User Requested Patents (Class 705/14.55)
  • Patent number: 8768307
    Abstract: In part the invention relates to a method of providing remote access to data generated by a mobile device having a device storage element. The method includes the steps of monitoring the mobile device such that changes in local data resident in the device storage element are detected using a client application installed on the mobile device, wherein the changes in the local data accumulate during a period of time to comprise at least one change set; transmitting the at least one change set over a network; receiving the at least one change set at a remote server, the remote server having a remote storage element; and processing the at least one change set using a server application to generate user accessible remote data. Various embodiments further involve remote text message archives, positional and temporal information associated with change sets, alert generation by trigger events, and archiving with associated searchable meta-data for data mining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: ZeroTouch Digital, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas Brian Heins, Gregory Michael Morey
  • Patent number: 8769397
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for embedding macros in Web pages with advertisements. In some implementations, a method includes receiving a snippet embedded in a remote Web page. Rules for embedding one or more macros in the snippet are identified. The one or more macros are associated with archiving user actions associated with an advertisement presented in the Web page. A format of the snippet is determined from a plurality of identifiable formats based, at least in part, on the rules. The one or more macros are automatically embedded in the snippet in accordance with rules associated with the snippet format.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Tsun, Jonathan Nikfarjam
  • Patent number: 8769567
    Abstract: Intelligent selection of items encoded onto portable machine-readable entertainment media comprises receiving at least one request from at least one given viewer related to obtaining at least one instance media for viewing and identifying the given viewer based on the obtaining of the at least one instance media for viewing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Tuxis Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Todd B. Strubbe, David C. Mussman, Rocco L. Adornato
  • Publication number: 20140180805
    Abstract: The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for arranging advertisement content in digital receipts. A receipt database server formulates a digital receipt for a sales transaction. When the digital receipt is requested for viewing by another computer system, the receipt database server can arrange content in the digital receipt for an advertising purpose. In some embodiments, the digital receipt server places an advertisement insert into the digital receipt. In other embodiments, the digital receipt server (re)arranges receipt items of the digital receipt so that some receipt items appear more prominently (e.g., are moved towards the top of the digital receipt, are displayed in a different color, are highlighted, etc.). Thus, in response to requesting a digital receipt, a customer mobile device can receive an advertisement digital receipt. The advertisement digital receipt can include content arranged for an advertising purpose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
    Inventors: Stuart Argue, Anthony Emile Marcar
  • Publication number: 20140180816
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards selective disclosure of user or computing environment attributes to facilitate generation and/or provision of targeted content. In various embodiments, a likelihood that disclosure of an attribute of a user or of a computing environment associated with the user will enable identification of the user may be determined based on an associated population count of users or computing environments sharing the same attribute. In various embodiments, the attribute may be selectively disclosed to a content provider configured to provide targeted content, or a recommendation may be selectively provided to the user as to whether the user should disclose the attribute to the content provider, based on the determination and a risk tolerance associated with the user. In various embodiments, a dimension authority may track and make available population counts of users or computing environments having various attributes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventors: Ned M. Mith, Thomas Gerard Willis
  • Publication number: 20140180817
    Abstract: Provided is a computer implemented process for reminding users of offers that were discovered by the user at one location when, at a later time, the user is at another location, the process including: displaying, with a mobile device, an offer and a reminder interface to indicate that the user requests themselves or another reminder recipient to be reminded of the offer when near another computing device of the reminder recipient; receiving an interaction with the reminder interface by the user and, in response, storing a reminder request in memory, the reminder request identifying the offer; obtaining data identifying the other computing device, a geographic area of the other computing device, or a wireless environment of the other computing device; detecting, with a processor of the mobile device, that the reminder recipient has interacted with the other computing device, entered the geographic area, or entered the wireless environment; and in response to the detection, presenting a notification reminding t
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: RetailMeNot Inc.
