Since each individual controls what information is shared, he or she will always know when, how, and by whom their personal information is being used. As soon as a digitalme user elects to register with a new site, a personal proxy system intercepts the necessary registration forms, automatically fills them in, and provides a completed form for review. The next time the user accesses the Web site, digitalme automatically handles the sign-on process. When user information changes, they simply update the address book just once and the change will be reflected throughout all their personal contacts. The Contact area will also store all meCards that a user receives from others and will enable instant messaging.
Instant messaging allows computer users to carry on quick on-screen conversations with one other.
Unlike email messages, an instant message is the electronic equivalent of a ringing phone because it pops up on the recipient's screen right away. The genesis of the digitalme concept occurred when a Novell executive was traveling for business, found himself unable to access a crucial Web site from a remote location and could not remember his user name and password specific to that site. He and Novell quickly realized that consumers needed a simpler and more efficient way to use the Internet. The digitalme demonstration in the Metropolitan Pavilion today illustrates a variety of real-world applications for digitalme. A business traveler stuck at an airport can use digitalme's dynamic address book to get in touch with all of the colleagues she needs to reach.