Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080207164 | Traffic Shaping of Cellular Service Consumption Through Modification of Consumer Behavior Encouraged by Cell-based Pricing Advantages - Changes in wireless service user behavior are encouraged and produced to shape utilization patterns among cells within a rate plan region by using shaping rules which define potential discounts from a standard charge rate under certain cell-specific utilization conditions, analyzing the shaping rules and utilization statistics of a cell upon service initiation, generating a discount from the standard rate for underutilized cells. The user is notified of these discount opportunities using text messages, icons, or other means. Over time, the users learn that at certain places and times, significant discounts are offered, and thus changes their behavior to take advantage of those discounts, thereby shaping traffic in a manner desired by the service provider. | 08-28-2008 |
20080214144 | System and Method for Message-Based Access - A method and system for providing message-based access to services includes receiving a request message from a mobile subscriber relating to a service that is desired by the mobile subscriber, routing the request message for processing, performing one or more activities in accordance with the requested service, returning a response message to the mobile subscriber, and facilitating/enabling/etc. access to the requested service. | 09-04-2008 |
20080220739 | BILLING A COLLECT CALL TO A CELLULAR TELEPHONE - There is provided a method for billing a collect call to a cellular telephone. The method includes (a) obtaining, from a party at a cellular telephone, consent to pay for a call, and (b) sending to the cellular telephone, a text message that contains an invoice for the call. | 09-11-2008 |
20080227431 | DATA PROCESSING SYSTEM AND METHOD, COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD, AND CHARGING APPARATUS AND METHOD - In a communication system for serving data corresponding to a request from the user and charging the user for the data served to the user, when the user designates a result of a desired one of a plurality of different operations, a usage management unit selects a one, corresponding to the user's designation, of a plurality of processors which effect operations corresponding to a plurality of different algorithms, respectively. When the processor corresponding to the designation is selected, an algorithm processor makes an operation corresponding to the designation. A management center charges the user for the use of the algorithm. | 09-18-2008 |
20080233917 | Method for Implementing Charging in Intelligent Networks - A method for implementing charging in intelligent networks is provided, including: Step a: configuring a first paid service account as an attached account to a second paid service account, and setting an interface for invoking services and interface for deducting fees for the second paid service; Step b: when the first paid service is to be used by the first paid service account, determining whether the first paid service account is configured as an attached account to the second paid service account, if yes, invoking the interface for invoking services to authenticate the second paid service account; if it is authenticated, performing Step c; otherwise, terminating the procedure; and Step c: when the first paid service has been used by the first paid service account, calculating the fee and invoking the interface for deducting fees to deduct the fee from the second paid service account. | 09-25-2008 |
20080254764 | ROAMING METHOD WITH CALL ANNOUNCEMENT - A method is disclosed for completing a roaming cellular call between a roaming subscriber and another party. The first step is initiating the roaming call between the roaming subscriber and the another party. The roaming subscriber is provided with a prepaid debit account. The roaming subscriber is then connected to a cellular network when a connection between the subscriber and the another party is to be made such that a call has been built over a calling network. The prepaid debit account of the roaming subscriber is then examined to determine the balance thereof, and then the roaming subscriber is informed of financial information regarding the call connection prior to connecting the roaming subscriber to the another party over the already built call. | 10-16-2008 |
20080254765 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MONETARY BILLING FOR THE USE OF CONTENT SERVICES IN INTERNET SITES, BY SENDING SMS MESSAGES FROM CELLULAR PHONES - A system and method for billing web services provided by a service provider to a user. A server of the service provider is connected to a computerized terminal of the user, and to a telecommunication device of the user via a communication link. The system and method generate codes related to each user, web service and price for using the web service. The server sends the code and receives the code from the telecommunication device. Upon reception the server provides the web service to the user, and bill the price from the account of the telecommunication device. | 10-16-2008 |
20080261558 | System and Method for Transferring Credit Between Mobile Phone Subscribers | 10-23-2008 |
20080261559 | CAMEL SERVICE CHARGING IN IMS NETWORKS - IMS networks and associated methods are disclosed that provide charging for CAMEL services provided in the IMS network. If a CAMEL service is provided by an application server for a session in an IMS network, then the application server generates CAMEL charging data for the service provided and also generates a charging message, such as a Diameter ACR message. The application server includes the CAMEL charging data in the charging message and transmits the charging message to a charging collector system. The charging collector system generates a CDR for the session, and maps the CAMEL charging data from the charging message to the CDR. The charging collector system then transmits the CDR to a billing system. The billing system may then charge for the CAMEL service provided in the IMS network. | 10-23-2008 |
20080268811 | PAYMENT APPLICATION DOWNLOAD TO MOBILE PHONE AND PHONE PERSONALIZATION - A method and system of personalizing a mobile phone over a wireless network is provided. The method is fast, reliable, and eliminates the need for an uninterrupted online connection to a host server in order to achieve successful download of user information. With the method and system, a mobile phone can be personalized for various purposes, such as for conducting financial transactions. | 10-30-2008 |
20080268812 | Method and System For Prepaid Calls on Postpaid Bills - The application relates to the service “pre-paid calls on post-paid bill”. If, for example, there is no money left on a caller's pre-paid account when calling a specific number, the call is charged to the post-paid subscription of a subscriber who agreed to take over the costs for these specific calls. Or if a business buys pre-paid cards for his staff, calls of the employees on working days in the office hours are billed on the post-paid bills of the business rather than on the pre-paid cards. | 10-30-2008 |
20080268813 | DEVICE BILLING AGENT - Access devices using billing agents and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises capturing, at an access device, a communication to be transmitted from the access device. The method further comprises determining billing information about the communication and transmitting, from the wireless communications device, the billing information to a billing system. | 10-30-2008 |
20080274715 | Call Cost Indicator For Mobile Devices - A method and apparatus to enhance decision making capabilities of a user of a mobile device, the method having the steps of: receiving, at the mobile device, information related to the cost of mobile services; and communicating an indication of the cost of mobile services to the user. | 11-06-2008 |
20080280589 | Wireless Device with Billing Code Button - A wireless communication device comprises a button depressable to associate a communication with the device with a billing account. A method is also disclosed of assigning a communication with a wireless device to a billing account. The method comprises receiving a code from the wireless device corresponding to the billing account, and associating the communication with a billing account. | 11-13-2008 |
20080287094 | AUTHORIZATION AND AUTHENTICATION OF USER ACCESS TO A DISTRIBUTED NETWORK COMMUNICATION SYSTEM WITH ROAMING FEATURE - A system and method for providing roaming access on a network are disclosed. The network includes a plurality of wireless and/or wired access points. A user may access the network by using client software on a client computer (e.g., a portable computing device) to initiate an access procedure. In response, a network management device operated by a network provider may return an activation response message to the client. The client may send the user's username and password to the network provider. The network provider may rely on a roaming partner, another network provider with whom the user subscribes for internet access, for authentication of the user. Industry-standard methods such as RADIUS, CHAP, or EAP may be used for authentication. The providers may exchange pricing and service information and account information for the authentication session. A customer may select a pricing and service option from a list of available options. | 11-20-2008 |
20080287095 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATION, REGISTRATION AND MOBILE PHONE BILLING OF A NETWORK-ENABLED APPLICATION WITH ONE-TIME OPT-IN - A method of providing a service to a customer comprises receiving a request by a customer for an item of content, providing to the customer an option to subscribe to a service for a limited time, if the customer opts to subscribe, then providing the service for the limited time, and if the customer does not opt to subscribe, then not providing the service for the limited time. | 11-20-2008 |
20080287096 | ACCESS CONTROL - A monitoring device makes decision on whether a service requested by a consumer is a sponsored service to the specific consumer or not based on sponsoring rules, i.e. the delivery of the requested service to the consumer can be sponsored if a sponsoring value of the consumer is sufficient in relation to a charge of delivery of the requested service. The sponsoring rules contain various pieces of information for recognizing a sponsored service and for determining the sponsoring value and the cost of the delivery. The sponsoring of different services to different consumers can be controlled, created, deleted, maintained or modified by means of the sponsoring rules. The sponsor, such an advertiser is able to control the cost of sponsoring by affecting the sponsoring value. | 11-20-2008 |
20080287097 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATIC CALLING UNIT REPLENISHMENT - A method for automatically replenishing vehicle calling units is disclosed herein. The method includes selecting, in response to a user input, a call unit rate plan including parameters designating automatic replenishment of calling units for loading into a telematics unit. A calling plan configuration signal is transmitted to the telematics unit, where the calling plan configuration signal is indicative of the selected call unit rate plan parameters. The telematics unit is configured with the selected call unit rate plan parameters. A current cycle of the rate plan is monitored, via the telematics unit, for its expiration; and the telematics unit determines whether an additional cycle is available in a plan duration upon expiration of the current cycle. If the additional cycle is available, the telematics unit automatically replenishes the calling units to a number of calling units available per cycle upon the expiration of the current cycle. | 11-20-2008 |
20080299943 | APPARATUSES, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR DETERMINING A CHARGE FOR INFORMATIONAL MATERIAL - Provided is an apparatus for determining a charge to an entity associated with informational material disseminated to at least one mobile terminal. The apparatus includes a processing unit that may be configured to obtain respective location data of the mobile terminal during and subsequent to rendering of the informational material at the mobile terminal. A billing unit may be configured to determine a charge to an entity associated with the informational material based at least in part on movement of the at least one mobile terminal subsequent to rendering of the informational material as indicated by the location data. Corresponding methods and computer program products are also provided. | 12-04-2008 |
20080299944 | Charging element capacity control in an IMS network - Systems and methods are disclosed that allow an equipment vendor to monitor and detect overloads of IMS charging element equipment (e.g., the CCF or CDF) relative to certain vendor-specified thresholds and, responsive to detecting overloads, vendors may take action to exercise capacity control and/or collect revenue for the overload conditions. | 12-04-2008 |
20080299945 | METHOD FOR A MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE TO SELECT A CHARGING SCHEME - A method for a mobile communication device to select a charging scheme is disclosed. The method can be implemented by a mobile communication device connecting to one of a plurality of foreign networks. The mobile communication device builds a connection with a home network through the connected foreign network. The home network sends charging scheme information to the mobile communication device by a communication method and the mobile communication device sends information of a selected charging scheme of a selected foreign network to the home network by the communication method. The mobile communication device then obtains services of the home network with the selected charging scheme through the selected foreign network. | 12-04-2008 |
20080305765 | Chat and Voice Service - A chat service is free when used by an authenticated user of a mobile phone service. If a non-authenticated user attempts to use the chat service, the non-authenticated user may be allowed to access a subset of the chat system's user functions, the non-authenticated user may be allowed to access the chat service but only by also listening to advertisements, the non-authenticated user may not be allowed to access the chat service at all, and/or the non-authenticated user may be provided with an opportunity to become authenticated. Opportunities to become authenticated may include providing that the user may subscribe to a specific mobile phone service, may pay monetary consideration, and/or may provide other consideration, such as information about the user. | 12-11-2008 |
20080311883 | Charging Mechanisms for Ip Multimedia Services - A method of reserving credit for a mobile subscriber in respect of an IP multimedia service. The method comprises, following initial registration of the subscriber to the IP Multimedia service but prior to invocation of an IP Multimedia service, using the early session establishment procedure to reserve a credit amount at a charging control node and to notify an IP Multimedia Serving Element of the credit reservation, whereupon, at invocation of said IP multimedia service, the IP Multimedia Serving Element is able to proceed immediately with the session establishment. | 12-18-2008 |
20080311884 | BILLING IN A PACKET DATA NETWORK - A method for billing in a packet data network (WISP1) comprising at least one user's terminal (MN), comprising the steps of: | 12-18-2008 |
20080311885 | Traffic Shaping of Cellular Service Consumption Through Delaying of Service Completion According to Geographical-Based Pricing Advantages - Changes in user behavior of usage of wireless services from a mobile device are encouraged in order to effect shaping of traffic and utilization patterns among a plurality of cells within a rate plan region, wherein a discount indicator disposed in said mobile device is provided to notify a user of a discount available for consuming wireless service from a given cell. A geo-cost policy established for that user or mobile device in which rules and conditions according to the available discounts and class of service are defined. A service completer queues services and automatically completes queued services upon present conditions meeting said geo-cost policy rules, such as delaying and later delivering messages when the mobile device relocates to a cell where discounts are being offered. | 12-18-2008 |
20080318545 | CONDITIONAL CALL TREATMENT FOR PREPAID CALLS - A method and system for processing a prepaid call in a mobile telecommunications network is provided. A default call processing parameter for processing a call can control the processing of the call when communications between the Mobile Switching Center and the Service Control Point fails. The value of the default call processing parameter can be set to permit the call to continue or to be terminated in accordance with a characteristic associated with the call, such as a characteristic of the dialed telephone number or a nature of address in the case of an outgoing call or a location of the terminating mobile subscriber in the case of an incoming call. | 12-25-2008 |
20090005001 | System and method for a wireless handset upgrade credit - A system and method for a feature credit. A feature credit is determined for a user in response to services being utilized by the user. A feature credit balance is adjusted in response to determining the feature credit. | 01-01-2009 |
20090005002 | Method and system for collecting information about portable device usage - Methods and portable devices for collecting information about portable device usage are disclosed. Embodiments provide convenient, efficient, and cost-effective methods of monitoring and collecting information about on-portal/off-portal usage, on-network/off-network data usage, interactive (e.g., streaming media, interactive gaming, mobile conferencing, etc.) usage, and wireless IP usage, where the portable device usage is monitored by the portable device itself. | 01-01-2009 |
20090011737 | Method for Charging Multimedia Message Service - The present invention discloses a method for charging Multimedia Message Service (MMS), where a corresponding relationship between a Mobile Station International ISDN Number (MSISDN) of a receiver and a Recipient Multimedia Message Service Center (Recipient-MMSC) that sends an MMS to the receiver is set in an adjacent Wireless Application Protocol Gateway (WAP-GW) which the receiver accesses. The method includes: upon the receipt of the MMS, the receiver sends an MMS receipt confirmation including the MSISDN of the receiver to the adjacent WAP-GW which the receiver accesses; the adjacent WAP-GW which the receiver accesses determines the Recipient-MMSC that corresponds to the MSISDN of the receiver contained in the confirmation according to the set corresponding relationship, and sends the confirmation to the Recipient-MMSC; and the Recipient-MMSC triggers the charging mechanism and takes the receipt of the confirmation as a charging point for charging. | 01-08-2009 |
20090017787 | CHARGING METHOD IN POC SERVICE - The invention discloses a charging method in PoC service so as to solve the problem that a Push to talk over Cellular (PoC) user's speech priority setting is not limitation and thereby causes the priority policy loses its speech scheduling capability in the prior art. The method disclosed in the present invention includes the following processes: after a speech of a user is completed, the PoC server logs charging information and a speech priority of the user, and uploads the charging information and the speech priority to a charging system; the charging system charges the user in accordance with the charging information and a charging rate corresponding to the speech priority. | 01-15-2009 |
20090017788 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SEPARABLE VOICE BILLING FOR BUSINESS AND PERSONAL AIRTIME USE - Separable billing of business and non-business calls to/from a remote station or wireless communications device is provided. Business calls may be billed to the business, or other entity that provides a telephone to a user, and non-business calls may be billed to a user personally. When a call is desired to be connected, it is determined if the number of the call is a business number. If the number is a business number, the call is placed and billed to the business. If the number is not a business number, the call is placed and billed to the user when the user approves personal billing for the call. If the user does not approve personal billing of a non-business call, the call may be denied. | 01-15-2009 |
20090017789 | Point of presence on a mobile network - A wireless device with a capacity for high bandwidth connectivity adapted to provide access to the Internet or other WAN for a single user or multiple concurrent users. The wireless access device acts as a network point of presence to provide access to a number of different devices. Authorization is performed and billing measures are established in real time. Billing credits may be provided to an account associated with the user of the wireless access device based upon selected metrics (for example, duration of the connection or amount of data passed). In certain implementations, devices that are previously unknown to the wireless access device and that have not received a wireless access device-specific configuration can be provided network access. Thus, instead of a hard-wired point of presence to the Internet, a mobile, ad hoc point of presence is established through the wireless access device. | 01-15-2009 |
20090036093 | PHONE CALL ACTIVATION AND BILLING SYSTEM - A phone call activation and billing system using the Internet, which includes a user's phone, a first CPU operably associated with said user's phone, the first CPU having operating hardware and software and web browser software operably connected to the Internet to permit communicating with search engine software to generate a listed telephone number at a search engine page and software for activating a call between a second phone associated with the listed telephone number and said user's phone associated with a user's number. Software is provided for billing time associated with the call. | 02-05-2009 |
20090036094 | ACCOUNTING OF DATA TRANSMISSION COSTS IN A MOBILE RADIO NETWORK - A method is provided for the accounting of data transmission costs in a mobile radio network, in particular text and/or image data with or without sound, such that data which is or will be transmitted is assigned at least one cost signal for the costs of sending one or more replies relating to the transmitted data, and that this or these cost signal(s) are transmitted to the recipient(s) of the data. | 02-05-2009 |
20090042536 | Method and apparatus to manage femtocell traffic - Common techniques for processing cellular service uses a signal cellular tower, but these techniques are limited to the capacity of the single cellular tower. In contrast, a system employing an example embodiment of the invention increases ability to process cellular service by using an access point access network using resident wireless devices, referred to as a femtocell. A system supports communications of a resident and roaming device while employing the access point access network, based on database information, to support soft handoff between adjacent femtocells or from femtocell to cell tower and vice-versa. As a result, the system enables the resident and roaming devices to have seamless transitions between the cellular access network and the access point access network. Thus, the access point access network supplements cellular access networks and can provide cellular service regardless of the capacity of the cellular tower. | 02-12-2009 |
20090042537 | SUBSCRIBER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR A COMMUNICATION NETWORK - A subscriber management system for a communication system having a radio access network coupled to by a gateway node to a packet switched network. The system consolidates three prior art subscriber management system components, a DPI device, a QoS Policy Manager | 02-12-2009 |
20090042538 | METHOD FOR OBTAINING PACKET BILLING INFORMATION BASED ON SESSION INITIATION PROTOCOL - Disclosed is a method for controlling billing in a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) call server The method includes the steps of: receiving an invite message from a calling SIP terminal; transmitting a ( | 02-12-2009 |
20090054030 | MOBILE BILLBOARD AND USAGE ADVISOR - System for providing dynamic recommendations associated with usage of a wireless communication service from a service provider (SP) of a user. A memory area stores at least one or more of the following service usage information: a service plan of the wireless communication service of the user, a service charge structure of a wireless communication service, a service coverage area of the wireless communication service provider (SP), a usage information of the wireless communication service of the user, and tariff information associated with the usage. A processor is configured to execute computer-executable instructions for monitoring the usage of the wireless communication service. The processor is also configured to correlate the monitored usage with the service usage information stored on the memory area. The processor is configured to generate a recommendation based on the correlation of the monitored usage and the service usage information. The generated recommendation provides a cost analysis of using the wireless communication service by the user. An interface provides the generated recommendation associated with the usage to the user. | 02-26-2009 |
20090054031 | System and Method for Authorizing and Monetizing Collect Cellular Telephone Calls - The collect cellular call identifies the cellular telephone carrier and called party cell phone. After determining whether the carrier and phone accept message service charges (SMS), a voice response module seeks positive authorization from the called party with the telephone. If positive, the system facilitates a connection between the calling party and the called party and initiates a predetermined billing charge assigned to the cellular telephone number. If the carrier or the cell phone is not enabled or if no authorization is obtained from the called party, the system facilitates a denial of completion signal. A timer monitors the length a the collect cellular call. Databases are accessed to locate the carrier and called cell phone number approved list of numbers and deny-service list of numbers. | 02-26-2009 |
20090054032 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND VPBX FOR SENDING SHORT MESSAGES - A method, a system and a Virtual Private Branch Exchange (VPBX) for sending short messages, wherein users in a group can send short messages to each other by using a special service number plus an extension number; users in a group can send short messages to users outside the group by entering the special service number plus a called number; and users outside a group can send short messages to users in the group by using the main number of the group plus an extension number. Short messages can be sent between users in the same group or between users in the group and users outside the group by using pseudo numbers, this protects the privacy of the numbers of users in a group and breaks through the limitation that only users in the same VPMN group can use pseudo numbers to send short messages to each other; users in a group communicate with users outside the group through short messages using the main number of the group plus an extension number, a unified service window is open to external users and a good image is set up for the group. In addition, the interaction with the intelligent network for the translation of the calling number and the called number of a short message is avoided, thus reducing the impact of the service system on the intelligent network. | 02-26-2009 |
20090061815 | METHODS AND PLATFORMS FOR REFRESHING A PRE-PAID ACCOUNT UPON DEMAND BY A USER - Methods and pre-paid platforms are provided to allow a user of a communication device that has a pre-paid account to submit an electronic request for a refresh of the account. The request is presented within a message sent to an address of an entity in control of the account. The entity in control of the account can then select within the message to accept or deny the request for the refresh. The pre-paid platform responds to the selection by either denying the request or by refreshing the account. The pre-paid platform may charge a monetary account for the amount of the refresh that is applied. The request may be for a custom or pre-defined amount. The response by the entity in control may accept a proposed amount or may specify a different amount for the refresh. | 03-05-2009 |
20090061816 | Network controlled classification of service tariff class - The present invention provides a solution to prevent customers from misusing of telecommunication services and to enable measures to charge customers for actual used services in case of misuse. The present invention also provides a solution to offer personalized content services. Hereto a user identity, a user equipment Identity and/or an actual used service type are analyzed and the service tariff class is changed based on the analysis. | 03-05-2009 |
20090061817 | Carried-Forward Service Units and Commoditization Thereof - Methods, systems, and products are disclosed for rolling over unused credits. An available number of service units is provided during a billing cycle. The number of service units consumed during the billing cycle is compared to the available number of service units. When service units remain at an end of the billing cycle, then unused service units are rolled over to another billing cycle. | 03-05-2009 |
20090068981 | CHARGING EFFICIENCY - A method for performing charging in a telecommunications system, comprising: storing at a subscriber information store subscription information including charging arrangement information indicative of the charging arrangement for a first communication terminal operating in the telecommunications system; providing by means of packet data interface apparatus packet data communication services to the first terminal, the packet data interface apparatus being capable of interfacing between the first communication terminal and a packet-switched data link to another communications terminal; generating by means of packet data interface apparatus charging messages indicative of the usage of the packet data communication services by the first terminal; transferring the charging messages to charging apparatus; and performing by means of the charging apparatus a charging operation to attribute to a subscriber for the first communications terminal a charge for use of the communication services by the first terminal; the method further including the steps of: transferring the charging arrangement information to the packet data interface apparatus; and storing at the packet data interface apparatus the charging arrangement information for the first communication terminal; and wherein the stop of generating charge messages comprises generating the said charging messages dependant on the charging arrangement information for the first communication terminal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090075626 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS OF CHARGING FOR GROUP MODE SERVICE - An charging method for group mode service relating to the group mode service in communication networks is disclosed, the method includes: sending, an initial accounting request to a charging system in response to receiving a service request for establishing a group session from a client, to enable the charging system account at an initial rate; and initiating an interim accounting request to the charging system to enable the charging system account at a rate corresponding to the current group scale in response to detecting that group scale is changed according to a preset threshold for the number of group users. The present invention also provides the corresponding application server, charging apparatus and group mode service's underlying system. By using the present invention to charge the group mode service, the charging interaction between the application server and the charging system is substantially reduced, and the network system resource consumed is reduced. | 03-19-2009 |
20090081988 | Recovery of Lost Revenue in Prepaid Calls - A method and system for processing a prepaid call in a mobile telecommunications network wherein charges can be recovered for the call after the SCP and Prepaid Platform lose contact with the MSC or GMSC handling the call. A Trigger Detection Point known as “O-Disconnect” or “T-Disconnect” can be armed in a prepaid subscriber's HLR and can be triggered when the MSC/GMSC loses contact with the SCP. The MSC/GMSC can record the time that the TDP was triggered in memory. The MSC/GMSC can then monitor for call disconnect and record the disconnection time in memory. When the call is disconnected the MSC/GMSC can renew contact with the SCP. MSC/GMSC can identify the call using a unique call identifier and advise the SCP of the times at which contact was lost and the call was disconnected. The SCP can use this information to calculate a charge for the portion of the call that occurred after contact with the MSC/GMSC was lost so that the entire call can be charged in near real-time. | 03-26-2009 |
20090081989 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FINANCIAL TRANSACTION INTEROPERABILITY ACROSS MULTIPLE MOBILE NETWORKS - A processor-readable medium stores code representing instructions to cause a processor to perform a process is described. The code includes code to receive from a first mobile device associated with a first network a minute transfer request. The minute transfer request is operative to transfer data associated with an allowable use time of the first mobile device from an account associated with the first mobile device associated with the first network to an account associated with a second mobile device associated with a second network different than the first network. The code includes code to send from the first network to the account associated with the second mobile device the data associated with the allowable use time based on the minute transfer request. The data associated with the allowable use time represents at least a portion of the allowable use time of the first mobile device. | 03-26-2009 |
20090088129 | CHARGING FOR ROAMING USERS IN IMS NETWORKS - Communication networks and methods are disclosed for sharing charging information between a home IMS network and a visited IMS network. If a signaling message for a session is received in the visited IMS network, the visited IMS network assigns a visited charging identifier (e.g., ICID), and shares the visited charging identifier with the home IMS network through signaling messages. Similarly, the home IMS network assigns a home charging identifier, and shares the home charging identifier with the visited IMS network through signaling messages. When CDRs are generated in the home IMS network and the visited IMS network, the networks include the home charging identifier and the visited charging identifier in the CDRs so that billing systems may more easily correlate the CDRs from the different IMS networks. | 04-02-2009 |
20090088130 | Method for Dynamic Multi-Level Pricing for Wireless Communications According to Quality of Service - A method for pricing wireless communications services on a wireless network is described. A selection of a plurality of priorities available for transmitting a wireless communication transaction on a wireless network is provided, wherein the priority to be selected corresponds to the speed and allowable delay by which the transaction is to be transmitted. Transactions of lower priority are temporarily discontinued in favor of higher priority transactions when network capacity reaches a predetermined level. An amount is charged for the wireless communication transaction at a price corresponding to the priority and duration to be selected. | 04-02-2009 |
20090093231 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND DEVICE FOR CHARGING IN PoC SYSTEM - Embodiments of the present invention disclose a charging method in Push to talk over Cellular (PoC) system. The method includes receiving, by a charging function, a charging request from a PoC server, wherein the charging request includes user access priority information; resolving, by a charging function (CF), the charging request to acquire the user access priority information; and performing, upon the PoC server, a charging policy associated with the user access priority according to the user access priority information. Embodiments of the present invention also disclose a charging system in PoC system, a PoC server and a charging function (CF). By applying the present invention, different charging policies are applied to different user based on the differentiation of user access priority. Therefore, the charging is more accurate and the present invention is also convenient to apply. | 04-09-2009 |
20090098853 | METHOD, APPARATUS AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR PROVISION OF GROUPED IDENTITY INFORMATION - An apparatus for provision of grouped identity information may include a processor. The processor may be configured to receive an indication of a subscription for a registration event package, access information related to the subscription and indicative of identities and corresponding services supported for each of the identities, communicate group identity information to a terminal, and enable selection of a particular identity associated with initiating a particular service. | 04-16-2009 |
20090117874 | Implementing generic cell global identity for unlicensed mobile access - A method for causing GSM location information and UMA billing information to be encapsulated in a single CGI structural element during a standalone UMA network access session comprises a plurality of operations. An operation is provided for applying at least one algorithm to location information of a Mobile Station (MS) serving a subscriber device during a standalone UMA network access session for causing at least one of compressing, re-aligning and repackaging the MS location information whereby an amount of MS location information holding space of a GSM Edge Radio Access Network (GERAN) Cell Global Identity (CGI) structural element occupied by the MS location information is reduced such that a portion of the MS location information holding space becomes unused. An operation is performed for inserting UMA billing information into at least a portion of the unused portion of the MS location information holding space. | 05-07-2009 |
20090124233 | Methods, Systems, And Computer Program Products For Controlling Data Transmission Based On Power Cost - Methods, systems, and computer program products are disclosed for controlling data transmission based on power cost. A power cost per unit data associated with successfully sending data from a sending device to a receiving device in a communications network is determined. The determined power cost per unit data is compared to a first threshold. Transmission of data from the sending device to the receiving device is delayed based on a determination that the power cost per unit data exceeds the first threshold. | 05-14-2009 |
20090124234 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SECURING TRANSACTIONS MADE THROUGH A MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE - A method for transmitting data between a mobile communication device and a server. The method includes running a mobile application on the mobile communication device. The mobile application is hosted on the mobile communication device through the server as a Software as a Service (SaaS). The method further includes transmitting data associated with the mobile application between the mobile communication device and the server, in which transmission of the data between the mobile communication device and the server is monitored through the server. | 05-14-2009 |
20090149154 | METHOD FOR INTELLIGENT DATA HANDLING FOR MOBILE CALL BILLING USING IMS - A method for billing mobile device calls and traffic data, the method includes: receiving a number, in response to a user's input into a mobile communications device; comparing the received number to a contact list with annotations; determining whether the received number corresponds to a number in the contact list with annotations; generating a directed communication in response to the received number; sending a corresponding annotation to a billing system in response to the determining, and the initiation of the directed communication; wherein the mobile communication device generates the contact list with annotations, in response to the user input on a mobile communication device; and wherein the contact list and annotations are placed in a storage medium within the mobile communication device. | 06-11-2009 |
20090156162 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, COMMUNICATION TERMINAL, SERVER, COMMUNICATION METHOD TO BE USED THEREIN AND PROGRAM THEREFOR | 06-18-2009 |
20090156163 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND COMPUTER READABLE MEDIA FOR PROVIDING VARIABLE RATE PREPAID TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES UTILIZING A WEIGHTING FUNCTION - Methods, systems, and computer program products for providing variable rate prepaid telecommunication services utilizing a weighting function are disclosed. The method includes intercepting a signaling message that includes an available credit value associated with a prepaid communications session. A credit adjustment factor based on at least one call parameter associated with the prepaid communications session is determined. The method also includes applying the credit adjustment factor to the available credit value to generate an adjusted available credit value. The signaling message is modified to include the adjusted available credit value. | 06-18-2009 |
20090163172 | METHOD, APPARATUS AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR ONLINE CHARGING - A method and apparatus for invoking online charging of a service requested via a communications network and to be accessed according to a first protocol, wherein subscriber information is received from a first network element ( | 06-25-2009 |
20090170469 | ACCURATE BILLING FOR SERVICES USED ACROSS MULTIPLE SERVING NODES - A method, wireless service node, and wireless communication system, are provided to manage wireless service usage and service node migration in the wireless communication system. A registration request from a wireless device ( | 07-02-2009 |
20090170470 | METHOD, APPARATUS OR SOFTWARE FOR MANAGING A CALL IN A TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK - A method, apparatus and software is disclosed for managing a call in a telecommunications network, in which an instruction from a calling device to establish a call to a destination is received; a first command to connect a first call leg to the calling device is issued; the first call leg to the calling device is connected; a second command to connect a second call leg to the calling device is issued; the second call leg is connected to the destination instead of the calling device; and the first and second call legs are connected to provide the call between the calling device and the destination. | 07-02-2009 |
20090176478 | Billing off-net users for telecom services - Disclosed herein is a method of billing a user for Voice short messaging services. A user subscribing to a first network may send a first Voice short messaging service (Voice SMS) message to a recipient user subscribing to a second network. The recipient user may reply to or forward the first Voice SMS message. The Voice SMS message reply may be routed to an intelligent network element of the first network. The intelligent network element prompts the recipient for a payment for delivering the Voice SMS message reply to the sender. The off-net recipient user may make the payment through a premium chargeable SMS message. A confirmation of this payment is communicated to the intelligent network element by the second network. | 07-09-2009 |
20090176479 | Differentiated Network Indication - A system and method in a cellular telecommunication network for indicating tariff-related information to an end user having the ability to access network areas with different charging tariffs. In one embodiment, a Charging Indication Data Base (CIDB) in the access network stores charging indications for different combinations of end users and cell identities, and a Rate Indication Data Base (RIDB) stores tariff information for the core network. When the end user accesses the cellular network through an identified cell, a radio network controller (RNC) retrieves a charging indication from the CIDB and sends it to a Mobile Switching Center (MSC). The MSC uses the charging indication to retrieve tariff-related information from the RIDB and sends it to the end user. The CIDB and RIDB may also be co-located in the core network. | 07-09-2009 |
20090186598 | Automatic Step-Down of Prepaid Accounts for Communication Services - Subscribers of a wireless communication service may select from a number of bundled service plans, wherein a recurring charge is paid from prepaid accounts by the subscribers in exchange for a bundled package of services. If a subscriber does not have sufficient value in the subscriber's account to pay the recurring charge for the selected bundled service plan, the subscriber's account is automatically stepped down to a different plan that includes fewer or no bundled services and that may charge more per use of the services. If the subscriber subsequently adds sufficient funds to the account to pay for the originally selected service plan, the subscriber may be re-enrolled in that originally selected bundled service plan. | 07-23-2009 |
20090186599 | Automatic Migration Of Prepaid Accounts For Wireless Communication Services - Subscribers of a communication service may select from a number of bundled service plans, wherein a recurring charge is paid from prepaid accounts by the subscribers in exchange for a bundled package of services. The plans may further require subscribers to add a value to their prepaid accounts with a minimum frequency. If a subscriber fails to add value to the account within the required time period, the subscriber is automatically migrated to a different plan that includes fewer or no bundled services and may charge more per use of the services. If the subscriber subsequently adds sufficient funds to the account to satisfy the periodic payment requirement, the subscriber may be re-enrolled in that originally selected bundled service plan. | 07-23-2009 |
20090197568 | Method for Managing Wireless Telecommunication Bills - A method manages wireless telecommunication bills for end user subscribers. The method includes complete bill management for the wireless subscribers including, for example, establishing a baseline report, receiving and analyzing a subscriber bill, and requesting and posting credits from wireless telecommunication providers. The method includes the creation of the baseline report in order to manage common billing components across all wireless carriers and carrier plans. | 08-06-2009 |
20090203351 | COMMUNICATION CONTROL DEVICE, LOCATION-DEPENDENT CHARGE CONTROL SYSTEM, AND LOCATION-DEPENDENT CHARGE CONTROL METHOD - A communication control device ( | 08-13-2009 |
20090203352 | MOBILE PHONE/DEVICE USAGE TRACKING SYSTEM AND METHOD - Disclosed are systems and methods that enable organizations, for example corporations and legal firms, to manage mobile communication devices and device usage, and to automatically and remotely apply or link that usage to particular departments and/or clients. | 08-13-2009 |
20090203353 | CHARGING IN A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A method and a system for determining a charge for a communication in a communications network is provided. A message is received from a user equipment. The message comprises a payload and is addressed to a plurality of destinations. A first message is sent towards a destination of the plurality of destinations. The first message comprises the payload, a first charging identifier, and a second charging identifier. The first charging identifier is associated with the message and the second charging identifier is generated for the destination. A charging message is sent to a network node to charge an account of the user equipment. The charging message comprises the first charging identifier and the second charging identifier. | 08-13-2009 |
20090209229 | OFFLINE CHARGING FOR SESSIONS OVER A 3GPP NETWORK AND A WLAN ACCESS NETWORK - Communication networks and methods are disclosed for providing offline charging in a 3GPP network for sessions over a wireless local area network (WLAN) access network. A AAA server in the 3GPP network provides offline charging messages for a session to an offline charging system. If a data flow is established during the session, such as streaming video, then a packet data network gateway provides offline charging messages for the data flow to the offline charging system. The AAA server and the packet data network gateway share charging identifiers so that one or both are able to include the charging identifier for the session and the charging identifier for the data flow in an offline charging message. This allows the offline charging system to effectively correlate CDRs for the session with CDRs for the data flow occurring during the session. | 08-20-2009 |
20090215429 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR BILLING IP-BASED WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS IN A CONVERGED NETWORK - A system and method for collaborating with a billing system is provided for use in a converged telecommunication network that includes a cellular telephone network and an IP-based network. During an IP-based call registration process, a mobile device communicates with a network controller over the IP-based network. The network controller accesses a database with the information provided by the mobile device and subsequently overloads values for an existing field in a call detail record (CDR). Upon completion of the call over the IP-based network, the network controller communicates the overloaded version of the CDR to an MSC which generates the final CDR that is used for billing. Any appropriate field of the CDR can be selected for overloading, such as for example an existing CGI record field from the CDR. | 08-27-2009 |
20090233576 | TOLL FREE CALLING ACCOUNT RECHARGE SYSTEM AND METHOD - A calling account recharge system, method, and device are provided. The device has an associated stored-value calling account, and typically includes a selector, a communications program configured to communicate with a recharge service via a communication network, and a recharge option selectable by a user upon actuation of the selector. The recharge option is configured to cause the communications program to initiate a recharge transaction with the recharge service via the communication network, in order to add calling units to the stored-value calling account. The device may be configured to access the communication network via a toll-free gateway. | 09-17-2009 |
20090233577 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SELECTING THE MOST COST-EFFICIENT PAYMENT PROVIDER TO PAY FOR COMMUNICATION SERVICES - A method and apparatus for selecting the most cost-efficient payment provider to pay for communication services are disclosed. A calling electronic device communicates alternative payment provider data to a network via a communications link. The network examines costs charged by a plurality of alternative payment providers indicated by the alternative payment provider data. The network determines and contacts the most cost-efficient payment provider to determine if the contacted payment provider will accept responsibility for paying for at least a portion of the communication services. | 09-17-2009 |
20090247119 | METHOD AND DEVICE IN A TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM FOR SETTING UP AND BILLING A ROAMING COMMUNICATIONS CONNECTION - The invention relates to a method and a device for setting up and billing a roaming communications connection between a first calling subscriber of a first communications network and a second called subscriber of the first and or another communications network who is checked into a roaming communications network. Billing data records concerning the accrued costs of the roaming connection are generated by the communications networks, are exchanged between billing systems of the communications networks, and the subscribers arc charged the costs of the roaming connection on the basis of the billing data records. According to the invention, the costs for a connection, which originates from the first, calling subscriber and which is incoming to the second, called subscriber are charged exclusively to the first subscriber under conditions individually agreed upon beforehand. | 10-01-2009 |
20090247120 | SWITCHING SYSTEM AND CORRESPONDING METHOD FOR UNICAST OR MULTICAST END-TO-END DATA AND/OR MULTIMEDIA STREAM TRANSMISSIONS BETWEEN NETWORK NODES - A method for setting up a data link including the steps of requesting an identity of an IP network node by a registration module; transmitting an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) stored on a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card of the IP network node to the registration module, storing the received IMSI in a user database of the registration module, complementing an IP data channel to form signal and data channels of a GSM network by a signaling gateway module, using the complemented IP data channel having GSM data as a basis for generating the necessary SS7/MAP functions for authenticating the IP network node, authenticating the IP network node by using the IMSI of the SIM card of the IP network node, receiving an appropriate entry in the user database of the registration module upon successful authentication, and setting up a data link to the at least some of the network nodes by the control module of the central connecting unit. | 10-01-2009 |
20090247121 | Customer sales and service calls using cell phone, flat fee local and long distance calling plans, digital voice and internet calling plans - A system and methodology that allows customers to use cell phones, flat fee long distance calling plans or internet calling to obtain sales and service by calling toll free telephone numbers provided by stores or businesses interested in providing these services by telephone. Customers with these calling capabilities are more concerned with minutes used than the telephone number called. Since free long distance calling is usually included in the above plans, it is not advantages for companies to pay the cost of toll free phone calls for these customers. This invention will allow customers with the above calling plans to switch or choose between toll free phone numbers and local phone numbers. Each time a customer chooses or switches from a toll free number to a local number it will save money for the company or business being called. | 10-01-2009 |
20090253405 | Intelligent Real Time Billing for Messaging - Traditional systems and methods of billing for text messages for prepaid customers are improved by offering a service provider a series of features relating to intelligent and customized billing. These features include the ability to determine priority of messages sent for certain purposes such as SMS Voting, participating in contests, and other uses, and subsequently processing the billing requests generated by these messages in a dynamic manner in real time or close to real time through dynamic late-billing. The service provider has the option of arranging relevant billing requests in queues and queue groups, and allocating system resources for processing billing requests in order of priority. The end result is increased revenue for the mobile operator and greater customer satisfaction. | 10-08-2009 |
20090258630 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INTELLIGENT SYNTAX MATCHING - The ubiquitous nature of wireless devices has given rise to among other things an explosive growth in messaging including, among other categories of messaging, Application-to-Peer messaging. It is inevitable that various errors (e.g., misspellings, typographic errors, transpositions, etc.) will occur as a mobile subscriber adds one or more keywords, codes, indicators, responses, etc. to an Application-to-Peer message. An error-laden message will likely be dropped, discarded, ignored, etc. when it is processed contributing to among other things a poor user experience. An infrastructure that offers possibly among other things an intelligent syntax matching capability accommodates (by, for example, automatically identifying, correcting or otherwise resolving, etc.) such errors so that messages containing such errors may be processed. The infrastructure may optionally leverage the capabilities of a centrally-located Messaging Inter-Carrier Vendor. | 10-15-2009 |
20090264096 | ONLINE CHARGING FOR ROAMING USERS IN A PROXY ONLINE CHARGING SYSTEM OF A VISITED NETWORK - Communication networks and methods are disclosed for performing online charging credit control in a visited network when a user is roaming. The visited network which is providing service to a roaming user includes a proxy online charging system (OCS) that communicates with a home OCS in a home network of the user. The proxy OCS transmits an online charging request message to a home OCS in a home network for the roaming user requesting charging information for the roaming user. The proxy OCS receives an online charging response message from the home OCS that includes the charging information for the roaming user. The proxy OCS then processes the charging information to perform credit control for one or more network elements in the visited network that is serving the session. | 10-22-2009 |
20090264097 | CHARGING IN LTE/EPC COMMUNICATION NETWORKS - Communication networks and methods are disclosed for performing charging in LTE/EPC communication networks. In an LTE/EPC communication network, a PCRF stores charging rules for online and offline charging. To perform charging for a session, LTE network elements that are serving the session request charging rules from the PCRF. The PCRF identifies the charging rules, and assigns a unique LTE charging identifier for the session across all network elements in the LTE/EPC communication network. The LTE network elements receive the charging rules from the PCRF along with the LTE charging identifier for the session. The LTE network elements generate charging messages for the session, and insert the LTE charging identifier in the charging messages. The LTE network elements then transmit the charging messages to a charging system, such as an OCS or an OFCS. The OCS/OFCS may then correlate the charging messages for the session based on the LTE charging identifier. | 10-22-2009 |
20090270068 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MANAGING DELIVERY OF COMMUNICATIONS - Method and system for managing delivery of communications such as advertisements to mobile telephone subscribers where delivery to roaming subscribers is prevented or blocked when the subscriber is determined to be using a roaming network and revenue derived from delivery of the advertisements to a roaming subscriber is less than the cost for delivering the advertisements to the roaming subscribers. | 10-29-2009 |
20090280772 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SENDING AN ADDITIONAL MESSAGE TO A SUBSCRIBER TERMINAL - An apparatus and method for sending of additional message, such as advertising content, with the account balance message or data to a subscriber terminal. | 11-12-2009 |
20090280773 | Charging of circuit-switched voice, SMS, MMS and/or GPRS packet switched data - The present invention provides a flexible selection of subscriber and account related data for charging purposes in a communication network. The subscriber account has at least one charging resource type which is instantiated into at least one charging resource of the charging resource type, and the charging resource is associated with at least one subscriber account. Initially, there is executed an analysis of a service data describing a service event and subscriber/subscriber group related data describing at least one subscriber account to which the service event is to be charged using a configurable analysis structure for generation of a charging resource matching key. The charging resource matching key describes what class of charging resource types could be used for charging the service event. Then, the charging resource matching key is matched to at least one charging resource falling under the classification of the charging resource matching key and being associated with at least one subscriber account to which the service event is to be charged. Finally, the selected at least one charging resource is manipulated. | 11-12-2009 |
20090286506 | Fixed Mobile Convergent Service in Enterprise Environments - A method for communicating in an enterprise network includes determining that a mobile device generating a communication request has an assigned enterprise voice number; and based in part on determining that the mobile device has an assigned enterprise voice number, establishing the requested communication over the enterprise network. A system for communicating over an enterprise network includes an enterprise voice number registry that maps enterprise voice numbers to mobile devices registered on the enterprise network, and an enterprise mobile switching center operable to query the enterprise voice number registry to determine if a mobile device is registered and further operable to determine that a communication requested by the mobile device should be established over the enterprise network based on the determination that the mobile device is registered. The enterprise network may be managed by the enterprise operator to satisfy enterprise network users. | 11-19-2009 |
20090286507 | Multiple Access Internet Portal Revenue Sharing - Multiple access internet portal billing systems are provided. A representative system, among others, includes a communication facility, a wireless internet server, and a transaction billing system. The communication facility includes a billing platform, and is operable to connect to a plurality of wireless device platforms through a mobile network, and to connect to the wireless internet server. The wireless internet server provides internet access to the wireless devices and communicate at least one billing information record including a usage time to a transaction billing system. The transaction billing system receives the billing information record from the wireless internet server, formats the billing information record, and communicates the formatted record to the communication facility billing platform. Methods and other systems for multiple access internet portals are also provided. | 11-19-2009 |
20090291666 | Charging Of GPRS Traffic For Roaming Mobiles By Performing Traffic Counting At The User Terminal - The application relates to charging of traffic from terminals and in particular of charging of traffic from GPRS mobile terminals which are roaming in a visited PLMN (not claimed). According to the applicant's acknowledged prior art, either the traffic passes the home PLMN or the Home Operator relies on the Visited Operator to generate the CDRs to be used by the Home Operator for billing. Whereas the first solution leads to tromboning and inefficient traffic routing, the second solution calls for a strong trust relationship between the Home and the Visited Operators. The present invention circumvents both problems in that the terminal generates a traffic counting information and sends it to the Visited Network. The Visited Network generates a traffic counting record comprising the traffic counting information from the terminal and traffic counting information from the Visited Network. The traffic counting record is subsequently sent to the Home Network. | 11-26-2009 |
20090298462 | Method and Device for Determining Rating Data for Service Usage in an Electronic Communication network - A charging device and method determines rating data for charging of services in an electronic communications network. A modifier operator ( | 12-03-2009 |
20090298463 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SEARCHING FOR MOST ECONOMICAL CALL MODE - A system for searching for a most economical call mode includes a mobile phone, a network, and a user terminal. The mobile phone includes a dialing module, an information acquisition module, a calculation controlling module, an instant messaging module, and a database storing a plurality of calling fee standards. The user terminal is capable of communicating with the mobile phone through the network. The user terminal includes a first call terminal and a second call terminal. An instant messaging software is embedded in the second call terminal. The information acquisition module is started up, and the instant messaging module determines if the second call terminal is on-line. If the second call terminal is on-line, the calculation controlling module is started up to calculate the most economical call mode via searching in the database, and suggests selecting the most economical call mode to establish a communication. | 12-03-2009 |
20090298464 | MOBILE CELLULAR DEVICE USING ACCESS NUMBERS - A first access number stored on the removable computer chip module is retrieved by a mobile cellular device. The first access number to a cellular network is transmitted by the mobile cellular device using spread spectrum communications. The mobile cellular device receives a second access number in response to the cellular network allowing the mobile cellular device access. The mobile cellular device transmits the second access number to the cellular network using spread spectrum communications for subsequent access to the cellular network. | 12-03-2009 |
20090298465 | LEGACY COOPERATION DEVICE AND PROCESSING METHOD - A legacy cooperation device and processing method for a mobile communication system to be cooperated in an open mobile business supporting system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes i) setting up a plurality of biz objects that perform a determination process based on a service process and a result thereof of a legacy system of a mobile communication system, ii) providing an API (application program interface) for each of the setup biz objects, iii) receiving a result of performing a predetermined biz object from a legacy system through the provided API and iv) requesting a service process to a corresponding legacy system according to the requested biz object, receiving a result of performing the service process, and returning the received result to the legacy system that requests the service process. | 12-03-2009 |
20090305662 | Generation of Charging Information in Group Communications System - The present invention relates to a method for collecting inter-operator charging information in a group communications system comprising a first group communications network element and a second group communications network element. An intermediate charging information collection unit is provided in an interface between the group communication network elements. The charging information collection unit examines a group communications message received from the first group communications network element or the second group communications network elements. A charging information unit is generated based on at least a portion of the message and the charging information unit is applied for inter-network charging to charge for use of inter-network resources. | 12-10-2009 |
20090305663 | KIOSK INITIATED TELEPHONE SERVICE - A user of a mobile device with a subscription on a primary network is able to interact with an automated mobile network account setup kiosk to setup a subscription (temporary or permanent) for access to services (one or more) on the secondary network. The billing system of the primary network is used to bill for services subscribed to by the user on the secondary network. Subscriber information and subscription information from the primary network is selectively used to setup a new subscription for the user on the secondary network. A mobile device, built in accordance with the present invention, is capable of interacting with a mobile network account setup kiosk, in order to configure access to a secondary network selectively employing subscription information from a primary network currently subscribed to by the user. | 12-10-2009 |
20090311989 | ADVICE OF CHARGING METHOD, SYSTEM AND MOBILE TERMINAL - An advice of charging (AoC) method, system, and mobile terminal thereof are provided. The method includes receiving AoC information sent by a service charging server, and then displaying the AoC information. The mobile terminal includes a receiving module adapted to receive AoC information sent by a service charging server, and a display module adapted to display the received AoC information. The system includes a terminal, a service charging server, a service gateway, and a charging engine. The present invention is applicable to pre-consumption prompt, post-consumption notification, and prompts for data services such as browsing, streaming media, and mail. | 12-17-2009 |
20090318111 | VOICE PORTAL TO VOICE PORTAL VOIP TRANSFER - A method includes receiving at a voice portal a telephone call from a caller and acquiring from the caller a billing telephone number. The method also includes determining, based on the billing telephone number, that the telephone call should be transferred to a specific call center; identifying an exchange number for the specific call center; assembling a refer message based on the billing telephone number and the exchange number of the specific call center; and sending the refer message to a network device. | 12-24-2009 |
20090318112 | PREPAID TEXT MESSAGING SERVICE - A method, system, and computer readable medium for sending notification messages to a notification device and associating a fee for sending the notification message. The notification message is associated with a portable consumer device issued by an issuer and associated with an account of a consumer operated by the issuer. The fee is obtained by the issuer or a payment brand organization associated with the portable consumer device. | 12-24-2009 |
20100003963 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MANAGING SUBSCRIBER CONNECTION - The invention relates to a device for managing a subscriber connection, the device including a mechanism for granting connection services to the subscriber connection, mechanism for monitoring reception behavior concerning predetermined messages conveyed to the subscriber connection, and a mechanism for controlling a further connection service grant to the subscriber connection based on the reception behavior. | 01-07-2010 |
20100009654 | PREPAID SECURITY CELLULAR TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM - A cellular telecommunications system having a security feature which allows only pre-authorized users to complete cellular telephone calls. The system and method recognizes a cellular radiotelephone's pre-programmed and pre-selected telephone number and an automated number identification code (ANI). The pre-selected telephone number is reserved to the pre-paid cellular telecommunications system. The cellular radiotelephone transmits the ANI and a dialed number identification system code (DNIS) to a cellular switch, which contacts a host computer for call validation by the pre-paid service provider. This system also allows pre-authorized users to receive and pay for incoming calls as well as purchase additional airtime and monthly access fees with convenient pre-paid cards. | 01-14-2010 |
20100009655 | PROMPT METHOD AND APPARATUS OF SHORT MESSAGE SPLITTING - The present invention discloses a prompt method of short message splitting including: pre-obtaining, by a terminal, splitting rule data for a short message transmitted by a subscriber of the terminal in various operators' networks; and calculating, by the terminal, the number of short message segments obtained by splitting the short message edited by the subscriber based on the splitting rule data and informing the subscriber of it. The present invention can prompt the subscriber timely and accurately with the exact number of short message segments obtained by splitting the short message transmitted by the subscriber in the operator's network. | 01-14-2010 |
20100015944 | Supplier Funds Reception Electronically - Apparatuses and methods to facilitate customer to supplier funds transfer via premium messages. In one aspect, an apparatus to electronically transfer funds from a customer to a supplier, includes: a server component connected to a network; and a database coupled to the server component. The server component is configured to: transmit a plurality of premium rate mobile terminating text messages to the first mobile cellular telephone to effect a transfer of funds from the customer for reception by the supplier, after the customer has placed an order with the supplier; and transmit a notification message to a second mobile cellular telephone having a second telephone number to confirm that the transfer of funds has taken place. | 01-21-2010 |
