US20160034885A1 - Communication Device - Google Patents

Abstract

A method for making a purchase from an electronic device using an ear piece may include receiving audio information at a microphone of an ear piece, wherein the ear piece is made of a housing and a short range transceiver disposed within the ear piece. The method may further include wirelessly communicating information from the ear piece to the electronic device through the short range transceiver of the ear piece. The method is designed to allow using the electronic device to initiate a purchase based on the information from the ear piece.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 13/967,415 filed on Aug. 15, 2013 which is a Continuation of application Ser. No. 11/761,850 filed Jun. 12, 2007, which is a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No. 11/251,279 filed Oct. 14, 2005 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,899,194 issued Mar. 1, 2011 and a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No. 11/222,014 filed Sep. 8, 2005 which is a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No. 10/842,207 filed May 10, 2004, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates to communications, including voice communications, and other audio communications, such as those associated with phones, or entertainment devices, or other types of personal electronic devices. Additional background information is present in the following patents, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety: U.S. Pat. No. 7,215,790 to Boesen et al., entitled Voice transmission apparatus with UWB; U.S. Pat. No. 7,209,569 to Boesen, entitled Earpiece with an inertial sensor; U.S. Pat. No. 7,203,331 to Boesen, entitled Voice communication device; U.S. Pat. No. 6,987,986 to Boesen, entitled Cellular telephone, personal digital assistant with dual lines for simultaneous use; U.S. Pat. No. 6,892,082 to Boesen, entitled Cellular telephone and personal digital assistant, U.S. Pat. No. 6,879,698 to Boesen, entitled Cellular telephone, personal digital assistant with voice communication unit; U.S. Pat. No. 6,852,084, entitled Wireless physiological pressure sensor and transmitter with capability of short range radio frequency transmissions; U.S. Pat. No. 6,823,195 to Boesen, entitled Ultra short range communication with sensing device and method; U.S. Pat. No. 6,738,485 to Boesen, entitled Apparatus, method and system for ultra short range communication; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,694,180 to Boesen, entitled Wireless biopotential sensing device and method with capability of short-range radio frequency transmission and reception; U.S. Published Application No. 2003/0115068 to Boesen, entitled Voice communication device with foreign language translation; U.S. Published Application No. 2004/0160511 to Boesen, entitled Personal communications device.
• One problem relates to the quality of audio available to a user. Numerous attempts have been made to provide high quality of audio to users, whether in the context of music and videos for entertainment, or in the context of audio communications.
• A seemingly unrelated problem exists with respect to handsfree devices. Numerous advantages are associated with handsfree devices which make them desirable in various situations, including when they are used in combination with cell phones. In addition, the use of handsfree devices can promote privacy, to some extent. Despite these well-recognized advantages and benefits of handsfree devices, problems remain. Due to the discomfort of handsfree devices, and the need to hear environmental devices, handsfree devices to date have focused on reproducing sound in only one car.
• Another problem relates to the control of multiple voice-controlled or audio-linked devices. Although audio linkage or voice-control is growing in popularity, problems remain both in terms of the quality of audio provided. With more prevalence in voice communication devices there may also be problems in directing voice or audio communications to a specific device.
• Therefore, it is a primary object, feature, or advantage of the present invention to improve upon the state of the art.
• It is a further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention to provide a voice communication system that provides for transducing and playing multi-channel audio using an earpiece.
• Another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to provide one or more earpieces capable of short range wireless communications such as Bluetooth or UWB which may be used in providing stereophonic audio.
• It is a still further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention to provide a voice communication system that provides for binaural transducing and playing of audio
• Yet a further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention to provide a voice communication system that provides for stereophonic transducing and playing of audio.
• Another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to provide a voice transduction device using UWB/Bluetooth or other short range wireless technologies to communicate with a computer or other device.
• Yet another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to provide for voice communication suitable for voice-to-text applications.
• It is a further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to provide for binaural or stereophonic listening without the nuisance of head phones or any linking material spanning the head from the right earpiece to the left earpiece.
• Yet another object, feature, or advantage is to provide for binaural or stereophonic listening with a handsfree device.
• A further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to provide for transducing, processing of, and playback of voice sound information.
• A still further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to use a phone to control one or more earpieces.
• A still further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to take into account head size of a user.
• Another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to allow for multiple output transducers in an earpiece.
• Another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to provide for tracking of a user's head movement.
• Yet another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to interpret head movement or head orientation of a user.
• A further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to communicate information such as head movement or head orientation from an earpiece or headset to another device.
• A still further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to communicate an alert such as may be associated with head movement indicative of a user falling sleep to another device such as a computer or radio.
• Yet another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to use the speaker of an electronic device such as a cell phone in combination with one or more earpieces.
• A further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to allow audiometrics of an incoming signal to be modified according to a user's specific audiometric demands.
• A still further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to communicate whether a signal is coming from a right earpiece or a left earpiece.
• It is a further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention to provide a method, apparatus, and system for purchasing an audio or video recording of an audio or video event that is convenient to listeners.
• A still further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to provide a method, apparatus, and system for purchasing an audio or video recording of an audio or video event that encourages sales of the recording, and therefore discourages unauthorized copying.
• Another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to provide a method, apparatus, and system for purchasing an audio or video recording of an event that allows a listener to purchase the recording of the event during, or shortly after the event associated with the audio or video.
• Yet another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention to provide a method, apparatus, and system for purchasing recording of an event that does not significantly distract the driver of a motor vehicle.
• It is a further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention to provide a method, apparatus, and system for purchasing an audio or video recording of an event that provides for delivery of the recording to the user.
• A still further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention to provide a method, apparatus, and system for purchasing an audio or video recording that does not require the listener to take notice of the name of the artist or name of the song.
• Another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention to provide a method, apparatus, and system for purchasing an audio recording that quantifies the relationship between an audio event and sales of audio recordings of the audio event.
• Yet another object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to provide a earpiece having one or more inertial sensors for sensing position and/or movement.
• A further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to provide an earpiece adapted to interpret position or movement information.
• A still further object, feature, or advantage of the present invention is to provide an earpiece adapted to communicate position or movement information or interpretation of such information over a communications link.
