IES20090831A2 - An automated response marketing system which enables mobile device user receive information automatically to an email address when an email address is sent to the system by sms message. - Google Patents

Abstract

A system (100) for transmitting data comprises a routing service (120) for receiving data with a limited size message protocol from a portable computing device (102) over a wireless network (110). The routing service (120) comprises means to search for one or more electronic mail addresses in the data received, means to search for one or more keywords in the data received, means to search for one or more short codes in the data received, and means to search for one or more portable computing device numbers in the data received. The system (100) also comprises an application server (202) to transmit data by electronic mail to an electronic mail address extracted from the data received. The routing service (120) determines the data to be transmitted, responsive to one or more keywords extracted from the data received, and responsive to one or more short codes extracted from the data received. The application server (202) also transmits data with a limited size message protocol over the wireless network (110) to one or more portable computing device numbers extracted from the data received. <Figure 1>

Description

Field of invention automatically to an email address when an email address is s^rttlbthe^steinby'SMS rnessage.^'j

[0001] The present invention allows mobile device users to request product and services information by texting their email address to a short code and automatically receiving the requested information to their email address as a result of the technical operation, method, apparatus and programmable software detailed within this description.

Backround to Invention [0002] Mobile devices are now used for many applications for both business and personal use. In many applications mobile devices are used as a time saving and efficient way of sending information to friends, family and work colleagues in various forms of messaging. Mobile devices are also becoming very popular with businesses trying to find new ways to reach their customers.

[0003] Recently the use of Short Message Services (SMS) and Multimedia Message Services (MMS) have become very popular when used in conjunction with Short Code services for various marketing and advertising campaigns over media such as TV, Radio and newspapers.

[0004] Short codes are typically short strings of numbers (e.g 55555) or characters to which a message may be addressed. Short codes were designed to provide a way to deploy interactive mobile data applications such as voting, polling, competitions, surveys, direct marketing, games and ringtones etc In basic terms short codes provide consumers with a quick, efficient and cheap method of requesting information using a mobile device. / . -2[0005] Many shortcode applications involve mobile device users sending text messages to short code numbers and receiving information sent directly to their mobile device in reply. Examples include teenagers sending texts to short codes to receive ringtones directly to their mobile phones. Another example is adults texting a short code number which is advertising a new car model on TV. When the number is text to the short code the car maker may call the person back for their home address etc and subsequently post them out a brochure of the new car model. The car maker may even call the potential customer back a number of weeks later to try and make a sale.

[0006] Many companies and organisations have developed methods and solutions which allow mobile device users to send and receive applications on their mobile devices. However there are no applications currently available which allow mobile device users to request information by text and have that information delivered automatically to their email address as opposed to having it sent to their mobile device. Application providers have been concentrating on getting the information to the customers mobile device so much that they have missed this opportunity.

[0007] The use of such a system is particularly effective for organisations that engage in advertising and marketing to encourage consumers to use their products and services. A call to action within an advertisement encouraging mobile device users to send their email address in an SMS to a short code or a normal long number can act as the stimulus for mobile device users to receive further information directly to their email address. Viewing the information on a PC is more often than not a more suitable media for viewing large, complex or even image rich material which would just not have the same effect if viewed on a mobile phone.

Statement of Invention [0008] In order for the invention to operate successfully it must be apart of a communications network As shown in Figure 1 and is depicted by System 100. This communications network Fig. 1 includes Mobile Devices 102-104 which are connected to a Wireless Network 110 Operated by Network Carriers / Operators 111. The Network Carriers 111 are connected to Wide Area Networks 105 (WANs) and Local Area Networks 105 (LANs) which allow communication with Routing Services 120, Short Code Manager 106 (SCM) and Message Handlers 107. The Invention may be depicted in this environment as a Content Application Service 108-109 (CAS) and for the purposes of illustration is referred to as Application 109 Fig.

J» u ο^ΰ8 31 1. In one embodiment Application 109 can be broken out into its constituent parts detailed in Fig. 2. These constituent parts include Application Server 202, Application Database 203, Application File Server 204 and Application User Interface 201. In one embodiment Application Server 202 can be further broken down into its constituent parts detailed in Fig. 3. and although the application is referred to as Application 109, connectivity and communication between all of the component parts in Fig. 1,2 and 3 are necessary for the invention to operate and in addition the communication between all of these components is only made possible by specifically designed Application Software detailed in Fig. 5 & Fig. 6.

[0009] This system of marketing by pushing information to an end users email address on receipt of an SMS message overcomes the problem of viewing information which may be unsuitable for viewing on a mobile device. Such information may include but is not limited to large documents, drawings, specifications, images, video etc. Generally this list is not exhaustive and includes any information which mobile device users might find it difficult or uncomfortable to view on a mobile device. For example, a mobile device user might not find it beneficial to view the brochure for a property on their mobile device so this invention gives the mobile user the option to have the brochure sent directly to their email address for viewing over a more suitable media.

[0010] It is possible to send any information one wants within a text message to an application or too another mobile device at present. However what happens to that information when received by an application forms the novel nature of the invention. In particular the invention concerns email addresses that are sent in the body of a text message. This invention takes the inventive step of automating a pre-determined response sent to an email address when that email address is sent in the body of a text. The automation of the response is achieved by applying specially designed Application Software Fig. 5 & Fig. 6 to the information received in the body of a text in order to extract the email address from other information within the text and then process the response automatically based on pre-determined criteria and content files A-F stored on File Server 204 Fig. 2.

