Mobile App Authorization via Segmented Installation and Identity Tokens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for sharing paid mobile applications are inefficient, as recipients need to download the application from an app store, which can be slow and traffic-consuming, and often require purchase even if the installation package is shared.
Innovation Solution
An installation package authorization method that allows a user to acquire and install a paid application without downloading it from an app store by generating an application authorization request with user identity information, enabling the application server to provide authorization information for the target application, thus allowing usage without the need for a download procedure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a user shares a paid application with a friend by sending the installation package, then the friend can obtain the application file, but the friend cannot install or use the application without purchasing it
Solution Approach 1:
The solution segments the application sharing process into two independent parts: (1) transmitting the installation package file through any channel (e.g., messaging apps, file transfer), and (2) obtaining authorization through a separate authorization code or token. This allows the installation package to be freely shared while maintaining controlled access through the authorization mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authorization code or token that mediates between the installation package and the application server. This code acts as a bridge that carries the necessary permission information, allowing the receiving terminal to authenticate and activate the application without direct involvement of the original purchaser during the installation process.
2Reliability
If a user downloads an application from an app store, then the application can be installed and used, but the download process is slow and consumes significant traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The application installation package is prepared and made available in advance through peer-to-peer sharing or direct file transfer, eliminating the need for real-time downloading from the app store. The receiving terminal already possesses the complete installation package before initiating the installation process, thus avoiding download delays.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of downloading the application from the original source (app store), the solution uses a copy of the installation package that has been transmitted through alternative channels. This copy contains all necessary installation data and can be installed directly without requiring a new download from the app store.
3Ease of operation
If a user shares only a download link address with another user, then the sharing process is simple, but the actual downloading speed is slow and it is traffic-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The solution merges the installation package transmission and authorization processes into a unified flow. The installation package is transmitted along with or followed by an authorization code, combining what were previously separate steps (downloading from app store, then authorizing) into a single efficient process that reduces overall traffic consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
An authorization code serves as an intermediary that enables the receiving terminal to access and install the application without requiring a full download from the app store. This code mediates the authentication process, allowing the system to verify permission and activate the application locally with minimal data transfer.
Data Source
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AI summary
An installation package authorization method and apparatus are disclosed. The method includes: acquiring, by a first terminal, an installation package of a target application and an identifier of the target application that are sent by a second terminal; generating, by the first terminal, an application authorization request according to the identifier of the target application, where the application authorization request includes: indication information indicating that the installation package does not need to be downloaded, the identifier of the target application, and user identity information of the first terminal; sending, by the first terminal, the application authorization request to an application server; receiving, by the first terminal, authorization information, which is sent by the application server, of the target application, where the authorization information includes the user identity information, and the user identity information is registration information of the first terminal on the application server; and updating, by the first terminal, usage permission for the target application by using the user identity information.