• One or more of these and/or other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the specification and claims that follow. These objects, features, or advantages of the present invention do not limit the invention as the present invention can provide other features and advantages in different embodiments and different contexts.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• According to one aspect of the present invention a system is provided. The system may include a personal electronic device having a housing and an ultra-wide band transceiver disposed within the housing. The system may also include a stereophonic system for sending audio information to a right ear and a left ear of a user, the stereophonic system having one or more additional ultra-wideband transceivers. The ultra-wideband transceiver of the personal electronic device and the additional linked ultra-wideband transceiver of the stereophonic system are adapted for providing audio communications therebetween.
• According to another aspect of the invention, a system may be provided. The system may include a plurality of personal electronic devices, each including a housing and an ultra-wide band transceiver disposed within the housing. The earpiece includes an earpiece housing, at least one input sensor, a speaker, one or more additional ultra-wide band transceivers disposed within the earpiece housing, and a switch for switching between the plurality of personal electronic devices. The switch may be implemented in software or hardware.
• According to another aspect of the present invention, a system includes an earpiece having a microphone, a speaker, and a first short range transceiver. The system also includes a plurality of electronic devices, each of the plurality of electronic devices having a second short range transceiver in communication with the first short range transceiver. The earpiece is adapted for context driven selection between and communication with each of the plurality of electronic devices.
• According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a cellular phone includes a phone housing, a cellular voice transceiver disposed within the phone housing, and at least one bone conduction sensor operatively connected to the voice transceiver.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is a diagram of a personal electronic device worn by a person according to the present invention.
• FIG. 2 is a representation of the earpiece of one embodiment of the present invention fitted on the ear.
• FIG. 3 is a diagram of one embodiment of an earpiece of the present invention fitted within a right car of a user.
• FIG. 4 is a diagram of one embodiment of an earpiece of the present invention fitted within a left ear of a user.
• FIG. 5 is a pictorial representation of one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 6 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 7 is a pictorial representation of another embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 8A is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of the invention using earpieces.
• FIG. 8B is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of the invention using a headset.
• FIGS. 9-10 provide a pictorial representation of one embodiment of a phone according to the present invention
• FIG. 11 provides a pictorial representation of the phone ofFIGS. 9-10 with a user interface that allows the source of audio or video and delivery preferences to be selected.
• FIG. 12 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 13 is a pictorial representation of another embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 14 is a pictorial representation of another embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 15 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 16 is a pictorial representation of yet another embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 17 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 18 is an overview of a system of one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 19 is graphical representation of one embodiment of selection options according to one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 20 is an overview of a system of another embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 21 illustrates one embodiment of a satellite system used in various embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 22 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention for receiving satellite transmissions.
• FIG. 23 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention for receiving satellite transmissions.
• FIG. 24 illustrates one embodiment of a user interface according to the present invention.
• FIG. 25 illustrates one embodiment of a system of the present invention installed on a rearview mirror of a vehicle.
• FIG. 26 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 27 is a flow diagram according to one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 28 is a block diagram according to another embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 29 is a screen display for buying a media product.
• FIGS. 30A-D illustrate one embodiment of a cell phone.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
• The present invention will be described as it applies to its preferred embodiments. It is not intended that the present invention be limited to the described embodiments. It is intended that the invention cover all modifications and alternatives which may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention. According to one aspect, the present invention provides for binaural and/or stereophonic sensing and reproduction of sound by sensing sounds within the external auditory canal of a user and/or reproducing sounds, such as, but not limited to, stereophonic sounds within both external auditory canals of a user.
• A general description of the present invention as well as a preferred embodiment has been set forth above. Those skilled in the art will recognize and will be able to practice additional variations and the methods and devices described which fall within the teachings of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications and additions are deemed to be within the scope of the invention which is to be limited only by the claims appended hereto.
• According to one aspect, the present invention includes a method and system for purchasing recordings of audio or video events. The present invention is described in terms of the preferred embodiments that follow.
• According to another aspect, the present invention provides for a phone being used to collect identifying information about an audio or video event and to initiate a purchase of an audio or video recording of the audio or video event. The present invention contemplates that the collection of information and initiation of a purchase can be performed in any number of ways.
• FIG. 1 shows a personalelectronic device2 associated with a person. The personal electronic device may be a phone, an entertainment device, or other type of personal electronic device or computer. The device as shown has adisplay4. The device may be worn on abelt6 as shown or may be placed in a pocket or may be carried by the person. The personalelectronic device2 is in operative communication withearpiece10A and/orearpiece10B. As will be explained in further detail, this configuration provides for the ability to collect and reproduce stereophonic sound.
• FIG. 2 shows a pictorial representation of one embodiment of one earpiece10 as worn in a person's car. The earpiece has an external ear canal portion12 which is fitted within the ear. The earpiece10 has anear attachment portion14 fitted around the ear. The earpiece10 in its preferred form houses aprocessor16 and atransceiver18. The earpiece10 also houses at least one sensor such as an air conduction sensor or a bone conduction sensor and a speaker. The earpiece10 corresponds to one ofearpiece10A andearpiece10B shown inFIG. 1.
• FIG. 3 discloses an example of theearpiece10A of the present invention having ahousing80A. Theearpiece10A is designed to be worn at the car. As shown inFIG. 3, anexternal canal portion58A of theearpiece10A is positioned in the externalauditory canal76A of the user. The external auditory canal portion of the earpiece preferentially includes abone conduction sensor60A and anair conduction sensor62A located on aresilient member78A. Aninternal antenna54A is also shown. Aspeaker64A is also shown which is also preferably positioned within the externalauditory canal76A of the user. Note that theearpiece10A of the preferred embodiment does not occlude or block the externalauditory canal76A of the user. This feature increases the comfort of the user so that the user can wear the earpiece for an extended period of time. Also, this feature is important in that it allows the user to also hear environmental sounds. These features are particularly important as the user will be wearing two earpieces to provide for binaural or stereophonic communications. The earpiece may be programmed to compensate for auditory deficits of the user providing amplification, gain or compression as necessary to fit the specific audiometric requirements of the user. In addition, the earpiece may be programmed to accommodate preferences of the user that are not based on the auditory deficits of the user. There is a manual input such as aswitch56A shown that can be used to set the earpiece as a right ear or a left ear. Instead of a hardware setting, the setting can be a software setting or switch.
