Patent ID: 6157831
Filing Date: 2000-12-05
Classification: H04W

Abstract:
A method of implementing call forwarding bins configurable to implement preselected call forwarding features in a mobile telephone system, each call forwarding bin storing a forward-to number, the method comprising the steps of:(a) receiving a status of a subscriber's cellular phone;(b) determining the status of the cellular phone and whether the cellular phone is in a home area or a roaming area;(c) checking a pre-defined priority list associated with the status of the cellular phone and whether the cellular phone is in a home area or a roaming area, the priority list identifying a plurality of call forwarding bins each assigned with a predetermined priority and each containing a forward-to phone number;(d) providing control of the subscriber's ability to activate and deactivate any of the plurality of call forwarding bins identified in the priority list;(d) determining which call forwarding bin on the priority list has the highest priority, is activated, and is available to the subscriber;(e) retrieving a forward-to phone number from the call forwarding bin that has the highest priority on the priority list, is activated, and is available to the subscriber; and(f) redirecting an incoming call destined for the subscriber's cellular phone to the forward-to phone number.