Patent Publication Number: US-2017351470-A1

Title: Multi-user display for smart signs

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     Technical Field 
     The present disclosure relates generally to the dynamic, real-time display of content on a smart sign based on information associated with users in proximity to the sign. 
     Description of the Related Art 
     Electronic display signs are quickly replacing traditional posters and billboards as the primary way to provide information to people. Many new malls, stores, airports, stadiums, arenas, sporting venues, zoos, amusement parks, and other public places are being equipped with electronic display signs rather than relying on traditional posters and billboards to convey information to the public. These electronic display signs allow an advertiser or merchant to change the information that is being displayed from week-to-week, day-to-day, or even hour-to-hour, but the information is often static and targeted to a general audience while it is being displayed. It is with respect to these and other considerations that the embodiments described herein have been made. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     Briefly stated, embodiments are directed towards providing a smart sign that enables multi-user interaction that is personalized for each user in proximity to the smart sign based on device-specific information obtained from their respective mobile communication devices. The smart sign determines when one or more mobile communication devices are in proximity to the smart sign, e.g., within a field-of-view area of the smart sign. In various embodiments, a mobile communication device may be in the proximity of the smart sign when the mobile communication device is within a predetermined distance from the smart sign, communicating with the smart sign, or a user of the mobile communication device is interacting with the smart sign. The smart sign communicates with each of these mobile communication devices to receive device-specific information from each respective mobile communication device. The smart sign generates user-specific content for each user of each respective mobile communication device in the proximity of the smart sign. In various embodiments, the smart sign can generate a customized user experience or graphical user interface with the user-specific content for each respective user. The user-specific content is then displayed on the smart sign. In various embodiments, a location of the mobile communication devices relative to the smart sign or to each other may be determined and used to graphically position the user-specific content on the smart sign to be closer the respective user. 
     In a non-exhaustive example, the smart sign displays visual content for users to view, interact with, or otherwise consume. When the smart sign determines that a first and second mobile communication device are in a field-of-view area of the smart sign, the smart sign communicates with both mobile communication devices to obtain first device-specific information from the first mobile communication device and second device-specific information from the second mobile communication device. The smart sign then generates first user-specific content based on the first device-specific information and second user-specific content based on the second device-specific information. The first user-specific content is personalized for a first user of the first mobile communication device and the second user-specific content is personalized for a second user of the second mobile communication device. 
     The displayed visual content is customized to include the first user-specific content and the second user-specific content, which are both displayed concurrently to the users. In some embodiments, the user-specific content may be displayed separate from the initially displayed content. In other embodiments, the user-specific content may be added to the initially displayed content or the initially displayed content may be otherwise modified to include or incorporate the user-specific content. In various embodiments, a separate graphical user experience or interface is displayed on the smart sign for each user, where each separate graphical user experience or interface includes the user-specific content for each respective user. In some embodiments, the initially displayed content may be incorporated into each separate graphical user experience or interface, while in other embodiments, the separate graphical user experience or interfaces may be separate from the initially displayed content. 
     When all users leave the proximity of the smart sign, the initially displayed visual content is redisplayed on the smart sign without any user-specific content. If a user leaves the proximity of the smart sign while other users are still in the proximity of the smart sign, the user-specific content for the user that left the proximity is removed from the customized content while maintaining the user-specific content for the users that are still in the proximity of the smart sign. 
     In some embodiments, a user may interact with the smart sign, such as by touching the display screen of the smart sign. This interaction may be with the initially displayed content or it may be with the user-specific content that is displayed. In various embodiments, the smart sign can modify the user-specific content in which the user interacted based on the user&#39;s interactions with the smart sign. In at least one embodiment, the other user-specific content that was not interacted with by the user may not be modified. In some embodiments, the smart sign may perform one or more additional actions based on the interaction. In various embodiments, the smart sign provides information associated with the interaction or in response to the additional actions to the user&#39;s mobile communication device that is associated with the user-specific content that was interacted with by the user. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments are described with reference to the following drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various figures unless otherwise specified. 
