Importance

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Abstract

A system and method for establishing a voice (or data) connection between two parties based on their availability. The system receives from a first subscriber a call request involving a second subscriber. The second subscriber may be identified by telephone number or other identifier. The system automatically detects the availability of the second subscriber through subscriber input, proactive availability testing, a tool executing on the subscriber's computing or communication device, etc. When the first subscriber and second subscriber are determined to be available, the system signals a call processor to establish a voice connection between them. Subscribers may configure various preferences, including default rules regarding their availability for all or certain types of calls, how to classify calls (e.g., by caller identity, date, time, nature of call). The system may help establish anonymous calls or reach a party matching specified parameters (e.g., pizza shop, customer service department of an organization).

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First Claim