Abstract: The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for trusted social networking. Embodiments of the invention include a trusted social network that adds value by sharing information that is both of interest to a user (e.g., based on needs, preferences, and time and place) and is from trusted sources (e.g., friends). Tips associated with the trusted social network can be created (as well as presented) and viewed through a client program that provides an interface to the trusted social network. In some embodiments, the client program is used to present the user interface and handle interactions with the trusted social network. In other embodiments, web based constructs are used to present the user interface and handle interactions with the trusted social network through a web browser.

Abstract: Example systems and methods of generating artifacts based on genetic and breeding simulation are described. In one implementation, a system for producing artifacts includes a mating module that initiates mating between a first artifact instance and a second artifact instance. Each of the artifact instances has an associated genetic string. A breeder module determines compatibility of the first and second artifact instances and combines the genetic strings of the first and second artifact instances to produce an offspring artifact instance. An artifact instance modeler interprets an offspring genetic string associated with the offspring artifact instance.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for offering product deals to users based on the online behavior and other information of groups of users. This information associated with multiple users within groups and individuals having common interests in products to be purchased online and information associated with a finite set of data elements in the computer application are analyzed to determine a configuration of the data elements such that user access to relevant information and shopping deals is improved. In some embodiments, deals are offered to “swarms” of individuals with common interest and are made active upon acceptance of the deal by a minimum number of buyers. Deals may be automatically generated based on parameters defined by a vendor.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for configuring data elements in a computer application such as menu items, links to purchase products, options, links to information, and user commands based on the behavior of users in the application. Information associated with the behavior of multiple users and information associated with a finite set of data elements in the computer application are analyzed to determine a configuration of the data elements such that user access to relevant information is improved.

Abstract: An agent that receives an input event and outputs Emotion_Response messages based on personality trait indices and emotional state indices is disclosed. The agent has a social response generator that receives an input event, an output from an emotional state register and an output from a predefined personality trait register, and updates at least one of a current state of the emotional state register or a Social_Response message stored an event buffer. The agent has an emotion generator that outputs an Emotion_Response message based on at least one of the Social_Response message stored in the event buffer, one or more outputs of the predefined personality trait register, or one or more outputs of the emotional state register. The agent operates within an environment server that provides contextual environment that facilitates interaction amongst a group of agents, which receive input events from the contextual environment and outputs emotional response messages thereto.