    Inventor: Eithan Zilkha
  • Patent number: 8761732
    Abstract: A system and method to enable a user to initiate a communication with an organization using a mobile communication device by means of a trigger system. A system and method to enable an organization to acquire a user mobile device address by means of a trigger system. A system and method to enable an organization to respond to a user by means of a trigger system and a message application server. A system and method to enable organizations to deliver mobile messages, coupons, offers and promotions to users mobile device by means of a combination of a trigger system, a message application server and an offer application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: M-Qube, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Trioano, Mark Grindeland, Gerald Hewes, Eswar Priyadarshan, Randall Snyder
  • Patent number: 8762203
    Abstract: A cost maintenance scheme useful with an advertising system which orders ads in a manner that maximizes both their relevance and their economic value, and which provides a fair bidding process in which a winning bidder is assured of not having paid too much. Ordering may be done based on accepted maximum ad bid information and/or ad performance information. For example, this information may be used to determine a position value. Cost may be determined based on accepted maximum ad bid information and/or performance information. Billing the determined cost may be subject to a condition precedent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Veach, Salar Arta Kamangar
  • Publication number: 20140172568
    Abstract: PI-TRAMPING pages is an acronym for Programmed Immediate, Target Requested, Advertising Media Presentation on Individual, Neighborhood, and Generic pages. This is a method, scheme, program, or device for giving the viewer of an Internet Web page control over the presentation of all advertising associated with that Web page, thereby replacing in-your-face advertising with at-your-command advertising. This invention specifically allows the inclusion of features which will encourage the viewer of an Internet Web page to choose to look at the advertisements in a receptive state of mind and so satisfy the advertisers with allowing the display of their ads to be voluntary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Alan Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20140172569
    Abstract: A method for implementing a customizable interactive menu system with user interaction data analysis capability by executing computer-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium is a digital replacement for paper restaurant menus with a customizable menu layout. The menu layout mimics traditional paper menus, displaying a plurality of menu pages on a personal computing device, including a menu start page, at least one menu items page, at least one advertisement page, and a menu end page. Users may select items on a menu items page or an advertisement page, and all user interactions are recorded and later analyzed with data mining and pattern recognition algorithms to produce sorted interaction data and layout suggestions, which the restaurant owner or manager may use to customize and optimize the menu layout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: International Advertising Solutions
    Inventors: Juan M. BANDA, Rene Eduardo RASCON, Rafael Mario CHAVEZ
  • Patent number: 8756120
    Abstract: A hybrid context information matching approach may produce a customized product catalogue based on the user's context and the mobile device the user is using. A Knowledge Base (KB) and a KB manager, along with various processes perform specific collaborative tasks in order to achieve the overall goal of producing a customized product catalogue. In addition, the effort builds and/or updates the KB. Various contextual inputs are provided from both the user environment and data repositories. Hybrid matching is performed in order to determine optimal search results based on the contextual input provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: SAP AG
    Inventors: Felix Ntawanga, Ernest Ketcha Ngassam, Jan Harm Petrus Eloff, Marek Piotr Zielinski
  • Patent number: 8755776
    Abstract: A system for targeting advertising content includes the steps of: (a) receiving respective requests for advertising content corresponding to a plurality of mobile communication facilities operated by a group of users, wherein the plurality includes first and second types of mobile communication facilities with different rendering capabilities; (b) receiving a datum corresponding to the group; (c) selecting from a first and second sponsor respective content based on a relevancy to the datum, wherein each content includes a first and second item requiring respective rendering capabilities; (d) receiving bids from the first and second sponsors; (e) attributing a priority to the content of the first sponsor based upon a determination that a yield associated with the first sponsor is greater than a yield associated with the second sponsor; and (f) transmitting the first and second items of the first sponsor to the first and second types of mobile communication facilities respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Millennial Media, Inc.
