Abstract: A voicemail receptionist system includes a memory and a processor. The memory can store data relating to one or more users. An incoming communication can be handled by the voicemail receptionist system and provided with functionality based upon a user's preferences, for example. The data stored by the voicemail receptionist system can be updated at any time, or automatically updated upon updating of the data, or upon occurrence of a trigger event. Voicemail receptionist functionality can include standard voicemail system functionality as well as functionality relating to email, text messaging, MMS messaging, calendar features, schedule announcements, location data, as well as other features.

Abstract: An improved system and method to provide important information either, as voice, text, picture, holographic image or video from the called party to a calling party before the called party answers a telephone. The information may be a recorded voice, text, image or video message. The called party may send a voice message, for example, and send it along with a call alerting message. The voice message may be recorded beforehand. Instead of the calling party's telephone playing a ringback signal, the recorded voice message is played or a data/bearer stream is heard. The calling party hears the voice message instead of the ringback tone normally heard when there is an incoming telephone call. If the calling and called party have telephones, such as mobile phones, IP phones, IP softphones, PDA with telephony capabilities, etc., which allow for multimedia messages such as text, images and video messages, the called party's recorded voice message may include text, images or video.

Abstract: A system and method for updating physical address location information of a wireless device for E911 services. The updating may include determining that the current geographical coordinate location of the wireless device has moved beyond a predetermined distance from a last recorded geographical coordinate location. A physical address location associated with the current geographical coordinate location may then be updated. The physical address location may be updated in the wireless device and/or a data repository operating on a data packet network. The physical address location may be communicated to a public safety answering point (PSAP) in response to an emergency 911 call being placed.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus to route a communication session directly to a voicemail mailbox are disclosed. An example method includes receiving a communication session initiation message from a caller at a source telephone number, the communication session initiation message including a destination telephone number and a direct voicemail feature identifier, determining that the direct voicemail feature identifier indicates that the caller requests that the call be sent to a voicemail mailbox associated with the destination telephone number, and forwarding the call directly to the voicemail mailbox associated with the destination telephone number without ringing the destination telephone number.

Abstract: A method of transmitting voice messages using a first electronic device includes receiving a phone number of a second electronic device using an input device of the first electronic device. A voice messages of a user is recorded, and based on the voice messages, an audio file is obtained by encoding the voice messages using voice encoding methods. A communication is established between the first electronic device and the second electronic device by dialing the phone number of the second electronic device. when the communication between the first electronic device and the second electronic device is established, audio communication signals of the audio file are acquired by encoding the audio file, and the audio communication signals are inserted into an input port of a voice communication channel of the first electronic device. The audio communication signals are transmitted to the second electronic device through the voice communication channel.

Abstract: For use in a wireless communication network, a method for communicating audible messages is provided. The method includes establishing a call. The method also includes determining if the mobile device is configured for playing a plurality of pre-recorded audible messages during the call. The method further includes displaying a plurality of graphical images, each graphical image corresponding to at least one pre-recorded audible message. The method still further includes receiving an indication that one of the graphical images has been pressed. The method also includes playing a pre-recorded audible message corresponding to the one graphical image that has been pressed.

Abstract: A system for preventing noise transmission at the end of a telephone call includes a telephone having a handset and a base unit. The telephone has a proximity sensor configured to detect when the handset is in close proximity to the base unit prior to the handset contacting the base unit. A control element communicates with the proximity sensor and prevents transmission of sound received from the handset when the proximity sensor indicates that the handset is in close proximity to the base unit thereby preventing transmission of noise caused by the handset contacting the base unit.

Abstract: Messages directed to a mobile device are selectively routed to message servers based upon the capabilities of a network to which the mobile device is connected. According to an illustrative method disclosed herein, a network connectivity server receives a network identifier from the mobile device, the network connectivity server receives a request for routing instructions for the message, and the network connectivity server determines if the network identified by the network identifier is capable of delivering the message. The network connectivity server then instructs the message server to route the message according to a standard delivery method for a message type of the message or to a message conversion server computer based upon the determination. The message conversion server computer converts the message into a new message type that the network is capable of delivering to the mobile device.