       For a better understanding of the present invention, reference will be made to the following Detailed Description, which is to be read in association with the accompanying drawings: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a context diagram of an environment where a dynamic smart sign communicates with multiple mobile communication devices that are in close proximity to the sign to provide a multi-user display in accordance with embodiments described herein; 
         FIGS. 2A-2C  show use case examples of a field-of-view area for a dynamic smart sign in accordance with embodiments described here; 
         FIGS. 3A-3E  show use case examples of a multi-user display on a smart sign in accordance with embodiments described herein; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a logical flow diagram generally showing one embodiment of an overview process for providing a multi-user display on a smart sign based on the device-specific information associated with one or more mobile communication devices in close proximity to the sign in accordance with embodiments described herein; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a logical flow diagram generally showing one embodiment of a process for selecting the graphical position of user-specific content to display on the multi-user display on the smart sign in accordance with embodiments described herein; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a logical flow diagram generally showing one embodiment of a process for receiving user interactions with a multi-user display and performing actions based on those interactions in accordance with embodiments described herein; and 
         FIG. 7  shows a system diagram that describes one implementation of computing systems for implementing embodiments described herein. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following description, along with the accompanying drawings, sets forth certain specific details in order to provide a thorough understanding of various disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the disclosed embodiments may be practiced in various combinations, without one or more of these specific details, or with other methods, components, devices, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures or components that are associated with the environment of the present disclosure, including but not limited to the communication systems and networks, have not been shown or described in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring descriptions of the embodiments. Additionally, the various embodiments may be methods, systems, media, or devices. Accordingly, the various embodiments may be entirely hardware embodiments, entirely software embodiments, or embodiments combining software and hardware aspects. 
     Throughout the specification, claims, and drawings, the following terms take the meaning explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term “herein” refers to the specification, claims, and drawings associated with the current application. The phrases “in one embodiment,” “in another embodiment,” “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in other embodiments,” and other variations thereof refer to one or more features, structures, functions, limitations, or characteristics of the present disclosure, and are not limited to the same or different embodiments unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the term “or” is an inclusive “or” operator, and is equivalent to the phrases “A or B, or both” or “A or B or C, or any combination thereof,” and lists with additional elements are similarly treated. The term “based on” is not exclusive and allows for being based on additional features, functions, aspects, or limitations not described, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In addition, throughout the specification, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” include singular and plural references. 
     The terms “smart sign,” dynamic smart sign,” “electronic display sign,” or “sign” refer to a display device that can detect mobile communication devices that are in a close proximity to the device and dynamically change the content being displayed on the device based on device-specific information or other characteristics of the detected mobile communication devices. Smart signs may be standalone devices or they may be combined with other electronic devices, and they may be employed in a variety of different situations, settings, or environments. For example, in some embodiments, smart signs may include freestanding or wall hanging smart signs used in malls, stores, airports, stadiums, arenas, sporting venues, zoos, amusement parks, hotel lobbies, cruise ships, retail shops, or other locations where information is provided to people. In some other embodiments, the smart signs may be utilized in other electronic devices, such as, but not limited to, a head unit in an automobile, a television in a hotel room or cruise-ship cabin, a heads-up display in an airplane seat, or other electronic devices. 
     The term “content” refers to information that can be displayed on a smart sign. Content may include visual content, such as, but not limited to, text, graphics, symbols, video, or other information that is provided to a user on the smart sign. In some embodiments, the content may also include audio content. Examples of content can include, but are not limited to, advertisements, athlete information, directions, restaurant menus, descriptive information, emergency instructions, etc. User-specific content refers to content that is selected, modified, generated, or otherwise determined for a specific user based on device-specific information obtained from a mobile communication device of that user. User-specific content can be overlaid or added to the default content of a smart sign, supplement the default content of the smart sign, replace the default content or other content on the smart sign, or otherwise displayed on the smart sign. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a context diagram of an environment where a dynamic smart sign communicates with multiple mobile communication devices that are in close proximity to the sign to provide a multi-user display in accordance with embodiments described herein. Environment  100  includes a dynamic smart sign  102  and a plurality of mobile communication devices  108   a - 108   c,  also referred to as mobile devices. 
     The dynamic smart sign  102  can communicate with one or more mobile communication devices  108  as those mobile communication devices enter or come into close proximity to the dynamic smart sign  102 . In the illustration, the dynamic smart sign  102  is communicating with mobile communication devices  108   a,    108   b,  and  108   c.  It should be understood that at any given point in time, the dynamic smart sign  102  may be communicating with zero, one, or a plurality of mobile communication devices that are in proximity to the dynamic smart sign  102 . Similarly, there may be a plurality of dynamic smart signs (not illustrated) that each communicate with one or more mobile communication devices that are in proximity to each respective smart sign. 
