WO2015158901A1

WO2015158901A1 - Method for providing metadata for communication partners, and communication system

Info

Publication number: WO2015158901A1
Application number: PCT/EP2015/058402
Authority: WO
Inventors: Marcel Hartmann
Original assignee: Identr Gmbh
Priority date: 2014-04-17
Filing date: 2015-04-17
Publication date: 2015-10-22
Also published as: DE102014105557A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a communication system and to a method for providing metadata for communication between communication partners, in particular for mobile communication. The method comprises the following steps: providing a first communication path (40), in particular a voice communication path; providing a second communication path (42), in particular a metadata communication path; providing a host (30) having a database system (34) for storing and accessing metadata, in particular context-based metadata; in the event of a source subscriber (24) making contact with a target subscriber (26), in particular in the event of a call: transmitting a connection request over the first communication path (40) to the target subscriber (26); transmitting the identification feature which identifies the target subscriber (26) over the second communication path (42) from the source subscriber (24) to the host (30); checking, on the basis of the identification feature which identifies the target subscriber (26), whether the target subscriber (26) is capable of receiving and processing metadata which are present in a data record (50) for the source subscriber (24) in the database system; and, if the target subscriber (26) is capable, transmitting to the target subscriber (26) metadata relating to the source subscriber (24).

Description

Method for providing metadata for communication partners

as well as communication systems

The present invention relates to a method for providing metadata for communication between communication partners, in particular for mobile communication. The invention further relates to a software program with program code for carrying out the method. The invention further relates to a communication system for communication between communication partners, in particular for mobile communication.

Mobile communication, especially mobile telephony, has steadily gained in importance in recent years. Appropriate technologies have been provided so that communication partners, in particular mobile subscribers, can be reachable essentially at any time and almost everywhere. The constant accessibility is commonly seen as an advantage. However, it is sometimes also considered disadvantageous to be reachable at all times. This can be the case, in particular, when a communication subscriber on his mobile device is constantly reachable for business partners and / or employers in his free time. The advancing global interconnectedness can contribute to the aggravation of this problem, because due to the time difference between different time zones one works nearly at any time in any place of the earth. Commonly, mobile communication involves mobile communication by voice. Various standards have been established for mobile voice communication. On the one hand, this is the GSM standard (Global System for Mobile Communications). Furthermore, the UMTS standard (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) exists. More recently, the LTE standard (Long Term Evolution) has been implemented. To illustrate the respective functionality, reference is made to the respective standard documentation, in particular the publications of the standardization body 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project). Each of these standards may include enhancements to increase performance. This can be about the GSM standard GPRS and EDGE. This can be about the UMTS standard HSDPA and HSUPA. With the LTE standard, this can at least be LTE-advanced.

It is understood that other communication standards, in particular other mobile phone standards, are conceivable. By way of example reference is made to the WIMAX. Other standards, including local ones, are conceivable.

Preferably, at least some of the standards are at least partially compatible with each other. Furthermore, it is conceivable that a particular mobile device is adapted to meet several of the standards. By way of example, a mobile phone may be configured to comply with both the GSM standard and the UMTS standard and the LTE standard. It is also conceivable to simultaneously provide network coverage for several standards in one area.

The said standards can be designed to enable a standard-minimal configuration. In other words, the standards can be designed to permit voice communication across standards, in particular in the form of telephone calls. Further, at least some of the standards are adapted to allow communication with wireline communication networks, particularly with a wireline telephone network (also referred to as landline). The compatibility between wired networks and mobile networks (also referred to as radio networks), so the restriction to a minimum functionality that can be guaranteed by all standards and networks, also requires a restriction on line reception. As a result, calls today may still meet standards that have been in place for several decades. Modern communication networks can theoretically be much more powerful, but this would lead to reduced backward compatibility.

From US 2008/0242293 A1 a system for displaying a caller name in a wireless mobile communication system is known which comprises a wireless mobile device with a network interface and a software module, wherein the software module is adapted to store already received originating telephone numbers, a request for a To send names for the originating telephone number to a server, to contain an answer to the request, to store the name received in the response in association with the originating telephone number, and to display the name on a display.

Against this background, the invention has for its object to provide a communication system and a corresponding method, which can extend the minimum functionality of communication networks and especially make phone calls between communication partners comfortable. In particular, the transmission of context-based information and / or metadata should be made possible.

According to a first aspect, the object of the invention is achieved by a method for providing metadata for communication between communication partners, in particular for mobile communication, comprising the following steps:

Providing a first communication path, in particular a voice communication path, Providing a second communication path, in particular a metadata communication path,

Providing a host with a database system for storing and accessing metadata, in particular context-based metadata, in the case of contacting an originating party with a destination subscriber, in particular in the case of a call:

Transmission of a connection request via the first communication path to the destination subscriber, starting from the outgoing subscriber, transmission of an identification feature which identifies the destination subscriber, via the second communication path to the host,

Checking, based on the identification feature identifying the target subscriber, whether the target subscriber is capable of receiving and processing metadata contained in a record for the outgoing subscriber in the database system, and if the target subscriber is capable of transmitting metadata to the outgoing subscriber via the second communication path the target participant.

