System and method for transmitting messages received from a paging network on a paging device to electronic devices

Deseription

Field of the Invention [0001] The present invention generally relates to systems and methods fór transmitting paging messages from a paging device to electronic devices. More specifically, certain embodiments are directed to systems and methods fór establishing a rádió connection between a paging device and a wireless device, such as a cellular device, and fór transmitting the messages received over a paging network by the paging device to the wireless device fór display on the wireless device. Other embodiments are directed to systems and methods fór establishing a connection between a paging device and other devices, such as GPS navigation systems, televisions, laptops, and gaming consoles, and fór transmitting the messages received over a paging network by the paging device to the such devices.

Background of the Invention [0002] Both pagers and wireless devices, such as cell phones, are widely used forms of communication. Although a few two-way paging systems have been developed, paging systems are typically one-way rádió Communications systems. In order to send a message to a user who has a paging device, the sender contacts a paging control system, usually via a telephoné or computer network. Upon accessing the paging control system, the sender can perform certain operations, including inputting a call-back number or message to be sent to the paging device or leaving a voice message fór the paged user. The paging control system can then deliver the call-back number or message or the voice message to the paging device through a paging network, such as POCSAG or FLEX.

[0003] Wireless devices, such as cellular telephones, on the other hand, typically communicate through bidirectional communication systems. Many ofthese devices further allow fór real-time bidirectional communication. Forexample, when an individual wishes to contact a user who has a cellular telephoné, the individual usually dials the number associated with the cellular telephoné from the individual’s cellular or landline telephoné. Once a connection is established between the two telephones, voice and other data are transmitted to and from the cellular telephoné through a cellular network, such as GSM or CDMA.

[0004] The transmitters used in paging systems typically operate at a higher power level than cellular telephoné transceivers. As a result, the coverage area associated with individual paging systems is often greater than the coverage area associated with individual cellular telephoné, or transmission towers. Fór similar reasons, paging systems alsó tend to have greater penetration than cellular telephoné systems. Moreover, unlike cellular systems, paging systems have the ability to simulcast transmissions by utilizing constructive interference to strengthen the signal, whieh further increases the coverage area and penetration ofthe paging signals. As a result, paging Services are frequently available in certain geographic areas and environments where cellular telephoné service is nőt available. Thus, paging systems generally provide increased reliability with respect to the delivery and receipt of Communications as compared to cellular telephoné systems.

[0005] In addition, due to their configuration, paging systems typically allow fór multicasting of paging Communications to multiple devices. Thus, a paging system can broadeast information to a large number of users simultaneously. Conversely, cellular telephoné systems typically only allow fór messages to be transmitted sequentially (i.e., to a single cellular device at a time), and cannot broadeast messages to a specific group of users simultaneously.

[0006] The need to subseribe to a paging service (in addition to a cellular service) is importantfor many users, such as those who work in certain time-sensitive professions. This is mainly due to the higherdegreeof reliability provided by paging systems. Fór example medical personnel and emergency workers are often required to carry a paging device in addition to their cellular telephoné. In these occupations, receiving messages as reliably and as quickly as possibie is extremely important. In hospitals, minutes and even seconds often make the difference between life and death. The ability to deliver messages to doctors and other medical personnel reliably and with as little delay as possibie decreases the response time fór medical emergencies. This, in turn, decreases the negative im pacts to patient health associated with the time taken to respond to the emergency. Likewise, many emergency workers need to récéivé messages reliably and with the Ieast possibie delay in order to respond and react to various emergency situations effectively. Frequently, these emergencies involve lifethreatening situations, in whieh minimál response time is vitai. As a result, in these professions, even small increases in the reliability, or decreases in the delay, of message delivery and receipt can significantly increase the number of lives benefitted or saved.

[0007] In order to subseribe to both types of Services, however, consumers typically have to carry, monitor and maintain two separate devices. This leads to a number of inconveniences with respectto the portability, costand ease of use ofthese devices. While systems have been developed that provide an aggregated pager and cellular telephoné (e.g., U.S. Patent No. 5,117,449), these systems have exhibited a number of problems, whieh has resulted in these devices failing to be adopted by consumers in any meaningful way. One drawback is that, because both paging and cellular phone functionalities are implemented through shared components, only one functionality can utilize these components at a time. Another drawback is that these devices often suffer from increased interference between the incoming paging and

EP 2 661 870 Β1 cellular signals, due to the extremely close proximity of the paging and cellular receivers.

[0008] These aggregated systems alsó experience significantly decreased battery life, due to the power requirements of implementing both cellular and paging functionalities in a single device. Moreover, these devices do nőt provide fór acknowledgments and status messages to be sent back to the paging network in order to ensure successful delivery and receiptofthe paging messages and allow fór an audit trail to be recorded. In addition, these aggregated devices require a modification ofthe physical components ofa standard cellular or other wireless device in order to incorporate the paging functionality. As a result, the paging functionality is tied to the specific aggregated device, and users cannot change devices, without either modifying the physical components ofthe new device orlosing the paging functionality. [0009] More recently, systems have been created (e.g., PageCopy by American Messaging; and MessageSync by Indiana Paging) which have attempted to use cellular networks in order to mimic the Services offered by paging systems. These systems provide users with an application that can be installed on their cellular telephoné or otherwireless device that receives and displays certain messages on the device. Importantly, however, these systems do nőt utilize a paging network and, as such, do nőt provide true paging Services. Instead, these systems merely use the cellular capabilities ofthe user’s device to deliver messages to the device through a cellular network. As a result, these systems do nőt provide users with the advantages of paging Services, such as greater coverage areas, penetration and reliability, and the ability to récéivé multicasted messages.

[0010] Other systems have been developed in which a pager is used to wake-up, or initiate a call with, a cellulartelephone (e.g., U.S. Patent No. 5,701,337). The purpose of these systems was to conserve the battery life of the cellular device by allowing the cellular device togo intosleep modeorpowerdown and then bewokenup by the pager prior to an incoming telephoné call. As a result, these systems do nőt provide users with paging service in addition to cellulartelephone service. Accordingly, these systems do nőt allow users to récéivé and view paging messages on the user’s cellular telephoné or wireless device.

