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)

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

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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-

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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

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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

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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-

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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;

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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.

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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

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