20100015945 | REDUCING LATENCY IN A PREPAID GROUP COMMUNICATION SESSION WITHIN A WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM - Embodiments are directed to managing a prepaid server-arbitrated group communication session within a wireless communications system. A server receives, from a session originator, a request to setup a prepaid group communication session with at least one session target, the prepaid group communication session requiring each session participant to have an available prepaid account balance above a threshold level. The server sends a query to an online charging system to determine whether at least the session originator has a prepaid account with an available balance at least equal to the threshold level. The server initiates setup of the requested prepaid group communication session without waiting to receive a response to the query, thereby reducing latency associated with set-up of the prepaid group communication session. | 01-21-2010 |
20100015946 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CHARGING FOR AND ROUTING BASED ON MOBILE NUMBER PORTABILITY SERVICE - The invention discloses a method for charging for a call service comprising: intercepting a request message for triggering a pre-paid service transmitted from a switch device visited by a pre-paid calling subscriber to a Service Control Point (SCP), wherein the request message carries information on a called subscriber; querying a Number Portability Database (NPDB) according to the information on the called subscriber, and carrying RN information obtained by query on the called subscriber in the request message and forwarding the request message to the SCP if the called subscriber is an off-net subscriber; charging, by the SCP, the calling subscriber by taking the called subscriber as an off-net subscriber if the RN information on the called subscriber is carried in the request message, and charging the calling subscriber by taking the called subscriber as an on-net subscriber if the RN information on the called subscriber is not carried in the request message. | 01-21-2010 |
20100035576 | Usage Measurement Collection and Analysis to Dynamically Regulate Customer Network Usage - In a network subscriber system, a method of determining how to monitor whether a subscriber's network usage exceeds a quota for the current billing period. The frequency at which the subscriber's usage data is collected and analyzed during the billing period is based upon the probability the subscriber's network usage exceeds the quota at a given point in time during the billing cycle. Usage data is collected more frequently as the probability increases. Usage analysis is performed if the probability exceeds a threshold. | 02-11-2010 |
20100041365 | MEDIATION, RATING, AND BILLING ASSOCIATED WITH A FEMTOCELL SERVICE FRAMEWORK - System(s) and method(s) facilitating mediation of information relating to communication sessions, and rating of and billing for communication sessions, in relation to a communication network employing femtocells and base stations, are presented. Call detail records (CDRs) are created containing location information identifying origination or termination locations for communication sessions associated with a user equipment (UE). For data sessions, data event records (DERs) are created to track data usage and specific data services used by the UE. A mediation and rating component receives the CDRs and/or DERs and correlates the respective records to create an enhanced CDR containing information that facilitates determining whether a femtocell or base station served the UE at the origination or termination of a communication session and information relating to data usage when a data service is used. Predefined rating rules are used to facilitate billing the subscriber in accordance with a subscriber rate plan. | 02-18-2010 |
20100041366 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROL OF SERVICE USAGE IN A COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM - A method and apparatus for control of service usage in a communications system, wherein a charging client receives a service request from a user initiating a charging transaction. In response to the service request checking a free of charge indicator in the charging client, and if the free of charge indicator is confirmative for the service request the charging client granting the service request to the user. | 02-18-2010 |
20100041367 | REVERSE RATING SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING DURATION OF A USAGE TRANSACTION - A reverse rating system determines the duration for which a phone call or other transaction may continue, given an account balance on a pre-paid customer account. The duration may take into consideration multiple time bands, applicable discounts, rating plans and other characteristics of the customer account and telecommunications service. The telecommunications service provider may employ the duration information to determine when to disconnect an ongoing transaction. As a result, the telecommunications service provider avoids substantial revenue loses from continuing to allow a pre-paid customer to continue their transaction longer than their account balance will support. | 02-18-2010 |
20100048165 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RATING AN IP-BASED WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BASED ON ACCESS POINT - A subscriber communicates over an IP-based wireless telecommunications network through an access point. Identifiers associated with the access point (e.g., MAC address IP address, FQDN . . . ) are stored in a database. Each access point is mapped into one or more service zones, where service zones are mapped to service types. The subscriber has a rate plan that is based on a selection of one or more service types. When a wireless connection between the subscriber and the IP-based wireless telecommunications network is established, the access point identifiers are used to retrieve a service zone ID from the database. Upon completion of the communication, a call detail record can be generated that includes the service zone ID for the communication. The billing system can then retrieve billing plan information to determine an appropriate rate for the subscriber based on the service zone ID. | 02-25-2010 |
20100048166 | MOBILE CALL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - The invention provides a method and a system for analyzing mobile telephony connectivity transaction information by the use of a code appended to a transaction. | 02-25-2010 |
20100056102 | OPEN TO ALL PREPAID ROAMING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - In one embodiment, a method for providing roaming service comprises receiving an identifier from a wireless device located within a coverage area of a local network, wherein the identifier is associated with the wireless device. The method further comprises determining if the wireless device is associated with a person that is both a prepaid subscriber of the local network and a subscriber of a home network with which the local network has a roaming arrangement. The method further comprises, if the wireless device is associated with a person that is both a prepaid subscriber of the local network and a subscriber of a home network with which the local network has a roaming arrangement, doing the following: (i) performing a first location update to the home network for the wireless device so that the wireless device can receive calls directed to a home phone number associated with the home network; (ii) performing a second location update to a local home location register (HLR) for the wireless device so that the wireless device can receive calls directed a local phone number associated with the local network; and (iii) while the wireless device remains in the coverage area of the local network, providing service to the wireless device in connection with the local phone number using a prepaid billing plan associated with the local phone number and providing service to the wireless device in connection with the home phone number in accordance with the roaming agreement the local network has with the home network. | 03-04-2010 |
20100056103 | Method for indicating subscription to a green service in a message - The present invention provides a method for utilizing a green messaging service. A base station receives a Short Message Service (SMS) message from a messaging unit. A controller determines whether the messaging unit has subscribed to a green service. If the messaging unit has subscribed to the green service, the controller changes the received SMS message to a green SMS message. | 03-04-2010 |
20100075630 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MANAGING CREDIT FOR SUBSCRIBERS OF MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES - A technique for managing credit for subscribers of mobile communications services involves using a mobile credit intermediary to manage the credit in a way that makes the credit more fungible than traditional prepaid mobile subscription plans. In an embodiment, the mobile credit intermediary maintains a credit pool that reflects pooled credit of a group of multiple different mobile subscribers and then incrementally purchases, using the credit pool, prepaid mobile minutes in quantities that reflect anticipated consumption of mobile communications services by the group. The incremental purchases are made in increments that are smaller than the balance of the credit pool such that credit remains in individual credit accounts of the mobile subscribers. The credit that remains in the individual credit accounts can be used as a currency for other transactions, for example, for the purchase of goods and services from entities other than the mobile network operator. | 03-25-2010 |
20100081412 | Charging method, system and apparatus - A charging method is disclosed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The method includes receiving a message transmission request carrying message content to be transmitted; generating a message conversion charging ID if the message content is to be converted; sending charging information carrying the message conversion charging ID and performing charging control on the message sender based on the message conversion charging ID. A charging system and apparatus are also disclosed according to embodiments of the present disclosure. With the present disclosure, the charging of message service becomes more flexible and the user experience is improved. | 04-01-2010 |
20100087162 | Intelligent network for administrating premium rate calls - The invention relates to an Intelligent Network arranged to communicate with a mobile switching center of a mobile communication network. The Intelligent Network is arranged to receive a call message from said mobile switching center comprising a calling party number and a called party number; retrieve a routing label and a tariff cluster number from a first database using said called party number; modify said called party number by adding said routing label and said tariff cluster number as a prefix to said called party number to render a modified called party number; send a routing message to said mobile switching center comprising said modified called party number. | 04-08-2010 |
20100087163 | BILLING SYSTEM, BILLING-INFORMATION GENERATION APPARATUS, BILLING-INFORMATION GENERATION METHOD, COMPUTER READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM RECORDING BILLING-INFORMATION GENERATION PROGRAM - An information distribution apparatus creates data to be simultaneously distributed, further adding to the data an identifier which indicates that the data is distributed by a broadcast service, and adding billing class information in accordance with the data amount, and transmits it; a mobile terminal receives the data, creates a reception confirmation message if it is determined from the identifier added to the received data that the received data is distributed by a broadcast service, and further adds the identifier and the billing class information added to the data to the reception confirmation message to transmit it to a billing-information generation apparatus and the information distribution apparatus; and the billing-information generation apparatus generates billing information based on the billing class information added to the reception confirmation message if it is determined from the identifier added to the reception confirmation message that the data is distributed by a broadcast service. | 04-08-2010 |
20100105354 | MOBILE PHONE AND METHOD FOR MANAGING COMMUNICATION FEES - A mobile phone and method for managing communication fees of the mobile phone sets a plurality of charge standards of different telecommunication providers and an allowable communication fee of the mobile phone during a preset time period. Calculation of a total communication fee of a current call is according to a corresponding charge standard of a telecommunication provider of the mobile phone and a previous total communication fee of the mobile phone. The current call may be terminated when the total communication fee reaches the allowable communication fee. | 04-29-2010 |
20100112977 | Retrieving jurisdiction information from home location register - Calls to a wireless telephone number that are to be redirected by a gateway switch to another number can be properly billed, even if the wireless telephone number is ported to another service provider by billing the wireless telephone number subscriber for the charge that would have been incurred by placing a call to the forwarded number from the mobile telephone located in its home service area. | 05-06-2010 |
20100130162 | ROUTING SYSTEM THAT ENABLES CHARGING FOR APPLICATION-TO-APPLICATION ROUTING OF MESSAGES FORMATTED IN A MOBILE PHONE MESSAGING STANDARD - A message routing system that enables charging for messages that are formatted in a mobile phone messaging standard and routed between software applications. The mobile phone messaging standard may be, for example, the Short Message Service standard or the Multimedia Messaging Service standard. The routing system receives a message from a mobile device or from an application server. The routing system screens the message to determine whether the message should be delivered to a recipient. If the message passes the screening check, the routing system routes the message for delivery to a recipient mobile device or application server. The system may receive and route the message over any type of network, whether wired or wireless. In accordance with configurable business rules, the routing system generates a charging data record associated with the message to allow the message sender and/or message recipient to be billed for the message. | 05-27-2010 |
20100130163 | AUTOMATED BILLING AND DISTRIBUTION PLATFORM FOR APPLICATION PROVIDERS - Integrating a network-enabled application with a platform having a plurality of users and a plurality of communication channels with a respective plurality of wireless network carriers, including receiving a request from a third-party provider to integrate a network-enabled application with the platform, receiving a set of registration data corresponding to the network-enabled application from the third-party provider, the set of registration data including a link to an application location for accessing the network-enabled application, receiving a set of pricing structure data corresponding to the network-enabled application from the third-party provider, updating a system database in the platform to include the set of registration data and the pricing structure data corresponding to the network-enabled application, and enabling the network-enabled application to be accessible to the plurality of users via a networked interface operated by the platform. | 05-27-2010 |
20100136948 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CIRCULATING MESSAGES - A method for circulating a message to a group of people, including sending a circulated message by a 1 | 06-03-2010 |
20100144311 | A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR UTILIZING A SHARED NETWORK HAVING ONE MOBILE NETWORK CODE - A system and method of selecting a network operator by a roaming subscriber in a shared network. The method begins by a roaming subscriber, UE, entering the shared network. A query is provided to the UE of a selection of at least two network operators operating within the shared network. The subscriber then selects a desired network operator for use in the shared network. The selection is sent and stored in a VLR in the shared network. A call is initiated by the UE in the shared network and routed in accordance with the selected network operator. Preferably, the UE sends a USSD string providing the desired network operator to the VLR. The USSD string triggers a USSD application for using the selected network operator. | 06-10-2010 |
20100151818 | PROVIDING UBIQUITOUS WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY AND A MARKETPLACE FOR EXCHANGING WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY USING A CONNECTIVITY EXCHANGE - Various implementations are described herein for using a connectivity exchange to provide ubiquitous wireless connectivity and a marketplace for exchanging wireless connectivity. Wireless service providers join the connectivity exchange and enable users to access the Internet using their wireless connectivity via the connectivity exchange. Users are authenticated via the exchange and rates and terms for users to access the Internet are negotiated. General service providers provide services via the exchange. | 06-17-2010 |
20100151819 | PREMIUM SMS FOR PREPAID SERVICE - An exemplary system and method are directed at the selective delivery of communications messages. The selective delivery may comprise receiving a communications message from a network device; determining an identifier associated with the communications message; determining whether a subscriber is blocked from receiving the communications message based at least in part on the identifier; and selectively delivering the communications message to the subscriber based on the determination. | 06-17-2010 |
20100151820 | Devices, Systems and Methods for Localized and Controlled Telephone Service - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed which relate to a visually distinct and tamper-resistant wireless telephone and a system for issuing the telephone, validating a call, and monitoring the call. This solution uses a durable wireless telephone design. Prepaid correctional wireless telephones are issued to inmates at correctional facilities. A system restricts calling to a centralized call control platform and performs validation, call detail data collection and storage, security, and ancillary features. The call detail data collection and storage is used for records and auditing purposes. Ancillary features include recording, three-way call detection, etc. A method is employed which validates a user's call and monitors the contents for security. | 06-17-2010 |
20100159874 | DEVICE ROTATION FOR SIM SELECTION - A device having multiple configurations, wherein each configuration allows operation of the device according to features that may be different than other configurations. Each of the configurations is controlled by a separate SIM card. The device is configured to select an operating configuration, and associated SIM card, in response to detecting an orientation of the device. As the orientation of the device changes, the device selects an operating configuration in accord with user intent. | 06-24-2010 |
20100184403 | ADVICE OF CHARGING (AoC) SERVICES IN IMS NETWORKS - IMS networks, subscriber databases, and methods are disclosed for providing AoC services in IMS networks. The subscriber database is provisioned with AoC indicators for IMS users that subscribe to AoC services. An S-CSCF in an IMS network receives a first register message from an IMS user, and transmits a second register message to the subscriber database. In response to the second register message, the subscriber database identifies an AoC indicator for the IMS user that is registering, inserts the AoC indicator in a third register message, and transmits the third register message to the S-CSCF. The S-CSCF then stores the AoC indicator for the IMS user. If a signaling message is received for a session involving the IMS user, then the S-CSCF will forward the AoC indicator for the IMS user to an AoC application server, which collects the appropriate AoC information and provides the information to the IMS user. | 07-22-2010 |
20100184404 | System and Method for Enhanced Mobile User Rewards - Coincident with the evolution, maturation, etc. of wireless messaging ecosystems an infrastructure that supports offering to mobile subscribers different types of rewards (for example, possibly inter alia, cash, free service offerings, product coupons and/or discounts, popularity indicators, etc.) for specific mobile subscriber behaviors including, possibly inter alia, a mobile subscribers' creation and sending of increasing numbers of certain types of messages. The infrastructure may optionally leverage the capabilities of a centrally-located Messaging Inter-Carrier Vendor. | 07-22-2010 |
20100190469 | CERTIFIED DEVICE-BASED ACCOUNTING - Providing for secure tracking and reporting of wireless resources utilized by a mobile device is described herein. By way of example, resources utilized in conjunction with network-facilitated or peer-to-peer wireless data exchange can be tracked in secure, tamper-resistant components of the mobile device. Further, a report can be compiled from the tracked information and digitally signed with a secret data/material specific to the mobile device. The signed report can be submitted to a network server in conjunction with accounting, billing or like functions. By validating the signature of a mobile device, the network server can trust that information collected and submitted by user devices has not been tampered with or spoofed with an ID of another such device. | 07-29-2010 |
20100190470 | Roaming services network and overlay networks - Various embodiments are disclosed for a services policy communication system and method. In some embodiments, a communications device detects one or more available roaming networks for a service on a network; connects to a roaming services network center via an access network; and sends available roaming network information to the roaming services network center. | 07-29-2010 |
20100197266 | DEVICE ASSISTED CDR CREATION, AGGREGATION, MEDIATION AND BILLING - Device assisted CDR creation, aggregation, mediation and billing is provided. In some embodiments, device assisted CDR creation, aggregation, mediation and billing for a wireless network includes collecting device generated service usage information for one or more devices in wireless communication on the wireless network; and providing the device generated service usage information in a syntax (e.g., a device assisted charging data record (CDR)) and a communication protocol (e.g., 3GPP, 3GPP2, or other communication protocols) that can be used by other network devices to augment or replace network generated service usage information for the one or more devices in wireless communication on the wireless network. | 08-05-2010 |
20100203863 | METHOD OF ENABLING OPERATORS TO ALLOW THEIR CUSTOMERS TO CHOOSE BETWEEN CALLING-PARTY-PAYS AND RECEIVING-PARTY-PAYS ON INCOMING CALLS - A system and methods are described which enable cellular operators to implement the Calling Party Pays (“CPP”) approach for roaming charges. Mobile Service Providers are enabled to allow their roaming customers to choose between the CPP approach and the Receiving Party Pays (“RPP”) approach on specific incoming roaming calls. Before a call from an originating caller to a Roaming customer is connected, a party is advised of the charge that he will incur by virtue of the Roaming customer being outside his cellular local network, and is given an opportunity to accept the charge. In addition, roaming customers may determine the charge a specific caller will pay for a call. | 08-12-2010 |
20100216425 | Systems and Methods to Approve Electronic Payments - Systems and methods are provided to facilitate online transactions via mobile communications. In one aspect, a system includes a data storage facility to store an account identifier of a user and a phone number of the user and an interchange coupled with the data storage facility. The interchange includes a common format processor and a plurality of converters to interface with a plurality of different controllers of mobile communications. The converters are configured to communicate with the common format processor in a common format and to communicate with the controllers in different formats. The interchange uses the converters to communicate with the mobile phone of a user to confirm the identity of the user using a user terminal separate from the mobile phone for subsequent payment requests from the user terminal to be fulfilled using the account identifier. | 08-26-2010 |
20100222020 | System and Method for Monitoring Message Usage - A computer implemented method for monitoring message usage on a communication device. An audible message may be outputted on the communication device in replacement of a pre-determined telephone tone. A duration parameter of outputting the audible message in replacement of the pre-determined telephone tone may be determined, and provided to a billing system for determining a compensation parameter. | 09-02-2010 |
20100222021 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MANAGING SERVICES USING BEARER TAGS - An approach is provided for managing one or more services corresponding to a bearer tag (e.g., near field communication (NFC) tag, radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, contactless card, or barcode). A request to manage a service is initiated by reading service information from a bearer tag corresponding to the one or more services. A services platform initiates management of the one or more services based on the service information according to a predetermined or recurring billing arrangement. | 09-02-2010 |
20100222022 | COMMUNICATION METHOD, COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND ACCESS METHOD TO SERVICE PROVIDER BASE - A communication method, a communication system and a method of accessing a service provider base are disclosed. A network function gateway server of a communication common carrier includes a unit for executing at least one of the network functions based on the request sent from an xSP server and sending a network function execution response to the xSP server, and a unit for charging the subscriber corresponding to the service provider xSP in accordance with the number of times the network is used. | 09-02-2010 |
20100233993 | SYSTEM FOR COLLECTING BILLABLE INFORMATION IN A GROUP COMMUNICATION NETWORK - A method and apparatus for providing security in a group communication network provides for receiving an encryption key, encrypting media for transmission to a controller using the received encryption key, the encrypted media being directed to another communication device, and communicating the encrypted media to the controller. In one embodiment, the communicating includes wireless communication. The method and apparatus further provides for receiving encrypted media from a controller and blocking the encrypted media if the communication device is not enabled to receive encrypted-media transmission, or if the media is not encrypted based on an encryption key previously specified by the communication device. In another aspect, the communication device is a push-to-talk (PTT) device. | 09-16-2010 |
20100233994 | CHARGING METHOD AND SYSTEM - An intelligent charging triggering method is provided. The method includes receiving a subscriber location data update request sent by a serving mobile switching center (MSC), determining whether subscriber data delivered to the serving MSC carries intelligent subscription data of a prepaid subscriber according to a preset intelligent charging triggering policy, and then delivering the subscriber data carrying the intelligent subscription data to the serving MSC if a determination result is that the subscriber data delivered to the serving MSC carries the intelligent subscription data. A home location register (HLR) and a charging processing system are further provided. The technical solutions can realize real-time charging of a calling service of a prepaid subscriber in a BOSS system when the prepaid subscriber roams in a roaming region of a home country, and meanwhile realize an international roaming service of a prepaid subscriber in an intelligent network (IN). | 09-16-2010 |
20100248684 | Telephone apparatus having calling card support function and handsfree apparatus - A telephone apparatus having a calling card support function is disclosed. The telephone apparatus includes: a card information storage section for storing therein card information on a calling card; a controller for making a telephone call with use of the card information stored in the card information storage section, by using telephone communication means; and a card information reception section for receiving the card information stored in a cellular phone from the cellular phone. The controller allows the card information reception section to receive the card information stored in the cellular phone from the cellular phone. The controller records the received card information in the card information storage section when the card information reception section receives the card information stored in the cellular phone from the cellular phone. | 09-30-2010 |
20100248685 | METHOD, APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR SUPPORTING DISTRIBUTED IMS CHARGING - The present invention relates to communication technology, and in particular, to a method, apparatus and system for supporting distributed IMS charging. The system for supporting distributed IMS charging, comprises: a plurality of nodes, and a index server ( | 09-30-2010 |
20100248686 | METHOD OF PRINTING AND RETRIEVING INFORMATION USING A MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS DEVICE - A method of printing first information using a mobile telecommunications device and retrieving further information. The method comprises the steps of: providing a print medium having a linear data track and a two-dimensional coding pattern; printing the first information; automatically reading and decoding the data track during printing to determine a print media identifier; communicating the print media identifier to a computer system; interacting with the print medium and sensing the coding pattern; decoding the sensed coding pattern to determine the print media identifier and a two-dimensional coordinate position; and retrieving further information. | 09-30-2010 |
20100273448 | MOBILE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, HOME BASE STATION, AND MOBILE STATION - In a mobile communication system according to the present invention, the mobile communication system is configured to manage a specific mobile station which is allowed to communicate through a CSG cell under the control of a home base station (Home-eNB); and a general mobile station (UE) other than the specific mobile station is configured to be capable of using the CSG cell as a camped cell, only when broadcast information indicating an allowance of a camping in the specific cell is received. | 10-28-2010 |
20100279650 | DISSEMINATION OF BILLING INFORMATION IN A DISTRIBUTED MESSAGING ENVIRONMENT - A messaging system for a wireless network may be constructed using a gateway architecture in which a number of messaging servers are connected to external networks through the gateway. In one implementation, a method implemented in the system may include receiving a message that is communicated as part of a messaging protocol for delivering text or multimedia messages to user devices and altering the message to include a billing identifier describing how the message should be billed. The message may be altered by the gateway and may be transmitted to a messaging server for extraction of the billing information. | 11-04-2010 |
20100279651 | PREPAID CHARGING IN COMMUNICATION NETWORK - A method and apparatus for charging against prepaid credit in a communication network. When a first terminal requests establishment of a call to a second terminal, the network ascertains whether prepaid credit is involved. If so, accounting sessions are established between an accounting server and any accounting servers that will raise costs during the call. A session identifier is generated. Once the call is established, charging update data is sent from the accounting clients to the accounting server, where it is collated on the basis of the accounting session identifier, whereby enabling updating of the prepaid credit during the call. | 11-04-2010 |
20100285773 | Telephone apparatus having calling card support function and in-vehicle handsfree apparatus - A telephone apparatus is disclosed. The telephone apparatus acquires card information on multiple calling cards from a communication terminal and stores the acquired card information. The telephone apparatus performs, via the communication terminal, telephone communication with a communication counterpart by using a first one of the calling cards stored in the telephone apparatus. When the balance on the first one of the calling cards is changed into zero balance and when the telephone communication link is forcibly disconnected, the telephone apparatus causes the communication terminal to redial by using a second one of the calling cards in order to restart the telephone communication with the same communication counterpart. | 11-11-2010 |
20100297982 | PRE-PAID WIRELESS INTERACTIVE VOICE RESPONSE SYSTEM WITH VARIABLE ANNOUNCEMENTS - A wireless communications system providing interactive voice response is disclosed. The system is menu-driven, and can accept information and requests from customers. In response to one type of request, the system can provide the customer with information regarding one or more previous transactions. The system also includes provisions that permit customers to retrieve multiple previous transactions. | 11-25-2010 |
20100304710 | FAULT-RESILIENT METHOD OF GENERATING COMPLETE CORRELATED IMS CHARGING DATA RECORDS - An IMS charging collection function node for processing incoming accounting requests (ACRs) is provided. The node includes an ACR database that stores ACR messages, an Incomplete database that stores any ACR [Interim] or [Stop] received by the charging collection function node when a corresponding ACR [Start] is not stored in the ACR database, or also ACR[Start] when the remaining accounting requests, consisting of ACR [Interim] or [Stop] are not available with the charging collection function, a disk that stores ACRs; a first transformation engine that aggregates CDRs, a CDR aggregation database that stores aggregated CDRs, a second transformation engine that correlates CDRs, a CDR correlation database that stores correlated CDRs, and a third evaluation engine that cyclically evaluates the Incomplete database, wherein the IMS charging collection function node is communicatively and collaboratively coupled with other IMS charging collection function nodes across the IMS network to eliminate or reduce production of incomplete CDRs. | 12-02-2010 |
20100304711 | TRANSMITTING DATA OVER A MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK - A network is configured to charge fees at a first rate for transmitting data of a first type and fees at a second, less expensive, rate for transmitting data of a second type. In a first embodiment, at least a portion of the original data transmitted is converted from the first type into the second type before sending the processed data to the network. A corresponding conversion from the second type into the first type is performed at the receiver's side to obtain re-created data from the received data. In a second embodiment, the original data is processed to obtain at least a first portion of data having the first type and a second portion of data having the second type. The at least two portions are sent to the network via different channels ensuring that at least the second portion will be billed at the second, lower rate. | 12-02-2010 |
20100311389 | WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SERVICE SYSTEM AND TRANSMISSION METHOD THEREOF, AND MOBILE PHONE AND DIALING METHOD UTILIZING THE SYSTEM - A wireless communication service system and a mobile phone are provided. The mobile phone generates a calling signal of a recipient number and determines whether a storage unit has stored a cornet associated with the recipient number. If the storage unit has stored the cornet, the mobile phone sends a transmission containing the cornet. If the storage unit has not stored the cornet, the mobile phone sends a transmission containing the recipient number. When the wireless communication service system receives the transmission containing the recipient number, the wireless communication service system determines whether the recipient number has joined a cornet cluster network of a caller number. If so, the wireless communication service system calls the cornet. If not, the wireless communication service system calls the recipient number. | 12-09-2010 |
20100330955 | PRIVATE CELLULAR SYSTEM WITH AUTO-REGISTRATION FUNCTIONALITY - In one embodiment, a private cellular system provides private cellular service and public cellular service using licensed frequency spectrum associated with a public land mobile network (PLMN). The system is configured to have a predetermined phone number that a subscriber who is using the public cellular service via the private cellular system and who is not registered to use the private cellular service provided by the system can call in order to register to use the private cellular service provided by the system and, in response thereto, the system captures a subscriber identity number associated with the subscriber and assigns a private telephone number to the subscriber that is used in connection with providing private cellular service. Another embodiment is directed to a method of enabling a prepaid hybrid subscriber to make a call using a private cellular system while outside of a coverage area associated with the private cellular system. Another embodiment is directed to a private cellular network comprising a plurality of private cellular systems to provide private cellular service and public cellular service using licensed frequency spectrum associated with a public land mobile network (PLMN). In that embodiment, a gateway function in each of the plurality of private cellular systems is configured to make the private cellular network appear, to the PLMN, as though it is implemented using only a single private cellular system. | 12-30-2010 |
20100330956 | Real-Time Replenishment with Electronic Confirmation for Sale of Prepaid Long Distance - A method and system of providing an electronic receipt, such as a SMS text message, to a consumer responsive to a purchase of long distance calling minutes, real-time replenishment of the customer's account, and seamless, pin-less use of the purchased long-distance from the user's chosen phone(s). | 12-30-2010 |
20100330957 | MOBILE TERMINAL AUTHENTICATION METHOD AND SYSTEM - A method and system of authenticating a mobile terminal may include using a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) authentication device managed by a mobile virtual network operator, receiving an authentication request sent from the mobile terminal from a relay device via a MVNO base station configured to provide a service of the mobile virtual network operator, where the relay device is located between the MVNO base station or a Mobile Network Operator (MNO) base station configured to provide a service of a mobile network operator and the MVNO authentication device or a MNO authentication device managed by the mobile network operator, and determining whether or not access from the mobile terminal, as a MVNO mobile terminal registered as a user of the mobile virtual network operator, based on the authentication request is permitted. | 12-30-2010 |
20110009089 | Method, system and apparatus of charging for group mode service - A charging method for group mode service relating to the group mode service in communication networks is disclosed, the method includes: sending, an initial accounting request to a charging system in response to receiving a service request for establishing a group session from a client, to enable the charging system account at an initial rate; and initiating an interim accounting request to the charging system to enable the charging system account at a rate corresponding to the current group scale in response to detecting that group scale is changed according to a preset threshold for the number of group users. The present invention also provides the corresponding application server and group mode service's underlying system. By using the present invention to charge the group mode service, the charging interaction between the application server and the charging system is substantially reduced, and the network system resource consumed is reduced. | 01-13-2011 |
20110014893 | PAYBACK CALLING PLAN - A method for paying back customers for unused service units remaining after a billing cycle. A payback amount is determined by the product of the number of unused service units remaining and the payback rate amount. The payback amount credited to the customer is the calculated payback rate or a maximum payback amount, wherever is smaller. A total payback amount can be determined based on a combination of payback amounts for various services, including voice services, texting services, email services, and/or data storage services. | 01-20-2011 |
20110028124 | Software Switch for Separating Work and Personal Information on Cell Phone Devices - This is a cell phone system that provides for use of a single phone for both business and personal calls. This system permits the user to extract personal calls from the system, thereby preserving the confidential nature of some of these personal calls without the business having to review them to determine allocation of costs to user and business. | 02-03-2011 |
20110039518 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A DISTRIBUTED ROAMING MASTER (DRM) IN WIRELESS DATA NETWORKS - A system and methodology that can facilitate communication between home and roaming radio access networks by employing IP-based messaging is provided. The system employs a Distributed Roaming Master (DRM) that facilitates authentication and/or authorization of roaming UEs (user equipment) by employing information, which can be downloaded from a home carrier-DRM over an IP network, in advance or in real time. Further, the DRM can utilize the downloaded information to route data packets between authorized roaming UEs and end-destinations, over the IP network. Furthermore, the system can implement Distributed Roaming Servers (DRS), which can be distributed at strategic points in the radio access networks and can perform a subset of functions performed by the DRM. Additionally, the system can include a Distributed Roaming Configuration Server (DRCS) that facilitates management and configuration of the DRM and/or DRSs based on one or more records stored in a Distributed Roaming Security Catalog (DRSC). | 02-17-2011 |
20110045798 | ROAMING IN TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORKS - A method of providing telecommunication services in next generation networks involves at least one landline terminal ( | 02-24-2011 |
20110053554 | COMMUNICATING THE NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS IN A PUSH-TO-TALK OVER CELLULAR COMMUNICATION SESSIONS - A telecommunications system is described which allows a push-to-talk: over cellular (PoC) communication session to be established between PoC Clients comprised in respective mobile terminals ( | 03-03-2011 |
20110053555 | RULE BASED HIERARCHICAL ACCOUNT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method for allocating system resources through a rule based account hierarchy is provided. An Account Manager attempts to apply a system charge to an account. In applying the charge to the account, the Account Manager examines balance selection rules associated with the account. If, after examining the balance selection rules the Account Manager determines that the balance selection rules are satisfied, then the Account Manager attempts to charge the account. If the balance is owned by a parent account, then the charge is routed to that parent account. If the balance is not owned by a parent account, then the balance is charged. If, after examining all the balance selection rules of an account the Account Manager cannot find a balance to charge, then the communication session is disallowed. | 03-03-2011 |
20110053556 | Computer Mouse For Secure Communication With A Mobile Communication Device - As disclosed herein, a computer mouse ( | 03-03-2011 |
20110092183 | Telecommunications system, a method of charging some or all of the cost of a call to a callee, a method of debiting a prepay account of a telecommunications subscriber and telecommunications apparatus - A telecommunications system in which subscribers are provided with accounts against which services are billed, the system being of the type in which calls are normally billed to calling parties, wherein the system has a mode in which, before a usable voice channel is established between a caller and a callee, the callee is presented with a charging option whereby the callee may unilaterally opt to pay some or all of the cost of a particular incoming call from their subscriber account, a charging instruction being sent to a billing system associated with the subscriber account of the callee if the callee accepts the charging option and otherwise to a billing system associated with the caller. | 04-21-2011 |
20110092184 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATIC GENERATION, REGISTRATION AND MOBILE PHONE BILLING OF A POD USING THIRD PARTY WEB PAGE CONTENT - The systems and methods described herein generally relate to a method and system for automatically generating an application pod for a third party through which the third party's content is offered for access, purchase and use by mobile phone users within a community network. More specifically, the systems and methods described herein are directed to an application pod that can be automatically generated based on content and information retrieved from one or more web pages of the third party. | 04-21-2011 |
20110098018 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO MANAGE AND CONTROL WIRELESS SERVICE USAGE - A method and system for monitoring wireless service utilization is described. The teachings comprise: providing a logical database comprising service usage records providing triggers for a wireless service consumed by a wireless device; providing a contact address associated with the wireless device; after an interval, determining if the utilization consumed to-date for a current billing period by the wireless device activates one of the triggers, wherein the interval is at least an order of magnitude less than a billing period; generating a message corresponding to the activated trigger, with the message including values determined during the determining step; and sending the message to the contact address. | 04-28-2011 |
20110105077 | BACK-CHANNELED PACKETED DATA - A processor node stores and processes the last known location for certain mobile terminals to provide intermediate back-channel data in a form that is a function of whether the intermediate back-channel data is to be used in a situation that would encroach on information that might be sensitive to the subscriber or user of the mobile terminal, as viewed contractually, ethically or otherwise. If, for example, the subscriber or user of the mobile terminal has no such concerns (rights have been waived voluntarily by agreement with the wireless network operator or a third party, or involuntarily such as by a government mandate), the processor node generates location-identity-based back-channel data in a form that does not attempt to hide or code the user's identity and/or specific location. This form of (nonanonymized) data can be freely used internally by processor nodes internal to the wireless carrier as well as produced for review and analysis, such as demographic analytics, for use by a third party. Further, it is possible that this information can include other information from the user profile and/or the contract information used to permit the mobile terminal access to the network. | 05-05-2011 |
20110111729 | MULTI-TIER QUALITY OF SERVICE WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS - The present invention pertains to improved communication quality of service (QoS) in cellular communication networks ( | 05-12-2011 |
20110117880 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH SENDING COMMUNICATIONS - Methods and apparatus for determining a charge for a communication with one or more devices may include identifying a communication from a first device to a second device. The methods and apparatus may further include determining if the first device has a relationship with the second device by identifying another communication between the first device and the second device prior to the time of the communication, and determining a charge amount based upon the determining. | 05-19-2011 |
20110124313 | Systems and Methods for Subscriber Profile Management - Systems and methods subscriber profile management to facilitate seamless roaming of mobile devices from one network to another. A subscriber profile management system is provided that includes a time to live (“TTL”) generator that generates a TTL limit for a subscriber based on usage characteristics of the subscriber. The subscriber profile management system further includes an administration module that administers TTL limits, TTL limit database that store TTL limits, a subscriber profile database that stores subscriber profiles, a usage measurement database that stores usage measurements, and a TTL limit reference module that administers TTLs when a subscriber profile and TTL limit are transmitted. The invention further includes a series of methods that support seamless roaming capabilities of a subscriber throughout visited networks without the need to continually make proxy calls to re-authenticate a subscriber. | 05-26-2011 |
20110136468 | Devices, Systems and Methods for Location Based Billing - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed which relate to billing users of a telecommunication network. A billing server is in communication with a geo-fence database. The geo-fence database contains a plurality of geo-fences. Some geo-fences are associated with a single mobile communication devices, such as a home geo-fence, work geo-fence, etc., while other geo-fences are global, such as a stadium geo-fence, toll geo-fence, etc. When a mobile communication device enters the perimeter of a geo-fence, a billing server changes the billing rate at which connections are billed to the user account or bills another user account. The mobile communication device may send a ticket code to the billing server for a reduced billing rate while within a geo-fence. If a mobile communication device enters a toll geo-fence, then the billing server charges the user account for the toll. | 06-09-2011 |
20110143709 | AUTOMATED BILLING AND DISTRIBUTION PLATFORM FOR APPLICATION PROVIDERS - Systems and methods according to certain embodiments of the invention include integrating a network-enabled application with a platform having a plurality of users and a plurality of communication channels with a respective plurality of wireless network carriers. The systems and methods include providing a developer library for use by developers in creating their network-enabled applications. | 06-16-2011 |
20110159840 | CHARGING FOR ROAMING USERS IN IMS NETWORKS - Communication networks and methods are disclosed for sharing charging information between a home IMS network and a visited IMS network. If a signaling message for a session is received in the visited IMS network, the visited IMS network assigns a visited charging identifier (e.g., ICID), and shares the visited charging identifier with the home IMS network through signaling messages. Similarly, the home IMS network assigns a home charging identifier, and shares the home charging identifier with the visited IMS network through signaling messages. When CDRs are generated in the home IMS network and the visited IMS network, the networks include the home charging identifier and the visited charging identifier in the CDRs so that billing systems may more easily correlate the CDRs from the different IMS networks. | 06-30-2011 |
20110195688 | Method and rating engine for adjusting charging of communication events - A method solves the problem of implementing flexile charging of subscribers so that no changes, or minor changes, need to do in charging systems. Hence, the problem is how the rating and charging of communication events can be separated. The method is provided for creating, due a detection of a communication event, a notification relationship between a network node and a rating engine, wherein the notification relationship obeys a charging control protocol. Then the rating engine forms a supplementary instruction on the basis of information obtained from the notification relationship. Finally, the rating engine sends the supplementary instruction to the online charging system that re-charges the communication event according to the supplementary instruction. The invention also comprises a rating engine in accordance with a single charging embodiment in which the rating engine alone controls the charging of the communication event. | 08-11-2011 |
20110195689 | COMMUNICATION ASSISTANCE SYSTEM AND METHOD - A communication assistance system provides access to information corresponding to a plurality of subscriber listings. The system includes a telephone switch for receiving calls from a plurality of callers desiring to access the information corresponding to the subscriber listings and a database directory listing for storing information corresponding to each one of the subscriber listings. The information in the subscriber listings include a Rate Plan field associated with billing rates corresponding to each one of the subscribers such that when the system connects the caller to the subscriber, the system employs the Rate Plan Field to determine the billing amount charged to the caller so that the subscriber is not billed for the call. | 08-11-2011 |
20110201303 | METHOD OF HANDLING A CHANGE TO BEARER CONTROL MODE - Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method and related network node and machine-readable storage medium including one or more of the following: receiving, at the PCRN, a request message from an Evolved Packet Core node; determining whether the request message includes a request for a modification to an IP-CAN session; and if the request message includes a request for a modification to the IP-CAN session: determining a current bearer control mode for the IP-CAN session, determining a previous bearer control mode for the IP-CAN session, comparing the current bearer control mode to the previous bearer control mode, and if the current bearer control mode is different from the previous bearer control mode, modifying the IP-CAN session according to the current bearer control mode. | 08-18-2011 |
20110207430 | METHOD FOR OPTIMIZING THE CONSUMPTION OF A TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICE - The invention relates to a method for optimizing the consumption of telecommunications services in user groups. The method allows analyzing in real time the effectiveness of the multiple attributes of the commercial products associated with telecommunication services offered on a telecommunications network without excess calculations having to be generated, and at the same automatically acting accordingly on those attributes, optimizing the objective functions established by the telecommunications operator in the shortest possible time. | 08-25-2011 |
20110207431 | Accounting Request Processing In A Communication Network - A system and method for accounting request processing in a communication network. When an accounting request is received in a correlating network element from a service-monitoring element, it is stored unless and until the associated service has been completed. When a final accounting request associated with the service has been received, a processing track is determined; one of two or more preferably each associated with a different processing rate. Once a processing track has been assigned, each ACR is placed in a queue for processing; there are multiple queues, each associated with one or more processing tracks. In a preferred embodiment, the backlog of a queue, or of multiple queues, is considered when queuing an ACR. The backlog may be monitored and ACRs may be reassigned to a different queue, or the processing rate of a queue may be adjusted, so that ACRs may be processed at a higher (or lower) rate. | 08-25-2011 |
20110207432 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CHARGING CONTROL - The present invention provides a method for charging control in a Flow Based Charging (FBC) system, which includes the steps of: a Charging Rule Function (CRF) receives a charging rule request message from a Traffic Plane Function (TPF), the CRF sends a charging rule to the TPF. The charging rule includes an indication on whether to perform charging for a service data flow, and if the indication indicates to perform no charging, the service data flow is filtered but no charging information is generated. By applying this invention, operation in the TPF is optimized such that the TPF only needs to perform necessary charging instead of performing charging operation for the service data flow which does not need to be charged. As a result, the load of the TPF is reduced, so is the load of network devices, and system efficiency is improved. | 08-25-2011 |
20110217948 | Operation Of A Terminal Which Can Be Used With An Account In A Mobile Network Which Provides Communication Services - A method for operating a terminal which can be used with a credit account with an account statement and/or with a subscriber's account with subsequent rendering of accounts with an account statement and which can be used in a mobile network which provides communication services. The terminal comprises at least one display device for the reproduction of information and at least one input device for the gathering of information. The account statement of the credit account and/or of the subscriber's account will be reproduced by the display device of the terminal at least after having made use of a chargeable communication service. After using a chargeable communication service by the terminal, a device of the mobile network sends a trigger message which contains information with respect to the costs of the used chargeable communication service to a server of the mobile network. The server realizes a push service, and then triggers a push message to the terminal using the information of the trigger message. The push message contains information with respect to the account statement of the credit account and/or of the subscriber's account, by means of a push service of the mobile network. | 09-08-2011 |
20110217949 | PREPAID BILLING SOLUTIONS FOR PUSH-TO-TALK IN A WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK - Advanced group services for use in a mobile phone network include a prepaid billing solution. In the mobile phone network, a real-time exchange interfaces to at least one mobile switching center to provide the advanced group services therein. Both the real-time exchange and the mobile phones that use the advanced group services communicate with each other using call setup and in-band signaling within the mobile phone network, wherein the real-time exchange switches the voice frames for the advanced group services between the mobile phones across bearer paths and through at least one mobile switching center in the mobile phone network. A real-time billing mechanism is provided for a prepaid subscriber of the advanced group services. The real-time billing mechanism may use a prefix-based billing solution or a charging number based billing solution. | 09-08-2011 |
20110223882 | METHODS, APPARATUSES, SYSTEM AND RELATED COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR CHARGING OF ALWAYS-ON CONNECTIONS - The generation of charging data and charging traffic is reduced during idle periods of an always-on connection. During the detection of idle periods on the always-on connection special data like ICMP messages, keep alive messages and polling messages is ignored and not counted as active traffic. When an idle period is detected the charging session related to the always-on connection is suspended for the duration of the idle period in order to reduce the generation of charging data related to the idle always-on connection without terminating the charging session. Further on the user is not billed for the detected periods where the always-on connection was idle. | 09-15-2011 |
20110230164 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING ROAMING-SPECIFIC COST SAVING USAGE PATTERNS - Apparatus located at a first mobile telephony network, said network comprising a detector for detecting at least one of roaming registration signals and session management signals of roaming mobile telephony users of said first mobile telephony network who are roaming at another mobile telephony networks; and an analytics unit, associated with said detector, for analyzing said detected signals per individual roaming users, and identifying, from said signals, any one of a plurality of predefined cost saving behaviors of respective individual roaming users. The analytics unit provides an identification output for any of said individual roaming users who is identified to be engaging in one of said predefined cost saving behaviors. | 09-22-2011 |
20110244827 | FEE CHARGING SYSTEM, FEE CHARGING METHOD, SERVICE SERVER, SERVICE PROVIDING METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM - The present invention relates to a billing system, a billing method, a service server, a service providing method, and a storage medium. The billing system according to the present invention allows an end-point terminal to use a service although billing authentication information that the end-point terminal has is not billing authentication information of a currently connected mobile communication terminal, and the billing system comprises: a first end-point terminal connected to a service server via a first mobile communication terminal connected through a first short-range communication network, for using contents by using billing authentication information of a second mobile communication terminal; the first mobile communication terminal connected to the first end-point terminal through the first short-range communication network, connected to the service server through a mobile communication network, and connecting the first end-point terminal that uses the billing authentication information of the second mobile communication terminal to the service server; the second mobile communication terminal connected to the service server through the mobile communication network, for providing the first end-point terminal with its own billing authentication information; the service server connected to the first and second mobile communication terminals through the mobile communication network, for providing the contents to the first end-point terminal that uses the billing authentication information of the second mobile communication terminal; and a billing server for performing a billing process on the second mobile communication terminal if the service server transmits the contents to the first end-point terminal. | 10-06-2011 |
20110250865 | RESOURCE AND UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT OF TELECOMMUNICATION DEVICES - Methods and systems for resource and utilization management of telecommunications devices within an enterprise, where the enterprise contracts for telecommunications service from one or more service providers, comprising components configured to receive quantity data corresponding to the amount of telecommunications service used by the enterprise per period into a resource management system including a microprocessor executing programmed instructions, group telecommunications devices into pools of shared use for the telecommunications service, the pools of shared use including one or more telecommunication devices, analyze for each telecommunications device telecommunications services plans available from the service providers to determine the total quantity of telecommunications service provided by the service providers and the cost per unit of telecommunications service, select selected telecommunications service plans for each telecommunications device that accommodate a target quantity of projected telecommunications service use per period, and subscribe the telecommunications devices to the selected service plans. | 10-13-2011 |
20110256843 | System and Method for Message-Based Access - A method and system for providing message-based access to services includes receiving a request message from a mobile subscriber relating to a service that is desired by the mobile subscriber, routing the request message for processing, performing one or more activities in accordance with the requested service, returning a response message to the mobile subscriber, and facilitating/enabling/etc. access to the requested service. | 10-20-2011 |
20110263220 | Regional Zone Based Mobile Charging - Network node and method in a telecommunication network, the network node receiving from a calling terminal a request to set up a call with a called terminal. The network node retrieves call set up information from a stored connection table and utilizes the retrieved data to set up the call. The connection table comprises data relating to set up of a call between the calling terminal and the called terminal. A first region class for the calling terminal is determined, and a second region class for the called terminal, each being associated with locations of the calling terminal and the called terminal, respectively. Furthermore, a rating category for the call to be set up is determined using the first region class and the second region class using the connection table. | 10-27-2011 |
20110269421 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC PROVISIONING - A system and method for dynamic provisioning is provided. In an embodiment, a provisioning engine receives data representing a device profile, a device state and a network state, and to the extent that the device profile, device state and network state are not consistent, the engine can dynamically re-provision the device to achieve an alternative provisioning. | 11-03-2011 |
20110275345 | OFFLINE CHARGING FOR SESSIONS OVER A 3GPP NETWORK AND A WLAN ACCESS NETWORK - Communication networks and methods are disclosed for providing offline charging in a 3GPP network for sessions over a wireless local area network (WLAN) access network. A AAA server in the 3GPP network provides offline charging messages for a session to an offline charging system. If a data flow is established during the session, such as streaming video, then a packet data network gateway provides offline charging messages for the data flow to the offline charging system. The AAA server and the packet data network gateway share charging identifiers so that one or both are able to include the charging identifier for the session and the charging identifier for the data flow in an offline charging message. This allows the offline charging system to effectively correlate CDRs for the session with CDRs for the data flow occurring during the session. | 11-10-2011 |
20110281551 | Systems, Methods, and Computer Program Products for Providing Service Credit to Customer Accounts in a Wireless Communications Service Network - Systems, methods, and computer program products use combinations of international mobile equipment identity (IMEI), international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI), and account information to determine if a customer is eligible for service credit in near real-time. The customer needs an active account prior to inserting a subscriber identity module (SIM) into a device and powering on the device for the system to determine credit eligibility. No further customer action is required. The credit application process determines credit eligibility based upon device credit eligibility, account tenure, and/or credit rules, and applies the credit to the customer's account. The customer may be proactively notified when the credit is applied. The credit and tenure rules may be changed as the industry and business needs change to remain competitive in the industry. The SIM used is configured with software to lock the SIM to the device upon first power-on. | 11-17-2011 |
20110281552 | OPERATIONS METHOD FOR PROVIDING WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SERVICES - The present invention is directed to an improved operations method for a wireless communication system. The improved business method, operations method, network and system of the present invention includes the steps of delivering cellular services to the mass market, reducing peak capacity, increasing overall capacity utilization, improving capital utilization, providing an “all-you-can-eat” pricing model, and designing capacity based upon where the users live, work, and play. | 11-17-2011 |
20110281553 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR LOCATION-DEPENDENT BILLING FOR SERVICES - A method for location-dependent billing for a services that are available to a mobile terminal, a local communication connection is set up to a fixably installed external location tag with a corresponding wireless interface between the fixably installed tag and the mobile terminal, the method including the steps of accessing the external location tag and transmitting a billing rate code from the external location tag to the mobile terminal, forwarding the billing rate code from the mobile terminal to a central unit of a mobile communication network, in which the mobile terminal is logged, determining a geographic location identification of the external location tag by evaluation of the billing rate code at the central unit, and selecting a billing rate for billing for the service available to the user based on the billing rate code at the central unit. | 11-17-2011 |
20110294462 | CHARGING OF A SHORT MESSAGE TRANSMISSION - The invention relates to charging of a short message transmission in a telecommunications network. The invention provides a mechanism for refunding the subscriber for an already charged short message in the event of a failure during the delivery of that short message. The invention also relates to the methods and devices that are used to deliver a short message and perform the charging thereof. | 12-01-2011 |
20110294463 | MOBILE VIRTUAL NETWORK OPERATOR - Systems and methods for operating a mobile virtual network are disclosed. A mobile virtual network operator is disclosed as an entity that provides a mobile networking service to a user, the mobile networking service being provided using a physical mobile network provided by a third party. The mobile virtual network operator may provide content distribution services, data access services, or messaging services to a user of a mobile device. | 12-01-2011 |
20110294464 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A NETWORK SERVICE IN A DISTRIBUTED FASHION TO A MOBILE DEVICE - Systems and methods for operating a mobile virtual network are disclosed. A mobile virtual network operator is disclosed as an entity that provides a mobile networking service to a user, the mobile networking service being provided using a physical mobile network provided by a third party. The mobile virtual network operator may provide content distribution services, data access services, or messaging services to a user of a mobile device. | 12-01-2011 |
20110306317 | Method and System for Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) Rating and Billing - The advances disclosed herewith delimit an improved method and system for smoothly rating and billing Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS). Implemented as part of a computer program product, the solution seeking the protection of Letters Patent, represents a comprehensive real-time solution for rating incoming and outgoing MMS messages which, with a view towards simplicity and efficacy of purpose, enables wireless/mobile subscribers to maintain a single account for both voice and messaging (MMS) services. | 12-15-2011 |
20110312298 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ACHIEVING CALL BACK SERVICE - The present invention relates to a system and method for achieving a Call Back service. The system includes a callback center and an online charging system (OCS) module. The method includes: the callback center receiving a callback request in which a calling party and a called party are both OCS subscribers, using a roaming number to call the calling party/called party, adjusting the charging duration of the firstly called party therein after the conversation is over, and then notifying the OCS module to deduct charges for both parties. The present invention is capable of charging reasonably and displaying the number accurately without any requirement on the cooperation of the pre-charge calling system, and the present invention is suitable to the intelligent network service which uses the OCS and the conventional intelligent network service. | 12-22-2011 |
