WO2017044041A1

WO2017044041A1 - Method and device for delivering alert messages

Info

Publication number: WO2017044041A1
Application number: PCT/SG2015/050476
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gordon Yu Tang YUEN
Original assignee: ZingMobile Pte Ltd
Priority date: 2015-09-09
Filing date: 2015-11-27
Publication date: 2017-03-16
Also published as: SG10201507329VA

Abstract

A method of delivering an alert message comprises a first step of obtaining an electronic address of an electronic device; a second step of composing an alert message; a third step of transmitting the alert message to the electronic device; and a fourth step of causing the alert message to cover substantially an entire screen of the electronic device. A communication device for sending alert messages, which comprises a computing server having records of electronic addresses; a secure network connected to the computing server for delivering the alert messages; and a dashboard module connected to the computing server for editing the alert message. The computing server is configured to install an application software package for receiving the alert message onto electronic devices remotely.

Description

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DELIVERING ALERT MESSAGES

[0001 ] The present application relates to a communication system for delivering alert messages via a secure network. The application also relates to methods for delivering the alert messages.

[0002] The present application claims the priority date of an earlier Singapore patent application with the title of "Communication System for Delivering Alert Messages", which has been assigned with the serial number of 10201507329V and the filing date of 09 September 2015. All content and/or subject matter of this priority application is hereby incorporated entirely by reference.

[0003] In existing telecommunication systems, text messages are transmitted from telecomm service providers (i.e. telecommunication service providers, telecommunication carrier or telecomm operators) to various models, types or brands of mobile communication devices frequently. The text messages are often transmitted to the mobile communication devices disparately and sporadically.

[0004] For instance, in order to deliver an alert text message, a telecomm service provider needs to connect to the multiple mobile communication devices via different telecommunication interfaces because these multiple mobile communication devices are manufactured by diverse equipment producers and are further installed with dissimilar Operating Systems. Accordingly, delivery of the text messages to these multiple mobile communication devices often lead to errors or difficulties in transmission due to non-compatibility of the diverse protocols and formats of information exchange.

[0005] To overcome these problems, a telecomm service provider has to manually create, update and verify multiple copies of a single text message with the same content for adapting to the diverse protocols and formats. Since the single text message needs to be received and displayed on these multiple electronic devices (e.g. mobile phones) properly, the telecomm service provider faces a daunting task of providing consistent and accurate delivery of numerous alert text messages to the satisfactory of all users of the multiple mobile communication devices.

[0006] Essential features of the inventions are provided by independent claims, whilst advantageous features of the inventions are provided their dependent claims. Embodiments of the present application relate to one or more systems and/or methods for enabling messages/texts with/without rich media content support to be configurable, updatable, and deliverable in real or deferred time, through one or more secure remote host servers and user input interfaces for transmission over single or multiple networks. The server or host server is also known as computing server or computer.

[0007] According to an aspect, the present application provides a method of delivering an alert message. The method comprises a first step of obtaining an electronic address of an electronic device; a second step of composing an alert message; a third step of transmitting the alert message to the electronic device; and a fourth step of causing the alert message to cover substantially an entire screen of the electronic device automatically, immediately and/or according to predetermined algorithm. One or more of these steps may be changed in sequence or replaced by other steps. According to the method, dimensions, sizes or displaying area of the alert message is proportionally adjusted for fitting into the screen of the electronic device.

[0008] The alert message comprises text message, audio message, video message, graphic message or multimedia message. The alert message further includes various types of information displayed, shown and/or manifested by the electronic device. The alert message further contains electronic signals that can be automatically received and executed by the electronic device. The alert message may include emergency message, advertisement, notification and time sensitive message. The electronic address comprises machine address stored by the electronic device for receiving messages automatically, which comprises one or more telephone numbers, email addresses, facsimile numbers, online chat group addresses (e.g. skype address) or another addresses (e.g. Internet protocol or IP address) for receiving the messages electronically and/automatically. For example, the electronic address includes international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) and/or related security information. The electronic address further includes a SIM Card's unique serial number (ICCID), cipher information, temporary information related to a local area network, a Mobile Subscriber Integrated Services Digital Network Number (MSISDN), a list of the services of the user of the electronic device, Personal identification number (PIN) and personal unblocking code (PUK). [0009] Differing from usual messages (e.g. SMS or WhatsApp messages), the alert message requires immediate attending of a user of the electronic device. Although the user can receive many types of messages by the electronic device, the alert message can be easily missed or ignored by the user when the electronic device is loaded numerous messages. The alert message is therefore easily overlooked by the user, especially when the electronic device frequently receives numerous messages. In contrast to the known message delivery techniques, the method causes the electronic device to display the alert message that covers substantially the entire screen of the electronic device. The alert message is thus given the first priority for reading by the user of the electronic device. The user can hardly ignore the alert message whenever the user accesses the electronic device. Hence, the alert message is almost certainly going to be acted upon by the user, which gives good assurance to a sender of the alert message. In fact, if necessary, the electronic device is prevented from being accessed unless the alert message is read and dismissed. The present method of delivering an alert message is useful for emergency, urgent or highly important electronic communication by the electronic device. The electronic device is also known as a message target device endpoint, communication device, mobile phone, digital communication device or personal communication device. [0010] The step of causing the alert message to cover substantially an entire screen of the electronic device may further comprise a step of giving the highest priority of displaying on the screen of the electronic device. Since the electronic device may multiple functions (e.g. messaging function or media playing function), the method makes the displaying of the alert message to have preferred or the highest priority over other functions of the electronic device. The displaying of the electronic message may be executed by an application software package installed on the electronic device, either visible or invisible to the user of the electronic device. The application software package is also known as an app that may be preinstalled onto the electronic device before being accessed by the user, or remotely installed onto the electronic device after being accessed by the user. The application software packaged may be configured, modified, removed or upgraded either locally at the electronic device or remotely from the electronic device. Either before or after activation of electronic function or receiving messages by other applications of the electronic device, the method may causes the alert message stays on top of over displayed or non-displayed messages so that the alert message receives the first priority or ahead of some other messages for action by the user. The alert message thus receive higher preference, which is especially useful for delivering urgent or extremely important messages. For example, if the electronic device is infected by virus, the alert message provides means to activing anti-virus actions before activating any functions of the electronic device. [001 1 ] The electronic device may in an unused mode, such as hibernation or its display screen being shot off. Upon delivery of the alert message at the electronic device, in the unused mode, the alert message may be immediately shown on an entire screen of the electronic device, instead of being a string of words or icon as mere indication. Hence, an user of the electronic device is instantly notified about the alert message. The alert message may remain being displayed on the entire screen and prevents other access to the electronic device, unless the electronic device detects an activation on the electronic device by the user.

