TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention generally relates to rendering of media content on a mobile device. More particularly, the invention relates to rendering of media content selected by a calling user on a mobile device of a called user.

BACKGROUND

Various applications are available that enable a user to set one or more ringtones, either audio or video, for one or more contacts and group of contacts. Such applications also enable the user to set ringtones for unknown calling users or set default ringtones. Examples of such applications, which allow video ringtones to be set, include video ringtone caller ID and video caller ID. Thus, when a calling user calls a called user, a video ringtone set for the calling user set by the called user is played on a mobile device of the called user. However, such applications do not enable calling users to set ringtones and especially a video ringtone for called users such that when the calling user is calling the called user, the ringtone set by the calling user is provided to the called user.

To address these deficiencies, various solutions are available for enabling calling users to set a media content such as a video clip with audio, video clip without audio, an animation, and a slideshow for a called user. One such solution enables a calling user to select a desired ring tone for a called user by first dialling to a ring tone recorder. Upon selecting the desired ring tone, the calling user calls (separately or within the same call) the called user. Both the calls are routed through a network. The ring tone recorder then provides the selected ring tone to the called user for indicating incoming call from the calling user. However, such solution increases dependency on network operator and increases traffic on the network.

Other solutions include applications, which can be downloaded on mobile devices of both the calling user and the called user. One such application enables the calling user to select a media ringtone for the called user over a data network. The application downloads the selected media ringtone onto a mobile device of the called user over the data network. When a call is received from the calling user, the downloaded media content is played on the mobile device of the called user. One another application streams the selected media content over the data network onto the mobile device of the called user when the call is received from the calling user. Some other application also periodically checks for updates about the media content set by the calling user such as uploading of new video ringtone. Upon determining a new video ringtone is uploaded for the called user, the application provides a notification to the called user and allows the called user to download the new video ringtone. Still another application allows a calling user to capture a video at the time of calling the called user. The captured video is streamed in real time onto the mobile device of the called user over a data connection while the call is being placed to the called user. However, such applications only allow the media content to be received from calling users who are present in a contact list of the called user.

Yet another application creates a media ringtone using social data such as posts, images, and video shared by a calling user on a social network site upon receiving a trigger indicating a call from the calling user. The media ringtone is then played on the mobile device of the called user. However, such application does not allow the calling user to set a personalized video ringtone for a particular called user as the social data is not specific to the called user rather is directed to a lot of users on the social network.

Thus, the present solutions do not enable sharing of a personalized media content set by a calling user who is not present in a contact list of a called user. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the purposes of the invention, the present invention as embodied and broadly described herein, provides for rendering of media content on a called mobile device.

Accordingly, in one embodiment, a calling user can set a media content for a called user and transmit the media content to a server. The calling user is not stored in a contact list of the called user, and therefore is an unknown contact for the called user. Upon detecting a receipt of a call from the unknown contact, a mobile device of the called user receives the media content set by the unknown contact from the server and renders the media content. Further, the mobile device receives the media content through an application installed in a memory, when a data connection is available between the mobile device and the server at the time detecting the receipt of the call. Additionally, the media content is saved in the memory for a predetermined time. Thus, when a subsequent call is received from the unknown contact prior to expiry of the predetermined time, the media content is retrieved from the memory and rendered on the mobile device.

In another embodiment, the called user can delete a media content stored in the memory. The media content is set by a calling user and is stored in the memory such that the media content is associated with the calling user. The calling user can be either a known contact or an unknown contact. Upon receiving a request to delete the media content, the media content is disassociated with the calling user and default media content is associated with the calling user. The default media content is accordingly rendered on the mobile upon detecting a receipt of a call from the calling user. Additionally, a notification is provided to the calling user indicating the deletion of the media content. Further, when a new media content set by the calling user is received by the mobile device, the default media content is dissociated with the calling user and the new media content is associated with the calling user. The advantages of the invention include, but not limited to, sharing of personalized media content set by the unknown contact on the mobile device of the called user. Further, the sharing of the media content is performed over data network and therefore network operator dependency is greatly minimized. Furthermore, the media content is saved in the memory for a predetermine time. This enables that the media content is rendered from the memory without the availability of the data network. Additionally, the media content can be rendered through the application only thereby enhancing security of the personalized media content.

These and other aspects as well as advantages will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS:

To further clarify advantages and aspects of the invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings, which are listed below for quick reference.

Figure la illustrates an exemplary method for rendering media content on a called mobile device, in accordance with an embodiment of present invention. Figure lb illustrates an exemplary method for storing and rendering a media content on the called mobile device, in accordance with an embodiment of present invention.

Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary called mobile device for rendering a media content, in accordance with an embodiment of present invention.

Figure 3a illustrates an exemplary method for rendering media content on a called mobile device, in accordance with another embodiment of present invention.

