KR20060002796A - Source audio identifier for digital communication - Google Patents

Abstract

For audibly notifying the receiver that a digital communication has arrived from a sender, the receiver receiving a digital communication of the sender to be sent to the receiver, and designated by the sender of the digital communication and identifying the sender of the digital communication; Determining whether to carry an audio identifier together. The detection of the audio identifier by the receiver depends on whether to convey the audio identifier with the digital communication. The audio identifier is detected before or at the same time as the receiver sees the digital communication. Audible identification of the event includes allowing the first sound to be selected based on the identifier. The identifier enables identification of an entity related to the event. Notification of the occurrence of the event is received. The notification includes an identifier. In response to the notification, the particular recipient is informed of the event by generating at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of a second sound associated with the event.

Description

Source Audio Identifiers for Digital Communications

This application is filed on March 3, 2003, entitled "Buddy Ring Tones For Mobile Devices," and US Patent Application No. 60 / 450,696, filed on April 2, 2003, titled "Concatenated Ring Tones." Claims priority of patent application 60 / 459,273.

The present invention relates to a communication system that enables the exchange of information between users through the transmission or call of digital communication.

Typical telephones generate a ringing tone that can be heard to signal that a call is coming. Some phones allow the called party to match the call tone to a particular caller, so that when the called party hears the call tone, they know both the call and the caller's identification.

Similarly, many computer systems used for the exchange of digital communications (e.g., instant messages or e-mails) allow the recipient to select the message sound heard when the digital communications are received.

Both call tones and message sounds offer the advantage of notifying the recipient of the call and the received digital communication without requiring the recipient to see the screen or display.

In one general aspect, a method of audibly audible arrival of a digital communication from a sender to a receiver comprises receiving a digital communication transmitted from a sender to a receiver, wherein the digital communication is a Identifying a sender and determining whether it is associated with an audio identifier specified by the sender of the digital communication. Recognition of the audio identifier by the receiver is a condition whether or not the digital communication is coupled with the audio identifier. The audio identifier is recognized prior to or simultaneously with the recognition of the digital communication by said reception.

Embodiments may include one or more of the following features. For example, the digital communication may be an instant message, an e-mail or a voice mail. The audio identifier may be a spoken version of the user identifier of the sender.

Determining whether or not the digital communication is associated with an audio identifier comprises determining whether an audio identifier has been received from the sender. Determining whether the digital communication is associated with an audio identifier includes accessing the data store based on the user identifier of the sender included in the digital communication. The user identifier can be an email address, instant message handle or screen name.

Recipient recognition of the audio identifier may also be a condition whether the receiver is useful for receiving the digital communication. If the receiver is not useful for receiving digital communications, the digital communications may be discarded or stored in a data store for later recovery.

Recipient recognition of the audio identifier may also be conditioned on whether a communication exchange preference associated with the receiver allows the receiver to recognize the audio identifier. The recipient may be allowed to recognize the audio identifier and / or digital communication if the communication exchange preferences explicitly include a setting indicating that the receiver is allowed to recognize the audio identifier. The recipient is not allowed to recognize the audio identifier and / or digital communication if the communication exchange configuration clearly includes a setting indicating that the receiver is not allowed to recognize the audio identifier and / or digital communication. . The setting is set by the receiver responding to a query.

The audible notification method of digital communication arrival allows the receiver to recognize the sender profile or the user interface if the receiver selects a user interface element corresponding to the authority of the audio identifier, and allows the user to recognize the audio identifier. Further comprising allowing recognition.

The digital communication may be a telephone call and the sender may be a caller. Receiving a digital communication may include receiving the telephone call delivered to the recipient. Determining whether the digital communication is coupled with an audio identifier may include determining whether the telephone call is associated with the caller and with the audio identifier designated by the caller. Recognition of the audio identifier by the receiver may be a condition whether or not the telephone call is determined to be associated with the audio identifier. The audio identifier may be recognized as a ring tone for the telephone call. Recognizing the audio identifier by the receiver may include repeatedly playing the audio identifier several times to serve as a call tone for the call.

In another general aspect, a user interface that enables a receiver of a digital communication from a sender to grant or reject a source audio identifier may include a first interface element, a second interface element, and a third interface element. Can be. The first interface element is configured and arranged to provide a notification of the received digital communication. The second interface element is configured and arranged to identify a sender of the digital communication and to provide notification of an audio identifier specified by the sender of the digital communication. The third interface element is configured and arranged such that, prior to the provision of the audio identifier, a recipient of the digital communication can permit or deny the provision of the audio identifier.

Embodiments may include one or more of the following features. For example, the first interface element may display sender profile information. The third interface may be further configured and arranged such that a receiver of the digital communication permits or denies the provision of the digital communication.

The third interface element may comprise a set of fourth interface elements selectable by the recipient that affect the granting or denying of the audio identifier provision. The fourth set of interface elements permits the digital communication and the provision of the audio identifier, permits the provision of the digital communication but rejects the provision of the audio identifier, and permits the provision of the digital communication, the sender The sender specific audio identifier may include an interface element that is selectable to permit provision of an audio identifier that reveals the identity of the sender.

The fourth set of interface elements permits or denies the provision of the audio identifier upon receipt of each future digital communication from the sender to store the digital communication in a data store for later retrieval by the recipient. And an interface element selectable to permit or reject the audio identifier upon receipt of each future digital communication from the sender, subject to whether or not the audio identifier is subsequently changed by the receiver. .

 The digital communication can be a telephone call and the sender can be a caller and the first interface element can be configured and arranged to provide notification of a telephone call from the caller, and the second interface element identifies the caller. And provide notification of an audio identifier specified by the caller, wherein the third interface element allows the recipient of the call to grant or reject the provision of the audio identifier prior to providing the audio identifier. It can be constructed and arranged.

In another general aspect, a computer system for audibly notifying a recipient of the arrival of a digital communication from a sender includes a data store and a digital communication process. The data store stores audio identifiers. The digital communication process receives a digital communication from a sender delivered to a recipient and determines whether the digital communication identifies the recipient of the digital communication and is coupled with an audio identifier specified by the receiver of the digital communication. . The digital communication process connects the audio identifier from the data storage, and it is a condition as to whether or not the digital communication is coupled with the audio identifier by the receiver of the audio identifier. The audio identifier is recognized before or simultaneously with the recognition of the digital communication by the receiver.

In another general aspect, a method for notifying a recipient of a digital communication from a sender includes receiving a digital communication from a sender to a receiver, wherein the digital communication identifies the sender of the digital communication and sends it to the sender of the digital communication. Determining whether it is associated with the audio identifier specified by the. Recognition of the audio identifier by the receiver is a condition whether or not the digital communication is coupled with the audio identifier. The identifier is recognized by the receiver prior to or simultaneously with the recognition of the digital communication by the reception.

Embodiments may include one or more of the following features. For example, the identifier may be a video image specified by the sender or an audio visual presentation specified by the receiver.

In another general aspect, an audible event identification method includes enabling a selection of a first sound based on an identifier. The identifier enables global identification regarding the identification of the entity associated with the event. Notification of event occurrence is received. The notification includes an identifier. The intended recipient is notified of the event by playing at least some first sound and at least some second sound associated with the event in response to the notification.

Embodiments include one or more of the following features. For example, enabling selection of the first sound based on the identifier includes enabling selection of the first sound based on the caller's phone number, and receiving the notification comprises: Receiving a notification, wherein notifying the intended recipient of the call may include reproducing a call tone comprising at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound. The first sound may be a general call tone and the second sound may be a call tone specified by the caller.

Enabling selection of the first sound may include enabling selection of the first sound based on the identity of the instant message sender, and receiving the notification may receive notification of receipt of the instant message. It may include the step. Enabling the selection of the first sound may include enabling the selection of the first sound based on the identity of the instant message sender, and receiving the notification may include an online presence state of the instant message sender ( receiving a notification of a change in presence state. Enabling the selection of the first sound based on the identifier includes enabling the selection of the first sound based on the identity of the email sender, and receiving the notification comprises receiving a notification of receipt of the email. It may include the step. Enabling the selection of the first sound may include enabling the selection of the first sound by the sender or receiver.

The method of informing the intended recipient of the event comprises informing the intended recipient of the event by replaying at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound in response to the notification, wherein the second sound is the Specified by sender or receiver. The method of informing the intended recipient of the event may include informing the intended recipient of the event by playing at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound in response to the notification.

The method of notifying the event to the intended recipient includes forming a blended sound by mixing at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound and informing the intended recipient of the mixed sound by playing back the blended sound. Can be.

The first or second sound may be a sound selected to identify the entity or the event. The entity may be a user, and the first or second sound may be an oral form of a user identity corresponding to the user.

The first or second sound may be selected to classify the entity or the event. The first or second sound may identify the geographic location where the event occurred. The entity is a user and the first or second sound identifies a group to which the user belongs. The first or second sound identifies that the user is a member of the recipient's buddy group. The first or second sound may belong to a member of the recipient's contacts list. The first or second sound identifies the urgency or importance of the event. The entity is a user, the event is a receiver receiving a digital communication from the user, and the first or second sound identifies the type of digital communication received from the user.

Informing the intended recipient of the event includes informing the intended recipient of the event by playing at least a portion of the first sound, at least a portion of the second sound, and at least a portion of the third sound. The first sound may be a sound selected to identify the entity or event, the second sound may be a sound selected to classify the entity or event, and the third sound may be a sound selected to further classify the entity or user. The first sound may be a sound selected to classify the entity or event, the second sound may be a sound selected to further classify the entity or event, and the third sound may be a sound selected to further classify the entity or user.

Computer systems for audibly identifying events include an event sound processor, an event detection processor, and an audio playback process. The event sound processor enables selection of a first sound based on an identifier to identify a user associated with the event. The event detection process receives a notification of the event occurrence including the identifier. The audio playback process notifies the specific recipient of the event by generating at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of a second sound associated with the event in response to the notification of the event occurrence.

The details of one or more embodiments will be set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features may be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a system for enabling digital communication exchange with a source audio identifier.

2 is a flowchart illustrating a process for enabling provision of a source audio identifier upon receipt of a digital communication.

FIG. 3A is a flow diagram illustrating the operation of the process of FIG. 2 for transmitting a query to a receiver of a digital communication that queries the receiver whether the source audio identifier should authenticate or deny with the digital communication.

3B is a user interface that may appear to a user upon receipt of a digital communication with an attached source audio identifier.

4 is a flowchart illustrating a process for enabling provision of a source audio identifier upon receipt of a digital communication after the communication phase has already begun.

5 is a flow diagram illustrating another process for enabling the provision of a source audio identifier upon receipt of a digital communication.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating the operation of the process of FIG. 5 for sending a query to a digital communication receiver to query the receiver whether a source audio identifier accompanying digital communication should be authenticated or rejected.

7 is a block diagram illustrating a system for enabling exchange of source audio identifiers and digital communications over a direct connection between a sender computer system and a receiver computer system.

8 is a flowchart illustrating a process for enabling provision of a source audio identifier upon receipt of a digital communication from a sender computer system over a direct connection.

9 is a block diagram illustrating a communication system for enabling source audio identifiers and telephone calls.

The caller or sender of the digital communication can export the source audio identifier to the receiver to customize or personalize the communication exchange with the receiver. The caller or sender can select the source audio identifier such that the source audio identifier can be connected to the call receiving or recipient computer system. The call receiving phone or receiver computer system may allow the receiver to authenticate or reject the source audio identifier. If the receiver authenticates the source audio identifier, the call receiving telephone or receiver computer system reproduces the source audio identifier each time the caller calls the receiver or the sender sends a digital communication to the receiver.

The source audio identifier is generally stored in a digital file containing audio data used to identify the sender or caller. The source audio identifier may be, for example, a data file encoded using MPEG Layer III audio (MP3) and may range in size from 120 kilobits to 2 megabits. When converted to audio (ie, "played back"), a typical source audio identifier can produce 1-2 seconds of sound. For example, the source audio identifier may be in the form of a dictation of the sender's user identifier (eg, in the form of a dictation of the sender's instant message handle, email address, or screen name in the sender's voice). The source audio identifier may also be any sound that the sender represents as the sender's identification (eg, barn animal sounds, sounds from popular television shows, sound effects, and sounds related to human biological function or behavior). .