[0012] Hence, the alert message is displayed on substantially the entire screen of the electronic device automatically, immediately and/or according to predetermined algorithm. For example, the alert message is shown the entire screen of the electronic device directly after receipt at the electronic device, without requiring any action from the user. Alternatively, the algorithm may determine when the alert message is displayed after downloading the alert message at the electronic device. For example, if the alert message comprises a birthday video clip, the alert message is only displayed when detecting actual birth date of the user. The algorithm may further prevents showing of the alert message when detecting the electronic device is set in a meeting mode.

[0013] The transmitting of the alert message to the electronic device can comprise a step of transferring the alert message when detecting availability of a local area computer network. The local area network comprises wired network, wireless network and a combination of both. For example, the local area computer network comprises a Wi-Fi network, a wide area network (WAN), a Bluetooth network, a USB cable network, a Near Field Communication (NFC) network. In contrast of downloading the alert message via a telecommunication network (e.g. 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G), the local area network often does not incur noticeable or significant cost to users of the electronic device for downloading. Therefore, the alert message can be delivered with minimised cost.

[0014] The step of causing the alert message to be displayed substantially over an entire screen of the electronic device can comprise a step of delaying the displaying of the alert message if battery level of the electronic device is below a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold includes 10% of the total battery capacity, 20% of the total battery capacity and/or 40% of the total battery capacity. Hence, essential functions of the electronic device are optionally preserved after receiving the alert message at the electronic device. For example, if the electronic device has about 10% battery level remaining, the alert message is not shown.

[0015] The alert message may comprises content that is independent from other application software packages of the electronic device. For example, the content comprises a work form for entry by an user of the electronic device. Upon completion entry of the work form, the user may dismiss the alert message and send a completed work form from the electronic device. The content may further include a video clip, a music track, an interactive menu, text, pictures or other information that are independent from other application software packaged installed on the electronic device. [0016] The method can additionally comprises a step of providing an audio signal or movements (e.g. vibration) for accompanying the alert message. Although the alert message is displayed visually at the electronic device, the audio signal can precedes, occur concurrently, appears afterwards or repeats continuously with the alert message. To visually impaired personnel or people in a meeting, the audio signal (e.g. ringing tone or song) or mechanical movements by the electronic device provides additional means to prompt the user, further ensuring delivering and user action of the alert message.

[0017] The method may further comprise a step of installing an application software package remotely onto the electronic device for displaying the alert message. The application software is also known as app or apps that may induce action of the electronic device directly or via an Operating System of the electronic device. The installation may be performed by including one or more execution file on a SIM card of a mobile phone, a non-volatile memory of the electronic device or downloading an installation package onto the electronic device. The installation may be executed in a background operation of the electronic device so that the user is not disturbed. Alternatively, installation of the application software package may require authorisation from the user or any other parties locally or remotely. For example, before installing or upgrading the application software package, a service provider or an authorised agent of the service provider may require the user to provide identification before proceeding with the installation, configuration or upgrading. The service provider may send a PIN (personal identification number) and verify the Pin with the user. Accordingly, the application software package for delivering the alert message may be installed, configured, repaired, upgraded or removed securely.

[0018] The method can further comprise a step of getting electronic identification of the electronic device for verification. The electronic identification comprises unique identifiers of the electronic device, such as MAC (media access control address) address, fixed IP address, IMEI (International Mobile Station Equipment Identity) number/code, Wi-Fi address according to IEEE802.1 1 protocols, etc One or more of the identification information or code can be combined for association with the electronic address and/or registration information of the electronic device.

[0019] The method may further comprise a step of associating the electronic address with the electronic identification for delivering the alert message. Since the user may change his electronic device, records or connection between one or more of the electronic addresses and one or more of the electronic identifications offers historical records and confirmation of identify of the user, despite the change of electronic address and/or electronic identification. For example, although electronic identity of the user is changed after user's change of his mobile phone, the alert message may still be delivered to a new electronic device (e.g. a new phone) with the previous electronic address (e.g. existing telephone number) despite the variation of electronic identity (e.g. IMEI code).

[0020] The step of composing an alert message can comprise a step of embedding or providing a hyperlink into the alert message for dismissing the alert message. The hyperlink provides an access point for activation by the user so that the electronic device can trigger another when detecting activation by the user. Although the alert message can be dismissed by the user by swiping on the displayed alert message, the hyperlink can alternatively connect to a designated website or initiate an action (e.g. installing software patch) by the user, offering a variety of possible actions by the electronic device. The initiation of further actions can be automatically executed by the electronic device or further approved by the user if necessary.

[0021 ] The method may further comprise a step of detecting activation of the hyperlink on the electronic device. Since the electronic device may be installed with a touchscreen or other sensors, the electronic device may intuitively offer options to the user. For example, when displayed on a touchscreen, a finger touch at the hyperlink may cause the electronic device to shown a designated webpage for attention of the user. More detailed information may be displayed instead of showing a large amount of information by the alert message itself.

[0022] The method can further comprise a step of performing an action by the electronic device after dismissal of the alert message. For example, when the user dismisses the alert message, the electronic device can show a video clip of safety procedure so that the user is educated and informed of the safety information.

[0023] The step of composing the alert message may comprise a step of reviewing, editing, formatting or deleting the alert message. The alert message may further include multimedia data, software codes for inducing vibration of the electronic device or other electronic signals. Hence, the alert message may optionally be transformed by a service provider or a user of the electronic device. [0024] The step of composing the alert message further can comprise a step of standardizing the alert message. The alert message is thus made to conform to predetermined format for optimised showing at or delivering to the electronic device.

[0025] The step of composing the alert message further may comprise a step of normalising the alert message. The step of normalising ensures that messages are of a specific character set length as required by specific electronic devices.

[0026] The step of composing the alert message can further comprise step of accompanying the alert message with audio or other signals. Therefore, the alert message is delivered with several means of prompting, raising awareness to the user of the electronic device. For example, a LED light on the electronic device can flash when displaying the alert message with a full screen of the electronic device.

[0027] The step of composing the alert message may further comprise a step of storing the alert message. One or more of the alert messages may be kept locally at or remotely from the electronic device. For example, the alert message may be saved by a remote computing server (known as cloud) so that the alert message may be delivered to the electronic device when having internet access.

[0028] The step of composing the alert message can further comprise a step of sending the alert message in batches automatically. One or more computing servers of a service provider can consolidate, edit and mass deliver the alert message according to schedules or instruction. Human operators are alleviated from tedious or routine deliveries. [0029] According to another aspect, the present application provides a communication device or system for sending alert messages. The communication device comprises a computing server having records (e.g. database) of electronic addresses; one or more secure networks connected to the computing server for delivering the alert messages; and a dashboard module connected to the computing server for editing the alert message. The computing server is configured to install an application software package for receiving the alert message onto electronic devices remotely. The one or more secure network comprises internet connection, telecommunication networks (e.g. 2G, 3G, 4G or 5G), Wi-Fi (i.e. WiFi) network, Ethernet network, optical network or a combination of any of these network. Hence, the communication system is able to transmit text messages, rich media messages or machine-readable messages conveniently, alerting users of their electronic devices to take fast actions upon receiving the alert messages. Problems or disasters of non-action or late-action associated with the alert message is greatly reduced. [0030] The application software package can be configured to display the alert message on an entire screen of the electronic devices. Having highlighting or prompting of receiving an alert message is no longer sufficient when a user is overwhelmed by incoming messages continuously. The application software package helps the users to focus firstly onto the alert message, even though the electronic device continuously receives more messages before or after receipt of the alert message because the alert message is enabled by the software package to be displayed substantially on an entire screen of the electronic device, which is almost impossible to miss

[0031 ] The application software package may be configured to display the alert message on the electronic devices with priorities. For example, the alert message may be configured to have the highest, secondary or other priority levels for displaying at the electronic device. The alert message may be periodically flashed, repeatedly appearing or constantly enlarging, diminishing or changing in colour for grabbing attention of the user. If additional action is required, the alert message may comprise a hyperlink. Alternatively, the alert message may comprise one or more multimedia signals, such as ringing tone, vibration, and flashing.

[0032] According yet a further aspect, the application provides a communication system that comprises a host server that is connected to a communication network, the communication network being adapted to communicate with subscriber's mobile electronic devices; and an electronic identity controller being adapted to verify electronic identifies of the mobile electronic devices. The host server is configured to dispatch messages to the subscriber's mobile electronic devices according to predetermined priorities for displaying at the subscriber's mobile electronic devices.