In fact, according to the invention, on the one hand it is made possible for the initial participant to contact the target participant in a conventional manner. This may in particular include a telephone call. However, extended functionality is provided because at the same time a host can be contacted via another communication path to check whether extended metadata can be provided to the target subscriber. If this is the case, these data can be sent to the destination from the host. In other words, the metadata can be "pushed" to the destination subscriber. The metadata can be taken from the database system of the host. The metadata can in principle also be provided by the mobile device of the outgoing subscriber.

Metadata may generally include characteristics or characteristics of a communication partner. This may be, for example, the clear name, a nickname, an age or date of birth, a job position, a current activity, a reference to the target subscriber, a picture of the originator, a current mood of the originator, a priority of the call as defined by the originator similar include. Such metadata can generally not in the usual way, so for example by a conventional call, not be transmitted.

A push message is usually sent unidirectionally from a transmitting device to a receiving device. To receive the push message usually no contrary information flow is required. Accordingly, push messages can be transmitted to a target device particularly quickly. The target device does not need to be queried first.

It is therefore of particular advantage, in addition to the first communication path to use a second communication path to provide parallel and substantially simultaneously metadata available. If the target subscriber is capable of receiving metadata, he can better classify the call and the person of the outgoing subscriber.

By way of example, the initial participant with his real name and with more information appear on a display of the mobile device of the destination subscriber. This may also be the case if the starting party and the destination party do not know each other directly. Even if the source party is not directly in the contact list of the destination party, metadata can be provided by the host. The only prerequisite for this is that both the destination participant and the starting participant are registered or registered with the host. are. Thus, if the source participant and the target subscriber use the corresponding service provider and have installed a corresponding application on their mobile devices, extended meta information and metadata can be exchanged.

A particular advantage of the method is that, for example, if the destination subscriber is not capable of receiving the metadata, nevertheless the "conventional" call can come about. This may be the case, for example, if the destination subscriber is simply not registered or registered with the service provider. However, it may also be the case when the destination subscriber is located in a communication network that only allows communication via the first communication path, in particular the voice communication path, and no communication via the second communication path, such as the metadata communication path. This would be the case, for example, if only one GSM network is available in the area in which the target subscriber is located.

The identification feature, by means of which the destination subscriber is identified, may in principle comprise a unique identifier of the destination subscriber. This may be, for example, a telephone number of the destination subscriber or an identification feature derived therefrom. However, other identification features for identifying the destination subscriber are also conceivable. The same applies in principle to the starting participant, for whom an identification feature can also be stored.

A communication path can basically correspond to a selected network standard. Accordingly, for example, the first communication path could use the GSM standard. Furthermore, for example, the second communication path could use the UMTS standard or the LTE standard. In other words, the first communication path and the second communication path can be configured as discrete communication paths.

However, it is also conceivable to form the first communication path and the second communication path as virtual communication paths, the one use common communication channel. By way of example, it is conceivable that both the first communication path and the second communication path share the UMTS standard or the LTE standard. In other words, a common channel is used both for transmitting voice data or connection request data and for transmitting metadata. However, it is preferred that data transmitted over the voice communication path make use of the standardized (telephone) network infrastructure. In contrast, it is preferred that metadata transmitted over the metadata communication path be sent to or sent from a proprietary host designed according to various aspects of the method described herein.

The host can also be understood as a service provider. The host can always be executed as a virtual host. However, the host can also be a hardware host. The host can be designed as a distributed system. However, the host can also be designed as a central system.

At least in the mobile device of the initial subscriber, an application may be provided which can communicate with a corresponding (central) application on the host. The host can access stored data or data records via the database system. In particular, these may be user records that contain metadata identifying individual users. The metadata can be context-based. By way of example, a profile can be created for a communication partner or user that contains several subprofiles. Each of the subprofiles can be assigned corresponding metadata. For example, the subprofiles may reflect certain roles of the user. This can be about family, friends, work, club, school and similar assignments. The user may contact the destination subscriber as the starting party by way of example in his role "family". Accordingly, metadata for this role can be communicated to the target subscriber. In other words, several digital "business cards" or "signatures" may be available to the user or communication partner, from which the host selected for the selected destination subscriber is retrieved. If it is the target subscriber about a business partner, this can be a serious business "business card" transmitted. If the target participant is a family member, a private "business card" can be sent to the target participant.

It is basically conceivable that the starting party selects the metadata to be forwarded. In particular, it is conceivable that the starting subscriber selects his role or sub-profile for the current call. However, it is also conceivable that the host is an automatic comparison between the original participant and the target subscriber and on this basis, a suitable sub-profile is selected. Metadata can be transmitted to the target participant from the selected subprofile.

According to a further embodiment, the method further comprises blocking the transmission of metadata to the original subscriber to the destination subscriber, if the destination subscriber is not qualified. In other words, metadata that identifies the source party will not be forwarded to the destination party if it is not trained to receive the metadata.

On the one hand, this may be the case if there is no corresponding application on the mobile device of the destination subscriber. Such a state can be performed by a service program installed on the host, for example, by matching existing data in the database system with the identification feature that identifies the destination user. If there is no data entry for the destination subscriber, no metadata information can be transmitted to it. This condition may occur, for example, if the destination subscriber is not registered with the service provider.

However, the destination subscriber may not be able to receive metadata even if he is in a location where, for example, the transmission of data via the second communication path is not possible. Again, this can be determined by the host, such as when the target party is unresponsive to a ping. A ping can include a defined command that is sent to the Destination participant is transmitted and the destination subscriber provokes a defined ping response, which is sent back to the host, if the destination subscriber is reachable.

