US20030224832A1 - Foldable cellular telephone - Google Patents

Abstract

A foldable cellular telephone comprises a first body portion; a first display positioned on the first body portion; a keypad positioned below the first display on the first body portion; a second body portion coupled to the first body portion, the second body portion being movable between a first position and a second position; and a second display positioned on the second body portion.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS
• The present invention relates to U.S. application Ser. No. 10/307,834, entitled A CELLULAR TELEPHONE HAVING A TOUCH SCREEN USER INTERFACE (LF301US), U.S. application Ser. No. 10/307,862, entitled A FOLDABLE WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE FUNCTIONING AS A CELLULAR TELEPHONE AND A PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANT (LF302US), and U.S. application Ser. No. 10/307,601, entitled USER INTERFACE FUNCTIONING AS A CELLULAR TELEPHONE AND A PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANT (LF303US), all filed on Dec. 2, 2002 by the same inventors as the present invention and assigned to the Assignee of the present invention.[0001]
CLAIMS FOR PRIORITY
• Applicants claim priority of U.S. Application Serial No. 60/384,942, entitled METHOD AND APPARATUS OF DISPLAYING INFORMATION ON A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE filed on May 31, 2002, and U.S. Application Serial No. 60/389,814, entitled METHOD AND APPARATUE OF DISPLAYING INFORMATION ON A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE filed on Jun. 19, 2002, both filed by the same inventors as the present invention and assigned to the Assignee of the present invention, the entire applications of which are incorporated by reference.[0002]
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• This disclosure relates generally to wireless communication devices, networks, and services, and more particularly to devices, networks, and methods for displaying information on a wireless communication device.[0003]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• Since the discovery of two-way radios, wireless communications has continuously evolved. Over the last two decades, cellular telephones have become increasingly popular and widely used. As the number of users has increased, the rates for airtime have decreased, further expanding the market of users of cellular telephones. However, the increasing number of users of cellular telephones and the lower rates for services have put financial pressure on wireless service providers. In particular, wireless service providers have had to invest in new networks to increase capacity to handle the additional users, while their profit margins have decreased due to competition leading to reduced rates for service.[0004]
• In order to address capacity and profit margin issues caused by the increased number of subscribers and the reduced margins on services, wireless service providers have adopted digital cellular telephone networks, such as TDMA, CDMA or GSM networks. Such networks not only have enabled more users on a network, but also have enabled additional features, such as email, short messaging service (SMS), enhanced messaging service (EMS), or multimedia messaging service (MMS) messaging, which are well known in the art of cellular communications. More importantly, GPRS, EGDE, CDMA2000 and its derivatives, or other advanced networks have enabled a considerable increase in data or information content provided to wireless communication devices. GPRS is generally a feature of current digital cellular telephone networks that enables an “always-on” service for wireless communication devices. That is, GPRS enables the display of data or information on a cellular telephone instantaneously and continuously in a fashion which is similar to a computer user on the Internet using a T-1 line, which is well known in the art.[0005]
• Similarly, in order to increase the sale of cellular telephones, manufacturers and wireless service providers have been promoting new cellular telephones with color displays, also called color screens. Such new cellular telephones are intended to increase sales both through the sale of phones to new subscribers or replacement phones for existing subscribers. The color displays on the new cellular telephones enable the transfer of new types of data, such as pictures or photographs.[0006]
• However, while such phones are being offered, no user interfaces, networks or services are providing features which can both increase the use of the wireless communication device or increase revenues for service providers. That is, while such improvements as color displays on cellular telephones and new networks such as GPRS or CDMA 2000 and its derivatives exist, conventional cellular telephones and services provided by wireless service providers are significantly deficient in providing new content which is adapted to be displayed by a color display on a cellular telephone or transmitted on an “always-on” network, such as a GPRS network. Similarly, the user interfaces of such conventional cellular telephones are not adapted to display the new content which could be provided to color displays on cellular telephones. More importantly, many parties who enable the provision of content and services to users of wireless communication devices are missing significant revenue opportunities. That is, because of the lack of features for wireless communication devices and services provided by wireless service providers, wireless service providers, content providers, Internet service providers, and others are missing opportunities for generating additional revenue for their content or services.[0007]
• As more people wish to carry a wireless communication device such as cellular telephone with them, there is a greater demand for smaller devices. However, at the same time, there is an increased demand for more content to be provided to users to increase revenue to service providers. With smaller devices, it is becoming increasingly difficult to provide more content to the devices. One significant barrier is the size of the display on current wireless communication devices. Further, the user interfaces currently provided are inadequate for enabling the display of content on a wireless communication device.[0008]
• Accordingly, there is a need for a wireless communication device for displaying a greater amount of content, and methods for displaying a greater amount of content to a wireless communication device.[0009]
• Accordingly, there is a need for an improved wireless communication device for enabling the display of a greater amount of content and features provided on wireless communication networks.[0010]
• There is a further need for improved wireless communication networks for providing a greater amount of content to a user of a wireless communication device.[0011]
• There is a further need for improved wireless communication service features for providing a greater amount of content to user of a wireless communication device.[0012]
• Finally, there is a need for methods of generating revenue for advanced wireless communication networks which provide service to new wireless communication devices, such as cellular telephones having a plurality of displays.[0013]
• Accordingly, there is a need for devices, networks and methods for providing a greater amount of content to a wireless communication device.[0014]
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an alternate embodiment of a wireless communication device according to the present invention[0015]
• FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a wireless communication network according to the present invention;[0016]
• FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an alternate embodiment of a wireless communication network according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0017]
• FIG. 4 is a timing diagram showing the relationship between entities in the wireless communication network of FIG. 3;[0018]
• FIG. 5 is a side view of a wireless communication device according to the present invention;[0019]
• FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 5 according to the present invention;[0020]
• FIG. 7 is a top plan view of an alternate embodiment of the wireless communication device of FIG. 5 according to the present invention;[0021]
• FIG. 8 is a side view of a wireless communication device according to the present invention;[0022]
• FIG. 9 is a side view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 8 when opened according to the present invention;[0023]
• FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 9 according to the present invention;[0024]
• FIG. 11 is a top plan view of an alternate embodiment of the wireless communication device of FIG. 9 according to the present invention;[0025]
• FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a wireless communication device when closed according to the present invention;[0026]
• FIG. 13 is a side view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 12 when open according to the present invention;[0027]
• FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 12 when opened according to the present invention;[0028]
• FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 12 when opened according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0029]
• FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 12 when opened according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0030]
• FIG. 17 is a top plan view of a wireless communication device according to the present invention;[0031]
• FIG. 18 is a side view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 17 when closed according to the present invention;[0032]
• FIG. 19 is a side view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 17 when opened according to the present invention;[0033]
• FIG. 20 is a top plan view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 17 according to the present invention;[0034]
• FIG. 21 is a side view of a wireless communication device of FIG. 20 when opened fully according to the present invention;[0035]
• FIG. 22 is a top plan view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 20 when fully open according to the present invention;[0036]
• FIG. 23 is a top plan view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 21 when closed according to an alternate of the present invention;[0037]
• FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 23 when fully opened according to the present invention;[0038]