[0011] The invention enables advertisers to benefit from the convenience offered to mobile device users in receiving information quickly, efficiently and cost effectively. For example, if a mobile device user texts their email address to a short code to receive further information about a IE 090831 -4product or service the invention will automatically forward the details of the mobile device user i.e mobile phone number, email address etc to the advertiser so that the advertiser gains a sales lead and the opportunity to contact the mobile device user again. This invention makes advertising an interactive experience between advertisements and mobile device users.

[0012] The invention also enables organisations to benefit from the cost savings of having their information automatically sent to the email address of mobile device users as opposed to printing the information and posting to customers/consumers. For example a University that advertises their prospectus in a newspaper can benefit by informing readers if they text their email address to a number they will receive the entire University prospectus delivered automatically to their email address, hence saving the University the time, cost and labour of printing and posting prospectuses.

[0013] Organisations can also avail of the benefits of reduced administration costs when using this system. As with any advertising or marketing campaign the objective is to generate interest and eventually sales in a product or service. However, during and after any advertising campaign administration increases for an organisation in the form of phone calls and emails requesting further information. All of these requests must be answered and replied to in order to generate sales and of course this incurs time, labour and cost. The invention can be used to reduce these administration costs by delivering all the information ie price lists, specifications to customers in the format of a document attached to an email which is automatically sent when they text their email address to the system.

Brief description of the Drawings [0014] The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of some embodiments thereof, given by way of example with reference to the accompanying diagrams: Fig. 1 A diagram illustrating an environment and apparatus in which the invention operates also known as System 100.

Fig. 2 A diagram illustrating the component parts of Application 109 Fig. 3 A diagram of the component parts of Application Server 202 Fig. 4a,b&c A flow diagram illustrating the operation of the system Fig. 5 Detail of the specifically designed Application Software which operates the invention. 9 08 3 1 -5Fig. 6 Detail of specifically designed Application Software which sends an SMS receipt Detailed description of the Invention [0015] The present invention is directed towards a system, apparatus, and technical method for automating an email response to a request for information sent by a text message from a mobile device, across a plurality of different network carriers or operators for multiple applications.

[0016] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings,which form a part hereof, and which show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments by which the invention may be practised. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Among other things, the present invention may be embodied as methods or devices. Accordingly, the present invention, may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0017] Throughout the specification and claims, the following terms take the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The phrase “ in one embodiment” as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, though it may. As used herein the term “or” is an inclusive “or” operator, and is equivalent to the term “and/or,” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term “based on” is not exclusive and allows for being based on additional factors not described, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In addition, throughout the specification the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “ the” include plural references. The meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on”.

[0018] The term Short Message Service (SMS) refers to a communication mechanism for providing connectionless transfers of limited size messages between networked devices. SMS messages may be mobile handset broadcast services which are periodically delivered short messages to a pre-defined set of computing devices in a given area, or point-to-point services which include short messages sent to a specific user. The SMS protocol is described in more detail in International standard ISO/IEC 21989, which is available through the International /f Ο 9 08 3 f - 6 Standards Organisation (ISO). As used herein, SMS refers to all such Short Message communications, and those derived therefrom.

[0019] As used herein, the terms ‘text” “texting” “ text messaging” or “text message” refers to SMS messaging, as well as a variety of other limited size message protocols, including but not limited to Instant Messaging (IM), Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) message, or an enhanced message service (EMS) messaging protocol.

[0020] Moreover, the terms “ mobile originated,” and “MO” refer to any communications that originates or is initiated from a mobile device, while the terms “mobile terminated,” and “MT” refer to any communication that terminates at the mobile device. Thus, if an application, such as an email application, web service application, or the like, sends a message to a mobile device, such message is known as MT type message. Similarly, a message sent by a mobile device to an application is known as a MO type message.

[0021] The term “Short code” refers generally to short strings of numbers or letters to which a message may be addressed and includes a common addressing scheme for participating wireless networks. Examples of short codes include 55555 or 666666 or the like. However, it is clear that short codes may also include alpha characters, or other symbols. Short codes may also include short code extensions, or simply “extensions”. Such “extensions” may include virtually any alpha character, a numeric character, symbol, and/or any combination of alpha, numeric, and/or symbols. For example, typical short code extensions may employ a numeric range of numbers, such as from Ό00’ to ‘ 100’. Short code extensions may also include non-continuous sequences of numbers, or the like. Thus, in one embodiment a network carrier or operator may have allocated, for example, one sequence of short code extensions from 900- 950, and another sequence from, for example, 750-799, or the like. It should be recognised that different network carriers or operators may have different sequences of short codes, extensions, ranges and /or sequences of short codes, or the like. Thus, the invention is not constrained to these short code examples, and other short codes, extensions, long numbers of eleven digits/characters or more, or the like may also be employed. It is further recognised that in many articles, publications, or the like, the term, short code may sometimes refer to both the short code itself and an extension. Therefore as used herein, the term short code includes an extension, unless otherwise so indicated, without departing from the scope of the invention.

