The present invention relates to a communication device, which preferably but not exclusively, is configured to provide the user with a portable alarm.

Hereto, people who are concerned about safety or potential threatening behaviour from other people may carry an alarm or other means of defending themselves from attack. An example is an alarm designed to generate a loud noise for attracting the attention of passers-by or a spray canister containing a noxious substance for spraying towards attackers.

The present invention seeks to provide an improved solution.

The present invention provides a communication device comprising: a communication unit for communicating with one or more remotely located second communication devices over a communication network, a user interface operable by a user for initiating an alert, a control unit for generating an alert message when an alert is initiated for transmitting to one or more selected second communication devices by the communication unit, wherein the control unit is configured so that following transmission of an alert message the control unit connects the first communication device with a said second communication device over the

communication network when the second communication device sends a connection request to the first communication device without operation of the first

communication device by the user.

In one embodiment, the primary communication device can be a specially configured mobile phone (or cell phone) and in another embodiment, the primary communication device can be a bespoke communication device without necessarily possessing typical mobile phone functionality.

In the case of the former embodiment, the mobile phone may have a first condition having typical mobile phone functionality such as the ability to make a connection over a communications network for transmission of audio or video communications with one or more second communication devices (e.g. a telephone or video call). Also in the first condition, the mobile phone is capable of transmitting and receiving messages such as SMS messages or multimedia messages. In a second condition, the mobile phone functions as a security device operable by a user for initiating the transmission of an alert message (e.g. an SMS or text message) to one or more second communication devices. In this first condition, when a connection request, or telephone call, is received by a call receiver of the mobile phone, the user has the option of operating the user interface for answering or declining the call. If the user does not operate the user interface, the call will by default not be answered and no connection made over the network. Only if the user accepts the phone call can the user converse with another person over the network.

In a second condition of the mobile phone or with a bespoke device, on receipt of an alert message, one or more of the second communication devices may respond by for example selecting a link in the received text message whereby the second communication device telephones the first communication device. In this example, the first communication device answers the telephone call without any required additional intervention from the user, or operation of the user interface, thereby establishing audio or video transmission between the first and second communication devices. Accordingly, the user of the first device can communicate audio or video content with the user of the second communication device by a single operation of the first communication device. Further, by this single operation, the user of the second communication device can communicate with the first user and people in the vicinity of the first user. The call receiver of the first communication device may be configured to answer a call automatically only if the originating caller is one that was previously sent the alert message. Other calls made to the user will not be answered automatically and may simply be ignored or displayed to the user providing the user with the option of answering the call manually. The alert message may be configured to comprise a prompt which can be selected by operation of said one or more second communication devices and wherein selection of the prompt causes said one or more second communication devices to co-operate with said control unit of the first communication device to establish a connection over the communication network between the first communication device and said one or more second communication devices without operation of the first communication device by the user. The alert message may be in SMS format and the prompt may comprise an identifier unique to the first communication device wherein selection of the identifier causes the second communication device to send a connection request to the first communication device over the communication network. In one embodiment, the first communication device may comprise an acoustic transducer with sufficient amplification to reproduce sound of an intensity to be audible by persons spaced from the communication device (a loud speaker) and wherein the control unit is configured to activate the transducer when the connection is established for reproducing to such persons sound generated by or at said one or more second communication devices and transmitted over the connection. In an example, in response to the first user initiating an alert the voice of the second user is automatically broadcast from the loudspeaker of the first communication device so that the voice can be audible to people local to the first user. In this way, the initiation of an alert when a first user feels threatened allows the second user to communicate directly to those people who are being threatening. In another example, video content generated at the second communication device can be shown by a screen of the first communication device so that the people involved in threatening behaviour can view video content of the second user in addition to or alternatively to the voice of the second user. The first communication device preferably comprises a microphone for receiving sound generated local to the first communication device and wherein the control unit is configured to activate the microphone when the connection is established for transmitting audio content to said one or more second

communication devices over the connection. In one example, the activated microphone transmits the voices of the first user and people local to the first user to the second communication device so that the second user may hold a conversation with the first user or other people.

The first communication device may comprise a display for displaying static images or video content and wherein the control unit is configured to activate the display when the connection is established for displaying static images or video content generated by or at said one or more second communication devices and transmitted over the connection.

The first communication device may comprise a camera for receiving static images or video content local to the first communication device and wherein the control unit is configured to activate the camera when the connection is established for transmission to said one or more second communication devices over the connection.

Preferably, establishing the connection allows two-way communication of sound or image content between the first communication device and a said second communication device so that a user operating the second communication device can communicate with persons local to the first communication device.

In accordance with an additional or alternative aspect of the present invention, the communication unit is configured for uploading data to a server and device comprises a data capture arrangement for capturing audio or visual data local to the communication device, wherein the control unit is configured for activating the data capture unit when an alert is initiated for capturing data generated generally coterminous with the initiation of the alert, the control unit being co-operable with the communication unit for uploading the captured data to the server over the

communication network without operation of the first communication device by the user, and wherein the alert message comprises address data corresponding to the storage address of the captured data on the server.