The source audio identifier performs two functions when played back: (1) the source audio identifier notifies the receiver of an incoming call from the caller, or additionally or alternatively, notifies the receiver of receipt of a digital communication from the sender; And (2) the source audio identifier indicates to the receiver the identification, category or characteristic of the source of the digital communication. Thus, the source audio identifier is a signaling mechanism and is therefore logically separate from the content of the call or digital communication exchanged between the sender and the receiver.

The source audio identifier may be an acoustic signal that identifies the sender or, alternatively, may be formed of multiple sounds that may be connected or mixed together to identify one or more characteristics of the communication transmitted by the sender as well as the sender. It may be a combined audio message. The combined audio message may include one or more discriminating sounds or one or more characteristic sounds, or may exclude any one. The discriminating sound identifies the individual sender while the characteristic sound describes, defines or characterizes the sender or the communication transmitted by the sender. For example, the identification sound may be an oral screen name, a monkey's name assigned by the sender, a recipient-specific sound associated with a group or category of contact or contact characteristics to indicate the identification of the sender, and the characteristic sound may be a high priority communication. It may be a high-pitched beep to indicate that it is assigned to the sender as a priority communication. Since many sounds are connected, it can provide the called party with an increased level of information about the communication and its source.

More specifically, in one embodiment, the linked audio message may include one or more recipient specific sounds. For example, the recipient may specify a characteristic sound for the sender indicating that the sender is a member of the recipient's friend list or a particular group of friends in the friend list. When receiving a communication from the sender, the receiver hears a sound indicating, for example, that the sender is part of the recipient's friend list, followed by other sounds indicating a group of friends for the sender, followed by the sender. You can hear the designated audio identifier. In this embodiment, the receiver knows the sender identification on the various levels and the relationship to the receiver.

The connected audio message can be used in communication systems that do not support sender specific sounds. In this embodiment, the sound in the linked audio message can be specified by the receiver or more broadly defined. The connected audio message performs the function of identifying that the communication or call has been received, identifying the identity of the sender and, if applicable, identifying the nature of the communication sent by the sender or sender.

The connected audio message can be used to audibly notify the user of communication related events not related to the receipt of the communication or call. For example, a linked audio message can be used to audibly notify the user of an existing status change of a member of the user's friend list in an instant message sentence.

Referring to FIG. 1, a system 100 that enables exchange of digital communications with a source audio identifier is a transmitter computer system 110 that transmits digital communications to a digital communications processing system (DCHS) 140 via a network 130. ). DCHS 140 may identify a source audio identifier associated with the sender for digital communication, and recipient computer system 120 may allow digital communication and source audio identifier to connect through network 130. The receiver computer system 120 connects or otherwise receives the digital communication and the source audio identifier, and allows the receiver to recognize the source audio identifier before or at the same time as the receiver can recognize the digital communication.

Digital communications generally include e-mail (e.g., audio data, video data, general binary data, or character data (e.g., hatched in ASCII standard code for information interchange (ASCII) format). -mail), including instant messages (IM), digital files such as voicemail. Digital communication is combined with a sender user identifier and a receiver user identifier. The sender and receiver user identifiers are data tags or labels used to identify the sender and receiver, respectively, for example email addresses, instant message handles, Internet protocol addresses, screen names, and / or telephones. It may be a number.

The sender computer system 110 is configured to send digital communications to the DCHS 140 via the network 130. The sender computer system 110 generally includes an apparatus 110A capable of performing commands under the command of the controller 110. Device 110A may be a general purpose computer such as a workstation or personal computer, or a special purpose computer such as a personal digital assistant (PDA), a landline telephone with digital processing capability, or a mobile telephone with digital processing capability. Can be. The controller 124 may command and direct communication between the device 110A of the sender computer system 110 and the DCHS 140. Controller 110B may be a digital communication interface device that enables the transmission of digital communication to DCHS 140 using a communication protocol. For example, in an e-mail-oriented embodiment, the digital communication interface device can be an email device, and the communication protocol can be, for example, a simple mail transfer protocol (SMTP). have. Device 110A may be connected to controller 110B by a wired or wireless data path 110C that may carry data.

In yet another embodiment, the sender computer system 110 is configured to send both digital communications and source audio identifiers to the DCSH 140. In this embodiment, DCSH 140 relays the received source audio identifier and the received digital communication to recipient computer system 120 rather than connecting and transmitting the source audio identifier. The source audio identifier may also be stored by the receiver computer system 120 rather than by the DCSH 140 or the sender computer system 110.

In another embodiment, the sender computer system 110 is further configured to send a user profile (ie, sender profile) corresponding to the sender to the DCSH 140. DCSH 140 may, in turn, cause all or part of the sender profile to be connected to recipient computer system 120. The sender profile may include sender identification and other information related to the sender, such as, for example, interests, hobbies, marital status, residence, occupation, gender, personal quotes, and favorite instruments. The sender identification may include any type of identifier (eg, sentence or video) that may be used to identify the sender to the receiver. For example, the sender identification may include a video image associated with the sender, such as a picture of the sender.

The sender computer system 110 may transmit a source audio identifier and / or a sender profile whenever a digital communication is sent to the receiver computer system 120, or, alternatively, a communication session with the receiver computer system 120. Only at the beginning of the session may the source audio identifier and / or sender profile be transmitted. The following description is primarily concerned with the recognition of communication and source audio identifiers, but the concepts and configurations described also apply to other aspects of the sender profile.

The recipient computer system 120 is configured to be connected so that the recipient can recognize the digital communication and source audio identifier. Recipient computer system 120 receives or otherwise connects to digital communication and source audio identifiers from DCSH 140 via network 130. In another embodiment, receiver computer system 120 also receives or otherwise connects to all or part of the sender profile from DCSH 140. Recipient computer system 120 generally includes device 120A capable of executing commands under the command of controller 120B. Device 120A may be a general purpose computer such as a workstation or a personal computer, or may be a special purpose such as a personal digital assistant (PDA), a landline telephone with digital processing capability, or a mobile telephone with digital processing capability. It can be a computer. Controller 124 may command and direct communication between device 120A and DCSH 140 of recipient computer system 120. Controller 120B may be a digital communication interface device that enables the receipt of digital communication from DCSH 140 using a communication protocol. In an email oriented embodiment, the digital communication interface device may be an email device, and the communication protocol may be, for example, a post office protocol (POP) or an Internet Mail Access Protocol (IMAP). Can be. Device 120A may be connected to controller 120B by a wired or wireless data path 120C that may carry data.

Apparatus 120A generally includes a data store that may be used to store a source audio identifier and / or sender profile associated with a sender in progress or for which a communications session has already occurred. Device 120A may store the source audio identifier and / or sender profile at the beginning of the communication session and access the stored source audio identifier needed throughout the communication session in accordance with the user communication exchange priority. Device 120A may also include a source audio identifier and / or sender profile from a previous communication session. User communication exchange priorities may also be stored in device 120A.

The network 130 is configured to enable indirect communication between the sender computer system 110, the receiver computer system 120, and the DCHS 140. Examples of network 130 include the Internet, wide area networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs), analog or digital wired and wireless telephone networks (e.g., public switched telephone networks (PSTNs)), and integrated services. digital network (ISDN), and any subscriber or tunneling device for carrying digital subscriber line (xDSL), radio, television, cable, satellite and / or data.

DCSH 140 includes digital communication processor 142, audio identifier data storage 144, and configuration data storage 146. The digital communication processor 142 receives the digital communication from the sender computer system 110, discards the digital communication, or entrusts the digital communication to the data storage for subsequent retrieval by the receiver computer system 120, or A computer system configured to determine whether to transmit digital communication to recipient computer system 120. Digital communication processor 142 may send digital communication to recipient computer system 120 with or without an attached source audio identifier.

The digital communication processor 142 may connect to the configuration data store 146 to retrieve the sender profile and send the sender profile (or aspects thereof) to the recipient computer system 120 in accordance with digital communication. The digital communication processor 142 may also connect to the configuration data store 146 to retrieve user communication exchange priorities associated with possible recipients of digital communication.

The user communication exchange priority includes a list of one or more user identifiers that may be accessed by the digital communication processor 142 when processing digital communication. The list is a list of user identifiers for which the digital communication is not authenticated (i.e. a black list), a list of user identifiers for which the digital communication is authenticated but the associated source audio identifier is not authenticated or reproduced to the receiver (i.e. And / or the source audio identifier with which the digital communication is authenticated and the associated source audio identifier may also include a list of user identifiers (ie, a white list) to be authenticated and reproduced. When the digital communication processor 142 receives the digital communication and the sender's user identifier of the digital communication is included on the black list, the digital communication is discarded, and in some embodiments, an error or notification message is sent to the sender computer system 110. Is sent). When the digital communication processor 142 receives the digital communication and the sender's user identifier is included on the gray list, the digital communication is sent to the recipient computer system 120 without the corresponding source audio identifier. When the digital communication processor 142 receives the digital communication and the sender's user identifier is included on the white list, the digital communication and the corresponding source audio identifier are transmitted to the recipient computer system 120.

In one embodiment, if the sender is included on the recipient's white, gray, or black list, the sender remains on the list regardless of the change in the sender's source audio identifier. In another embodiment, the configuration data store 146 or data store in the receiver computer system 120 stores the source audio identifier of the sender included on the white, gray, or black list. When DCHS 140 or receiver computer system 120 receives a digital communication comprising a source audio identifier, DCHS 140 or receiver computer system 120 determines whether the sender is in one of the lists, and the sender is said. If on one of the lists, make sure that the attached source audio identifier is the same as the stored source audio identifier. If the attached source audio identifier is the same as the stored source audio identifier, DCHS 140 or recipient computer system 120 may authenticate or reject the source audio identifier according to the user communication exchange priority. However, if the attached source audio identifier is different from the stored source audio identifier, the recipient computer system 120 may request that the user authenticate or reject the new source audio identifier from the sender. For example, a query may appear in the user interface, such as user interface 300 shown in FIG. 3B.

If the sender's user identifier of the digital communication is not included on the black, gray, or white list, the digital communication processor 142 is designated by the receiver and stored as part of the recipient's user communication exchange priority (ie, configuration data). Digital communications in accordance with a default response algorithm, which may be stored in storage 146, or in addition or alternatively, stored in device 120A of recipient computer system 120). For example, the recipient may select a default response algorithm that transmits the source audio identifier and digital communication to the recipient computer system 120 if the sender's user identifier is not in any of the lists. The receiver communication system 120 can then allow the user to recognize both the digital communication and the source audio identifier.

In another embodiment, the recipient has a default response algorithm causing digital communication processor 142 to send a query to the recipient computer system 120 that allows the recipient to authenticate or reject the digital communication or source audio identifier. You can select the default response algorithm. The recipient computer system 120 receives the query, which may include sender profile information obtained from the configuration data store 146. In addition, the recipient computer system 120 may provide all or part of the sender profile information when the receiving party asks the receiving party whether to approve or reject the digital communication or source audio identifier. have. The receiver is also located in the black, gray or white list stored as part of the user communication preferences of the receiving side. It can hold an option to The digital communication processor 142 may receive a response to the query from the receiver computer system 120 and perform the digital communication accordingly. For example, the query may be provided to the user through a visual user interface such as user interface 300 of FIG. 3B.

In general, the digital communication processor 142 includes at least one of the white, gray and black lists and the default response algorithm at the start of a communication session between the sender and the receiver. You can access the user communication exchange preferences. Once the appropriate processing is determined as described above, subsequent digital communication transmitted by the sending side computer system 110 is performed by the digital communication processor 142 according to a previously determined priority. The digital communication processor 142 may transmit the source audio identifier with each subsequent digital communication transmitted from the transmitting side. Alternatively, the digital communication processor 142 may transmit the source audio identifier along with the first digital communication transmitted at the beginning of the communication session. By this digital communication processor 142, the receiver computer system 120 can simply store the source audio identifier after receiving the first digital communication, and during the communication session the digital communication processor 142 The stored source audio identifier for each subsequent digital communication received from < RTI ID = 0.0 >

The digital communication processor 142 continuously tracks the connection status or detects the presence or absence of a user identifier corresponding to the receiver online, or an online presence detection system. ) Can be connected in communication. For example, in an instant message context, the digital communication processor 142 may communicate with the instant message access system to track a user identifier that logs in to the system to send and receive instant messages. Can be. Also, in an e-mail context, the digital communication processor 142 may communicate with the instant message access system to track a user identifier that logs in to the system to send and receive e-mail. . When the receiving side of the digital communication is not logged in to the system or online, the digital communication processor 142 stores the digital communication in a data storage corresponding to the receiver (e.g., E-mail can be stored in the receiving e-mail box), or the digital communication is discarded (e.g., instant messages can typically be discarded if the recipient is not online). can do.