IE Ο 9 q g j 4 1 -7[0022] The term “service short code” refers to a short code that is assigned to an application, service, or the like. Service short codes may be assigned to different applications, services, or the like, for different network carriers or operators. Moreover multiple applications may share the same service short codes and may be referred to as “shared short codes” for the purposes of this invention.

[0023] The term “keyword” refers to a word or number which identifies one application from another which might use the same short code number. For example in Figure 1 the Content Application Service (CAS) 108 may run a image application and a video application on the same short code number 55555. To distinguish one service from the other a user will need to text a keyword e.g “video” in the body of the message to use the video service and conversely text the keyword “image” in the body of the message to use the image service. For the purposes of the present invention the term “ short code” may imply the use of a keyword unless dictated otherwise, and is not limited to same.

[0024] When a message is received from a mobile device, such as an MO message, any stored session data within the message may be used to determine how to route the message to the application. If the received message includes a short code (and extension), service code, keyword, or the like, such information may also be used, or used instead of, or in addition to, the stored session data, to determine the application for which the message is to be routed.

[0025] In one, embodiment, the short codes and extensions are employed within the context of the short message service (SMS) messages. However, the invention is not so limited, and the short codes, extensions, and /or service codes may also be employed within any of a variety of other text messaging protocols, emails, within HTML data, or the like, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0026] FIG. 1 shows components of an environment depicted in the diagram as System 100 in which the invention may be practised. Not all the components may be required to practice the invention, and variations in the arrangement and type of components may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. As shown System 100 FIG. 1 includes local area networks (“LANs”) / wide area networks (“WANs”) (Network) 105, wireless network 110, mobile devices 102-104, content application services (CAS) 108-109, and routing services 120. Routing service 120 further includes short code manager (SCM) 106 and message handlers 107.

IE 0 9 0 8 3 1 -8For the purposes of example the invention is a Content Application Service (CAS) as depicted by the CAS 108 but is referred to as Application 109 for illustration purposes and to distinguish it from CAS 108. Application 109 is not limited to this description as all elements of System 100 have relevance in various embodiments for the invention to be practised.

[0027] Generally, mobile devices 102-104 may include virtually any portable computing device capable of receiving and sending a message over a network, such as Network 105, Wireless Network 110, and the like, to and from another computing device, another mobile device, and the like. Thus mobile devices 102-104 may include virtually any portable computing device capable of connecting to another computing device and receiving information. Such devices include, portable devices such as, mobile/cellular telephones, smart phones, display pagers, radio frequency (RF) devices, infrared (IR) devices, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), handheld computers, laptop computers, wearable computers, tablet computers, integrated devices combining one or more of the preceding devices, and the like. As such, mobile devices 102-104 typically range widely in terms of capabilities and features. For example, a mobile/cell phone may have a numeric keypad and a few lines of monochrome LCD display on which only text may be displayed. In another example, a web-enabled mobile device may have a touch sensitive screen, a stylus, and several lines of colour LCD display in which both text and graphics may be displayed.

[0028] A web-enabled mobile device may include a browser application that is configured to receive and to send web pages, web based messages, and the like. The browser application may be configured to receive and display graphics, text, multimedia, and the like, employing, any web based language, including a wireless application protocol message (WAP), and the like. In one embodiment, the browser application is enabled to employ Handheld Device Markup Language (HDML), Wireless Markup Language (WML) WML Script, JavaScript, Standard Generalised Markup Language (SMGL), Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), extensible Markup Language (XML), and the like, to display and send a message.

[0029] Mobile devices 102-104 also may include at least one client application that is configured to receive content from another computing device, The client application may include a capability to provide and receive textual content, graphical content, audio content, or video content and the like. The client application may further provide information that identifies itself, including a type, capability, name, and the like. In one embodiment, mobile devices 102-104 IB Ο 9 08 3 1 -9may uniquely identify themselves through any of a variety of mechanisms, including a phone number, Mobile Identification Number (MIN), an electronic serial number (ESN), or other mobile device identifier. The information may also indicate a content format that the mobile device is enabled to employ. Such information may be provided in a message, or the like, to other computing devices.

[0030] Mobile devices 102-104 may be configured to communicate a message, such as through Short Message Service (SMS), Multimedia Message Service (MMS), Instant Messaging (IM) Internet relay chat (IRC) or the like, between another computing device. However the present invention is not limited to these messaging protocols, and virtually any other message protocol may be employed.

[0031] Mobile devices 102-104 may be further configured to enable a user to participate in communication sessions, such as IM sessions, and the like and to transfer an existing communication session, and the like, between devices. As such, mobile devices 102-104 may include a client application that is configured to manage various actions on behalf of the client device, For example, the client application may enable a user to interact with the browser application, email application, IM applications, SMS application, and the like, to manage signing into a communication session, such as an IM session, between devices. In one embodiment, the client application might be the SMS application.

[0032] Wireless network 110 is configured to couple mobile device 104 and its components with Network 105. Wireless network 110 may include any of a variety of wireless sub-networks that may further overlay stand-alone ad-hoc networks, and the like, to provide an infrastructureoriented connection for mobile devices 102-104. Such sub-networks may include mesh networks, Wireless Lan (WLAN) networks, mobile or cellular networks, and the like.