     The dynamic smart sign  102  obtains device-specific information from the mobile communication device  108   a - 108   c.  The dynamic smart sign  102  utilizes the device-specific information of each mobile communication device  108  that is in its proximity to display user-specific content on the dynamic smart sign  102  to the users of the mobile communication devices  108 . 
     In various embodiments, the dynamic smart signs  102  may also determine a location of each mobile communication device  108 . For example, the dynamic smart sign  102  determines the location of mobile communication devices  108   a,    108   b,  and  108   c  relative to dynamic smart sign  102 . The dynamic smart sign  102  utilizes this location information to modify one or more visual characteristics of the user-specific content, including, but not limited to determining a graphical display position or size to render the user-specific content for the corresponding mobile communication devices  108 . In this way, the dynamic smart sign  102  displays content closer to the user of a mobile communication device  108 , which allows for the user to more easily interact with the dynamic smart sign  102 . 
     The mobile communication device  108  can be a cell phone; mobile phone; smart phone; tablet computer; portable personal computer; Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other short range communication enabled electronic device; or any other electronic device that is mobile an can communicate by some wireless method with other devices. 
     In some embodiments, the dynamic smart sign  102  communicates with a content server (not illustrated). The dynamic smart sign  102  can receive content from the content server or provide device-specific information regarding the mobile communication devices in its proximity to the content server. Examples of such information may include, but are not limited to, a preferred language of the mobile communication devices, mobile applications that are sharing information, number of mobile communication devices that interact with the smart sign, or other information or analytical data associated with the users interacting with the smart sign. In various embodiments, dynamic smart sign  102  may communicate with the content server via a communication network (not illustrated). The communication network may be configured to couple various computing devices to transmit data from one or more devices to one or more other devices. The communication network includes various wired or wireless networks that may be employed using various forms of communication technologies and topologies, such as, but not limited to, cellular networks, mesh networks, or the like. 
       FIGS. 2A-2C  show use case examples of a field-of-view area for a dynamic smart sign in accordance with embodiments described here.  FIG. 2A  illustrates an example  200 A of a dynamic smart sign  102  with a field-of-view area  204 . The field-of-view area  204  is a distance or area in which the smart sign  102  can detect, track, or communicate with a mobile communication device  108 . In various embodiments, the field-of-view area  204  is a distance or area in which a user of a mobile communication device  108  can see, view, hear, interact with, or otherwise digest the content provided by the smart sign  102 . 
     The field-of-view area  204  may be defined or identified as a predetermined distance from the smart sign  102 , an area defined relative to the smart sign  102 , when a mobile communication device  108  is within communication range of the smart sign  102  via a short-range communication technology, or other spatial relationship between the smart sign  102  and the mobile communication device  108 , or a combination thereof. 
     In some embodiments, a user is in the field-of-view area  204  when the user touches or otherwise interacts with the smart sign  102 . In at least one of various embodiments, the smart sign  102  may determine the location of the user relative to the smart sign  102  based on where the user touches the smart sign  102 . In various embodiments, the smart sign  102  may not communicate with the mobile communication devices  108  in the field-of-view area  204  until a user touches or otherwise interacts with the smart sign  102 , such as by talking to the smart sign  102  or having the mobile communication device  108  provide information to the smart sign  102  in response to a user input on the mobile communication device  108 . Once the user interacts with the smart sign  102 , the smart sign  102  initiates communications between the smart sign  102  and the mobile communication device  108  of the user. The mobile communication device  108  provides its device-specific information to the smart sign  102 . And the smart sign generates and displays user-specific content to the user while the user continues to interact with the smart sign  102  or for a predetermined period of time. Similarly, the smart sign  102  can remove the user-specific content from the display of the smart sign  102  after a predetermined time period has lapsed since the user last interacted with the smart sign  102 . In various embodiments, the smart sign  102  may periodically, at predetermined times, or randomly communicate with the mobile communication devices  108  in the field-of-view area  204  to determine if the same user is interacting with the smart sign or if the user has exited the field-of-view area  204 . 