In one example, the initiation of an alert by a first user causes the first communication device to commence audio or video recording of the scene local to the first user (e.g. a recording of those people engaged in threatening behaviour towards the first user). Periodically, for example every 10 seconds, the recorded video or audio content is transmitted to a remote server for secure storage and for access by one or more second users. The recorded content can be used later as evidence against the threatening individuals and in this regard, the stored data on the server is preferably encrypted to prevent any editing. Additionally, the individuals may be dissuaded from their threatening behaviour if they are aware that it is being recorded and that the stored recording is remote from the first communication device (i.e. taking the first communication device from the first user will not prevent the recording being provided to the police, the court or other relevant organisations). In this regard, the second user to whom an alert message is sent may be one such organisation. The alert message may comprise a link to the uploaded data on the server.

For example, if the alert message is a text message it may comprise a visual link displayed on a second communication device which can be selected by a second user. Selection of the link may direct the second communication device to a website for viewing and listening to the recording of the first user. Particularly although not exclusively in the case where a connection over the communication network has been established between the first and second users, the second user can easily see what is happening to the first user and can at least attempt to dissuade other individuals from any threatening behaviour.

The primary communication device may comprise storage media for at least transiently storing captured data recorded during or following initiation of an alert. The control unit of the communication device may be configured to transmit locally stored data periodically and in one arrangement, the time periods between transmissions may be dependent on the bandwidth available for transmission or user-defined parameters. For example, if the first user is in a location with Wi-Fi capability, the transmissions may take place at short intervals whereas if the user is in a location which requires transmission by cellular network (e.g. the 3G network), the transmissions may be less frequent.

Some mobile phones allow the user to capture audio or image content by operation for storage, replay and uploading to other digital devices. If a user is recording content and a telephone call or message is received, the mobile phone may terminate the recording and provide the user with the option of answering or declining the call. In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to override this operation and to continue recording notwithstanding incoming phone calls or messages. In this way, the recording is not interrupted allowing generally continuous capture of the scene local to the first user. In an additional or alternative aspect of the invention, the first communication device comprises a positioning receiver (such as a GPS unit, or base station location unit) for determining the position of the communication device when an alert is initiated for storage or transmission. The determined position of the communication device may be updated at predetermined intervals or distances. The control unit may be configured to receive from the positioning receiver the or each determined position and to include in the alert message the determined position. In one example, a GPS unit determines that the primary communication unit is in a first location. When an alert is initiated by the first user and an alert message sent to the second user, the alert message may contain the first location or a link to a map showing the first location. In this way, the second user is advised that the first user is sufficiently concerned to raise an alert and the exact location of the first user. The location of the first user can be transmitted together with information for establishing a connection with the second user in accordance with the first aspect of the invention or included in a message directing the second user to a recording at the first location or the message containing the first location can be transmitted in isolation.

As indicated above, the device may be a cellular telephone having a first operative condition as a cellular phone and a second operative condition as a security device, and wherein the control unit is responsive to operation of the user interface differently in the first and second operative conditions. The user interface may comprise a volume button and operation of the volume button in the first operative condition changes the intensity of sound reproduced by a speaker of the phone and operation of the volume button in the second condition initiates an alert. In this regard, and particularly with regard to smart phones, there are relatively few parts of the user interface which are located on the housing of the mobile phone, the volume buttons being one such part of the user interface. The use of the volume buttons to initiate an alert is therefore particularly, although not exclusively, suitable for use with smart phones. In alternative examples, other external buttons may be configured for initiating an alert. The button may be a virtual button shown on a touchscreen for operation by the user. The user interface is configured that initiation of an alert is simple quick procedure, which preferably involves for example a single keystroke or gesture on a touchscreen, or repetitious operation of a key or other button.

The control unit may be configured to receive an input from the user for selecting one of the first operative condition or the second operative condition. In this way, the user can use the communication device as a normal mobile phone and only when it is anticipated that the first user may be in a threatening situation can the first user change from normal operation to the alert mode. The alert mode can be activating by running an application for example on a smartphone, or by pressing a predetermined sequence of buttons on other types of phones. According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of operating a first communication device, comprising: generating an alert message when an alert is initiated by a user operating an interface of the communication device, causing a communication unit to transmit the alert message to one or more remotely located second communication devices over a communication network, without further operation of the first communication device by the user causing a connection to be made between the first communication device and at least one second communication device over the network for the transmission of audio or video content in response to receiving a connection request from the second communication device. According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of operating a communication device in a first condition as a mobile telephone and a second condition as a security device, comprising: a user interface operable by a user for controlling different functions in the first condition and the second condition and allowing selective transfer between conditions; wherein in the second condition the method comprises generating an alert message when an alert is initiated by a user operating the interface, causing a communication unit to transmit the alert message to one or more remotely located second communication devices over a communication network, causing a connection to be made automatically between the first communication device and at least one second communication device over the network for the transmission of audio or video content in response to receiving a telephone call from the second communication device. According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer program product which when installed on a communication device contains instructions for operating the communication device, comprising: generating an alert message when an alert is initiated by a user operating an interface of the

