RU2408165C2 - Method, server, processor of content unlocking and mobile device - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: information technologies.

SUBSTANCE: method is proposed for unlocking of multifunctional content inbuilt into mobile device, containing receipt of request for unlocking of fully functional content inbuilt into mobile device, access to which has been initially limited, and transfer of unlocking code by unlocking system, which permits the user to use fully functional content. Full version is unlocked after request for unlocking and payment only after the request has been permitted.

EFFECT: reliability improvement.

14 cl, 8 dwg

Description

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to a method for unlocking fully functional content embedded in a mobile device, and to a system for implementing this method. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method for unlocking fully functional content, the use of which is initially limited to the demo version embedded in the mobile device, and to a corresponding system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditionally, various content, such as games, e-learning, and online banking, are embedded in mobile devices such as cell phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs). Thus, the user of the mobile device can use the main information content embedded in the mobile device.

Currently, mobile device manufacturers are choosing to embed high-quality content on mobile devices to drive consumer demand.

As mobile content is becoming increasingly complex and diverse, mobile device manufacturers are keen to embed content from online providers instead of developing it themselves.

When a mobile device manufacturer embeds content provided by an information service provider, the cost of the device inevitably increases.

As more and more different content is embedded in mobile devices, increasing the cost and volume of unnecessary information content, their total cost is also increasing.

Disclosure of invention

Technical challenge

The present invention provides a method and system for reducing overall cost when a mobile device manufacturer embeds content in a mobile device. First, a user of a mobile device typically uses a demo version of the content. Full-featured content options are released only after a request to unlock full-featured content, and the user bears the cost of using full-featured content only after satisfying this request.

The present invention provides a method and system for unlocking fully functional content embedded in a mobile device, and this method can be conveniently and effectively used while providing security and convenient control.

Technical solution

Accordingly, the present invention can basically eliminate one or more problems associated with the limitations and disadvantages of the prior art.

In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method for unlocking full-featured content embedded in a mobile device is used, comprising the steps of: (a) receiving a first request signal for unlocking full-featured content embedded in a mobile device that was initially restricted to access, and (b ) sending a message about unlocking with an unlock code in order to allow the user to use full-featured content.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a system for unlocking full-featured content embedded in a mobile device includes a mobile device, a server, and a communication network. The mobile device sends the first request signal to unlock full-featured content and receives a message about unlocking that has a release code so that the user can use full-featured content, access to which was initially limited. The server receives the first signal from the mobile device and sends a message about unlocking and access to fully functional content. A communication network provides data transfer between a mobile device and a server.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a fully functional content unlocking server embedded in the mobile device includes a memory unit, a control unit, a data storage unit, and a transceiver unit. The memory unit saves the unlock program for full-featured content. The full-featured content unlocking program performs the functions of receiving the first request signal for unlocking full-featured content and sending an unlocking message having a release code in order to allow the user to use full-featured content, access to which was initially limited. The control unit controls the functions of the unlocking program for full-featured content. The memory unit stores control data of the control unit and data necessary for unlocking fully functional content. The transceiver unit transmits data through the communication network in response to a signal from the control unit.

In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the mobile device includes a memory unit, a control unit, a data storage unit, a transceiver unit, a keyboard, and a display. The memory block saves a program for managing full-featured content; The full-featured content management program includes the functions of sending the first request signal to unlock the full-featured content and receiving a unlock message having a release code in order to allow the user to use the full-featured content, access to which was initially limited. The control unit executes a program for managing full-featured content. The memory unit stores full-featured content, control data of the control unit and data necessary to unlock full-featured content. The transceiver unit transmits data through the communication network in response to a signal from the control unit. The keyboard controls the request menu to unlock full-featured content. The display shows the input information in the form of a menu and a message on unlocking after a request to unlock full-featured content.

In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for unlocking full-featured content embedded in a mobile device, the method comprising the steps of: (a) sending a first request signal to unlock full-featured content embedded in a mobile device that was initially restricted, and (b ) receiving a message about unlocking, having a release code, to allow the user to use fully functional content.

