Patent ID: 8079028
Filing Date: 2011-12-13
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. An information processing apparatus comprising: a memory configure to separately store functional generation information and application software, wherein the functional generation information enables the application software, independent of a software version of the application software, to access functions when the functional generation information is concurrently located in the memory with the application software, the functional generation information including (1) a first URL that corresponds to an external location where an update to the functional generation information is registered, (2) a second URL that corresponds to an external location where an update to the application software is registered, and (3) a combination of cryptographic keys; a managing unit configured to manage first functional generation information stored in said memory that enables the application software to access first functions; obtaining means for obtaining second functional generation information that, if located in the memory, would enable the application software to access second functions, wherein the second functional generation information is registered at the first URL in an information providing apparatus that is remotely located from said information processing apparatus, wherein said information providing apparatus is connected to said information processing apparatus via a network, and wherein said obtaining means obtains said second functional generation information based on said first functional generation information; comparing and determining means for comparing said first functional generation information and said second functional generation information and for determining which of said first or second functional generation information is a newest functional generation information; information updating means for, when said comparing and determining means determines that said second functional generation information is newer than said first functional generation information, updating said first functional generation information stored in said memory to said newest functional generation information, such that said memory contains said second functional generation information and the application software, independent of the software version, is able access the second functions; and application software updating means for updating the application software stored in said memory to application software located at the second URL of said second functional generation information, when said comparing and determining means determines that said second functional generation information is newer than said first functional generation information.