20110319054 | SESSION BINDING USING SUBSCRIBER IDENTIFICATION - Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method and related network node and machine-readable storage medium including a policy and charging rules node (PCRN) receiving a plurality of related service requests from different devices. The PCRN may establish a Session Binding Identifier (SBI) for each message received. The SBI may include one or more subscriber IDs. Upon receipt of a message, the PCRN may compare the included subscriber IDs against information included in a subscriber database to match with a specific subscriber profile. The PCRN may use the subscriber profile to determine whether existing established sessions are associated with the same subscriber profile, and may bind the sessions together when they are associated with a common subscriber profile. | 12-29-2011 |
20110319055 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SELECTING AND USING AN ORIGINATION IDENTIFIER IN AN INTERNET PROTOCOL ENVIRONMENT - A IP telephony service allows customers to form user groups. Each user group can include multiple members, each of whom have their own telephony device. A group identifier, which could be a telephone number, is assigned to each user group. As a result, a single telephony device belonging to a member of a user group can be associated with its own unique telephone number, and the telephone number used as the group identifier. The system allows the user to select which of multiple telephone numbers associated with his telephony device are to be used as the originating telephone number when an outgoing telephone call or an outgoing message is sent. | 12-29-2011 |
20120009895 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR RELIABLE TRANSMISSION OF CHARGING DETAIL RECORDS - A charging detail record transmission capability is provided herein. A mobile gateway (MG) generates charging detail records (CDRs) intended for delivery to a charging gateway function (CGF). The CDRs are propagated toward both a first and second charging data function (CDFs). The first and second CDFs buffer the CDRs. The first CDF is configured for propagating CDRs toward the CGF. The second CDF is configured for propagating CDRs toward the CGF when the first CDF fails. The CGF is configured for acknowledging receipt of CDRs to the first or second CDF from which the CDRs are received. The first CDF is configured for acknowledging, to the second CDF, receipt of acknowledgment messages from the first CDF. The second CDF is configured for, upon failure of the first CDF, initiating a process for determining which of the CDRs buffered at the second CDF need to be propagated to the CGF in order to ensure that none of the CDRs generated by the MG are lost due to the failure of the first CDF. | 01-12-2012 |
20120015627 | REVERSE CHARGE CALLING IN A COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK - According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for use in a communication network for performing reverse charge calling. The apparatus comprises a reverse charging element operable for: receiving a request from a first subscriber to establish a reverse charge call with a second subscriber, the request including an identifier of the first and second subscribers on the network; establishing a call with the second subscriber; sending a call establishment request to a service control element to establish a call with the first subscriber, the request including a predetermined identifier identifiable by the service control element; the service control element being further operable for: detecting the presence of the predetermined identifier in a call establishment request message: informing the second subscriber that a reverse charge call has been requested along with the determined cost of the call; and completing the call with the first subscriber upon obtaining authorization to accept the reverse charge call from the second subscriber. | 01-19-2012 |
20120015628 | Call Cost Indication Systems And Methods - Systems and method provide a call cost indication indicative of a cost of receiving an incoming call by a mobile phone. A cost indication server receives a cost request from a cost requestor prior to setting up the incoming call and retrieves, based upon the cost request, call cost information associated with the mobile phone from a database. The cost indication server then sends the call cost information to the cost requestor. Call rules determine whether the call is intercepted or allowed to proceed based upon one or both of the call cost information and the identity of an initiator of the incoming call. | 01-19-2012 |
20120021719 | System and Method for Real Time Self-Provisioning for a Mobile Communication Device - A system and method of provisioning services for a mobile communication device are disclosed. A provisioning request including provisioning information and specifying a provisioning operation and a first communication service is prepared on the mobile communication device and sent to a provisioning system. Processing of the provisioning request is dependent upon whether or not a second communication service has been activated for the mobile communication device. If the mobile communication device is outside a coverage area of a wireless communication network when a provisioning request is prepared, the request is stored at the mobile communication device and sent to the provisioning system when the mobile communication device enters the coverage area. The provisioning system preferably manages service provisioning for multiple services, any of which may be hosted by different service providers. | 01-26-2012 |
20120028601 | ACCOUNT AND ASSET LOADER TOOL - A system that enables reconciliation of accounts between a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) and a mobile host operator (MHO) includes an asset loader server that receives data that defines a user event. The asset loader server generates a wholesale bill associated with the user event. The rate charged in the generated wholesale bill is based on a negotiated rate between the MVNO and the MHO that is different that the may be different than the rate at which the MVNO charges the user. The asset loader communicates the generated wholesale bill to a billing interface of the MNVO that is configured to receive an extensible markup language (XML) file that defines a wholesale bill associated with the MHO. The format of the generated wholesale bill is substantially the same as the format of the XML file associated with the MHO. | 02-02-2012 |
20120028602 | COMPUTER-IMPLEMENTED METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS RATING - The present application relates to a computer-implemented method, system, and computer program product for telecommunications rating. The computer-implemented method for telecommunications rating may comprise: receiving an event from a source system for a service, wherein the event is generated by a user; transforming the event into a normalized event by determining event characteristics comprising determining a guiding point identifier to identify a guiding point associated with the user; by using the guiding point identifier, retrieving from the guiding point a list of products operable to guide the normalized event; rating the normalized event by calculating and aggregating costs according to the list of products; and posting the costs by updating at least one balance associated with the user, the guiding point, and/or the service. | 02-02-2012 |
20120034900 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER READABLE MEDIA FOR DIAMETER ROUTING WITH NUMBER PORTABILITY CORRECTION - Methods, systems, and computer readable media for DIAMETER routing with portability correction are disclosed. According to one aspect, the subject matter described herein includes a method for providing number portability correction for DIAMETER signaling involving a subscriber of a communications network. The method includes receiving a DIAMETER signaling message directed to an Online Charging System (OCS) and accessing a number portability database using the called party identifier in the signaling message, to identify if the called party has a ported number. The method further includes, in response to determining the called party has a ported number, modifying the signaling message to include results from or derived from the access to the number portability database, and routing the modified message to the OCS. | 02-09-2012 |
20120040638 | System and Method for Message-Based Interactive Services - A method and system for providing message-based interactive services includes receiving a short code message from a mobile subscriber relating to a service desired by the mobile subscriber from an interactive service device, routing the short code message for processing, and instructing the interactive service device to operate in accordance with the short code message. | 02-16-2012 |
20120046010 | NETWORK-BASED SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GLOBAL ROAMING - A system and method of mobile communication roaming where a subscriber's home network and a roaming network used by the subscriber do not have a roaming agreement. The roaming network sends a “Send Authentication/Parameters” request to the home network via an intelligent roaming system on or attached to the backbone. The home network sends an authentication response to the “Send Authentication/Parameters” request from the home network to the roaming network via the backbone and intelligent roaming system. The roaming network sends a “Update Location” request from the roaming network to the intelligent roaming system. The visitor locator register (VLR) address in the “Update Location” request is replaced with the VLR address of the intelligent roaming system to create a modified update request. The modified update request is sent from the intelligent roaming system to the home network. The home network sends an update response to the modified update request to the roaming network via the backbone and intelligent roaming system. | 02-23-2012 |
20120046011 | System and Method for Providing Prepaid Billing For Instant Messaging Users - A system and method for providing prepaid billing for users of an instant messaging system. A method includes determining whether a prepaid account balance associated with an IM client request satisfies a pre-determined criteria, establishing a regular IM session if the prepaid account satisfies the criteria, and establishing a limited IM session if the prepaid account does not satisfy the criteria. The system includes a prepaid account screener operable to determine whether a prepaid account balance satisfies the criteria, establish a regular IM session if the prepaid account satisfies the criteria, and establish a limited IM session if the prepaid account does not satisfy the criteria. | 02-23-2012 |
20120058742 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DYNAMICALLY ASSIGNING A MOBILE SERVICE REQUEST TO ANY ONE OF A PLURALITY OF AVAILABLE SERVICE PROVIDERS - A method, non-transistory computer readable medium and system for dynamically assigning a request for wireless communication service are disclosed. For example, the method receives the request for wireless communication service from a mobile device, and forwards the request to a plurality of wireless network service providers to solicit at least one bid for servicing the request. The method receives the at least one bid from the plurality of wireless network service providers to service the request, and determines by a coordinating device a winning bid from the at least one bid. The method then assigns a wireless network service provider from the plurality of wireless network service providers to service the request, wherein the assigned wireless network service provider is associated with the winning bid. | 03-08-2012 |
20120064856 | PREPAID DATA HUB - A Prepaid Data Hub for maintaining pre-payment information for roaming subscribers. The Hub interacts with two or more wireless telecommunication systems that implement two different wireless protocols and which may be operated by different wireless service providers. The Hub retrieves pre-payment information using two or more different protocols, with a first protocol being native to the home network, but a second protocol being an external prepaid portal protocol. The Hub also monitors subscriber data traffic to limit the amount of access consumed in a subscriber session, notify subscribers of a low balance, and the like. The Hub eliminates the need for network gateway devices to themselves provide control over and/or maintain pre-payment information. | 03-15-2012 |
20120064857 | TEMPORARY DATA SERVICE IN WIRELESS NETWORKS - A wireless network and method are disclosed that provide temporary data service to a party. For the invention, a temporary data service system receives a request from a first party to establish temporary data service for a second party. The temporary data service system then configures the wireless network to establish temporary data service for the second party, such as by setting up a temporary subscriber profile or temporary account for the second party in the wireless network. A notification system then generates a notification message indicating that the temporary data service has been established for the second party, and transmits the notification message to the second party. The second party may use the temporary data service to access some type of data message or data file, such as a picture message sent by the first party. | 03-15-2012 |
20120064858 | NOTIFICATION OF CHARGING RATE ADJUSTMENTS IN REGIONS OF A MOBILE NETWORK TO CONTROL BANDWIDTH USAGE IN THE REGIONS - Systems and methods are disclosed that notify end users of mobile devices of charging rate adjustments within a mobile network. A rate notification system receives bandwidth usage data for the mobile network, and identifies a region within the mobile network having a bandwidth usage that exceeds a threshold. The bandwidth usage is processed per media type (i.e., voice calls, text messages, etc) based on the bandwidth usage data. The rate notification system then identifies a mobile device located within the region, and identifies one or more contacts of the end user of the mobile device. The rate notification system then identifies an adjusted charging rate per contact per media type for this end user, and provides the adjusted charging rates to the end user of the mobile device. | 03-15-2012 |
20120077459 | CONTROLLING AND ENHANCING HANDOFF BETWEEN WIRELESS ACCESS POINTS - A wireless device includes at least one processor operable to transmit authentication information to one of a plurality network devices associated with a first wireless hotspot; and establish an access session with the one of the plurality of access devices. Information related to the access session is saved in memory accessible by a plurality of wireless access providers. When the wireless device moves from a coverage area of the first wireless hotspot to a coverage area of the one of the plurality of wireless access providers, the saved information facilitates access to the one of the plurality of wireless access providers by the wireless device. The plurality of network devices includes a plurality of access points. The access session is established upon authentication of the wireless device. The wireless device is authenticated based on the authentication information. The memory comprises a shared memory register. | 03-29-2012 |
20120077460 | CHARGING METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PUSH-TO-TALK OVER CELLULAR SYSTEM - Embodiments of the present invention relate to a charging method and system for a Push-to-talk over Cellular (PoC) system. The charging method for a PoC system includes: after sending an initial online charging request to an Online Charging System (OCS), receiving an initial online charging response message that is sent by the OCS and carries a downlink channel type switching trigger variable; monitoring a type of a downlink channel used by a PoC service according to the downlink channel type switching trigger variable; and sending an online charging request to the OCS if switching of the type of the downlink channel used by the PoC service is detected, where the online charging request includes a switched type of the downlink channel. The embodiments of the present invention implement precise and proper charging for a PoC client when the PoC client switches a channel. | 03-29-2012 |
20120083242 | METHOD FOR PROVISIONING OF A NETWORK ACCESS FOR A MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE - The invention refers to a method for provisioning of a network access for a mobile communication device ( | 04-05-2012 |
20120083243 | Communication Network Signaling - Short message service (SMS) message processing is described. An SMS message is addressed in a short message entity (SME) device. The SMS message is addressed without providing any message content for the SMS message. The SMS message is sent to an SMS center, and rated based on no message content. | 04-05-2012 |
20120088469 | FRONT-END CHARGING SYSTEM THAT GENERATES CHARGING DATA PER ENTITY HAVING A REVENUE SHARE - Charging systems and methods are disclosed for determining the share of call revenue for multiple entities. One embodiment comprises a charging controller that is coupled to a mobile network and an online charging system. The charging controller receives charging data for a call in the mobile network, and processes the charging data and charging rules to identify entities that have a share in revenue for the call. The charging controller generates a charging request message indicating the entities having a revenue share in the call, and transmits the charging request message to the online charging system to cause the online charging system to determine the revenue share for each of the entities. | 04-12-2012 |
20120088470 | VERIFIABLE DEVICE ASSISTED SERVICE USAGE BILLING WITH INTEGRATED ACCOUNTING, MEDIATION ACCOUNTING, AND MULTI-ACCOUNT - Various embodiments are disclosed for a services policy communication system and method. In some embodiments, a communications device implements a service policy for assisting billing for the communications device use of a service on a network; and monitors use of the service based on the service policy, in which a local service usage is synchronized with a network based service usage. | 04-12-2012 |
20120088471 | CALL LIST TRANSMISSION PROCESSING METHOD AND SYSTEM OF CHARGING SYSTEM - A method and a system for processing call detail record transmission in a charging system. The method includes: a service processing node detecting a load status of a transmission link after receiving a call detail record generated by a service program, if the transmission link is idle is detected, sending the received call detail record to a charging server; or else storing the received call detail record in a first storage area in the service processing node as a stocked call detail record file; and the charging server detecting a load status of a call detail record processing module after receiving the call detail record sent by the service processing node, if the call detail record processing module is not idle is detected, storing the received call detail record in a second storage area in the charging server as a stocked call detail record file. | 04-12-2012 |
20120100829 | System and Method for Providing Advertising on a Device - A display system and method of advertising, includes, in one embodiment, loading a graphic advertisement onto a computer-readable medium of an electronic device. The graphic advertisement is or has a time passage indicator for indicating the passage of time. An idle-time sensor determines an idle-time period in which updated application information is not presented on a display of the device due to, for example, data processing activity by the processor, data transfer activity, congestion or latency in the network, or any other activity that occupies resources in the device to delay or temporally preventing updating of the display. The graphic advertisement is displayed when the device is in the idle-time period, animated to indicate the passage of time, and removed after the idle-time period has ended. | 04-26-2012 |
20120108201 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING A TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICE - A method for performing a telecommunication service, including identifying, on a Service Delivery Platform (SDP) and by a processor, the telecommunication service, selecting, on the SDP and by the processor, the telecommunication service, and executing, on the SDP and by the processor, the telecommunication service on a cellular network, where the SDP is configured to implement the telecommunication service on the cellular network. | 05-03-2012 |
20120115433 | METHOD OF PROVIDING RATE TIERS IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS - The present invention provides a method of providing rate tiers in a wireless communication system. Embodiments of the method include forming, at a network element in the wireless communication system, a statistical representation of resource usage for a user in the wireless communication system as a function of location and/or time using measurements of the user's resource usage at a plurality of locations. Embodiments of the method also include defining, at the network element, a plurality of rate tiers based on the statistical representation. Each rate tier indicates a rate for a different level of resource usage offered to the user. | 05-10-2012 |
20120115434 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SERVICE ACTIVATION IN MOBILE NETWORK BILLING - Embodiments described herein provide a user with the ability to select from a list of available services that can be used on a mobile device. The services include device-based services and device-network based services. The activation, usage tracking and deactivation of a selected service can be conducted at a central location. Some of the services can be provided by different carrier network providers and in different geographical areas. The service selection can be performed from the mobile device, thus providing the user with maximum flexibility as to when and where the user requests the service. | 05-10-2012 |
20120129488 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND COMPUTER READABLE MEDIA FOR INTER-CARRIER ROAMING COST CONTAINMENT - Methods, systems, and computer readable media for enabling location-based policy in a mobile communication network are disclosed. According to one method, a first Diameter signaling message is received at a Diameter agent. Subscriber identification information and roaming information are extracted from the first Diameter message and the extracted information is communicated to a policy control function. | 05-24-2012 |
20120129489 | UNLIMITED MEDIA ACCESS OVER WIRELESS INFRASTRUCTURE - Methods, systems, and apparatus are presented for providing unlimited access to media content, such as music. A media server environment can be provided, which maintains an instance of each subscriber account and a central archive of media content. Further, selected media content can be downloaded to, and stored locally at, a subscriber device, such as on a secure storage device. Access to the local media content can be controlled through the media server environment based on the status of the subscriber's account. If the subscriber's account becomes inactive, access to the downloaded media content can be disabled. Once the subscriber's account is reactivated, access to the downloaded media content can be restored. Additionally, access to the media server environment, including the central archive of media content, also can be controlled based on individual subscriber account status. | 05-24-2012 |
20120129490 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING CHARGING STATUS INFORMATION TO SUBSCRIBER OF COMMUNICATION SERVICE - A method for providing charging status information to a subscriber of a communication service includes: receiving an accounting request (ACR) from a network element (NE) at a charging collection function (CCF) subsystem, the ACR associated with communication service provided to a subscriber in conjunction with a communication session, the subscriber subject to a rate plan that applies different billing rates for different usage levels, the ACR including a volume parameter indicating usage since a previous ACR; converting the ACR to a credit control request (CCR), the CCR including a usage parameter indicating usage since a previous CCR; sending the CCR to a quota monitoring function (QMF) subsystem; adding the volume parameter to a previously consumed amount in relation to a billing cycle to form a total consumed amount; and comparing the total consumed amount to a threshold value associated with a quota value for a first usage level. | 05-24-2012 |
20120135706 | SYSTEM FOR REAL-TIME PHOTOGRAPH PRINTING SERVICE AND METHOD FOR THE SAME - A system for real-time photograph printing service includes a personal terminal, a telecom terminal, and a printing service terminal. The personal terminal is triggered to transmit a digital photograph file and a phone number according to the personal terminal. The telecom terminal fetches a communication address of a user of the personal terminal according to the received telephone number, and the printing service terminal receives the digital photograph file to print out a physical photograph. Finally, the printed photograph is send to the communication address for user by post. | 05-31-2012 |
20120135707 | AUTOMATED BILLING AND DISTRIBUTION PLATFORM FOR APPLICATION PROVIDERS - Systems and methods according to certain embodiments of the invention include integrating a network-enabled application with a platform having a plurality of users and a plurality of communication channels with a respective plurality of wireless network carriers. The systems and methods include providing a developer library for use by developers in creating their network-enabled applications. | 05-31-2012 |
20120142310 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING MOBILE DEVICES AND SERVICES - The mobile device management system provides for administration of mobile devices associated with a customer and supported by multiple service providers or carriers. The system provides a central, customized interface for management of mobile devices. The system aggregates customer policies, service plan information from various service providers and specific end user information to enable management of mobile devices. Management functions include procurement, expense management, billing and invoicing, support and monitoring of mobile devices associated with the customer. This system and method for managing mobile devices and services keeps the customers mobile workforce connected while reducing the total cost of ownership. | 06-07-2012 |
20120142311 | Charging System and Method - The present invention provides a charging method, including: a mobility management network element obtaining charging policy information of a terminal from a user subscription data network element; an access network element obtaining the charging policy information of the terminal from the mobility management network element; and the access network element storing the charging policy information of the terminal, and charging for services of the terminal according to the charging policy information. Accordingly, the present invention also provides a charging system, an access network element and a mobility management network element. The technical scheme of the present invention can send the charging policy information to the radio side network element in the LIPA structure to realize the dynamic charging based on users of services; and it can cover the LTE network and the 3G network at the same time. | 06-07-2012 |
20120149326 | Method, System and Device for Implementing Inter-Network Short Message Service Intercommunication in Number Portability Service - A method and system for implementing inter-network SMS interworking in NP service are provided in the present invention. The method includes: before initiating a MT-SMS, if a first SMS Center of GSM network (G1-SMSC) judges that the destination user is not a user of local network, then it delivers a SRI message to an interworking SMSC; the interworking SMSC queries the NPDB in CDMA network for the home network of the destination MDN, and if the home network is a second GSM network, the interworking SMSC sends a SRI message carrying the destination MDN to the HLR in the second GSM network (G2-HLR); and G2-HLR sends a SRI response carrying the address information of the MSC where the destination user is located to G1-SMSC, and the G1-SMSC initiates a MT-SMS to the MSC where the destination user is located according to the address information. | 06-14-2012 |
20120157040 | INFORMATION PROCESSING DEVICE, COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, AND BILLING METHOD FOR WIRELESS TERMINAL DEVICE - An information processing device includes: a detecting unit configure to detect, with regard to a plurality of wireless terminal devices sharing a usage right of subscription authentication information relating to a mobile network operator which provides wireless connection services, transfer of the usage right among the wireless terminal devices; and a calculating unit configured to, in the event that transfer of the usage right is detected, calculate fees relating to the subscription authentication information occurring after the transfer, based on billing information set for the wireless terminal device to which the usage right has been transferred. | 06-21-2012 |
20120157041 | ONLINE CHARGING FOR ROAMING USERS IN A PROXY ONLINE CHARGING SYSTEM OF A VISITED NETWORK - Communication networks and methods are disclosed for performing online charging credit control in a visited network when a user is roaming. The visited network which is providing service to a roaming user includes a proxy online charging system (OCS) that communicates with a home OCS in a home network of the user. The proxy OCS transmits an online charging request message to a home OCS in a home network for the roaming user requesting charging information for the roaming user. The proxy OCS receives an online charging response message from the home OCS that includes the charging information for the roaming user. The proxy OCS then processes the charging information to perform credit control for one or more network elements in the visited network that is serving the session. | 06-21-2012 |
20120164973 | Personal Communication Device RF Zone Billing Arrangement - The present invention comprises a docking system for connecting a portable communication device to a further signal transmission line. The docking system may be arranged within a workstation such as a desk or a tray. The system may also envelope a room in a building or be located in a vehicle, to control and restrict the radiative emission from the communication device and to direct such radiation to a further remote antenna and or signal distribution system connected to the transmission line. | 06-28-2012 |
20120164974 | Method and Apparatus for Pre-Caching in a Telecommunication System - The present invention relates to file pre-caching and file retrieving in an autonomous network access module comprising a local storage, and providing network connectivity to a mobile device in a telecommunication system. The network access module comprises a local storage and provides network connectivity to a mobile device ( | 06-28-2012 |
20120171990 | Systems and Methods to Restrict Payment Transactions - Systems and methods are provided to selectively restrict payment transactions. In one aspect, a system includes: a data storage facility to store restriction data in association with a phone number; and an interchange coupled with the data storage facility. The interchange includes a common format processor and a plurality of converters to interface with mobile controllers. The converters are configured to communicate with the controllers in different formats and to communicate with the common format processor in a common format. In response to a payment request identifying the phone number and a merchant, the common format processor determines whether to reject the payment request based at least in part on the restriction data and the identity of the merchant. If the request is not rejected, the common format processor uses one of the converters to communicate with a telephonic apparatus at the phone number to confirm the payment request. | 07-05-2012 |
20120178412 | METHOD OF SELECTING CARDS FOR MULTI-MODE MOBILE PHONE - A method of selecting cards for multi-mode mobile phone. The multi-mode mobile phone includes at least one phone card that supports a communication network mode and corresponds to a phone card ID. Charging information is obtained from interfaces provided by operators, the charging information including charge for each communication service of the communication network mode supported by the phone card. A charging information table is generated according to the charging information, the charging information table including an association between the phone card ID and the charge for each communication service. When a communication service is started, the charging information table is queried and the most economical communication service charge from the charging information table is selected for the started communication service A corresponding phone card ID is also selected. The multi-mode mobile phone is switched to the phone card corresponding to the selected phone card ID to communicate. | 07-12-2012 |
20120178413 | Technique for Monitoring a Call - A technique for monitoring a call associated with a connection established via a Media Gateway node (MGW) is described. The Media Gateway node (MGW) is controlled by a Media Gateway Controller node (MGC). The Media Gateway node (MGW) and the Media Gateway Controller node (MGC) belong to a layered network (LN). A method implementation of this technique comprises the steps of detecting a loss of communication between the Media Gateway Controller node (MGC) and the Media Gateway node (MGW) and logging the loss of communication together with a time stamp of the detected communication loss to be used for determining a charging time of the call. | 07-12-2012 |
20120178414 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A NETWORK SERVICE IN A DISTRIBUTED FASHION TO A MOBILE DEVICE - Systems and methods for operating a mobile virtual network are disclosed. A mobile virtual network operator is disclosed as an entity that provides a mobile networking service to a user, the mobile networking service being provided using a physical mobile network provided by a third party. The mobile virtual network operator may provide content distribution services, data access services, or messaging services to a user of a mobile device. | 07-12-2012 |
20120184241 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED PREPAID WIRELESS PHONE REFILLS - A method and system for refilling minutes for prepaid wireless phones is provided. Also provided is a computer-readable storage medium including a program, which when executed on a processor performs an operation. The method includes executing a recurring charge to a user account, the user account being stored in a database, and automatically crediting a device associated with the user account with prepaid minutes in response to executing the recurring charge. | 07-19-2012 |
20120184242 | Methods and Systems for Enhancing Wireless Coverage - Described are methods, devices, and systems to provide enhanced wireless coverage for wireless mobile stations by facilitating centralized authentication for a variety of unrelated networks. The mobile stations can then access Internet and telephony resources via the various networks for improved coverage and bandwidth. Some embodiments support the extension of network coverage using wireless-access points that can be partitioned into multiple virtual access points, one associated with an enterprise and another with an overlay network that facilitates mobile communication over multiple networks. One physical access point can support an enterprise network using one virtual access point and the overlay network using another. Users unaffiliated with an enterprise can access the overlay network via the enterprise's physical access point without gaining access to the enterprise network. | 07-19-2012 |
20120190326 | COMMUNICATION FEE PREDICTION DEVICE, COMMUNICATION DEVICE, COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, AND CHARGING METHOD - A communication fee prediction device including: a communication unit; a network load information management unit that collects and retains network load information of each base station through the communication unit; a user behavior history management unit that collects and retains positional information of a data communication terminal; and a fee prediction unit that estimates a later movement path of a data communication terminal, estimates a network load state when a data communication terminal passes through a base station on the estimated movement path, and predicts a communication fee according to a network load state of a base station that a data communication terminal is currently position registering and a communication fee according to a network load state of a base station on the estimated movement path, wherein a data communication terminal is notified of the current communication fee and the predicted value of a communication fee through the communication unit. | 07-26-2012 |
20120190327 | System and Methods for Locating Mobile Devices Using Location and Presence Information - A location based service and method configured to provide recovery assistance for a misplaced or stolen mobile device. The location based system and method is configured to locate (recover) high value mobile devices using location, presence and other IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) based telecommunications network assets. The method includes leveraging location dips performed for other services to drive a recovery process for a mobile device to thereby reduce resource overhead on a location platform; locating the mobile device using the location dips performed for other services; and sending a notification to a subscriber of the location of the mobile device for recovery of the mobile device. | 07-26-2012 |
20120190328 | GPS Driven Architecture for Delivery of Location Based Multimedia and Method of Use - An architecture, system and method of use sends location based multimedia to participants of a geo-tour or other application using geo-boundaries and/or other location information. The method includes detecting when a user has crossed within a geo-boundary. The method further includes determining a content type to be sent to a mobile device based on preferences provided by the user. Additionally, the method includes sending user location specific content of the determined content type to the mobile device when the user has crossed within the geo-boundary. | 07-26-2012 |
20120190329 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING MEDIA CONTENT TO A USER - A Call Session Control Function (CSCF) unit may receive from a user a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) message, which may be transmitted via a communication terminal, identifying particular media content on a particular content server, and in response the CSCF unit may transmit a second message to a particular application server (SIP-AS) if the CSCF unit determines that the SIP message is associated with the application server. The application server may generate and transmit to the communication terminal accessing information that may be used by the user to retrieve, via the communication terminal, the media content from the content server. Submitting content requests in this manner may enable routing content requests through an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), thereby making use of filtering features of the IMS for user authentication and access control, and obviating need for separate proprietary access control mechanisms for the content server. | 07-26-2012 |
20120196564 | Hands Free Calling System for Telematics Users Using A Network-Based Pre-Pay System - The described invention provides a method and system for allowing subscribers of a telematics service provider (TSP) to make hands-free phone calls within their vehicles through a telematics unit over a network or hardware-based pre-pay system, wherein the telematics unit or a wireless network provider associated with the TSP controls the ingoing and outgoing hands-free calling (HFC) processes. The wireless network provider, through its system at a remote call center or through the telematics unit, may determine whether the subscriber has subscribed to the TSP's HFC service, whether the subscriber has a sufficient remaining balance to initiate, receive or continue a call, and whether a user of the telematics unit is “roaming.” When a user attempts to make or receive a call through the telematics unit, the wireless network provider or the telematics unit may handle the incoming or outgoing call processing, and may further provide subscriber account balance notifications to the user. | 08-02-2012 |
20120196565 | NETWORK TOOLS FOR ANALYSIS, DESIGN, TESTING, AND PRODUCTION OF SERVICES - Various embodiments are disclosed for a services policy communication system and method. In some embodiments, a network device publishes a test service profile to a group of communications devices, in which the test service profile provides for beta testing of the test service profile for a service on a network, and the test service profile includes service policy settings; and monitors use of the service by the group of communications devices based on the test service profile. | 08-02-2012 |
20120202451 | NETWORK SERVER BILLING RECONCILIATION METHOD FOR A WIRELESS MOBILE ROUTER NETWORK - A method of operating a network server for a network comprising a plurality of wireless mobile routers comprises: selectively coupling the server to a plurality of mobile routers via a cellular network; operating the server to access billing data from a predetermined carrier providing the cellular network for each of the mobile routers; receiving from each of the mobile routers corresponding usage statistical data; comparing the usage statistical data for each mobile router to corresponding billing data for each mobile router to determine if there is a billing discrepancy. | 08-09-2012 |
20120202452 | WIRELESS MOBILE ROUTER NETWORK WITH BILLING RECONCILLIATION - A mobile router network, comprises: a plurality of wireless mobile routers, each comprising a wide area network wireless interface to access a cellular network provided by a predetermined cellular carrier. Each mobile router is operable to upload data and to download data via the cellular network. Each mobile router is monitors the uploaded and downloaded data to generate statistical usage. The network further comprises a server coupleable to the plurality of wireless mobile routers via the cellular network. The server is operable to access billing data from the predetermined carrier for each of the mobile routers. Each of the mobile routers automatically operates to upload the statistical data to the server. The server operates to compare the statistical data for each mobile router to corresponding billing data for each mobile router to determine if there is a billing discrepancy. | 08-09-2012 |
20120202453 | MOBILE ROUTER CONFIGURED FOR BILLING RECONCILLIATION - A mobile router comprises: a wide area network wireless interface operable to access a cellular network; first apparatus operable to upload data and to download data via the interface to the cellular network; second apparatus operable to monitor the uploaded data and the downloaded data and to generate data corresponding to predetermined quantifiable units corresponding to the uploaded data and the downloaded data; and the first apparatus and second apparatus cooperatively operate to automatically upload the usage data to a server for generation of usage discrepancy reports. | 08-09-2012 |
20120202454 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTHORIZING AND MONETIZING COLLECT CELLULAR TELEPHONE CALLS - The collect cellular call identifies the cellular telephone carrier and called party cell phone. After determining whether the carrier and phone accept message service charges (SMS), a voice response module seeks positive authorization from the called party with the telephone. If positive, the system facilitates a connection between the calling party and the called party and initiates a predetermined billing charge assigned to the cellular telephone number. If the carrier or the cell phone is not enabled or if no authorization is obtained from the called party, the system facilitates a denial of completion signal. A timer monitors the length of the collect cellular call. Databases are accessed to locate the carrier and called cell phone number approved list of numbers and deny service list of numbers. | 08-09-2012 |
20120202455 | PER-SESSION DYNAMIC CHARGING CAPS IN COMMUNICATION NETWORKS - Communication networks and associated methods and systems are disclosed that provide per-session dynamic charging caps. For a session, the communication network includes a network element adapted to serve the session, a charging system, and a subscriber server adapted to store charging criteria defined for a party to the session. In operation, the charging system receives one or more charging request messages from the network element. Responsive to a charging request message, the charging system identifies the charging criteria defined for the party as stored in the subscriber server, and determines a dynamic charging cap for the session based on the charging criteria. A charging cap is a limited or maximum amount of time and/or money that is charged for an individual session. The charging system then limits the charging for the session based on the dynamic charging cap. | 08-09-2012 |
20120202456 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPTIMISING THE EFFICIENCY WITH WHICH TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK RESOURCES ARE USED - Method, system and credit manager for optimizing the efficiency with which telecommunication network resources are used by managing, in real time, changes in user profiles according to whether certain variable conditions are complied with by the use of the telecommunication network resources by a user. Following the profile migration generated and monitored by the credit manager, the latter calculates the new level of network resources (services/contents) to be offered to the new user profile. In this manner, said automatic updating of the user profile optimizes the provider's resources by assigning new network capabilities (new usage time limits, new qualities of service or by establishing content access or capability limiters). | 08-09-2012 |
20120202457 | Charging Correlation For Dedicated Bearers - A Policy and Charging Rules Function, a PCRF ( | 08-09-2012 |
20120208494 | Radiative focal area antenna transmission coupling arrangement - The present invention comprises a docking system for connecting a portable communication device to a further signal transmission line. The docking system may be arranged within a workstation such as a desk or a tray. The system may also envelope a room in a building or be located in a vehicle, to control and restrict the radiative emission from the communication device and to direct such radiation to a further remote antenna and or signal distribution system connected to the transmission line. | 08-16-2012 |
20120208495 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING ACCOUNT USAGE ON A PLATFORM - A system and method for monitoring account usage on a platform that includes creating an account on a platform; assigning a usage model of the account; running an application of the account on the platform; monitoring usage of the application of the account; identifying a usage event of the usage model in the monitored usage; and generating an event response based on the usage event. | 08-16-2012 |
20120208496 | Automated Device Provisioning and Activation - Various embodiments are disclosed for a services policy communication system and method. In some embodiments, a communications device stores a set of device credentials for activating the communications device for a service on a network; and sends an access request to the network, the access request including the set of device credentials. | 08-16-2012 |
20120214441 | Automated Device Provisioning and Activation - Various embodiments are disclosed for a services policy communication system and method. In some embodiments, a communications device stores a set of device credentials for activating the communications device for a service on a network; and sends an access request to the network, the access request including the set of device credentials. | 08-23-2012 |
20120220261 | SERVICE CLASSIFICATION OF WEB TRAFFIC - A method for communication includes recording, at a gateway to a network, a generic definition of a service provided to clients of the gateway. The generic definition specifies a first Uniform Resource Identifier (URI) on the network that is associated with the service. At least a first communication between a client and the network is processed at the gateway in order to identify at least a second URI that is referenced from the first URI in a context of the service. Responsively to at least the first communication, an extended definition of the service for the client is automatically created by adding at least the second URI to the generic definition. Use of the service is monitored by applying the extended definition to second communications conveyed by the gateway between the client and the network. | 08-30-2012 |
20120220262 | Method and Apparatus for Processing Voice Call - A method and an apparatus for processing a voice call has the method steps of: loading CAP operation libraries and algorithms of camel | 08-30-2012 |
20120225637 | Method, Mobile Terminal, Service Platform and System for Implementing Debit Card Service - A method and system for implementing debit card service based on callback. The method is applied to a mobile terminal set with an automatic dialing function unit, automatic dialing function of the automatic dialing function unit is activated, and a number corresponding to the mobile terminal is bound with one debit card. The method includes the following steps: a preset callback access number is dialed before the called number by the automatic dialing function unit in the mobile terminal to connect the call to a debit card service platform when the mobile terminal calls the called number; the debit card service platform releases the call and calls back the mobile terminal; the called number is continued by the debit card service platform after the mobile terminal answers the callback; the debit card service based on callback is implemented. | 09-06-2012 |
20120238240 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATIC GENERATION, REGISTRATION AND MOBILE PHONE BILLING OF A POD USING THIRD PARTY WEB PAGE CONTENT - The systems and methods described herein generally relate to a method and system for automatically generating an application pod for a third party through which the third party's content is offered for access, purchase and use by mobile phone users within a community network. More specifically, the systems and methods described herein are directed to an application pod that can be automatically generated based on content and information retrieved from one or more web pages of the third party. | 09-20-2012 |
20120238241 | APPLICATION POD INTEGRATION WITH AUTOMATED MOBILE PHONE BILLING AND DISTRIBUTION PLATFORM - A platform for supporting a network-enabled application is configured to render the network enabled application for a user, via a user interface associated with the user, in accordance with various APIs included in the platform and used by a program developer to develop the network-enabled application. The rendering can included recognizing that the user interface is a mobile user interface and rendering the network-enabled application in a manner appropriate and/or optimal for the mobile user interface. | 09-20-2012 |
20120238242 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROCESS TRANSACTIONS BASED ON SOCIAL NETWORKING - Systems and methods to authenticate and process requests received via social networking websites. In one aspect, a system includes a data storage facility to store data associating a first phone number of a user with an identification of the user in a social networking website; and an interchange coupled with the data storage facility. The interchange includes a common format processor and a plurality of converters to interface with a plurality of controllers of mobile communications. The converters communicate with the controllers in different formats and with the common format processor in a common format. The common format processor receives a request including the identification of the user, identifies the first phone number of the user based on the data stored on the data storage facility, and uses the converters to communicate with a mobile phone at the first phone number to confirm the request. | 09-20-2012 |
20120238243 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR QUESTIONNAIRES AND USER INTERACTIONS - A questionnaire network in which a mobile device is used by user to create questionnaires and send it to other recipients. The questionnaire is created by user of mobile device using audio inputs for a questionnaire preamble and question preambles. A server in the network incorporates other generic portions of the questionnaire. Thus, a user can make adhoc questionnaires, send them to recipients and receive the results. | 09-20-2012 |
20120244833 | Methods, Devices, and Computer Program Products for Tracking Receipt and Determining Effectiveness of Radio Broadcast Signals - Receipt of a radio broadcast signal by a mobile communication device is tracked based on a signal strength measurement signal and location information. The signal strength measurement signal indicate a signal strength of the radio broadcast signal, received via a communication channel and measured at the mobile communication device, over a particular time period. The location information indicates a location of the mobile communication device within a geographic area over the particular time period. Effectiveness of the radio broadcast signal is determined with respect to receipt of the radio broadcast signal by a plurality of mobile communication devices within the geographic area over the particular time period. | 09-27-2012 |
20120244834 | CONTROLLED MOBILE COMMUNICATION AS A SERVICE - A method of providing controlled mobile communication as a service includes storing, in a memory associated with a data processing device and/or a base station controller, a level of control of wireless communication associated with a mobile device of a customer of the controlled mobile communication as a service. The wireless communication is provided through a mobile network operator. The method also includes identifying, through the base station controller, the mobile device based on an identification data associated therewith when the mobile device is within a controlled area associated with the controlled mobile communication service, and controlling the wireless communication associated with the mobile device of the customer through the base station controller in accordance with the level of control stored in the memory following the identification of the mobile device. | 09-27-2012 |
20120244835 | Clearinghouse System, Method, and Process for Inventorying and Acquiring Infrastructure, Monitoring and Controlling Network Performance for Enhancement, and Providing Localized Content in Communication Networks - A computerized system, method and process allows telecommunications carriers to find, evaluate and select locations for equipment through direct access to end users, while providing citizens the opportunity to offer the use of their dwelling or other assets to carriers. The system and method further provides a computerized mechanism for (a) creating an inventory and marketplace for available properties for use in telecommunications networks, (b) providing quality and/or performance monitoring and control for wireless communication systems based on data in the clearinghouse, and (c) providing localized content over wireless networks using the clearinghouse. | 09-27-2012 |
20120270520 | Service Reminding Method, Service Reminding System and Communication System - The present invention discloses a service reminding method, a service reminding system and a communication system. The service reminding system includes a schedule inputting module ( | 10-25-2012 |
20120276867 | SYSTEMS FOR ENABLING SUBSCRIBER MONITORING OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK USAGE AND SERVICE PLANS - Methods, servers and systems for directly accessing and modify charging information maintained within a telecommunications operator's business and operating systems' infrastructure from user equipment. A mobile application server may receive a charging request from a user equipment, identify a relevant charging system based on the received request, send a charging request to the identified charging system for processing, receive a first response message including charging information from the identified charging system, generate a second response message based on the charging information included in the first response message, and send the generated second response message to the user equipment. The received charging request may include various types of information, including information for transferring cost or billing information from a first billing category to a second billing category. | 11-01-2012 |
20120276868 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROCESS DONATIONS - Systems and methods are provided to facilitate donations via mobile communications. In one aspect, a system includes a data storage facility and an interchange having a common format processor and a plurality of converters to interface with a plurality of different controllers of mobile communications. The converters are configured to communicate with the controllers in different formats and with the common format processor in a common format. For a payment to a merchant, the common format processor provides a user interface configured to present charity donation options in response to a phone number being specified in the user interface to identify a fund source. The common format processor uses one of the converters to communicate with a mobile phone at the phone number to confirm the payment to the merchant and a donation to a separate charity organization specified via the user interface. | 11-01-2012 |
20120276869 | System and Method for Enhanced UAProfile Management - Given the growing number of Wireless Devices, and the increasingly varied characteristics (including for example screen size, color depth support, audio and video support, etc.) that Wireless Device vendors or manufacturers provide within their Wireless Devices, an infrastructure that various entities (such as for example Content Providers, Service Providers, etc.) may use to quickly retrieve a quality-controlled User Agent Profile based just on a Wireless Device's Telephone Number. The infrastructure may optionally leverage the capabilities of a centrally-located Messaging Inter-Carrier Vendor. | 11-01-2012 |
20120282890 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS OF CALL MANAGEMENT - A method implemented in a computer infrastructure includes: determining a current location of a mobile communication device; determining a route of a user associated with the mobile communication device; and determining mobile call rates for the user at locations along the route. | 11-08-2012 |
20120282891 | GLOBAL PLATFORM FOR MANAGING SUBSCRIBER IDENTITY MODULES - Disclosed is method comprising: storing in a home location register (HLR) at least one subscription record of a mobile device of the plurality of mobile devices, the mobile device having a subscriber identity module (SIM) identified by a currently activated first international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI), the currently activated first IMSI belonging to a set of IMSIs allocated to the system, wherein the provisioning server is operative to: receive a notification that the mobile devices has moved into a first one of the wireless networks; confirm that an allocation rule is satisfied; add and activate a second one of the IMSIs in the set of IMSIs to the HLR and remove the currently activated first IMSI from the HLR; and send the second IMSI to the mobile device to enable the mobile device to communicate wirelessly in the first wireless network as a local device. | 11-08-2012 |
20120282892 | System and a Method for Managing a Subscription for a Data Communications Network - A system for managing a subscription for a data communications network comprises a main device having a data connection to the data communications network under a subscription, at least one other device capable of forming a data connection to the data communications network under said subscription, means for determining a proximity of the main device and the other device with respect to each others, and means for applying a combined subscription charging model for the data connection of the other device when the proximity is verified. The solution also concerns a method for managing a subscription a data communications network. | 11-08-2012 |
20120282893 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO SUGGEST PRICES - Systems and methods are provided to suggest prices for payments to be processed via mobile communications. In one aspect, a system includes a data storage facility and an interchange having a common format processor and a plurality of converters to interface with a plurality of different controllers of mobile communications. The converters are configured to communicate with the controllers in different formats and with the common format processor in a common format. The common format processor is configured to collect funds for processing payments via transmitting premium messages through the converters. The system further includes a network communications interface configured to receive a query from a merchant device identifying at least one attribute of at least one customer. In response, the common format processor determines a set of discrete price points and uses the network communications interface to communicate the set of price points to the merchant device. | 11-08-2012 |
20120282894 | SWITCHING SYSTEM AND CORRESPONDING METHOD FOR UNICAST OR MULTICAST END-TO-END DATA AND/OR MULTIMEDIA STREAM TRANSMISSIONS BETWEEN NETWORK NODES - A method for setting up a data link including requesting an identity of an IP network node by a registration module, transmitting an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) stored on a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card of the IP network node to the registration module, storing the received IMSI in a user database of the registration module, complementing an IP data channel to form signal and data channels of a GSM network by a signaling gateway module, using the complemented IP data channel as a basis for generating the necessary SS7/MAP functions for authenticating the IP network node, authenticating the IP network node by using the IMSI of the SIM card of the IP network node, receiving an entry in the user database of the registration module upon successful authentication, and setting up a data link to at least some of the network nodes. | 11-08-2012 |
20120289188 | PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS ON MOBILE DEVICE USING MOBILE CARRIER - A user makes a purchase request through a merchant app on a mobile device, such as by selecting an item for purchase. A mobile SDK of a payment provider is installed in the merchant app. The payment request includes the phone number for the mobile device. The payment provider verifies the phone number of the user and requests approval of the payment from a mobile operator providing wireless communication services on the mobile device. If the request is approved, the payment is charged to the user mobile operator account. The user simply taps a button to select an item to purchase and selects another button to confirm the purchase. Once processing is done, the user is notified on the mobile device of a successful payment. | 11-15-2012 |
20120289189 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR RELIABLE TRANSMISSION OF CHARGING DETAIL RECORDS - A charging detail record transmission capability is provided herein. A mobile gateway (MG) generates charging detail records (CDRs) intended for delivery to a charging gateway function (CGF). The CDRs are propagated toward both a first and second charging data function (CDFs). The first and second CDFs buffer the CDRs. The first CDF is configured for propagating CDRs toward the CGF. The second CDF is configured for propagating CDRs toward the CGF when the first CDF fails. The CGF is configured for acknowledging receipt of CDRs to the first or second CDF from which the CDRs are received. The first CDF is configured for acknowledging, to the second CDF, receipt of acknowledgment messages from the first CDF. The second CDF is configured for, upon failure of the first CDF, initiating a process for determining which of the CDRs buffered at the second CDF need to be propagated to the CGF. | 11-15-2012 |
20120295582 | RESTRICTION OF SERVICES FOR COMMUNICATION TERMINALS TO DIRECTED NUMBERS - A network node of a cost charging system authorizes communication services provided to communication terminals in a telecommunications system. The network node receives a communication service request from a communications terminal. The network node determines that a subscriber account associated with the communications terminal has entered a limited service mode. The network node responds to the receipt of the communication service request and to the determination by authorizing the requested communication service in a restricted direct access mode for the subscriber account based on the requested communication service being directed to a telephone number that is among at least one subscriber defined telephone number in the subscriber account. Related methods, home location registers, and systems are disclosed. | 11-22-2012 |
20120295583 | MOBILE BILLING METHOD AND SYSTEM USING ARS - Disclosed herein is a mobile billing method using an automatic response service (ARS) including (a) receiving an ARS connection number, a payer's number and a mobile terminal number from an ARS server, (b) identifying a franchisee server based on the ARS connection number and requesting billing information based on the payer's number from the franchisee server, (c) transmitting the billing information to the ARS server and receiving a request for authentication and billing from the ARS server, and (d) requesting authentication and billing approval from a billing server, receiving a result of the authentication and billing approval from the billing server and transmitting the result of the authentication and billing approval to the ARS server. | 11-22-2012 |
20120295584 | MOBILE BILLING METHOD AND SYSTEM USING ARS - Disclosed herein is a mobile billing method using an automatic response service (ARS) through call transfer including (a) receiving a call signal from a mobile terminal to a franchisee server to set a call to the franchisee server, (b) receiving a request for call transfer from a billing relay server receiving the request for the call transfer from the franchisee server, performing the call transfer and transmitting an ARS announcement to the mobile terminal, (c) receiving a request for billing from the mobile terminal and requesting authentication and billing from the billing relay server, and (d) receiving a result of the authentication and billing approval from the billing relay server and performing call transfer between the mobile terminal and the franchisee server. | 11-22-2012 |
20120295585 | Prioritisation of Charging in an IMS Network - One aspect provides a method of storing charging data in an IMS network. A message is received at a network entity. A charging priority value of the message relating to charging data associated with the message id identified. The charging priority value is included in a charging request message and the charging request message is forwarded to a charging control system. Other aspects provide IMS network entities configured to implement the method. | 11-22-2012 |
20120302204 | Telecom Information Management System - The disclosed Telecom Information Management System (TIMS) integrates Mobile Expense Management (MEM) and Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions with Telecom Expense Management (TEM) solutions in a single software platform, which can be delivered to enterprises as software-as-a-service (SaaS). TIMS can initiate over-the-air (OTA) enrollment of mobile devices, including installing provisioning profiles, applications, email server settings, feature restrictions, communication settings and other parameters. Configuration parameters can be added into software applications before they are delivered to a mobile device. The configurations can be updated after the applications are installed on the mobile device. TIMS can remotely disable applications or certain functionality of applications on mobile devices. The software applications delivered to the mobile devices can facilitate MEM and MDM by leveraging device capabilities. | 11-29-2012 |
20120302205 | Method and system for the online charging of a subscriber, program and computer program product - A method for charging a subscriber using a telecommunications service in a telecommunications network according to a contract with respect to the telecommunications service includes: transmitting, by a billing entity, charging information to a data traffic management entity; monitoring, by the data traffic management entity, the flow of data which is used by the subscriber with respect to the telecommunications service and determining a current data usage volume of the subscriber; comparing, by the data traffic management entity, the current data usage volume of the subscriber with a current upper data usage threshold; and modifying the standard service usage pattern of the telecommunications service if the current data usage volume and the current upper data usage threshold satisfy a predetermined condition. | 11-29-2012 |
20120302206 | SURFACE SOFTWARE AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - A system and method control display of information to prevent information overload and distraction of a user. Information for display is monitored, analyzed, prioritized, and then presented to the user in a controlled manner. The system and method further process the data to track and bill time based upon activity of the user. | 11-29-2012 |
20120302207 | Service Escrowed Transportable Wireless Event Reporting System - A portable service escrowed event reporting system that may be sold through mass-market sales channels. Communications between a consumer and the provider of the event reporting system are not required in advance of the system being purchased by the consumer. After purchase of the system by the consumer, the system may be initialized. The service may have a finite amount of service associated with it when it is purchased. The consumer may choose to have the system report the occurrence of reportable events directly to them over a wireless network. | 11-29-2012 |
20120302208 | CHARGING DATA RECORD GENERATING NODE - 1. A Charging Data Record, CDR, generating node ( | 11-29-2012 |
20120309344 | Using Multiple User Accounts on a Mobile Device - A method for automated selection of a user account is provided. The method includes analyzing a plurality of parameters associated with operation of plurality of user accounts on a mobile device and selecting a user account based on the analysis. | 12-06-2012 |
20120309345 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THIRD PARTY APPLICATION SALES AND SERVICES TO WIRELESS DEVICES - A system, method, and computer program for tracking billable events occurring on wireless devices on a wireless network and billing the appropriate parties. The billable events occur from the end-users of the wireless devices selectively communicating with other computer devices across the wireless network and downloading and executing software applications thereupon. The billable event data is ultimately gathered at a server on the wireless network from which billing for the wireless device billable events can be generated. | 12-06-2012 |
20120309346 | NODES FOR COMMUNICATING CREDIT RELATED INFORMATION - A PCRF node ( | 12-06-2012 |