Abstract: Various implementations of the disclosed technology relate to selectively filtering inbound communications. An example implementation may send filtered incoming calls directly to an alternate voicemail account based on a list of pre-approved contacts. Moreover, a user notification may not be provided at the time of receiving the incoming call. In another implementation, a response message indicating a user status may automatically be sent back to the sender of the inbound communication. In some implementations, selective filtering of inbound communications may be activated manually by a user, or automatically at a scheduled time, or responsive to a mobile device entering a threshold distance of a location. Discrete logs may be kept for each of selective filtered and allowed inbound communications.

Abstract: Techniques are provided for delivering content to mobile communication devices related to interactions of members with a user community. The method involves detecting a communication session involving a mobile communication device; determining one or more context parameters associated with the communication session; and delivering content related to the context parameters to one or more mobile communication devices. Data is stored at a central computing entity that indicates association or membership of a plurality of mobile communication device users in a user community. The central computing entity detects when an action is taken by one mobile device user that is a member of the user community, and sends a notification to members of the social circle based on the detected action. These techniques allow individuals who are involved in a user community to maintain their interaction with the user community using their mobile communication devices.

Abstract: A system and method for incremental do-not-disturb. User input is received to activate the incremental do-not-disturb on a telephone. The incremental do-not-disturb is activated for a time period in response to receiving the user input to activate the incremental do-not-disturb. Incoming calls are diverted during the time period in response to activating the incremental do-not-disturb.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for anticipating communication interruption. If, during an established call between two communication devices, a telecommunication device determines that a communication link to one of the devices will be interrupted, either temporarily or permanently, the device predicts the interruption in the communication link. The device may send a message, as pre-determined by at least one of the communication device, to the communication device of the predicted or pending call drop or interruption. After the interruption the previously established call is resumed. If a reconnection attempt is appropriate, then the device will attempt to reconnect to the dropped device. If a reconnection attempt is not appropriate, or if the reconnection attempt is unsuccessful, the non-dropped communication device is connected, as predetermined by either of the communication devices, to an appropriate connection, such as, to a voice mail.

Abstract: A voicemail message management system and method are provided. A list of voicemail messages is displayed on a screen such as a cellular telephone screen. Indicators specify whether messages are new, urgent, saved, not yet heard, and the like. Other attributes can also be displayed, including for example indications as to source of a message, message duration, date/time, caller, urgent or private, and the like. These indicators provide guidance to the user for selecting which messages he or she would like to hear at a given time. The user can listen to messages, delete them, move them, categorize them, and perform other operations in any order the user chooses.

Abstract: Disclosed in an example embodiment herein is an apparatus comprising a user interface, and a controller coupled to the user interface. The controller is operative to display images associated with a message that has been forwarded at least once in a predefined format on the user interface, where a first image is associated with the original sender of the message. A first image is associated with the original sender of the message, and an additional image is associated with a party forwarding the message. The controller is operative to receive an input associated with the user interface indicating a selection of a displayed image, and plays back content added to the message by a party associated with the selected image.

Abstract: A method of providing particular account configurations to a user of a mobile device based on a predetermined account configuration offering between a mobile device manufacturer and a third-party service provider based on a code stored on the mobile device. During the out-of-box experience (OOBE) when the user is initially configuring the mobile device, the third-party provider receives user information, a code, and a mobile device identification number. The third-party service provider confirms that the mobile device is eligible for the particular account configuration by using the code and mobile device identification number. Once account configuration eligibility is confirmed, the third-party service provider associates the particular account configuration with either an existing user account or with a new user account established during the OOBE.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein generally relate to a method and system of integrating a user's voice mail onto a single voice messaging service, e.g., a Unified Messaging (UM) service, such that a client may access this single source for voice mail retrieval, even where such voice mails are from a variety of sources, e.g., work, mobile phone, etc. A user, or the user's mobile operator, need only agree to accept the service, and the registration and configuration requirements for providing the service and forwarding calls to the service are automatically configured. The user's existing “speed dial” key or other setting for retrieving voice mail may also be automatically configured to the access number(s) for the service. Configurations may monitor the status of the service and update access and/or forwarding numbers. Voice mail forwarding and settings may also be automatically reverted back to the user's original service.

