Abstract: A system and method for providing curated content items is disclosed. According to one embodiment, a method includes selecting curated content items based on one or more of an age, an interest, a subject, and a proficiency level of a user, receiving a search request from the user for a first content item from the curated content items, and providing the first content item to the user.

Abstract: A mobile computer with a detachable frame is disclosed. According to one embodiment, a mobile computer system includes a tablet computer comprising a display screen and a frame. The frame is removably attached to the tablet computer. The frame is taller than the tablet computer to provide an opening between a top side of the tablet computer and the frame.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for providing a display, a graphical user interface rendered on the display having associated with it a plurality of objects representative of one or more computing functions, and a processor for varying the position of at least one of the plurality of objects, wherein the processor provides for the continuous repositioning of at least one of the plurality of objects.

Abstract: A wireless modular speaker is disclosed. According to one embodiment, the apparatus has an enclosure having a top plate, a bottom plate, a front face, a rear face, a first side face, and a second side face, where at least a portion of the enclosure has a cover. The apparatus also has a mounting hole, a gripping mechanism within the mounting hole configured to hold the enclosure in a fixed position, one or more loudspeakers, a battery to supply power to the one or more loudspeakers, a wireless module to connect the apparatus and another device and a sensor mechanism that detects the presence of other speakers near the apparatus.

Abstract: An automated vending system for retail locations can include: an exterior housing that houses a plurality of differently shaped items for purchase and return; a data processor that is disposed in the exterior housing and that is coupled to an external server having a database; a display device on a face of the exterior housing; a memory storing computer-executable instructions that cause the automated vending system to execute vending and returning of an item; a payment validation device that is configured to accept payment information; a storage area that holds a plurality of items; an item compartment that is disposed within the exterior housing and that is capable of opening to the user; an item dispenser that dispenses an item from the storage area to the item compartment; and a detector that is positioned to detect foreign activity within the item compartment.

Abstract: A system and method for providing an audio interface for an apparatus is disclosed. According to one embodiment, the apparatus includes a processor, a voice output module adapted to transmit an audio query according to an application program, a voice input module adapted to receive a vocal signal in response to the audio query, and a display adapted to display a content item associated with the audio query. The processor is adapted to run an operating system in multi-operating environments including a first operating environment for a first user and a second operating environment for a second user. The application program determines whether the vocal signal contains a correct response to the audio query. The application program is configured to run in the first operating environment while the operating system performs a background operation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for providing a display, a graphical user interface rendered on the display having associated with it a plurality of objects representative of one or more computing functions, and a processor for varying the position of at least one of the plurality of objects, wherein the processor provides for the continuous repositioning of at least one of the plurality of objects.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for a tablet computer system to entertain an end-user during otherwise boring periods while background operations are performed by the tablet computer. The tablet computer comprises navigation controls, a display screen, and an operating system that enables the end-user to interact with the operating system. Transition screens stored on the tablet computer are configured to display interesting images, animated sequences, and text on the display screen. Audio soundtracks corresponding to the content of the transition screens are configured to be played by way of loudspeakers of the tablet computer. In one embodiment, the transition screen is an animated skit performed by a cartoon character, and the relevant text and audio are popular slogans spoken by the cartoon character. Another embodiment of the transition screen is an animation of a famous actor accompanied by well known sayings attributed to the actor.

Abstract: The present invention is a customized user interface for a mobile computer device and method of operating a mobile computer device. The invention enhances a user's experience in using the mobile computer by gathering information regarding the user's use of the device, and then moving relevant applications, utilities, and content so that they are more accessible to the user on the interface. The interface or display on the mobile computer device screen is also customizable by the user.