In another implementation, the digital communication processor 142 does not access a user communication exchange preference for the receiving side from the configuration data store 146. The source audio identifier may not be accessed from the audio identifier data store 144. Instead, the digital communication processor 142 may receive the source audio identifier by each digital communication from the sender computer system 110. The digital communication processor 142 may alternately transmit the digital communication to the recipient computer system 120 along with the source audio identifier. The recipient computer system 120 may connect locally and apply the user communication exchange preference to the digital communication and reception of the source audio identifier. Based on the user communication exchange preferences, the recipient computer system 120 may discard the received digital communication or allow the recipient to recognize the received digital communication. In addition, the recipient computer system 120 may play or suppress the source audio identifier received with each digital communication based on the user communication exchange preference.

In another alternative implementation, the sender computer system 110 may transmit the source audio identifier only at the beginning of the communication session, but not with each subsequent digital communication. The receiver computer system 120 stores the source audio identifier in a data storage included in the device 120A, and then with each of the subsequent digital communications received from the sender computer system 110 or with the sender. During the subsequent communication session involved, the source audio identifier can be accessed and played back.

The audio identifier data storage unit 144 includes at least one data storage device configured to store the source audio identifier. The source audio identifier may be stored in a compressed format or in a plurality of different audio formats (eg wav or MP3) to improve transmission speed and ensure compatibility with the recipient computer system 120. Can be. The source audio identifier may be distinguished by an index by the user identifier. The audio identifier data storage 144 may be part of the DCHS 140. In another implementation, all or part of the audio identifier data storage unit 144 may be located in a data storage device or a computer system located outside the DCHS 140.

The configuration data store 146 includes at least one data storage device configured to store user profile information and a user communication exchange preference. In general, the information stored in the configuration data store 146 is collected in a service registration or service setup step. The user profile information and the user communication exchange preference may be distinguished by an index by a user identifier. The audio identifier data store 144 and the configuration data store 146 may be integrated into a single data store that stores user audio identifiers, user profile information, and user communication exchange priority. .

Step 200 of FIG. 2 is performed by an initial digital communication received via a Digital Communication Handling System (“DCHS”) at an initial stage of a communication session between a sending computer system and a receiving computer system. It is a figure for showing a source audio identifier. For convenience of description, the particular element shown with respect to FIG. 1 is cited as performing the step 200 above. However, a similar method can be applied to other implementation methods by other elements used to define the structure of the system or to other implementation methods by functions distributed differently between the elements shown by FIG.

The sender computer system 110 transmits 220 a digital communication sent to the receiver computer system 120. The digital communication is associated with or includes the user identifier of the sender or the user identifier of the receiving end.

The digital communication processor 142 receives the digital communication 204 and acquires the configuration data store (204) to obtain the user communication exchange priority corresponding to the associated recipient user identifier. 146, access 206. The digital communication processor 142 checks whether the sender user identifier is included in the blacklist of the receiving party to determine whether the recipient restricts the reception of the transmitted digital communication from the sender. Determine (208). If the recipient restricts the reception of the digital communication from the sender, the digital communication is discarded (210). According to another implementation method, the digital communication processor 142 may additionally send a notification message to the sender computer system 110 that the digital communication is not successful (not shown).

When the receiving end authorizes the reception of the digital communication from the sender, the digital communication processor 142 may log in or perform digital communication from the sender computer system 110 corresponding to the recipient user identifier. It is determined 212 whether it can be received. The digital communication processor 142 queries, accesses a login system or presence detection system that is locally or remotely connected to the DCHS 140. can do.

If the receiver is not logged in, online, or unable to receive digital communications, the digital communications processor 142 discards the digital communications or the receiver may later receive them. And store the digital communication in a data store associated with the recipient user identifier (214). For example, if the digital communication is an instant message, the instant message may be discarded. On the other hand, in the case of the electronic mail, which is the digital communication, the electronic mail may be stored in an electronic mail box of the receiving side. By way of another implementation, the digital communication processor 142 informs the sender computer system 110 that the receiver cannot receive the digital communication and that the live digital communication has been discarded or stored for future reception. A notification message can be sent.

If the receiver is connected, online, or able to receive digital communications, the digital communications processor 142 may access the sender profile from the configuration data store 146 ( access 216. The digital communication processor 142 determines (218) whether the recipient should authorize digital communication with a source audio identifier based on a communication exchange preference for the recipient. For example, if the sender's user identifier is included in the receiver's gray list, the receiver does not authorize digital communication with the source audio identifier. If the sender's user identifier is included in the recipient's white list, the receiver authorizes digital communication with a source audio identifier. If the sender's user identifier is not included in the white list or gray list, the receiver is authorized by the default response algorithm for the receiver or by the receiver manually. Authorize digital communications with source audio identifiers only when incorporating intent or desire for authorization.

3A illustrates an embodiment of step 218 using a preferred default response algorithm used to determine whether to authorize or reject the source audio identifier. The digital communication processor 142 determines (218a) whether the sender is included on the white list of the receiving side. If the sender is included on the white list, the digital communication processor 142 performs the operation of step 228. If the sender is not included on the white list, the digital communication processor 142 determines (218b) whether the sender is included in the recipient's gray list. When the sender is included in the gray list, the digital communication processor 142 performs an operation of step 220. If the sender is not included in the white or gray list, the digital communication processor 142 sends a query to the receiver computer system 120 inquiring whether the receiver should authorize or reject the source audio identifier. The default response algorithm is performed (218c).

The recipient computer system 120 receives the query (218d), and causes the recipient to inform the receipt of the query and respond to the query (218e). For example, the recipient can be made aware of a query on a pop-up window that includes an option to apply the source audio identifier and an option to reject the source audio identifier. The pop-up window may display all or part of the sender profile. Additionally or alternatively, the pop-up window may provide an option to add the sender to the white, gray, black list of the recipient. When the recipient performs a response to the query by selecting at least one or more options, the recipient computer system 120 may send the response to the digital communication processor 142 (218g). An example of a user interface may be used to query the recipient shown in FIG. 3B.

If the selected option includes adding the sender to the recipient's white, gray, and black list, the digital communication processor 142 accesses the configuration data store 146. access to add the sender user identifier to the appropriate list or to a list associated with the recipient's user identifier. The digital communication processor 142 determines (218h) whether the selected option corresponds to authentication or denial of the digital communication. If the selected option is to reject the digital communication, the digital communication processor 142 discards the digital communication (218i). If the selected option authenticates the digital communication, the digital communication processor 142 determines (218j) whether the selected option matches the authentication or rejection of the source audio identifier. If the selected option authenticates the source audio identifier, the digital communication processor 142 performs step 228. If the selected option rejects the sender audio identifier, the digital communication processor 142 performs step 220.

3B illustrates a user interface 300 that may exist for a user through recipient computer system 120 upon receipt of a received message including an accompanying source audio identifier. The user interface 300 includes a state 310 that informs the user that there is a received message that includes the accompanying source audio identifier and sender profile information 320. The sender profile information 320 includes the sender's name 321 (e.g., Bob Devane), the sender's Instant Messaging handle 322 (e.g., BobD123), and the sender's e-mail address 323. (E.g. BobDev@hotmail.com), the sender's direct number 324 (e.g. 703) 123-4567), and the time and date the message was sent 326 (e.g. 5 45 EDT on 5/17/02) and other sender profile information 325. As an example, the profile information 325 of the other sender includes a geographical location (eg, Dullas, VA) of the sender and information stored in an address book or a calendar. Here, the stored information is accessible based on the identity of the sender, for example, "Plan to meet Bob on July 12, 2003". Such other sender's profile information 325 may be stored in the recipient computer system 120 on location or may be accessed at a remote device (eg, DCHS 140) via data network 130. have. In another embodiment, the user interface 300 includes a subset of the sender profile information 320 shown in FIG. 3B.

The user interface 300 also includes a set of option buttons 330. The option buttons 330 may be selected by a user who responds to the message. By way of example, the option buttons 330 may receive one option button 331 for sampling the source audio identifier, one option button 332 for receiving a message and authenticating the source audio identifier, and receive the message. One option button 334 for using a source audio identifier (eg, one default audio identifier) and another audio identifier, and one option button 336 for not receiving a message. The option buttons described above are selected to control the processing of the current message.

Prior to determining how to handle the received message, the recipient may select a button 331 for listening to or recognizing the source audio identifier. Listening to the source audio identifier allows the user to make a better decision in considering whether to authenticate or reject the audio identifier. The user can then select one of the other buttons 332, 334, 336 for processing the message.

Selecting the option button 332 to receive a message including the source audio identifier results in the digital communication and source audio identifier being recognized by the recipient as a result. Selecting the option button 445 to receive a message containing the default audio identifier results in the digital communication and the default audio identifier being recognized by the recipient as a result. As another embodiment of selecting button 334, optionally, the recipient immediately features one audio identifier or no audio identifier to indicate receipt of a digital communication from the sender. If check box 335 is selected as described below, the receiver-characterized audio identifier may be used for future communication from the sender. Selecting option button 336 to not receive the message results in the recipient not recognizing the digital communication or source audio identifier. In another embodiment, the user interface 300 includes one option button for receiving a message without any audio identifier being played or otherwise recognized by the recipient. The user interface 300 is terminated or disabled when the recipient selects one of the option buttons 330.

The option buttons 332, 334, 336 are parallel to the checkboxes 333, 335, 337, respectively. Unlike option buttons 330 to be used for the processing of current digital communications received from the sender, checkboxes 333, 335, 337 may be selected (ie checked) to control the processing of digital communications to be received later from the sender. The user interface 300 allows the user to select none or one of the three checkboxes. If the recipient selects one of the checkboxes 333, when one of the option buttons 330 is selected, the sender's user identifier belongs to the recipient's white list. If the recipient selects another checkbox 335, when one of the option buttons 330 is selected, the sender's user identifier belongs to the recipient's gray list. If the receiver selects another checkbox 337, when one of the option buttons 330 is selected, the sender's user identifier belongs to the receiver's black list. Additionally or alternatively, at the beginning of a communication session with the sender rather than only when subsequent communications are received from the sender in the communications session, the user interface 300 may indicate that the user has a source audio identifier or a default audio identifier. It includes checkboxes or buttons (not shown) that allow you to characterize if it can be played.

If the recipient does not select any of the checkboxes 333, 335, 337, any subsequent digital communication received from the sender combined with one source audio identifier will re-display the user interface 300 and once again how the digital communication will be handled. Allow the recipient to select options to consider. Optionally, the user interface 300 may be displayed only once for a given communication session. Therefore, if none of the checkboxes 333, 335, 337 are selected, the user interface 300 is displayed again only at the beginning of a subsequent communication session with the sender.

User interface 300 may vary depending on the capabilities of recipient computer system 120. Recipient computer system 120 with even more limited capabilities may provide less sender profile information 320 and fewer options 330. On the other hand, the recipient computer system 120 with greater capability may provide more sender profile information 320 and more options 330.

Referring again to FIG. 2, if the receiver rejects the source audio identifier, digital communication processor 142 transmits the sender profile and digital communication or allows receiver computer system 120 to access the sender profile and digital communication (220). ). Recipient computer system 120 connects or receives the sender profile and the digital communication (220), stores the sender profile (224), and allows the receiver to recognize the digital communication and sender profile (226). The receiver can recognize the digital communication and the sender profile through a user interface specific to the received digital communication type. For example, if the digital communication is an Instant Message, the instant message is displayed in a dialog window. And the sender profile can be accessed by the user. This is by selecting the sender's IM handle in another window, either selected by the recipient or combined with the receiver, that displays the sender's dialog window or a list of IM handles (eg, buddy list). . If the digital communication is an e-mail message, the header information of the e-mail is displayed in an inbox list. The email content is displayed when selecting an email from the list. And the sender profile information is displayed when selecting the sender's e-mail address.