[0011] US5.541,976 describes a cellular mobile rádió telephoné system which incorporates an independent paging capability with an existing mobile telephoné by taking advantage of call forwarding and redirecting features available on the telephoné switching network. When a mobile telephoné issettoan active oron mode, calls are directed to that mobile telephoné using the cellular paging channel and conventional cellular paging procedures. However, when the mobile telephoné is set to a sleep mode and the power is switched off, the mobile switching center automatically forwards calls to the mobile to an independent paging system which transmits the call as a paging signal to a small pager associated with the mobile telephoné. When the pager receives a page signal as a result of the forwarded call, the pager transmits a low-power signal to the mobile telephoné which switches on the power of the mobile telephoné. A predetermined time afterforwarding the call to the paging system, the mobile switching center redirects the forwarded calls using redirecting procedures to the mobile telephoné. By the time the call is redirected, the mobile station has been activated and can now récéivé the call directly. Because the active pager consumes much less power than the mobile telephoné listening to a paging channel of the cellular system, setting the mobile telephoné to the sleep mode results in considerably less battery drain. When the mobile is set to a page mode, the pager functions as a conventional paging device.

[0012] Additionally, there has been a significant increase over the last two decades in terrorist attacks and active shooter events. A common problem associated with these events is a lack of ability to transmit mass notification messages to individuals in the threat area. Without the ability to broadcast messages, there is no practical way to provide potential victims with status notifications in real-time. Alsó, these events are often widespread and can involve a large numberof emergency or response personnel. As a result, another common problem has been the lackof ability to simultaneously provide status notifications and instructions to update and coordinate such personnel in reál time.

[0013] Thus, there is a need fór a system which combines the features and advantages of electronic devices, paging devices and networks, while maximizing the reliability and minimizing the delay of delivering messages to users. There is alsó a need fór a system which can broadcast emergency messages to a large number of users simultaneously. There is further a need fór a universal paging device, which is compatible with, and can communicate paging messages to, various types of electronic devices without modifying any ofthe physical components ofsuch devices. In light ofthe beneficial qualities of paging systems, such as greater coverage areas and penetration aswell as multicasting, it would be desirable to provide a system which allows users to view paging system messages on wireless devices, such as cellular telephones, and which provides acknowledgements back to the paging system to indicate successful delivery and receipt ofthe messages.

Summary of the Invention [0014] One aspect ofthe invention is to deliver paging messages to users in a manner that maximizes the reliability and minimizes the delay associated with the delivery and receipt of such messages. Another aspect of the invention is to provide a universally compatible, lowcost device, which allow users to récéivé, view, and respond to such messages while managing and monitoring a single cellular or other wireless device. Yet another aspect ofthe invention is to provide such a device which

EP 2 661 870 Β1 does nőt require modification ofthe physical components of the deviee. Yet another aspect of the invention is to provide a system in which emergency messages can be broadeasted to a large group of users at the same time. [0015] The above and other aspects may be realized through systems and methods for communicating messages received through a paging network by a paging deviee to an electronic deviee through a connection established between the two devices. In certain embodiments, systems and methods are provided for communicating messages received through a paging network by a paging deviee to a cellular or other wireless deviee through a rádió connection established between the two devices. The paging deviee establishes a rádió connection with the wireless deviee. In response to receiving a message from the paging network, the paging deviee transmits the received message to the wireless deviee through the established rádió connection. In response to receiving the message from the paging deviee, the wireless deviee sends an acknowledgment to the paging network that the message was received and displays the message.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the paging deviee can be, or can be incorporated within, a peripheral of a wireless or cellular deviee, such as a carrying case, holder, or battery extender. In other embodiments, the paging deviee could be a stand-alone deviee, such as a key fob. In yet other embodiments, the paging deviee could be incorporated in other consumeraccessoriesor electronic devices, such as a beit, helmet, television remote, or game controiier.

[0017] In certain embodiments the paging deviee can communicate messages received from the paging network to any wireless deviee capable of receiving and transmitting messages over a cellular network, such as a cellular telephoné, smartphone, PDA, or tablet. In accordance with certain of these embodiments, reply messages, receipt, error, read and other acknowledgements and status messages, such as messages indicating the status ofthe connection between the paging deviee and the wireless deviee and the status ofthe connection between the paging deviee and the paging network, can be transmitted from the wireless deviee to the paging network through the cellular network and a network connection between the cellular network and the paging network. [0018] In other embodiments, the paging deviee can communicate messages received from the paging network to various other electronic devices, such as GPS navigation systems, televisions, gaming consoles, personal computers and laptops, where the message is displayed on the native display associated with the electronic deviee. In accordance with certain of these embodiments, reply messages, acknowledgements and status messages can be transmitted from the electronic deviee directly to the paging network through a network connection, such as Wi-Fi, WiMAX, orthe Internet óra dedicated network.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the wireless or other electronic deviee, in response to receiving a notification from the paging deviee that the paging network is unavailable, or detecting that a rádió connection cannot be established between the paging deviee and the wireless deviee, can notify the paging network accordingly and the paging network can transmit any messages to the wireless deviee directly through a cellular network or through a network connection between the paging network and the wireless deviee.

[0020] In certain embodiments, one or both ofthe paging deviee and the wireless deviee can generate a number ofvisual, audible or tactile alerts, including alerts that indicate the receipt of a new message, the status of the connection between the paging deviee and the wireless deviee, the availability ofthe paging network and the battery level ofthe paging deviee.

Brief Description ofthe Drawings [0021] Further features ofthe invention, its natúré and various advantages will be more apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters refer to like parts throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the interactions between various components, including the wireless and paging devices, according to certain embodiments;

FIG.2 is a schematic ofa portion ofthe paging deviee of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic of a portion of the wireless deviee of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a process that may be used bythe paging deviee in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a process that may be used by the wireless deviee in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of another process that may be used by the paging deviee in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of another process that may be used by the wireless deviee in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of yet another process that may be used by the wireless deviee in accordance with certain embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the paging deviee ac4

ΕΡ 2 661 870 Β1 cording to certain embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the interactions between various components, including the paging device and a GPS device according to certain other embodiments;

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the interactions between various components, including the paging device and a Television according to yet other embodiments; and

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the interactions between various components, including the paging device and a gaming console according to yet other embodiments.