[0033] Wireless network 110 may further include an autonomous system of terminals, gateways, routers, and the like connected by wireless radio links, and the like. These connectors may be configured to move freely and randomly and organise themselves arbitrarily, such that the topology of the wireless network 110 may change rapidly.

[0034] Wireless network 110 may further employ a plurity of access technologies including 2nd (2G) 3rd (3G) generation radio access for cellular systems, WLAN, Wireless Router (WR) mesh, I£ Ο 9 Ο 8 3 1 -10and the like. Access technologies such as 2G, 3G and future access networks may enable wide area coverage for mobile devices, such as mobile devices 102-104 with various degrees of mobility. For example, wireless network 110 may enable a radio connection through a radio network access such as Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), General Packet Radio Services (GPRS), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), and the like. In essence, wireless network 110 may include virtually any wireless communication mechanism by which information may travel between mobile devices 102-104 and another computing device, network, and the like.

[0035] Wireless network 110 may also include a plurality of network carrier / operator gateways 111 that are configured to manage network communications between at least one mobile device 102-104, and another mobile device, and/or a computing device managed through network 105.

[0036] Network 105 is configured to enable communications between routing service 120 and CAS 108-109 and through wireless network 110 to mobile devices 102-104. Network 105 is enabled to employ any form of computer readable media for communicating information from one electronic device to another. Also, network 105 can include the internet in addition to local area networks (LANs). Wide Area Networks (WANs), direct connections, such as through a universal serial bus (USB) port, other forms of computer readable media, or any combination thereof. On an interconnected set of LAN’s, including those based on differing architectures and protocols, a router acts as a link between LANs, enabling messages to be sent from one to another. Also, communication links within LANs typically include twisted wire pair or coaxial cable. While communication links between networks may utilize analog telephone lines, full or fractional dedicated digital lines including Tl, T2, T3, and T4 or the like, Integrated Services Digital Networks (ISDNs), Digital Subscriber Lines (DSLs), wireless links known to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, remote computers and other related electronic devices could be remotely connected to either LANs or WANs via a modem and temporary telephone link. In essence network 105 includes any communication method by which information may travel between computing devices.

[0037] Additionally, communication media typically embodies computer- readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in modulated data signal such as a carrier wave, data signal, or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media. The IE 0 9 08 31 -literals “modulated data signal” and “carrier-wave signal” includes a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner at to encode information, instructions, data, and the like, in a signal. By way of example, communication media includes wired media such as twisted pair, coaxial cable, fibre optics, wave guides, and other wired media and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, Infrared and other wireless media.

[0038] CAS 108-109 includes virtually any device that may be configured to provide an application service. Such application services or simply applications, search applications, video applications, audio applications, graphic applications, text applications, and the like. In one embodiment CAS 108-109 may operate as a web server. However CAS 108-109 are not limited to web servers and may also operate as a messaging server, a file transfer protocol (FTP) server, a database server, a content server, or the like, in which to provide an application. Additionally each of CAS 108-109 may be configured to perform a different operation. Thus, for example, CAS 108 may be configured as a messaging server, while CAS 109 is configured as a database server, or the like. Devices that may operate as CAS 108-109 include personal computers, desktop computers, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor based or programmable electronics, network PCs, servers and the like. For the purposes of example Content Application Service (CAS) 109 is shown as Application 109 as shown. However the invention is not limited to this description as all elements of System 100 have relevance in various embodiments for the invention to operate. For the purposes of clarity the Invention is referred to as Application 109 and a detailed diagram of the components of Application 109 are detailed in Figure 2.

[0039] CAS 108-109 may be configured to initiate a message to be sent to one mobile device 102-104, in one embodiment Such messages may include, for example, an alert, an advertisement, a relayed message, a news message, or the like. In one embodiment, CAS 108109 may also respond to a request to perform some action, from one of mobile devices 102-104, or even other computing devices.

In one embodiment CAS 108-109 may employ short codes and extensions within messages sent to one of mobile devices 102-104. Such short codes and extensions may be configured independent of a network carrier/operator, and/or destination mobile device. For example, in one embodiment CAS 108-109 may employ extensions from an internally generated list of extensions. In one embodiment, SCM 106 may then map the received short code and /or extension to another short code and /or extension to another short code and/or extension that may be based on a network carrier through which the message is to be sent. In another embodiment, IE 0 9 0 8 3 1 - 12CAS 108-109 may request that a short code and/ or extension be assigned to the message before it is sent to the destination device. As CAS 108-109 may employ different short code and/or extension allocation expectations, in one embodiment, each application might be registered with SCM 106 to specify how short codes and /or extensions are to be allocated.

[0040] In one embodiment, a network carrier/operator might provide registration for an application managed by CAS 108-109. In one embodiment, one network carrier/operator might indicate one short code for an application, while a different network carrier/ operator might indicate a different short code for the same application. Thus, in one embodiment network carriers might register with SCM 106 and provide a short code policy that includes an extension allocation specification.

[0041] Message handlers 107 include virtually any computing device that may be configured to receive and to route a message. Message handlers 107 determine, in part, which network carrier/operator a message is to be routed through to one of the mobile devices 102-104. Message handlers 107 may make such determination based on a variety of criteria, including but not limited to a destination mobile device identifier, a service agreement, a quality of service, a cost of delivery of a message, an application type, a message type, or the like. In one embodiment message handlers 107 may request a short code and /or extension from SCM 106 based on the determined network carrier/operator, and the network carrier/ operators short code policy and extension allocation specification.

