Method and apparatus for sharing time information in an electronic device

A method for operating an electronic device is provided. The method includes identifying time information of at least one counterpart electronic device, displaying the time information of the counterpart electronic device when an application program for displaying time information is executed, when time change information of the counterpart electronic device is received, changing the time information of the counterpart electronic device according to the time change information, and displaying changed time information of the counterpart electronic device when the application program for displaying time information is executed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(a) of a Korean patent application filed on Dec. 24, 2012 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office and assigned Serial No. 10-2012-0152333, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an electronic device. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for sharing time information in an electronic device.

BACKGROUND

Electronic devices such as mobile terminals have effectively become necessities for most people due to their advanced features and portability. For example, with the development of communication technology, portable electronic devices have evolved into multimedia devices that provide various multimedia services using data communication service as well as a voice communication service.

Based on the increased number of users, information exchange between users using the voice communication service and data communication service has increased. However, when users who want to exchange information with each other are located at different areas having different standard times, the user of a portable electronic device may not recognize the time information of the area where a counterpart user is located. In that case, the user may not use the communication service with the counterpart user smoothly. For example, when a first electronic device located in Seoul transmits a message to a second electronic device located in New York and the local time in Seoul is 4 p.m., the second electronic device may receive the message at 3 a.m., which is the local time in New York. Therefore, the user of the second electronic device may not easily recognize the reception of the message from the first electronic device, so that the user of the second electronic device may not use a messenger service with the first electronic device smoothly.

Therefore, there exists a need for sharing time information between counterpart portable electronic devices for a smooth communication service.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the present disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for sharing time information with a counterpart electronic device in an electronic device.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for sharing time information with a counterpart electronic device for a communication service in an electronic device.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for transmitting time information to a counterpart electronic device for a communication service when a standard time is changed in an electronic device.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for sharing time information with a counterpart electronic device for a communication service using a server in an electronic device.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for transmitting time information to a counterpart electronic device for a communication service using a server when a standard time is changed in an electronic device.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for displaying time sharing information associated with a counterpart electronic device for a communication service in an electronic device.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for displaying time information of a counterpart electronic device before using a communication service in an electronic device.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a method for operating an electronic device is provided. The method includes identifying time information of at least one counterpart electronic device, displaying the time information of the counterpart electronic device when an application program for displaying time information is executed, when time change information of the counterpart electronic device is received, changing the time information of the counterpart electronic device according to the time change information, and displaying changed time information of the counterpart electronic device when the application program for displaying time information is executed.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for operating an electronic device is provided. The method includes when a time sharing request signal is received from a counterpart electronic device, determining whether to share time with the counterpart electronic device, when sharing the time with the counterpart electronic device, transmitting time information to the counterpart electronic device, determining whether the time information of the electronic device is changed, and when the time information of the electronic device is changed, transmitting time change information of the electronic device to the counterpart electronic device.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a display unit, at least one processor, a memory and a program stored in the memory and configured to be executable by the processor, wherein the program transmits a time sharing request signal to a counterpart electronic device, receives time information of the counterpart electronic device, displays the time information of the counterpart electronic device when an application program for displaying time information is executed, when time change information of the counterpart electronic device is received, changes the time information of the counterpart electronic device according to the time change information, and displays changed time information of the counterpart electronic device when the application program for displaying time information is executed.

In accordance with still another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a display unit, at least one processor, a memory and a program stored in the memory and configured to be executable by the processor, wherein the program, when a time sharing request signal is received from a counterpart electronic device, determines whether to share time with the counterpart electronic device, when sharing the time with the counterpart electronic device, transmits time information to the counterpart electronic device, determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed, and when the time information of the electronic device is changed, transmits time change information of the electronic device to the counterpart electronic device.

In accordance with still another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a communication unit, a display unit, and at least one processor, wherein the processor is configured to identify the time information of a counterpart electronic device, to display the time information of the counterpart electronic device when an application program for displaying time information is executed, to, when time change information of the counterpart electronic device is received, change the time information of the counterpart electronic device according to the time change information, and to display changed time information of the counterpart electronic device when the application program for displaying time information is executed.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a communication unit, a display unit, and at least one processor, wherein the processor is configured to, when a time sharing request signal is received from a counterpart electronic device, determine whether to share time with the counterpart electronic device, to, when sharing the time with the counterpart electronic device, transmit time information to the counterpart electronic device, to determine whether the time information of the electronic device is changed, and to, when the time information of the electronic device is changed, transmit time change information of the electronic device to the counterpart electronic device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure provides a technique for sharing time information with other electronic devices in an electronic device.

In the following description, examples of the electronic device include a mobile communication terminal, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a Personal Computer (PC), a laptop computer, a smart phone, a netbook, a television, a Mobile Internet Device (MID), an Ultra Mobile Personal Computer (UMPC), a tablet PC, a navigation device, a watch, a smart TV, an MP3 player, and the like.

In the following description, time information may include at least one of the local time of the area in which the electronic device is located and location information of the electronic device, with which the local time of the electronic device may be estimated.