Figure 3b illustrates an exemplary method for storing and rendering a media content on the called mobile device, in accordance with another embodiment of present invention.

Figure 4 illustrates an exemplary called mobile device for rendering a media content, in accordance with another embodiment of present invention. Figure 5 illustrates an exemplary network environment that facilitates rendering of media content on a called mobile device, in accordance with an embodiment of present invention.

Figure 6 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram for registering with a server to set media content, in accordance with an embodiment of present invention. Figures 7-9 illustrate an exemplary flow diagram for rendering media content on a called mobile device, in accordance with various embodiments of present invention.

It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to represent like elements in the drawings. Further, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of aspects of the invention. Furthermore, the one or more elements may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It should be understood at the outset that although illustrative implementations of the embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated below, the present invention may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or in existence. The present disclosure should in no way be limited to the illustrative implementations, drawings, and techniques illustrated below, including the exemplary design and implementation illustrated and described herein, but may be modified within the scope of the appended claims along with their full scope of equivalents.

The term "some" as used herein is defined as "none, or one, or more than one, or all." Accordingly, the terms "none," "one," "more than one," "more than one, but not all" or "all" would all fall under the definition of "some." The term "some embodiments" may refer to no embodiments or to one embodiment or to several embodiments or to all embodiments. Accordingly, the term "some embodiments" is defined as meaning "no embodiment, or one embodiment, or more than one embodiment, or all embodiments."

The terminology and structure employed herein is for describing, teaching and illuminating some embodiments and their specific features and elements and does not limit, restrict or reduce the spirit and scope of the claims or their equivalents. More specifically, any terms used herein such as but not limited to "includes,"

"comprises," "has," "consists," and grammatical variants thereof do NOT specify an exact limitation or restriction and certainly do NOT exclude the possible addition of one or more features or elements, unless otherwise stated, and furthermore must NOT be taken to exclude the possible removal of one or more of the listed features and elements, unless otherwise stated with the limiting language "MUST comprise" or "NEEDS TO include."

Whether or not a certain feature or element was limited to being used only once, either way it may still be referred to as "one or more features" or "one or more elements" or

"at least one feature" or "at least one element." Furthermore, the use of the terms "one or more" or "at least one" feature or element do NOT preclude there being none of that feature or element, unless otherwise specified by limiting language such as "there NEEDS to be one or more . . . " or "one or more element is REQUIRED." Unless otherwise defined, all terms, and especially any technical and/or scientific terms, used herein may be taken to have the same meaning as commonly understood by one having an ordinary skill in the art.

Reference is made herein to some "embodiments." It should be understood that an embodiment is an example of a possible implementation of any features and/or elements presented in the attached claims. Some embodiments have been described for the purpose of illuminating one or more of the potential ways in which the specific features and/or elements of the attached claims fulfil the requirements of uniqueness, utility and non- obviousness. Use of the phrases and/or terms such as but not limited to "a first embodiment," "a further embodiment," "an alternate embodiment," "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "multiple embodiments," "some embodiments," "other embodiments," "further embodiment", "furthermore embodiment", "additional embodiment" or variants thereof do NOT necessarily refer to the same embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, one or more particular features and/or elements described in connection with one or more embodiments may be found in one embodiment, or may be found in more than one embodiment, or may be found in all embodiments, or may be found in no embodiments. Although one or more features and/or elements may be described herein in the context of only a single embodiment, or alternatively in the context of more than one embodiment, or further alternatively in the context of all embodiments, the features and/or elements may instead be provided separately or in any appropriate combination or not at all. Conversely, any features and/or elements described in the context of separate embodiments may alternatively be realized as existing together in the context of a single embodiment.

Any particular and all details set forth herein are used in the context of some embodiments and therefore should NOT be necessarily taken as limiting factors to the attached claims. The attached claims and their legal equivalents can be realized in the context of embodiments other than the ones used as illustrative examples in the description below.

Figure la illustrates an exemplary method (100) for rendering a media content on a called mobile device, in accordance with an embodiment of present invention. In said embodiment, the method (100) comprises: detecting (101), by a processor of the called mobile device, receipt of a first call from an unknown contact, the call being received by a first receiving unit of the called mobile device operating in a first communication mode; receiving (102), by a second receiving unit of the called mobile device operating in a second communication mode, a media content from a server, the media content being set by the unknown contact; and rendering (103) the media content on a display unit associated with the called mobile device.

In a further embodiment, the first communication mode is independent of the second communication mode, the first communication mode being a voice communication mode and the second communication mode being a data communication mode.

In a further embodiment, the media content is one of a video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, and an animation clip.

In a further embodiment, the step of receiving (102) a media content further comprises: querying (104) the server, by the processor, through an application operating in the second communication mode, for the media content set by the unknown contact; and receiving (105), by the second receiving unit, through the application, the media content set by the unknown contact from the server.

