JP6685911B2 - Apparatus and method for peer-assisted electronic commerce shopping - Google Patents

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates generally to software, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for peer-assisted e-commerce shopping.

Background When shopping on the Internet, a buyer loses some ability to call a friend to help with the purchase. Inviting friends to shop gives the purchaser greater confidence in making a purchase. If there are no friends to comment, the purchaser may decide not to purchase the item and may wait until later for the purchase.

SUMMARY The present disclosure provides an apparatus and method for peer-assisted e-commerce shopping.

  In a first embodiment, a method of peer assisted shopping comprises receiving, at a first device, a transactional media container that includes base content and supplemental content related to one or more items in the base content. Including. The method also includes receiving a selection of at least one of the one or more items. The method includes initiating a first shopping cart in a transactional media container of a first device, the first shopping cart identifying the at least one selected item. The method also includes establishing a communication channel with the second device. The method also includes transmitting the information to synchronize a second shopping cart associated with the second device with the first shopping cart.

  In the second embodiment, the apparatus includes a memory and a processing device. The memory stores the transaction media container. The transactional media container includes base content and supplemental content associated with one or more items within the base content. The processing device receives and initiates a first shopping cart in the transaction media container of the first device, the first shopping cart identifying the at least one selected item. The processing device also includes establishing a communication channel with the second device. The processing device also includes transmitting the information to synchronize the second shopping cart associated with the second device with the first shopping cart.

  In the third embodiment, a non-transitory computer readable medium comprises logic stored on the computer readable medium. The logic, when executed, causes a processing device to receive, at a first device, a transactional media container that includes base content and supplemental content associated with one or more items in the base content. The logic, when executed, also causes the selection of at least one of the one or more items to be received. The logic, when executed, also causes the processing device to initiate a first shopping cart in the transaction media container of the first device, the first shopping cart including the at least one selected item. Identify. The logic, when executed, also causes the processing device to establish a communication channel with a second device. The logic, when executed, also causes the processing device to send information to synchronize the second shopping cart associated with the second device with the first shopping cart.

  Other technical features will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, description, and claims.

  For a better understanding of the present disclosure and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

1 illustrates an example communication system that can be utilized to facilitate communication between endpoints through a communication network in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 7 illustrates how an example content container is enhanced for peer-assisted shopping according to the present disclosure. FIG. 7 illustrates how an example content container is enhanced for peer-assisted shopping according to the present disclosure. FIG. 7 illustrates how an example content container is enhanced for peer-assisted shopping according to the present disclosure. 6 illustrates an example interface for initiating communication between endpoints to support peer-assisted shopping according to the present disclosure. 6 illustrates an example process for establishing communication between different endpoints according to this disclosure. 6 illustrates an example process for establishing communication between different endpoints according to this disclosure. 1 illustrates an example of a peer assisted shopping communication interface according to the present disclosure. 1 illustrates an example of a peer assisted shopping communication interface according to the present disclosure. 1 illustrates an example container with a shopping cart according to the present disclosure. 7 illustrates another example of a communication system that can be utilized to facilitate communication between endpoints through a communication network according to this disclosure. 1 illustrates an example of a computing device that supports peer-assisted e-commerce shopping according to this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The various embodiments used to explain the principles of the disclosure herein, including FIGS. 1-10, discussed below, are merely exemplary and are intended as limitations on the scope of the disclosure. It should never be interpreted. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented in any suitably configured system.

  FIG. 1 illustrates an example communication system 100 that may be utilized to facilitate communication between endpoints through a communication network according to this disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, system 100 includes various endpoints 110, 120, and 130. As used herein, the term "endpoint" generally refers to any device, system, or other structure that communicates with another endpoint. Examples of the endpoints 110, 120, and 130 are servers (application servers and corporate servers, etc.), desktop computers, laptop computers, netbook computers, tablet computers (APPLE iPad (registered trademark), etc.), switches, mobile phones. (IPhone (registered trademark) and ANDOROID-based phones, etc.), network-connected glasses (Google GLASS, etc.), network-connected TV, network-connected disk player, components in cloud computing network, or communication network Includes, but is not limited to, any other device or component suitable for interacting with. Endpoints 110, 120, and 130 may support Internet Protocol (IP) or any other suitable communication protocol. Endpoints 110, 120, and 130 may further include medium access control (MAC) and physical layer (PHY) interfaces, such as those conforming to the IEEE 701.11 standard. The endpoints 110, 120, and 130 can have device identifiers such as MAC addresses and can have device profiles that describe the endpoints.

  Communication network 140 facilitates communication between endpoints 110, 120, and 130. Various links 115, 125, and 135 couple endpoints 110, 120, and 130 to communication network 140. Communication network 140 and associated links 115, 125, and 135 may be public or private data networks, telephone networks, local area networks (LAN), metropolitan area networks (MAN), wide area networks (WAN), wired or wireless. Networks (GSM (registered trademark), CDMA, LTE, WIMAX, 5G, etc.), local / regional / global communication networks, parts of cloud computing networks, communication buses of components in the system, optical networks, satellite networks, corporate intranets , Or any other communication link or combination of the above, but is not limited thereto. In particular embodiments, links 115, 125, 135 or part of communication network 140 may be part of, or may form part of, the Internet.

  Although endpoints 110, 120, and 130 generally appear as being in a single location in FIG. 1, various endpoints may be geographically dispersed, such as in cloud computing situations. Also, each endpoint can represent a fixed or mobile device. Any of a variety of security schemes can be utilized when the endpoints 110, 120, and 130 communicate with each other. By way of example, in particular embodiments, endpoints 110 and 120 may represent clients and endpoint 130 may represent one or more servers in a client-server architecture. The server may host the website and the website may have a registration process whereby the user establishes a username and password to authenticate or login to the website. The website may further utilize the web application for any particular application or feature that may need to be served up to the website for use by a user. Further, in certain configurations, communication with endpoints 110 and 120 may be facilitated using a communication path through endpoint 130.

