Abstract: A calendar-based image display system is disclosed. The calendar-based image display system uses the current calendar date and/or time to select an image to be displayed on the display screen of a computer, cellular telephone, personal digital assistant, or similar electronic device. Images are stored in a database that may reside within the user's electronic device, or at a remote location. The image displayed may function as a screen saver, a wall paper, or an auxiliary image on the display screen. The calendar-based image display system may be used to display the image of a person whose birthday falls on the current date. Alternatively, it may be used to display an image of a saint whose feast day is on the current date. It may also be used to indicate scheduled activities.

Abstract: A interactive value-added telecommunications system including automatic billing at a value-added rate controllable in real time is realized through in-place network carrier system utilities including multiparty switching which verify a calling party by a telephone number, and optionally a PIN number, and provides for calling party authorization of billing at a rate established by the called party. The system enables a method for conducting a business wherein a party calls for a service or product, is identified via one or two separate code sequences, requests a service or product from the called provider who establishes a rate for compliance. The caller authorizes and initiates the established charge to an account associated with one of said code sequences which preferably is a telephone number associated with a credit or debit account by completing a third-party call to a designated value-added number.