    Inventors: Jorey Ramer, Adam Soroca, Dennis Dought
  • Publication number: 20140164117
    Abstract: A method includes prompting a message sender for content options associated with a designated graphical element. A selected content option is received from the message sender. The designated graphical element is associated with the selected content option. A message with the designated graphical element is sent from the message sender to a message receiver. The message receiver is supplied with the selected content in response to activation of the graphical element by the message receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: KARMIES LLC
    Inventor: Megan Haines
  • Patent number: 8751309
    Abstract: Techniques for distributing messages to consumers on behalf of promoters. In some embodiments, once a message is provided to a message distribution system to be distributed to consumers on behalf of promoters, the message distribution system may determine the consumers to which to distribute the message based on the personal interest identifiers for the consumers that identify personal interests of the consumers. In particular, in some embodiments, a message distribution system may determine a topic for a message and personal interest identifiers for the message that correspond to personal interest identifiers input by consumers. Once the set of personal interest identifiers for the message has been identified, a set of consumers who have input one or more of those personal interest identifiers is identified. The message may then be made available to the identified set of consumers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Tagzo World LLC
    Inventor: Michael A. O'Hara
  • Patent number: 8751308
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method managing telephonic connections is disclosed. The method includes transmitting from a computer server system, for display on an electronic communication device, an advertisement from an advertiser; receiving from the electronic communication device a request to be connected telephonically with the advertiser; automatically playing a predetermined audio message after connecting telephonically with the advertiser; and connecting the electronic communication device telephonically with the advertiser after playing the predetermined audio message.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Susan Wojcicki, Smita Hashim, Navneet Loiwal, Jingxin Huang
  • Publication number: 20140156405
    Abstract: A method of delivering interactive content using an entertainment system. The method includes a step of providing access to interactive content to a user at a first level of access over a computer network including first access privileges. The method also includes a step of providing access to the content to the user at a second level of access in response to the user satisfying a first predetermined condition. The second level of access provides second access privileges that are excluded from the first level of access. The method also includes a step of providing access to the content to the user at a third level of access in response to the user satisfying both the first predetermined condition and a second predetermined condition. The third level of access provides the second access privileges and third access privileges. The third access privileges are excluded from said second level of access.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: Ganz
    Inventors: Howard Ganz, Karl Joseph Borst
  • Publication number: 20140156404
    Abstract: A method and system for generating consumer interest in broadcast advertising that contains encoded advertising incentives. The method includes receiving content from a broadcast stream provider and using a decoder with a processor that executes a software program tool embodied therein. The processor of the decoder executes the steps of the software program tool to detect the presence of advertising incentives in the broadcast stream. The processor of the decoder detects and responds to commands from the control device to display details about the advertising incentive. The processor of the decoder sends notifications to the user, updates the user's calendar, and sends feedback to the advertiser that the advertisement was chosen and accepted by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Alfredo Aldereguia, Jeffrey R. Hamilton, Clifton Kerr, Grace A. Richter
  • Patent number: 8744486
    Abstract: Delivering content to a requesting device over a content delivery network, the content being deliverable in only one or more restricted geographic regions and the requesting device being communicatively connected to a cellular communications service provider via a cellular communications network, the method comprising steps of: receiving a network identifier of the requesting device uniquely identifying the requesting device in the cellular communications network; transmitting a verification message over the cellular communications network for receipt by the requesting device; receiving, from the requesting device, an access control submission; receiving, from the cellular communications service provider, location information corresponding to a geographic location of the requesting device; and in response to a determination that the access control submission derives from the transmitted verification message and the location information indicates the requesting device is in one of the one or more restricted ge
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: David Cousins, Ian Partridge, Adam Pilkington, Dave Renshaw, Andrew Taylor
  • Patent number: 8744488