The method may further comprise the step of Übermitteins a message, in particular a text-based message to the destination subscriber via the first communication path or the second communication path, if the destination subscriber is not capable according to a further development. For example, the message may include an invitation to join the service of the host. In other words, the message may include an invitation or request to register and install the application on the mobile device of the destination subscriber.

The message can be transmitted as a so-called push message to the destination subscriber. The message can be transmitted via the first communication path. By way of example, the message can be transmitted via the first communication path as an SMS message (Short Message Service). This may also be the case, for example, if the destination subscriber is in principle able to receive metadata via the second communication path, but this is currently not possible. If the first communication path is still available, a corresponding message can be generated and transmitted.

In an advantageous embodiment, the method further comprises the step of depositing at least one profile data record for a subscriber at the host, wherein the profile data set may preferably have a plurality of sub-profiles with associated metadata. This can be done via an external portal or via an interface at the host. The subscriber or user may use various ways to register with the service and deposit his profile record. As mentioned above, it may be advantageous to deposit several sub-profiles (such as family, leisure, company).

Advantageously, a method according to the aspects described here can be used, for example, in companies that provide their employees with mobile devices, in particular with mobile phones. It has not become unusual in recent times. to provide mobile phones to its employees. Often, employees are allowed to use these devices for private purposes. In general, this leads to the expectation of improved accessibility of employees. For larger organizations, hundreds or even thousands of people can be equipped with the right mobile devices. It would therefore be advantageous to use extended information in the form of metadata in the internal communication and preferably also in the external communication with the mobile devices.

In particular, this may include signatures or the like which have become commonplace in e-mail communication in the business environment. Particularly in the case of large companies with many employees, it is not to be expected that an employee has stored relevant contact data of all other employees on his telephone. If a service is set up, which is designed in accordance with various aspects of the method described here, a destination subscriber can recognize in the event of a call on the basis of the signature which colleague from which area is currently calling him. Of course, the process can be used across companies. Communication with suppliers, customers and other business partners can also be optimized in this way. A significant advantage can be that company-specific requirements for the "business card" or signature can be enforced and monitored centrally. The maintenance of the profile data record can be done centrally.

Advantageously, the method may be developed according to any one of the following steps:

Time-dependent activation and / or deactivation of sub-profiles for a subscriber, location-dependent activation and / or deactivation of sub-profiles for a subscriber, and time-zone-dependent activation and / or deactivation of sub-profiles for a subscriber. In other words, rules can be set up which make a subscriber selectively reachable or unavailable. Thus, for example, it can be specified centrally for all employees of a company that no internal calls can be made outside of a specific time window. The constant accessibility of employees is sometimes perceived as disadvantageous.

Thus, if all employees of a company are registered with their mobile devices at the host and at least have a corresponding sub-profile as employees of their company, this can be selectively disabled to prevent professional calls outside the shared time window. A location-dependent activation or deactivation is also conceivable in order to prevent the accessibility of the participant, for example during vacation. Also a selective control of the accessibility in the case of missions can be carried out in this way. The accessibility can also be optimized by means of a time-zone-dependent activation and / or deactivation.

According to a further embodiment, the method further comprises the step of reconciling profile schemas between the source user and the destination subscriber, as well as a transmission of metadata depending on matching sub-profile assignments. By comparing the profile data can be identified by way of example, whether the starting participant and the target participant are employed at the same company. It could also be determined whether both are examples of the same family, the same circle of friends or the same club belonging. If a match is transmitted, the corresponding sub-profile of the original party can be selected. Accordingly, metadata associated with the sub-profile may be transmitted

According to a further embodiment, the method further comprises the step of Übermitteins a status information on the second communication path to the destination subscriber, wherein the status information describes an associated prioritization of the connection request. By way of example, the outgoing party may define a priority or importance of the current call during contact, such as when initiating the call. Accordingly, the destination subscriber can know who is currently calling and whether the current call is also important. This may allow the target subscriber to decide based on the status information whether the call is just important enough to be accepted. If the call is not important enough, the destination party can ignore the call.

According to a further embodiment of the method, this further comprises the step of Übermitteins a status information on the second communication path to the output subscriber, wherein the status information describes a reaction of the destination subscriber to the connection request. This may be particularly advantageous if the destination subscriber decides not to accept the current call. Such status information can therefore be, for example, the request for a new call. It can also be the announcement of a callback. In particular, the destination subscriber can inform the subscriber in this way why he can not or does not want to accept the call at the moment.

According to a development, the method further comprises the step of Übermitteins an adapted status information in response to a selected sub-profile of the initial subscriber and / or the destination subscriber. The status information to be transmitted can, for example, if both participants are employed by a company, deviate from a status information that would have been transmitted if both participants belonged to a circle of friends.

According to a further embodiment, the method further comprises the step of assigning identification features to source subscribers and / or destination subscribers in response to a basic feature selected from a group consisting of: telephone numbers, IMSI numbers, IMEI numbers , TMSI numbers, MSISDN numbers, proprietary user numbers, and combinations thereof. It is understood that derivatives thereof are also conceivable. In principle, it is conceivable to create a separate user ID for each subscriber. In this way, a particular subscriber can still be identified even if he changes his mobile device or his mobile service provider. It would also be conceivable to identify participants based on a combination consisting of at least two of the above numbers. In this way manipulations can be prevented. In general, the basic feature could also be encrypted.