If the receiver authenticates digital communications with source audio identifiers received from the sender, digital communication processor 142 connects to the source audio identifier corresponding to the sender's user identifier at audio identifier data store 146. (228). The digital communication processor 142 transmits the sender profile, the digital communication, and the source audio identifier or allows the receiver computer system 120 to access the sender profile, the digital communication, and the source audio identifier (230).

Recipient computer system 120 connects or receives the sender profile, the source audio identifier, and the digital communication (232), and stores (234) the sender profile and the source audio identifier. The source audio identifier and sender profile may be stored temporarily or permanently in a data store. The data store is part of or part of the receiver computer system 120 but is in communication with the receiver computer system 120. In another embodiment, receiver computer system 120 supplies but does not store the source audio identifier.

The recipient computer system 120 allows the recipient to recognize the source audio identifier (236) before or before the recipient recognizes the digital communication and sender profile (238). The receiver computer system 120 converts the audio identifier into audio that the receiver can hear, allowing the receiver to recognize the source audio identifier. The audio is short after the reception of the digital communication. And thereby informs the receiver that digital communication is being received from the particular sender.

As another embodiment of the process 200, the digital communication processor 142 does not import the sender profile and does not transmit or allows the receiver computer system 120 to access the sender profile. Instead, digital communication processor 142 transmits digital communications without a sender profile, and suitably transmits source audio identifiers to recipient computer system 120 together.

4 shows processing 400 for presenting a source audio identifier upon receipt of a digital communication received via the digital communication handling system after the communication session has already been initiated and the source audio identifier has already been stored by the recipient computer system. It is shown. For convenience, certain components described in connection with FIG. 1 are referred to as performing processing 400. However, similar methods can be applied to other implementations, in which different components are used to define the structure of the system or the functions are differentiated differently between the components shown in FIG. 1. The process 400 is used to process the digital communications transmitted after transmitting the first digital communications in a communication session between the sender computer system 110 and the receiver computer system 120. Process 400 assumes that recipient computer system 120 authenticates the source audio identifier and is already storing it.

Sender computer system 110 transmits 402 an addressed digital communication to receiver computer system 120. The digital communication includes a sender user identifier and a receiver user identifier. Or with its sender user identifier and receiver user identifier. The digital communication processor 142 receives the digital communication (404) and determines whether the user corresponding to the recipient user identifier is still logged in or can still receive digital communications from the sender computer system 110 ( 406). The digital communication processor 142 may query or connect to a login system or presence detection system. The login system or presence detection system is local or remote to the DCHS 140.

If the receiver is no longer logged on-line or can receive digital communications, the digital communications processor 142 combines the digital communications with the recipient user identifier so that the digital communications can be discarded or later restored by the receiver. Put it in the store (408). In another embodiment, the digital communication processor 142 sends a notification message to the sender computer system 110 to indicate that the recipient is no longer capable of digital communication. If the receiver is logged in online or otherwise able to receive digital communications, the digital communications processor 142 transmits the digital communications or allows the receiver computer system 120 to connect the digital communications (410).

Recipient computer system 120 receives or connects to the digital communication (412) and connects to the stored source audio identifier corresponding to the sender user identifier of the received digital communication (414). The recipient computer system 120 allows the recipient to recognize the source audio identifier (416) before or before the recipient acknowledges the digital communication (418).

Process 400 assumes that recipient computer system 120 has already received and stored a source audio identifier corresponding to the sender of the digital communication. However, if such a source audio identifier has not been stored by the receiver computer system 120, the receiver computer system 120 may request the source audio identifier and receive the source audio identifier from the DCP 142. The receiver computer system 120 may also be implemented when implemented with a source audio identifier used to indicate receipt of an initial communication in a communication session that is different from the source audio identifier used to indicate receipt of subsequent communications in a communication session. Requests and receives the source audio identifier. 5 shows the source audio identifier upon receipt of digital information received through a digital communication handling system in which the source audio identifier is stored in the sender computer system and the recipient information exchange priority is stored in the receiver computer system. A process 500 is shown that can be represented. For convenience, certain components described with respect to FIG. 5 are referenced to perform process 500. However, similar methodologies may be used in other embodiments where other components are used to define the structure of the system, or where functionality is distributed differently between the components shown in FIG. Process 500 is that the sender computer system 110 stores the source audio identifier, not the DCHP 140, and the recipient computer system 110, not the DCHP 140, prioritizes the recipient information exchange priority. It differs from processes 200 and 400 in that it stores and applies them. Process 500 minimizes processing requirements for the DCHP 140 by pushing the storage and intelligence to the sender and receiver computer systems.

The sender computer system 110 transmits (502) sourced digital information and source audio identifiers (IDs) to the recipient computer system 120. The digital information may include or be related to a sender ID and a receiver ID. The digital communication processor 142 receives the digital information and the source audio identifier (504), and determines whether a user corresponding to the recipient ID has logged in or can receive digital information from the transmitting computer system 110. (506). The digital communication processor 142 queries or connects to a login system or presence detection system that is local or remote from the DCHS 140.

If the recipient is not logged in or online, or is unable to receive digital information, the digital communication processor 142 discards the digital information or allows the recipient 508 to retrieve it later. The data is stored in the data storage associated with the ID (508). In some embodiments, the digital communication processor 142 sends a notification message to the sending computer system 110 informing the receiver that the receiver is in a condition that the receiver cannot receive. If the recipient is logged in or online, or otherwise may receive digital information, the communication processor 142 may send the digital information and source audio ID or allow the recipient computer system 120 to connect. (510).

The recipient computer system 120 receives or accesses 512 the digital information and the source audio ID. The recipient computer system 120 determines whether the recipient authenticates the digital communication sent by the sender according to the recipient information exchange preferences (ie, whether the sender ID is included in the recipient's blacklist). (514). If the receiver does not authenticate the digital communication from the sender, the digital information is discarded (516). In some embodiments, the digital communication processor 142 may additionally send a notification message to the sending computer system 110 indicating that the digital information was not sent to the recipient. If the receiver authenticates digital communications from the sender, the digital communications processor 142 determines (518) whether the receiver authenticates digital communications by source audio ID based on the recipient information exchange priority.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example of using a legendary default response algorithm that asks the recipient to authenticate or reject the source audio ID. The recipient computer system 120 determines whether the sender is included in the recipient's white list (518a). If the sender is included in the white list, the recipient computer system 120 performs operation 520. If the sender is not included in the white list, the recipient computer system 120 determines (518b) whether the sender is included in the recipient's gray list. If the sender is included in the gray list, the receiver computer system 120 performs operation 522.

If the sender is not included in the white or gray list, the recipient computer system 120 detects and responds to a query requiring the recipient to determine whether the recipient should authenticate or reject the source audio ID. The basic response algorithm is performed (518c). The recipient may detect the query 518c within the user interface as shown in FIG. 3B. Once the recipient selects one or more options 518c to respond to the query, the recipient computer system 120 determines (518d) whether the selected options correspond to the authentication or denial of the digital communication. If the selected options reject the digital communication, the recipient computer system 120 discards the digital information (518e). If the selected options authenticate the digital communication, the recipient computer system 120 determines (518f) whether the selected options correspond to authentication or rejection of the source audio ID. If the selected options authenticate the source audio ID, the recipient computer system 120 performs operation 520. If the selected options do not authenticate the source audio ID, the recipient computer system 120 performs operation 522.

Referring back to FIG. 5, if the recipient authenticates the digital communication by the source audio ID (518), the recipient computer system 120 prior to causing the recipient to detect the digital information or At the same time, the source audio ID received with the digital information 520 is sensed. In another embodiment, the recipient computer system 120 stores the source audio ID prior to causing the recipient to detect the source audio ID. If the recipient does not authenticate the digital communication by the source audio ID (eg, if the sender sender ID is included in the recipient's gray list), then the recipient computer system 120 determines that the recipient is the received source. Instead of detecting an audio ID, the digital information 522 is detected.

The process 500 is performed for each digital information in a communication session between the sender computer system 110 and the receiver computer system 120. Alternatively, the process 500 may be performed on the first digital information transmitted in the communication session. The recipient computer system 120 may store the source audio ID, and the sender computer system 110 may continuously transmit digital information without the source audio ID. The recipient computer system 120 performs continuous digital communication in accordance with the determined recipient communication exchange priority, and if connected to the stored source audio ID, allows the recipient to detect the stored source audio ID, if necessary. You can do that.

In another embodiment, the sender computer system 110 also sends a sender profile along with the source audio ID and digital information. The sender profile is received by the receiver computer system 120 along with the digital information and source audio ID. All or part of the sender profile is stored and sensed by the recipient if the recipient computer system 120 determines that the recipient authenticates a digital communication from the sender.

In another embodiment, the digital communication processor 142 stores the source audio ID rather than the sender computer system 110 (eg, the source audio ID is stored in the audio ID data storage 144). Stored). The recipient computer system 120 stores and applies the user communication exchange priority. In this embodiment, the sender computer system 110 transmits digital information without a source audio ID, and after receiving the digital information, the digital communication processor 142 determines whether the receiver can access the digital information. If the recipient is accessible, transmits a source audio ID to the recipient computer system 120 in addition to transmitting the digital information. The receiver computer system 120 receives the source audio ID and digital information and processes the source audio ID and digital information in accordance with operations 512-522.

Referring to FIG. 7, a system 700 capable of exchanging digital information with a source audio ID is a sender computer system that transmits digital information and source audio ID to a recipient computer system 720 over a network 730. 710. The sender computer system 710 and receiver computer system 720 include devices 710A, 710B that communicate with controllers 710B, 720B, respectively, via data paths 710C, 729C. Examples of each component in the communication system of FIG. 7 described above are extensively described above according to FIG. 1. More specifically, the sender computer system 710, the receiver computer system 720, and the network 730 are typically the sender computer system 110, the receiver computer system 120, and the network 130 of FIG. 1, respectively. ) Have corresponding features to those described above.

However, the sender computer system 710 differs from the sender computer system 110 in that the sender computer system 710 does not transmit digital information to the digital communication handling system (140 in FIG. 1). In addition, the sender computer system 710 directly transmits digital information and source audio IDs via a direct connection to the receiver computer system 720. The direct connection is an open socket connection (ie, a peer to peer socket connection), for example an open transmission control protocol (TCP) connection. Both the sender computer system 710 and the receiver computer system 720 may include a winsock application program interface (API) for establishing the direct connection. In one embodiment, the digital information transmitted by the sender computer system 710 is instant messages.

8 shows a process 800 for receiving digital information received from the sender computer system via a direct connection to enable representation of a source audio ID. For convenience, each component described with respect to FIG. 7 has been referred to performing the process 800. However, similar methodologies may be used in other embodiments where other components are used to define the structure of the system, or where functionality is distributed differently between the components shown in FIG.

The sender computer system 710 transmits digital information and source audio IDs to the receiver computer system 720 or allows the receiver computer system 720 to connect. The recipient computer system 720 receives or accesses 804 the digital information and source audio ID. The recipient computer system 720 accesses the recipient information exchange priority and determines whether the recipient authenticates the digital information sent by the sender (ie, whether the sender ID is included in the recipient's blacklist). (806). If the recipient does not authenticate digital information from the sender, the digital information is discarded (808). In some embodiments, the recipient computer system 720 may additionally send a notification message to the sender computer system 720 indicating that the digital information has been discarded (not shown). If the receiver authenticates digital communication from the sender, the digital communication processor 142 allows the receiver to source audio IDs based on the recipient information exchange priority (i.e., white and gray list and the basic response algorithm). In step 810, it is determined whether to authenticate the digital communication.

When the recipient authenticates the digital communication by the source audio ID, the recipient computer system 720 is received with the digital information 814 prior to or simultaneously with causing the recipient to sense the digital information. The source audio ID is detected. In another embodiment, the recipient computer system 720 stores the source audio ID prior to causing the recipient to detect the source audio ID. If the recipient does not authenticate the digital communication by the source audio ID (eg, if the sender sender ID is included in the recipient's gray list), then the recipient computer system 720 determines that the recipient is the received source. Rather than detecting an audio ID, the digital information 814 is sensed.

