Facebook may launch a ride-sharing feature

Facebook may have its eyes set on the ride-sharing business, according to a recently published patent filing.

The document explains how the social network could incorporate a car-pooling option into its Events pages. In addition to the usual “Going,” “Not Going,” and “Interested” RSVP options, Facebook could include an option for user’s to say whether or not they plan on driving.

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From there, the user could include how many passengers they are able to take, who can see the ride-sharing invitation and logistical information like the location they plan to leave from.

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The patent, published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark office Thursday, also showed the capability to match drivers with potential passengers based on personal details like common interests or friends. When it comes time to leave for the event, the feature could dish up directions to make sure the driver gets to each pickup location without issue.

Of course, a patent filing doesn’t mean that a car-pooling feature is definitely coming to Facebook, but the company has put a lot of focus on transportation solutions in the past few months.

In December, it announced it was partnering with Uber to allow users to hail a ride directly from its Messenger service.

“With this new feature, you can request a ride from a car service without ever needing to download an extra app or leave a conversation. It’s super easy and doesn’t take you away from the plans that you’re making with your friends or family,” read Facebook’s announcement.