     In some embodiments, the field-of-view area  204  may be defined as a distance from the smart sign  102 . In at least one embodiment, the smart sign  102  can determine the distance or location of a mobile communication device  108  relative to the smart sign  102  using the round-trip time of communications sent between the smart sign  102  and the mobile communication device  108 , ultrasonic sensors, or other sensors that detect a distance between two communicating devices known to one skilled in the art. This detected distance can then be compared to the distance that defines the field-of-view area  204 , and if the detected distance is within the field-of-view area  204 , then the mobile communication device is in the proximity of the smart sign, otherwise it is not. 
     In other embodiments, the field-of-view area  204  may be a defined spatial area in a particular position relative to the smart sign  102 . For example, the field-of-view area  204  may be defined as the area in front of the smart sign  102 , but within a predefined radial distance away from the smart sign  102 , such as is illustrated in  FIG. 2A . In at least one embodiment, the smart sign  102  can determine if a mobile communication device  108  is within the field-of-view area  204  by employing one or more directional proximity detectors  117  or sensors to determine a location of the mobile communication device  108  relative to the smart sign  102 . In some embodiments, the relative location of each mobile communication device may be a radial angle or other coordinate system directions that have a corresponding graphical display location. 
     In yet other embodiments, the field-of-view area  204  may be defined as the area in which a mobile communication device  108  can communicate with the smart sign  102 . In this way, a mobile communication device  108  is in proximity to the smart sign  102  when the mobile communication device  108  is within communication range of the smart sign  102  via a short-range communication technology. In various embodiments, the smart sign  102  is configured to receive signals from or communicate with mobile communication devices  108  via one or more short-range communication technologies, such as via Near Field Communication (NFC) protocols, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocols, Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, or other short-range communication technologies. Receipt of a message or signal from a mobile communication device  108  using a short-range communication technology may indicate that the mobile communication device  108  is in the field-of-view area  204  of the smart sign  102 . 
     Various range and directional proximity detectors  117 , sensors, devices, technologies, or mechanisms known to those skilled in the art can be used to logically define or identify the field-of-view area  204 . For example, such proximity detectors are widely used in cars for detecting mobile devices both inside and outside but proximate to the car. It should be noted that one or more proximity detectors  117  may be built into the smart sign  102  or positioned remote to the smart sign but in a way that can define the field-of-view area  204 , such as in or on an adjacent or nearby wall, pillar, or fixture, or even in the ceiling or floor. Similarly, it should be noted that the field-of-view area  204  may take on various geometrical shapes, such as circular, semicircular, rectangular, triangular, or other polygons. The shape the field-of-view area  204  may be determined based on the type of sensors or technology used to detect or communicate with the mobile communication devices  108 , the number of sensors used, or the positioning of the sensors relative to each other or the smart sign  102 . 
     In various embodiments, the field-of-view area  204  may be preset by an administrator or determined by the smart sign. In at least one embodiment, the smart sign may utilize ultrasonic sensors, rangefinders, or other sensors to determine the environment around the smart sign, such as walls, hallways, etc., to determine the field-of-view area  204 , such as at what distance or area can a user properly view the smart sign  102 . 
     In other embodiments, the field-of-view area  204  is pre-determined or set by an administrator based on the purpose of the smart sign  102 , what content is being displayed on the smart sign  102 , the location of the smart sign  102 , or other environmental factors associated with the smart sign  102 . For example, in some situations, the smart sign  102  may be in a location where it only wants to provide user-specific content to those users that are within arm&#39;s reach of the smart sign  102  or who are actually interacting, e.g., touching, with the smart sign, such as in an airport. In this type of situation, the smart sign  102  would only want to obtain device-specific information from the mobile communication devices  108  that are in front of and less than a meter away from the smart sign and not behind or to the side of the smart sign  102 . In other situations, the smart sign may want to provide user-specific content to those users that are within arm&#39;s reach of the smart sign  102  or at least within a few meters of the smart sign  102 , such as in a hotel room or cruise-ship cabin. In this type of situation, the smart sign  102  would only want to obtain the device-specific information from mobile communication devices  108  in that particular room or cabin and not in an adjacent room or cabin, or even in the hall. 
     In some other situations, the smart sign  102  may be in a location where it wants to obtain device-specific information from mobile communication devices that are within a predetermined distance in all directions around the smart sign  102 , such as in a football stadium. In this type of situation, the smart sign  102  may be positioned on a pillar in the middle of a corridor in the football stadium. In this example, the smart sign  102  may want to obtain the device-specific information from the mobile communication devices  108  that are all around the sign, even if a user of a mobile communication device  108  is not directly in front of the sign  102 . 
