Motorola Mobility, Inc. v. Microsoft Corporation

Filing 125

NOTICE by Microsoft Corporation re #124 Defendant's MOTION Claim Construction of Filing Exhibits (Attachments: #1 Appendix (Index to Exhibits), #2 Exhibit 101, #3 Exhibit 102, #4 Exhibit 201, #5 Exhibit 301, #6 Exhibit 302, #7 Exhibit 304, #8 Exhibit 305, #9 Exhibit 501, #10 Exhibit 502, #11 Exhibit 504, #12 Exhibit 601, #13 Exhibit 801 (Part 1), #14 Exhibit 801 (Part 2), #15 Exhibit 901, #16 Exhibit 902, #17 Exhibit 903, #18 Exhibit 904, #19 Exhibit 905, #20 Exhibit 1101, #21 Exhibit 1102, #22 Exhibit 1105, #23 Exhibit 1110, #24 Exhibit 1114, #25 Exhibit 1115, #26 Exhibit 1116, #27 Exhibit 1201, #28 Exhibit 1301, #29 Exhibit 1302, #30 Exhibit 1303, #31 Exhibit 1304, #32 Exhibit 1305, #33 Exhibit 1401, #34 Exhibit 1402, #35 Exhibit 1403, #36 Exhibit 1404, #37 Exhibit 1405, #38 Exhibit 1406, #39 Exhibit 1407, #40 Exhibit 1408, #41 Exhibit 1409)(Miner, Curtis)

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Exhibit 1401 US0%983370B2 (12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 6,983,370 B2 (45) Date of Patent: Jan. 3, 2006 Eaton et al. (54) SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING CONTINUITY BETWEEN MESSAGING CLIENTS AND METHOD THEREFOR References Cited (56) U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS (75) Inventors: Eric Thomas Eaton, Lake Worth, FL (US); David Jeffery Hayes, Lakc Worth, FL (US); Von Alan Mock, Boynton Beach, FL (US) 4,811,377 A 5,535,436 A 6,038,296 A 6,041,229 A 6,101,531 A * 6,189,098 BI* (73) Assignee: Motorola, Inc., Schaumberg, 1L (US) Kxolopp ct al. Yoshida et al. Brunson et al. Turne~ Eggleston et al ........... Kaliski, Jr .................. cited by examiner (*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this patent is extended or adjusted under 35 U.S.C. 154(b) by 875 days. 3/1989 7/1996 3/2000 3/2000 8/2000 2/2001 709/206 713/168 Primary Examiner--Thomas R. Peeso (74) Attorne); Agent, or Firm--Randi L. Karpinia; Sylvia Chen (21) Appl. No.: 09/995,338 (22) Filed: (57) Nov. 27, 2001 Prior Publication Data (65) US 2003/0101343 A1 May 29, 2003 (51) Int. CI. GO6F 1/26 (2006.01) (52) U.S. Cl ....................... 713/182; 713/153; 713/161; 713/189; 713/193; 713/200; 713/201 (58) Field of Classification Search ................ 713/182, 713/153, 161, 189,193, 200, 201 See application file for complete search history. ABSTRACT A messaging communication system (10) includes a plurality of messaging clients (12). A first messaging client (14) establishes a first communication connection (16) operating using a plurality of client data (25). The first messaging client (14) t~ansfers the plurality of client data (25) to a second messaging client (20). The second messaging client (20) establishes a second communication connection (22) operating using the plurality of client data (25). 67 Claims, 24 Drawing Sheets PLURALITY OF ~IESSAG~G CLIENTS FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT FIRST eOWMUNICATION CONNECTION FIRST CLIENT DATA FIRST CLIENT IDENTIFIER SECOND ~ESSAGING CLIENT SECOND CO)~WUNIOATION ~ SECOND CLIENT DATA SECO~ GLIENT IDENTIFIER ~ESSAGI/IG CLIENT CLIENT DATA CONUNICAHDN CONECT~ CLIENT IDFNTIFIBR ~0 MS-MOTO_SDFLA_00000007070 U.S. Patent Jan. 3,2006 Sheet 1 of 24 US 6,983,370 B2 MS-MOTO_SDFLA_00000007071 U.S. Patent US 6,983,370 B2 Sheet 2 of 24 Jan. 3, 2006 PLURALITY OF CLIENT DATA ACCOUNT IDENTIFIER SERVER IDENTIFIER ABIHENTICATION KEY I l l PLURALITY OF CONTACT DATA FIRST ACCOUNT .I,NFORMATION FIRST ACCOUNT IDENTIFIER FIRST ACCOUNT CONTACT INFORMATION SECOND ACCOUNT INFORMATION SECOND ACCOUNT IDENTIFIER SECOFID ACCOUNT CONTACT INFORI,IATION J7-JS-~ Jg~ 35--- Nlh ACCOUNT II~ORI~AIION Nth ACCOUNT ZDENTIFIER NIh ACCOUNT CONTACT I~ORNIAIION PLURALII¥ OF USER PREFERENCES FILIERS ALERTS FONTS PLURALITY OF SESSION DATA l MS-MOTO_SDFLA 00000007072 U.S. Patent Jan. 3, 2006 Sheet 3 of 24 US 6,983,370 B2 MS-MOTO SDFLA_00000007073 SESSION H~STOrY ACCOUNT ~D 1 MESSAGE 1 4g ACCOUNT IO 2 MESSAGE 2 ~ TIMESTAMP 1 I I I ~ TIMESTAMP 2 I ACCOUNT ION MESSAGE N 46 45 ~ TI~ESTAI~P N I 48 59 TI~IING CLOCK CPU 86 ~ DISPLAY DRIVER ~ 52 FIXED ~8~ = L MESSAGIN8 | ~ DATA CLIENT ~-~ TRANSFER 62.~ USER ~ INTERFACE PORT USER ~ INPUT 74 ~ __H MASS 85 LAPPLZCATIONJ -~ MODEM~ TO CABLE HEADEND I,. I ~1 .... I MEMORY STORAGE I ~6~’ F125 MEMORY L=, I ~,~RcoNN~cT/~- 58 96 102 RECEIVER PROCESSOR STORAGE DEVICE CLIENT DATA INTERCONNECT ~EVICE ALERT LIhR CIRCUIT |’~ I --~ DEVICE I~,08 DISPLAY USER INPUT ~4~ ~ POWER -I CIRCUIT 100~ , CLOCK ~ _ ~__~DEVICE USER1110 INTERFACE I- ~ MOBILE MESSAGING Fl12 ~ DATA CLIENT ~ TRANSFER I ~ APPLICATION~ PROFILE I ,~ 120~ I04~ 116 I^DDRESS I I CLI.ENT DATA MEMORY I MEMORY MESSAGEMEMORY 125--~, CLIENT DATA ADDRESS DEVICE MEMORY USER INPUT I~ESSAGES I I’ II U.S. Patent Jan. 3, 2006 Sheet 7 of 24 US 6,983,370 B2 Z MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007077 MESSAGE SERVER SERVER MEMORY PLURALITY OF MESSAGING CLIENTS FIRST ~COMMUNICATION CONNECTION FIRST MESSAOING CLIENT FIRST CLIENT DATA SERVER PROCESSOR ~ESSAGING SESSIONS DATA FIRST CLIENT IDENTIFIER SECOND MESSAGING Q_IENT SECOND CLIENT DATA I SECOND CLIENT IDENIIFIERI SECOND CO~WUNICATION CONNECTION " t 22 i 180f 182~ 184 -" MESSAGING CLIENT i I CLIENT DATA II CLIENT IDENTIFI[R I COMMUNICATION CONNECTION _ 28 186-~ MESSAGING CL[ENTS DATA SERVER DATA SERVER IDENTIFIER SERVER PROFILE MESSAGE SERVER 226 P~RALITY OF MOBILE DEVICES 222 DOWNLINK I MESSAGE ? 204 216 234 TRAHSMITTER WIRELESS SYSTEM CONTROLLER SUBSCRIBER DATABASE II FIRST MESSAG~G FIRST 242 SECOND MOBILE DEVICE ~ I ~co~lI 210 ~ ~ (I 14 I SECOND( 20iCLI[_~__jJ~ESSA~INOI~ 244 240 THIRD MOBILE DEVICE MESSAGING RF RECEIVER 2~6 114. 1246.~, THIRD 11 ’FI ADDRESS CLI~ENT 252 MESSAGING SERVER 89 .L F 172 256 258 LOCAL AREA NETWORK WIDE AREA NEIWORK 268 265 FIRST BESSA~IN8 CLIENT INTERNET 262,~ , SECOND NETWORK DEVICE ~n.~SECOND MESSAOING 265 264 ~ 250 THIRD NETWORK DEVICE THIRD MESSAGING IF~UR~SSAGING~252 CLIENT J| CLIENT ’F272 270 U.S. Patent Jan. 3, 2006 Sheet 11 of 24 US 6,983,370 B2 MS-MOTO_SDFLA_00000007081 290 ,~ 2~2 FIRST MESSAGING SYSTEM 294 SECOND MESSAGING SYSTEM FIRST PLURALITY OF MESSAGING CLIENTS MESSAGING ~2~ CLIENT 14 SECOND PLURALITY OF MESSAGING CLIENTS SERVER FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT SEOOND MESSAGING CLIENT FOURTH F MESSAGING 252 ,. CLIENT THIRD MESSAGING --250 CLIENT FIG. 12 U.S. Patent Jan. 3, 2006 Sheet 13 of 24 US 6,983,370 B2 296"~ COMMUNICATION CONNECTION l ESTABLISH FIRST 300 ~ FIRST AUTHENTICATION | FIRST MESSAGING 302-"1 CLIENT ACCUMULATES SESSION DATA ~ ~ ~TRA~FF~ ~ ""~k-~,~ NO .[yEs 308 308 ~ 310 CLIENT DATA YES COMMUNICATION CONNECTION KEY 316~ ~ TRANSFER AUTHENTICATION KEY NO 318 ESTABLISH SECOND SESSION CONNECTION OPERATE SECOND COMMUNICATION CONNECTION WITH CLIENT DATA 320 NO ITHENTICAIION REQUIRED SECOND 322~ AUTHENTICATION I FIG.13 MS-MOTO_SDFLA_00000007083 U.S. Patent Jan. 3, 2006 Sheet 14 of 24 US 6,983,370 B2 FIRST MESSAGING 302~ CLIENT ACCUMULATES SESSION DATA 526 IJSER INPUT FIRST MESSAGING DEVICE YES 328 USER INPUT SECOND MESSAGING DEVICE 53O DEVICE MOVEMENT 531 ACTIVATE SECOND MESSAGING CLIENT 332 NO SECOND MESSAGING CLIENT CONNECTION YES ~ IRABSFER OF I 333 DATA AFFIRMATIVE FIG. 14 MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007084 U.S. Patent Jan. 3, 2006 US 6,983,370 B2 Sheet 15 of 24 FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT ACCUMULATES SESSION DATA 336 DISCONNECT FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT l 310~. CLIENT DATA TRANSFER I JJ~ N~ COI~NIUNICATION 342 ~ CONTINUE FIRST CORNECTION WITH CLIENT DATA J40~ DISCONNECT CLIENT 1 MESSA(31N(3 FIRST OPERATE SECOND COMMUNICATION CONNECTION WITH CLIENT DATA FIG.15 MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007085 U.S. Patent Sheet 16 of 24 Jan. 3, 2006 US 6,983,370 B2 FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT ACCUMULATES SESS[OH OATA 346 CLIENT DATA PORTION ? NO TRANSFER CLIENT DATA CLIENT DATA REQUIREMENT ? YES CLIENT DATA PORTION : REQUIREMENT 55# ~ 352 PREDETERMINED ~ 356-’- CLIENTpoRTIoNDATA - -I PREDETERMINED IDENTIFY CLIENT DATA PORTION | IRANSFER CLIENT DATA PORTION ~ l FIG.16 MS-MOTO_SDFLA_00000007086 U.S. Patent Jan. 3, 2006 Sheet 17 of 24 US 6,983,370 B2 COMMUNICATION 359 ~ FIRSTCONNECTION FIG.17 365 362 YES NO FIRST COMMUNICATION CONNECTION INCLUDES Nth MESSAGING SESSION 368 ~ 370 TRANSFER MESSAGING AYES CLIENT DATA INCLUDES MESSAGING SESSION NOTIFY OF 376~ TRANSFER ~ ~ TRANSFERI 3~8 ESTABLISH SECOND COMMUNICATION CONNECTION Nth MESSAGING SESSION IN SECOND COMMUNICATION CONNECTION MS-MOTO_SDFLA_00000007087 U.S. Patent Jan. 3, 2006 Sheet 18 of 24 US 6,983,370 B2 MULTIPLE USER 378~" MESSAGING SESSION 380 " FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT PARTICIPATION , END ) FIRST COBMUNICATION CONNECTION INCLUDES MULTIPLE USER BESSAGING SESSION ~YES 310 ~ TRANSFER1 CLIENT DATA SECOND MESSAGING 383 ~" CLIENT PARTICIPATION FIG. 18 MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007088 41 15 21 385 SESSION IDENTIFIER FIRST CLIENT IDENTIFIER SECOND CLIENT IDENTIFIER SESSION RESERVATION SECOND MESSAGING CLIENT II FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT USER I LOGS ON TO FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT USER 1 OPENS WINDOW AND TYPES MESSAGE TO SEND TO USER 2 USER 1 LOGS ON TO SECOND MESSAGING CLIENT DISPLAY SESSION HISTORY MESSAGE SERVER 388 NOTIFY SERVER OF AVAILABILITY NOTIFY USER I THAT ~USER 2 IS AVAILABLE SEND "HEY JED, WHATSUW TO USER 2 K’394 400 SEND "NOT MUCH, NED. HOW’S MOM?" ADD MESSAGE TO DISPLAY: JED: "NOT MUCH, NED. HOW’S MOM?" TRANSFER 402~ REQUEST USER 1 CHOOSES DATA TRANSFER 4O4 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT II MESSAGING CLIENT 386 NOTIFY SERVER OF USER 2 AVAILABILITY LOGS ON TO 390 MESSAGING CLIENT NOTIFY USER 2 THAT~ USER 1 IS AVAILABLE)= 396 SEND "HEY JED, WHATSUP" TO USER 2 OPEN WINDOW AND DISPLAY: NED: SEND "NOT MUCH, NED. HOW’S MOB?" "HEY JED, WHATSUP?" I 398 J TRANSFER DATA 406 -,~ TRANSFER 410 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 412 SEND "I’M GOING TO PICK HER UP NOW" APPEND AND DISPLAY MESSAGE TO MESSAGING SESSION K"418 SEND "YOU NEED TO GO?" (,-420 SEND "NOPE, ALREADY LEFT!" SEND "I’M GOING APPEND AND DISPLAY MESSAGE TO PICK HER UP NOW".- "x TO MESSAGING SESSION SEND "YOU NEED TO GO?" 414 L416 SEND "NOPE, ALREADY LEFT!" . APPEND AND DISPLAY MESSAGE TO MESSAGING SESSION L422 20-~ SECOND MESSAGING CLIENT /4 -~ 172-~ MESSAGE SERVER 25 -.~ I MESSAGINO CLIENTI MESSAGING CLIENT FIRST 388 NOTIFY SERVER 385 NOTIFY SERVER USER 2 LOGS ) OF AVAILABILITY USER I LOGS ON TO :[ OF AVAILABILITY ON TO FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT MESSAGING CLIENT NOTIFY USER 1 THAT NOTIFY USER 2 THAT USER I IS AVAILABLE/* -390 USER 2 IS AVAILABLE SEND A ~SSAG~392 USER 2 TO USER 2 ACCEPT MESSAGE L424 426FROM USER 17 428 II 43O USER 1 LOGS ON TO SECOND MESSAGING CLIENT TRANSFER APPLICATION LAUNCHES DISPLAY SESSION HISTORY APPEND AND DISPLAY MESSAGE TO MESSAGE SESSION I REQUEST TRANSFER CONNECTION DISCOVERY/ VERIFICATION ACKNOWLEDGEMENT DATA SEND "NOT MUCH, NED. HOW’S MOM?" 400J -432 ~ - 434 - 436 412 SEND "I’M GOING TO PICK HER UP NOW" SEND "YOU NEED TO GO?" SEND "NOPE, ALREADY LEFT?" ~418 #-420 TO USER2 t"_ SEND "NOT MUCH, ~" NED. HOW’S MOM?" 398 -396 OPEN WINDOW AND DISPLAY: NED: "HEY JED, WHATSUP" 414 SEND "I’M GOING TO PICK HER UP NOW" APPEND AND DISPLAY MESSAGE TO MESSAGING SESSION SEND "YOU NEED TO GO?" 416 ~ SEND "NOPE, 4~ ALREADY LEFT!" APPEND AND DISPLAY MESSAGE TO MESSAGING SESSION 20 ..~ SECOND MESSAGING CLIENT I4 -~ FIRST I SERVER II USER 1 LOGS ON TO FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT USER I LOGS ON TO SECOND MESSAGING CLIENT 88 NOTIFY SERVER OF AVAILABILITY NOTIFY USER I THAT USER 2 IS AVAIABLE SEND A MESSAGE TO USER 2 392 424 426 i 26~ CLIENT I ..F.za. 36 NOTIFY SERVER USER 2 LOGS OF AVAILABILITY ON TO MESSAGING CLIENT NOTIFY USER 2 THAT USER I IS AVAILABLE/;-= "39O USER 2 ACCEPT MESSAGE "~ FROM USER I? 428- ~ ACCEPT MESSAGE SEND "HEY JED, WHATUP" TO USER 2 - 396 SEND "NOT MUCH, OPEN W~NDOW AND 430 SEND "NOT MUCH, NED. HOW’S MOM?" DISPLAY: NED: REQUEST NED. HOW’S MOM?" "HEY JED, WBATSUP" TRANSFER £’398 CONNECTION DISCOVERY/" 438 L_ 400 _432-,~ VERIFICATION I REQUEST KEY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ; KEY " DATA AND 440 J PASS KEY TRANSFER 444 APPLICATION J 442 REQUEST TRANSFER CONNECTION LAUNCHES SECURITY CHALLENGE 446-,~ SECURITY RESPONSE 448~ 414 ACKNOWLEDGE TRANSFER COMPLETE 450-’~ DISPLAY SESSION APPEND AND SEND "I’M GOING TO HISTORY SEND "I’M GOING TO PICK HER NOW" UP DISPLAY MESSAGE PICK HER UP NOW" TO MESSAGE SESSION L412 .SEND "YOU NEED TO APPEND AND -"415 SEND "YOU NEED TO GO?" f-418 DISPLAY MESSAGE APPEND AND SEND "NOPE, 422 (,-420 TO MESSAGE SEND "NOPE, ALREADY LEFT?" DISPLAY MESSAGE ALREADY LEFT!" SESSION TO MESSAGE SESSION 20 "h FIG. 23 26 ~ 4 "~ MESSACING CLIENT USER I LOGS ON TO FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT NOTIFY SERVER OF AVAILABILITY NOTIFY USER 1 THAT USER 2 IS AVAILABLE SEND A MESSAGE k._ 424TO USER 2 426 428 4O0 SEND "NOT MUCH, NED, HOW’S MOM?" TRANSFER APPLICATION LAUNCHES DISPLAY SESSION HISTORY ENTER MESSAGE 452 NOTIFY SERVER OF AVAILABILIIY NOTIFY USER 1 THAT CEENT 2 IS 458 54 A AVAILABLE DATA 412 SEND "I’M GOING TO PICK HER UP NOW" ~ ; USER 2 LOGS ON TO MESSAGING CLIENT USER 2 ACCEPT MESSAGE FROM USER 17 ACCEPT MESSAGE SEND "HEY JED, WBATSUP" OPEN WINDOW AND TO USER 2 DISPLAY; NED: "HEY JED, WHATSUP?" SEND "NOT MUCH, NED.HOW’S MOM?" "395 398 -J ( SEND "YOU NEED TO GO?" (~-418 APPEND AND DISPLAY MESSAGE TO MESSAGING SESSION 386 NOTIFY SERVER i=[ OF AVAILABILITY NOTIFY USER 2 THAT USER I IS AVAILABLE SEND "NOPE, ALREADY LEFT!" (..-420 NOTIFY USER 2 THAT CLIENT 2 IS AVAILABLE 414 _SEND "YOU NEED TO GO?" -( SEND "NOPE, 416 ALREADY LEFT!" k... 422 APPEND AND DISPLAY MESSAGE TO MESSAGING SESSION APPEND AND DISPLAY MESSAGE TO MESSAGING SESSION 20 h SECOND MESSAGING CLIENT 14 ".~ 172-~ MESSAGE SERVER USER I LOGS ON TO ( OF AVAILABILITY FIRST MESSAGING CLIENT NOTIFY USER I THAT 392- .~USER 2 IS AVAILABLE SEND A MESSAGE TO USER 2 424 -2 26 A MESSAGING 6LIENT i 86 NOTIFY SERVER OF AVAILABILITY NOTIFY USER 2 THAT USER ~ IS AVAILABLE USER 2 ACCEPT MESSAGE FROM USER USER 2 LOGS ON TO MESSAGING CLIENT -390 426 428 - ~ ACCEPT MESSAGE 400 SEND "NOT MUCH, \ NED. HOW’S MOM?" TRANSFER APPLICATION LAUNCHES DISPLAY SESSION HISTORY ENTER MESSAGE APPEND AND DISPLAY MESSAGING TO MESSAGE SESSION 452-h NOTIFY SERVER OF AVAILABILITY ¯ NOTIFY USER I I 454-L THAT CLIENT 2 IS AVAILABLE l=’h 460 %~ DATA 462 .,~ DATA SEND "I’M GOING TO PICK HER UP NOW" 412.2 ~-418 SEND "YOU NEED. TO GO?" SEND "NOPE, ALREADY LEFT!" k. 420 SEND "HEY JED, WHATSUP" TO USER 2 SEND, "NOT MUCH, -398 NED. HOW’S MOM?" NOTIFY USER THAT CLIENT IS AVAILABLE 456_ 414 SEND "I’M GOING TO APPEND AND PICK HER UP NOW" DISPLAY MESSAGE TO SEND "YOU NEED TO GO?" MESSAGING SESSION ~416Y SEND "NOPE. ALREADY LEFT!" M422 APPEND AND ~ DISPLAY MESSAGE TO MESSAGING SESSION US 6,983,370 B2 1 2 devices, can be utilized to participate in messaging communications. Although these different devices can be utilized to participate in a messaging communication they all do not have the same set of features and capabilities. For example, BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 5 display size, support for different mcdia types, and cost of sending messages can all be different for different devices. 1. Field of the Invention Some messaging service providers maintain the same user This invention relates in general to communication syspreference settings such as screen names, buddy list groups, tems and in particular to communication systems incorpoelectronic mailboxes, and parental control settings regardrating capabilities to provide continuity between messaging ~0 less of which device is used to access the service. By having this capability the service providers are providing continuity clients. 2. Description of the Related Art of user preferences from device to device, which simplifies With the proliferation of the Iuternet, the way people the use of multiple devices in the messaging system. communicate is changing. Electronic communication such In order to utilize real time electronic messaging, a device as electronic mail (cmail), and real timc electronic mcssag-x5 is pro-configured with, or the user installs, application client ing (e.g. instant messaging and chat messaging) is quickly software distributed by a particular service provider. The replacing traditional telephonic couuuunication and handclient software connects to a message soccer for communiwritten letters. Real time electronic messaging allows the cation. To access the message server, via a logon procedure, simultaneous access to a message or a plnrality of messages the client sends the routing information (e.g. IP address and by multiple account users, ~vith each account user capable of 20 number of the pert assigned to the client, mobile phone inputting a message or a plurality of messages to a messagnumber) of the device being used, the account user’s usering session. Each inputted message is relayed to messaging name, the account user’s pass~vord, and the account user’s clients operating on messaging devices (such as computers) current availability setting to the message ~rver. ’lhe mesof the other account users who have chosen to participate in sage server temporarily stores the routing and availability that messaging session. The other session participants can 25 information for the account user’s device. In response to the respond with their own messages, ~vhich are like,vise account user’s login information (username and password), relayed to all the participating devices. These messages are the message server provides the messaging client with the typically text messages that are delivered to the intended account user’s contact list. The message server then deterrecipient(s) of the message in a real time manner. However, mines the presence and availability of the account users in these messages may be in a variety of different media 30 that contact list. If the message server finds any of the contacts logged in (i.e. presence setting is online), it sends formats or combinations thereof such as audio, animation, video, images, etc. A session history of the messages a message back to the messaging client on the account user’s received and transmitted by all participants involved in the device with the presence and availability information for messaging session is typically maintained on the individual that account user. The message server also sends the account participants’ devices and typically presented on the screen of 35 user’s presence and availability information to the people the respective device in the form of a scrolling dialog. This that have the account user in their contact list. The account text history constitutes one of the attributes of the look and user can click on the name of a person in his/her contact list feel of the real time electronic messaging experience. who is online, and a window is created in which the account There are currently several standard methods available tbr user can enter a message. The account user enters a message account users to participatc in mcssaging communications. 40 and clicks "scnd" to communicatc with that pcrson. Tbc For example, personal instant messaging typically occurs other person gets the message and can respond. Messages between account users may be addressed directly to the between two individuals. An individual can establish a private chal room so that multiple Lasers can participate in a accouni Laser’s device or may be addressed Io Ihe username common on-line conversation. Participants gain access to and sent via the message server. the private chat room by accepting an invitation from the 45 The window that the session participants see on their creator of the private chat room. Non-restricted public chat respective messaging devices typically includes a scrolling rooms are available to anyone interesLed in the topic being dialog of the session history. Each participant’s messages discussed by simply selecting the desired chat room descripappear in this window on all participating devices. Messages tor on the acconnt user’s device. In addition to the noncan have ditl~rent attributes snch as message tbrmatting, restricted public chat rooms there are limited access public 50 sender identification, timestamps and others. For example, chat rooms. An example of one such restriction is the messages related to a particular electronic game could contain graphics enhancing the "look and feel" of the limiting of the number of account users allowed to participate in the chat room. Electronic gaming is available to electronic game for the participants. participants who register and login to join at least one other When the messaging session is complete, the account participant in playing one or more games. Communication 55 users close the message window for that messaging session. of participants’ "moves" are made through electronic mesWhen the account user signs off, his/her messaging client sage communications in messaging sessions. sends a message to the message server to terminate the Each messaging session can have various types of session account user’s participation in the plurality of messaging attributes such as session type, session connection info, sessions. The message server then sends an update of the participants, filter settings, colors, relative font sizes, etc. 60 account user’s presence and availability information to the The account user can also have various types of preferences people that Save the account user in their contact list to such as colors, relative font sizes, buddy lists, nichaamcs, indicate the account user has signed off. Finally, the message and parental control settings. These are only a few examples server discards the routing and availability information for of the attribntes and preferences that can effect a messaging the account nser’s device. 6s Some messaging services support access of a single session. Scvcral diffcrcnt dcviccs, such as pcrsonal computcrs, account from multiplc dcviccs. Furthcr, somc mcssaging interactive broadcast receivers and mobile communication services also support simultaneous login of devices on the SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING CONTINUITY BETWEEN MESSAGING CLIENTS AND METHOD THEREFOR MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007095 US 6,983,370 B2 3 4 same account. Still further, some messaging services utilize FIGS. 13 to 18 are flowcharts illustrating the operation of a resource extension to describe the device that is being the messaging communication system of FIGS. 1 and 8, in utilized to communicate. For example an account user accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present logging in with a mobile device can choose to use "mobile invention; device" as their resource extension while logging into the FIG. 19 illustrates a message for use within the messaging same account from the home personal computer may utilize communication system of FIGS. I and 8, in accordance with a rcsourcc cxtcnsion of "home computcr’. thc prcfcrrcd cmbodimcnt of thc prcsent invention; and FIGS. 20 to 24 are signaling flow diagrams illustrating the When using messaging services that allow access from interaction between the elements of the messaging commumultiple devices, an account user can log on with a first messaging device and engage in conversations with other nication system of FIGS. 1 and 8, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention. account users and later log on with a second messaging device. For example, users of mobile devices would typiDETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE cally benefit if a messaging session in progress on a fixed PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S) network device could be continued on a mobile device. This ~vould allo~v the account user to continue the messaging As required, detailed embodiments of the present invensession when the account user is no longer in proximity to tion arc disclosed hcrcin; howcvcr, it is to bc undcrstood that the fixed network device. In addition the account user would the discloscd embodiments arc merely exemplary of thc benefit if a messaging session that was in progress on a invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Theremobile device could be continued on a fixed network device ~0 fore, specific structural and functional details clisclosed that may have a superior user interface. herein are not to be intcq0reted as limiting, but merely as a In order to switch to a different device with existing basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching technology, the account user may have to cause the currently one skilled in the art to variously employ the present connected device to disconnect from the message server. invention in virtually any appropriately detailed stmcture. The account user would then have to cause the second device to connect to the message server and login. Finally, ~5 Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended the account user would have to re-initiate each messaging to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention. scssion (onc-to-onc, public chat, privatc chat, clcctronic Referring to FIG. 1, an electronic block diagram of a game) that was in progress on the first device. The disadmessaging communication system 111 in accordance with the vantage of this method is the numerous manual operations requh-ed of the account user to change devices. A further 3o present invention is shown. As illustrated, the messaging commnnicafion system 1~ preferably includes a ph~rality of disadvantage is the lack of messaging session continuity. For messaging clients 12 for participation within a plurality of example, the second device will not have the session history messaging sessions 24. As illustrated, the plurality of mesthat was available on the first device, and the second device saging sessions 24 can include a messaging session 4~ may not be able to re-connect to chat roonas that restrict the nunrber of active account users since another account user 3s and/or a multiple user messaging session 1~. The plurality of messaging sessions 24, for example, can include the commay have connected to the chat room after the account user’s munication of a plurality of clcctronic mcssagcs such as chat first device disconnected. sessions, instant message sessions, and electronic mail, What is needed is a system and method for maintaining facilitating substantially real time communication among continuity between messaging clients. 