In a further embodiment, the step of rendering (103) the media content further comprises: retrieving (106), by the processor, a media rendering information from a memory, the media rendering information being set by a user of the called mobile device through an application; and rendering (107), by a media-rendering unit of the called mobile device, through the application, the media content in accordance with the media rendering information.

In a further embodiment, the media rendering information defines population of the media content on the display unit.

In a further embodiment, the method (100) further comprises: storing (108) in a memory, by the processor, the media content for a predetermined time such that the media content is associated with the unknown contact.

In a further embodiment, the method (100) further comprises: storing (109) in a memory, by the processor, details of the unknown contact upon receiving a request to store details of the unknown contact from a user of the called mobile device; and storing (110) in the memory, by the processor, the media content such that the media content is associated with the unknown contact thus stored.

In a further embodiment, the method (100) upon storing the media content in the memory, as stated in steps 108 and 109-110, further comprises: detecting (111), by the processor, receipt of a call from the unknown contact; determining (112), by the processor, availability of the media content associated with the unknown contact thus stored; retrieving (113) from the memory, by the processor, the stored media content; and rendering (114) the stored media content on the display unit.

In a further embodiment, the step of storing (108) the media content for a predetermined time further comprises: receiving (115), by the processor, an information of a new media content from the server, the information including a notification of availability of the new media content, a source location information for obtaining the new media content, and the new media content, wherein the new media content is set by the unknown contact prior to expiration of the predetermined time. In a further embodiment, the application is preinstalled in a memory of the called mobile device.

Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary called mobile device (200) for rendering a media content, in accordance with an embodiment of present invention. As would be understood, the called mobile device (200) is capable of implementing the methods as described with reference to preceding figures la and lb.

In an embodiment, the called mobile device (200) comprises: a first receiving unit (201) operating in a first communication mode to receive a call; a processor (202) coupled to the first receiving unit (201) to classify the call as being received from an unknown contact; a second receiving unit (203) operating in a second communication mode, the second receiving unit coupled to the processor (202) to receive a media content (203) set by the unknown contact from a server; a media-rendering unit (205) coupled to the second receiving unit (203) to render the media content (204); and a display unit (206) coupled to the media-rendering unit (205) for depicting the rendered media content.

In a further embodiment, the first communication mode is independent of the second communication mode, the first communication mode being a voice communication mode and the second communication mode being a data communication mode. In a further embodiment, the media content is set by the unknown contact through an application.

In a further embodiment, the processor (202) further transmits a query to the server, through an application (208) operating in the second communication mode, the query requesting for the media content set by the unknown contact; and the second receiving unit (203) further receives the media content set by the unknown contact from the server through the application (208).

In a further embodiment, the processor (202) further retrieves a media rendering information from a memory, the media rendering information being set by a user of the called mobile device through an application; and the media-rendering unit (205) further renders the media content through the application in accordance with the media rendering information.

In a further embodiment, the called mobile device (200) further comprises: a memory (207) to store the media content (204) for a predetermined time such that the media content (204) is associated with the unknown contact.

In a further embodiment, the called mobile device (200) further comprises: a memory (207) to: store details of the unknown contact upon receiving a request to store details of the unknown contact from the user of the called mobile device; and store the media content such that the media content is associated with the unknown contact thus stored.

In a further embodiment, the first receiving unit (201) receives receipt of a call from the unknown contact; the processor (202) further: determines an availability of the media content associated with the unknown contact in the memory; and retrieves the stored media content from the memory; and the media-rendering unit (205) renders the stored media content on the display unit (206).

In a further embodiment, the processor (202) receives an information of a new media content from the server, the information including a notification of availability of the new media content, a source location information for obtaining the new media content, and the new media content, wherein the new media content is set by the unknown contact prior to expiration of the predetermined time. In a further embodiment, the application (208) is preinstalled in a memory (207) of the called mobile device.

Figures 3a and 3b illustrates an exemplary method (300) for rendering a media content on a called mobile device, in accordance with another embodiment of present invention. In said embodiment, the method (300) comprises: receiving (301), by a request receiving unit of the called mobile device, a request to delete a media content associated with a calling user, the media content being set by the calling user and stored in a memory of the called mobile device; disassociating (302), by a processor of the called mobile device, the media content associated with the calling user; and associating (303), by the processor, a default media content with the calling user.

In a further embodiment, the calling user is a contact present in a contact list of the called mobile device.

In a further embodiment, the calling user is an unknown contact.

In a further embodiment, the media content set by the unknown contact is stored in the memory for a predetermined time.

In a further embodiment, the method (300) further comprises: providing (304), by the processor, a notification message to a mobile device of the calling user, the notification message being indicative of disassociation of the media content.