• FIG. 25 is a top plan view of the wireless communication device when closed according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0039]
• FIG. 26 is side view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 25 when fully opened according to the present invention;[0040]
• FIG. 27 is top plan view of a wireless communication device of FIG. 25 when fully opened according to the present invention;[0041]
• FIG. 28 is side view of the wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0042]
• FIG. 29 is to plan view of one side of the wireless communication device of FIG. 28 when closed according to the present invention;[0043]
• FIG. 30 is top plan view of the other side of the wireless communication device of FIG. 28 when closed according to the present invention;[0044]
• FIG. 31 is side view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 28 when opened according to the present invention;[0045]
• FIG. 32 is top plan view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 28 when opened according to the present invention;[0046]
• FIG. 33 is front view of the wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0047]
• FIG. 34 is side view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 33 when closed according to the present invention;[0048]
• FIG. 35 is side view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 33 when opened according to the present invention;[0049]
• FIG. 36 is top plan view of the wireless communication device of FIG. 33 when opened according to the present invention;[0050]
• FIG. 37 is a tree diagram showing an example of available content according to the present invention;[0051]
• FIG. 38 is a series of displays showing a user interface according to the present invention;[0052]
• FIG. 39 is a series of displays showing a user interface according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0053]
• FIG. 40 is a series of displays showing a user interface according to an alternate embodiment according to the present invention;[0054]
• FIG. 41 is a series of displays showing a user interface for editing a slide show according to an alternate embodiment according to the present invention;[0055]
• FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing a method of providing a wireless communication device having a plurality of displays according to the present invention;[0056]
• FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing a method of providing a wireless communication device having a plurality of displays according to the present invention;[0057]
• FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing a method of displaying information content according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0058]
• FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing a method of displaying content on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0059]
• FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing a method of displaying content on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0060]
• FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing a method of displaying content on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention according to the present invention;[0061]
• FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing a method of providing a display having multifunction capability according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0062]
• FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing a method of providing separate user interfaces for display according an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0063]
• FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing a method of enabling a user to review information according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0064]
• FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing a method of displaying information on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0065]
• FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing a method of displaying information on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0066]
• FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing a method of saving power when displaying content on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention;[0067]
• FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing a method of enabling remote access for services associated with a wireless communication device according to the present invention; and[0068]
• FIG. 55 is a flowchart showing a method of creating a slide show according to the present invention;[0069]
• FIG. 56 is a flowchart showing a method of customizing content provided to a wireless communication device according to the present invention; and[0070]
• FIG. 57 is a flowchart showing a method of displaying information on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention.[0071]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• The present disclosure provides numerous unique and novel features, user interfaces, services, communication networks, wireless communication devices, and revenue-generating business methods related to providing information and/or picture file content to wireless communication devices. Unlike conventional wireless communication devices, such as cellular telephones or pagers, which rely primarily on the transmission of voice or simple data respectively, the methods and devices of the present disclosure enable the transmission of advanced content to novel wireless communication devices by way of novel wireless communication networks. In particular, the present disclosure describes wireless communication devices, preferably having a plurality of displays including one or more color displays, which display information content, such as picture files, text, or advanced picture content, from a wireless service provider. Advanced picture content refers to the display of one or more picture files using display functions, such as screensavers, slide shows, location-based information, streaming videos, the display of information related to picture files, or both. Picture files means any type of icon, graphic, digital image or photograph, design, background screen, etc., stored in any type of standard or proprietary format, such as JPEG, GIFF, TIFF, etc.. Similarly, the present disclosure describes networks for enabling the transmission of advanced picture content from a wireless communication network to a wireless communication device. More importantly, the devices of the present disclosure preferably include a plurality of displays, or a single display having a plurality of display areas, for separately displaying pictures and other information. The other information could be text information related to the displayed picture, or functions of the wireless communication device. Such text information could include advertisements, coupons, or other promotional information from a vendor. Further, the present disclosure provides new and unique methods for generating revenue by providing advanced picture content to a wireless communication device.[0072]
• One significant advantage of the present inventions is that a user view a picture file as well as other information or functions of the wireless communication device without having to close the picture file or have a portion of the picture file obscured when cursoring through text or other information associated with the picture file. Further, a user of the wireless communication device will become familiar with the location of particular content, such as user interface icons, text or picture files. Also, the methods and devices of the present invention can significantly reduce power consumed by a display of a wireless communication device by placing one or moredisplays of a plurality of displays of a device in a low power mode when only one is in use. While a number of specific embodiments are shown, it is contemplated that a particular feature(s) of one specific embodiment could be incorporated on another embodiment.[0073]
• Turning now to FIG. 1, a block diagram of the[0074]wireless communication device100 is shown. In particular, acontrol circuit102 is coupled to atransmitter104 and to areceiver106. The transmitter and receiver are coupled to anantenna108 for transmitting and receiving RF communication signals, as is well known in the art. Thewireless communication device100 preferably includes a digital signal processor (DSP)/application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)110. The DSP/ASIC110 is coupled to thetransmitter104 and thereceiver106, and is adapted to enable communication of digital signals between thecontrol circuit102 and thetransmitter104 and thereceiver106. Thewireless communication device100 also preferably includes alocal wireless transceiver112. Thelocal wireless transceiver112 could be any low-power local wireless transceiver which would enable short range communication to another device. Thelocal wireless transceiver112 could communicate on any wireless protocol, such as infrared, Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11, or some other local wireless communication protocol. Acommunication port114 is also preferably coupled to thecontrol circuit102 to enable a wired communication link to another device, such as anotherwireless communication device100 or a different device such as a laptop or desktop computer. Thecommunication port114 could enable communication between the devices by way of any wired communication protocol, such as RS-232, or some proprietary protocol.
• A global positioning system (GPS)[0075]Unit116 is also preferably coupled to thecontrol circuit102 to provide location information to the control circuit. That is, theGPS unit114 can provide the location information related to the location of thewireless communication device100, as is well known in the art. Although a GPS unit is shown, any other circuit or software for providing location information of thewireless communication device100 could be employed according to the present disclosure. For example, triangulation using base stations in a wireless communication network, as is well known in the art, could be used to provide less accurate location information related to thewireless communication device100. An application program interface (API)118 is also coupled to thecontrol circuit102 to provide an application interface, as is well known in the art.
