Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PEER-ASSISTED
E - COMMERCE SHOPPING
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This disclosure is directed generally to software
and more specifically to an apparatus and method for peer-
assisted e-commerce shopping.
BACKGROUND
[0002] When shopping on the Internet, buyers lose some
ability to bring friends with them to help with their
purchases. Having friends come shopping gives a buyer more
confidence in making purchases. When friends are not available
for comment, a buyer may decide not to buy an item and wait
until a later point in time to make a purchase.
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SUMMARY
[0003] This disclosure provides an apparatus and method for
peer-assisted e-commerce shopping.
[0004] In a first embodiment, a method for peer-assisted
shopping including receiving, at a first device, a transacting
media container comprising base content and supplemental
content related to one or more items in the base content. The
method also includes receiving a selection of at least one of
the one or more items. The method also includes initiating a
first shopping cart within the transacting media container of
the first device, the first shopping cart identifying the at
least one selected item. The method also includes establishing
a communication channel with a second device. The method also
includes transmitting information to synchronize a second
shopping cart associated with the second device with the first
shopping cart.
[0005] In a second embodiment, an apparatus includes a
memory and a processing device. The memory stores a
transacting media container. The transacting media container
including base content and supplemental content related to one
or more items in the base content. The processing device
receives initiates a first shopping cart within the
transacting media container of the first device, the first
shopping cart identifying the at least one selected item. The
processing device also includes establishes a communication
channel with a second device. The processing device also
includes transmits information to synchronize a second
shopping cart associated with the second device with the first
shopping cart.
[0006] In a third embodiment, a non-transitory computer-
readable medium includes logic stored on the computer-readable
medium. The logic, when executed, causes the processing device
to receive, at a first device, a transacting media container
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comprising base content and supplemental content related to
one or more items in the base content. The logic, when
executed, causes the processing device to also receive a
selection of at least one of the one or more items. The logic,
when executed, causes the processing device to also initiate a
first shopping cart within the transacting media container of
the first device, the first shopping cart identifying the at
least one selected item. The logic, when executed, causes the
processing device to also establish a communication channel
with a second device. The logic, when executed, causes the
processing device to also transmit information to synchronize
a second shopping cart associated with the second device with
the first shopping cart.
[0007] Other technical features may be readily apparent to
one skilled in the art from the following figures,
descriptions, and claims.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] For a more complete understanding of this disclosure
and its advantages, reference is now made to the following
description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0009] FIGURE 1 illustrates an example communication system
that can be utilized to facilitate communication between
endpoints through a communication network according to this
disclosure;
[0010] FIGURES 2A through 2C illustrate how an example
content container is enhanced for peer-assisted shopping
according to this disclosure;
[0011] FIGURE 3 illustrates an example interface for
initiating contact between endpoints to support peer-assisted
shopping according to this disclosure;
[0012] FIGURES 4 and 5 illustrate example processes for
establishing communication between different endpoints
according to this disclosure;
[0013] FIGURES 6 and 7 illustrate examples of peer-assisted
shopping communication interfaces according to this
disclosure;
[0014] FIGURE 8 illustrates an example container with a
shopping cart according to this disclosure;
[0015] FIGURE 9 illustrates another example communication
system that can be utilized to facilitate communication
between endpoints through a communication network according to
this disclosure; and
[0016] FIGURE 10 illustrates an example computing device
supporting peer-assisted e-commerce shopping according to this
disclosure.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] FIGURES 1 through 10, discussed below, and the
various embodiments used to describe the principles of this
disclosure in this patent document are by way of illustration
5 only and should not be construed in any way to limit the scope
of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand
that the principles of this disclosure may be implemented in
any suitably arranged system.
[0018] FIGURE 1 illustrates an example communication system
100 that can be utilized to facilitate communication between
endpoints through a communication network according to this
disclosure. As shown in FIGURE 1, the system 100 includes
various endpoints 110, 120, and 130. In this document, the
term "endpoint" generally refers to any device, system, or
other structure that communicates with another endpoint.
Example endpoints 110, 120, and 130 include but are not
limited to servers (such as application servers and enterprise
servers), desktop computers, laptop computers, netbook
computers, tablet computers (such as APPLE IPADs), switches,
mobile phones (such as IPHONE and ANDROID-based phones),
networked glasses (such as GOOGLE GLASS), networked
televisions, networked disc players, components in a cloud-
computing network, or any other device or component suitable
for communicating information to and from a communication
network. Endpoints 110, 120, and 130 may support Internet
Protocol (IP) or any other suitable communication protocol (s)
Endpoints 110, 120, and 130 may additionally include medium
access control (MAC) and physical layer (PHY) interfaces, such
as those that conform to the IEEE 701.11 standard. An endpoint
110, 120, and 130 can have a device identifier, such as a MAC
address, and may have a device profile that describes the
endpoint.
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[0 0 1 9] A communication network 140
facilitates
communications between the endpoints 110, 120, and 130.
Various links 115, 125, and 135 couple the endpoints 110, 120,
and 130 to the communication network 140. The communication
network 140 and associated links 115, 125, and 135 may include
but are not limited to a public or private data network, a
telephony network, a local area network (LAN), a metropolitan
area network (MAN), a wide area network (WAN), a wireline or
wireless network (such as GSM, CDMA, LTE, WIMAX, 5G, or the
like), a local/regional/global communication network, portions
of a cloud-computing network, a communication bus for
components in a system, an optical network, a satellite
network, an enterprise intranet, or any other communication
links or combinations of the preceding. In particular
embodiments, portions of the links 115, 125, 135 or the
communication network 140 may be on or form a part of the
Internet.
