×

Method and apparatus for providing group calls via the internet

  • US 6,865,540 B1
  • Filed: 08/09/2000
  • Issued: 03/08/2005
  • Est. Priority Date: 08/09/2000
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A method comprising:

  • displaying a service provider and a service provider rate for communicating with the service provider and a real-time indication of whether the service provider is currently providing information;

    receiving a request from a first customer to communicate with the service provider;

    connecting the first customer to the service provider through a link capable of transmitting from the service provider to the first customer;

    receiving a request from a second customer to communicate with the service provider;

    connecting the second customer to the service provider through a link capable of transmitting from the service provider to the second customer while the first customer is coupled to the service provider such that any information conveyed to the second customer is conveyed to the first customer;

    billing the first customer automatically based on the time during which the link to the first customer is maintained; and

    billing the second customer automatically based on the time during which the link to the second customer is maintained.

View all claims
  • 29 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×