communication device, causing a communication unit to transmit the alert message to one or more remotely located second communication devices over a

communication network, without further operation of the first communication device by the user causing a connection to be made between the first communication device and at least one second communication device over the network for the transmission of audio or video content in response to receiving a connection request from the second communication device.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a tangible computer readable medium comprising code for causing operation of a

communication device to generate an alert message when an alert is initiated by a user operating an interface of the communication device, to cause a communication unit to transmit the alert message to one or more remotely located second

communication devices over a communication network, and without further operation of the first communication device by the user to cause a connection to be made between the first communication device and at least one second communication device over the network for the transmission of audio or video content in response to receiving a connection request from the second communication device.

According to another aspect, there is provided a mobile telephone having a telephone mode in which normal operation of the telephone can be performed and a safety mode in which an alert can be initiated and/ or video or audio data can be captured for transfer to a remote location, comprising: a communication unit for communicating with one or more remotely located second communication devices over a communication network, a user interface operable by a user in the telephone mode for normal operation of the telephone and in the safety mode for initiating an alert and/ or video or audio data captured, the user interface comprising an element responsive to a first operation by a user in the telephone mode for performing normal operation of the telephone and responsive to a second different operation by a user to transfer the telephone from the telephone mode to the safety mode. The first operation may for example be to change the volume at which sound is emitted from an ear piece or speaker or to activate the telephone for use. The second operation may duplicate in the first instance the first operation but additionally comprise repetition of the first operation such as a series of manual operations of the element in a predetermined timed sequence. If the element is a button, whether physical or virtual, the first operation may comprise a single depression of the button whereas the second operation may comprise in one example three quick depressions, a pause and then another depression. The second operation is selected such that it is at least improbable or unlikely that the second operation would be performed deliberately or accidently by the user when the telephone is in normal telephone use.

In another aspect, there is provided a mobile telephone having a telephone mode in which normal telephone operation of the telephone can be performed and a safety mode comprising a safety condition and a concerned or emergency condition, the telephone comprising: a data capture arrangement for capturing audio or visual data local to the mobile telephone, a communication unit configured for uploading the data to one or more remotely located second communication devices over a communication network in the concerned condition or emergency condition, a user interface responsive to operation by a user in the telephone mode for performing normal telephone operation and responsive to operation by a user for transferring the telephone to the safety mode and when in the safety mode for initiating an alert to transfer the telephone from the safety condition to one of the concerned condition or emergency condition, wherein the data capture arrangement is activated when the telephone is transferred to the safety condition to capture said data so that when an alert is initiated the data captured prior to the initiation of the alert can be uploaded to one or more second communication devices in the concerned or emergency conditions.

In examples of this arrangement, a user may anticipate but not immediately be experiencing a threatening or dangerous position. In this case, the safety condition is activated and data capture is commenced and if subsequently a user encounters a threatening situation, image, video or audio data preceding the situation has been recorded and can be uploaded to a third party, for evidence or information. However, if a threatening position does not occur, the captured data is not uploaded, the user does not incur the cost of the upload if costs apply, and the user will not needlessly trouble third parties. For example, a user may be walking home late at night and therefore place the telephone in the safety condition. If the user encounters other people who attempt to commit harm then those people may well have been recorded on video for some time by the user prior to the attempt.

The telephone comprises an internal memory for storing the data captured by the data capture arrangement and a control unit may be provided for causing the data to be uploaded when an alert is initiated.

The control unit may cause data captured over predetermined time intervals to be uploaded in discrete packages when the alert is initiated.

In a further aspect, there is provided a mobile telephone having a telephone mode in which normal telephone operation of the telephone can be performed and a safety mode, the telephone comprising: a data capture arrangement for capturing audio or visual data local to the mobile telephone when in the safety mode, a communication unit configured for communicating the data to one or more remotely located second communication devices or a server over a communication network in the safety mode and for receiving telephone calls or messages over the

communication network from other communication devices in the telephone mode, a user interface operable by a user to transfer the telephone between telephone mode and safety mode, and a control unit for allowing received telephone calls or messages to interrupt operation of the data capture arrangement when in the telephone mode and maintaining operation of the data capture arrangement in the safety mode so that that data being captured when a telephone call or message is received is not interrupted.

Typically, when a mobile telephone is recording video content, the recording is terminated when a telephone call is received. In examples of the invention, video or audio recording is maintained notwithstanding that a telephone call or other type of communication. In other words, the telephone in the safety mode is unresponsive to any unanticipated communication.

The data capture arrangement may comprise a video or sound recorder and the control unit terminates video or sound recording on receiving a telephone call or message in the telephone mode and continues the recording independent of such a telephone call or message in the safety mode.

