Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a unified communications manager via instant messaging are provided. In particular, a user may interface with a user service center to use applications via an instant messaging service to manage various aspects of their communications such as their phone calls, voice mail, email, and instant messages. A user may also manage their contact information and profile, such as rules for how calls are forwarded to the user. Thus, a user is provided a unified communications manager to implement rules and conditions across a wide variety of devices and networks.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for supplying calling party information to a called party via a network comprising a telephone network, a data network, and at least one gateway device. The gateway device is connected to both the telephone network and the data network. The gateway device receives, via the telephone network, signaling information representing a telephone call from the calling party to the called party. The signaling information includes called party information. Calling party information is obtained based on the signaling information. The calling party information is provided to the called party via the data network.

Abstract: A method for providing a message to a called party through a network comprised of both a telephone network and a data network, and at least one gateway device connected to both the telephone network and the data network. The method performed by the gateway device includes receiving, through the telephone network, signaling information representing a message from a calling party to a called party and providing the message to the called party via the data network by displaying an instant message containing a notification of the message on a display device visible to the called party.

Abstract: A system and method for presenting an incoming telephony call on a display of a television set is disclosed. The method comprises receiving the incoming telephony call, selecting at least one of a plurality of images based at least in part on a caller identification number associated with the incoming telephony call, generating a computer video image to be presented on the display, the computer video image comprising the selected at least one image, and providing the computer video image to the television set.

Abstract: A method for providing a message to a called party through a network comprised of both a telephone network and a data network, and at least one gateway device connected to both the telephone network and the data network. The method performed by the gateway device includes receiving, through the telephone network, signaling information representing a message from a calling party to a called party and providing the message to the called party via the data network by displaying an instant message containing a notification of the message on a display device visible to the called party.