Abstract: There is provided a system and method of call handling comprising a first communications device having an acceptor of call purpose from a first party for a call, a communications channel including a conveyor of call purpose and a second communications device coupled to the first communications device via the communications channel and having a presenter of call purpose to a second party.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a computer and telecommunication network which can receive, send and manage information from or to a subscriber of the network, based on the subscriber's configuration. The network is made up of at least one cluster containing voice servers which allow for telephony, speech recognition, text-to-speech and conferencing functions, and is accessible by the subscriber through standard telephone connections or through internet connections. The network also utilizes a database and file server allowing the subscriber to maintain and manage certain contact lists and administrative information. A web server is also connected to the cluster thereby allowing access to all functions through internet connections.

Abstract: A voicemail system includes a memory and a processor. The memory can store data relating to one or more users. An incoming communication can be handled by the voicemail system and provided with functionality based upon, for example, preferences of a user. The voicemail system can include functionality to allow a user to archive a voicemail message, to convert a voicemail message to a desired format, and/or to forward a voicemail message or converted voicemail message file to one or more designated destinations. The voicemail system can operate on a communications network, at a communications device, or both. Methods for archiving, converting, and/or forwarding voicemail messages are also disclosed.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are disclosed for delivering enhanced message content to subscribers and for overcoming common incompatibilities found in message delivery mechanisms. Exemplary embodiments, profile an intended recipient's network capabilities, the intended recipient's device, and/or the recipient's service feature profile. This profile is leveraged to predictively and adaptively adjust the subsequent enhanced message content delivery process. Further, content modification can be applied for those cases where there is a defined mismatch that can be handled in order to facilitate delivery of the substance of the enhanced content. Finally, in cases where the content needs to be delivered intact to the intended recipient, but where the recipient network, the recipient's device and/or the recipient's service profile do not allow for delivery, the content may be delivered to an alternative device or system.

Abstract: Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method performed by a policy and charging rules node (PCRN) for processing a change in a status of a roaming partner, the method including: receiving, at the PCRN, a message indicating a change in a status of the roaming partner; identifying roaming subscriber sessions associated with the roaming partner; determining home based roaming subscriber sessions among the identified subscriber sessions; marking the determined home based roaming subscriber sessions for termination; and sending a termination message to a policy and charging enforcement node for the determined home based roaming subscriber sessions.

Abstract: A subscriber's voicemail information is migrated from one voicemail system to another voicemail system. A telephone service activation server can send an instruction to a destination voicemail system to create a new voicemail account for the subscriber and a migration instruction to a migration server. The migration server can obtain voicemail information in the existing voicemail account from a source voicemail system and transmit the obtained voicemail information to the destination voicemail system where it can be stored in the subscriber's new voicemail account.