20120309347 | Prevention Of Bandwidth Abuse Of A Communications System - A user of a communications network is prevented from consuming an excessive amount of channel bandwidth by restricting use of the channel in accordance with the type of data being downloaded to the user. The user is provided an initial number of credits. As the user consumes the credits, the data being downloaded is checked to determine if is permissible or non-permissible. Non-permissible data includes file-sharing files and movie downloads if user subscription does not permit such activity. If the data is permissible, the user is provided another allotment of credits equal to the initial allotment. If the data is non-permissible, the user is provided an allotment of credits less than the initial allotment. Various restriction policies also can be applied, such as levying additional fees and/or terminating the user's access to the channel. Also, incentives can be provided to entice the user curb the misuse. | 12-06-2012 |
20120315870 | MOBILE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, NETWORK DEVICE AND MOBILE COMMUNICATION METHOD - A mobile communication system | 12-13-2012 |
20120322404 | Mobile Device Panic Function with Recordability - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed which relate to recording a conversation on a portable communications device. This allows the user to press a panic button or a series of buttons on their portable communications device to begin recording the conversation. This conversation may be stored on a memory of the portable communications device or in a network in communication with the portable communications device. With the conversation recorded, there is a record of what was said during the call. This record may later be used if necessary. | 12-20-2012 |
20120322405 | COMMUNICATION ASSISTANCE SYSTEM AND METHOD - A communication assistance system provides access to information corresponding to a plurality of subscriber listings. The system includes a telephone switch for receiving calls from a plurality of callers desiring to access the information corresponding to the subscriber listings and a database directory listing for storing information corresponding to each one of the subscriber listings. The information in the subscriber listings include a Rate Plan field associated with billing rates corresponding to each one of the subscribers such that when the system connects the caller to the subscriber, the system employs the Rate Plan Field to determine the billing amount charged to the caller so that the subscriber is not billed for the call. | 12-20-2012 |
20120329424 | ADAPTIVE PRICING SERVICE PLAN - A method may include enrolling a subscriber device in an adaptive pricing service plan for providing telecommunication service to the subscriber device; associating, with the telecommunication service, a first pricing scheme including a first number of allotted minutes within a current billing cycle; tracking, for the subscriber device within the current billing cycle, cumulative used minutes of the telecommunication service; determining, using a forecasting model and the cumulative used minutes, prospective minutes usage with respect to the first number of allotted minutes for an entirety of the current billing cycle; generating, based on the prospective minutes usage, a recommendation related to a second pricing scheme including a second number of allotted minutes; and sending, within the current billing cycle, the recommendation to the subscriber device. | 12-27-2012 |
20120329425 | MULTI-TIERED, USAGE-BASED PRICING SERVICE PLAN - A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions executable by at least one processor, the instructions to cause the at least one processor to bill a subscriber, enrolled in a multi-tiered pricing plan, a plan fee associated with the multi-tiered pricing plan, for each billing cycle of a plurality of billing cycles, for services associated with a subscriber device; track, for each billing cycle, an amount of usage of the services; determine, for each billing cycle, a pricing tier corresponding to the tracked usage; and bill the subscriber, for each billing cycle, a fee associated with the corresponding pricing tier, wherein at least two of the corresponding pricing tiers differ. | 12-27-2012 |
20130005297 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MAPPING OPERATING PARAMETER IN COVERAGE AREA OF WIRELESS NETWORK - A method for mapping an operating parameter in a coverage area of a wireless network includes obtaining parameter measurements for an operating parameter associated with mobile stations operating in a select portion of a network coverage area for a wireless network, the network coverage area formed by base stations defining cellular coverage areas, the select portion formed by at least one base station, each at least one base station including multiple sector antennas, each sector antenna defining a sector coverage area within the cellular coverage area; and, for each obtained parameter measurement, estimating an instant geographic location of the mobile station in relation to the at least one base station serving the mobile station, each instant geographic location based on a round trip measurement and a signal strength measurement associated with the mobile station, each round trip measurement associated with the serving base station. | 01-03-2013 |
20130005298 | System, an Apparatus, a Client Device and a Method for Providing Pricing Information - The invention relates to a solution for providing pricing information to a client device. The pricing information is delivered from the operator system to the client device by means of a network connection. The pricing information relates to at least one contact information appearing in the client device. The client device is then configured to display the pricing information relating to the contact information in the client device. | 01-03-2013 |
20130005299 | Verifiable Device Assisted Service Usage Billing With Integrated Accounting, Mediation Accounting, and Multi-Account - Various embodiments are disclosed for a services policy communication system and method. In some embodiments, a communications device implements a service policy for assisting billing for the communications device use of a service on a network; and monitors use of the service based on the service policy, in which a local service usage is synchronized with a network based service usage. | 01-03-2013 |
20130012158 | Method and apparatuses for offline selection of pay-per-call advertisers - Methods and apparatuses to connect telephone calls and track information about the telephone calls resulting from advertisements for groups of advertisers. In one embodiment, a method includes: determining a geographic area after receiving a telephone call to a first telephone number publicized in an advertisement; determining a telephone number of a first advertiser; and connecting the telephone call to the telephone number of the first advertiser, the first advertiser billed for the advertisement based on telephonic connections made to connect the first advertiser and telephone calls to the first telephone number. | 01-10-2013 |
20130012159 | MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS - A mobile data communications system that includes a mobile device having a reconfigurable user identification module that stores a mobile identity and provides mobile data communication via a mobile network, subject to the mobile identity being registered with the mobile network, and an account control server that includes memory to store identification and payment details for a user of the mobile device and a mobile identity provider to provide a mobile identity to the mobile device and to an authorization server of a mobile network. In response to a request by a user of the mobile device to obtain data access by a particular mobile network, the account control server provides a mobile identity to the mobile device for storage by the user identification module, provides the same mobile identity to the authorization server of that mobile network, and provides user identification and payment details to that mobile network. | 01-10-2013 |
20130012160 | MOBILE DEVICE-BASED BANDWIDTH THROTTLING - Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for implementing mobile device-based bandwidth throttling. In one aspect, a method includes receiving policy from a wireless carrier that specifies one or more data usage thresholds allotted by the wireless carrier for data transferred over a wireless carrier network during a predetermined period of time, determining an amount of data that has been transferred by the mobile device over the wireless carrier network during the predetermined period of time, determining that the amount exceeds one or more of the data usage thresholds, and throttling the bandwidth of a mobile device over the wireless carrier network based on determining that the amount exceeds one or more of the data usage thresholds. | 01-10-2013 |
20130012161 | MOBILE DEVICE-BASED BANDWIDTH THROTTLING - Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for implementing mobile device-based bandwidth throttling. In one aspect, a method includes receiving policy from a wireless carrier that specifies one or more data usage thresholds allotted by the wireless carrier for data transferred over a wireless carrier network during a predetermined period of time, determining an amount of data that has been transferred by the mobile device over the wireless carrier network during the predetermined period of time, determining that the amount exceeds one or more of the data usage thresholds, and throttling the bandwidth of a mobile device over the wireless carrier network based on determining that the amount exceeds one or more of the data usage thresholds. | 01-10-2013 |
20130012162 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING MESSAGE USAGE - A computer implemented method for monitoring message usage on a communication device. An audible message may be outputted on the communication device in replacement of a pre-determined telephone tone. A duration parameter of outputting the audible message in replacement of the pre-determined telephone tone may be determined, and provided to a billing system for determining a compensation parameter. | 01-10-2013 |
20130017803 | LOCAL ROAMING CHARGING IN LTE/EPC NETWORKSAANM Li; XiangyangAACI PuDong Jinqiao ShanghaiAACO CNAAGP Li; Xiangyang PuDong Jinqiao Shanghai CNAANM Cai; YigangAACI NapervilleAAST ILAACO USAAGP Cai; Yigang Naperville IL US - Communication networks and methods are disclosed for performing local roaming charging in LTE/EPC networks. A visited On-line Charging System (OCS) in the LTE/EPC network receives a credit request from a network element in a visited network that has been requested to provide a service to a roaming mobile device. In response to the credit request, the visited OCS determines a local rating for the service based on a local tariff defined by the operator of the visited network. The visited OCS grants a quota of service units to the network element based on the local rating, and transmits a credit response to the network element indicating the granted quota. | 01-17-2013 |
20130023231 | SIM CARD EXPANDER, COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR USING SIM CARDS - A SIM card expander includes SIM card connectors for receiving SIM cards, and a control unit. The control unit includes a detecting module to detect whether the SIM card expander is electrically connected to a communication device, an obtaining module to obtain information of the SIM cards received in the SIM card connectors once determining that the SIM card expander is electrically connected to the communication device, a transmitting module to transmit the obtained information of the SIM cards to the communication device, and a power management module to determine which of the SIM card connectors receives a selected SIM card according a feedback signal from the communication device, enable electrical connection of the SIM card connector which receives the selected SIM card and a power source of the communication device, and disable electrical connection of the other SIM card connectors and the power source of the communication device. | 01-24-2013 |
20130023232 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING THE AMOUNT OF DATA BANDWIDTH PROVIDED TO A MOBILE DEVICE - The invention provides a system for adjusting the amount of data bandwidth provided to a mobile device comprising a bandwidth adjustment facilitator arranged to receive a request from the mobile device for adjusting the amount of data bandwidth; a bandwidth throttler in communication with the bandwidth adjustment facilitator; the bandwidth throttler adapted to cap or allocate excess available data bandwidth to the mobile device; wherein on receipt of the request, the bandwidth adjustment facilitator process the request and if the request is successfully processed, adjusts the data bandwidth provided to the mobile device via the bandwidth throttler. The system may further be adapted for billing/charging based on either pay-per-specified-time model or pay per action model. | 01-24-2013 |
20130023233 | Shared Location - A mobile device including a location sharing application that enables the wireless device to be ‘opted-in’ to disclosing its current location when manually triggered to ‘sell’ that current location. When opting-in, the mobile device with location sharing application may include or be associated with relevant pre-registered or pre-stored profile data provided with that current location opt-in. The ‘opt-in’ nature of the present invention provides a win-win situation for both marketers and wireless device users by ensuring privacy is disclosed only if, when and where the wireless device with location sharing application initiates such disclosure. | 01-24-2013 |
20130035059 | MOBILE COMPUTING DEVICE APPLICATION NETWORK USE METRIC AND MONETARY COST MONITOR AND CONTROL - A mobile computing device comprising an application network use metric monitoring agent providing a network use metric usage for one or more mobile computing device applications and a network plan interface, wherein, a monetary cost is associated with the network use metric usage for the one or more mobile computing device applications. | 02-07-2013 |
20130035060 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ACQUIRING BANDWIDTH FOR CELLUAR COMMUNICATIONS THROUGH COMPETITIVE BIDDING PROCESSES - A method is provided for acquiring bandwidth on a mobile device. A bid for bandwidth service on the mobile device is submitted to service providers, which includes: a bandwidth requisition, a plurality of service criteria (each with a weighting factor), and at least one limiting condition (e.g. a maximum price). Responses from the service providers are evaluated using the weighting factors to compute a score. The best scoring response that meets the at least one limiting condition is automatically chosen, and a transaction is entered into with the chosen service provider to acquire the bandwidth service on the mobile device according to the service criteria. The bid may also be submitted to (and the transaction negotiated with) a central bidding server which intermediates bids received from many users. | 02-07-2013 |
20130035061 | DYNAMIC CONFIGURATION OF UNLIMITED SERVICE FOR ROAMING SUBSCRIBER - Methods, systems, and apparatus are presented for enabling unlimited roaming service on a roaming partner switch. In one aspect, a method includes configuring a billing system corresponding to a home wireless service provider to authorize a subscriber device to receive unlimited roaming service on a roaming partner switch; receiving, by the home wireless service provider, a registration request from the roaming partner switch identifying the subscriber device; registering the subscriber device in the billing system as an unlimited roaming service subscriber device; and providing unlimited roaming service to the subscriber device. Further, a call request associated with the subscriber device can be received from the roaming partner switch and billing associated with the call request can be suspended. | 02-07-2013 |
20130040602 | Managing Cellular Phone Calls - A mechanism is disclosed for managing phone calls on phone devices used by the employee of a company. When the user wants to give a call, a new plugin in the phone device interprets an attribute value added by the phone device user to each phone number in order to categorize the call. The cell phone user enters a profile describing his call accounting information. A call management plugin computes a prefix for user personal calls which will be adapted to the user location. The call management plugin at the end of the call tags the call information as a personal call or business call. The phone device sends the tagged call information to a remote server of the company, which consolidates billing information received from the phone operators with the tagged call information. | 02-14-2013 |
20130045709 | Mobile Integrated Billable hour management system and method - A computer-implemented method and system for managing billable hours, the method including the selecting a client from an electronic client directory upon receiving the client's contact for a service; the launching a digital timer for the selected client to record time spent for the requested service; stopping the timer when the service provided for said contact is done; an updating the client's account with the recorded time. | 02-21-2013 |
20130045710 | Device Assisted Ambient Services - Various embodiments are disclosed for a services policy communication system and method. In some embodiments, a communications device implements a service profile for assisting control of the communications device use of a service on a network, in which the service profile includes service policy settings, and the service profile is associated with an ambient service plan that provides for initial access to the service with limited service capabilities prior to activation of a new service plan; and monitors use of the service based on the service profile. | 02-21-2013 |
20130052987 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CARRIER TRIGGER-INDEPENDENT, MULTIPLE DEVICE, MULTIPLE CARRIER AUTOMATED PREPAID WIRELESS PHONE REFILLS - A method and system for refilling minutes for prepaid wireless phones without service provider (Carrier) feedback to trigger the replenishment is provided. Also provided is a computer-readable storage medium including a program, which when executed on a processor performs an operation. The method includes executing a recurring charge to a user account for wireless service from one or multiple service providers, the user account being stored in a database, and automatically crediting a device associated with the user account with prepaid minutes in response to executing the recurring charge. | 02-28-2013 |
20130059561 | Confirmation Based Mobile Messaging Platform - The present invention relates to a system and method for delivering a message to and receiving an acknowledgement from a mobile device, and more specifically, the system and method allows network operators, or any central administration group(s) to issue messages and warnings to a mobile device, which requires an acknowledgement in order for the mobile device to continue functioning without restriction. | 03-07-2013 |
20130059562 | METHOD, TERMINAL AND SYSTEM FOR ACHIEVING DIFFERENTIAL CHARGING OF A FIXED WIRELESS PHONE AMONG CELLS - The present disclosure relates to a method, a terminal and a system for achieving differential charging of a fixed wireless phone among cells. The method comprises determining whether a terminal position is updated and generating position updating information when the terminal position is updated; sending the position updating information to a server so that the server parses the position updating information based on a preset charging policy and sends request information for changing the charging policy to a charging centre when the charging policy of the terminal needs to be changed. The present disclosure changes the charging policies in real time for fixed wireless phone products which need to distinguish the charging rules of different cells, thus solving the problem of charging for mobile operators in the process of popularizing fixed wireless phone products. | 03-07-2013 |
20130065552 | ELECTRIC-POWER SUPPLYING APPARATUS, METHOD, AND PROGRAM - An electric-power supplying apparatus may include a power supply configured to supply electric power to an electric device via a power supply line, and at least one processor programmed to perform acts including transmitting a command signal to the electric device via the power supply line, receiving a response signal from the electric device via load modulation on the power supply line, and registering setting information for establishing wireless communication between the electric device and the apparatus based on the received response signal. An electric apparatus may include a power plug configured to receive electric power and a command signal from an external device, and an IC chip configured to use load modulation to transmit a response signal, in response to the command signal, to the external device via the power plug. | 03-14-2013 |
20130065553 | DEVICE GROUP PARTITIONS AND SETTLEMENT PLATFORM - Device group partitions can be used and a settlement platform can provide for partitions of devices based on associated device groups. A settlement platform service might be provided for partitioned devices. Device generated service usage information might be generated and aggregated for a settlement platform for the one or more devices in wireless communication on the wireless network. A settlement platform might implement a service billing allocation and/or a service/transactional revenue share among one or more partners. Service usage information can include micro-CDRs used for CDR mediation or reconciliation that provides for service usage accounting. Device activity that is desired to be associated with a billing event can be assigned a micro-CDR transaction code, with a service processor of the device programmed to account for activity associated with that transaction code. A service processor executing on a wireless communications device might periodically report micro-CDR usage measures. | 03-14-2013 |
20130065554 | WIRELESS PROVISIONING SOLUTION FOR TARGET DEVICES - Systems and methods to provision a non-handset target device with wide-area communication service, such as wireless wide area network (WWAN) technology. Identifying information of the target device can be provided to a provisioning service provider (PSP) via a mobile provisioning device over a communication network. The PSP can determine the service carrier associated with the mobile provisioning device and enable the provisioning of the target device with the wide-area communication service to the service carrier via the mobile provisioning device. A billing plan can be instituted for the service of the target non-handset device relating to a billing plan of the mobile provisioning device. | 03-14-2013 |
20130072152 | MOBILE COMMUNICATION TERMINAL AND A DOWNLOAD ASSISTING METHOD - A mobile phone ( | 03-21-2013 |
20130078944 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING "PAY-AS-YOU-GO" TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES - Telecommunication services systems and methods are disclosed. The telecommunication services systems and methods preferably enable the user and/or the responsible party to make payments as the user uses the telecommunication services. The systems and methods may also be employed to provide the user and/or the responsible party with specialized pricing options and other customized services. | 03-28-2013 |
20130084826 | USAGE SHARING ACROSS FIXED LINE AND MOBILE SUBSCRIBERS - Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method for determining the usage of a subscriber to mobile and fixed line services including: receiving subscriber usage information from a fixed line network; receiving subscriber usage information from a mobile network; computing a usage metric based upon the received subscriber usage information from the fixed line network and the mobile network and rating factor information; comparing the usage metric to a predetermined usage threshold; determining a usage policy action; and transmitting a usage policy action message. | 04-04-2013 |
20130084827 | COMMUNICATION TRACKING AND BILLING SYSTEM - A system for billing communications between a subscriber and a verified professional comprising a verified professional repository and a central tracking system. The central tracking system is configured to receive a communication request targeting the registered device ID, determine an applied billing rate using a value set by the verified professional, and transmit the applied billing rate to the subscriber. The central tracking system is further configured to track the connection, generate a communication data file comprising the registered device ID, the subscriber ID, the applied billing rate, the communication duration, and the billing signal. The central tracking system is further configured to obtain a billable duration by parsing the communication data file using the billing signal and the communication duration, calculate a communication charge using the applied billing rate and billable duration, and pay the verified professional a portion of the communication charge. | 04-04-2013 |
20130095784 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ENABLING SHARED MOBILE DATA USAGE - Disclosed is a system and method for enabling personalized shared mobile phone usage when accessing data services within a wireless telecommunications network, including an illustrative example application of the invention as it relates to mobile subscribers who cannot afford a mobile phone handset in emerging markets. For instance, a prepaid wireless subscriber can have a personal phone number associated with their own billing account, which can be used to access data services on a wireless network without needing to purchase any hardware, such as a mobile handset or SIM card. Thus, the subscriber may access his account and use data services through a borrowed handset. | 04-18-2013 |
20130095785 | ENTERPRISE MOBILE APPLICATION STORE - A mobile enterprise application store includes downloadable mobile applications and catalogs of the mobile applications. Different sets of applications may be offered to visitors depending on whether they have an account with a particular wireless mobile communication carrier. Different versions of the mobile applications may be stored and provided for visitors that use different carriers, devices, and/or operating systems. Offering or downloading of certain applications may be limited to only those visitors having consent from an enterprise administrator. The store may automatically request this consent and process the response. The mobile application store may only be accessible to employees, agents, representatives, and/or consultants of the enterprise. The store may offer split billing such that charges for some applications are made to the account of the visitor, while charges for other applications are made to the enterprise. | 04-18-2013 |
20130095786 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR SIGNAL SHARING - Among other things, there is disclosed systems, methods and apparatus for sharing and/or expanding the reach of wireless communications signals. For example, where a first communication device is unable to obtain a sufficient communication signal from a transmission source, and a second communication device can obtain a sufficient signal, the second device may be used as a relay between the transmission source and the first device. | 04-18-2013 |
20130095787 | DATA TRANSPORT BUNDLE - A data transport bundle is presented that is a package of wireless data transport created by a mobile communication network provider. The data transport bundle is available for sale by the mobile communication network provider to enterprises that wish to use wireless data transport. The data transport bundle may include the duration, number of allowed transactions, size associated with each allowed transaction and a price associated with the data transport bundle. The mobile communication network provider may configure the data transport bundle so that it may be partitioned into multiple smaller data transport bundles. In addition, the components of the data transport bundle, such as the duration, number of allowed transactions, and size associated with each allowed transaction may be adjustable to satisfy services for which the enterprise purchases the data transport. | 04-18-2013 |
20130095788 | MOBILE COMMUNICATION TERMINAL, CONTRACT INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, TERMINAL CONTROL METHOD, AND CONTRACT INFORMATION TRANSMISSION METHOD - Billing information based on a prepaid billing system is provided appropriately even when two or more communication sessions cannot be established simultaneously through a packet-switched network. A mobile communication terminal includes a packet communication unit performing mobile communication based on the prepaid billing system through the packet-switched network, an acquisition unit acquiring billing information of the mobile communication terminal from a contract information management server that manages billing information based on the prepaid billing system, through a circuit-switched network, and an output unit outputting the billing information acquired by the acquisition unit. The contract information management system includes a contract information management server including a detection unit detecting communication in the packet-switched network by the mobile communication terminal. When performing detection by the detection unit, the contract information management system transmits the billing information to the mobile communication terminal through the circuit-switched network. | 04-18-2013 |
20130102276 | SPLIT BILLING FOR A MOBILE DEVICE - The claimed subject matter provides a method for split billing. The method includes receiving a requested token. The requested token specifies conditions under which network traffic is allowed to be billed against a third party for content requested from a mobile computing device. The method also includes matching network traffic between the mobile computing device and a content provider to the specified conditions. The method further includes metering the matched network traffic to a billing account for the third party. | 04-25-2013 |
20130102277 | Communication Between MME/S4 SGSN and PCRF - This disclosure is directed to a method in a MME node or a S4-SGSN node for dynamic Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) assisted management of network parameters, where the method comprises sending or receiving network related parameters to or from, respectively, a PCRF node through a direct MME/S4-SGSN-PCRF interface. This disclosure is also directed to a MME node and a S4 SGSN node and a PCRF node configured to operatively perform the method. | 04-25-2013 |
20130102278 | ENHANCED ROAMING SERVICES AND CONVERGED CARRIER NETWORKS WITH DEVICE ASSISTED SERVICES AND A PROXY - A method performed by a network system communicatively coupled to a wireless device by a wireless access network, the network system including a network element corresponding to a network element destination, the method comprising providing at least a portion of a device policy to the wireless device, wherein the device policy is configured to assist in detecting wireless device traffic associated with a service activity, identifying the service activity as being included in a service usage activity classification, and directing or routing the wireless device traffic associated with the service activity over the wireless access network based on information identifying the network element destination; providing a network element policy to the network element corresponding to the network element destination; detecting, at the network element, traffic associated with the wireless device; and applying the network element policy at the network element to the traffic associated with the wireless device. | 04-25-2013 |
20130109346 | CHARGING MONITORING METHOD, DEVICE AND SYSTEM | 05-02-2013 |
20130115911 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FACILITATING INSTANT COMMERCE BY WAY OF A DATA PATH - An exemplary system includes at least one network device included in a network provider subsystem that provides an access device with access to a content processing subsystem by way of an access network. The network device is configured to receive a data flow from the content provider subsystem and directed to the access device by way of the access network, detect a code snippet embedded in the data flow, modify, based on the code snippet embedded in the data flow, content included in the data flow to activate at least one of an instant offer and an instant payment feature, and forward the modified data flow to the access device, the modified data flow configured to be processed by the access device to present the at least one of the instant offer and the instant payment feature to a user of the access device. | 05-09-2013 |
20130115912 | Telephone System and Method - A telephone system and method for reducing the costs for out of area calls made on a cell phone. The system includes a cell phone, a local telephone number, a land line and an access code and a timer. The system records the telephone number of the cell phone that dials into the system and immediately disconnects the call. The system recalls the cell phone with a message to enter a requested out of area phone number, completes the call over a land line and connects the requested number to the cell phone as an incoming or local call. The cell phone user is then billed for the use of the land line. | 05-09-2013 |
20130122859 | APPLICATION POD INTEGRATION WITH AUTOMATED MOBILE PHONE BILLING AND DISTRIBUTION PLATFORM - A platform for supporting a network-enabled application is configured to render the network enabled application for a user, via a user interface associated with the user, in accordance with various APIs included in the platform and used by a program developer to develop the network-enabled application. The rendering can included recognizing that the user interface is a mobile user interface and rendering the network-enabled application in a manner appropriate and/or optimal for the mobile user interface. | 05-16-2013 |
20130122860 | METHOD FOR PROVIDING A MONITORING OF USAGE NETWORK RESOURCES OF A USER SESSION WITHIN A NETWORK AND A NETWORK DEVICE - A method monitors usage of network resources of a user session within a network. The method includes receiving a first message at a first policy and charging function device, the first message may be sent by a second policy and charging function device and the first message may contain a credit control request (CCR). Moreover, the method sends a second message from the first policy and charging function device to the second policy and charging function device, the second message may contain a credit control answer (CCA). The method may further includes sending a third message from the first policy and charging function device to the second policy and charging function device, the third message may contain monitoring information for non-disabling the monitoring of usage network resources of the user session. | 05-16-2013 |
20130130642 | USER-INITIATED QUALITY OF SERVICE MODIFICATION IN A MOBILE DEVICE - A system and method that facilitates mobile device selection among available qualities of service is described herein. A telecommunications network sends a notification to a mobile device when a change in quality of service is available to the mobile device. The mobile device then enables selection of an upgrade or downgrade to the current quality of service. In response to a selection, the mobile device transmits to the telecommunications network the change in quality of service. The telecommunications network then adjusts the quality of service in accordance with the request. | 05-23-2013 |
20130130643 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVISIONING INTERNET ACCESS TO A COMPUTING DEVICE - A system and method for provisioning Internet access to a computing device comprising an Internet access adjustment facilitator arranged to receive a request from the computing device for adjusting Internet access from a paid Internet access mode to a toll-free Internet access mode; and a whitelist in communication with the Internet access adjustment facilitator, the whitelist maintaining a list of web resources available for toll free access by the computing device; wherein upon successful processing of the request, the list of web resources are toll free for access by the computing device. The system may further be adapted for billing/charging based on either pay-per-specified-time model or pay per action model. | 05-23-2013 |
20130130644 | Method for Transferring Data from a Plurality of SIM-Less Communication Modules - The invention relates to a method of transferring data from at least a first communication module and a second communication module to, respectively, a first data processing centre and a second data processing centre via a circuit switched telecommunications network. A first and second connection request containing respective first and second pre-provisioned telephone numbers from the first and second communication modules are received in the network. The first and second telephone numbers are processed such that the network refrains from authenticating the first and second communication modules. Subsequently first and a second circuit switched data connections are established with the first and second communication modules for receiving data. The data can be routed from the first communication module to the first data processing centre and from the second communication module to the second data processing centre in accordance with the first and second telephone numbers, respectively. | 05-23-2013 |
20130130645 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATIC GENERATION, REGISTRATION AND MOBILE PHONE BILLING OF A POD USING THIRD PARTY WEB PAGE CONTENT - The systems and methods described herein generally relate to a method and system for automatically generating an application pod for a third party through which the third party's content is offered for access, purchase and use by mobile phone users within a community network. More specifically, the systems and methods described herein are directed to an application pod that can be automatically generated based on content and information retrieved from one or more web pages of the third party. | 05-23-2013 |
20130137393 | AUTO SELECTION OF MOBILE COMMUNICATION TRANSPORT MODE - Providing for a point-to-point analysis of available transport modes for a mobile device and a target device is described herein. By way of example, the point-to-point analysis can be performed to determine available transport modes for a mobile communication. A target device can be selected on a user interface of the mobile device, for example, by user input selection in a contact registry. In at least one aspect, a result of the point-to-point analysis can indicate presence of the target device on a network, and availability to receive a call or a message from the mobile device. Optionally, charging rates for the mobile device or target device can be displayed on the user interface. In some aspects, a transport mode selection made at the user interface of the mobile device can override an automated selection, providing user control over conventionally background-only services of mobile communications. | 05-30-2013 |
20130137394 | SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING ELECTRICAL ENERGY SUPPLY TO PERIPHERAL DEVICES USING PREPAID AIRTIME - This invention relates to an apparatus and method for controlling electrical energy supply to one or more peripheral devices. The apparatus includes a first input operable to receive electrical energy from an electrical energy source and a battery operable to store the received electrical energy. The apparatus further includes at least one output operable to supply electrical energy to at least one peripheral device and an energy management controller operable to control the supply of electrical energy to the at least one peripheral device. The apparatus also includes a communications module operable to detect the purchase of prepaid airtime associated with the apparatus, with the energy management controller activating the peripheral device(s) for as long as there is sufficient airtime and deactivating the peripheral device(s) once the airtime has expired. | 05-30-2013 |
20130137395 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ENHANCED DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE USING WIRELESS MESSAGING PROTOCOLS - Directory assistance provides telephone number look up services to callers based on the business or caller name as listed in a telephone directory. In the prior art, directory assistance provides a value-added service to telephone users and an expense that must be charged back to telephone callers or absorbed by telephone carriers. In enhanced directory assistance (EDA) services as described in the disclosure, EDA is further developed to deliver a keyword targeted advertising service to telephone listing owners and advertisers. The present invention provides a method and system to extend EDA services to the wireless messaging systems used by telecommunications operators. The invention further discloses methods to support both one-way and two-way communications on these devices, as well as systems to support the distributed EDA Transaction business model. | 05-30-2013 |
20130143523 | SERVICE DELIVERY CONDITION CHANGE MANAGEMENT - In order to manage a change in conditions of using a service associated with a communication in progress established by a user terminal (TU) within its communications network (RT), a server determines that the user's account does not permit the delivery of the service with a change in the conditions of using a service, after the receipt of a first request derived from a network element, said request comprising an identifier of the service regarding the communication and a parameter defining the change in conditions of using the service, and the server transmits to the network element a response containing a code indicating that the delivery of the service is authorized only with other conditions of using the service, in order for the network element to transmit to the server a second request containing another parameter defining another change in conditions of using the service. | 06-06-2013 |
20130149994 | REAL TIME DATA USAGE METERING ON A MOBILE STATION AND RECONCILIATION WITH BILLABLE USAGE MEASURED BY A MOBILE NETWORK - A data meter client on a mobile station meters data usage by one or more applications and communicates with a network element to reconcile the metered data usage with the current data usage as measured in the network. The client determines whether the metered data usage may be out-of-sync. When it is determined that the locally metered amount may be out-of-sync, the client sends to the network element a query requesting an estimate data current usage, as measured in the network, receives a response containing the current estimate data usage, and reconciles data usage information in its local database. The client updates information displayed in a graphical user interface for a user of the mobile station. The network element can send a notification to the mobile station containing the current data usage so that the client can update and display the current data usage measured in the network. | 06-13-2013 |
20130149995 | ADVICE OF PROMOTION FOR USAGE BASED SUBSCRIBERS - Systems and method are described for providing advice of promotion to notify a subscriber about potential promotions that the subscriber would benefit from if he/she changed the context under which he/she plans to use a service. The process begins when a subscriber initiates a request to use the service, e.g. establish a call session. The operator identifies the subscriber by determining whether the subscriber is permitted to use the service, e.g. establish the session, and calculates a charge rate for the service usage, e.g. call session based on a usage plan associated with the subscriber. A rating engine is then invoked to identify a promotion that includes an additional rate that is different from the charge rate determined for the session. The promotion is identified based on parameters associated with the call session by determining which additional rate would apply if at least one of those parameters were modified. | 06-13-2013 |
20130157614 | COMMUNICATION TRACKING AND BILLING SYSTEM - A system for billing communications between a subscriber and a verified professional comprising a verified professional repository and a central tracking system. The central tracking system is configured to receive a communication request targeting the registered device ID, determine an applied billing rate using a value set by the verified professional, and transmit the applied billing rate to the subscriber. The central tracking system is further configured to track the connection, generate a communication data file comprising the registered device ID, the subscriber ID, the applied billing rate, the communication duration, and the billing signal. The central tracking system is further configured to obtain a billable duration by parsing the communication data file using the billing signal and the communication duration, calculate a communication charge using the applied billing rate and billable duration, and pay the verified professional a portion of the communication charge. | 06-20-2013 |
20130157615 | Systems, Methods, and Computer Program Products for Providing Service Credit to Customer Accounts in a Wireless Communications Service Network - Systems, methods, and computer program products use combinations of international mobile equipment identity (IMEI), international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI), and account information to determine if a customer is eligible for service credit in near real-time. The customer needs an active account prior to inserting a subscriber identity module (SIM) into a device and powering on the device for the system to determine credit eligibility. No further customer action is required. The credit application process determines credit eligibility based upon device credit eligibility, account tenure, and/or credit rules, and applies the credit to the customer's account. The customer may be proactively notified when the credit is applied. The credit and tenure rules may be changed as the industry and business needs change to remain competitive in the industry. The SIM used is configured with software to lock the SIM to the device upon first power-on. | 06-20-2013 |
20130165071 | Methods Of Providing Communication Services Including Account Balance Sharing And Related Charging Systems - Charging control may be provided for a charging controlled service accessed by a terminal in a communication network using a first account having a first account balance associated with the terminal. A first request may be received for a charging reservation relating to the first account balance associated with the terminal. Responsive to the first request for a charging reservation and responsive to a first status of the first account balance, a first consumer deduction amount may be reserved from the first account balance to allow the charging controlled service for the terminal. While allowing the charging controlled service for the terminal based on the first consumer deduction amount reserved from the first account balance, a replenishment request directed to a second account balance may be generated responsive to a second status of the first account balance. Related network nodes are also discussed. | 06-27-2013 |
20130171961 | COMMUNICATION CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD - A communication control system includes an interface providing network communication and receiving inputs from a user by a portable device; a non-transitory memory storing user information and a preset extension of time; a time unit starting to measure time when prepaid communication fee of the portable device starts to be consumed up; a credit verifying unit, determining if a further prepayment for the portable device has been paid when the extension of time is expired; and a control unit, keeping communication functions of the portable device on for the extension of time when the prepaid communication fee of the portable device starts to be consumed up, and cutting off the communication function of the portable device when the extension of time is expired and the further prepayment for the portable device has not been paid. A communication control method is also provided. | 07-04-2013 |
20130171962 | Payback Calling Plan - A method for paying back customers for unused service units remaining after a billing cycle. A payback amount is determined by the product of the number of unused service units remaining and the payback rate amount. The payback amount credited to the customer is the calculated payback rate or a maximum payback amount, wherever is smaller. A total payback amount can be determined based on a combination of payback amounts for various services, including voice services, texting services, email services, and/or data storage services. | 07-04-2013 |
20130178188 | MODELING BILLING IMPACTS IN DATA SENSITIVE ENVIRONMENTS - Systems and methods generate a data usage plan for a mobile device. A method includes identifying a plurality of data usage requirements for the mobile device. The method includes identifying one or more carrier models for data service costs. The method includes generating cost estimates for a plurality of data usage transactions based on the data usage requirements and one or more carrier models. The method includes generating the data usage plan for the mobile device based on the cost estimates. The data usage plan includes usage parameters for carrier selection by the mobile device. | 07-11-2013 |
20130178189 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MANAGING SERVICES USING BEARER TAGS - An approach is provided for managing one or more services corresponding to a bearer tag (e.g., near field communication (NFC) tag, radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, contactless card, or barcode). A request to manage a service is initiated by reading service information from a bearer tag corresponding to the one or more services. A services platform initiates management of the one or more services based on the service information according to a predetermined or recurring billing arrangement. | 07-11-2013 |
20130183930 | REAL TIME CHARGING MECHANISM TO DELIVER ON DEMAND TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES - The method and system for charging a user in real time to deliver On demand telecommunication services is disclosed. The method provides premium services like voice message services, content services and so on to the subscribers on their request and deducts an appropriate amount of charge instantly before providing the service. The method of deducting the charge and providing the requested service to the user happens while the call is still connected. The method of charging is applicable in either same network or in a different network that provides the premium services. Further, the method in the disclosed embodiment resides on a server that controls the charge deduction through any suitable network protocols. The charging server acts as a central entity where a group of merchants, content providers, value added service providers are connected to it and delivers services to the user depending on their requirement. | 07-18-2013 |
20130189947 | Subscriber Portfolio Management System - A subscriber portfolio model is created by forming mutually exclusive and completely exhaustive groups of subscribers in a way that maximizes the intra-group similarity and inter-group dissimilarity of the value of a target attribute among subscribers in the groups. The subscriber groups thus generated are self-descriptive, as the groups are defined by the attributes used to form them. A segmenting algorithm groups subscribers along permutations of attributes. Relevant data about subscribers is collected from various sources, correlated, and subscriber identities removed to ensure privacy. After analyzing the aggregated data, a subscriber portfolio model is built. The subscriber portfolio model is created in an iterative process, where in each step, a selected subscriber group is subdivided into smaller subscriber groups along different value ranges of a statistically decisive attribute that is selected and evaluated based on specific methods. The subdivision is performed by computing filtering conditions based on an in-depth statistical analysis. | 07-25-2013 |
20130189948 | PAYMENT SYSTEM FOR ELECTRONIC DATA - A payment method and system are provided for electronic data that is purchased by a recipient ( | 07-25-2013 |
20130196619 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREPAID MULTIPLE SERVICES CARDS - The present invention relates to a method and system for allowing a user to access multiple services by providing an access code having a monetary balance associated therewith. A first monetary amount, which is not greater than the monetary balance of the access code, is assigned to a first account balance associated with the access code and usable only in conjunction with a first service. A second monetary amount, which is not greater than the monetary balance of the access code, is assigned to a second account balance associated with the access code and usable only in conjunction with a second service, which is different from the first service. In this manner, the access code can be used by the user to redeem the monetary balance in conjunction with both the first service and the second service. | 08-01-2013 |
20130196620 | OPERATIONS METHOD FOR PROVIDING WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SERVICES - The present invention is directed to an improved operations method for a wireless communication system. The improved business method, operations method, network and system of the present invention includes the steps of delivering cellular services to the mass market, reducing peak capacity, increasing overall capacity utilization, improving capital utilization, providing an “all-you-can-eat” pricing model, and designing capacity based upon where the users live, work, and play. | 08-01-2013 |
20130196621 | MANAGING NETWORK DATA TRANSFERS IN VIEW OF MULTIPLE DATA USAGE PLANS - Embodiments manage data transfers using a plurality of data usage plans available to a computing device. Each of the data usage plans has data usage statistics representing an amount of network data consumed under the data usage plan. For each data transfer request received from applications executing on the computing device, a service executing on the computing device or in a cloud defines a network data transfer configuration for performing the data transfer request. The network data transfer configuration is defined based on, for example, the data usage plans, the data usage statistics, and the data transfer request to reduce transfer costs and/or provide a particular quality of service (QoS). | 08-01-2013 |
20130196622 | UPDATING DYNAMIC DATA USAGE PLANS AND STATISTICS - Embodiments enable data usage plans and data usage statistics to be shared among user computing devices. In some embodiments, a web service receives a schema populated with data describing the data usage plan from a mobile operator. The web service distributes the populated schema to the user computing devices, and subsequently distributes updated portions of the schema as the data usage plan is updated by the mobile operator. The web service may also collect the data usage statistics from the user computing devices and the mobile operator, reconcile any differences, and send synchronization notifications to the user computing devices based on the reconciliation. In some embodiments, users are able to view bandwidth consumption by a plurality of user computing devices sharing the same data usage plan. | 08-01-2013 |
20130196623 | System and Method For Enabling Interactions Between a Policy Decision Point and a Charging System - A system and method for telecommunications operators to enable group based dynamic policy controls for both pre-paid and post-paid subscribers, who are typically not managed in an Online Charging System (OCS), but rather in an Charging System or a Billing System. Examples of policy controls that may be enabled by this invention include tracking spending for post-paid subscribers, managing subscriber usage across fixed-line and mobile networks, and so on. This is achieved by introducing a new component called the Enhanced Charging System (ECS) and creating a new reference point and interface between the Policy Management System and the ECS. | 08-01-2013 |
20130196624 | REAL TIME CORRELATION OF PARALLEL CHARGING EVENTS - A network providing service to an end user may include a first client, a second client and a charging system. A method implemented by the network may include the first client receiving a service event that is destined for an end user and retrieving a first logical clock value from memory, where the first logical clock value specifies a number of service events received at the second client. The first client may increment a second logical clock value based on receipt of the service event and may construct a first time stamp parameter based on the first logical clock value and the second logical clock value. The first client may send a charging request to a charging system, where the charging request includes the first time stamp parameter and where the charging request requests credit authorization associated with providing the service event to the end user. | 08-01-2013 |
20130196625 | MOBILE TERMINAL AND METHOD FOR MEASURING CHARGEABLE DURATION - A mobile terminal measures the time from when the data communication connection was established up to the disconnection or the time from when the wireless connection was established up to the disconnection as a chargeable duration. The time in which the mobile terminal uses a network resource in a network or the time in which exchange of data was actually carried out is thus measured as the chargeable duration. Since the information relating to the chargeable duration measured in this manner is stored and displayed in the mobile terminal, it is possible for the mobile terminal to recognize the information relating to the chargeable duration without sending an inquiry to the network including a base station. | 08-01-2013 |
20130203378 | SUBSCRIPTION AND CHARGING CONTROL FOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN PROXIMATE DEVICES - A method and system for facilitating a controlled wireless communication relationship between a first device and a second device is provided. The wireless communication relationship is established at least in part via a portion of licensed radio spectrum. A remote validation server is contacted to obtain a validated authorization to use the portion of licensed radio spectrum for radio communication. Proof of the authorization between the first device and the second device is communicated. The first device and the second device subsequently enter into an authorized wireless communication relationship. | 08-08-2013 |
20130210380 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR BILLING COMMUNICATION - A method, implemented at least in part by a computing device, that can be used to bill a communication. The method includes terminating a teleservice request at an intermediary node, wherein the teleservice request is associated with a sender and a recipient; receiving teleservice content transmitted by the sender, wherein the teleservice content is received at no charge to the sender; receiving a request transmitted by the recipient to access the teleservice content, wherein receiving the request includes charging a fee; and sending the teleservice content to the recipient. | 08-15-2013 |
20130210381 | APPARATUS AND ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT METHOD OF COMMUNICATION DEVICE - A computerized method manages prepaid fees of a communication device having a first prepaid account. The first prepaid account is bound with one or more second prepaid accounts of one or more third-party terminals. Residual prepaid fees of the first prepaid account, and whether the prepaid fees of the first prepaid account are less than a predetermined value is determined. When the residual prepaid fees of the first prepaid account are less than the predetermined value, one of the second prepaid accounts is determined as a fee transferring account. A request message is sent to a communication server to request transferring a predetermined amount of prepaid fees from the fee transferring account to the first prepaid account of the communication device. | 08-15-2013 |
20130210382 | MANAGEMENT OF MULTIPLE SUBSCRIBER IDENTITY MODULES - Management of multiple subscriber identity modules by a server is disclosed. The server, for each subscriber identity module belonging to a set of subscriber identity modules of a user of a mobile terminal, detects a need to top up credit of the subscriber identity module, and after the detection, transmits, through a communication interface, transaction data determining a payment to the mobile phone operator of the subscriber identity module in order to top up the credit of the subscriber identity module. | 08-15-2013 |
20130210383 | VARIABLE BILLING OF MMS MESSAGES IN WIRELESS NETWORK COMMUNICATION SYSTEM BASED ON MESSAGE FORMATION APPLICATION - A wireless mobile communication device may include a transmitter configured to wirelessly transmit MMS messages over a wireless network communication system. The device may also include a plurality of user applications. Each user application may be of a different type and configured to generate content for an MMS message based on input to the wireless mobile communication device. The mobile communication device may include an MMS client configured to generate MMS messages based on content supplied by the user applications. The MMS client may be configured to generate a value for a field of information within each MMS message that is indicative of the type of user application which supplies content for the MMS message. The value may be different for each different type of user application. | 08-15-2013 |
20130217357 | OPERATING SYSTEM SUPPORTING COST AWARE APPLICATIONS - A mobile computing device that supports cost-aware application components for operation over a metered network. A current basis for computing usage charges over one or more networks may be made available to the cost-aware application components through an application programming interface supported by an operating system service. That service may receive a policy for charging for data usage over a network and may also obtain information defining data usage for the mobile computing device. Based on this information, the service may determine a current basis for charging for data usage. With this information, the application component can determine a manner for executing network operations that involve data transmission over the network, such as deferring the operation or selecting an alternative network. | 08-22-2013 |
20130225122 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NETWORK ACCESS VENDING - A system, method and apparatus for vending network access by determining access pricing or tariffs for one or more of a plurality of network access regions using one or more of an eNB cell congestion level, an eNB congestion level, a quality of service level, an access technology, a level of activity by a target subscriber and the like. The access pricing is offered to potential access purchasers along with optional metadata indicative of, illustratively, user equipment and network parameters associated with the cell or eNB. The pricing may be offered via an API to allow automatic purchase decisions by access purchasers. | 08-29-2013 |
20130225123 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SEAMLESS DELIVERY OF SERVICES THROUGH A VIRTUALIZED NETWORK - Methods and apparatus for using a virtual currency module (VCM) to access service networks are described. The VCM may access the service network without the use of a UICC linked to an MNO. Virtual currency may be used to validate subscriber credentials without needing to be linked to a particular MNO. Dynamic subscription assignment may be performed upon registration and validation of credentials with a financial institution. Financial institutions may be used to support and validate virtual currency. Menus may be provided to allow a user to select specific services while accessing the service networks. | 08-29-2013 |
20130225124 | APPLICATION STORE SYSTEM AND APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT METHOD USING THE APPLICATION STORE SYSTEM - An application store system and an application development method using the application store system are provided in the disclosure. The system includes: a resource management functional entity, a developer community functional entity and an application online-store functional entity, wherein the resource management functional entity is configured to accept an operation of registering resources to the resource management functional entity and display information of the registered resources, wherein the resources include at least one of the followings: telecommunication capability resources and network resources; the developer community functional entity is configured to accept uploading of an application and review the uploaded application, wherein the application invokes the registered resources according to an invoking manner indicated by the information; and the application online-store functional entity is configured to provide an application, which is approved by the developer community functional entity, for a terminal user to download. The disclosure enhances technical supports for developers, and reduces difficulty and complexity of development. | 08-29-2013 |
20130231082 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR QUESTIONNAIRES AND USER INTERACTIONS - A questionnaire network in which a mobile device is used by user to create questionnaires and send it to other recipients. The questionnaire is created by user of mobile device using audio inputs for a questionnaire preamble and question preambles. A server in the network incorporates other generic portions of the questionnaire. Thus, a user can make adhoc questionnaires, send them to recipients and receive the results. | 09-05-2013 |
20130237184 | SYSTEM & METHOD FOR STEERING OF ROAMING - Apparatus for steering of roaming users to preferred operators at a roaming network uses operator agreements with mobile operators, as well as usage predictions and historical usage patterns, to calculate an optimized steering plan that minimizes the charges to the home operator. The operator agreements are typically step-like in nature and the plan is constructed by iterating through different allocations of the estimated usage between the various mobile operators. The iterations may include various roaming services such as SMS and data as well as mobile originated and mobile terminated calls. The allocation finally selected as the optimal plan is then output to a steering of roaming unit which identifies registration attempts by actual roaming users and steers said registration attempts to fulfill the quotas in the plan. | 09-12-2013 |
20130252576 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSFERRING IDENTITY INFORMATION TO A WIRELESS DEVICE - A method and apparatus for transferring identity information for temporary use by a wireless device, visiting a foreign operator network, is provided. A user is presented, at a kiosk, with an opportunity to download a temporary identity which is recognized by the operator network as belonging to a local subscriber, and the user may make a request for service. In response to the user-generated request for service, local identity information is transferred to the wireless device for use thereby. The transfer is short-range wireless communication from the kiosk to the wireless device. The temporary identity, once installed on the wireless device, makes the wireless device appear as a local subscriber. Upon termination of use, the temporary identity is returned to a pool and usable for another wireless device. | 09-26-2013 |
20130252577 | CHARGING STATION FOR MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND AN ASSOCIATED SYSTEM AND METHOD - The invention relates to a charging station ( | 09-26-2013 |
20130252578 | SINGLE OPERATOR MANAGED POLICY AND CHARGING FUNCTION FOR FIXED MOBILE CONVERGENCE NETWORKS - Systems, devices and techniques for policy and charging rule function that is responsive to the access network used by a user equipment include receiving policy enforcement information for operation of a user equipment (UE) from a policy and charging rule function-plus (PCRF+) in the FMC system; the policy enforcement information being based on an access technology used by the UE and enforcing a service policy based on the received policy enforcement information. | 09-26-2013 |
20130252579 | Operator Selecting Apparatus And Method For Selecting A Home Operator For Each Communication Device In A Group - An operator selecting apparatus and a method for selecting a home operator for each communication device in a group. A first selecting unit of the operator selecting apparatus selects, for each quality-oriented communication device in the group, a candidate operator out of a plurality of the candidate operators that is determined based on the quality information to provide the best quality of service to the communication device. The second selecting unit of the operator selecting apparatus then selects, for each cost-oriented communication device in the group, based on the billing system and a number of quality-oriented communication devices assigned to the each candidate operator as a result of the selection by the first selecting unit, a candidate operator out of the plurality of the candidate operators such that a total cost for all the communication devices in the group becomes lowest. | 09-26-2013 |
20130260712 | METHOD, APPARATUS AND COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM FOR ASSOCIATING USER EQUIPMENT WITH A CELL - The method includes determining one or more almost blank subframes (ABS) associated with a macro cell and associating a user equipment with one of the macro cell and a small cell using at least one of the one or more ABS based on one or more market prices associated with the small cell and the macro cell such that the determining and associating occurs jointly. | 10-03-2013 |
20130260713 | USAGE METERING FOR CUSTOM APPLICATION CONTAINERS - Systems and methods for metering network usage based upon an active container are provided herein. Multiple containers that encapsulate respective sets of applications included in an application layer of a mobile operating system can be provided. These containers can interface to the mobile operating system and manage interaction between the mobile operating system and the encapsulated application(s). Usage data facilitated by an application from the respective sets of applications can be identified and the usage data can be associated to an appropriate container, which is detail not available to device-level usage data. | 10-03-2013 |
20130260714 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DETERMINING RATING DATA FOR SERVICE USAGE IN AN ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION NETWORK - A charging device and method determines rating data for charging of services in an electronic communications network. A modifier operator ( | 10-03-2013 |
20130260715 | METHOD FOR PROCESSING SERVICE CONNECTION IN A COMMUNICATION NETWORK AND DEVICE THEREOF - The present invention provides a method for processing a service connection in a communication network, comprising: A) determining, in response to a establishment request for the service connection from a UE, whether the service corresponding to the establishment request is a sponsored service, wherein the sponsored service is provided by a third party application provider; B) sending a validating request for the sponsored service to the third party application provider, if the service corresponding to the establishment request is a sponsored service; and C) controlling the sponsored service connection according to the information related to the sponsored service, if receiving a successful acknowledgement corresponding to the validating request. And a device corresponding to the method is provided. With the above method, the data connection of the sponsored application service may be dynamically controlled and configured, moreover the requirement of QoS control service can be dynamically met. | 10-03-2013 |
20130273881 | MULTI-MODE DEVICE (MMD) MIDDLEWARE FOR CLOUD SPECTRUM SERVICES SPECTRUM ALLOCATION - A platform to facilitate transferring spectrum rights is provided that includes a database to ascertain information regarding available spectrum for use in wireless communications. The invention provides a middleware component usable in a mobile terminal device such as a multi-mode device, where the middleware component mediates between an application program and network interfaces and/or hardware to manage the interaction between the device and a cloud spectrum service. The middleware component coordinates scanning for available broadcast, multicast, and/or conditional access platforms, networks, and/or services, as well as maintaining connection with CSS network elements to enable flexible and optimal use of the spectrum and manages the resources among multiple radios and applications on the platform. | 10-17-2013 |