  The various embodiments described in this patent specification may benefit from and / or utilize the SMART CONTAINER technology from CINSAY, INC., Which technology is described briefly below. It is more fully described in US Pat. No. 8,769,053 (US Pat. No. 8,769,053, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). This technology provides an innovative way for merchants to reach online customers. Traditional online sales models require merchants to create searches or display advertisements that are displayed when online customers visit search engine sites or various web properties. When a consumer sees an advertisement of interest related to a product or service, in order to discover more information or make an online purchase, the consumer suspends its current activity and directs some other web destination. I need to visit. Consumers have specific online behavior patterns. Traditional multi-step models can work well if the consumer is actively shopping. Traditional advertising sales models require consumers to stop doing what they are doing and visit some other online destination. But consumers stop their current activity if they are on social sites interacting with friends, if they are reading news, playing games, or engaging in other online activities. And it is much less likely to visit some external Internet destination.

  The smart container model brings product information or stores to consumers. The smart container code / technology implements viral syndication across the web using, for example, the components described with reference to FIGS. 1-5, or using other components. Ideally for these types of destinations, online consumers frequently visit social networks, blogs and the like. Nevertheless, if the smart container code resides on a web page, blog post, social network page or wall, or mobile device, the consumer may complete the transaction on the fly without the need to direct it to some external destination. You can

  A smart container object is an intelligent internet object that implements and propagates viral syndication across the web and other connected networks and mobile devices. Smart container objects can be configured in various ways to accommodate the entire online marketing and shopping value chain. This includes impressions, clicks, lead generation, and execution of electronic commerce. The modern shopping experience works best when interactive media is used. One of the most attractive forms of media for sale and shopping is video. Video allows for much more lifelike representations than text or still photos. Video also creates a much richer product browsing or shopping experience.

  The smart container code typically comprises a video player window, a selection of offered products or services, and various associated video clips. This collection of video clips allows consumers to learn more about the products or services offered. Consumers can select any of these offered items to obtain more detailed information, all within the smart container technology.

  The offered item (product or service) may be an item being advertised or sold. Depending on the type, the smart container code may allow the consumer to make a request on the spot to be contacted or even purchase the object. The consumer does not have to stop the current activity or end the web page. The items offered may also include, or be associated with, discounts or coupons. The items offered may even be an opportunity to donate to a charity or political movement. Of course, it may make sense to visit another Internet destination and, where appropriate, the consumer may likewise be sure to link to another Internet destination.

  The smart container code handles all the complexity so that the simplest website can be an instant e-commerce store. This allows anyone to trade online without having to deal with the complexities of setting up an e-commerce site. For merchants with e-commerce sites, it easily enables a much richer shopping experience. For creative hobbyists or local bands, allow interested consumers to easily sell directly. Supplemental items in smart container code called on-demand merchandise may be provided for support or promotion. Merchants can custom design a selection of apparel to sell with their own work, using their art and graphics. On-demand fulfillment eliminates the need to dynamically produce and ship custom apparel and manage inventory, while providing a richer product line for online consumers. Of course, since the instant commerce store is based on smart container objects, it can be extended to all forms of viral syndication methods as well.

  The smart container code is also automatically customized according to the specific configuration. If the device is a conventional personal computer (PC) or laptop, the device renders using the best fit technique, which here can represent a flash. On mobile devices such as iPhones, iPads, or ANDROID® phones, this means that you are likely familiar with HTML5 or native interactive applications. Items within the smart container code also know about each other according to their particular configuration. When the video is playing, the container can update the shown product and service objects corresponding to the particular sequence within the video segment. Thereby, a "mini QVC" shopping channel can be created and syndicated across the Internet. Besides the device type, there are other ways of customization. Some environments, such as smaller devices and social sites, limit window size and the smart container code adapts to it. Further, it may be appropriate to provide different content based on geographic location so that the smart container code can also be customized with respect to geographic location.

  The smart container code can follow more popular network paths and perform vial syndication across the Internet. The smart container object may be hosted on a traditional web page or blog, included in an email, run on a mobile device, or may propagate on social networks. The flexibility of the smart container code also allows it to be set up in the form factor of the ad display unit and distributed via the ad server on the display ad network. Codes can ride a wave of user "likes" when they are in a social network like FACEBOOK®. For example, if a female shopper likes some of the great shoes shown in the smart container interface, the smart container object can propagate directly to the "wall." At this point, all friends of the female shopper can see the smart container object and view or trade on the spot on their wall. Naturally, if any friend of the female shopper also "loves" it, the smart container object will propagate and ride the waves further into its branch of the social network, providing a potential exponential growth factor. . Container code does not necessarily include products such as shoes. As another example, a container may support a politician running for an election. Politician supporters may be enthusiastic about the message and may "love" it, again providing it to their network of supporters. Here, like-minded politician backers can see those messages and if they are moved to donate to the campaign, they can donate to the campaign. Yet another example is sports. In this case, sports fans may want to watch the content on a high definition (HD) large screen television. An increasing number of users have interconnected devices such as ROKU and CHROMECAST devices, and smart container codes can be sent to such IP television boxes as well.

  Merchants may want to know how their campaigns work when they start smart container objects and syndicate on the Internet. The smart container object reports the status for events and transactions of interest such as impressions, video views, clicks, leads, and sales. All such events / transactions can be returned when the event occurs, providing details about the event / transaction state. Because the container is smart, it can be instructed to change behavior, provide different clips, update products, or end when it is time to stop a marketing or sales campaign.

  Another form of tracking relates to how smart container code is propagated. Merchants may wish to use affiliates to facilitate syndication implementation and to pay the affiliates a percentage based on the transactions that result from their work. A smart container object can be tagged with an affiliate tracking identifier, which can filter status reports and transactions from container instances or their descendants accordingly. Another follow-up use could be that politicians could assign affiliate codes to backers and measure who's efforts led to the majority of new backers.

  Smart Conte objects are designed to be highly scalable with a particular configuration. Rather than burden a single website with a large amount of traffic (resulting from the traditional model of bringing all consumers to the store), the smart container code works decentralized. For example, the smart container code can run at a deployed location such as a blog, social network, or mobile device. The smart container object fetches instructions at the start and then collects product items and video streams from globally distributed content distribution networks. This leads to a highly scalable architecture, enabling millions of simultaneous consumers.

  By presenting stores to customers, smart container code enables many new ways to connect merchants with consumers without interrupting the customer's web activities. The end result is to connect consumers directly to merchants, eliminate intermediaries and promote a much more natural shopping experience.

  The functionality described above may be utilized from any suitable component, such as the components described in FIGS. 1 and 12 or other suitable components. The code itself can be written in any suitable format including, but not limited to, Java, C ++, C #, HTML, HTML5, JAVA script, PYTHON, RUBY, and the like.