The IMSI number is a so-called International Mobile Subscriber Identity. In other words, it is a subscriber identifier for identification in mobile networks, which is deposited approximately on a smart card. The IMSI number usually allows a unique assignment of a person. The IMEI number is the so-called International Mobile Station Equipment Identity. The IMEI number usually allows a unique identification of a mobile device capable of mobile communication. Also, the TMSI number, the so-called Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity number, allows identification of participants of a mobile communication network. The MSISDN number is the so-called Mobile Subscriber Integrated Services Digital Network Number. This may in the actual sense be a telephone number or telephone number of a subscriber, which is usually associated with a SIM card, a so-called Subscriber Identity Module card (subscriber identity module).

According to a further embodiment, the method further comprises the step of matching metadata for a subscriber, in particular profile records, in the database system of the host via an interface for accessing external database systems.

By way of the interface, the database system of the host can access, for example, internal company databases or public databases. By way of example, social media providers (social media providers) can be accessed via the interface in order to match profile data. This can minimize the effort for the subscriber, since his record can be generated at least partially automatically. According to a further embodiment of the method, the transmission of the connection request and the transmission of the identification feature take place substantially parallel and rectified. According to this aspect, the transmission of metadata to the destination subscriber can be particularly time-efficient. Namely, if the metadata are directed to the mobile device of the destination subscriber, in particular pushed, they can arrive substantially at the same time as the call signal. This can lead to significant time savings compared to methods in which metadata is interrogated from the mobile device of the destination subscriber. Namely, in the latter case, the mobile device of the destination subscriber can only query the metadata at the host when a corresponding identification feature is transmitted to the destination subscriber on the basis of the call signal.

According to another aspect, the object of the invention is achieved by a software program having program code, by which a method according to one of the preceding aspects is executed when the software program is executed on a mobile device. The software program can also be referred to as an application or, shortened, as an app. It is understood that the software program may work with a corresponding program installed on the host. Accordingly, the entire software provided for carrying out the method may comprise further components. In particular, the software program can be stored on a non-volatile memory and executed from there. The software program can be made available for download in a cloud environment. In general, the software program can be provided via a network for transmission to mobile devices.

According to a further aspect, the object of the invention is achieved by a communication system for communication between communication partners, in particular for mobile communication, comprising: a network infrastructure having a first communication path, in particular a voice communication path, and a second communication path; especially a metadata communication path, a host with a database system for storing and accessing metadata, in particular context-based metadata, at least one mobile device of a source user and a mobile device of a destination user, wherein the communication system in case of contact of an originating party with a destination subscriber, in particular in the case of a call to is configured to transmit a connection request via the first communication path to the destination subscriber, starting from the initial subscriber, an identification feature that identifies the destination subscriber to transmit via the second communication path to the host to check using the identifying feature identifying the destination subscriber, if the destination subscriber empowers is to receive and process metadata that exists in a record for the outgoing subscriber in the database system, and if the target subscriber is able to transfer metadata to the outgoing subscriber to transmit the second communication path to the destination subscriber.

It is understood that the above-described communication system according to various aspects of the method described above can be developed.

It is understood that the features of the invention mentioned above and those yet to be explained not only in each of the indicated Combination, but also in other combinations or alone, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of several preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1 is a highly simplified schematic representation of a communication system;

FIG. 2 is a highly simplified schematic diagram of a mobile device of a source subscriber and a mobile device of a destination subscriber during a contact setup in a communication system; FIG.

3 shows an exemplary representation of a profile data record with a plurality of sub-profiles for a subscriber;

4 shows an exemplary representation of contact data with contact groups;

FIG. 5 shows a simplified schematic representation of two mobile devices analogous to the representation according to FIG. 2 for illustrating processes during the contact recording; FIG.

6 shows a further greatly simplified schematic representation of two mobile devices for illustrating information and options for the destination subscriber during a contact session;

7 shows a further greatly simplified schematic view of a communication system; FIG. 8 is a highly simplified schematic block diagram illustrating an example method of providing metadata; FIG. and

9 is a further highly simplified schematic block diagram for illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the method according to FIG. 8.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic, highly simplified representation of a communication system, which is generally designated 10. The communication system or system 10 may in particular be a system for mobile communication. The system 10 may utilize a network infrastructure 12 that allows for, for example, mobile communication. By way of example, the network infrastructure 12 may permit communication in accordance with at least one mobile radio standard. Mobile standards may be, for example, the GSM standard, the UMTS standard, the LTE standard and other standards and their modifications. Preferably, the network infrastructure 12 is configured to allow communication over several mobile radio standards. Accordingly, the network infrastructure 12 may include and / or provide at least one mobile network 14. The mobile network 14 may include at least one base station 16. By way of example, FIG. 1 shows a first base station 16-1 and a further base station 16-2. The mobile network 14 may further comprise at least one standard compliant controller 18. The mobile network 14 may provide a so-called air interface 22 through which mobile devices 24, 26 may communicate with the mobile network 14 as well as via the mobile network 14.

For further details of components of the mobile network 14, reference is made by way of example to relevant descriptions of the UMTS standard, the GSM standard and the LTE standard.