[0042] SCM 106 is configured to manage short code, extensions and session data for messages sent between CAS 108-109 and mobile devices 102-104. In one embodiment, a message may be received from one of mobile devices 102-104 by message handlers 107. Message handlers 107 may request SCM 106 to determine which application managed by CAS 108-109 should the received message be directed towards. In one embodiment, SCM 106 might examine a portion of the message body, header or the like to determine the application,. In one embodiment, the received message might include a service code, keyword or an assigned short code and extensions that SCM 106 might employ to determine the application. Once the application is determined, message handlers 107 may then forward the message on to the determined application.

IE 0 9 08 3 1 _13.

[0043] Although SCM 106 and message handlers 107 are illustrated as separate computing devices, the invention is not so limited . For example, the functions of SCM 106 and message handlers 107 may be implemented within a single computing device, or distributed across a plurality of computing devices. For example, the functions of message handlers 107 associated with managing MO messages might be implemented in one or more different computing devices, while the functions associated with managing MT messages may be implemented within still different computing devices.

[0044] Carrier/operator gateways 111 represent virtually any computing device that may be used by a network carrier to communicate network communications between mobile devices and another computing device. Such devices include but are not limited to network appliances, personal computers, desktop computers, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor based or programmable electronics, network PCs, servers and the like. In one embodiment, each carrier gateway might represent a different network carrier service, however, the invention is not so limited, and other arrangements are also envisaged.

[0045] FIG. 2 illustrates in one embodiment a diagram of Application 109 which in turn describes the apparatus, required so that the invention may be practised. Not all the components may be required to practice the invention, and variations in the arrangement and type of components may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Each of the apparatus may be embodied in any computing device or mobile device which may be used for connecting computing devices and may exist as hardware or software, but is not limited to same.

[0046] In one embodiment, the User Interface 201 facilitates the uploading of content A-F to File Server 204. Content may include images, text, audio and video but is not limited to such. The Application Server 202 communicates with the User Interface 201, Database 203, File Server 204, Short Code Manager (SCM) 106, Message Handlers (MH) 107 and Carrier / Operator Gateways 111 in Fig. 1. The Application Server 202 also operates the Application Software Fig. 5 & Fig. 6 which allows communication between all the elements and apparatus of Application 109 and System 100. For the purposes of description the Application Server 202 and the Application Software Fig. 5 & Fig. 6 which runs on the server may be referred to as one and the same, unless, depicted otherwise. For example, if it is stated that the Application Server 202 conducted a task it is implied that the Application Software running on the server performed the IE Ο 9 Ο 8 3 1 - 14task with the aid of the Application Server 202. The Application Software is illustrated in more detail in Figure 5 & Figure 6.

[0047] Fig. 3 shows one embodiment of Application Server 202 which may be used to operate the invention. The Application Server 202 may include many more components than those shown. The components shown, however, are sufficient to disclose an illustrative embodiment for practising the invention.

[0048] The Application Server 202 includes processing unit 312, video display adapter 314, and a mass memory, all in communication with each other via bus 322. The mass memory generally includes RAM 316, ROM, 332, and one or more permanent mass storage devices, such as hard disk drive 328, tape drive, optical drive, disk drive or the like. The mass memory stores operating system 320 for controlling the operation of Application Server 202. Any general purpose operating system may be employed. Basic inpul/output system 218 (BIOS) is also provided for controlling the low level operation of Application Server 202. As illustrated in Fig. 3 Application Server 202 can also communicate with the internet, or some other communication network, such as network 105 in Fig. 1, via network interface unit 310, which is constructed for use with various communication protocols including TCP/IP protocol. Network interface unit 310 is sometimes known as a transceiver, transceiving device, network interface card (NIC), and the like.

[0049] Application Server 202 may also include SMTP handler application for transmitting and receiving email and also include a HTTP handler application for receiving and handling secure connections. The HTTPS handler application may initiate communication with an external application in a secure fashion.

[0050] Application Server 202 also includes input/output interface 324 for communicating with external devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, scanner, or other input devices not shown in Fig. 3. Likewise, Application server 202 may further include additional mass storage facilities such as CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive 326 and hard disk drive 328. Hard disk drive 328 is utilised by Application Server 202 to store, among other things, application programs or software, databases, and the like.

IE 0 9 08 3 1 -15[0051] The mass memory as described above illustrates another type of computer-readable media, namely computer storage media. Computer storage media may include volatile, nonvolatile, removable, and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Examples of computer storage media include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, DVD or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by a computing device.

[0052] The mass memory also stores program code and data. One or more applications 350 are loaded into the mass memory and run on the operating system 320. Examples of application programs include email programs, schedulers, calendars, transcoders, messaging programs, database programs, spreadsheet programs, wordprocessing programs, and so forth. Mass storage may also include applications such as Datastore 216 and Short Code Service Manager (SCSM) 214. Mass storage may also include applications such as Database 203 and File Server 204 in Fig. 2. Mass memory may also store the Application Software Fig. 5 & Fig. 6 which is configured to operate Application 109.

