Computer telephony headset with presence indicator

A computer telephony system of a type that allows two-way audio communication over a network, the system comprising:

• a computer processor based host device configured to generate presence data representative of a presence status of the user;
• and
• a headset including an earpiece operable to receive electronic audio signals and render the electronic audio signals audible to the first user;
• a microphone attached to the earpiece and operable to convert sounds into transmitted electronic signals;
• a processor configured to receive presence data from the host device;
• and a visual indicator operably connected to the processor for providing a visual indication of the presence status of the user based on the presence data.

A method for displaying a visually perceptible indication of a computer telephony user's availability and/or willingness to communicate, the method comprising:

• providing a computer telephony headset for supporting communication of audio data over a network via a host device of the network, the headset comprising an earpiece operable to receive electronic audio signals and render the electronic audio signals audible to the user and a microphone attached to the earpiece and operable to convert sounds into transmitted electronic signals;
• receiving presence data from the host device using a processor, the presence data representative of a presence status of the user;
• and
• activating a visual indicator operably connected to the processor to providing a visual indication of the presence status of the user based on the presence data.