     By collecting the device-specific information from mobile communication devices  108  that are in the field-of-view area  204 , whether in front of or behind the smart sign  102 , the smart sign  102  can perform additional analytics or operations based on the obtained device-specific information. For example, in some embodiments, the smart sign  102  can pre-generate user-specific content in anticipation of a mobile communication device  108  moving from behind the sign  102  to the front of the sign  102 , the smart sign  102  can inform other smart signs of the device-specific information of mobile communication devices that may enter the field-of-view area of those other signs, or the smart sign  102  may modify its own default content based on the device-specific information, as described elsewhere herein. 
     It should be noted that, in some embodiments and situations, the users of the mobile communication devices  108  may be able to view the content on the smart sign  102  before they enter the field-of-view area  204 , but that the field-of-view area  204  is some defined area that when a mobile communication device  108  enters this area, the smart sign displays the user-specific content for that mobile communication device. For example, a large sign in a mall could be viewed by a lot of people that are very far away from the sign, but the sign will only display the user-specific content for those people that are closer to the sign. In some embodiments, the size of the field-of-view area  204  may be defined by an administrator or limited by the technology utilized to detect or communicate with the mobile communication devices. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2A , the smart sign  102  is attached to a wall  206 , such as in an airport. The illustrated field-of-view area  204  is an area that is substantially in front the smart sign  102  and has a specific radius from the center of the smart sign  102 . In this example, the field-of-view area  204  is semicircular so as to detect mobile communication devices  108  that are substantially in front of the smart sign  102 , but not behind the wall  206 . 
     As shown, mobile communication devices  108   a - 108   c  are substantially in front of the smart sign  102  and mobile communication device  108   d  is behind the wall  206 , such as in another room. In this case, mobile communication devices  108   a  and  108   b  are within the field-of-view area  204  and can be detected or tracked by, or communicate with, the smart sign  102 , while mobile communication devices  108   c  and  108   d  are outside the field-of-view area  204  and cannot be detected or tracked by, or communicate with, the smart sign  102 . Accordingly, the smart sign  102  is unaware of the presence or location of the mobile communication devices  108   c  and  108   d.  However, if mobile communication device  108   c  is moving towards the smart sign  102 , the smart sign  102  should be able to detect and communicate with the mobile communication device  108   c  once it enters the field-of-view area  204 . 
     When a mobile communication device  108  enters the field-of-view area  204 , the dynamic smart sign  102  obtains device-specific information from the mobile communication device  108 . A user of the mobile communication device  108  presets various permissions and settings of the mobile communication device and the applications on the mobile communication device to share and receive information from other devices, such as smart sign  102 . For example, when the user downloads an application for the coffeehouse chain Coffee_A, the user can opt in to receive alerts on the mobile communication device whenever the mobile communication device is near a Coffee_A location. In another example, the mobile communication device may include an application that allows the user to input and store ticket information for airplane boarding passes, train tickets, event tickets, or other e-tickets that can be used to gain entry without the use of a paper ticket. Again, the user can opt in to have this information shared with other computing devices, or the user can opt in to enable other computing devices to change this information. Although these examples refer to the user having to opt in to have the mobile communication device share and receive information from other computing devices, embodiments are not so limited, and some applications or information may be automatically shared or enabled to receive information from other computing devices, such as smart sign  102 . 
     The smart sign  102  generates user-specific content based on the received device-specific information from the mobile communication device  108 . In some embodiments, generating the user-specific content may include adding additional content to default content of the smart sign. For example, assume the smart sign is a map of an airport terminal. The smart sign may receive the boarding pass information for the user from his mobile communication device. The smart sign can look up the gate information associated with the flight information in the boarding pass. The smart sign then displays the location of the gate on the map and fastest route to the gate from the smart sign, i.e., the user&#39;s current location, such as is illustrated in  FIG. 3A . The smart sign might also receive information from the mobile communication device that the mobile communication device has the Coffee_A application installed and can share information. The smart sign can determine where there is a Coffee_A location in the airport terminal, and if there is a location, the map can be updated to include an icon showing where the coffeehouse is in the terminal, hours of operations, coupon information, menu items, or other information associated with Coffee_A. 