In another aspect, there is provided a mobile telephone comprising: a communication unit for communicating with one or more remotely located second communication devices over a communication network, a user interface operable by a user for initiating an alert, an internal memory for storing user data corresponding to a physical appearance of a user of the device, a control unit that in response to initiation of an alert causes the communication unit to establish communication with an emergency service over the communication network so that the user can communicate with the emergency service and causes the communication unit to transfer the user data to the emergency service over the network.

In one example, the internal memory is arranged to store image data of the physical appearance of the user and the control unit is arranged to transfer the image data to an emergency service in response to the initiation of an alert. As mobile phones typically have a camera it is a simple process for the user to record their image in the internal memory.

In an alternative arrangement, the user's image may be captured and uploaded in advance to a secure location or database together with an identifier corresponding to the user, and instead of transferring image data to the emergency service, the identifier is transferred so that the emergency service can retrieve the relevant user's image from the secure location.

The provision of the user's image to an emergency service, such as the police, enhances the ability of the emergency service to locate, identify and manage the emergency, for example, by facilitating identification of the user on closed circuit television output, whether by an operative or by face recognition software. The control unit may be arranged to prompt the user to enter into the internal memory image data corresponding to the physical appearance of the user for example when the application software is loaded to the telephone or periodically thereafter to update the user's image when the user's appearance changes over time.

In a still further aspect, there is provided a mobile telephone having a telephone mode in which normal telephone operation of the telephone can be performed and a safety mode in which local data is captured for upload to a remote communication over a communication network, the telephone comprising: a data capture arrangement for capturing audio or visual data local to the mobile telephone when the telephone is transferred to a safety mode, a communication unit configured for uploading the data to one or more remotely located second communication devices over a communication network, a user interface responsive to operation by a user in the telephone mode for performing normal telephone operation and responsive to operation by a user for transferring the telephone to the safety mode, wherein the data capture arrangement is activated when the telephone is transferred to the safety condition to capture said data and is responsive to user operation of the user interface to terminate data capture, and wherein the device comprises an accelerometer responsive to the orientation or change of orientation of the telephone for reactivating data capture by the data capture arrangement.

In order that the present invention may be well understood, some

embodiments thereof, will now be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic representation of first communication device, second communication devices and a communications network;

Figure 2 is a second arrangement representing schematically a first communication device, second communication devices and a communications network; and Figure 3 is a third arrangement representing schematically a first

communication device, second communication devices and a communications network; and

Figure 4 shows a modified communication device and remote user interface thereof.

Referring to Figure 1 ,a primary communication device 10 is shown comprising a communication unit 12 for communicating with one or more remotely located second communication devices 14, 16, 18, 20 over a communication network 22. The primary communication device may be a mobile phone or bespoke

communication device and the communication unit 12 is typically an antenna and with appropriate drive circuitry for wirelessly communicating with the communication network 22. In this example, the communication network can transmit and receive communications wirelessly as indicated by the broken lines extending to

communication devices 10, 14, 16 and by wired connection to communication devices 18, 20. The communication network 22 is arranged to connect

communication devices for the transmission of audio signals between

communication devices (i.e. a telephone call) and to transmit messages from one communication device to another (e.g. SMS or text messages). In some

arrangements, the communication network may be arranged to connect

communication devices for the transmission of video and audio content (i.e. a video call). The communications network may also allow data communication for downloading or uploading content from a device connected to the internet.

The primary communication device 10 comprises a user interface operable by a user for initiating an alert. In one example, an intended purpose is to allow a user of the primary device to initiate alert in a potentially threatening or otherwise hazardous situation. An example of such a situation may be when a user is confronted by a group of individuals whilst walking in an urban environment at night. If the user feels threatened or in danger, they can initiate an alert to provide an increased level of protection. As described in more detail below, the user interface may take the form of any one of a plurality of different arrangements, which may be the volume controls 26 externally mounted to a phone and specially configured for initiating an alert.

The primary communication device 10 further comprises a control unit 26 for generating an alert message when an alert is initiated by a user operating the user interface. The control unit is arranged with the communication unit 12 for transmitting an alert message to one or more selected second communication devices 14, 16, 18, 20 by the communication network 22. The control unit may be a central processing unit of the digital device specially configured for operation in an alert condition. In one example, a user may configure the system by selecting one or more people whom they wish to be alerted, such as friends, family or other trusted individuals or organisations. The contact details (e.g. phone numbers) of the trusted individuals are stored by the first communication device and when an alert is initiated the control unit 26 sends an alert message to the second communication devices of at least one and typically all of the trusted individuals.

