US20100082775A1 - Directed Media Based On User Preferences - Google Patents
Directed Media Based On User Preferences Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20100082775A1 US20100082775A1 US12/632,743 US63274309A US2010082775A1 US 20100082775 A1 US20100082775 A1 US 20100082775A1 US 63274309 A US63274309 A US 63274309A US 2010082775 A1 US2010082775 A1 US 2010082775A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- media
- user
- information
- network
- network access
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/50—Network services
- H04L67/51—Discovery or management thereof, e.g. service location protocol [SLP] or web services
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F16/00—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor
- G06F16/90—Details of database functions independent of the retrieved data types
- G06F16/95—Retrieval from the web
- G06F16/953—Querying, e.g. by the use of web search engines
- G06F16/9535—Search customisation based on user profiles and personalisation
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/2866—Architectures; Arrangements
- H04L67/30—Profiles
- H04L67/303—Terminal profiles
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/2866—Architectures; Arrangements
- H04L67/30—Profiles
- H04L67/306—User profiles
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/50—Network services
- H04L67/53—Network services using third party service providers
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
- H04L67/50—Network services
- H04L67/535—Tracking the activity of the user
Definitions
- Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to network access and more particularly to providing directed media in a network.
- content providers request or require users to have personal accounts.
- the user When a user creates a personal account, the user is often requested to register and provide personal information that helps the content provider to identify and maintain a relationship with that user. While the registration provides information to the content provider, the content provider is typically not able to use this information in order to tailor/customize media, such as advertisements, to the individual user.
- a cookie is a small text file or program that certain Internet sites attach to the user's hard drive within the computing device.
- a cookie can contain information such as a user identifier, user preferences, shopping information, personally identifiable information, and a list of web sites previously visited. As the user revisits a content provider's web site, the content provider can retrieve the cookie to identify the user and then update the cookie as appropriate.
- Many users view cookies as an invasion of privacy. As such, many users disable the function that allows cookies to be stored on their computing devices. Further, users can erase their cookies manually or purchase anti-spyware and anti-virus programs which either prevent cookies from downloading or delete cookies entirely (e.g., cookie churn.). That is, the use of the cookie method lacks persistence (i.e., can be deleted). As with registration, the information typically cannot be used to tailor media to the user.
- publishers sell inventory (e.g., advertisement space) on a content provider's web site based on aggregated statistical demographics of all visitors to the web site.
- the demographics may also include a user survey, typically, of 1000 respondents. This survey, however, are of a basic nature (e.g., gender, age, income level), and does not account for individuality of the users.
- Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and method for determining directed media to provide to a user on a web site.
- a user profile is associated with each network access device.
- the IP address of the network access device is used by a customer relationship server to identifier the particular network access device. The corresponding user profile is then obtained.
- An exemplary media selection optimizer determines a directed media component based on the user profile.
- the media selection optimizer reviews user preferences associated with the user profile to determine the type of media which is best suitable for presentation to the user via a web page of the content provider
- the directed media component may be a media tag identifying a media, or type of media, which should be presented to the user.
- the directed media component may be the directed media, itself.
- the media selection optimizer utilizes access point information, historic information, and/or access point location-centric information along with the user profile information to determine the directed media component.
- the access point information is retrieved from an access point through which the network access device is accessing the network.
- the historic information is based on past interactions which form patterns of usage for the network access device.
- the historic information may be incorporated into the user profile.
- the location-centric information is obtained from any source with knowledge of events, conditions, and other attributes of the location in which the access point is located.
- the directed media component may be forward to a media server which provides the corresponding directed media to the user.
- the directed media may comprise advertisement, coupons, video, music, or any other media which is tailored to the user preferences.
- FIG. 1 is an exemplary block diagram of a simplified environment employing embodiments of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is an exemplary block diagram of an alternative environment in which embodiments of the present invention may be employed
- FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary CR server
- FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary information collection engine
- FIG. 5 is a diagram of an exemplary communication path in the environment of FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an exemplary method for providing directed media to a user.
- FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary method for optimizing selection of the directed media.
- Embodiments of the present invention provide exemplary systems and methods for providing directed media to a user.
- the present systems can identify media or media types which are most relevant to the user.
- the user profile is associated with a device identifier, which is persistent (e.g., may not be deleted nor changed).
- the present systems also may use real-time information related to the user or user's location to tailor the media presented to the user. This allows a publisher to maximize their advertising revenues.
- FIG. 1 an exemplary environment 100 in which embodiments of the present invention may be practiced is shown. Unlike much of the prior art where users of computing devices are tracked through cookies on their computing devices or sites the users visit over the Internet, users of the present embodiment can be identified and their preferences determined and tracked through a user's act of logging onto a network 130 or obtaining network service through a service provider 120 .
- the environment 100 comprises at least one network access device 110 , the service provider 120 , a network 130 , a plurality of content providers 140 , and a client relationship server (“CR server”) 150 .
- the network 130 is the Internet.
- the network 130 may be a local area network (LAN), intranet, or extranet.
- a user activates the network access device 110 in order to communicate with the network 130 .
- the network access device 110 is any digital device capable of communications over the network 130 . Examples of the network access device 110 include desktops, laptops, personal digital assistants, and cellular telephones.
- the network access device 110 may comprise a wireless network access driver, a router, a cable modem, a phone modem, or any other device capable of providing access to the network 130 .
- the network access device 110 may comprise a device identifier which is used by the CR server 150 to identify the network access device 110 .
- the device identifier may comprise a media access control address (MAC address), an international mobile station identity (IMSI), an international media equipment identity (IMEI), or any anonymous device identifier.
- the network access device 110 may also comprise a software or hardware derived unique identifier. Accordingly, unique identifiers of software or hardware present on the network access device 110 can be indexed and grouped with, for example, MAC addresses, to create a unique anonymous device identifier.
- the service provider 120 is a device configured to provide the network access device 110 access to the communications network 130 .
- the service provider 120 is a switch, bridge, gateway, router, or any combination of these devices.
- the service provider 120 is typically controlled by a business that supplies network connectivity (e.g., Internet service provider, “ISP”).
- ISP Internet service provider
- the service provider 120 assigns an external IP address to each network access device 110 seeking access to the communications network 130 .
- the exemplary content provider 140 is any digital device configured to provide information to users of network access devices 110 over the network 130 .
- the content provider 140 is a web site.
- the content provider 140 is an e-mailer or a file transport (FTP) site.
- FTP file transport
- the content provider 140 is typically controlled by an individual, group, or business that provides information for viewing or distribution over the network 130 .
- content provided may comprise data, video, audio, software, or any combination thereof.
- the exemplary CR server 150 is configured to identify any number of network access devices 110 seeking access to the network 130 , and to generate a user profile for each network access device 110 .
- the user profile may be used to build and develop relationships between users of the network access devices 110 and the owners or agents of products and/or services.
- the CR server 150 may be coupled to the network access device 110 , the service provider 120 , or the network 130 .
- the CR server 150 is further configured to receive a device identifier from the network access device 110 seeking access to the network 130 .
- the CR server 150 also receives access information and other information associated with the user, such as the current IP address assigned to the network access device 110 .
- the CR server 150 generates the user profile based on the device identifier, access information, and other information associated with the device identifier.
- users operate the network access device 110 to connect to the network 130 .
- the users are identified and their preferences determined by the CR server 150 based on the number of times the user seeks network 130 access, where the user seeks access from, and any other available information.
- the CR server 150 does not need to place cookies on user's network access device 110 , nor does the CR server 150 monitor the content provider 140 that the user's visit. Rather, the CR server 150 receives a device identifier from the user's network access device 110 and/or the service provider 120 . Through the device identifier, the user can be recognized and the number of times and where the user accesses the network can be stored to assist in the generation of the user profile.
- cookies may still be placed on the network access device 110 . Because most of the current advertisement industry is based on using cookies, the use of a cookie and/or a device identifier will assist in transitioning the advertisement industry away from the current cookie only system. As a result, each network access device 110 may be identified by a hybrid cookie/device identifier combination.
- any number of network access devices 110 , service providers 120 , and content providers 140 may be embodied within the environment 100 of FIG. 1 .
- the environment 200 comprises a plurality of network access devices 110 coupled to the network 130 via an access point 210 , a plurality of content providers 140 , and the CR server 150 .
- the environment 200 further comprises a media server 220 that works, directly or indirectly, with product owners 230 , agencies 240 , and collaterals 250 .
- the network access devices 110 are show wirelessly coupled to the access point 210 , one or more of the network access devices 110 may be coupled to the access point 210 over a wire (e.g., Ethernet, USB, firewire).
- a wire e.g., Ethernet, USB, firewire
- the access point 210 is a device that couples the network access devices 110 to the network 130 .
- the access point 210 may comprise a base station, router, hub, or switch.
- the access point 210 is a router (wire or wireless) installed within a business (e.g., coffee shop) or location (e.g., city park) that allows users of the network access device 110 access to the network 110 (e.g., a hotspot).
- a service provider 120 FIG. 1
- the access point 210 is, or is a part of, the service provider 120 .
- the access point 210 may comprise hardware, software, or firmware
- the access point 210 when the access point 210 is installed, the access point 210 negotiates an IP address from the service provider 120 . As a network access device 110 seeks network access, the network access device provides the access point 210 its device identifier such as a MAC address. The access point 210 may be configured to authenticate the MAC address and assign an IP address to allow the network access device 110 access to the network 130 through the access point 210 .
- the access point 210 directs the device identifier as well as access information to the CR server 150 .
- Access information may comprise any information associated with the device identifier.
- the access information identifies the access point 210 , such as with an IP address or other identifier.
- the access information may also comprise information identifying the date and time the network access device 110 sought access, a type of business that is operating the access point 210 , and/or the amount charged to the user of the network access device 110 for service.
