework for providing multi-device collaboration is described herein. In one embodiment, a method for providing multi-device collaboration between first and second devices can include transferring an initializing function call to create a session object. The function call specifies a mode of the session object, a service type, and a service name. The session object can include functions to discover the second device, connect with the second device, and provide data transport between the connected first and second devices. The service name can include a truncated name, a unique identification, and a state of service of a software application associated with the first device. The method can include detecting a network and advertising the service type and the service name via the network. The service type and service name can be advertised prior to establishing the connection between the first and second devices.