• There may also be aswitch55A accessible to a user of the earpiece. Theswitch55A where present, need not be in the location shown, what is shown is merely one possible location. The switch may be used to switch between devices. For example, where theearpiece10A includes a short range transceiver such as a UWB transceiver, theearpiece10A may be used with multiple devices. Thus, for example theearpiece10A may be used to link with a phone, an entertainment device such as a music player, a video player, a television, a radio, a computer, a printer, a camera, or other type of device. Theswitch55A may be used to cycle between different available audio sources. In addition, where theearpiece10A includes one or more input sensors such as thebone conduction sensor60A orair conduction sensor62A, the earpiece may receive voice commands for switching between different audio communications links. The audio communication links may be one-way communications link or two-way communications links where one or more input sensors are available in theearpiece10A. The present invention contemplates that other switches could be used for additional functions. In addition, the earpiece may include one or more sensors such asinertial sensor63A which may be used to determine head orientation and/or track head movement. The tracking of head orientation or head movement may be used to provide additional contextual information. For example, where multiple audio/video sources are present, the user may press aswitch55A to cycle between the different available sources. The sources may be presented in the order that increases the likelihood that the user will find the desired source in the least amount of time. In making such a determination, one variable that can be taken into account is the head orientation or recent head movement. Sources associated with head orientation or head movement may be presented first in the cycle. In addition, the order that the sources are presented may also take into account the most recent sources of interest to the user or other patterns of usage of the user.
• FIG. 4 discloses an example of an earpiece which is substantially identical toearpiece10A ofFIG. 3 but is placed in the opposite ear of the same user.FIG. 4 discloses an example of theearpiece10B of the present invention having ahousing80B. Theearpiece10B is designed to be worn at the ear. As shown inFIG. 4, anexternal canal portion58B of theearpiece10B is positioned in the externalauditory canal76B of the user. The external auditory canal portion of the earpiece includes abone conduction sensor60B and anair conduction sensor62B located on aresilient member78B. Aninternal antenna54B is also shown. Aspeaker64B is also shown which is also preferably positioned within the externalauditory canal76B of the user. In addition, the earpiece may be programmed to accommodate preferences of the user that are not based on the auditory deficits of the user. There is a manual input such as a switch568 shown that can be used to sect the earpiece as a right car or a left car. Instead of a hardware setting, the setting can be a software setting or switch. The present invention contemplates that other switches could be used for additional functions. In addition, the earpiece may include one or more sensors such asinertial sensor63B which is may be used to determine head orientation and/or track head movement. Other microphones placed in various positions on the body maybe also be able to accept external speech input for translation through the short range linkage system or through thedevice10B itself. Additional information regarding foreign language translation is presented in U.S. Patent Application 2003/0115068, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
• There may also be aswitch55B accessible to a user of the earpiece. The switch558 where present, need not be in the location shown, what is shown is merely one possible location. The switch may be used to switch between devices. For example, where theearpiece10B includes a short range transceiver such as a UWB transceiver, theearpiece10B may be used with multiple devices. Thus, for example theearpiece10B may be used to link with a phone, an entertainment device such as a music player, a video player, a television, a radio, a computer, a printer, a camera, a GPS unit, a network appliance, or other type of device. Theswitch55B may be used to cycle between different available audio sources. In addition, where theearpiece10B includes one or more input sensors such as thebone conduction sensor60B orair conduction sensor62B, the earpiece may receive voice commands for switching between different audio communications links. The audio communication links may be one-way communications link or two-way communications links where one or more input sensors are available in theearpiece10B.
• Where bothearpieces10A and108 are used together, they may form a stereophonic system. Where two earpieces are used together, only one of the two earpieces need have aswitch55A,558, where used to change between audio sources or channels or links. Instead of having a hardware switch, a software switch may also be used where one or more of the earpieces, or a headset have an input sensor and a processor and can process voice sound communications to determine voice commands.
• FIG. 5 discloses an example of one methodology of the present invention. In thesystem100 shown inFIG. 5, there is afirst earpiece102 and asecond earpiece104, both earpieces associated with a first user. The earpieces shown are of a completely-in-canal (CIC), although the present invention can be used with behind-the-ear (BTE) or other types of earpieces. Preferably, the earpieces collect sound at or near the external auditory canal of the user and also reproduce sound at or near the external auditory canal of the user. Theearpieces102,104 are in operative communication with a personal electronic device such as aphone106. Each of theearpieces102,104 communicates one or more channels of audio information to thephone106 and thephone106 is adapted to communicate at least one channel of audio information to each earpiece. Thus, when used together, theearpieces102,104 provide for collecting stereophonic sound and reproducing stereophonic sound. It should also be appreciated that where stereophonic sound is not needed, only one of the earpieces may be used. Unless programmed specifically to do so,102 and104 will not communicate withphone108, so that each set of earpieces only communicates with one phone at a time.
• Each of theearpieces102,104 is preferably associated with a particular car of the user. The present invention contemplates that this association can be made in a number of different ways. For example, eachearpiece102,104 can communicate an identifier to state that it is the left earpiece or a right earpiece as a part of a communications protocol. Alternatively, each earpiece will only receive signals associated with its particular identity. The setting for each earpiece can be accomplished manually (such as a small switch located anywhere on the housing) and/or through programming of the processor within each earpiece. In addition, each earpiece may function alone in a monotonic mode. Such functionality may be useful where one earpiece loses battery power. When eachearpiece102,104 is associated with a particular ear of a user, then processing can also be performed on incoming audio signals to process the incoming audio signal according to the auditory capabilities of a particular user such as may be associated with a hearing aid or according to their auditory preferences. It should also be understood that because theearpiece102,104 is a communications device, different types of processing can be performed based on the source of the audio. For example, music received at theearpiece102,104 may be processed differently than a telephone call. Or a telephone call from one source may be processed differently than a telephone call from another source.
• Because stereophonic sound is easily collected and reproduced at each earpiece, the present invention provides for communicating that stereophonic sound between users. For example, as shown inFIG. 5, stereophonic information can be communicated fromphone106 to asecond phone108 associated with a different user. This stereophonic information can then be transmitted to a second set ofearpieces102A,104B, to provide stereo sound for the second user.
• It should be understood that althoughFIG. 5 andFIG. 6 show a preferred embodiment where input sensors and a speaker are positioned directly within the external auditory canal of a user, this is not required. Instead the input sensors and speaker can be placed at or near the external auditory canal or proximate the external auditory canal. There is, however, some advantage in placement within the external auditory canal in that such placement allows for a closer approximation of binaural audio where audio is sensed and played back within the external auditory canal.
• FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing another embodiment of the present invention. InFIG. 6, a personalelectronic device200 is shown. The personalelectronic device200 may be a personal communication device, such as a phone, a personal entertainment device, or other type of personal electronic device or computer or other electronic device. The personal electronic device has ashort range transceiver202 and anaudio source204. Theaudio source204 may be provided by a voice transceiver for cellular communications, audio received from a stereo transmission associated with radio or television, or from audio created based on stored information. Theshort range transceiver202 may be a BLUETOOTH, ultra-wideband (UWB), Wi-Fi or other type of short range transceiver.
• Theshort range transceiver202 of the personalelectronic device200 is in operative communication withshort range transceiver210 associated with a first earpiece and also associated with aspeaker212, anair conduction sensor214, and an optionalbone conduction sensor216. Theshort range transceiver202 of the personalelectronic device200 is also, preferably in operative communication with a secondshort range transceiver220 associated with a second earpiece and also associated with aspeaker222,air conduction sensor224, and an optionalbone conduction sensor226. Each earpiece can adjust the incoming signal to fit or adapt to the audiometric needs of the user. This can include auditory deficits of the user such as the type of processing typically performed by various hearing aids. This can also include preferences which can be set by the source or type of audio (such as but limited to music, audio accompanying video, audio associated with a phone call, audio associated with a phone call with a particular person, or other type of audio).