The control unit 26 is configured so that following transmission of an alert message the control unit connects the first communication device with a said second communication device over the communication network when the second

communication device sends a connection request to the first communication device without operation of the first communication device by the user. In this way, once an alert has been initiated by a first user no further operation of the primary

communication device is required in order to establish a connection between the primary communication device and second communication devices for the transmission of audio or video content between devices. This arrangement is advantageous in case following the initiation of an alert the ability of the first user to answer a phone call from a second user is compromised for example if the first user is attacked. The call receiver automatically answers a call only if the originator of the call is a selected second user that has previously been sent an alert message, so that other people calling the first user simultaneously do not by mistake become connected to the first device. The alert message is configured to comprise a prompt which can be selected by operation of said one or more second communication devices and wherein selection of the prompt causes said one or more second communication devices to co-operate with said control unit to establish a connection over the communication network between the first communication device and said one or more second communication devices without operation of the first communication device by the user.

In a preferred example, the alert message is in SMS format and the prompt comprises an identifier unique to the first communication device wherein selection of the identifier causes the second communication device to send a connection request to the first communication device over the communication network. The unique identifier may comprise the telephone number of the first user together with an embedded link which when activated causes the second communication device to telephone the first communication device.

The communication device 10 is provided with a loud speaker, or an acoustic transducer, 28 with sufficient amplification to reproduce or broadcast sound of an intensity to be audible by persons spaced from the communication device. Typically, nowadays most mobile phones have a loudspeaker, in addition to an earpiece speaker, capable for use as a speakerphone or playing music etc. The control unit 26 is configured to activate the transducer when a connection is established with one of the second communication devices for reproducing to individuals in the vicinity of the first user sound generated by a second user speaking into a microphone or mouthpiece 32 of the second communication device. In this way, the second user can speak to individuals who may be threatening the first user without the first user operating their mobile phone other than performing the first step of initiating an alert. In a preferred arrangement, the control 26 is configured to increase the volume of the loudspeaker preferably to a maximum output level so that the second user's voice can readily be heard by those individuals.

In order for a two-way conversation to be conducted between the second user and the individuals, the first communication device 10 comprises a microphone, or mouth piece, 30 for receiving sound generated local to the first communication device and wherein the control unit 26 is configured to activate the microphone when the connection is established for transmission of audio signals to said one or more second communication devices over the connection. In most recent mobile phones the mouthpiece 30 is arranged to pick up sound generated both local to and distant from the phone so that for example the phone can be used when it is held by a user in a traditional manner close to the user's mouth and also to pick up a user's voice when for instance a phone is placed on a table and used as a speakerphone.

Therefore, when a connection is made and if required the control unit automatically configures the microphone 30 to receive sound generated at a distance from the communication device 10. In this way, audio signals are transmitted to one or more second communication devices so that a second user can hear sound generated at the first communication device through an earpiece or loudspeaker 34 of the second communication devices.

In the illustrated arrangement, the primary communication device 10 comprises means for displaying images or video content and means for capturing images or video content. In this regard, the communication device comprises a display 36 for displaying static images or video content. The control unit 26 is configured to activate the display when a connection is established for displaying static images or video content generated by or at one or more second

communication devices by use of a camera 38 and transmitted over the connection. With this arrangement, a second user can position a second communication device so that the camera 38 captures an image of the second user's face which is transmitted as image signals over the connection for display by a display 36.

Therefore, the potentially threatening individuals can see the second user. The presence of a second person has the effect of discouraging individuals from any threatening behaviour.

Additionally, the first communication device comprises a camera 40 for receiving static images or video content local to the first communication device (e.g. a video of the individuals participating in threatening behaviour). The control unit 26 is configured to activate the camera when the connection is established for transmitting image signals to one or more second communication devices over the connection for display by a display 42. With this arrangement the second user can see any people that might be involved in threatening behaviour and be in a better position to intervene and dissuade those people from inappropriate action.

The present system establishes a connection allowing two-way

communication of sound or image content between the first communication device and a second communication device so that a user operating the second

communication device can communicate with persons local to the first

communication device.

It will be appreciated from the foregoing that the communication device 10, which may be a specially configured mobile phone or a bespoke communication device, provides a user with an increased level of security. By a simple one step operation a user can initiate an alert for sending to a multiplicity of selected friends, family or otherwise and without further operation of the device can establish a connection over the communications network with one or more of those second users for the two-way communication of audio or video content. The second users can then carry out a conversation with any people in the vicinity of the first user who may be engaged in threatening behaviour and such individuals can see that the first user is not alone.

In another embodiment illustrated in Figure 2 audio or video content recorded by the first user following initiation of an alert can be uploaded over the

communication network to a secure server for watching by one or more second users and where necessary to provide evidence in support of a prosecution against any crime committed by individuals against the first user. The Figure 2 embodiment may be alternative to or in addition to the Figure 1 embodiment. Where appropriate, features shown in Figure 2 are given the same reference numerals as given in Figure !

Referring to Figure 2, the communication unit 10 is configured for uploading data to a server 44 and comprises a data capture arrangement 30, 40 for capturing audio or visual data local to the communication device. As previously described, the data capture arrangement may comprise a microphone 30 and a camera 40. The control unit 26 is configured for activating the data capture unit when an alert is initiated for capturing data generated generally coterminous with and subsequent to the initiation of the alert. The control unit is co-operable with the communication unit 12 for uploading the captured data to the server over the communication network 22 without operation of the first communication device by the user. In this embodiment, the alert message comprises address data corresponding to the storage address of the captured data on the server so that the content can be viewed by a recipient of the alert message.