Detailed Description ofthe Invention [0022] As discussed above, pagers and wireless devices such as cellular telephones have typically been separate devices which operate independently. To reduce the inconvenienceof having to manage and monitor two separate devices, one aspect ofthe invention allows a paging device to communicate with a wireless device such that messages received from the paging network on the paging device can be transmitted to the wireless device fordisplay. Another aspect ofthe invention allows a paging device to communicate with other electronic devices, such as GPS navigation systems, televisions, laptops, and gaming consoles, wherein messages received from the paging network on the paging device can be transmitted to the electronic device. Yet another aspect of the invention allows fór acknowledgements and status messages, as weli as reply messages to be transmitted back to the paging network from the wireless device or other electronic device. As used herein, the term message means a communication comprising one or more alphanumeric characters intended to be displayed to the recipient. The term display, as used herein, means a visual, audible, or tactile display or any combination thereof. The systems and methods described beiow take advantage ofthe benefits provided by both paging devices and wireless and other electronic devices in order to maximize the level of reliability with respect to the delivery and receipt of paging messages sent to users.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a pictorial diagram of a paging and cellular system in accordance with certain embodiments. The system includes Paging Network Operation Center (NOC) 300 which coordinates and manages the delivery of paging messages. Paging NOC 300 utilizes paging transmitter 350 to transmit messages to paging devices through a standard paging protocol such as FLEX, POCSAG, or any other suitable protocol. Alsó shown in FIG. 1 is Cellular NOC 400 which coordinates and manages the Communications to and from wireless devices. Cellular NOC 400 utilizes cellular tower 450 to transmit and récéivé call signals and data to and from wireless devices, through a standard cellular protocol such as GSM, CDMA, PHS, orany other suitable protocol. As shown in FIG. 1, Paging NOC 300 and Cellular NOC 400 communicate with each other through network 500. Network 500 could be a local area network, VPN eonneetion, the Internet, or any other suitable eonneetion. It will be appreciated that Paging NOC 300 and Cellular NOC 400 can utilize a plurality of paging transmitters and cellular towers, respectively, although only one of each is shown fór illustration purposes. The transmission of paging signals from Paging NOCs to paging devices and the transmission of cellular signals from Cellular NOCs to cellular and other wireless devices is weli known in the art.

[0024] Alsó shown in FIG. 1 are examples of a paging device 100 and a wireless device 200. Paging device 100 receives paging messages sent by Paging NOC 300 through paging transmitter 350. Wireless device 200 receives cellular signals from, and transmits cellular signals (e.g., signals sent and received over mobile carrier networks) to, Cellular NOC 400 through cellular tower 450. As shown in FIG. 1, paging device 100 communicates with wireless device 200 through rádió frequency RF connection 600, which in this example is a Bluetooth connection. In otherembodiments, RF eonneetion 600, could be a ZigBee, Wi-Fi or WiMAX eonneetion, any other short-range rádió eonneetion, or any othersuitable rádió eonneetion. In certain embodiments, paging device 100 sends the messages it receives from Paging NOC 300 to wireless device 200 through RF eonneetion 600. Paging device 100 can alsó send various attributes associated with the message, including the message status, as weli as other information regarding the status ofthe paging device or paging network to wireless device 200 through RF eonneetion 600.

[0025] In certain embodiments, such as is illustrated in FIG. 1, wireless device 200 can beacellulartelephone. In certain of these embodiments, wireless device 200 can communicate with Paging NOC 300 through Cellular NOC 400 and network 500. In other embodiments, wireless device 200 could be any device capable of wireless communication as discussed in the description that follows (e.g., PDA, tablet, computer, laptop, smartphone, GPS device, television, etc.). In certain of these embodiments, wireless device 200 can communicate directly with Paging NOC 300 through network 500 without Cellular NOC 400. In yet other embodiments, wireless device 200 can communicate with Paging NOC 300 through a dedicated network orany othersuitable network connection. FIG. 1 alsó shows a trickle charge 150, through which wireless device 200 may provide power to certain components of, and/or charge the battery in, paging device 100 as described in more detail with respect to FIG. 9 beiow.

[0026] One advantage of the systems and methods described herein, as can be seen in FIG. 1 and its accompanying description, is the ability fór users to récéivé, view and respond to paging messages received from a

ΕΡ 2 661 870 Β1 paging network on a cellular or other wireless device. This allows users to subscribe to paging (as well as cellular) Services while only having to monitor and maintain one device. Another advantage is that notifications and acknowledgements can be sent back to the paging network from the wireless device. As a result, the reliability, portability and ease-of-use ofthe system is increased. [0027] FIG. 2 is a blockdiagram which illustrates a paging device suitable fór use with certain embodiments. Paging device 100 includes a Paging RF Receiver2 and Paging Protocol Decoder 3, which may be any standard paging receiver components capable of receiving and decoding paging messages over a paging network. Paging RF Receiver2 receives standard paging signals, such as FLEX or POCSAG Over-The-Air Protocol signals, transmitted from a paging network. Paging Protocol Decoder 3 decodes the signals received by Paging RF Receiver 2 and passes any messages which are addressed to paging device 100 to Central processor 4. Central processor 4 may be any standard computer processor or any othersuitable type of processor. Although Paging RF Receiver 2, Paging Protocol Decoder 3 and Central processor 4 are shown in FIG. 2 as separate components, in certain embodiments two or more of these components may be combined intő a single chip. In other embodiments, Paging Protocol Decoder 3 may be specialized firmware or software running on a separate microprocessor or may be software code running on Central processor 4.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, paging device 100 may alsó include memory 8, which can be utilized by Central processor 4 to store messages decoded and passed from Paging Protocol Decoder. In certain embodiments, one or more attributes may be associated with the received messages and stored in memory 8. These attributes may include certain information related to the status of the message, such as whether itwas received with errors or whether it has been sent to a wireless device. Alsó shown in FIG. 2 is a battery 10 which may provide power to active components of paging device 100. Battery 10 may be a standard alkaline battery or a rechargeable battery. While shown in FIG. 2 as an internál battery, battery 10 could alsó be a user replaceable battery. In certain embodiments, power needed fór the operation of certain components of paging device 100 may be alternatively drawn from an external connection capable of receiving power from an AC or DC outiét or an external battery, such as a cár battery.