Abstract: A method of initiating a communication from a mobile communication device includes receiving a plurality of spoken letters corresponding to a spelling of at least a portion of a contact name and identifying a contact and associated contact information from a database associated with a mobile communication device in response to the spoken letters. A communication to the contact is initiated from the mobile communication device using the associated contact information. A method of presenting voicemail to a user establishes communication with a mobile communication device. A first voicemail box is checked for messages, the first voicemail box being associated with the mobile communication device. A second voicemail box is checked for messages, the second voicemail box being associated with a second communication device. At least one voicemail message received from at least one of the first and second voicemail boxes is presented to a user via a single interface.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a mobile personal assistant are provided. The method includes receiving a telephone call at a mobile terminal, determining whether a user of the mobile terminal is available to take the call based on a current context of the mobile terminal; and when the user of the mobile terminal is not available to take the call, handling the call by a mobile personal assistant on behalf of the user.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a computer and telecommunication network which can receive, send and manage information from or to a subscriber of the network, based on the subscriber's configuration. The network is made up of at least one cluster containing voice servers which allow for telephony, speech recognition, text-to-speech and conferencing functions, and is accessible by the subscriber through standard telephone connections or through internet connections. The network also utilizes a database and file server allowing the subscriber to maintain and manage certain contact lists and administrative information. A web server is also connected to the cluster thereby allowing access to all functions through internet connections.

Abstract: Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for scheduling and initiating calls. For example, a request for a prospective call between a caller and a callee can be received via a server. The prospective call can be electronically added to call lists associated respectively with the caller and the callee. In response to a determination that both the caller and the callee are available, a call between a caller device and a callee device can be automatically initiated.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are provided which may enable a communication device to respond to a caller based on an intent of the caller as determined by an intent engine and the caller's privilege level. In an aspect, the caller may be engaged, the caller's privilege level may be determined, an intent engine may determine the caller's intent, and based on the caller's intent and privilege level the caller may be provided with information and/or a set of configurable follow-up actions may be taken in the absence of the intended communication recipient.

Abstract: Voice message processors are configured to produce text representations of voice messages. The text representations can be compacted based on one or more abbreviation libraries or rule libraries. Abbreviation processing can be applied to produce a compact text representation based on display properties of a destination device or to enhance user perception. Text representation length can be reduced based on abbreviations in a standard abbreviation list, a user specific abbreviation list, or a combination of standard and custom lists. In some examples, text length is shortened based on stored rules.

Abstract: A method for operating a voicemail system can include receiving a call at the voicemail system, wherein the call originates from a calling party device, determining if the calling party device is compatible with a video greeting feature, sending a video greeting to the called party device if it is determined that the calling party device is compatible with the video greeting feature, and recording a voicemail message received in response to the video greeting being played on the called party device. Another method can include sending a video greeting identifier to the called party device, the video greeting identifier being used to identify a video greeting stored on the calling party device. Methods for operating a mobile device and a voicemail system are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates in a general manner to the generation of unavailability messages (MESS.TXT, MESS.VOC) upon a failure to establish a communication. Thus, in a method of communication comprising, on the sending of a call from a calling user (B) to a called user (A), there are provided the following steps: determining (E406), in an address book (100) of the called user, a group of contacts (110) comprising a contact corresponding to the calling user; determining the availability of the called user for the calling user as a function of an availability cue (142) associated, in the address book, with said determined group; in the event of determined unavailability of the called user, generating (E410, E320), for the attention of the calling user, a personalized unavailability message (MESS.TXT, MESS.VOC) on the basis of at least one information cue supplied (130, 142, 144, 146), in the address book, at the level of the group determined.

Abstract: A network method for using a network telephone voice-mail service, by which a caller may leave a voice-message that includes the identification of an attachment, which may include, as examples only, audio, video, text, programs, spreadsheets and graphic attachments. A video, text, spreadsheet or graphic attachment may be converted to an audible attachment to the voice-mail at the caller's or the voice-mail subscriber's request. Such entries may be made, after receiving an automated prompt for leaving an attachment identifier or conversion request, audibly or by using a keypad entry. A network method is also provided for using a network telephone voice-mail service, by which the voice-mail service may detect an attachment to a voice-mail message and provide access to the attachment to the voice-mail message.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and products provide voicemail notifications. A first notification is received that indicates a caller has recorded a voicemail. In response to the first notification, the caller's communication log is updated to indicate that the voicemail was recorded. A second notification is received that indicates the recipient retrieved the voicemail. In response to the second notification, the caller's communication log is updated to indicate that the voicemail has been played. When the recipient listens to the voicemail, the communication log thus informs the caller.