The control unit which is configured for operation in the Figure 2 embodiment may be the control unit 26 described above or may be a separate control unit is configured to carry out the operations required for the second embodiment. In either case, the control unit is arranged to send an alert message to one or more second users for alerting those users that the first user is in a potential unsafe situation. In this embodiment the alert message may simply advise the second user that the first user is potentially unsafe or in a preferred arrangement provides the second user with a selectable link for directing the second user to the location on the server where the captured audio or video data can be watched. Particularly in the case where a second communication device is a smart phone, or other communication device capable of receiving messages and downloading data, the second user can readily receive an alert message and watch captured content from the same device. In an alternative, the second user may receive an alert message and subsequently access the captured content using a separate digital device, such as a computer. It will be clear therefore that whilst the communication network over which the message is sent and the content is watched may be the same network it may be the case that the message is sent over a cellular network whilst the content is

downloaded over the Internet. In one example, the control unit 26 causes the camera and microphone to capture content for storage at least transiently in a memory 46 of the device. At predetermined intervals, for example 60 seconds, the control unit causes content stored in memory 46 to be uploaded to the server 44. The interval at which content is uploaded and other characteristics of the stored content is dependent on ambient conditions and available bandwidth for transmission of data. In this regard, the light available for capturing video content may determine for example the compression, definition or refresh rate of the captured video content. Low ambient light conditions may require low compression high-definition and high refresh rate for example. In high-level ambient lighting conditions, high compression low definition and low refresh rate may be acceptable and preferred for reducing file size for transmission particularly at locations where the bandwidth available is low (for example low signal strength of a 3G network). It is preferred that the time interval between

transmissions is relatively short to reduce the delay between real-time capture of content and the uploading of content to a server for watching by a second user. A short interval provides the second user with better real-time content.

Ambient conditions may be determined by use of a sensor (not shown) or alternatively can be determined by reference to an internal clock which provides a data reflective of the time of day and year. For example, a time indication of 4.00 pm in June may indicate relatively high level light conditions whereas the same time in December may indicate low level light conditions, at least in the northern

hemisphere. In a further example, the control unit 26 is configured to activate a light 48 for illuminating the scene which is to be captured by the camera and improving the quality of the captured video content. The activation of a light also shows any potentially threatening individuals that the scene is being recorded.

Another embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 3. This embodiment may be alternative to or traditional to the first and/or the second embodiment. Like reference numerals will be used in Figure 3 for those features common to Figures 1 or 2.

In this embodiment the primary communication device 10 comprises a positioning receiver 50 for determining the position of the communication device when an alert is initiated for storage or transmission. The positioning receiver may be a GPS unit or other suitable means for determining the location of the first communication device. In a preferred arrangement, the signals from a plurality of base station is used to determine the position of the primary communication device since this method is often quicker than GPS location and therefore allows an alert message with the location to be sent without significant delay.. The control unit 26 is operably connected to the positioning receiver such that initiation of an alert by the first user causes an alert message to be sent by communication unit 12 over the network 22 to one or more selected second users. In this embodiment, the alert message may comprise a location of the first user when the alert was initiated. The indicated location of the first user included in the alert message may be geographical coordinates which can then be used by the second user for locating the first user. In a preferred example, particularly where the second communication device comprises a map function the alert message comprises location data readable by the map function for displaying the location of the first user on a map to the second user.

The control unit 26 may be configured to transmit subsequent alert messages to one or more second user at predetermined intervals for example every 60 seconds or at predetermined distances from the previously determined location for example 100 m.

As indicated above, the first, second and third embodiments may be alternatives, although a preferred arrangement combines the functionality of all three embodiments. That is, wherein an alert is initiated by the primary user the control unit 26 causes an alert message to be generated for transmission over the network 22 to allow one or more second users to initiate a two-way conversation in

accordance with the Figure 1 embodiment, to be guided to the server 44 for watching captured content according to Figure 2 and to learn the location of the first user according to Figure 3. The alert message generated may comprise all three components or in the alternative, three separate alert messages may be generated containing respective components.

The first communication device 10 may be a cellular telephone having a first operative condition as a cellular phone and a second operative condition as a security device, and wherein the control unit is responsive to operation of the user interface differently in the first and second operative conditions. The user interface comprises a volume button and operation of the volume button in the first operative condition changes the intensity of sound reproduced by a speaker of the phone and operation of the volume button in the second condition initiates an alert. The volume buttons are a convenient part of the user interface of a telephone because they are generally located on an external casing of the telephone and therefore readily accessed by the first user. Of course, other parts of the user interface of a telephone can be used to initiate the alert. For example, the pressing of a predetermined sequence of keys may initiate an alert or if the telephone has voice recognition software the first user can initiate an alert by speaking a predetermined word or phrase, which can be selected by the user or defined by the system. The control unit is configured to receive an input from the user for selecting one of the first operative condition or the second operative condition.