20130281051 | METHOD FOR MAINTAINING CONTINUITY OF 'DIAMETER' PROTOCOL-BASED ONLINE CHARGING - The present invention relates to a method for maintaining continuity of Diameter online charging. The method comprises the following steps: a) initializing, when a user is moving, the relocation of a prepayment client terminal from an old prepayment client terminal to a new prepayment client terminal, and implementing the re-authentication of a mobile station at the new prepayment client terminal; b) transmitting the context information of an old Diameter online charging session from the old prepayment client terminal to the new prepayment client terminal after the re-authentication has been successfully completed; c) transmitting an initial credit control request (CCR) message comprising the identification of the old Diameter online charging session from the new prepayment client terminal to a prepayment server for continuing the old Diameter online charging session, and request for a quota by a prepayment proxy to the prepayment server via the new prepayment client terminal; and d) disconnecting the old connection between the old prepayment client terminal and the prepayment server. | 10-24-2013 |
20130281052 | ENFORCING LIMITS ON FREE AND/OR DISCOUNTED ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS - Limits are placed on the number of free and/or discounted communications (such as voice calls and text messages) available to a user, based on the number of communications received by the user. A user is given an allotment of credits, each worth one or more free and/or discounted communications. A credit balance is established and is continually adjusted as follows: it is increased whenever qualifying communications of a given type are received, and is decreased whenever free and/or discounted communications of the given type are initiated by the user. Once the credit balance has been depleted, the user may be blocked from initiating additional free or discounted communications, until the credit balance is increased. In at least one embodiment, different types of credits can be earned and/or used for different types of communications. In at least one embodiment, exchanges between the different types of credits may be permitted. | 10-24-2013 |
20130281053 | Method, Device and Computer Program Product for Controlling Use of Electronic Communication Services - A method of controlling use of electronic communication services in an electronic communications network ( | 10-24-2013 |
20130288639 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LINKING EXISTING WI-FI ACCESS POINTS INTO A SINGLE UNIFIED NETWORK - The present invention comprises a system and method for providing a distributed wireless network. In a preferred embodiment, at least one information processor is coupled to and accessible over a communication network, such as the internet. Network bandwidth is provided to a first user of at least two end users for a first fee and to a second user of the at least two end users for a second fee. The bandwidth is provided by at least one network service provider. Further, at least two wireless gateway devices are each respectively operated by the end users, and the wireless gateway devices are configured to provide wireless access to the communication network within a transmission range and to communicate with the at one least information processor. Also, at least two wireless receiving devices are provided that are operable to receive the respective bandwidth from the at least two wireless gateway devices when in transmission range. Preferably, the first user is authorized to use the second bandwidth and the second user is authorized to use the first bandwidth via the wireless devices. Thus a system and method of sharing bandwidth is provided. | 10-31-2013 |
20130288640 | DYNAMIC DUAL-MODE SERVICE ACCESS CONTROL, LOCATION-BASED BILLING, AND E911 MECHANISMS - A system that facilitates controlling network access comprises a lookup component that determines a geographic location associated with a public originating IP address, wherein the public originating IP address is associated with a request for dual mode services made by a dual mode client. A comparison component compares the determined geographic location with a retained geographic location associated with the dual mode client and determines whether to enable dual mode services based at least in part upon the comparison. | 10-31-2013 |
20130295878 | RFID-BASED METHODS - A cell phone is used to sense information, such as digital watermark data or RF ID data, from a physical object (e.g., a product package). Thereafter, a user of the cell phone engages in a transaction (e.g., downloading content from the internet). Normally, a charge may be assessed for this transaction. However, the user is spared this charge by reason of said earlier sensing of information from the physical object. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed. | 11-07-2013 |
20130303113 | MANAGING THIRD PARTY TRANSACTIONS AT A MOBILE OPERATOR - Methods and arrangements for managing mobile transactions. A mobile number of a customer is registered with a mobile telephone network operator. An alternate mobile number is assigned to the customer, and the mobile number is associated with the alternate mobile number. The alternate mobile number is employed in communication between the customer and a service provider. | 11-14-2013 |
20130303114 | FLEXIBLE NETWORK SHARING - Flexible sharing of common radio access network (RAN) resources may pool unallocated resources. For example, sharing of the network resources may be static, e.g., the sharing contract may define a fixed percentage allocation of network resources that may not be modified without change in contract. The sharing of the network resource may also be dynamic and may accommodate the capacity needs of hosted operators on a real-time basis. | 11-14-2013 |
20130303115 | AUTOMATED APPLIANCE REGISTRATION - A method for registering an appliance with a service provider, including receiving, by a server computer, a message from a cellular telephone, the message including a unique ID for an appliance, wherein the server computer stores billing information for the cellular telephone, wherein the appliance includes a modem, wherein the cellular telephone is separate from the appliance, and wherein the server computer is separate from the appliance and separate from the cellular telephone, further receiving, by the server computer, registration information from the appliance via the modem of the appliance, and associating, by the server computer, the billing information for the cellular telephone, with the appliance registration information. | 11-14-2013 |
20130303116 | METHOD FOR SEGREGATING BILLABLE TRANSACTIONS IN A MULTIMODE COMMUNICATION DEVICE - A system and method are disclosed for segregating transactions in a multimode communication device. A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a communication device ( | 11-14-2013 |
20130303117 | INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD, INFORMATION PROCESSING DEVICE AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - Provided is an information processing method including an extraction procedure of extracting another communication service provider other than a first communication service provider based on a result of a comparison of a congestion degree of a base station related to the first communication service provider with a congestion degree of each of base stations related to one or a plurality of communication service providers other than the first communication service provider, and an exchange control procedure of performing control to transfer the first access right from the first wireless terminal device to a second wireless terminal device having a second access right to access a base station related to the other extracted communication service provider, and to transfer the second access right from the second wireless terminal device to the first wireless terminal device. | 11-14-2013 |
20130309997 | PROVIDING LOCATION OF A MOBILE DEVICE - A computer server provides location of a mobile device to a user. The computer server allocates to an account for the user a predetermined number of location credits associated with a purchase made by the user; The computer server receives, from the user, identification information that identifies the mobile device. Upon the user requesting a current location of the mobile device, the computer server checks to see whether there remains location credits allocated to the account for the user and, provided there remains location credits allocated to the account for the user, provides to the user location information about the current location of the mobile device. | 11-21-2013 |
20130309998 | Method and System For Tracking Communications Between Telecommunication Devices - A method of tracking communications between telecommunication devices is disclosed. The method is implemented on a processor of a first telecommunication device, where the processor has a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium with an executable application stored thereon. The method includes executing the application stored on the computer-readable storage medium. The application instructs the processor to record data when the first telecommunication device initiates an outbound call or receives an inbound call, create a call record from the recorded data, and prompt a user to designate the call record as being associated with a billable communication, a non-billable communication, or an uncategorized communication. | 11-21-2013 |
20130309999 | AUTOMATIC ELECTRONIC PAYMENT VIA MOBILE TERMINALS - A system and method for automatic electronic payment based on the detection of a mobile station adapted to operate in a cellular telecommunications network. The system and method transmit, on the part of a transmitter associated with a Near Field Focused (NFF) base station, which is external to the cellular telecommunications network, a signal that indicates the presence of the NFF base station by mimicking the signal of an antenna of the cellular network. A request for connection to the NFF base station that originates from the mobile station is detected. An identity request signal to the mobile station is transmitted. The system and method detect an identity reply signal sent by the mobile station. Identification data of a subscriber is determined. The subscriber is billed on the basis of the determined subscriber identification data. | 11-21-2013 |
20130316672 | SHARING NETWORK CAPACITY WITH ANOTHER DEVICE - There is provided a cause a reception of information from a second device, wherein the information indicates a need to utilize the network capacity of the apparatus by the second device; detect an identifier of the second device in order to enable identification of the second device; determine whether or not to allow the second device to utilize the network capacity on the basis of the identification; upon deciding to allow the second device to utilize the network capacity of the apparatus, cause transfer of data between the second device and an accessed network, wherein the network is accessible with a specific subscriber identity module, SIM, of the apparatus; determine predetermined at least one characteristic related to the data transfer of the second device; cause transmission of information indicating the at least one characteristic to an entity responsible of invoicing data transfers with respect to the specific SIM. | 11-28-2013 |
20130316673 | SYSTEM, DEVICE, AND METHOD OF TRAFFIC DETECTION - A cellular traffic monitoring system includes: a Traffic Detection Function (TDF) module to monitor cellular traffic associated with a cellular subscriber device, and to generate application detection output indicative of an application used by the cellular subscriber device; an application-based charging module to generate, based on the application detection output of said TDF module, application-based charging data related to said cellular subscriber device; a Policy Charging and Enforcement Function (PCEF) module to enforce one or more charging rules that are Service Data Flow (SDF) based and are related to said cellular subscriber device; an SDF-based charging module to generate SDF-based charging data related to said cellular subscriber device; and a charging correlator module to identify a potential over-charging due to an overlap between the application-based charging data and the SDF-based charging data. | 11-28-2013 |
20130316674 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING CHARGING IN A MOBILE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - The present invention relates to a method and device for controlling charging in a mobile communication system. The method for controlling charging in a mobile communication system is characterized by comprising the steps of: generating, by a service provider, a sponsor coupon to transmit to a terminal when a sponsor service request transmitted from the terminal is received; receiving, by the terminal, the sponsor coupon to transmit to an operator; setting, by the operator, a filtering and charging rule for sponsor traffic by using the sponsor coupon, and notifying the terminal; requesting, by the terminal, the sponsor service to the service provider again, and receiving a sponsor traffic service from the service provider; and charging, by the operator, the service provider for the sponsor traffic. | 11-28-2013 |
20130324078 | TEMPORARILY DISABLE OUT-OF-CREDIT PCC RULE - Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method performed by a policy and charging rules node (PCRN), the method comprising: receiving an event trigger from a policy and charging enforcement node (PCEN) indicating that a subscriber is out of credit; installing temporary PCC rules to handle the out of credit status of the subscriber; receiving an indication that the subscriber has completed a reallocation of credit action; uninstalling the temporary PCC rules and restoring the original PCC rules after receiving an indication of reallocation of credit. | 12-05-2013 |
20130324079 | MANAGEMENT OF MULTIPLE SUBSCRIBER IDENTITY MODULES - Management of multiple subscriber identity modules by server is disclosed. Instructions, when executed by one or more processors, cause the server, for at least one subscriber identity module belonging to a set of subscriber identity modules of a user of a mobile terminal, to: offer a period price of the subscriber identity module for the user covering usage of the subscriber identity module for a predetermined time period; track credit of the subscriber identity module during the predetermined time period; and top up credit of the subscriber identity module on the basis of the tracking of the credit in order to keep the subscriber identity module alive for the predetermined time period. | 12-05-2013 |
20130337769 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING NETWORK IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION TO MANAGE MOBILE WIRELESS USER SERVICE POLICIE - A system and method are described that enable policy-implementing modules in a mobile wireless network to identify the location of a user and render policy-based (e.g., quality of service, accounting, throttling, etc.) decisions based upon a variety of additional information such as: home network availability in a market, user class, time of day, network congestion, application type, etc. The system renders policy decisions, based upon geo-spatial location information, by receiving a mobile wireless data message including a geospatial identifier. Thereafter, a policy engine renders a data service policy decision by applying a policy to the geospatial identifier. The potential classifications identified by the data service policy decision include an in-market roaming mode wherein a data usage is treated as non-roaming, even though associated with a roaming data session, based upon an in-market location specified by the geospatial location information. | 12-19-2013 |
20140004819 | Method And Apparatus For Providing Telephone Service | 01-02-2014 |
20140004820 | TERMINAL-INITIATED OVERRIDE OF CHARGING SYSTEM RULES | 01-02-2014 |
20140004821 | TELECOMMUNICATIONS CHARGING WITH EXTERNALLY-CONTROLLED ACCOUNT SELECTION | 01-02-2014 |
20140004822 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING LOCATION-RELATED INFORMATION | 01-02-2014 |
20140004823 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RECEIVING AND TRANSFERRING A TELEPHONE DIRECTORY FROM ONE CELLULAR TELEPHONE TO THE SAME OR ANOTHER | 01-02-2014 |
20140018035 | Subsidizing Data Usage In Mobile Wireless Networks - Concepts and technologies disclosed herein are for subsidizing data usage in a mobile wireless network. A method for subsidizing data usage may include monitoring data traffic traversing the mobile wireless network, determining if the data traffic is directed to a unique uniform resource locator that is associated with a computing resource that data directed thereto is to be subsidized, and recording data usage for the data traffic and providing the data usage to a charging system of the mobile wireless network in response to determining that the data traffic is directed to the unique uniform resource locator. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018036 | System and Method for Charging Future State Status Notifications - A telecommunication network may include a policy management system and a charging system. The charging system may be configured to receive a request for subscriber state information relating to a subscriber from the policy management system, retrieve current subscriber state information from memory, determine future subscriber state information for the subscriber, generate a communication message that includes the current subscriber state information and the future subscriber state information, and send the generated communication message to the server computing device. | 01-16-2014 |
20140024336 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SMOOTHING TRAFFIC LEVEL PEAKS IN A WIRELESS NETWORK SYSTEM - In one embodiment, the method includes determining serving time instants for serving each of a plurality of data requests received during a time period such that at least one peak data traffic load for the time period is reduced to a value less than or equal to a target data traffic load. The method further includes determining a magnitude of a difference between a time instant in which a data request is received and the corresponding serving time instant. The method further includes setting a subscriber price for the time instant in which the data request is received based on the determined magnitude. The method further includes offering the subscriber price to at least one subscriber in order that the at least one subscriber may one of delay and advance at least one data request by at least one time instant. | 01-23-2014 |
20140024337 | Method and system for calculating call expense of terminal - The present disclosure discloses a method for calculating a call expense of a terminal, including that: after receiving a call attribute, a cost calculating module reads a billing rule and an account balance in a cost file, calculates a call expense and a current account balance, and then updates the account balance in the cost file; and the billing rule and the account balance in the cost file are also updated in time through an Over-The-Air (OTA) short message. The present disclosure also disclosures a system for calculating a call expense of a terminal. With the present disclosure, timely and accurate call expense information can be provided for a subscriber. | 01-23-2014 |
20140024338 | MULTI-TIER QUALITY OF SERVICE WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS - The present invention pertains to improved communication quality of service in communication networks. A customer may pay different fees for different tiers of service relating to voice quality and bandwidth access. Higher service tiers may guarantee that a specific vocoder or bit rate is used; or guarantee that communication is supported by parameters such as maximum allowed dropped calls rate, jitter and latency. Availability may be guaranteed per the contract between subscribers and service providers. Different tiers may be associated with customers' records for billing purposes. High end devices may be afforded higher voice quality by comparing a given device to a look up table indicating what service level is associated therewith. A calling device or a receiving device may ask the other device to change the vocoder or bit rate to ensure a higher quality call. The user may also change the quality level before or during a call. | 01-23-2014 |
20140024339 | Telecommunications Data Usage Management - Telecommunications data usage management may be provided. A network state associated with a communication network may be identified. Upon determining that the network state is not in compliance with a data usage policy, access to the communication network may be restricted for at least one application. | 01-23-2014 |
20140024340 | Device Group Partitions and Settlement Platform - A method performed by a network system communicatively coupled to a device over a wireless network, the method comprising: receiving authentication information from the device over the wireless network, the authentication information enabling the network system to authenticate the device; obtaining a charging data record (CDR) comprising information identifying a device activity over the wireless network associated with the device and indicating a usage amount associated with the device activity; and using one or more rules, processing the CDR to generate information configured to assist in (a) providing to a partner entity an accounting of a first portion of usage of the wireless network associated with the device activity indicated by the CDR, the partner entity providing an Internet-based service to the device, and (b) determining an accounting of a second portion of the usage of the wireless network associated with the activity indicated by the CDR. | 01-23-2014 |
20140038547 | METERED SERVICES - Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method and related network node including one or more of the following: determining that a service should be configured for a subscriber; identifying a metering object that is currently applicable to the subscriber, wherein the metering object includes a metering limit and a plurality of actions; selecting a first action of the plurality of actions, wherein the first action includes a first parameter; configuring the service on the PCEN according to the first parameter, wherein configuring the service comprises instructing the PCEN to report usage of the service; and applying the metering limit to usage reported by the PCEN. | 02-06-2014 |
20140038548 | INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS AND INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD - An information processing apparatus includes a processor, a storage unit, and a connection unit that connects to a portable device which sends a connection request for a predetermined network as a response to a command from the processor. The processor stores the connection request from the portable device and the predetermined network contained in the connection request in the storage unit; detects a state transition of communication over the predetermined network; and determines whether a network whose status has transitioned from communication being unavailable to communication being available matches the predetermined network stored in the storage unit, and if the two networks match, sends a command to the portable device for causing the portable device to transmit a connection request for the predetermined network as a response. | 02-06-2014 |
20140038549 | System and Method for Controlling Advanced Triggering Operations in a Telecommunication Network - A network server may be configured to communicate triggers across a telecommunication network by receiving a trigger communication message that includes information suitable for causing a destination machine-to-machine device to perform operations in response to receiving the trigger communication message, receiving policy or charging information from a component in the telecommunication network, determining whether the trigger communication message should be sent to the destination machine-to-machine based on the received policy or charging information, and sending the trigger communication message to the destination component only when it is determined that the trigger communication message should be sent to the destination machine-to-machine based on the received policy or charging information. | 02-06-2014 |
20140038550 | SERVICE DELIVERY PLATFORM AND DEVELOPMENT OF NEW CLIENT BUSINESS MODELS - The present invention relates to systems and methods for delivering telecommunications services to customers. The systems and methods allow for the rapid creation and deployment of new telecommunications services, and the bundling of multiple services into service packages that can be sold together as a single product. Based on the systems and methods, targeted service packages may be developed and marketed toward business customers in specific industries. The systems and method provide opportunities for new business arrangements between telecommunications service providers and smaller third party providers. The new business arrangements provide access to a much wider customer pool for the third | 02-06-2014 |
20140038551 | RADIO COMMUNICATION CONTROL DEVICE, RADIO COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND RADIO COMMUNICATION TERMINAL - A radio communication control device accepts a call-up from a radio communication terminal and includes a unit configured to detect the degree of jamming in a cell, a unit configured to confirm the intention of a user of a terminal concerned as to whether the call-up is continued regardless of addition of an extra to the user's telephone call charge when the call-up has been made from a radio communication terminal in the cell concerned in a specific jammed state, a unit configured to block the call-up concerned in accordance with the confirmed intention of the user of the terminal concerned and a unit configured to change charge setting so as to add an extra to the user's telephone call charge when the call-up has not been blocked in the specific jammed state. | 02-06-2014 |
20140038552 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SPECTRUM USE - In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for facilitating charging in cognitive radio systems. The apparatus is configured to receive a data structure comprising accounting information, to obtain price information relating to the accounting information and to derive charging information and to send the charging information to a network. In some embodiments the apparatus is further configured to derive a revenue distribution scheme. | 02-06-2014 |
20140045452 | MACHINE TO MACHINE SERVICE MANAGEMENT DEVICE, NETWORK DEVICE, AND METHOD PROCESSING SERVICE SYSTEM - Embodiments of the present invention disclose a machine to machine service management device, a network device, a method processing service and system. An MSMC is added between an MTC server and a 3GPP network to perform service processing, and during the service processing, after a trigger receiving unit in the MSMC receives a triggering request message, a session establishing unit establishes a corresponding service session according to information of a requested group service, and a request sending and establishing unit sends a service request to a BM/SC device to establish a corresponding service session and establish a link with an MTC device. Therefore, security of a network system of the MTC application is improved. | 02-13-2014 |
20140045453 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MODIFYING CALLING BEHAVIOR - A method for modified dialing behavior includes capturing a dialing stream in a virtual input buffer, comparing the dialing stream of the calling party to a history of dialing streams stored in a database, analyzing the history of dialing streams to determine a desired dialing behavior of the calling party, and passing a modified dialing stream to a mobile operating system based on the determined desired dialing behavior of a calling party. | 02-13-2014 |
20140045454 | ACCOUNT LINKAGE IN MACHINE-TO-MACHINE SCENARIOS - Upon a user switching-on an appliance with an appliance SIM card of a home telecommunication network, the appliance attaches to the home telecommunication network. The user sets the appliance for association of the user with the appliance. The appliance requests a token to the home telecommunication network. The request includes an appliance identifier of the card. An Identity Linking Function server of the home telecommunication network generates the token, associates the token and the appliance identifier of the card, and provides the token. The user registers a user name and password. The appliance media site server creates a user account for the user with the user name and password. The user submits an identifier of the home telecommunication network, and the appliance media site server redirects the user towards the home telecommunication network with information for further return. | 02-13-2014 |
20140045455 | CHARGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, CHARGE MANAGEMENT METHOD, PROGRAM, PROGRAM PROVIDING SYSTEM, AND MAINTENANCE SYSTEM - A charge management system includes a user managing unit configured to manage pieces of user identification information for identifying users and pieces of terminal identification information for identifying transmission terminals, each piece of user identification information being associated with pieces of terminal identification information for identifying transmission terminals used by a user identified by the each piece of identification information; and a calculating unit configured to calculate a participation charge to each of the transmission terminals, bases on a total participation duration in which the each of the transmission terminals has participated in a conversation during a predetermined period, and calculate a total participation charge to each of the users by summing up the participation charges to transmission terminals specified by the pieces of terminal identification information associated with the each piece of the user identification information. | 02-13-2014 |
20140051384 | OUT OF CREDIT FINAL-UNIT-ACTION RESTRICT_ACCESS HANDLING - Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method performed by a policy and charging rules node (PCRN), the method including: receiving an event trigger and a restriction filter rule associated with a first set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules from a policy and charging enforcement node (PCEN) indicating that a subscriber is out of credit; producing a second set of PCC rules to implement the restriction filter to handle the out of credit status of the subscriber; installing the second set of PCC rules; receiving an indication that the subscriber has received a reallocation of credit; and uninstalling the second set of PCC rules after receiving an indication that the subscriber has completed the reallocation of credit operation. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051385 | TELECOMMUNICATION BEHAVIOR STATISTICAL ANALYSIS SYSTEM - A telecommunication behavior statistical analysis system is disposed to a telecommunication machine room to gather statistics of and analyze motion behaviors of at least a mobile phone user in an application store. The system receives a plurality of transmission data from a telecommunication machine room through a receiving module and collects data to form a plurality of behavior information of the same mobile phone user and then obtains platform information, a target program, a request time and a request content of requests through analysis of a filter module. Request times, time and motion contents of each target program are performed with statistic and analysis by utilizing a processing module so that at least a statistical table is drawn and displayed in a display module. Accordingly, the telecommunication operator could easily handle consumers' favorite and purchasing tend with respect to different kinds of application programs applied in mobile phones. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051386 | REMOTE SUBSCRIBER IDENTIFICATION (RSID) SYSTEM AND METHOD - The present invention discloses a Remote Subscriber Identification (RSID) system with a communication device in communication with a remote database capable of seamlessly storing, linking, and transferring mobile data to a user's communication device. The communication device receives a biometric information of a subscriber and accesses a subset of the mobile information by authenticating the user in the remote database and uses the subset of mobile information for communication with a third-party associated with at least one item of the subset of the mobile information. The user's data can be used on any communication device that capable of recognizing personal identifying information, transmitting this information to the remote database, accessing the user's subscriber specification information and any subscriber personalized information, and transmitting it to the user's communication device, enabling the user to use this information with the communication device. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051387 | METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT FOR SUPPORTING CHARGING IN A COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK - Method and arrangement in a charging function to support charging for services in a communications network. When receiving a request for charging information from a session control node serving a communication device, the charging function determines at least one characteristic of the device, e.g. by fetching it from a device characteristics repository where such device characteristics are maintained for devices in the network. The charging function then sets a charging level for a service requested or consumed by the device, based on the characteristic(s) of the device, and sends a response with the set charging level to the session control node, to enable device characteristic dependent charging for the requested or consumed service. | 02-20-2014 |
20140057594 | Cellular Airtime Management - Method and system for crediting cellular accounts with airtime comprising exchanging funds within a mobile telephone based money transfer system account for airtime. Crediting a plurality of cellular accounts with the airtime. | 02-27-2014 |
20140057595 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ALGORITHMICALLY BALANCING COST AND PERFORMANCE OF CELLULAR DATA CONNECTIONS IN MULTIPURPOSE COMMUNICATIONS GATEWAYS - Embodiments of the invention provide methods and systems for algorithmically balancing cost and performance of cellular data connections in multipurpose communications gateways and other cellular enabled devices. A preferred mode of operation is determined. The preferred mode of operation can be selected from a plurality of modes of operation, each one being-sensitive to cost, coverage, or bandwidth considerations, or any combination thereof. Balancing logic receives information from a multipurpose communications gateway or other cellular device and algorithmically balances cost and performance considerations based on the preferred mode of operation and the received information. The balancing logic can cause the communications gateway or other cellular device to automatically switch telecommunications carriers, plans, and/or cellular networks to achieve enhanced performance and reduced costs. | 02-27-2014 |
20140066004 | HANDLING OF OCS COUNTER INFORMATION - Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method performed by a policy and charging rules node (PCRN), the method including: sending a first Sy spending limit request (SLR) to an online charging system (OCS); receiving from the OCS a first spending limit answer (SLA) including policy counters and associated status reports for a subscriber; creating an Sy session; storing policy counter data in the Sy session; and making a policy decision based upon policy counter statuses associated with the Sy session. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066005 | MULTICARRIER WIRELESS SERVICE SELECTION - A user equipment (UE) provides a device identifier to a server device, and receives, based on one of the device identifier or a location of the device, carrier pricing information from the server device. The UE provides the carrier pricing information for display, and receives a selection of a particular carrier from the displayed carrier pricing information. The UE provides an indication of the particular carrier to the server device, initializes a connection with the particular carrier, and performs one or more communication operations via the connection with the particular carrier. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066006 | TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT FOR BASE STATIONS BACKHAULED OVER DATA-CAPPED NETWORK CONNECTIONS - A network device connected to a base station via a backhaul connection may be operable to determine whether the backhaul connection is congested. The determination may be based on a periodic data cap imposed on the backhaul connections. In response to a determination that the backhaul connection is congested, the network device may configure one or more cellular communication parameters of one or more of the plurality of base stations. The determination may be based on one or more of: a total amount of data consumed over the backhaul connection during a current time period, a traffic load on the backhaul connection, and an amount of time remaining in the current time period. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066007 | SYSTEM, METHOD, AND COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM FOR REBILLING A CARRIER BILL - System, method, and computer-readable medium for rebilling a carrier bill are disclosed. A computerized method for rebilling a carrier bill includes determining a ratio for distributing a total fee of one or more carrier bills for a plurality of mobile phones, determining an average cost per mobile phone based on the ratio and usage time, and determining a cost-per-time for each of the plurality of mobile phones based on the ratio and the usage time for the plurality of mobile phones. The method also includes determining a total cost for any of the plurality of mobile phones based on the average cost per mobile phone, the cost-per-time of the corresponding mobile phone, and a usage amount of the corresponding mobile phone. | 03-06-2014 |
20140073284 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR UNIFIED CHARGING OVER IN AND IMS NETWORKS FOR SCIM / SERVICE BROKER - In accordance with various embodiments, systems and methods that provide unified charging across different network interfaces are provided. A system can include an online charging system, executing on one or more microprocessors, a SCIM, which is operable to manage communication between a plurality of subscribers over a plurality of different network interfaces, and a set of interworking charging modules that use a unified charging structure to provide mappings between network protocol parameters and capabilities. The interworking charging modules can be configured to provide a same charging behavior to a plurality of different network protocols. | 03-13-2014 |
20140073285 | System and Method for Performing Multi-Enforcement Point Charging - Systems and methods for accomplishing charging operations in telecommunications networks that include multiple charging and enforcement components may include configuring a first charging and enforcement component to receive user traffic, determine usage information associated with the received user traffic, send the associated usage information to a charging system component, and send the user traffic and the associated usage information to a second charging and enforcement component. The second charging and enforcement component may be configured to receive the user traffic and usage information, compute updated usage information, and send the updated usage information to the charging system component. The charging system may use this updated usage information to ensure that the subscriber accounts were billed correctly. | 03-13-2014 |
20140080440 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE, INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM, COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM, AND POSITION DEPENDENT INFORMATION PROVIDING METHOD - An electronic device that includes a schedule information detecting unit which detects a schedule according to which a user moves to a second geographical area outside a first geographical area, an information acquisition unit which acquires position dependent information in the second geographical area from a first server apparatus before moving to the second geographical area, a position dependent information storing unit, a positioning unit, an output information control unit which retrieves the position dependent information corresponding to the position of the electronic device from the position dependent information storing unit, an information quantity storing unit which stores information quantity data which indicates quantity of the information retrieved from the position dependent information storing unit, and an information quantity transmitting unit which transmits the information quantity data stored in the information quantity storing unit to a second server apparatus, when the electronic device is located outside the second geographical area. | 03-20-2014 |
20140080441 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING PREPAID BILLING FOR INSTANT MESSAGING USERS - A system and method for providing prepaid billing for users of an instant messaging system. A method includes determining whether a prepaid account balance associated with an IM client request satisfies a pre-determined criteria, establishing a regular IM session if the prepaid account satisfies the criteria, and establishing a limited IM session if the prepaid account does not satisfy the criteria. The system includes a prepaid account screener operable to determine whether a prepaid account balance satisfies the criteria, establish a regular IM session if the prepaid account satisfies the criteria, and establish a limited IM session if the prepaid account does not satisfy the criteria. | 03-20-2014 |
20140080442 | REMOTE SUBSCRIBER IDENTIFICATION (RSID) SYSTEM AND METHOD - The present invention discloses a Remote Subscriber Identification (RSID) system with a communication device in communication with a remote database capable of seamlessly storing, linking, and transferring mobile data to a user's communication device. The communication device receives a biometric information of a subscriber and accesses a subset of the mobile information by authenticating the user in the remote database and uses the subset of mobile information for communication with a third-party associated with at least one item of the subset of the mobile information. The user's data can be used on any communication device that capable of recognizing personal identifying information, transmitting this information to the remote database, accessing the user's subscriber specification information and any subscriber personalized information, and transmitting it to the user's communication device, enabling the user to use this information with the communication device. | 03-20-2014 |
20140080443 | System and Method for Authorizing and Monetizing a Telephone Call - A system and method of authorizing and monetizing a telephone communication such as a voice call is disclosed. The calling party may be in a controlled environment such as a prison or hospital; the called party is using a mobile telephone device. The call is facilitated by a service provider such as a connect service provider. The call is monetized by a message service charge billed to an account associated with the mobile telephone device. The call is facilitated as a voice call if there is authorization both for a charge for message service to the mobile telephone device and for the call from the calling party. The system is implemented with a system may use a message service communication protocol for the message and billing charge. computer-based system in operation with the interactive voice response system. Revenue from monetization of the call may be shared between service providers. | 03-20-2014 |
20140087688 | System and Method for Corporate Mobile Subscription Management - This invention relates generally to a system and method to provide mobile subscription service management for medium and large corporations, allowing continuing backend total cost optimization. It determines a minutes pool collectively shared by a group of users, with an equitable cost allocation scheme which assures individual cost saving relative to the least cost stand-alone plan. The system provides real-time active mobile devices usage alert management, expense monitoring, report generation, individual internal cost center based billing and hierarchical data access through a web-based portal. The system is built on a Uniform Database, pulling information from Monthly Statements, Call Detail Records (CDRs), invoices, plan features and data usage summaries across diverse vendor platforms. The system covers all mobile communication devices, including but not limited to all smart phones (Blackberries, Androids, Windows and i-Phones herein), encompassing various protocols (CDMA, GSM or dual mode) and transmission media (WiFi and cellular network). | 03-27-2014 |
20140087689 | SYSTEM AND PROCESS FOR TRACKING AND EXCHANGING CONSUMER PURCHASES FOR COMMUNICATION SERVICES - Some embodiments provide a novel system and process for tracking purchases of a consumer in exchange for communication service. In some embodiments, the communication service comprises a cell phone service plan. In some embodiments, the communication service comprises a reduced-price service plan. In some embodiments, the reduced-price service plan is a free service plan. | 03-27-2014 |
20140087690 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO RESTRICT PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS - Systems and methods are provided to selectively restrict payment transactions. In one aspect, a system includes: a data storage facility to store restriction data in association with a phone number; and an interchange coupled with the data storage facility. The interchange includes a common format processor and a plurality of converters to interface with mobile controllers. The converters are configured to communicate with the controllers in different formats and to communicate with the common format processor in a common format. In response to a payment request identifying the phone number and a merchant, the common format processor determines whether to reject the payment request based at least in part on the restriction data and the identity of the merchant. If the request is not rejected, the common format processor uses one of the converters to communicate with a telephonic apparatus at the phone number to confirm the payment request. | 03-27-2014 |
20140094138 | SPONSORED DATA PLAN MANAGEMENT - A method for managing a Sponsored Data Plan (SDP) is provided in a mobile telecommunications network. The method includes: receiving a first request for an initial charging policy report in response to a detection of a user's data session with an Application Server (AS) ( | 04-03-2014 |
20140094139 | SESSION PROCESSING METHOD AND APPARATUS OF MACHINE TYPE COMMUNICATION - Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a session processing method and apparatus of machine type communication. The method includes: receiving, by a first network device, a session request message; acquiring, by the first network device, subscription information according to a device parameter; and generating, by the first network device, a policy and charging control rule PCC rule of a subscriber of a UE according to the subscription information, carrying the PCC rule in a session response message, and sending the session response message. In the session processing method and apparatus according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, explicit binding of an MTC UE Category to a Low cost MTC service is implemented, so that it is ensured that the cost reduction technology does not affect the performance of a UE that belongs to an existing UE Category, thereby improving network performance of a communication system. | 04-03-2014 |
20140099915 | System and Method for Utilizing a User's Mobile Phone Account as a Funding Source - The invention generally pertains to a method for providing a purchase incentive associated with the purchase of a product bundle to an end user using a mobile device connected to a transaction server over a mobile phone network. By way of example, a secure connection is created over the mobile phone network to exchange information between the transaction server and the mobile device. The end user selects the desired product bundle level—as a result receives a purchase incentive, i.e., cash rebate, remittance, refund and/or other monies—and delivery method using the mobile device. The mobile device connects to a third party payment processor over a secure connection, which charges the end user for the purchase of the product bundle. Specifically, the third party payment processor charges the purchase to the user's mobile phone account with a mobile carrier. Once the end user is notified of the successful purchase transaction, the desired value is delivered to the end user using the user selected delivery method. | 04-10-2014 |
20140099916 | Location-based Update of Subscriber Identity Information in a Wireless Device - Location-based subscriber identity update in a wireless user equipment (UE) device. A location of the UE may be determined. An indication of a plurality of network connectivity options may be provided via a user interface. The plurality of network connectivity options may be provided based on the location of the UE. User input selecting a network connectivity option may be received via the user interface. The UE may be configured according to the selected network connectivity option in response to the user input. | 04-10-2014 |
20140099917 | COMPUTER NETWORK PAGE ADVERTISING METHOD - The invention provides a system for promoting computer network pages. The system includes a mobile station that allows a user to conduct telephone calls and connect to a computer network. A call management server selects and transmits an audible advertisement for a network page to a user, based on profile information of the user. A gateway then causes a menu including a selection choice for connecting to the advertised computer network page to appear on the mobile station when the user connects to the computer network. | 04-10-2014 |
20140099918 | COMPUTER-IMPLEMENTED METHOD, SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS RATING - The present application relates to a computer-implemented method, system, and computer program product for telecommunications rating. The computer-implemented method for telecommunications rating may comprise: receiving an event from a source system for a service, wherein the event is generated by a user; transforming the event into a normalized event by determining event characteristics comprising determining a guiding point identifier to identify a guiding point associated with the user; by using the guiding point identifier, retrieving from the guiding point a list of products operable to guide the normalized event; rating the normalized event by calculating and aggregating costs according to the list of products; and posting the costs by updating at least one balance associated with the user, the guiding point, and/or the service. | 04-10-2014 |
20140106705 | WIRELESS DEVICE ACCESS TO COMMUNICATION SERVICES THROUGH ANOTHER WIRELESS DEVICE - A wireless communication device operates between a WiFi link and an LTE link. The device receives a request indicating a user identifier and determines if the user identifier has sufficient usage credit. If there is sufficient usage credit, the device exchanges WiFi signals and LTE signals including user communications. The device decrements the usage credit and transfers usage credit consumption over the LTE link. After decrementing the usage credit, the device determines if the user identifier has sufficient usage credit, and if the user identifier does not, the device transfers a credit request and receives an additional usage credit for the user identifier over the LTE link. The device exchanges additional WiFI signals and LTE signals including additional user communications. The device decrements the additional usage credit and transfers additional usage credit consumption over the LTE link. | 04-17-2014 |
20140113584 | MAPPING A MOBILE DEVICE LOCATION TO BILLING REGIONS IN INTERNET PROTOCOL MULTIMEDIA SUBSYSTEMS - A location mapping service (“LMS”) that allows the integrations of an IMS core with the location-based billing methods of a legacy core network. The LMS uses the estimated location of a mobile device during an IMS session in order to determine a Cell Global Identification (“CGI”) to associate with the session. The LMS then provides the determined CGI to the legacy core network, so that a billing gateway may determine the billing region to associate with the IMS session. The LMS thereby facilitates location-based billing for IMS sessions in the absence of actual CGI information. | 04-24-2014 |
20140113585 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CHARGING - A method and an apparatus for charging, related to the technical field of communications, are invented in an attempt to enhance charging accuracy of a charging system. A method for charging comprises: acquiring an IMEI number of a target charging terminal; determining a type of the target charging terminal by utilizing the IMEI number of the target charging terminal, according to a corresponding relationship between relevant information of a terminal identifier and a terminal type; and charging the target charging terminal according to the type of the target charging terminal. | 04-24-2014 |
20140113586 | System And Method For Managing A Mobile Device - A system and method for managing a mobile device(s) to provide for a notification(s) when specified thresholds are reached and/or execute defined rules for the mobile device(s). The rules can relate to any function of the mobile device(s), including but not limited to, notification when a percentage of voice/data/SMS is reached during a billing cycle, notification when a mobile device(s) leaves a geo-fence, and restrict a mobile device(s) when a threshold is reached. The system provides a versatile management system allowing a user to effectively control use of a mobile device(s) and manage costs. | 04-24-2014 |
20140120865 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLEMENTING CUSTOMIZED ROUTING IN A MODULARIZED PROCESSING ENVIRONMENT - A facility for customizable routing in a modularized routing environment is provided, where the complexities of routing functionality are not exposed to an application program. An identifier associated with a routing policy of an application program is used to configure a route table and to obtain routing instructions from the route table that are associated with the identifier. Routing is performed according to a message routing protocol, such as the Diameter protocol, for example. An interface between the facility and the application program may be implemented with an API that provides a relatively simple interface. | 05-01-2014 |
20140120866 | BATTERY CELL PHONE COMBINATION - A battery cell phone combination for use in a cell phone or other electronic device having a case or housing is provided. The battery cell phone combination has a primary battery and a secondary battery each being shaped so as to be able to be received in the case. When the primary battery is drained the user can enable the secondary battery in a rapid manner and for a fee or for free. The primary and secondary batteries are isolated from each other such that there is no current seepage between the two. The cell phone is continuously powered when switching from the primary battery to the secondary battery such that calls are not dropped during the switching process. | 05-01-2014 |
20140120867 | PROVIDING TOLL FREE DATA IN A WIRELESS SYSTEM - A wireless data-oriented service provides toll free data access to wireless users, such as GSM or CDMA-based users, when accessing specified content. The content provider pays for (“sponsors”) access to specific content for wireless users, often in conjunction with advertisement campaigns. In one embodiment a separate access point name is used when making the request to distinguish between sponsored data and conventional data access requests. In another embodiment, a portal proxy is used and sponsored data is distinguished from conventional data by the address of the destination web site. Wireless users accessing the sponsored content are not billed for usage, but rather the content provider is billed for usage. A data session management platform generates appropriate call data records indicating the session usage and transmits the records to reconcile accounts between the mobile network operator and the content provider. | 05-01-2014 |
20140120868 | MOBILE DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR MULTI-STEP ACTIVITIES - An multistep guided system for mobile devices that facilitates the creation and dissemination of multistep guided activities from a source computer/device to a plurality of other recipient mobile devices, wherein the multistep guided activities is disseminated to the recipient mobile devices in a form that is compatible with the capabilities of the respective recipient mobile devices. The audio guided system comprises the source computer/device, the plurality of other recipient mobile devices and a server. | 05-01-2014 |
20140128022 | PROVIDING NETWORK ACCESS - A wireless service provider identifies a mobile computing device capable of short-range wireless communication and in an agreement to receive service from a cellular network. The wireless service provider provides, to the mobile computing device, terms for a third party computing device to accept in order to gain access to the cellular network via the mobile computing device. In response to a third party computing device agreeing to the terms, the wireless service provider indicates to the mobile computing device to allow the third party computing device to access the cellular network via the mobile computing device. | 05-08-2014 |
20140128023 | APPARATUS FOR DISPENSING RENTED WIRELESS DEVICES FOR INTERNET ACCESS VIA A LOCAL AREA NETWORK (LAN) - A method, apparatus, computer program product and system are disclosed for dispensing rented wireless devices to commercial customer, such as tablet computers, iPhones®, Androids®, and the like from a mobile kiosk interconnected with the Internet and a LAN. The kiosk functions in part as a server and houses a plurality of wireless devices which are dispensed automatically upon payment of a fee and deposit in accordance with a predetermined fee criteria, and are returned by customers after use. | 05-08-2014 |
20140128024 | Method and System for Enabling Usage of Mobile Telephone Services on a Donor Device - A system and method can allow a first subscriber who is unable to use his mobile device due to theft, damage, loss, or any other reason to authenticate himself on a telecommunications network using a second subscriber's mobile device. The system and method can also allow the first subscriber to continue to make and receive calls and messages with the second subscriber's mobile device. Any charges incurred by usage of the second subscriber's mobile device by the first subscriber can be billed to an account associated with the first subscriber. | 05-08-2014 |
20140128025 | DEVICE ASSISTED SERVICES INSTALL - A method performed by a wireless device, the method comprising: establishing communication with one or more network elements available to the wireless device, the one or more network elements associated with one or more service providers, the one or more service providers including a particular service provider; updating the wireless device to include a service selection interface branding, the service selection interface branding for providing a user interface characteristic that is specific to the particular service provider; obtaining, from the one or more network elements, a service selection option comprising an option to select a service offering providing for service access over the particular wireless access network; using at least an aspect of the service selection interface branding, presenting the service selection option to the user; and obtaining a user preference in response to the service selection option. | 05-08-2014 |
20140128026 | Device Assisted CDR Creation, Aggregation, Mediation and Billing - A method performed by a network system, the method comprising: monitoring traffic over a wireless network between the network system and a device, the traffic being within a service plan associated with the device; obtaining a first accounting of usage of the wireless network associated with a first portion of the traffic, wherein a sponsor sponsors at least a portion of the usage of the wireless network associated with the first portion of the traffic; based on the monitored traffic, obtaining a second accounting of usage of the wireless network associated with a second portion of the traffic not including the first portion of the traffic, the subscriber associated with the wireless device being financially responsible for usage of the wireless network associated with the second portion of the traffic; and providing an accounting record to the sponsor based on the first accounting. | 05-08-2014 |
20140134972 | Embedding Service Provider Information In A Wireless Call - In one embodiment, a method includes receiving, in a mobile station of a terminating party, an incoming call and an identifier of a service provider of an initiating party of the incoming call, and displaying information corresponding to the initiating party service provider on a display of the mobile station. Other embodiments are described and claimed. | 05-15-2014 |
20140134973 | VOICE COMMUNICATION SERVER APPARATUS AND VOICE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A non-billing instruction function terminates a transmission of billing source information for a billing process to a billing server, and when a PB receiving function detects switching of the content of a telephone call while the connection of a call is maintained, a billing source information transmitting function transmits the billing source information to the billing server. This eliminates an occasion that a service is applied or is not applied depending on an operation given by a user, thereby providing the service equally. | 05-15-2014 |
20140134974 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REPORTING CHARGING INFORMATION OF DIRECT DEVICE TO DEVICE COMMUNICATION IN A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A method and apparatus are disclosed for reporting charging information by a first user equipment. The method includes establishing, by the first user equipment, a radio resource control (RRC) connection with a network and entering a RRC connection mode. The method further includes establishing, by the first user equipment, a peer to peer connection with a second user equipment for a proximity-based service (ProSe) communication. In addition, the method includes sending, by the first user equipment, charging information of the ProSe communication to the network. | 05-15-2014 |
20140134975 | CONTROLLING A SHARED SERVICE - A method includes obtaining a liability limit indicative of an available funding, determining whether a first amount of liability contributed by a first subscriber during a provision of a service to the first subscriber exceeds a first balance indicative of a first portion of the available funding that may be consumed by the first subscriber, determining whether a second amount of liability contributed by a second subscriber during a provision of a service to the second subscriber exceeds a second balance indicative of a second portion of the available funding that may be consumed by the second subscriber, issuing a first communication to a device to affect the provision of a service to the first subscriber if the first amount of liability exceeds the first balance, and issuing a second communication to the device to affect the provision of a service to the second subscriber if the second amount of liability exceeds the second balance. | 05-15-2014 |
20140141744 | DISTRIBUTED COMPUTING TASK COSTING WITH A MOBILE DEVICE - Distributed computing task costing is disclosed. Costing can be employed to determine if a task will be passed to a distributed computing cluster including mobile devices. Costing can include determining a base cost value predicated on a selectable level of utility to a user of a burdened device, a base time value related to completing the task without the use of the cluster, determining a delay cost, and any monetary costs associated with performing the task without the use of the cluster. Costing can further include demining a relief cost that can include the selectable level of utility, a relief time value related to completing the task with the cluster, the delay cost, an incentive cost based on the sum across a set of relief devices and their corresponding parameters for cluster participation, and any remaining monetary costs borne by the burdened device. Where the base cost value and relief cost value satisfies conditions, a task can be divided into subtasks that can be distributed to the cluster to accomplish the task in a distributed computing environment. | 05-22-2014 |
20140141745 | SYSTEM AND METHODS TO PROCESS USER INITIATED TRANSACTIONS - Systems and methods are provided to process transactions initiated by users of mobile devices. In one aspect, a system includes a data storage facility to store phone numbers of users, and an interchange coupled with the data storage facility. The interchange includes a common format processor and a plurality of converters to interface with a plurality of different controllers of mobile communications. The converters are configured to communicate with the common format processor in a common format and to communicate with the controllers in different formats. The interchange uses the converters to transmit at least one premium message to a mobile phone at a first telephone number to provide an amount to the mobile phone using funds associated with a second telephone number, in response to a request initiated from a mobile phone at the second telephone number. | 05-22-2014 |
20140148123 | WIRELESS NETWORK SERVICE INTERFACES - A method performed by a network system operated by or on behalf of a service provider, the network system capable of communicating with a user device over a wireless access network, the method comprising establishing, in cooperation with software running on the user device, a secure link between the network system and the software, the secure link for preventing unauthorized access to communications between the software and the network system; providing, to the software over the secure link, first information enabling the software to assist a user of the user device to view, select, or change an aspect of a service plan associated with the user device; and providing, to the software over the secure link, second information, the second information enabling the software to present, through a user interface of the user device, a notification about a past or current service usage by the user device. | 05-29-2014 |
20140148124 | DYNAMIC CONFIGURATION OF UNLIMITED SERVICE FOR ROAMING SUBSCRIBER - Methods, systems, and apparatus are presented for enabling unlimited roaming service on a roaming partner switch. In one aspect, a method includes configuring a billing system corresponding to a home wireless service provider to authorize a subscriber device to receive unlimited roaming service on a roaming partner switch; receiving, by the home wireless service provider, a registration request from the roaming partner switch identifying the subscriber device; registering the subscriber device in the billing system as an unlimited roaming service subscriber device; and providing unlimited roaming service to the subscriber device. Further, a call request associated with the subscriber device can be received from the roaming partner switch and billing associated with the call request can be suspended. | 05-29-2014 |
20140155024 | DELAYED DATA DELIVERY OPTIONS - Systems and methods for effecting delayed delivery of data. There are received, at a scheduler, from a plurality of mobile computing devices, a plurality of requests for transmission of data objects. Responsive to the requests, communication is made to at least one of the devices at least one offer for a delayed transmission deadline of at least one data object. There is received, at the scheduler, at least one response to the at least one offer, and there is determined a scheduling priority of transmissions based on the at least one response. | 06-05-2014 |
20140155025 | TIERED-BASED BILLING FOR CONTENT DELIVERY - One or more servers may: receive information regarding a content file stored by a device; provide information associated with a first cost value corresponding to a cost to deliver the content file from the device to a user device; receive a delivery instruction directing the one or more servers to provide a portion of the content file to the user device via one or more ports or via one or more access points, each of the one or more ports or the one or more access points being associated with respective one or more second cost values; generate a key associated with the information regarding the content file and with the delivery instruction; receive an indication of selection of the key by the user device; deliver, to the user device, the portion of the content file via the one or more ports or the one or more access points. | 06-05-2014 |
20140162596 | DIGITAL CONTENT CARD - A Digital Content Card (DCC) is disclosed wherein the card contains a digital content for mobile phone users, which is marketed for public using various types of card and has a specific code as an identification of the type of offered content. Such cards contain various types of content with a content delivery system/method to mobile phone with different manners, which is in accordance with the type of content. | 06-12-2014 |
20140162597 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVISIONING TEMPORARY TELEPHONE NUMBERS - Systems, methods, and computer program products for provisioning a temporary disposable number are described. A user can be provided with a pool of available temporary disposable numbers that have a limited shelf life. The user can select one of the available temporary disposable numbers while submitting a permanent phone number associated with a communications device (e.g., mobile phone, home phone, business phone, etc.). Prior to activating the selected temporary disposable number, the temporary disposable number is linked to the permanent phone number. After activation, when an incoming call to the temporary disposable number is received, the permanent phone number is identified to be associated with the temporary disposable number being called. The incoming call is then forwarded to the communications device on which the permanent phone number is established. | 06-12-2014 |
20140171017 | BILLING SYSTEM USER INTERFACE TOOL - One or more devices receive, from multiple business processes, real-time billing data relating to the multiple business processes, wherein the multiple business processes include both mainframe systems and open systems. The one or more devices compile the real-time billing data into summary tables corresponding to metrics for the multiple business processes and store the summary tables corresponding to the metrics for the multiple business processes. The one or more devices receive, from a user device, a request to present a dashboard user interface including particular charts of the multiple business processes and retrieve, from the summary tables, data to populate the particular charts for the dashboard user interface. The one or more devices providing, to the user device, a configuration interface for presentation of the particular charts for the dashboard user interface and providing, to the user device, the data to populate the particular charts for the dashboard user interface. | 06-19-2014 |