[0053] In one embodiment the Database 203 communicates with the Application Server 202 and stores the incoming message and outgoing message information but is not so limited. Database 203 may be employed to store any information or application and may be a component of Application Server 202 or an external computing device as shown in Fig. 2 but may be capable of communicating with any other computing device on its own.

[0054] Similarly In one embodiment File Server 204 communicates with Application Server 202 and stores user content for the purposes of the invention but is not so limited. File Server 204 may also be employed to store any information or application and may be a component of Application Server 202 or an external computing device as shown in Fig. 2 but may be capable of communicating with any another computing device on its own.

IE Ο 9 0 8 3 1 -16Generalised Operation of the Invention [0055] FIG. 4a, 4b & 4c illustrates a logical flow block diagram generally showing one embodiment of an overview process for the operation of the invention. Block 401 refers to a user logging in to use Application 109. The user account is established by the user inputting their details to identify the account from other accounts. The user may also need to input security information in order to use Application 109.

[0056] Block 402 refers to Application Server 202 which communicates with User Interface 201 in order to store the user account details on File Server 204. Block 403 refers to a user request for allocation of a shortcode or keyword for use with Application 109. This is achieved by Application Server 202 requesting a short code or keyword from the Short Code Manager 106 and Message Handler 107. The Short Code manager 106 will confirm to Application Server 202 that a Shortcode or keyword is available or unavailable as per Block 405. If the Short code Manager 106 confirms that a short code or keyword is unavailable the Application Server 202 will confirm same to the user as per block 406,407 & 408. At this stage the user must request another short code or keyword as per block 403. The unavailability of Short codes or keyword may be due to the carrier/operator having allocated the short code or keyword to another account previously, hence the user must choose another shortcode and/ or keyword which is not already in use.

[0057] Once confirmed available by Short code manager 106 the Short code or Keyword will be allocated to the user account by Application Server 202 as per block 410. Block 411 refers to the uploading of content by the user. This is content that will be delivered by email to recipients who text the short code number and /or keyword requesting the content Block 412 refers to the content which is uploaded to File Server 204 using User Interface 201. Content may include documents, images, audio, video or the like, but is not restricted to same for the purposes of the invention. Content may also includes the wording of emails to recipients and the wording of reply text messages to recipients. Content is discussed in more detail later in conjunction with the Application software content Files A-F stored on File Server 204.

[0058] Block 413 refers to the regulatory approval which may be required within the jurisdiction in which the short code or keyword is allocated. The operation of short code services may require regulatory approval before a service is made operational. This will involve the necessary IE 0 9 08 3 1 -17authority approval of the content stored on File Server 204. Block 414 refers to the forwarding of the content to the necessary regulatory authority. 415 refers to the decision of the regulatory authority in approving the content. Block 416 refers to a refusal of the regulatory authority to approve the content. The content may be refused approval for a number of reasons including but not limited to, insufficient information contained within the advertising campaign. If the regulatory authority refuses approval the user must make a new submission to the Authority as per Block 413 [0059] Block 418 Refers to the Regulatory Authority approval being awarded to the user. Block 419 refers to the advertiser/user placing advertisement which include the shortcode and keyword over various media. For example in the case of a business they may wish to advertise the short code and keyword in newspapers, radio, TV or various advertising outlets so that mobile device users can request their product or service information when they view or hear the advertisement.

[0060] Block 420 refers to a mobile device user who comes into contact with an advertisement and requests the content/information advertised to be sent to their email address. The mobile device user requests the advertised information by sending their email address in the content of their message.

[0061] Block 421 refers to how the message is sent. The message (MO) is sent over the wireless network 110 and WAN/LAN 105 and received by Carrier/Operator Gateway 111 and message handlers 107. The message handlers communicate with the Short Code Manager (SCM) 106 and determine which Content Application Service (CAS) to forward the message to based on the Short Code number and / or keyword, subscription service, and the like. Block 423 - For the purposes of the invention, in this instance the short code manager determines that the Content Application Service (CAS) is Application 109 Fig. 1. The Short code Manager 106, Message Handlers 107 can be referred to as the Routing Service 120 which may collectively determine the destination route of the message.

[0062] Block 424 refers to the receipt of the message at Application 109 from the Routing Service 120. When the message is received it is processed by the Application Server 202 utilizing the Application Software Fig. 5.

IE Ο 9 Ο 8 3 1 -18[0063] Block 425 refers to the Application Software Fig. 5 which extracts the information from the message. This information includes the email address and mobile device number of the user, but may also contain keywords, further information or extensions as described earlier. The Application Software Fig 5 then determines which content to return to the email address of the user based on the information which is received in the message and pre-determined criteria based on content. Once the content is determined Application Software Fig. 5 then sends the information to the email address over Network 105.

Block 426 refers to the Application Software Fig. 5 which then sends the mobile number and email address of the customer to the advertiser so that the advertiser can make a customer service call. The destination address of the advertiser is determined by pre-defined content.

Block 427 refers to the Application Software Fig 5 which determines what content is to be returned to the actual mobile device. This content may be text, images, audio or video and will be determined by the information received within the user message (MO) and pre-defined content. An example of the content returned to the mobile device (MT) might be to confirm that the information requested has now been delivered to the email address.

