Mobile Message Recall via Server-Side Caching Delay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile software applications do not allow users to delete or recall SMS and MMS messages after they have been sent but before they are delivered to the intended recipient, leading to regrettable communications.
Innovation Solution
The On Second Thought (OST) mobile application caches messages for a user-defined time period after the 'send' button is pressed, enabling users to delete or recall messages within that time frame before they are delivered, with features like a 'curfew' option for further message embargo and confirmation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If messages are sent immediately without delay, then communication speed is improved, but the ability to recall or delete regrettable messages is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by caching the message on the server before actual delivery to the recipient. This preliminary caching phase creates a time window during which the user can still recall or delete the message, thus preserving message recall capability while maintaining relatively fast delivery. The message is prepared and held in cache temporarily, allowing intervention before final delivery occurs.
2Ease of operation
If messages are cached for a predetermined time, then message recall capability is improved, but communication efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by caching only the specific message that the user intends to send, rather than caching all messages or delaying all communications. The cache duration is set to a short predetermined time (e.g., 5-30 seconds), which is excessive enough to allow recall but minimal enough to maintain communication efficiency. This partial caching approach balances message recall capability with communication efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a message delay system is implemented, then message control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary component - a server-based message caching system - that mediates between the user's device and the recipient's device. Instead of implementing complex recall mechanisms directly in the user's mobile device, the intermediary server handles message caching, storage, and controlled release. This intermediary approach enhances message control capabilities while avoiding the need to increase complexity in the end-user devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for using a mobile software application for deleting or recalling unwanted messages on a mobile device before it is delivered to the intended recipient is provided. The software application operates by running on top of the resident messaging application on the mobile device. For example, the application caches the message for specified amount of time and thereby sets a length of delay. The user has the application on the mobile device and the message is composed on the OST application and the application software keeps the message in a buffer for a predetermined amount of time after the user selects to send the message such that if the user regrets sending the message, it can be deleted or recalled before the message leaves the mobile device. Other advantages that are understood from the present disclosure will further be apparent.