  There is a wide variety of content around the world that is independent and exists separately from any special container, such as being called by Smart Container ™ code. Certain embodiments of the present disclosure seek to harness the power of such content by dynamically binding supplemental content to the underlying base content. As a simple example, video may be streamed from a content server, such as provided by one of many video streaming services. Base content can be photos, streaming video, live streams from remote locations, real-time content from the device's current location, web pages, or other types of visual content, Represents any type of visual or audible content. Supplemental content represents additional information related to the base content and / or the user accessing the base content. According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, supplemental content represents additional information related to the base content and / or a user accessing the base content. Co-pending Provisional Application No. 61,876,668, filed on September 11, 2013, entitled “DYNAMIC BINDING OF INTELLIGENT INTERNET OBJECTS” (incorporated herein by reference) The addition of supplemental content is disclosed. Co-pending Provisional Application No. 61,876,647 filed on September 11, 2013, entitled "AD-HOC DYNAMIC BINDING OF INTELLIGENT INTERNET OBJECTS" (incorporated herein by reference), A method of selecting which supplemental content to display is disclosed.

  2A-2C illustrate how an example content container (such as a smart container or other container) is enhanced for peer-assisted shopping according to the present disclosure. According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the concept of shopping with friends or family is emulated. In particular, the person with whom the user is shopping does not have to be physically present. However, the user can communicate with and seek feedback from such a person as if they were shopping together. As described below, in certain embodiments, a "peer" may be someone the user knows, such as a friend or family member. In other embodiments, a "peer" may be someone who is not easily known to the user.

  2A and 2B, the container 210 is shown. In this container 210, the viewable base content includes at least one video (as indicated by the play button 220). However, in other configurations, the container 210 may include images, live video feeds, or any other type of base content. The base content can be obtained from any suitable source. By way of example, the base content may be viewed on a computer, mobile device, television screen, or any other suitable device or devices through a video-based provider such as YOUTUBE®, VIMEO, NETFLIX, REDBOX INSTANT, etc. It can be a streamed video. The base content may be a real-time view of the content at the current location being viewed through an electronic device such as GOOGLE GLASS or a mobile computing device such as a tablet or phone. In yet another configuration, the base content can be an image. In yet other configurations, the base content can be web pages.

  In FIG. 2B, the video has been started and a selectively displayable product carousel 230 having multiple products is shown. In a particular configuration, these products correspond to one or more products or services shown in the content within the underlying container (here the video), but this need not be the case. Although shown overlapping the top of the video, the product carousel 230 may overlap other parts of the video (such as the sides of the video below or below), or not at all. For example, the product carousel 230 may extend from the container 210 or be positioned outside the container 210. Further, varying degrees of transparency may be used in the product carousel 230, or the product carousel 230 may be opaque.

  A user looking at container 210 may interact with product carousel 230 to purchase items or perform other transactions without leaving container 210. For example, referring to a container on a friend's FACEBOOK wall, a user may purchase a product directly from container 210 for such an item. In other configurations, the user may leave container 210 and be redirected to the website.

  2C, additional functionality of container 210 is shown. For example, the selectively displayable toolbar 240 is shown at least partially overlaid below the container 210. Although shown overlapping the bottom of the video, the toolbar 240 may overlap other parts of the video (such as the sides of the video or below the video), or may not overlap the video at all. For example, the toolbar 240 may extend from the container 210 or be positioned outside the container 210. Further, various degrees of transparency may be used in toolbar 240, or toolbar 240 may be opaque.

  Various options are provided on the toolbar 240, including playback and audio options 241, share options 243, account login options 245, video quality options 247, and detailed information options 249. The functionality of the playback and audio options 241 will be apparent to those skilled in the art. A play bar 242 is also shown, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In certain configurations, the playbar 242 may replace the playbar that would normally be present at the same time as the display of the base content.

  Clicking on share option 243 may provide various other options. For example, users may be given the opportunity to share containers via networks such as FACEBOOK, MYSPACE, TWITTER®, YAHOO, LINKEDIN, GOOGLE, INSTAGRAM, or WORDPRESS. In addition, the user may be given the option to copy the embed code and share it via email. Further, the user may be able to propagate the container by clicking the "Like" button or "+1" button in GOOGLE PLUS. The account login option 245 may allow the user to sign in to various networks, including, for example, CINSAY, FACEBOOK, or GOOGLE. The video quality option 247 allows for video modification and the detailed information option 249 can provide any of the various options that may be desired for the container.

  Peer assisted shopping options 250 are also provided to allow communication with one or more other endpoints. For example, in certain embodiments, a user may be shopping at home on his computer, tablet, or TV. Upon seeing what the user likes, the user can select the peer-assisted shopping option 250 to initiate a communication session with the peer. Selection can also be made by selecting the item the user is looking at through the eye tracking component. As another example, a user may be shopping at a store, seeing a particular item of their choice, using peer assisted shopping option 250 to initiate a communication session with a peer and share what they are looking at ( Such as by using the camera capture feature on a phone, tablet, or mobile device such as GOOGLE GLASS). Selection of the peer-assisted shopping option 250 can be done using a mouse pointer, finger, or stylus. Alternatively, activation may be done with specific movement detected by the sensor of the device or through voice activation.

  Further details regarding the use of peer-assisted shopping option 250 are provided below. Again, the underlying content of the container is often described as a video, but the underlying content is any other content including, but not limited to, a picture just taken and a real-time video feed. Can be included.

  FIG. 3 illustrates an example interface 300 for initiating communication between endpoints to support peer-assisted shopping according to this disclosure. For example, if the peer-assisted shopping option 250 of FIG. 2C is selected, the interface 300 may be displayed to the user. In particular configurations, the interface 300 may be displayed transparently on the container.

  In interface 300, connection option 310 represents an option with which the user interacts with someone who is currently connected to a network such as CINSAY, FACEBOOK, GOOGLE +, or a video chat network (such as SKYPE). If the user is not connected to a particular network, the connection choices 310 for that particular network may not be presented to the connection choices 310, or may not be selectable. If a particular connection option 310 is selected, a message asking the recipient to join the requester in peer-assisted shopping may be propagated through the appropriate network. Upon accepting the request, the container interface may be displayed to the receiving user.

  Connection option 320 represents another method of initiating contact with a person. Here, examples of connection options 320 include the use of short messaging services (SMS) or email. In these options, links can be provided to the container interface.