In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a processor for unlocking fully functional content embedded in a mobile device includes: a mechanically readable memory unit and program codes stored in the memory unit. The program codes are performed in the form of the following operations: (a) receiving the first request signal for unlocking full-featured content embedded in a mobile device, access to which was initially limited, and (b) sending a lock release message with a unlock code to allow the user to use full-featured content.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The above and other advantages of the present invention will become more apparent upon reading the detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for unlocking fully functional content embedded in a mobile device according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 illustrates screens on a mobile device when a user requests and uses full-featured content according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

3 is a flowchart illustrating another procedure for unlocking full-featured content according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 illustrates screens on a mobile device for displaying the interface of a credit card payment system according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an unlocking system for full-featured content embedded in a mobile device according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

6 is a block diagram illustrating another configuration of a full-featured content unlocking system embedded in a mobile device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a fully functional content unlocking server according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a mobile device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like elements. If the detailed description may make the subject unclear, such a detailed description will be omitted.

1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for unlocking fully functional content embedded in a mobile device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

A mobile device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention contains full-featured content. However, the permitted use of full-featured content is initially limited, and the user of the mobile device can only use demo content options. Thus, the user does not use all the functions of full-featured content. The user can read the description of the full-featured content or use only a few functions of the full-featured content (step S100).

At the same time, the manufacturer of the mobile device or the content provider may limit the time for using demo versions of the content or not include the functions usually available in full-featured content.

When the user of the mobile device wants to use full-featured content, the user can send a request to unlock the full-featured content (step S102). If the user is satisfied with the content after using the demo options, he may request to unlock full-featured content.

The full-featured content unlocking server of the mobile device manufacturer or the content provider may process a user request to unlock the full-featured content. The full-featured content unlocking server receives a request to unlock the full-featured content and allows the user to use the full-featured content.

According to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a user of a mobile device can easily unlock full-featured content from a mobile device. This method is easy to understand, referring to figure 2.

When the full-featured content unlocking server receives a request to unlock the full-featured content, the full-featured content unlocking server allows the user to use the full-featured content (step S104).

According to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the unlocking of full-featured content may be accomplished by the Short Message Service (SMS). For example, an unlocking server for full-featured content sends an SMS message to a mobile device, and the SMS message may contain a release code for full-featured content.

A fully functional content unlocking server can unlock full-featured content after additional confirmation, as well as upon receipt of a request. A fully functional content unlocking server may notify other billing systems to pay for subscription services or send bills. This procedure will be described in more detail with reference to figure 3.

After unlocking the full-featured content, the user of the mobile device can use the full-featured content with all its functions (step S106). Thus, when a release code of full-featured content is required, the user can use the full-featured content after entering the release code sent to the mobile device in an SMS message.

Figure 2 shows the screens of how they look on a mobile device when a user requests and uses full-featured content according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

When a user clicks on a menu to execute specific content (GAME No.1), a new menu is displayed, as shown on screen 2A.

When the user REQUESTS FULL FUNCTIONAL CONTENT in the menu, a confirmation message is displayed on screen 2B.

When the user presses the OK button on screen 2B, the user can select a country in the new menu, as shown on screen 2C. A country selection menu is provided for selecting a specific language convenient for the user. If the billing systems of different countries are different from each other, various additional menus can be displayed.

For example, when in one country, such as Belgium, more than two languages are used, the user can select one of these languages in the additional menu.

When the user selects a country, the unlock request information and a confirmation message may be displayed, as shown on the second screen. For example, the name of the game, usage fee, and selected country may be displayed.

When the user confirms the unlock request, a message is displayed informing that the unlock request is registered. The SMS message is sent to the mobile device.

The transmitted SMS message may contain a release code in order to use fully functional content. The security of unlocking full-featured content can be enhanced by requesting a release code contained in an SMS message to use full-featured content. The release code can be a 6-digit password, as shown on screen 2F, or can be changed in various ways.

In addition, a user entering an incorrect release code may be limited to a certain number. For example, when a user enters an incorrect release code three times in a row, an alarm message may be displayed, or an additional unlock request may be rejected.

If the user enters the correct release code, a menu is displayed for executing full-featured content, as shown on the 2G screen, and then the user can use the full-featured content.

Figure 2 shows the case where the user consciously requests the unlocking of full-featured content. However, it is also possible that the mobile device automatically displays a full menu of query options after a predetermined period of time, stopping the execution of full-featured content. It may also be possible to implement a mobile device with keyboard shortcuts.

Figure 2 also shows the case when the unlock message is transmitted as via SMS service. However, an unlock message may be sent by e-mail or other means.

Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating another procedure for unlocking full-featured content according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3, the unlocking procedure for full-featured content according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may be similar to that described with reference to FIG. 2. However, the notification step of other unlocking systems for full-featured content is added here.

The figure 1 shows the case when the request to unlock full-featured content is made in the version with the unlock server, and the figure 3 shows the case when the request or unlock full-featured content is performed in conjunction with billing systems.

Thus, FIG. 1 shows a billing case for only unlocking a fully functional content server to a user of a mobile device. Figure 3 shows a case for billing with additional systems for collecting fees for services provided.

For example, as shown in FIG. 1, in the case where the unlocking server for full-featured content corresponds to the server for the provider of full-featured content, the server for the full-featured content itself charges the service fees from the user directly, and the payment information should only be stored in the unlocking server for full-featured content. However, when all systems, including the user of the mobile device, the provider of full-featured content and the manufacturer of the mobile device, are connected to each other to process data on payment for services, payment information must be transferred from one system to another. Thus, in the case where the manufacturer of the mobile device pays for full-featured content only when the user sends a request to unlock full-featured content, information on unlocking full-featured content should also be provided to the manufacturer of the mobile device.

Additional systems may be introduced into the circuit between the manufacturer of the mobile device and the provider of full-featured content. In this case, all systems should be provided with information related to the unlocking of fully functional content (step S306).

When the SMS service is included in the processing of the monthly fee, all systems should receive such information (step S306).

As described above, if more than two systems are jointly involved in the processing of data on payment for services, information on payment for unlocking full-featured content should be distributed among all systems (for example, mobile device identification code, unlock time, content identification code, payment data, method of payment for services, data associated with the unlock code, etc.).

Figure 3 shows the case where the notification of all associated unlocking systems for full-featured content (step S306) is performed in parallel with the actual unlocking of full-featured content (step S304). However, notification of unlocking systems for full-featured content may be performed before or after unlocking full-featured content.

Next, payment for unlocking full-featured content embedded in a mobile device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described.

In the case when the full-featured content is released via the SMS service, the fee for unlocking the full-featured content can be included in the fee for using the SMS service. For example, when the fee for unlocking full-featured content is one US dollar, this fee of one US dollar may be charged to the user by SMS.

On the other hand, the number of SMS messages that are payable by the user can be determined by the tariff at which the fee for using SMS is determined by the number of SMS messages sent. For example, when the fee for using full-featured content is $ 1.5, and the fee for sending one SMS is $ 0.5, the user may be charged the total amount for using 3 SMS messages.

The fee for unlocking full-featured content can be processed by a credit card payment system instead of a billing system for SMS or data service. The processing of a monthly fee through a credit card payment system will be described below with reference to figure 4.

Next, the format of messages transmitted through systems for processing a monthly fee will be described.

For example, a user of a mobile device or other systems can be notified via SMS about the unlocking of full-featured content using a format like "MBIZ, MZTSOND900EU, 2, EU, 545678". Here, "MBIZ" represents a fully functional content unlocking server or corresponding systems, and "MZTSOND900EU" represents specific content. "2" represents the number of SMS messages used and indicates a monthly fee for 2 messages. "UK" represents the country selected by the user, which in this case is the United Kingdom. "545678" represents the release code of the full-featured content.

Various types of message formats may be used, and therefore a detailed description of such formats will be omitted.

4 shows screens displayed on a mobile device and illustrates the interface of a credit card payment system according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

When a user of a mobile device sends a request to unlock full-featured content, or when the user uses demo options for the content, screen 4A is displayed for credit card payments.

If the user clicks OK, credit card information is sent to the unlock server. Credit card information is requested for invoicing and can also be transferred to the manufacturer of the mobile device, the provider of operational information and additional payment systems. Information can be transmitted using SMS messages.

For example, when a user chooses to pay by credit card, the release code can be stored in the unlock server or other systems. After the user completes the payment by credit card, the unlocking code stored in the memory is transmitted to the user via the SMS service.

After the request for payment by credit card is accepted, the screen can display a web server through which the user can pay by credit card,

When the user logged on to the web server after entering the identification code of the mobile device and completed the payment by credit card, the user may be shown a release code for full-featured content. The release code can be transmitted via SMS, as described with reference to figure 2. Credit card payment systems on the Internet are known to qualified specialists. Therefore, a detailed description of such a system will be omitted.

5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a full-featured content unlocking system embedded in a mobile device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 5, a system 500 for unlocking full-featured content embedded in a mobile device includes a mobile device 502, a communication network 504, and a server 506 for unlocking full-featured content. A mobile device 502 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention performs the function of transmitting a request to the fully functional content unlocking server 506 to unlock the full-featured content. Upon receipt of the request, the mobile device may allow the user to use full-featured content.

In this case, the mobile device 502 can be configured to calculate the user’s admission to the full-featured content after receiving a message about unlocking the server 506 to unlock the full-featured content, or the mobile device 502 can be configured to calculate the user’s access to the full-featured content after the user enters the release code transmitted in the SMS message.

The following describes in detail the configuration of a mobile device according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention with reference to figure 8.

A fully functional content unlocking server 506 according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention performs a user access function to the full-featured content embedded in the mobile device 502 upon receipt of a corresponding request.

In this case, the server 506 unlocking full-featured content can enable the mobile device 502 to use full-featured content after receiving a request or after an additional confirmation procedure. Full featured content unlocking server 506 may also enable mobile device 502 to utilize full-featured content by transmitting a release code in an SMS message. Release code may be generated using various methods in the server 506 unlock full-featured content.

Full featured content unlocking server 506 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include functions associated with processing data for payment for services.

A communication network 504 according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides channels for transmitting data between the mobile device 502 and the server 506 unlock full content. Wireless and wired communication channels may be used. A communication network according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention can be implemented using various methods, such as a wireless access network, a packet data network, code division multiple access (CDMA) 2000 lx, (CDMA) 2000 lx EV-DO, telephone, modem or internet.

6 is a block diagram illustrating another configuration of a full-featured content unlocking system embedded in a mobile device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 6, a full-featured content unlocking system embedded in the mobile device 600 includes a mobile device 602, a communication network 604, a full-featured content unlocking server 606, and third systems 608.

Unlocking systems for full-featured content embedded in a mobile device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention are basically similar to the systems shown in FIG. 5, with the exception of additional third systems 608.

Third systems 608 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include the manufacturer of the mobile device 610, the content provider 612, and the billing system 614.

As described in connection with Figure 3, if more than two systems are jointly involved in the processing of data for payment of services, information about the payment for unlocking full-featured content should be distributed among the systems. Figure 6 shows the case where the server 606 unlock full content is included in the group consisting of the manufacturer of the mobile device 610, the content provider 612 and billing system 614.

Moreover, the server 606 unlocking full-featured content transmits information about payment for services to various systems of the group, including the manufacturer of the mobile device 610, the content provider 612 and the billing system 614, and also performs the functions described in connection with figure 5.

The billing system 614 processes the payment data, for example, the billing system 614 manages various payment schemes for using the services of the included systems, in particular, a fully functional content unlock server 606, a mobile device manufacturer 610, or a content provider 612.

The billing system 614 is included in the group of third systems 608 in FIG. 6. The billing system 614 may be included in the communication network 604 as a short message service center (SMSC) or may be included in the server 606 to unlock full-featured content.

The server 606 unlock full content can be configured in the block of the manufacturer of the mobile device 610 or in the block of the content provider 612 independently of the third systems 608.

7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a fully functional content unlocking server according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 7, a fully functional content unlocking server 700 includes a program memory unit 702, a control unit 704, a memory unit 706, and a transceiver unit 708.

The program memory block 702 stores a fully functional content unlocking program that functions to receive requests to unlock full-featured content and transmit an unlock signal. The full-featured content unlocking program may include functions for performing a confirmation procedure, processing data for payment for services, including in the process of unlocking full-featured content together with third systems 608.

A control unit 704 controls the execution functions of the full-featured content unlocking program. The memory unit 706 stores control data necessary for controlling the control unit 704, and other relevant information.

The transceiver unit 708 transmits data through the communication network according to the control signals of the control unit 704.

Figure 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a mobile device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The design of a mobile device 800 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include various wireless means, such as a personal digital assistant (PDA), cell phones, a personal communication kit (PCS), a global mobile communications system (GSM) device, a broadband multiple Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA, W-CDMA), CDMA2000, and Mobile Broadband System (MBS).

As shown in FIG. 8, a mobile device 800 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a program memory unit 802, a control unit 804, a memory unit 806, a transceiver unit 808, a display 810, and a keyboard 812.

The memory block of program 802 stores a program for activating full-featured content that performs the function of sending a request signal to unlock full-featured content and receive an unlock signal. Prior to the unlock operation, only demo content options are available. A full-featured content activation program can provide access to full-featured content after receiving an unlock signal. In addition, other functions may be additionally included, such as language selection or confirmation of the release code.

A control unit 804 controls the execution functions of the full-featured content activation program. The memory unit 806 stores full-featured content, data for the control unit 804, and other relevant information.

The transceiver unit 808 transmits data through the communication network in accordance with the control signals of the control unit 804.

A user of the mobile device 800 may send a request to unlock full-featured content using the keyboard 812.