[0033] The host server can be adapted to configure the subscriber's mobile electronic devices via the communication network for setting the highest priority for displaying the messages from the host server. The host server can also comprise a SMS (Short Message Service) Gateway, an IVR (Interactive Voice Response) Server, a WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) Server, a Content Hub, an application server or a combination of any of these. The host server can further comprise one or more automatic translators for converting the messages to a predetermined language.

[0034] The communication network may comprise a telecomm network, a WiFi network, an internet, an optical fibre network, an electrical cable network or a combination of any of these. The host server may further comprise a content management module. [0035] The content management module can comprise a message review layer, a standardization layer, a normalisation layer and a message preparation and push layer that are sequentially connected. The messages can comprise audio data, computer document, electronic games, ringtones, video data, pictures, texts, web view, SMS (atype), SSD (atype).

[0036] According to an additional aspect, the application provides a non-transient computer readable medium containing program instructions for causing a computer to perform the method step of

communicating with subscriber's mobile electronic devices via a communication network;

verifying electronic identities of the subscriber's mobile electronic devices;

- configuring display priority of the subscriber's mobile electronic devices; and

dispatching alert messages to the subscriber's mobile electronic devices according to the priority. [0037] Some of the above-listed steps can be changed in order or combined. The step of configuring can further comprise a step of installing a computer program onto the subscriber's mobile electronic device for handling the messages. The step of configuring further comprises a step of downloading the messages automatically by the subscriber's mobile electronic devices.

[0038] Moreover, an aspect of the application offers a method for delivering messages to subscriber's mobile electronic devices via communication network. The method comprises following steps as

obtaining electronic identities of the subscriber's mobile electronic devices;

verifying the electronic identities by a host server automatically; configuring priority of message display at the subscriber's mobile electronic devices; and

dispatching the messages according to configured priority. [0039] The method may further comprise a step of installing a computer program at a subscriber's mobile electronic device for handling the message. The method may additionally comprises a step of downloading or displaying the messages at the subscriber's mobile electronic device according to predetermined schedule automatically. The method may still comprises a step of adapting the messages according to the communication network, the subscriber's mobile electronic device or a combination of both. The method may optionally comprises a step of receiving an electronic response from the subscriber's mobile electronic device.

[0040] In accordance with an aspect of the present application, the communication system comprises of an administration portal, a content creation platform, a content management platform and a delivery platform.

[0041 ] In a preferred embodiment of the present application, the administration portal is a centralized administration and control module. It comprises of a content creation platform for allowing user to create new text messages as a first criterion. The content creation platform may be in the form of one or more backend server sources.

[0042] According to a further aspect, the present application provides a system or device for remote configuring or re-configuring an electronic device. The system or device comprises a backend host server connected to at least one carrier's network (e.g. telecommunication network). The carrier's network is configured to communicate the backend server with one or more electronic devices registered with the carrier's network. The system or device further comprises a secure network adapted to transmit at least one an alert message from the backend host server to the at least one electronic device. The secure network comprises an Over-The-Air (OTA) gateway. The backend host server is configured to install an application software package onto the one or more electronic devices remotely and/or wirelessly for displaying the alert message over an entire screen of the electronic device automatically (e.g. without action from a user of the electronic device), immediately and/or according to predetermined algorithm. Hence, the alert message can be downloaded to the electronic device of the user without requiring action from the user. The downloading activity can be performed automatically by the application software package on the electronic device. The application software package can decide how and when to display the alert message, such as by covering an entire screen of the electronic device. The application software package can alternatively choose to display a previously downloaded New Year Greeting video clip via Wi-Fi connection, and triggering the display of video clip when detecting the time of New Year's Eve. Data traffic of telecommunication network for downloading the alert message over millions electronic devices is prevented from being jammed at New Year's midnight time. [0043] The backend host server can include one or more user interfaces adapted to allow operators at the backend server to generate and forward the application software package to the electronic device for configuring displaying pattern of the alert message. The one or user interfaces include graphic user interfaces that facilitate convenient and efficient handling for installing the application software package.

[0044] The backend host server may include a database for storing identification details of the electronic device, such as electronic addresses of the electronic devices and electronic identities of the electronic devices. The identification details can be processed by the backend host server automatically for batching processing, relieving efforts from the operators.

[0045] The accompanying figures (Figs.) illustrate embodiments and serve to explain principles of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that these figures are presented for purposes of illustration only, and not for defining limits of their relevant applications. Fig. 1 illustrates a schematic view of a communication system according to a preferred embodiment of the present application; and

Fig. 2 illustrates a flow chart showing notification and message flow according to the preferred embodiment.

[0046] Exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of the present application will now be described with references to the above-mentioned figures.

[0047] Fig. 1 illustrates a schematic view of a communication system 100 according to an embodiment. The communication system 100 comprises message backend server sources 102, and a dashboard module 104 and secure network delivery terminals 1 14 that are sequentially connected together via secure network delivery. The dashboard module 104 is comprises a message review layer 106, a standardisation layer 108, a normalisation layer 1 12 and a message preparation and push layer with audio support 1 12.