     Since the smart sign  102  can track multiple mobile communication device  108 , the smart sign  102  is enabled to have multiple users interact with the smart sign at a given point in time. For example, continuing the airport terminal map example from above, when a second mobile communication device enters the field-of-view area  204  and the smart sign receives its device-specific information, the smart sign can display separate content that is specific for each separate user concurrently with each other, and in some embodiments concurrently with displaying content for other users. In some embodiments, the sign may display the map in a central portion of the display screen of the sign with various information highlighted based on the device-specific information of each mobile communication device. The sign may also display separate interactive portions on the display screen of the sign that are specific for each separate user, such as is illustrated in  FIG. 3B . In this way, both of these users and other users can still view the map while also providing specific information to each user concurrently. In other embodiments, the sign may generate separate maps for each user, such as is illustrated in  FIGS. 3C-3D . In this example, each user can separately manipulate their specific content and interact with the sign, which provides for a unique and specialized experience for each user without being impacted by the other user. So, if one user has to go to Gate D2 and the other user has to go to baggage claim, each separate map can be tailored and customized for each respective user based on the device-specific information received from each respective mobile communication device. 
     It should be noted that the smart sign may display default content that can be viewed by any user, regardless of whether the smart sign has received any device-specific information from their mobile communication devices. The user-specific content can be added to the default content, such as by adding icons, symbols, arrows, or other information to the default content. In other embodiments, the user-specific content may be separately generated content. For example, an advertisement can be generated that is customized for the user, such as by using the user&#39;s age, gender, preferred language, application information, or other personal information that is obtained from the user&#39;s mobile communication device. 
     As mentioned above, the field-of-view area  204  is the area in which the smart sign  102  can detect, track, or communicate with a mobile communication device  108 . The field-of-view area  204  may be directional, such as illustrated in  FIG. 2A , or it may encompass multiple directions around a smart sign  102 , such as 360 degrees. In some embodiments, the smart sign  102  may also employ a proximity area (not illustrated) that may partially or fully overlap the field-of-view area  204  or it may be a completely separate area that is remote to the field-of-view area  204  and the smart sign  102 . The proximity area allows the smart sign  102  to detect and track mobile communication devices  108  before they enter the field-of-view area  204 . For example, if a mobile communication device  108  is within the proximity area and not yet in the field-of-view area  204  of the smart sign  102 , then the smart sign  102  can obtain the device-specific information from that mobile communication device  108  and generate or display the user-specific content prior to the mobile communication device  108  entering the field-of-view area  204 . 
     In some embodiments, the field-of-view area  204  or the proximity area may be utilized to track the movement of mobile communication devices within those areas. In this way, the smart sign  102  can determine if a mobile communication device  108  is moving in a direction towards the field-of-view area  204  or moving out of the field-of-view area  204 . The smart sign  102  can also utilize the direction of travel and rate of movement to determine if it will adjust the displayed content. For example, if mobile communication device  108   b  is moving very slowly away from the smart sign  102  and out of the field-of-view area  204 , then this slow movement rate may indicate that the user of the mobile communication device  108   b  is simply backing up rather than walking away from the sign. In contrast, if mobile communication device  108   a  is moving very quickly through the field-of-view area  204  and away from the smart sign  102 , then this fast movement away from the smart sign  102  may indicate that the user of the mobile communication device  108   a  is walking away from the sign rather than stopping to interact with the smart sign  102 . In this way, the smart sign  102  may maintain the user-specific content for mobile communication device  108   b,  but not add the user-specific content for mobile communication device  108   a.    
     In some other embodiments, the proximity area may be remotely located from the field-of-view area  204  such that they do not overlap at all. For example, the system may include a first proximity detector that is remote from the smart sign  102 , which is used to obtain the device-specific information from a mobile communication device  108  and provide it to the smart sign  102 . The smart sign  102  may include a second proximity detector to determine when the mobile communication device  108  actually enters the field-of-view area  204 , at which point the smart sign  102  displays the user-specific content based on the obtained device-specific information. 