[0029] Paging device 100 includes an RF transceiver 9 fór communicating with a wireless or other electronic device (such as a PDA, tablet, computer, laptop, smartphone, GPS device, television, etc.). Although RF transceiver 9 is shown in FIG. 2 as separate from Paging RF Receiver 2, RF transceiver 9 and Paging RF Receiver 2 could be combined intő a single transceiver, or could be configured to share one or more components of paging device 100. In certain embodiments RF transceiver 9 is a Bluetooth transceiver, however, RF transceiver 9 can be any type of transceiver that utilizes a suitable rádió communication protocol, such as Wi-Fi, WiMAX, orZigBee. RF transceiver 9 is connected to Central processor 4 in order to transmit messages received by paging device 100 from a paging network to a wireless device through an rádió connection established with the wireless device, as described in more detail in connection with the process depicted in FIG. 4.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 2 paging device 100 may alsó include a message status LED 6, an RF transceiver connection status LED 7 and a power status LED 5 connected to and controlled by Central processor 4. In certain embodiments, paging device 100 may incorporate three distinct LEDs. Fór example, message status LED 6 may be an LED having a first color (e.g., green), which indicates whether the paging device has received messages that have nőt yet been delivered to the wireless device. Similarly, RF transceiver connection status LED 7 may be an LED having a seeond color that is different from the first color (e.g., blue), which indicates whether there is an active RF connection between paging device 100 and the wireless device. Alsó, power status LED 5 may be an LED having a third color that is different from the first and seeond colors (e.g., red), which indicates ifthe power level of battery 10 is below a certain threshold. In other embodiments, one or more of message status LED 6, RF transceiver connection status LED 7 and power status LED 5 could be removed, or replaced by, other types of visual, auditory, or tactile álért mechanisms. [0031] Aceording to certain embodiments, paging device 100 may be, or may be incorporated with, an accessoryorperipheralforthewirelessdevice, e.g., embedded in a carrying case or battery extender, as described in more detail in connection with the embodiments depicted in FIG. 9. In other embodiments paging device 100 may be incorporated with other accessoriesorconsumer electronic devices, such as a helmet, beit, television remote, or game controller, as described in more detail in connection with the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 9 and 11-12. ínyétotherembodiments, paging device 100 may further be a stand-alone device or small apparátus, such as a key fob, which can be carried by an individual or may be mounted in an automobilé as described in more detail in connection with the embodiments depicted in FIG. 10.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a block diagram which illustrates a wireless device suitable fór use with certain embodiments. As shown in FIG. 3, wireless device 200 includes transceiver 32, which, in certain embodiments where wireless device 200 is a cellular device, may be any standard cellular transceiver. Transceiver 32 passes voice and/or data signals to, and receives voice and/or data signals from, wireless device CPU 33. In certain embodiments, transceiver 32 may alsó be used to transmit acknowledgements and status notifications back to the paging network through the cellular network. The cellular network can then pass these acknowledgements and status notifications to the paging network through

ΕΡ 2 661 870 Β1 any suitable network connection between the cellular and paging networks, such as the Internet. In other embodiments, wireless device 200 may transmit these acknowledgementsand status notifications tothe paging network through a network connection between the wireless device and the paging network.

[0033] In accordance with certain of these embodiments, the wireless device may transmit acknowledgements indicating that a message has been received, that a message has been received with errors, and that a message has been read. The wireless device may alsó transmit notifications that indicate whether or nőt the wireless device has an active RF connection with the paging device and whether the paging network is available atthe paging device. In addition, the wireless device may transmit reply messages when a user wishes to respond to a message received atthe wireless device. This functionality allows fór bidirectional communication with the paging network, which provides a numberof benefits. Fór example, one benefit is that the paging network can record a full audit trail ofthe delivery, receipt, read, and status ofthe messages, including any errors in the process. Another benefit is that the system can better ensure that messages are received and read by users. Fór example, if the paging network does nőt récéivé an acknowledgement that a message has been received or read within a certain amount oftime, the paging network can transmit the message to the paging device again and could alsó transmit the message dírectiy to the wireless device, either through the cellular network óra direct network connection. This functionality increases the reliability of the system as a whole.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 3, wireless device 200 alsó includes RF transceiver 39 fór communicating with a paging device. Although RF transceiver 39 is shown in FIG. 3 as separate from transceiver 32, the transceivers could be combined into a single transceiver, or be configured to share one or more components of wireless device 200. In certain embodiments RF transceiver 39 is a Bluetooth transceiver, however, RF transceiver 39 can be any type of transceiver that utilizes a suitable rádió communication protocol, such as Wi-Fi, WiMAX, or ZigBee. RF transceiver 39 is connected to wireless device CPU 33 and passes any messages or signals it receives from the paging device to wireless device CPU 33.

[0035] Wireless device 200 alsó includes a Paging Message Component 37, which is connected to wireless device CPU 33. Wireless device CPU 33 passes any messages or signals it receives from RF transceiver 39 to Paging Message Component 37. In certain embodiments, the function associated with Paging Message Component 37, may be implemented in software running on wireless device CPU 33, such as a mobile device application, thereby removing any need fór modifying the physical components ofa standard wireless device such as a smartphone. In other embodiments, the function associated with Paging Message Component 37 may be integrated in the operating system running on wireless device CPU 33. Alternatively, Paging Message Component 37 may be a specialized chip, such as a microprocessor, which includes program instructions in firmware. Alsó shown in FIG. 3 is a memory 38, which may be controlled by Paging Message Component 37. In certain embodiments, Paging Message Component 37 may utilize memory 38 to store messages, as well as other message attributes and status notifications received from the paging device through RF transceiver 39.

[0036] In certain embodiments, Paging Message Component 37 may be integrated with, or utilize, certain functions included in wireless device 200 to provide additional benefits to users ofsuch devices. Fór example, Paging Message Component may integrate with an address book or a contact list in wireless device 200. This can provide numerous benefits, such as the ability to savé telephoné numbers or other contact information included in any messages received from paging device 100, look up information associated with the sender ofsuch messages, or link or connect such messages to a corresponding contact entry. Alsó, in the event that the recipient of a message is unable to respond as requested in the message, the recipient could respond with the contact information ofan alternate individual who may be able to respond. Paging Message Component 37 may alsó integrate with the e-mail or text messaging capabilities of wireless device 200. This can allow fór additional functionalities, such as the ability to forward messages received from the paging device to other individuals or groups or respond to the sender or the paging network through e-mail or text messages.

[0037] As another example, Paging Message Component 37 may utilize a calendar feature of wireless device 200. In this example, messages including appointments or meetings may be received at wireless device 200 from paging device 100 and be automatically integrated into the calendar on wireless device 200. In other embodiments, links to Internet websites may be included in the messages received at wireless device 200. These links could then be accessed through the web browsing capabilities of wireless device 200.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 3, wireless device 200 may include a display 34, a speaker 35, and a tactile álért mechanism 36, all of which may be connected to, and operated by, wireless device CPU 33. In certain embodiments, in response to receiving messages or signals from a paging device, Paging Message Component 37 may instruct wireless device CPU 33 to display the message on display 34. According to certain of these embodiments, the message may be displayed in any suitable manner that is consistentwith standard procedures used by wireless device 200. Fór example, the display of the message may interrupt the wireless device’s normál display procedures and require certain action by the user of wireless device 200, before any other processing may occur on wireless device 200. Paging Message Component 37 may alsó instruct wireless device CPU to generate an audible or tactile álért by utilizing speaker 35 or

EP 2 661 870 Β1 tactile álért mechanism 36. Fór example, the message could be converted intő an audible message, which may be output through speaker 35. In certain other embodiments, one or more of display 34, speaker 35, or tactile álért mechanism 36 could be removed, or replaced by, other types of visual, auditory, or tactile álért mechanisms.