- a router between the access point 210 and the network 130 is configured to direct the device identifier and access information to the CR server 105 .
- the CR server 150 is configured to receive the device identifier and the access information from the access point 210 .
- the device identifier and access information is then stored within a record.
- the record tracks the device identifier and access information. Additionally, the record may store any other kind of information associated with the device identifier.
- the user when the user visits a web site of a content provider 140 , the user will see directed media on portions of a web page.
- the directed media is targeted advertisement.
- the directed media may comprise targeted audio, video, coupons, or other media tailored to the interests/preferences of the user.
- the directed media is typically located on particular portions of the content provider's web page (e.g., in a banner ad location).
- the directed media is placed on the content provider's web page via the media server 220 .
- the media server 220 works in connection with the CR server 150 to determine the directed media to provide each user.
- the media server 220 is further associated with the collateral 250 which produces the media and the agency 240 which creates the media based on requirements of the product owner 230 .
- soda company X product owner 230
- the agency 240 may work with a web advertisement designer (collateral 250 ) to create the media.
- the media is then stored in the media server 220 until it is served to the user via the web page of the content provider 140 .
- the media comprises a media profile tag which identifies the type of user to which the media should be directed/targeted. More than one media profile tag may be associated with a media.
- the exemplary CR server 150 comprises a profile engine 310 , an information collection engine 320 , a storage system 330 , a media selection optimizer 340 , and a communication network module 350 all coupled via a communication bus 360 .
- the communication network module 350 communicates with the network 130 ( FIG. 1 ) via a network link 370 .
- the profile engine 310 is configured to generate user profiles based on characteristics associated with the user and the user's network access device 110 ( FIG. 1 ).
- Each user profile may comprise one or more device identifiers (of the network access devices 110 ), access information, device histories, and any other information associated with the network access devices 110 or device identifier.
- Each user profile identifies a user (indirectly via the network access device 110 the user is using) through the current IP address and device identifier (or other information) associated with the network access device 110 .
- the device identifier is a MAC address.
- the device identifier is an IMSI or IMEI.
- the device identifier may comprise a unique identifier of software or hardware present on the network access device 110 .
- the profile engine 310 can further customize the user profile based on individual characteristics, preferences, and habits of the user of a particular network access device 110 . For example, if the user repeatedly accesses the network 130 with the same network access device 110 through an access point 210 at a particular coffee shop, the user profile associated with the device identifier may indicate that the user has a preference for the coffee shop. As a result, the user profile may indicate that the user prefers coffee or a particular coffee shop.
- the profile engine 310 can also incorporate group characteristics into the user profile. That is, the user profile may include one or more group identifiers indicating a group type that the user is associated with. For example, a group identifier may be included in the user profile covering a group of users of a particular gender and age living in a specific city and having similar hobbies (e.g., male between 18-30 in the San Francisco area who enjoy baseball). Alternatively, a plurality of group identifiers may be used to identify groupings the user may be associated with. That is, for example, one group identifier may indicate the gender and age, while a second group identifier may indicate the city, and the third group identifier indicates a hobby. Alternatively, other combinations of characteristics and group identifier may be used (e.g, a single group identifier to indicate gender, age, and location).
- group identifier may be included in the user profile covering a group of users of a particular gender and age living in a specific city and having similar hobbies (e.g., male between 18
- the user profiles collectively identify general trends. For example, a high number of users may be male within a certain range of ages and seek network access within a specific football stadium. As a result, a group identifier may be generated for males within the age range that prefer football. Other group identifier may be generated as well, such as a group identifier for males who prefer sports, or a group identifier that associates users within an age range and sports.
- predetermined group identifier may be generated and utilized by the profile engine 310 .
- a soft drink company may wish to direct advertisements to a certain demographics.
- a group identifier can be generated that corresponds to that demographic and user profiles that fall into the demographics will include this group identifier.
- the generation of the user profile is described in detail in U.S. application Ser. No. ______, entitled “Developing Customer Relationships with a Network Access Point,” which is incorporated by reference.
- embodiments of the present invention allow the user to modify or update the user profile associated with their network access device 110 . Additionally, the user may block or hide some information which the user prefers to remain private (e.g., name or address).
- the information collection engine 320 is configured to receive or obtain information from the network access device 110 , the access point 210 , and any other source of information which may be associated with the user profile, user preferences, and the network access device 110 .
- the information collection engine 320 may be further configured to store the information in the storage system 330 . In some embodiments, the information is stored in a device record.
- the information collection engine 320 will be discussed in more detail in connection with FIG. 4 .
- the storage system 330 is configured to store the information from the collection engine 320 .
- the storage system 330 may also store user profiles.
- the media selection optimizer 340 is configured to determine a directed media which should be presented to a user.
- the media selection optimizer 340 receives an IP address of a network access device 110 that is attempted to access a content provider 140 . Based on the IP address, the media selection optimizer 340 can determine the associated network access device 110 , and retrieve user profile information associated with the network access device 110 (e.g., based on the device identifier). The media selection optimizer 340 may also retrieve other information (e.g., access point and location-centric information) via the information collection engine 320 .
- information e.g., access point and location-centric information
- the media selection optimizer 340 uses the retrieved information to determine the most appropriate media or media type that should be directed to the network access device 110 requesting the content from the content provider 140 .
- a media tag identifying the media or media type is forwarded to the media server 220 or the content provider 140 .
- the actual media may be forwarded to the media server 220 of content provider 140 .
- the communication network module 350 is a communication interface for the CR server 150 to the network access devices 110 , access point 210 , service provider 130 , network 130 , content providers 140 , media server 220 , and any other device in the network 130 .
- FIG. 4 shows the information collection engine 320 in more detail.
- the information collection engine 320 comprises a user information module 410 , an access point information module 420 , a history module 430 , and a location-centric module 440 .
- Alternative embodiments may comprise more, less, or functionally equivalent modules.
- the user information module 410 obtains user information including information associated with the network access device 110 .
- the user information module 410 may receive the MAC address and IP address of the network access device 110 , or any other information which may be obtained from the network access device 110 . This information is then stored in the storage system 330 .
- the access point information module 420 obtains information related to the access point 210 . This information may include the location of the access point 210 , type of establishment associated with the access point (e.g., a coffee shop, city park, etc.), and any other information which may be obtained from the access point 210 .
- This information may include the location of the access point 210 , type of establishment associated with the access point (e.g., a coffee shop, city park, etc.), and any other information which may be obtained from the access point 210 .
- the history module 430 is configured to collect and maintain historic information regarding a network access device 110 . For example, every time a same device identifier is received by the CR server 150 , a number of times the network 130 is accessed, the corresponding access point 210 used, date and time of access, and so forth may be tracked by the history module 430 . Historical information is then used to establish a pattern for which aspects of the user profile may be developed from. For example, if a user has a history of accessing the network 130 from a particular location at a particular day and time (e.g., corner coffee shop at 10 am every Sunday), the history module 430 will record this pattern. The pattern may then be used to assign group identifiers.
- the location-centric module 440 is configured to obtain location-centric (local) information associated with a location of the access point 210 .
- the location-centric information may comprise time, weather, special events, types of businesses located nearby, and any other information related to the location. This information may be obtained from the access point 210 or from other sources such as, for example, websites, weather services, and GPS satellites.
- the location-centric information may be stored in the storage system 330 . In other embodiments, the location-centric information is constantly updated and thus is not stored in the CR server 150 but obtained when needed.
- FIG. 5 a diagram of an exemplary communication path in the environment of FIG. 2 is shown.
- a user via a network access device 110 , accesses the network 130 by way of the access point 210 .
- the user will request access to a particular content provider 140 .
- This request is sent via communication path 510 from the access point 210 to the content provider 140 .
- the request may also comprise an IP address assigned by the access point 210 to the network access device 110 .
- the content provider 140 will forward the IP address to the CR server 150 via communication path 520 .
- the IP address is forwarded through the media server 220 to the CR server 150 .
- the CR server 150 can determine the corresponding network access device 110 that is providing the request.
- the user information module 410 receives the device identifier (e.g., MAC address) and the corresponding IP address when the network access device 110 accesses the network 130 .
- the CR server 150 can determine the particular network access device 110 given the IP address received from the content provider 140 .
- the CR server 150 obtains a corresponding user profile associated with the device identifier.
- the information collection engine 320 may also obtain location-centric information associated with the access point 210 location along with history information. All of the information is then analyzed by the media selection optimizer 340 to obtain a media tag or media which is most relevant to present to the requesting user. This media tag or media is provided to the media server 220 via communication path 530 .
- the media server 220 then provides the directed media (e.g., associated with the media tag) to the content provider 140 via communication path 540 .
- the directed media is an advertisement which is placed in a banner ad location.
- the content provider 140 then provides the requested content to the requesting user via communication path 550 .
- the requested content will include the directed media that is tailored to the user profile/preferences of the network access device 110 that the requesting user is utilizing.
- FIG. 5 are exemplary. Alternative embodiments may comprise different paths.
- the media server 220 may be embodied within the content provider 140 . In this situation, communication paths 530 and 540 will be combined into a single communication path.
- a flowchart 600 of an exemplary method for providing directed media to a user is provided.
- a user accesses the network 130 ( FIG. 1 ).
- the network 130 is access via a network access device 110 by way of the access point 210 ( FIG. 2 ).
- step 620 the user will request access, via the network access device 110 , to a particular content provider 140 ( FIG. 1 ) This request is sent to the content provider 140 through the access point 210 .
- the request is made when a user enters a URL address for the content provider 140 of interest.
- the request is received by the content provider 140 (step 630 ).
- the request includes an IP address assigned by the access point 210 to the network access device 110 during the current network 130 access session.