In a further embodiment, the method (300) further comprises: rendering (305) the default media content, through an application, on a display unit associated with the called mobile device upon detecting a receipt of a call from the calling user.

In a further embodiment, the method (300) further comprises: deleting (306), by the processor, the media content from the memory upon receiving the request to delete the media content. In a further embodiment, the method (300) further comprises: receiving (307), by the processor, through an application, new media content set by the calling user from a server; and storing (308) in the memory, by the processor, the new media content such that the default media content is disassociated and the new media content is associated with the calling user. In a further embodiment, the step of receiving (307) new media content further comprises: providing (309), by the processor, a notification message to a mobile device of the calling user through the application.

In a further embodiment, the media content is one of a video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, and an animation clip.

In a further embodiment, the default media content is one of a video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, an animation clip, and an audio clip.

In a further embodiment, the new media content is one of a video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, and an animation clip.

Figure 4 illustrates an exemplary called mobile device (400) for rendering a media content, in accordance with another embodiment of present invention. As would be understood, the called mobile device (400) is capable of implementing the methods as described with reference to preceding figures 3 a and 3b.

In an embodiment, the called mobile device (400) comprises: a memory (401) to store a media content (402) associated with a calling user, the media content being set by the calling user; a request receiving unit (403) to receive a request to delete the media content associated with the calling user; and a processor (404) coupled to the memory (401) and to the request receiving unit (403) to: disassociate the media content (402) with the calling user; and associate a default media content with the calling user.

In a further embodiment, the calling user is a contact present in a contact list of the called mobile device.

In a further embodiment, the calling user is an unknown contact.

In a further embodiment, the media content set by the unknown contact is stored in the memory (401) for a predetermined time.

In a further embodiment, the processor (404) further provides a notification message to a mobile device of the calling user, the notification message being indicative of disassociation of the media content (402).

In a further embodiment, the processor (404) receives new media content, through an application, set by the calling user from a server; and stores the new media content in the memory (401) such that the default media content is disassociated and the new media content is associated with the calling user.

In a further embodiment, the processor (404) provides a notification message to a mobile device of the calling user through the server. In a further embodiment, the processor (404) deletes the media content from the memory (401) upon receiving the request to delete the media content.

In a further embodiment, the media content (402) is one of a video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, and an animation clip.

In a further embodiment, the default media content is one of a video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, an animation clip, and an audio clip.

In a further embodiment, the new media content is one of a video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, and an animation clip.

Although the above description states that the called mobile device (200) implements the method described in Figures la and lb, and the called mobile device (400) implements the method described in Figures 3a and 3b, it is be understood that the called mobile device (200) can also implement the method described in Figures 3 a and 3b and the called mobile device (400) can also implement the method described in Figures la and lb.

Figure 5 illustrates an exemplary network environment that facilitates rendering of media content, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In such embodiment, a calling mobile device (501) and a called mobile device (502) communicate with each other over a voice communication network (503). The voice communication network (503) can be any number and types of communication mediums, including wireless networks and wired networks, operating under any of a number of communication protocols, frequencies, and transmission schemes. The calling mobile device (501) and the called mobile device (502) further communicate with a server (504) over a data communication channel.

Further, the calling mobile device (501) and the called mobile device (502) can be any type of mobile communication device having a capability to render media content.

Examples of such mobile communication device include a smart phone, tablet computer, laptop, and cellular phone. Examples of the media content include video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, an animation clip, and an audio clip. Furthermore, the media content can be either pre-recorded or created in real time.

In an embodiment, a user of the calling mobile device (501) may set media content on the server (504) for a user of the called mobile device (502). Details of the user of the calling mobile device (501) are not stored in a contact list of the called mobile device (502). Upon detecting a receipt of call from the user of the calling mobile device (501), the called mobile device (502) receives the media content from the server (504) and renders the media content on a display unit of the called mobile device (502).

In another embodiment, media content is set by a user of the calling mobile device (501) for a user of the called mobile device (502). The media content is saved in a memory of the called mobile device (502) such that the media content is associated with the user of the calling mobile device (501). Upon receiving a request to delete the media content from the memory, the media content is disassociated from the user of the calling mobile device (501). Thereafter, default media content is associated with the user of the calling mobile device (501). The default media content is rendered on a display unit of the called mobile device (502) upon detecting a receipt of a call from the user of the calling mobile device (501).