[0020] Although the endpoints 110, 120, and 130 generally
appear as being in a single location in FIGURE 1, various
endpoints may be geographically dispersed, such as in cloud
computing scenarios. Also, each endpoint could represent a
fixed or mobile device. When the endpoints 110, 120, and 130
communicate with one another, any of a variety of security
schemes may be utilized. As an example, in particular
embodiments, the endpoints 110 and 120 may represent clients,
and the endpoint(s) 130 may represent one or more servers in a
client-server architecture. The server(s) may host a website,
and the website may have a registration process whereby a user
establishes a username and password to authenticate or log
into the website. The website may additionally utilize a web
application for any particular application or feature that may
need to be served up to the website for use by the user.
Additionally, in particular configurations, the communication
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between the endpoints 110 and 120 may be facilitated using a
communication path through the endpoint 130.
[0021] Various embodiments described in this patent
document may benefit from and/or utilize SMART CONTAINER
technology from CINSAY, INC., which is briefly described below
and is described more fully in U.S. Patent No. 8,769,053
(which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety).
This technology provides an innovative way for merchants to
reach their customers online. In the traditional online sales
model, merchants need to create search or display ads that
show up when online consumers visit search engine sites or
various web properties. If a consumer sees an interesting ad
related to a product or service, the consumer needs to leave
his or her current activity and visit some other web
destination to discover more information or make an online
purchase. Consumers have specific online behavior patterns. If
consumers are actively shopping, the traditional multistep
model is workable. The traditional advertising sales model
requires that a consumer stop what he or she is doing and
visit some other online destination. However, if consumers are
on social sites interacting with friends, reading the news,
playing games, or engaging in other online activities, they
are much less likely to leave their current activities to
visit some external Internet destinations.
[0022] The SMART CONTAINER model brings product information
or a store to the consumer. The SMART CONTAINER
code/technology virally syndicates across the web, for
example, using components described with reference to FIGURES
I and 5 or using other components. It is ideal for those types
of destinations that online consumers tend to frequent, such
as social networks and blogs. Regardless, if the SMART
CONTAINER code is located on a web page, a blog article, a
social network page or wall, or a mobile device, a consumer
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can complete a transaction right there with no need to be
diverted to some external destination.
[0023] SMART CONTAINER objects are intelligent Internet
objects that virally syndicate and propagate across the web
and other connected networks and mobile devices. They can be
configured in a variety of ways to address the entire value
chain of online marketing and shopping. This includes
impressions, clicks, lead generation, and performing e-
commerce transactions. A modern shopping experience works best
when interactive media is used. One of the most appealing
forms of media for sales and shopping is video. It allows a
much more lifelike representation than text or static
pictures. It also creates a much richer product browsing or
shopping experience.
[0024] SMART CONTAINER code is normally configured with a
video player window, a selection of products or services being
offered, and a variety of related video clips. This collection
of video clips allows a consumer to learn more about the
products or services being offered. The consumer can select
any of these offered items to get more details, all enclosed
within the SMART CONTAINER technology.
[0025] The offered items (products or services) may be
items being advertised or sold. Depending on the type, the
SMART CONTAINER code may allow a consumer to request to be
contacted, or even purchase the object, right there. The
consumer need not leave his or her current activity or web
page. Offered items could also include or be associated with
discounts or coupons. They may even be an opportunity to
donate to a charity or political campaign. Of course,
sometimes it does make sense to visit another Internet
designation, and if appropriate the consumer can certainly be
linked there as well.
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[0026] Because the SMART CONTAINER code handles all the
complexity, it can turn the simplest website into an instant
e-commerce store. This enables anyone to transact online
without having to deal with the complexity of setting up an e-
commerce site. For merchants with an e-commerce site, it
readily enables a much richer shopping experience. For the
creative hobbyist or local band, it lets them readily sell
directly to interested consumers. To support and promote them,
supplemental items in the SMART CONTAINER code called ON-
DEMAND merchandise can be offered. Merchants can custom design
a selection of apparel with their art and graphics to be sold
along with their own creations. ON-DEMAND fulfillment
dynamically produces and ships their custom apparel for them,
eliminating the need to manage inventory and providing their
online customers with a richer line of products. Of course,
because their instant e-commerce stores are based on SMART
CONTAINER objects, it can also propagate out onto all forms of
viral syndication methods as well.
[0027] The SMART CONTAINER code is also auto-customizing
according to particular configurations. If a device is a
traditional personal computer (PC) or laptop, it will render
using optimal technology, which for this purpose could
represent FLASH. On mobile devices such as IPHONEs, IPADs, or
ANDROID phones, this means HTML5 or a native interactive app
will likely get used. The items in the SMART CONTAINER code
also know about each other according to particular
configurations. When a video is playing, a container can
update product and service objects being shown that correspond
with the particular sequence in a video segment. It allows a
"mini QVC" shopping channel to be created and syndicated
across the Internet. Beyond device type, there are other
dimensions of customization. Smaller devices and some
environments such as social sites restrict window sizes, so
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the SMART CONTAINER code adapts. In addition, it may be
appropriate to provide different content based on geolocation,
so the SMART CONTAINER code can customize for these, as well.
[0028] The SMART CONTAINER code virally syndicates across
5 the Internet following the more popular network paths. SMART
CONTAINER objects can be hosted on traditional web pages or
blogs, contained in emails, operate on mobile devices, or
propagate social networks. Because the SMART CONTAINER code is
flexible, it can also be set up in the form factor of a
10 display ad unit and distributed via ad servers on display
advertising networks. When the code exists on social networks
like FACEBOOK, it can ride the wave of user "likes." For
example, if a woman shopper likes some great shoes shown in a
SMART CONTAINER object interface, the SMART CONTAINER object
can propagate directly to their "wall." Now all of her friends
see the SMART CONTAINER object and can view or transact right
there on their own walls. Of course, if any of her friends
also "like" it, the SMART CONTAINER object propagates and
rides the wave further out into that branch of the social
network, yielding a potential exponential growth factor. The
container does not necessarily involve products like shoes. As
another example, a container can support a politician running
for office. His or her supporters may be passionate about a
message and "like" it, again making it available to their
networks. Now, similarly-minded political supporters can view
those messages and, if so moved, donate to the cause. Yet
another example is sports. In this case, a sports fan may wish
to watch content on his or her high-definition (HD) large
screen television. More and more users have interconnected
devices such as ROKU and CHROMECAST devices, and the SMART
CONTAINER code may be sent to such IP television boxes, as
well.
