Method and system for accessing wireless account information

Abstract

A method for managing wireless account information. A list of applications is presented via a web interface on a computing device. The applications are operable to run on a wireless handheld device and a plurality of billing options are presented. In response to receiving a selection of an application, a wireless account is updated via a link between a web account and a wireless account according to the selected application, such that the selected application is available when a wireless account is accessed via a wireless handheld device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]Embodiments of the present invention relate to the field of wireless communication systems. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate to a method and system for accessing wireless account information.BACKGROUND ART[0002]The widespread increase in the number of wireless devices has increased the demand and the corresponding opportunity for businesses to provide applications, content, and services for various wireless devices.[0003]The limited abilities of wireless devices further complicate otherwise simple tasks. Unfortunately, most wireless devices are plagued by small screens and small or limited keypads which make it cumbersome and difficult to type information. Users often identify themselves to a resource via a username and password, however on a wireless device the entry of a username and password can be a lengthy process. Further, purchases, such as software or applications, are likewise complicated by the limited interfaces of wirele...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010]In this manner, embodiments of the present invention relieve users of having to use the limited interfaces of wireless devices to purchase applications, services and content because a web interface allows use of a computer to conduct the transactions in ways familiar to users. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention allow billing to be conducted independent of the carrier's billing platform and thus, in a flexible manner. Thus, software vendors and developers are relieved of having to tailor billing systems to each carriers billing platform.

Problems solved by technology

The limited abilities of wireless devices further complicate otherwise simple tasks.

Unfortunately, most wireless devices are plagued by small screens and small or limited keypads which make it cumbersome and difficult to type information.

Users often identify themselves to a resource via a username and password, however on a wireless device the entry of a username and password can be a lengthy process.

Further, purchases, such as software or applications, are likewise complicated by the limited interfaces of wireless devices.

For example, if a user wishes to purchase an application, it can quickly become time consuming and frustrating for a user to enter billing information such as a credit card and billing address via a 10 digit keypad of most cellular phones.

Moreover, some wireless devices lack the resources necessary to create secure connections needed for safe and secure purchases.

For example, a billing platform may not support recurring billing.

Such a lack of support may run counter to a software vendor's business model.

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