- the IP address is unique to the network access device 110 and can used to identify the particular network access device 110 .
- the content provider 140 forwards the IP address to the CR server 150 .
- the IP address is forwarded directly from the content provider 140 to the CR server 150 .
- the IP address is first forwarded to the media server 220 , which then forwards the IP address to the CR server 150 .
- Media selection is then optimized in step 650 for the network access device 110 associated with the IP address.
- the optimization analyzes a user profile, access point 210 information, and location-centric information to determine a directed media component that is most relevant for the user. Step 650 will be discussed in more detail in connection with FIG. 7 .
- the directed media component is sent to the media server 220 in step 660 .
- the directed media component is a media tag that indicates the media or type of media that should be provided to the user.
- the media tag may indicate that an advertisement that is directed to a male between 18-30 who likes baseball should be provided.
- the media server 220 may comprise a plurality of media that is code with corresponding media profile tags. The media server 220 can then take the optimized media tag from the CR server 150 and select a media having the same corresponding media profile tag.
- the directed media component is the directed media, itself.
- the temperature is over 80° (location-centric information), and it's near noon time (location-centric information)
- an advertisement from Coke® will be provided. It should be noted that step 660 is optional.
- the directed media is placed onto the requested web page from the content provider 140 , and the requested page is provided to the user.
- the directed media is positioned in a portion of the web page, such as in a banner ad location.
- the directed media may comprise a static or dynamic advertisement, a video, music, or any other form of media which may be customized to a user based on the user profile and preferences.
- step 660 may be optional. That is, the directed media is provided by the CR server 150 directly to the content provider 140 . In another example, the directed media component may be sent directly to the content provider 140 . In this example, the content provider 140 comprises a media database and/or server component(s) that contain media which can be provided on the requested web page based on the received directed media component (e.g., media tag).
- the directed media component e.g., media tag
- the CR server 150 uses the received IP address (from step 640 ) to obtain the corresponding user profile information.
- the user information module 410 receives both the device identifier (e.g., MAC address) and the IP address of the network access device 110 when the user first accesses the network 130 .
- the CR server 150 e.g., the media selection optimizer 340
- the CR server 150 can determine the corresponding device identifier and retrieve the user profile associated with the device identifier from the storage system 330 .
- the access point information module 420 obtains current access point information.
- the access point information may comprise the location of the access point 210 , type of establishment associated with the access point (e.g., a coffee shop, city park, etc.), and any other information which may be obtained from the access point 210 .
- Historic information is obtained by the history module 430 in step 730 .
- Historic information may comprise information such as a number of times the network 130 is accessed by the network access device 110 , the corresponding access point 210 used, date and time of access, and so forth which may be tracked by the history module 430 .
- Historic information is then used to establish a pattern for which aspects of the user profile may be developed from. For example, if a user has a history of accessing the network 130 from a particular location at a particular day and time (e.g., corner coffee shop at 10 am every Sunday), the history module 430 will record this pattern, and recall the information when requested by the media selection optimizer 340 .
- location-centric information is obtained via the location-centric module 440 .
- the location-centric information may comprise time, weather, special events, types of businesses located nearby, and any other information related to the location. This information may be obtained from the access point 210 or from other sources such as, for example, websites, weather services, and GPS satellites.
- the local information may be stored in the storage system 330 . In other embodiments, the local information is constantly updated and thus is not stored in the CR server 150 but obtained when needed in real-time.
- the user profile information along with any relevant access point information, history information, and/or location-centric information is utilized by the media selection optimizer 340 to determine a directed media component in step 740 .
- the directed media component may be a media tag or directed media which is most relevant to present to the requesting user.
- the analysis performed by the media selection optimizer 340 takes into consideration the user profile which includes user preferences.
- the user profile will indicate such information as gender, age range, general location (e.g., city of residence or work), preferred access locations (which may be determined by the history module 430 and stored in the user profile), and other preferences.
- the media selection optimizer 340 can determine a directed media component based solely on the preferences in the user profile. For example, the user profile may show the user to be male between 18-30 who lives in San Francisco and likes baseball. Based on this user profile, the media selection optimizer 340 may determine that the optimized media should pertain to baseball related (and possibly team specific) media. A corresponding directed media component is then assigned.
- access point, historical, and/or location-centric information may also be included in the analysis by the media selection optimizer 340 .
- the user profile will indicate that the user is male between 18-30 who lives in San Francisco.
- the access point information may indicate that the user is accessing the network 130 from the baseball stadium.
- the location-centric information will indicate that it is 80° at the stadium and that it is noon (and thus lunchtime).
- the media selection optimizer 340 in this example, will factor in the access point and location-centric information to determine that the optimized media should be an advertisement for Coke® since it is a hot day at the ballpark, and the user will likely be getting lunch soon from one of the food vendors (who sells Coke® products).
- the directed media component will determine that a soda or food advertisement should be presented.
- the location-centric information may indicate that the baseball team just qualified for post-season playoffs.
- the media selection optimizer 340 may generate a new directed media component that indicates that an advertisement or coupon for purchase of post-season playoff tickets should be presented to the user.
- a second media component may be generated that offers the user an opportunity to purchase playoff products such as t-shirts and caps, and direct the user to the store across the street from the stadium (i.e., current access point 210 location).
- the media selection optimizer 340 may provide more than one directed media component.
- the web page from the content provider 140 comprises more than one location for media. In these embodiments, more than one directed media can be provided to the user simultaneously.
- steps of FIG. 7 are exemplary. Alternative embodiments may comprise the steps of FIG. 7 in a different order, or one or more steps (e.g., 720 , 730 , and 740 ) may be optional.
- unique browser information may be provided by the network access device 110 in the request for access to a web page of the content provider 140 .
- browser information include, but are not limited to, browser version, browser type, installation date of browser, and session identifiers.
- operating system information include, but are not limited to, operating system version, operating system type, and date of operating version installation.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Signal Processing (AREA)
- Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
- Databases & Information Systems (AREA)
- Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Data Mining & Analysis (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
- Information Transfer Between Computers (AREA)
- Management, Administration, Business Operations System, And Electronic Commerce (AREA)
- Two-Way Televisions, Distribution Of Moving Picture Or The Like (AREA)
Abstract
A system for determining directed media for a user is provided. The exemplary system comprises a media selection optimizer which is configured to determine a directed media component based on a user profile associated, via a device identifier, with a network access device. The media selection optimizer may also utilize access point information, historic information, and access point location-centric information in its determination of the directed media component. The directed media component may then be forward to a media server which provides the corresponding directed media to the user. The directed media may comprise advertisement, coupons, video, music, or any other media which is customizable to the user.
Description
- The present application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/680,604, filed May 12, 2005, entitled “Systems and Methods of Network Operation and Information Processing, Including Business and Advertising Methods” which is herein incorporated by reference. The present application is also related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ filed May 11, 2006 and entitled “Developing Customer Relationships with a Network Access Point” which is herein incorporated by reference.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to network access and more particularly to providing directed media in a network.
- 2. Description of Related Art
- Presently, content providers and advertisers are having increased difficulty in identifying, creating, and maintaining relationships with their user base. These relationships are limited by current technology. Generally, users interact with the content providers and advertiser by accessing a web site via a network access device. Users have traditionally been identified by either the user's current destination on the network through personal accounts or through downloaded programs on the user's network access device (e.g., cookies).
- In some prior art embodiments, content providers request or require users to have personal accounts. When a user creates a personal account, the user is often requested to register and provide personal information that helps the content provider to identify and maintain a relationship with that user. While the registration provides information to the content provider, the content provider is typically not able to use this information in order to tailor/customize media, such as advertisements, to the individual user.
- Alternatively, content providers may place cookies on user's network access device. A cookie is a small text file or program that certain Internet sites attach to the user's hard drive within the computing device. A cookie can contain information such as a user identifier, user preferences, shopping information, personally identifiable information, and a list of web sites previously visited. As the user revisits a content provider's web site, the content provider can retrieve the cookie to identify the user and then update the cookie as appropriate. Many users, however, view cookies as an invasion of privacy. As such, many users disable the function that allows cookies to be stored on their computing devices. Further, users can erase their cookies manually or purchase anti-spyware and anti-virus programs which either prevent cookies from downloading or delete cookies entirely (e.g., cookie churn.). That is, the use of the cookie method lacks persistence (i.e., can be deleted). As with registration, the information typically cannot be used to tailor media to the user.
- Presently, publishers sell inventory (e.g., advertisement space) on a content provider's web site based on aggregated statistical demographics of all visitors to the web site. The demographics may also include a user survey, typically, of 1000 respondents. This survey, however, are of a basic nature (e.g., gender, age, income level), and does not account for individuality of the users.
- Therefore, there is a need for systems and methods for directing media to a user based on user preferences.
- Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and method for determining directed media to provide to a user on a web site. In exemplary embodiments, a user profile is associated with each network access device. When a user of the network access device attempts to access a content provider's web site, the IP address of the network access device is used by a customer relationship server to identifier the particular network access device. The corresponding user profile is then obtained.
- An exemplary media selection optimizer determines a directed media component based on the user profile. In some embodiments, the media selection optimizer reviews user preferences associated with the user profile to determine the type of media which is best suitable for presentation to the user via a web page of the content provider The directed media component may be a media tag identifying a media, or type of media, which should be presented to the user. Alternatively, the directed media component may be the directed media, itself.
- In further embodiments, the media selection optimizer utilizes access point information, historic information, and/or access point location-centric information along with the user profile information to determine the directed media component. The access point information is retrieved from an access point through which the network access device is accessing the network. The historic information is based on past interactions which form patterns of usage for the network access device. In some embodiments, the historic information may be incorporated into the user profile. The location-centric information is obtained from any source with knowledge of events, conditions, and other attributes of the location in which the access point is located.
- Once the directed media component is determined, the directed media component may be forward to a media server which provides the corresponding directed media to the user. The directed media may comprise advertisement, coupons, video, music, or any other media which is tailored to the user preferences.
-
FIG. 1 is an exemplary block diagram of a simplified environment employing embodiments of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is an exemplary block diagram of an alternative environment in which embodiments of the present invention may be employed; -
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary CR server; -
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary information collection engine; -
FIG. 5 is a diagram of an exemplary communication path in the environment ofFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an exemplary method for providing directed media to a user; and -
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary method for optimizing selection of the directed media. - Embodiments of the present invention provide exemplary systems and methods for providing directed media to a user. By utilizing a user profile containing user preferences, the present systems can identify media or media types which are most relevant to the user. The user profile is associated with a device identifier, which is persistent (e.g., may not be deleted nor changed). The present systems also may use real-time information related to the user or user's location to tailor the media presented to the user. This allows a publisher to maximize their advertising revenues.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , anexemplary environment 100 in which embodiments of the present invention may be practiced is shown. Unlike much of the prior art where users of computing devices are tracked through cookies on their computing devices or sites the users visit over the Internet, users of the present embodiment can be identified and their preferences determined and tracked through a user's act of logging onto anetwork 130 or obtaining network service through aservice provider 120. - In the present embodiment, the
environment 100 comprises at least onenetwork access device 110, theservice provider 120, anetwork 130, a plurality ofcontent providers 140, and a client relationship server (“CR server”) 150. In exemplary embodiments, thenetwork 130 is the Internet. Alternatively, thenetwork 130 may be a local area network (LAN), intranet, or extranet. - In some embodiments, a user activates the
network access device 110 in order to communicate with thenetwork 130. Thenetwork access device 110 is any digital device capable of communications over thenetwork 130. Examples of thenetwork access device 110 include desktops, laptops, personal digital assistants, and cellular telephones. Thenetwork access device 110 may comprise a wireless network access driver, a router, a cable modem, a phone modem, or any other device capable of providing access to thenetwork 130. - In embodiments of the present invention, the
network access device 110 may comprise a device identifier which is used by theCR server 150 to identify thenetwork access device 110. The device identifier may comprise a media access control address (MAC address), an international mobile station identity (IMSI), an international media equipment identity (IMEI), or any anonymous device identifier. In further embodiments, thenetwork access device 110 may also comprise a software or hardware derived unique identifier. Accordingly, unique identifiers of software or hardware present on thenetwork access device 110 can be indexed and grouped with, for example, MAC addresses, to create a unique anonymous device identifier. - The
service provider 120 is a device configured to provide thenetwork access device 110 access to thecommunications network 130. In some examples, theservice provider 120 is a switch, bridge, gateway, router, or any combination of these devices. Theservice provider 120 is typically controlled by a business that supplies network connectivity (e.g., Internet service provider, “ISP”). In one embodiment, theservice provider 120 assigns an external IP address to eachnetwork access device 110 seeking access to thecommunications network 130. - The
exemplary content provider 140 is any digital device configured to provide information to users ofnetwork access devices 110 over thenetwork 130. In some embodiments, thecontent provider 140 is a web site. In other embodiments, thecontent provider 140 is an e-mailer or a file transport (FTP) site. Thecontent provider 140 is typically controlled by an individual, group, or business that provides information for viewing or distribution over thenetwork 130. In some embodiments, content provided may comprise data, video, audio, software, or any combination thereof. - The
exemplary CR server 150 is configured to identify any number ofnetwork access devices 110 seeking access to thenetwork 130, and to generate a user profile for eachnetwork access device 110. The user profile may be used to build and develop relationships between users of thenetwork access devices 110 and the owners or agents of products and/or services. In various embodiments, theCR server 150 may be coupled to thenetwork access device 110, theservice provider 120, or thenetwork 130. - The
CR server 150 is further configured to receive a device identifier from thenetwork access device 110 seeking access to thenetwork 130. TheCR server 150 also receives access information and other information associated with the user, such as the current IP address assigned to thenetwork access device 110. TheCR server 150 generates the user profile based on the device identifier, access information, and other information associated with the device identifier. - In one example, users operate the
network access device 110 to connect to thenetwork 130. The users are identified and their preferences determined by theCR server 150 based on the number of times the user seeksnetwork 130 access, where the user seeks access from, and any other available information. Unlike many examples in the prior art, theCR server 150 does not need to place cookies on user'snetwork access device 110, nor does theCR server 150 monitor thecontent provider 140 that the user's visit. Rather, theCR server 150 receives a device identifier from the user'snetwork access device 110 and/or theservice provider 120. Through the device identifier, the user can be recognized and the number of times and where the user accesses the network can be stored to assist in the generation of the user profile. - In alternative embodiments, cookies may still be placed on the
network access device 110. Because most of the current advertisement industry is based on using cookies, the use of a cookie and/or a device identifier will assist in transitioning the advertisement industry away from the current cookie only system. As a result, eachnetwork access device 110 may be identified by a hybrid cookie/device identifier combination. - It should be noted that any number of
network access devices 110,service providers 120, andcontent providers 140 may be embodied within theenvironment 100 ofFIG. 1 . - Referring now to
FIG. 2 , an exemplary block diagram of analternative environment 200 in which embodiments of the present invention may be employed is shown. Theenvironment 200 comprises a plurality ofnetwork access devices 110 coupled to thenetwork 130 via anaccess point 210, a plurality ofcontent providers 140, and theCR server 150. Theenvironment 200 further comprises amedia server 220 that works, directly or indirectly, withproduct owners 230,agencies 240, and collaterals 250. While thenetwork access devices 110 are show wirelessly coupled to theaccess point 210, one or more of thenetwork access devices 110 may be coupled to theaccess point 210 over a wire (e.g., Ethernet, USB, firewire). - The
access point 210 is a device that couples thenetwork access devices 110 to thenetwork 130. Theaccess point 210 may comprise a base station, router, hub, or switch. In one example, theaccess point 210 is a router (wire or wireless) installed within a business (e.g., coffee shop) or location (e.g., city park) that allows users of thenetwork access device 110 access to the network 110 (e.g., a hotspot). Although theaccess point 210 is shown directly coupled to thenetwork 130, alternatively, theaccess point 210 may be coupled to thenetwork 130 via a service provider 120 (FIG. 1 ). In other embodiments, theaccess point 210 is, or is a part of, theservice provider 120. Theaccess point 210 may comprise hardware, software, or firmware - In one embodiment, when the
access point 210 is installed, theaccess point 210 negotiates an IP address from theservice provider 120. As anetwork access device 110 seeks network access, the network access device provides theaccess point 210 its device identifier such as a MAC address. Theaccess point 210 may be configured to authenticate the MAC address and assign an IP address to allow thenetwork access device 110 access to thenetwork 130 through theaccess point 210. - The
access point 210 directs the device identifier as well as access information to theCR server 150. Access information may comprise any information associated with the device identifier. In one embodiment, the access information identifies theaccess point 210, such as with an IP address or other identifier. The access information may also comprise information identifying the date and time thenetwork access device 110 sought access, a type of business that is operating theaccess point 210, and/or the amount charged to the user of thenetwork access device 110 for service. In other embodiments, a router between theaccess point 210 and thenetwork 130 is configured to direct the device identifier and access information to the CR server 105. - The
CR server 150 is configured to receive the device identifier and the access information from theaccess point 210. The device identifier and access information is then stored within a record. The record tracks the device identifier and access information. Additionally, the record may store any other kind of information associated with the device identifier. - In exemplary embodiments, when the user visits a web site of a
content provider 140, the user will see directed media on portions of a web page. In some embodiments, the directed media is targeted advertisement. Alternatively, the directed media may comprise targeted audio, video, coupons, or other media tailored to the interests/preferences of the user. The directed media is typically located on particular portions of the content provider's web page (e.g., in a banner ad location). - In some embodiments, the directed media is placed on the content provider's web page via the
media server 220. Themedia server 220 works in connection with theCR server 150 to determine the directed media to provide each user. Themedia server 220 is further associated with thecollateral 250 which produces the media and theagency 240 which creates the media based on requirements of theproduct owner 230. For example, soda company X (product owner 230) may hire an ad agency (agency 240) to design an advertisement (media) for theproduct owner 230. Theagency 240 may work with a web advertisement designer (collateral 250) to create the media. The media is then stored in themedia server 220 until it is served to the user via the web page of thecontent provider 140. In some embodiments, the media comprises a media profile tag which identifies the type of user to which the media should be directed/targeted. More than one media profile tag may be associated with a media. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , theexemplary CR server 150 is shown in more detail. In one embodiment, theCR server 150 comprises a profile engine 310, aninformation collection engine 320, astorage system 330, amedia selection optimizer 340, and acommunication network module 350 all coupled via acommunication bus 360. Thecommunication network module 350 communicates with the network 130 (FIG. 1 ) via anetwork link 370. - The profile engine 310 is configured to generate user profiles based on characteristics associated with the user and the user's network access device 110 (
FIG. 1 ). Each user profile may comprise one or more device identifiers (of the network access devices 110), access information, device histories, and any other information associated with thenetwork access devices 110 or device identifier. Each user profile identifies a user (indirectly via thenetwork access device 110 the user is using) through the current IP address and device identifier (or other information) associated with thenetwork access device 110. In some embodiments, the device identifier is a MAC address. In other embodiments, the device identifier is an IMSI or IMEI. In yet further embodiments, the device identifier may comprise a unique identifier of software or hardware present on thenetwork access device 110. - The profile engine 310 can further customize the user profile based on individual characteristics, preferences, and habits of the user of a particular
network access device 110. For example, if the user repeatedly accesses thenetwork 130 with the samenetwork access device 110 through anaccess point 210 at a particular coffee shop, the user profile associated with the device identifier may indicate that the user has a preference for the coffee shop. As a result, the user profile may indicate that the user prefers coffee or a particular coffee shop. - The profile engine 310 can also incorporate group characteristics into the user profile. That is, the user profile may include one or more group identifiers indicating a group type that the user is associated with. For example, a group identifier may be included in the user profile covering a group of users of a particular gender and age living in a specific city and having similar hobbies (e.g., male between 18-30 in the San Francisco area who enjoy baseball). Alternatively, a plurality of group identifiers may be used to identify groupings the user may be associated with. That is, for example, one group identifier may indicate the gender and age, while a second group identifier may indicate the city, and the third group identifier indicates a hobby. Alternatively, other combinations of characteristics and group identifier may be used (e.g, a single group identifier to indicate gender, age, and location).