The process 800 may be performed for each digital communication transmitted in one communication session between the sending computer system 710 and the receiving computer system 720. On the other hand, the process 800 may be performed on the first digital communication transmitted in the communication session. If the receiving computer system 720 stores the source audio identifier, the sending computer system 710 may transmit the next digital communication without the source audio identifier. The receiving computer 720 performs subsequent digital communications related to the determined recipient communication exchange preferences and, where appropriate, enables the receiving side to recognize the stored source audio identifier. do.

In another embodiment, the sending computer system 710 also transmits a sender profile having a source audio identifier and the digital communication. A receiving side computer system 720 receives the sender profile with the digital communication and source identifier. When the receiving computer system 720 determines that the receiving side authenticates digital communication from the sender, all or part of the sender profile may be stored and recognized by the receiving side.

The systems and processes described above can be used in a voice and data communication context. 9-11 illustrate one possible implementation of the source audio identifier used in voice communication.

Referring to FIG. 9, telephone system 100 for enabling a telephone call using a source audio identifier includes a caller phone 910 that communicates with recipient phone 920 over telephone network 930. The telephone network 390 may access an audio identifier data store 944 and a configuration data store 946. Depending on the implementation, the audio identifier data storage 944 and the configuration data storage 946 may be part of the telephone network 930.

The caller phone 910 and the receiver phone 920 may be landline phones capable of communicating on the telephone network 930. According to an embodiment, the caller phone 910 and / or the receiver phone 920 may be a PDA or cellular phone with cellular phone technology. The caller phone 910 is configured to call the recipient phone 920 via the phone network 930. According to yet another embodiment, the caller phone 910 may additionally be configured to send a source audio identifier to the receiver phone 920 as part of a call setup. The caller phone may transmit the source audio identifier as the in-band or out-of-band signal through the telephone network 930. For example, in a cellular or mobile phone system, the caller phone 910 sends a call setup request or before, either a Multimedia Message Service (MMS) or a Short Message Service (SMS). ) May be used to transmit the source audio identifier as a message. The MMS or SMS message usually contains the sender user identifier and may include all or part of the sender profile. According to another embodiment, the caller phone 910 may transmit the source audio identifier to the receiver phone 920 on the Internet.

When the source audio identifier is transmitted as an out of band signal, the caller phone 910 may receive the source audio identifier before or after receiving a call signal from the telephone network 930. If the caller phone 910 has received a plurality of source audio identifiers before receiving the ring tone signal, the caller phone 910 is adapted to the appropriate caller based on the caller identification information (e.g. Automatic Number Identification (ANI information)). Identifies the source audio identifier. If a caller phone 910 does not receive a source audio identifier as soon as it receives a call signal from the telephone network 930, the caller phone 910 may wait for a predetermined amount of time to receive the source audio identifier. If the source audio identifier is not received after the predetermined time expires, the caller phone 910 may use a default call signal.

The receiver phone 920 is configured to receive a source audio identifier and an incoming call from the telephone network 930 and to allow a receiver to recognize the incoming call and, if appropriate, the source audio identifier. . The receiver phone 920 may be configured to store the source audio identifier and to recognize the source audio identifier as a call signal indicating that the receiver is a call coming from the counterpart caller. For example, the source audio identifier may be stored as a whole song or as a standard ring tone set. In addition, the receiver phone 920 may set a default call signal to be played when the caller does not transmit a source audio identifier or on the other hand, when the caller transmits a source audio identifier. . The default call signal may be changed based on the direct number of the caller phone 910 (change by number manipulation?). In a cellular or mobile telephone system, the recipient phone 920 may receive the source audio identifier in an MMS or SMS message, for example, concurrently with or prior to the incoming call. In yet another embodiment, the recipient phone 920 has an Internet connection and receives the source audio identifier on the Internet simultaneously with or prior to receiving the incoming call. The recipient phone 920 plays the source audio identifier as soon as it receives a call signal from the telephone network 930.

In another embodiment, the receiver phone 920 may determine whether to play the source audio identifier as a call signal and whether to accept the call. In the present embodiment, the receiver phone 920 stores the user communication exchange priority and determines whether to allow the source audio identifier to be played according to the user communication exchange priority.

The telephone network 930 is configured to enable direct or indirect voice communication between the call originator phone 910 and the call destination phone 920. The telephone network 930 may include a circuit switched voice network, a packet switched data network, or another network capable of delivering voice. For example, a circuit switched voice network may include a public line telephone network (PSTN), and a packet switched data network may include an Internet protocol (IP) or asynchronous transmission mode (ATM), for example Voice- It can support over-IP, Voice-over-ATM, or other comparable protocols used for voice data communication.

The telephone network 930 receives the direct number of the call originator phone from the call originator phone 910, accesses the configuration data storage 942, and determines whether the call originator is registered with the source audio identifier service, It may be configured to access a corresponding source audio identifier and, if applicable, to send a call setup request and source audio identifier to the call recipient phone 920. The source audio identifier may be transmitted in-band or out-of-band before or at the same time as sending the call setup request to the call originator phone 910. In one embodiment, the telephone network 930 is configured to process MMS or SMS messages and sends the source audio identifier as an MMS or SMS message. In another embodiment, the telephone network 930 may transmit the source audio identifier to the call recipient phone 920 via the Internet prior to or concurrent with call setup. The call recipient phone 920 uses the ANI information associated with the call originator, for example, using ANI information associated with the call originator phone number as a means to adjust the incoming call and source audio identifier. Receiving a call signal from the P2C reproduces the source audio identifier.

In another embodiment, the telephone network 930 may be configured to receive the source audio identifier from the call originator phone 910 as an in-band or out-of-band signal during call setup. For example, the telephone network 930 may be configured to receive the source audio identifier or a link to the source audio identifier as an additional copy of the call destination phone number received from the call originator phone 910 via a signal path. have.

The audio identifier data storage 942 and configuration data storage 942 have been described above broadly with respect to FIG. 1. In particular, the audio identifier data storage 942 and the configuration data storage 946 are typically as described above with respect to the audio identifier data storage 142 and the configuration data storage 146 of FIG. 1, respectively. Have corresponding features. The audio identifier data storage 942 is configured to store the source audio identifier as, for example, a standard or full music call tone encoded with digital data and indexed by the direct number of the call originator phone. The configuration data storage unit 946 is configured to store a caller service profile indicating a telephone service provided through the caller's telephone line. The call originator service profile includes an indication indicating whether the call originator is registered with a source audio identifier service and may be indexed by the direct number of the call originator phone. The configuration data store 946 may also store the user profile and the user information exchange priority. The audio identifier data storage 942 and the configuration data storage 946 may be integrated into a single data storage.

10 shows a process 1000 for making a source audio identifier presentable as a ring signal indicating an incoming call from a call originator. For convenience, certain components described with respect to FIG. 9 are referenced to perform process 1000. However, similar methodologies may be used in other embodiments where other components are used to define the structure of the system, or where functionality is distributed differently between the components shown in FIG. 9.

The user of the call originator phone 910 dials or specifies the direct number of the call recipient phone 920 (1002). The telephone network 930 receives the direct number of the call recipient phone 920 and identifies 1004 the direct number of the call originator phone 910. The telephone network 930 determines (1006) whether the call recipient telephone line can receive a call. If the call recipient's telephone line is busy or otherwise unable to receive a call, the telephone network transmits a busy signal to the call originator phone 910 depending on the state of the call receiving telephone line, for example. Process the call (1008).

If the call recipient phone line can receive the call, the telephone network 930 accesses the call originator service profile from the configuration data storage 946 (1010) so that the call originator is based on the call originator service profile. It is determined whether the source audio identifier service is registered (1012). If the call originator is not registered with the source audio identifier service, the telephone network 930 sets up a call and sends a ring tone trigger to the call recipient phone 920 (1026).

If the call originator is registered with a source audio identifier service, the telephone network 930 accesses the user information exchange priority corresponding to the direct number of the call recipient's phone from the configuration data storage 146 (1014). The call receiver determines 1016 whether the source audio identifier should be played. The call recipient determining whether the source audio identifier should be played is performed in the same manner as discussed for operation 218 in FIGS. 2 and 3A. Here, the telephone network 930 performs the function of the digital communication processor 142 and the callee telephone 920 performs the receiver computer system 120. The user interface 300 may also be displayed by the call recipient phone 920 when the sender identifier is not included in the recipient's gray, white or black list. In this embodiment, the message is an incoming call and a special call tone is used to inform the recipient that the call and the call originator have a source audio identifier. The call recipient then determines whether to accept the call and to authenticate the source audio identifier or call tone of the call originator by interacting with the user interface 300.

If the call recipient does not allow the source audio identifier to be played, the telephone network 930 sets up a call and sends a call tone trigger to the call recipient phone 920 (1026). If the call recipient allows the source audio identifier to be played, the telephone network 930 accesses the source audio identifier corresponding to the direct number of the caller's phone from the audio identifier data storage 944 and sets up a call. And transmits the source audio identifier to the call recipient phone 920 before (1026) or before transmitting a call tone trigger to the call recipient phone (1020).

The call receiving phone 920 receives the source audio identifier (1022) and stores the source audio identifier (1024). When the call is established, the call receiving phone 920 receives the call tone, and the call receiving phone 920 mainly distinguishes the caller using the ANI information (1028), and determines whether the source audio identifier is applicable to the call (1030). . If the source audio identifier is not suitable for the call, the call receiving phone 920 generates a call tone (e.g., a general or predetermined call tone that can be recognized by the call recipient (1034)). If so, the call receiving phone 920 modifies (1032) using the source audio identifier as the call tone, or associating the source audio identifier with a general or predetermined call tone, so that the source audio identifier is included. The call receiving phone 920 creates a modified call tone and reproduces the modified call tone so that the call recipient can recognize it (1034).

11 shows a process 1100 that enables the implementation of a source audio identifier as a ring signal for distinguishing a call received from a caller. Here, the originating telephone sends the source audio identifier to the call receiving telephone over the telephone network. For convenience, certain components shown in FIG. 9 are cited in step 1100. However, similar methodologies may be applied to other means, where other components are used to define the configuration of the system, or the functionality is distinguished differently among the components shown in FIG. 9.

The user of the outgoing telephone 910 dials or directly enters the number of the call-incoming call 920 and enters a source audio identifier (1102). The telephone network 930 receives the number and source audio identifier of the call receiving phone 920. If the call-incoming call is busy or cannot be answered for any other reason, the phone network 930 sends a call processing (e.g., a busy signal to the caller phone 910) corresponding to the call recipient phone line status. Etc.) (1108). If the call reception call is possible to receive a call, the telephone network 930 first sends a source audio identifier to the call reception call 920 or sets up a simultaneous call to send a call tone to the call reception call 920 (1120). ).

The call receiving phone 920 receives the source audio identifier (1112) and determines whether to allow the operation of the source audio identifier (1114). Determining whether the call recipient allows the source audio identifier operation may be implemented by operation 518 described and illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6. Here, the telephone network 930 forms the function of the digital communication processor 142, and the call receiving phone 920 forms the function of the receiving computer system 120.

If the call recipient does not allow the operation of the source audio identifier, the call receiving phone 920 does not take the source audio identifier (1116). If the call recipient allows the operation of the source audio identifier, the call receiving phone 920 stores the source audio identifier (1118).

When the call is established, the call receiving phone 920 receives the call tone, and the call receiving phone 920 mainly distinguishes the caller using the ANI information (1120), and determines whether the source audio identifier is applicable to the call (1124). . If the source audio identifier is not suitable for the call, the call receiving phone 920 generates a call tone that the call recipient can recognize, for example, a general or predetermined call tone (1128). If the source audio identifier is suitable for the call, the call receiving phone 920 may include the source audio identifier (eg, use the source audio identifier as the call tone, or associate the source audio identifier with a general or predetermined call tone). Modify the calling tone (1126). The call receiving phone 920 creates a modified call tone and reproduces the modified call tone so that the call recipient can recognize it (1128).