By way of example, the mobile device 24 may be a mobile device of an originating party. By way of example, mobile device 26 may be a mobile device of a destination subscriber. Usually the starting participant the one party of the mobile network 14 who initiates a call to the destination subscriber. The call comes from the starting party. In other words, the originating party can call the destination subscriber to have a conversation with him, for example.

The mobile devices 24, 26 may generally be mobile phones. The mobile devices 24, 26 could in principle also be other mobile devices that are capable of mobile communication. These may be, for example, mobile computers, tablet computers, handheld computers and vehicle-mounted mobile devices. The mobile devices may include standards-compliant receive receivers.

The system 10 may further include a host 30 of a service provider. The host 30 may include a server environment 32. The server environment 32 may include a database system 34 and a database 36. Data in the database 36 can be accessed via the database system 34. Furthermore, data can be stored in the database 36 via the database system 34. As mentioned above, the host 30 may be a cloud-based host. The host 30 may be designed as a virtual host. The host 30 may include a distributed server environment 32 with virtual servers. The host 30 may be abstractly considered to provide a service or service to subscribers 24, 26 of the mobile network 14. In other words, the host 30 may provide an application through which applications of the mobile devices 24, 26 of the subscribers may access extended functionality. In other words, the host 30 may allow enhanced functionality of the mobile network 14 in the context of the mobile application.

Fig. 2 illustrates in a highly simplified manner a mobile device 24 of a source subscriber contacting a mobile device 26 of a destination subscriber. In other words, the originating subscriber can call the mobile device 26 of the destination subscriber via his mobile device 24. In known mobile networks 14, the initial contact usually comprises a "call" of the mobile device 26 of the destination subscriber via a first communication path 40, in particular via a voice communication path. Via the first communication path 40 standard compliant Kontaktanbahnungsdaten 44 are transmitted to the mobile device 26 and there trigger about a "ringing" or "call waiting". The transmission over the first communication path 40 may include a standard compliant transmission of data identifying the caller. This may include in particular the transmission of a telephone number of the caller. Usually, however, no further relevant metadata is transmitted to the caller via the first communication path.

It is therefore preferable if the contact initiation between the initial subscriber and the destination subscriber also includes communication via a second communication path 42, which may be referred to as a metadata communication path. Via the second communication path 42, metadata 46 can be transmitted from the mobile device 24 of the outgoing subscriber to the mobile device 26 of the destination subscriber. Metadata 46 may include accurate identification of the originating party and possibly even information about the purpose of the call. Metadata 46 may further include, for example, a caller's prioritized dialing.

As mentioned above, the first communication path 40 and the second communication path 42 may share a common communication channel. However, it is also conceivable that each of the communication paths 40, 42 uses a separate communication channel. A communication channel can correspond approximately to a mobile radio standard. By way of example, the first communication path 40 may use a channel that complies with the GSM standard. By way of example, the second communication path 42 can use a channel which corresponds approximately to the UMTS standard or the LTE standard.

Fig. 2 further illustrates that it can be advantageous if a transmission of data at the initial contact between the mobile device 24 of the source subscriber and the mobile device 26 of the destination subscriber takes place substantially unidirectionally. In particular, the transmission of the metadata 46 to the mobile device 26 can be unidirectional. In other words, the metadata 46 can be "pushed" onto the mobile device 26. This can bring speed advantages. The transmission of the metadata 46 over the second communication path 42 may be substantially controlled by the service or service provided by the host 30. In other words, in addition to the original communication via the first communication path, the host 30 can effect an extended communication, in particular an extended data transmission involving the second communication path 42.

In particular, if the target subscriber in advance no metadata of the source subscriber are known, the assignment of metadata to the original subscriber can not be done locally on the mobile device 26 of the destination subscriber alone. The originating party is then in fact not stored in the (local) contacts on the mobile device 26 with high probability.

The host 30, see also FIG. 1, however, thanks to its database system 34 with the database 36, can provide a variety of contact data that subscribers of the mobile network 14 can access, provided that they are registered and / or logged on to the service of the host 30 are. In other words, the host 30 may be configured to identify, in particular unambiguously, by means of an identification feature that can identify a subscriber, to provide extended information for the subscriber, the so-called metadata 46.

For this purpose, an identification feature characterizing the destination subscriber can be transmitted to the host 30 via the second communication path 42, cf. FIGS. 2 and 7. The host 30 can check on the basis of the identification feature whether the destination subscriber or his mobile device 26 are already registered or logged in during the service. If this is the case, the host 30 can cause the transmission of metadata 46, which describe the original subscriber closer to the destination subscriber or his mobile device 26.

The metadata 46 characterizing the source subscriber can in principle be stored in the database 36 of the host 30. However, it is also conceivable that the metadata 46 may be at least partially distributed to the mobile device 24 of the participant are deposited. In particular, the starting party may define at least a portion of the metadata 46 to be transmitted ad hoc prior to contacting the target party.

The system 10 allows for the inclusion of profile records 50 for the participants, compare an exemplary illustration in FIG. 3. A profile record 50 may be stored in the database 36 (FIG. 1). The profile data set 50 may include a plurality of sub-profiles 52. Fig. 3 exemplifies four sub-profiles 52-1, 52-2, 52-3 and 52-4. Each of the subprofiles 52 of the profile data set 50 may include a "business card" or signature of the corresponding subscriber in the communication on the mobile network 14. It is advantageous to provide a plurality of sub-profiles 52 in the profile data set 50. In this way, the participant can take multiple roles.