- In some embodiments, the user profiles collectively identify general trends. For example, a high number of users may be male within a certain range of ages and seek network access within a specific football stadium. As a result, a group identifier may be generated for males within the age range that prefer football. Other group identifier may be generated as well, such as a group identifier for males who prefer sports, or a group identifier that associates users within an age range and sports.
- In another embodiment, predetermined group identifier may be generated and utilized by the profile engine 310. For example a soft drink company may wish to direct advertisements to a certain demographics. A group identifier can be generated that corresponds to that demographic and user profiles that fall into the demographics will include this group identifier. The generation of the user profile is described in detail in U.S. application Ser. No. ______, entitled “Developing Customer Relationships with a Network Access Point,” which is incorporated by reference.
- It should be noted that embodiments of the present invention allow the user to modify or update the user profile associated with their
network access device 110. Additionally, the user may block or hide some information which the user prefers to remain private (e.g., name or address). - The
information collection engine 320 is configured to receive or obtain information from thenetwork access device 110, theaccess point 210, and any other source of information which may be associated with the user profile, user preferences, and thenetwork access device 110. Theinformation collection engine 320 may be further configured to store the information in thestorage system 330. In some embodiments, the information is stored in a device record. Theinformation collection engine 320 will be discussed in more detail in connection withFIG. 4 . - The
storage system 330 is configured to store the information from thecollection engine 320. Thestorage system 330 may also store user profiles. - The
media selection optimizer 340 is configured to determine a directed media which should be presented to a user. In exemplary embodiments, themedia selection optimizer 340 receives an IP address of anetwork access device 110 that is attempted to access acontent provider 140. Based on the IP address, themedia selection optimizer 340 can determine the associatednetwork access device 110, and retrieve user profile information associated with the network access device 110 (e.g., based on the device identifier). Themedia selection optimizer 340 may also retrieve other information (e.g., access point and location-centric information) via theinformation collection engine 320. Using the retrieved information, themedia selection optimizer 340 performs an analysis to match up the user profile information, user preferences, and group identifiers with access point and location-centric information to determine the most appropriate media or media type that should be directed to thenetwork access device 110 requesting the content from thecontent provider 140. In some embodiments, a media tag identifying the media or media type is forwarded to themedia server 220 or thecontent provider 140. In alternative embodiments, the actual media may be forwarded to themedia server 220 ofcontent provider 140. - The
communication network module 350 is a communication interface for theCR server 150 to thenetwork access devices 110,access point 210,service provider 130,network 130,content providers 140,media server 220, and any other device in thenetwork 130. -
FIG. 4 shows theinformation collection engine 320 in more detail. In some embodiments, theinformation collection engine 320 comprises auser information module 410, an accesspoint information module 420, ahistory module 430, and a location-centric module 440. Alternative embodiments may comprise more, less, or functionally equivalent modules. - The
user information module 410 obtains user information including information associated with thenetwork access device 110. For example, theuser information module 410 may receive the MAC address and IP address of thenetwork access device 110, or any other information which may be obtained from thenetwork access device 110. This information is then stored in thestorage system 330. - The access
point information module 420 obtains information related to theaccess point 210. This information may include the location of theaccess point 210, type of establishment associated with the access point (e.g., a coffee shop, city park, etc.), and any other information which may be obtained from theaccess point 210. - The
history module 430 is configured to collect and maintain historic information regarding anetwork access device 110. For example, every time a same device identifier is received by theCR server 150, a number of times thenetwork 130 is accessed, the correspondingaccess point 210 used, date and time of access, and so forth may be tracked by thehistory module 430. Historical information is then used to establish a pattern for which aspects of the user profile may be developed from. For example, if a user has a history of accessing thenetwork 130 from a particular location at a particular day and time (e.g., corner coffee shop at 10 am every Sunday), thehistory module 430 will record this pattern. The pattern may then be used to assign group identifiers. - The location-centric module 440 is configured to obtain location-centric (local) information associated with a location of the
access point 210. The location-centric information may comprise time, weather, special events, types of businesses located nearby, and any other information related to the location. This information may be obtained from theaccess point 210 or from other sources such as, for example, websites, weather services, and GPS satellites. In some embodiments, the location-centric information may be stored in thestorage system 330. In other embodiments, the location-centric information is constantly updated and thus is not stored in theCR server 150 but obtained when needed. - Referring now to
FIG. 5 , a diagram of an exemplary communication path in the environment ofFIG. 2 is shown. Initially, a user, via anetwork access device 110, accesses thenetwork 130 by way of theaccess point 210 Typically, the user will request access to aparticular content provider 140. This request is sent viacommunication path 510 from theaccess point 210 to thecontent provider 140. The request may also comprise an IP address assigned by theaccess point 210 to thenetwork access device 110. - Once the
content provider 140 receives the request, thecontent provider 140 will forward the IP address to theCR server 150 viacommunication path 520. In some embodiments, the IP address is forwarded through themedia server 220 to theCR server 150. - Based on the IP address, the
CR server 150 can determine the correspondingnetwork access device 110 that is providing the request. In exemplary embodiments, theuser information module 410 receives the device identifier (e.g., MAC address) and the corresponding IP address when thenetwork access device 110 accesses thenetwork 130. Thus, theCR server 150 can determine the particularnetwork access device 110 given the IP address received from thecontent provider 140. - With the device identifier of the
network access device 110, theCR server 150 obtains a corresponding user profile associated with the device identifier. The information collection engine 320 (FIG. 3 ) may also obtain location-centric information associated with theaccess point 210 location along with history information. All of the information is then analyzed by themedia selection optimizer 340 to obtain a media tag or media which is most relevant to present to the requesting user. This media tag or media is provided to themedia server 220 viacommunication path 530. - The
media server 220 then provides the directed media (e.g., associated with the media tag) to thecontent provider 140 viacommunication path 540. In some embodiments, the directed media is an advertisement which is placed in a banner ad location. - The
content provider 140 then provides the requested content to the requesting user viacommunication path 550. The requested content will include the directed media that is tailored to the user profile/preferences of thenetwork access device 110 that the requesting user is utilizing. - It should be noted that the communication paths of
FIG. 5 are exemplary. Alternative embodiments may comprise different paths. For example, themedia server 220 may be embodied within thecontent provider 140. In this situation,communication paths - Referring to
FIG. 6 , aflowchart 600 of an exemplary method for providing directed media to a user is provided. Instep 610, a user accesses the network 130 (FIG. 1 ). In exemplary embodiments, thenetwork 130 is access via anetwork access device 110 by way of the access point 210 (FIG. 2 ). - In
step 620, the user will request access, via thenetwork access device 110, to a particular content provider 140 (FIG. 1 ) This request is sent to thecontent provider 140 through theaccess point 210. In exemplary embodiments, the request is made when a user enters a URL address for thecontent provider 140 of interest. - The request is received by the content provider 140 (step 630). In exemplary embodiments, the request includes an IP address assigned by the
access point 210 to thenetwork access device 110 during thecurrent network 130 access session. The IP address is unique to thenetwork access device 110 and can used to identify the particularnetwork access device 110. - In
step 640, thecontent provider 140 forwards the IP address to theCR server 150. In some embodiments, the IP address is forwarded directly from thecontent provider 140 to theCR server 150. In alternative embodiments, the IP address is first forwarded to themedia server 220, which then forwards the IP address to theCR server 150. - Media selection is then optimized in
step 650 for thenetwork access device 110 associated with the IP address. The optimization analyzes a user profile,access point 210 information, and location-centric information to determine a directed media component that is most relevant for the user. Step 650 will be discussed in more detail in connection withFIG. 7 . - The directed media component is sent to the
media server 220 instep 660. In some embodiments, the directed media component is a media tag that indicates the media or type of media that should be provided to the user. For example, the media tag may indicate that an advertisement that is directed to a male between 18-30 who likes baseball should be provided. Themedia server 220 may comprise a plurality of media that is code with corresponding media profile tags. Themedia server 220 can then take the optimized media tag from theCR server 150 and select a media having the same corresponding media profile tag. - In other embodiments, the directed media component is the directed media, itself. For example, if the user profile indicates that the user is a male between 18-30, the temperature is over 80° (location-centric information), and it's near noon time (location-centric information), then an advertisement (directed media) from Coke® will be provided. It should be noted that