     One example use case of this type of non-overlapping proximity area and field-of-view area  204  may be in an elevator in a hotel or cruise ship. The proximity area may be in the elevator itself and the field-of-view area  204  may be the hallway in front of the smart sign directly outside the elevator. As a user rides the elevator, the system obtains the device-specific information from mobile communication device of the user and generates user-specific content based on the device-specific information. Once the elevator arrives at the floor with the smart sign, the smart sign displays the user-specific content, such as where the user&#39;s cabin is located relative to the smart sign. Since the user may only be in front of the sign for a short period of time, any delays in generating the user-specific content can result in the user missing the content or forcing the user to pause and wait for the sign to update with the user-specific content. This type of remote, two-stage tracking can improve the user&#39;s experience by reducing visual delays in displaying the user-specific content. It should be understood that this two-stage tracking can also be performed when the proximity area is larger than the field-of-view area  204  or where the proximity area overlaps but extends beyond the field-of-view area  204 . 
       FIG. 2B  illustrates an example  200 B of a dynamic smart sign  102  with a field-of-view area  204 . Example  200 B is a further illustrative embodiment of example  200 A in  FIG. 2A , but with the field-of-view area  204  logically separated into multiple portions or sections. 
     As illustrated, the field-of-view area  204  is separated into field-of-view-area sections  204   a  and  204   b.  In this example, the field-of-view-area section  204   a  is on the right-side of the smart sign  102  and the field-of-view-area section  204   b  is on the left-side of the smart sign  102 , from the perspective of the users viewing the smart sign  102 . 
     In various embodiments, each field-of-view-area section may be associated with a display position on the smart sign  102  so that the rendered content is closer to users in that section. As illustrated, the field-of-view-area section  204   a  is associated with a right side  210   a  of the smart sign  102  and the field-of-view-area section  204   b  is associated with a left side  210   b  of the smart sign  102 , from the perspective of the users viewing the smart sign  102 . 
     Each mobile communication device in the field-of-view area  204  may be assigned a field-of-view-area section based on their actual locations relative to the smart sign  102 . For example, mobile communication device  108   a  is located in and assigned to the field-of-view-area section  204   a,  and mobile communication device  108   b  is located in and assigned to the field-of-view-area section  204   b.  By employing embodiments described herein, user-specific content for the mobile communication device  108   b  is generated based on device-specific information obtained from the mobile communication device  108   b  and displayed on the left side  210   b  of the display screen of the smart sign  102 , and user-specific content for mobile communication device  108   a  is generated based on device-specific information obtained from the mobile communication device  108   a  and displayed on the right side  210   a  of the display screen of the smart sign  102 , both being from the perspective of the users, such as illustrated in  FIGS. 3B or 3C . 
     Although the above example relies on left- and right-field-of-view-area sections, embodiments are not so limited. For example, if both users are in the field-of-view-area section  204   a  but it is determined that a first user is standing to the right of a second user, from the perspective of the smart sign  102 , then, similar to the previous example, the user-specific content for the first user should be displayed on the left side  210   b  of the display screen and the user-specific content for the second user should be displayed on the right side  210   a  of the display screen, both being from the perspective of the users. Similarly, if one user is further away from the smart sign  102 , then the user-specific content for that user can be displayed differently than the user-specific content for a user that is standing right next to the sign, such as is illustrated in  FIG. 3E . 
     It should be recognized that embodiments are not limited to logically separating the field-of-view area  204  into only one or two sections. Rather other numbers and arrangements of logical-field-of-view-area sections may be utilized. For example, the smart sign may utilize two or more lateral sections, two or more medial sections, or a combination thereof. 
     For example,  FIG. 2C  illustrates an example  200 C of a dynamic smart sign  102  with a field-of-view area  204  that is logically separated into four, quadrant-like field-of-view-area sections  204   c - 204   f.  Similar to what is described above, the field-of-view-area sections may be utilized to position the user-specific content on the smart sign, as well as to modify the display size of the user-specific content based on which field-of-view-area section a mobile communication device is located. 