By way of example, the sub-profile 52-1 in FIG. 3 describes a business profile of the subscriber. Accordingly, metadata stored there can correspond to the business dealings. The sub-profile 52-2, on the other hand, can describe a familial role of the participant. Similarly, the sub-profile 52-3 may describe a role of the participant in leisure time or in a club. Accordingly, for example, the business sub-profile 52-1 may include a trusted external representation of the subscriber. By contrast, subprofiles 52-2 and 52-3 may contain a more private external representation of the subscriber.

It may be advantageous if the host 30 is configured to perform a profile match between an originating party and a destination party. In this way it can be determined, for example, whether both participants have matches in their business profile 52-1. Accordingly, for example, it could be checked whether both participants are employed by the same company. It can be concluded that in the communication between the original participant and the destination subscriber a specific business signature or "business card" is to be transmitted as part of the metadata 46. However, it would also be conceivable in principle to deposit known contact data 60 for a subscriber of the mobile network 14 at the host 30, in particular at its database 36. An exemplary representation of contact data 60 is shown in FIG. The contact data 60 may include various contact groups 62-1, 62-2, 62-3 and 62-4. In particular, the contact groups 62 may at least partially correspond in their order features to the subprofiles 52 of the profile data set 50. By way of example, contact group 62-1 may include business contacts or business contacts. Accordingly, the contact group 62-2 may include family contacts. The contact group 62-3 may include leisure contacts or club contacts. If, therefore, contact data 60 are stored at the host 30, it may be predefined that the destination subscriber receives certain metadata of the originating party associated with his contact group 62.

As already indicated above, this can be used, for example, in companies that provide their employees with mobile devices 24, 26, in particular mobile phones. For employees of a company, a separate contact group 62 can be created. This can in particular be done centrally, without a participant must be active. You can also create contact group 62 for organizational units that are smaller than the company, such as departments or areas. For the various contact groups 62, rules can be defined as to which metadata are to be displayed when a connection request or contact request is transmitted to the destination subscriber. For example, it is conceivable to define department-internal signatures, company-internal signatures, cross-company signatures and other signatures. Accordingly, it can already be displayed contextually when initiating a telephone call, ie when "ringing" on the mobile device 26 of the destination subscriber who calls and what function the caller exercises in a company. This can be accomplished without a company busy subscriber having to maintain his data locally on his mobile device 24,26.

As already mentioned above, rules can be defined on the basis of which various sub-profiles 52 of the profile data record 50 are selectively activated and / or deactivated. In this way, business calls outside of working hours can be prevented. Accordingly, a subscriber may be mobile Advises 24, 26 in the free time use without a business call threatens. Such a regulation can, for example, be centrally defined and implemented throughout the company. In doing so, consideration can be given to time zones and / or customary national features. It is also conceivable to apply different rules to executives than to salaried employees.

FIG. 5 illustrates various operations at the host 30 that may occur during initial contact between the mobile device 24 of the originating subscriber and the mobile device 26 of the destination subscriber. In known manner, starting from the mobile device 24 via the first communication path 40, a contact request, such as a call signal, to the mobile network 14 and finally the mobile device 26 of the destination subscriber are transmitted. In parallel, however, data can also be transmitted to the host 30 via the second communication path 42. The host 30 may make a decision 68.

The decision making 68 may include, for example, a check as to whether the destination subscriber is stored with his mobile device 26 in the database 36 (FIG. 1) of the host 30. If this is the case, metadata can be routed to the mobile device 26 via the second communication path 42, compare an arrow labeled 74. Furthermore, the host 30 may communicate with the mobile network 14 or with components thereof (compare the controller 18 in FIG. 1). In the case described above, when the originating party and the destination party are known to the host 30, the host 30 may also cause the connection request to pass through the first communication path 40 to the destination user's mobile device 26, compare an arrow labeled 70. In this way, the connection request and the outgoing subscriber characterizing metadata can be transmitted in parallel and substantially simultaneously to the mobile device 26.

However, if it is determined in decision making 68 that the destination subscriber or his mobile device 26 are not known to the host 30, the transmission of metadata over the second communication path 42 can be suppressed, cf. a crossed arrow in FIG. 5. No communication via the second communication path 42 would then be possible. nevertheless In principle, however, a (conventional) communication via the first communication path 40 can take place. However, designs are also conceivable in which the fact that the destination subscriber is not known to the host or is not available to the host is used to also inhibit the communication via the first communication path 40, cf. a crossed-out designation 72 Arrow.

In this way, the starting subscriber can be assigned a contact list (centrally stored), which he can contact with his mobile device 24. As an example, it can be further specified that contacts who are not deposited in the corresponding contact list can not be called. However, it would also be conceivable to explicitly deposit contacts that should not be called. Other designs are conceivable.

The decision making 68 may on the one hand comprise a check as to whether the destination subscriber is known to the host. However, decision making 68 may also include checking whether the destination subscriber is currently enabled to receive metadata from host 30 via second communication path 42. This can be negated, for example, if the destination subscriber or the mobile device 26 are not registered or logged in to the host 30. However, a similar situation may occur, for example, when a mobile network 14, in which the mobile device 26 is currently located, does not offer a transmission possibility via the second communication path 42, for example due to a lack of network coverage.

Fig. 6 illustrates another highly simplified schematic representation of mobile devices 24, 26 of an originating party. The mobile device 26 of the destination subscriber is shown enlarged for illustrative purposes. The communication between the mobile device 24 and the mobile device 26 can basically take place via the first communication path 40 and the second communication path 42. If the originating subscriber intends to call the destination subscriber, a conventional call signal is transmitted via the first communication path 40 to the mobile device 26 of the destination subscriber. However, further information, in particular metadata, can also be transmitted via the second communication path 42. By way of example, the destination subscriber may receive on his mobile device 26 identification data 80 identifying the subscriber. The identification data 80 may include, for example, a clear name or a photograph of the source party. Further, the identification data 80 may include, for example, a signature or "business card". Further, the destination subscriber may be notified of a prioritization 82 of the call. Accordingly, the destination subscriber can immediately recognize on his mobile device whether the call is of particular importance to the subscriber. The prioritization can be made by the subscriber on his mobile device 24, a corresponding transmission of data can be made via the second communication path 42.

Furthermore, the destination subscriber can be provided with the possibility of responding to the connection request of the outgoing subscriber, for example by means of an answer field 84. The response field 84 may, for example, offer a variety of responses. In this way, the destination subscriber can respond to the connection request of the original subscriber, without having to accept a call. A corresponding reaction can be transmitted via the second communication path 42 back to the mobile device 24 of the initial subscriber. In any event, when the destination subscriber responds to the connection request of the originating subscriber, the second communication path 42 can transmit data in addition to data transmitted by the outgoing subscriber to the destination subscriber and data transmitted by the destination subscriber to the outgoing subscriber, compare corresponding arrows 88, 90 in Fig. 6.

Fig. 7 illustrates another schematically simplified representation of a communication system 10. As already described above, the communication system 10 may be configured to communicate between a mobile device 24 of a source user and a mobile device 26 of a destination user. Each of the mobile devices 24, 26 may comprise a base system 94 that is basically configured for communication via the first communication path 40. An application (application or app) 96 can be assigned or superimposed on the respective base system 94. The application or app 96 may be provided by software installed locally on the mobile device 24, 26. In other words, the application or app 96 may overlay the base system 94 as a "shell." Accordingly, the mobile Devices 24, 26 may be formed in addition to the conventional communication via the first communication path 40 for extended communication via the second communication path 42. In this way, extended functionality can be provided without interfering with the conventional communication, in particular the conventional voice communication, via the first communication path 40.

The host 30 may further provide a portal 98 via which profile records 50 having a plurality of sub-profiles 52 may be stored in the database 36. Appropriate profile data records 50 can be used in a test 100 in the host 30. For example, the test 100 may be based on an identification feature transmitted to the host 30 by the mobile device 24 of the originating subscriber. The identification feature can in particular identify the destination subscriber or his mobile device 26. By way of example, the identification feature may be the number or telephone number of the mobile device 26.

If the test 100 shows that there is a data set 50 for the target subscriber or the mobile device 26, it can be assumed that the corresponding application 96 is installed in the mobile device 26. The mobile device 26 or the destination subscriber are accordingly registered and / or registered at the service of the host 30.

Thus, the host 30 may transmit substantially (time) in parallel a business card or signature to the mobile device 26 when called by the mobile device 24 (in a conventional manner). The transmission of the signature 104 can take place, for example, by means of a push message from the host 30 to the mobile device 26, cf. an arrow labeled 104.

If the test 100 reveals that the target subscriber or mobile device 26 is not logged in and / or registered at the service of the host 30, the host 30 may cause the transmission of an invitation to the mobile device 26, see dashed arrow labeled 106 in this way, the destination subscriber may be animated to join the service of the host 30 or register with the host 30. Preferably, the message containing the invitation is also designed as a push message. Preferably, the message containing the invitation of a mobile device on which no application 26 for communication with the host 30 is installed.

The host 30 may further include an interface 108 for communicating with external database providers having profile records or profile recordsets, respectively. In this way, the host 30 may communicate with external directories and / or datasets with profile data and / or contact data to increase the inventory of the database 36.

8 illustrates, by way of a highly simplified block diagram, an exemplary method for providing metadata for communication purposes, in particular for mobile communication. The method may include a step S10 that includes providing a first communication path. The method may include a further step S12 that includes providing a second communication path. The method may include a further step S14 that includes providing a host that is addressable via the second communication path. In principle, the steps S10, S12 and S14 can also be arranged in parallel. The first communication path provided in step S10 can be designed, in particular, as a speech communication path. The second communication path provided in step S12 can in particular be designed as a metadata communication path. The host provided in step S14 may be configured to allow data communication between subscribers of a mobile network via the second communication path, which is essentially parallel to a (conventional) voice communication via the first communication path.

A further step S16 may comprise a contact initiation with a target subscriber by an outgoing subscriber. In other words, an originating subscriber can dial and call a contact of a destination subscriber via his mobile device. This triggers a step S18, which may include various sub-steps. Step S18 is generally directed to the provision of metadata, particularly caller-describing metadata. A sub-step S20 may include the transmission of a connection request via the first communication path to the destination subscriber. This may include, for example, the transmission of a conventional call signal. In a further step S22, which may in principle also be connected in parallel to step S20, an identification feature which identifies the destination subscriber can be transmitted to the host via the second communication path. This usually takes place starting from the starting participant. It may be followed by a further step S24, in which it is checked whether the destination subscriber is capable of receiving and processing metadata which are present in a data record for the outgoing subscriber in the database system. The check can be made on the basis of the identification feature that identifies the destination subscriber. A further step S26 may follow, provided that the destination subscriber is capable of receiving and processing metadata. Step S26 may include transmitting metadata identifying the source party to the destination party.