4o the plurality of messaging clients 12. Shnilarly, the plurality of messaging sessions 24 can include communication of BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS gaming messages for one or more gaming sessions (e.g. battleship, checkers, chess, tic tac toe and doom). It will be The present iuvention will be described by way of excnrappreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the plary embodiments, but not limitations, illustrated in the 4s plurality of messaging sessions 24 can include any of the accompanying drawings in which like references denote messaging sessions mentioned herein or an equivalent. Each similar elements, and in which: of thc plurality of messaging clicnts 12 such as a first FIG. 1 is an electronic block diagran~ of a messaging mcssaging client 14 and a second messaging client 211 communication system, in accordance with the preferred includes client software to interface within the messaging embodiment of the present invention; 50 communication system 1~. The client software, for example, FIG. 2 illustrates client data for use within the messaging can include a software application for communication communication system of FIG. 1, in accordance with the through an Internet service provider. Further, the client preferred cmbodimcnt of the prcscnt invcntion; software can include a software application for participation FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate more detail of the client data of in one or more electronic games offered by a gaming FIG. 2, in accordance ~vith the preferred embodiment of the 55 software provider. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary present invention; skill in the art that the client software can be any of those FIGS. 5, 6, and 7 are electronic block diagrams of various mentioned herein or an equivalent. Fnrther, it will be appreembodiments of a messaging device in which a messaging ciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that in accordance client of FIG. 1 operates; xvith the present invention, the interface capabilities of the FIG. 8 is an electronic block diagram of an alternate 6o client soft~vare can also be designed into client hardware of embodiment of a messaging communication system, in a messaging client. Each messaging client 26 of the plurality accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present of messaging clients 12 further includes a client identifier invention; 27. For cxamplc, thc first mcssaging clicnt 14 includcs a first FIGS. 9 to 12 are electronic block diagrams of various client identifier 1$ and the second messaging client 211 embodiments of the messaging communication system of 6s includes a second client identifier 21. The client identifier 27 FIGS. 1 and 8, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the messaging client 26 is a unique identification within of the present invention; the messaging communication system 10 for directing mes- MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007096 US 6,983,370 B2 6 sages to a particular messaging client. For example, the 10. The plurality of contact data 34 is a listing of information client identifier 27 can be an address of a mobile device or relating to the various account users in which the account an IP address and number of the port of a fixed network user 30 currently using the messaging client 26 communidcvicc. To communicatc ~vithin at lcast onc of thc plurality catcs, plans to communicatc, or has communicatcd with in of messaging sessions 24 the messaging clien126 establishes s the past. For example, the plurality of contact data 34 can be a communication connection 28. For example, the first a "buddy list" for the account user 30. The plurality of messaging client 14 establishes a first communication concontact data 34 preferably includes a plurality of account nection 16 for communication within at least one of the information 3"7 for each of a plurality of accounts. For plurality of messaging sessions 24. Similarly, the second example, the plnralily of accounl information 37 for an Nth messaging client 211 establishes a second communication 10 account can include an Nth account identifier 38 and further connection 22 for comnrunication within at least one of the can include an Nth account contact information 39 associplurality of messaging sessions 24. It will be appreciated by ated with the Nth account identifier 38. The Nth account one of ordinary skill in the art that the commnnication contact information 39, for example, can inch~de Nth account user presence, Nth account user availability, Nth connection 28, the first communication connection 16, and the second communication connection 22 can be a physical x5 account phone number, Nth account mailing address, or Nth connection, or alternatively can be a logical connection account user preferred communication means. It will be where the act of connecting and disconnecting is a logical appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the Nth one. Each messaging client 26 of the plurality of messaging account contact information can be any of the contact clients 12 is operated by at least one account user 311. The information mentioned herein or an equivalent. The plurality account user 3!) is an individual who uses one or more ~0 of account information 37 can further include, for example, messaging clients to communicate with other account users billing information, favorite topics, associates, group lists, within the plurality of messaging sessions 24. It will be age, obscenity rating, and optional se~iccs. It ~vill be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the account user 311 can communicate using one or more mesplurality of account information 37 can include any of the saging clients. For example, a first account user 29 can ~s information mentioned herein or an equivalent. In one establish communication within the plurality of messaging embodiment of the present invention, each of the plurality of sessions 24 using the first messaging client 14, and, in messaging clients 12 of FIG. 1 operates using at least one accordance with the present invention, also using the second account. Further, each account user can have one or more accounts. For example, the account user 30 can have a messaging client 20. Each mcssaging client 26 preferably includes a plurality 30 busincss account and a personal account both opcratcd using the messaging client 26. of client data 25. The plurality of client data 25 includes data associated with the messaging client 26 and data associated The plurality of user preferences 35 defines certain with each messaging session for which the messaging client attributes sortable by the account user 30 for communicating 26 is currently participating, has participated in, or plans to within the plurality of messaging sessions 24 using the participate in. The plurality of client data 25 can be divided 35 messaglng client 26. The plurality of user preferences 35, for up into one or more client data portions 18 as illustrated in example, can include text font attributes, filter settings, FIG. 2. The first messaging client 14 includes a first client blocking settings, screen names per account identifier, alert data 17 and the second messaging client 20 includes a settings per screen name, buddy list groups, electronic second client data 23. FIG. 2 illustrates the plurality of client mailboxes, electronic voice mail, and parental control setdata 25 included within the messaging client 26 of FIG. 1. 4o tings. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that that the plurality of user preferences 35, in accordance with the plurality of client data 2$ as illustrated in FIG. 2 can be the present invention, can include any of those preferences the first client data 17 or the second client data 23. As mentioned herein or an equivalent. illustrated, the plurality of client data 2~ preferably includes The plurality of session data 36 included within the a clicnt vcrsion idcntificr (not shown), an account idcntificr 4s plurality of client data 25 contains information relating to 31, a server identifier 32, an authentication key 33, a each of the plurality of messaging sessions 24 for which the plurality of contact data 34, a plurality of user preferences account user 30 is currently participating, has previously 3~, and a plurality of session data 36. It will bc apprcciatcd participatcd, or plans to participate in, using the mcssaging by one of ordinary sldll in the art that the plurality of client client 26. FIG. 3 illustrales a preferred embodiment of the data 25 can include any of the client data mentioned herein s0 plurality of session data 36 in accordance with the present or an equivalent. invention. As illustrated in FIG. 3, for each messaging The client version identifier is preferably the nanrc and session 40, the plurality of session data 36 includes a session version or other similar indication of the messaging client identifier 41, a session priority 42, a plurality of session being used. The acconnt identifier 31 is preferably a user preferences 43, a plurality of session participants 44, and a name or other identification of the account user 30 currently 55 session history 45. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary using the messaging client 26. In an embodiment of the skill in the art that the plurality of session data 36, in present invention in which a message server is utilized to accordance xvith the present invention, can include any of manage thc plurality of mcssaging sessions 24, lhc server the session data mentioned herein or an cquivalcnt. identifier 32 identifies the message server. For example, the Preferably, the session identifier 41 identifies the nrcssagserver identifier 32 can bca wirclcss addrcss, an IP (intcrnct 6o ing session 40 of the plurality of mcssaging sessions 24. In protocol) address, or an IP address accompanied by a one embodiment, the messaging session 40 is assigned the number of the port assigned to the message server. The session priority 42. The session priority 42 determines or authentication key 33 preferably includes a code that is used identifies the priority of the messaging session 40 within the to authenticate the account user 30 to the messaging complurality of messaging sessions 24 for which the account munication system 10. For example, the authentication key 65 user 30 is currently participating. The session priority 42 can 33 could be derived from a password known only to the be set manually by the account user 30 or through a account user 30 and the messaging conmurnication system predetermined algorithm in the messaging client 26 taking MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007097 US 6,983,370 B2 7 into account the various characteristics of the messaging computers which are typically located within a room, buildsession 40 and the messaging client 26. The session priority ing or campus of buildings and are sharing common 42 can for example, specify a stacking order (e.g.: order of resources and commnnicating with each other on a compnter display window layering for viewing) of the messaging network in a manner well known to one of ordinary skill in windows within the messaging client 26. Alternatively, 5 the art. Typical resources shared are files on a file server, when the messaging client 26 operates within a messaging printers on a print scrvcr, and clcctronic mcssagc (cmail) device capable of only displaying one session at a time, the services on an email server. The fixed network device ~0 can session priority 42 can identify the session to display at any operate on a network that uses a physical network such as given point in time. ARCNET, Ethernet, Token-ring, Local Talk or other netThe plurality of session preferences 43 defines certain ~ work media to connect the computers, which represent wired network nodes into the network. The fixed network attributes sortable by the account user 30 for communicating within the messaging session 40 using the messaging client device 50 can operate on a LAN that employs any one of a 26. The plurality of session preferences 43, for example, can number of networking protocols, such as TCP/IP (TransmisincfiJde text font attributes, filter settings, blocking settings, ~5 sion Control Protocol/Interact Protocol), AppleTalk , IPX/ SPX (Inter-Packet Exchange/Sequential Packet Exchange), alert settings, screen names, buddy list groups, electronic mailboxes, parental control settings, an alert option such as Net BIOS (Network Basic Input Output System) or any alert on receipt of a new real time message or no alert on other packet structures to enable the communication among receipt of a new real time message, guaranteed or nnn- the devices and/or between the devices and the shared gnaranteed delivery, timeout setting for participation in the 20 resources. Further the fixed network device 50 can operate messaging session 4!), and numbcr of rcal timc messages to on a WAN that uses a different physical network media such as X.25, Frame Relay, ISDN, Modem dial-up or other media retain in the session history 45 and to display. It will be to connect othcr computcrs or othcr local arca nctworks. In appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the plurality of session preferences 43, in accordanc~ with the the following description, the term "fixed network device" present invention, can include any of the session preferences 25 includes any of the messaging devices operating as described above or an eqnivalent. mentioned herein or an equivalent. In one embodiment, the plurality of session preferences 43 includes a session timer. As illustrated, the fixed network device 511 comprises a (not shown) The session timer is a preset time period upon timing clock 52, a central processing unit 53, an electronic which the messaging client 26 is active within the messaging memory preferably in the form of a random access memory sessinn 411. The plnrality of session preferences 43 in one 30 (RAM) 54 and/or a read only memory (ROM) 55, and a embodiment is transferred to the messaging client 26 when mass storagc clement (e.g., a disk drive or the like) 56. In the messaging session 40 is activated. Alternatively, the one embodinaent, the fixed network device 5!I includes a account user 30 manually can set the plurality of session memory interconnect 57 for operatively connecting a preferences 43. Alternatively, a default set of session prefmemory storage device 58 to the fixed network device 51). erences can be preprogrammed in the messaging client 26 to 3~ The memory interconnect 57 can, for example, comprise a enhance the efficiency of managing the participation in the structure for physically engaging external contacts on the plurality of messaging sessions 24. The plurality of session memory storage device $8 so that the memory storage participants 44 includes each account user participating in device ~8 is directly connected to the fixed network device the messaging session 40 along with the account identifier 511. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art for each participating account user. 40 that the memory interconnect 57 can also be a wireless FIG. 4 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the session connection such as an infrared, Bluetooth or radio frequency history 45 of FIG. 3 in accordance with the present inveninterface. When the memory interconnect $7 is connected to tion. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the session history 45 preferthe memory storage device 58, the fixed network device 51) ably includes a plurality of session messages 61 in which can access a plurality of memory information such as the each session message 46 is associated with a plurality of 45 plurality of client data 25 from the memory storage device message information including an account identifier 47 for 5N. an associated message originator such as the account user The fixed network device g11 further preferably comprises 30. The associated originator for example is one of the a display driver 59, a general I/O interface or data port 61), plurality of session participants 44. Each session message 46 and a user interface port 62 that accommodates a user further can be associated with a message timestamp 48 50 interface 64 including any number ef input means for identifying the time that the session message 46 was entered general information entry. In the preferred embodiment, the into the messaging session 40 by the message originator. The user interface 64, e.g., a keyboard 6~, a "mouse," 6~, a pen session history 45 is further composed of at least one session or puck activated tablet (not shown), a trackbal1711, an audio portion 49. Each session portion 49 comprises at least one activated command recognition processor "72, or the like, session message 46 and associated information. It will be 55 allows a device user to enter and manipulate information appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that although using a user input 88. After information is entered, it may be the session portion 49 is illustrated as a portion of the session communicated to a wired messaging system 89 via a conhistory 45, alternatively, in accordance with the present ventional modem 74 or the like. Preferably, the fixed netinvention, the session portion 49 can be any portion of the work device 50 also includes an Ethernet connection 76 for plurality of session data 36. 60 comnmnicating to the wired messaging system 89 or for FIG. ~ is an electronic block diagram of one embodiment communicating through either a conventional cane modem of a messaging device in which a messaging client of FIG. 78 to a cable headend, or a (Digital Subscriber Line) DSL 1 operates. Specifically, FIG. 5 illustrates a fixed network connection 80 to the wired messaging system 89. The fixed device 50. The fixed network device 5!1 can operate for network device 50 can be changed from an active to an example on a local area network (LAN) or a wide area 65 inactive state or from an inactive state to an active state network (WAN) or a combination of both. The fixed network through the user input 88 to the power circuit 82. The power device 511 can be one of a plurality of spatially co-located circuit 82 can be operated manually via the user input 88 MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007098 US 6,983,370 B2 9 10 directly to the power circuit 82, the user input 88 to the user media supported by the fixed messaging client 84 (e.g. interface 64, or alternatively automatically via the programaudio, video), indication of which features are supported by ming of the CPU 53. the fixed messaging client ~4, device type, device display, In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device battery life, device battery capacity, device processfixed network device 50 of FIG. 5 includes a fixed messag- 5 ing power, and access to alternate networ ~ks. It xvill be ing client 84. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the client in the art that the fixed messaging client 84 can be the firsl profile 85 can inch~de any of those mentioned above in any messaging client 14, the second messaging client 20, or any combination or an equivalent. other of the plurality of messaging clients 12 of FIG. 1. The In accordance with the present invention, the fixed mesfixed network device 50 performs messaging functions x0 saging client 84 includes software capability for transferring within the fixed messaging client 84 using a plurality of all or a portion of the plurality of client data 25 to one or messages stored in the electronic memoq¢ of the fixed more other messaging clients for use by the other messaging network device 50. The fixed messaging client 84 may be client to participate within one or more of the plurality of hard coded or programmed into the fixed network device 50 messaging sessions 24. The fixed messaging client 84, in during manufacturing, may be programmed over-the-air ~5 accordance with the present invention, further includes upon customer subscription, or may be a downloadablc software capability for receiving all or a portion of the application. It w~ll be appreciated that other programming plurality of client data 25 from at least one other messaging methods can be ~tilized for programming the fixed messag- client to participate within one or more of the plnrality of ing client 84 into the fixed network device 50. It will be messaging sessions 24. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the software furthcr appreciated by onc of ordinary sMll in thc art that the ~0 capability for transfcrring and/or thc capability for rccciving fixed messaging client 84 can be hardware circuitry within the plurality of client data 25 can be incorporated into the the fixed network device 50. fixed messaging client 84, or alternatively can be contained Preferably the fixed messaging client 84 automatically within a separate data transfer application 83. The data updates a CRT 86 when a new message has been sent or transfer application 83, for example can be a third party received by sending a command to the display driver 59. 25 software add-on that is compatible with existing messaging This allows the message to be updated while the device user software applications (e.g. the fixed messaging client 84) is reading it witbout disturbing the CRT 86. Tbe fixed already programmed into the fixed network device 50. messaging client 84 uses the plurality of client data 25 stored Maintaining the data transfer software on a separate data in the electronic memory or stored in the memory storage transfer application 83 minimizes incorporation timeframes device 58 to perform functions relating to various received ?0 and also the cost of upgrading the fixed network device 50 and/or sent messages. It will bc appreciated by one of to iuclude this feature. ordinary skill in the art that fixed networked devices having FIG. 6 is an electronic block diagram of one embodiment software-programming capabilities may include client data of a messaging device in which a messaging client of FIG. that is specialized and personalized such as the plurality of 1 operates. Specifically, FIG. 6 illustrates a mobile device uscr prcfcrcnccs 35 including display options and scrccns ~5 90. It will bc apprcciatcd by one of ordinary skill in thc art for each account user, or similarly may include the plurality that the mobile device 90 in accordance with the present of session preferences 43 for each messaging session 40. invention, can be a mobile cellular telephone, a mobile radio Alternatively, fixed networked devices that do not include data terminal, a mobile cellular telephone having an attached software-programming capabilities may include the pluraldata terminal, or a two ~vay pager, such as the "Pagewriter ity of clicnt data 25 including thc plurality of user prefer- 4o 2000X" manufactured by Motorola Inc. of Schaumburg, Ill. ences 35 that are standard, pre-defined display options and In the following description, the term "mobile device" refers screens for the plurality of messaging sessions 24. to any of the messaging devices mentioned above or an The plurality of user preferences 35 of the plurality of equivalent. client data 25 used by the fixed messaging client 84 further As illustrated in FIG. 6, the mobile device 90 inclndes a includes various alert options. In one embodiment, the fixed 45 first antenna 92, a second antenna 94, a receiver 96, a messaging client 84 notifies the CPU 53 to send a command transmitter 98, a clock 100, a processor 102, a device to an alert circuit (not shown) when a new message is memory 104, a device memory interconnect 105, a device received. In another embodiment, the fixed messaging client alert circuit 10~, a device display 10g, a device user interface 84 notifies the CPU 53 to send a command to the alert circuit 110 and a mobile messaging client 112. when an unread mcssagc is to bc dclctcd from the mcmory. 5o The first antenna 92 intcrccpts transmittcd signals from a Alternatively, no alert may be sent when a ne~v message is wireless messaging system 114. It ~vill be appreciated by one received and stored in the memory. It will be appreciated by of ordinary skill in the art that the wireless messaging system one of ordinary s "kill in the art that other alerting schemes are 114, in acvordance with the present invention, can function within the scope of the present invenfion. Further, the CPU utilizing any wireless RF channel, for example, a one or 53, in response to the user input 88 to the user interface 64 ss two-way pager channel, a mobile cellular telephone channel, through to the user interface port 62, such as a device user or a mobile radio channel. Similarly, it will be appreciated depressing a button or series of buttons, or in response to by one of ordinary sMll h~ the art that the wireless messaging receipt of a message initiates an input signal to the fixed system 114 can function utilizing other types of communimessaging client 84. The fixed messaging client 84, in cation channels snch as infrared channels. In the following response to the input signal, accesses a plurality of messages ~0 description, the term "wireless messaging system" refers to stored in the electronic memory for use in operation of the any of the wireless messaging systems mentioned above or fixed messaging client 84. an equivalent. Preferably, the fixed messaging client 84 includes a client The first antenna 92 is coupled to the receiver 96, which profile 85. The client profile 85 includes information regardemploys conventional demodulation techniques lbr receiving thc capabilitics and limitations of thc fixcd mcssaginge5 ing thc communication signals transmittcd by the wirclcss client 84 and also of the fixed network device 50. For messaging system 114. Coupled to the receiver 96, is the example, the client profile 85 can include indication of the processor 102 utilizing conventional signal-processing tech- MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007099 US 6,983,370 B2 11 12 niqucs for processing received messages. Preferably, the of ordinary skill in the art that, in accordance with the processor 102 is similar to thc MC68328 micro-conlrollcr prcscn! invention, lhc clicnt data memory 120 and associmanufactured by Motorola, Inc. of Schaumburg, Ill. It will ated operation herein described, in accordance with the be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that other present invention, can be included in the fixed network similar processors can be utilized for the processor 102, and 5 device 50 of FIG. 5, a cable box 136 of FIG. 7 or any other that additional processors of the same or alternative type can messaging device in which the messaging client 26 operates. be utilized as required to handle the processing requirements Upon receipt and processing of a message, the processor of the processor 102. The processor 102 decodes an address 102 preferably generates a command signal to the device in the demodulated data of the received message, compares alert circuit 106 as a notification that the message has been the decoded address with one or more addresses 115 stored ~0 received and stored. The device alert circuit 106 can include in an address memory 116 of the device memory 104; and a speaker (not shown) with associated speaker drive cirwhen a match is detected, proceeds to process the remaining cuitry capable of playing melodies and other audible alerts, portion of the received message. a vibrator (not shown) with associated vibrator drive circuitry capable of producing a physical vibration, or one or To perform the necessary functions of the mobile device 90, the processor 102 is coupled to the device memory 104, q5 mnre 1El)s (not shown) with associated I ~EI) drive circuitry which preferably includes a random access memory (RAM), capable of producing a visual alert. It will be appreciated by a rcad-only mcmory (ROM), and an electrically erasable onc of ordinary skill in the art that other similar alcrting programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)(not shown). means as well as any combination of the audible, vibratory, The device memory 104 includes the address memory 116, and visual alert outputs described can be used for the device a message memory 118, and a client data memory 120. 20 alert circuit 106. Once thc processor 102 has proccsscd a received mcssagc, Upon receipt and processing of a mcssagc, the processor it stores the decoded message in the message memory 118 of 102 preferably also generates a command signal to the the device memory 104. It will be appreciated by one of device display 108 to generate a visual notification of the ordinary skill in the art that the message memory 118, in receipt and storage of the message. When the device display accordance with the present invention, can be a voicemail ~5 108 receives the command signal from the processor 102 box or a group of memory locations in a data storage device. that the message has been received and stored in the device In the following description, the term "message memory" memory 104, a message indication is displayed. The mesrefers to any of the memory means mentioned above or an sage indication, for example can be the activation of one of equivalent. Preferably, when the received message is a a plurality of message icons on the device display 108. The message for participation in one of the plurality of messag- ~0 device display 108 can be, for example, a liquid crystal ing sessions 24, for example the session message 46 of the display utilized to display text. It will be appreciated by one mcssaging scssion 40, thc processor 102 storcs thc dccodcd of ordinary skill in the art that other similar displays such as message in the client data memory 120. cathode ray tube displays can be utilized for the device display 108. In one embodiment, the mobile device 90 includes the device memory interconnect 105 for operatively connecting 35 The mobile device 90 preferably further includes the the memory storage device 58 to the mobile device 90. The clock 100. The clock 100 provides timing for the processor device memory interconnect 105 can, for example, comprise 102. The clock 100 can include the current time for use in a structure for physically engaNng external contacts on the the operation of the mobile device 90. The clock 100 also memory storage device 58 so that the memory storage provides a source for timing of feature enhancements such device 58 is directly connected to the mobile device 90. It 4o as active and inactive periods of operation or periods of will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the alerting. device memory interconnect 105 can also be a wireless In a preferred embodiment, the mobile device 90 includes connection such as an infrared, Bluctooth or radio frequency the mobile messaging client 112. It will be appreciated by interface. When the device memory interconnect 105 is one of ordinary skill in the art that the mobile messaging connected to the memory storage device 58, the mobile 45 client 112 can be the first messaging client 14, the second device 90 can access a plurality of memory information such messaging client 20, or any other of the plurality of mesas the plurality of client data 25 from the memory storage saging clients 12 of FIG. 1. The mobile messaging client 112 performs messaging functions xvithin the mobile device ~0 device 58. The client data memory 120 includes the plurality of using the plurality of client data 25 stored in the client data client data 25 as described previously in FIGS. 2 to 4. The 50 memory 120. The mobile messaging client 112 may be hard client data memory 120 includes a memory slot 122 for each coded or programmed into the mobile device 90 during messaging session 40 in which the mobile device 90 has manufacturing, may be programmed over-the-air upon cussubscribed. The memory slot 122, in accordance with the tomer subscription, or may be a downloadable application. present invention, includes the plurality of session data 36 as It will be appreciated that other programming methods can illustrated in FIG. 2. The plurality of session messages 61 s5 be utilized for programming the mobile messaging client associated with the messaging session 40 is stored together 112 into the mobile device 90. It ~vill be further appreciated in chronological order in the memory slot 122 similar to the by one of ordinary skill in the art that the mobile messaging session history 45 of FIG. 4. The memory slot 122 is client 112 can be hardware circuitry within the mobile allocated a fixed amount of memory for storing associated device 90. Preferably the mobile messaging client 112 plurality of session messages 61. The memory slot 122 holds 6o automatically updates the device display 108 when a new multiple session messages in a single message memory slot. session message has been sent or received. This allows the Any session message 4~ received for the messaging session session history 45 to be updated while the account user 30 40 along with its associated session message information is is reading it without dislurbing the device display 108. The appended at the end of the plurality of session messages 61 mobile messaging client 112 uses the plurality of client data already in the memory slot 122. If the amount of allocated ~5 25 stored in the electronic menmry or stored in the memory memory for the memory slot 122 is exceeded, the older storage device 5g to perform functions relating to various session messages are deleted. It will be appreciated by one received and/or sent session messages. It will be appreciated MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007100 US 6,983,370 B2 13 14 client 112. The mobile messaging client 112, in response to by one of ordinary skill in the art that mobile devices having softwarc-programtuing capabilitics may includc specialized thc uscr input signal, acccsscs the plurality of scssion and personalized display options and screens for each mesmessages 61 stored in the client data memory 12!t for use in saging session 40. Alternatively, mobile devices that do not operation of the mobile messaging client 112. include software-programming capabilities may include 5 Preferably, the mobile messaging client 112 includes the standard, pro-defined display options and screens for the client profile 85. The client profile 85 includes information plurality of messaging sessions 24. In accordance with the regarding the capabilities and limitations of the mobile present invention, the display options for the phJrality of messaging client 112 and also of lhe mobile device 90. For messaging sessions 24 in which the messaging client 26 example, the client profile ~5 can include indication of the within the mobile device 90 is participating can be included r0 media supported by the mobile messaging client 112 (e.g. in the plurality of session preferences 43 for each messaging audio, video), indication of which features are supported by session 40 or altcrnatcly, thc display options can bc stored thc mobilc mcssaging clicnt 112, dcvicc typc, dcvicc proindependently within the plurality of user preferences 35 of tocol usage, device display, device battery life, device batthe plurality of client data 25 tery capacity, device processing power, and access to alterThe mobile messaging client 112 further operates using ~s nate networks. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill various alert options. In one embodiment, the mobile mesin the art that the client profile 85 can include any of those saging client 112 notifies the processor 102 to send a mentioned above in any combination or an equivalent. The transmitter 9g is coupled to the processor 102 and is command to the device alert circuit 106 when a new session message is added to the memory slot 122 of the client data responsive to commands from the processor 1112. When the memory 120 for the messaging session 40. In another 20 transmitter ~8 receives a command from the processor 102, embodiment, the mobile messaging client 112 notifies the the transmitter 9~ sends a signal via the second antenna 94 processor 102 to scnd a command to the dcvicc alert circuit to thc wireless mcssaging systcm 114. 1~6 when an unread session message is lo be deleted from In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the mobile device 90 includes one antenna performing the functionality tbe memory slot 122. Alternatively, no alert may be sent when a new session message is received and stored in the 25 of the first antenna 92 and the second antenna ~4. Further, client data memory 12!1. It will be appreciated by one of the mobile device 911 alternatively includes a transceiver ordinary skill in the art that other alerting schemes are within circuit performing the functionality of the receiver ~6 and the scope of the present invention. In accordance with the the transmitter 9~. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary present invention, the alert options for the plurality of skill in the art that other similar electronic block diagrams of messaging sessions 24 in which the messaging client 26 30 the same or alternate type can be utilized for the mobile within the mobile device 90 is participating can be included device 911 to handle the requirements of the mobile device in the plurality of session preferences 43 for each messaging 911. session 40 or alternately, the alert options can be stored The mobile device 911 can be changed from an active state independently within the plurality of user preferences 35 of to an inactive state or from an inactive state to an active state tbe plurality of client data 25. 35 through a user input to the power circuit 134. The power In accordance with the present invention, the mobile circuit 134 can be operated manually via the user input to the messaging client 112 includes software capability for transpower circuit 134, the user input to the user interface 110, or alternatively automatically via the programming of the proferring all or a portion of the plurality of client data 25 to at least one other messaging client for use by the other mescessor 102. saging clicnt to participate within onc or more of the 40 FIG. "1 is an electronic block diagram of one embodiment plurality of messaging sessions 24. The mobile messaging of a messaging device in which a messaging client of FIG. client 112, in accordance with the present invention, further 1 operates. Specifically, FIG. 7 illustrates an interactive includes software capability for receiving all or a portion of broadcast receiver such as the cable box 136. The cable box tbe plurality of client data 25 from another messaging client 136 preferably allows network operators to deploy a wide to participate within one or more of the plurality of mes- 4s range of interactive television broadcast services and applisaging sessions 24. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the software cations on their networks. Further the cable box 13~ prefcapability for transferring and receiving client data can be erably offers cable operators a combined, all-in-one, hardincorporated into the mobile messaging client 112 or alter~vare and software solution for deploying interactive natively contained within a separate data transfer application television services on their networks, thereby creating the 83. The data transfer application 83, for example can be a so ability for real time electronic message communication tbird party software add-on that is compatible with existing using television sets and net~vorks. messaging software applications (e.g. the mobile messaging As illustrated in FIG. 7, the cable box 136 preferably client 112) already programmed into the mobile device 90. includes a controller 138 for controlling the operation of the Maintaining the data transfer software on a separate data cable box 136. Preferably, the controller 138 is similar to the transfcr application 83 minimizcs incorporation fimcframcs 55 MC68328 micro-controllcr manufactured by Motorola, Inc. and also the cost of upgrading a messaging device to include of Schaumburg, Ill. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that other similar processors can be utilized this feature. Preferably, the device user interface 110 is coupled to the for the controller 138, and that additional processors of the processor 102. The device user interface 110 can be one or same or alternative type can be utilized as required to handle more buttons used to generate a button press, a series of ~ the processing requirements of the controller 13~. Preferbutton presses, a voice response from the device user, or ably, the controller 138 is programmed to function with the some other similar method of manual response initiated by cable messaging client 140. The cable messaging client 1411, tbe device user (such as the account user 30) of the mobile in accordance with the present invention, operates similarly device 90. The processor 102, in response to the device user to the fixed messaging clienl 84 of FIG. 5 and lhc mobile interface 110, such as a device user depressing a button or ~5 messaging client 112 of FIG. 6 as described above. It will be series of buttons, or in response to receipt of a session appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the cable message, initiates an input signal to the mobile messaging messaging clienl 140 illustrated in FIG. 7 can be the first MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007101 US 6,983,370 B2 15 16 messaging client 14, the second messaging client 211, or any interface 160 is further coupled to the controller 13g. Also other of the plurality of messaging clients 12 of FIG. 1. coupled to the controller 138 are an audio driver 162 and a In accordance with the present invention, the cable mesradio frequency/video driver 164 for communicating with a saging client 1411 includes software capability for transfertelevision 166. ring all or a portion of the plurality of client data 25 to at 5 The cable box 136 can be changed from an active state to least one other messaging client for use by the other mesan inactive state or from an inactive state to an active state saging clicnt to participate within one or more of thc through a uscr input to thc cablc box powcr circuit 168. The plurality of messaging sessions 24. The cable messaging cable box power circuit 168 can be operated manually via client 1411 further includes software capability for receiving the user input to the cable box power circuit 168, the user all or a portion of the plurality of client data 25 from another ~0 input to the cable box user interface 160 or alternatively messaging client to participate within one or more of the automatically via the programming of the controller 138. plurality of messaging sessions 24. As illustrated in FIG. 7, FIG. g is an electronic block diagram of an alternate the software capability for transferring and receiving client embodiment of a messaging communication system 170 in data can be incorporated into the cable messaging client 140 accordance with the present invention. The messaging centor alternatively contained within a separate data transfer ,s munication system 17!1 includes the plurality of messaging application 83. The data transfer application 83, for example clients 12 and a message server 172. can be a third party software add-on that is compatible with The message server 172 manages the communication of a existing messaging software applications (e.g. the cable plurality of electronic messages among the plurality of messaging client 140) already programmed into the cable messaging clients 12, facilitating substantially real time box 136. Maintaining the data transfer soflware on a sepa- 2o communication among the plurality of messaging clients 12 rate data transfer application 83 minimizes incorporation within the messaging communication system 1"/0. The mestimeframcs and also the cost of upgrading a dcvicc to sage server 172 providcs numcrous services to manage the include this feature. plurality of messaging sessions 24. The message server 172 Preferably, the cable messaging client 140 includes the also offers various options to the plurality of session parclient profile 85. The client profile 85 includes information 25 ticipants 44 to reduce cost or enhance the features of the regarding the capabilities and limitations of the cable mes- plurality of messaging sessions 24. saging client 140 and of the cable box 136. For example, the Each messaging client 26 of the plurality of messaging client profile 85 can include indication of the media supclients 12 such as the first messaging client 14 and the ported by the cable nrcssagilrg client 140 (e.g. audio, video), second messaging client 20 includes client software to indication of which features are supported by the cable 3o interface within the messaging communication system 10. It will be apprecialed by one of ordinary skill in the art thal in messaging client 140, device lype, device protocol nsage, device display, device battery life, device battery capacity, accordance with the present invention, the interface capadevice processing power, and access to alternate netxvorlm. bilities of the client software can also be designed into client It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that hardware of a messaging client. Each mess aging client 26 the client profile 85 can include any of those mentioned 35 of the plurality of messaging clients 12 further includes the above in any combination or an equivalent. client identifier 27. For example, the first messaging client The cable box 136 further includes an up/down convcrtcr 14 includcs the first dicnt idcntificr 15 and thc second 142 coupled to the controller 138 for communicating with a messaging client 20 includes the second client identifier 21. cable headend. To perform the necessary functions of the The client identifier 27 of the messaging client 26 is a unique cable box 136, the controller 138 is further coupled to a 4o identification within the nressaging communication system cable box memory 144, which preferably inch~des a cable 170 for providing individnalized messages to be directed to box random access memory (RAM) 146, a cable box reada particular messaging client. For example, the client idenonly memory (ROM) 148, and an electrically erasable tifier 27 can be an address of the mobile device 90 or an IP programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) (not shown). address and number of the port of the fixed net~-ork device The cane box memory 144 of the cable box 136 preferably 45 50. To commanicate within the messaging communication inch~des the client data memory 12~ as previonsly described system 170, the messaging client 26 establishes the comand illustrated in FIG. 6. munication connection 28 via the message server 172. For In one embodiment, the cable box 136 includes a cable example, the first messaging client 14 establishes the first box memory interconnect 149 for operatively connecting the communication connection 16 via the message server 172 memory storage device 58 to the cable box 136. The cable 50 for communication within at least one of the plurality of box memory interconnect 149 can, for example, comprise a messaging sessions 24. Similarly, the second messaging structure for physically engaging external contacts on the client 20 establishes the second communication connection memory storage device $g so that the memory storage 22 via the message server 172 for communication within at device 58 is directly connected to the cable box 136. It will least one of the plurality of messaging sessions 24. It will be be appreciated by one of ordinary skill iu the art that the 55 appreciated by one of ordiuary skill in the a~t that the cable box memory interconnect 149 can also be a wireless communication connection 28, the first communication conconnection such as an infrared, Blnetooth or radio frequency nection 16, and the second communication connection 22 interface. When cable box memory interconnect 149 is can be a physical connection, or alternatively can be a connected to the memory storage device 58, the cable box logical connection where the act of connecting and discon136 can access a plurality of memory information such as 6o necting is a logical one. Each of the plurality of messaging the plurality of client data 25 from the memory storage clients 14 belongs to the account user 30. fhe account user device 58. 30 is an individual who uses one or more of the plurality of Further coupled to the controller 138 is a first cable box mcssaging clients 12 to communicatc xvith other account IiO 150 for driving a remote control transceiver 152 and users ~vithin the plurality of messaging sessions 24. It will be further for driving a radio frequency transceiver 154 con- 65 appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the nected to a cable box antenna 156. A second cable box I/O account user 30 can communicate using one or more of the 158 for inputs from a user input via a cable box user plurality of messaging clients 12. For example, the first MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007102 US 6,983,370 B2 17 18 account user 29 can establish communication within the The server profile 186 includes information regarding the plurality of messaging sessions 24 using the first messaging capabAities of the message server 176. For example, the client 14, and, in accordance with the present invention, also server profile 186 can include server processing power, using the sccond messaging clicnt 20. server client capability, server mcssaging scssion capability, Each messaging client 26 preferably includes the plurality 5 and server access to secondary networks. It will be appreof client data 25. The plurality of client data 25 includes data ciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the server profile associated with the mcssaging client 26 and data associated 186 can include any of those mentioned above in any with each messaging session for which the messaging client combination or an equivalent. 