[0064] Block 428 refers to the Application software Fig. 5 which then records the outgoing message content information and stores the information in Database 203. Block 429 refers to the sending of the reply message (MT) to the mobile device. The Application Software Fig. 6 forwards the message and content to the Routing Service 120 over the WAN/LAN 105. The Routing Service 120 in communication with Application Server 202 and Carrier / Operator Gateways 111 then deliver the message (MT) over the Wireless Network 110 to the Mobile device 102-104. The mobile device user user may now check their email at their leisure to review the information they requested.

[0065] Fig. 5 illustrates one embodiment of the Application Software which is required to operate the invention. The Application Software Fig. 5 performs a number of functions as described earlier. For illustration purposes and security of the system passwords and web site addresses have been substituted with ? rather than the original characters within the Application Software Fig. 5.

[0066] Fig.6 is one embodiment of the Application Software which is used to send a receipt sms message to the user when they text their email address to the system . The contents of the sms IE 0 9 08 3 1 -19message is pre-determined and is stored in Content files A-F on the File Server 204 Fig. 2 for retrieval by the Application Software Fig. 6 . An example of the content files A-F is also detailed below. One embodiment of the content is detailed below but are not so limited.

[0067] For the purposes of example and explanation the content files detailed below will be described using the example of a fictitious hotel called “The Valley Hotel” which uses the keyword “VALLEY” on a short code 66666. When advertising The Valley Hotel informs customers if they text their email address to a short code 66666 with the keyword “VALLEY” at the beginning of the message customers will receive an email with pricing details for the hotels leisure centre.

Content File A (“VALLEY.txt”) [0068] The example content below is the reply email message sent to customers email addresses when they text for the pricing information of the Hotel. When customers click on the link within the message they will receive the pricing information in the form of a brochure called ValleyHotel.pdf as detailed above. In one embodiment the example above uses a link within the email to the brochure ValleyHotel.pdf. However the invention is not so limited as the brochure may be in any format including word, excel, audio, images or video or the like. The information may also be sent with the email as an attachment rather than a link as shown in the example.

Example of Content File A: Dear Sir/Madam, Please use the link below to open The Valley Hotel Leisure Centre information you requested via text: http://www.nowyourmobile.com/brochures/ValleyHotel.pdf Kind Regards, www.ValleyHotel.com Content File B [0069] Example of Content File B: ValleyHotel.pdf Content File B is also held on the File Server 204 Fig. 2 and may contain any format of program or document to be delivered by email to the hotel customer. -20IE 0 9 08 31 Content File C (“VALLEY, from”) [0070] Example of Content File C: info@valleyhotel.com The content file C “VALLEY.from” in one embodiment allows the hotel to customize the email address from which the information requested by customers is sent. When the customer receives the email detailed in Content File A it looks as though the information was sent from valley hotels email address based on the content of the file “VALLEY.from”. This also allows the customer to reply to the hotels email address with ease.

Content File D (“VALLEY, sms”) [0071] Example content: “Thankyou for your request, please check your email inbox & spam folder for the information you requested. www.ValleyHotel.com **Free Msg**” Content File D “VALLEY, sms” in one embodiment allows the hotel to customize what the customer will receive in a reply SMS to their mobile handset. Although the example states that the reply message is an sms message the invention is not so limited. Reply messages may be SMS, MMS, images, audio or video and the like.

Content File E (“VALLEY.mask”) [0072] Example of Content File E: VALLEY The content file E “VALLEY.mask” in one embodiment allows the hotel to customize the header for the reply SMS to the user. In this instance the header will be “VALLEY” as per the example. Although the example states that the reply message is an sms message the invention is not so limited. Reply messages may be SMS, MMS, images, audio or video and the like.

Content File F (“VALLEY.to”) [0073] Example of Content File F: sales@ValleyHotels.com The Content File F “VALLEY.to” in one embodiment allows the hotel to customize email address receives notification when a customer texts the system. When a customer texts the system an email will be delivered to the sales@ValleyHotels.com with the email address and mobile/cell phone number fo the customer to text for information. The sales team can then make a sales call to the customer to ensure they received all the help they need.