step 660 is optional. - In
step 670, the directed media is placed onto the requested web page from thecontent provider 140, and the requested page is provided to the user. In exemplary embodiments, the directed media is positioned in a portion of the web page, such as in a banner ad location. The directed media may comprise a static or dynamic advertisement, a video, music, or any other form of media which may be customized to a user based on the user profile and preferences. - It should be noted that the method of
FIG. 6 is exemplary. Alternative embodiments may comprise more, less, or different ordered steps and still be within the scope of embodiments of the present invention. For example, step 660 may be optional. That is, the directed media is provided by theCR server 150 directly to thecontent provider 140. In another example, the directed media component may be sent directly to thecontent provider 140. In this example, thecontent provider 140 comprises a media database and/or server component(s) that contain media which can be provided on the requested web page based on the received directed media component (e.g., media tag). - Referring now to
FIG. 7 , an exemplary flowchart of the exemplary method for optimizing selection of the directed media (step 650) is provided. Instep 710, theCR server 150 uses the received IP address (from step 640) to obtain the corresponding user profile information. In one embodiment, the user information module 410 (FIG. 4 ) receives both the device identifier (e.g., MAC address) and the IP address of thenetwork access device 110 when the user first accesses thenetwork 130. Based on the IP address received from thecontent provider 140, the CR server 150 (e.g., the media selection optimizer 340) can determine the corresponding device identifier and retrieve the user profile associated with the device identifier from thestorage system 330. - In
step 720, the accesspoint information module 420 obtains current access point information. The access point information may comprise the location of theaccess point 210, type of establishment associated with the access point (e.g., a coffee shop, city park, etc.), and any other information which may be obtained from theaccess point 210. - Historic information is obtained by the
history module 430 instep 730. Historic information may comprise information such as a number of times thenetwork 130 is accessed by thenetwork access device 110, the correspondingaccess point 210 used, date and time of access, and so forth which may be tracked by thehistory module 430. Historic information is then used to establish a pattern for which aspects of the user profile may be developed from. For example, if a user has a history of accessing thenetwork 130 from a particular location at a particular day and time (e.g., corner coffee shop at 10 am every Sunday), thehistory module 430 will record this pattern, and recall the information when requested by themedia selection optimizer 340. - In
step 730, location-centric information is obtained via the location-centric module 440. The location-centric information may comprise time, weather, special events, types of businesses located nearby, and any other information related to the location. This information may be obtained from theaccess point 210 or from other sources such as, for example, websites, weather services, and GPS satellites. In some embodiments, the local information may be stored in thestorage system 330. In other embodiments, the local information is constantly updated and thus is not stored in theCR server 150 but obtained when needed in real-time. - The user profile information along with any relevant access point information, history information, and/or location-centric information is utilized by the
media selection optimizer 340 to determine a directed media component instep 740. The directed media component may be a media tag or directed media which is most relevant to present to the requesting user. - In exemplary embodiment, the analysis performed by the
media selection optimizer 340 takes into consideration the user profile which includes user preferences. The user profile will indicate such information as gender, age range, general location (e.g., city of residence or work), preferred access locations (which may be determined by thehistory module 430 and stored in the user profile), and other preferences. In some embodiments, themedia selection optimizer 340 can determine a directed media component based solely on the preferences in the user profile. For example, the user profile may show the user to be male between 18-30 who lives in San Francisco and likes baseball. Based on this user profile, themedia selection optimizer 340 may determine that the optimized media should pertain to baseball related (and possibly team specific) media. A corresponding directed media component is then assigned. - In further embodiments, access point, historical, and/or location-centric information may also be included in the analysis by the
media selection optimizer 340. For example, the user profile will indicate that the user is male between 18-30 who lives in San Francisco. The access point information may indicate that the user is accessing thenetwork 130 from the baseball stadium. The location-centric information will indicate that it is 80° at the stadium and that it is noon (and thus lunchtime). Themedia selection optimizer 340, in this example, will factor in the access point and location-centric information to determine that the optimized media should be an advertisement for Coke® since it is a hot day at the ballpark, and the user will likely be getting lunch soon from one of the food vendors (who sells Coke® products). In a less specific example, the directed media component will determine that a soda or food advertisement should be presented. - In an alternative example, the location-centric information may indicate that the baseball team just qualified for post-season playoffs. Based on this new location-centric information, the
media selection optimizer 340 may generate a new directed media component that indicates that an advertisement or coupon for purchase of post-season playoff tickets should be presented to the user. A second media component may be generated that offers the user an opportunity to purchase playoff products such as t-shirts and caps, and direct the user to the store across the street from the stadium (i.e.,current access point 210 location). Thus, themedia selection optimizer 340 may provide more than one directed media component. In some embodiments, the web page from thecontent provider 140 comprises more than one location for media. In these embodiments, more than one directed media can be provided to the user simultaneously. - It should be noted that the steps of
FIG. 7 are exemplary. Alternative embodiments may comprise the steps ofFIG. 7 in a different order, or one or more steps (e.g., 720, 730, and 740) may be optional. - While exemplary embodiments were discussed above with reference to using an unique IP address to identify the
network access device 110, further embodiments may utilize other unique access information in addition to, or instead of, the IP address. For example, unique browser information, operating system information, or cookie information may be provided by thenetwork access device 110 in the request for access to a web page of thecontent provider 140. Examples of browser information include, but are not limited to, browser version, browser type, installation date of browser, and session identifiers. Examples of operating system information include, but are not limited to, operating system version, operating system type, and date of operating version installation. - The present invention has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made and other embodiments can be used without departing from the broader scope of the invention. Therefore, these and other variations upon the exemplary embodiments are intended to be covered by the present invention.
Claims (2)
1. A method for providing directed media to a user on a network, comprising:
retrieving user profile information based on a device identifier associated with a user profile; and
analyzing the retrieved information to determine a directed media component.
2-20. (canceled)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/632,743 US20100082775A1 (en) | 2005-05-12 | 2009-12-07 | Directed Media Based On User Preferences |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US68060405P | 2005-05-12 | 2005-05-12 | |
US11/433,063 US7657594B2 (en) | 2005-05-12 | 2006-05-12 | Directed media based on user preferences |
US12/632,743 US20100082775A1 (en) | 2005-05-12 | 2009-12-07 | Directed Media Based On User Preferences |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/433,063 Continuation US7657594B2 (en) | 2005-05-12 | 2006-05-12 | Directed media based on user preferences |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20100082775A1 true US20100082775A1 (en) | 2010-04-01 |
Family
ID=37431898
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/433,063 Active - Reinstated US7657594B2 (en) | 2005-05-12 | 2006-05-12 | Directed media based on user preferences |
US12/632,743 Abandoned US20100082775A1 (en) | 2005-05-12 | 2009-12-07 | Directed Media Based On User Preferences |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/433,063 Active - Reinstated US7657594B2 (en) | 2005-05-12 | 2006-05-12 | Directed media based on user preferences |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US7657594B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1886224A4 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2008541277A (en) |
CN (1) | CN101248424A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006124570A2 (en) |
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100202441A1 (en) * | 2007-08-21 | 2010-08-12 | Deutsche Telekom Ag | Method and apparatus for the user-specific configuration of a communications port |
US20100280892A1 (en) * | 2009-04-30 | 2010-11-04 | Alcatel-Lucent Usa Inc. | Method and system for targeted offers to mobile users |
US20110106930A1 (en) * | 2009-10-30 | 2011-05-05 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Apparatus and method for accessing a network in a wireless terminal |
US20140010149A1 (en) * | 2012-07-05 | 2014-01-09 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Multi-service Provider Wireless Access Point |
US20150067505A1 (en) * | 2013-08-28 | 2015-03-05 | Yahoo! Inc. | System And Methods For User Curated Media |
CN104838370A (en) * | 2012-11-27 | 2015-08-12 | 脸谱公司 | Transmission of notifications to multiple devices associated with a user |
WO2016081014A1 (en) * | 2014-11-21 | 2016-05-26 | Facebook, Inc. | Techniques to associate user data with a mobile device |