26 is currently participating, has participated in, or plans to FIG. 9 is an electronic block diagram of one embodiment participate in. The first messaging client 14 includes the first ~0 of the messaging communication system 10, 170 of FIGS. 1 client data 17 and the second messaging client 20 includes and 8 respectively. Specifically, FIG. 9 illustrates an cnrbodithe second client data 23. ment of the present invention in which the messaging The message server 172 inchJdes a server processor 174 commnnication system 10, 170 is the wireless messaging and a server memory 176. The server processor 174 utilizes system 114 of FIG. 6. conventional signal processing techniques for processing x5 The ~virclcss messaging system 114, as illustrated in FIG. received electronic messages. Preferably, the server proces9 includes a message input device for initiating messages into the wireless messaging system 114. The message input sor 174 is similar to the MC68328 micro-controller manufactured by Motorola, Inc. of Schaumburg, Ill. It will be device can be, for example, a telephone 204, a computer appreciated that other similar processors can be utilized for 206, a desktop messaging unit 208, or the message server the server processor 174, and that additional processors of 20 172 connected through a conventional public switched telethe same or alternative type can be added as required to phone network (PSTN) 210 through a plurality of telephone handle the processing requirenrents of the server processor litNs 212 to a wireless system controller 214. The telephone 174. links 212, for example, can be a plurality of twisted wire pairs, a fiber optic cable, or a multiplexed trunk line. To perform the necessary functions of the message server 172, the server processor 174 is coupled to the server 25 The wireless system controller 214 is coupled to and memory 176, which preferably includes a random access oversees the operation of at least one radio frequency (RF) transmitter 216 and at least one radio frequency (RF) memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EE- receiver 218 through one or more communication links 221L PROM), and/or a magnetic storage memory (for example a The communication links 220 typically are twisted pair hard drivc). Thc scrvcr mcmory 174 prcfcrably includcs a ~0 tclcphonc wires, and additionally can includc radio fremessaging sessions data memory 178, a messaging clients quency (RF), microwave, or other communication links. The data memory 180, and a server data memory 182. 17he RF transmitter 216 and the RF receiver 218 typically are messaging sessions data memory 178 stores the plurality of used with message store and forward stations that encode session data for all messaging sessions for which the mesand decode inbound and outbound messages into formats sage server 172 is managing. The plurality of session data 35 that are compatible with landline message switched comstored for each messaging session for which the message puters and personal radio addressing requirements, such as server 172 is managing is sinfilar to the plurality of session cellular messages, short messaging service, or paging prodata 36 as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 and described tocols. The wireless system controller 214 can also function previously. The messaging clients data memory 178 stores to encode and decode wireless messages that are transmitted the plurality of client data 28 for each of the messaging 4o to or received by the RF transmitter 216 or the RF receiver clients 26 that have established the communication connec218. Telephony signals are typically transmitted to and tion 251 with the message server 172. For example, the received from the wireless system controller 214 by teleplurality of client data 25 can include the type of device phone sets such as the telephone 204 or a mobile device. The being utilized by each messaging client 26, the account user wireless system controller 214 encodes and sehedules out30 utilizing each mcssaging clicnt 26, thc plurality of uscr 45 bound mcssagcs such as a downhnk mcssagc 222. Thc preferences 35 for each messaging client 26, and the mes- wireless system controller 214 then transmits the encoded saging sessions for which each messaging client 26 is outbound messages through the RF transmitter 216 via a participating. It will bc appreciated by one of ordinary skill transmit antenna 224 to a plurality of mobile devices 226 in the art that the messaging client data memory 178 can such as the mobile device 90 of FIG. 6 on at least one store any of the plurality of client data 25 mentioned herein s0 outbound radio frequency (RF) channel 234. The plurality of or an equivalent. The server memory 176 further includes mobile devices 226, for example, includes a first mobile the server data memory 182. The server data memory 182 device 228, a second mobile device 230, and a third mobile preferably includes a server identifier 184 for the message device 232 each communicating through a wireless connecserver 172. The server identifier 184 can be, for example, a tion such as the outbonnd RF channel 234 and an inbonnd uniquc sclcctivc call addrcss in thc wirclcss mcssaging55 RF channel 240. Thc downlink mcssagc 222 can be, for system 114. Alternatively, the server identifier 184 can be an example, a data message or a voice call such as the sessiou message 46. Similarly, the wireless system controller 214 IP address, or an IP address and associated number of the port assigned to the message server 172 of the ~vired recmves and decodes inbound messages such as an uplink messaging system 89. It will be appreciated by one of message 236 received by the RF receiver 218 via a receive ordinary skill in the art that the scrvcr idcntificr 184 can bc 6o antcnna 238 on at lcasl onc inbound radio frcqucncy (RF) one mentioned heroin or an equivalent. The server identifier channel 240 from one of the plurality of mobile devices 226. 184 enables the communication belween the plurality of The uplink message 236 can be, for example, a data mesmessaging clients 12 and the message server 172 using the sage, a reply to a data message, a response message based on communication connections such as the communication at least one data message, a voice call, or a reply to a voice conncction 28, the first communication conncction 16, and 65 call, such as thc scssion mcssagc 46. the second cmnmunication connection 22. The server data Each of the plurality of urobilc devices 226 assigned for memory 182 also preferably includes a server profile 186. use in the xvircless nressaging system 114 has an address or MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007103 US 6,983,370 B2 19 2O identity assigned thereto which is a unique selective call less messaging system 114 by adding intelligence for muladdress in the wireless messaging system 114. For example, tiple mobile devices to communicate in substantially real the first mobile device 228 has a first address 242, the second time. The message server 114 interactively manages the mobile device 230 has a second address 244, and the third messaging traffic associated with the plurality of messaging mobile device 232 has a third address 246. It will be s sessions 24 in an efficient manner. appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that other FIG. l0 is an electronic block diagram of one embodiment mobile devices assigned for use in the wireless messaging o~ the messaging communication system 10, 170 o~ FIGS. 1 system 114 have an address assigned thereto which is a unique selective call address in the wireless messaging and 8 respectively. Specifically, FIG. 10 illustrates an system 114. The address enables the transmission of the ~ o cmbodimcnt of the prcscnt invention in which the messaging commnnication system 10, 170 is lhe wired messaging downlink message 222 from the wireless system controller 214 only to thc mobilc dcvicc having thc addrcss, and system 89 of FIG. 5. The wired messaging system 89, for example, can include a LAN 256 (local area network), a identifies the messages and responses received at the wireWAN 258 (wide area network), or a combination of LAN less system controller 214 from the mobile device with the 256 and WAN 258 networks. It will be appreciated that address. In one embodiment, each of the plurality of mobile while only a single LAN 2~6 and a single WAN 2~8 are devices 226 also has a pin number assigned thereto, the pin shown, multiple LAN 2$6 networks and/or WAN 2$8 netnumber being associated with a telephone number within the works can be interconnected in a manner well known to one PSTN 210. A list of the assigned addresses and correlated of ordinary skill in the art for the transfer of electronic telephone nunrbers for each of the plurality of mobile devices 226 is stored in the wireless system controller 214 20 communication such as clcctronic mail (cmail), and rcal time electronic messaging (i.e.: instant messaging and chat in the form of a subscriber database 248. messaging) inclncling the plurality of session messages 61. Preferably, at least one messaging client operates within The general function and operation of the LAN 256 is one a mobile device. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the of allowing spatially co-located computers which are typifirst messaging client 14 operates within the first mobile device 228 and the second messaging client 20 operates ~s cally located within a room, buildingorcampusofbuildings to communicate with each other and/or share common within the second mobile device 230. Similarly, a plurality resources on a computer network in a manner well ~known to of messaging clicnts can opcratc within thc samc mobilc device. For example, a third messaging client 250 and a onc of ordinary skill in the art. The spatially co-locatcd computers arc ~epresented pictorially in FIG. 10 as a plufourth messaging clienl 252 operate within the third mobile device 232. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary sMll in 30 rality of messaging devices, such as the fixed network device 50 of FIG. 5, three of which are shown by example. (a first the art that, in accordance with the present invention, a mobile device can include no messaging client, one mes- network device 260, a second net~vork device 262, and a third network device 264) Each of the plurality of messaging saging client, or a phJrality of messaging clients. devices communicates using a network connection 265. In one embodiment of the present invention, the message server 172 is coupled to the wireless system controller 214 3s Preferably, at least one messaging client operates within a network device. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the of the wireless messaging system 114. The message server first messaging client 14 operates within the first network 172 provides a means for real time electronic message device 260 and the second messaging client 20 operates communication with the plurality of mobile devices 226. The message server 172, for example, receives a request and within the second network device 262, Similarly, a plurality can in response to such receipt, sends a response, both via 4(3 of messaging clients can operate within the same network device. For example, the third messaging client 250 and the the wireless system controller 214. The wireless system fourth messaging client 252 operate within the third network controller 214 then routes the response to the requesting device which may be a message input device, such as the device 264. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that, in accordance with the present invention, a telephone 204, the computer 206, or the desktop messaging unit 208, or alternatively may be an individual or one of the 45 network device can include no messaging client, one messaging client, or a plurality of messaging clients. plurality of mobile devices 226. In the following description, the term requester refers to any of the requesting devices Typical resources shared on the LAN 256 through a LAN mentioned above or an equivalent. server 266 are files on a file server, printers on a print server, Preferably, the message server 172 includes a server and electronic message (email) services on an cmail server. address 254, which is a unique selective call address in the s(3 The LAN 256 uses a physical network such as ARCNET, wireless messaging system 114. The server address 254 Ethernet, Token-ring, Local Talk or other network media to enables the transmission, via the inbound RF channel 240, to connect the computers, which represent wired network the message server 172 of various real time electronic nodes into the ~etwork. The I,AN 256 can employ any one communication messages such as conversation service of a number of networking protocols, such as TCP/IP requests, subscription requests, conversation messages, ss (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol), Appleavailability settings, and other information. The message TalkTM, IPX/SPX (Inter-Packet Exchange/Sequential Packet server 172 similarly sends real time electronic communica- Exchange), Net BIOS (Network Basic Iuput Output System) tion messages such as sending an availability setting or the or any other packet structures to enable the communication forwarding of a session message to the plurality of mobile between E-mail clients and the E-mail server. In the followdevices 226 via the outbound RF channel 234. Furthermore, 6(3 ing description, the term "local area network" rcfcrs to a the message server 172 can also have a pin number assigned network utilizing any of the networking protocols mentioned thereto, the pin number being associated wilh a telephone above or an equivalent. The LAN 256 can also use routers number within the PSTN 210. The server address 284 and (not shown) to subnet the LAN 256 organizationally or correlated telephone number is stored in the in the subscriber physically. In this context, the definition of the LAN 256 as database 24g of the wireless system controller 214. 6s described herein refers to a geographic locality of computers ’lhe coupling of the message server 172 to the wireless and the type of wired media used to interconnect the messaging system 114 enhances the operation of the wirecomputers for communication. MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007104 US 6,983,370 B2 21 22 The general function and operation of the WAN 258 is The cable headend 276 is coupled to the first cable box also one of allowing computers to share common resources. 280, the second cable box 282, the third cable box 284, the However, in this context the definition used herein is one network PSTN 278, and, in one embodiment, the message where the computers are not spatially co-located The typical server 172. The cable headend 276 enables operators to resources shared are similar to, if not the same, as found in 5 deliver services such as conventional video and audio broadthe LAN 256. However, the WAN 258 uses a different casting, NVOD, VOD, Pay TV, advertising, information, physical network media such as X.25, Frame Relay, ISDN, interactive shopping and more. The cable headend 276 Modem dial-up or other media to connect other computers preferably offer functions such as MPEG-2/DVB encoding or other local area networks to the W~d’q 258 network. The of local and non-compressed programs, insertion of local WAN 258, for example, can include a number of well- x0 advertising and events data insertion, conditional access known private wide area networks, one (268) of which is (CA) scrambling, interactive services, and monitoring and shown by example; and public wide area net~vorks, one control of the entire network. At the multiplexing stage, TM, (270) of which is show by example, such as CompuServe broadcasters can create program bonqnets and add PSI/SI TM (AOI,), the MIT computer network, the America Online information before the outgoing transport stream is delivMotorolaTM computer network and ProdigyTM. In the folx5 ered to a conditional access (CA) system for scrambling. lowing description, the term "wide area network" refers to Following processing, transport streams are modulated and any of the networks mentioned above or an equivalent. The then transmitted to the cable headend 276 via telecom WAN 258 described above can operate independenlly, or can networks, terrestrial or satellite systems. be interconnected through the well-known worldwide InterIn one embodiment of the present invention, the message net computer network 272. Likewise, the LAN 256 can also 2O server 172 is coupled to the cable headend 276 of the be interconnected to the WAN 258 through the worldwide broadcast messaging system 274. The nressage server 172 Internet computer network 272, as shown, in a manner well provides a means for real time electronic message commuknown to one of ordinary skill in the art. nication with all cable boxes communicating within the In a one embodiment of the present invention, the message server 172 is coupled to the LAN 256 and to the WAN :s broadcast messaging systcm 274. Thc mcssagc scrvcr 172, for example, receives a request and preferably in response to 258 of the wired messaging system 89. The message server such receipt, sends a response via the cable headend 276. 172 providcs a ~ucans for real time clcctrouic mcssagc communication with all messaging devices commuuicating The cable headend 276 then routes the response to the requesting device, which can be an individual, or can be a within the wired messaging system 89 such as the first network device 260, the second network device 262, and the 3O cable box. In the following description, the term requester refers to any of the requesting devices mentioned above or third network device 264. The message server 172, for an equivalent. example, receives a request and preferably in response to FIG. 12 is an electronic block diagram illustrating an such receipt, sends a response, via the I,AN server 266, via alternative embodiment of the messaging communication the xvorldwide Interact computer network 272, or an equivalent. The LAN scrvcr 266, thc ~vorldwidc Intcrnct computcr 3s system 10,1711 in accordance with the present invention. As illustrated, the messaging communication system 10,170 network 272, or the equivalent then routes the response to the requesting device, ~vhich can be an individual or one of preferably includes a first nressaging system 288 having a first plurality of messaging clients 292, and a second mesthe networked devices. In the following description, the tenrr saging system 290 having a second plnrality of messaging requester refers to any of the requesting devices mentioned above or an equNalent. 4o clients 294. In one cmbodinrent, the messaging comnruuication system 10,170 also includes the message server 172. FIG. 11 is an electronic block diagram of one embodiment It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that of the messaging communication systunr 10, 170 of FIGS. 1 while only two messaging systems are shown by way of and 8 respectively. Specifically, FIG. 11 illustrates an alterexample, multiple messaging systems can be interconnected nate embodiment of the present invention in which the messaging communication system 10, 170 is the wired 45 in a manncr wcll known to onc of ordinary skill in thc art for the transfer of electronic communication such as electronic messaging system 89 of FIG. 5. The wired messaging mail (email), and real time electronic messaging (i.e.: instant system g9 illustrated in FIG. 11 is, for cxamplc, a broadcast messaging and chat messaging) either directly between the messaging system 274. messaging systems and/or by using the messaging server The broadcast messaging system 274 preferably includes a cablc hcadcnd 276, a nctxvork PSTN 278, and a plurality 5o 172. of cable boxes, such as the cable box 136 of FIG. 7, three of It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art which are shown by way of example. (a first cable box 280, that, in accordance with the present invention, the first a second cable box 282, and a third cable box 284. Each of messaging system 288 and the second messaging system 290 can be the wireless messaging system 114 of FIG. 9, the the plurality of cable boxes communicates within the broadcast messaging system 274 via a wired connection 296 ss wired messaging system 89 of FIG. 10, the broadcast Preferably, at least one messaging client operates ~vithin a messaging system 274 of FIG. 11 or any other equivalent cable box. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the first messaging system. Further, in accordance with the present messaging client 14 operates within the first cable box 280 invention, the messaging communication system 10,170 can and the second messaging client 20 operates within the inchJde a ph~rality of wireless messaging systems, a ph~rality second cable box 282. Similarly, a plurality of messaging 6o of wired messaging systems, or any combination thereof. clients can operate within the same cable box. For example, Similarly, each messaging client of the first plurality of the third messaging client 250 and the fourth messaging messaging clients 292 and the second plurality of messaging client 252 operate within the third cable box 284. It will be clients 294 can operate within the mobile device 90 of FIG. appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that, in 6, the fixed net~vork device 50 of FIG. 5, or the cable box accordance wilh the prcscnt invention, a cable box can 65 136 of FIG. 7. The first plnrality of mcssaging clicnts 292 include no messaging client, one messaging client, or a and the second plurality of messaging clients 294, in accorplurality of messaging clients. dance with the present invention, can include a plurality of MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007105 US 6,983,370 B2 23 24 wireless messaging devices, a plurality of wired messaging private value and the first messaging client 14 can exchange dcviccs, a plurality of nctworkcd dcviccs, or any combinamcssagcs with the sccond mcssaging clicnt 20 that verify tion thereof. that the second messaging client 20 has the correct private FIG. 13 is a llowchart illustrating the operation of the value. Next, in Step 310, after the second messaging client messaging communica/ion s)~stem 10,170 in ~ccordance 5 20 is verified in S/ep 308 or when no verification is required with the present invention. Beginning with Step 296, the first in Step 306, the first client data 17 including the plurality of messaging client 14 establishes the first communication session data 36 is transferred from the first messaging client connection 16 for communication within at least one of the 14 to the second messaging client 20. It will be appreciated plurality of messaging sessions 24 within the messaging by on~ of ordinary skill in the art that a portion of the first communication system 10,170. For example, when lhe first ~0 client data 17 can alternatively be transferred in Step 310. It messaging client 14 operates within the fixed network will fnrther be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art device $0, the first messaging client 14 accesses the approthat the transfer of the first client data 17 can be accompriate network and notifies the messaging communication plished using a direct connection between the first messagsystem 10,170 of its connection information (i.e.: IP address ing client 14 and the second messaging client 20 or a and nnmber of the port assigned to the first messaging client lS connection through the message server 172, both either via 14). Next, in Step 298, the process determines whether or a network connection, a wireless connection such as through not an authentication is required. It will bc apprcciatcd by the wireless communication system 114, a Bluctooth conone of ordinary skill in the art that an authentication can be nection, or IRDA connection, a wired connection such as required of the first messaging client 14, of the first account through the wired communication system 89, a network user 29 utilizing the first messaging client 14, or of the 2o connection separate from the wireless commtmication sysmessaging device in which the first messaging client 14 tem, an RS-232 connection or the broadcast messaging operates, or an equivalent. In Step 3011, when an authentisystem 274, or an equivalent. cation is required in Step 298, a first authentication is Next, in Step 312, the process determines whether or not performed. The first authentication of Step 31111 checks that the second comnaunication connection 22 has already been the first account user 29 or alternatively the first messaging ~s established. For example, the second messaging client 20 client 14 is authorized to establish the first commnnication can establish the second commnnicafion connection 22 connection 16 and/or authorized to participate within one or independently from the establishment of the first commumore of the plurality of messaging sessions 24. Next, in Step nication connection 16 by the first messaging client 14. The 302, when the first authentication of Step 300 is completed, second messaging client 20 can establish the second cornand also when the authentication is not required in Step 298, 30 munication connection 22 but not yet be participating in a the first messaging client 14 operates using the first commessaging session. Alternatively, the second messaging climunication conncction 16 and accumulatcs thc plurality of ent 20 can independently bc participating in onc or morc session data 36 for each messaging session 40 for which the messaging session of the plurality of messaging session 24 first messaging chent 14 is participating. In accordance with which can be the same or different messaging sessions from the present invention, the plurality of session data 36 can ~5 the ones that the first messagh~g client 14 is participating. In include the session identifier 41, the session priority 42, the Step 314, when no second communication connection 22 has been established for the second messaging client 20, the session preferences 43, the session participants 44, or the session history 45. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary process determines whether or not the authentication key 33 skill in the art that the plurality of session data 36 can include is required. In Step 316, when the authentication key 33 is any of the items mentioned herein or an equivalent. Next, in 4o required in Step 314, the first messaging client 14 transfers Step 304, the process delermines whether a dala transfer is the authentication key 33 to the second messaging client 20. required or requested. A data transfer, in accordance with the It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that present invention, is the capability for a first account user 29 the second messaging client 20 can include a plurality of to change communication means within the messaging com- authentication keys and that in step 316 the first messaging munication system 10,170 from the first messaging client 14 45 client 14 can send an indicator of which of the plurality of to the second messaging client 20. For example, when the authentication keys should be used. It will be appreciated by first account user 29 establishes the first communication one of ordinary skill in the art that an authentication key can connection 16 using the fixed network device 50 and therebe required of the second messaging client 20, of the first after needs to become mobile, the first account user 29 can account user 29, or any other account user 30 utilizing the transfer the first client data 17 including the plurality of 50 second messaging client 20, or of the particular messaging session data 36 accumulated for the first communication device in which the second messaging client 20 operates, or connection 16 to the second messaging client 20 which for an equivalent. It will further be appreciated by one of example can operate on the mobile device 90. When no data ordinary skill in the art that the transfer of the authentication transfer is required or requested in Step 304, the first key 33 can be accomplished using a direct connection communication connection 16 is maintained in Step 302, ss between the first messaging client 14 and the second meswhereby the first messaging client 14 continues to accumusaging client 20 or a connection through the message server late the plurality of session data 36 for each messaging 172, both either via a network connection, a wireless consession 40 for which the first messaging client 14 particinection such as through the wireless communication system pates. In Step 306, when a data transfer is required or 114, a Bluetooth connection, or IRDA connection, a wired requested in Step 304, the process determines if it is nec- ~0 connection such as through the wired communication sysessary to verify the second messaging client 20 prior to tem 89, a network connection separate from the wireless transferring the first client data 17 including the plurality of communication system, an RS-232 connection or the broadsession data 36 to the second messaging client 20. When cast messaging system 274, or an equivalent. Next, in Step verification of the second messaging client 20 is required, 318, when no authentication key is required in Step 314 or the second messaging client 20 is verified in step 308. For ~5 after the transfer of the authentication key in Step 316, the example, the first messaging client 14 and the second second commnnication connection 22 is established. The messaging client 20 can both be pre-configured with a second messaging client 20 establishes the second commu- MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007106 US 6,983,370 t32 25 26 nication connection 22 for communication within at least information (including requesting the transfer of the first one of the plurality of messaging sessions 24 within the client data 17) by the user input 88 to the user interface 64, messaging communication system 10,170. For example, e.g., the keyboard 66, the "mouse," 68, the pen or puck when the second messaging client 20 is the mobile device activated tablet (not shown), the trackball 70, the audio 90, the second messaging client 20 accesses the appropriate 5 activated command recognition processor 72, or the like. network throngh the wireless communication system 114 Similarly, when the first messaging device in which the first and notifies the messaging communication system 10,170 of messaging client 14 operates is the mobile device 90 of FIG. its connection intbrmation (i.e.: the second address 244 of 6, the first acconnt user 29 can enter a user inpnt such as a thc second mobile dcvicc 230 whcn thc sccond mcssaging button press, a series of button presses, a voice response, or client 20 operates within the second nrobilc device 230). ~0 some other shnilar nrcthod of manual response initiated by Next, in Step 320, the process determines whether or not an the first account user 29 to the device user interface 110 of authentication is required. It will be appreciated by one of the mobile device 90. Similarly, when the first messaging ordinary skill in the art that an authentication can be required device in which the first messaging client 14 operates is the of the second messaging client 20, of the first account user cable box 136 of FIG. 7, the user input is made via the cable 29, or any other account user 30 utilizing the second ~s box user interface 160. It will be appreciated by one of messaging client 20, or of the particular messaging device in ordinary skill in the art that the user input can be any of the which the second messaging client 20 operates, or an inputs nrentioned herein or an equivalent. When a user input equivalent. In Step 322, when an authenticalion is required requesting the transfer of at least a portion of the first client in Step 320, a second authentication is performed. Ncxt, in data 1"7 including lhc plurality of session data 36 is not Step 324, when the second communication connection 22 is 20 received by the first messaging device in which the first already established in Step 312, or after the second session messaging client 14 operates, the process next, in Step 328 connection 22 is established in Step 318 and authentication determines whether a user input requesting the transfer of at is not required in Step 320, or afler the second authentication least a portion of the first client data 17 including the in Slep 322, the second communication connection 22 is plurality of session data 36 has been received by a second operated using the first client data 17 including the plurality 25 messaging &vice in which the second messaging client 20 of session data 36 transferred from the first messaging client operates. For example, when the second messaging device in 14 to the second messaging client 20 in Step 310. ~vhich the second messaging client 20 operates is the fixed TEe method illustrated by the flowchart of FIG. 13 ’allows network device 50 of FIG. 5, the first account user 29 can messaging sessions to bc easily transferred bctwccn mescntcr and manipulate information (including rcqucsting the saging clients while maintaining session continuity and 30 transfer of the first client data 17) by the user input 88 to the assuring session security. The account user can switch to a user interface 64, e.g., the keyboard 66, the "mouse," 68, the different messaging client on a different messaging system pen or puck activated tablet (not shown), the trackball 70, without being required to re-initiate each messaging session the audio activated command recognition processor 72, or that was in progress on the first messaging client. Session the like. Similarly, when the second messaging device in continuity is maintained within the two messaging clients, 35 which the second messaging client 20 operates is the mobile and optionally the transfer does not affect other messaging device 90 of FIG. 6, the first account user 29 of the mobile session participants. device 90 can enter a user input such as a button press, a Similarly, the method illustrated by the flowchart of FIG. series of button presses, a voice response, or some other 13 allows messaging sessions to be easily transferred similar method of manual response initiated by the first bctwccn diffcrcnt account uscrs. For cxamplc, if thc first 40 account uscr 29 to thc dcvicc uscr intcrfacc 110 of thc account user 29 is a customer service representative and the mobile device 90. Similarly, when the second messaging first account user 29 is a participant in the plurality of device in which the second messaging client 20 operates is messaging sessions 24 with customers. The lirst account the cable box 136 of FIG. 7, the user input is made via the user 29 may want to transfer a portion of the plurality of cable box user interface 160. It will be appreciated by one messaging sessions 24 to another account user 30 such as a 4s of ordinary skill in the art that the user input can be any of second customer service representative. The second custhe inputs mentioned herein or an equivalent. When a user input requesting the transfer of at least a portion of the first tomer service representative would benefit from having access to the session history 45 of the transferred messaging client data 17 including the plurality of session data 36 is not sessions. For example, the second customer representative received by the second messaging device in which the can avoid asking the customer for information already 50 second messaging client 20 operates, the process next, in provided to the first account user 29. FIG. 14 is a flowchart Step 330 determines whether the second messaging client 20 illustrating more detail of the operation of the messaging is the mobile device 90, and if so, whether the transfer of at least a portion of the first client data 17 including the communication system 10,170. Specifically, FIG. 14 illustrates various methods in which the data transfer query (Step plurality of session data 36 is initiated in response to 304 of FIG. 13) can bc answcrcd in thc a~rmativc. Thc 55 dctcction of a movcmcnt of the mobile device 90. For operation begins with Step 302, in which the first messaging example, the server processor 174 of the message server 172 client 14 operates using the first communication connection can be programmed to track the location of each of the 16 and accumulates the plurality of session data 36 for each plurality of messaging clients 12, and transfer the plurality messaging session 40 for which the first messaging client 14 of session data 36 to the second messaging client 20 in is participating. Next, in Step 326, the process determines 60 response to the delection of a change of location of the whether or not the first messaging device in which the first mobile device 90 in which the second messaging client 20 messaging client 14 operates has received a user input operates. Alternatively, the mobile device 90 can include requesting the transfer of at least a portion of the first client location-sensing capabilities such as a Global Positioning data 17 inch~ding the ph~rality of session data 36. For Satellite receiver, znd in response to the detection of a example, when the messaging device in which the first 65 change of location, send a request to transfer the plurality of messaging client 14 operates is the fixed network device 50 session data 36. Alternatively, the second messaging device of FIG. 5, the first acconnt user 29 can enter and manipnlate in which the second messaging client 20 operates can detect MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007107 US 6,983,370 B2 27 28 its removal from a charging base. Alternatively, the second When no disconnection of the first messaging client 14 is messaging device in which the second messaging client 211 required or requested in Step 33& the process moves to Step operates may have a motion-sensing device such as a tilt 342 in which the first messaging client 14 continues the first sensor whose electrical properties change when under communication connection 16 using the first client data 17 motion. When no device movement is detected or alterna- s and accumulating the plurality of session data 36. Next, in tively a device movement program is not included in either Step 324, and also after disconnecting the first messaging the mobile dcvicc 9!1 or the mcssagc scrvcr 172, in Stcp 33!1, client 14 in Stcp 3411, thc sccond mcssaging clicnt 211 the process continues to Step 331 in which it is determined operates the second communication connection 22 using the whether or not the transfer of at least a portion of the first transferred portion of the first client data 17 including the client data 17 including the plurality of session data 36 is ~0 plurality of session data 36. required due to the activation of the second messaging client The flowchart of FIG. 18 as described herein provides an 211. The activation of the second messaging client 211 can be, efficient and flexible method for disconnecting the first for example, in response to a user input to a power circuit messaging client 14 from the first communication connecthat powers the second messaging client 2!1. Alternatively, tion 16 prior to the transfer of the first client data 17 the activation of the second messaging client 211 can be in as including the plurality of session data 36 or after the transfer response to an instruction command to activate sent from of the first client data 17 inch~ding the plurality of session CPU 53 to the fixed messaging client 84 of the fixed network data 36. Further, it provides a method for the continued device 511, from the processor 1112 to the mobile messaging operation of the first messaging client 14 on the first comclient 112 of the mobile device 9~, or from the controller 13g munication connection 16 and the second messaging client to the cablc mcssaging client 411 of the cablc box 136. In onc ~0 211 on the second communication conncclion 22 using the embodiment of the present invention, the message server same plurality of session data 36 included in at least a 172 is programmed to dctcct thc activation of thc second portion of thc first client data 17. messaging client 211. In an alternate embodiment, the second FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating morn detail of the messaging client 211 can request the transfer of at least a operation of the messaging communication system 111,17!1. portion of the first client data 17 including the plurality of 25 Specifically, FIG. 16 illustrates more detail of the transfer of session data 36 upon being activated. When the second the first client data 17 from the first messaging client 14 to messaging client 20 is not activated in Step 331, the process the second messaging client 211 or alternatively a portion of continues to Step 332 in which it is determined whether the the first client data 17 such as the client data portion 1~ or second messaging client 211 has connected to the message alternatively the session portion 49. The operation begins server 172. When no connection of the second messaging 3o with Step 3112, in which the first messaging client 14 client 211 is detected, the process returns to Step 326 and operates using the first commnnication connection 16 and continues checking for the various methods in which the accumulates the plurality of session data 36 for each mesdata transfer query (Step 3114 of FIG. 13) can be answered saging session 411 for which the first messaging client 14 is in the affirmative. In Step 333, when there is an affirmative participating. While operating within the first communicaanswer to any of the previous Steps 326 to 332, the query of 35 tion connection 16, the first client data 17 of the first Step 304 of FIG. 13 of whether or not to transfer data is messaging client 14 includes both the client data such as the answcrcd in thc affirmafivc. flint client idcntificr 15 as well as an accumulation of the FIG. 15 is a flowchart ilhJstrafing more detail of the plurality of session data 36. Next, in Step 344, the process operation of the messaging communication system 10,170. determines whether only a portion of the first client data 17 Specifically, FIG. 15 illustrates various ways in which the 4o such as the client data portion 18 or the session portion 49 first messaging client 14 can operate in relation to the is being transferred. In Step 346, when the entire first client transfer of the plurality of the first client data 17. The data 17 is being transferred in Step 344, the lirst client data operation begins with Step 302, in which the first messaging 17 is transferred from the first messaging client 14 to the client 14 operates using the first communication connection second messaging client 211. Thereafter, the second client 16 and accumulates the plurality of session data 36 for each 4s data 23 of the second messaging client 211 includes the first messaging session 40 for which the first messaging client 14 client data 17 along with any other client data already is participating. Next, in Step 334, the process determines included within the second client data 23. It will be apprewhether it is required or requested to disconnect the first ciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the transfer of messaging client 14 from the first communication connec- the first client data 17 can be accomplished using a direct tion 16. When it is required or requested to disconnect the s0 connection between the first messaging client 14 and the first messaging client 14 from the first communication second messaging client 211 or a connection through the connection 16, in Step 336 tire first messaging client 14 is message server 172 both either via a network connection, a disconnected from the first communication connection 16. wireless connection such as through the wireless communication syslem 114, a xvired connection such as through the Next, in Step 310, when the first messaging client 14 is disconnected from the first communication connection 16 in 55 wired communication system 89 or the broadcast messaging Step 336 and when it is not desired to disconnect the first system 274, or an equivalent. messaging client 14 from the first communication connecNext, in Step 348, when a portion of the first client data tion 16 in Step 334, at least a portion of the first client data 17 is being transferred, the process determines whether a 17 including the plurality of session data 36 is transferred client data requirement has been sent from the second from the first messaging client 14 to the second messaging ~0 messaging client 20 to the first messaging client 14. In Step client 20. Next, in Step 338, the process once again deter350, ~vhen a client data requirement has been sent from the urines whether it is required or requested to disconnect the second messaging client 211 to the first messaging client 14, first mcssaging clicnt 14 from the first communication thc clicnt data portion 18 is dctcrmincd using thc client data connection 16. In Step 3411, when it is required or requested requirement. For example, due to memory limitations of the to disconnect the first messaging client 14 from the first 65 device in which the second messaging client 211 operates, the communication connection 16, the first messaging client 14 client data portion 18 can be a defined, hmited portion of the session history 45. As another example, the client data is disconnected from the first communication connection 16. MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007108 US 6,983,370 B2 29 3O rcquircmcnt can bc thc plurality of uscr prcfcrcnccs 35 for session data included for the Nth mcssaging session can bc, the first messaging client 14 set by the first account user 29. for exanrple, the Nth session identifier 41, the Nth session It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that priority 42, the Nth session preferences 43, the Nth session thc client data rcquircmcnt can bc a rcquircmcnt for all or participants 44 and/or thc Nth scssion history 45. Ncxt, in any portion of the first client data 17 sent from the second s Step 3111, at least a portion of the first client data 17 messaging client 20. When no client data requirement has including the session data for the Nth messaging session is transferred from the first messaging client 14 to the second been received by the first messaging client 14 from the second messaging client 20, the process moves to Step 352 messaging client 211. It will be appreciated by one of in which the process determines whether a predetermined ordinary skill in the art that, in accordance with the present client data portion 18 has been programmed either into the ~0 invention, the plurality of session data for each messaging first messaging client 14 or alternatively into the message session to be transferred can be transferred separately. server 172. In Step 354, when the predetermined client data Alternatively, in accordance with the present invention, the portion 18 has been programmed, the client data portion 18 ph~rality of session data for all messaging sessions being is determined using the predetermined client data portion 18. transferred can be transferred at one time in one or more In Step 356, when no predetermined portion has been ~5 communications. Next, in Step 312, the process determines defined in Step 352, some other method is used to identify whether or not the second communication connection 22 has the client data portion 18. It will be appreciated by one of been established. In Step 318, when the second communiordinary skill in the art that any other method can be used to cation connection 22 has not been established, the second identify the client data portion lg in accordance with the communication connection 22 is established. In Step 372, present invention. Next, in Step 358, when the client data ~0 when the second communication connection 22 is already portion 18 has been identified in Step 350, 354, or 356, the established in Step 312, or after the second communication client data portion 18 is transferred from thc first messaging connection 22 is cstablished in Step 318, the Nth mcssaging client 14 to the second messaging client 20. It will be session, along with any portion of the first client data 17 appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the transferred, is inclnded within the second communication transfer of the client data portion 18 can be accomplished 25 connection 22 tbr the second messaging client 211. Next, in using a direct connection between the first messaging client Step 374, the process determines whether a notification of 14 and the second messaging client 211 or a connection data transfer is required or requested. In step 376, when a through the message server 172, both either via a network notification is required or requested, the notification is sent. connection, a wireless connection such as through the wireIt xvill be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that lcss communication system 114, a wircd conncction such as 3o thc notification of data transfcr can bc scnl for cach mesthrough the wired communication system 89 or the broadsaging session separately. Alternatively, in accordance with cast messaging system 274, or an equivalent. the present invention, the notification of data transfer can be The flowchart of FIG. 16 provides a method for limiting sent for all messaging sessions being transferred in one the amount of client data transferred from the first messagnotification message. In accordance with the present invening client 14 to the second messaging client 211, optimizing 3s tion, the notification of data transfer can be sent to at least the efficiency of the transfer of client data to maintain overall one of the plurality of messaging clients 12 participating in optin~al system utilization. the Nth messaging session. Alternatively or additionally, the FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating further operation of the notification of data transfer can be sent to the message server messaging commnnicafion system 111,1711 in which the first 172. The notification of data transfer can be sent from the messaging client 14 participates in a plurality of messaging 4o first messaging client 14, from the second messaging client 211, from the message server 172, or an equivalent. Prefersessions 24. The operation begins ~vith Step 359 in which the first messaging client establishes the first communication ably, the notification includes the client profile g5 stored in connection 16. Next, in Step 360, a counter is set to N=I. the device in which the second messaging client 211 operates. Next, in Step 362, the process determines whether the first The message communication system 1!1, 170, including one mcssaging clicnt 14 is participating in an Nth messaging 45 or more of thc plurality of mcssaging clicnts 12 and/or the session. In Step 364, when the first messaging client 14 is message server 172, can modify the content sent to the not participating in the Nth messaging session, the counter second messaging client 2!1 based on the client profile ~5. is incremented by one (1). Next, in Step 365, the process Next, the process returns to Step 364 in which the counter determines whether or not the Nth messaging session exists. is incremented. When the Nth session does not exist, the process ends. When so FIG. lg is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of the the Nth messaging session does exist, the process returns to operation of the messaging communication system 170 in Step 362 in which it is dctcrmincd whcthcr thc first mcswhich the plurality of *aacssaging scssions 24 includes the saging client 14 is participating in the Nth messaging multiple user messaging session 19. The operation begins wilh Slep 378 in which lhe mnltiple user messaging session session. In Slep 366, when the first messaging client 14 is participating in the Nth messaging session in Step 362, the 55 19 is established within the messaging communication sysNth messaging session including its associated session data tem 170. The multiple user messaging session 19 includes is included in the first communication connection 16. Next, the plurality of session messages 61 among the plurality of in Step 368, it is determined whether the Nth messaging messaging clients 12. Next, in Step 3811, the process detersession is requested or required to be transferred from the mines whether the first messaging client 12 is participating first messaging client 14 to the second messaging client 211. 