Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A method and apparatus for transporting digital images is provided. In one embodiment, a personal electronic handheld digital camera executes an application program that enables a user of the camera to send one or more digital images, formed by and stored in the camera, from the camera to a destination. One or more addresses describing one or more destinations are selected or identified. One or more stored digital images are selected and associated with the one or more addresses. Optionally, a voice message is recorded and associated with the one or more addresses. The camera is coupled to a data communication network, and a transport operation is initiated. Under control of the application, the camera sends the selected images to the designated destinations over the data communication network. When an address is a physical address, for example, a postal mail address, the selected images are automatically routed to a central server. At the central server, tangible copies of the selected images are printed, packaged, and sent to the physical address. Each image may be marked with an authentication stamp that uniquely identifies the image or the camera that created the image, guarding against unauthorized alteration.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim