Importance

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Abstract

A network assisted callback method and system for managing calls that fail to reach to a subscriber, and facilitating callback by the subscriber to one or more calling parties. In an embodiment of the invention, a call to a subscriber is routed to an interexchange network which attempts to complete the connection. If the caller fails to reach the subscriber, the network prompts the caller to determine whether a callback is desired, and to verify and obtain additional information. The network stores the information in a subscriber database file-folder. When the subscriber later decides to return phone calls, the subscriber dials an 800 number from any telephone station in order to access the network callback features. The network callback service may include automatic connection to the most recent calling party, or selective connection to any calling party. The network may effectuate this connection either by temporarily provisioning the 800 number with the number of the most recent calling party, or by making an outbound call to the calling party, and then merging the user's incoming call with the outbound call. The network assisted callback service provided by the present invention is also applicable as an enhancement to a 'locator phone' service or a normal pager service.

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First Claim