Abstract: A simple, flexible and easy-to-use user interface and control mechanism for remote communication supports multiple modems or phone lines being connected and disconnected from a computing or "info-tainment" apparatus. This facilitates remote communications on different types of communications lines and from different locations. The user selects among modems, phone lines or other communication devices by simply physically connecting or disconnecting them from the computer, which is automatically detected. The default response is to select the newly connected modem or line as the currently active communication device, or to activate any other currently connected communication device when the active device is disconnected. A modem and location selection menu pops up giving the user a chance either to confirm or alter this selection.

Abstract: A telephone system is controlled by an information processor which is capable of receiving and transmitting signals that indicate various operating states of the telephone unit. According to one aspect of the invention, the information processor formulates a telephone directory based on dial information, that is, information indicative of a number called and further determines both the start time and end time of a message based on a detected state of a telephone handset. According to another feature of the invention, data communication may be conducted normally even if an inadvertent call is made during transmission.

Abstract: An information communication terminal having a telephone and an informational processing device for communicating with other such terminals or communication devices by way of a telephone network. The informational processing device is adapted to execute a number of predetermined application programs and perform data communication which includes receiving electronic mail by way of the telephone network. The informational processing device may include a battery, a device for generating a battery informational signal representing a charged state of the battery, a first display device for displaying thereon results of the execution of an application program and information corresponding to the electronic mail, a device for generating an electronic mail informational signal representing the receipt of electronic mail, and a device for generating a disconnect command signal when the informational processing device is performing data communication.