Abstract: Methods and apparatus for preliminary communication identification and caller ID text messaging is disclosed. The systems receive text entry from a caller for a short text message to be sent in conjunction with the incoming call signal. The text message is updated between rings. The system is suitable for communicating the text message of the received incoming signal without indicating reception of the received signal to the caller.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for preliminary communication identification is disclosed. An apparatus for preliminary communication identification includes a receiver for receiving a signal from a remote source and a communicator for communicating the received signal. The communicator is suitable for communicating the received signal without indicating reception of the received signal to the remote source. The signal may include an image of a second user utilizing the remote source so as to enable a first user utilizing the apparatus to view the remote second user. A method for preliminary communication identification is also disclosed, including receiving a signal by a host system from a remote source and communicating the signal by the host. The signal is suitable for being communicated without indicating reception of the signal by the host to the remote source.