Abstract: A system and method for a remote telephone ringer, which when used in proximity to a wireless or non-wireless telephone rings or vibrates when the telephone itself rings or vibrates. The method includes a protocol for communicating status from a sending device to a receiving device. In response to a detected incoming call, a ringer indicator signal is transmitted from a sending device attached to or built into the phone and a receiving device. The ringer indicator signal includes an encoded status message that includes parameters that identify how the receiving device is to function in response to receiving the signal. The status message is decoded by the receiving device, and the receiving device provided corresponding indicia to indicate a phone call has been received, such as generating an audible ringing noise or vibrating. The indicia can be turned off, either through detection of motion or user input.