Figure 6 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram (600) for registering with a server for setting up media content, in accordance with an embodiment of present invention. At step 601, referring to Figures 2, 4, 5, and 6, a user downloads an application (207,

405) from a server (504) and installs in a memory (207, 401) of a mobile device (200, 400, 501, 502). The downloading of the application (208, 405) registers a mobile number or Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number (MSISDN) of the mobile device (200, 400, 501, 502) with the server (504). At step 602, the server (504) stores the MSISDN of the mobile device (200, 400,

501, 502) in a database (not shown in the figure) and sends a one-time password (OTP) to the mobile device (200, 400, 501, 502) for authentication of the mobile device (200, 400, 501, 502). Upon receiving the OTP from the mobile device (200, 400, 501, 502), the server (504) matches the sent and received OTP and completes of the registration. Upon installation of the application (208, 405) on the mobile device (200, 400, 501, 502) and completion of the registration, the user of the mobile device (200, 400, 501, 502) is able to set up a media content for another user, as described below.

Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram (700) for rendering media content, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. For illustration purposes and description, a caller party A having mobile device with MSISDN Ml (hereinafter referred to as Ml) and a called party having mobile device with MSISDN M2 (hereinafter referred to as M2) are depicted in the flow diagram (700). Further, details of M2 may or may not be stored in a contact list of Ml but details of Ml are not stored in a contact list of M2. Furthermore, a presence of data connection between mobile devices and a server is depicted by way of phrase Online'. Similarly, an absence of data connection between mobile devices and a server is depicted by way of phrase Offline'.

At step 701, a first user sets media content through an application installed on a mobile device of the first user. In one embodiment, the first user sets a media content specific for a second user. In another embodiment, the first user sets a media content that is generic to all called users. Examples of the media content include video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, an animation clip, and an audio clip. In one embodiment, the media content is pre-recorded and is stored in a memory of the mobile device. In another embodiment, the media content is pre-recorded and saved on a server. In such embodiment, the media content can be selected through the application. As would be understood, the media content is set for a mobile number of the second user.

In the flow diagram (700), Ml sets a video VI as media content through the application.

Further, the application transmits the media content set by the first user to a server. The setting of the media content and the transmission of the media content to the server is performed when the data connection is available between the mobile device of the first user and the server. Further, prior to transmitting the media content, the application compresses and packetizes the media content such that the media content can be transferred without using excess bandwidth, or alternatively with minimum bandwidth. The compression of the media content can be performed by using any of the compression techniques known in the art. Similarly, the packetization of the media content can be performed by using any of the packetization techniques known in the art. Further, the application encodes the media content using any of the encoding techniques known in the art. The encoding of the media content enhances the security of the media content while being transferred.

In the flow diagram (700), upon setting of the video VI as media content by Ml, the application encodes, compresses, and transmits the video VI to the server when the data connection is available between Ml and the server.

At step 702, the server receives the media content set by the first user and stores in a database (not shown in the figure). The server stores the media content along with the MSISDN of the first user.

In the flow diagram (700), the server receives and stores the video VI in a database such that video VI is mapped to Ml as calling mobile number.

Further, the server receives the media content set by the first user when the data connection is available between the mobile device of the first user and the server. In one embodiment, the media content is received periodically when the data connection is enabled at regular intervals. In another embodiment, the media content is received when the data connection is enabled on-demand manually.

In the flow diagram (700), the server receives the video VI set by Ml when the data connection is available between Ml and the server.

At step 703, the mobile device of the second user enables the data connection between the mobile device and the server for receiving the media content from the server. In one embodiment, the data connection is enabled at regular intervals. In another embodiment, the data connection is enabled on-demand manually. In an example, the second user can select Online sync' option in the application for receiving the media content from the server. However, as the details of the first user are not stored in the contact list of the second user, the mobile device cannot receive the media content set by the first user from the server. In the flow diagram (700), M2 enables the data connection.

At step 704, the first user places a call to the second user when the data connection between the mobile devices of the first user, the second user, and the server is available.

In the flow diagram (700), Ml places a call to M2 when the data connection between Ml, M2, and the server is available. At step 705, the mobile device of the second user receives the media content from the server upon detecting a receipt of the call from the first user due to the availability of the data connection between the mobile device and the server. The mobile device receives the media content through an application installed on the mobile device. Accordingly, the application installed in the mobile device queries the server about the media content set by the first user upon detecting the receipt of the call from the first user. Upon receiving the query, the server retrieves the media content set by the first user from the database and transmits the media content to the application. The application further decodes and decompresses the received media content. It may be understood that the second user may have selected default media content for unknown contact through the application. However, the availability of data connection between the mobile device and the server prioritizes the reception of the media content set by the unknown contact from the server over the rendering of the default media content, upon detecting a receipt of call from the unknown contact. Further, a media-rendering unit of the mobile device renders the decoded media content through the application on a display unit of the mobile device. An example of the media-rendering unit includes a media player. Thus, security of the media content is enhanced as the encoded media content can be decoded only by the application. Additionally, the decoded media content can be rendered only through the application, thereby further enhancing the security. As such, a media content received through the application cannot be rendered if the application is uninstalled from the memory.