In another embodiment, store source audio identifiers (eg, source audio identifiers may be stored in source audio identifier data store 144) in telephone network 930 rather than originating phone 910 and receive a call. Phone 920 stores and applies to the user's preferred call exchange. In this embodiment, the caller phone 910 sends a digital call without a source audio identifier and receives the digital call in the telephone network 930 to determine if the call-incoming call can receive an authorized call. If a call reception telephone line is available, it connects to the call reception telephone 920 with the call setup and sends the source audio identifier. The call receiving phone 920 receives the source audio identifier and performs the source audio identifier (1112-1118).

The source audio identifier may be a single tone for identifying the sender, or may be an audio message formed from multiple sounds associated together to distinguish one or many characteristics of the sender, in addition to discriminating from the sender identity. As shown in FIG. 12, as one possible embodiment, the associated audio message 1200 may include a first sound 1210 followed by (eg, the name of the sender) that may indicate a characteristic or characteristic of the sender or communication. It includes a second sound 1220 that can distinguish individual senders (such as its voiced version). Characteristic sounds are sounds that can identify the location of the caller (e.g., California, home, work, or school) that is calling / transmitting, the caller's work group (e.g. doctor, lawyer, electrician, mechanic) Or a plumber), or any organization (e.g., Porsche Club, National Rifle Association, Rotary Club, Ford Motor Company, Microsoft, Cooper Power Systems), or a group member (e.g., a recipient). Instant messages in the Friends list or in the recipient's content list are included in the category of friends, or the importance or urgency of digital communications or calls (e.g., low pitch notes are not urgent and high pitch notes are very Indicative of urgency), in the form of a call or digital communication (e.g., social, business, e-mail, instant messaging, Believer's birthday wish call, recipient's anniversary call, etc.), the form of communication used to transmit the digital communication (e.g., desktop personal computer, pager, PDA, or mobile terminal), caller's online status (E.g., online or offline), the possibility of receiving a communication outside of a cellular telephone, PDA or other communication device (e.g., e-mail, telephone call, instant messenger) including a desktop computer, between the sender and the receiver The sound quality may include, but is not limited to, a sound indicating a degree of separation or a degree of satisfaction or dissatisfaction of a division originated by a caller.

The associated audio message may be formed in the form of any combination of discriminative and / or characteristic sounds. For example, the associated audio message may be formed solely of distinctive sounds, or alternatively of characteristic sounds.

Referring to FIG. 13, the associated audio message 1300 may indicate a number of levels of communication sent by the sender via information relating to the caller / caller or a number of other characteristic sounds 1310 and discriminative sounds 1320. Can provide. FIG. 13 shows the distinctive sounds 1320 associated with the end of the audio message 1300 associated with the characteristic sounds 1310 associated with the start of the associated audio message 1300. On the other hand, any order of association is possible. As more sounds are associated, the sender can increase the level of information and provide it to the recipient. When the associated audio message is used as the call tone, the associated sounds can be performed multiple times until the recipient successfully answers the call or the call is processed.

The length of each associated sound in the associated audio message may be separated by the sender. The caller computer system 110, 510 or caller phone 910 allows the caller to limit the number or length of associated sounds to be transmitted. In addition, in another form, digital communication processor 142 or telephone network 930 may limit the total length of the associated audio message or the total length or total number of each individual associated sound of the associated audio message.

The length of each associated sound in the associated audio message may be separated by the receiver. The associated audio message is encoded so that the recipient computer system 120 or 520 or the call receiving phone 920 recognizes and distinguishes each associated sound. Receiving computer systems 120 and 520 or call-incoming calls allow the recipient to adjust each associated sound to be played and the length of each associated sound. The receiver may play back each associated sound while the associated sounds are performed (e.g., select the ability to skip to the next associated sound in call-incoming call 920 or receiving computer system 120,520), or in addition in another form. The user may set the user's preferred communication for distinguishing the length, the number, and the type of the associated sound played according to the reception of the associated audio message.

In another embodiment, the digital communication processor 142 or the telephone network 920 may transmit the connected audio message to the recipient computer system 120, 520 or the call recipient phone 920 before the digital audio processor 142 or the telephone network 920 transmits the connected audio message. The connection audio message is processed according to the receiver's user information exchange priority. In another embodiment, the connected audio message that is played is a default or preselected value and is not specified by the receiver or sender. In addition, the length may vary by group or by user.

The connection audio message may also be associated with one or more recipient-specified sounds. The recipient specific sound may be characteristic sounds or identity sounds. For example, the receiver may select or define a feature sound indicating that the sender is a member belonging to the receiver's buddy list. When the receiver receives an instant message from a sender belonging to the recipient's buddy list, a connection audio message may be formed by concatenating the recipient specific buddy list feature sound at the end of the sender specific sound. By listening to the connection audio message the recipient can identify the sender and determine whether the sender is a member of the recipient's buddy list. The feature sound indicates that the sender belongs to a coworker or family group belonging to the recipient's friend list, or the sender is the recipient, the recipient computer system 120, 520, or the call reception phone ( It can be modified to indicate belonging to any group defined by 920.

The recipient may also specify an identity sound. For example, the recipient may specify an identity sound called "DaBigBoss" to indicate receiving communication from the recipient's boss. When the boss selects a sender specific identity sound called "John", the receiver hears "DaBigBoss! John" upon receiving digital information or a call from the boss.

14 illustrates a connection audio message 1400 that includes one or more recipient specific feature sounds 1420 and a sender specific sound 1410 associated with one or more recipient specific identity sounds 1430. 15A illustrates another example of a connection audio message 1500 formed by mixing and concatenating sender specific sound 1510 and receiver specific sound 1520. The order in which the sounds are connected may vary. For example, sounds specified by the receiver may come first, followed by sounds specified by the senders.

In another embodiment, all or some sounds in the connected audio message are not specified by the receiver or sender, but are more broadly defined. For example, the sounds may be defined by the DCHS 140, the telephone network 930, or another system coupled to communicate with the recipient computer system 120, 520 or the call receiving phone 920. .

FIG. 16 illustrates a process 1600 for enabling the creation and detection of a concatenated audio message comprising recipient specific sounds. Process 1600 may be performed by the recipient computer system 120, 520 or the call receiving phone 920. Additionally or alternatively, the process 1600 may be performed by the digital communication processor 142 or the telephone network 930.

A source audio identifier (ID) may be received or connected (1610). The connection of the source audio ID may correspond to operation 228 of process 200, operation 512 of process 500, operation 804 of process 800, operation 1018 of process 1000, or operation 1104 of process 1100. An identity of the sender or a characteristic of the sender or communication is determined 1620. The identity of the sender may be determined from the sender identity information of the digital information, the number of the call, or the sender identity information included in the source audio ID. The recipient computer system 120, 520, the call recipient phone 920, the digital communication processor 142, or the telephone network 930 may access the configuration data store 144, 944 or may have one or more local or The call originator / sender or communication by accessing a remote data store or a computer system (including a messaging system) capable of storing or accessing identity or characteristic information relating to the call originator or communication and providing the identity or characteristic information; Determine the identity or characteristics of For example, the call receiving phone 920 or the recipient computer system 120, 520 may access a local repository to determine that the call originator / sender is in the recipient's address book and designated as a collaborator in the address book. have. Additionally or alternatively, the call receiving phone 920 or the recipient computer system 120, 520 can access an instant messaging system to determine that the recipient is online or in a state capable of receiving instant messages.

The identity and distinctive tone will be approached based on the predetermined identity and characteristics (1630). The same and distinctive sound is characterized by a receiver and is contained in or accessible to the receiver computer system 120, 520, the call recipient phone 920, the digital communication processor 142 or the telephone network 930 or 144,944 or It will be stored in the data store. The accessed tone is interconnected with the source audio identifier to form an audio message associated with the receiver-defined tone 1640. For example, a call receiving phone 920 or the recipient computer system 120, 520 accesses a note of the characteristics corresponding to one second solemn funeral and the transmitter / pager works together and the transmitter / pager is online and an instant message. Approach the second quality note, corresponding to a high-pitched bell indicating that you can listen. With reference to FIG. 15B, assuming that the source audio identifier corresponds to the sound of the rooster, the concatenated audio message 1520 corresponds to one second solemn funeral followed by the sound of the roster followed by the high-pitched bell.

Operations 1620-1640 are, for example, after operation 228 and before operation 230 of process 200; Process 500 is after operation 518 and before operation 520; Process 800 after operation 810 and before operation 812; Process 1000 is after operation 1018 and before operation 1020; Or after operation 1116 and before operation 1120 of process 1100.

Once the audio message associated with the receiver-defined tone is formed, the receiver is able to detect the connected audio message 1650. Operation 1650 corresponds to 230-236 operations of process 200, 520 operations of process 500, 812 operations of process 800, 1020 and 1024-1028 operations of process 1000, and 1120 and 1122 operations of process 1100, wherein the above The source audio identifier is the concatenated audio message of the above operations.

The connected audio messages will be used in communication systems that do not use transmitter-defined tones. In this implementation, the receiving computer system 120, 520, the call receiving phone 920, the telephone network 930, or the digital communication processor 142 receives a call or digital communication from a transmitter rather than accessing a source audio identifier defined in operation 1610. Approach An operation to generate operations 1620-1650 is then performed and detection of the connected audio message is possible. However, the concatenated audio message does not include the source audio identifier.

The linked audio message is also used to inform the user of events related to the communication that are independent of the receipt of the communication. For example, a linked audio message may be used for instant messaging related to communicating to the user a change in the current state of the name of the user's colleagues list. For example, a typical door open / door close signal sent to a user when a co-worker signal is on or off is an event identity tone, which co-worker turns the signal on or off, or a co-worker within a co-worker group It can be linked to an event feature tone that concisely indicates whether the signal is on or off. Furthermore, another event specific tone indicating that the user is part of a family or business partner in a subgroup of the user's colleague list is also linked to the door open / close door sound to further categorize the user signal on or off.

17 shows the connected message for event 1700. The audio message linked for event 1700 includes any combination of event identity tone 1710 and event feature tone 1720. Event identity Well 1710 identifies a particular event and is typically unique to that event. The event feature note 1720 can further describe, characterize, categorize and typically apply the plurality of other events. The audio message linked for event 1700 may also additionally include any combination of user identity sounds 1730 and / or feature sounds (not shown).

18 shows a process 1800 for the generation and detection of a connected audio message upon detection of an occurrence of an event. Process 1800 may be received by receiving computer system 120, 520 or call receiving phone 920. Additionally or alternatively, process 1800 may be performed by digital communication processor 142 or telephone network 930.

The occurrence of the event is detected (1810). The identity of the event and the characteristics of the event are determined (1620). The identity of an event will typically be followed by the application causing the event and will be confirmed through interaction with the application. The nature of the event may also be followed by the application and may communicate with or interact with the receiving computer system 120, 520, the call receiving phone 920, the digital communication processor 142, or the telephone network 930. It can be determined by accessing a data storage device or system that can be connected.

The event identity and event specific tone may be approached based on the determined identity and characteristics of the event 1830. The event identity and event characteristic sound may be stored in or accessible from an audio identification data section 144, 944 or the receiving computer system 120, 520 the call receiving phone 920, the digital communication processor 142, or the telephone network 930. Will be stored in wealth. The accessed sounds are linked together to form a linked audio message 1840. Once the linked audio message is formed, the user can detect the linked audio message 1650. The call receiving phone 920 or call computer system 120, 520 typically serves as a linked audio message upon occurrence of an event.

In a more general embodiment, linked audio messages can be used in any application as well as communication related applications, informing the user of the occurrence of an event, where the event is multiply connected, based on, and classified into systematic classifications. Is described. The linked audio message may include an event identity sound identifying the event and one or more event feature sounds indicated by the class and subclass to which the event is classified.

Many embodiments have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications are possible. For example, the data audio identifier may be a video identifier rather than an audio identifier, and may instantaneously detect digital communication by the receiver or a call at the transmitter. Alternatively or additionally, the transmitter identifier may be an audiovisual representation of the identifier or any other comparative textbook that may be recognized by the receiver as an indication of the identity of the transmitter. The source audio identifier will be greater than 2 megabits in size or less than 120 kilobits. The source audio identifier, when converted to voice, generates a sound of two seconds or more or one second or less.

The following is a list of additional embodiments. One or a combination of the following implementations can be used to add various functions or features.