  When the container is instantiated, it identifies the endpoint's environment and communication options. For example, the container may have video chat available, whether the network bandwidth is appropriate for a particular communication technique, whether voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) chat is an option, text chat is an option. , And whether mobile phone access is available (by using carriers such as AT & T, VERIZON, SPRINT, or T-MOBILE). In particular embodiments, a person may have multiple devices and a connection request may be sent to multiple devices in parallel.

  It should be noted that the method and / or method of communicating between the end points is almost infinite. A non-limiting example of communication channels is provided above with reference to FIG. Any communication such as these can be used to initiate communication between end users.

  Further, the people listed in interface 300 can be identified in any suitable manner. For example, people may be identified using contacts on the device associated with the endpoint or contacts in the network. In certain embodiments, only contacts currently connected to a network common to users (FACEBOOK, GOOGLE +, CINSAY, etc.) may be shown as an option. In another example, a general list of contacts can be shown.

  The following are non-limiting examples of how communication can take place between two endpoints: short messaging service, online presence, whatever join interface the user is currently using, and a join me to display on the interface. Links, emails, message blasts to groups, or messages to specific friends. In a particular embodiment, no account is required and the particular link between the two endpoints is established through connection parameters. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, in some embodiments the communication may be direct (peer-to-peer) or indirect (such as through a server relaying the message). In other examples, the communication may be a hybrid of the two.

  The following are non-limiting examples of how end users can communicate with each other: VoIP, video chat, text chat, or telephone call. Such communication is in addition to content (such as digital content) that can be shared between end users. In particular embodiments, the method of communication may depend on the capabilities of the particular device used by the end user.

  4 and 5 illustrate example processes for establishing communication between different endpoints according to this disclosure. In particular, FIG. 4 illustrates an example process 400 at a first endpoint that initiates a communication session, while FIG. 5 illustrates an example process at a second endpoint that receives a request for a communication session. Shows 500. Each process 400, 500 may be performed, for example, by at least one processing device 1012 as shown in FIG. 10 and described below. In the following description, at least one processing device 1012 is referred to as a controller, but each process 400, 500 can be performed by any other suitable device.

  Referring to FIG. 4, process 400 begins at step 410 by initiating a peer connection option at a first endpoint. As referenced above, this was a user selecting a peer-assisted shopping option 250 with a mouse click, tapping a portion of the screen with a finger, eye tracking, touching the screen with a stylus, networked. It may include sensors such as television remotes, voice activation, or proximity sensors (such as detecting waves). Any other suitable activation technique can also be used.

  In step 420, the controller identifies the communication parameters of the first endpoint. According to a particular configuration, this may be the method of communication available at the first endpoint (such as determining whether voice, chat, or video is available) and the nature of such channel ( Bandwidth or type of communication such as WiFi, 3G, 4G, etc.). This may also include identifying the network to which the first endpoint is currently connected (such as the CINSAY, FACEBOOK, or GOOGLE networks). In certain configurations, it is available to the device user, such as specifying that video chat is available only if connected via WiFi (otherwise video chat is turned off). Various communication methods can be configured or controlled.

  In step 430, the controller identifies available communication parameters for other potential endpoints. According to a particular configuration, this may include identifying the network (such as the CINSAY, FACEBOOK, or GOOGLE network) to which one or more peers are currently connected. This may also include identifying the communication methods available at each peer. For example, as referenced above, a particular person may have multiple devices and it may not be clear which device or device (if any) the person is currently using. When considering peers, one person may consider multiple different devices. In certain configurations, the user may also be prompted to enter communication parameters. For example, a user may wish to communicate with a particular friend and enter that friend's phone number for an SMS message.

  In step 440, the controller, upon receiving the response from the second endpoint, initiates communication with at least that second endpoint. In certain configurations, the message may be sent in parallel to the second user (such as an in-application message via FACEBOOK / CINSAY and text messages). If the user is at the desktop, the user may prefer to communicate with the desktop computer as opposed to the mobile device.

  In step 450, the controller determines if another message should go to another endpoint. In certain configurations, group settings may be used, where peer-assisted shopping is between groups of friends. If there are other connections to make, the process returns to step 440.

  Otherwise, the process 400 moves to step 460 and the negotiation process between the endpoints that determines how to communicate is between the endpoints. In this negotiation, the communication capability of each endpoint is considered. The negotiation process may be partially performed at each endpoint. Alternatively, the server may act as an intermediary for the endpoints, or one endpoint may control the communication setup during the negotiation process. Negotiation is used in certain embodiments because, for example, the second endpoint may only be able to communicate via messaging due to the lack of a camera or microphone. Therefore, messaging may be determined as a suitable communication technique. In particular configurations, the negotiation process of step 460 may take into account other devices and particular content feeds in the container. In a particular configuration, the first endpoint may use separate technologies to communicate with multiple endpoints. For example, communication between the first and second endpoints may be via video chat, while communication between the first / second and third endpoints is text chat. Can be done through. Thus, the negotiation process may specify how to effectively handle such separate technologies. In step 470, each communication channel is established with each endpoint using the appropriate connection parameters.

  According to particular embodiments, the process 400 of FIG. 4 may be performed quickly, such as within seconds, depending on computational power and network latency. In certain configurations, the process 400 may take less than a second. In other configurations, the process 400 may take more than a few seconds.

  Referring to FIG. 5, process 500 begins at the second endpoint at step 510 by receiving a peer connection request at the second endpoint. As referenced above, in certain configurations, multiple parallel requests may be sent to a particular user with multiple devices. Some of these types of messages may be received at a particular endpoint. For example, text messages and in-app messages (such as CINSAY, FACEBOOK, or GOOGLE in-app) may be received. In a particular configuration, the end user may choose to accept the invitation to connect after viewing each message. As a non-limiting example, the end user may click a link or press a button confirming acceptance.

  In step 520, the controller initializes the container for communication. In certain configurations, the container may have functionality that corresponds to applications pre-installed on the device. In other configurations, the container may support application functionality that propagates "on the fly" or dynamically, such as by using embed code.

  In step 530, the controller identifies the communication parameters of the second endpoint. This may include performing an operation similar to that described above with reference to step 420 of FIG. 4, but with reference to the second endpoint. At step 540, a response is sent to the first endpoint, such as to confirm or reject the communication request. If so, in step 550, there is a negotiation process between the endpoints to determine how the communication will occur. This is similar to step 460 of Figure 4, but from the perspective of the second endpoint. At step 560, one or more communication channels are established, similar to step 470 of FIG.