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[0029] When merchants launch and syndicate their SMART
CONTAINER objects onto the Internet, they want to know how
their campaigns are performing. SMART CONTAINER objects report
back status on events and transactions of interest such as
impressions, video views, clicks, leads, and sales. All such
events/transactions can be sent back as events occur,
providing details on how they are doing. Because the
containers are smart, they can be instructed to change
behavior, offer different clips, update products, or to end
when it is time to stop a marketing or sales campaign.
[0030] Another form of tracking relates to how the SMART
CONTAINER code is propagated. A merchant may wish to use
affiliates to help syndicate them and pay them a percentage
based on the transactions resulting from their work. SMART
CONTAINER objects can be tagged with affiliate tracking
identifiers, allowing status reports and transactions from
container instances or their descendants to be properly
filtered. Another tracking usage may be for a politician to
assign affiliate codes to his or her supporters and be able to
measure whose efforts result in the most new supporters.
[0031] SMART CONTAINER objects are designed to be highly
scalable according to particular configurations. Rather than
burden a single website with massive traffic (which would
result from a traditional model of bringing all consumers to a
store), SMART CONTAINER code operates in a distributed manner.
For example, the SMART CONTAINER code can execute where it is
located, such as on a blog, a social network, or a mobile
device. SMART CONTAINER objects fetch their instructions when
started and then gather their product items and video streams
from a worldwide distributed content delivery network. This
results in a highly scalable architecture, allowing millions
of concurrent consumers.
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[0032] By bringing the store to the customer, the SMART
CONTAINER code enables many new ways for merchants to connect
with their consumers without disrupting the consumers' web
activities. The end result is to connect the consumers
directly with the merchants, eliminating the middleman and
promoting a much more natural shopping experience.
[0033] The functionality of the above description may avail
from any suitable components, such as those described in
FIGURES 1 and 12 or other suitable components. The code itself
may be written in any suitable format, including but not
limited to Java, C++, C-sharp, HTML, HTML5, JAVA SCRIPT,
PYTHON, RUBY, and the like.
[0034] There exists a variety of content in the world that
is independent - existing separate from any special containers
such as that invoked by Cinsay Smart ContainerTM code. Certain
embodiments of the disclosure seek to harness the power of
such content by dynamically binding supplemental content to
the underlying base content. As a simple example, a video may
be streamed from a content server such as provided by one of
many video streaming services. The base content represents any
type of visual or audio content - be it a picture, a streaming
video, a live stream from a remote location, real-time content
from the current location of a device, a web page, or other
types of visual content. The supplemental content represents
additional information related to the base content and/or a
user accessing the base content. According to certain
embodiments of disclosure, supplemental content represents
additional information related to the base content and/or a
user accessing the base content. A co-pending provisional
application no. 61,876,668 filed September 11, 2013 and
entitled DYNAMIC BINDING OF INTELLIGENT INTERNET OBJECTS
(which is hereby incorporated by reference) discloses the
addition of such supplemental content. A co-pending
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provisional application no. 61,876,647 filed September 11,
2013 and entitled AD-HOC DYNAMIC BINDING OF INTELLIGENT
INTERNET OBJECTS (which is hereby incorporated by reference)
discloses the manner of selecting what supplemental content to
display.
[0035] FIGURES 2A through 2C illustrate how an example
content container (such as a SMART CONTAINER or other
container) is enhanced for peer-assisted shopping according to
this disclosure. In accordance with some embodiments of this
disclosure, the concept of shopping with friends or family is
emulated. Specifically, the person with whom a user is
shopping need not be physically present. However, the user is
able to communicate and solicit feedback from such a person as
though they were shopping together. As discussed below, a
"peer" in particular embodiments may be person known by the
user, such as a friend or family member. In other embodiments,
a "peer" may be a person who is not readily known to the user.
[0036] With reference to FIGURES 2A and 2B, a container 210
is shown. In this container 210, viewable base content
includes at least one video (as indicated by a play button
220). However, in other configurations, the container 210 may
include images, live-video feeds, or any other type(s) of base
content. The base content could be obtained from any suitable
source. As examples, the base content may be a video streamed
through a video-based provider, such as YOUTUBE, VIMEO,
NETFLIX, REDBOX INSTANT or others, being viewed on a computer,
a mobile device, a television screen, or any other suitable
device or devices. The base content may also be a real-time
view of content at a current location being viewed through an
electronic device such as GOOGLE GLASS or a real-time view in
a mobile computing device such as a tablet or phone. In yet
other configurations, the base content may be an image. In
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still other configurations, the base content may be a web
page.
[0037] In FIGURE 2B, the video has been initiated, and a
selectively displayable product carousel 230 with multiple
products is shown. In particular configurations, these
products correspond to one or more products or services being
shown in the content within the underlying container (a video
here), although this need not be the case. While shown as
overlaying a top portion of the video, the product carousel
230 may overlay other portions of the video (such as a side or
bottom portion of the video) or not overlay the video at all.
For example, the product carousel 230 may extend from or be
positioned outside of the container 210. Additionally, varying
degrees of transparency may be used in the product carousel
230, or the product carousel 230 may be opaque.
[0038] A user viewing the container 210 may interact with
the product carousel 230 and purchase items or perform other
transactions without leaving the container 210. For example,
with reference to a container on a FACEBOOK wall of a friend,
a user may purchase the product directly from the container
210 for such items. In other configurations, a user may leave
the container 210 and be redirected to a website.