In the first embodiment, the digital communication processor 142, the telephone network 930, the sender computer system 110, 520, or the send phone 910 transmits the source audio identifier before the receiver computer system 120, 520. ) May communicate with the recipient computer system to determine if it already stores a source audio identifier for the sender. If the receiver computer system 120, 520 already stores a source audio identifier for the sender, the digital communication processor 142, the telephone network 930, the sender computer system 110, 520, or the transmit telephone 910 ) Does not have to transmit the source audio identifier.

In a second embodiment, the default response algorithm of FIGS. 3A and 6 may include an option to store the digital communication content for later retrieval. When the option is selected, the digital communication content is stored in a data space (e.g., an e-mail mailbox) corresponding to the recipient so that the receiver can access the digital communication content later. User interface 300 of FIG. 3B may also include option buttons and checkboxes, which may each be selected to store current and future digital communication content from the sender for later retrieval. .

In the third embodiment, the digital communication processor 142 does not have to transmit the digital communication to the receiver computer system 120 after receiving the complete digital communication from the sender computer system 110. Instead, digital communication processor 142 may store the digital communication content and transmit a portion of the digital communication content to recipient computer system 120 with or without a source audio identifier. The receiver can view the source audio identifier upon receiving the digital communication from the digital communication processor 142. The receiver looks at a portion of the digital communication and determines whether to receive a complete digital communication based thereon. The recipient can then decide to receive the complete digital communication, and the recipient computer system 120 allows the recipient to access the complete digital communication stored in the appropriate data space. For example, in the case of an e-mail, the digital communication processor 142 may receive an e-mail addressed to the recipient, store the e-mail in the recipient's mailbox, and provide header information (e.g., , Sender email address, send time and date, email subject, and email recipient) and source audio identifier (if not stored in receiver computer system) can be sent to recipient computer system 120. Recipient computer system 120 may activate the source audio identifier upon receipt of the header information and may include some or all of the header information of the received email in a list of mailboxes displayed to the recipient. Next, the recipient can select the header information of the email, and the recipient computer system 120 allows the recipient to access and view the complete email stored in the recipient's mailbox.

In a fourth embodiment, where the received digital communication is an email, the concatenated audio message corresponds to the "true source" of the forwarded email, or "cc" or in the email header. It may include an identification or characteristic sound corresponding to the ID written in the "bcc" field. The identification or characteristic sound may be in place of, or in addition to, an identification sound corresponding to an ID (ie, a direct source of an email) entered in the "from" field of the email header. In addition, when the recipient is simply written in the "cc" or "bcc" field of the email header, the digital communication processor 142 or recipient computer system 120 may automatically ignore the cascaded audio message. The volume of the identification or characteristic sound may also have various distributions to indicate the importance of the recipient or email. For example, the volume may be set to the highest value if the recipient is written in the "to" field of the email address header, whereas the volume may be set to the lowest value if the recipient is written to the "bcc" field. The volume can be set to maximum even when an e-mail is designated "urgent" by the sender.

In a fifth embodiment, the DCHS 140 or telephone network 930 may track source audio identifiers sent to or stored by the recipient computer system 120 or the call recipient phone 920. If the DCHS 140 or telephone network 930 determines that the source audio identifier has already been stored locally by the recipient computer system 120 or the call recipient telephone 920, the DCHS 140 or the telephone The network 920 may not send the source audio identifier to the recipient computer system 120 or the call recipient phone 920. The recipient computer system 120 or the call recipient phone 920 may access and play the source audio identifier based on an incoming call or a received digital communication.

In a sixth embodiment, the digital communication processor 142, the telephone network 930, the sender computer system 110, 510, or the caller phone 910 may transmit the source audio identifier itself rather than transmitting the source audio identifier itself. A link to a source audio identifier may be sent to the recipient computer system 120, 520 or the call recipient phone 920. The recipient computer system 120, 520 or the call recipient phone 920 may use the link to connect the source audio identifier. For example, the link may be a Universal Resource Locator (URL) indicating a website storage location where the source audio identifier is stored.

In a seventh embodiment, the digital communication processor 142 may determine whether the sender has an associated source audio identifier upon receipt of the digital communication prior to applying or connecting to the recipient communication exchange preferences. If the sender or caller has an associated source audio identifier, the digital communication processor 142 may continue to operate as in operations 206 through 238 of process 200. If a source audio identifier is not associated with the sender, the digital communication processor 142 may call the digital communication or call in the same way as normal digital communication is handled. The digital communication processor 142 may initially determine whether the sender has an associated source audio identifier by connecting an audio identifier data storage 144 based on the sender user identifier. If the source audio identifier corresponding to the sender user identifier is not stored in the audio identifier data storage 144, the sender may be considered to have no associated source audio identifier.

In an eighth embodiment, the digital communication processor 142 or the recipient computer system 120 may always query the destination regarding how to handle previously unknown source audio identifiers. The receiver selects from various audio identifier control options such as those described in connection with FIG. 3B to process a received message with a source audio identifier and future messages with source audio identifiers received from the same source. You can decide how to handle it.

In a ninth embodiment, the user communication exchange preferences are stored, such as an intermediate computer system (eg, digital communication processor 142 in each of the processes or systems described with respect to FIGS. 2, 3A, 4, 5, and 6). Or) at the sender computer system 120, either locally or remotely.

In a tenth embodiment, the user interface 300 may include additional control options that give the recipient greater control over the audio identifier. For example, the user interface 300 may allow the source audio identifier to be provided upon receipt of a first digital communication from the source in a communication session between the source and the recipient, wherein a second audio identifier is provided for the communication. It may include an option to be provided upon receipt of each of the other digital communications received from the source during the session. The second audio identifier is different from the first audio identifier and can be designated by the sender or receiver. Alternatively, the second audio identifier may be a generic audio identifier that is not designated by anyone of the sender and the receiver. The user interface 300 may cause a second audio identifier to be provided upon receipt of a first digital communication in a communication session, wherein the source audio identifier is received in each of the other communications received from the source during the communication session. It may include options that can be provided at the time of delivery. The user interface 300 also provides that the source audio identifier or the second audio identifier is provided upon receipt of a first digital communication during a communication session, and no audio on each reception of other communications received from the source during the communication session. It may also include an option to not provide an identifier.

Included in the Detailed Description of the Invention.

Claims (114)