• FIG. 7 illustrates another use of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 7 anenvironment300 such as in a home is shown. The home includes a network with network nodes such as302. A user is shown enjoying themselves as they rest on a recliner and wear anearpiece10B while watchingtelevision304. Note there is animage sensor305 such as a video camera built-into or otherwise associated with thetelevision304. Video imagery acquired by theimage sensor305 may be used for video conferencing purposes, or may be processed for other purposes, such as, but not limited to, determining location of the user. Theearpiece10A and/or10B provides audio sounds to the user. The present invention provides for audio from or associated with thetelevision304 to be communicated through the network and be transmitted from thenetwork node302 to theearpiece10A and or10B. Thus the user can control the incoming sounds received at the earpiece to both, or alternatively, one ear. Multiple persons in the same room can be watching the same television, but each have their earpiece set to different volumes or have additional audio processing performed by their respective earpiece or earpieces to meet their own audiometric needs. Although in the embodiment shown, audio associated with the television is communicated through thenetwork node302, audio could also be communicated directly from the television with304 with a short range transceiver. Other audio such as, but not limited to phone calls, can be transferred directly toearpiece10A and/or10B throughnode302. Video may be transferred fromnode302 to display304, or alternatively through10B. The present invention contemplates that contextual information about thetelevision304 and/or theearpiece10A and/or10B may be used to assist in providing the communications. For example, information about the position of theearpiece10B and information about thetelevision304 may be used to determine that the television is on and the user is likely watching the television. An incoming phone call may then be received. A ring tone transmitted to theearpiece10B may be used to indicate the presence of the incoming call. In addition, caller-id, video transmission or related information may be displayed on thetelevision304 identifying the caller or the number from which the caller is calling or providing video transmission. The user may then press a button or switch on theearpiece10B to answer the call or issue a voice command to answer the call or ignore the call. A video camera orother image sensor305 associated withset304 could optionally locate theearpiece10A/10B to provide for video calls. Proximity data to video linkages may be provided bynode302.
• FIG. 8A illustrates another embodiment of the invention.FIG. 8A shows different types of devices that may include short range transceivers and be audio sources or recipients of audio transmissions from one or both ofearpieces102,104. Preferably, twoearpieces102,104 are used to provide a stereophonic system. In thesystem400 shown, there is acomputer402, aprinter403, a portable entertainment device for audio and/orvideo404, aGPS device405, acamera407, and aPDA406, a candybar type phone408, and aflip type phone410, aslide phone409, a glide/slide phone411. Each of these devices or others may communicate with one or both ofearpieces102,104.
• FIG. 8B illustrates another embodiment of the invention.FIG. 8A shows different types of devices that may include short range transceivers and be audio sources or recipients of audio transmissions from a stereophonic system that includes aheadset103. In thesystem401 shown, there is acomputer402, aprinter403, a portable entertainment device for audio and/orvideo404, aGPS device405, acamera407, and aPDA406, a candybar type phone408, and aflip type phone410, aslide phone409, a glide/slide411 phone. Each of these devices or others may communicate with theheadset103. Theheadset103 or one or both of theearpieces102,104 may include one or more bone conduction sensors in addition to one or more air conduction sensors to assist in reducing ambient noise or otherwise providing clearer voice signals.
• InFIG. 9, aphone700 is shown. The phone includes aphone housing702. The phone also includes afirst display area704. There are a plurality ofbuttons706 shown, preferably configured as a dial pad. There is a second plurality ofbuttons708 also shown to provide for additional functionality. This second plurality ofbuttons708 preferably includes a “buy”button520. The purpose of thebuy button520 is to initiate the purchase of an audio recording. Thebuy button520 is preferably a joystick type button that al lows thebutton520 to be pressed upward towardstop member712, downward tobottom member714, leftwardly to leftmember716, rightwardly toright member718, as well as inwardly to one or two states. Thebuy button520 may also be a double detent-type button where pressing the button with one level of pressure indicates a first state while pressing the button with a greater level of pressure indicates a second state.
• In addition, thephone700 may include one or morebone conduction sensors701,703. Thebone conduction sensors701,703 are used to sense vibrations associated with the jaw bone, mastoid, or other bones of the user to thereby pickup voice sound vibrations. The resulting signals may be used to purify or filter sound to assist in eliminating ambient noise where desired and thereby improve the voice quality. The one or morebone conduction sensors701,703 may be located in various positions. Thephone700 may also include one or moreair conduction sensors709,711 which may placed in various positions.
• FIG. 10 illustrates another type of phone, similar to the phone ofFIG. 9, but with an open, as opposed to closed, positioning capability. Thefirst body722 is hinged to thesecond body724 through ahinge720. As shown inFIG. 10, the phone includes afirst body722 and asecond body724. There is also asecond display726 shown. The present invention is not limited to the particular configuration of phone shown. The present invention contemplates numerous variations in the type of phone, including its physical configuration. One alternative embodiment is a phone withbody724 and one or more functions of thefirst body722 accessed through thedisplay726. The phone also includes one or morebone conduction sensors705,707 which may be used to provide signals that may be used for purifying or filtering sound to assist in eliminating ambient noise or other undesirable sound and thereby improve voice quality. The one or morebone conduction sensors705,707 may be located in various positions. One or moreair conduction sensors739,741 may be present and located in various positions. Anaddition display727 is also present. Alternatively thedisplay727 and thedisplay726 may be formed of a single thin film display that extends across the hinge and is foldable.
• FIG. 11 illustrates another phone embodiment with ascreen730 on the display that allows the user to select the source of audio that the user wishes to purchase an audio recording of and the user's delivery preference. The combination of the buttons and the screen form one embodiment of a user interface. The display may be a touch-sensitive display. The user can select the source of audio or video encountered from the drop-downlist box732 and a delivery preference from the drop-downlist box734. The present invention contemplates any number of sources of audio can be used. These include sources of audio directly associated with the phone, such as an FM radio built-into the phone. The sources of audio that can be used also include sources of audio for which the phone receives identifying information. For example, as will later be discussed, the phone can receive identifying information for audio associated with public performances, local broadcasts, satellite broadcasts, other types of audio, or digital video. The identifying information can be communicated to the phone through short range transmission, such as through Wi-Fi, BLUETOOTH or UWB. Linkage to one or more earpieces or a headset have already been discussed. In addition, the phone may include one or morebone conduction sensors731,733,735,737 in addition to one or more air conduction sensors. The combination of one or more bone conduction sensors and one or more air conduction sensors may be used to reduce ambient noise when sensing voice sound information of a user. For example, signals detected by an air conduction sensor but not having corresponding or related signals detected by a bone conduction sensor may be filtered out of the voice signal. Of course other types of processing may be performed to utilize multiple bone conduction and/or air conduction sensors to provide the best voice signal.
• In addition to specifying the particular source for the recording that the user wishes to purchase, the user can also select one of a number of delivery preferences. The delivery preferences are discussed herein in more detail, but can include download to a hard drive MP3 downloads, digital media such as CDs, DVDs, or audio cassettes, or other types of analog media. The present invention is not limited to a particular manner of delivery.
• FIG. 11 also illustrates a “Confirm”button736 which can be used to confirm a purchase. The present invention contemplates that pressing thebuy button520 once again can have the same effect as selecting “confirm.” Audio may be transmitted to one or more of theearpieces102,104 or toheadset103 or through internal speaker systems.
• FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram according to one embodiment of the present invention. InFIG. 12, adevice576 for producing audio or video is disclosed. Thedevice576 includes an audio and/orvideo source578, aspeaker584, and atransmitter564. Thetransmitter564 transmits identifying information for the audio orvideo source578 or identifying information for the audio being played by the audio orvideo source578. Such a device can be used in any number of environments. For example, such a device can be present at amusement parks, or historical areas, or other places of interest. In such a use, the audio or video source can play an appropriate recording that may be of interest to a user. The transmission of identifying information allows a user to receive that information and then purchase a recording of the audio or video being played. Thus, it should be clear that the present invention contemplates use with any number of types of audio or video source and linkages to one or more earpieces or a headset.