[0039] With reference to FIGURE 2C, additional features of
the container 210 are shown. For example, a selectively
displayable toolbar 240 is shown at least partially overlaying
a bottom of the container 210. Although shown overlaying the
bottom portion of the video, the toolbar 240 may overlay other
portions of the video (such as a side or bottom portion of the
video) or not overlay the video at all. For example, the
toolbar 240 may extend from or be positioned outside of the
container 210. Additionally, varying degrees of transparency
may be used in the toolbar 240, or the toolbar 240 may be
opaque.
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[0040] A variety of options are provided in the toolbar
240, including play and audio options 241, share options 243,
account login options 245, video quality options 247, and
further information options 249. The functionality of the play
5 and audio options 241 are apparent to one of ordinary skill in
the art. Also shown is a play bar 242, which is apparent to
one of ordinary skill in the art. In particular
configurations, the play bar 242 may replace a play bar that
would otherwise co-exist for a display of the base content.
10 [0041] Upon clicking on the share options 243, a variety of
other options may be provided. For example, a user may be
given the opportunity to share the container via networks such
as FACEBOOK, MYSPACE, TWITTER, YAHOO, LINKEDIN, GOOGLE,
INSTAGRAM, or WORDPRESS. Furthermore, the user may be given
15 the option to copy embed codes and share via email.
Additionally, the user may be able to propagate the container
by clicking the "like" thumb or "+1"ing on GOOGLE PLUS. The
account login options 245 may allow a user to sign into a
variety of networks including, for example, CINSAY, FACEBOOK,
or GOOGLE. The video quality options 247 allow modification of
the video, and the further information options 249 can provide
any of a variety of options one may wish to provide about the
container.
[0042] A peer-assisted shopping option 250 is also provided
to allow communication with one or more other endpoints. For
example, in particular embodiments, a user may be shopping at
home on his or her computer, tablet, or television. Upon
seeing something he or she likes, the user can select the
peer-assisted shopping option 250 to initiate a communication
session with a peer. The selection may also be made by eye-
tracking components by selecting items that the user is
looking at. As another example, a user may be shopping at a
store, see a particular item he or she likes, initiate a
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communication session with a peer using the peer-assisted
shopping option 250, and share what he or she is viewing (such
as by using camera capture features on a mobile device like a
phone, tablet, or GOOGLE GLASS). The selection of the peer-
assisted shopping option 250 could occur using a mouse
pointer, a finger, or a stylus. Alternatively, activations may
occur with certain movement detected by sensors in the device
or through voice activation.
[0043] Additional details regarding the use of the peer-
assisted shopping option 250 are provided below. Again,
although the underlying content for the container is often
described as a video, the underlying content may include any
other content, including (but not limited to) just-taken
pictures and real-time video feeds.
[0044] FIGURE 3 illustrates an example interface 300 for
initiating contact between endpoints to support peer-assisted
shopping according to this disclosure. For example, upon
selected the peer-assisted shopping option 250 in FIGURE 2C,
the interface 300 may be displayed to a user. In particular
configurations, the interface 300 may be transparently
displayed over a container.
[0045] In the interface 300, connection options 310
represent options for the user to connect with someone who is
currently connected a network, such as a CINSAY, FACEBOOK,
GOOGLE+, or video chatting network (like SKYPE). If the user
is not connected to a particular network, the connection
options 310 for that particular network may not be presented
or may not be selectable in the connection options 310. When a
particular connection option 310 is selected, a message may be
propagated through the appropriate network asking the
recipient to join the requestor in peer-assisted shopping.
Upon accepting the request, the receiving user may be taken to
a container interface.
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[0046] Connection options 320 represent other manners of
initiating contact with a person. Example connection options
320 here include using short-messaging-service (SMS) or e-
mail. In these options, a link may be provided to a container
interface.
[0047] When a container is instantiated, the container
determines the endpoint's environment and communication
options. For example, the container may determine whether
video chat is available, whether the bandwidth on the network
is appropriate for certain communication techniques, whether
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) chatting is an option,
whether text chatting is an option, and whether mobile phone
access is available (such as by using a carrier like AT&T,
VERIZON, SPRINT, or T-MOBILE). In particular embodiments, a
person may have multiple devices, and a connection request can
be sent in parallel to the multiple devices.
[0048] Note that the method and/or manner of communicating
between endpoints is virtually limitless. Non-limiting
examples of communication channels are provided above with
reference to FIGURE 1. Any of these communications or others
may be utilized for initiating communication between end
users.
[0049] Moreover, the people listed in the interface 300 can
be identified in any suitable manner. For example, the people
could be identified using contacts on a device associated with
an endpoint or contacts within a network. In particular
embodiments, only contacts that are currently connected to a
network that is common to the user (such as FACEBOOK, GOOGLE+,
CINSAY, or others) may be shown as options. In other examples,
a general list of contacts can be shown.
[0050] The following are non-limiting examples of ways in
which communications can occur between two end-users: short
messaging service, online presence, a join-me link that
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displays in whatever interface a user may currently be using,
an email, a blast of messages to a group, or messages to
specific friends. In particular embodiments, no account is
needed, and a specific linkage between two endpoints is
established through connection parameters. As will be
recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art, in some
embodiments, communications may be direct (peer-to-peer) or
indirect (such as through servers that relay messages). In
other examples, the communications may be a hybrid of the two.
[0051] The following are non-limiting examples of methods
by which end users can communicate with one another: VoIP,
video chat, text chat, or phone calls. Such communications are
in addition to content (such as digital content) that may be
shared between the end users. In particular embodiments, the
manner of communication may be dependent on the capabilities
of the particular devices used by the end users.
[0052] FIGURES 4 and 5 illustrate example processes for
establishing communication between different endpoints
according to this disclosure. In particular, FIGURE 4 shows an
example process 400 on a first endpoint that initiates a
communication session, while FIGURE 5 shows an example process
500 on a second endpoint that receives a request for a
communication session. Each process 400, 500 may, for example,
be performed by at least one processing device 1012 as shown
in FIGURE 10 and described below. In the following
description, the at least one processing device 1012 is
referred to as a controller, although each process 400, 500
could be performed by any other suitable device.
