Provider Classification for Communication Usage Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems lack effective methods to inform users about the provider classification of incoming communications, leading to unexpected charges or service termination due to unclear usage agreements.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that determine and disclose provider classifications of incoming communications, allowing users to make informed decisions by collecting and presenting metadata related to usage agreements, such as remaining minutes or free services, through a processor or computer program product.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If provider classification information is not disclosed to users, then the system operates with simple communication protocols, but users incur unexpected charges or service termination due to unclear usage agreements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary classification of incoming communications by provider type before the user interacts with the communication. The mobile device determines whether an incoming call is from the same provider, a different provider, or an international provider, and presents this information to the user before the user decides to answer or reject the call. This preliminary action prevents unexpected charges by informing users of potential costs before they incur them.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary classification mechanism that sits between the communication network and the user. The mobile device acts as an intermediary by receiving communication metadata, classifying the provider type, and presenting summarized information to the user. This intermediary layer simplifies the complex provider identification process into user-friendly categories (same provider, different provider, international) without requiring the user to understand underlying communication protocols.
2Ease of operation
If detailed usage agreement metadata is collected and disclosed, then users can make informed decisions about their communication usage, but the system requires complex metadata collection and processing mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the essential and relevant metadata needed for user decision-making from the complete communication metadata set. Instead of presenting all available usage agreement details, the mobile device extracts and displays only the critical elements such as provider classification, remaining minutes for the current provider, and cost implications. This extraction principle simplifies the information presentation while maintaining user control over communication services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by tailoring the metadata presentation to the specific context of each communication event. The system adapts the level of detail and type of information displayed based on the provider classification and user preferences. For example, when a call is from a different provider, the system emphasizes remaining minutes and potential charges, while for same-provider calls, it may show simpler information. This localized information quality optimizes user understanding without overwhelming them with unnecessary complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A user can have a contract with a mobile communication provider such that a limited number of communication minutes can be used overall or a limited number of minutes can be used with other providers. When incoming call identification information is disclosed, additional information can be presented relating to the contract, such as what provider the incoming call uses and how many free minutes the user has with an incoming provider. The user, in determining if the incoming communication should be engaged, can employ the additional information and make an appropriate decision.