6o in the multiple user messaging session 19. Whcn the first When the Nth messaging session is not requested or required messaging client 12 is not participating in the multiple user to bc transfcrrcd in Stcp 3~8, thc proccss rcturns to Step mcssaging scssion 19, the proccss cnds. In Stcp 381, whcn in which the first communicalion connection 16 conlinues to the first messaging client 12 is participating in the multiple include the Nth messaging session. In Step 370, when, in user messaging session 19, the first communication connecStep 368, the Nth messaging session is being transferred, ts tion 16 includes the multiple user messaging session 19. session data for the Nth messaging session is included in the Further, the data for the multiple user messaging session 19 plurality of session data 36 of the first client data 17. The is part of the plurality of session data 36. Data for the MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007109 US 6,983,370 B2 31 32 multiple user messaging session 19 can be, for example, the message server 172. In accordance with the present invensession identifier 41, the session priority 42, the session tion, as illustrated in FIG. 211, a second account user, such as the account user 311, logs onto the messaging client 26 and preferences 43, the session participants 44 and/or the session histoU 45 of the multiple user messaging session 19. Next, sends a notification signal 388 to the message server 172. in Step 3114, the process determines whether a data transfer s Preferably, the notification signal 3~8 further includes the second account identifier of the second account user. The is required or requested. When no data transfer is required or requested in Step 304, the first communication connection notification signal 388 for example, includes the connection 16 including the multiple user messaging session 19 is information (i.e.: IP address and number of the port assigned maintained in Step 381. It will be appreciated by one of to the messaging client) of the messaging client 26. Simiordinary skill in the art that the plurality of session data 36 m larly, the first account user 29 logs onto the first messaging for the multiple user messaging session 19 is updated client 14 and sends a notification signal 386 to the message periodically as thc multiple user messaging scssion 19 server 172. The notification signal 386 for example, includes conlinues. (not shown) Next, in Step 3111, when a data the connection infornaation (i.e.: IP address and number of transfer is requested or reqaired in Step 304 at least a portion the port assigned to the messaging client) of the first of the first client data 17 including the plurality of session ~5 messaging client 14. Preferably, the notification signal 386 data 36 is transferred from the first messaging client 14 to also includes the first account identifier of the first account the second messaging client 20. user 29. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the Next, in Step 382, a data transfer message 384 is sent to art that alternatively, the notification signals 386 and 388 can the nrcssage server 170. Preferably, the data transfer mesbe sent directly to one or more of the plurality of nressaging sage 384 is as illustrated in FIG. 19. The data transfer 2o clients 12. In response to receiving the notification signal message 384 preferably inchJdes a session reservation 385. 386 from the messaging client 26, and receiving the notifiFor example, the session reservation 385 could save a cation signal 388 from the first messaging client 14, the message server 172 sends a client availability signal 390 to connection within the multiple user messaging session 19 for any messaging client that is being used by the same tbe messaging client 26. The client availability signal 390 account identifier used in the first messaging client 14. As 2s informs the second account user via the messaging client 26 shown in FIG. 19, the data transfer message 384 alternatl~at the first account user 29 is available for real time tively includes the session idcntificr 41 of the multiple user clcctronic communications such as for participation in one messaging session 19, the first client identifier 15 of the first or more of the plurality of messaging sessions 24. Similarly, messaging client 14, the second client identifier 21 of the in response to receiving the notification signal 386 from the second messaging client 20, and the session reservafion 385. 3o messaging client 26, and receiving the notification signal The session reservation 385 saves a connection within the 3gg from the first messaging client 14, the message server multiple user messaging session 19 for the second messag172 sends a client availability signal 392 to the first mesing client 20 having the second client identifier 21. It will be saging client 14. The client availability signal 392 informs appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the data the first account user 29 via the first nressaging client 14 that transfer message 384 can be sent using a network connec- 3s tbe second account user is available for real time electronic tion, a wireless connection such as through the wireless communications such as for participation in one or more of communication system 114, a wired connection such as the plurality of messaging sessions 24. Next, the first through the wired communication system 89 or the broadaccount user 29 initiates the messaging session 40 with the cast messaging system 274, or an equivalent. second account user by sending a session message 394 to the Referring back to FIG. 18, next, in Step 383, the second 4o message server 172. The message server 172, acting as a messaging client 20 establishes the second communication store and forxvard device, sends a session message signal connection 22 for participating within the multiple user 396 containing substantially the same message information messaging session 19. In one embodiment of the present as the session message 394 to the second account user via invention, the message server 172 can require that Step 383 the messaging client 26. In response to receiving the session be performed within a specific time period after it received 45 message signal 396, a window is created on the display of the data transfer message 384. (not shown) If this time is the messaging device in xvhich the second messaging client exceeded, the message server 172 can release the reserved 26 operates and the session message 46, preferably along seat to be used by any of the plurality of messaging clients with the first account identifier of the first account user 29, 12. The operation of the message communication system is displayed in the created window. Next, the second account 17!1 as illustrated in FIG. lg provides a means for the first so user via the messaging client 26 sends a response message aeeonnt user 29 to ensure that there is an opening within the 398 to the message server 172. The message server 172, multiple user messaging session 19 when the first account acting as a store and forward device, sends a response uscr 29 transfcrs at least a portion of thc first client data 17 mcssagc signal 400 to thc first account uscr 29 via thc first including the plurality of session data 36 (and accordingly messaging client 14 containing substantially the same mesthe communication means) from the first messaging client 55 sage information as the response message 398. In response 14 ~o the second messaging client 20. This operation is to receiving the response message signal 400, the created especially beneficial in situations in which there are a messaging session window is updated on the display of the limited number of available openings ~vithin the multiple messaging device in which the first messaging client 14 user messaging session 19 and the first account user 29 could operates and the session message contained within the lose his/bet space during the transfer of data from one ~0 response message 398, preferably along with the second messaging client to another messaging client. account identifier of the second account user, is displayed. FIG. 2!1 is a signaling flow diagram illustrating an Although one session message 394 and one response mesexample of the interaction between the elements of the sage 398 is illustraled by way of example in FIG. 20, it will messaging communication system 10, 170, according to the be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 20 illustrates the inter- 6s messaging session 40 between the first account user’s first action between the first messaging client 14, the second messaging client 14 and the second account user’s messagmessaging client 20, the messaging client 26, and the ing client 26 can include a plurality of session messages and MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007110 US 6,983,370 B2 33 34 a plurality of response nressages. Further, although the signal 404. Preferably, in response to receiving the data interaction of two account users and two messaging clients signal 404, the second messaging client 20 sends an is ilh~strated by way of example in FIG. 20, it will be acknowledgement signal 406 to the message server 172. The appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the message server 172 also preferably sends a transfer messaging session 40 can include a plurality of messaging 5 ac ~kno~vledgement signal 410 to the first account user’s first clients and an associated plurality of account users. Further, messaging client 14. The messaging session 40 seamlessly it will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that continues between the first account user 29 and the second the session message 394 can be sent directly from the first account user through the second messaging client 20 and the messaging client 14 to the messaging client 26; and similarly messaging client 26 as illustrated by the plurality of session the response message 398 can be sent directly from the ~0 messages 412 to 422. The messaging session 40 continues messaging client 26 to the first messaging client 14, without seamlessly without the second account user being necessarthe interface of the message setter 170, in accordance with ily aware of the transfer of the first client data from the first the present invention. account user’s first messaging client 14 to his/her second According to the present invention, an account user can messaging client 20. It will be appreciated by one of choose to initiate a data transfer. As illustrated in FIG. 20, ~5 ordinary sMll in the art that although only a second account the first account user 29 via the first messaging client 14 user is shown in FIG. 20 by way of example, the messaging sends a transfer request signal 4!)2 including at least a session 40 can continue seamlessly between a plurality of portion of the first client data 17 such as the phJrality of acconnt nsers and associated plurality of messaging clients. session data 36 currently contained on the first account Preferably, the first messaging client 14 is disconnected user’s first messaging client 14 to the message server 172. 20 from the messaging session 40 upon completion of the data The transfer request signal 4112 preferably also includes a transfer. (not shown) It will be appreciated by one of request to the message server 172 to transfer at least a ordinary skill in the art that the first messaging client 14 can portion of the first client data 17 including the plurality of be automatically disconnected from the messaging session session data 36 to a new messaging client such as the second 40 or alternatively the first messaging client 14 can be messaging client 211. For example, the first messaging client 25 disconnected manually by the first account user 29. Simi14 can be a fixed personal computer such as the fixed larly, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art net~vork device 5!1 in the office of the first account user 29. the first messaging client 14 can continue to be active in the The first account user 29 has the need to become mobile. The messaging session 40 along with the second messaging second messaging client 211 can be a celMar telephone such client 20. (not shown) as the mobile device 911. The first account user 29, according 3o FIG. 21 is a signaling flow diagram illustrating the to the present invention, can pass the current messaging interaction between the elements of the messaging commusession from his!her personal computer to his/her cellular nication system 10,170, according to the present invention. telephone with no loss of communication or of session data. Specificall); FIG. 21 illustrates the interaction between the Similarly, the transfer request signal 4112 can include a first messaging client 14, the second messaging client 20, the rcqucst f~r the mcssagc scrvcr 172 to pass thc plurality of ~5 mcssaging client 26, and thc mcssagc scrvcr 172, according session data 36 for more than one messaging session. In to the present invention. In accordance with the present response to receiving the transfer request signal 402, the invention, as illustrated in FIG. 21, a second account user, message server 172 determines whether the second messagsuch as the account user 30, logs onto the messaging client ing client 20 is currently connected onto the message server 26 and sends a notification signal 388 to the message server 172. (not shown) For example, the message server 172 4o 172. For example, the messaging client 26 establishes the determines whether the second messaging client 20 has commnnication connection 28. The notification signal 388 established the second conrmunication connection 22. When for example, includes the connection infonrration (i.e.: IP the second messaging client 20 is not currently connected address and number of the port assigned to the messaging with the message server 172, the message server 172 stores client) of the messaging client 26. Preferably, the notificathe plurality of session data 36 and/or the first client data 17 45 tion signal 388 farther includes the second account identifier of the second account user. Similarly, the first account user if so requested until the second messaging client 20 is connected. (not shown) When the second messaging client 29 logs onto the first messaging client 14 and sends a 20 is connected to the message server 172, the message notification signal 386 to the message server 172. For server 172 sends the data signal 404 including the plurality example, the first messaging client 14 establishes the first of scssion data 36 and/or any portion of thc first clicnt data 5o communication conncction 16. Thc notification signal 386 17 received from the first messaging client 14 within the for example, includes the connection information (i.e.: IP transfer request signal 404 to the second messaging client address and number of the port assigned to the messaging 20. The second messaging client 20 stores the plurality of client) of the first messaging client 14. Preferably, the notification signal 386 also includcs thc first account idcnsession data 36 and/or the portion of the first client data 17 in memory and displays the session history 45 for access and 55 tifier of the first account user 29. It will be appreciated by use by the first account user 29 on the display of the one of ordinary skill in the art that alternatively, the notifimessaging device in which the second nressaging client 20 cation signals 386 and 388 can be sent directly to one or operates. It ~vill be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the more of the plurality of messaging clients 12. In response to art that the data signal 404 can include the ph~rafity of receiving the notification signal 386 from the messaging session data 36 for one messaging session or for a plurality 6o client 26, and receiving the notification signal 388 from the of messaging sessions, or can include the first client data 17 first messaging client 14, the message server 172 sends a or the client data portion 18 of the first client data 17 for the client availability signal 390 to the messaging client 26. The first messaging client 14. Similarly the messaging device in client availability signal 390 informs the second account which the second messaging client 20 operates can store one user via the messaging client 26 that the first account user 29 mcssaging scssion or a plurality of n~cssaging sessions, thc 65 is availablc for rcal tin~c clcctronic communications such as first client data 17 or the client data portion 18 of the first participation in one or more messaging sessions. Similarly, client data 17 in its memory in response to receiving the data in response to receiving the notification signal 386 from the MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007111 US 6,983,370 B2 36 messaging client 26, and receiving the notification signal a data signal 436 to the second messaging client 20. In a 388 from the first messaging client 14, the mcssagc server preferred embodiment, the second mcssaging elicnt 2D 172 sends a client availability signal 392 to the first mesincludes session transfer capabilities. Alternatively, the messaging client 14. The client availability signal 392 informs saging device in which the second messaging client 2!1 the first account user 29 via the first messaging client 14 that 5 operates includes the data transfer application 83. The first the second account user is available for real time electronic account user 29 launches the data transfer application 83 or communications such as participation in one or more mesalternatively the data transfer capabilities of the second saging sessions. Next, the first account user 29 initiates the messaging client 20, and utilizes the data transfer applicanressaging session 40 with the second account user by tion 83 and/or the second messaging client 20 to achieve the sending a session message 424 to the message server 172. 30 transfer of at least a portion of the first client data 17 The message server 172, in response to receiving the session including the plurality of session data 36 from the first message 424 sends a messaging session participation request messaging clienl 14. The data transfer application 83 stores 426 to the second account user via the messaging client 26. first client data received including the plurality of session The messaging client 26 asks the second account user if data 36 for the messaging session 40 in the memory of the he/she ~vants to participate in the messaging session 40 with 35 messaging device and launches the second messaging client the first account user 29. When the second account user does 20 if it is not already active. The nressaging device in which not acccpt thc mcssaging scssion participation rcqncst 426, the sccond mcssaging clicnt 20 operates displays thc scssion the process stops. (not shown) When the second account history 45 for access and use by the first accounl user 29 on user does accept the messaging session participation request the messaging device in which the second messaging client 426, the messaging client 26 sends a messaging session 20 20 operates. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill participation acceptance signal 428 to the message server in the art that the session data signal 436 can include the 172. The message server 172, in response to receiving the plurality of session data 3~ for one messaging session or for messaging session participation acceptance signal 428, a plurality of messaging sessions, or can include the first sends a session message signal 396 containing substantially client data 17 or the client data portion 18 of the first client the same message information as the session message 424 to :5 data 17 for the first messaging client 14. Similarly the the second account user via the messaging client 26. In nressaging device in which the second messaging client 20 response to receiving the session message signal 396, a operates can store one messaging session or a plurality of window is created on the display of the messaging device in messaging sessions, the first client data 17 or the client data which the messaging client 26 operates and the session portion 18 of the first client data 17 in its memory in message 46, preferably along with the first account identifier 3o response to receiving the session data signal 436. of the first account user 29, is displayed on the created The messaging session 40 continues bet~veen the first window. Ncxt, the second account uscr via thc mcssaging account uscr 29 and thc sccond account user lhrough the second messaging client 211 and the messaging client 26 as client 26 sends a response message 398 to the message server 172. The message server 172, acting as a store and illustrated by the plurality of session messages 412 to 422. forward device, sends a response nressage signal 400 to the ~5 The messaging session 40 continues seanrlessly without the first account user 29 via the first messaging client 14 second account user being necessarily aware of the transfer containing substantially the same message information as of the portion of the first client data 17 including the the response message 398. In response to receiving the plurality of session data 36 from the first messaging client 14 response message signal 400, the open display window is to the second messaging client 20. It will be appreciated by updated on the display of the messaging device in which the 4o one of ordinary skill in the art that although only a second first messaging client 14 operates and the session message, acconnt user is shown in FIG. 21 by way of example, the preferably along with the second account identifier of the messaging session 40 can continue seamlessly between a plurality of account users and associated plurality of messecond account user, is displayed. Although one session message 396 and one response message 398 is illustrated by saging clients. way of example in FIG. 21, it will be appreciated by one of 45 Preferably, the first messaging client 14 is disconnected ordinary skill in the art that the messaging session 40 from the nrcssaging session 40 upon conrpletion of the data between the first account user’s first messaging client 14 and transfer. (not shown) It will be appreciated by one of the second account user’s messaging client 26 can include a ordinary skill in the art that the first messaging client 14 can plurality of session messages and a plurality of response be automatically disconnected from the messaging session messages. Further, although the interaction of two account 50 40 or alternatively the first uressaging client 14 can be users and two messaging clients is illustrated by way of disconnected manually by the first account user 29. Simiexample in FIG. 21, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary larly, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art skill in the art that the messaging session can include a the first messaging client 14 can continue to be active in the plurality of messaging clients and an associated plurality of messaging session 40 along with the second messaging account users. s5 client 2!). (not shown) According to the present invention, an account user can FIG. 22 is a signaling flow diagram illustrating the interaction between the elements of the messaging commuchoose to initiate a data transfer. As illustrated in FIG. 21, the first account user 29 via the second messaging client 20 nication system 10, 170, according to the present invention. sends a transl~r request signal 430 to the first account user’s Specifically, FIG. 22 illustrates the interaction between the first messaging client 14. In response, the first messaging 60 first messaging client 14, t~e second messaging client 20, the client 14 sends a connection discovery and verification messaging client 26, and the message server 172. In accorsignal 432 to the second messaging client 2!). The second dance with the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 22, a messaging client 2D then sends an acknowledgement signal second aceonnt user, such as the account user 30, logs onto 434 to the first messaging client 14. The acknowledgement the messaging client 26 and sends a notification signal 388 signal 434 preferably includes verification data in which the ~5 to the message server 172. For exanrple, the messaging first messaging client 14 can verify the validity of the second client 26 establishes the communication connection 28. The messaging client 20. The first messaging client 14 then sends notification signal 388 for example, includes the connection MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007112 US 6,983,370 B2 37 38 information (i.e.: IP address and number of the port assigned preferably along with the second account identifier of the to the messaging clicn0 of thc messaging client 26. Prefersecond account user, is displayed. Although one session ably, the notification signal 388 fiJrther includes the second message 396 and one response message 398 is ilh~strated by account identifier of the second account user. Similarly, the way of example in FIG. 22, it will be appreciated by one of first account user 29 logs onto the first messaging client 14 s ordinary skill in the art that the messaging session 40 and sends a notification signal 386 to the message server between the first account user’s first nacssaging client 14 and 172. For example, the first messaging client 14 establishes the second account user’s messaging client 26 can include a the firsl communication connection 16. The notification phJrality of session messages and a plnrality of response signal 386 for example, includes the connection information messages. Further, although the interaction of two account (i.e.: IP address and number of the port assigned to the ~0 users and two messaging clients is illustrated by way of messaging ellen0 of the first messaging client 14. Prefer- example in FIG. 22, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary ably, the notification signal 386 also includes the first skill in the art that the messaging session 40 can include a ph~rality of messaging clients and an as~ciated ph~rality of account identifier of the first acconnt user 29. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that alternaaccount users. tively, the notification signals 386 and 388 can be sent is According to the present invention, an account user can dircctly to onc or morc of thc plurality of mcssaging clients choosc to initiatc a data transfcr. As illustratcd in FIG. 22, 12. In response to receiving the notificatiou signal 386 fiOill the first account user 29 via the second mcssagiug client 20 the messaging client 26, and receiving the notification signal sends a transfer request signal 430 to the first account user’s 388 from the first messaging client 14, the message server first messaging client 14. In response, the first messaging 172 sends a client availability signal 390 to the messaging20 client 14 sends a connection discovery and verification client 26. The client availability signal 390 informs the signal 432 to the second messaging client 20. The second second account user via the messaging client 26 that the first messaging client 20 then sends an acknowledgement signal account user 29 is available for real time electronic com- 434 to the first messaging client 14. The acknowledgement munications such as participation in one or more of the signal 434 preferably includes verification data in which the plurality of messaging sessions 24. Similarly, in response to 25 first messaging client 14 can verify that the validity of the receiving the notification signal 386 from the messaging second messaging client 20. In response to receiving the client 26, and receiving the notification signal 388 from the acknowlcdgnment signal 434, the first messaging client 14 first messaging client 14, the message server 172 scads a scads a request for a kcy 438 to the message server 172. client availability signal 392 to the first messaging client 14. Next, the message server 172 sends a key signal 440 to the The client availability signal 392 informs the first account 30 first messaging client 14. The first messaging client 14 then user 29 via the first messaging client 14 that the second sends the data and key signal 442 to the second messaging account user is available for real time clcctronic comnmni- client 20. The kcy preferably includes a code by ~vhich the cations such as participation in one or more of the plurality second messaging client 20 can access the messaging sesof messaging sessions 24. Next, the first account user 29 sion 40. The second messaging client 20 stores the transinitiates the messaging session 40 with the second account 3~ ferred portion of the first client data 17 including the user by sending a session message 424 to the message server plurality of session data 36 and the key for the messaging 172. The message server 172, in response to receiving the session 40 in the menaory of the messaging device in which real time electronic message 424 sends a messaging session the second messaging client 20 operates, and displays the participation request 426 to the second account user via the session history 45 for access and use by the first account user mcssaging clicnt 26. Thc messaging client 26 asks thc 40 29 on the display of the messaging clicnt in which the second account user if heNhe wants to participate in the second messaging client 20 operates. It will be appreciated messaging session 40 with the first account user 29. When by one of ordinary skill in the art that the data and key signal the second account user does not accept the messaging 442 can include session data for one messaging session or session participation request 426, the process stops. (not for a plurality of messaging sessions, the first client data 17 shown) When the second account user does accept the 45 or a portion of the first client data 17; and similarly that the messaging session participation request 426, the messaging second messaging client 20 can store one messaging session client 26 sends a messaging session participation acceptance or a plurality of nrcssaging sessions, the first client data 17 signal 428 to the message server 172. The message server or a portion of the first client data 17 in memory in response 172, in response to receiving the messaging session particito receiving the data and key signal 442. The second pation acceptance signal 428, sends a session message signal 50 messaging client 20 then launches the data transfer appli391i containing substantially the same message information cation 83 or alternatively runs the data transfer software as the session message 424 to the second account user via contained within the second messaging client 20. Further, the messaging client 26. In response to receiving the session the second messaging client 2!1 can cause the messaging message signal 396, a window is created on the display of device in which the second messaging client 20 operates to the messaging dcvicc in which the mcssaging client 26s5 display thc session history 45 received from the first mesoperates and the session message 46, preferably along with saging client 14 within the data and key signal 442 for the first account identifier of the first account user 29, is viewing by the first account user 29. Next, the second displayed. Next, the second account user via the messaging messaging cficnt 20 sends a request for connection signal client 26 sends a response message 398 to the message 444 to the message server 172. In response, the message server 172. The message server 172, acting as a store and 60 server 172 sends a security challenge signal 446 to the forward device, sends a response message signal 400 to the second messaging client 20. The second messaging client 20 first account user 29 via the first nrcssaging client 14 responds to the security challenge signal 446 with a security containing substantially the same message information as response signal 448 which may be calculated from the the response message 398 In respon~ to receiving the secnrity challenge signal and the key to the message server response message signal 400, the open display window is 65 172. Then the message server 172 sends an acknowledgeupdated on the display of the messaging device in which the ment of transfer complete signal 450 to lhe second messagfirst messaging client 14 operates and the session message, ing client 20. The messaging session 40 has now been MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007113 US 6,983,370 B2 39 4O transferred from the first messaging client 14 to the second client 26, and receiving the notification signal 388 from the messaging client 21). Preferably, the second messaging client first messaging client 14, the message server 172 sends a 2!1 also sends an acknowledgement of transfer to the mesclient availability signal 392 to tee first messaging client 14. sage server 172. (not shown) The client availability signal 392 informs the first account ’lhe messaging session 411 continues between the first s user 29 via the first messaging client 14 that the second account user 29 and the second account user through the account user is available for real time electronic communisccond mcssaging clicnt 2!) and the mcssaging clicnt 26 as cations such as participation in onc or morc of thc plurality illustrated by the plurality of session messages 412 to 422. of messaging sessions 24. Next, the first account user 29 The messaging session 411 continues seamlessly without the initiates the messaging session 40 with the second account second account user being necessarily aware of the transfer ~0 user by sending a session message 424 to the message server of the portion of the first client data 17 including the 172. The message server 172, in response to receiving the plurality of session data 36 from the first messaging client 14 session message 424 sends a messaging session participation to the second messaging client 211. It will be appreciated by request 426 to the second account user via the messaging one of ordinary skill in the art that although only a second client 26. The nrcssaging client 26 asks the second account account user is shown in FIG. 22 by way of example, the xs user if he/she wants to participate in the messaging session messaging session 411 can continne seamlessly bet~veen a 40 with the first acconnt nser 29. When the second acconnt plurality of account uscrs and associatcd plurality of mcsuscr does not acccpt the mcssaging scssion participation saging clients. request 426, the process stops. (not shown) When the second Preferably, the first messaging client 14 is disconnected account user does accept the messaging session participation from the messaging session 4!1 upon completion of the data 2o request 426, the messaging client 26 sends a messaging transfer. (not shown) It will be appreciated by one of session participation acceptance signal 428 to the message ordinary skill in thc art that thc first mcssaging clicnt 14 can scrvcr 172. Thc mcssagc scrvcr 172, in rcsponsc to receiving be automatically disconnected from the messaging session the messaging session participation acceptance signal 428, 411 or alternatively the first messaging client 14 can be sends a session message signal 396 containing substantially disconnected manually by the first account user 29. Simi- 25 the same message information as the session message 424 to larly, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary sldll in the art the second account user via the messaging client 26. In that the first messaging client 14 can continuc to be active in response to receiving the session message signal 396, a the messaging session 41) along with the second messaging window is crealed on the display of the messaging device in which the messaging client 26 operates and tire session client 211. (not shown) FIG. 23 is a signaling flow diagram illustrating the 3o message, preferably along with the first account identifier of interaction between the elements of the messaging commnlhe first acconnt nser 29, is displayed. Next, the second nication system 111,171), according to the present invention. account user via the messaging client 26 sends a response Specifically, FIG. 23 illustrates the interaction bet~veen the message 398 to the message server 172. The message server first messaging client 14, the second messaging client 211, the 172, acting as a store and forward device, sends a response messaging client 26, and the message server 172. In accor-35 message signal 400 to the first account user 29 via the first dance with the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 23, a messaging client 14 containing substantially the same messccond account user, such as thc account user 311, logs onto sagc information as the responsc message 398. In response the messaging client 26 and sends a notification signal 388 to receiving the response nressage signal 400, the open to the message server 172. For example, the messaging window is updated on the display of the messaging device client 26 establishes the communication connection 28. The 4o in which the fi~st messaging client 14 operates and the notification signal 3~8 for example, includes the connection session message, preferably along with the second account information (i.e.: IP address and number of the port assigned identifier of the second account user, is displayed. Although to the messaging clien0 of the messaging client 26. Prefer- one session message 396 and one response message 398 is ably, the notification signal 388 further includes the second illustrated by way of exanrplc in FIG. 23, it will bc appreaccount identifier of the second acconnt nser. Similarly, a 45 ciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the messaging first acconnt nser 29 logs onto the first messaging client 14 session 40 between the first acconnt user’s first messaging client 14 and the second account user’s messaging client 26 and sends a notification signal 386 to the message server 172. For exanrple, the first nressaging client 14 establishes can include a plurality of session messages and a plurality of the first communication connection 16. The notification response messages. Further, ’although the interaction of two signal 386 for example, includes the connection information 5o account users and two messaging clients is illustrated by (i.e.: IP address and number of the port assigned to the way of example in FIG. 23, it will be appreciated by one of messaging client) of the first messaging client 14. Prefer- ordinary skill in the art that the messaging session 40 can ably, the notification signal 386 also includes the first include a plurality of messaging clients and an associated plurality of account users. account identifier of the first account user 29. It will be appreciated by oue of ordinary skill in the art that alterna- 55 According to the present invention, an account user can tively, the notification signals 388 and 388 can be sent choose to launch data transfer software. As illustrated in directly to one or more of the plnrality of messaging clients FIG. 23, the first account user 29 launches the data transfer 12. In response to receiving the notification signal 386 from software within the second messaging client 20 or alternathe messaging client 26, and receiving the notification signal tively the data transfer application 83. Upon launching the 388 from the first messaging client 14, the message server 6o data transfer application 83 or alternatively the data transfer 172 sends a client availability signal 390 to the messaging software within the second messaging client 21), the second client 26. The client availability signal 390 informs the messaging client 211 sends a notification of availability signal second account user via the messaging client 26 that the first 4~2 to thc mcssagc scrvcr 172. In response, thc mcssagc account user 29 is available for reai time electronic com- server 172 sends an availability signal 4~4 to the first munications such as for participation in one or more of the 6s messaging client 14 and an availability signal 456 to the plurality of messaging sessions 24. Similarly, in response to messaging client 26. Preferably the signals 482 and 4~4 receiving the notification signal 386 from the messaging include identification information for the second messaging MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007114 US 6,983,370 B2 41 42 client 20 such as the second client identifier 21. As illus388 from the first messaging client 14, the message server trated, after receiving the availability notification signal 454, 172 sends a client availability signal 390 to the messaging the first messaging client 14 sends a data signal 458 to the client 26. The client availability signal 390 informs the sccond messaging clicnt 20. Thc sccond messaging clicnt 20 sccond account uscr via thc messaging clicnt 26 that thc first stores the received portion of the first client data 17 includ- s account user 29 is available for real time electronic coming the plurality of session data 36 for the messaging session munications such as participation in one or more of the 40 in the memory of its associated messaging device and plurality of messaging sessions 24. Sinfilady, in response to causes thc session history 45 to bc displayed on thc display receiving the notification signal 386 from the messaging of the messaging device in which the second nressaging client 26, and receiving the notification signal 388 from the client 20 operates for access and use by the first account user ~0 first messaging client 14, the message server 172 sends a 29. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art client availability signal 392 to the first nressaging client 14. that the data signal 458 can include session data for one The client availability signal 392 informs the first account messaging session or for a plurality of messaging sessions, user 29 via the first messaging client 14 that the second the first client data 17, or a portion of the first client data 17; account user is available for real time electronic communiand similarly that the second messaging client 20 can store ~5 cations such as participation in one or more of the plurality one messaging session or a plurality of messaging sessions, of messaging sessions 24. Next, the first account user 29 the first client data 17, or a portion of the first client data 17 initiates the messaging session 40 with the second account in its memory in response to receiving the session data signal user by sending a session message 424 to the message server 458. 172. The message server 172, in response to receiving the The messaging session 40 continues between the first 20 session message 424 sends a messaging session participation account user 29 and the second account user through the request 426 to the second account user via the messaging second messaging client 20 and the nressaging client 26 as client 26. The nressaging client 26 asks the second account illustrated by the plurality of session messages 412 to 422. user if he/she wants to participate in the messaging session The messaging session 40 continues seamlessly. It will be 40 with the first account user 29. When the second account appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that although 25 user does not accept the messaging session participation only a second account user is sho~vn in FIG. 23 by way of request 426, the process stops. (not shown) When the second example, the messaging session 40 can continue seamlessly account user does accept the messaging session participation between a plurality of account users and associated plurality request 426, the messaging client 26 sends a messaging of messaging clients. session participation acceptance signal 428 to the message Prcfcrably, thc first messaging client 14 is disconnected 30 scrvcr 172. Thc mcssagc scrvcr 172, in rcsponsc to rccciving from the messaging session 40 upon completion of the data the messaging session participation acceptance signal 428, sends a session message signal 396 containing substantially transt~r. (not shown) It will be appreciated by one of ordinary sMll in the art that the first messaging client 14 can the same message information as the session message 424 to be automatically disconnected from the messaging session the second account user via the messaging client 26. In 40 or alternatively the first messaging client 14 can be 3s response to receiving the real lime electronic message signal disconnected mannally by the first account user 29. Simi39g, a window is created on the display of the messaging larly, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art device in which the messaging client 26 operates and the the first messaging client 14 can continue to be active in the session message 46, preferably along with the first account messaging session 40 along with the second messaging identifier of the first account user 29, is displayed. Next, the 4o second account user via the messaging client 26 sends a client 20. (not shown) FIG. 24 is a signaling llow diagram illustrating the response message 398 to the message server 172. The interaction between the elements of the messaging commumessage server 172, acting as a store and forward device, nication syslem 111, 170, according to the present invention. sends a response message signal 41111 to the firsl account user Specifically, FIG. 24 illustrates the interaction between the 29 via the first messaging client 14 containing substantially first mcssaging clicnt 14, thc sccond messaging client 2!1, thc45 thc samc mcssagc information as thc rcsponsc mcssagc 398. messaging client 26, and the message server 172. In accor- In response to receiving the response message signal 400, dance with the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 24, a the open window is updated on the display of the messaging second account user, such as the account user 30, logs onto device in which the first messaging client 14 operates and the messaging client 26 and sends a notification signal 388 the session message, preferably along with the second to the message server 172. The notification signal 388 for s0 account identifier of the second account user, is displayed. example, includes the connection information (i.e.: IP Although one session message 39~ and one response mesaddress and number of the port assigned to the nressaging sage 398 is illustrated by way of example in FIG. 23, it will client) of the messaging client 26. Preferably, the notifica- be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art lhat the tion signal 388 flJrther inch~des the second accounl identifier messaging session 40 between the first account user’s first of the second account user. Similarly, a first account user 29 55 messaging client 14 and the second account user’s messaglogs onto the first messaging client 14 and sends a notifiing client 26 can include a plurality of session messages and cation signal 396 to the message server 172. The notification a plurality of response messages. Further, although the signal 386 for example, includes the connection information interaction of txvo account users and two messaging clients (i.e.: IP address and number of the port assigned to the is illustrated by way of example in FIG. 23, it will be messaging clicn0 of the first mcssaging client 14. Prcfcr-o0 appreciated by onc of ordinary skill in the art that the ably, the notification signal 386 also includes the first messaging session 40 can include a plurality of messaging account identifier of the first account user 29. It will be clients and an associated plurality of account users. appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that alternaAccording to the present invention, an account user can tively, the notification signals 386 and 388 can be sent choose to launch data transfer software. As illustrated in directly to one or more of the plurality of messaging clients 6s FIG. 24, the first account user 29 launches the transfer 12. In response to receiving the notification signal 386 from soft~vare within the second messaging client 211 or alternathe messaging client 26, and receiving the notification signal tively the data transfer application 83. Upon launching the MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007115 US 6,983,370 B2 43 44 data transfer application 83 or alternatively the transfer establishing a second communication connection includsoftware within the second messaging client 20, the second ing the plurality of client data between the second messaging client 20 sends a notification of availability signal messaging client and the message server. 452 to the message stayer 172. In response, the nressage 2. A method for providing continuity between a plurality server 172 sends an availability signal 454 to the first 5 of messaging clients as recited in claim 1 wherein the first messaging client 14 and an availability signal 456 to the messaging client further includes at least one user prefermessaging client 26. Preferably the signals 452 and 454 ence, the method further comprising: include identification information for the second messaging transferring the at least one user preference from the first client 20 such as the second messaging client identification messaging client to the second messaging client; and 382. As illustrated, after receiving the availability signal10 454, the first messaging client 14 sends a data signal 460 to operating within the second communication connection thc mcssagc scrvcr 172. In rcsponsc, thc mcssagc scrvcr 172 by the sccond messaging client using thc at lcast onc sends a data signal 462 to the second messaging client 20. user preference. The second messaging client 20 stores the received portion 3. A method for providing continuity between a plurality of the first client data 17 including the plurality of session 15 of messaging clients as recited in claim I wherein the first data 36 for the messaging session 40 in memory and causes messaging client operates within a first messaging device, the session history ,~5 to be displayed on the display of the and further whcrcin the first messaging device includes a messaging device in which the second messaging client 20 user interface, the method further comprising prior to the operates for access and use by the first account user 29 on transferring step: the second messaging client 20. It will be appreciated by one 2o requesting the transfer of the plurality of client data by a of ordinary skill in the art that the data signals 460 and 462 user input to the user interface of the first messaging can include session data for one messaging session or for a device. plurality of messaging sessions, the first client data 17, or a 4. A mcthod for providing continuity bctwccn a plurality portion of the first client data 17; and similarly that the of second messaging client 20 can store one messaging session ~_5 messaging clients as recited in claim 1 wherein the second messaging client operates ~vithin a ~cond messaging or a plurality of messaging sessions, the first client data 17, device, and further wherein the second messaging device or a portion of the first clicnt data 17 in mcmorv in responsc includes a user interface, the method further comprising to receiving the data signals 460 and 462. prior to the transferring step: ’lhc mcssaging scssion 40 continucs bctwecn thc first account user 29 and the second account user through the 3o requesting the transfer of the plurality of client data by a user input to the r~ser interface of the second messaging sccond mcssaging clicnt 20 and thc mcssaging clicnt 26 as dcvicc. illustrated by the plurality of session messages 412 to 422. 