[0053] With reference to FIGURE 4, the process 400 at the
first endpoint begins at step 410 with a controller initiating
a peer connection option. As referenced above, this may
include a user selecting the peer-assisted shopping option 250
via a mouse click, a tap by a finger on a part of screen, eye-
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tracking, a stylus touching a screen, a remote for a networked
television, voice activation, or a sensor such as proximity
detector (such as detecting a wave). Any other suitable
activation techniques could also be used.
[0054] At step 420, the controller determines communication
parameters of the first endpoint. According to particular
configurations, this may include determining the methods of
communication available on the first endpoint (such as
determining whether voice, chat, or video are available) and
the nature of such channels (such as bandwidth or type of
connection, like WIFI, 3G, 4G, etc.). This may also include
determining which networks the first endpoint is currently
connected to (such as CINSAY, FACEBOOK, or GOOGLE networks).
In particular configurations, a user of a device may configure
or control the available method(s) of communication, such as
by specifying that video chat is available only if connected
via WI-Fl (otherwise video chat is turned off).
[0055] At step 430, the controller determines available
communication parameters of other potential endpoints.
According to particular configurations, this may include
determining which networks one or more peers are currently
connected to (such as CINSAY, FACEBOOK, or GOOGLE networks).
This may also include determining what methods of
communication are available for each peer. For example, as
reference above, a particular person may have multiple
devices, and it may not be clear which device or device (if
any) the person is currently using. When considering peers,
multiple different devices for a single person may be
considered. In particular configurations, a user may also be
prompted to enter communication parameters. For example, the
user may want to communicate with a particular friend and
enter the friend's telephone number for an SMS message.
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[0056] At step 440, the controller initiates communications
with at least a second endpoint upon receiving a response from
that second endpoint. In particular configurations, messages
may be sent in parallel to a second user (such as in-
5 application messages via FACEBOOK/CINSAY and text messages).
If the user is at his or her desktop, the user may prefer to
communicate with a desktop computer as opposed to a mobile
device.
[0057] At step 450, the controller determines whether other
10 messages should go out to other endpoints. In particular
configurations, group settings can be used, where the peer-
assisted shopping is amongst a group of friends. If there are
other connections to be formed, the process returns to step
440.
15 [0058] Otherwise, the process 400 moves to step 460, where
there is a negotiation process between the endpoints to
determine how communication will occur. In this negotiation,
the communication capability of each respective endpoint is
considered. The negotiation process may be partially carried
20 out on each respective endpoint. Alternatively, a server can
operate as an intermediary for the endpoints, or one endpoint
may control the communication setup during the negotiation
process. Negotiation is used in particular embodiments
because, for example, the second endpoint may only be able to
communicate via messaging due a lack of a camera or a
microphone. Accordingly, messaging may be determined as a
suitable communication technique. In
particular
configurations, the negotiation process of step 460 may take
into consideration other devices and the particular content
feed within the container. In particular configurations, the
first endpoint can communicate with multiple endpoints using
disparate technologies. For example, communication between
first and second endpoints may occur via video chatting,
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whereas communication between the first/second endpoints and a
third endpoint may occur via text chatting. Accordingly, the
negotiation process may determine how to efficient handle such
disparate technologies. At step 470, a respective
communication channel is established with each of the
respective endpoints using suitable connection parameters.
[0059] According to particular embodiments, the process 400
of FIGURE 4 may occur quickly, such as within several seconds,
depending on the computing power and network latency. In
certain configurations, the process 400 may take less than a
second. In other configurations, the process 400 may take more
than several seconds.
[0060] With reference to FIGURE 5, the process 500 at a
second endpoint begins at step 510 by receiving a peer
connection request at the second endpoint. As referenced
above, in particular configurations, multiple parallel
requests may be sent to a particular user who has multiple
devices. Several of these types of messages may be received on
a particular endpoint. For example, a text message and an in-
app message (such as in a CINSAY, FACEBOOK, or GOOGLE app) may
be received. In particular configurations, an end user upon
seeing each message can choose to accept the invitation to
connect. As non-limiting examples, the end user may click on a
link or hit a button that confirms acceptance.
[0061] At step 520, a controller initializes a container
for the communication. In particular configurations, the
container may have features that correspond to a pre-installed
application on a device. In other configurations, the
container may correspond to application features that are
propagated "on the fly" or dynamically, such as by using embed
codes.
[0062] At step 530, the controller determines communication
parameters of the second endpoint. This may include performing
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actions similar to those described above with reference to
step 420 of FIGURE 4, except it is performed with reference to
the second endpoint. At step 540, a response is sent to the
first endpoint, such as to confirm or reject the communication
request. If acceptable, at step 550, there is a negotiation
process between the endpoints to determine how communication
will occur. This is similar to step 460 in FIGURE 4, except it
is done from the perspective of the second endpoint. At step
560, one or more communication channels are established, which
is similar to step 470 of FIGURE 4.
[0063] In particular embodiments, a second endpoint that
receives a request and establishes a link with a first
endpoint in the process 500 of FIGURE 5 may, in turn, perform
the process 400 of FIGURE 4 using an "add-a-friend" feature.
In such an embodiment, approval may or may not be required by
the first endpoint to allow a third endpoint to participate.
In repeating the process 400, the negotiation between
endpoints may consider the link that has already been
established between the first or second endpoint.
[0064] FIGURES 6 and 7 illustrate examples of peer-assisted
shopping communication interfaces 600, 700 according to this
disclosure. The interface 600 may exist on any suitable
device, whereas the interface 700 is shown here as existing on
a mobile device. In these particular embodiments, the
underlying base content is a video. Again, however, the
underling content may be other items, such as a real-time
video feed. In such an alternative configuration, a first
device may capture video and send it in real-time to a second
device, either directly or indirectly (such as through a
server intermediary).