20140171018 | RADIO SPECTRUM TRADING - Radio spectrum trading involves determining available radio spectrum and requestors desiring to lease portions of the available radio spectrum, and for allocating the available spectrum to the requestors. A pricing curve may be set based on historical information and/or requests to lease spectrum. A determination may then be made as to whether an amount of available spectrum is less than or greater than an amount spectrum being requested. If it is determined that the amount of available spectrum is less than the amount of spectrum being requested, then an auction may be conducted for the available spectrum with the initial bid being set based on the pricing curve. If the amount of available spectrum is greater than the amount of spectrum being requested, then the requests may be sorted based on predicted revenue generation and the available spectrum may be allocated in order from highest to lowest revenue generated. | 06-19-2014 |
20140171019 | PREPAID CHARGING INTERFACE ENHANCEMENTS ENABLING PREPAID MESSAGING BUCKETS - The signaling interface between a wireless network message center and a prepaid control platform is enhanced by the addition of one or more parameters useful in supporting special accounting treatments for user message communications through a wireless network, for example, include a ConnectedAddressList, an ExceptionIndicator and/or a PolicyOverrideIndicator. The ConnectedAddressList and PolicyOverrideIndicator can be used to allow a prepaid wireless service provider to offer a wide variety of free or specially priced messaging buckets to its subscribers (or to a select group of its subscribers). User messages may be delivered for free, for example, if they are going to or coming from other customers of the service provider. The ExceptionIndicator can be used to block application of such buckets, e.g. to enable premium pricing, for international delivery or the like. | 06-19-2014 |
20140171020 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO SELECTIVELY AUTHENTICATE VIA MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS - Systems and methods to accelerate transactions made via mobile communications. In one aspect, a system includes: a data storage facility to store information associated with past payment transactions and an interchange coupled with the data storage facility. The interchange includes a common format processor and a plurality of converters to interface with a plurality of controllers. The converters are configured to communicate with the controllers in different formats, and to communicate with the common format processor in a common format. After a payment request identifying the phone number is received in the interchange, the common format processor is to determine whether to skip mobile communications with a mobile phone at the phone number to confirm/authenticate the request, based on real time information about the current transaction, the historical transaction data related to the phone number, and other data such as social graph data related to the user of the phone number. | 06-19-2014 |
20140179264 | COUNTER-BASED LIMITATION OF SUBSCRIBER CHARGING INACCURACY - Disclosed techniques limit or reduce the amount of data for which a subscriber may be charged that may not actually be received at the subscriber's mobile device. A counter may be started when a node has data to be delivered to a mobile device. The node may send the data through a radio access network for delivery to the mobile device and record an amount of the data sent for the mobile device through the radio access network for data usage billing purposes while running the counter, until the counter reaches a predetermined value. When the counter reaches the predetermined value, if no traffic channel has been set up with the mobile device, the node will stop recording the amount of the data sent for the mobile device through the radio access network for data usage billing purposes. | 06-26-2014 |
20140179265 | Method For Offering Wireless Data At A Discounted Rate - A method for offering wireless data at a discounted rate is provided. A wireless service provider is queried to discover discounted data transfer rates. A discount rate proposal is sent to the querying mobile user. The discount rate proposal includes a discount rate, a data bit rate, and an offered time period. If the mobile unit accepts the discount rate proposal, user data is carried at the data bit rate during the offered time period priced at the discount rate. | 06-26-2014 |
20140179266 | SHARED DATA MONITOR - A method includes identifying a data volume allocation associated with a user account from a shared data volume allocation, identifying previous data consumption corresponding to the data volume allocation by the user account, and identifying a current data usage rate associated with the user account. The method also includes identifying a data usage threshold associated with the user account. A projected data usage is determined based on the current data usage rate and the previous data consumption. The method includes determining whether the projected data usage exceeds the data usage threshold, and, if the projected data usage exceeds the data usage threshold, sending a notification indicating that the data usage is projected to exceed the data usage threshold to at least one account associated with the shared data plan. The method further includes performing an action to limit data consumption below the data usage threshold. | 06-26-2014 |
20140179267 | OPERATIONS METHOD FOR PROVIDING WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SERVICES - The present invention is directed to an improved operations method for a wireless communication system. The improved business method, operations method, network and system of the present invention includes the steps of delivering cellular services to the mass market, reducing peak capacity, increasing overall capacity utilization, improving capital utilization, providing an “all-you-can-eat” pricing model, and designing capacity based upon where the users live, work, and play. | 06-26-2014 |
20140187197 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING REAL-TIME ACCESS TO MOBILE COMMERCE PURCHASE CONFIRMATION EVIDENCE - A method and system are provided for providing a real-time access to mobile commerce payment evidence. The method includes receiving and storing evidence that a mobile handset user has confirmed his intention of making a purchase to be billed to his mobile operator account. The method further includes authenticating the confirmation received, and storing evidence of that authentication. Further, the method includes providing at least some of that evidence to at least one of the subscriber, the utility provider, and a provider of the product purchased. | 07-03-2014 |
20140187198 | Transmission of Location and Directional Information Associated with Mobile Communication Devices - A method and arrangement for providing location information of a called mobile communication device to a calling party are implemented through a mobile device locator platform disposed in the communication network. A mobile device subscriber to the location service initiates a process where the location of his mobile device is updated on a regular basis and the location information stored in a database on the platform. When a call is placed to his subscribed device, the location information is transmitted to the calling party prior to setting up the call to the called device, allowing the calling party to determine whether or not to proceed with the call, as well as eliminating the need to ask the common question “where are you?” when placing a call to a mobile device. | 07-03-2014 |
20140194087 | Remote PBX System and Advance Communication Terminals - A method for providing a remote PBX service by a customer's phone service provider. More than one telephone number is assigned to one customer's telephone communication link in communication with at least one telephone. A connect signal is received by the customer's phone service provider including one of the telephone numbers assigned to the customer's telephone communication link. A called telephone code is generated indicative of the number included in the connect signal. The called telephone code is sent to the customer's telephone communication link whereby a user of the customer's telephone communication link is capable of knowing which of the more than one telephone numbers assigned to the customer's telephone communication link was called prior to answering the telephone connected to the customer's telephone communication link. Thus, the customer's phone service provider provides the remote PBX service for the customer without the necessity of a local PBX. | 07-10-2014 |
20140194088 | Methods, Systems, and Computer Program Products for Mobile Network Subscriber Incentive Programs - A number of reward programs can be offered to subscribers of a mobile network as an incentive to use fewer allocated resources, rather than more. For example, in some embodiments, a subscriber may elect to participate in a reward program wherein a portion of the unused resources are used to determine a monetary amount to be returned to the subscriber at, for example, the end of a year. In some embodiments, a subscriber may elect to participate in a reward program wherein a portion of the unused resources (such as unused minutes under their plan) are used to offset the costs of “green programs”, which may be implemented by the operator of the network. In other words, the subscribers can be encouraged to use fewer resources by allowing a portion of those unused resources (in the form of for example, cash) to offset the cost of a program, which the subscriber believes provides some benefit. The reward programs offered may recognize any societal issue. | 07-10-2014 |
20140194089 | METHOD OF DISPLAYING ICONS ACCORDING TO SERVICE USAGE STATES AND MOBILE TERMINAL SUPPORTING THE SAME - A method and apparatus for displaying icons according to data communication service usage states are provided. The method includes collecting information on the remaining service amount for at least one service having a service usage limit; and displaying a color adjusted icon based on the remaining service amount. | 07-10-2014 |
20140194090 | REGISTRATION, VERIFICATION AND NOTIFICATION SYSTEM - A registrant provides at least one registrant electronic contact, such as a telephone number, during a registration process. The registrant's information may be compared to a database of such information. The registrant is verified by establishing a connection with the registrant via the registrant contact. The verification code is communicated to the registrant, which is input into an on-line form. Notification events are established, and the registrant is notified of the occurrence of a previously established notification event by establishing a connection with the registrant via the registrant contact. | 07-10-2014 |
20140194091 | Method and System for User Signup by a Network Service Provider - A system and a method for performing purchase transactions over a network are provided. The system includes a server controlled by a service provider, including a link to a network; a processor circuit, the processor circuit configured to receive purchase requests from a mobile phone, and to transfer funds from a user account to a vendor account; and a memory circuit storing a plurality of mobile phone numbers and a plurality of personal identification numbers (PINs), wherein each mobile phone number and PIN is associated with a user account. A non-transitory machine-readable medium may include a plurality of machine-readable instructions which when executed by one or more processors of a server controlled by a service provider are adapted to cause the server to perform a method as above. | 07-10-2014 |
20140194092 | Charging of Battery-Operated Devices Over Wireless Connections - The technology described herein provides wireless charging for battery-operated electronic devices ( | 07-10-2014 |
20140199961 | METHOD FOR ENABLING A WIRELESS DEVICE FOR GEOGRAPHICALLY PREFERENTIAL SERVICES - Disclosed is system comprising: a server platform operative to communicate with a wireless communication network; and data storage coupled to the server platform to store a plurality of business rules, wherein the server platform is operative to: generate a first provision instruction to provision a Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) with a first rule set associated with a first set of business rules for wireless usage incurred by a mobile terminal operating in the wireless communication network; generate a first billing instruction based on the first set of business rules and a first data type determined by a packet gateway that inspects packet data communicated to or from the mobile terminal. | 07-17-2014 |
20140199962 | METHOD FOR ENABLING A WIRELESS DEVICE FOR GEOGRAPHICALLY PREFERENTIAL SERVICES - Disclosed is system comprising: a server platform operative to communicate with a wireless communication network; and data storage coupled to the server platform to store a plurality of business rules, wherein the server platform is operative to: generate a first provision instruction to provision a Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) with a first rule set associated with a first set of business rules for wireless usage incurred by a mobile terminal operating in the wireless communication network; generate a first billing instruction based on the first set of business rules and a first data type determined by a packet gateway that inspects packet data communicated to or from the mobile terminal. | 07-17-2014 |
20140213215 | MULTI-TIER SERVICE WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK - The present invention pertains to improved communication quality in cellular communication networks and the like. A customer has the option to pay different amounts for different tiers of service relating to voice quality and bandwidth access. Higher service tiers may guarantee that a specific vocoder or bit rate is used. Different tiers may be associated with customers' records for billing purposes. The network may also afford high end cellular phones higher voice quality by comparing a given high end phone to a look up table which indicates what level of service is associated with the given phone. A calling mobile station or a receiving mobile station may case the other mobile station to change to a more robust vocoder or bit rate to ensure a higher quality phone call. Furthermore, the user may also opt to change the quality level before or during a call. | 07-31-2014 |
20140220928 | RECORDS EXCHANGE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOBILE BROADBAND ROAMING - A method in support of wireless roaming comprising filtering selected mobile subscriber data for a mobile subscriber based on data exchange packages that are established pursuant to bilateral records exchange agreements, transmitting the filtered data to a wireless networks that provides broadband roaming service to the mobile subscriber, receiving information from a visited network about the mobile subscriber's activity therein, and settling charges between wireless networks that provided service to the subscriber. | 08-07-2014 |
20140220929 | Method and Apparatus For Providing Network Access To A Connecting Apparatus - A method and apparatus are provided for providing network access to a connecting apparatus. A method may include determining, at a terminal apparatus, a selection of a network access credential for a network from a plurality of available network access credentials installed on the terminal apparatus. The method may further include responsive to the selection, activating the selected network access credential. The method may additionally include using the activated network access credential to cause a connecting apparatus to be provided with access to the network via a local connection between the terminal apparatus and the connecting apparatus. A corresponding apparatus is also provided. | 08-07-2014 |
20140220930 | GIFTING PREPAID DATA PLANS - A method is provided for allowing a user to gift a portion of a prepaid plan. A server offers the gifted portion of the prepaid plan to another user. In an embodiment, the other user may be a charity, a user chosen by the purchaser of the prepaid plan, a user chosen by the entity running the server, for example. | 08-07-2014 |
20140220931 | Prepaid Short Messaging - A prepaid messaging solution which uses open networking standards (e.g., TCP/IP) and which supports pre-payment of enhanced Internet messaging services. The disclosed prepaid architectures and methods accurately determine if a subscriber has sufficient account balance to deliver a complete short message, prior to delivery of the message. The short message may be prevented from being delivered (either at the source end or at the destination end) if insufficient funds are in the subscriber's account. A prepaid tariff engine is preferably extensible over a TCP/IP network, and supports remote interaction with the SMSC and web chat servers for the purpose of applying a real-time billing charge for each message. A service provider may create subscriber classes of service that define and uniquely identify subscriber rate and/or tariffing plans used to apply real-time billing charges for sending or receiving of messages. The prepaid short message tariff engine determines the appropriate message billing based upon, e.g., flat rate per message, message count (e.g., 10 messages @ $ 5.00), character count (e.g., $0.01/char.), Time of Day, Day of Week (i.e., peak & non-peak hours), type of message, and/or mobile location (i.e., network point code). The prepaid short messaging service preferably supports Internet web page access to subscriber's relating to their short messaging account balances and status maintained in the prepaid short messaging database of the prepaid messaging server. | 08-07-2014 |
20140220932 | Network Servers, Systems, and Methods for Multiple Personas on a Mobile Device - Network servers, systems, and methods are disclosed which relate to providing a plurality of user identities or personas on a single mobile device. The mobile device has a unique address to communicate with entities on the network. The mobile device is further associated with a plurality of telephone numbers. The usage of each telephone number may be billed to a separate account. Each telephone number is associated with a plurality of personas, and each persona has a corresponding visual interface on the mobile device and a corresponding set of rules. The relationship between personas, telephone numbers, and associated rules is stored on an application server on the network. The application server routes incoming connections to a specific persona on the mobile device based on the plurality of rules. The rules can be edited by a user of the mobile device via an interface or another device connected to the network. | 08-07-2014 |
20140235197 | TEXT-TO-BILL TRANSACTION PROCESSING SYSTEM - A text-to-bill processing transaction system is described. A consumer transmits a text message having a merchant keyword component and a transaction details component. The merchant keyword component is used to find a select merchant server from a merchant server data store. The transaction details component is then routed to the select merchant server. The select merchant server then returns a charge amount corresponding to the transaction details component and a fulfillment message. A billing gateway then causes entry of the charge amount against a phone number in an accounts database of a carrier server. A success message transmission module transmits a text message back to the consumer that includes the fulfillment message. The fulfillment message may for example be a code that has to be entered by a consumer. | 08-21-2014 |
20140235198 | MERCHANT SERVER PROGRAMMED FOR USER ACQUISITION WITHIN A REPEAT PAYMENT COMPUTER SYSTEM - A repeat payment computer system includes a merchant server and mobile billing operator server that are programmed for user acquisition through carrier billing and subsequent conversion to credit card billing. An advantage of the process is that the user does not have to enter credit card information for the default billing cycles to occur. The user only enters a phone number and password. Fewer barriers are provided for the user to become a regular repeat customer of the merchant server. The fees associated with mobile billing according to the default billing cycles have to be paid by the merchant server and may be too high in the long run. The merchant server can avoid the high fees associated with carrier billing by switching the user to billing according to the credit card information provided. The user is typically switched after the user has already become a regular customer. | 08-21-2014 |
20140235199 | PAID INSTANT MESSAGE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTHENTICATING IDENTITIES USING A MOBILE TELEPHONE NETWORK - A paid instant message system and method that authenticate identities using a mobile telephone network, which comprise: a message server, user cell phone, and mobile telephone networks. The user cell phone has an instant messaging application installed therein. Each user account includes a specified charge for sending and receiving messages. By means of a paying and charging mechanism, the present invention makes the cost for sending junk messages increase and make the people oversending messages to pay the corresponding price, thus preventing appearance of junk messages. As for the normal instant messaging among people, messages are sent and received by each other, so they pay each other, and in this case, the fees paid and charged by one person or by one company will almost be equal, hence this will not cause any burden and influence to anyone who normally uses the instant messaging. | 08-21-2014 |
20140235200 | SERVICE AWARENESS AND SEAMLESS SWITCHOVER BETWEEN CLIENT BASED WIFI ACCESS AND MOBILE DATA NETWORK ACCESS - A system and method provides seamless switchover of a user device (UE) between a mobile data network and a wireless network while providing policy and charging control (PCC) of the data session in the mobile data network. A mobile core network component is made ASF aware to process user data traffic related to an auto switching function (ASF) server from a UE client located on the UE using a special access point name (APN). The mobile core network component then uses a dedicated deep packet inspection (ASF DPI) for all data transfers to the special APN. The core network component is then able to process the UE data traffic seamlessly as the traffic is toggled between the ASF tunnel the WiFi tunnel. By monitoring the data traffic on the ASF tunnel, the core component (GGSN/PGW) is able to provide PCC for the data session. | 08-21-2014 |
20140235201 | POINT OF SALES AND CUSTOMER SUPPORT FOR FEMTOCELL SERVICE AND EQUIPMENT - A femto cell service framework is utilized for purchase and service of femtocell equipment and customer support thereof. A point of sale (POS) platform enables purchase of femtocell equipment based on a set of eligibility criteria. POS also allows purchase of add-on services. Direct fulfillment and post-sale transactions such as returns and equipment replacement are also provided. An account management service enables femtocell equipment and service self-care or through customer representatives. Configuration of service account and monitoring of account status is provided. Customer care architecture also enables remote troubleshooting of purchased equipment. Remote troubleshooting includes diagnosis and related manipulation of purchased equipment. | 08-21-2014 |
20140242939 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND MEDIA FOR LOCATION REPORTING AT A CHARGING AREA LEVEL GRANULARITY - A method for location reporting at a charging area level granularity is provided. The method includes detecting at a mobility management entity (MME) a transition of a user equipment (UE) from a first cell to a second cell to obtain at least a second cell identifier. The method also includes determining at the MME whether the detected UE transition constitutes a transition from a first charging area to a second charging area using the second cell identifier by comparing the second cell identifier to a charging area configuration. A charging area includes a plurality of cells that are served by at least one eNodeB. The method further includes providing to a policy server a report of the determined UE transition, if it is determined that the detected UE transition constitutes a transition from the first charging area to the second charging area. | 08-28-2014 |
20140242940 | SHARING CONTROL RIGHT OF M2M DEVICE - The disclosure is related to a method of allowing user terminals to share a control right of a machine to a machine (M2M) device by a M2M service server. The method may include receiving a sharing request message from a first user terminal registered at the M2M service server to share predetermined control rights of a M2M device with a second user terminal, creating a virtual resource for the second user terminal based on information included in the sharing request message, and allowing the second user terminal to control predetermined features of the M2M device based on the created virtual resource in response to a control request message from the second user terminal. | 08-28-2014 |
20140242941 | CHARGING METHOD, CHARGING DEVICE, CHARGING SYSTEM, AND AUTHENTICATION DEVICE - Embodiments of the present application provide a charging method, a charging device, a charging system, and an authentication device. According to the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present application, when the available service volume of the user is not enough at the time close to the tariff switch point, the operation of forcing a user to go offline may be performed selectively, depending on the specific situation. Therefore, the operation of forcing a user to go offline can meet requirements of increasingly complicated charging policies of the operator. | 08-28-2014 |
20140242942 | OPTIMIZATION OF ONLINE CHARGING TRIGGERS IN COMMUNICATION NETWORKS - Devices, methods, and computer program products can comprise a processor module, configured to execute part of an application. The application can be for use in a communication control service. The processor can be configured to store information in a respective data structure (ASI). The device can comprise a transceiver module, configurable to send the respective data structure carrying the service feature execution results, via one of a first and a second interface conforming to different interface protocols. A controller module can block the first of the two interfaces, and is configured, in some cases to control the transceiver module to propagate the respective data structure carrying the information of the service feature execution results via the second interface. When a configuration is not blocking the first interface towards a charging system, the controller module controls the transceiver module so as to transmit the respective data structure towards the charging system. | 08-28-2014 |
20140242943 | CORE SERVICES PLATFORM FOR WIRELESS VOICE, DATA AND MESSAGING NETWORK SERVICES - A Core Service Platform (CSP) system is integrated with an operator network and IT system to provide services to subscribers and operators. Based on information collected from the operator network and IT system, the CSP system delivers alerts to a subscriber's device and provides offers to resolve the condition causing the alerts. The CSP system provides customized contextual offers to the subscriber's device based on contextual assessments of a subscriber's current context, such as time in contract, loyalty status, data and voice usage, value of customer, time, location and purchase history. The CSP system also provides an operator a suite of tools for the operator to manage its pricing, offers, campaigns and other subscriber-related issues. | 08-28-2014 |
20140248851 | PROVIDING NETWORK ACCESS - A wireless service provider identifies a mobile computing device capable of short-range wireless communication and in an agreement to receive service from a cellular network. The wireless service provider provides, to the mobile computing device, terms for a third party computing device to accept in order to gain access to the cellular network via the mobile computing device. In response to a third party computing device agreeing to the terms, the wireless service provider indicates to the mobile computing device to allow the third party computing device to access the cellular network via the mobile computing device. | 09-04-2014 |
20140256284 | IMPLEMENTING A DYNAMIC CLOUD SPECTRUM DATABASE AS A MECHANISM FOR CATALOGING AND CONTROLLING SPECTRUM AVAILABILITY - A system and method are provided for implementing a dynamic cloud spectrum database to codify and store information on, and track the use of, spectrum resources made available by primary spectrum holders in an effort to facilitate spectrum management for networks using spectrum allocated through a Dynamic Spectrum Access scheme that allows the primary spectrum holders, or proxies assigned to manage a given allocations of spectrum, to temporarily “rent” access to the spectrum they hold to other entities. Spectrum may be listed in the database defined by a common unit measurement system according to a defined metric for quantifying spectrum. A time-frequency unit or TFU is defined according to a unit of spectrum being available for a specified time, e.g., 1 MHz of spectrum being available for use for 1 second at a given location. Spectrum resources negotiated in the disclosed transactions are represented and/or transferred in multiples of TFU's. | 09-11-2014 |
20140256285 | PROVIDING M2M DATA TO UNREGISTERED TERMINAL - The disclosure is related to a method of providing M2M data to an unregistered user terminal. The method may include receiving a request message from a first user terminal registered at the M2M service server to provide predetermined data collected from a M2M device to a second user terminal, determining whether the second user terminal is a subscriber of the M2M service server, temporary registering the second user terminal when the second user terminal is not a subscriber of the M2M service server, and providing the predetermined data to the second user terminal. | 09-11-2014 |
20140273927 | GLOBAL LOCAL NUMBER - A system and method provides communication between subscribers of a telephone network and the subscribers of an OTT provider website wherein each of the subscribers of the OTT provider website is assigned a telephone number in a block which is not assigned to any particular country. The system includes terminating a call (e.g., having voice, video, data, and/or messaging) from the telephone network directed to a number in the block, and passing the terminated call to a nearby entry point to the OTT provider website, the OTT website being configured to associate the incoming call with the user's account to which the called number has been assigned. Calls can be placed in the opposite direction, in which case the assigned number is passed into the telephone system as the calling party's number. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273928 | METHODS, SOFTWARE, AND DEVICES FOR AUTOMATICALLY VERIFYING COMPLETION OF SERVICE ORDERS FOR MOBILE DEVICES - Methods, software and devices for automatically verifying completion of mobile device service orders by service providers are disclosed. Service orders are transmitting to service provider, each service order requesting a change in subscribed services for one of a plurality of mobile device. Electronic records of requested changes in subscribed services are stored. Invoices are received from the service providers. Each invoice is parsed to determine invoiced services for a given mobile device. Invoiced services for the given mobile device are compared with the stored electronic records to verify completion of any stored service order for that mobile device. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273929 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR FINANCING OF INMATE MOBILE DEVICES - A method for financing a mobile device for an inmate involves receiving a plurality of mobile device rules comprising limitations on usage of the mobile device by the inmate within a controlled facility, receiving the mobile device, and installing, on the mobile device, a mobile application, wherein the mobile application conforms the mobile device to the plurality of mobile device rules. The method also involves receiving a payment for the mobile device, and executing, by the mobile device, the mobile application. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273930 | AUDITING OF DATA PROCESSING APPLICATIONS - A method includes determining a first quantity of data records of a group of data records from a stream of data records received by an application having a plurality of modules. The method includes, for one or more of the modules of the application, determining a respective second quantity of data records output by the module during processing of the group of data records. The method includes determining whether the first and second quantities of data records satisfy a rule. The rule is indicative of a target relationship among a quantity of data records received by the application and a quantity of data records output by one or more modules of the application. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273931 | PROTOCOLS FOR FACILITATING BROADER ACCESS IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS - Structures and protocols are presented for signaling a status or decision concerning a wireless service or device within a region to a network participant or other communication device (smartphone or vehicle, e.g.). | 09-18-2014 |
20140273932 | SESSION ANCHOR TIMESTAMP FOR INTERIM ACCOUNTING REQUESTS - Systems and methods that handle failover between peer charging functions for offline charging. In one embodiment, a Charging Trigger Function (CTF) of a network element detects an interim chargeable event during a session, and generates an interim accounting request for the session responsive to the interim chargeable event. The CTF inserts a session anchor timestamp in the interim accounting request indicating the start time for the session, and transmits the interim accounting request to a charging function. The charging function then monitors a time limit trigger for closing a Charging Data Record (CDR) for the session based on the session anchor timestamp. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273933 | CONTROL OF TIME LIMIT TRIGGERS FOR OFFLINE CHARGING - Systems and methods for controlling time limit triggers for offline charging. In one embodiment, a network element that serves an active session for User Equipment (UE) includes a Charging Trigger Function (CTF) that detect expiry of a time limit for triggering an interim accounting request to an offline charging system during the active session. The CTF then identifies a data usage by the UE during the time limit, and determines if the data usage by the UE during the time limit exceeds a threshold. If the data usage exceeds the threshold, then the CTF sends the interim accounting request to the offline charging system responsive to expiry of the time limit. If the data usage does not exceed the threshold, then the CTF stops the interim accounting request from being sent to the offline charging system responsive to expiry of the time limit. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273934 | PROTOCOLS FOR FACILITATING BROADER ACCESS IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS - Structures and protocols are presented for signaling a status or decision concerning a wireless service or device within a region to a communication device (smartphone or wearable device, e.g.) or other wireless communication participant (motor vehicle having a wireless communication capability, e.g.). | 09-18-2014 |
20140273935 | PROTOCOLS FOR FACILITATING BROADER ACCESS IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS - Structures and protocols are presented for signaling a status or decision concerning a wireless service or device within a region to a communication device (smartphone or wearable device, e.g.) or other wireless communication participant (motor vehicle having a wireless communication capability, e.g.). | 09-18-2014 |
20140273936 | CONTEXT ORIENTED BILLING - The present invention is directed toward networks and more particularly to a method and system for providing information related to context-oriented billing in such networks. In one more embodiments, a computer implemented method provides for billing invoices in response to one or more of a customer's network elements which have been correlated with detailed network data, classified into one or more billing event categories, and rated in accordance with a predetermined hierarchy. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273937 | PROTOCOLS FOR FACILITATING BROADER ACCESS IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS - Structures and protocols are presented for signaling a status or decision concerning a wireless service or device within a region to a communication device (smartphone or wearable device, e.g.) or other wireless communication participant (motor vehicle having a wireless communication capability, e.g.). | 09-18-2014 |
20140273938 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RATING, CLEARING AND SETTLEMENT OF WIRELESS ROAMING AND OFFLOADING - Disclosed is a system and method for wireless data clearing and settlement. The disclosed systems and methods relate towards near real-time ratings for purposes of wireless rating for data clearing and financial settlement. The present disclosure reconciles differing rating attribute formats using flexible matching. The disclosed systems and methods apply known negotiated rates for Home Service Provider (HSP) users roaming onto a VNP hotspot, and apply a standardized set of attributes of the contract with the applicable HSP, and other attributes applying a different set of rates to another HSP. The present disclosure provides systems and methods that enable traffic to be offloaded more easily from the Wide Area Networks (WAN) or macro networks. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273939 | PROTOCOLS FOR FACILITATING BROADER ACCESS IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS BY CONDITIONALLY AUTHORIZING A CHARGE TO AN ACCOUNT OF A THIRD PARTY - Structures and protocols are presented for signaling a status or decision concerning a wireless service or device within a region to a communication device (smartphone or wearable device, e.g.) or other wireless communication participant (motor vehicle having a wireless communication capability, e.g.). | 09-18-2014 |
20140273940 | PROTOCOLS FOR FACILITATING BROADER ACCESS IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS RESPONSIVE TO CHARGE AUTHORIZATION STATUSES - Structures and protocols are presented for signaling a status or decision concerning a wireless service or device within a region to a communication device (smartphone or wearable device, e.g.) or other wireless communication participant (motor vehicle having a wireless communication capability, e.g.). | 09-18-2014 |
20140273941 | Packet-Based Usage Tracking for a Wireless Device - A method for tracking usage of a wireless device includes monitoring, at a tracking device connected to and different from a wireless network, information regarding a first data packet sent from a wireless device to the wireless network, wherein the information regarding the first data packet includes an identifier of the wireless device, an identifier of a first type of wireless service, and an amount of data included in the first data packet. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273942 | Systems and Methods for Improving Telecommunications Device Experiences - Systems and methods for providing a better user experience and provider profitability. An exemplary system includes a telecommunications device subject to a cellular service plan from a cellular carrier. The telecommunications device includes an application program that gathers device usage data and determines whether the current cellular service plan is the best service plan based on gathered usage data. If a current cellular service plan is not the best service plan, based on the gathered usage data, then cellular service plans from the current cellular service provider or other service providers are measured against the gathered device-usage data to determine the best available service plan. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273943 | CHARGING METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROXIMITY-BASED SERVICE - A charging method for Proximity-based Service (ProSe) used in a first user equipment (UE) of a wireless communication system is disclosed. The charging method includes: establishing a ProSe service with a second UE; generating charging information for the ProSe service according to collected transmission information, wherein the ProSe service is between the first UE and a second UE in proximity and comprises ProSe discovery, ProSe communication or both, and wherein the transmission information comprises at least one of: radio resources dedicated for the ProSe service, allocated to the first UE by the a base station of the wireless communication system; at least one traffic volume report corresponding to uplink or downlink data volume, transmitted to the base station; and a time-elapsed duration for the ProSe service; and transmitting the charging information for the ProSe service to the base station or a core network entity of the wireless communication system. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273944 | Wireless Account Management Application for a Wireless Device - A method for displaying wireless service usage information and account information using an account management application operating on a wireless device includes receiving, at the account management application operating on the wireless device and from a tracking module locally stored on the wireless device, wireless service usage information for a wireless subscriber associated with the wireless device, the wireless service usage information including one or more units of wireless services that the wireless subscriber has used, receiving, at the account management application operating on the wireless device and from a service provider over a wireless network, account information associated with the wireless subscriber associated with the wireless device, the service provider being different from the wireless device and the wireless network, and enabling presentation, on a display of the wireless device, of the account management application including the wireless service usage information and the account information for the wireless subscriber associated with the wireless device. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273945 | WIRELESS COMMUNICATION PROVISIONING USING STATE TRANSITION RULES - A method for wireless communication provisioning is disclosed. A first wireless communication provisioning state associated with one or more identifiers is defined. A second wireless communication provisioning state associated with one or more identifiers is defined. A state transition rule is defined, wherein the state transition rule defines a transition between the first wireless communication provisioning state and the second wireless communication provisioning state, wherein the first wireless communication provisioning state and the second wireless communication provisioning state are based on the lifecycle of the service of a wireless communication device associated with the first and second wireless communication provisioning states. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273946 | PROVIDING MOBILE DEVICES TO SHARE POSITIONS - Providing on a graphic display, of a cellular phone, an audio-visual interface (AVI) with a global positioning system (GPS) position of another cellular phone is disclosed. The cellular phone may have an authorized security level to see the another cellular phone's position on a real-time map on the AVI. The AVI on the cellular phone may be configured to initiate a communication over a cellular network with the another cellular phone. | 09-18-2014 |
20140287715 | Multifunction Wireless Device - A communication device and system are disclosed for providing communication and data services to residents of a controlled facility. The device can be restricted to communicating only using an internet protocol so as to restrict the device communication to an internal intranet. Wireless access points may be disposed throughout the environment to route calls and data between the device and a central processing center. By converting a protocol of the communications received from the device to a protocol used by the central processing center, minimal modifications to the central processing center are needed to support a wireless communication infrastructure. Many restrictions and safeguards may be implemented within the phone and system in order to prevent improper use. | 09-25-2014 |
20140287716 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CIRCULATING MESSAGES - A method for circulating a message to a group of people, including sending a circulated message by a 1 | 09-25-2014 |
20140295789 | DELAYED DELIVERY WITH BOUNDED INTERFERENCE IN A CELLULAR DATA NETWORK - Methods and arrangements for undertaking delayed delivery of digital content. At least one request for transmission of digital content is received from a client device. There is estimated a usable bandwidth for delivery of the digital content during a predetermined time period. There is offered to the client device two or more delivery schedules for delayed digital content delivery during the predetermined time period. Other variants and embodiments are broadly contemplated herein. | 10-02-2014 |
20140295790 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING DIFFERENTIATED WIRELESS NETWORK ACCESS AND BILLING TO SUBSCRIBERS - The present technology provides a method and system for monetizing the usage of a certain “reserved service,” which comprises usage of certain reserved wireless operating modes, such as Ultra High Coverage Mode (UHCM), usage of one or more reserved Modulation and Coding Schemes (MCSs), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments the reserved MCSs may be employed solely when using the reserved operating mode. Similarly, the reserved operating mode may be defined at least in part by its usage of the reserved MCSs. | 10-02-2014 |
20140295791 | NOTIFICATION OF CHARGING RATE ADJUSTMENTS IN REGIONS OF A MOBILE NETWORK TO CONTROL BANDWIDTH USAGE IN THE REGIONS - Systems and methods are disclosed that notify end users of mobile devices of charging rate adjustments within a mobile network. A rate notification system receives bandwidth usage data for the mobile network, and identifies a region within the mobile network having a bandwidth usage that exceeds a threshold. The bandwidth usage is processed per media type (i.e., voice calls, text messages, etc) based on the bandwidth usage data. The rate notification system then identifies a mobile device located within the region, and identifies one or more contacts of the end user of the mobile device. The rate notification system then identifies an adjusted charging rate per contact per media type for this end user, and provides the adjusted charging rates to the end user of the mobile device. | 10-02-2014 |
20140302812 | ACCESS METHOD, MOBILITY MANAGEMENT DEVICE, AND USER EQUIPMENT - The present invention provides an access method, a mobility management device, and a user equipment. According to the present invention, a mobility management device receives a first access request message sent by a UE, where the first access request message includes first indication information, and the first indication information is used for indicating that the UE performs equipment access processing, so that the mobility management device can perform equipment access for the UE according to the first indication information. This avoids a problem in the prior art that a UE needs to establish a subscription relationship with an operator in order to access the Internet through a mobile communications network, thereby improving access flexibility of the UE. | 10-09-2014 |
20140302813 | Method and system for processing abnormality of AS - A method for processing an abnormality of an Application Server (AS) is disclosed. The method includes that: a Serving Call Session Control Function (SCSCF) sends an Accounting Request (ACR) message to a Charging Data Function (CDF), wherein the ACR message includes information of an abnormal AS; and after receiving the ACR message, the CDF fills a Charging Data Record (CDR) of the SCSCF with the information of the abnormal AS included in the ACR message. Correspondingly, a system for processing an abnormality of an AS is also disclosed. With the disclosure, a corresponding CDR including information of an abnormal AS can be generated in the case that there is an abnormality in the AS, thus enabling the accuracies of charging, operation and maintenance analysis and other associated processing to be improved. | 10-09-2014 |
20140308917 | MODULE MLR FOR MANAGING MACHINE-TO-MACHINE TYPE (M2M) MOBILE DEVICES - A Module connected through a communication network to at least a measuring mobile terminal, at least a mobile switch center and at least a machine to machine application, the module includes: a home location register configured to provide on demand, for a given measuring mobile terminal, an address of the mobile switch center through which the measuring mobile terminal is connected to the cellular communication network, an authentication center authenticating a given measuring mobile terminal, at least one short message service center configured to transmit the message towards a measuring mobile terminal, a short message service center interfaced between the cellular communication network and the machine to machine application, the home location register, the authentication center, the short message service center and the short message service center being embedded in a single physical structure forming at least in part the module. | 10-16-2014 |
20140308918 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING INTERNET SERVICE CARRYING OUT FEE PAYMENT IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORK - The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for an Internet service provider server providing a sponsored service, in which a service provider server pays a mobile communication usage fee in place of a user equipment, and the method for providing the sponsored service comprises: a connection step of selecting predetermined sponsored content so as to provide the sponsored service by means of the user equipment accessing the Internet service provider server; an authentication step of authenticating to the user equipment that the sponsor service is valid by a sponsorship manager, which is a device for managing the sponsor service, connecting with the user equipment on the mobile communication network; a step for the Internet transmitting to the user equipment the sponsored content that comprises in an IP packet either an IspCode, which is pre-allocated by the sponsorship manager for identifying the Internet provider server, or an IspTrfCode, which is pre-allocated by the sponsorship manager for identifying the sponsored service; and a ending step of ending the connection between the user equipment and the sponsorship manager, and the user equipment and the sponsorship manager collecting traffic information with regard to the sponsored service. | 10-16-2014 |
20140315516 | SELECTION OF WIRELESS DEVICES AND SERVICE PLANS - Disclosed are various embodiments for selection of wireless devices and service plans. A geographic location and a plurality of wireless preferences are associated with a user. Wireless service plans, offered by at least one wireless carrier that services the geographic location, that meet the wireless preferences associated with the user are determined. A user interface is generated that presents the wireless service plans in a ranked order that is determined utilizing at least the wireless preferences. | 10-23-2014 |
20140323082 | BILLING GATEWAY CHARGE METHOD AND SYSTEM - The billing gateway charge method and system are disclosed. A charge is processed by receiving a charge API call from a merchant server, detecting a select carrier server from a plurality of servers, transmitting a charge request to the select carrier server, and returning a charge result callback notification to the merchant server. If the charge request fails, the merchant server can submit a new request and an indication of acceptance and failure of the charge request is returned to the merchant server based on the new requests provided that the new request has a new request-id. A continue method allows for managing consumer opt-in in order to complete a transaction. Once the transaction is completed, a refund request from the merchant server can be processed by transmission to the carrier server. | 10-30-2014 |
20140323083 | PROCESSING COMMUNICATION STATUS INFORMATION - Measures for processing communication status messages in a telecommunications network which includes a plurality of signaling nodes responsible for processing signaling information in the telecommunications network and a charging node responsible for processing billing information in the telecommunications network. A communication status message is received from a signaling node in the plurality. The received communication status message includes first communication status information. Second communication status information is generated on the basis of at least the first communication status information. One or more communication status messages are transmitted to the charging node. The one or more transmitted communication status messages include the first communication status information and the second communication status information. | 10-30-2014 |
20140323084 | OPERATING SYSTEM SUPPORTING COST AWARE APPLICATIONS - A mobile computing device that supports cost-aware application components for operation over a metered network. A current basis for computing usage charges over one or more networks may be made available to the cost-aware application components through an application programming interface supported by an operating system service. That service may receive a policy for charging for data usage over a network and may also obtain information defining data usage for the mobile computing device. Based on this information, the service may determine a current basis for charging for data usage. With this information, the application component can determine a manner for executing network operations that involve data transmission over the network, such as deferring the operation or selecting an alternative network. | 10-30-2014 |
20140329494 | METHOD FOR POLICY CONTROL AND CHARGING FOR D2D SERVICES - Systems and methods are provided for providing policy control and charging for device to device (D2D) services. A network entity transmits, to at least one mobile entity, configuration data including device-to-device data, and receives, from the at least one mobile entity, an accounting report associated with device-to-device communication. The network entity transmits, to a charging function entity, a charging report based on the accounting report received from the at least one mobile entity. A policy control function entity performs a policy control and enforcement based at least on the accounting report received from the at least one mobile entity. | 11-06-2014 |
20140329495 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING POLICY AND CHARGING IN FLAT NETWORKS - A method for performing policy and charging control (PCC) in a decentralized network architecture includes performing, by a first base station (BS), a procedure of initial network entry of a mobile station (MS), determining, by the first BS, first PCC rules for the MS by using at least one of subscription information and application information regarding the MS, enforcing, by the first BS, control and charging for data communication of the MS based on the first PCC rules, generating second PCC rules to be applied to a second BS and transferring the second PCC rules to the second BS,when detecting a handover of the MS to the second BS, and requesting the MS to connect to the second BS. Other embodiments including a method for performing PCC in the seconds BS, and the first BS and the second BS for performing PCC are disclosed. | 11-06-2014 |
20140329496 | Application Processing Method And Mobile Terminal - An application processing method and a mobile terminal are provided. The method includes: analyzing an operation right of an application when the application executes an invoking operation for a fee deduction event; allowing the application to execute the invoking operation if the application has an operation right for the fee deduction event; and forbidding the application from executing the invoking operation if the application does not have the operation right for the fee deduction event. In the present disclosure, it is not necessary to scan an application every time the application runs. It is only necessary to determine the operation right of the application, which cuts down processing time and avoids waste of system resources, while at the same time does not require participation of the user and facilitates the user to use. In this way, the user experience is improved. | 11-06-2014 |
20140335815 | POLICY DECISIONS BASED ON SUBSCRIBER SPENDING LIMITS - A policy and charging rules function node of a network may receive from the network an indication of an element of user equipment connecting to the network, query a subscription profile repository to receive a subscriber profile associated with the user equipment, the subscriber profile including indicators used in the selection of subscriber policies associated with the subscriber, and create a spending limit session based on the subscriber profile without waiting to receive a request from the user equipment for data services. The node may receive the request for data services from the element of user equipment, identify the spending limit session specifically corresponding to the user equipment, and respond to the request according to spending limit rules of the spending limit session associated with the element of user equipment. The node may also respond to the request according to default spending limit rules without waiting for creation of the spending limit session. | 11-13-2014 |
20140335816 | Key fob communicator - The invention is directed to a key fob that offers limited communication ability to out-dial 911 and allows two-way communication with the 911 operator. The key fob also incorporates various embodiments with a small keypad. The key fob also incorporates various embodiments with a small keypad whose function may integrated with a vehicle remote-keyless entry system. Business methods and practices, formulated to provide limited cellular telephone service to the key fob user at the lowest possible cost including free emergency services calls, are incorporated. | 11-13-2014 |
20140335817 | Dynamic Point to Point Mobile Network Including Origination User Interface Aspects System and Method - A computationally implemented system and method that is designed to, but is not limited to: electronically processing mobile operating system object code at least partially from mobile device storage to direct to one or more origination mobile communication device display surfaces an origination mobile communication device user interface presentation of communication characteristics information regarding one or more mobile operating system based communication devices for operation as one or more ad hoc intermediary relays of one or more fallback communication networks upon initiation thereof for communication between an origination mobile communication device and a destination electronic communication device. In addition to the foregoing, other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure. | 11-13-2014 |
20140335818 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO CUSTOMIZE THE PRESENTATION OF PROMPTS TO ESTABLISH COMMUNICATION CONNECTIONS - Methods and apparatuses to selectively present and customize user prompts in establishing anonymized communication connections, based on available information about the parties to be connected and/or user preferences. For example, the information can be transmitted from a mobile device to a connection server for association with the communication reference of the mobile device in response to an input from the user of the mobile device. The association is configured to expire after a predetermined period of time. During the predetermined period of time, if a connection server receives a call from the mobile device, the information associated with the communication reference of the mobile device is used to customize the interactive voice response prompts for further connecting the call to a service provider. | 11-13-2014 |
20140335819 | DEVICE, COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM, AND METHOD FOR RETAINING SERVICES USING ADVANCED DATA COLLECTION CAPABILITIES - A method for presenting services to a subscriber comprises obtaining, via a first server, subscriber usage data associated with a portable device service from a plurality of databases, and sending the subscriber usage data to a second server. The method further includes processing, via the second server, the subscriber usage data using a predetermined algorithm, determining an actionable category of data based on the processed subscriber usage data, generating content corresponding to a first message based on the actionable category of data, and sending via the third server, the first message to a portable device, wherein the first message request a subscriber input. | 11-13-2014 |
20140335820 | Charging Method, Authentication Method, Charging Device, and Authentication Device - A charging method, an authentication method, a charging device, and an authentication device. The charging method includes: receiving a service unit request sent by an access device, calculating a granted service unit according to a current tariff, determining a reporting time point according to a tariff switch point and returning a service unit answer to the access device; and receiving a used service unit reported by the access device at the reporting time point, calculating a remaining service unit based on the granted service unit and the used service unit instructing the access device to perform a forcible offline operation. The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present invention may effectively reduce an occurrence probability of a user account overdraft, thereby reducing a loss caused by the user account overdraft to an operator. | 11-13-2014 |
20140335821 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR BLOCKING THE USE OF A SERVICE IN A TELECOMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A method and system for controlling the use of a short message service in a telecommunication system that includes a telecommunication network, a terminal device by which a subscriber is connected to the network, a mobile services switching center connected to the network, a gateway connected to the network, a short message service center connected to the gateway, and a database (DB) connected to or associated with the gateway. A short message sent by an originating subscriber is checked as to whether the short message is among those deemed non-allowed. Forwardable short messages are directed to the gateway, from which the database is queried to determine whether the originating subscriber is permitted the short message to the intended recipient or, alternatively, whether the message should been blocked based on predetermined criteria. | 11-13-2014 |
20140342693 | SD PEER SELECTION AND ROUTING - Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method performed by a policy and charging rules node (PCRN), the method including: receiving a RADIUS accounting request (ACR) start message; applying rules by a rules engine in the PCRN to information in the ACR start message to determine a traffic detection function (TDF) to be updated; determining application detection and control (ADC) rules to be applied to the TDF; and transmitting the determined ADC rules to the determined TDF. | 11-20-2014 |
20140342694 | Systems and methods for ordering telecommunication services - Implementations described and claimed herein provide systems and methods for processing telecommunication orders taking advantage of the infrastructure and capabilities of a plurality of different providers. In one implementation, one or more databases store provider data received from a plurality of provider members. The provider data is aggregated based on at least one of a plurality of attributes associated with one or more telecommunication packages. The plurality of attributes include infrastructure information, location information, and pricing information. At least one server is in communication with the one or more databases. The at least one server is configured to generate a design for a customer order based on the aggregated provider data. The design uses at least one of the plurality of provider members to provide a customer telecommunication package at one or more customer sites. The customer telecommunication package is selected from the one or more telecommunication packages. | 11-20-2014 |
20140342695 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND MEDIA FOR LOGGING PHONE CALLS - Methods, systems, and media for logging phone calls are provided. In some embodiments, methods for logging phone calls are provided, the methods comprise: causing a phone call to a client to be made; creating at least one note based on received user input; transmitting information about the phone call and the created note to the first server; causing the information and the note to be stored in association with the client by the first server; causing the information about the phone call and the note to be transmitted from the first server to a second server, wherein the information and the note are stored in an electronic medical record on the second server that is associated with the client; receiving an analysis of phone calls associated with the client over a period of time; and causing the analytical information to be presented based on the received analysis. | 11-20-2014 |
20140342696 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREDICTING FUTURE LOCATIONS OF MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICES USING CONNECTION-RELATED DATA OF A MOBILE ACCESS NETWORK - A system and method for predicting future locations of mobile communication devices utilizes connection-related data from a mobile access network supporting the mobile communication devices to determine latest locations of the mobile communication devices, which are used to predict the future locations of the mobile communication devices. In addition to the determined locations of the mobile communication devices, carrier-provided location predictive indicators and/or non-carrier location predictive indicators may be used to improve the accuracy of the predicted future locations. | 11-20-2014 |
20140342697 | Devices, Systems, and Methods for Sponsored Tethered Connectivity - Devices, systems, and methods are disclosed which relate to establishing a sponsored tethered connectivity (STC) connection by tethering a special purpose connected device (SPCD) through a tethering mobile device having network access. The SPCD accesses an application server on the network and is authenticated before service to the SPCD begins. Once authenticated, the service provider is billed for the STC connection instead of a user of the tethering mobile device. | 11-20-2014 |
20140349606 | DIFFERENTIAL ONLINE CHARGING FOR TEXT MESSAGES BASED ON NETWORK TYPE - Systems and methods are disclosed for performing online charging for text messages. One embodiment comprises a system that handles a Mobile Originated (MO) text message. The system receives a send request for the MO text message, and generates an online credit request for the MO text message. The system determines a type of originating network for the MO text message, and inserts an indicator of the originating network type in the online credit request. The system may also determine a type of terminating network for the MO text message, and insert an indicator of the terminating network type in the online credit request. The system then transmits the online credit request to an online charging system to charge for the MO text message. | 11-27-2014 |
20140357218 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MODERATED ACCESS TO SHARED RADIO SPECTRUM RESOURCES - Certain embodiments may relate to communication systems, for example wireless communication systems. For example, wireless communication networks may benefit from moderated access to shared radio spectrum resources. A method may include receiving an identification of radio spectrum resources corresponding to at least one incumbent and available for sharing. The method may also include sharing the radio spectrum resources to at least one radio access network operator. The method may further include maintaining a priority for the at least one incumbent over the at least one operator with respect to the radio spectrum resources. | 12-04-2014 |
20140357219 | Method and System of Handling Mobile Roaming - Methods of handling traffic and charges for mobile data roaming of a subscriber of mobile services on a home and visited network that includes an infrastructure for global roaming partnership management, local internet access for visiting subscribers in the visiting country, a single data roaming partnership agreement followed by comparing a call detail record to records in a database to identify a subscriber with a special international roaming agreement. A special transferred account procedure file is created for an identified subscriber with a special international roaming arrangement and the special transferred account procedure file is forwarded to a global roaming partnership system. For subscribers that do not have a special international roaming arrangement the call detail record is incorporated into a transferred account procedure file and routed to a data clearinghouse. | 12-04-2014 |
20140357220 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DIFFERENTIAL CHARGING - Method and system for differential charging. The present disclosure describes a technique that determines a charging context for charging messages from one or more application servers that are related to a blended service, receives a charging policy related based at least on the charging context, and generates a charging message based on the charging policy and/or charging context. | 12-04-2014 |
20140357221 | METHOD FOR ENABLING A WIRELESS DEVICE FOR GEOGRAPHICALLY PREFERENTIAL SERVICES - Disclosed is system comprising: a server platform operative to communicate with a wireless communication network; and data storage coupled to the server platform to store a plurality of business rules, wherein the server platform is operative to: generate a first provision instruction to provision a Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) with a first rule set associated with a first set of business rules for wireless usage incurred by a mobile terminal operating in the wireless communication network; generate a first billing instruction based on the first set of business rules and a first data type determined by a packet gateway that inspects packet data communicated to or from the mobile terminal. | 12-04-2014 |
20140357222 | METHOD FOR ENABLING A WIRELESS DEVICE FOR GEOGRAPHICALLY PREFERENTIAL SERVICES - Disclosed is system comprising: a server platform operative to communicate with a wireless communication network; and data storage coupled to the server platform to store a plurality of business rules, wherein the server platform is operative to: generate a first provision instruction to provision a Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) with a first rule set associated with a first set of business rules for wireless usage incurred by a mobile terminal operating in the wireless communication network; generate a first billing instruction based on the first set of business rules and a first data type determined by a packet gateway that inspects packet data communicated to or from the mobile terminal. | 12-04-2014 |
20140364082 | System And Method For Routing A Message, And A Computer Program Product - A computer-implemented method for routing a message to a recipient user equipment device, comprising receiving data representing the message at a messaging application server, selecting a delivery channel for the message from multiple delivery channels on the basis of a set of delivery preferences associated with the recipient device, and forwarding the message using the selected delivery channel. | 12-11-2014 |
20140364083 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VOICE OPERATED CALLING CARD - A voice operated calling card system and method. In one embodiment, there is provided a communications device, such as a mobile phone, for example, and a hosted application configured to accept voice commands and further configured to associate a user of the communications device with a calling card. The calling card may have funds associated with it. When a user places a call into the hosted application, the hosted application may allow the user of the communications device to purchase a service using the funds associated with the calling card, such as placing a long distance telephone call, for example. | 12-11-2014 |