In one implementation, where the communication device is a so-called smart mobile phone, a user can access a server for downloading an application, or computer program product, to the mobile telephone. When loaded on the telephone, activation of the application causes the telephone to operate in the second condition whereby a one step operation of the user interface of the telephone initiates an alert. Deactivating the application causes the telephone to operate in a normal mode of operation for use as a mobile phone. In a second implementation, particularly for users who do not own a compatible telephone, a bespoke device can be used which has only one condition for operation as such a security device but is not otherwise operable as a mobile phone.

The second communications devices may be standard telephones, although for increased functionality the second communication devices may be specially configured for use in receiving alert messages, for conducting two-way

communication with the primary device, downloading content from a server or accessing the location of the primary device. In one example, in which a group of users wish to participate in increased safety, the users may be a primary user in one situation and a second user in another situation. In this case, the second

communication devices may also be operable for initiating an alert message similarly to the primary communication device. The previously referenced application or program product may therefore be downloaded and installed on the second communication devices to provide the primary functionality and also provide secondary functionality for assisting the second users when an alert message is received. In another embodiment of the invention, a mobile telephone 10 has as an alternative or in addition to the aspects described above a normal operation for normal telephone use and a safety mode in which an alert can be initiated and/ or video or audio data can be captured for transfer to a remote location. A

communication unit 12 communicates with one or more remotely located second communication devices 16 over a communication network. A user interface is operable by a user in the telephone mode for normal operation of the telephone and in the safety mode for initiating an alert and/ or video or audio data captured. The user interface comprises an element (such as a volume button 24, power button or vibtation on/off button) responsive to a first operation by a user in the telephone mode for performing normal operation of the telephone (for example to change the volume, turn the telephone on or off, or to switch a vibration mode on or off). The element is also responsive to a second different operation by a user to transfer the telephone from the telephone mode to the safety mode (for example by pressing a button three times quickly in succession or by pressing a button twice quickly in succession followed by pause and then another press). That is, the first operation may for example be to change the volume at which sound is emitted from an ear piece or speaker or to activate the telephone for use. The second operation may duplicate in the first instance the first operation but additionally comprise repetition of the first operation such as a series of manual operations of the element in a predetermined timed sequence. If the element is a button, whether physical or virtual, the first operation may comprise a single depression of the button whereas the second operation may comprise multiple depressions or an extended depression over a prolonged time interval. The second operation is selected such that it is at least improbable or unlikely that the second operation would be performed deliberately or accidently by the user when the telephone is in normal telephone use.

In another alternative or additional aspect, there is provided a mobile telephone 10 having a telephone mode in which normal telephone operation of the telephone can be performed and a safety mode comprising a safety condition and a concerned or emergency condition. Therefore, the telephone has two possible safety mode conditions. A data capture arrangement 38, 40 is arranged for capturing audio or visual data local to the mobile telephone. A communication unit 12 is configured for uploading the data to one or more remotely located second communication devices'! 6 over a communication network 22 in the concerned condition or emergency condition. A user interface, such as a touch screen 36, is responsive to operation by a user in the telephone mode for performing normal telephone operation and responsive to operation by a user for transferring the telephone to the safety mode. In the safety mode, the user can initiate an alert to transfer the telephone from the safety condition to one of the concerned condition or emergency condition. In the previously described embodiments, data capture commences only when an alert is initiated. However, in the present arrangement, the data capture arrangement is activated when the telephone is transferred to the safety condition to capture data so that when an alert is initiated the data captured prior to the initiation of the alert can be uploaded to one or more second

communication devices in the concerned or emergency conditions.

In examples of this arrangement, a user may anticipate but not immediately be experiencing a threatening or dangerous position. In this case, the safety condition is activated and data capture is commenced and if subsequently a user encounters a threatening situation, image, video or audio data preceding the situation has been recorded and can be uploaded to a third party, for evidence or information. However, if a threatening position does not occur, the captured data is not uploaded, the user does not incur the cost of the upload if costs apply, and the user will not needlessly trouble third parties. For example, a user may be walking home late at night and therefore place the telephone in the safety condition. If the user encounters other people who attempt to commit harm then those people may well have been recorded on video for some time by the user prior to the attempt. The telephone comprises an internal memory 50 shown in Figure 4 for storing the data captured by the data capture arrangement and a control unit 26 for causing the data to be uploaded when an alert is initiated. The control unit may cause data captured over predetermined time intervals to be uploaded in discrete packages when the alert is initiated. The purpose of this arrangement is to ensure that if one package fails to be delivered at least some footage will be available through uploading of other packages. In a further alternative or additional aspect, there is provided a mobile telephone 10 having a telephone mode in which normal telephone operation of the telephone can be performed and a safety mode. A data capture arrangement 30, 40 captures audio or visual data local to the mobile telephone when in the safety mode. A communication unit 12 communicates the data to one or more remotely located second communication devices 16 or a server over a communication network in the safety mode and receives telephone calls or messages over the communication network from other communication devices in the telephone mode. A user interface, such as a touch screen 36, is operable by a user to transfer the telephone between telephone mode and safety mode. A control unit 26 allows received telephone calls or messages to interrupt operation of the data capture arrangement when in the telephone mode and maintains operation of the data capture arrangement in the safety mode so that that data being captured when a telephone call or message is received is not interrupted. Typically, when a mobile telephone is recording video or sound content, the recording is terminated when a telephone call is received. In examples of the invention, video or audio recording is maintained notwithstanding that a telephone call or other type of communication. In other words, the telephone in the safety mode is unresponsive to any unanticipated communication and therefore gathering of evidence is not compromised.

