Multimedia caller identification

Abstract

In a multimedia communications system (100) that provides for two-way voice calls, multimedia caller identification data is provided to destinations for calls. A message is generated to set up the interactive communications session between the user terminal (102) and destination (202). The user terminal is a wireless communication device with an over-the-air interface for communicating with the network or the user terminal is a wired device (144, 154) that is coupled to the system. Caller identification data is added to the message (204). The caller identification data includes at least one of audio data and video data. For example, the caller identification data may include a video clip, logo, animation or tune. The caller identification data is alternatively added by the user terminal or a processor in the multimedia communications network. The caller identification data and the message are transmitted to the destination (206). The path for transmission preferably includes a packet-based network. At the destination, the caller identification data is displayed, including a visual display of video data and an audible display of audio data (208). If the call is answered, resources are allocated for bearer paths between the user terminal and the destination.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.