Further, the media-rendering unit renders the media content based on a media rendering information. The media rendering information is set by the second user through the application. The media rendering information defines population of the media content on the display unit. The media rendering information includes various parameters for defining how the media content will be rendered on the display unit. Examples of the parameters include prioritization of the media content over a default ring tone, scaling factor associated with the media content, orientation information of the media content, volume, repeat rendering of the media content, time setting for repeating the media content, start position of the media content, style of incoming call, and window information. The window information parameter further includes size of the window such as full-screen and pop-up, depiction of details of calling user such as name, contact number, and image, and depiction of call processing icon such as buttons, slider, glow pad, and swipe. The media rendering information also includes information for rendering the media content during various stages of the call. Examples of the information include terminating the rendition of the media content when the call is accepted by the second user, terminating the rendition of the media content when the call is rejected by the second user, terminating the rendition of the media content when no action is received from the second user, and continuing the rendition of the media content when the call is accepted.

In the flow diagram (700), upon detecting receipt of call from Ml to M2, the video VI is received from the server, as Ml is not stored in the contact list of M2. The video VI is received when the data connection is available between M2 and the server during the receipt of the call.

Further, the received media content is stored in the memory for a predetermined time such that the media content is associated with the first user. In an example, the memory is a cache memory. Thus, when a call is received from the first user prior to expiration of the predetermined time, the application determines availability of the media content associated with the first user in the memory. Upon determining the availability, the application retrieves the media content from the memory and renders the media content.

Additionally, details of the first user can be stored in a contact list of the mobile device of the second user. In an example, the second user can select a 'save contact details' option for storing the details. In addition, the received media content can be stored in the memory of the mobile device such the media content is associated with the first user. In an example, the second user can select a 'save media content' option for storing the received media content. Thus, when a call is received from the first user subsequent to the storage, the application determines availability of the media content associated with the first user in the memory. Upon determining the availability, the application retrieves the media content from the memory and renders the media content.

At step 706, the first user places a call to the second user when the data connection between the mobile devices of the first user, the second user, and the server is available.

In the flow diagram (700), Ml places a call to M2 when the data connection between Ml, M2, and the server is available. At step 707, upon detecting the receipt of call from the first user, the mobile device of the second user sends a query to the server for the media content as described at step 705. Upon receiving the query, the server determines if new media content has been uploaded by the first user. If new media content is uploaded, the server transmits the new media content to the mobile device, as described at step 705. If new media content is not uploaded, the server transmits appropriate response to the mobile device. Thereafter, the mobile device determines availability of the media content associated with the first user in the memory as described at step 705. Upon determining the availability, the mobile device retrieves the media content from the memory and renders the media content, as described at step 705. On the other hand, upon determining the media content is unavailable in the memory or upon determining the stored media content is different from the media content stored in the server, the mobile device again receives the media content from the server and renders the media content on the display unit, as described at step 705.

In the flow diagram (700), M2 determines if new video is available at the server.. If new video is not available, M2 determines availability of the video VI from in the memory and renders the video VI. On the other hand, if the video VI is unavailable/ new video is available at the server, M2 receives the video from the server and renders the video.

At step 708, the first user places a call to the second user when the data connection between the mobile device of the first user, the second user, and the server is unavailable. In the flow diagram (700), Ml places a call to M2 when the data connection between

Ml, M2, and the server is unavailable.

At step 709, upon detecting the receipt of call from the first user, the mobile device of the second user determines availability of the media content associated with the first user in the memory. Due to unavailability of the data connection between the mobile device and the server, the mobile device is unable to send a query to the server for a media content set by the first user. Therefore, the mobile device fetches the media content from the memory that has been pre- stored in the memory as described earlier. As such, the mobile device determines the availability of the media content in the memory in a manner as described at step 705. Upon determining the availability of the media content, the mobile device retrieves the media content from the memory and renders the media content, as described at step 705. On the other hand, upon determining the media content is not stored in the memory, the mobile device plays default media content or a default ring tone. Examples of the default media content include video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, an animation clip, and an audio clip. In an example, the default media content may be pre- identified by the second user in the application. In the flow diagram (700), M2 determines availability of the video VI in the memory. If the video VI is available, M2 renders the video VI. On the other hand, if the video VI is not available, M2 plays a default media content or default ringtone.

Further, in one embodiment, the mobile device of the second user receives a request to delete a media content associated with calling user. The calling user can be a contact stored in a contact list of the mobile device or can be unknown contact. Similarly, the media content can be stored in memory as described at step 705. In an example, the second user can select a 'delete media content' option for deleting the media content.