[0039] According to certain embodiments, wireless device 200 can be any device that is capable of receiving and transmitting cellular signals over a cellular network, such as cellular telephones, smartphones, PDAs, and tablets. Wireless device 200 may alsó be any electronic device that is capable of communicating over other types of networks, such as Wi-Fi, WiMAX, the Internet, or other suitable networks. Forexample, wireless device 200 may be an Internet television, gaming console, personal computer, or laptop, as described in more detail in connection with the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 11-12. In certain embodiments, wireless device 200 may be other types of electronic devices, such as a GPS navigafion system, as described in more detail in connection with the embodiments depicted in FIG. 10.

[0040] As can be seen from FIGS. 1-3 and their accompanying descriptions, the systems and methods described herein allow users to récéivé, view, and respond to messages received from a paging network on a wide rangé of wireless and other electronic devices, without the need to modify the physical components of such devices. Accordingly, one advantage, is that individuals can récéivé the benefits associated with paging Services, while using their current, unmodified, cellular, wireless, and other electronic devices, and can seamlessly transition to using new devices without losing these benefits. [0041] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the paging device described in FIGS. 1 and 2 in accordance with certain embodiments. At step 101, Paging RF Receiver 2 of paging device 100 scans the appropriate paging frequency fór any new transmissions from the paging network. At step 102, in response to detecting the address of paging device 100 in the transmission, the Paging RF Receiver 2 captures the transmission and passes the associated data to the Paging Protocol Decoder 3 fór decoding. Paging Protocol Decoder 3 decodes the received data intő a message based upon the appropriate standard paging protocol, (e.g., FLEX, POCSAG, etc.). At step 103, Paging Protocol Decoder 3 checks to see ifthe decoded message has any errors. If errors are detected, flow proceeds to step 105 and Paging Protocol Decoder 3 attempts to correct any errors that are correctable (e.g., by using any standard error detection and correction mechanisms, such as using a checksum or other similar algorithm to correct any errors or replacing missing characters with error characters) and marks the status ofthe message appropriately, such as With Errors. If no errors are detected, flow proceeds to step 104 and Paging Protocol Decoder 3 marks the status of the message appropriately, such as Error Free. Flow then proceeds to step 106.

[0042] At step 106, Paging Protocol Decoder 3 passes the message to Central processor 4, which compares the received message with any previously stored messages to determine if it is a duplicate message. In certain embodiments, Central processor 4 may compare one or more attributes associated with the received message to one or more attributes associated with the stored messages to determine whether the received message is a duplicate message. If the received message is determined to be a duplicate message, flow proceeds to step 108. Otherwise, ifthe received message is determined notto be a duplicate message, Central processor 4 Stores the message in memory 8 atstep 107. In certain embodiments, Central processor 4 may alsó store additional attributes associated with the received message, such as a timestamp, delivery status, or error status in memory 8. [0043] Atstep 108, Central processor 4 checks whether there is an active RF connection established with wireless device 200. In certain embodiments paging device 100 may establish an RF connection with wireless device 200 priorto receiving any messages (e.g., when the paging device powers up). In other embodiments, paging device 100 may establish an RF connection with wireless device after receiving one or more messages (e.g., because the connection could nőt be established previously, or in orderto conserve battery power). If an active RF connection is detected, flow proceeds to step 113. [0044] Otherwise, flow proceeds to step 109, at which time Central processor4 attempts to establish an RF connection with wireless device 200 through RF transceiver 9. If an RF connection can be established, flow proceeds to step 113. Otherwise, if an RF connection cannot be established, at step 110, Central processor 4 checks whether RF transceiver connection status LED 7 is blinking and, if nőt, sets RF transceiver connection status LED 7 toa blinking state in orderto indicate that paging device 100 is nőt able to establish a RF connection with wireless device 200. At step 111, Central processor 4 marks the status of the received message appropriately, such as Nőt Sent to Wireless Device and Stores the message status in memory 8. At step 112, Central processor 4 checks whether message status LED 6 is set to a blinking state and, if nőt, sets message status LED 6 to a blinking state to indicate that paging device 100 has received one or more messages that have nőt yet been transmitted to wireless device 200. Flow then returns to step 109 where Central processor 4 continues to check whether an RF connection can be established with the wireless device. [0045] When an RF connection is established between paging device 100 and wireless device 200, at step 113 Central processor 4 sends the received message, as well as any messages in memory 8 that have a status of Nőt Sent to Wireless Device, to wireless device 200 through the established RF connection. Atstep 114, Central processor 4 checks whether either of the message status LED 6 or RF transceiver connection status LED 7 are set to a blinking state and, if so, sets the LEDs to a nonblinking state. Central processor4then sets the message

ΕΡ 2 661 870 Β1 status of any messages sent to wireless device 200 appropriately, such as Sent to Wireless Device, at step 115 and Stores the message statuses in memory 8. The flow then returns to step 101 in order for Paging RF Receiver 2 to continue scanning the paging frequency for any new messages from the paging network.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the wireless device described in FIGS. 1 and 3 in accordance with certain embodiments. At step 201, wireless device 200 waits for a message to be received from paging device 100 through RF transceiver 39. When a message is received, at step 202 RF transceiver 39 passes the message (along with any attributes or statuses associated with the message) to wireless device CPU 33, which, in turn, passes the message to Paging Message Component 37. In other embodiments, such as where Paging Message Component 37 is a separate specialized chip or microprocessor, RF transceiver 39 may pass the message direetly to Paging Message Component 37. [0047] At step 203, Paging Message Component 37 Stores the message, as well as any associated message attributes or statuses, in memory 38. In certain embodiments, Paging Message Component 37 may alsó instruct wireless device CPU 33 to transmit a message received acknowledgement, which may alsó include one or more the message attributes, such as the message error status, through transceiver 32 to the paging network. In certain embodiments, the paging network, in response to receiving an acknowledgement that indicates a message was received with errors, may retransmit the message to the paging device. Although in this example, e.g., where the wireless device is a cellular device, the acknowledgement is transmitted to the paging network through the cellular network and the network connection between the cellular and paging networks, in other embodiments, e.g., where the wireless device is another type of electronic device, the wireless device may transmit the acknowledgement to the paging network through a direct network connection, such as a Wi-Fi, WiMAX, or hardwire Internet connection with the paging network. [0048] At step 204, Paging Message Component 37 checks whether the received message is a duplicate of one or more messages previously stored in memory 38. In certain embodiments, Paging Message Component 37 may alsó compare one or more attributes associated with the received message to one or more attributes associated with the stored messages to determine whether the received message is a duplicate message. If Paging Message Component 37 detects that the received message is a duplicate message, flow returns to step 201 in order for wireless device 200 to wait for any new messages to be received from paging device 100. Otherwise flow proceeds to step 205, at which time Paging Message Component 37 instructs wireless device CPU 33 to display the message on display 34.