• InFIG. 12, apurchasing device511 is also shown. Thepurchasing device511 can be a phone. Thepurchasing device511 includes anintelligent control540. Theintelligent control540 is operatively connected to abuy button520, areceiver544, a display, and acommunication channel548. Thereceiver544 receives identifying information from thetransmitter564 about an audio or video event. If a user desires to buy a recording of the audio or video event, the user can initiate a transaction with thebuy button520 to purchase an audio or video recording. The purchase can be transacted by sending appropriate information over thecommunication channel548. Transmission to102/104 or103 of the signal is shown. Speakers in thepurchasing device511 may also be used.
• InFIG. 13, asatellite radio interface510 is shown. Thesatellite radio510 is preferably capable of receiving XM or SIRIUS transmissions. Thesatellite radio510 includes adisplay512, a plurality of radio controls such asradio control buttons514 which can define preset channels and radio controls516 and518 which control channel and volume, respectively. The present invention contemplates that numerous other types or variations of radio controls can be used. The present invention provides for communication between thesatellite radio510 with thephone700. Thus, a user can select the satellite radio as an audio source and thereby purchase audio events being played by the satellite radio. In such an embodiment, thesatellite radio510 communicates identifying information for the radio event to thephone700. In this embodiment ofFIG. 13, communication between thephone700 and thesatellite radio510 is wireless and preferably through a short range transmission such as through BLUETOOTH, UWB, WiMax.
• FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of the invention similar to that shown inFIG. 13. InFIG. 14, however, thesatellite radio510 includes abuy button520, but does not include its own two-way communication channel. In such an embodiment, thesatellite radio510 can be operatively connected to aphone530 having adisplay532 and akeypad534 via a wired connection. In such an embodiment, the present invention provides for proper interaction between the satellite radio and the phone for communicating purchase information from thesatellite radio510, using thephone530.
• InFIG. 14, there is abuy button520. Thebuy button520 is conveniently placed as a part of thesatellite radio510. Thus, a listener of the radio can simply press theBUY button520 to purchase a recording of a currently playing audio event. Atelephone530 withdisplay532 andkeypad534 is shown operatively connected to thesatellite radio510. The present invention contemplates that the purchase request can be transmitted over cellular or satellite network. When a request is made, audio event identifying information such as channel or station as well as buyer identifying information is transmitted over the network so that the purchase can be made. The present invention also contemplates that the purchaser may also need to verify the purchase through entering a code on the satellite radio or thephone530 at the time of the purchase or may otherwise need to verify the purchase prior to purchase and delivery. Although a satellite radio and cellular telephone are shown, the present invention contemplates that other types of radios, phones, and other types of communications channels can be used. A satellite radio is preferred for a number of reasons. First, a satellite radio is a part of a large a network as opposed to independent radio stations. This simplifies the process of resolving purchase requests. For example, only a time (in some instances a time and location) and channel information is needed in order to determine the audio event associated with that particular time. Although the present invention contemplates other types of transmissions, such as FM radio transmissions, satellite radio presently provides an ideal platform for the present invention.
• FIG. 15 provides a block diagram of one embodiment of the present invention. InFIG. 15, asatellite radio510 is shown. Thesatellite radio510 includes anintelligent control540. Theintelligent control540 can include a processor, microcontroller, microprocessor, integrated circuit, or other type of intelligent control. Operatively connected to theintelligent control540 is adisplay512 and asatellite receiver548 for receiving satellite radio signals. The satellite radio includes radio controls550 which can be used for defining channel presets, changing volume, changing channels, and otherwise controlling radio functions. Thebuy button520 is also operatively connected to theintelligent control540. Thebuy button520 is considered to be a part of a user interface for purchasing a recording of an audio or video event. The present invention contemplates that instead of usingbuy button520, the user interface can provide for receipt of voice commands to purchase a recording of an audio event or other types of user interface can be used.
• Acommunications interface542 is also electrically connected to theintelligent control540. Thecommunication interface542 allows acommunications channel544 to be established. Thecommunications interface542 allows theintelligent control540 to communicate over acommunications channel544 with a service that provides administration for purchase requests. Thecommunications channel544 can be a satellite link or a cellular communications channel or can be another type of communications channel, such as a SMS protocol channel that allows for the sending and receiving of short text messages. The communications channel may also be a communications channel that is associated with a motor vehicle, such as ONSTAR. It is preferred that the communications channel be bidirectional so that verification of receipt of purchase requests can be given or optionally, addition information can be requested. The type of communications channel used is in no way limited to the specific types of communication channels described herein as one skilled in the art will appreciate that a number of different types of communications channels can be used and the decision of which type of communication channels to use may be made based on a particular implementation of the present invention in a particular environment. Preset information regarding financial information of the purchaser may be stored and verified through confirmation pass codes stored with the satellite or cellular user contract.
• Anoptional GPS receiver546 is also operatively connected to theintelligent control540. When present, theGPS receiver546 provides accurate time and location information. Time and or location information from the GPS receiver can accompany a purchase request to help identify a requested audio event along with channel identifying information. The present invention also contemplates that where satellite radio is used, the satellite radio transmissions includes identifying information for the audio or video event and that this identifying information can accompany a purchase request. In addition, updating of maps and other information associated with a navigation may be performed and appropriately billed for.
• Astorage device549 is also operatively connected to theintelligent control540. Thestorage device549 is preferably a magnetic or solid state memory, such as a hard drive or a FLASH drive. The present invention, however, is not limited to the particular type of memory or storage device used. One of the advantages of having astorage device549 is that music can be downloaded directly to thestorage device549 for future enjoyment. When music is ordered, a preference can be set to directly download the music to astorage device549 associated within the vehicle so that the music will always be available to the driver of the vehicle.
• FIG. 16 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. InFIG. 16, adevice562 has ahousing561 that houses both a satellite radio and a voice communications transceiver. InFIG. 16, the device includes adisplay512 withradio controls514 and abuy button520. Atelephone keypad560 is also shown. Alternatively, the voice communications transceiver, instead of being integrated with the satellite radio, can be interfaced to the satellite radio through a cable or operatively connected through BLUEOOTH, UWB, infrared, or other types of short range wireless transceivers. GPS and other video information can be displayed ondisplay512.
• FIG. 17 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. InFIG. 17, adevice580 includes asatellite radio586, ashort range transceiver582, and an optionallocal determination unit584. The short range transceiver can be a BLUETOOTH transceiver, a UWB transceiver, or other type of short range transceiver. The optionallocation determination unit584 can be a GPS unit or other type of location device. Theshort range transceiver582 is in operative communication with ashort range transceiver572 associated with acommunications device570. Thecommunications device570 also includes avoice transceiver574. Preferably thecommunications device570 is a phone or smart phone, but the present invention contemplates that other types of communications devices can be used. The link between theshort range transceiver572 of thecommunication device570 and theshort range transceiver582 of thedevice580 allows purchasing requests and purchase verification information concerning audio events played by thesatellite radio586 to be communicated over a communications channels such as that provided byvoice transceiver574.