[0048] Additionally, the communication system 100 comprises a first secure network 1 16 that joins the message backend server sources 102 to the dashboard module 104. The secure network 1 16 has a layer of communicating open systems, which ensures adequate security of the systems or of data transfers. Some features are security services which can be provided optionally within the framework of the first secure network 1 16. These features include authentication, access control, data confidentiality (e.g. connection confidentiality, connectionless confidentiality, selective field confidentiality, traffic flow confidentiality), data integrity (e.g. connection integrity with recovery, connection integrity without recovery, selective field connection integrity, connectionless integrity, selective field connectionless integrity), non- repudiation (e.g. non-repudiation with proof of origin, non-repudiation with proof of delivery), the security services are provided by means of security mechanism, including encipherment, digital signature, access control, data integrity, authentication exchange, traffic padding, routing control and notarization. [0049] The communication system 100 further comprises a second secure network 1 18 that links the dashboard module 104 to message target device endpoints 1 14. The second secure network 1 18 comprises a telecommunications network (i.e. telecomm network) that includes computer networks, Internet, telephone networks, global Telex networks and an aeronautical ACARS (Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System) network. The second secure network 1 18 connects mobile communication devices (e.g. mobile phones) as message target device endpoints 1 14 for receiving messages from the message backend server sources 102.

[0050] The backend server sources 102 comprises a secure remote host server 102, which is also known as message backend server 102. The backend server sources 102 comprises a SMS gateway allows a computer to send or receive Short Message Service (SMS) transmissions to or from a telecommunications network. Most messages are eventually routed into mobile phone networks. The SMS gateway supports media conversion from email and other formats. The SMS gateway is a direct-to-mobile gateway device which has built-in wireless GSM connectivity. The SMS gateway allows SMS text messages to be sent and/or received by email, from Web pages or from other software applications by acquiring a unique identifier from the mobile phone's Subscriber Identity Module, or "SIM card". Direct-to-mobile gateways are different from SMS aggregators, because they are installed on an organization's own network and connect to a local mobile network.

[0051 ] The backend server sources 102 moreover comprises a WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) gateway sits between the message target device endpoints 1 14 using the WAP protocol and the World Wide Web, passing pages from one to the other much like a proxy. The WAP gateway translates pages into a form suitable for the mobiles, for instance using the Wireless Markup Language (WML). This process is hidden from the message target device endpoints 1 14 (e.g. mobile phones), so the WAP gateway may access the page in the same way as a browser accesses HTML, using a URL (for example, http://example.com/foo.wml), provided the mobile phone operator has not specifically prevented this. [0052] The connection to the mobile network is made by acquiring a SIM card number from the mobile operator and installing it in the gateway. Typically, direct-to- mobile gateway appliances are used for hundreds to thousands of text messages per month. More modern appliances now offer the capability of send up to 100,000 messages each day. Several vendors that have historically provided GSM Gateway equipment for voice also have SMS capability. Some are more primitive than others. The more capable devices are designed with SIM management to regulate the number of SMS messages per SIM, ODBC to connect to a database, and HTTP interfaces to interact with third party applications.

[0053] The message backend server sources 102 additionally comprises a content hub that is an information based website for delivering consistently unique, relevant, and compelling information on a specific theme or topic - addressing the specific needs and preferences of its target audience.

[0054] The content hub is developed with an effective content strategy and unified under a central theme to deliver a consistent message. The content hub is also built upon customised, targeted, and market driven research, which are well-planned, written, and edited to deliver unique, relevant, and engaging content. The content hub includes customised information, customer advice and support, best practice case studies, success leadership, company and industry news, published articles and reports, relevant links, strategic alliances and partnerships, plus blogs and community forums. The content hub is focused on customer experience and engagement - producing appropriate interactive and social media content. The content hub provides seamless integration of all website elements: content, design, and technology. The content hub is enhanced with an integrated CMS providing maintenance, CRM, Email Marketing, and Ecommerce capabilities, and further developed to evolve with customer feedback, market changes, and continuous improvement. [0055] The backend server sources 102 also comprises an application server, which is a software framework that provides both facilities to create web applications and a server environment to run them. The application server contains a comprehensive service layer model, and acts as a set of components accessible to the software developer through an API defined by the platform itself. For Web applications, these components are performed in the same running environment as their web server(s), and their main job is to support the construction of dynamic pages. The application server targets much more than just Web page generation because the application server implements services like clustering, fail-over, and load-balancing, so developers can focus on implementing the business logic. In the case of operating as a Java application server, the application server behaves like an extended virtual machine for running applications, transparently handling connections to the database on one side, and, often, connections to the Web client on the other. [0056] The dashboard module 104 is also known as dashboard interface 104 that is adopted to allow an operator or user to manually input new text messages and create the relevant details including submission of imported file uploads for subsequent delivery of the text message to the designated communication device. According to Fig. 1 , the dashboard interface 104 includes a Message Review layer 106, a Standardization Layer 108, a Normalization Layer 1 10 and a Message Preparation and Push Layer with audio support 1 12. These layers 106, 108, 1 10, 1 12 are sequentially connected to one another.