20140370846 | PLATFORM FOR ENABLING USERS TO SIGN UP FOR SPONSORED FUNCTIONS ON COMPUTING DEVICES - Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are described for sponsoring functions of computing devices associated with users. A sponsor may define a sponsorship that includes rules for sponsoring certain functions available to a user via a computing device. The execution of the functions may be facilitated, in some instances, by a service provider that may also specify rules and policies that control the functions. As such, when the user executes one or more of the sponsored functions by way of the computing device, instead of charging the associated cost to the user, the service provider may charge the cost to the sponsor based on the associated rules and policies. | 12-18-2014 |
20140370847 | PLATFORM FOR ENABLING SPONSORS TO SPONSOR FUNCTIONS OF A COMPUTING DEVICE - Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are described for sponsoring functions of computing devices associated with users. A sponsor may define a sponsorship that includes rules for sponsoring certain functions available to a user via a computing device. The execution of the functions may be facilitated, in some instances, by a service provider that may also specify rules and policies that control the functions. As such, when the user executes one or more of the sponsored functions by way of the computing device, instead of charging the associated cost to the user, the service provider may charge the cost to the sponsor based on the associated rules and policies. | 12-18-2014 |
20140370848 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EXCHANGING DATA RELATED TO UNCONSUMED CELLULAR TIME - A data exchange system for facilitating the purchase of cellular or wireless phone minutes and/or blocks of cellular time is provided. Potential cellular time and data buyers and sellers may access the exchange system via the internet and submit offers and or pricing requests to such a system. In response to the request, a server retrieves stored data from the seller's database, and allows for the potential buyer to view the cellular data or minutes for sale. The buyer and the seller exchange the related data and the minutes. The exchange system executes the transfer of the cellular minute and the data, via financial transactions between the buyers and the sellers, and then updates corresponding accounts of the buyers and sellers in conjunction with an appropriate cellular service network provider. | 12-18-2014 |
20140370849 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING PHONE DIRECTORY SERVICE FOR MOBILE COMMUNICATION SUBSCRIBER - A method and system for providing a phone directory service to a user terminal in a mobile communication network are provided. The method includes displaying, when a search keyword for the phone directory service is input by a user, a business list including businesses corresponding to the search keyword on a screen of the user terminal, connecting a call connection with a business selected by the user among the businesses displayed on the screen, displaying at least one product image provided by the selected business on the screen during the call connection, displaying, if a desired product is selected by the user, order details for the selected product during the call connection, processing payment of the selected product during the call connection, and displaying details for the payment on the screen. | 12-18-2014 |
20140378093 | SYNCHRONIZING CHARGING FOR TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICE WITH NOTIFICATION OF APPLICABLE TARIFF - A charging system ( | 12-25-2014 |
20140378094 | System and Method for Dynamically Allocating Quota for Shared Balances in Distributed Telecommunications Networks - Systems and computing devices may be configured to intelligently and dynamically allocate quotas for the access and use of a telecommunications network by consumers that use a shared balance account. The dynamic allocation of quotas may include computing a total reclaimable quota size value in response to determining that quota may not be allocated to a first consumer from the shared account balance without exceeding a balance threshold, reclaiming all or portions of currently active allocated quotas from a other consumers that use the shared balance account in response to determining that the total reclaimable quota size value is greater than or equal to the minimum quota allocation size, updating the shared account balance to include the reclaimed portions, and allocating quota to the first consumer from the updated shared balance account. | 12-25-2014 |
20150011180 | DATA TOLL SUBSIDY MANAGEMENT - A method includes receiving, from a user device associated with an end user, a request for content provided by a content provider. The method includes determining whether the requested content is to be provided on a data toll network, determining whether the requested content includes data toll free content in response to a determination that the requested content is to be provided on the data toll network, and applying graphic elements indicating data toll free status of data toll free sections of the requested content in response to a determination that the requested content includes data toll free content. The method further includes providing the requested content including the applied graphic elements to the user device, and billing data usage associated with providing the data toll free sections to the end user device to the content provider. | 01-08-2015 |
20150011181 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO SUPPORT MEDIATION OF OCS DIAMETER/RO REAUTHORIZATION ON GSM CAMEL NETWORKS - Embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method which overcome the limitations of CAMEL systems which do not natively support reauthorization functionality. The system and method provide a mediation mechanism by which an online charging systems that supports reauthorization functionality can run using the mediation mechanism over CAMEL system. The mediation mechanism provides a means for added user credits to be utilized and allows the user to continue with the activity in which the user was engaged. This is advantageous both to the user and the service provider. | 01-08-2015 |
20150011182 | SYSTEM, DEVICE, AND METHOD OF CELLULAR TRAFFIC MONITORING - A cellular traffic monitoring system includes: a traffic detection function (TDF) module to monitor cellular traffic associated with a cellular subscriber device, and to generate detection output which includes at least one of: a type of an application associated with the cellular traffic of the cellular subscriber device, and a type of the cellular traffic of the cellular subscriber device. The cellular traffic monitoring system further includes a policy charging and enforcement function (PCEF) module to enforce one or more charging rules to the cellular subscriber device, based on the detection output. | 01-08-2015 |
20150017944 | Flexible Device Upgrade Plan - Described herein are techniques for receiving, by a telecommunication service provider, used telecommunication devices from a plurality of subscribers of the telecommunication service provider. The used telecommunication devices may each have been purchased with an installment plan on which a balance is owed, and different balances may be owed on different ones of the used telecommunication devices. In exchange for the used telecommunication devices, the telecommunication service provider may pay off up to at least part of each of the balances. Further, prior to paying off the balances, the telecommunication service provider may obtain identifiers for the used telecommunication devices and verify that the obtained identifier for each used telecommunication device matches an identifier that is associated with one of the subscribers and is stored in a data store of the telecommunication service provider. | 01-15-2015 |
20150024707 | System And Method For Resource Usage, Performance And Expenditure Comparison - Provided is a system for comparing telecommunications resources between a first company and a group of companies. A storage is accessible by a system computer, the computer having a network connection. An interface module allows the first company to access the system computer, and a comparison module receives a comparison request. The comparison request includes a group selection and a criteria selection that includes telecommunications services criteria associated with a telecommunication. The comparison module compares the telecommunications services criteria data related to the first company with telecommunications services criteria data related to the group. A telecommunications metric module generates a telecommunications metric related to the comparison of the telecommunications services criteria data of the first and second companies. The telecommunications metric is accessible to a user computer allowing the first company to see how their telecommunications profile compares to the telecommunications profile of the group. | 01-22-2015 |
20150024708 | GLOBAL PLATFORM FOR MANAGING SUBSCRIBER IDENTITY MODULES - Disclosed is method comprising: storing in a home location register (HLR) at least one subscription record of a mobile device of the plurality of mobile devices, the mobile device having a subscriber identity module (SIM) identified by a currently activated first international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI), the currently activated first IMSI belonging to a set of IMSIs allocated to the system, wherein the provisioning server is operative to: receive a notification that the mobile devices has moved into a first one of the wireless networks; confirm that an allocation rule is satisfied; add and activate a second one of the IMSIs in the set of IMSIs to the HLR and remove the currently activated first IMSI from the HLR; and send the second IMSI to the mobile device to enable the mobile device to communicate wirelessly in the first wireless network as a local device. | 01-22-2015 |
20150038110 | RESOURCE-BASED BILLING AND MONITORING FOR M2M - A device may obtain resource utilization data associated with a machine-to-machine device. The resource utilization data may include information identifying a quantity of data transmitted by the machine-to-machine device during a particular period of time, and an amount of network resources utilized by the machine-to-machine device during the particular period of time. The device may determine a billing metric based on the quantity of data and the amount of network resources utilized by the machine-to-machine device. The device may determine, based on the billing metric, a cost associated with the amount of network resources utilized by the machine-to-machine device. The device may charge the fee associated with the utilization of the network resources by the machine-to-machine device to an account of a subscriber associated with the machine-to-machine device. | 02-05-2015 |
20150038111 | METHOD AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK UTILIZING MORE THAN ONE ONLINE CHARGING SYSTEM FOR A GIVEN USER - A method for enhanced policy and charging control when a telecommunications network is used by a User Equipment corresponding to a subscriber includes a Policy and Charging Enforcement Function and a first Online Charging System, configured to communicate via an online charging interface. The telecommunications network further includes a second Online Charging System being configured to communicate via an online charging interface. The method includes: communicating, by an interworking credit control function of the telecommunications network, relative to the subscriber of the telecommunications network and with regard to the same or overlapping traffic of the subscriber via a first online charging interface with the Policy and Charging Enforcement Function, via a second online charging interface with the first Online Charging System, and via a third online charging interface with the second Online Charging System. | 02-05-2015 |
20150038112 | Wireless Internet Gateway Limiting Message Distribution - A wireless Internet gateway bridges wireless devices to the Internet, e.g., via a short message service center (SMSC). The gateway provides a portal to SMPP, HTTP, TNPP, or other protocol messages using Java Remote Method Invocation (RMI) techniques. Application servers insert RMI objects containing messages in a message queue handler of the gateway. The RMI objects are queued and passed either directly to a destination delivery handler (e.g., SMPP, SMTP, HTTP or TNPP protocol handler), or passed through a generic destination interface. An SMTP handler provides direct communication of SMTP protocol messages (i.e., email) to the message queue. An SMPP link proxy module provides direct access between a local application server and the destination delivery handler. The messages are packaged into relevant messages of the particular destination protocol (e.g., SMPP), and transmitted to the relevant network element (e.g., to an SMSC). | 02-05-2015 |
20150044986 | NOTATION-ENABLED COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF - An notation-enabled communication system and method of generating billing data for a customer. One embodiment of a notation-enabled communication device includes: (1) a communication subsystem operable to transmit and receive communication data associated with a call, and (2) a call logger configured to accept notations associated with the call, generate a call detail record (CDR) based on the call and the notations and submit the CDR to a database. | 02-12-2015 |
20150044987 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR ACCOUNT CREATION USING A FEATURE PHONE - There is provided systems and method for account creation using a feature phone. A user is able to create an account through a feature phone using limited or no Internet access. A user may request to set up an account with a payment provider and the user is asked to confirm that certain information can be provided to the service provider, such as a name, address, and identifier. Once confirmed correct, the user enters the date of birth. The service provider then request and/or creates an email associated with the account. The service provider then calls the user enter a payment card number, along with an expiration date and security code, as a funding source for the account. The user further establishes a PIN for future transactions. Once confirmed, the account is active and ready to use. | 02-12-2015 |
20150044988 | MOBILE DEVICE AND COMMUNICATION CONTROL METHOD - Determining an initial number of TCP connections, dynamically determining increases and decreases in the number of TCP connections, and so on depending on a wireless communication method that is used enables a plurality of TCP connections to be used for wireless communication methods having higher communication bandwidths, and can thus improve communication speeds. Meanwhile, a drop in communication speed can be suppressed when using wireless communication methods having lower communication bandwidths. | 02-12-2015 |
20150044989 | SPONSORING OF A MOBILE STATION SESSION BY ANOTHER MOBILE STATION IN A WIRELESS NETWORK - An apparatus and method are described for sponsoring service and preferential traffic handling, (i.e., data connectivity) by wireless transmit/receive units (WTRUs). A first WTRU may initiate user sponsoring of a second WTRU via an application server (AS). The first WTRU may receive a service trigger from the AS and forward the service trigger to the second WTRU. The second WTRU may then initiate a sponsored session with the AS using the service trigger in order to receive a service from the AS. The first WTRU may also request the AS to transfer a credit to the second WTRU. The AS may establish a direct communication link with a charging system including an online charging function (OCF) and a charging data function (CDF). The AS may send a request to a network to provide preferential traffic handling needed to deliver content to the second WTRU. | 02-12-2015 |
20150044990 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TOP-UP - Methods and systems for top-up are provided. A representative top-up system includes an interface module that receives and transmits a phone number associated with a phone user's account; and a top-up gateway that receives and transmits the phone number from the interface module and requests for a telephone service company associated with the phone number to a home location register (HLR) look up service. The top-up gateway tops up phone minutes and/or balance of money of the phone user's account associated with the phone number based on the phone number, and requested telephone service company. | 02-12-2015 |
20150044991 | Devices, Systems and Methods for Managing Custom Alpha Tags - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for a subscriber of services on a network to display a custom operator name or alpha tag on the subscriber mobile communications device. The custom alpha tag (or operator name) is selected or defined by the subscriber via an interface on a communications device, and a custom operator name request is submitted to a provisioning logic on the network. The provisioning logic communicates with business rule logic on the network, the business rule logic being configured to retrieve and/or update a first account associated with the subscriber with the custom operator name. A billing logic within a billing subsystem may be invoked to debit a second account associated with the subscriber. A programming logic on the network then updates one or more mobile devices with the custom alpha tag. The several logic units may be part of an Over-the-air (OTA) platform on the network. | 02-12-2015 |
20150044992 | System and Method for Utilizing a User's Mobile Phone Account as a Funding Source - The invention generally pertains to a method for providing a purchase incentive associated with the purchase of a product bundle to an end user using a mobile device connected to a transaction server over a mobile phone network. By way of example, a secure connection is created over the mobile phone network to exchange information between the transaction server and the mobile device. The end user selects the desired product bundle level—as a result receives a purchase incentive, i.e., cash rebate, remittance, refund and/or other monies—and delivery method using the mobile device. The mobile device connects to a third party payment processor over a secure connection, which charges the end user for the purchase of the product bundle. Specifically, the third party payment processor charges the purchase to the user's mobile phone account with a mobile carrier. Once the end user is notified of the successful purchase transaction, the desired value is delivered to the end user using the user selected delivery method. | 02-12-2015 |
20150050910 | Residence-Based Calling Rates, System and Method - An exemplary embodiment provides for a computer-implemented method for rating telephone calls originating from a secure facility. The method includes receiving a destination number, of a called party, for a telephone call from the secure facility and determining, based on the destination number, if the called party is pre-verified wherein pre-verified includes at least a billing address of the called party. Next, a rate for the telephone call is then determined based on the billing address of the called party, if the called party is pre-verified. | 02-19-2015 |
20150050911 | COMMERCIALLY SUBSIDIZED MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICES AND SERVICES - Mobile communication devices, such as mobile phones, may be capable of recommending to a user various providers of one or more solicited services, e.g., by identifying a user location and identifying providers near the user location that provide the services, and by initiating a call between the user and a selected provider. However, the equipment and service costs of such devices may be prohibitive, particularly for mid-range mobile communication devices that may appeal to cost-conscious users. The prohibitive costs may be diminished by redirecting part or all of the cost of providing the recommendation service from the providers, e.g., by charging the provider a service cost upon initiating a call from the user to the provider, or upon representing the provider in a provider database. In one such embodiment, all service costs may be borne by providers, providing to the user a free recommendation service via the mobile communication device. | 02-19-2015 |
20150050912 | Methods for Providing Overdraft Protection for Post-Paid Communication Service Plans - Methods for adding minutes to a calling plan having a calling plan period. The methods including determining whether a threshold number of minutes have been reached during the calling plan period; and incrementally adding minutes to the calling plan when the threshold number of minutes has been reached. The cost per minute of the added minutes is less than the high-cost per minute rate normally associated with exceeding the threshold number of minutes during the calling plan period. | 02-19-2015 |
20150056949 | INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, WIRELESS COMMUNICATION APPARATUS, AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - An appropriate communication service is provided in response to usage of a user. | 02-26-2015 |
20150056950 | SESSION BINDING USING SUBSCRIBER IDENTIFICATION - Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method and related network node and machine-readable storage medium including a policy and charging rules node (PCRN) receiving a plurality of related service requests from different devices. The PCRN may establish a Session Binding Identifier (SBI) for each message received. The SBI may include one or more subscriber IDs. Upon receipt of a message, the PCRN may compare the included subscriber IDs against information included in a subscriber database to match with a specific subscriber profile. The PCRN may use the subscriber profile to determine whether existing established sessions are associated with the same subscriber profile, and may bind the sessions together when they are associated with a common subscriber profile. | 02-26-2015 |
20150065084 | DATA SHARING WITH MOBILE DEVICES - Cellular data access capabilities can be shared between mobile devices. Users of the mobile devices can be presented with options for selecting a set of polices for sharing cellular data access capabilities between the mobile devices and as a function of cellular data plan capacities. The set of policies can be stored in a memory of the mobile devices. Using a first application operating on a first one of the mobile devices and based upon the stored set of polices, a request can be transmitted to request cellular data access capabilities of a second one of the mobile devices. Using a second application operating on the second mobile device and based upon the stored set of polices, the first mobile device can be provided access to cellular data access capabilities of a second mobile devices. | 03-05-2015 |
20150065085 | DATA SHARING WITH MOBILE DEVICES - Cellular data access capabilities can be shared between mobile devices. Users of the mobile devices can be presented with options for selecting a set of polices for sharing cellular data access capabilities between the mobile devices and as a function of cellular data plan capacities. The set of policies can be stored in a memory of the mobile devices. Using a first application operating on a first one of the mobile devices and based upon the stored set of polices, a request can be transmitted to request cellular data access capabilities of a second one of the mobile devices. Using a second application operating on the second mobile device and based upon the stored set of polices, the first mobile device can be provided access to cellular data access capabilities of a second mobile devices. | 03-05-2015 |
20150065086 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SELECTIVELY PROVISIONING TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES BETWEEN AN ACCESS POINT AND A TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK USING A SUBSCRIBER IDENTIFIER - A method and system for reducing network load by selectively provisioning services between an access point and a carrier network is disclosed. The access point supports telecommunications services over an IP network. The access point includes a network connection and a telephone connector capable of connecting to a standard landline telephone. The access point also includes at least one detection component that detects whether a landline telephone is plugged in to the telephone connector. The access point is configured to provision a telecommunications services through the IP network when it detects that an identification module is present. | 03-05-2015 |
20150072641 | System and Method for Providing User Notifications - A method performed by an end user device associated with a service plan having a limit on usage of a network service, the method comprising storing one or more notification actions corresponding to one or more notification requests; performing a device action that reflects a past or intended use of the network service; receiving one of the one or more notification requests from a network element in response to the device action; performing one of the one or more notification actions in response to the notification request, the notification action causing the end user device to retrieve at least a portion of a notification message associated with a status of the use, the at least a portion of the notification message being separate from the one of the one or more notification requests; and presenting the notification message on a user interface of the end user device. | 03-12-2015 |
20150072642 | HIERARCHICAL SERVICE POLICIES FOR CREATING SERVICE USAGE DATA RECORDS FOR A WIRELESS END-USER DEVICE - A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing one or more machine-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: determine whether a traffic flow of a wireless end-user device is associated with a first service activity, the traffic flow comprising one or more attempted or successful communications over a wireless access network; if it is determined that the traffic flow is associated with the first service activity, create a first data record, the first data record identifying the first service activity; if it is determined that the traffic flow is not associated with the first service activity, determine whether the traffic flow is associated with a second service activity; and if it is determined that the traffic flow is associated with the second service activity, create a second data record, the second data record identifying the second service activity. | 03-12-2015 |
20150072643 | ACCESS POINT WITH CONTROLLER FOR BILLING AND GENERATING INCOME FOR ACCESS POINT OWNER - A modified end user network access point includes a switching module and a controller to track usage of the end user network access point by wirelessly connected end user devices. The tracked usage information is transmitted from the end user network access point to a remotely coupled data center. The data center collects usage information from a plurality of different end user network access points. The collected usage information is in turn transmitted from the data center to a network carrier. The network carrier uses the received usage information to bill users for accessing the end user network access points and using any services provided by the end user network access points. An owner of each end user network access point is compensated by the network carrier each instance that an end user device utilizes the end user network access point to access the network carrier's communications network. | 03-12-2015 |
20150072644 | PREFERRED CONTACT GROUP CENTRIC INTERFACE - A preferred contact group centric interface for a communication device can be used to facilitate communications by a user. The user interface can be arranged to activate from a user's “home page” on the display, from an idle screen that is accessed after a timeout period expires, or any other appropriate mechanism that activates the preferred contact group centric experience. A user selects the preferred contact group from among an array of the user's contacts. Once the contact group is configured, a minimal number of navigation/selection features is necessary to activate any number of communication modes available to the contacts. The contact group is configured such that simple and quick navigation between the contact members is achieved. The contact group can be presented in 2D and 3D arrangements, in any number of list or geometric configurations. A pricing plan can optionally be tied to each member of the contact group. | 03-12-2015 |
20150079925 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR POLICY MANAGEMENT IN A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A system that incorporates the subject disclosure may perform, for example, operations including monitoring events relating to activities by a plurality of communication devices, content sources supplying content to the plurality of communication devices, and network conditions during content exchanges between the plurality of communication devices and the content sources, tagging the events to generate tagged events, detecting an event initiated by a communication device of the plurality of communication devices, obtaining tagged event information from the tagged events according to the event detected, generating a policy according to the tagged event information, and transmitting the policy to a policy enforcement function system to facilitate a communication session between the communication device and the content source according to the policy. Other embodiments are disclosed. | 03-19-2015 |
20150079926 | MODIFYING A QUALITY OF A CONNECTION BETWEEN A TERMINAL AND AN APPLICATION SERVER - A method for modifying a quality of a connection between a terminal and an application server of a network is described. The application server provides a service to the terminal via the connection. The method includes sending, by the terminal, a quality modification request for a desired modification of a quality of the provided service, and determining, by the network, a condition of the connection to be modified based on the quality modification request. The determined condition to be modified is associated with the quality of the provided service. The method includes determining, by the network, a charging price for the determined condition of the connection to be modified, modifying, by the network, a condition of the connection, and charging, by the network, for modifying the condition of the connection. | 03-19-2015 |
20150079927 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PRICING COMMUNICATION OF A TELECOMMUNICATION PLATFORM - A system and method that include receiving a communication pricing query; mapping the communication pricing query to a billable item; resolving a price of a billable item within a set of hierarchically defined pricing models with sparse overrides, wherein each pricing model is defined for a set of billable items; and returning the price of the billable item in a response to the communication pricing query. | 03-19-2015 |
20150079928 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR APPLICATION PROVISIONING - A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a controller can be operable to generate a target list of subscribers by filtering a list of potential target users of an application existing on a source device by removing target subscribers from the target list of subscribers according to selection criteria. The controller can be further operable to transmit to devices of the target list of subscribers content associated with the application that when accessed invites the target list of subscribers to use the application, and to provision the application on at least one device associated with the target list of subscribers. Other embodiments are disclosed. | 03-19-2015 |
20150079929 | Systems and Methods for Enabling Subscriber Monitoring of Telecommunications Network Usage and Service Plans - Methods, servers and systems for directly accessing and modifying charging information maintained within a telecommunications operator's business and operating systems' infrastructure from user equipment. A mobile application server may receive a charging request from a user equipment, identify a relevant charging system based on the received request, send a charging request to the identified charging system for processing, receive a first response message including charging information from the identified charging system, generate a second response message based on the charging information included in the first response message, and send the generated second response message to the user equipment. The received charging request may include various types of information, including information for transferring cost or billing information from a first billing category to a second billing category. | 03-19-2015 |
20150079930 | Method, System, and Computer Program Product for Tracking and Accounting for Roaming of Mobile Devices - Roaming of mobile devices is tracked and accounted for automatically and accurately. Revenue records are received for at least one service provider due to roaming of mobile devices within a geographical area served by the at least one service provider for mobile devices that do not have a subscription for service with the service provider for the geographic area. Expense records are received for the service provider due to roaming of mobile devices within other geographical areas served by at least one other service provider and not served by the at least one service provider. Each of the revenue and expense records is associated with a mobile device and includes a code identifying a service and a geographical area. If the codes are valid, the revenue records and expense records received over a period of time are compiled and summarized. | 03-19-2015 |
20150087260 | Method and Apparatus for Charging Product-Related Services in a Communication Network - According to one aspect of the teachings herein, a method and apparatus provide for dynamic, service-triggered provisioning of products, for use in authorizing product-related services to subscribers in a communication network. This approach obviates the need to pre-provision products to cover the possible usage of such services by eligible subscribers, which in turn means that the subscriber database memory requirements are reduced to the extent that the database does not need to hold potentially large numbers of pre-provisioned products. In an example embodiment, the number of products needed to cover an initial usage quota is speculatively generated responsive to a charging trigger and service to the involved subscriber is authorized using those speculatively generated products. Unused products are deleted and new products are generated as needed, to cover continued or subsequent usage of the service by the subscriber. | 03-26-2015 |
20150087261 | PROTOCOL FOR BILLING TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES BETWEEN NETWORK OPERATORS - A method for automatically generating service usage information in a telecommunication network, wherein the service usage information relates to a group of telecommunication transmission devices requesting a plurality of different types of telecommunication services on the telecommunication network, includes: for each request event of a telecommunication service of a telecommunication transmission device of the group of telecommunication transmission devices requested on the telecommunication network, generating an entry of the service usage information, wherein at least one type of the plurality of different types of telecommunication services is associated with each entry; and generating an aggregate entry, wherein the aggregate entry relates to the entries of the service usage information, and wherein the aggregate entry comprises aggregate information on each type of the plurality of different types of telecommunication services. | 03-26-2015 |
20150094018 | NETWORK BILLING FOR MESSAGES - A device receives a message from a fixed user device associated with a first user. The first user is associated with a first mobile user device, and the message is destined for a second mobile user device associated with a second user. The device generates a first charge record for the first user based on the message and on a telephone number associated with the first mobile user device, and provides the first charge record to a billing system. The device generates a copy of the message, provides the copy of the message to the first mobile user device, and forwards the message toward the second mobile user device. | 04-02-2015 |
20150094019 | Systems for Enabling Subscriber Monitoring of Telecommunications Network Usage and Service Plans - Methods, servers and systems for directly accessing and modifying charging information maintained within a telecommunications operator's business and operating systems' infrastructure from user equipment. A mobile application server may receive a charging request from a user equipment, identify a relevant charging system based on the received request, send a charging request to the identified charging system for processing, receive a first response message including charging information from the identified charging system, generate a second response message based on the charging information included in the first response message, and send the generated second response message to the user equipment. The received charging request may include various types of information, including information for transferring cost or billing information from a first billing category to a second billing category. | 04-02-2015 |
20150105044 | Processing Usage Information For Machine-to-Machine Communication - An M2M service provider ( | 04-16-2015 |
20150105045 | System and Method for Dynamically Allocating Quota for Shared Balances in Distributed Telecommunications Networks - Systems and computing devices may be configured to intelligently and dynamically allocate quotas for the access and use of a telecommunications network by consumers that use a shared account balance. A server computing device may be configured to intelligently allocate quota by determining an allocation time interval for allocating quota from a shared account balance, receiving a quota request message from a metering and gating component that includes information requesting allocation of a first quota to a first consumer associated with a shared account balance, determining a validity period for the first quota based on the determined allocation time interval, and allocating the first quota to the first consumer from the updated shared account balance so as to eliminate or reduce conflicts and discrepancies between different instances of the shared account balance. | 04-16-2015 |
20150111529 | PAIR-THE-PLAN SYSTEM FOR DEVICES AND METHOD OF USE - A method and system are disclosed for connecting a device to subscriptions and cellular billing plans of separate users and for managing the concurrent use of the device by the separate users. A computer-implemented method comprises enrolling a device in a cellular subscription and billing plan of a user. The enrollment includes providing an identifier for the device to a cellular subscription, effectively adding the device to the cellular subscription and billing plan selected by the user. The method and system allows the user to use capabilities of the device as governed by the cellular subscription and an associated billing plan as selected by that user, while the device is also available for use by another user via another cellular billing plan, as selected by that user. | 04-23-2015 |
20150111530 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING CHARGING REQUEST - The present invention provides a method and apparatus for processing a charging request. Upon receipt of the charging request, a merged charging System will determine the types of all charging activities related to the charging request and a charging entity corresponding to each type of the charging activities based on the information contained in the charging request. First, some rules are preset in the merged charging System; then, these rules are executed in sequence based on the information contained in the charging request, and for a rule whose condition is met, its corresponding charging entity is determined. Next, charging is performed simultaneously on all the determined charging entities, and a piece of charging information record is generated for each of the charging entities. By using the present method, the merging of B2C charging and B2B charging can be implemented with only one charging System, which covers almost all charging activities; and thereby the present invention can dramatically reduce the costs for construction and maintenance, save valuable network resources, and improve processing efficiency. | 04-23-2015 |
20150111531 | Processing Method of Gateway Charging and Gateway - Embodiments of the present invention provide a processing method of gateway charging and a gateway, where a gateway is divided into two sub-gateways. The method includes, detecting, by a first sub-gateway, a current status of an access user if the first sub-gateway receives an online message, a newly establishing bearer message or a status change indication message of at least one access user. The method further includes sending, a first message to the second sub-gateway if the first sub-gateway determines that the at least one access user complies with a predefined rule of charging delayed reporting, where the first message indicates a charging policy corresponding to a current status of the at least one access user, and indicates, to the second sub-gateway, a delay of sending measured charging information, and receiving, charging information corresponding to all the statuses of the at least one access user that meets a reporting condition. | 04-23-2015 |
20150111532 | Charging Information Processing Method and Gateway Device - Embodiments of the present invention provide a charging information processing method and a gateway device. The method includes sending, to a gateway forwarding plane, a charging information identification set used for identifying charging information, saving first charging information sent by the gateway forwarding plane, where the first charging information carries a first charging information identification, which is an element in the charging information identification set, receiving second charging information sent by the gateway forwarding plane and saved by the gateway forwarding plane, where the second charging information carries a second charging information identification, which is an element in the charging information identification set, and combining the first charging information and the second charging information according to the first charging information identification and the second charging information identification. In this way, a disaster recovery capability can be effectively improved and charging reliability can be ensured. | 04-23-2015 |
20150118991 | Methods and Systems for Providing Subsidized Access to Network Content By Way of a Secure Connection - An exemplary method includes a subsidized access management system detecting a request provided by an access device associated with a user to access network content by way of a secure connection within a network provided by a network service provider, the network content associated with a content provider and maintained by a content provider system, determining that a data usage charge for access by the user to the network content by way of the secure connection within the network is subsidized by the content provider in accordance with a subsidized access arrangement between the content provider and the network service provider, and providing the user with subsidized access to the network content by way of the secure connection within the network in accordance with a rule set associated with the subsidized access arrangement. Corresponding methods and systems are also disclosed. | 04-30-2015 |
20150126150 | IMS AND MMS INTERWORKING - Providing multimedia message service (MMS) in an Internet protocol (IP) multimedia subsystem (IMS) network can include establishing a first session initiation protocol (SIP) session between a source IMS device and a next generation multimedia message service center (NG MMSC), encapsulating, at the source IMS device, an MMS message in a message session relay protocol (MSRP) message, transmitting the MSRP message from the IMS device to the NG MMSC; and storing the MMS message at the NG MMSC for further delivery to the destination device. Proving the multimedia message service can further include transmitting the MMS message to a destination legacy device via legacy MMS protocols or transmitting the MMS message to a destination IMS device via MSRP. Furthermore, providing the multimedia message service can include receiving a legacy MMS message and delivering the MMS message to a destination IMS device via MSRP. | 05-07-2015 |
20150133078 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COST-SAVING TELEPHONE SERVICE - The present invention provides a method for a cost-saving telephone service, comprising: receiving a request for telephoning a third party client device from a communication resources using device, wherein the communication resources using device and the third party client device are connected to a first and a second telephone service networks respectively; selecting a communication resources providing device from a plurality of client devices registered to the cost-saving telephone service and connected to the second telephone service network; and having the communication resources providing device telephone the third party client device through the second telephone service network such that the communication resources using device communicates with the third party client device via the communication resources providing device. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133079 | METHODS ND SYSTEM FOR DYNAMIC SPECTRUM ARBITRADE USING BEST-AVAILABLE SPECTRUM ASSIGNMENT - Methods and system are provided for managing and monitoring allocation of RF spectrum resources based on time, space and frequency. A network may be enabled to allocate excess spectrum resources for use by other network providers on a real-time basis. Allocated resources may be transferred from one provider with excess resources to another in need of additional resources based on contractual terms or on a real-time purchase negotiations and settlements. A network may be enabled to monitor the use of allocated resources on real-time basis and off-load or allow additional users depending on the spectrum resources availability. Public safety networks may be enabled to make spectrum resources available to general public by allocating spectrum resources and monitoring the use of those resources. During an emergency, when traffic increases on a public safety network, the public safety networks may off-load bandwidth traffic to make available necessary resources for public safety users. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133080 | IDENTIFICATION OF TIMESTAMPS FOR A PARTIAL CDR WHEN FAILOVER OCCURS IN AN OFFLINE CHARGING SYSTEM - Systems and methods that generate a partial Charging Data Record (CDR) when charging transfers from a primary charging function to a secondary charging function due to a failure. In one embodiment, the system receives an interim accounting request for a session from a secondary charging function after charging was transferred from the primary charging function. The system then opens a new partial CDR for the session based on the interim accounting request. The system receives a prior partial CDR for the session from the primary charging function, parses the prior partial CDR to identify a CDR timestamp, and records a start time in the new partial CDR based on the CDR timestamp. The system parses the interim accounting request to identify an accounting timestamp for the session, records an end time in the new partial CDR based on the accounting timestamp, and closes the new partial CDR. | 05-14-2015 |
20150140957 | PREPAID PHONE CARD CHARGING - A prepaid card is credited to an account associated with a cellular device by receiving a prepaid card identifier from a user through an input device of the cellular device and saving the prepaid card identifier in a memory of the cellular device. A service provider for the cellular device is identified based on information stored on a subscriber identification module of the cellular device. A service provider specific procedure for crediting the prepaid card to the account is retrieved from a procedure database stored in the memory of the cellular device based on the identified service provider and the retrieved procedure is executed via a processor of the cellular device to send the prepaid card identifier to the identified service provider to credit the prepaid card to the account. | 05-21-2015 |
20150140958 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENSURING A COMMUNICATION IS INITIATED FROM WITHIN A COMMUNICATION APPLICATION - In example embodiments, a system and method for ensuring that a communication is made from within a communication application is provided. A communication initiated from a device of a user is received. A determination is made as to whether a notification is received from the communication application on the device of the user. Based on the notification being received from the device of the user, a determination is made as to whether the notification provides an indication that the communication was made from within a communication application. A notice may be provided to the user based on the communication being made from outside the communication application or the user may be charged a different rate. | 05-21-2015 |
20150140959 | Method and System for Enabling Usage of Mobile Telephone Services on a Donor Device - A system and method can allow a first subscriber who is unable to use his mobile device due to theft, damage, loss, or any other reason to authenticate himself on a telecommunications network using a second subscriber's mobile device. The system and method can also allow the first subscriber to continue to make and receive calls and messages with the second subscriber's mobile device. Any charges incurred by usage of the second subscriber's mobile device by the first subscriber can be billed to an account associated with the first subscriber. | 05-21-2015 |
20150140960 | Automated Account Provisioning - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems, methods, and apparatus for allowing an issuer to initiate account provisioning on a mobile device without interacting with an accountholder. The issuer may initiate the process by sending a provisioning information request message to a mobile device with a secure element. The mobile device may recognize the provisioning request message and gather the requisite provisioning information without requiring user input. The provisioning information may include information associated with the secure element of the mobile device. The mobile device may then send a provisioning request message to a provisioning system. The provisioning request message may include the requisite provisioning information to allow the provisioning system to provision the financial account on the secure element of the mobile device. | 05-21-2015 |
20150140961 | Short Message Service Protocol Gateway - A system for communicating short message service messages from a SMS application to a wireless communication device. The system includes a protocol gateway for converting messages from a simple object access protocol (SOAP) to a short message peer-to-peer (SMPP) protocol. By using a SOAP protocol for a portion of communications between the SMS application and the wireless communication device, the system provides communications path in which SMS application is not required to maintain knowledge of the complex SMPP protocol. The system may also include a billing mechanism for charging subscribers for content received by the wireless communication device. | 05-21-2015 |
20150140962 | SECURE WITNESS OR CRIMINAL PARTICIPANT LOCATION OR POSITION AND TIME RECORDING INFORMATION APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHOD - An apparatus, system or method for use of encrypted or confidential location or position, time, and unique identifier information (LPTI Information) comprising mobile device encoded unique identifiers (UIs), to register the presence of one or more persons in a retail or service store or outlet, vehicle, financial, educational, governmental, transportation, shipping, cargo, residential, vacation, travel, power generation or distribution, water or food supply or storage, or data storage location or position, for use in identifying potential suspects, conspirators, participants or witnesses for criminal, regulated, tort, or prohibited activity for use by law enforcement or a court, and which information is kept encrypted until authorized access is granted to law enforcement or a court by issuance or a warrant or other appropriate legal authorization. | 05-21-2015 |
20150148001 | SUBSIDIZING WIRELESS SERVICES IN GEO-FENCED ZONES - A system, and computer program product for subsidizing wireless services in geo-fenced zones are provided in the illustrative embodiments. A geo-fenced zone is configured, the geo-fenced zone comprising a boundary defined by a set of fixed points in space. A subsidized pricing is configured for the wireless service when the wireless service is consumed by a mobile device within the geo-fenced zone, forming a subsidized wireless service. The mobile device is detected in the geo-fenced zone. The mobile device is provided the subsidized wireless service. A billing entry is applied to an account associated with the mobile device, wherein the billing entry charges the account a subsidized amount corresponding to a measured amount of subsidized wireless service used by the mobile device while the mobile device remains within the geo-fenced zone. | 05-28-2015 |
20150148002 | SUBSIDIZING WIRELESS SERVICES IN GEO-FENCED ZONES - A method for subsidizing wireless services in geo-fenced zones is provided in the illustrative embodiments. A geo-fenced zone is configured, the geo-fenced zone comprising a boundary defined by a set of fixed points in space. A subsidized pricing is configured for the wireless service when the wireless service is consumed by a mobile device within the geo-fenced zone, forming a subsidized wireless service. The mobile device is detected in the geo-fenced zone. The mobile device is provided the subsidized wireless service. A billing entry is applied to an account associated with the mobile device, wherein the billing entry charges the account a subsidized amount corresponding to a measured amount of subsidized wireless service used by the mobile device while the mobile device remains within the geo-fenced zone. | 05-28-2015 |
20150148003 | Adaptive Request Processing Service For Charging Requests - The present disclosure provides a method, non-transitory computer readable storage medium, and apparatus that implement an adaptable payload object model. In one embodiment, a payload object is generated using a payload specification that defines a plurality of payload attributes, where the payload object includes the plurality of payload attributes. The plurality of payload attributes of the payload object are populated with message attribute values that are extracted from an incoming message. The plurality of payload attributes of the payload object is validated. In one embodiment, an outgoing message is built that includes the payload object and is forwarded to a destination, such as a subscriber or a charging engine. | 05-28-2015 |
20150148004 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ZONE ANALYSIS IN A CHARGING SYSTEM - The present disclosure described a method, non-transitory computer readable storage medium, and computer system that implement zone analysis in a charging system. Accordingly, the method, non-transitory computer readable storage medium, and computer system provide for receiving a service usage request, where the service usage request represents, at least in part, a request for service usage received from a subscriber and comprises a value pair, which, in turn, comprises a first value and a second value; identifying a zone item by traversing a configurable zone model tree, where the traversing is performed using the first value and the second value; and returning a zone name of the zone, where the zone item comprises the zone name, and the zone name identifies a charging structure to be used in satisfying the service usage request. | 05-28-2015 |
20150296363 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SELECTING A NETWORK ACCESS SUBSCRIPTION - Various methods for selecting a network access subscription are provided. One example method includes receiving a request to participate in a communications session, determining that at least two subscriptions for network access are available, determining tariffs for one or more connection types that are available through each subscription, 5 determining cost factors for each connection type of the at least two subscriptions based on the tariffs, and selecting a target subscription and a target connection type for use in satisfying the request based on the cost factors. Similar and related example methods and example apparatuses are also provided. | 10-15-2015 |
20150304494 | ESTABLISHING TELEPHONE CALLS - A method for establishing a telephone call between an originating device and a destination device. A call server receives an originating call made by an originating device to a dedicated number for a destination party. In response to receiving the originating call: (i) the originating call is parked; and (ii) a message is sent to the destination device of the destination party. The message informs the destination device of the originating call to the dedicated number so that the destination device is able to call the call server to be connected to the parked originating call. | 10-22-2015 |
20150304506 | System and Methods for Dynamic SIM Provisioning on a Dual-SIM Wireless Communication Device - Methods and devices for dynamic VSIM provisioning on a multi-SIM wireless device having a first SIM as a Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC) and a virtual SIM (VSIM). A provisioning server may receive updated information from the wireless device, and based at least partially on the received information, determine whether the SIM profile on the VSIM of the wireless device should be changed. To change the SIM profile, the provisioning server may determine whether remote credential management procedures are enabled. If so, the provisioning server may select a new SIM profile from a plurality of SIM profiles, and provision the new SIM profile in the VSIM using remote credential management procedures. If remote credential management procedures are unavailable, the provisioning server may select a remote SIM from a plurality of remote SIMs associated with the provisioning server, and run the remote SIM to execute authentication processes for the wireless device. | 10-22-2015 |
20150304507 | Methods, Systems, and Products for Monitoring Service Usage - Usage information is received that describes usage of communication services by a communications device. The usage information is compared to monitoring criteria. When the monitoring criteria are satisfied, an electronic notification message is sent to the communications device before an additional charge is incurred. | 10-22-2015 |
20150304832 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ROAMING CHARGING FOR CS FALLBACK MTRF CALL - An objective of the present invention is to provide a method and device for charging roaming for CS fallback MTRF call; at least one charging data record is obtained through receiving charging data records from at least one roaming charging device, wherein the user equipment roams to a VPLMN corresponding to the at least one roaming charging device; based on the at least one charging data record and in combination with the local charging data record in the home charging device, consolidation processing is performed so as to obtain a consolidated target charging data record. Compared with the prior art, the present invention introduces a novel method of computing charging data records so as to perform final charging in a home charging device in the home network, instead of performing final charging in a roaming charging device in a visited network, which guarantees that a terminal subscriber is correctly charged and avoids repetitive charging on the charging data records in the mobile switching center of the visited network. | 10-22-2015 |
20150312422 | Real-Time Usage Detection Of Software Applications - A system and method that allows for information relating to data and communication resource usage to be gathered and analyzed such that particular data transactions and usage of network accessible software applications can be classified based on purpose and/or type. Further, the system and method provide reporting based on amount of usage and/or purpose or type of usage so that associated costs and usage can be calculated applied and allocated to particular accounts, divisions, groups or individuals within and outside of a company or entity. Further, the system may disable features of or access to network accessible software applications based on lack or use, limited use or other metrics that fall outside of threshold ranges or values. | 10-29-2015 |
20150312424 | MANAGING OF CONSUMPTION TYPE SERVICE CONTRACTS - The invention relates to a method for managing contracts for consumption type services which includes smoothing requests for enactment of UE contracts, by determining a time-to-live in respect of each UE contract, determining an estimate of the number of concurrent requests for contracts to occur at predetermined future time intervals, and modifying the actual issued time-to-live in respect of at least some of the enacted UE contracts to minimize network load. The method also extends to determining a trust-rating for at least some of the UE's contracted to a service provider for the consumption type service and modifying the trust-rating for such UE over time to more accurately reflect the actual trustworthiness of contract requests emanating from such UE. | 10-29-2015 |
20150312743 | OVERRIDE OF DISTRIBUTION ALGORITHMS FOR AN OFFLINE CHARGING SYSTEM - Systems and methods that override CDF distribution algorithms for offline charging. One embodiment comprises a distributor unit that connects to a plurality of Charging Data Functions (CDFs) of an offline charging system. The distributor unit receives a Diameter request from a Charging Trigger Function (CTF) for a Diameter session, and determines whether the Diameter request includes an override parameter indicating a destination CDF for the Diameter session. When the Diameter request includes the override parameter, the distributor unit sends the Diameter request to the destination CDF if the destination CDF is available. When the Diameter request does not include the override parameter, the distributor unit selects the destination CDF based on a distribution algorithm, inserts the override parameter in the Diameter request indicating the destination CDF, and sends the Diameter request to the destination CDF. | 10-29-2015 |
20150319003 | Method and Device for Charging Local Traffic on Wireless Side - The embodiment of the present document discloses a method and apparatus for charging local traffic on a wireless side, which relate to the communication field. The method comprises: a wireless-side network element collecting data traffic and a corresponding IP address of user equipment (UE), searching for UE identification information matching the IP address, and updating the data traffic to a charging data record (CDR) of the corresponding UE, and sending to a charging gateway (CG). The embodiment of the present document can support charging on a wireless access side. | 11-05-2015 |
20150319313 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING ONLINE CHARGING SESSIONS - A method and system for managing online charging sessions is provided. The method includes: establishing a subscriber data session on a network; establishing a connection with an initial online charging system; detecting a condition change in the subscriber data session; determining whether the condition change is associated with a change in the online charging system; if the condition change is associated with a change in the online charging system, determining a new online charging system; terminating the connection to the initial online charging system while maintaining the subscriber data session; and establishing a connection with the new online charging system; otherwise continuing the session with the initial online charging system. The system includes a control plane engine and is operatively connected to a policy charging enforcement function. | 11-05-2015 |
20150319315 | CHARGING METHOD AND DEVICE - Embodiments of the present disclosure include acquiring, by a TDF entity, a correlation identifier of a data flow of an application borne by the TDF entity; and sending, by the TDF entity, first charging information to a charging system, where the first charging information carries the correlation identifier of the data flow of the application borne by the TDF entity, so that the charging system performs, according to the correlation identifier of the data flow of the application borne by the TDF entity and a correlation identifier of a data flow borne by a PCEF entity, correlation processing for the first charging information and second charging information that is sent by the PCEF entity to the charging system, where the second charging information carries the correlation identifier of the data flow borne by the PCEF entity. Thereby, accurate charging can be performed for the data flow and the application. | 11-05-2015 |
20150319317 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CORRELATING USER CALL RESPONSE TO ELECTRONIC MESSAGES - A method of correlating voice calls with received electronic messages includes sending an electronic message associated with a second party to a first party; subsequently receiving a voice call from the first party by the second party; automatically determining whether the voice call resulted from the electronic message, based on electronically stored information about the sending of the electronic message and about the subsequently received voice call; and if it is determined that the voice call resulted from the electronic message, flagging the voice call to have a different status from voice calls not determined to have resulted from an electronic message. | 11-05-2015 |
20150319565 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING LOCATION BASED SERVICES USING COLLABORATIVE NETWORKS - A system and method is provided for providing location based services. The system includes at least one module configured to publish location information of a mobile user using a publish subscribe format based on a user preference mode of notification. | 11-05-2015 |
20150319594 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING ROAMING TRAFFIC CHARGING FOR A UE - An objective of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus for performing roaming traffic charging for a user equipment; receiving a roaming traffic charging request about the user equipment, wherein the user equipment roams to a visited network, the roaming traffic charging request includes roaming traffic-related information of the user equipment; if the roaming traffic-related information satisfies a first charging condition, forwarding the roaming traffic charging request to an OCS of an alternative roaming provider corresponding to the user equipment so as to perform the roaming traffic charging for the user equipment, wherein the alternative roaming provider corresponds to a home network of the user equipment. Compared with the prior art, the present invention provides an innovative online charging solution to support an alternative roaming provider, which is based on the new EU roaming regulations and independent from H-MNO, for roaming tariff; enables operators to support new EU roaming regulations and fulfill most of EU Commission's expectations without causing a great impact to the core network. | 11-05-2015 |
20150319788 | COMMUNICATING THE NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS IN A PUSH-TO-TALK OVER CELLULAR COMMUNICATION SESSIONS - A telecommunications system is described which allows a push-to-talk: over cellular (PoC) communication session to be established between PoC Clients comprised in respective mobile terminals ( | 11-05-2015 |
20150319804 | Devices, Systems, and Methods for Sponsored Tethered Connectivity - Devices, systems, and methods are disclosed which relate to establishing a sponsored tethered connectivity (STC) connection by tethering a special purpose connected device (SPCD) through a tethering mobile device having network access. The SPCD accesses an application server on the network and is authenticated before service to the SPCD begins. Once authenticated, the service provider is billed for the STC connection instead of a user of the tethering mobile device. | 11-05-2015 |
20150326737 | OFFLINE CHARGING FOR PROXIMITY SERVICES - Systems and methods for performing offline charging for proximity services. One embodiment is a proximity service element that controls proximity services for a mobile network. The proximity service element receives a request from User Equipment (UE) for a proximity service, and collects offline charging information related to the proximity service. The proximity service element formats the offline charging information into an offline charging communication, and transmits the offline charging communication to an offline charging system. | 11-12-2015 |
20150326738 | ONLINE CHARGING FOR PROXIMITY SERVICES - Systems and methods for performing online charging for proximity services. One embodiment is a proximity service element that controls proximity services for a mobile network. The proximity service element receives a service request from User Equipment (UE) for a proximity service, and collects online charging information related to the proximity service. The proximity service element formats the online charging information into an online charging request, and transmits the online charging request to an online charging system. The proximity service element receives an online charging response from the online charging system that includes a credit authorization result for the proximity service, and transmits a service response to the UE indicating the credit authorization result for the proximity service. | 11-12-2015 |
20150327042 | SYSTEM, DEVICE AND METHODS FOR BILLING A USER FOR THEIR CONSUMPTION OF MOBILE BROADBAND SERVICES AND VIRTUALIZED CLOUD RESOURCES - A system, a device, and various methods are described herein for billing a user for their consumption of mobile broadband services which are monitored by a mobile broadband charging system and for their consumption of virtualized cloud resources which are monitored by a cloud operating system. In one example, the system comprises a commercially available mobile broadband charging system and a commercially available cloud operating system and then incorporates the device to combine the commercially available mobile broadband charging system and the commercially available cloud operating system in order to bill the user for their consumption of mobile broadband services and virtualized cloud resources. | 11-12-2015 |
20150333991 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR HANDLING DROPPED DATA PACKETS - Disclosed herein is a first network node and a method in the first network node and a charging node and a method in the charging node for handling dropped data packets in a communications network, comprising: obtaining information indicating dropped data packets for a wireless device served by the first network node; detecting based on the obtained information that an amount associated with the dropped data packets reaches a first threshold or that a timer associated with the dropped data packets reaches a second threshold; and transmitting a message to a policy node, which message comprises at least one of information indicating the amount associated with the dropped data packets or information indicating that the amount has reached the first threshold or indicating that the timer has reached the second threshold. | 11-19-2015 |
20150334248 | DEPLOYING A TOLL-FREE DATA SERVICE CAMPAIGN - A device may receive campaign information for deploying a toll-free data service campaign. The campaign information may identify a geographic region in which the toll-free data service campaign is to be deployed. The device may mark the toll-free data service campaign as ready to deploy, and may generate campaign rules based on the campaign information. The campaign rules may identify conditions for charging a content provider, associated with the toll-free data service campaign, for data used by a mobile device in association with the toll-free data service campaign. The device may deploy the toll-free data service campaign by providing the campaign rules to enforcement devices associated with the geographic region. The device may mark the toll-free data service campaign as being deployed. The device may determine that deployment of the toll-free data service campaign has been completed, and may mark the toll-free data service campaign as deployed. | 11-19-2015 |