    Abstract: Delivering content to a requesting device over a content delivery network, the content being deliverable in only one or more restricted geographic regions and the requesting device being communicatively connected to a cellular communications service provider via a cellular communications network, the method comprising steps of: receiving a network identifier of the requesting device uniquely identifying the requesting device in the cellular communications network; transmitting a verification message over the cellular communications network for receipt by the requesting device; receiving, from the requesting device, an access control submission; receiving, from the cellular communications service provider, location information corresponding to a geographic location of the requesting device; and in response to a determination that the access control submission derives from the transmitted verification message and the location information indicates the requesting device is in one of the one or more restricted ge
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: David Cousins, Ian Partridge, Adam Pilkington, Dave Renshaw, Andrew Taylor
  • Publication number: 20140149216
    Abstract: Provided is a system and method of updating a message displayed on an electronic screen via wireless communications device. Messages are entered into the communications device (input terminal) via verbal commands or entered text. The input is then transmitted to one or more electronic screens, where the message is displayed. Thus, users can update an electronic display without directly manipulating the display screen or physically entering text. Each electronic screen is in communication with each paired wireless communications device via a Bluetooth connection. This connection method enables the pairing of multiple electronic screens to a single wireless communications device, as well as allowing multiple communications devices to manipulate any given screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Inventor: Peter McGie
  • Publication number: 20140149217
    Abstract: A method, apparatus, and system are provided for implementing resource and/or location-based matching services between a wireless terminal (e.g., mobile phone) user and one or more resources. A novel infrastructure supports resource and/or location based matching services over a wireless network. A back-end system includes a database, server, and match engine that are configured match a user with one or more resources based on the user's characteristics, preferences, and/or location. Such resources include (1) other users, (2) targeted advertising, (3) businesses/networking opportunities, and/or (4) locate a nearby service or store. A flexible database architecture supports application-specific resources which facilitate the deployment of various matching services. Application developers are thus able to implement different resource-matching applications for wireless devices through a common back-end infrastructure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: QUALCOMM Incorporated
    Inventors: Jack STEENSTRA, Alexander GANTMAN, Kirk S. TAYLOR, Liren CHEN
  • Patent number: 8737972
    Abstract: A system for targeting advertising content includes the steps of: (a) receiving respective requests for advertising content corresponding to a plurality of mobile communication facilities operated by a group of users, wherein the plurality includes first and second types of mobile communication facilities with different rendering capabilities; (b) receiving a datum corresponding to the group; (c) selecting from a first and second sponsor respective content based on a relevancy to the datum, wherein each content includes a first and second item requiring respective rendering capabilities; (d) receiving bids from the first and second sponsors; (e) attributing a priority to the content of the first sponsor based upon a determination that a yield associated with the first sponsor is greater than a yield associated with the second sponsor; and (f) transmitting the first and second items of the first sponsor to the first and second types of mobile communication facilities respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Millennial Media, Inc.
    Inventors: Jorey Ramer, Adam Soroca, Dennis Doughty
  • Publication number: 20140143055
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for providing in-store merchandise offers. An exemplary system is configured to: receive an offer request from a consumer that indicates the consumer's interest in purchasing a product exhibited in an in-store merchandise showroom and determine product offers based on the request. The consumer is sent offers, where at least one of the offers is related to a merchant not associated with the merchandise showroom. The consumer is then provided an option to select at least one offer. Selecting an offer is equated to accepting one or more terms and conditions associated with the offer, and not selecting an offer is associating with denying one or more terms and conditions associated with the offer. After a selection is made the system receives the consumers offer selection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Inventor: John R. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20140143056
    Abstract: A method of providing a digital shopping marketing platform is provided. The method includes: igniting a flash box that takes over control of the media site upon access of a media site by a user; providing at least one brand in the flash box for the user to select from; and taking over brand advertisement on the media site based on the brand selected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: GROCERY SHOPPING NETWORK, INC.