[0057] A message is composed and goes through each of these layers prior to final message preparation and packaging for delivery to the device end-points of the message target device endpoints (e.g. mobile phones), known as designated communication devices 1 14. The message review layer 106 is provided to allow the message to be displayed for editing by the operator or user a service provider. The message can be in the form of audio, document, game, ringtone, video, wallpaper, image, text, web view, SMS (atype), SSD (atype). [0058] The standardization layer 108 is provided to display the message according to a standardised format. For instance, the message can be displayed with or without a rich media content support depending on the preference of the user. [0059] The normalization layer 1 10 modifies and adapts the message to specific formats in order to be shown correctly at diverse types of the message target device endpoints (i.e. target electronic devices or mobile phones), although the message may come from multiple sources. [0060] The message preparation and push layer 1 12 prepares the message for viewing and closing the message after viewing. The message preparation and push layer 1 12 comprises an audio support feature that is application software programme interacting with an Operating System of a target electronic device for converting the message into one or more audio formats.

[0061 ] Each of the message target device endpoints 1 14 are electronic devices 1 14 that are installed with one or more Operating Systems (OS). The Operating Systems are system software packages that manage computer hardware and software resources and provide common services for computer programs. Examples of mobile Operating Systems (mobile OS) include Android, CyanogenMod, Cyanogen OS, Fire OS, Flyme OS, MIUI, iOS, Windows Phone, BlackBerry, Firefox OS, Sailfish OS, Tizen and Ubuntu Touch OS. These electronic devices 1 14 are also known as mobile communication devices 1 14 that are further installed with alert message apps 120 respectively, in addition to other application software packages (known as apps or computer programme). The alert message app 120 is configured to store, display and connect to an Operating System or other apps after its successful installation onto a mobile phone 1 14.

[0062] The alert message apps 120 has an application layer, a server layer and a database layer. The application layer includes a native frame and proprietary messaging protocols for connecting external electronic devices (e.g. mobile phones). The server layer comprises a data processing server and an analytic server that are connected together for conducting spontaneous flexible searches. Both the data processing server and the analytic server are linked to Web Services and mobile data management systems. The database layer is further connected to Web Services. Additionally the database layer further comprises a data structure server which is networked, in-memory, and stores keys with optional durability. The search server provides a distributed, multitenant-capable full-text search engine with a HTTP web interface and schema-free web protocol.

[0063] Besides, the message target device endpoints 1 14 are electronic devices 1 14 or mobile communication devices 1 14 that have the alert message apps 120 installed. The alert message apps 120 is invisible to users of the electronic devices 1 14 or mobile communication devices 1 14 after installation. The alert message apps 120 communicate with the message backend server sources 102 via the secure networks 1 16, 1 18 so that the message is transmitted different from Short Message Service (SMS), which is a text messaging service component of phone, Web, or mobile communication systems. The message may be presented in different formats, such as text messages, images, video, user location, internet hyperlinks and audio media messages. [0064] Since the alert message apps 120 operate the electronic devices 1 14 or mobile communication devices 1 14 via their Operating Systems, the alert message apps 120 are configured to obtain the highest priority for display on the electronic devices 1 14 or mobile communication devices 1 14. Content of the message further occupies an entire area of display on a message recipient's electronic device 1 14 or mobile communication device 1 14 such that the message recipient is alerted with the message. The alert message continues occupy the entire area of display on a message recipient's electronic device 1 14 till an input is received from the message recipient. For example, the entire area of display is provided by a touchscreen that detects finger-touch of the recipient so that the alert message is dismissed. Alternatively, the finger-touch of the recipient triggers a web link that opens a webpage on the recipient's electronic device 1 14 or mobile communication device 1 14. In other words, the alert message apps 120 have the highest priority of display on the electronic devices 1 14 or mobile communication devices 1 14 for ensuring delivery and expected actions relating to the alert messages. Alternatively, the messages are displayed in a silent mode, pop-up mode and static mode, depending on the recipient's preferences or setting of the alert message apps 120.

[0065] At the message backend server sources 102, once the user or the operator has created new messages, these messages bypass multiple communication interfaces and independently delivered to the message target device endpoints 1 14, which are designated network-enabled communication devices 1 14. The new messages are delivered as top layers on display screens of the message target device endpoints 1 14 as alert messages such that users of the message target device endpoints 1 14 have to take to the alert messages in order to access the message target device endpoints 1 14. Since the alert messages occupy substantially the entire screens of the message target device endpoints 1 14, the users of the message target device endpoints 1 14 are required to take actions on the alert messages immediately. For example, an alert message contains a hyperlink such that the user of a mobile phone is demanded to tap on the hyperlink in order to dismiss the alert message. Alternatively, the alert message comprises a short video clip such that the user of the mobile phone can only access his mobile phone again after viewing the short video clip.

[0066] The user or the operator of the message backend server sources 102 can edit and update existing messages or alert messages by a content management system at the dashboard module 104, which is also known as Alchemy Platform. The content management system 104 is connected over the first secure network 1 16 via a remote, securely managed user interface existing within one or more network architecture. An user interface of the content management system 104 is provided with a dynamic ability to update and edit existing messages stored in static devices and/or devices in motion. The user interface allows real-time access to targeted end- point network-enabled communication devices 1 14. Some of the communication devices 1 14 have local time synchronization capabilities. Delivery of the messages also have audio alert support when displaying. There is also multiple local language support for translating the alert messages to be displayed on the designated communication devices 1 14.

[0067] The content management platform 104 provides the tools to package, deliver, store, publish, analyse, review and bill products and services. The dashboard module 104 manages and supports the entire delivery process including testing and quality control, pricing and packaging, catalogue management and mobile device profiling. Built around a scalable core, the dashboard module 104 allows for fast deployment of applications and services and provides a single platform for publishing content.

[0068] The communication system 100 comprises of five components namely:

* SMS Gateway;

• IVR Server;

* WAP Server;

* Content Hub & Application Servers; and

• Market Analytical Tools.

[0069] The communication system 100 provides following functions:

1 . centralized administration and control;

2. dynamic ability to control via replacement of alert messages of static devices and devices in motion;

3. real-time access to targeted end-point network-aware device types;

4. local time synchronization no matter where on the globe the target device is located;

5. audio alert support as required when displaying the alert message;

6. single or multiple local language support as needed for alert messages as displayed on target devices.

[0070] The communication system 100 is also known as a configurable message and delivery system 100 for alert messages. The system 100 comprises secure network connections 1 16, 1 18 to various alert message creation backend server sources 102 as a first criterion. In lieu of such direct connectivity, an operator (service provider) dashboard interface 104 can suffice that would allow the operator to manually input and create the relevant details including submission of imported file uploads for eventual delivery to the target device types. The various layers of Message Review 106, Standardization 108, and Normalization 1 10 is then conducted on the raw message prior to final message preparation and packaging for delivery 1 12 to the target device end-points of the devices 1 14 identified singly or multiply on the designated network or networks.

[0071 ] According to an aspect of the application, the present application provides a communication system that comprises a host server that is connected to a carrier network, the communication network being adapted to communicate with subscriber's mobile communication devices; and an electronic identity controller being adapted to verify electronic identifies of the mobile communication devices. [0072] The host server is configured to deliver text messages to the subscriber's mobile electronic devices according to predetermined priorities for displaying in the subscriber's mobile communication devices.

[0073] Particularly, the electronic identity controller is capable of recognising, comparing, differentiating, remembering, listing and analysing electronic identities of diverse types of electronic devices.

[0074] The electronic identity controller can manage individual identities, their authentication, authorization, roles, service packages and privileges inside or across system and enterprise boundaries with the goal of increasing security and productivity while decreasing cost, downtime, and repetitive tasks. These individual identities sometimes are conveniently checked via communication devices that are used by the individuals personally. The electronic identities further comprises of electronic addresses accessible by people via their communication devices. For convenience, the identity of an individual may be verified by a telephone number accessible by the individual via his mobile phone. Here, the telephone number is electronically encoded signals, which may be read as a series of numbers. [0075] According to an aspect of the present application, there is provided a communication system comprising of a secure remote host server and a storage medium. The storage medium is adapted to be installed in one or more communication devices. The secure remote host server has an administration control with an user interface for allowing user to input new message and/or to modify old message. The secure remote host server is connected to one or more carrier's network so that the secure remote host server is in communication with the storage medium such that a message is transmittable from the secure remote host server to the storage medium.

[0076] In the communication system 100, dashboard module 104 comprises storage medium 104 is in the form of a flash memory (non-volatile computer storage medium) installed with an application software and/or operating system in a communication device 106. The storage medium 104 comprises of a content management module for allowing the user to manage the content or message. In particular, the content management system comprises of a message review layer 106, a standardization layer 108, a normalisation layer 1 10 and a message preparation and push layer with audio support 1 12. These layers 106, 108, 1 10, 1 12 are sequentially connected.

[0077] The secure remote host server 102 has an administration control with an user interface for allowing user to enter new messages and/or to modify old messages. In the preferred embodiment, the user interface is in the form of an operator dashboard interface which allow the user to manually input and create relevant details including submission of imported file uploads for eventual delivery to the communication device 106.

[0078] The message review layer 106 is provided to allow the message to be displayed for viewing by a service provider. The message can be in the form of audio, document, game, ringtone, video, wallpaper, image, text, web view, SMS (atype), SSD (atype). [0079] The standardization layer 108 is provided to allow all messages to be displayed in a standardised format. For instance, the message can be displayed with or without a rich media content support depending on the preference of the user. [0080] The normalization layer 1 10 modifies and adapts the messages to specific formats in order to be shown correctly at diverse types of target electronic devices, although the messages also come from multiple sources.

[0081 ] The message preparation and push layer 1 12 is provided to allow the messages to be prepared for viewing and for closing the messages after viewing. An audio support feature is provided to allow the messages to be convertible into one or more audio formats.

[0082] In communication system 100, the application software on the storage medium 104 further comprises one or more language support functions for configuring the messages according to preferences of users or target electronic devices. The communication device 106 is usually a network device which may be a static or in motion. [0083] Fig. 2 is a flow chart showing the notification and message flow according to a preferred embodiment of the present application.