[0049] In certain embodiments, Paging Message Component 37 may alsó instruct wireless device CPU 33 to generate one or more audible or tactile alerts using speaker 35ortactile álért mechanism 36, such as to álért the user of wireless device 200 when a message is received. One or more of these alerts may be managed according to certain preferences chosen by the user of wireless device 200. According to certain of these embodiments, the display of the received message or the alerts may be handled consistent with standard procedures used by wireless devices, such as are used in connection with SMS text messaging. In other embodiments, one or more of the display or alerts may be handled as a priority thread by the wireless device, which may interrupt the wireless device’s normál display procedures and supersede any other Processing ofthe wireless device. [0050] At step 206, Paging Message Component 37 detects whether the displayed message has been acknowledged or read by the user of wireless device 200 (e.g., by the user pressing a button on, or the screen of the wireless device) and, if nőt, flow proceeds to step 207, where Paging Message Component 37 waits for the user to acknowledge the message. Once the user has acknowledged the message, flow proceeds to step 208. At step 208, Paging Message Component 37 directs wireless device CPU 33 to transmit a message read acknowledgement to the paging network through transceiver 32. The message read acknowledgement may be transmitted to the paging network in a similar manner to that described in connection with step 203 above. [0051] At step 209 Paging Message Component 37 queries the user to determine whether the user wants to reply to the received message. If nőt, the flow proceeds to step 213. Otherwise, flow proceeds to step 210, at which time Paging Message Component 37 instructs wireless device CPU 33 to present the user with the option of choosing a predefined response or providing a custom reply. Ifthe userchooses a predefined response, the flow proceeds to step 112. Otherwise, the flow proceeds to step 111, and Paging Message Component 37 receives the custom response from the user (e.g., through a standard user interface provided by wireless device 200). At step 112, Paging Message Component 37 directs wireless device CPU 33 to transmit the predefined or custom reply to the paging network through transceiver 32. The reply may be transmitted to the paging network in a similar manner to that described in connection with step 203 above. At step 213, Paging Message Component 37 instructs wireless device CPU 33 to remove the message from the display (e.g., by closing the message display window), disable any alerts associated with the received message, and flow returns to step 201 in order for wireless device 200 to wait for any new messages from paging device 100.

[0052] In certain embodiments, the systems and methods described above can be used to multicast messages to groups of users. For example, paging NOC 300 can create and transmit a message, which is addressed to more than one paging device. Each paging device to which the message is addressed could then récéivé the message and send it to a wireless or other electronic

ΕΡ 2 661 870 Β1 device through an estabüshed rádió connection in the same manner as is described above in connection with FIGS. 4-5. As a result, one advantage is that messages, such as emergency notifications or instructions, can be broadcast to specified groups of individuals simultaneously, which could minimize the delay associated with the receipt of, and response to, such messages.

[0053] FIG. 6 is a flowchart further illustrating the operation ofthe paging device described in FIGS. 1 and 2 in accordance with certain embodiments. Paging device 100 can monitor the status of its connection to the paging network (i.e., ability to récéivé paging messages from the paging network) and communicate this status to wireless device 200 through an estabüshed RF connection with the wireless device. The status can alsó be communicated to the paging network, which in certain embodiments, can then send messages to wireless device 200 through a cellular or other suitable network. This increases the reliability with respect to the delivery and receipt of messages by allowing for alternate message delivery mechanisms in circumstances where paging device 100 is nőt connected to the paging network.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 6, at step 121, Paging RF Receiver 2 scans the appropriate paging frequency and, at step 122, it detects whether the paging channel is present (i.e., whether the paging network is available). If the paging channel is present, the flow proceeds to step 123, otherwise the flow proceeds to step 125. At step 123, Central processor 4 checks whether a paging channel status is marked as Present. In certain embodiments, the paging channel status may be stored in the memory of paging device 100. Ifthe paging channel status is marked as Present, the flow returns to step 121 and paging device 100 continues to monitor the status ofthe paging channel. Otherwise, flow proceeds to step 124 at which point Central processor 4 marks the paging channel status as Present, and flow proceeds to step 127. At step 125, Central processor4 checks whetherthe paging channel status is marked as Nőt Present. Ifthe paging channel status is marked as Nőt Present, the flow returns to step 121 and paging device 100 continues to monitor the status ofthe paging channel. Otherwise, flow proceeds to step 126 and Central processor 4 marks the paging channel status as Nőt Present. Flow then proceeds to step 127.

[0055] At step 127, Central processor 4 detects whether there is an active RF connection with wireless device 200. If there is an active connection the flow proceeds to step 130. Otherwise, the flow proceeds to step 128, and Central processor 4 attempts to establish an RF connection with the wireless device 200 through RF transceiver

9. If an RF connection is successfully estabüshed, the flow proceeds to step 130. Otherwise, ifan RF connection cannot be estabüshed with wireless device 200, flow proceeds to step 129 at which time Central processor 4 checks whether RF transceiver connection status LED 7 is set to a blinking state and, if nőt, sets it to a blinking state. Flow then returns to step 128 and paging device

100 continues to attempt to establish an RF connection with the wireless device 200 through RF transceiver 9. [0056] Once an RF connection is estabüshed with wireless device 200, atstep 130 Central processor4 transmits the paging channel status to wireless device 200 through the estabüshed RF connection. Central processor 4 then checks whether RF transceiver connection status LED 7 is set to a blinking state at step 131 and, ifso, sets it to a nőt blinking state. Flow then returns to step 121 in order for paging device 100 to continue monitoring the status ofthe paging channel.

[0057] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the wireless device described in FIGS. 1 and 3 in accordance with certain embodiments. Wireless device 200 can récéivé notifications ofthe status ofthe availability ofthe paging network from paging device 100 and can transmit this status notification to the paging network. As discussed above, in certain embodiments, this allows the paging network to utilize alternate mechanisms to deliver messages to wireless device 200, which increases the overall reliability of the system.

[0058] At step 221, wireless device 200 waits for the receipt of a paging channel status from paging device 100 through RF transceiver 39. When a paging channel status is received at step 222, RF transceiver 39 passes the paging channel status to Paging Message Component 37 through wireless device CPU 33. At step 223, Paging Message Component 37 directs wireless device CPU 33 to transmit the paging channel status to the paging network. The paging channel status may be transmitted to the paging network in a similar manner to that described in connection with FIG. 5 above. At step 224, Paging Message Component 37 directs wireless device CPU 33 to update the paging channel status indicatoron display 34 of wireless device 200. Flow then returns to step 221 in order for wireless device 200 to wait for any additional paging channel statuses to be received from paging device 100.