Abstract: The aim of the invention is to provide a terminal based interactive IVR system, where the IVR functionality is served by the terminal, which allows a user of the IVR system to create personal action tree for each individual caller or also caller group, where the action tree can be created and maintained via the terminal itself and also a remote configuration, storage and/or synchronization facility in the data communication network. Also the caller is allowed to enter the priority information to the transferable message. The terminal based interactive IVR system comprises a terminal, which is equipped with the keyboard, display, sound unit and memory unit, where to keep both the terminal based interactive IVR system, at least one action tree and the messages to be played to the caller.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for a high fidelity voicemail system. In one aspect, a method includes detecting, by a caller device, a prompt to leave a voicemail message. The method further includes generating, by the caller device, a recording of the voicemail message based on detecting the prompt. The method further includes storing, by the caller device, the recording of the voicemail message. The method further includes transmitting, by the caller device, the stored recording of the voicemail message.

Abstract: A method and system for allowing a calling party to send a voicemail message as a text message. A calling party leaves a voicemail message and that message is converted from voice to a text message. If the calling party wishes to confirm the conversion, the text message is then converted to a voicemail message. The converted voicemail message is presented to the calling party so that the calling party can review and edit the message. The calling party can review and edit any portion of the converted voicemail message, The edits of the voicemail message are applied and the voicemail message is converted to a new text message. If the calling party wishes to further review and edit the text message, it is converted to a new voicemail; otherwise the text message is sent to the called party.

Abstract: A portable electronic device is provided. The portable electronic device comprises a processor, a memory, and a capturing application stored in the memory that, when executed on the portable electronic device, monitors a first voice telephone call with a first transmitting device. The portable electronic device also comprises records a telephone number spoken during the first voice telephone call. The portable electronic device also comprises sends a first message to the first transmitting device, the first message containing the telephone number and requesting confirmation of the telephone number. The portable electronic device comprises receives a second message from the first transmitting device, the second message confirming the telephone number.

Abstract: A voicemail system includes a memory and a processor. The memory can store data relating to one or more users. An incoming communication can be handled by the voicemail system and provided with functionality based upon, for example, preferences of a user. The voicemail system can include functionality to allow a user to archive a voicemail message, to convert a voicemail message to a desired format, and/or to forward a voicemail message or converted voicemail message file to one or more designated destinations. The voicemail system can operate on a communications network, at a communications device, or both. Methods for archiving, converting, and/or forwarding voicemail messages are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and systems for maintaining mobile terminal information for secure email communications are provided. Information concerning multiple mobile terminals are maintained. Such information may include encryption information and an identifier for each mobile terminal. A service activation code that includes encryption information and an identifier from an authenticated user of the mobile terminal is received. The encryption information may be provided to a connectivity function for use in establishing an encrypted data channel. The established encrypted data channel may then be used to convey e-mail communications to and from the mobile terminal.

Abstract: When a first user is leaving a voicemail while a second user is attempting to call the first user back, the first user is given the option to ignore the second caller, delete the voicemail and connect with the second user, or hold while the second user reviews the voicemail. The voicemail may or may not be complete. This may avoid the need for the first user to repeat the information contained in the voicemail. In one embodiment, the voicemail message is played on the second user's device as a ring-back tone.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and products describe hands-free operation of a communications device. A user defines a command prefix that is recognized as preceding one of several voice commands. When the user speaks the command prefix, a processor identifies the spoken command prefix and treats a next spoken word as one of the voice commands. The voice command may then be executed for control. The command prefix thus helps avoid control confusion when the voice command is inadvertently spoken.

Abstract: Message notifications to an accessory from a mobile communication device are provided according to some embodiments of the invention. When a message such as a text message, email, and/or voicemail is received at a mobile communication device, the mobile communication device can notify an attached accessory that a message has been received. In response, the accessory can request the full message, media associated with the message, an attachment to the message, and/or an audio/video stream of the message for presentation to a user.

