Controlling the use of a wireless mobile communication device

Abstract

A controlling party can set limitations on a controlled party's access to applications operating on the controlled party's wireless mobile communication device. The controlling party can effectuate these limitations via various different mechanisms. In one instance, the controlling party uses another wireless communication device to effectuate the limitations. In another instance, the limitations are effectuated by the controlling party's operation of a data processing apparatus connected by a wired data communication bus to the controlled party's wireless mobile communication device. In a still further instance, the controlling party effectuates the limitations by accessing a website supported by a web server.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM [0001] This application claims the priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of co-pending U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 510,705, filed on Oct. 10, 2003 and incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The invention relates generally to wireless mobile communication devices and, more particularly to controlling the use of a wireless mobile communication device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] The usefulness and practicality of providing children with access to wireless mobile telecommunications technology is evident. Wireless communication devices such as mobile telephones are particularly useful and practical as a means of maintaining contact with children for purposes of safety, security and general peace of mind. However, although wireless telephones such as cell phones provide many obvious advantages for children, there are also several areas of concern. These areas of concern include the possibility of excessively large monthly telephone bills, ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

These areas of concern include the possibility of excessively large monthly telephone bills, unwanted callers, and general irresponsibility associated with children and young adults.

This irresponsibility can manifest itself, for example, in excessive game playing on the wireless device, excessive time spent on telephone chats (whether or not they result in an increased bill), and poor management of the audible ringer function (for example, the phone rings in the middle of a child's math class).

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