• A[0076]memory120 comprising apicture memory121 and aprofile122 is also preferably coupled to the control circuit. As will become apparent in reference to the remaining figures, various data, such as picture files, information data, and other information could be stored in thepicture memory121. Similarly, user data could be stored in theprofile portion122.Memory120 could be incorporated in a single memory device, or a plurality of memory devices, as is well known in the art. In particular, a combination of memory devices, such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random-access memory (RAM), or an EEPROM could be employed, as is well known in the art, depending upon the nature of the information stored in the memory. Although the memory is shown partitioned into apicture memory121 and aprofile portion122, such a partitioning is merely shown by way of example, and the memory could be partitioned in any way.
• Finally, a[0077]user interface123 is coupled to thecontrol circuit102 to enable a user of thewireless communication device100 to transmit and receive information with a device by way of a communication network. In particular, akeypad123 is coupled to thecontrol circuit102 to enable entry of information which can be provided by way of adisplay driver126 to adisplay128, adisplay129, or adisplay130 of theuser interface123. The keypad could be a numeric keypad having alphanumeric-entry capability, or could be a full QWERTY keypad for easier entry of alphanumeric characters. As will be described in more detail in reference to other figures, the displays could be positioned at different locations on the wireless communication device. The displays could all be color displays, black and white displays, or a combination of color and black and white. The displays preferably comprise full color liquid crystal displays (LCDs). The displays could be used for displaying information including pictures, text, icons, functional icons, etc. stored in the wireless communication device, downloaded from a wireless communication network, or viewed or captured by thedigital camera142. The displays could also have a predetermined function, such as displaying text, picture files or a user interface and its associated functional icons. Finally, the displays could represent portions of a single display dedicated to one or more particular functions.
• The user interfaces further comprises[0078]audio circuitry134, which includes amicrophone136 and aspeaker138. Thecontrol circuit102 andaudio circuit134 also preferably enable voice-activated communication, including voice recognition communication as well as speakerphone capability. Such voice recognition circuitry and/or software could be employed in the wireless communication device or at the service provider. Finally, a memory card125, such as a compact flash card or multimedia memory card, would enable the storage of one or more picture files or other information taken by adigital camera142 having a lens on the camera or stored in thememory120, or provided to controlcircuit102 for display or downloaded to thememory120 for later display. Although an exemplarywireless communication device100 is shown, the features and functions of thewireless communication device100 could be employed in other functional arrangements, or by other functional blocks which are well known in the art. Thewireless communication device100 as shown in FIG. 1 is merely an exemplary device showing the fundamental features of a wireless communication device employing the features and functions described in the present disclosure.
• Turning now to FIG. 2, a block diagram shows a wireless communication network according to the present disclosure. In particular, the[0079]wireless communication network200 comprises awireless service provider202.Wireless service provider202 preferably comprises aservice provider server204, which is coupled to awireless communication network206 by way of acommunication link208. Theservice provider server204 could be operated by the same entity and on the same premises as thewireless communication network206, or could be separate from thewireless communication network206. For example, thewireless service provider202 could be any cellular telephone service provider, personal communications services (PCS) service provider, or some other wireless service provider, which provides both thewireless communication network206 having the base stations and telecommunication equipment (which are well known in the art to enable the transmission of RF communication signals on a wireless communication network), as well as theservice provider server204 having the necessary servers to enable the features and services of the present disclosure. Alternatively, the service provider servers could be provided by a separate entity from awireless communication network206 according to the present disclosure.
• In addition to communicating with the[0080]landline communication network230, which could enable communication with acommunication device240, such as a laptop or desktop computer having adisplay242 and akeyboard244 by way of acommunication link246, thewireless service provider202 communicates with wireless communication devices, such as thewireless communication device100, by way of acommunication link250. For purposes of this disclosure, a wireless communication device is any portable radio frequency (RF) communication device enabling bidirectional communication, such as a cellular telephone, pager, or combined cellular telephone/personal digital assistant. Because such devices are easily transportable and accessible by a user in any situation, a user can frequently and conveniently benefit from the advanced picture content or other information. In the category of wireless communication devices, such devices could be separated into wireless data communication devices, such as pagers, wireless voice communication devices, such as cellular telephones, or wireless voice/data communication devices, which are the most common and include, for example, digital cellular telephones, PCS telephones or other wireless telephony devices having data capabilities, such as email, SMS, EMS or MMS. In contrast, portable or laptop computers that can be adapted to enable wireless communication or PDAs that merely receive wireless data, would not be considered wireless communication devices, but rather portable computers.
• Further, the[0081]wireless service provider202 could communicate with such as aportable computer252, having a display and keypad, by way of acommunication link254, and thewireless communication device100 could communicate by acommunication link260.Communication link260 could be, for example, a wired connection, such as a standard RS-232 connection, or some other wired protocol, or a wireless connection, such as a local area network connection or a wide area network connection. The local area network connection could be, for example, a Bluetooth connection, an IEEE 802.11 connection, an infrared connection, or some other low-power, wireless local connection. Similarly, thewireless communication device100 can communicate with a landline networked computer by way of acommunication link262. Thecommunication link262 could also be such a wired or wireless connection ascommunication link260. Alternatively, the landlinenetworked computer240 could communicate with thewireless communication device100 by way of thecommunication link246 to the landline telecom network230 and thewireless communication network204. Finally, a secondwireless communication device256, similar or identical towireless communication device100, could communicate with any other device in thewireless communication network200, including thewireless communication device100, by way of awireless communication link258, or any other similar communication link shown with respect towireless communication device100. As will become apparent in reference to the remaining figures, the elements of thewireless communication network200 can be used to implement many of the features, services, user interfaces, and other aspects of the present disclosure.
• Turning now to FIG. 3, a wireless communication network having a number of elements which implement features or provide services according an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown. In particular, a[0082]wireless service provider302 communicates with acontent provider304 to receive content. Thecontent provider304 could provide any type of content, such as news, weather, sports, points of interest, location-based content, or any other variety of content which thewireless service provider602 could provide to its subscribers by way of thewireless communication device100. Thecontent provider304 could also communicate with an internet service provider (ISP)306 to provide content to adevice100 by way of thecommunication device240. Alternatively, thewireless service provider302 could communicate directly with an Internet service provider to provide information to thewireless communication device100. Finally, thewireless service provider302 could communicate directly with anadvertiser308, or indirectly with theadvertiser308 by way of anadvertising agency310. Theadvertiser308 oradvertising agency310 could provide advertisements to thewireless service provider302, which could in turn be provided to thewireless communication device100 or thecommunication device244, according to methods, features, or services of the present disclosure.
• Turning now to FIG. 4, a timing diagram shows an example of a business method for enabling the communication of content, such as advanced picture content to a[0083]wireless communication device100. In particular, an end user of the wireless communication device enters into a contract or other arrangement for the provision of services with thewireless service provider302 at astep402. The wireless service provider also enters into a contract or other provisioning arrangement with anadvertising agency310 at astep404. The advertising agency also enters into an agreement with anadvertiser308 at astep406. Theadvertiser308 preferably provides advertisement to theadvertising agency310 at astep408. The advertising agency in turn provides the advertisements to thewireless service provider302 at astep410.
• The user of the[0084]wireless communication device100 then communicates with thewireless service provider302 at astep412. For example, the user of the wireless communication device could request certain services which require either content from thecontent provider304 or aninternet service provider306, or agree to receive advertisements from eitheradvertiser308 oradvertising agency310 as compensation for also receiving information or advanced picture content at astep412. Accordingly, the wireless service provider provides content and/or advertisement to thewireless communication device100 at astep414.
• As will be described in more detail in reference to the remaining figures, the user can then access additional information or purchase a product from the[0085]advertiser306 at astep416. In response to the request from the end user, theadvertiser308 provider information and/or products to the end user at astep418. The advertiser then provides the advertising agency with a percentage of revenue generated at astep420, and theadvertising agency310 provides a percentage of revenue generated to the wireless service provider at astep422. Although the various steps are shown in a particular order, the order of the various steps could vary as should be apparent. Similarly, steps could be omitted or equivalent transactions as to those shown could be employed according to the present disclosure.
• Turning now to FIGS.[0086]5-7, one embodiment of a wireless communication device according to the present disclosure is shown. In particular, afront housing502 and arear housing504 generally contain thewireless communication device100. Abattery506 is coupled to the housings to power the wireless communication device. Auser interface actuator508, which will be described in more detail in reference to other figures, and akeypad510 are also shown. This user interface actuator is shown as a multifunction dial, such a Jog Dial™ actuator from Sony Corporation commonly provided on their cellular telephones. However, other multifunction actuators disclosed in this application or known in the art could be employed according to the present invention. It will be understood that components or features of the various embodiments can be interchanged as desired. An eject key512 enables the ejection of a memory device, such as memory device125, from a user accessible slot415. Finally, alens516 is shown on the back of the wireless communication device.
• As can be seen in the top plan view of FIG. 6, a[0087]first display602 is shown above the keypad. Thefirst display602 could be used for displaying text or other information. Asecond display604, which could be a color liquid crystal display (LCD), is also shown.Keypad510 comprises auser interface keypad606 having a plurality of user interface actuator keys, and a conventionalnumeric keypad608. The user interface actuator keys could be hard keys (i.e. having predetermined functions which may be printed on the key) or soft keys (i.e. where the function of the key is displayed above the key in the display and changes).
• The user interface comprising the[0088]user interface actuator508 andkeypad606 can be used in conjunction with each other, as well an optional touchscreen feature of thedisplays602 and604. As will be described in more detail in reference to other figures, the user interface comprising theuser interface actuator508 andkeypad606 can be used to control the content ofscreen602 and604, either directly or indirectly. For example, by enabling the selection of features or functions in thedisplay602, the user may affect the content displayed indisplay604. Also shown on the housing of the wireless communication device is apower key610, aspeaker612, and amicrophone614. Also shown in FIG. 7 is astylus702 for enabling a touch-screen display, as will be described in reference to remaining figures. Finally, the embodiment of FIG. 7 shows theuser interface actuator508 positioned near the top of the phone to be used to controldisplay604, alternatively to directly control the content ofdisplay604.
• One particular application of the wireless communication devices having a plurality of displays according to the present invention is the downloading of content having one or more picture files from a wireless communication network, and separately displaying the picture file on one display, and information related to the picture file on another display. Alternatively, the wireless communication devices of the present invention could be used as a digital camera, where one display could be used as a view finder or for displaying a picture that had been taken, while the other display could be used to (i) control the functions of the camera, or (ii) enter text related to the picture to store with the picture, or include in a MMS message text to be displayed as a part of a screen saver or slide show. Although two displays are shown, the wireless communication devices and methods could also employ a single display which is partitioned by function, as will be shown in later embodiments. For example, a single display could have a first predetermined portion to display text or icons associated with various functions of the device, while a second portion could be used for the display of pictures. Such an alternate embodiment would enjoy the benefits of the present invention, such as power saving, where a portion of the display could be deactivated or placed in low power mode to reduce battery consumption.[0089]
• Turning now to FIGS.[0090]8-11, an alternate embodiment of the wireless communication device of the present disclosure is shown. The wireless communication device of FIG. 8 generally comprises anupper portion802 which is coupled to alower portion804 by ahinge806. Auser interface actuator808 enables the selection of content on the wireless communication device. Theuser interface actuator808 could be any type of multifunction switch, such as a plurality of buttons enabling cursoring up and down and selection, a dial type switch, which is rotatable and pressable, or the like enabling a user to rotate through a menu and select an entry of the menu by pressing the dial. The wireless communication device also preferably includes aneject key812 to eject a memory device from aslot814 and abattery816. Finally, alens818 for an embedded digital camera is shown.
• As shown in FIG. 9, when the wireless communication device is opened, and the upper portion is moved to a second position, a[0091]keypad902 is exposed. Also shown in FIG. 10, afirst display1002 and a second display10004. The embodiment of FIGS.8-10 preferably includes auser interface keypad1006 having a plurality of user interface actuator keys, and aconventional numerice keypad1008. Alternatively, thefirst display1002 and/or the second display could be a touch screen display. Finally, the wireless communication device also preferably includes apower key1010, amicrophone1012, and aspeaker1014.
• Finally, as shown in FIG. 11, an alternate embodiment of the wireless communication device includes a touch-[0092]screen display1102 on a lower housing, and astylus1104 for actuating the touch-screen display. As can be seen in FIG. 11, the use of a display substantially covering theupper housing1004, and the touch-screen display1102 covering a substantial portion of thelower housing804. An area for displayingtext1106, and userinterface actuator keypad1108 and conventional alphanumeric keypad1110 are shown in dashed lines to indicate that they are currently present, but could be replaced, depending upon the selection by a user. Although theupper portion802 and thelower portion804 of the wireless communication device in this and other embodiments of “foldable” or “clamshell” phones described herein are shown in parallel planes when open, the portions could be moved to an angle with respect to one another to enable a more ergodynamic arrangement when used for voice telephony.
• Turning now to FIGS.[0093]12-16, an alternate embodiment of a wireless communication device of the present disclosure is shown. In particular, the wireless communication device comprises alower housing1202 coupled to anupper housing1204 having alens1206 by ahinge1208. Alternatively, the area occupied by the lens could be left open, wherein the open area exposes the display, and optionally surrounds a raised display. Finally, aspeaker1214, and amicrophone1212 are included As shown in this and other embodiments of foldable phones, the microphone and speaker are preferably exposed when in the closed position to enable audio content to be received from or provided to a user, depending upon the application. The speaker, such a speaker used in a device enabling handsfree communication, is therefore capable of a providing audio related to content shown in the display through thelens1206 to a user who may be holding the device at arms length.
• As shown in FIG. 13, when the[0094]upper housing1204 is moved to a second position, akeypad1302 is exposed. Also visible in the side view of FIG. 13 is auser interface actuator1304 comprising up and down keys for cursoring and a “select” key in the center. The wireless communication device also preferably includes an eject key1306 to eject a memory device from aslot1308, and abattery1310.
• As shown in FIG. 14, a[0095]first display1402 on the lower housing and asecond display1404 on the upper housing is visible. Auser interface keypad1406 having a plurality of user interface actuator keys and a conventionalnumeric keypad1408 are provided on the lower housing. The userinterface actuator keypad1406 is available, alone or in conjunction withuser interface actuator1304 to control thedisplay1402 and/ordisplay1404 when the wireless communication device is opened. Also shown on the housing of the wireless communication device is apower key1410. Asecond speaker1418 adapted to provide audio directly to the ear could be provided to enable a conventional voice call.
• Finally, as shown in FIG. 15, the user[0096]interface actuator keypad1406 could be positioned at the bottom of the lower housing. The positioning of the userinterface actuator keypad1406 would preferably be accessible when the device is closed to enable, alone or in combination withuser interface actuator1304, the selection of information on thefirst display1402 through thetransparent lens1206. Finally, as shown in FIG. 16, atouch screen display1601 having an area for displayingtext1602, and userinterface actuator keypad1606 and conventionalalphanumeric keypad1608 are shown in dashed lines to indicate that they are currently present, but could be replaced, depending upon the selection by a user.
• Turning now to the embodiments of FIGS.[0097]17-26, alternate embodiments of a wireless communication device a rubber keypad/touch-screen design according to the present disclosure are shown. In particular, amain housing portion1702 comprises afirst display1704. Akeypad portion1706 preferably has auser interface keypad1708 and a conventionalnumeric keypad1710. The keys are preferably rubberized, flexible keys which are movably attached to the keypad portion and, when pressed, extend to a touch-screen below (shown in FIG. 19) to actuate the touch-screen. Thekeypad portion1706 is coupled to themain housing1702 by ahinge1712 and is movable with respect to the main housing. Auser interface actuator1714 positioned on the side of the wireless communication device enables easy thumb operation of the user interface. Finally, aspeaker1716, and amicrophone1718 are positioned on the housing of the wireless communication device.
• As shown in FIG. 18, the wireless communication device also preferably includes an eject key[0098]1802 to eject a memory device from aslot1804 and abattery1806. Finally, alens1808 is positioned on thehousing1702 to enable digital photography. When thekeypad portion1706 is moved to an open position, asecond display1902 is exposed. Auser interface keypad1904 is also optionally disposed below thedisplay1902, and can be used, alone or in conjunction withuser interface actuator1704 to controldisplay1904 and/ordisplay1702. According to one embodiment,user interface actuator1714 could control thedisplay1704, while theuser interface keypad1904 could control the display ofdisplay1902. Also shown in FIG. 19 is apower key1908.
• As shown in the embodiment of FIGS.[0099]20-22, the wireless communication device is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 17 except that asingle display2002 is employed. Aspecial hinge2004 enables movement of the keypad portion from the front of the device to behind the device as shown in FIG. 21. When thekeypad element1706 is moved to a position behind themain housing1702, the entire display is exposed as shown in FIG. 22. The display is preferably a touch screen display and preferably could function as a PDA or a wireless communication device. As shown in the embodiment of FIGS.23-24, eitheruser interface keypad1708 or2402 is exposed when the keypad is covering the display or behind the device.
• As shown in the embodiment of FIGS.[0100]25-27, an alternate embodiment of the wireless communication device having a “swivel” display is shown. The wireless communication device has ascreen portion2502, which is coupled to amain body portion2504 by ahinge element2506. The screen portion includes adisplay2508, which could be a touch screen display, and enable operation of the device as a PDA when closed as shown in FIG. 25. The device preferably includes userinterface actuator keys2510 below the screen and anotheruser interface actuator2513 on the side of the device. Also shown on the housing of the wireless communication device is amicrophone2512, and apower key2514. Aspeaker2514 could be incorporated in thehinge element2506 or position adjacent the hinge element at the top of the screen portion.
• When the[0101]screen portion2502 is swivled clockwise or counterclockwise with respect to the main body portion as shown in FIG. 25, the device can be opened as shown in FIG. 26. Theactuator keys2510 are preferably recessed to prevent any interference when the screen portion is swivled. Also shown in the side view of FIG. 26 is akaypad2602, aneject key2604 to eject a memory device from aslot2606, and abattery2610. Alens2612 is positioned on the back of themain body2504. Finally, as shown in FIG. 27, asecond display2702 is visible above akeypad2704.
• Turning now to FIGS.[0102]28-32, an alternate embodiment of a wireless communication device of the present disclosure is shown. According to a unique feature of the present embodiment, both displays are visible both when opened and closed, and can operate separately, and have separate and independent functions when closed, or operate together when opened. However, it will be understood that the hardware and/or software for the two portions of the device could physically reside together in one portion. The wireless communication device comprises afirst portion2802 and asecond portion2804 coupled together by a hinge. The wireless communication device also preferably includes akeypad2808, auser interface actuator2810, aneject key2811 to eject a memory device from aslot2812, and abattery2814. As shown in the front view of the device,display2902 is exposed above auser interface keypad2904 and anumeric keypad2906. Also shown on the housing of the wireless communication device is apower key2908, amicrophone2910, and aspeaker2912. Having an internal antenna, thefirst portion2802 enables operation of the device as a cellular telephone. However, as shown in back view of the device in FIG. 30, asecond display3002 and auser interface keypad3004 enables operation of the device as a PDA. However, when the device is “opened,” thedisplay3002 can be used to display additional content, such as picture files, along with associated information in thefirst display2902 as described herein.
• Turning now to FIGS.[0103]33-36, an alternate embodiment of a wireless communication device of the present disclosure is shown. In particular, the wireless communication device comprises alower housing3302 coupled to anupper housing3304 having adisplay3306 by ahinge3308, as shown in FIG. 33. The display could be a conventional display for displaying caller ID information, or could be a color display which could be used as a viewfinder for a digital camera embodied in or coupled to the wireless communication device. Auser interface actuator3310 is also visible on the side of the wireless communication device. Finally, amicrophone3312 and aspeaker3314 are included. As shown in the side view in FIG. 34 is abattery3404, aneject key3406 to eject a memory device from aslot3408, and alens3410.
• As shown in the side view of FIG. 35, a[0104]keypad3502 is visible. As shown in plan view of FIG. 36, asecond display3602 on the upper housing and athird display3604 on the lower housing are visible. Auser interface keypad3606 having a plurality of user interface actuator keys and a conventionalnumeric keypad3608 are provided on the lower housing. The userinterface actuator keypad3606 is available, alone or in conjunction withuser interface actuator3310 to control thedisplay3602 when the wireless communication device is opened. Also shown on the housing of the wireless communication device is apower key3610. Asecond speaker3618 adapted to provide audio directly to the ear could be provided to enable a conventional voice call.
• Turning now to FIG. 37, a flowchart shows a portion of a user menu for a wireless communication device. In particular, as can be seen in the flowchart, conventional features or options of a wireless communication device can be accessed by a user interface. Further, advanced content, such as multimedia content, can also be accessed. It will be understood that the aspects of the user interface could be incorporated with other features of a wireless communication device, and conversely, that the specific applications and features related to multimedia could be incorporated in any wireless communication device having any other user interface or menu structure. The various options for multimedia, and the categories which can be selected are shown by way of example, and are not intended to be an exclusive or comprehensive list. The multimedia options and associated categories are merely provided by way of example, and for purposes of showing applications of the user interface of the present invention in FIGS.[0105]34-37.
• Turning now to FIG. 38, a pair of displays which are simultaneously visible and an associated user interface are shown. The displays and user interface are representative of displays and a user interface which could be incorporated in any of the wireless communication devices described previously. Further, while two separate displays are shown, the features of the user interface described in FIGS.[0106]38-41 could be incorporated in a device having a single display which is partitioned to include two portions, as shown for example in some embodiments of the wireless communication devices described herein. Further, while reference is made to a top display and a bottom display, the display arrangement and user interface could be arranged with the displays as shown switched. Finally, while a multifunction dial or soft keys are shown in some of the embodiments, other user interface actuators could be employed. For example, a rocker switch or a plurality of three keys which would also enable cursoring up or down for selection could be used in place of the dial. Similarly, hard keys with dedicated functions could be used in place of the soft keys shown. Also, the four keys cold be arranged in some other orientation, such as on the sides of a square, or a “joystick” which can be found on phones from Ericsson, Inc. could perform all or some of the function of the four keys as shown.
• As shown in FIG. 38-A, a standby screen is displayed in the top display, while a portion of a multimedia menu is displayed in the bottom display. In this example, a user has selected multimedia, and is cursoring through the options including slideshow, news, and e-mail using, for example, a dial on the side of the device as shown and described with respect to the wireless communication devices in the embodiments of FIGS.[0107]5-36. As the user cursors through the options, such as the options shown in FIG. 37, the current option, such as NEWS in this case, is highlighted. Depending on the option highlighted, various options are displayed above the soft keys which could be selected by the user. The softkeys below the bottom display could correspond to the user interface actuator keys shown and described with respect to the wireless communication devices in the embodiments of FIGS.5-36. For example, the user also has options of returning to a home or main menu, selecting a particular option, or requesting an update of the information. Preferably, a graphic related to the current option is also displayed in the upper display. The graphic would change as the user cursors through the options The options could then be chosen by use of the dial. For example, the user could depress the dial inward to select news.
• As shown in FIG. 38-B, when the news option is selected, additional options for news such as world news or national news are shown shown. When the dial is positioned on world news, the world news graphic is preferably displayed in the top display. If the user selects world news, a first headline and information is provided in the bottom display, while an associated picture is displayed in the top display as shown in FIG. 38-C. The dial can be used to cursor through the information provided in the bottom display to view all the information while the actuator keys at the bottom of the bottom display enable the user to select additional headlines. For example, previous or next headlines could be selected. Alternatively, the user could select next picture if additional pictures are available within a particular headline. Finally, when a user advances the next picture to the last picture as shown in FIG. 38-D, the user interface enables the user to select a save option to save the headline and associated pictures.[0108]
• As shown in the alternate embodiment of FIG. 39, a touch screen for the bottom display could enable a user to select the options, while a touch screen feature in the top display could enable the advancing through content shown in the top display. Similarly, as shown in the alternate embodiment of FIG. 40, touch screens could be employed exclusively on both displays. According to another alternate embodiment, the features of the user interface could be employed on a single display. In particular, a text area at the bottom of the display is accessible by a plurality of soft keys below the display, while a touch-screen actuator enables the cursoring through a plurality of pictures or a video. According to a further alternate embodiment, a dial could be employed to cursor through content on the top display or top portion of a single display.[0109]
• Turning now to FIG. 41, a specific embodiment of a user interface which is for creating a slide show is shown. In particular, the user can select an edit function of slide show feature, as shown in FIG. 41-A. The user can then select a particular slide show, such as a vacation slide show, as shown in FIG. 41-B. When a picture associated with the slide show is displayed, the user can enter text associated with the picture. For example, the user can select a “Text” option, and enter text using, for example, the keypad on the wireless communication device. Alternatively, the user could select a Speech option and verbally provide the information which will appear as text in the display and stored with the slide show. Speech-to-text (STT) software, which is well known in the art could be employed either in the wireless communication device or the network to convert the user speech to text. Preferably, a user can select a color for text which would be displayed on a device receiving the message if the device is a color display. For example, the user could select, in an option menu or on display, that the text will be in the color red. The text would then appear in red when the text message is composed or displayed when received by another device. Alternatively, the user's speech could be stored as a voice file to be stored with the slide show and replayed when shown or transmitted to another user. Although the example of FIG. 41 uses a screen saver, the methods described be used to create any multimedia, such as a screen saver.[0110]
• Turning now to FIGS.[0111]42-57, flow charts show methods of displaying information on a wireless communication device as described herein or another suitable wireless communication device, Referring specifically to FIG. 42, a flowchart shows a method of providing a wireless communication device having a plurality of displays according to the present disclosure. A user obtains service from a service provider at astep4202. The user subscribes to receive information content in astep4204. The service provider downloads information content to the user at astep4206. It is then determined whether the user has selected information content on a wireless communication device at astep4208. If so, text is displayed on a first display at astep4210. A picture file related to the text, if available, is displayed on a second display at astep4212. It is then determined whether additional information content is available at astep4214. If so, another picture file and associated information is displayed at astep4216. It is then determined whether more information is desired at astep4218. If so, additional information is displayed at astep4220. Finally, it is determined whether the information being viewed is desired to be saved at astep4222. If so, the information is saved according to predetermined preferences at astep4224. The user can receive more information or save information according to the methods described in U.S. Application Serial No. 60/378,631, entitled METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING INFORMATION TO A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE (LF200A—Express Mail No.: EU281037834US) filed by the inventors of the present invention and assigned to the same assignee as the present invention, the entire application of which is incorporated by reference.
• Turning now to FIG. 43 a flowchart shows a method of providing a wireless communication device having a plurality of displays according to the present disclosure. A user obtains service from a service provider at a[0112]step4302. The user subscribes to receive information content in astep4304. The service provider downloads information content to the user at astep4306. It is then determined whether the user has selected information content on a wireless communication device at astep4308. If so, text is displayed on a first portion of a display at astep4310. A picture file related to the text, if available, is displayed on a second portion of a display at astep4312. It is then determined whether additional information content is available at astep4314. If so, another picture file and associated information is displayed at astep4316. It is then determined whether more information is desired at astep4318. If so, additional information is displayed at astep4320. Finally, it is determined whether the information being viewed is desired to be saved at astep4322. If so, the information is saved according to predetermined preferences at astep4324.
• Turning now to FIG. 44, a flowchart shows a method of displaying information content according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. A user obtains service from a service provider at a[0113]step4402. The user subscribes to receive information content at astep4404. The service provider downloads text, or a portion of text, of the information content which can be viewed by a user at astep4406. It is then determined whether the user has selected information content at astep4408. If so, the service provider downloads the entire text and/or picture file(s) associated with the information content at astep4410. The information content and associated picture file is then displayed on the wireless communication device at astep4412. It is then determined whether additional information content is selected at astep4414. By only downloading a portion of the data, the network will not become overloaded and a user's device will not have memory capacity problems from undesired content.
• Turning now to FIG. 45, a flowchart shows a method of displaying content on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular, a wireless communication device is provided having a movable element coupled to a body by a hinge at a[0114]step4502. A first display is covered when the movable element is closed at astep4504. A second display is also covered when the movable portion is closed at astep4506. A user is then able to access the first display by the first user interface at astep4508. The first and second displays are then exposed when the movable element of the wireless communication device is opened in astep4510. The first user interface remains exposed when the movable element is opened at astep4512. The selection of content on the first display by way of the first user interface is enabled at astep4514. Finally, information related to the selection of content is then displayed on a second display in astep4516.
• Turning now to FIG. 46, a flowchart shows a method of displaying content on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular, a wireless communication device is provided having a movable element coupled to a body by a hinge at a[0115]step4602. A first display is exposed when the movable portion is closed at astep4604. A first user interface is also provided when the movable portion is closed at astep4606. A user is then able to access the first display by the first user interface at astep4608. A second display is then exposed when the movable portion of the wireless communication device is opened in astep4610. The first user interface remains exposed when the movable portion is opened at astep4612. The selection of content on the first display by way of the first user interface is enabled at astep4614. Finally, information related to the selection of content is then displayed on a second display in astep4616.
• Turning now to FIG. 47, a method of displaying information according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. A wireless communication device having a movable element coupled to a body is provided at a[0116]step4702. A first display is exposed when the device is closed at astep4704. A first user interface associated with the first display is exposed at astep4706. The user is able to select content on the first display by way of the first user interface at astep4708. The user can then display information related to the selection of content on the first display at astep4710. A second display is exposed when the device is closed at astep4712. A second user interface associated with the second display is exposed at astep4714. The user is able to select content on the second display by way of the second user interface at astep4716. The user can then display information related to the selection of content on the second display at astep4718. The user can open the device at astep4720, exposing the first and second displays at astep4722.
• Turning now to FIG. 48, a flowchart shows a method of providing a display having multifunction capability according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. A user obtains service from a service provider at a[0117]step4802. The user subscribes to receive information content in astep4804. A user interface is provided on a first screen at astep4806. A user accesses on the first screen categories of information available to be displayed at astep4808. The user then selects a content category by way of the user interface on the first display at astep4810. Information related to the content is then displayed on the first display at astep4812. Finally, content related to the information displayed on the first display is preferably displayed on a second display at astep4814. Accordingly, the first display can function both as a user interface to access content, and a display to display information.
• Turning now to FIG. 49, a flowchart shows a method of providing separate user interfaces for display according an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular, a user obtains service from a service provider at a[0118]step4902. The user subscribes to receive information content at astep4904. The user selects a category of information to be displayed at astep4906. A first portion of the information is displayed on a first display at astep4908. The first portion of information can then be reviewed with a first user interface at astep4910. A second portion of information is then displayed on a second display at astep4912. The second portion of information can be reviewed with a second user interface at astep4914.
• Turning now to FIG. 50, a flowchart shows a method of enabling a user to review information according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. A user obtains service from a service provider at a[0119]step5002. The user subscribes to receive information content at astep5004. The service provider downloads text of information content to a user at astep5006. The user selects a category of information to be displayed at astep5008. A first portion of information is displayed on a first display at astep5010. A picture file related to the first information is displayed on a second display at astep5012. The user then cursors through information on the first display while maintaining the picture file on a second display at astep5014.
• Turning now to FIG. 51, a flowchart shows a method of displaying information on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. A user obtains service from a service provider at a[0120]step5102. The user subscribes to receive information content at astep5104. The service provider downloads text of information content to a user at astep5106. The user selects a category of information to be displayed at astep5108. A first portion of information is displayed on a first display at astep5110. In particular, a user cursors through first information using a first element of a user interface associated with the first display at a step51. The user selects an option on the first display using a second element of a user interface at astep5114. Information displayed on the second display is then changed at astep5116.
• Turning now to FIG. 52, a flowchart shows a method of displaying information on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular, a wireless communication device having a first display and a first user interface exposed when the wireless communication device is closed is shown at a[0121]step5202. The first user interface enables a user to change the content of the first display at astep5204. The first portion of the wireless communication device having the display is rotated to a second position at astep5206. The first display and the second display are then viewable at astep5208. Finally, the first user interface enables a user to change the information displayed on the second display at astep5210.
• Turning now to FIG. 53, a flowchart shows a method of saving power when displaying content on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. A user obtains service from a service provider at a[0122]step5302. The user subscribes to receive information content at astep5304. The user accesses categories of information on the first screen of a wireless communication device at astep5306. A second display of the wireless communication device remains in standby at astep5308. Standby could be a blank screen or a low power operation of a display, such as displaying a standby screen in low brightness. The user then selects content having a related picture file at astep5310. The picture file is then displayed on a second display at astep5312. It is then determined whether the user is finished displaying the picture file at astep5314. If so, the second display is returned to the low power, standby mode at astep5316.
• Turning now to FIG. 54, a flowchart shows a method of enabling a user to set or change options associated with service provided by the wireless service provider from a remote location. The user obtains service from a service provider at a[0123]step5402. The user is provided with a log-in control webpage on the service provider's website at astep5404. For example, the user would be required to provide a user name and PIN to access the webpage associated with the service. If the user had entered the proper log-in information at astep5406, the user account information is provided on a computer at astep5408. It is then determined whether the user desires to access account information at astep5410. If so, the user selects an account information category, such as the features or content available and shown in FIG. 37. The user then accesses information or changes settings as desired at astep5414. It is then determined whether the user desires to synchronize any changes with the wireless communication device at astep5416. If so, the information is synchronized according to predetermined preferences at astep5418. Such synchronization can be found in the application serial No. 60/378,631. Information is then displayed according to user preferences at astep5420.
• Turning now to FIG. 55, a flow chart shows a method of creating a slide show on a wireless communication device according to the present invention. In particular, a user enters an option menu associated with the wireless communication device at a[0124]step5502. The user then selects a slide show program at astep5504. The user then opens an existing slide show file or creates a new slide show file and saves a picture file to the new slide show at astep5506. The user then preferably enters information associated with a new picture file at astep5507. As shown in FIG. 41, the user can enter text manually using the keyboard, or using speech-to-text software. It is then determined whether additional picture files and information are intended to be stored at astep5508. If not, the new slide show file is then saved at astep5510. It is then determined whether the user desires to send the slide show at astep5512. If so, the slide show is then transmitted to another device at astep5514. The slide show could be sent by way of any of the communication links, such as any of the communication links from thewireless communication device100 to any other device of FIG. 2.
• For example, the new slide show could be transmitted from the[0125]wireless communication device100 to thewireless communication device256 by way of the wireless communication network. Assuming that thewireless communication device100 is capable of displaying a slide show, the wireless communication device could open the slide show and display it on its display or plurality of displays. Thewireless communication device100 could then save the new slide show, or synchronize with its web page for saving at a different location. Similarly, a slide show could be created on a users website and coupled to a wireless communication device by way of any communication link of FIG. 2.
• Turning now to FIG. 56, a flow chart shows a method of customizing information content received by a wireless communication device according to the present invention. In particular, a user obtains information content service from a service provider at[0126]step5602. The user then select a category of information to be received at astep5604. The category of information could be associated with any advance picture content service, such as a screen saver, a slide show, location based information, or some other advance picture content feature. The user then enters or selects a subcategory of information to be received at astep5606. The user may then enter key words of interest of information to be received at astep5608. The user may then enter geographic location of information to be received at astep5610. Finally, the user enters the type of information to be received at astep5612. The user then receives the information with advance picture content feature based upon the entered information at astep5614.
• For example, the user may select a category of news, having a subcategory of local news, having a key word of interest being “politics”. The user may then enter a geographic location of a certain city of interest, and enter the type of information such as “news articles” to be received. The entries could be manually entered by the user, or accessed from a pull-down menu of options established by the service provider. Accordingly, a user can tailor the information which is received for any one of the advanced picture content features, which may also enable an advertiser to provide better targeted advertisements. The customizing of information could be performed on the wireless communication device or a webpage accessible by the user and associated with the user's service,[0127]
• Turning now to FIG. 57, a flowchart shows a method of displaying content on a wireless communication device according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular, a wireless communication device is provided having a movable element coupled to a body by a hinge at a[0128]step5702. A first display is exposed when the movable portion is closed at astep5704. A first user interface is also provided when the movable portion is closed at astep5706. A user is then able to access the first display by the first user interface at astep5708. A second display is then exposed when the movable portion of the wireless communication device is opened in astep5710. A third display is also simultaneously exposed when the movable portion is opened at astep5712. The selection of content on the second display by way of the first user interface is enabled at astep5714. Finally, information, such as a picture file related to the selection of content, is then displayed on the third display in astep5716.
• In summary, the present disclosure relates to a foldable wireless communication device functioning as a cellular telephone and a personal digital assistant. The foregoing discussion of the invention has been presented for purpose of illustration and description. Further, the description is not to limit the invention to the form disclosed herein. Consequently, variations and modifications commensurate with the above teachings within the skill and knowledge of the relevant art, are within the scope of the present invention. The embodiments discussed hereinabove are further intended to explain the best mode known of the invention and to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention in such, or in other, embodiments and with the various modification required by their application or uses of the invention. It is intended that the any claims to an invention be constructed to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.[0129]