• The present invention contemplates that thedevices580 can be housed within a vehicle, including being housed within a dashboard of a car. Thedevice580 can also include astorage device585. Thestorage device585 is a memory such as a magnetic memory, a hard drive, a flash drive, or an optical drive. The present invention contemplates that works such as songs or video can be stored directly on thestorage device585 so that a listener can order a selection being played on theirsatellite radio586 and have the selection delivered to thestorage device585.
• FIG. 18 provides an overview of one embodiment of the system of the present invention. InFIG. 18 asystem600 is shown. Amotor vehicle602 includes asatellite radio604. Acommunications channel interface606 is operatively connected to thesatellite radio604. A purchase request is made over the communications channel to acommunications network608. Optionally the communications network can send verification requests or options requests to thecommunication channel interface606. Thecommunications network608 is also operatively connected with apurchasing agent610 which can include humans, computers, software, and combinations of computers and software. Thepurchasing agent610 can access a database of audio orevents612. Thus, when given proper identifying information about an audio or video event—such as the identifying information included in a purchase request, the purchasing agent can determine additional information about the audio or video event.
• A user interface for review ofselections614 is optionally provided. The present invention contemplates that instead of buying a selection immediately, the user can instead place the information concerning a particular audio event into a shopping cart or otherwise flag the audio or video event for potential purchase. The user can then later review these selections to determine if the user wishes to purchase the particular selections. Once a user selects the audio or video events to purchases, afulfillment agent616 which may be automated in whole or in part provides for fulfillment of the purchases. The present invention contemplates that the audio events can be recorded onto digital media such as a CD or DVD618 (or other digital media). Alternatively, the audio events can be made available to a user asdownloads620 or can be sent, such as attachments to anemail622 that is sent to the user or other recipient. Of course, the present invention contemplates that delivery may be made in any number of forms, whether electronic or physical.
• FIG. 19 illustrates one embodiment of a user interface for review of selections. The present invention contemplates that a user can review the selections they have made prior to purchase or set other purchasing options. These selection options can be accessed in any number of ways, including being reviewed online on a web page or a wireless web page. These selection options can include credit card or account information as well as information about each audio event that has been selected. Examples of the type of audio event information can include a category ofmusic654, aname656 of a song, the name of anartist658, thechannel660 on which the song was played, and atime662 that the song was played or the time the song was selected. In addition, aprice664 for a recording of the music event can also be displayed.
• The user can also make selections regarding how the recordings of the music events should be delivered. For example, the present invention contemplates that the user can have each song delivered on a separate piece of digital media. Alternatively, the user can group one or more selections on a piece of digital media such as a CD or DVD byselection option666. Alternatively, the user can have one or more selections delivered via email or otherwise by selectingoption668. The present invention also contemplates that the selections can be automatically download to a memory, such as a hard drive associated with a computer or a phone, or a satellite receiver by selecting a send as download to hard drive or otherstorage medium option669. Then the user can finalize the order by selecting theorder button670.
• The present invention contemplates that the user can preset these selections so that the user need not review this information. The user can, for example, set preferences such that every time a buy button is pressed the audio event is delivered as a CD or DVD or delivered as an MP3 to email. The present invention is flexible in this regard and contemplates numerous variations that would accommodate the preferences of a particular user.
• It is preferred, that when the purchasing device is phone, that there be simple presets within the phone so that one need not even review any information after initiating a purchase. Instead, the purchase automatically occurs, and delivery is made, according to the user's presets.
• FIG. 20 illustrates another embodiment of asystem749 of the present invention. InFIG. 20, auser740 is shown. Theuser740 is in proximity to one or more audio or video sources. The audio or video sources produce audio or video of interest to theuser740. The user indicates their desire to purchase a recording of an audio or video event. The identifying information for the audio or video event and delivery information is then transmitted trough a communications link752 to afulfillment center754. The fulfillment center then provides for delivery according to the user's preferences. The present invention contemplates that delivery can be performed in any number of ways. For example, the delivery can be electronic delivery tophone memory756, electronic delivery to anemail account758 associated with the user, or physical delivery of ahard copy media760, such as, but not limited to a CD-ROM, DVD, or tape. The electronic delivery can also be electronic delivery to astorage device755, such as a hard drive, associated with a vehicle.
• As indicated inFIG. 20, the present invention is not limited to any particular type of audio or video source. For example, the audio source can be abroadcast762, such as associated with a radio or video broadcast. Alternatively, the audio source can be apublic performance764. For example, a user can request an audio recording of an audio track for a song at a movie or concert or a video recording of the event. Alternatively, the audio or video source can be alocal broadcast766 such as may be confined to a local vicinity, such as music playing at an amusement park, or in a historical district that a user finds of interest.
• One skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention provides benefits and advantages beyond those that most directly affect a user of the system. For example, each purchase (or selection for potential purchase) of a music event is directly tied to a channel and a time. Therefore, recording each request and each purchase provides valuable data for the purchasing agent. This data can be used to determine relationships between time of day and purchasing, particular channels and purchasing, and particular music events, and purchasing. This data can then be used to determine which music (or other audio event) to play at what time in order to increase purchases of that music. Also, this data can provide some insight into which music or other audio or video event is not of particular interest and which music or other audio or video event is. Thus, each purchase request can be recorded for later data analysis. This data analysis can be used to recommend particular artists, songs, performances, videos, channels, or other products or services of potential interests to the user. Therefore, the user or purchaser of a recording of an audio or video event will not be the only one who can benefit from the present invention.
• FIG. 21 illustrates communications in asatellite system800. InFIG. 21, a satellite system including at least onesatellite802 is in communication with asatellite receiver548. The present invention contemplates that thesatellite802 can be adapted for communication of different types of information, including audio and/or video transmissions. Acommunications channel544 is operatively connected to thesatellite receiver548. The present invention contemplates that an earpiece or headset may include thesatellite receiver548.
• FIG. 22 illustrates one embodiment of asystem810 of the present invention. InFIG. 22, acommunication channel544 is shown. Thecommunication channel544 is operatively connected to anintelligent control540. The intelligent control is operatively connected tostorage549. Thestorage549 can be a hard drive, a solid state memory, a magnetic memory, or other type of storage device. Theintelligent control540 is also operatively connected to aninterface system811. Theinterface system811 includes a link tosatellite812 and a link to an audio or audio-visual system813. Thecommunication channel544 can be a cellular communication channel. The link tosatellite812 can be a link to a satellite receiver. The link toAV system813 can be a link to a vehicle entertainment system.
• FIG. 23 illustrates another embodiment of asystem860 of the present invention. InFIG. 23, asatellite802 is shown. There is alink812 to thesatellite802. Thelink812 may be a link to a satellite receiver. Thelink812 is operatively connected to anintelligent control540 which may be a computer, processor, microcontroller, or other type of intelligent control. Theintelligent control540 is also operatively connected to an audio-visual system813 which may include speakers and/or a video display. The AV system may be of a kind typically associated with a vehicle such as a car or a plane. Alternatively, the AV system may be of a type associated with a home entertainment system. The AV system may include one or more speakers, video displays, and related equipment. Thecommunication channel544 is in operative communication with acommunication channel interface862. Thecommunication channel544 is preferably a wireless communication channel such as that associated with a cellular phone, however, thecommunication channel544 may be of other types. Thecommunication channel interface862 is operatively connected to aserver864 which is operatively connected to arecording database866. Thus, for example, a user can access a satellite radio or satellite television system. If the user finds a transmission of interest, the user can request that the transmission be purchased as a recording and in then the recording can be delivered from therecording database866 or other location to the user. The recording can be delivered electronically to thecommunication channel544, electronically through other means (such as over a high-speed Internet connection), delivered on a physical storage medium such as a CD, DVD, solid state memory, or otherwise.
• FIG. 24 illustrates a representation of ascreen display830 according to one embodiment of the present invention. InFIG. 24, a recording manager software is executed on a computing device. The recording manager allows one to store and organize recordings. The recordings can be audio recordings, video recordings, or other types of recordings. As shown inFIG. 24, recordings can be organized intoarchived recordings832 through the use of file folders or another filing or organization system. “MY RECORDINGS”836 is shown has a file holder which includes a “CATEGORY1”838 and a “CATEGORY2”840 sub folders. Within “CATEGORY1”subfolder838 arerecordings842,844,846. Within “CATEGORY2”subfolder840 andrecordings848,850, and852. Note that thescreen display830 also provides for organizing recordings which have been marked for purchase but have not yet been purchased or recordings that have been purchased. For example,recordings834 can be associated with transmissions heard over a satellite radio system or a satellite televisions system. One way of organizing these transmissions is to have a separate folder for each channel or station. For example, afirst folder854 is associated with a first channel and asecond folder856 is associated with a second channel. This allows one to keep recordings organized. For example, if the recordings are songs, then the user may already associate one of the channels with blues music and another channel with jazz music. Organizing music recordings based on the channels where the music was first heard provides a convenient method for organization.
• FIG. 25 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention adapted for use in a vehicle. InFIG. 25,rear view mirror900 hangs fromsupport structure904. The rear view mirror has amirror surface902 and a user interface panel. The user interface panel includes conventionalmanual inputs906 as may be associated with an ONSTAR system or other vehicle navigation system, includingbuttons908,910,912, and914. In addition, there is abuy button916. Thebuy button916 allows a user to purchase a product or service. Thebuy button916 is preferably adapted to communicate over a communication system associated with ONSTAR or other vehicle safety and security system or telematics system. Thebuy button916 need not be located on the mirror, but may be located on a console or elsewhere.
• As shown inFIG. 26, atelematics system920, such as associated with themanual inputs906 ofFIG. 25, is operatively connected to anaudio receiver924, such as a satellite radio receiver. Preferably, the audio orvideo receiver924 is a satellite radio receiver that can communicate channel information to thetelematics system920. Adevice interface922 is operatively connected to thetelematics system920 and apersonal device926 via aconnection928. Theconnection928 may be a wireless connection. Thus, for example, a user can plug (or otherwise connect) a portable MP3 player device or phone into their vehicle'stelematics system920. The user can use thetelematics system920 to communicate purchase decisions over thetelematics system920. Where the services are audio and/or video recordings, the services can be delivered to thepersonal device926. The present invention contemplates other types of services may also be communicated. Linkages to a wireless earpiece or headset have been previously discussed.
• FIG. 27 illustrates one embodiment of the methodology of a system such as that presented inFIGS. 25 and 26 or variations on such a system. Instep930, a request is initiated to make a purchase. Preferably the request is initiated through use of the buy now button of a telematic system. Alternatively, the request can be initiated through a request to a telematic operator or through a personal device operatively connected to a telematic system. As shown instep932, where the request is for a recording, a determination is made as to information necessary to identify the request. The request can include vehicle, location, vehicle time, channel selection, and whether the request is through a personal device. For example, if the request is a request for a recording of a song being played over a satellite radio and the request is made during the song, then knowing the channel selection is sufficient information to identify the song. If the request is associated with a FM radio, then knowledge of time and channel is enough information to identify information. The present invention further contemplates that the request can be made in response to a radio advertisement for a product. Or the request can be made in response to a billboard advertisement for a product in which case vehicle location would be required to identify the request. Where more than one possible request exists for a location, the user can be prompted contemporaneously or after the fact for to select from a list of potential selections. Where the request is made through a personal device, the communications channel associated with the personal device can be used, but the personal device can access channel information, location information, or other information from the radio receiver and telematics system.
• FIG. 28 illustrates one embodiment of asystem950 of the present invention. InFIG. 28, anintelligent control952 is operatively connected to aninterface956. Abuy button960 is operatively connected to the intelligent control. Aclock958 is operatively connected to the intelligent control. Astorage device962 is operatively connected to theintelligent control952. Aradio receiver954 is operatively connected to the intelligent control and aspeaker964 is operatively connected to one or more of theradio receiver954 and theintelligent control952. Thesystem950 is one embodiment of a system that can be used within a vehicle. Theinterface956 is a communications interface which can be implemented through cellular communications, through a communications channel of a separate personal device, through a telematics communication channel or otherwise including through Bluetooth, UWB, or otherwise.
• FIG. 29 is one embodiment of ascreen display970 which can be displayed on a personal device such as a phone. Thescreen display970 provides a media buy list that allows a user to select one or more media purchases based on recent requests. A user can check or un-check various selections. In addition, the user can specify the manner of the delivery throughoptions974. The purchases can be delivered via download to one or more different file formats or the purchases can be placed on physical media and delivered. The present invention contemplates numerous variations in the type of delivery options which may, in part, be based on the type of purchase. In addition to purchases, samples can be accessed or delivered for no cost.
• The present invention provides for a personal device such as a cell phone to be used for other types of purchases as well.FIGS. 30A through 301) illustrate acell phone1000 adapted for different types of products or services. As shown inFIG. 30A,phone1000 has afirst body1002 and asecond body1004 which are operatively connected. There adisplay1008 on the outside of thecell phone1000. In addition, avideo camera1006 for taking still shots or video is incorporated into thephone1000. InFIG. 308, asecond screen1010 is shown with ascreen display1012. Thescreen display1012 shows a set ofphotos1014 which have been taken with thephone1000. The software allows a user to select aservice1016 associated with the photos,delivery options1018, if appropriate, and aselection1020 to initiate purchase. Thebutton1020 is labeled as “Send”, however, this button, where present, may also be labeled “buy” where appropriate. The present invention contemplates that some purchases may be without cost, such as those providing samples or provided as a part of a promotion, or otherwise. Upon purchase, photos stored on the phone are communicated over a cellular network for processing. This is highly advantageous to a user because it allows a user to have their photos physically delivered or available for pick up on CD, or in prints of one or more sizes.
• FIG. 30C illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. On thedisplay1010 of thephone1000 areaudio selections1030 such as those recorded with a voice recorder associated with the cell phone. Theservice options1032 include merely storage of the voice recordings, translation of the voice recording, or other types of service. Thedelivery options1034 include via voicemail, real-time to the phone, or email if translation service is desired, via CD or DVD if a physical service is desired. Of course, where thephone1000 is associated with one or more earpieces or headsets, audio signals may be sent to speakers associated with the one or more earpieces or headsets instead of being output on one or more speakers of thephone1000.
• FIG. 30D illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 30D, different video selections1033 are available. The service or deliveroptions1024 include delivery on a DVD, Video-CD, download, email or other types of options.
• The present invention contemplates numerous additions, alternatives, and options. That which has been disclosed is merely exemplary. The present invention is not to be limited to or by the specific embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims (20)

