Abstract: A device user interface in which computer functionality is invoked by user interaction with dynamically generated interface regions of a writing surface. A computer system identifies a marking written on the writing surface or a user selection of an existing written marking. Adjacent to the marking, the computer system automatically generates one or more interface regions associated with the marking. User interaction with one of these regions automatically invokes computer functionality related to the interacted region. A different function may be invoked by each region. The computer system dynamically positions and may dynamically size the interface regions based on the position (and size) of the marking. Multiple markings yield multiple regions, with different regions associated with respective markings. In one embodiment, the regions are established in front of and/or after a written word. Regions may also be established on top of and/or below the written word, for example.

Abstract: A computer system for providing a simulated computer environment for young children. A console is coupled to a display, e.g., a television set, for storing and processing a plurality of user selectable programs. User selectable program may be stored on a cartridge and received by the console. The user selectable programs are child oriented, educational, interactive and provide feedback responsive to user interaction. A theme-able wireless keyboard adapted for use by young children with keys larger in size than an adult keyboard is coupled with the console, e.g., infrared. The keyboard excludes a subset of adult oriented function and punctuation keys. A theme-able mouse and a mouse pad that is detachably couple to either the left or the right side of the keyboard may be included. An animated character in a GUI and in the programs interacts, gives user instruction and is the focus of reward in reward oriented programs.

Abstract: A device user interface in which computer functionality is invoked by user interaction with dynamically generated interface regions of a writing surface. A computer system identifies a marking written on the writing surface or a user selection of an existing written marking. Adjacent to the marking, the computer system automatically generates one or more interface regions associated with the marking. User interaction with one of these regions automatically invokes computer functionality related to the interacted region. A different function may be invoked by each region. The computer system dynamically positions and may dynamically size the interface regions based on the position (and size) of the marking. Multiple markings yield multiple regions, with different regions associated with respective markings. In one embodiment, the regions are established in front of and/or after a written word. Regions may also be established on top of and/or below the written word, for example.