The display 810 displays the menu required for the unlocking procedure, as shown in FIG. 2, based on signals from the control unit 804.

Industrial applicability

In accordance with the method and system for unlocking full-featured content, a user of a mobile device initially uses demo content options. Full-featured content is released after an unlock request, and full-featured content is payable by the user only after permission is granted. Thus, cost savings can be achieved.

Full-featured content can be used by the user easily and conveniently, choosing a language and full-featured content, access to which is provided through the short message service (SMS).

Security and management efficiency can be increased by using the release code and by interacting with other systems when processing data on payment for services.

The present invention provides a method and system for unlocking fully functional content embedded in a mobile device, and this method can be conveniently used by a user and effectively provides security and control.

Although the present invention may be subject to various modifications and alternative forms, its specific embodiments are shown in the examples presented in the drawings and described in detail above. However, we do not intend to limit the invention to the specific examples disclosed; on the contrary, the invention should cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the claims.

Claims (14)

1. Server unlock content embedded in a mobile device containing:
a memory unit for storing the unlocking program for full-featured content, wherein the unlocking program for full-featured content includes the functions of receiving a first signal with a request to unlock full-featured content and sending a message about unlocking having a unlocking code, and allowing the user to use the full-featured content, access to which was originally was limited;
a control unit for controlling the functions of the unlocking program for full-featured content;
a memory unit for storing control data of the control unit and data necessary to unlock full-featured content; and
a transceiver unit for transmitting data through a communication network in response to a signal from a control unit, wherein the fully functional content unlocking program further includes functions for processing data on a charge for using full-featured content, a message about unlocking is transmitted via an SMS service, said payment is made through an SMS service, and the number of unlock SMS messages that are payable by the user is determined according to the payment for unlocking full-featured content. 2. The server according to claim 1, in which the message on unlocking is transmitted in a specific language selected by the user. 3. The server according to claim 1, in which the unlock program further comprises the function of unlocking fully functional content based on the response signal to the message about unlocking. 4. The server according to claim 3, in which the response signal includes a signal with a message that the user enters a release code of fully functional content. 5. The server according to claim 4, in which the number of user attempts to enter a release code is limited. 6. The server according to claim 1, in which the program for unlocking fully functional content further comprises a function for generating a second signal including information about payment for services, and a function for transmitting a second signal. 7. The server according to claim 6, in which the second signal includes at least one component selected from the group consisting of a mobile device identification code, unlock time, identification code, content, payment for services, method of payment for services. 8. The server according to claim 6, in which the second signal is transmitted to at least one node selected from the group consisting of a mobile device, the manufacturer of the mobile device, the content provider and the billing system. 9. A mobile device comprising:
a memory unit for storing the unlocking program for full-featured content, wherein the unlocking program for full-featured content includes the functions of sending the first request signal to unlock full-featured content and receiving a message about unlocking having a unlocking code, and allowing the user to use the full-featured content that was initially accessed limited;
a control unit for executing a program for unlocking fully functional content;
a memory unit for storing full-featured content, control unit control data and data required to unlock full-featured content;
a transceiver unit for transmitting data through a communication network in response to a signal from a control unit;
the keyboard used to control the request menu to unlock full-featured content;
a display for displaying input information in the form of a menu and a message about unlocking full-featured content, moreover, the unlocking program for full-featured content additionally includes functions for processing data on fees for using full-featured content, a message about unlocking is transmitted via SMS, the specified payment is made via SMS, and the number SMS messages about unlocking, which are payable by the user, is determined according to the payment for unlocking services fully functional tional content. 10. The mobile device according to claim 9, in which the user of the mobile device for convenience can select a specific language. 11. The mobile device according to claim 9, in which the unlocking of fully functional content is carried out using a release code entered through the keyboard. 12. The mobile device according to claim 11, in which the number of user attempts to enter a unlock code is limited. 13. A method for unlocking fully functional content embedded in a mobile device comprising the steps of:
(a) sending a first signal with a request to unlock full-featured content embedded in a mobile device, access to which was initially limited; and
(b) receiving a message on unlocking having a release code and allowing access to the user to use full-featured content, the unlocking program for full-featured content additionally includes functions for processing data on charges for using full-featured content, a message about unlocking is transmitted via SMS, the specified payment is made via the SMS service, and the number of SMS unlock messages that are payable by the user is determined according to the payment servants to unblock a full-featured content. 14. The method according to item 13, in which a message about unlocking and allowing access to the user to use fully functional content is transmitted through the SMS service.

Images