Importance

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Abstract

A call indicator, such as a ringer, is deactivated on a temporary or preset basis while normal call processing continues, so that the subscriber can attain an appropriate level of privacy for answering a phone call. In one embodiment, a handset (10) includes an antenna (12) for receiving an incoming call signal, a processor (16) for processing the call signal, a call indicator (48) for notifying the user of the incoming call, a keypad (38) for providing user inputs, and call indicator control subsystem (32). The control subsystem (32) receives a temporary deactivation input via keypad (38) or a menu and, in response to the temporary deactivation input, deactivates the call indicator (48) for a portion of a answer waiting time period between receipt of the incoming call signal and a call answer input. For example, if the handset (10) 'rings' during a business meeting, the subscriber may provide a first input via the keypad (38), menu or other input method to deactivate the call indicator. Once the subscriber has left the meeting room or otherwise attained an appropriate level of privacy, the subscriber may provide a second input via the keypad (38) or a menu to answer the call. Optionally, the handset (10) may be preset (e.g., before entering a meeting) to provide only an abbreviated indication such as a 'ping ring' if a call is received. In addition, a voice announcement may be provided, during the time period where the subscriber is seeking privacy, to notify the caller that the call will be answered shortly. Alternatively, the subscriber may allow a call to be forwarded to voice mail if an appropriate level of privacy cannot be attained in a timely manner.

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First Claim