    Inventor: John G. Gaughan
  • Patent number: 8732016
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and methodology for searching and presenting merchant and advertised information to a user over a wide area network such as the Internet. The system and method actively links manufacturer and merchant information within a search query so as to enable a user to conduct more efficient searching when seeking products or services in a proximity or geographical area. This Abstract is provided for the sole purpose of complying with the Abstract requirement rules that allow a reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure contained herein. This Abstract is submitted with the explicit understanding that it will not be used to interpret or to limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Poynt Inc.
    Inventor: John Lowe
  • Publication number: 20140136319
    Abstract: Methods and systems provide customized electronic cards, such as customized vCards. Each vCard can be customized, such as with respect to a particular recipient. Thus, desired specific information can be provided to the recipient and not provided to anyone else who receives a vCard from a user. In this manner, a unique communication between the user and the recipient can be defined. Different vCards, each containing some common information and some unique information, can be communicated to different recipients.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventor: Shibi Sudhakaran
  • Publication number: 20140136326
    Abstract: An Internet advertisement method and system that issues an authentication key for enabling selected target customers to receive a commercial sample at a membership-based offline store by performing an advertisement in the form of a banner on a web page of an online market, such as an Internet shopping mall, such that an advertiser can conveniently satisfy needs of customers desiring to purchase goods after receiving the sample without delivering the sample, a targeting goods advertisement can be effectively performed, membership-based offline stores can be publicized, and increasing visits from customers can lead to an increase in sales. The Internet advertisement method includes providing an advertisement including information on providing a sample, and generating an authentication key for enabling a customer terminal selecting the advertisement and requesting a sample of advertised goods to receive the sample at an offline store.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2014
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventor: Young Bae Ku
  • Patent number: 8725126
    Abstract: A system for targeting advertising content includes the steps of: (a) receiving respective requests for advertising content corresponding to a plurality of mobile communication facilities operated by a group of users, wherein the plurality includes first and second types of mobile communication facilities with different rendering capabilities; (b) receiving a datum corresponding to the group; (c) selecting from a first and second sponsor respective content based on a relevancy to the datum, wherein each content includes a first and second item requiring respective rendering capabilities; (d) receiving bids from the first and second sponsors; (e) attributing a priority to the content of the first sponsor based upon a determination that a yield associated with the first sponsor is greater than a yield associated with the second sponsor; and (f) transmitting the first and second items of the first sponsor to the first and second types of mobile communication facilities respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Millennial Media, Inc.
    Inventors: Jorey Ramer, Adam Soroca, Dennis Doughty
  • Patent number: 8725563
    Abstract: A search engine, system and method for locating and rating a plurality of electronic mentions of respective ones of a plurality of brands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Brand Affinity Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan Steelberg, Chad Steelberg
  • Patent number: 8725565
    Abstract: An electronic service provides a sample of a media item to a user, along with a prompt. The prompt gives the user the opportunity to receive an additional part of the item substantially without further interaction with the user. The streamlined acquisition of the additional part of the media item is enabled by the user's establishment, in advance, of user identification information, payment information, and so on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas A. Ryan
  • Patent number: 8719095
    Abstract: A method is described including requesting content from a directory service, receiving a list of peers in a peer-to-peer network having the requested content, selecting a peer from the received list of peers, establishing communications with the selected peer, receiving a list of chunks of content and ads available from the selected peer, requesting a chunk of content and ads available from said selected peer and receiving the chunk of content and randomly selected ads from the selected peer. Also described is a method including receiving a request for content, generating a list of chunks of content available for the requested content, generating a list of ads associated with the requested content, transmitting the list of available chunks of content responsive to the request, receiving a request for a selected chunk of content and transmitting the selected chunk of content and ads associated with the selected chunk of content.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Thomson Licensing
    Inventors: Dekai Li, Ashwin Kashyap, Saurabh Mathur, Mingquan Wu, Hang Liu
  • Patent number: 8718617
    Abstract: A system for targeting advertising content includes the steps of: (a) receiving respective requests for advertising content corresponding to a plurality of mobile communication facilities operated by a group of users, wherein the plurality includes first and second types of mobile communication facilities with different rendering capabilities; (b) receiving a datum corresponding to the group; (c) selecting from a first and second sponsor respective content based on a relevancy to the datum, wherein each content includes a first and second item requiring respective rendering capabilities; (d) receiving bids from the first and second sponsors; (e) attributing a priority to the content of the first sponsor based upon a determination that a yield associated with the first sponsor is greater than a yield associated with the second sponsor; and (f) transmitting the first and second items of the first sponsor to the first and second types of mobile communication facilities respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Millennial Media, Inc.
    Inventors: Jorey Ramer, Adam Soroca, Dennis Doughty
  • Publication number: 20140122201
    Abstract: An apparatus, method, and computer program product are disclosed for online social marketing. A media module is configured to present multimedia content on a webpage featuring a user, the webpage comprising a theme selected by the user. An advertising module is configured to display advertising content on the webpage, the advertising content associated with the theme of the webpage. An icon module is configured to display one or more icons on the webpage, the one or more icons selected by the user, an icon representing one or more of a promotion and a cause associated with the user. A posting module is configured to post a link to the webpage on one or more social networking platforms associated with the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Aaron Johnson
  • Publication number: 20140122236
    Abstract: A billing statement according to one aspect of the invention includes a description of a transaction and an offer pointer associated with the transaction, wherein the offer pointer includes information that may be used to review an offer. In one example of this aspect, a telephone number or a hyperlink is provided adjacent to a total amount owed listed on a statement (e.g., an electronically-displayed billing statement). The offers reviewed may be customized, for example, based on details of the transaction such as the product purchased or the amount of the purchase, the identity of the consumer, and/or on other data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2014
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: EBAY INC.
    Inventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch, Daniel E. Tedesco, Stephen C. Tulley, Timothy A. Palmer, Russell Pratt Sammon, John M. Packes, JR., Geoffrey M. Gelman, Kurt M. Maschoff, Andrew M. Golden, Michiko Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 8712833
    Abstract: The subject application is directed to a system and method for selective control of advertising messages on distributed document processing devices. Device identification data is first received corresponding to the identity of networked document processing devices available for display of selected advertising content. Device selection data representing a selected subset of the networked document processing devices is then received, with the selection made in accordance with the received identification data. Next, customization data is received corresponding to a selected display parameter associated with the selected advertising content. The selected advertising content and the received customization data are then communicated to each of the networked document processing devices in the selected subset. Each of the document processing devices then commences the display of the selected advertising content in accordance with the customization data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tony T. Quach, Peter Tran
  • Publication number: 20140114763
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, are provided for facilitating a following of a content sponsor in a social network. In one aspect, a method includes the actions of identifying a creative for presentation to users in response to requests for content, and receiving selection criteria from a sponsor associated with the creative, the selection criteria for use in determining when to present the creative. The creative is augmented to include a control that enables a user to follow the content sponsor automatically upon interaction with the control, and the augmented creative is presented in response to received requests for content in accordance with the selection criteria. The sponsor is charged when the creative is presented and a user initiates an action to follow the sponsor in a social network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Christian Oestlien, Cinthya Rossana Urasaki, Rafael M. Borges, Richard D. Borovoy, Marcus A. Leal, Julia H. Farago, Fred Bertsch, Elena Kon
  • Publication number: 20140114762
    Abstract: A system for providing mobile advertisement actions may include a memory to store a request, mobile carrier data, mobile advertisement data, and mobile advertisement action data. The system may include an interface operatively connected to the memory to communicate with a mobile device. The system may include a processor operatively connected to the memory and the interface. The processor may receive information and a request from the mobile device via the interface and may determine the mobile carrier data relating to a mobile carrier associated with the mobile device. The processor may identify the mobile advertisement data and the mobile advertisement action targeted to the request and the mobile carrier data. The processor may append the mobile advertisement action data to the mobile advertisement data. The processor may provide the mobile advertisement data with the appended mobile advertisement action data to the mobile device via the interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: Yahoo! Inc.
    Inventors: Arvind GUPTA, Ashutosh Tiwari, Gopalakrishnan Venkatraman, Dominic Cheung, Stacy R. Bennett, Douglas B. Koen
  • Publication number: 20140108128
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for creating advertisements are disclosed. In one aspect, a method includes receiving an advertisement request that includes user context data. An advertisement having distribution parameters matching the user context data is identified. The identified advertisement can include one or more variables that are resolved based on the user context data. A proper subset of feed data to which the one or more variables for the advertisement will be resolved can be selected based on the user context data and performance measures for portions of the feed data that have been previously used to resolve the one or more variables. The advertisement is modified, at least in part, by including, in place of the one or more variables, the selected modifying data. The modified advertisement is provided in response to the advertisement request.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Chetan Patel, Vinod Ramachandran Marur, Beverly Yang, Karen Yao, Varouj A. Chitilian, Shu Niu, Nam Hoang Mai
  • Patent number: 8700466
    Abstract: Exemplary methods and devices in accordance with the disclosure relate generally to networked provisioning of content to young users such as children, as well as providing user monitoring and customized feedback and other information to parents and others. More particularly, but not exclusively, embodiments in accordance with the disclosure relate to systems, methods, devices, and computer media for receiving user input associated with provided or available content, processing the input, and providing information such as text, video, audio, other media, advertising, and feedback associated with user inputs and preferences to a person associated with the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Saban Digital Studios LLC
    Inventors: Thomas C. Broadhead, Clifford T. Boro, William J. Von Reis, Brian E. Smith
  • Publication number: 20140100958
    Abstract: Included are systems and methods for directing data. At least one embodiment of a method includes receiving a listing for a data provider, the listing including a plurality of criteria related to the data provider and receiving an indication to add at least a portion of the listing to a personal directory. Other embodiments include adding at least a portion of the listing to the personal directory and receiving an indication from the data provider to send data to the personal directory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, L.P.
    Inventor: Jay Oliver Glasgow
  • Publication number: 20140100957
    Abstract: A system and method for distribution of content on a computer network between a plurality of content providers and a plurality of users. A plurality of content provider packets provided by one or more of the content providers are stored, and a link provided to users for access to the content provider packets. When a user activates the link the selected content provider packet is displayed and the user may store the content provider packet in a personal showcase display for future access by the user. Showcase access is syndicated across web enabled devices through revenue sharing agreements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Relevant Media LLC
    Inventor: Jason JEROME
  • Publication number: 20140100956
    Abstract: A user alert system is described herein that provides direct alerts to users of a real estate website each time a single event meets one of a user's criteria. Unlike periodic summary reports that summarize all events within a regular time period, direct or “instant” alerts are delivered as soon as possible after a condition is met for a subject property or other source of the event, so that the user receives the most timely notification possible. Users can create a set of search criteria and then save the search for future reference. The user alert system leverages these search criteria to identify any item that matches the user's search criteria and provide a real-time notification in a timely manner upon any real estate event occurring that matches the user's search criteria. Thus, the user alert system allows users to find out about changes much more rapidly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Inventors: Shahaf Abileah, April Alexander, Vincent Chang, Michael Smedberg
  • Publication number: 20140100955
    Abstract: Architecture that enables the detection of a user by a user device and interaction with content of the user device by the user before the user physically contacts the device. The detection capability can utilize one or more sensors of the device to identify the user and the proximity (distance) of the user to the device. Based on the user identity and the proximity, the device operates/functions in a certain way. Moreover, ongoing interaction can be enabled by recognition of a natural user interface (NUI) gestures, alone or in combination with other recognition techniques (e.g., speech recognition). Device activity can include causing the device to operate in predetermined ways such as power modes, application launching and manipulation to cause control of hardware and other software (local and/or remote) and, obtaining and presenting specific types of content (e.g., advertisements, notifications, messages, reminders, news, incoming communications, etc.).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Neal Osotio, Eun Hyung Kim
  • Publication number: 20140095312
    Abstract: A system directs a browser or browsing application associated with a user to a targeted web site after the user performs at least two activations or “clicks” of his pointing device. The first “click” is typically on a communication provided by the system, serving as an intermediary, and the second “click” is typically on a first data object or web page of the intermediary, before the browser of the user is redirected to a second data object or targeted web page, typically associated with a party unrelated to the party or entity controlling the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: Adknowledge, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott W. Lynn
  • Publication number: 20140095311
    Abstract: A process for promoting sales of a food item. The process may include receiving an order for an ordered food item to be delivered to a first location and sending a vehicle with the ordered food item towards the first location. The process may include sending one or more secondary food items along with the vehicle, preparing a list of the one or more secondary food items, preparing a list of one or more customers, and broadcasting a first message including the list of secondary food items to one or more customers on the list of one or more customers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventor: Paul Milner "Chip" Bulloch, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140081759
    Abstract: Methods, machine-readable media, apparatuses and systems are provided to save electronic advertisements selected by a user. An electronic advertisement displayed with a first application of a mobile device of the user is received after selection of a save option associated with the electronic advertisement. The electronic advertisement is saved. The electronic advertisement is provided to the mobile device after receipt of a command from a second application of the mobile device. The electronic advertisements may include any type of incentive or offer, including coupons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: Yellowpages.com LLC
    Inventors: Srinivas A. Mandyam, Krishna Vedati, David Lothele Williams
  • Publication number: 20140081758
    Abstract: A method 400 for selecting and displaying on an electronic device categorized advertisements, the categorization being hierarchical and comprising a first category and a set of second categories contained in the first category, each advertisement of a set of advertisements classified in the first category is also classified in one of the second categories. Optionally, the method comprises matching 420 advertisements of the set of advertisements with a user profile to determine a fitness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: ARTIHOVE REGINA B.V.
    Inventor: Artihove Regina B.V.
  • Publication number: 20140067538
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a mediator device is operable to receive a request for permission to serve a first advertisement associated with a first advertiser to a display device. The mediator device can set a lock indicator to an active state in response to receiving the request and send an indication of approval to serve the first advertisement. The mediator device can receive, at a later time, a request for permission to serve a second advertisement to the display device. The mediator device can decline to send an indication of approval to serve the second advertisement when the lock indicator is in the active state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: MEDA6DEGREES, INC.
    Inventors: Rodney HOOK, Tommy Yiwel MEI, Stanley KUBASEK
  • Publication number: 20140067537
    Abstract: A bus stop board for advertising includes a communicating unit, a storage unit, an input unit, a control unit, a display unit, and a short message service control unit. The control unit obtains available advertisements stored in the storage unit in response to a passenger's first signal into the input unit, and receives a selection of advertisements made by a passenger in response to a second signal. The display unit displays the selected advertisements and a user interface for the passenger's telephone number. The short message service control unit generates a data package for each selected advertisement and transmits the data package to a user terminal with the input telephone number. A related system is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: TE-SHENG CHEN, XIAO-GUANG LI, KUAN-HONG HSIEH, YUN XIAO, SHANG-HUI PI, SHUANG RUI
  • Publication number: 20140067536
    Abstract: The core of the invention is in the user's ability to view websites and programs that display advertisements from advertisers that the user has chosen to be exposed to. The added ability to choose who receives the revenue earned is only an additional option and is an improvement upon the core of the invention if it was without this option. The user is any person that is utilizing the invention on a website or within a computer program. This is a method of controlling advertisements so that the users choose which advertisements display and they can also choose to control a percentage of the revenue from the advertisements that display on websites and within computer programs. This includes the ability for a user of a website/program to click and choose advertisements that will appear on any site/program they are using.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Jonathan Pierson