5. A method for providing continuity between a plurality It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that although only the first account user 29 and a second account of messaging clients as recited in claim I wherein the second user are shown in FIG. 23 by way of example, the messaging 35 messaging client operates within a mobile device, wherein in the transferring step lhe transfer of the ph~rality of client session 40 can continue seamlessly betxveen a plurality of account users and associated plurality of messaging clients. data is in response to a movement of the mobile device. Preferably, the first messaging client 14 is disconnected 6. A method for providing continuity between a plurality from the messaging session 40 upon completion of the data of messaging clients as recited in claim 1 wherein in the transfer. (not shown) It will be appreciated by one of 4o transferring step the transfer of the plurality of client data is ordinary skill in the art that the first messaging client 14 can in response to an activation of the second messaging client. be automatically disconnected from the nrcssaging session 7. A method for providing continuity between a plurality 40 or alternatively the first messaging client 14 can be of messaging clients as recited in claim 1 wherein the second disconnected manually by the first accotmt user 29. Simimessaging client operates xvithin a second messaging larly, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art 45 device, wherein the second messaging device includes a data the first messaging client 14 can continue to be active in the transfer application, and further xvherein in lhe transferring messaging session 40 along with the second messaging step the transfer of the plurality of client data is in response client 20. (not shown) to an activation of the data transfer application. Although the invention has been described in ternrs of 50 8. A method for providing continuity between a plurality preferred embodiments, it will be obvious to those skilled in of messaging clients as recited in claim 1 wherein the first the art that various alterations and modifications may be messaging client operates within a first messaging device, made without departing from the invention. Accordingly, it wherein the first messaging device includes a data transfer is intended that all such alterations and modifications be application, and further wherein in the transferring step the considered as within the spirit and scope of the invention as 55 transfer of the plurality of client data is in response to an defined by the appended claims. activation of the data transfer application. What is claimed is: 9. A method for providing continuity between a plnrality 1. Within a messaging communication system having a of messaging clients as recited in claim 1 wherein in the transferring step the transfer of the plurality of client data is nressage stayer for managing the communication of a plurality of messages among a plurality of messaging clients, a 60 in response to the second messaging client establishing the method for providing continuity between the plurality of second communication connection. messaging clients comprising: 10. Amethod for providing continuity between a plnrality establishing a first comnmnication connection including a of messaging clients as recited in claim 1 wherein the second plurality of client data between a first messaging client messaging client operates xvithin a secnnd messaging and the message server; 65 device, and further wherein in the transferring step the transferring the plurality of client data from the first transfer of the plurality of client data is in response to messaging client to a second messaging client; and activating the second messaging device. MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007116 US 6,983,370 B2 45 46 11. A method for providing continuity between a plurality 18. Amethod for providing continuity between a plurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 1 further compris- of messaging clients as recited in claim 1 wherein the ing: phJrality of client data inch~des a plurality of contact data, disconnecting the first messaging client from the first and further wherein the plurality of contact data comprises conrnrunication comrection prior to the transferring 5 at least one account identifier. 19. Amethod for providing continuity between a plurality step. of messaging clients as recited in claim 18 wherein the 12. A method for providing continuity between a plurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 1 further compris- plurality of contact data further comprises a contact information for the at least one account identifier. ing: disconnecting the first messaging client from the first a0 20. Amethod for providing continuity betxveen a plurality of messaging clients as recited in claim I ~vherein the communication connection after the transferring step. plurality of client data includes at least one user preference. 13. A method lbr providing continuity between a plurality 21. Amethod for providing continuity betxveen a plurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 1, wherein the of messaging clients as recited in claim 1 wherein the plurality of clicnt data includcs at least onc clicnt data portion, and further wherein the transferring step comprises a5 message server includes a sewer identity, wherein the plurality of client data includes the server identity, and further transferring the at least one client data portion. wherein the second communication connection is estab14. A method for providing continuity between a plurality lished using the server identity received within the ph~rality of mcssaging clients as rccitcd in claim 13 furthcr comprisof client data. ing prior to the transferring step, sending from the second messaging client to the first messaging client a client data ~o 22. Within a messaging communication system having a plurality of messaging clients, a method for providing conrequirement, wherein the client data portion is determined tinuity between the plurality of messaging clients comprisusing the client data requirement. ing: 15. Within a messaging communication system having a establishing a first communication connection for a first plurality of messaging clients and a message server, a messaging client; method for providing continuity between the plnrality of establishing at least one messaging session having a messaging clients comprising: session identifier between the first messaging client and establishing for a first messaging client a first communiat least one other messaging client of the plurality of cation connection with the message server including a messaging clients; plurality of client data; 3o transferring a plurality of session data for the first session establishing for a second messaging client a second connection including the session identifier from the first communication connection xvith the message server; messaging client to a second messaging client; and establishing a second communication connection includtransferring the plurality of client dala from lhe first ing the plurality of session data for the second mesmessaging client to the second messaging client in saging clicnt; and response to the second communication connection. participating in the at least one messaging session in the 16. Within a messagiug communication system having a second communication connection using the session plurality of messaging clients and a message server, a identifier. method for providing continuity between the plurality of 23. A method for providing continuity betxveen a plurality messaging clients comprising: establishing for a first messaging client a first communi- 4o of messaging clients as recited in claim 22 further comprising: cation connection with the message server including a sending a notification of session data transfer to at least plurality of client data, wherein the first messaging one other messaging client participating in the at least client includes a first account identifier; one messaging session. providing the first account identifier for the first messag- 45 24. Amethod for providing continuity betxveen a plurality ing client to the messaging communication system; of messaging clients as recited in claim 23 wherein the transferring the plurality of client data from the first notification includes a client profile of the second messaging messaging client to a second messaging client, wherein client. the second messaging client includes a second account 2~. A method for providing continuity between a plurality identifier; so of messaging clients as recitcd in claim 23 whcrcin the providing the second account identifier from the second notification is sent from the first messaging client. messaging client to the messaging communication sys26. Amcthod for providing continuity bet~vcen a plurality tem; and of messaging clients as recited in claim 23 wherein the establishing for the second messaging client a second notification is sent from the second messaging client. communication connection with the message server ss 27. Amethod for providing continuity between a plurality including the plurality of client data using the second of messaging clients as recited in claim 23 wherein the account identifier. nressaging conrnrunication systenr further includes a mes17. A method for providing continuity between a plurality saging server, and further wherein lhe notification is sent of messaging clients as recited in claim 1 further compris- from the messaging server. ing: ~0 28. Amethod for providing continuity between a plurality authenticating an account user by the first messaging of messaging clients as recited in claim 23 further comprisclient using an authentication key prior to the transfering: ring stcp, informing an account user of the session data transfer by transferring the authentication key from the first messagthe at least one other messaging client in response to ing client to the second messaging client; and rccciving thc notification. authenticating the account user by tl:e second messaging 29. Amethod for providing continuity between a plurality client using the authentication key. of messaging clients as recited in claim 22 wherein the MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007117 US 6,983,370 B2 47 48 messaging session includes a session history having at least 39. A method for providing continuity between a plurality onc scssion portion, and furthcr whcrcin thc plurality of of mcssaging clicnts as rccitcd in claim 37 whcrcin thc session data further includes the session portion. notification is sent from the second messaging client. 40. A melhod for providing continuity between a plurality 30. A method tbr providing contimfity between a ph~rality of messaging clients as recited in claim 29 further compris- 5 of messaging clients as recited in claim 37 wherein the ing prior to the transferring step, sending from the second notification includes a client profile of the second messaging messaging client to the first messaging client a session data client. requirement, wherein the session portion is determined 41. A melhod for providing continuity between a plurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 36 fi~rther comprisusing the session data requirement. 31. A method for providing continuity between a plurality 10 ing: sending a notification of data transfer, wherein lhe notiof messaging clients as recited in claim 22 wherein the fication includes a client profile for the second mesplurality of session data further includes a session priority indicator, wherein the session priority indicator determines saging client; and sending a plurality of content to the second messaging a priority of the messaging session within the messaging t5 client using the client profile. communication system. 42. A method for providing continuity between a plurality 32. A method for providing continuity between a plurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 22 wherein the of messaging clicnts as rccitcd in claim 36 whcrcin thc messaging session includes a session history having at least plurality of scssion data further includes a scssion priority one session portion, and fi~rther wherein the ph~rality of indicator, wherein the session priority indicator determines a priority of thc messaging scssion within thc sccond mcs- 20 chent data further includes the session portion. 43. A melhod for providing continuity between a plurality saging client. of messaging clients as recited in claim 36 further compris33. A mcthod for providing continuity bctxvccn a plurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 22 wherein the ing prior to the transferring step, sending from the second nressaging client to the first nrcssaging client a client data plurality of session data includes at least one user prefer:5 requiremenl, ~vherein the session portion is determined once. nsing the client data requirement. 34. A method for providing continuity between a plurality 44. A melhod for providing continuity between a plurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 22 further comprisof messaging clients as recited in claim 36 wherein the ing: plurality of client data further includes a session priority sending a notification of session data transfer, wherein the notification includes a client profile for the second ~0 indicator, wherein the session priority indicator delermines the priority of the messaging session within the messaging messaging client; and communication systcm. sending a phJrality of content to the second messaging 4~. A melhod for providing continuity between a plurality client using the client profile. of messaging clients as recited in claim 3~ wherein the 35. A method for providing continuity betxveen a plurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 34 wherein the ~5 plurality of client data includes at least one user preference. 46. Within a messaging communication system having a notification is sent from the first messaging client and the plurality of messaging clients, a method for providing conplurality of content is sent from at least one other messaging tinuity between the plurality of messaging clients comprisclient. ing: 36. Within a messaging communication system having a 4o establishing a first communication connection for a first pNrality of messaging clients, a method for providing conmessaging client; tinuity between the plurality of messaging clients compriscstablishing at lcast one mcssaging scssion having a ing: session identifier bet~vecn the first messaging client and establishing a first communication connection for a first at least one other messaging client of the plurality of messaging client; 45 messaging clients; establishing a plurality of messaging sessions each having transferring a plurality of client data for the first commua scssion idcntificr bctwccn the first mcssaging clicnt nication connection including the session identifier and at least one of the plurality of messaging clients; from the first messaging client to a second messaging transferring a plurality of client data for the first commuclient; nication connection including at least one session iden- s0 establishing a second courmunicafion connection includtifier for at least one messaging session from the first ing the plurality of clienl data for the second messaging messaging client to a second messaging client; client; and establishing a second communication connection includadding the second nressaging client to the at least one ing the plurality of client data for the second messaging messaging session using the session identifier. client; and s5 47. Within a messaging communication system having a participating in the at least one messaging session in the message server for managing a plurality of multiple user second communication connection using the session messaging sessions, wherein the multiple user messaging identifier. sessions comprise communication of a plurality of session 37. A method for providing continuity betxveen a plurality messages among a plurality of messaging clients, a method of messaging clients as recited in clainr 36 further conrpris- 6o for providing continuity between the plurality of messaging ing: chents comprising: sending a notification of data transfer to at least one of the establishing a first communication connection for a first plurality of messaging clients participating in the at messaging client within a multiple user messaging least one messaging session. session of the message server; transferring a plurality of client data for the first comnm38. A method for providing continuity bct~vccn a plurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 37 wherein the nication connection from the first messaging client to a notification is sent from the first messaging client. second messaging client; MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007118 US 6,983,370 B2 49 sending a data transfer message to the message server a memory coupled to the second messaging client for wherein the data transfer message includes a session storing the plurality of client data. reservation for the second messaging client; and 56. A plurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 51 wherein the first messaging device is a fixed device and establishing a second communication connection for the second messaging client within the multiple user mes- 5 further wherein the second device is a mobile device. saging session of the message server using the plurality 57. Aplurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 51 of client data. wherein the first messaging device includes a first memory interconnect for connecting the first messaging device to a 48. A method for providing continuity between a plurality memory storage device, wherein the second messaging of messaging clients as recited in claim 47 wherein the first messaging client has a first client identifier, wherein the xo device includes a second memory interconnect for connecting the second messaging device to the memory storage multiple user messaging session has a session identifier, device, xvherein the first messaging device stores the pluwherein the second messaging client has a second client rality of client data on the memory storage device, and identifier, wherein the plurality of client data includes the further wherein the second messaging device receives the session identifier, and further wherein the data transfer message includes the session identifier, the first client iden- ~s plurality of client data from the memory storage device connecting to the second memory interconnect. tifier, and the second client identifier. 58. Aplurality of urcssaging clients as recited in claim 57 49. A method for providing continuity between a plurality of messaging clients as recited in claiur 48, whcreh~ the wherein the first messaging client and the second messaging client operate xvithin a messaging device. multiple user messaging session includes at least one other 2~ 59. A messaging communication system for providing messaging client, the method further comprising: continuity between a plurality of messaging clients comsending a notification of data transfer to the at least one prising: other urcssaging client. thc plurality of mcssaging clicnts including: 511. A plurality of messaging clicnts within a messaging a first messaging client, communication system for providing continuity between the a second messaging client, and plurality of messaging clients comprising: at least one other messaging client; a first messaging client, for establishing a first commua message server for managing the communication of a nication connection including a plurality of clicnt data plurality of session messages among the plurality of with a message server; and messaging clients, wherein the message server is proa second messaging client for receiving the plurality of grammed to: client data from the first messaging client and for 3o establish a first communication connection for the first establishing a second communication connection messaging client including the plurality of client data with the message establish at least one messaging session having a sesserver. sion identifier between the first messaging client and $1. Aplurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 611 the at least one other messaging client, wherein the first messaging client operates within a first 35 transfer a plurality of client data for the first commumessaging device and the second messaging client operates nication connection including the session identifier within a second messaging device. from the first messaging client to the second mes$2. Aplurality of mcssaging clicnts as rccitcd in claim 51 saging client, wherein the first messaging device includes: 40 cstablish a sccond communication conncction includa memory coupled to the first messaging client for storing ing the plurality of client data for the second mesthe plurality of client data, wherein the first messaging saging client, and client accesses the plurality of client data from the transfer the at least one messaging session from the first memory, and further wherein the first messaging client messaging client to the second messaging client transfers the plurality of client data to the second 45 using the session identifier. messaging device. 60. A messaging communication system for providing 53. Aplurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 51 continuity between a plurality of nressaging clients as wherein the first messaging device includes: recited in claim 59 wherein the message server includes a a memory coupled to the first messaging client for storing server memory, wherein the first messaging client stores the the plurality of client data, wherein the first messaging 50 plurality of client data in the server memory, and further client accesses the plurality of client data from the ~vherein the second messaging client retrieves the plurality memory, and of client data from the server memory for use in the a data transfer application coupled to the first messaging operation of the second communication connection. client for transferring the plurality of client data to the 61. A messaging communication system as recited in second messaging device. 55 claim 59 whcrcin thc first mcssaging dicnt opcratcs within 54. Aplurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 51 a first messaging device and the second messaging client wherein the second messaging device includes: operates within a second messaging device. a memory coupled to the second messaging client, 62. A messaging communication system as recited in wherein the second messaging client receives the phJclaim 59 wherein the first messaging client and the second rality of client data and stores the plurality of client data 60 messaging client operate within a messaging device. in the memory. 63. A messaging communication system as recited in 55. Aplurality of messaging clients as recited in claim 51 claim 59 wherein the messaging communication system wherein the second messaging device includes: comprises a first messaging system and a second messaging data transtEr application conpled to the second messaging system, ~vherein the first messaging client fl~nctions within client for receiving the plurality of client data, wherein 65 the first messaging system, and further wherein the second the second messaging client processes the received messaging chent functions within the second messaging plurality of client data, and system. MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007119 US 6,983,370 B2 51 52 154. A messaging communication system as recited in a second messaging client for establishing a second claim 63 wherein the first messaging system comprises a communication connection including the plurality of wired messaging system and further wherein the second client data; and messaging system comprises a wireless messaging system. a server memory coupled to the plurality of messaging 65. A messaging COlllrllUllicatioll system as recited in clients, wherein the first messaging client stores tile claim 63 wherein the first messaging system comprises a plurality of client data in the server memory, ancl wirclcss messaging systcm and furthcr whcrcin the sccond furthcr whcrcin the second mcssaging client rctricvcs messaging system comprises a wired messaging system. the plurality of client data from the server memory for 66. A messaging communication system for providing use in the operation of the second communication continuity between a plurality of messaging clients com- 10 connection. prising: 67. A messaging communication system as recited in the plurality of messaging clients including: claim 156 wherein the server memory is contained within a a first messaging client for establishing a first commu- message server of the messaging communication system. nication connection including a plurality of client data, and MS-MOTO SDFLA 00000007120

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