[0065] With reference to FIGURE 6, a container 610 is
generally shown that may have features similar to those
described above with reference to FIGURES 2A through 2C. A box
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620 has been extended from one edge of the container 610 to
show that the user is in communication with three different
people. The box 620 is shown partitioned into three portions
620A-620C, each of which corresponds to a particular person.
Although this particular interface is shown, others may be
utilized. For example, the box 620 may be shown as an overlay
over the base content. Additionally, the interface may be
hidden upon command with, for example, only voice being
propagated. Additionally, portions or all of the box 620 may
take on a chat room interface if messaging is utilized.
[0066] In particular configurations, a user may be allowed
to interact with a portion of the box corresponding to a
particular person. For example, a user may click on a portion
620A-620C corresponding to a particular person to discover
what is in that person's shopping cart.
[0067] As referenced above, disparate technologies may be
utilized in certain configurations. Accordingly, for example,
the portions 620A and 620C may show a video chat interface to
initiate a video chat session, whereas the portion 620B may be
messaging chatting. In particular embodiments, conversions
technologies may be used to convert text-to-voice or voice-to-
text in order to accommodate scenarios requiring different
communication techniques. The conversion process may occur
anywhere in the communication chain, such as at either
endpoint or at a server or other intermediary.
[0068] Also shown in FIGURE 6 is a shopping cart 625, which
a user may use to place items. The items could be placed into
the shopping cart 625 at one or multiple websites. As
described below, the shopping cart 625 of a particular user
may be shared with his or her peers, allowing each respective
peer to provide feedback.
[0069] A variety of tools 640 are also shown to facilitate
communication between end users. In particular configurations,
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the tools 640 may replace some of the tools 240 shown in
FIGURE 2C. Although shown in the lower portion of the
container 610 in this configuration, the tools 640 may take on
almost any configuration and can be selectively shown (and
hidden) in any of a variety of ways. As non-limiting examples,
the tools 640 may be instantiated by hovering over a lower
portion of the container or right clicking on the container.
[0070] In this example, the tools 640 include a share
shopping cart feature 641, a share particular location in
video feature 643, a share current content feature 645, a sync
feature 647, and a commenting or tagging feature 649. Other
features designated "x" and "y" may additionally be
incorporated. The share shopping cart feature 641 allows one
user to let his or her peers view the items in the shopping
cart 625. The shopping cart 625 may contain one or more
reverse links back to the location(s) where one or more items
were added to the shopping cart 625. For example, it may
contain a respective location in a video where a product was
viewed and added to the shopping cart 625.
[0071] The share particular location in video feature 643
enables one user to direct another user to a particular
location in a video. For example, one user may like a
particular product (such as shoes) in a video and choose to
share that particular location with one or more of his or her
peers.
[0072] The share current content feature 645 enables the
sharing of content the user is currently viewing through the
container. For example, if the content is a video, the video
may be shared to other users. If the content is a real-time
view of something, the real-time view may be recorded (such as
with a camera on a user device), and either pictures or video
may be sent to another user.
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[0073] The sync feature 647 allows synchronization of views
at different devices. For example, a first user may wish that
a second user view the same thing that the first user is
viewing. Accordingly, initiating this feature allows the views
5 to be synchronized. In initiating this feature, a user may
choose, for example, a start position of a particular video.
Multiple user devices can communicate as necessary so that
playback is synchronized on those user devices.
[0074] The comment or tagging feature 649 allows a user to
10 comment on a time-based and/or coordinate-based portion of
content. For example, a first user may want to circle certain
shoes at a certain time in a video and share that information
with his or her peers. Any suitable annotation features may be
utilized. The annotations may store the time and coordinates.
15 [0075] With reference to FIGURE 7, a container 710 on a
mobile device 790 is generally shown. This container 710 may
contain features similar to those described above with
reference to FIGURES 2A through 2C. In particular embodiments,
the container 710 may cover the entire screen, with other
20 interfaces selectively provided to cover a portion of the base
content. For example, as shown here, a box 725 containing
communication features (such as video or text chat) may
overlay a portion of the container.
[0076] FIGURE 8 illustrates an example container 810 with a
25 shopping cart 820 according to this disclosure. The container
810 may contain features similar to those described above with
reference to FIGURES 2A through 2C and FIGURE 6. In particular
embodiments, the container 810 may cover the entire screen,
with other interfaces selectively provided to cover a portion
of the base content. For example, as shown here, the shopping
cart 820 may overlay a portion of the container 810. In this
example embodiment, the shopping cart 820 includes items 825a-
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825c, descriptions 830a-830c of the items 825a-825c, purchase
information 840a-840c, and/or review information 850a-850c.
[0077] In some embodiments, the shopping cart 820 may
represent a shared shopping cart in which multiple users can
place items. One shopper can add an item to the shopping cart
which could be a suggested item for another shopper. According
to certain embodiments, the contents of the shopping cart 820
may contain an identifier of who added each item, along with a
link-back to the location from where the item came. In some
circumstances, the link-back could point to a video.
[0078] Shared shopping carts may be used in a variety of
settings. For example, the shopping cart 820 may be utilized
by a group planning for a party, with each added item showing
the others in the group what they intend on buying. As another
example, for high-school girls attending a prom, the shopping
cart 820 may be utilized so that each girl may see what other
girls intend on wearing to the prom. For items in the shared
shopping cart, individuals may be able to comment on the
items. Additionally, where a particular shared item has been
annotated, the shopping cart 820 may indicate that the item
has a comment in the link-back object, which again may be a
video.
[0079] Even when a shopping cart 820 is being shared, in
particular embodiments individual checkouts may occur. When
such a checkout has occurred, a notification may be placed in
the shopping cart indicting that a particular item has been
purchased. Alternatively, if all items in the cart are shared
purchase-wise, each person may have an individual check-out
for his or her portion of the overall amount. Also, in
particular embodiments, whether or not something is shared in
a cart can be defined by permissions. For example, an
individual cart may begin as an individual cart and quickly be
turned into a shared shopping cart by changing permissions.