Abstract: A mobile device stores a first command set for voicemail functions of a first voicemail system and a second command set for voicemail functions of a second voicemail system. The mobile device receives a voicemail notification message associated with a voicemail message received at one of the first or the second voicemail systems. The mobile device detects an end-user selection of a visual object which is visually indicative of a voicemail function. In response to the end-user selection, the mobile device selects, from one of the first and the second command sets corresponding to the first or the second voicemail system at which the voicemail message was received, a command code corresponding to the voicemail function. The mobile device sends the selected command code to the first or the second voicemail system for invoking the voicemail function at the first or the second voicemail system.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide for synchronizing contact and calendar information between a handset and a computer. For example, one method as disclosed herein allows the handset to import contact and calendar information from the computing device or to export the contact and the calendar information to the computing device. The computing device can be a PC or a new handset, for example. The importation and the exportation of the contact and calendar information includes a conversion process that occurs within the handset that transforms the contact and calendar information into a format suitable for the destination of the data.

Abstract: A system and method for interacting with an interactive communication system include processing a profile associated with an interactive communication system; generating a user interface based on the processing of the profile to solicit a user response correlating to a response required by the interactive communication system; receiving the user response via the user interface; updating the user interface using the profile based on the user response; and sending a signal to the interactive communication system based on one or more user responses.

Abstract: Described are embodiments that provide for an intelligent call log. Specifically, in embodiments, a call log module can be provided on a user's phone (or as a sequenced application) that analyzes the actual communications between a calling party and a called party. The call log module is configured, in embodiments, to do analysis of the calling party's interaction with the called party, changes in routing, and/or failure to connect. The call log module is linked to the calling party's schedule information, in some embodiments, for situations with multiple failures to connect and/or multiple short discussions have inadequately dealt with the need to talk, and therefore scheduling a meeting is likely to be more effective.

Abstract: A system and method of provisioning services for a mobile communication device are disclosed. A provisioning request including provisioning information and specifying a provisioning operation and a first communication service is prepared on the mobile communication device and sent to a provisioning system. Processing of the provisioning request is dependent upon whether or not a second communication service has been activated for the mobile communication device. If the mobile communication device is outside a coverage area of a wireless communication network when a provisioning request is prepared, the request is stored at the mobile communication device and sent to the provisioning system when the mobile communication device enters the coverage area. The provisioning system preferably manages service provisioning for multiple services, any of which may be hosted by different service providers.

Abstract: One embodiment of a method for translating a message can be broadly summarized by the following steps: generating an electronic message in an understood language of an originating party; receiving instructions to translate contents of the electronic message to another language; converting the electronic message to the another language in accordance with the instructions; and delivering the converted electronic message to the receiving party. Other methods and devices are also provided.

Abstract: A system for transmitting messages from a caller location to a receiver location using a plurality of computers each coupled to another through a network such as the Internet. The system also has a plurality of access devices, which are coupled to the network through a telecommunication line. These access devices include computers, workstations, and the like. Each access device includes a voice conversion board for converting a voice message from a telephone device into digital data for transmission through the network.

Abstract: A method of automatically replying to incoming phone calls is provided. The method includes enabling automatic reply on a cellular phone of a user; generating a voice message for the automatic reply; associating the voice message with at least one phone number; detecting the at least one number when an incoming call from the at least one phone number is received at the cellular phone; and playing the voice message associated with the at least one number to a person making the incoming call from the at least one phone number without requiring manual input from the user of the cellular phone when the incoming call from the at least one phone number is being received. A method of automatically replying to incoming text messages is also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for transmitting a voicemail from a mobile terminal are provided. The method includes transmitting a voicemail header comprising predefined voicemail information, receiving a voicemail message content from a user of the mobile terminal, and transmitting the voicemail message content.