9 illustrates, with reference to a further, greatly simplified block diagram, an embodiment of the method illustrated with reference to FIG. 8.

In particular, FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary section of the method according to FIG. 8.

The steps S20, S22, S24 and S26 may substantially correspond to the steps already described in connection with FIG. 8. In addition, the illustration according to FIG. 9 has further steps S28 and S30. Steps S28 and S30 may be followed by step S24 if the check made in step S24 shows that the target subscriber is unable to receive and process metadata over the second communication path. Step S28 may include blocking the transmission of metadata identifying the originating party to the destination subscriber. The subsequent optional step S30 may include transmitting a message to the destination subscriber. The message may include, for example, an invitation to the destination subscriber to join the service in order to receive metadata. The message can be, for example, as a text-based message be designed. In principle, the message can be transmitted to the destination subscriber via the first communication path, for example as an SMS message. However, it is also conceivable to transmit the message to the destination subscriber via the second communication path.

Claims

claims

Method for providing metadata for communication between communication partners, in particular for mobile communication, comprising the following steps:

Providing a first communication path (40), in particular a voice communication path,

Providing a second communication path (42), in particular a metadata communication path,

Providing a host (30) with a database system (34) for storing and accessing metadata, in particular context-based metadata,

in the case of contacting a source subscriber (24) with a destination subscriber (26), in particular in the case of a call:

Transmission of a connection request via the first communication path (40) to the destination subscriber (26),

starting from the output subscriber (24), transmission of an identification feature which identifies the destination subscriber (26) via the second communication path (42) to the host (30),

Checking, by means of the identification feature identifying the destination subscriber (26), whether the destination subscriber (26) is capable of receiving and processing metadata contained in a data record (50) for the outgoing subscriber (24) in the database system, and

if the destination subscriber (26) is capable of transmitting metadata to the outgoing subscriber (24) via the second communication path (42) to the destination subscriber (26).

The method of claim 1, further comprising:

if the destination subscriber (26) is not capable of blocking the transmission of metadata to the subscriber (24) to the destination subscriber (26).

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, further comprising:

if the destination subscriber (26) is not capable of transmitting a message, in particular a text-based message, to the destination subscriber (26) via the first communication path (40) or the second communication path (42).

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising:

Depositing at least one profile data record (50) for a subscriber at the host (30), the profile data record (50) preferably having a plurality of sub-profiles (52) with associated metadata.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising at least one of the following steps:

time-dependent activation and / or deactivation of sub-profiles (52) for a participant,

location-dependent activation and / or deactivation of subprofiles (52) for a subscriber, and

time-zone-dependent activation and / or deactivation of sub-profiles (52) for a subscriber.

6. The method of claim 4 or 5, further comprising:

Matching of profile data between the originating party (24) and the destination party (26), transmission of metadata depending on matching sub-profile assignments.

The method of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising:

Transmitting a status information (82) via the second communication path (42) to the destination subscriber (26), wherein the status information (82) describes an associated prioritization of the connection request.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising:

Transmitting a status information (84) via the second communication path (42) to the output subscriber (24), wherein the status information (84) describes a response of the destination subscriber (26) to the connection request.

9. The method of claim 7 or 8, further comprising:

Transmitting adapted status information (82, 84) in response to a selected sub-profile of the originating party (24) and / or the destination party (26).

10. The method of any one of the preceding steps, further comprising:

Assignment of identification features to outgoing participants (24) and / or destination subscribers (26) in dependence on a basic feature selected from a group consisting of: telephone numbers, IMSI numbers, IMEI numbers, TMSI numbers, MSISDN numbers, proprietary user numbers, and combinations thereof.

1 1. The method of any one of the preceding steps, further comprising:

in the database system (34) of the host (30), matching metadata for a subscriber, in particular profile data records (50), via an interface (108) for access to external database systems.

12. The method of claim 4, further comprising:

Matching metadata for a plurality of subscribers who are deposited as contacts at the outgoing party (24) and / or at the destination party (26).

13. The method according to one of the preceding steps, wherein the transmission of the connection request and the transmission of the identification feature are carried out substantially parallel and rectified.

14. A software program having program code by which a method according to one of the preceding claims is executed when the software program is executed on a mobile device.

Communication system for communication between communication partners, in particular for mobile communication, comprising

a network infrastructure that provides a first communication path (40), in particular a voice communication path, and a second communication path (42), in particular a metadata communication path,

a host (30) having a database system (34) for storing and accessing metadata, in particular context-based metadata, at least one mobile device (24) of a source user and a mobile device (26) of a destination user,

wherein the communication system is in the case of a contact of an initial subscriber (24) with a destination subscriber (26), in particular in the case of a call is designed for this purpose

to transmit a connection request via the first communication path (40) to the destination subscriber (26)

starting from the output subscriber (24), an identification feature, which identifies the destination subscriber (26), to transmit to the host (30) via the second communication path (42),

checking, on the basis of the identification feature identifying the destination subscriber (26), whether the destination subscriber (26) is capable of receiving and processing metadata contained in a data record (50) for the outgoing subscriber (24) in the database system, and