20150334249 | USAGE-BASED ADAPTIVE DATA ALLOCATION FOR A TOLL-FREE DATA SERVICE CAMPAIGN - A device may receive campaign information for deploying a toll-free data service campaign. The campaign information may identify a total amount of data to be allocated for a toll-free data service associated with the toll-free data service campaign. The device may determine enforcement devices associated with the toll-free data service campaign, and may allocate a portion of data, of the total amount of data, to an enforcement device. The device may receive, from the enforcement device, data usage information that indicates an amount of the portion of data consumed during a first time period, by mobile devices associated with the enforcement device, in association with the toll-free data service campaign. The device may determine, based on the data usage information, an additional amount of data to be allocated to the enforcement device, and may allocate the additional amount of data to the enforcement device. | 11-19-2015 |
20150334250 | SYSTEM, METHOD, AND COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM FOR REBILLING A CARRIER BILL - A computerized method and system for rebilling a carrier bill is disclosed. The method includes receiving one or more carrier bills for a plurality of mobile phones at a processor, receiving a selection of a ratio for distributing the total fee amongst the plurality of mobile phones from an administrator device at the processor, determining, with the processor, an average cost per mobile phone based on the ratio multiplied by the total fee and divided a total number of mobile phones in the plurality of mobile phones, determining, with the processor, a cost-per-time for each of the plurality of mobile phones based on one minus the ratio multiplied by the usage time of each of the plurality of mobile phones and divided by a total minutes, and determining, with the processor, a total cost for any of the plurality of mobile phones. | 11-19-2015 |
20150334251 | METHOD AND SYSTEMS FOR DYNAMIC SELECTION OF AN ORIGINATING IDENTIFIER FOR BILLING OPTIMIZATION - Methods and systems for dynamic selection of an originating identifier for billing optimization are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method for dynamic selection of an originating identifier for billing optimization may include receiving from a device associated with a user a first communication request containing a first identifier; determining a second identifier from a plurality of identifiers associated with the user, wherein determination of the second identifier is based on a billing rate associated with the first identifier and the second identifier; and transmitting a second communication request to establish a communication using the first identifier as a destination number and the second identifier as an originating number. | 11-19-2015 |
20150334252 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REDUCING SIGNALLING IN AN INTERNET PROTOCOL TELEPHONY SYSTEM - A system and method for charging a prepaid account for telephony services reserves portions of a balance of the prepaid account to pay for telephony services that have been requested by a user. Once the final charges for providing the telephony services are known, the balance is reduced by the amount of the actual charges, and any portion of the reserved amount is released. | 11-19-2015 |
20150334533 | Method And System For Exchanging Information Updates Between Mobile Devices - A first mobile device receives a request to send information updates from the first mobile device to the second mobile device, the request specifying a predefined geographical region. In response to the request, the first mobile device checks its current location and determines whether the current location is within the predefined geographical region. After determining that the current location of the first mobile device is within the predefined geographical region, the first mobile device sends a first information update to the second mobile device. Subsequently, the first mobile device sends a second information update to the second mobile device after determining that the current location of the first mobile device is outside the predefined geographical region. | 11-19-2015 |
20150341505 | System and Process for Selective Metering of Data Usage for a Wireless Network - A device, system, and process of metering data usage of a wireless device includes receiving a request for data usage of a web resource by the wireless device, determining if the web resource corresponds to at least one entry in a database, allowing access to the web resource by the wireless device, and tracking data usage of the web resource by the wireless device. The metering data usage of the web resource by the wireless device based on information contained in the database and the metering data usage of the web resource by the wireless device further includes not metering all data usage with respect to a user's plan if the database indicates the web resource is associated with specialized metering parameters. | 11-26-2015 |
20150350453 | DETERMINING COMPENSATION FOR USE OF A SHARED FREQUENCY IN MULTIPLE JURISDICTIONS - One or more devices may be configured to store jurisdiction information that associates each of a plurality of base stations with at least one jurisdiction. The one or more devices may establish a session, between a first base station and a user device, that uses a frequency. The one or more device may record handover information based on the first base station handing over the session to a second base station. The handover information may indicate an amount of data used while the session is hosted by the first base station. The one or more devices may determine a particular jurisdiction associated with the first base station based on the jurisdiction information. The one or more devices may cause a particular rights holder to be compensated for use of the frequency based on the amount of data used while the session is hosted by the first base station. | 12-03-2015 |
20150350459 | BILLING SYSTEM, BILLING APPARATUS, AND BILLING METHOD - Provided are a billing system, a billing apparatus, and a billing method capable of billing for device-to-device direct communication (D2D communication) performed using a radio access network such as LIE. A terminal | 12-03-2015 |
20150358478 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING AND UPDATING SERVICE ACCOUNT INFORMATION - Systems and methods for identifying and updating service account information on a service provider system are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method for identifying and updating service account information on a service provider system may include receiving a first request to register a user account from a mobile app installed on a user device, wherein the first request includes a unique communication identifier, sending a communication message directed to the unique communication identifier including a uniform resource locator (URL) address of a website, receiving, via the website, payment information, an indication of the user account, and an indication of a purchased amount, and updating account balance information associated with the user account based on the indication of the purchased amount. | 12-10-2015 |
20150358479 | ERROR HANDLING FOR CDR TRANSPORT WITHIN AN OFFLINE CHARGING SYSTEM - Systems and methods that provide error handling for CDR transport. One embodiment comprises a CGF of an offline charging system. The CGF receives an initial CDR transfer request from a CDF, identifies a data record value inserted in the initial CDR transfer request by the CDF to indicate a number of CDRs in the initial CDR transfer request, and counts the CDRs contained in the initial CDR transfer request. The CGF compares the count of CDRs contained in the initial CDR transfer request with the number of CDRs indicated by the CDF, and rejects the initial CDR transfer request if the count of CDRs does not match the number of CDRs indicated by the CDF. The CGF then assembles a CDR transfer response that includes a cause value indicating a count mismatch, and sends the CDR transfer response to the CDF. | 12-10-2015 |
20150358482 | SOURCE SELECTION FOR SHARED NETWORK CONNECTIVITY - A device such as a wireless access point may be configured to support sharing of network connectivity among a number of registered devices or users. Where numerous sources of network connectivity are available, the device may apply a cost-based selection strategy or the like to choose a suitable source for sharing. | 12-10-2015 |
20150358484 | SHARING GROUP NOTIFICATION - A method, computer program product, and apparatus are disclosed. The method includes determining whether a shared balance threshold has been breached, and notifying a member of a sharing group, in response to a determination that the balance threshold has been breached. The shared balance threshold is for the sharing group, which includes a number of members. | 12-10-2015 |
20150373193 | Blocking Unsolicited Calls from CallerID-Spoofing Autodialing Devices - Novel tools and techniques for deterring unsolicited calls are described for deterring unsolicited telephone calls that include a service provider searching and determining that the originating telephone number is in a no-call list, and based on this determination, prohibiting the call from terminating (i.e., connecting with the destination telephone number). Penalties may also be imposed against callers (e.g., solicitors) for no-call violations. Various embodiments provide methods and systems that do not depend on the CallerID (which could be spoofed or might be unavailable) in order to identify the offending party of an unsolicited call or text message (i.e., originating entity), and to block the unsolicited call or text message. | 12-24-2015 |
20150373204 | BILLING RELATED INFORMATION REPORTING - Radio communications is performed within a mobile telecommunication network. Billing related information is obtained by radio-physical detection. Within a trusted execution environment, a challenge known by the mobile telecommunication network is obtained; billing related information is received; billing related information is attested; and the attested billing related information is caused to be sent to the mobile telecommunication network. | 12-24-2015 |
20150373205 | METHOD, APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR AGGREGATING CHARGING INFORMATION - The network element collects, within a time window, charging information of a plurality of user equipments belonging to a same group, aggregates the charging information to obtain a charging aggregation result, and sends the charging aggregation result to a corresponding device in said system. The charging system receives a plurality of pieces of aggregated charging information and time windows sent by a network element in the system, wherein each piece of charging information respectively corresponds to one of the time windows, and aggregates the plurality of pieces of aggregated charging information based on the time windows and the group(s) and/or sub-group(s) to which the user equipments belong, to generate charging data record(s), wherein the time windows and the user equipments correspond to the plurality of pieces of aggregated charging information. | 12-24-2015 |
20150373206 | METHOD FOR ENABLING A WIRELESS DEVICE FOR GEOGRAPHICALLY PREFERENTIAL SERVICES - Disclosed is system comprising: a server platform operative to communicate with a wireless communication network; and data storage coupled to the server platform to store a plurality of business rules, wherein the server platform is operative to: generate a first provision instruction to provision a Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) with a first rule set associated with a first set of business rules for wireless usage incurred by a mobile terminal operating in the wireless communication network; generate a first billing instruction based on the first set of business rules and a first data type determined by a packet gateway that inspects packet data communicated to or from the mobile terminal. | 12-24-2015 |
20150373478 | VIRTUAL MACHINE BASED ON A MOBILE DEVICE - A request to provision a virtual machine (VM) based on a mobile communications device may be received. In response to the request to provision the VM, a phone number may be allocated to be associated with the VM based on the mobile communications device. Furthermore, VM based on the mobile communications device may be provisioned in view of the allocated phone number. | 12-24-2015 |
20150373523 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OPTIMIZING INTERNET COMMUNICATIONS - An apparatus and a method by a terminal in a wireless communication system are provided. The method includes transmitting first information including a public land mobile network identifier (PLMN ID) for a sponsored service, to a first server operated by a service provider, receiving, in response to the first information, second information including a token related to the sponsored service from the first server, transmitting third information requesting the sponsored service based on the token to a second server operated by a network operator corresponding to the PLMN ID, and receiving authentication information from the second server. | 12-24-2015 |
20160006863 | TRANSFERABLE DEVICE WITH ALTERABLE USAGE FUNCTIONALITY - A method and device for providing a transferable device with alterable usage functionality includes but is not limited to a method including receiving a request from a user to alter one or more functions of the mobile device, responding to the request from the user by activating a first mode, the first mode to alter the one or more functions on the mobile device, and enabling a remote authentication function to allow the user to remotely alter the first mode to at least a second mode. | 01-07-2016 |
20160021259 | ACCESS POINT WITH CONTROLLER FOR BILLING AND GENERATING INCOME FOR ACCESS POINT OWNER - A modified end user network access point includes a switching module and a controller to track usage of the end user network access point by wirelessly connected end user devices. The tracked usage information is transmitted from the end user network access point to a remotely coupled data center. The data center collects usage information from a plurality of different end user network access points. The collected usage information is in turn transmitted from the data center to a network carrier. The network carrier uses the received usage information to bill users for accessing the end user network access points and using any services provided by the end user network access points. An owner of each end user network access point is compensated by the network carrier each instance that an end user device utilizes the end user network access point to access the network carrier's communications network. | 01-21-2016 |
20160021261 | OPERATIONS METHOD FOR PROVIDING WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SERVICES - The present invention is directed to an improved operations method for a wireless communication system. The improved business method, operations method, network and system of the present invention includes the steps of delivering cellular services to the mass market, reducing peak capacity, increasing overall capacity utilization, improving capital utilization, providing an “all-you-can-eat” pricing model, and designing capacity based upon where the users live, work, and play. | 01-21-2016 |
20160028471 | DEPLOYMENT CRITERIA FOR UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES TO IMPROVE CELLULAR PHONE COMMUNICATIONS - System, method and computer program product for extending mobile device cellular carrier network coverage using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with telecommunications devices to act as temporary mobile device cellular network towers. The system and method extends cellular phone coverage of a land-based cellular phone network by: receiving information for determining a predicted or actual increase in aggregate cellular phone usage demand in an area at a determined time; identifying, based on an said predicted or actual increased aggregate cellular phone usage demand for said area, whether there exists a mismatch of existing usage coverage compared with said determined increased aggregate demand for that area; determining, based on an identified mismatch, a plan for sending signals to and deploying one or more mobile cellular unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) having telecommunications equipment configured to extend cellular phone network coverage of an existing land-based cellular phone network at the mismatched area. | 01-28-2016 |
20160028897 | METHOD TO DETERMINE THE JURISDICTION OF CMRS TRAFFIC VIA CELL SITE LOCATION AND RATE CENTER - A method includes receiving, at a processor, Call Detail Records (CDRs) from a Data Mediation System, in which each CDR includes a called party number (CdPN) associated with a first device, and a Cell Site ID associated with a location of a cell carrying a communication from a second device. Also included are: obtaining, from a first digital table, a first Major Trading Area (MTA) associated with the CdPN; obtaining, from a second digital table, a second MTA associated with the Cell Site ID; and concluding that the first and second devices are communicating in Local Traffic, if the first MTA is the same as the second MTA. | 01-28-2016 |
20160028898 | DYNAMICALLY ADJUSTING A DATA USAGE PLAN BASED ON DATA USAGE STATISTICS - Embodiments enable data usage plans and data usage statistics to be shared among user computing devices. In some embodiments, a web service receives a schema populated with data describing the data usage plan from a mobile operator. The web service distributes the populated schema to the user computing devices, and subsequently distributes updated portions of the schema as the data usage plan is updated by the mobile operator. The web service may also collect the data usage statistics from the user computing devices and the mobile operator, reconcile any differences, and send synchronization notifications to the user computing devices based on the reconciliation. In some embodiments, users are able to view bandwidth consumption by a plurality of user computing devices sharing the same data usage plan. | 01-28-2016 |
20160028899 | SELECTIVELY AND DYNAMICALLY PROVIDING TOLL-FREE DATA SERVICES - A device may determine a campaign rule for providing a toll-free data service to a mobile device associated with a user. The campaign rule may identify a condition for charging a service provider, associated with the toll-free data service, for data used by the mobile device in association with the toll-free data service. The device may determine an efficiency metric associated with the user. The efficiency metric may be determined based on providing toll-free data services to the user or a set of users associated with a demographic with which the user belongs. The device may analyze the efficiency metric based on the campaign rule. The device may selectively provide the toll-free data service to the mobile device, associated with the user, based on analyzing the efficiency metric. | 01-28-2016 |
20160036992 | LEAST COST DIALING - Methods, systems, and devices are described that provide for directing a voice or video call using least cost dialing. Rules for directing a call may be generated by a server or a mobile device. The rules may be applied at a mobile device, facilitating a least-cost call with little or no input from the user of the mobile device. The rules may be based on identifying information about a caller or an intended call, or both. In determining what constitutes a least-cost option, a number of resources and factors, both monetary and non-monetary, may be considered. In some examples, a call identifier may be sent from a mobile device to a server, and the mobile device may receive, in response, one or more rules for directing a call. The rules may be applied at the mobile device, and the call may be placed accordingly. | 02-04-2016 |
20160036993 | POLICY DECISION METHOD, CHARGING DEVICE, AND SYSTEM - A policy decision method is provided, including receiving, by a policy and charging rules function (PCRF) device, a first user policy request for a first user sent by a gateway device, determining, by the PCRF device, that the first user and a second user share a usage quota, and the second user is an owner user of the usage quota, acquiring, by the PCRF device, a current second user counter status of a second user counter of the second user, and generating, by the PCRF device, a first user control policy according to the current second user counter status and sending the first user control policy to the gateway device. The present invention can implement sharing of accumulated data among users, reduces processing pressure of the charging system, and decreases a performance loss of the charging system. | 02-04-2016 |
20160036994 | Advertisements in Controlled-Environment Communication Systems Using Tablet Computing Devices - A tablet computing device and controlled-environment communications processing system implemented process calls for the tablet requesting, via the controlled-environment communications system, a communication link between the tablet and another communications device. A resident of the controlled-environment facility operating the tablet is identified by the tablet to the controlled-environment communications system. The controlled-environment communications system selects advertisement(s) to be played on at least the tablet operated by the resident. The advertisement(s) are played on at least the tablet. The communications link is established by the controlled-environment communications system, between the tablet and the other communications device, before, during or following playing of the advertisement(s) on at least the tablet. Communication is carried out on the tablet, via the communications link, before, during and/or following playing of the advertisement(s). | 02-04-2016 |
20160036995 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING AND ALERTING RISKS IN REFILL TRANSACTIONS - Apparatus and method are disclosed for detecting a risk in a refill transaction. The method may include receiving, from a user, a request for refilling an account, the request including account information associated with the account. The method may also include acquiring a contact information set corresponding to the user. The method may further include determining whether the contact information set includes the account information by searching in the contact information set for information matching the account information. In addition, the method may include providing a risk alert to the user if it is determined that the contact information set does not include the account information. | 02-04-2016 |
20160044067 | CALL COUPLING - A method for establishing for a first smartphone a phone connection with a second smartphone, each smartphone comprising a phone and running a software application (“app”), the method comprising: exchanging, by operating the app, at least one permission message between the first and second smartphones; transmitting a first identifier from the first smartphone and a second identifier from the second smartphone to a call connector, responsive to a successful exchanging of the at least one permission message; and connecting a first phone call and a second phone call to establish a phone connection between the first and second smartphones, if the first phone call matches the first identifier and the second phone call matches the second identifier. | 02-11-2016 |
20160044129 | ADAPTIVE BANDWIDTH CONSUMPTION OPTIMIZATION FOR WIRELESS DATA CONNECTIONS - Embodiments are disclosed for caching multimedia content. An example in-vehicle computing system that adaptively caches multimedia data, the in-vehicle system including a memory, a position sensor, a receiver, and a processor. The position sensor provides a position signal indicative of a present location of the system. The receiver wirelessly receives multimedia data from a remote multimedia data source. The processor stores the received multimedia data in the memory, transfers multimedia data in the memory to a queue for playback when an amount of multimedia data saved in the memory is at least a first threshold value, and adjusts a size of the memory when a wireless communication channel is not available between the system and a remote multimedia data source. | 02-11-2016 |
20160044181 | Methods, Systems, And Computer Program Products For Communicating Data Selectively Via Heterogeneous Communication Network Links - Methods and systems are described for communicating data selectively via heterogeneous communication network links. In one aspect, a network link selector (NLS) determines respective data costs associated with communicating data via a plurality of heterogeneous network links each linking to one or more networks. One or more network links to communicate data between a remote network node and a user device remotely communicating with the NLS via a network is selected from among the plurality of heterogeneous network links based on the determined respective data costs. Communicating the data via the selected link is provided for. In another aspect, link selection information based on respective data costs is received via a network from an NLS. One or more network links is selected from among the plurality of heterogeneous network links based on the received link selection information. The data is communicated via the selected link. | 02-11-2016 |
20160044182 | Cost Allocation for Derived Data Usage - A system and method that allows for information relating to data and communication resource usage to be gathered and analyzed such that particular data transactions and usage can be classified based on purpose and/or type. Further, the system and method provide reporting based on amount of usage and/or purpose or type of usage so that associated costs and usage can be calculated applied and allocated to particular accounts, divisions, groups or individuals within and outside of a company or entity. Further, the system may restrict data usage of devices to data usage that can be allocated to particular accounts based on purpose, source, destination or other. | 02-11-2016 |
20160044484 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING CHARGING IN A MOBILE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - The present invention relates to a method and terminal in a mobile communication system. The method includes transmitting a first sponsor service request to a first server, receiving a sponsor coupon and information corresponding to a second server from the first server in response to the first sponsor service request, transmitting the received sponsor coupon to an entity in a network, receiving a sponsor coupon validation result, which is used to charge a service provider for a sponsor service, from the entity, and transmitting a second sponsor service request to the second server. | 02-11-2016 |
20160050555 | GLOBAL PLATFORM FOR MANAGING SUBSCRIBER IDENTITY MODULES - Disclosed is method comprising: storing in a home location register (HLR) at least one subscription record of a mobile device of the plurality of mobile devices, the mobile device having a subscriber identity module (SIM) identified by a currently activated first international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI), the currently activated first IMSI belonging to a set of IMSIs allocated to the system, wherein the provisioning server is operative to: receive a notification that the mobile devices has moved into a first one of the wireless networks; confirm that an allocation rule is satisfied; add and activate a second one of the IMSIs in the set of IMSIs to the HLR and remove the currently activated first IMSI from the HLR; and send the second IMSI to the mobile device to enable the mobile device to communicate wirelessly in the first wireless network as a local device. | 02-18-2016 |
20160055549 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROCESS DONATIONS - Systems and methods are provided to facilitate donations via mobile communications. In one aspect, a system includes a data storage facility and an interchange having a common format processor and a plurality of converters to interface with a plurality of different controllers of mobile communications. The converters are configured to communicate with the controllers in different formats and with the common format processor in a common format. For a payment to a merchant, the common format processor provides a user interface configured to present charity donation options in response to a phone number being specified in the user interface to identify a fund source. The common format processor uses one of the converters to communicate with a mobile phone at the phone number to confirm the payment to the merchant and a donation to a separate charity organization specified via the user interface. | 02-25-2016 |
20160057290 | INITIATING A CALL IN A COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM - A method for initiating a call in a communications system comprising a mobile communications device connected in a mobile communications network. The mobile communications device is allocated a mobile identifier for a first, mobile communications service provided by a mobile communications service provider and is allocated a second identifier for a second communications service provided by a second communications service provider that is different from the first, mobile communications service. The method comprises receiving over a data connection, at a switch, a request from the mobile communications device, comprising the second identifier, to initiate a call using the second communications service and adding, at the switch, the mobile identifier to the request and forwarding via a further network, the request comprising both the second identifier and the mobile identifier. | 02-25-2016 |
20160057291 | ENABLING MONITORING AND REPORTING FOR DYNAMIC POLICY ENFORCEMENT IN MULTI-OPERATOR WHOLESALE NETWORKS - Monitoring and reporting for policy enforcement may benefit various communication systems. For example, multi-operator wholesale networks may benefit from enablement of monitoring and reporting for dynamic policy enforcement. A method may include receiving a credit control request at a policy control function, wherein the request comprises an international mobile subscriber identity. The method may also include querying, by the policy control function, a home subscriber server with a query, wherein the query comprises the international mobile subscriber identity. The method may further include obtaining a tenant identifier corresponding to the international mobile subscriber identity from the home subscriber server in response to the query. The method may additionally include responding with a response to the credit control request based on the tenant identifier. | 02-25-2016 |
20160057292 | METHOD, SYSTEM, AND DEVICE OF CELLULAR TRAFFIC MONITORING - A cellular traffic monitoring system includes: a traffic detection function (TDF) module to monitor cellular traffic associated with a cellular subscriber device, and to generate detection output which includes at least one of: a type of an application associated with the cellular traffic of the cellular subscriber device, and a type of the cellular traffic of the cellular subscriber device. The cellular traffic monitoring system further includes a policy charging and enforcement function (PCEF) module to enforce one or more charging rules to the cellular subscriber device, based on the detection output. | 02-25-2016 |
20160057293 | POLICY CONTROL METHOD AND SYSTEM, AND RELEVANT APPARATUS - The present invention discloses a policy control method and system, and a relevant apparatus. The method includes: receiving, by a policy decision apparatus, a control policy request sent by a gateway device, where the control policy request carries a subscriber identifier; sending, by the policy decision apparatus, a session request message carrying the subscriber identifier to a charging system; receiving, by the policy decision apparatus, a response message; receiving, by the policy decision apparatus, a notification message sent through an established session by the charging system, and generating a service data flow control policy according to information of an occurred charging relevant event; and sending, by the policy decision apparatus, the control policy to the gateway device. The method may implement, based on charging relevant information of a subscriber, policy control of a data flow, flexibility is desirable, and service experience of the subscriber is good. | 02-25-2016 |
20160057628 | HOTSPOT COMMUNICATOR LIMITER - An embodiment is directed to a method for limiting network communications. The method is implemented at a device through which communications can be routed between client devices and the internet. The method includes receiving a routable communication. A communication type for the routable communication is identified. The communication type may be owner, authorized, or anonymous. Access rules for the identified communication type are identified. The routing of the communication is limited according to the identified access rules. | 02-25-2016 |
20160063477 | PROXIMITY-BASED TRANSACTION DEVICE SELECTION - Various embodiments herein each include at least one of systems, methods, software, and devices for proximity-based transaction device selection. One embodiment in the form of a method performed on a mobile device includes receiving a positioning signal and identifying a terminal associated with the positioning signal. An instruction may then be transmitted to the identified terminal via a wireless data communication device of the mobile device. | 03-03-2016 |
20160066166 | Devices, Systems and Methods for Mobile Custom Response - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for selecting and sending one of a plurality of responses to a call on a communications device. A user may select a default response or a custom response. When the user receives a call to a communications device, a set of responses is displayed on the communications device to facilitate selection by the user. A response includes a message and a call processing command. A message is in the form of an audio clip, text message, webpage, picture, video, etc. A call processing command is performed along with the message. This plurality of responses can be organized by the user in groups associated with classes of callers, such as friends, family, co-workers, etc. In this manner, the responses available to the user when a call is received changes depending on the caller. | 03-03-2016 |
20160066172 | Charging Mechanism for Communication Network - There is provided a charging control mechanism allowing flexible charging in specified communication areas of a communication network, for example of a WLAN. When it is detected that a UE tries to access in a specified communication network area, a charging setting to be used for a communication in the specified communication network area is determined and a rating information in the form of a rating attribute is included in each CDR for indicating the charging setting to be used for charging a communication of the UE in the specified communication network area. A rating/charging engine uses the rating attribute for determining the charging amount for the communication. | 03-03-2016 |
20160066186 | METHOD FOR MANAGING NETWORK ACCESS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE THEREFOR - A method for managing network access is provided. The method includes determining whether there is a network connection request from at least one application, checking at least one attribute information item of the application, determining an access point name (APN) corresponding to the application based on the at least one attribute information item, and transmitting and receiving data of the application to/from a network using the determined APN. | 03-03-2016 |
20160066261 | CONNECTIVITY MANAGEMENT BASED ON COST INFORMATION - Provided is a method operable at a wireless communication device or user device for cost signaling. The user device may receive a first indication of an identity of a network. A second indication of whether a cost information is available may also received by the user device. The cost information may also be associated with the network and indicative of a cost of communicating data via the network. In addition, the user device may query the network for the cost information if the second indication indicates that the cost information is available. The cost information associated with the network may be received by the user device. The user device may select the network based on the received cost information. Communication via the selected network may then be performed by the user device. | 03-03-2016 |
20160072961 | VERIFICATION OF NETWORK ACTIVITY/USAGE DATA - There is provided verification of network activity/usage data between a user equipment and a service provider server. The verification is performed in the service provider server. A first set of network activity/usage data for a user account is acquired from a user equipment. A second set of network activity/usage data for the user account is acquired from a subscription account of the user account. It is determined if a second post in the second set of network activity/usage data is related to a first post in the first set of network activity/usage data. If so, first data of the first post is compared to second data of the second post. The second post is updated with the first data in a case the first data does not match the second data. | 03-10-2016 |
20160073246 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SETTING AND SWITCHING PARTIES FOR PAYMENT OF TELEPHONE CALLS - A method for setting and switching a party responsible for payment of a remainder of a telephone call made between a first mobile device and a second mobile device can include receiving and saving information of a first mobile device, determining whether a switching condition for switching the party responsible for payment of the remainder of the telephone call is met during the telephone call, and switching the party responsible for payment of the remainder of the telephone call from the first mobile device to the second mobile device when the switching condition is met. The second mobile device is one of a number of contact mobile devices of the first mobile device. Phone numbers of the contact mobile devices are included in the information of the first mobile device. | 03-10-2016 |
20160073247 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DYNAMIC CHARGING OVER MULTIPLE NETWORK NODES - A method, a corresponding apparatus, and a computer program product for dynamic charging over multiple network nodes. The method comprises collecting, at a first network node which has a first connection with a user equipment, charging information with respect to a second connection established between the user equipment and a second network node, wherein the second network node is connected with the first network node. The method also comprises combining charging information with respect to the first connection and the charging information with respect to the second connection. The method additionally comprises sending the combined charging information from the first network node to a core network entity for charging the user equipment. With the claimed inventions, the core network and wireless operators could be able to bill the services based on specific offloaded bearers considering associated QoS information, regarding to the case of multi-PLMN scenarios under network sharing. | 03-10-2016 |
20160073371 | Managing Network Load Using Device Application Programs - Concepts and technologies are described herein for managing network load using device application programs. An illustrative method includes receiving, at a mobile device, a list of preferred combinations of location area codes (“LACs”), cell identifiers (“CIDs”), and times that data access by the mobile device is to be incentivized, determining a current LAC associated with a location area within which the mobile device is currently located, determining a current CID associated with a base transceiver station to which the mobile device is currently connected, determining a current time, and determining if the current LAC, the current cell ID, and the current time are included as a preferred combination in the list. The method also includes providing an indication that data access by the mobile device is incentivized if the current LAC, the current cell ID, and the current time are included in the list as a preferred combination. | 03-10-2016 |
20160080578 | ENHANCED QOS CONTROL IN PCRF - The embodiments herein relate to a method in a Policy and Charging Rules Function, PCRF, node ( | 03-17-2016 |
20160080579 | DIFFERENTIATED MMS BILLING BASED ON ROAMING STATUS DETERMINATION OF USER DEVICES - A first device may receive an indication that a multimedia message service (MMS message) message has been sent from a first user device to a second user device; obtain, from a second device, the roaming status of the first user device at a time that the MMS message was sent by the first user device; generate a call details record (CDR) indicating the obtained roaming status of the first user device at the time the MMS message was sent by the first user device; and store or output the CDR to a billing system that charges an account, associated with the first user device, for sent MMS message. An amount charged by the billing system may be based on the roaming status of the first user device at the time at which MMS message are sent by the first user device. | 03-17-2016 |
20160080923 | DATA TOLL SUBSIDY MANAGEMENT - A method includes receiving, from a user device associated with an end user, a request for content provided by a content provider. The method includes determining whether the requested content is to be provided on a data toll network, determining whether the requested content includes data toll free content in response to a determination that the requested content is to be provided on the data toll network, and applying graphic elements indicating data toll free status of data toll free sections of the requested content in response to a determination that the requested content includes data toll free content. The method further includes providing the requested content including the applied graphic elements to the user device, and billing data usage associated with providing the data toll free sections to the end user device to the content provider. | 03-17-2016 |
20160088163 | MANAGING CHARGING SYSTEM TRAFFIC - Systems and methods for an enhanced online charging system service are described. A first signaling message is received from an originating mobile station for transmission over a network to a destination mobile station, wherein the first signaling message includes a voice message or a data message. A request from a mobile switching center (MSC), Short Message Service Center (SMSC) or Telephony Application Server (TAS) is provided to an online charging system (OCS) to determine an account usage balance associated with the mobile station. When the OCS determines the account is associated with valid monthly prepaid wireless subscription plan, a first response message is received at the MSC, SMC or TAS. The first response message indicates to the MSC, SMC or TAS to not send, for a predetermined time period, further requests to the OCS to determine an account usage balance associated with the mobile station. | 03-24-2016 |
20160088459 | TRADING EXCHANGE FOR LOCAL DATA SERVICES - The present invention provides a method and system for trading exchange to facilitate local data services for roaming users. The trading exchange includes an ecosystem of a plurality of operators, having home network (HPMN) and visited network (VPMN) operators. The trading exchange further includes a gateway for facilitating local data services for users, where the user is roaming in VPMN, by configuring a Domane Name Resolution (DNS) of the VPMN's Gateway General Packet Radio System (GPRS) Support Node (GGSN) for its users. The trading exchange further includes an interface maintaining a bi-directional connection with the gateway to exchange information related to the roaming services, and a bi-directional connection with users via their mobile devices' user interface. | 03-24-2016 |
20160094721 | Providing Discounted Service Offerings to Customers Experiencing Reduced Service Availability - An application server described herein receives historical data for a customer of a telecommunication service provider. The historical data may indicate that the customer has experienced reduced service availability from the telecommunication service provider. Based at least in part on the historical data, the application server may determine that the customer qualifies for a discounted service offering. The application server may then provide the discounted service offering to the customer. | 03-31-2016 |
20160094722 | CDF TRACKING FOR OFFLINE CHARGING - Systems and methods that track Charging Data Functions (CDFs) that handle accounting requests for a session. One embodiment comprises a distributor unit that receives an interim accounting request for a session. The interim accounting request includes a tracking parameter that includes one or more CDF identifiers (ID) indicating one or more CDFs that handled accounting requests for the session. The distributor unit processes the tracking parameter to identify a first CDF ID for a first destination CDF that handled accounting requests for the session. When the first destination CDF is not available to receive the interim accounting request, the distributor unit selects a second destination CDF for the interim accounting request based on a distribution algorithm. The distributor unit adds a second CDF ID for the second destination CDF in the tracking parameter of the interim accounting request, and transmits the interim accounting request to the second destination CDF. | 03-31-2016 |
20160094973 | CHARGING AND BILLING FOR CONTENT, SERVICES, AND ACCESS - Among other things, at a server, information is received from applications, services, or content being used on user devices about usage of communication services attributable to each of the applications, services, or content. The information about the amounts of attributable communication services is used in allocating charges for the services to one or more paying parties in accordance with one or more applicable business rules. | 03-31-2016 |
20160105541 | DYNAMIC DUAL-MODE SERVICE ACCESS CONTROL, LOCATION-BASED BILLING, AND E911 MECHANISMS - A system that facilitates controlling network access comprises a lookup component that determines a geographic location associated with a public originating IP address, wherein the public originating IP address is associated with a request for dual mode services made by a dual mode client. A comparison component compares the determined geographic location with a retained geographic location associated with the dual mode client and determines whether to enable dual mode services based at least in part upon the comparison. | 04-14-2016 |
20160105567 | Methods and Apparatus for Allocating Service Costs in a Telecommunications Network - A node for use in a telecommunication network. The apparatus comprises a service session handler for establishing and controlling service sessions on behalf of end users served by the telecommunications network, and a charging generation point for generating charging data for established sessions involving served users as originating users and for reporting that charging data to a network charging system. The apparatus further comprises a signalling message handler for receiving, in respect of a given service session between an originating and a terminating user, a signalling message sent by or on behalf of the terminating user, the signalling message containing cost apportionment data apportioning costs between the originating and terminating users, the signalling message handler being configured to pass that cost apportionment data to the charging generation point. The charging generation point is further configured to apply the cost apportionment data to the generation of charging data so that the charging data reflects the required cost apportionment. | 04-14-2016 |
20160105785 | USAGE TRIGGERED TELECOMMUNICATIONS CHARGING - An Online Charging System (“OCS”) that processes charging on a telecommunications network receives an indication of usage of a telecommunications service by a subscriber. In response to the indication, the OCS determines a configured offering for the service, where the configured offering includes a time period, and a credit and/or debit. The OCS determines if the usage of the service is a first usage within the time period, and when the usage is the first usage, applies the credit and/or debit. The OCS then determines a charge for the usage based on credit and/or debit. | 04-14-2016 |
20160112577 | MANAGING NETWORK DATA TRANSFERS IN VIEW OF MULTIPLE DATA USAGE PLANS - Embodiments manage data transfers using a plurality of data usage plans available to a computing device. Each of the data usage plans has data usage statistics representing an amount of network data consumed under the data usage plan. For each data transfer request received from applications executing on the computing device, a service executing on the computing device or in a cloud defines a network data transfer configuration for performing the data transfer request. The network data transfer configuration is defined based on, for example, the data usage plans, the data usage statistics, and the data transfer request to reduce transfer costs and/or provide a particular quality of service (QoS). | 04-21-2016 |
20160112579 | OPERATING SYSTEM SUPPORTING COST AWARE APPLICATIONS - A mobile computing device that supports cost-aware application components for operation over a metered network. A current basis for computing usage charges over one or more networks may be made available to the cost-aware application components through an application programming interface supported by an operating system service. That service may receive a policy for charging for data usage over a network and may also obtain information defining data usage for the mobile computing device. Based on this information, the service may determine a current basis for charging for data usage. With this information, the application component can determine a manner for executing network operations that involve data transmission over the network, such as deferring the operation or selecting an alternative network. | 04-21-2016 |
20160127564 | POLICY DECISIONS BASED ON OFFLINE CHARGING RULES WHEN SERVICE CHAINING IS IMPLEMENTED - Apparatus and methods for policy decisions regarding a service data flow enabled for service chaining One embodiment comprises a policy control element configured to make policy decisions for a session. The policy control element communicates with an offline charging system. The policy control element detects a new service added to the service chain implemented for the service data flow, and transmits a charging rules request to the offline charging system responsive to detecting the new service being added to the service chain. The policy control element receives a response from the offline charging system that includes offline charging rules that are mapped to the new service of the service chain, makes a policy decision for the service data flow based on the offline charging rules, and transmits the policy decision to a policy enforcement element. | 05-05-2016 |
20160127565 | OFFLOAD OF SERVICE CHARGING FROM AN ONLINE CHARGING SYSTEM - Apparatus and methods that offload charging from an Online Charging System (OCS). The OCS includes an offload controller that receives a online charging request from a policy enforcement element for a service, determines whether charging for the service is eligible to be offloaded from the OCS to an Offline Charging System (OFCS), and pushes a charging rule to the policy enforcement element to switch a charging mode for the service to offline charging. An online charging function within the OCS receives another online charging request for the service from the OFCS that reports a charging event detected by the policy enforcement element, and debits an account of an end user based on the online charging request from the OFCS. | 05-05-2016 |
20160127568 | OPERATIONS METHOD FOR PROVIDING WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SERVICES - The present invention is directed to an improved operations method for a wireless communication system. The improved business method, operations method, network and system of the present invention includes the steps of delivering cellular services to the mass market, reducing peak capacity, increasing overall capacity utilization, improving capital utilization, providing an “all-you-can-eat” pricing model, and designing capacity based upon where the users live, work, and play. | 05-05-2016 |
20160128083 | NETWORKED RESOURCE PROVISIONING SYSTEM - In response to requests for their use of the resources by the applications, resources are first allocated to “inelastic” requests specified for performance at a specific time slot. A baseline allocation of resources is then determined which is the minimum amount of capacity that has to be used for efficient operation of the resources required to meet the requests. This baseline will include some additional capacity as the minimum efficient capacity is less than the maximum capacity. “Elastic” requests, specified for performance within a predetermined time range comprising two or more of the set of time slots, are then allocated so as to prioritise the use of this spare capacity, bringing actual usage up to at least the baseline allocation of resources. If further capacity is required to meet all the inelastic requests, further capacity is allocated and the baseline redefined to include it. | 05-05-2016 |
20160134760 | Advanced Policy and Charging Control Methods, Network Nodes and Computer Programs for Sponsored Data Connectivity by Peers - In a method for providing a service requiring data connectivity between at least two user terminals ( | 05-12-2016 |
20160134762 | ENABLING MOBILE COMPUTING DEVICES TO TRACK DATA USAGE AMONG MOBILE COMPUTING DEVICES THAT SHARE A DATA PLAN - A method, system and computer program product for enabling mobile computing devices to track data usage among mobile computing devices that share a data plan. A threshold amount of data to be consumed over a period of time (e.g., billing period) by the mobile computing devices belonging to the shared data plan is received. Upon receiving a message from one of these mobile computing devices that contains an identifier that indicates that the message pertains to data usage information for the shared data plan, the current data usage metrics for the mobile computing device that sent the message is retrieved from the message. The value of the aggregate data usage is updated with the retrieved data usage metrics. Actions, such as throttling the data usage, are performed in response to the aggregate data usage being within a designated amount of data to the threshold amount of data to be consumed. | 05-12-2016 |
20160135030 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING COMMUNICATIONS IN A NETWORK - Methods and systems are described for monitoring communications in a packet-switched network. More specifically, the system initiates a communication between a network endpoint associated with a call mediator and at least a second network endpoint; records, at the call mediator, information associated with the communication; and upon termination of the communication, communicates, from the call mediator to an enterprise gatekeeper, the information associated with the communication. | 05-12-2016 |
20160142553 | TECHNIQUES TO TRANSFORM NETWORK RESOURCE REQUESTS TO ZERO RATED NETWORK REQUESTS - Techniques to transform network resource requests to zero rated network requests are described. Some embodiments are particularly directed to techniques transform network resource requests on a cellular network to zero rating by replacing the destination of the request with a zero-rated source for the network resource. In one embodiment, for example, an apparatus may comprise a data store and a network access component. The data store may be operative to store a plurality of zero-rating rewrite rules. The network access component may be operative to receive a network request from an application component on the mobile device, the network request for access to a network resource; compare the network resource to the plurality of zero-rating rewrite rules to identify a zero-rating rewrite rule matching the network resource; transform the network request to a zero-rated network request for the network resource using the identified zero-rating rewrite rule; and perform the zero-rated network request. Other embodiments are described and claimed. | 05-19-2016 |
20160142554 | TECHNOLOGIES FOR CONVERTING MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK BILLING RECORDS - Technologies for converting mobile communications network billing records include a billing record converter system. The billing record converter system receives a data usage billing record associated with a mobile computing device communicatively coupled to a long term evolution wireless communications network. The received data usage billing record is formatted according to a real-time data usage billing record format. The received data usage billing record is converted into a new data usage billing record formatted according to a roaming data usage billing record format that corresponds to a legacy wireless communications network. The new data usage billing record is transmitted to a billing system of the legacy wireless communications network for processing. In some embodiments, the billing record converter system cumulates and converts multiple data usage billing records associated with the mobile computing device into the new data usage billing record. Other embodiments are described and claimed. | 05-19-2016 |
20160142555 | METHOD FOR SECURING A TRANSACTION BETWEEN A MOBILE TERMINAL AND A SERVER OF A SERVICE PROVIDER THROUGH A PLATFORM - One embodiment relates to a method for securing a transaction between a mobile terminal of a user and a server of a service provider through a platform capable of being connected to the mobile terminal via a mobile network of an operator, to the server of the service provider and to a transaction execution system. | 05-19-2016 |
20160142557 | Wireless Access Point Having Metering Capability and Metering Display - The disclosure provides a system and method for metering on a prepaid wireless access point the amount of data transferred between a wireless device and the Internet and inhibiting further data transmission when the amount of prepaid data available reaches or drops below a pre-determined threshold. Specifically, the wireless access point includes a metering client to track one of data usage or an amount of prepaid data available. When the metering client indicates that the amount of data available has dropped below a pre-determined threshold, the wireless access point inhibits further data transmission. | 05-19-2016 |
20160142559 | Methods, Systems and Applications for Managing Wireless Services on a Wireless Device - The application is directed to a method and system for tracking and managing data usage on a wireless device. A graphical user interface is displayed on a wireless device for tracking and managing data usage over predetermined time. A request is received via the graphical user interface to set an alert. The alert indicates when the data usage exceeds a predefined value. A determination is made whether the data usage exceeds the predefined value. Further, an alert is transmitted to the wireless device. | 05-19-2016 |
20160149830 | MARKET-DRIVEN VARIABLE PRICE OFFERINGS FOR BANDWIDTH-SHARING AD HOC NETWORKS - Systems and methods to establish and execute market-driven variable price offerings among the lenders and borrowers in a bandwidth-sharing ad hoc network for shared bandwidth usage. The method comprises establishing and executing market-driven variable price offerings among lenders and borrowers. A bandwidth-sharing ad hoc network for shared bandwidth usage is formed based on the established and executed market-driven variable price offering. | 05-26-2016 |
20160150091 | Method and Apparatus of Secure Charging for Device-to-Device Service - A method of secure charging for a device-to-device service may comprise: recording charging information of a device-to-device service between a first user equipment and a second user equipment, wherein the charging information is associated at least with the first user equipment; generating a first report comprising the charging information, wherein the first report is protected by a security key of the first user equipment; and sending the first report to a network node by the first user equipment, wherein the first report is used for charging for the device-to-device service together with a second report generated at the second user equipment, and wherein the second report comprises charging information associated at least with the device-to-device service of the second user equipment and is protected by a security key of the second user equipment. | 05-26-2016 |
20160150093 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RECLAIMING OBLIGATED NETWORK RESOURCES - A system and method for reducing obligated network resources may include establishing network resources obligated to serve a user for use of a networked electronic device on a communications network. Network usage data of the networked electronic device of the user operating on the communications network over a time period may be collected in a data repository. A determination may be made by the computing device as to whether the network usage data exceeds a minimum usage threshold level over the time period. In response to the computing device determining that the network usage data exceeds the usage threshold level over the time period, the network resources obligated to serve the user may be maintained. Otherwise, the network resources obligated to serve the user may be caused to be released, thereby reducing obligated network resources. | 05-26-2016 |
20160150094 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING TOLL-FREE APPLICATION DATA ACCESS - Toll-free application data network access is disclosed. In one aspect, there is a device for providing data connectivity. The device includes a connection detector configured to receive a data connectivity request from an application installed on the device. The device further includes an authorization transceiver. The authorization transceiver is configured to transmit an authorization request to a service provider associated with the application via a telecommunication connection, the authorization request including an application identifier for the application and an operator identifier for the service provider. The authorization transceiver is further configured to receive an authorization response indicative of operator specific billing for the application from the service provider. The device also includes a connection manager configured to establish data connectivity via the telecommunication connection based on the authorization response. | 05-26-2016 |
20160150095 | IN-STORE READING SYSTEM - A system and method for providing digital data content to a wireless device. Although a fee is typically charged for access to the digital data content, e.g., electronic books, the system and the method provides controlled access to this content for free while the wireless device is accessing the content in a specified location, e.g., a retail location. A content control server receives a request from the wireless device requesting access to the digital data content. The request is received over a secure connection, preferably a virtual private network (VPN). The content control server monitors how much of the digital data content has been provided to the wireless device, and/or an amount of time the wireless device has been accessing the digital data content. This content control server uses this monitored data to control, throttle, the provision of the digital data content to the wireless device. | 05-26-2016 |
20160150414 | IDENTIFYING CALL CHARACTERISTICS TO DETECT FRAUDULENT CALL ACTIVITY AND TAKE CORRECTIVE ACTION WITHOUT USING RECORDING, TRANSCRIPTION OR CALLER ID - A system and method for monitoring telephone calls to detect fraudulent activity and take corrective action is described. The system receives a group of telephone calls having associated call characteristics and analyzes the group of telephone calls to identify and store a first set of distributions of call characteristics that are indicative of normal activity, fraudulent activity, or indeterminate activity. The system receives one or more subsequent telephone calls to be analyzed. The system analyzes the received one or more telephone calls to identify a second set of distributions of call characteristics associated with the received telephone call. The system then compares the second set of distributions of call characteristics to the stored first set of distributions of call characteristics to assess a probability that the one or more received telephone calls represents normal, fraudulent, or indeterminate activity. If the assessed probability of fraudulent activity exceeds a threshold, the system takes appropriate corrective action, such a flagging the fraudulent call or withholding a financial incentive associated with the fraudulent call. | 05-26-2016 |
20160156479 | Method And Apparatus for Providing Sponsoring Service Between User Equipments | 06-02-2016 |
20160165066 | Method And Apparatus For Spectrum Sharing Among Operators - Various methods and devices are provided to address the need for improved spectrum sharing. In one method, a broker network receives ( | 06-09-2016 |
20160165068 | Overload Processing For An Offline Charging System - Systems and methods are provided for overload processing in an offline charging system of a communications services provider. A distributor unit is configured to receive accounting messages from a Charging Trigger Function (CTF) and determine that a destination Charging Data Function (CDF) intended for receiving the messages is in an overloaded state. Messages that are for ongoing sessions are transmitted to a selected destination queue of the overloaded destination CDF based on a designated queue status of the selected destination queue and while the destination CDF is in an overloaded state, while messages for new Diameter sessions are not sent to the selected destination queue of the overloaded destination CDF while the destination CDF remains in the overloaded state. | 06-09-2016 |
20160173701 | TECHNIQUES FOR MESSAGE AGGREGATOR TESTING AND SELECTION | 06-16-2016 |
20160182736 | TECHNIQUES FOR CONTEXTUAL MOBILE DATA ACCESS | 06-23-2016 |
20160191715 | METHOD FOR ENABLING A WIRELESS DEVICE FOR GEOGRAPHICALLY PREFERENTIAL SERVICES - Disclosed is system comprising: a server platform operative to communicate with a wireless communication network; and data storage coupled to the server platform to store a plurality of business rules, wherein the server platform is operative to: generate a first provision instruction to provision a Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) with a first rule set associated with a first set of business rules for wireless usage incurred by a mobile terminal operating in the wireless communication network; generate a first billing instruction based on the first set of business rules and a first data type determined by a packet gateway that inspects packet data communicated to or from the mobile terminal. | 06-30-2016 |
20160191716 | NATIVE MOBILE DEVICE IDENTIFICATION FOR TOLL-FREE SERVICE USAGE - A mobile device including a unique toll-free ID (TFID) present in the mobile device operable to facilitate toll-free communication between the mobile device and a manufacturer. | 06-30-2016 |
20160192169 | DISTRIBUTED WIRELESS ONLINE ACCESS SYSTEM - A method for providing wireless online access comprises: establishing a wireless access signal space wherein a wireless communications link is established between a secondary wireless unit and at least one primary wireless unit, thereby providing a corresponding secondary subscriber with online access by data packet transmission between the primary wireless unit and the secondary wireless unit; and receiving, from an online access provider, a credited revenue amount in return for providing online access for the secondary subscriber. | 06-30-2016 |
20160192170 | APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR SELECTION AMONG MULTIPLE SUBSCRIBER NUMBERS - A mobile communication device is provided with a processor. The processor is configured to receive a request for starting a Mobile Originated (MO) service, determine a plurality of remaining usage quotas for the MO service, which correspond to a plurality of subscriber numbers, and select one of the subscriber numbers for starting the MO service according to the remaining usage quotas. | 06-30-2016 |
20160198049 | WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CHARGING CONTROL | 07-07-2016 |
20160198325 | DYNAMIC BOUNDARY BASED MONITORING AND METERING | 07-07-2016 |
20160205265 | SYSTEM FOR CHARGING A USER IN REAL TIME FOR PURCHASING CONTENT WITHOUT DATA NETWORKS | 07-14-2016 |
20160205266 | Peel and Stick Activation Code for Activating Service for a Wireless Device | 07-14-2016 |
20160205528 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FAST ACCURATE DETECTION OF SMS SPAM NUMBERS VIA MONITORING GREY PHONE SPACE | 07-14-2016 |
20160255205 | METHOD, COMPUTER PROGRAM, AND ALGORITHM FOR COMPUTING NETWORK SERVICE VALUE PRICING BASED ON COMMUNICATION SERVICE EXPERIENCES DELIVERED TO CONSUMERS AND MERCHANTS OVER A SMART MULTI-SERVICES (SMS) COMMUNICATION NETWORK | 09-01-2016 |
20160255206 | METHOD FOR TRANSMITTING MESSAGE, METHOD FOR SELLING MESSAGE BOX AND COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM HAVING PROGRAM RECORDED THEREON | 09-01-2016 |
20160381231 | Billing Policy Management for Multi-Number Phones - A computer-implemented method for managing a billing policy for mobile phone associated with a first phone number corresponding to a first account and a second phone number corresponding to a second account is described herein. The billing policy defines actions performed by the mobile phone to be charged to the first account, and defines actions performed by the mobile phone to be charged to the second account. Charges are allocated to one of the first account and second account based on the billing policy. A user can configured to phone to operate in a private mode, in response to which actions are charged to a default account of the two accounts, and information about the action is not provided to an external entity. | 12-29-2016 |
20160381232 | SYSTEM, METHOD, AND COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM FOR REBILLING A CARRIER BILL - A computerized method and system for rebilling a carrier bill is disclosed. The method includes receiving one or more carrier bills for a plurality of mobile phones at a processor, receiving a selection of a ratio for distributing the total fee amongst the plurality of mobile phones from an administrator device at the processor, determining, with the processor, an average cost per mobile phone based on the ratio multiplied by the total fee and divided a total number of mobile phones in the plurality of mobile phones, determining, with the processor, a cost-per-time for each of the plurality of mobile phones based on one minus the ratio multiplied by the usage time of each of the plurality of mobile phones and divided by a total minutes, and determining, with the processor, a total cost for any of the plurality of mobile phones. | 12-29-2016 |
20160381603 | TECHNIQUES AND SYSTEMS FOR ON-DEMAND CUSTOMIZED MOBILE DATA SERVICES - Techniques for generating and providing on-demand customized mobile data services are described. A technique may include receiving application usage data at a data package service; analyzing the application usage data to obtain analyzed data; designing one or more data service packages according to the analyzed data, each data service package to define a set of parameters to manage access to a cellular data network; presenting one or more data service packages to a client device; receiving a selection of a data service package from the client device; and uploading a policy associated with the selected data service package to a data access server. Other embodiments are described and claimed. | 12-29-2016 |
20170237621 | METHODS AND APPARATUS TO ALLOCATE BANDWIDTH BETWEEN SUBSCRIBERS OF A COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK | 08-17-2017 |
20170237862 | Systems and Methods of Split Billing | 08-17-2017 |
20170237863 | Methods Circuits Devices Systems and Functionally Associated Computer Executable Code to Support Edge Computing on a Communication Network | 08-17-2017 |
20180027128 | APPLICATION SPECIFIC M2M BILLING RECONCILIATION | 01-25-2018 |
20190149666 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGEMENT FOR A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORK | 05-16-2019 |