  And, in certain embodiments, the second endpoint that receives the request and establishes the link of the first endpoint in process 500 of FIG. 5 uses the “add friend” feature to process 400 of FIG. Can be executed. In such an embodiment, authorization may or may not be requested by the first endpoint to allow the third endpoint to join. In repeating the process 400, the negotiation between the endpoints may consider the link already established between the first endpoint or the second endpoint.

  6 and 7 show examples of peer-assisted shopping communication interfaces 600, 700 according to the present disclosure. Interface 600 may reside on any suitable device, while interface 700 is shown here as present on a mobile device. In these particular embodiments, the underlying base content is video. However, again, the underlying content may be other items such as a real-time video feed. In such an alternative arrangement, the first device may capture the video and send it directly or indirectly (through a server intermediary or the like) to the second device in real time.

  Referring to FIG. 6, a container 610 is shown generally that may have functions similar to those described above with reference to FIGS. 2A-2C. Box 620 extends from one edge of container 610 and indicates that the user is in communication with three different people. Box 620 is shown divided into three parts 620A-620C, each part corresponding to a particular person. Although this particular interface is shown, other interfaces may be utilized. For example, box 620 may be shown as an overlay overlying the base content. Furthermore, the interface can be hidden by commands, eg only voice is propagated. Further, some or all of box 620 can be done in the chat room interface if messaging is utilized.

  In certain configurations, the user may be able to interact with the portion of the box that corresponds to a particular person. For example, a user may click on portions 620A-620C corresponding to a particular person to discover what is in that person's shopping cart.

  As referenced above, particular configurations may utilize separate techniques. Thus, for example, portions 620A and 620C may represent a video chat interface for initiating a video chat session, while portion 620B may be a messaging chat. In certain embodiments, conversion techniques may be used to convert text-to-speech or speech-to-text to accommodate situations requiring different communication techniques. The conversion process may take place anywhere in the communication chain such as any endpoint or server or other intermediary.

  Shopping cart 625 is also shown in FIG. 6, and the user may use shopping cart 625 to place items. Items may be placed in the shopping cart 625 at one or more websites. As described below, a particular user's shopping cart 625 may be shared with peers, allowing each peer to provide feedback.

  Various tools 640 are also shown to facilitate communication between end users. In certain configurations, the tool 640 may replace some of the tools 240 shown in Figure 2C. Although shown in the lower portion of the container 610 in this configuration, the tool 640 can take almost any configuration and can be selectively shown (and hidden) in any of a variety of ways. As a non-limiting example, the tool 640 may be instantiated by hovering the bottom of the container or by right-clicking on the container.

  In this example, the tools 640 include a shopping cart share function 641, in-video specific location share function 643, a current content share function 645, a sync function 647, and a comment or tagging function 649. Other features, designated as "x" and "y", may also be incorporated. The shopping cart share function 641 allows a user to view items in the shopping cart 625 to peers. Shopping cart 625 may include one or more reverse links back to the location where the one or more items were added to shopping cart 625. For example, the product may be viewed and include each location in the video that was added to the shopping cart 625.

  The share-in-video location feature 643 allows one user to direct another user to a particular location in the video. For example, a user may like a particular product (such as shoes) in a video and may choose to share that particular location with one or more of its peers.

  The current content sharing function 645 allows the user to share the content currently viewed through the container. For example, if the content is video, then the video may be shared with other users. If there is content but a real-time view, the real-time view may be recorded (using the user device's camera or the like) and either the photo or the video sent to another user.

  The sync function 647 allows views to be synced on different devices. For example, the first user may want the second user to see what the first user is seeing. Therefore, the view can be synchronized by initiating this function. In initiating this function, the user may, for example, choose a starting position for a particular video. Multiple user devices can communicate as needed so that playback is synchronized on those user devices.

  The commenting or tagging function 649 allows the user to comment on time-based and / or content-based portions of content. For example, a first user may want to circle a particular shoe at a particular time in a video and share that information with a peer. Any suitable annotation feature is available. Annotations may store time and coordinates.

  Referring to FIG. 7, a container 710 at a mobile device 790 is generally shown. This container 710 may include functions similar to those described above with reference to Figures 2A-2C. In a particular embodiment, the container 710 may cover the entire screen and other interfaces are selectively provided to cover portions of the base content. For example, as shown here, a box 725 containing communication features (such as video or text chat) may overlap a portion of the container.

  FIG. 8 illustrates an example container 810 that uses a shopping cart 820 according to the present disclosure. The container 810 may include similar functionality as described above with reference to FIGS. 2A-2C and 6. In particular embodiments, container 810 may cover the entire screen and other interfaces are selectively provided to cover portions of the base content. For example, as shown here, the shopping cart 820 may overlap a portion of the container 810. In this example embodiment, shopping cart 820 includes items 825a-825c, descriptions 830a-830c of items 825a-825c, purchase information 840a-840c, and / or review information 850a-850c.

  In some embodiments, shopping cart 820 may represent a shared shopping cart where multiple users may place items. One shopper can add an item to the shopping cart, and the item can be an item suggested by another shopper. According to a particular embodiment, the contents of the shopping cart 820 may include an identifier of who added each item, along with a link back to the location where the item came. In some situations, the linkback can point to a video.

  The shared shopping cart can be used in various settings. For example, the shopping cart 820 may be utilized by the parties' group planning, with each additional item showing others in the group what they intend to buy. As another example, for a high school girl attending a prom, the shopping cart 820 may be utilized so that each girl can see what the other girl is trying to wear at the prom. For an item in a shared shopping cart, an individual may be able to comment on the item. Further, if the particular share item is annotated, the shopping cart 820 may indicate that the item has a comment in the linkback object, which may again be a video.

  Even if the shopping cart 820 is shared, personal checkout may occur in certain embodiments. If such a settlement occurs, a notification may be placed in the shopping cart indicating that the particular item has been purchased. Alternatively, if all items in the cart are shared for purchase, then each person may have a personal checkout of a portion of the total amount. Also, in certain embodiments, permissions may define whether something in the cart is shared. For example, an individual cart may start as a personal cart and change permissions to quickly become a shared shopping cart.