What is claimed is:

1. A method for making a purchase from an electronic device using an ear piece, the method comprising:

receiving audio information at a microphone of an ear piece, the ear piece comprising an ear piece housing and a short range transceiver disposed within the ear piece;

wirelessly communicating information from the ear piece to the electronic device through the short range transceiver of the ear piece;

using the electronic device to initiate a purchase based on the information from the ear piece.

2. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the audio information is voice information.

3. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the purchase is of a service.

4. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the purchase is of an item.

5. The method ofclaim 4 further comprising delivering the item.

6. The method ofclaim 5 wherein the delivering the item comprises physically delivering the item.

7. The method ofclaim 5 wherein the delivering the item comprises electronically delivering the item.

8. The method ofclaim 7 wherein the item is delivered electronically to the ear piece.

9. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the electronic device is an entertainment device.

10. The method ofclaim 9 wherein the entertainment device comprises a television.

11. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the electronic device is a computer.

12. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the electronic device is a phone.

13. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the ear piece further comprises a processor disposed within the ear piece housing.

14. The method ofclaim 11 further comprising an inertial sensor disposed within the ear piece housing.

15. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the ear piece is associated with a second ear piece, the ear piece and the second ear piece worn by a single user and the ear pieces configured to provide stereophonic audio to the user.

16. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the purchase is a purchase of access to a song.

17. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the purchase is a purchase of access to a plurality of songs within a group of songs.

18. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the purchase is a purchase of access to a plurality of songs within a playlist of songs.

19. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the ear piece further comprises a speaker.

20. The method ofclaim 1 where the earpiece is a left earpiece or a right earpiece within a set of stereophonic earpieces

Images