Receiving a digital communication from a sender to a receiver; Determining whether the digital communication is associated with an audio identifier designated by the sender of the digital communication and identifying the sender of the digital communication; Whether or not the digital communication is coupled with the audio identifier is a condition for recognition of the audio identifier by the receiver; and includes audible from the sender to the receiver. How to notify digital communication arrival. The method of claim 1, And the digital communication is an instant message. The method of claim 1, And the digital communication is an e-mail. The method of claim 1, And the digital communication is voice mail. The method of claim 1, And the audio identifier is a spoken version of the user identifier of the sender. The method of claim 1, And determining whether the digital communication is associated with an audio identifier comprises determining whether an audio identifier has been received from the sender. The method of claim 6, And determining whether the audio identifier has been received from the sender, determining whether the audio identifier has been received from the digital communication with the audio identifier. The method of claim 1, And determining whether the digital communication is combined with an audio identifier comprises accessing a data store based on the identifier of the user of the sender. The method of claim 8, And the user identifier of the user is included in the digital communication. The method of claim 8, And wherein the user identifier is an email address, an instant message handle, or a screen name. The method of claim 1, And whether a communication exchange preference associated with the recipient allows the recipient to recognize the audio identifier is a condition for recipient recognition of the audio identifier. The method of claim 11, And if the communication exchange configuration includes a setting explicitly indicating that the receiver is allowed to recognize the audio identifier, the receiver is allowed to recognize the audio identifier. The method of claim 12, And the setting is set by the receiver responding to a query. The method of claim 11, If the communication exchange preferences explicitly include a setting indicating that the receiver is not allowed to recognize the audio identifier, the receiver is not allowed to recognize the audio identifier. The method of claim 14, And the setting is set by the receiver responding to the query. The method of claim 11, If the communication exchange configuration explicitly includes a setting indicating that the receiver is not allowed to recognize the audio identifier or the digital communication, the receiver is not allowed to recognize the audio identifier or the digital communication How to notify digital communication arrival. The method of claim 16, And the setting is set by the receiver responding to the query. The method of claim 1, When the recipient selects a user interface element corresponding to the authority of the audio identifier, further comprising allowing the receiver to recognize the user interface and allowing the user to recognize the audio identifier. How to notify you of your arrival. The method of claim 1, And whether or not the receiver can receive the audio communication is a condition for whether the user of the audio identifier is also a condition. The method of claim 19, And discarding the digital communication if the receiver is unable to receive the digital communication. The method of claim 19, Storing the digital communication in a data store for retrieval by the recipient later, subject to whether the recipient is unable to receive the digital communication. The method of claim 1, And allowing the recipient to recognize the sender profile. The method of claim 1, The sender comprises a caller, the digital communication comprises a phone call, Receiving a digital communication comprises receiving the telephone call directed to the recipient, Determining whether the digital communication is associated with an audio identifier comprises determining whether the telephone call is associated with an audio identifier specified by the caller and identifying the caller; The step of being a condition for the recognition of the audio identifier includes the step of determining whether the telephone call is associated with the audio identifier being a condition for the recognition of the audio identifier, wherein the audio identifier is used to determine the telephone call. Digital communication arrival notification method characterized in that it is recognized as a ring tone. The method of claim 23, wherein And allowing the receiver to recognize the audio identifier, repeatedly playing the audio identifier multiple times to serve as a call tone for the call. A user interface that allows a receiver of a digital communication from a sender to grant or reject a source audio identifier, A first interface element configured and arranged to provide a notification of the received digital communication; A second interface element configured and arranged to identify a sender of the digital communication and to provide notification of an audio identifier designated by the sender of the digital communication; And And a third interface element configured and arranged to permit or deny the provision of the audio identifier prior to the provision of the audio identifier. The method of claim 25, And the first interface element displays sender profile information. The method of claim 25, And the third interface is configured and arranged to permit or reject the provision of the digital communication by a receiver of the digital communication. The method of claim 25, And the third interface element comprises a set of fourth interface elements selectable by the receiver that affect the granting or denying of providing the audio identifier. The method of claim 28, The fourth set of interface elements includes an interface element selectable to permit the digital communication and the provision of the audio identifier. The method of claim 28, And said fourth set of interface elements includes an interface element selectable to permit provision of said digital communication but reject provision of said audio identifier. The method of claim 28, A set of fourth interface elements includes an interface element selectable to permit provision of the digital communication and to provide an audio identifier that identifies the sender's identity but hides the sender specific audio identifier . The method of claim 28, The fourth set of interface elements includes an interface element selectable to store the digital communication in a data store for later retrieval by the recipient. The method of claim 25, And a fourth interface element selectable to allow or deny the provision of the audio identifier upon receipt of each future digital communication from the sender. The method of claim 25, And further comprising a fourth interface element selectable to grant or deny the audio identifier upon receipt of each future digital communication from the sender, provided the audio identifier is subsequently changed by the receiver. User interface. The method of claim 34, wherein The digital communication is a telephone call and the sender is a caller, The first interface element is configured and arranged to provide notification of a telephone call from the caller, The second interface element is configured and arranged to identify the caller and to provide notification of an audio identifier designated by the caller, And wherein the third interface element is configured and arranged such that a recipient of the telephone call allows or denies the provision of the audio identifier prior to providing the audio identifier. A computer system for audibly informing a receiver of the arrival of a digital communication from a sender, A data storage configured to store audio identifiers; And Receive digital communications from the sender to the receiver, Determine whether the digital communication identifies the recipient of the digital communication and is coupled with an audio identifier designated by the receiver of the digital communication, The audio identifier from the data storage unit is connected, and whether or not the digital communication is combined with the audio identifier is a condition for whether by the receiver of the audio identifier, the audio identifier is determined by the receiver. A computer system comprising a digital communication processor configured to be recognized concurrently with or before the recognition of digital communication. The method of claim 36, And the digital communication is an instant message. The method of claim 36, And the digital communication is an email. The method of claim 36, And the digital communication is voicemail. The method of claim 36, And the audio identifier is a spoken version of the user identifier of the sender. The method of claim 36, And the digital communication processor is configured to determine whether the digital communication is combined with an audio identifier by determining whether the audio identifier has been received from the sender. 42. The method of claim 41 wherein And the digital communication processor is configured to determine whether the audio identifier has been received from the sender by determining whether an audio identifier has been received with the digital communication. The method of claim 36, And the digital communication processor is configured to determine whether the digital communication is coupled with an audio identifier by connecting a data store based on the user identifier of the user. The method of claim 43, And the sender's user identifier is included in the digital communication. The method of claim 43, And the user identifier is an email address, an instant message handle, or a screen name. The method of claim 36, And the digital communication processor further subjects the communication exchange preferences associated with the recipient to condition whether the recipient is aware of the audio identifier or not. The method of claim 46, The digital communication processor is configured to allow the receiver to recognize the audio identifier when the communication exchange configuration includes a setting indicating that the receiver is allowed to recognize the audio identifier. . The method of claim 47, And said setting is set by said recipient in response to a query. The method of claim 46, The digital processor is configured not to allow the receiver to recognize the audio identifier when the communication exchange configuration explicitly includes a setting indicating that the receiver is not allowed to recognize the audio identifier. Computer system. The method of claim 49, And the setting is set by the recipient in response to the query. The method of claim 46, The digital processor allows the receiver to recognize the audio identifier or the digital communication when the communication exchange configuration explicitly includes a setting indicating that the receiver is not allowed to recognize the audio identifier or digital communication. Computer system, characterized in that not configured. The method of claim 51, wherein And the setting is set by the recipient in response to the query. The method of claim 36, The digital communication processor is further configured to enable the receiver to recognize the user interface and allow the recipient to recognize the audio identifier when the recipient selects a user interface element corresponding to the authority of the audio identifier. Computer system. The method of claim 36, And the digital communication processor is further configured to condition whether the receiver is capable of receiving the digital communication as a condition of whether the receiver is the receiver of the audio identifier. The method of claim 54, wherein And the digital communication processor is further configured to discard the digital communication if the receiver is unable to receive the digital communication. The method of claim 54, wherein And the digital communication processor is further configured to store the digital communication in a data store for later retrieval by the receiver, provided that the condition is whether or not the receiver cannot receive the digital communication. system. The method of claim 36, And the digital communication processor is further configured to enable the receiver to recognize the sender profile. The method of claim 36, The sender includes a caller, the digital communication includes a phone call, and the digital communication processor Receive the phone call delivered to the recipient, Determine whether the digital communication is associated with an audio identifier by identifying whether the telephone call identifies the caller and is associated with an audio identifier specified by the caller, By determining whether the telephone call is combined with the audio identifier as a condition for recognition of the audio identifier, the condition for recognition of the audio identifier is used, and the audio identifier is a call tone for the telephone call ( computer system, configured to be recognized as a ring tone. The method of claim 58, And the digital communication processor is configured to allow the receiver to recognize the audio identifier by repeatedly playing the audio identifier several times to serve as a call tone for the telephone call. Means for receiving a digital communication from a sender delivered to a receiver; Means for identifying whether the digital communication identifies the recipient of the digital communication and is coupled with an audio identifier designated by the receiver of the digital communication; And, Means for subjecting whether the digital communication is combined with the audio identifier as a condition for acknowledgment by the receiver of the audio identifier, wherein the audio identifier is concurrent with the recognition of the digital communication by the receiver or An audible digital communication arrival notification device from the sender to the receiver that is recognized before. Receiving a digital communication from a sender delivered to a receiver; Determine whether the digital communication identifies the recipient of the digital communication and is coupled with an audio identifier designated by the receiver of the digital communication, Subjecting whether the digital communication is to be combined with the audio identifier as a condition for acknowledgment by the receiver of the audio identifier, wherein the audio identifier is concurrent with or before acknowledgment of the digital communication by the receiver. A method of digital communication arrival notification from a sender to a receiver that is recognized. 62. The method of claim 61, And the identifier is a video image specified by the sender. 62. The method of claim 61, And the identifier is an audiovisual indication specified by the sender. Enabling selection of the first sound based on an identifier that enables identification of an entity related to the event; Receiving a notification of the occurrence of the event, including the identifier; And In response to the notification, informing the event to the intended recipient of the event by playing at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound associated with the event. Way. The method of claim 64, wherein Enabling selection of the first sound based on the identifier includes enabling selection of the first sound based on the caller's phone number, and receiving the notification comprises receiving a notification of a telephone call. Wherein the step of notifying the intended recipient of the call comprises reproducing a call tone comprising at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound. . 66. The method of claim 65, Wherein the first sound is a general call tone and the second sound is a call tone specified by the caller. 66. The method of claim 65, And said general call tone is associated with a caller specific call tone. The method of claim 64, wherein Enabling selection of the first sound based on the identifier may include enabling selection of the first sound based on the identity of the instant message sender, and receiving the notification may include receiving a notification of receipt of the instant message. Method for identifying an event comprising a. The method of claim 64, wherein Enabling the selection of the first sound based on the identifier may include enabling the selection of the first sound based on the identity of the instant message sender, and receiving the notification may comprise an online presence of the instant message sender. receiving a notification of a change in state). The method of claim 64, wherein Enabling selection of the first sound based on the identifier enabling the selection of the first sound based on the identity of the email sender, and receiving the notification comprises receiving a notification of receipt of the email. And identifying an event. The method of claim 64, wherein Enabling the selection of a first sound comprises enabling the selection of a first sound by the receiver. The method of claim 64, wherein Enabling selection of a first sound comprises enabling selection of a first sound by the sender. The method of claim 64, wherein The method of informing the intended recipient of the event includes informing the intended recipient of the event by replaying at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound in response to the notification, wherein the second sound comprises the A method of identifying an event, characterized in that specified by the receiver. The method of claim 64, wherein The method of informing the intended recipient of the event includes informing the intended recipient of the event by replaying at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound in response to the notification, wherein the second sound comprises the A method of identifying an event, characterized in that specified by the sender. The method of claim 64, wherein The method of notifying the event to the intended recipient includes forming a linked sound by connecting at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound and informing the intended receiver of the event by playing the linked sound. And identifying an event. The method of claim 64, wherein The method of notifying the event to the intended recipient includes forming a mixed sound by mixing at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound and informing the intended recipient of the mixed sound by playing back the mixed sound. And identifying an event. The method of claim 64, wherein And the first or second sound is a sound selected to identify the entity or the event. 78. The method of claim 77 wherein Wherein the entity is a user and the first or second sound is an oral form of a user identity corresponding to the user. The method of claim 64, wherein The first or second sound is selected to classify the entity or the event. 80. The method of claim 79 wherein And the first or second sound identifies the geographic location where the event occurred. 80. The method of claim 79 wherein Wherein said entity is a user and said first or second sound identifies a group to which said user belongs. 82. The method of claim 81 wherein And the first or second sound identifies that the user is a member of the recipient's buddy group. 82. The method of claim 81 wherein A first or second sound, wherein the user is a member of the recipient's contacts list. 80. The method of claim 79 wherein A method of identifying an event, characterized in that the first or second sound identifies the urgency or importance of the event. 80. The method of claim 79 wherein The entity is a user, the event is a receiver receiving a digital communication from the user, and the first or second sound identifies the type of digital communication received from the user. The method of claim 64, wherein Informing the intended recipient of the event comprises informing the intended recipient of the event by playing at least a portion of the first sound, at least a portion of the second sound, and at least a portion of the third sound. How to identify the event that you are doing. 87. The method of claim 86, The first sound is a sound selected to identify the entity or event, the second sound is a sound selected to classify the entity or event, and the third sound is a sound selected to further classify the entity or user How to identify. 87. The method of claim 86, A first sound is a sound selected to classify the entity or event, a second sound is a sound selected to further classify the entity or event, and a third sound is a sound selected to further classify the entity or user How to identify the event that you are doing. A computer system for audibly identifying an event, the computer system comprising: An event sound processor for selecting a first sound based on an identifier for identifying a user associated with the event; An event detection processor for receiving a notification of occurrence of the event comprising the identifier; And An audio playback processor for informing the particular recipient of the event by generating at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of a second sound associated with the event in response to the notification of the occurrence of the event. Computer system. 92. The method of claim 89, The event sound processor receives the notification of the event occurrence by selecting the first sound based on the telephone number of the sender in making the first sound selection based on the identifier, receiving a telephone notification, and receiving the first sound. And notify a specific recipient of the call by generating a ring tone comprising at least a portion of and at least a portion of the second sound. 92. The method of claim 90, Wherein said first sound is a general ring tone and said second sound is a ring tone specified by a telephone sender. 92. The method of claim 91 wherein Wherein said general ring tone alternately occurs with a ring tone specified by said telephone sender. 92. The method of claim 89, The event sound processor selects the first sound based on the identity of the instant message sender in making the first sound selection based on the identifier, and notifies the occurrence of the event by being notified of the receipt of the instant message. Computer system, characterized in that receiving. 92. The method of claim 89, The event sound processor selects the first sound based on the ID of the instant message sender in making the first sound selection based on the identifier, and generates the event by being notified of a change in the online connection state of the instant message sender. Computer system, characterized in that it receives a notification. 92. The method of claim 89, The event sound processor is configured to receive notification of occurrence of the event by selecting the first sound based on the identity of the email sender and making notification of the receipt of the email message in making the first sound selection based on the identifier. Computer system. 92. The method of claim 89, And the event sound processor allows the first sound to be selected by the recipient in making the first sound selection. 92. The method of claim 89, And the event sound processor allows the sender to select the first sound in making the first sound selection. 92. The method of claim 89, Wherein the audio playback processor is notified of the occurrence of the event to notify the particular receiver of the event by generating at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound, wherein the second sound is received by the receiver. Computer system characterized by the above-mentioned. 92. The method of claim 89, Wherein the audio playback processor is notified of the occurrence of the event to notify the particular receiver of the event by generating at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of the second sound, the second sound being sent by the sender. Computer system characterized by the above-mentioned. 92. The method of claim 89, Wherein the audio playback processor concatenates a portion of the first sound and a portion of the second sound to form a concatenated sound and generates the concatenated sound to notify the specific receiver of the event. Computer system. 92. The method of claim 89, And wherein the audio playback processor mixes a portion of the first sound with a portion of the second sound to form a blended sound and generates the blended sound to notify the particular recipient of the event. 92. The method of claim 89, And the first and second sounds are sounds selected to identify the entity or the event. 103. The method of claim 102, The entity is a user, and the first and second sounds are spoken versions of a user ID corresponding to the user. 92. The method of claim 89, The first and second sounds are selected according to the classification of the entity or the event. 105. The method of claim 104, And the first and second sounds identify the topographic location where the event occurred. 105. The method of claim 104, The entity is a user, and the first and second sounds identify a group to which the user belongs. 107. The method of claim 106, Wherein the first and second sounds identify whether the user is a member of a group of friends of the recipient. 107. The method of claim 106, And the first and second sounds identify whether the user is a member of the recipient's association list. 105. The method of claim 104, Wherein the first and second sounds identify the urgency or importance of the event. 105. The method of claim 104, The entity is a user, the event is that the recipient receives a digital communication from the user, and wherein the first and second sounds identify a type of the digital communication received from the user. Computer system. 92. The method of claim 89, And the audio playback processor notifies the particular recipient of the event by generating at least a portion of the first sound, at least a portion of the second sound, and at least a portion of the third sound. 112. The method of claim 111, wherein The first sound is a sound selected to identify the entity or event, the second sound is a sound selected to classify the entity or event, and the third sound is to further classify the entity or event. A computer system, characterized in that the sound is selected. 112. The method of claim 111, wherein The first sound is a sound selected to classify the entity or event, the second sound is a sound selected to further classify the entity or event, and the third sound is more specific to the entity or event. Computer system, characterized in that the sound is selected to be classified as. An apparatus for audibly identifying an event, the apparatus comprising: Means for selecting a first sound based on an identifier for identifying an entity user associated with the event; Means for receiving a notification of occurrence of the event comprising the identifier; And Means for informing the particular recipient of the event by generating at least a portion of the first sound and at least a portion of a second sound associated with the event in response to the notification of the event occurrence.

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