  In various embodiments, users may be given the opportunity to share a container via a network such as FACEBOOK, MYSPACE, TWITTER, YAHOO, LINKEDIN, GOOGLE, INSTAGRAM, or WORDPRESS. In addition, the user may be given the option to copy the embed code and share it via email. Each user who has access to shopping cart 820 may be able to review and comment on items in shopping cart 820, and the reviews may be used to update review information for that item. For example, any user who can access the shopping cart 820 can review an item by clicking the "Like" or "+1" button in GOOGLE PLUS.

  In some embodiments, the purchase information 840a-840c may include the price, quantity, and / or linkout to other purchase sites for each item 825a-825c. For example, purchase information 840a and 840c may include price and quantity, as well as the ability to purchase through container 810. Purchase information 840b may include a link out to another website (such as the manufacturer of item 825b) that allows the user to purchase item 825b at another website.

  The account login option 245 described above may allow a user to sign in to various networks including, for example, CINSAY, FACEBOOK, and GOOGLE. In some embodiments, the container 810 may utilize single sign-on, global cookies, analytic identifiers, and / or various aggregators that support various functions. For example, a user may use FACEBOOK CONNECT, GOOGLE APPS, smart cards, mobile devices, etc. to log in to container 810 through single sign-on. As another example, container 810 may use global cookies and analytics identifiers to customize container 810 and shopping cart 820 to the user. In addition, these cookies and identifiers can also be used for customizing recommendations.

  FIG. 9 illustrates another example communication system 900 that may be utilized to facilitate communication between endpoints through a communication network according to this disclosure. As shown in FIG. 9, system 900 includes endpoints 910-930, which are used by common users. Endpoints 910-930 represent any suitable communication or computing device (laptop computer, mobile phone, and GOOGLE GLASS in this example), but may be any of those described above for endpoints 110, 120, and 130. Other devices can also be used. Although each endpoint typically appears as being in a single location, endpoints may be geographically dispersed (such as in cloud computing situations) and may represent fixed or mobile devices.

  According to certain embodiments, a user may add items to a shopping cart across devices and merchants. For example, a user may add a particular item while shopping in the container associated with SAKS FIFTH AVENUE. Later, when browsing different containers associated with NEIMAN MARCUS, the user may add additional information to the cart. Then, a single view of the cart across merchants can be provided. Further, the user can use the single cart to settle from both vendors. At checkout, the system can send a separate communication to each merchant for the purchase.

  As another example, a user may use a mobile device to add something to a cart and later view the shopping cart using a desktop computer or other device. Any suitable technique such as cookies, MAC identifiers, account login credentials, single sign-on providers, etc. may be utilized to enable this technique across merchants and / or devices.

  In some embodiments, peer assisted shopping options are also provided to one or both endpoints 910 and 920 to allow communication with one or more other endpoints. For example, in certain embodiments, a user may shop at endpoint 910 at home and, upon seeing what he / she likes, may initiate communication with a peer. The user may also be shopping at the store, seeing the particular item of his choice, initiating communication with the peer, and using the camera at the endpoint 920 or 930 to share what he is looking at.

  With reference to the various figures above, the request for feedback by the user may be product or service specific. Further, the user is not required to get feedback from family members or friends, and can provide the option to look for general feedback from non-friends or non-family members. For example, the various embodiments may include those products or services from which the user has previously purchased or reviewed the product or service or who have opted to participate in peer-assisted shopping and have an active request. You may be able to request feedback about. In other arrangements, a particular user may request information from unconnected users from other networks that the particular user may utilize. In such a configuration, the request for information may also facilitate the requested individual to become a user of a network such as the CINSAY network. As a non-limiting example, you can have a FACEBOOK or GOOGLE + bulletin (automatically posted by CINSAY technology) that asks friends, groups, circles, or the public for input about a particular product. In certain configurations, individuals may simply participate in the response. In other configurations, the individual may be prompted to become a CINSAY Network Participating User or simply to associate the current network (such as a FACEBOOK or GOOGLE + account) with the CINSAY Account. In either configuration, the user may be given various control configurations as to who is requested. As a non-limiting example, a user may have the option to request a friend, group, or circle with a FACEBOOK or GOOGLE + account. The user may also have the option to request by geographic region (such as a city, metropolitan area, region, or state) or by someone with a particular technical capability (such as someone who can video chat). The user may also request those who purchased within a certain time frame (eg, if such purchase statistics are available), those who purchased from the same company where the purchase is being considered, or known products. May have the option of asking every buyer of. Any other criteria or combination of criteria may be used, including the above criteria.

  Active requests may take various forms, including video conversations, chats, SMS messages, emails, or any other form of electronic communication facilitated by the technology. In certain configurations, receiving the solicitation message may include opt-in or opt-out scenarios. Reception of the request can be controlled in the same manner as the method described above. For example, the request can be received from a friend, group, or circle in a FACEBOOK or GOOGLE + account. Requests may be received by geographic area, person with certain technical capabilities, person who has purchased from the same company or is considering purchasing from the same company, any other criteria, or a combination thereof. It can also be controlled by.

  Once a product or service is selected, the user may further be presented with reviews or ratings or feedback from other product or service users along with the product or service. The current user may choose to solicit additional feedback about the product or service of interest from other users in the network or peer assisted shopping participants who have opted for active request and peer assisted shopping. Active requests may be facilitated by the technology and may be real-time or delayed and may be synchronous or asynchronous.

  The peer-assisted shopping or active request participant may or may not receive consideration for the assistance service provided. Where service consideration is provided, it may include payment forms such as credits, discounts, virtual currencies, and fiat currencies. Unlike general comments to a product, certain embodiments provide an actual, real-time question / answer session for a particular product or service.

  FIG. 10 illustrates an example computing device 1000 that supports peer-assisted e-commerce shopping according to this disclosure. Computing device 1000 may generally represent, for example, any endpoint or other computing device described above. Computing device 1000 may be used here to implement any of the techniques or functions described above, including any combination of the techniques or functions described above. Computing device 1000 may be generally configured to run any suitable operating system, including Windows, MAC OS, UNIX®, LINUX, OS2, IOS, ANDROID, or other operating systems.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the computing device 1000 includes at least one processing device 1012, random access memory (RAM) 1014, read only memory (ROM) 1016, mouse 1018, keyboard 1020, and disk drive. 1022, printer 1024, display 1026, and input / output devices such as communication link 1028. In other embodiments, computing device 1000 may include more, fewer, or other components. Computing devices come in a wide variety of configurations, and FIG. 10 does not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular computing device or type of computing device.