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[0080] In various embodiments, a user may be given the
opportunity to share a container via networks such as
FACEBOOK, MYSPACE, TWITTER, YAHOO, LINKEDIN, GOOGLE,
INSTAGRAM, or WORDPRESS. Furthermore, the user may be given
the option to copy embed codes and share via email. Each user
that can access the shopping cart 820 may be able to review
and comment on an item in the shopping cart 820, and the
review can be used to update the review information for that
item. For example, any user with access to the shopping cart
820 may review an item by clicking a "like" thumb or "+1"ing
on GOOGLE PLUS.
[0081] In some embodiments, the purchase information 840a-
840c may include a price, a quantity, and/or a link-out to
other purchase site(s) for each item 825a-825c. For example,
the purchase information 840a and 840c may include a price and
a quantity with the ability to purchase through the container
810. The purchase information 840b may include a link-out to
another website (such as the manufacturer of item 825b), where
a user may purchase the item 825b at the other website.
[0082] The account login options 245 described above may
allow a user to sign into a variety of networks including, for
example, CINSAY, FACEBOOK, and GOOGLE. In some embodiments,
the container 810 may utilize a single sign-on, global
cookies, analytic identifiers, and/or various aggregators to
support various functions. For example, a user may log into
the container 810 though a single sign-on using FACEBOOK
CONNECT, GOOGLE APPS, smart cards, mobile devices, and/or the
like. As another example, the container 810 may use global
cookies and analytic identifiers to customize the container
810 and the shopping cart 820 for the user. Additionally,
these cookies and identifiers may also be used for customized
recommendations.
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[0083] FIGURE 9 illustrates another example communication
system 900 that can be utilized to facilitate communication
between endpoints through a communication network according to
this disclosure. As shown in FIGURE 9, the system 900 includes
endpoints 910-930, which are used by a common user. The
endpoints 910-930 represent any suitable communication or
computing devices (a laptop computer, mobile phone, and GOOGLE
GLASS in this example), although any other devices as
described above with respect to the endpoints 110, 120, and
130 could be used. Although each endpoint generally appears as
being in a single location, the endpoints may be
geographically dispersed (such as in cloud computing
scenarios) and may represent fixed or mobile devices.
[0084] According to particular embodiments, the user may
add items to a shopping cart across devices and across
merchants. For example, the user may add a particular item
while shopping with a container associated with SAKS FIFTH
AVENUE. Later, when viewing a different container associated
with NEIMAN MARCUS, the user may add additional information to
the cart. Then, a single view of the cart across merchants can
be provided. Additionally, the user can check out from both
merchants using the single cart. Upon checking out, the system
can send separate communications to each respective merchant
as to the purchase.
[0085] As another example, the user may add something to a
cart using a mobile device and then later view the shopping
cart using a desktop computer or other device. To enable this
technology across merchants and/or across devices, any
suitable technology may be utilized, such as cookies, MAC
identifiers, account login credentials, single sign-on
providers, and the like.
[0086] In some embodiments, a peer-assisted shopping option
is also provided at one or both endpoints 910-920 to allow
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communication with one or more other endpoints. For example,
in particular embodiments, the user may be shopping at home on
the endpoint 910 and, upon seeing something he or she likes,
initiate a communication with a peer. The user may also be
shopping in a store, see a particular item he or she likes,
initiate communication with a peer, and share what he or she
sees using a camera of the endpoint 920 or 930.
[0087] With reference to various figures described above,
the solicitation of feedback by a user may be product- or
service-specific. Moreover, there is no requirement that a
user obtain feedback from family members or friends, and
options can be provided for seeking general feedback from non-
friends and non-family members. For example, various
embodiments may allow a user to solicit feedback on products
or services from other individuals who have purchased or
reviewed those products or services in the past or who have
opted in for peer-assisted shopping participation and active
solicitation. In other configurations, a particular user may
solicit information from non-connected users from other
networks that the particular user may utilize. In such
configurations, the solicitation of information may also
encourage the solicited individuals to become users of a
network, such as the CINSAY network. As a non-limiting
example, one could have a FACEBOOK or GOOGLE+ post (that is
automatically posted by CINSAY'S technology) asking friends,
groups, circles, or the general public for input on a
particular product. In particular configurations, an
individual may simply engage in a response. In other
configurations, an individual may be prompted to become a
CINSAY network participant user or to simply associate his or
her current network (such as a FACEBOOK or GOOGLE+ account)
with a CINSAY account. In either configuration, the user may
be given a variety of control configurations as to who is
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solicited. As non-limiting examples, the user may have options
to solicit friends, groups, or circles in FACEBOOK or GOOGLE +
accounts. The user may also have options to solicit by
geographic region (such as city, metropolitan area, region, or
5 state) or by those having certain technological capabilities
(such as those that can video chat). The user may further have
options to solicit those who purchased within a certain time
frame (such as when such purchase statistics are available),
to solicit those who purchased from the same company in which
10 a purchase is contemplated, or to solicit every known
purchaser of the product. Any other criteria or combinations
of criteria (including the preceding criteria) could be used.
[0088] Active solicitation may take various
forms,
including video conversations, chats, SMS messages, emails, or
15 any other form of electronic communication facilitated by the
technology. In particular configurations, the receipt of a
solicited message may involve an opt-in or opt-out scenario.
The receipt of solicitations could be controlled in a manner
similar to that described above. For example, solicitations
20 could be received from friends, groups, or circles in FACEBOOK
or GOOGLE+ accounts. The receipt of solicitations could also
be controlled by geographic region, by those having certain
technological capabilities, by those who have purchased or are
contemplating a purchase from the same company, or any other
25 criteria or combinations thereof.
[0089] Upon product or service selection, a user may
additionally be presented with product or service reviews,
ratings, or feedback from other product or service users.
Current users may choose to solicit additional feedback on a
30 product or service of interest from other users in their
network or peer-assisted shopping participants who have opted-
in for active solicitation and peer-assisted shopping. Active
solicitation is facilitated by the technology and may occur
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synchronously or asynchronously in a real-time or delayed
fashion.
[0090] Peer-assisted shopping or active solicitation
participants may or may not receive compensation for the
rendered assisted services. In cases where service
compensation in rendered, it may include forms of payments
such as credits, discounts, virtual currency, and legal
tender. Unlike general comments on products, certain
embodiments provide an actual real-time question/answer
session about a particular product or service.
[0091] FIGURE 10 illustrates an example computing device
1000 supporting peer-assisted e-commerce shopping according to
this disclosure. The computing device 1000 could, for example,
generally represent any of the endpoints or other computing
devices discussed above. The computing device 1000 here could
also be used to implement any of the techniques or functions
described above, including any combination of the techniques
or functions described above. The computing device 1000 may
generally be adapted to execute any of suitable operating
system, including WINDOWS, MAC OS, UNIX, LINUX, 0S2, IOS,
ANDROID, or other operating systems.
[0092] As shown in FIGURE 10, the computing device 1000
includes at least one processing device 1012, a random access
memory (RAM) 1014, a read only memory (ROM) 1016, a mouse
1018, a keyboard 1020, and input/output devices such as a disc
drive 1022, a printer 1024, a display 1026, and a
communication link 1028. In other embodiments, the computing
device 1000 may include more, less, or other components.
Computing devices come in a wide variety of configurations,
and FIGURE 10 does not limit the scope of this disclosure to
any particular computing device or type of computing device.
[0093] Program code may be stored in the RAM 1014, the ROM
1016 or the disc drive 1022 and may be executed by the at
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least one processing device 1012 in order to carry out the
functions described above. The at least one processing device
1012 can be any type(s) of processing device(s), such as one
or more processors, microprocessors,
controllers,
microcontrollers, multi-core processors, and the like. The
communication link 1028 may be connected to a computer network
or a variety of other communicative platforms, including any
of the various types of communication networks 140 described
above. The disc drive 1022 may include a variety of types of
storage media such as, for example, floppy drives, hard
drives, CD drives, DVD drives, magnetic tape drives, or other
suitable storage media. One or multiple disc drive 1022 may be
used in the computing device 1000.
[0094] Note that while FIGURE 10 provides one example
embodiment of a computer that may be utilized with other
embodiments of this disclosure, such other embodiments may
utilize any suitable general-purpose or specific-purpose
computing devices. Multiple computing devices having any
suitable arrangement could also be used. Commonly, multiple
computing devices are networked through the Internet and/or in
a client-server network. However, this disclosure may use any
suitable combination and arrangement of computing devices,
including those in separate computer networks linked together
by a private or public network.
[0095] The computing devices 1000 could represent fixed or
mobile devices, and various components can be added or omitted
based on the particular implementation of a computing device.
For example, mobile devices could include features such as
cameras, camcorders, GPS features, and antennas for wireless
communications. Particular examples of such mobile devices
include IPHONE, IPAD, and ANDROID-based devices.
[0096] Although the figures above have described various
systems, devices, and methods related to the support of peer-
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assisted e-commerce shopping, various changes may be made to
the figures. For example, the designs of various devices and
systems could vary as needed or desired, such as when
components of a device or system are combined, further
subdivided, rearranged, or omitted and additional components
are added. As another example, while various methods are shown
as a series of steps, various steps in each method could
overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a different order, or
occur any number of times. In addition, examples of graphical
presentations are for illustration only, and content can be
presented in any other suitable manner. It will be understood
that well-known processes have not been described in detail
and have been omitted for brevity. Although specific steps,
structures, and materials may have been described, this
disclosure may not be limited to these specifics, and others
may be substituted as it is well understood by those skilled
in the art, and various steps may not necessarily be performed
in the sequences shown.
[0097] In some embodiments, various functions described in
this patent document are implemented or supported by a
computer program that is formed from computer readable program
code and that is embodied in a computer readable medium. The
phrase "computer readable program code" includes any type of
computer code, including source code, object code, and
executable code. The phrase "computer readable medium"
includes any type of medium capable of being accessed by a
computer, such as read only memory (ROM), random access memory
(RAM), a hard disk drive, a compact disc (CD), a digital video
disc (DVD), or any other type of memory. A "non-transitory"
computer readable medium excludes wired, wireless, optical, or
other communication links that transport transitory electrical
or other signals. A non-transitory computer readable medium
includes media where data can be permanently stored and media
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where data can be stored and later overwritten, such as a
rewritable optical disc or an erasable memory device.
[0098] It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of
certain words and phrases used throughout this patent
document. The terms "application" and "program" refer to one
or more computer programs, software components, sets of
instructions, procedures, functions, objects, classes,
instances, related data, or a portion thereof adapted for
implementation in a suitable computer code (including source
code, object code, or executable code). The terms "transmit,"
"receive," and "communicate," as well as derivatives thereof,
encompasses both direct and indirect communication. The terms
"include" and "comprise," as well as derivatives thereof, mean
inclusion without limitation. The term "or" is inclusive,
meaning and/or. The phrase "associated with," as well as
derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within,
interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or
with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with,
interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with,
have, have a property of, have a relationship to or with, or
the like. The phrase "at least one of," when used with a list
of items, means that different combinations of one or more of
the listed items may be used, and only one item in the list
may be needed. For example, "at least one of: A, B, and C"
includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B,
A and C, B and C, and A and B and C.
[0099] While this disclosure has
described certain
embodiments and generally associated methods, alterations and
permutations of these embodiments and methods will be apparent
to those skilled in the art. Other changes, substitutions, and
alterations are also possible without departing from the
invention as defined by the following claims.