US9392641B2 (en) | 2012-07-05 | 2016-07-12 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Multi-service provider wireless access point |
US9723463B2 (en) | 2010-10-25 | 2017-08-01 | Nokia Technologies Oy | Method and apparatus for a device identifier based solution for user identification |
US9973910B1 (en) * | 2017-04-10 | 2018-05-15 | Sprint Communications Company L.P. | Mobile content distribution system |
US10142023B2 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2018-11-27 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Antenna system and methods for wireless optical network termination |
Families Citing this family (85)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100004980A1 (en) * | 2006-01-20 | 2010-01-07 | Berkley Bowen | Systems and methods for managing product and consumer information |
US8055544B2 (en) * | 2006-06-02 | 2011-11-08 | Cobalt Group, Inc. | Source- and venue-specific inventory data processing and identification system |
US20070283268A1 (en) * | 2006-06-06 | 2007-12-06 | Berger Adam L | Advertising delivery |
US7761558B1 (en) * | 2006-06-30 | 2010-07-20 | Google Inc. | Determining a number of users behind a set of one or more internet protocol (IP) addresses |
US20080108308A1 (en) * | 2006-09-14 | 2008-05-08 | Shah Ullah | Methods and systems for using mobile device specific identifiers and short-distance wireless protocols to manage, secure and target content |
US10839403B2 (en) | 2006-12-28 | 2020-11-17 | Ebay Inc. | Contextual content publishing system and method |
US20090282468A1 (en) * | 2007-01-04 | 2009-11-12 | Feeva Technology Inc. | Systems and methods of network operation and information processing, including use of persistent/anonymous identifiers throughout all stages of information processing and delivery |
JP4894550B2 (en) * | 2007-02-19 | 2012-03-14 | 富士通株式会社 | Content distribution system, server apparatus, and content distribution method |
WO2008104631A1 (en) * | 2007-02-28 | 2008-09-04 | Novucell Oy | Method and system for providing information on services |
US8862747B2 (en) * | 2007-03-10 | 2014-10-14 | Bridge And Post, Inc. | Method and apparatus for tagging network traffic using extensible fields in message headers |
US8566164B2 (en) | 2007-12-31 | 2013-10-22 | Intent IQ, LLC | Targeted online advertisements based on viewing or interacting with television advertisements |
US8091087B2 (en) * | 2007-04-20 | 2012-01-03 | Microsoft Corporation | Scheduling of new job within a start time range based on calculated current load and predicted load value of the new job on media resources |
US9003488B2 (en) | 2007-06-06 | 2015-04-07 | Datavalet Technologies | System and method for remote device recognition at public hotspots |
US20140355592A1 (en) | 2012-11-01 | 2014-12-04 | Datavalet Technologies | System and method for wireless device detection, recognition and visit profiling |
US20200162890A1 (en) * | 2007-06-06 | 2020-05-21 | Datavalet Technologies | System and method for wireless device detection, recognition and visit profiling |
KR20100057028A (en) * | 2007-08-08 | 2010-05-28 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Method and system for managing user preference profiles in a network |
US9323247B2 (en) * | 2007-09-14 | 2016-04-26 | Fisher-Rosemount Systems, Inc. | Personalized plant asset data representation and search system |
WO2009057160A2 (en) * | 2007-11-04 | 2009-05-07 | Rajendra Kumar Khare | Method to enable secure and smooth transactions using mobile communication devices |
GB2454868A (en) * | 2007-11-13 | 2009-05-27 | Trustive B V | Wireless content distribution and advertising |
US20090168995A1 (en) * | 2007-11-26 | 2009-07-02 | Banga Jasminder S | Systems and Methods of Information/Network Processing Consistent with Creation, Encryption and/or Insertion of UIDs/Tags |
US8732170B2 (en) | 2007-11-27 | 2014-05-20 | Zettics, Inc. | Method and apparatus for real-time multi-dimensional reporting and analyzing of data on application level activity and other user information on a mobile data network |
US8589974B2 (en) * | 2008-01-16 | 2013-11-19 | Cisco Technology, Inc. | Electronic advertising using distributed demographics |
US8682960B2 (en) | 2008-03-14 | 2014-03-25 | Nokia Corporation | Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for providing filtered services and content based on user context |
US20090247193A1 (en) * | 2008-03-26 | 2009-10-01 | Umber Systems | System and Method for Creating Anonymous User Profiles from a Mobile Data Network |
CN102203765B (en) * | 2008-08-26 | 2014-05-28 | 美迪亚斯坦普有限责任公司 | Uniquely identifying network-distributed devices without explicitly provided device or user identifying information |
US8438310B2 (en) * | 2008-10-01 | 2013-05-07 | Adp Dealer Services, Inc. | Systems and methods for configuring a website having a plurality of operational modes |
US8051159B2 (en) * | 2008-10-01 | 2011-11-01 | The Cobalt Group, Inc. | Systems and methods for configuring a network of affiliated websites |
US20100114968A1 (en) * | 2008-10-22 | 2010-05-06 | Robert Dean | System for communication of attendee data |
US9113342B1 (en) * | 2008-11-25 | 2015-08-18 | Dominic M. Kotab | Methods for determining and displaying a local page for a mobile device and systems thereof |
WO2010104690A1 (en) | 2009-03-13 | 2010-09-16 | Simulmedia, Inc. | Method and apparatus for television program promotion |
TW201132085A (en) * | 2009-04-22 | 2011-09-16 | Koninkl Philips Electronics Nv | Systems and apparatus for light-based social communications |
US9729467B2 (en) * | 2009-05-12 | 2017-08-08 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Method and apparatus for managing congestion in a wireless system |
US8468271B1 (en) | 2009-06-02 | 2013-06-18 | Juniper Networks, Inc. | Providing privacy within computer networks using anonymous cookies |
US20100332319A1 (en) * | 2009-06-24 | 2010-12-30 | Craig Stephen Etchegoyen | Methods and Systems for Dynamic Serving of Advertisements in a Game or Virtual Reality Environment |
EP2454897A1 (en) * | 2009-07-17 | 2012-05-23 | Boldstreet Inc. | Hotspot network access system and method |
US20130054729A1 (en) * | 2009-11-06 | 2013-02-28 | Sharad Jaiswal | System and method for pre-fetching and caching content |
CN102143439A (en) * | 2010-01-29 | 2011-08-03 | 郭春龙 | System and method for delivering personalized information |
EP2398210B1 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2016-11-16 | Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. | Targeted mobile advertising via user proxy at femto AP |
KR101405452B1 (en) * | 2010-10-13 | 2014-06-12 | 한국전자통신연구원 | Method and apparatus for network connection by human interaction |
US9569595B2 (en) * | 2010-10-15 | 2017-02-14 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Dynamic mobile streaming application suppression |
US9143881B2 (en) * | 2010-10-25 | 2015-09-22 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Providing interactive services to enhance information presentation experiences using wireless technologies |
JP5854286B2 (en) * | 2010-11-15 | 2016-02-09 | 日本電気株式会社 | Behavior information collecting device and behavior information transmitting device |
CA2821970A1 (en) * | 2010-12-14 | 2012-06-21 | Soorena Salari | Apparatus, system, and method for a micro commerce ad |
US10482475B2 (en) | 2011-02-10 | 2019-11-19 | Adp Dealer Services, Inc. | Systems and methods for providing targeted advertising |
US9106709B2 (en) * | 2011-09-22 | 2015-08-11 | Opera Software Asa | Server side mobile audience intelligence creation |
KR101822017B1 (en) * | 2011-10-11 | 2018-03-08 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Apparatas and method for collective discount region in a portable terminal |
US9600834B2 (en) * | 2011-10-26 | 2017-03-21 | Yahoo! Inc. | Aggregating data from multiple devices belonging to one user for directed ad targeting |
WO2013089259A1 (en) * | 2011-12-13 | 2013-06-20 | 日本電気株式会社 | Information collection device, system, method, and program |
CN106921971B (en) * | 2012-04-01 | 2020-12-04 | 华为技术有限公司 | Method, device and system for wireless application |
US9400320B2 (en) | 2012-04-04 | 2016-07-26 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Methods and apparatus for efficient transport and management of a positioning and timing almanac |
US9930037B2 (en) | 2012-05-22 | 2018-03-27 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Encrypting a unique identification header to create different transactional identifiers |
CN102739776A (en) * | 2012-05-31 | 2012-10-17 | 北京奇艺世纪科技有限公司 | Method, device and system for revealing information |
US9261989B2 (en) | 2012-09-13 | 2016-02-16 | Google Inc. | Interacting with radial menus for touchscreens |
US9203838B2 (en) * | 2012-10-31 | 2015-12-01 | Google Inc. | Providing network access to a device associated with a user account |
US9634726B2 (en) | 2012-11-02 | 2017-04-25 | Google Inc. | Seamless tethering setup between phone and laptop using peer-to-peer mechanisms |
US20140214671A1 (en) * | 2013-01-31 | 2014-07-31 | Mahi deSilva | Server side mobile payment processing and authentication |
US11080734B2 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2021-08-03 | Cdk Global, Llc | Pricing system for identifying prices for vehicles offered by vehicle dealerships and other entities |
CN103718517A (en) * | 2013-04-25 | 2014-04-09 | 华为技术有限公司 | Information publishment method, device and network system |
US20140379911A1 (en) * | 2013-06-21 | 2014-12-25 | Gfi Software Ip S.A.R.L. | Network Activity Association System and Method |
US9794984B2 (en) | 2013-09-17 | 2017-10-17 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Techniques for utilizing access point vicinity information |
US10554760B2 (en) * | 2013-09-29 | 2020-02-04 | Xiaomi Inc. | Method and networking equipment for acquiring feature information |
US10375198B2 (en) * | 2014-05-22 | 2019-08-06 | Facebook, Inc. | Daily counts and usage probabilities for a user of an online service |
CN104580397B (en) * | 2014-12-19 | 2018-11-09 | 百度在线网络技术(北京)有限公司 | Page access method and the network equipment |
US9602992B2 (en) | 2015-01-21 | 2017-03-21 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Adding a unique identification header to non-operator network communication |
US9826060B1 (en) * | 2015-02-17 | 2017-11-21 | Amazon Technologies, Inc. | Predictive transmission of digital content |
US9980304B2 (en) | 2015-04-03 | 2018-05-22 | Google Llc | Adaptive on-demand tethering |
US10404532B2 (en) * | 2015-04-10 | 2019-09-03 | Comcast Cable Commnications, LLC | Virtual gateway control and management |
US10200339B2 (en) * | 2015-08-03 | 2019-02-05 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Providing a service to a user device based on a capability of the user device when the user device shares an identifier |
CN106535108B (en) * | 2015-09-10 | 2019-10-18 | 上海连尚网络科技有限公司 | The method and apparatus for seeking information is recruited for providing |
US10949771B2 (en) * | 2016-01-28 | 2021-03-16 | Facebook, Inc. | Systems and methods for churn prediction |