  The program code may be stored in RAM 1014, ROM 1016, or disk drive 1022 and executed by at least one processing device 1012 to perform the functions described above. The at least one processing device 1012 can be any type of processing device such as one or more processors, microprocessors, controllers, microcontrollers, multi-core processors, and the like. Communication link 1028 may be connected to a computer network or various other communication platforms, including any of the various types of communication networks 140 described above. Disk drive 1022 may include various types of storage media such as, for example, a floppy drive, hard drive, CD drive, DVD drive, magnetic tape drive, or other suitable storage medium. One or more disk drives 1022 may be used in computing device 1000.

  It should be noted that while FIG. 10 provides an example of a computer that may be utilized with other embodiments of the present disclosure, such other embodiments may utilize any suitable general purpose or special purpose computing device. Multiple computing devices having any suitable configuration may also be used. Generally, multiple computing devices are networked through the Internet and / or in a client-server network. However, the present disclosure may use any suitable combination and configuration of computing devices, including computing devices in separate computer networks that are linked together by a private or public network.

  Computing device 1000 may represent a fixed or mobile device, and various components may be added or omitted based on the particular implementation of the computing device. For example, mobile devices can include features such as cameras, camcorders, GPS features, and antennas for wireless communication. Specific examples of such mobile devices include iPhones, iPads, and ANDOROID-based devices.

  Although the above figures describe various systems, devices, and methods related to supporting peer-assisted e-commerce shopping, various changes may be made to the figures. For example, various device and system designs may be modified as necessary or desired, such as when device or system components are combined, subdivided, reconfigured, or omitted, and additional components are added. can do. As another example, although the various methods are shown as a series of steps, the various steps in each method may overlap, may be performed in parallel, may be performed in a different order, or are optional. May be performed a number of times. Moreover, the examples of graphical presentations are merely exemplary, and the content may be presented in any other suitable manner. It will be appreciated that well known processes have not been described in detail and were omitted for brevity. Although specific steps, structures, and materials may be described, the present disclosure is not limited to these details and may be replaced by others, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. The do not necessarily have to be performed in the order shown.

  In some embodiments, the various features described in this patent specification are implemented or supported by a computer program embodied on a computer-readable medium formed from computer-readable program code. The phrase "computer readable program code" includes any type of computer code, including source code, object code, and executable code. The phrase "computer-readable medium" refers to a computer, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), hard disk drive, compact disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), or any other type of memory. Includes any type of medium accessible by. “Non-transitory” computer-readable media excludes wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links that carry transitory electrical or other signals. Non-transitory computer-readable media include media such as rewritable optical discs or erasable memory devices that can permanently store data and media that can store data and subsequently be overwritten.

  It may be advantageous to provide definitions of certain terms and phrases used throughout this patent document. The terms "application" and "program" refer to one or more computer programs, software components, instructions adapted to be implemented in suitable computer code (including source code, object code, or executable code). A set, procedure, function, object, class, instance, associated data, or part thereof. The terms "send," "receive," and "communications" and their derivatives include both direct and indirect communication. The terms "include" and "comprise", and their derivatives, mean inclusion without limitation. The term "or" is inclusive, meaning and / or. The term "associated with" and its derivatives includes, is included in, is interconnected with, is included in, is included in, is connected to, is coupled to, is capable of communicating with, is capable of cooperating with. Can mean, interleave, juxtapose, neighbor, bind to or have, have the attribute of, have a relation to, or have a relation to, and the like. The phrase "at least one", when used in conjunction with a list of items, allows for different combinations of one or more of the listed items and requires only one item in the list. Means to get. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" includes any combination of the following: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A and B and C. .

  While this disclosure describes particular embodiments and generally associated methods, modifications and substitutions of these embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Other modifications, substitutions, and alternatives are possible without departing from the invention as defined by the following claims.

Claims (20)