[0059] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the wireless device described in FIGS. 1 and 3 in accordance with certain embodiments. Wireless device 200 can detect the status ofthe RF connection between wireless device 200 and paging device 100 and can transmit a notification ofthe RF connection status to the paging network. In certain embodiments, the paging network can then send messages to wireless device 200 through a cellularorothersuitable network. This allowsforalternate message delivery mechanisms to be utilized in certain circumstances where wireless device 200 cannot establish a connection to paging device 100, thereby increasing the reliability of the system.

[0060] At step 231, Paging Message Component 37 monitors the status ofthe RF connection with paging device 100 through RF transceiver 39. RF transceiver 39 passes the status of the RF connection with paging device 100 to Paging Message Component 37 at step 232, and Paging Message Component 37 determines whether there has been any change in the status of the RF

EP 2 661 870 Β1 connection. In certain embodiments, Paging Message Component 37 compares the current status of the RF connection with an RF connection status previously stored in memory to determine whether there has been a change in the status ofthe RF connection. If there has nőt been a change in status, the flow returns to step 231. Otherwise, flow proceeds to step 233, at which time Paging Message Component 37 transmits the RF connection status to the paging network. The RF connection status may be transmitted to the paging network in a similar mannertothatdescribed in connection with FIG. 5above. At step 234, Paging Message Component 37 directs wireless device CPU 33 to update the RF connection status indicatoron display 34 ofwireless device 200. Flow then returns to step 231 in order fór wireless device 200 to continue to monitor the status of the RF connection with paging device 100.

[0061] In accordance with the embodiments deseribed in connection with FIGS. 6-8, wireless device 200 can notify and update the paging network as to the status of the RF connection between wireless device 200 and paging device 100, and/or the ability of paging device 100 to connect to the paging network. In certain embodiments,

i.e., where wireless device includes cellular capability, these notifications can be transmitted to the cellular network through cellular transmissions and, in turn, can be passed on to the paging network through a connection between the cellular network and the paging network. In other embodiments, these notifications can be transmitted from wireless device 200 to the paging network directly, such as through a Wi-Fi, WiMAX or Internet network connection between wireless device 200 and the paging networkorany othersuitable network connection. [0062] In certain embodiments the paging network, in response to receíving a notification that either the RF connection cannot be established orthe paging network is unavailable on paging device 100, can direct the cellular network to transmit any messages intended fór paging device 100, directly to wireless device 200 through the cellular network, orcán communicate such messages to wireless device 200 through a direct network connection with the wireless device. The direct transmission of messages to wireless device 200 may replace, or may be in addition to, the transmission ofsuch messages to paging device 100 by the paging network. In accordance with certain of these embodiments, the paging network may cease, or may direct the cellular network to cease, the direct transmission of messages to wireless device 200, in response to receíving a notification that either or both ofthe RF connection being established orthe paging network being available on paging device 100.

[0063] Accordingly, successful delivery and receipt of messages is maximized, and any associated delay is minimized, by providing alternate message delivery mechanisms in certain situations, such as where paging messages cannot be received by the paging device or cannot be communicated from the paging device to the wireless device. This provides redundancy and, therefore, results in an overall increase to the reliability ofthe messaging system.

[0064] FIG. 9 is a pictorial diagram ofthe paging device in accordance with certain embodiments. As shown in FIG. 9, paging device 100 is incorporated in a carrying case 700. Paging device 100 may include the same components as deseribed and illustrated in connection with FIG. 2. Carrying case 700 can be a sieeve, cover, holder or any other suitable case fór a wireless or other electronic device, such as wireless device 200 with which paging device 100 communicates through a rádió connection. Paging device 100 may be incorporated within carrying case 700, as illustrated in FIG. 9. In other embodiments, paging device 100 can be affixed to or removably attached to carrying case 700. As shown in FIG. 9, carrying case 700 may include a beit clip 701, which can be used to attach carrying case 700 to a beit or other suitable consumer accessory.

[0065] Although in FIG. 9 paging device 100 is shown as being incorporated in carrying case 700, paging device 100 could alsó be incorporated in any peripheral or accessory fór a cellular or other wireless device, such as a battery extender. In other embodiments, paging device 100 may be incorporated in other accessories, such as a helmetor beit. In yet other embodiments paging device 100 may be a stand-alone device, such as a key fob, which could be carried or worn by a user. In certain of these embodiments, paging device 100 and wireless device 200 may operate in a similar manner as deseribed and illustrated in connection with FIGS. 2-8 above. [0066] Asshown in FIG. 9, carrying case 700 is capable ofreceiving wireless device 200. In certain embodiments, such as where wireless device 200 is held by, or attached to, carrying case 700, wireless device 200 and paging device 100 may communicate through a wired connection, which may be included in carrying case 700. Paging device 100 may send messages and other notifications to wireless device 200 through the wired connection. In certain of these embodiments, one or more of message status LED 6, an RF transceiver connection status LED 7 and a power status LED 5, as well as any other alerts generated by paging device 100, could be temporarily disabled. Wireless device 200 may alsó provide power to paging device 100, such as through a trickle charge from wireless device 200 to paging device 100. In certain embodiments, the trickle charge may be used to provide power to certain components of paging device 100 and/or to recharge the battery in paging device 100.

[0067] FIG. 10 is a pictorial diagram illustrating the interactions between various components ofthe system, including the paging device and a GPS device according to certain embodiments. The system illustrated in FIG. 10 may include many ofthe components illustrated and deseribed in connection with FIG. 1, such as the Paging NOC 300, paging transmitter 350, and paging device 100. Paging device 100 may include the same components as illustrated and deseribed in connection with FIG.

2.

ΕΡ 2 661 870 Β1 [0068] Alsó shown in FIG. 10 is a GPS navigation system 800. GPS navigation system 800 may be a vehicle navigation system that is incorporated in the vehicle or a stand alone navigation system in the vehicle, or it may be any other suitable type of navigation system. In certain embodiments, GPS navigation system 800 communicates with a dedicated GPS network via satellite. As shown in FIG. 10, GPS navigation system 800 includes a display 801, which may be used to display certain information to users ofthe navigation system. GPS navigation system 800 may alsó include or connect to other visual or audible components, which may be used to provide certain information or alerts to users. GPS navigation system 800 may alsó récéivé input from users through any suitable user interface, such as buttons 802-805 as shown in FIG. 10. In certain embodiments, GPS navigation system 800 may include a transceiver which may be used to communicate with the paging network through any suitable rádió network. In other embodiments, GPS navigation system 800 may communicate with the paging network through a dedicated network, such as a satellite Communications network. [0069] Although paging deviee 100 is illustrated in FIG 10 as a separate deviee, paging deviee 100 may alsó be incorporated in, or attached to, GPS navigation system 800. Paging deviee 100 may operate in a similar manner as described and illustrated in connection with FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 10, paging deviee 100 may transmit any messages it receives, along with any message attributes and status notifications to GPS navigation system 800 through an RF connection 600, which can be established between paging deviee 100 and GPS navigation system 800. RF connection 600 can operate in a similar manner as illustrated and described in connection with FIG. 1. Alternatively, RF connection 600 could be a wired connection between paging deviee 100 and GPS navigation system 800.