FIG. 1is a diagram illustrating a configuration for enabling electronic devices to share time information according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 1, when a first electronic device100and a second electronic device110want to share time information, the first electronic device100may make a request to the second electronic device110for time sharing. For example, the first electronic device100may transmit a control signal for the time sharing request to the second electronic device110. As another example, the first electronic device100may transmit a message including the time sharing request to the second electronic device110. In this case, the first electronic device100may transmit at least one of the time information and authentication information of the first electronic device100along with the time sharing request information to the second electronic device110. In this case, the second electronic device110may include at least one counterpart electronic device selected by the user of the first electronic device100for sharing of time information.

The second electronic device110determines whether to share time information with the first electronic device100when receiving the time sharing request information of the first electronic device100. For example, the second electronic device110may determine whether to share time information with the first electronic device100based on the authentication information of the first electronic device100included in the time sharing request information.

When it is determined to share time information with the first electronic device100, the second electronic device110transmits the time information of the second electronic device110to the first electronic device100. In this case, the second electronic device110may identify the time information of the first electronic device100included in the time sharing request information and display the time information so as to allow a user to view it.

When receiving the time information from the second electronic device110, the first electronic device100displays the time information of the second electronic device110so as to allow the user of the first electronic device100to view it.

Thereafter, when the time information (e.g., standard time or local time) of the first electronic device100is changed, the first electronic device100transmits time change information to the second electronic device110. Therefore, the second electronic device110may update the time information associated with the first electronic device100according to the time change information provided by the first electronic device100.

In addition, when the time information (e.g., standard time or local time) of the second electronic device110is changed, the second electronic device110transmits time change information to the first electronic device100. Accordingly, the first electronic device100may update the time information associated with the second electronic device110according to the time change information provided by the second electronic device110.

In order to share time information as described above, either or both of the electronic devices100and110may be configured as illustrated inFIG. 2.

FIG. 2is a diagram illustrating a block configuration of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 2, the electronic device200includes a memory210, a processor unit220, an audio processing unit230, a communication system240, an input/output control unit250, a display unit260, and an input device270. In this case, the memory210may be provided in plurality. In an embodiment, the first electronic device100and the second electronic device110are configured identically to each other, and the operation of the first electronic device100and the operation of the second electronic device110will be described using one block configuration.

The memory210may include a program storage unit211for storing a program for controlling an operation of the electronic device200, and a data storage unit212for storing data generated during the execution of a program.

The program storage unit211includes a Graphic User Interface (GUI) program213, a time sharing control program214, a time setting program215, and at least one application program216. In this case, the programs stored in the program storage unit211may be expressed as an instruction set that is a collection of instructions.

The data storage unit212stores the time information of at least one counterpart electronic device identified through the time sharing control program214and the time information of the electronic device200identified through the time setting program215.

The GUI program213includes at least one software component for providing a graphic user interface on the display unit260. For example, the GUI program213may display information about application programs executed by a processor222on the display unit260. As another example, the GUI program213may display the time information of a counterpart electronic device that performs time sharing through the time sharing control program214on the display unit260.

The time sharing control program214includes at least one software component for sharing time information with the at least one counterpart electronic device.

When a time sharing event occurs, the time sharing control program214may transmit time sharing request information to the at least one counterpart electronic device. In this case, the time sharing control program214may transmit at least one of the time information and authentication information of the electronic device200along with the time sharing request information. Thereafter, the time sharing control program214may identify the time information of the at least one counterpart electronic device received through the communication system240. For example, when receiving the location information of the counterpart electronic device, the time sharing control program214may identify the time information of the counterpart electronic device using global time information and the location information of the counterpart electronic device stored in the data storage unit212. In this case, the time sharing control program214may select at least one counterpart electronic device for sharing of time information according to input information provided from the input device270.

When time sharing request information is received through the communication system240, the time sharing control program214may determine whether to share time information with the counterpart electronic device according to a time sharing request. For example, the time sharing control program214may display the time sharing request information on the display unit260. Thereafter, the time sharing control program214may determine whether to share time information with the at least one counterpart electronic device according to input information provided from the input device270. As another example, the time sharing control program214may determine whether to share time information with the at least one counterpart electronic device based on the authentication information of the counterpart electronic device that requests time sharing.

When the time information is determined to be shared with the counterpart electronic device, the time sharing control program214performs control to transmit response information including the time information of the electronic device200to the counterpart electronic device through the communication system240. On the other hand, when the time information is determined not to be shared with the counterpart electronic device, the time sharing control program214performs control to transmit response information indicating that the sharing of time information is not permitted to the counterpart electronic device through the communication system240.

When the time information (e.g., local time) of the electronic device200is changed by the time setting program215, the time sharing control program214may transmit the time change information of the electronic device200to the at least one counterpart electronic device that performs time sharing.

When time change information is received from at least one counterpart electronic device through the communication system240, the time sharing control program214may update the time information of the at least one counterpart electronic device in which time information is changed.

The time setting program215includes at least one software component for setting the time information of the electronic device200. For example, the time setting program215may identify the time information of an area in which the electronic device200is located by using Network Identity and Time Zone (NITZ) information received through the communication system240. As another example, the time setting program215may identify the time information of the area in which the electronic device200is located by using a Global Positioning System (GPS) signal.

The application program216includes a software component for at least one application program installed in the electronic device200.

The processor unit220may include a memory interface221, at least one processor222, and a peripheral interface224. In this case, the memory interface221, the at least one processor222and the peripheral interface224which are included in the processor unit220may be integrated into at least one integrated circuit or be implemented as separate components.

The memory interface221controls access to the memory210of components, such as the processor222or the peripheral interface224.

The peripheral interface224controls connections of the input/output peripherals of the electronic device200to the processor222and the memory interface221.

The processor222enables the electronic device200to provide various multimedia services using at least one software program. In this case, the processor222executes at least one program stored in the memory210and provides a service corresponding to the program. For example, the processor222may execute the time sharing control program214stored in the program storage unit211and share time information with the counterpart electronic device.

The audio processing unit230provides an audio interface between a user and the electronic device200through a speaker231and a microphone232.

The communication system240provides a communication function for voice communication and data communication. For example, the communication system240transmits the time sharing request information and the time change information to the at least one counterpart electronic device according to control of the time sharing control program214. In addition, the communication system240may receive time information and time change information from the at least one counterpart electronic device that performs time sharing.

In this case, the communication system240may be classified into a plurality of communication sub-modules which support different communication networks. For example, the communication networks may include, but are not limited to, a Global System for Mobile communication (GSM) network, an Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE) network, a Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) network, a W-Code Division Multiple Access (W-CDMA) network, a Long Term Evolution (LTE) network, an Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) network, a wireless Local Area Network (LAN), a Bluetooth network, a Near Field Communication (NFC) network, and the like.

The input/output control unit250provides an interface between an input/output device, such as the display unit260and the input device270, and the peripheral interface224.

The display unit260displays the state information of the electronic device200, characters input by the user, moving pictures, still pictures, or the like. For example, the display unit260displays information about application programs executed by the processor222. In another example, the display unit260may display the time information of the counterpart electronic device according to control of the GUI program213.

The input device270provides input data generated by the selection of the user to the processor unit220through the input/output control unit250. In this case, the input device270includes a keypad including at least one hardware button, a touch pad for detecting touch information, and the like.

In the above-described embodiment, the processor222may execute a software component stored in the program storage unit211within one module and share time information with the counterpart electronic device.

As another example, the processor222may be configured to include separate modules as components for controlling the sharing of time information with a counterpart electronic device as illustrated inFIG. 3.

FIG. 3is a diagram illustrating a block configuration of a processor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 3, the processor222includes a time sharing control unit300, a display control unit310, and a time setting unit320.

The time sharing control unit300performs control to share time information with at least one counterpart electronic device. In this case, the time sharing control unit300executes at least one time sharing control program214stored in the program storage unit211to share the time information with the at least one counterpart electronic device.

When a time sharing event occurs, the time sharing control unit300may transmit time sharing request information to the at least one counterpart electronic device. In this case, the time sharing control unit300may transmit at least one of the time information and authentication information of the electronic device200along with the time sharing request information. Thereafter, the time sharing control unit300may identify the time information of the at least one counterpart electronic device received through the communication system240. For example, when receiving the location information of the counterpart electronic device, the time sharing control unit300may identify the time information of the counterpart electronic device by using global time information and the location information of the counterpart electronic device stored in the data storage unit212. In this case, the time sharing control unit300may select at least one counterpart electronic device that performs time sharing according to input information provided from the input device270.

When time sharing request information is received through the communication system240, the time sharing control unit300may determine whether to share time information with the counterpart electronic device according to a time sharing request. For example, the time sharing control unit300may display the time sharing request information on the display unit260. Thereafter, the time sharing control unit300may determine whether to share time information with the at least one counterpart electronic device according to input information provided from the input device270. As another example, the time sharing control unit300may determine whether to share time information with the at least one counterpart electronic device based on the authentication information of the counterpart electronic device that requests time sharing.

When the time information is determined to be shared with the counterpart electronic device, the time sharing control unit300transmits response information including the time information of the electronic device200to the counterpart electronic device through the communication system240. On the other hand, when the time information is determined not to be shared with the counterpart electronic device, the time sharing control unit300performs control to transmit response information indicating that the sharing of time information is not permitted to the counterpart electronic device through the communication system240.

The display control unit310displays a graphic user interface on the display unit260. The display control unit310may execute a GUI program213stored in the program storage unit211and display the graphic user interface on the display unit260. For example, the display control unit310may display information about an application program that is executed by an application program execution unit (not illustrated) on the display unit260. As another example, the display control unit310may display the time information of a counterpart electronic device that performs time sharing through the time sharing control unit300on the display unit260. In addition, the display unit310may display a screen for selection of a counterpart electronic device for time sharing or an information screen related to the time sharing request on the display unit260. Examples of a screen for selection of a counterpart electronic device for time sharing and an information screen related to the time sharing request are illustrated below inFIG. 12AandFIG. 12B, respectively.

The time setting unit320sets the time information of the electronic device200. In this case, the time setting unit320may execute the time setting program215stored in the program storage unit211and set the time of the electronic device200. For example, the time setting unit320may identify the time information of an area in which the electronic device200is located by using Network Identity and Time Zone (NITZ) information received through the communication system240. As another example, the time setting unit320may identify the time information of the area in which the electronic device200is located by using a GPS signal.

FIG. 4is a diagram illustrating a process of identifying time information of a counterpart electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12Dare diagrams illustrating screen configurations for sharing of time information according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, and 13Eare diagrams illustrating screen configurations for display of time information according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIGS. 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, and 14Eare diagrams illustrating screen configurations for display of time information according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 4, in operation401, an electronic device makes a request for time sharing to a second electronic device. For example, when a time sharing event occurs, the electronic device may display a list of counterpart electronic devices with which time information may be shared on the display unit260as illustrated inFIG. 12A. Thereafter, when a selection of a “yes” menu illustrated inFIG. 12Ais detected, the electronic device may perceive that a user has selected at least one counterpart electronic device with which time information is permitted to be shared. Therefore, the electronic device may make a request to a “user2” that was selected by the user for time sharing. In this case, the electronic device transmits time sharing request information to the second electronic device in the form of a control signal or a message. Herein, the electronic device may detect whether the time sharing event occurs in consideration of at least one of menu selection information, touch information, user gesture information and the movement information of the electronic device. In addition, the list of counterpart electronic devices may include a list of telephone numbers stored in a phonebook. In addition, the second electronic device may include at least one counterpart electronic device selected by the user of the electronic device to share time information.

In operation403, the electronic device determines whether response information including the time information of the second electronic device is received. In an embodiment, the electronic device determines whether response information having the form of a control signal or message is received. Furthermore, the electronic device may determine that response information including time information is not received when response information is not received for a threshold period of time.

When it is determined in operation403that the response information is not received from the second electronic device for the threshold period of time, the electronic device perceives that the second electronic device is located in an area in which the time information is identical to the time information of the electronic device. In operation407, the electronic device determines whether time change information is received from the second electronic device which performs time sharing. Although not illustrated, when response information indicating that the sharing of time information is not permitted from the second electronic device, the electronic device recognizes that the electronic device is not permitted to share time information with the second electronic device and ends the algorithm.

On the other hand, when it is determined in operation403that response information including the time information of the second electronic device is received, the electronic device proceeds to operation405. In operation405, the electronic device may identify the time information of the second electronic device included in the response information and display the time information on a display unit. When a display event occurs, the electronic device may display the time information of the second electronic device on the display unit. For example, when receiving response information including the time information of the “user2”, the electronic device may add the time information of the “user2” to a phone book. Thereafter, when the phone book is operated, the electronic device may display the time sharing information1200associated with the “user2” in the phone book information of the “user2” as illustrated inFIG. 12C. As another example, when the phone book is operated, the electronic device may display a time sharing icon1300corresponding to the “user2” in a phone book list as illustrated inFIG. 13A. As still another example, when receiving response information including the time information of the “user2”, the electronic device may add the time information of the “user2” to a message application program. Thereafter, when the message application program is executed, the electronic device may display the time sharing information1310,1312,1320and1322associated with a “user6” in a messenger list as illustrated inFIGS. 13B to 13E. In this case, the electronic device may change and display the background1310or1312associated with the “user6” item according to the time information of the “user6” as illustrated inFIGS. 13B and 13C, and display a different time sharing icon1320or1322in the “user6” item as illustrated inFIGS. 13D and 13E.

In operation407, the electronic device determines whether time change information is received from the second electronic device which performs time sharing.

When the time change information is not received from the second electronic device in operation407, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed in operation411. For example, the electronic device determines whether the electronic device moves to an area using a different standard time.

When the time change information is received from the second electronic device in operation407, the electronic device changes the time information of the second electronic device in consideration of the time change information in operation409. For example, when the second electronic device moves from Seattle to Texas, the electronic device changes the time information1210of the second electronic device according to the time change information provided by the second electronic device as illustrated inFIG. 12D.

In operation411, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed. For example, the electronic device determines whether the electronic device moves to an area using a different standard time.

When it is determined in operation411the time information of the electronic device is not changed, the electronic device proceeds to operation407to determine whether time change information is received from the second electronic device which performs time sharing.

On the other hand, when it is determined in operation411that the time information of the electronic device is changed, the electronic device proceeds to operation413. In operation413, the electronic device transmits the time change information to the second electronic device which performs time sharing. In this case, the electronic device may transmit the time change information, configured in the form of a control signal or message, to the second electronic device.

When response information has not been received for a reference period of time after making a request to the second electronic device for time sharing, the electronic device may recognize that the second electronic device permits time sharing but is located in an area of which the time information is identical to the time information of the electronic device.

In another embodiment, when response information has not been received for a reference period of time after making a request to the second electronic device for time sharing, the electronic device may recognize that the second electronic device does not permit time sharing.

As described above, when the second electronic device permits time sharing, the electronic device may share time information with the second electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may display the time information of the second electronic device in the application program that is being executed. For example, the electronic device may display the time information1400of the electronic device and the time information1402of the “user2” in an email received from the “user2” as illustrated inFIG. 14A. As another example, the electronic device may display the time information1410of the electronic device and the time information1412of the “user2” in a “user2”-related message of a message list as illustrated inFIG. 14B. As another example, the electronic device may display the time information1420of the electronic device and the time information1422of the “user2” in a “user2”-related message as illustrated inFIG. 14C. As still another example, the electronic device may display the time information1430of the electronic device and the time information1432of the “user2” in a messenger to chat with the “user2” as illustrated inFIG. 14D. As still another example, the electronic device may display the time information1440of the “user2” in a screen for voice communication with the “user2” as illustrated inFIG. 14E.

As described above, the electronic device makes a request to the second electronic device for sharing of time information. In this case, the second electronic device may determine whether to share time information with the electronic device as illustrated inFIG. 5orFIG. 6.

FIG. 5is a diagram illustrating a process of transmitting time information to a counterpart electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 5, in operation501, an electronic device determines whether time sharing request information is received from a first electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may receive the time sharing request information having the form of a control signal or message.

When receiving the time sharing request information from the first electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation503. In operation503, the electronic device determines whether to permit the time sharing request of the first electronic device. For example, the electronic device may display the time sharing request information on the display unit260as illustrated inFIG. 12B. Thereafter, the electronic device determines whether to share time information with the counterpart electronic device based on whether “YES” or “NO” is selected according to input information provided through the input device270. As another example, the electronic device may determine whether to share time information with the first electronic device in consideration of the authentication information of the first electronic device included in the time sharing request information.

When not permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device ends the algorithm. In this case, the electronic device may transmit response information indicating that sharing of time information is not permitted to the first electronic device.

On the other hand, when permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation505. In operation505, the electronic device transmits response information including the time information of the electronic device to the first electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may transmit the location information of the electronic device using the time information of the electronic device.

In operation507, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed. For example, the electronic device determines whether the electronic device moves to an area using a different standard time.

When the time information of the electronic device is not changed, the electronic device proceeds to operation511. In operation511, the electronic device determines whether time change information is received from the first electronic device which performs time sharing.

On the other hand, when the time information of the electronic device is changed, the electronic device proceeds to operation509. In operation509, the electronic device transmits the time change information to the first electronic device which performs time sharing. In this case, the electronic device transmits the time change information, configured in the form of a control signal or message, to the first electronic device.

In operation511, the electronic device determines whether time change information is received from first electronic device which performs time sharing.

When the time change information is not received from the first electronic device, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed in operation507.

When the time change information is received from the first electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation515and changes the time information of the first electronic device in consideration of the time change information. For example, when the first electronic device moves from Seattle to Texas, the electronic device changes the time information1210of the first electronic device according to the time change information provided by the first electronic device as illustrated inFIG. 12D.

As described above, when permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device transmits time information with the first electronic device. In this case, the electronic device identifies the time information of the first electronic device included in the time sharing request information provided from the first electronic device. Thereafter, when a display event occurs, the electronic device may display the time information of the first electronic device on a display unit.

FIG. 6is a diagram illustrates a process of transmitting time information to a counterpart electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 6, in operation601, an electronic device determines whether time sharing request information is received from a first electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may receive the time sharing request information having the form of a control signal or message.

When receiving the time sharing request information from the first electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation603and determines whether to permit the time sharing request of the first electronic device. For example, the electronic device may display the time sharing request information on the display unit260as illustrated inFIG. 12B. Thereafter, the electronic device may determine whether to share time information with the counterpart electronic device based on whether “YES” or “NO” is selected according to input information provided through the input device270. As another example, the electronic device may determine whether to share time information with the first electronic device in consideration of the authentication information of the first electronic device included in the time sharing request information.

When not permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device ends the algorithm. In this case, the electronic device may transmit response information indicating that sharing of time information is not permitted to the first electronic device.

On the other hand, when permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation605and identifies the time information of the electronic device and the first electronic device. For example, the electronic device may identify the time information of the electronic device in consideration of the standard time of an area in which the electronic device is located. In addition, the electronic device may identify the time information of the first electronic device included in the time sharing request information provided from the first electronic device.

In operation607, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is identical to that of the first electronic device.

When the time information of the electronic device is identical to that of the first electronic device, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed in operation611. For example, the electronic device determines whether the electronic device moves to an area using a different standard time.

On the other hand, when the time information of the electronic device is not identical to that of the first electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation609. In operation609, the electronic device transmits response information including the time information of the electronic device to the first electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may transmit the location information of the electronic device using the time information of the electronic device.

In operation611, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed. For example, the electronic device determines whether the electronic device moves to an area using a different standard time.

When the time information of the electronic device is not changed, the electronic device proceeds to operation615and determines whether time change information is received from the first electronic device which performs time sharing.

On the other hand, when the time information of the electronic device is changed, the electronic device proceeds to operation613and transmits the time change information to the first electronic device which performs time sharing. In this case, the electronic device transmits the time change information, configured in the form of a control signal or message, to the first electronic device.

In operation615, the electronic device determines whether time change information is received from first electronic device which performs time sharing.

When the time change information is not received from the first electronic device, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed in operation611.

When the time change information is received from the first electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation617and changes the time information of the first electronic device in consideration of the time change information. For example, when the first electronic device moves from Seattle to Texas, the electronic device changes the time information1210of the first electronic device according to the time change information provided by the first electronic device as illustrated inFIG. 12D.

As described above, when permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device may transmit time information with the first electronic device. When a display event occurs, the electronic device may display the time information of the first electronic device on the display unit.

In the above-described embodiment, the first electronic device and the second electronic device transmit time information and time change information to each other, thereby sharing time information with each other.

In another embodiment, the first electronic device and the second electronic device may share time information with each other using a server as illustrated inFIG. 7.

FIG. 7is a diagram illustrating a configuration for enabling electronic devices to share time information using a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 7, when the user of a first electronic device700wants to share time information with a second electronic device720, the first electronic device700may make a request to the second electronic device720for time sharing. For example, the first electronic device700may transmit a control signal for request of time sharing to the second electronic device720. As another example, the first electronic device700may transmit a message including time sharing request information to the second electronic device720. When making the request for time sharing, the first electronic device700may transmit at least one of the time information and authentication information of the first electronic device700together with the time sharing request information to the second electronic device720. In this case, the second electronic device200refers to at least one counterpart electronic device selected by the user of the first electronic device700to share time information.

When receiving the time sharing request information of the first electronic device700, the second electronic device720determines whether to share time information with the first electronic device700. When it is determined to share time information with the first electronic device700, the second electronic device720transmits the time information of the second electronic device720to the first electronic device700. In this case, the second electronic device720may identify the time information of the first electronic device700included in the time sharing request information and display the time information so as to allow a user to view it.

After making the request for time sharing, the first electronic device700displays the time information provided by the second electronic device720on the display unit so as to allow the user to view it.

Thereafter, when the time information (standard time) of the first electronic device700is changed, the first electronic device700transmits time change information to a server710. In addition, when the time information (standard time) of the second electronic device720is changed, the second electronic device720transmits time change information to the server710. Herein, the server710includes a cloud server.

When receiving the time change information, the server710transmits the time change information to an electronic device set as a receiver of the time change information. For example, the first electronic device700and the second electronic device720may register the time information of respective electronic devices700and720and a list of electronic devices which perform time sharing in the server710. When receiving the time change information from the first electronic device700, the server710may update the time information of the first electronic device700registered in the server710. Thereafter, the server710may transmit the time change information of the first electronic device700to counterpart electronic devices which share time information with the first electronic device700. In this case, the server710may transmit a PUSH message including the time change information to the counterpart electronic devices which share time information with the first electronic device700.

When receiving the time change information from the second electronic device720, the server710may update the time information of the second electronic device720registered in the server710. Thereafter, the server710may transmit the time change information of the second electronic device720to counterpart electronic devices which share time information with the second electronic device720. In this case, the server710may transmit a PUSH message including the time change information to the counterpart electronic devices which share time information with the second electronic device720.

Therefore, the first electronic device700and the second electronic device720may update the time information associated with the first electronic device100of the counterpart electronic devices700and720according to the time change information provided from the server710.

FIG. 8illustrates a process of identifying the time information of a counterpart electronic device using a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 8, in operation801, an electronic device makes a request to a second electronic device for time sharing. For example, when a time sharing event occurs, the electronic device may display a list of counterpart electronic devices with which time information may be shared on the display unit260as illustrated inFIG. 12A. Thereafter, when a selection of a “yes” menu illustrated inFIG. 12Ais detected, the electronic device may perceive that a user has selected at least one counterpart electronic device with which time information is permitted to be shared. Therefore, the electronic device may make a request to a “user2” selected by the user for time sharing. In this case, the electronic device may transmit time sharing request information to the second electronic device in the form of a control signal or message. Herein, the electronic device may detect whether the time sharing event occurs in consideration of at least one of menu selection information, touch information, user gesture information and the movement information of the electronic device. In addition, the list of counterpart electronic devices may include a list of telephone numbers stored in a phonebook. In addition, the second electronic device may be at least one counterpart electronic device selected by the user of the electronic device to share time information.

In operation803, the electronic device determines whether response information including the time information of the second electronic device is received. In this case, the electronic device may determine whether response information having the form of a control signal or message is received.

When the response information is not received from the second electronic device for a reference period of time, the electronic device may recognize that the second electronic device is located in an area of which the time information is identical to the time information of the electronic device. Accordingly, in operation807, the electronic device registers the time sharing information of the electronic device in a server. Herein, the time sharing information may include the time information of the electronic device and information about at least one counterpart electronic device which shares time information with the electronic device. Although not illustrated, when response information indicating that the sharing of time information is not permitted from the second electronic device, the electronic device recognizes that the electronic device is not permitted to share time information with the second electronic device and ends the algorithm.

On the other hand, when receiving response information including the time information of the second electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation805and identifies and stores the time information of the second electronic device included in the response information. Thereafter, when a display event occurs, the electronic device displays the time information of the second electronic device on a display unit. For example, when receiving response information including the time information of the “user2”, the electronic device may identify and store the time information of the “user2” in the response information. Thereafter, the electronic device may display time sharing information associated with the “user2” in a list of application programs including the “user2”. For example, when the phone book is operated, the electronic device displays a time sharing icon1300in the “user2” of a phone book list as illustrated inFIG. 13A. As another example, when a message application program is executed, the electronic device may display the time sharing information1310,1312,1320and1322associated with a “user6” in a messenger list as illustrated inFIGS. 13B to 13E. In this case, the electronic device may change and display the background1310or1312of the “user6” item according to the time information of the “user6” as illustrated inFIGS. 13B and 13C, and display a different time sharing icon1320or1322in the “user6” item as illustrated inFIGS. 13D and 13E.

After displaying the time information of the second electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation807and registers the time information of the electronic device and a time sharing list in the server. Herein, the time sharing list may include information about at least one counterpart electronic device which shares time information with the electronic device.

In operation809, the electronic device determines whether time change information is received from the server.

When the time change information is not received from the server, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed in operation813. For example, the electronic device determines whether the electronic device moves to an area using a different standard time.

On the other hand, when receiving the time change information from the server, the electronic device proceeds to operation811and changes the time information of the counterpart electronic device of which the time information has been changed according to the time change information provided from the server. For example, when receiving the time change information of the second electronic device from the server, the electronic device may change the time information1210of the second electronic device to “Texas” as illustrated inFIG. 12Daccording to the time change information provided from the server.

In operation813, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed. For example, the electronic device determines whether the electronic device moves to an area using a different standard time.

When the time information of the electronic device is not changed, the electronic device determines whether time change information is received from the server in operation809.

On the other hand, when the time information of the electronic device is changed, the electronic device proceeds to operation815and transmits the time change information to the server. In this case, the electronic device may transmit the time change information, configured in the form of a control signal or message, to the server.

When response information has not been received for a reference period of time after making a request to the second electronic device for time sharing, the electronic device recognizes that the second electronic device permits time sharing but is located in an area of which the time information is identical to the time information of the electronic device.

In another embodiment, when response information has not been received for a reference period of time after making a request to the second electronic device for time sharing, the electronic device may recognize that the second electronic device does not permit time sharing.

As described above, when the second electronic device permits time sharing, the electronic device may share time information with the second electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may display the time information of the second electronic device in the application program that is being executed. For example, the electronic device may display the time information1400of the electronic device and the time information1402of the “user2” in an email received from the “user2” as illustrated inFIG. 14A. As another example, the electronic device may display the time information1410of the electronic device and the time information1412of the “user2” in a “user2”-related message of a message list as illustrated inFIG. 14B. As another example, the electronic device may display the time information1420of the electronic device and the time information1422of the “user2” in a “user2”-related message as illustrated inFIG. 14C. As still another example, the electronic device may display the time information1430of the electronic device and the time information1432of the “user2” in a messenger to chat with the “user2” as illustrated inFIG. 14D. As still another example, the electronic device may display the time information1440of the “user2” in a screen for voice communication with the “user2” as illustrated inFIG. 14E.

As described above, the electronic device may make a request to the second electronic device for sharing of time information. In this case, the second electronic device may determine whether to share time information with the electronic device as illustrated inFIG. 9orFIG. 10.

FIG. 9is a diagram illustrating a process of transmitting time information to a counterpart electronic device using a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 9, in operation901, an electronic device determines whether time sharing request information is received from a first electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may receive the time sharing request information having the form of a control signal or message.

When receiving the time sharing request information from the first electronic device, the electronic device determines whether to permit the time sharing request of the first electronic device in operation903. For example, the electronic device may display the time sharing request information on the display unit260as illustrated inFIG. 12B. Thereafter, the electronic device determines whether to share time information with the counterpart electronic device based on whether “YES” or “NO” is selected according to input information provided through the input device270. As another example, the electronic device may determine whether to share time information with the first electronic device in consideration of the authentication information of the first electronic device included in the time sharing request information.

When not permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device ends the algorithm. In this case, the electronic device may transmit response information indicating that sharing of time information is not permitted to the first electronic device.

On the other hand, when permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation905. In operation905, the electronic device transmits response information including the time information of the electronic device to the first electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may transmit the location information of the electronic device using the time information of the electronic device.

After transmitting the response information including the time information to the first electronic device, the electronic device registers the time sharing information of the electronic device in a server in operation907. Herein, the time sharing information includes the time information of the electronic device and information about at least one counterpart electronic device which shares time information with the electronic device.

In operation909, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed. For example, the electronic device determines whether the electronic device moves to an area using a different standard time.

When the time information of the electronic device is not changed, the electronic device determines whether time change information is received from the server in operation913.

On the other hand, when the time information of the electronic device is changed, the electronic device proceeds to operation911and transmits the time change information to the server. In this case, the electronic device transmits the time change information, configured in the form of a control signal or message, to the server.

In operation913, the electronic device determines whether time change information is received from the server.

When the time change information is not received from the server, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed in operation909.

On the other hand, when receiving the time change information from the server, the electronic device proceeds to operation915and changes the time information of the counterpart electronic device of which the time information has been changed according to the time change information provided from the server. For example, when receiving the time change information of the first electronic device from the server, the electronic device changes the time information1210of the first electronic device to “Texas” as illustrated inFIG. 12Daccording to the time change information provided from the server.

As described above, when permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device may transmit time information with the first electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may identify the time information of the first electronic device included in the time sharing request information provided from the first electronic device. Thereafter, when a display event occurs, the electronic device may display the time information of the first electronic device on a display unit.

FIG. 10is a diagram illustrating a process of transmitting time information to a counterpart electronic device using a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 10, in operation1001, an electronic device determines whether time sharing request information is received from a first electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may receive the time sharing request information having the form of a control signal or message.

When receiving the time sharing request information from the first electronic device, the electronic device determines whether to permit the time sharing request of the first electronic device in operation1003. For example, the electronic device may display the time sharing request information on the display unit260as illustrated inFIG. 12B. Thereafter, the electronic device may determine whether to share time information with the counterpart electronic device based on whether “YES” or “NO” is selected according to input information provided through the input device270. As another example, the electronic device may determine whether to share time information with the first electronic device in consideration of the authentication information of the first electronic device included in the time sharing request information.

When not permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device ends the algorithm. In this case, the electronic device may transmit response information indicating that sharing of time information is not permitted to the first electronic device.

On the other hand, when permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation1005and identifies the time information of the electronic device and the first electronic device. For example, the electronic device may identify the time information of the electronic device in consideration of the standard time in an area where the electronic device is located. In addition, the electronic device may identify the time information of the first electronic device included in the time sharing request information provided from the first electronic device.

In operation1007, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is identical to that of the first electronic device.

When the time information of the electronic device is identical to that of the first electronic device, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed in operation1013. For example, the electronic device determines whether the electronic device moves to an area using a different standard time.

On the other hand, when the time information of the electronic device is not identical to that of the first electronic device, the electronic device proceeds to operation1009and transmits response information including the time information of the electronic device to the first electronic device. In this case, the electronic device may transmit the location information of the electronic device using the time information of the electronic device.

After transmitting the response information including the time information to the first electronic device, the electronic device registers the time sharing information of the electronic device in a server in operation1011. Herein, the time sharing information may include the time information of the electronic device and information about at least one counterpart electronic device which shares time information with the electronic device.

In operation1013, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed. For example, the electronic device determines whether the electronic device moves to an area using a different standard time.

When the time information of the electronic device is not changed, the electronic device determines whether time change information is received from the server in operation1017.

On the other hand, when the time information of the electronic device is changed, the electronic device proceeds to operation1015and transmits the time change information to the server. In this case, the electronic device transmits the time change information, configured in the form of a control signal or message, to the server.

In operation1017, the electronic device determines whether time change information is received from the server.

When the time change information is not received from the server, the electronic device determines whether the time information of the electronic device is changed in operation1013.

On the other hand, when receiving the time change information from the server, the electronic device proceeds to operation1019and changes the time information of the counterpart electronic device of which the time information has been changed according to the time change information provided from the server. For example, when receiving the time change information of the first electronic device from the server, the electronic device changes the time information1210of the first electronic device to “Texas” as illustrated inFIG. 12Daccording to the time change information provided from the server.

As described above, when permitting the time sharing request of the first electronic device, the electronic device transmits time information with the first electronic device. When a display event occurs, the electronic device may display the time information of the first electronic device on the display unit.

FIG. 11is a diagram illustrating a process of performing control to enable electronic devices to share time information with each other in a server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 11, the server identifies the time sharing information of the electronic device that performs time sharing in operation1101. For example, the server700is provided with the time information and time sharing lists of the respective electronic devices700and720from the first electronic device700and the second electronic device720that permit the sharing of time information as illustrated inFIG. 7. Herein, the time sharing list may include information about at least one counterpart electronic device which shares time information with the electronic device.

In operation1103, the server determines whether time change information is received.

When the time change information is received, the server proceeds to operation1105and updates the time information of the electronic device according to the time change information. For example, when receiving the time change information from the first electronic device, the server may change the time information of the first electronic device according to the time change information. As another example, when receiving the time change information from the second electronic device, the server may change the time information of the second electronic device according to the time change information.

In operation1107, the server transmits the time change information to at least one counterpart electronic device included in the time sharing list of the electronic device.

After transmitting the time change information, the server may return to operation1103to determine whether time change information is received for another device. Alternatively, the server may end the process ofFIG. 11.

In the above-described embodiment, the server may transmit the time change information of the electronic devices.

In another embodiment, the server may transmit the time sharing request, response information, and time change information of the electronic devices. For example, when the first electronic device makes a request to the second electronic device for time sharing, the server may store the time information of the first electronic device and transmit time sharing request information to the second electronic device. When the second electronic device permits time sharing, the server may add the second electronic device to the time sharing list of the first electronic device and transmit the time information of the second electronic device to the first electronic device.

In the above-described embodiment, the electronic devices that perform sharing of time information may transmit time change information to a counterpart electronic device when time information is changed.

In another embodiment, the electronic devices that perform sharing of time information may periodically transmit time information to the counterpart electronic device.

As described above, the electronic device shares time information with the counterpart electronic device for a communication server before provision of the communication service, thereby allowing the user of the electronic device to recognize the time information of the counterpart electronic device, and smoothly providing the communication service.

It will be appreciated that various embodiments of the present disclosure according to the claims and description in the specification can be realized in the form of hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software.

Any such software may be stored in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium stores one or more programs (software modules), the one or more programs comprising instructions, which when executed by one or more processors in an electronic device, cause the electronic device to perform a method of the present disclosure.