Claims (20)

We claim:

1. A foldable cellular telephone comprising:

a first body portion;

a first display positioned on said first body portion;

a keypad positioned below said first display on said first body portion;

a second body portion coupled to said first body portion, said second body portion being movable between a first position and a second position; and

a second display positioned on said second body portion.

2. The wireless communication device ofclaim 1 further comprising a third display.

3. The wireless communication device ofclaim 2 wherein said third display is visible when said second body portion is in a closed position.

4. The wireless communication device ofclaim 3 wherein said third display provides caller ID information.

5. The wireless communication device ofclaim 1 further comprising a user interface actuator visible when said second body portion is in said closed position.

6. The wireless communication device ofclaim 1 further comprising a GPS receiver.

7. The wireless communication device ofclaim 1 further comprising a removable memory card.

8. The wireless communication device ofclaim 1 further comprising an infrared port.

9. The wireless communication device ofclaim 1 further comprising a microphone receiving voice signals.

10. The wireless communication device ofclaim 9 further comprising a voice recognition circuit responsive to said voice signals.

11. A foldable wireless communication device functioning as a cellular telephone and a personal digital assistant, said wireless communication device comprising:

a first body portion;

a touch screen element positioned on said first body portion;

a second body portion coupled to said first body portion, said second body portion being movable between a first position and a second position; and

a display positioned on said second body portion.

12. The foldable wireless communication device ofclaim 11 further comprising a second display.

13. The foldable wireless communication device ofclaim 12 wherein said second display is visible when said second body portion is in a closed position.

14. The foldable wireless communication device ofclaim 13 wherein said second display provides caller ID information.

15. The foldable wireless communication device ofclaim 11 wherein said further comprising a user interface actuator.

16. The foldable wireless communication device ofclaim 15 wherein said user interface is visible when said second body portion is in said closed position.

17. The foldable wireless communication device ofclaim 11 further comprising a GPS receiver.

18. The foldable wireless communication device ofclaim 11 further comprising a removable memory card.

19. The foldable wireless communication device ofclaim 11 further comprising a voice recognition circuit responsive to voice signals.

20. A foldable wireless communication device functioning as a cellular telephone and a personal digital assistant, said wireless communication device comprising:

a first body portion;

a second body portion coupled to said first body portion by a hinge, said second body portion being movable between an open position and a closed position;

a touch screen element positioned on said first body portion adjacent to said hinge;

a first display positioned on said second body portion; and

a second display visible when said second body portion is in said closed position.

Images