IE 0 9 0831 103 1/12 SystemlOO Mobile Devices 105 Wide Area Networks I Local Area Networks / Municipal Area Networks - (Networks) Wireless Network s X X X Application 109 / 111 Carrier I Operator Gateways 108 106 Content Application Service (CAS) «.··*’* : ♦ X 120 Routing Service Short Code Manager (SCM) Message Handlers / X Figure 1 IB Ο 9 Ο 8 3 1 2/12 File ServerContent Files A-F Application Server User Interface Figure 2 IE 090831 3/12 Application Server 202 rcKfrul practising unit 316 *?— own Γ cwrafw Ί imtera | r·': Data Store <* Application* SCSAf c^rpwj ch'rf-rurn 4rtw 276 .y K fv 214 *x 326 interface ”7-- I i i video display adapter --?-.114 u X ( wftwt I interface k wnf | Ju lurnf rfwA 32S drive V' Figure 3 IE Ο 9 Ο 8 3 1 4/12 Figure 4a IE Ο 9 Ο 8 3 1 Carrier/ operator 111 receives message (MO) over Wireless Network 110 and sends message to message handlers 107 and Short Code Manager 106 over WAN/LAN105 Short Code Manager 106 and Message Handlers 107 I determine destination of message and forward 423 message to Application 109 (MO) information on Database 203 Application Software Fig. 5 extracts email address from message and determines which content to send to email address V Figure 4b IE 0 9 08 3 1 ί Application Software Fig. 5 send customer | email address and mobile number to 426 advertiser 6/12 ___________y____________ Application Software Fig. 5 determines what ! content is sent by reply text to the mobile 427 device 102-104 if any Application Software Fig. 5 records the outgoing message (MO) information and stores the information in the Database 203 | Π 428 ___________t___________ Application software Fig. 6 forwards reply ] message information to Message Handlers 107 429 and Short Code Manager (SCM) 106 over WAN /LAN 105 and Wireless Network 110 to terminate on Mobile Devices 102-104 Message (MT) is sent over WANZLAN 105 to Wireless Network 110 and delivered to Mobile Device 102-104 Figure 4c IE 0 9 08 3 1 7/12 Application Software which operates the Invention - Figure 5 Slink == my sql_cotmect( Io cal host1', n5????_nym,nyni'???’') or die (Fafl); mysql_select_db(n5????_nym) or die( Fail”); «Channel = «_REQUEST[Channel]; «Reference = $JREQUEST[Reference”]; «Trigger = S_REQUEST[Trigger'1]; «Shortcode = $_REQUEST[ Shortcode]; $MSISDN= $_REQUEST[,,MSISDN,,j; «Content = $_REQUEST[Content]; «DataType = intval($_REQUEST[DataType]); «DateReceived = intval(«_REQUEST[ DateReceived]); «CampaignlD = intvaKSJLEQUESTf1'CampaignlD'’]); «debug = $_REQUEST[debug]; «mysqldate = date( Ύ-m-d «DateReceived); Ssql = '’INSERT INTO incoming (Channel, Reference, Trig, Shortcode, MSISDN, Content, DataType, DateReceived, CampaignlD, readabledate) VALUES (‘«Channel1,'«Reference*,'«Trigger1,’«Shortcode','«MSiSDN','«Content',«DataType,«DateRece i ved, $CampaigπIDJ'$mysqldate')',; if($debug=true1’) { echo executing sql: «sql; «sqlResult = mysql_query($sql) or die( Fail: . mysql_error()); } else { «sqlResult = mysql_query($sql) or die( Fail); } echo Success; //at this point the message has been received and has been entered in our database. Now to do the actual work! //remove trigger from front of message if present (including any spaces) if(strcasecmp(substr(«Content, 0, strlen(«Trigger)), «Trigger) == 0) { «Content = trim(substr($Content, strlen(STngger))); } //j character has been causing problems from some phones or networkds «Content = str_replace(i, @, «Content); //determine if a services folder exists for trigger «servicesfolder = services/. strtolower(«Trigger); //set default to and from email addresses «toemail = info@nowyourmobile.com; «fromemail = info@nowyourmobile.com; «smsmask = nowyourmobi; if(iile_exists («servicesfolder)) 8/12 { //split incoming message into words, multiple spaces are ignored Swords = split([ ]+**, ^Content); //if there is a sub command there will be more than one word if(count($words) > 0) < Scommand = strtolower($words(0]); //get the command e.g. mobi wit //get from and to email addresses Sfromemailfilepath = ''$servicesfolder/$command.from; if(file_exists (Sfromemailfilepath)) { Sfromemail = file_get_coutents($fromemailfilepath); } Stoemailfilepath = Sservicesfolder/Scommand.to; if(file_exists (Stoemailfilepath)) { Stoemail = file_get_contents($toemailfilepath); } //determine if we should send an sms response Ssmsmessage ~ no; Ssmspath = $servicesfolder/Scommand.sms; if(file exists (Ssmspath)) { Ssmsmessage = file_get_contents($smspath); } //get the receipt mask Ssmsmaskpath = $servicesfolder/$command.mask; if(file_exists (Ssmsmaskpath)) { Ssmsmask = file_get_contents($smsmaskpath); } //get the file to email to recipient Sfilepath = Sservicesfolder/Scommand.txt; if(file__exists (Sfilepath)) < //if file exists then get the next word if(count($words) >1) { //determine if first word is an email address Sto = $words[l]; if(eregi( A([a-zA-Z0-9_\\-\\.]+)@((\\[[0-9] {1,3 }\\. (0-9] {1,3 }\\. [09]{l,3}\\.)|(([a-zA-Z0-9\\-]+\\.)+))([a-zA-Z]{2,4}|[0-9]{l,3})(\\]?)$, $to)) < //get file contents and send to recipient Smessage = file_get_contents($filepath); sendemail($to, STrigger Scommand: text request from SMSISDN, Smessage, Sfromemail, Stoemail); if($smsmessage 1= ''no) The following Claims were filed on 28th October 2010

Claims (5)

1. A system for transmitting data comprising:- means to receive data, means to search for an electronic mail address in the received data, and means to transmit data by electronic mail to the electronic mail address.

2. A system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the receiving means is configured to receive data with a limited size message protocol.

3. A system as claimed in claim I or 2 wherein the received data comprises a text message.

4. A system as claimed in any of claims 1 to 3 wherein the transmitting means is configured to transmit an electronic mail message by electronic mail to the electronic mail address.

5. A system as claimed in claim 1 to 4 wherein the transmitting means is configured to transmit a document attached to the electronic mail message by electronic mail to the electronic mail address.