US10853769B2 (en) | 2016-04-21 | 2020-12-01 | Cdk Global Llc | Scheduling an automobile service appointment in a dealer service bay based on diagnostic trouble codes and service bay attributes |
US10332068B2 (en) | 2016-04-21 | 2019-06-25 | Cdk Global, Llc | Systems and methods for stocking an automobile |
US10867285B2 (en) | 2016-04-21 | 2020-12-15 | Cdk Global, Llc | Automatic automobile repair service scheduling based on diagnostic trouble codes and service center attributes |
US10255369B2 (en) * | 2016-07-20 | 2019-04-09 | Oath Inc. | Device identification for multiple device IDS |
US10326858B2 (en) | 2017-05-23 | 2019-06-18 | Cdk Global, Llc | System and method for dynamically generating personalized websites |
CN107835498B (en) * | 2017-10-18 | 2021-01-08 | 上海掌门科技有限公司 | Method and equipment for managing user |
US11190608B2 (en) | 2018-03-21 | 2021-11-30 | Cdk Global Llc | Systems and methods for an automotive commerce exchange |
US11501351B2 (en) | 2018-03-21 | 2022-11-15 | Cdk Global, Llc | Servers, systems, and methods for single sign-on of an automotive commerce exchange |
US11381579B2 (en) * | 2019-03-15 | 2022-07-05 | Yahoo Ad Tech Llc | Identifying fraudulent requests for content |
US12020217B2 (en) | 2020-11-11 | 2024-06-25 | Cdk Global, Llc | Systems and methods for using machine learning for vehicle damage detection and repair cost estimation |
US11080105B1 (en) | 2020-11-18 | 2021-08-03 | Cdk Global, Llc | Systems, methods, and apparatuses for routing API calls |
US11514021B2 (en) | 2021-01-22 | 2022-11-29 | Cdk Global, Llc | Systems, methods, and apparatuses for scanning a legacy database |
US12045212B2 (en) | 2021-04-22 | 2024-07-23 | Cdk Global, Llc | Systems, methods, and apparatuses for verifying entries in disparate databases |
US11803535B2 (en) | 2021-05-24 | 2023-10-31 | Cdk Global, Llc | Systems, methods, and apparatuses for simultaneously running parallel databases |
US11983145B2 (en) | 2022-08-31 | 2024-05-14 | Cdk Global, Llc | Method and system of modifying information on file |
Citations (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7027801B1 (en) * | 2001-02-06 | 2006-04-11 | Nortel Networks Limited | Method delivering location-base targeted advertisements to mobile subscribers |
Family Cites Families (15)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5835061A (en) * | 1995-06-06 | 1998-11-10 | Wayport, Inc. | Method and apparatus for geographic-based communications service |
US20040053999A1 (en) * | 1997-09-17 | 2004-03-18 | Bischofberger Norbert W. | Novel compounds and methods for synthesis and therapy |
US6647257B2 (en) * | 1998-01-21 | 2003-11-11 | Leap Wireless International, Inc. | System and method for providing targeted messages based on wireless mobile location |
US8712848B2 (en) * | 1999-12-08 | 2014-04-29 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Method for distributing advertisements to client devices using an obscured ad monitoring function |
US6434747B1 (en) * | 2000-01-19 | 2002-08-13 | Individual Network, Inc. | Method and system for providing a customized media list |
JP2001222601A (en) * | 2000-02-09 | 2001-08-17 | Nec Corp | System and method for information communication and information providing business method |
US6931254B1 (en) * | 2000-08-21 | 2005-08-16 | Nortel Networks Limited | Personalized presentation system and method |
US7155508B2 (en) * | 2000-09-01 | 2006-12-26 | Yodlee.Com, Inc. | Target information generation and ad server |
US7035653B2 (en) * | 2001-04-13 | 2006-04-25 | Leap Wireless International, Inc. | Method and system to facilitate interaction between and content delivery to users of a wireless communications network |
US7551930B2 (en) * | 2002-05-06 | 2009-06-23 | Nokia Corporation | Location-based services for mobile stations using short range wireless technology |
JP4039234B2 (en) * | 2002-12-25 | 2008-01-30 | ソニー株式会社 | Solid-state imaging device and charge transfer method thereof |
EP1687766A4 (en) * | 2003-07-24 | 2010-07-28 | Zoltan Pal | Method for accessing a packet-switched network financed by a provider for electronic trade and payment and for running a telecommunication system based on a partnership bonus principle |
US10417298B2 (en) * | 2004-12-02 | 2019-09-17 | Insignio Technologies, Inc. | Personalized content processing and delivery system and media |
US20060059044A1 (en) * | 2004-09-14 | 2006-03-16 | Chan Wesley T | Method and system to provide advertisements based on wireless access points |
US7499418B2 (en) * | 2005-04-20 | 2009-03-03 | Motorola, Inc. | Method and apparatus for signaling ad-hoc group of mobile units |
-
2006
- 2006-05-12 EP EP06759656A patent/EP1886224A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2006-05-12 JP JP2008511392A patent/JP2008541277A/en active Pending
- 2006-05-12 WO PCT/US2006/018401 patent/WO2006124570A2/en active Application Filing
- 2006-05-12 CN CNA2006800256613A patent/CN101248424A/en active Pending
- 2006-05-12 US US11/433,063 patent/US7657594B2/en active Active - Reinstated
-
2009
- 2009-12-07 US US12/632,743 patent/US20100082775A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7027801B1 (en) * | 2001-02-06 | 2006-04-11 | Nortel Networks Limited | Method delivering location-base targeted advertisements to mobile subscribers |
Cited By (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10142023B2 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2018-11-27 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Antenna system and methods for wireless optical network termination |
US20100202441A1 (en) * | 2007-08-21 | 2010-08-12 | Deutsche Telekom Ag | Method and apparatus for the user-specific configuration of a communications port |
US20100280892A1 (en) * | 2009-04-30 | 2010-11-04 | Alcatel-Lucent Usa Inc. | Method and system for targeted offers to mobile users |
US20110106930A1 (en) * | 2009-10-30 | 2011-05-05 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Apparatus and method for accessing a network in a wireless terminal |
US8621055B2 (en) * | 2009-10-30 | 2013-12-31 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd | Apparatus and method for accessing a network in a wireless terminal |
US9723463B2 (en) | 2010-10-25 | 2017-08-01 | Nokia Technologies Oy | Method and apparatus for a device identifier based solution for user identification |
US9497800B2 (en) * | 2012-07-05 | 2016-11-15 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Multi-service provider wireless access point |
US10462846B2 (en) | 2012-07-05 | 2019-10-29 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Multi-service provider wireless access point |
US9392641B2 (en) | 2012-07-05 | 2016-07-12 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Multi-service provider wireless access point |
US9872339B2 (en) | 2012-07-05 | 2018-01-16 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Multi-service provider wireless access point |
US20140010149A1 (en) * | 2012-07-05 | 2014-01-09 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Multi-service Provider Wireless Access Point |
US9743462B2 (en) | 2012-07-05 | 2017-08-22 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Multi-service provider wireless access point |
US20170311382A1 (en) * | 2012-07-05 | 2017-10-26 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Multi-service Provider Wireless Access Point |
US10136470B2 (en) * | 2012-07-05 | 2018-11-20 | Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc | Multi-service provider wireless access point |
CN104838370A (en) * | 2012-11-27 | 2015-08-12 | 脸谱公司 | Transmission of notifications to multiple devices associated with a user |
US20150067505A1 (en) * | 2013-08-28 | 2015-03-05 | Yahoo! Inc. | System And Methods For User Curated Media |
US11244022B2 (en) * | 2013-08-28 | 2022-02-08 | Verizon Media Inc. | System and methods for user curated media |
CN107534689A (en) * | 2014-11-21 | 2018-01-02 | 脸谱公司 | The technology associated using user data with mobile device |
US9554267B2 (en) | 2014-11-21 | 2017-01-24 | Facebook, Inc. | Techniques to associate user data with a mobile device |
WO2016081014A1 (en) * | 2014-11-21 | 2016-05-26 | Facebook, Inc. | Techniques to associate user data with a mobile device |
US9973910B1 (en) * | 2017-04-10 | 2018-05-15 | Sprint Communications Company L.P. | Mobile content distribution system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US7657594B2 (en) | 2010-02-02 |
US20060265507A1 (en) | 2006-11-23 |
WO2006124570A3 (en) | 2007-08-30 |
JP2008541277A (en) | 2008-11-20 |
EP1886224A4 (en) | 2010-02-03 |
WO2006124570A2 (en) | 2006-11-23 |
CN101248424A (en) | 2008-08-20 |
EP1886224A2 (en) | 2008-02-13 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7657594B2 (en) | Directed media based on user preferences | |
US11836759B2 (en) | Computer systems programmed to perform condition-based methods of directing electronic profile-based advertisements for display in ad space | |
US20060271690A1 (en) | Developing customer relationships with a network access point | |
US20080263633A1 (en) | Systems and Methods of Network Operation and Information Processing, Including Data Acquisition, Processing and Provision and/or Interoperability Features | |
US20080262901A1 (en) | Systems and Method of Network Operation and Information Processing, Including Data Acquisition, Processing and Provision, Including Data Acquisition, Processing and Provision and/or Interoperability Features | |
US8402163B2 (en) | Target advertising to a specific user offered through an intermediary internet service provider, server or wireless network | |
US9058340B1 (en) | Service for associating network users with profiles | |
US8700603B2 (en) | Computerized system and method for advanced advertising | |
US20130346604A1 (en) | Passive Parameter Based Demographics Generation | |
US20060059044A1 (en) | Method and system to provide advertisements based on wireless access points | |
US20080235351A1 (en) | Apparatus, Systems and Methods for Targeted Content Delivery | |
US20090132559A1 (en) | Behavioral segmentation using isp-collected behavioral data | |
US20060259359A1 (en) | Method of monetizing networks | |
US20090144159A1 (en) | Advertisement Insertion Module and Advertisement Replacement Module | |
WO2000023864A2 (en) | Method of selecting and transmitting advertisements in a wireless network based on the user's demographics and location | |
US20110055915A1 (en) | Methods of providing digital content tailored to users of private networks within a protected virtual environment | |
US20090281893A1 (en) | Method, Apparatus and Computer Program Product for Managing Advertising | |
US7734570B2 (en) | Collaborative linking system with bi-directed variable granularity search engine | |
US20140173418A1 (en) | Method and a tool for configuring an object | |
US20020065920A1 (en) | Host site based internet traffic meter | |
WO2009087613A2 (en) | Privacy-protecting consumer profiling and recommendation | |
WO2009067461A1 (en) | Service for mapping ip addresses to user segments |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |