Abstract: In a short message service (SMS) wireline/wireless message system, a separate SMS exchange subsystem implements value-added service capability. The value addition service may range, for example, from simple data insertion in the SMS message to the more complex initiation of a teleconference call using inter-exchanged SMS messages.

Abstract: In a short message service (SMS) wireline/wireless message system, a separate SMS exchange server linked to a multi-party concurrence server implements a value-added service capability to achieve multi-party concurrence. The basic function of the multi-party concurrence operation is that of changing the contents of a data structure in the server based on the responses received from two or more members. The concurrence operation has many applications, such as, the transfer of money to an account only if two or more persons agree to the transaction.

Abstract: A stored value commerce system and method enabling the anonymous creation and usage of stored value accounts for purchase of goods and/or services, including the anonymous redemption of a value up to a maximum of the balance value associated with a stored value account.

Abstract: A global prepaid roaming services method and apparatus is described in which a roaming phone located in a first region places an outgoing call to a destination party in a second region, and responsive to placing the call, a service processing node (SPN) establishes a first call connection between the roaming phone and the SPN, a second call connection between the SPN and the destination party is established and the SPN bridges the first and second call connections to establish a call connection between the roaming phone and the destination party.

Abstract: A technique to register a roaming cell-phone in a visiting location as a local phone. The technique involves identifying roaming-related information from the roaming cell-phone in the visiting location, and then dynamically configuring the roaming cell-phone to operate as a local cell-phone in the visiting location.

Abstract: A system, method and data structure for on-line settlement of amounts payable to different entities within a multiple level marketing enterprise proximate the time services and/or products are rendered. The invention provides that financial settlements be made substantially immediately among the MLM company, the up-line and down-line representatives and the customer. This is achieved by a method for settling the various financial transactions through stored values personal identification numbers (PINs).

Abstract: A system and method for identifying each of a plurality of service providers cooperating to provide a service to a customer wherein a fee debited from a stored value account associated with the customer is apportioned among the cooperating service providers according to a measurement of the provided service portions.