The present technique relates to an information processing apparatus and a method capable of realizing a communication tool of a new mode.An LED emits light according to a light emission pattern identified based on a set of light emission parameters indicating characteristics of light emission. An action control unit controls the light emission pattern of the LED based on a relationship between the self apparatus and a group to which the self apparatus and at least one other information processing apparatus including the LED belong, or a relationship between the other information processing apparatus and the self apparatus belonging to the group. The present technique may be applied to an information processing apparatus used as a communication tool.