Upon receiving the request from the second user, the mobile device dissociates the media content from the calling user. Thereafter, the mobile device associates default media content with the calling user. Examples of the default media content include video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, an animation clip, and an audio clip. In an example, the second user predefines the default media content through the application. Subsequently, upon detecting a receipt of call from the calling user by the mobile device when the data connection between the mobile device and the server is unavailable, the mobile device renders the default media content on the display unit.

Alternatively, upon detecting a receipt of call from the calling user by the mobile device when the data connection between the mobile device and the server is available, the mobile device of the second user sends a query to the server for the media content as described at step 705. Upon receiving the query, the server retrieves a media content set by the first user and transmits the media content to the mobile device, as described at step 705. Further, upon receiving the request for deleting the media content, the mobile device deletes the media content from the memory. Additionally, the mobile device transmits a notification message to a mobile device of the calling user indicating the deletion of the media content. Examples of the notification message include a default text indicating deletion of the media content by the second user, a text message specified by the second user, an icon selected by the second user, and an emoticon selected by the second user. In an example, the notification message can be transmitted through the application over the data network. In another example, the notification message can be transmitted as a short message service (SMS) message over the voice communication network.

It is to be understood that although the mobile device is performing various actions such as transmitting the media content, compressing the media content, and receiving the media content through the application, other suitable hardware and/or software units coupled to the mobile device can perform these actions. For example, the hardware units can be the units described in reference to Figures 2 and 4.

Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram (800) for rendering media content, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. For illustration purposes and description, a caller party A having mobile device with MSISDN Ml (hereinafter referred to as Ml) and a called party having mobile device with MSISDN M2 (hereinafter referred to as M2) are depicted in the flow diagram (800). Further, details of M2 may or may not be stored in a contact list of Ml but details of Ml are not stored in a contact list of M2. Furthermore, a presence of data connection between mobile devices and a server is depicted by way of phrase Online'.

At step 801, a first user creates a media content in real time on a mobile device while placing a call to a second user. The mobile device then transmits the media content to a server through an application installed on the mobile device while the call is being connected with a mobile device of the second user. The media content is transmitted when a data connection between the mobile device of the first user and the server is available.

At step 801a, the first user enables the data connection between the mobile device and the server prior to placing a call. In an example, the first user can select Online steaming' option in the application for streaming a media content being captured in real time. At step 801b, upon detecting a placement of the call to the second user, a media- capturing unit in the mobile device of the first user is invoked. Examples of the media- capturing unit include a camera, a video recorder, and a microphone. The media-capturing unit then captures media content in real time. Examples of the media content include video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, and an audio clip. Thereafter, the application streams the media content, being captured by the media- capturing unit, through the data connection to the server in real time while the call is being placed. Further, prior to transmitting the media content, the application can encode, compress, and packetize the media content as described in reference to Figure 7 at step 701.

In the flow diagram (800), Ml enables data connection prior to making a call to M2 and places a call to M2. Upon detecting a placement of call by Ml, a camera in the mobile device is invoked for capturing media content in real time. The application simultaneously streams the media content being captured by Ml to the server over the data connection.

At step 802, the server receives the media content being streamed by the first user and stores in a database (not shown in the figure). The server also receives identifier such MSISDN of the second user. The server stores the streaming media content along with the mobile numbers of the users such that a unique record is maintained for a pair of calling mobile number and called mobile number.

In the flow diagram (800), the server receives and stores the streaming video in a database such that video is mapped to Ml as calling mobile number and M2 as called mobile number. At step 803, the mobile device of second user receives the call from the first user.

Simultaneously, as the data connection is available between the mobile device and the server, the mobile device receives the streaming media content from the server. The streaming media content is then rendered on a display unit of the mobile device.

As described in reference Figure 7, the mobile device of the second user receives the media content through an application installed on the mobile device when the data connection is available between the mobile device and the server. In an example, the second user can select Online steaming' option in the application for receiving streaming media content in real time. In an embodiment, upon detecting a receipt of call from the first user, the mobile device of the second user transmits a query to the server for the streamed media content. Upon receiving the query, the server transmits the streaming media content.

Further, as described in reference to Figure 7, the mobile device of the second user renders the streaming media content based on a media rendering information stored in the memory. In the flow diagram (800), M2 has enabled data connection. Upon detecting a receipt of call from the first user, the application receives the streamed the media content from the server over the data connection and renders the media content on the display unit.

Figures 9a and 9b illustrate flow diagram (900) for receiving and rendering media content, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. For illustration purposes and description, user A is depicted as a caller party and user B is depicted as called party in the flow diagram (900).

Referring to Figure 9a, at step 901, user A selects new media content. In one embodiment, user A sets media content that is specific for user B. In another embodiment, user A sets media content that is generic to all called users. The new media content is different from previously selected and transmitted media content. As described in reference to Figures 7 and 8, the media content can be pre-recorded or captured in real time. Examples of the new media content include video clip with audio, a video clip without audio, a slideshow, an animation clip, and an audio clip. In the flow diagram (900), user A selects a video as new media content.