[0084] Step 202 shows that the administrator release the notification or message from the secure remote host server (message backend server). Step 204 shows that the message with content enabled by the administrator will be received by the application software. Notification for the same will be available on the communication device. Step 206 shows that the user click the notification on his respective handset to open the notification or message. Step 208 shows that the user can perform the action based on the notification received.

[0085] In the application, unless specified otherwise, the terms "comprising", "comprise", and grammatical variants thereof, intended to represent "open" or "inclusive" language such that they include recited elements but also permit inclusion of additional, non-explicitly recited elements.

[0086] As used herein, the term "about", in the context of concentrations of components of the formulations, typically means +/- 5% of the stated value, more typically +/- 4% of the stated value, more typically +/- 3% of the stated value, more typically, +/- 2% of the stated value, even more typically +/- 1 % of the stated value, and even more typically +/- 0.5% of the stated value. [0087] Throughout this disclosure, certain embodiments may be disclosed in a range format. The description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the disclosed ranges. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible sub-ranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed sub-ranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0088] It will be apparent that various other modifications and adaptations of the application will be apparent to the person skilled in the art after reading the foregoing disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the application and it is intended that all such modifications and adaptations come within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

A method of delivering an alert message comprising:

obtaining an electronic address of an electronic device;

composing an alert message;

transmitting the alert message to the electronic device; and causing the alert message to be displayed substantially over an entire screen of the electronic device.

The method of Claim 1 , wherein

the transmitting the alert message to the electronic device comprises transferring the alert message when detecting availability of a local area computer network.

The method of Claim 2, wherein

the local area computer network comprises a Wi-Fi network. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein

the causing the alert message to be displayed substantially over an entire screen of the electronic device comprises delaying displaying of the alert message if battery level of the electronic device is below a predetermined threshold.

The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein

the alert message comprises content that is independent from other application software packages of the electronic device.

The method of Claim 5, wherein

The content comprises a work form for entry by an user of the electronic device.

7. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein

wherein the causing the alert message to be displayed substantially over an entire screen of the electronic device further comprises giving the highest priority of displaying on the screen of the electronic device.

8. The method of any of the preceding Claims further comprising

providing an audio signal for accompanying the alert message.

9. The method of any of the preceding Claims further comprising

installing an application software package remotely onto the electronic device for displaying the alert message.

10. The method of any of the preceding Claims further comprising

getting electronic identification of the electronic device for verification.

1 1 . The method of Claim 10 further comprising

associating the electronic address with the electronic identification for delivering the alert message.

12. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein

the composing an alert message comprises embedding a hyperlink into the alert message for dismissing the alert message.

13. The method of Claim 12 further comprising

detecting activation of the hyperlink on the electronic device.

14. The method of any of the preceding Claims further comprising

performing an action by the electronic device after dismissal of the alert message.

15. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein

the composing the alert message comprises reviewing the alert message.

16. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein

the composing the alert message further comprises standardizing the alert message.

17. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein

the composing the alert message further comprises normalising the alert message.

18. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein

the composing the alert message further comprises accompanying the alert message with audio signals.

19. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein

the composing the alert message further comprises storing the alert message.

20. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein

the composing the alert message further comprises sending the alert message in batches automatically.

21 . A communication device for sending alert messages, the communication system comprising:

a computing server having records of electronic addresses of external electronic devices;

a secure network connected to the computing server for delivering the alert messages; and

a dashboard module connected to the computing server for editing the alert message;

wherein the computing server is configured to deliver the alert messages to the electronic devices according to their electronic addresses for showing on an entire screen of the electronic device.

22. The communication device of Claim 21 , wherein

the computing server is further configured to install an application software package to at least one of the electronic devices remotely for displaying the alert message on an entire screen of the at least one electronic device.

23. The communication device of Claim 22, wherein

the application software package is configured to display the alert message on the electronic devices according to predetermined priorities.

24. The communication device of any of the preceding Claims 22 or 23, wherein the application software package is configured to download the alert message to one of the electronic devices when detecting availability of a local area computer network.

25. The communication device of any of the preceding Claims 22 to 24, wherein the application software package is configured to suspend downloading of the alert message if battery level of the electronic device is below a predetermined threshold.

26. The communication device of any of the preceding Claims 22 to 25, wherein the alert message comprises content that is independent from other application software packages of the electronic device.

27. The communication device of Claim 26, wherein

the content comprises a work form for entry by an user of the electronic device. A system for remote configuring or re-configuring an electronic device, the system comprising:

a backend host server connected to at least one carrier's network, wherein the carrier's network is configured to communicate the backend server with at least one electronic device registered with the carrier's network; and

an Over-The-Air (OTA) gateway adapted to transmit an alert message from the backend host server to the at least one electronic device;

wherein the backend host server is configured to install an application software package onto the at least one electronic device for displaying the alert message over an entire screen of the electronic device (automatically and/or immediately, or according to predetermined algorithm).

The system of Claim 28, wherein

The backend host server includes at least one user interface adapted to allow operators to generate and forward the application software package for configuring displaying pattern of the alert message.

The system of Claim 28, wherein

The backend host server includes a database for storing identification details of the electronic device.