Abstract: A conversation server stores a hosted conversation. The conversation has an attachment that is stored at the conversation server. The conversation has an automated participant, where the automated participant is a computer-implemented participant that operates in accordance with instructions stored on an automated participant server that is distinct from the conversation server. The conversation server provides the automated participant with access to the attachment and subsequently receives, from the automated participant, a request to modify the attachment. In response to the request, the conversation server modifies the attachment in accordance with the request.

Abstract: A client displays a hosted conversation that is hosted at a conversation server. The conversation has an attachment that is stored at the conversation server. The conversation includes application information enabling the client to run an embedded application, where the embedded application originates from an application server that is distinct from the conversation sever system. The client runs the embedded application. The embedded application accesses the attachment; and processes the attachment to generate output data for display within the conversation. The client displays the output data within the conversation.

Abstract: A broadcast receiver (10) containing an embedded computer (26) receives digital content such as news, sports, weather and stocks. The broadcast receiver personalizes, i.e. filters and processes, the content received according to the user-chosen configuration software (82) loaded from a removable storage device (80), such as a compact flash card. The broadcast receiver displays, announces or writes to the same removable storage device the desired content. Without needing any user interaction, this broadcast receiver is well suited for the mobile environment. An interactive computer (70), as instructed by its user, writes the configurable software, including parameters, software and firmware updates to the removable storage device. The interactive computer optionally downloads the configurable software, for example, the personal stock portfolio of its user, from Internet.