At step 902, the new media content is transmitted to a server. As described in reference to Figures 7 and 8, the new media content is transmitted when a data connection is available between the mobile device of user A and the server. Additionally, a notification Nl is displayed on the mobile device of user A depicting status and progress of uploading of the new media content.

In the flow diagram (900), the video is uploaded to the server and a notification Nl indicating status and progress of uploading is displayed on the mobile device of user A.

At step 903, the new media content is stored at the server. As described in reference to Figures 7 and 8, the media content is stored in a database (not shown in the figure) such that the new media content is associated with user A as calling user.

In the flow diagram (900), the video is saved at the server.

At step 904, user B receives the new media content from the server through an application installed on a mobile device of the user B. The new media content is received when a data connection between the mobile device and the server is available. As described in reference to Figures 7 and 8, the data connection is enabled at either regular intervals or on-demand manually.

In one embodiment, details of user A are stored in a contact list of user B. In such embodiment, the mobile device receives the new media content from the server through the application when the data connection is available. Additionally, a notification N2 is displayed on the mobile device of user B depicting status and progress of receiving of the video.

In the flow diagram (900), the video is downloaded from the server and a notification N2 indicating status and progress of downloading is displayed on the mobile device of user B.

In another embodiment, details of user A are not stored in a contact list of user B. In such embodiment, the mobile device receives the new media content from the server through the application when the data connection is available and upon detecting a receipt of call from user A. Additionally, the new media content is stored in the memory of the mobile device of user B for a predetermined time such that the new media content is associated with the user A.

At step 905, the user B receives notification N3 providing information of the new media content from the server. The notification N3 includes one or more of a notification of availability of the new media content, source location information for obtaining the new media content, and the new media content itself. In an example, the source location information may be a location address of the server for obtaining the new media content set by user A.

In one embodiment, details of user A are stored in a contact list of user B. In such embodiment, the mobile device receives the notification N3 from the server through the application when the data connection is available. Upon accessing details of user A on the mobile device, the mobile device depicts the notification N3. In one example, the notification N3 is depicted when details of user A are accessed in the contact list. In another example, the notification N3 is depicted when details of user A are accessed from call logs. In another example, the notification N3 is depicted when details of user A are accessed through one or more applications installed in the mobile device. Upon receiving the notification N3, the user B can obtain the new media content from the media server when the data connection is available between the mobile device and the server, as described earlier.

In the flow diagram (900), notification N3 is depicted on the mobile device of user B indicating availability of new media content for one or more users.

In another embodiment, details of user A are not stored in a contact list of user B. In such embodiment, media content is first received upon detecting a receipt of call from user A and is stored in the memory of the mobile device for a predetermined time. Consequently, when the new media content is set by user A prior to expiry of the predetermined time, the mobile device receives the notification N3 from the server through the application when the data connection is available.

At step 906, upon receiving the notification N3, the user B can obtain the new media content from the server when the data connection is available between the mobile device and the server, as described earlier in reference to Figures 7 and 8. Furthermore, upon receiving the new media content from the server, the user B can provide a notification message to user A regarding the new media content. Examples of the notification message include a default text, a text message specified by the second user, an icon selected by the second user, and an emoticon selected by the second user. In an example, the notification message can be transmitted through the application over the data network. In another example, the notification message can be transmitted as a short message service (SMS) message over the voice communication network.

Referring to Figure 9b, at step 907 in the call flow diagram (900), user A places a call to user B over a voice communication network.

At step 908, upon detecting a receipt of call from user A, the application in the mobile device of user B determines availability of the new media content in the memory of the mobile device. In one embodiment, contact details of user A are stored in a contact list of the user B and the new media content is stored in the memory of the mobile device. In another embodiment, contact details of user A are not stored in a contact list of the user B and the new media content is stored in the memory of the mobile device for a predetermined time. At step 909, upon determining the availability of the new media content in the memory, the mobile device renders the new media content on a display unit in accordance with a media rendering information, as descried in reference to Figure 7.

In the flow diagram (900), a video tone page is invoked and the video is played on mobile device. Along with the video, contact details of user A including a picture, name, and MSISDN, and call processing icons are depicted. In an example, the contact details are overlaid over the video.

At step 910, upon determining the availability of the new media content in the memory, the mobile device renders the new media content on a display unit in accordance with a media rendering information set by the user B.

In the flow diagram (900), a video tone page is invoked. However, the video is not played on the mobile device since user A has disabled rendering of the video. Consequently, only contact details of user A including a picture, name, and MSISDN, and call processing icons are depicted. While certain present preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited thereto. Clearly, the invention may be otherwise variously embodied, and practiced within the scope of the following claims.