[0070] In certain embodiments, in response to receiving a message from paging deviee 100, GPS navigation system 800 may store the message (as well as any message attributes and statuses) in memory and display the message on display 801. GPS navigation system may alsó generate one or more visual or audible alerts in order to indicate the receipt of the message. For example, in certain embodiments, GPS navigation system 800 may announce the receipt ofthe message and/or output an audible representation of the message through a connected speaker.

[0071] According to certain embodiments, the paging network can send real-time traffic updates and other conditions to paging deviee 100, which can then be transferred to GPS navigation system 800. GPS navigation system 800 may then display this information on display 801 and/or use this information in determining travel routes. GPS navigation system 800 may alsó send data to the paging network related to its current position in the same manner as discussed above. In certain embodiments the paging network may send location based messages to paging deviee 100, such as travel related discounts, coupons and advertisements.

[0072] FIG. 11 is a pictorial diagram illustrating the interactions between various components ofthe system, including the paging deviee and a Television according to certain other embodiments. FIG. 12 is a pictorial diagram illustrating the interactions between various components ofthe system, including the paging deviee and a gaming console according to certain embodiments. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the systems include a paging deviee 100, which may include the same components as illustrated and described in connection with FIG. 2. The system illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12 may alsó include many ofthe components illustrated and described in connection with FIG. 1, such as the Paging NOC 300 and paging transmitter 350. In certain of these embodiments, paging deviee 100 may operate in a similar manner as described in connection with FIGS. 4 and 6.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 11 the system includes a television 900, which has an associated display 901. In certain embodiments, television 900 may be an Internet enabled television. In other embodiments, television 900 can be any other suitable type of television or visual display. The system alsó includes a remote 910, which communicates with television through a rádió connection 601. Rádió connection 601 can be any suitable type of connection, such as infrared, Bluetooth orWiFi. Paging device 100 is illustrated in FIG. 11 as being incorporated in remote 910. Any messages received by paging deviee 100, along with any message attributes and status notifications can be transmítted to television 900 through rádió connection 601 between remote 910 and television 900. In other embodiments, paging deviee could be a separate deviee, or could be attached or connected to television 900, in which case, paging deviee 100 could communicate with television 900 through a direct rádió connection or any other type of suitable connection as described in connection with FIG. 1.

[0074] In response to receiving a messagefrom paging deviee 100, television 900 may display the message on display 901. Television 900 may alsó generate one or more visual or audible alerts, such as to indicate the receipt ofthe message, or may generate an audible output ofthe message through an attached speaker. As shown in FIG. 11, television 900 may include a network connection 501, which could be a wired or wireless Internet connection, orany other suitable type of network connection. In certain embodiments, television 900 can communicate with the paging network through network connection 501, in order to send certain acknowledgements and status notifications to the paging network as discussed in connection with FIGS. 5 and 7-8.

[0075] According to certain embodiments, the paging network may send emergency notifications to paging device 100, which may be displayed on display 901. In certain of these embodiments, the alerts could be used to turn on television 900 and may be displayed asan overlay or in a separate window on television 900 to álért the

ΕΡ 2 661 870 Β1 userto an emergency. In otherembodiments, the paging network could send other notifications, such as reminders to paging device 100 for display on television 900. For example messages could be sent and displayed to remind users to take medications or to notify users of upcoming appointments.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 12 the system illustrated in FIG. 11 may alsó include agaming console 920 and gaming controller 921. Gaming console 920 may be any standard type of gaming console, such as a Microsoft Xbox, Sony Playstation, or Nintendo Wii. Gaming Controller 921 may be any standard type of controller, such as a controller that is specific to gaming console 920 or a generic gaming controller. Gaming controller 921 may communicate with gaming console 920 through connection 922, which may be any standard wired or wireless connection. Likewise, gaming console 920 may communicate with television 900 through connection 923, which may be any standard wired or wireless connection. As shown in FIG. 12, in certain embodiments, gaming console 920 may include a network connection 501, which may be a wired or wireless Internet connection, or any other suitable type of network connection. In certain of these embodiments, gaming console 920 can communicate with the paging network through network connection 501, in orderto send certain acknowledgements and status notifications to the paging network as discussed in connection with FIGS. 5 and 7-8.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 12, paging device 100 is incorporated in gaming controller 921. Any messages received by paging device 100, along with any message attributes and status notifications can be transmitted to gaming console 920 through connection 922 between gaming controller 921 and gaming console 920. Gaming console 920 may then pass the message and other information to television 900 for display as described in connection with FIG. 11. In other embodiments, paging device 100 could be a separate device, in which case, paging device 100 could communicate with television 900 in a similar manner as described in connection with FIG. 11. In yet other embodiments, paging device 100 could be attached or connected to gaming console 920, in which case messages and other information may be transferred from paging device 100 to gaming console 920 through a wired connection. In response to receiving a message, television 900 may display the message and may generate one or more alerts as described in connection with FIG. 11.

[0078] According to certain embodiments, the paging network may send emergency notifications to paging device 100. In certain of these embodiments, the alerts could be used to interrupt the game play on gaming console 920 in order to álért the player to an emergency. In other embodiments, the álért could be displayed as an overlay or in a separate window on display 901. In certain embodiments, the paging network may send other notifications to paging device 100. For example parents or guardians could use the system to send messages to the user of the gaming console, such as to instruct the user to stop playing the game.

[0079] According to certain other embodiments, the paging device may communicate messages to other electronic devices, such as laptops or personal computers. In certain ofthese embodiments, the paging device and the electronicdevice may operate in a mannersimilar to that described and illustrated in connection with FIGS. 1-8 above. For example, the paging device may communicate any messages it receives from a paging network to a laptop through a suitable connection, such as a rádió or hardwired connection. The laptop could then display the message and transmit any acknowledgements or notifications to the paging network through a connection between the laptop and the paging network, such as an Internet connection.

[0080] It is understood that the various devices described in connection with the foregoing figures are exemplary, and any other suitable devices may be used. The foregoing is merely illustrative of the principles of this invention and various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. As an example, although certain embodiments ofthe paging device have been described in connection with having three LEDs with particular colors, the paging device could have any number of LEDs associated with any colors. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be practiced in other than the described embodiments, which are presented for purposes of íllustratíon and nőt limitation, and the present invention is limited only by the claims which follow.