A computer-implemented method of peer-supported shopping, comprising:
The first computing device, the method comprising: instantiating a peer support transaction media container, the peer support transaction media container includes a video content including one or more image items (i), (ii) the A first graphical control interface including one or more graphical representations associated with the one or more image items of video content; and (iii) at least one peer user computing device during playback of the video content. A control element for instantiating a second graphical control interface for supporting communication with the second graphical control interface, wherein the second graphical control interface is a list of one or more contact names. Configured to include bets, and control elements, and include a code for the shopping cart associated with (iv) the peer support transaction media container,
The first computing device receives from a first user a first selection input for at least one of the one or more graphical representations associated with the one or more image items. That
Said first computing device receiving a first command input from said first user for initiating communication with at least one peer user computing device;
The first computing device displaying the second graphical control interface on the graphical display of the first computing device via the peer-assisted transactional media container, the second graphical control interface comprising: The graphical control interface includes at least one network endpoint indicator associated with at least one second user, said second user being associated with said list of one or more contact names;
Said first computing device initiating a network communication channel from said first computing device to a second computing device based on said at least one network endpoint indicator, said first computing device comprising: Two computing devices are peer user computing devices associated with the at least one second user;
The first computing device transmits digital information configured to synchronize video content of the first computing device with video content of the second computing device via the network communication channel. Wherein the digital information includes the first selection input for the at least one of the one or more graphical representations,
A computer-implemented method, including: The first computing device further includes receiving feedback information associated with the first selection input, the feedback information, the via the network communications channel and the second computing device at least The computer implemented method of claim 1, transmitted by one second user. The first computing device, wherein the method comprising receiving an image item suggested included in the video content In addition, the suggested image item was the way of the network communications channel and the second computing device The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the computer-implemented method is transmitted by the at least one second user. And said first computing device receives a second command input to start a video chat session,
The first computing device displaying the list of one or more contact names on the second graphical control interface;
Said first computing device receiving a second selection input for at least one of said contact names;
The first computing device has at least one user associated with at least one of one or more contact names in the peer-assisted transactional media container indicated by the second selection input; The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising: starting the video chat session of. Initiating a network communication channel from the first computing device to a second computing device based on the at least one network endpoint indicator,
And said first computing device, to identify one or more contact names from the list of the one or more contact names,
Said first computing device receiving a second selection input for at least one of said one or more contact names;
The first computing device further initiating a network communication channel with a third computing device associated with the at least one of the one or more contact names. The computer-implemented method of item 1. And said first computing device receives a second command input for sharing and said at least one of the second user the video content and the first graphical control interface,
The first computing device sending the video content and the first graphical control interface to the at least one second user via the network communication channel and the second computing device. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, further comprising: The first computing device is associated with the video content from the first user or is associated with the one or more image items of the video content; Receiving one or more annotations associated with the expression;
The first computing device further transmitting the one or more annotations to the at least one second user via the network communication channel and the second computing device. A computer-implemented method according to claim 1. One or more processors,
A graphical display,
At least one memory configured to store computer-executable instructions, the memory being configured to be in communication with the one or more processors, the computer-executable instructions being the one or more. To the one or more processors when executed by more than one processor:
Instantiating a peer-assisted transactional media container, the peer-assisted transactional media container comprising: (i) video content including one or more image items; and (ii) the one or more of the video content. A first graphical control interface including one or more graphical representations associated with the image item of (iii) for supporting communication with at least one peer user computing device during playback of the video content. A control element for instantiating a second graphical control interface, wherein the second graphical control interface is configured to include a list of one or more contact names. , And include a first cart associated with (iv) the peer support transaction media container,
Receiving from a first user a first selection input for at least one of the one or more graphical representations associated with the one or more image items;
Receiving from the first user a first command input for initiating communication with at least one peer user computing device associated with the second user;
Displaying the second graphical control interface on the graphical display via the peer-assisted transactional media container, the second graphical control interface including at least one network endpoint indicator associated with the second user. Two users are associated with the list of one or more contact names;
Initiating a network communication channel with the at least one peer user computing device associated with the second user based on the at least one network endpoint indicator;
The first selection input for the at least one of the one or more graphical representations to the at least one peer user computing device associated with the second user via the network communication channel. Sending digital information comprising: instantiating a peer-assisted transactional media container on the at least one peer user computing device associated with the second user;
Synchronizing the first shopping cart with a shopping cart associated with the peer- assisted transactional media container on the at least one peer user computing device associated with the second user, and storing the video content. Starting the transmission of digital information for synchronization,
A device configured to perform. The instructions direct the one or more processors to
The at least one peer user further configured to perform receiving feedback information associated with the first selection input, the feedback information being associated with the network communication channel and the second user. 9. The apparatus of claim 8, transmitted by the second user via a computing device. The instructions direct the one or more processors to
And further to cause receiving a suggested image item from the second user via the network communication channel and the at least one peer user computing device associated with the second user. 9. The device of claim 8 configured. The instructions direct the one or more processors:
Receiving a second command input to initiate a video chat session,
Displaying a list of the one or more contact names on the second graphical control interface;
Receiving a second selection input for at least one of the one or more contact names;
In the peer-assisted transactional media container initiating the video chat session with at least one user associated with the at least one selected contact name indicated by the second selection input. 9. The apparatus of claim 8, further configured to: The instructions direct the one or more processors:
Initiating the network communication channel with the peer user computing device associated with the second user based on the at least one network endpoint indicator;
Identifying a plurality of contact names associated with the first user at the device;
Receiving a second selection input for at least one of the plurality of contact names;
9. The apparatus of claim 8, further configured to: initiate a network communication channel with a peer user computing device associated with each of the at least one selected contact name. The instructions direct the one or more processors:
Receiving a second command input for sharing the video content and the first graphical control interface with the second user;
Performing the video content and the first graphical control interface to the second user via the network communication channel and the peer user computing device associated with the second user. 9. The device of claim 8, further configured to: The instructions direct the one or more processors:
One or more from the first user associated with the video content or with the one or more first graphical representations associated with the one or more image items of the video content; Receiving annotations,
And sending the one or more annotations to the second user via the network communication channel and a peer user computing device associated with the second user. 9. The device of claim 8, which is: A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising logic stored on the non-transitory computer-readable medium, the logic, when executed, on at least one processing device of the first computing device:
Instantiating a peer-assisted transactional media container, the peer-assisted transactional media container comprising: (i) video content including one or more image items; and (ii) the one or more of the video content. A first graphical control interface that includes one or more graphical representations associated with the image item of; and (iii) a second graphical control interface for supporting communication with at least one peer user during playback of the video content. A control element for instantiating a graphical control interface, the second graphical control interface being configured to include a list of one or more contact names;
Receiving from a first user a first selection input for at least one of the one or more graphical representations associated with the one or more image items;
Receiving from the first user a first command input for initiating communication with at least one further computing device;
Displaying on the graphical display of the first computing device, via the peer-assisted transactional media container, the second graphical control interface including at least one network endpoint indicator associated with a second user. Wherein the second user is associated with the list of one or more contact names;
Initiating a network communication channel from the first computing device to a second computing device based on the at least one network endpoint indicator, the second computing device comprising: Associated with two users,
Via the network communication channel, to the second computing device, digital information including the first selection input for the at least one of the one or more graphical representations, and the first computing device. Transmitting digital information for synchronizing the video content of the switching device with the video content of the second computing device;
A non-transitory computer-readable medium configured to cause the :. The logic, when executed, causes the at least one processing device to
Further configured to cause receiving feedback information related to the first selection input, the feedback information via the network communication channel and the second computing device to the second user. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 15, transmitted by. The logic, when executed, causes the at least one processing device to
16. The non-temporary of claim 15, further configured to cause receiving a suggested image item from the second user via the network communication channel and the second computing device. Computer readable medium. The logic, when executed, causes the at least one processing device to:
Receiving a second command input to initiate a video chat session,
Displaying a list of the one or more contact names on the second graphical control interface;
Receiving a second selection input for at least one of the one or more contact names;
Causing the peer-assisted transactional media container to initiate the video chat session with at least one user associated with each of the at least one contact name indicated by the second selection input. 16. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 15, further comprising: The logic, when executed, causes the at least one processing device to
Based on the at least one network endpoint indicator, configured to cause initiating a network communication channel between the first computing device and a second computing device, the logic further comprising:
Identifying one or more contact names at the first computing device;
Receiving a second selection input for at least one of the one or more contact names;
16. Initiating a network communication channel with a third computing device associated with the at least one of the one or more contact names, the method further comprising: Non-transitory computer-readable medium. The logic, when executed, causes the at least one processing device to:
Receiving a second command input for sharing the video content and the first graphical control interface;
Sending further video content and the first graphical control interface to the second user via the network communication channel and the second computing device. The non-transitory computer readable medium of item 15.