The data capture arrangement may comprise a video or sound recorder and the control unit terminates video or sound recording on receiving a telephone call or message in the telephone mode and continues the recording independent of such a telephone call or message in the safety mode. In another alternative or additional aspect, there is provided a mobile telephone 10 comprising a communication unit 12 for communicating with one or more remotely located second communication devices 16 over a communication network 20. A user interface 36 is operable by a user for initiating an alert. An internal memory 50 stores user data corresponding to a physical appearance of a user of the device. The data preferably includes image data such as a photograph of at least the head and shoulders of the user, together with other user information such as height, weight, and gender. A control unit 26 in response to initiation of an alert causes the communication unit to establish communication with an emergency service over the communication network so that the user can communicate with the emergency service either by activating a video call or a telephone call by the telephones speaker. In addition to real time exchange of information between the user and an operative of an emergency service, the control unit contemporaneously causes the communication unit to transfer the user data to the emergency service over the network.

In one example, the internal memory is arranged to store image data of the physical appearance of the user and the control unit is arranged to transfer the image data to an emergency service in response to the initiation of an alert. As mobile phones typically have a camera it is a simple process for the user to record their image in the internal memory.

In an alternative arrangement, the user's image may be captured and uploaded in advance to a secure location or database together with an identifier corresponding to the user, and instead of transferring image data to the emergency service, the identifier is transferred so that the emergency service can retrieve the relevant user's image from the secure location.

The provision of the user's image to an emergency service, such as the police, enhances the ability of the emergency service to locate, identify and manage the emergency, for example, by facilitating identification of the user on closed circuit television output, whether by an operative or by face recognition software.

The control unit may be arranged to prompt the user to enter into the internal memory image data corresponding to the physical appearance of the user for example when the application software is loaded to the telephone or periodically thereafter to update the user's image when the user's appearance changes over time.

In a preferred arrangement, the telephone contains information relating to local emergency services and a GPS device which determines the location of the telephone when an alert is initiated so that the correct or most proximate emergency service can be contacted. The information may for example take the form of a lookup table with telephone numbers and corresponding geographical regions.

The telephone as described herein enables significant advantages over traditional '999' or '91 1 ' calls. Traditionally, when placing an emergency call information must be imparted orally and this limits how easily and efficiently an operative can deal with the emergency. In the present examples, the operative is provided with near real time video data which vastly improves the ability of the operative to deal with the emergency and also enables the operative to converse with any potential assailants. In a still further alternative or additional aspect, there is provided a mobile telephone 10 having a telephone mode in which normal telephone operation of the telephone can be performed and a safety mode in which local data is captured for upload to a remote location over a communication network 20. A data capture arrangement 30, 40 captures audio or visual data local to the mobile telephone when the telephone is transferred to a safety mode. A communication unit 12 uploads the data to one or more remotely located second communication devices 16 over a communication network 20. A user interface 24, 36 is responsive to operation by a user in the telephone mode for performing normal telephone operation and responsive to operation by a user for transferring the telephone to the safety mode. The data capture arrangement is activated when the telephone is transferred to the safety condition to capture data and is responsive to user operation of the user interface to terminate data capture. For example, a user may have activated the safety mode and uploaded audio or video data to an emergency service. If the threat to the user stops the user can terminate data capture. However, if the threat is re-established, the user can shake the telephone to restart data capture, but without sending an additional series of messages to the emergency services. In tis regard, the telephone comprises an accelerometer responsive to the orientation or change of orientation of the telephone for reactivating data capture by the data capture arrangement when the telephone is shaken. Referring to Figure 4, the mobile telephone 10 comprises a user interface 36,

24 which is formed integrally with the telephone or part of the phone housing. In other arrangements, the telephone may be operable by a user using another device which is wireless or wired communication with the telephone. An example of such a device is a Bluetooth® remote 52 wirelessly connected to a receiver 54 of the telephone. The remote comprise a user interface 56 which in this instance is a button. The remote is handheld a may be carried discretely in a pocket for use. Other technologies such as wi-fi devices could be used as alternative or head phones comprising a volume button connected by wire to the telephone.