Abstract: An improved monaural and stereophonic headset is provided that allows subscribers to safely stow away an unused earpiece. The headset includes a connector that is constructed in a manner such that it is capable of directly interfacing with and retaining an ear plug. In another aspect of the invention, an ear plug is provided that is adapted to be received by the connector in the monaural and stereophonic headset.

Abstract: Subscribers of a telephone service can define a calling circle, which includes a group of other telephone subscribers with whom the subscriber receives preferential billing rates. The members of the calling circle may include customers of a telephone service provider other than the subscriber's telephone service provider.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for displaying scrollable information with an improved indicator of relative position. Certain embodiments may be use a focus element that indicates, by its relative position within the display, the relative position of the scrollable information displayed.

Abstract: A communications management network for managing subscribers' communication sessions. The management network includes multiple sets of session management modules or servers (e.g., Intelligent Service Control Points), a services hub and a data warehouse. The network may also include a gateway for routing text messages. Each set of session management modules includes a plurality of modules, and each subscriber is assigned to one set of modules with one of the modules as a primary and another as a secondary or backup. Subscribers are grouped according to geographical area (e.g., by zip code, by area code), service area or other criteria, and all subscribers within a group are assigned to the same primary and secondary modules. Management of subscribers' communication sessions is load balanced by reassigning groups of subscribers to different sets of session management modules. Each module tracks account statuses (e.g., prepaid services balances) for its assigned subscribers.

Abstract: Subscribers of a telephone service can define a calling circle, which includes a group of other telephone subscribers with whom the subscriber receives preferential billing rates. The members of the calling circle may include customers of a telephone service provider other than the subscriber's telephone service provider.