     In this illustration, the mobile communication devices  108   a  and  108   c  are located in and assigned to the field-of-view-area section  204   c  and the mobile communication device  108   b  is located in and assigned to the field-of-view-area section  204   f.  Since the mobile communication device  108   b  is closer to the smart sign  102 , and the user of that device may be already interacting with the smart sign  102 , the user-specific content generated for the user of the mobile communication device  108   b  can be displayed on the left side  210   b  of the display screen of the smart sign  102 , from the perspective of the users, so that it is closer to the user for easier viewing and interaction. However, since the mobile communication devices  108   a  and  108   c  are further from the smart sign, and their users may be only viewing the smart sign and not directly touching or interacting with the smart sign, the user-specific content generated for the users of the mobile communication devices  108   a  and  108   c  can be combined or separately displayed on the right side  210   a  of the display screen of the smart sign  102 , from the perspective of the users. In this way, the user-specific content for the users of the mobile communication devices  108   a  and  108   c  may still be viewable to those users without interfering with the user-specific content for the user of the mobile communication device  108   b.    
     In various embodiments, the dynamic smart sign  102  may continuously utilize a specific pattern or arrangement of field-of-view-area sections, such as illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2C . In some embodiments, the field-of-view-area sections may change based on the number of mobile communication devices that enter the sections over time. For example, if no mobile communication devices enter a particular section over a one-week period, then there may be an obstacle or obstruction preventing mobile communication devices from entering that area. In response, the dynamic smart sign may adjust the field-of-view-area sections to remove that section or merge it with one or more other sections. The modifications to the various sections may be made in an attempt to balance the number of mobile communication devices for each section over a given period of time, which can provide a more uniform, attractive, and user-friendly display when multiple users are interacting with the smart sign. 
     In yet other embodiments, the dynamic smart sign  102  may utilize one or more field-of-view-area sections based on the number of mobile communication devices that are in the field-of-view area. For example, if there is only one mobile communication device in the field-of-view area, then only a single section may be utilized, such as illustrated in  FIG. 2A . But if another mobile communication device enters the field-of-view area, then a second section may be added, such as illustrated in  FIG. 2B . Similarly, if a third mobile communication device, or more, enters the field-of-view area, then the smart sign may utilize a more grid-like pattern, similar to what is illustrated in  FIG. 2C . As a result, the number and arrangement of field-of-view-area sections may dynamically change based on the number of mobile communication devices in the field-of-view area. 
       FIGS. 3A-3E  show use case examples of a multi-user display on a smart sign in accordance with embodiments described herein.  FIG. 3A  illustrates an example display  300 A of a smart sign, such as smart sign  102 . In this example, the smart sign is displaying a map of an airport terminal in a central content window  302 . 
     By employing embodiments described herein, the smart sign detects that a first mobile communication device in its proximity and obtains first device-specific information from the first mobile communication device. For example, assume the first device-specific information includes boarding pass information, an indication that the application for Coffee_A is installed on the first mobile communication device, and the first mobile communication device has multiple newspaper subscriptions. By comparing this information to known information about the airport, the smart sign determines the gate of departure for the first user&#39;s flight, identifies a Coffee_A location in the airport, and identifies a News_M stand that may sell newspapers. 
     The smart sign generates first user-specific content based on the first device-specific information, such as an items-of-interest list  310 , icons  312 , and an arrow  314 . The smart sign adds the first user-specific content to the map in the central content window  302 , so that the map includes the items-of-interest list  310 , icon  312   a  at the relative location of Coffee_A, and icon  312   b  at the relative location of News_M. The arrow  314  and route  308  are also added to the map so that the first user can see the fastest way to the first user&#39;s gate from the first user&#39;s current location. 
     As described herein, the smart sign may provide information back to the user&#39;s mobile communication device based on the user-specific content or interactions between the user and the smart sign. In this example, the user can click button  330  to instruct the smart sign to provide a screenshot of the map, along with the first user-specific content, to the first user&#39;s mobile communication device. The first user&#39;s mobile communication device may store this information so that the first user can reference the map without having to find another smart sign that can display the map. 
       FIG. 3B  illustrates an example display  300 B of the smart sign. Example  300 B is a further illustrative embodiment of example  300 A in  FIG. 3A , but where there are two users in the proximity of the smart sign. 
     By employing embodiments described herein, the smart sign may detect that a second mobile communication device in now its proximity along with the first mobile communication device. In this example, the smart sign obtains second device-specific information from the second mobile communication device. For example, assume the second device-specific information includes boarding pass information, an indication that the applications for Coffee_A and Food_M are installed on the second mobile communication device, and the second mobile communication device is storing rental car confirmation information. Again, by comparing this information to known information about the airport, the smart sign determines the second user&#39;s flight has landed and also determines the baggage claim number, identifies a Coffee_A location in the airport, identifies a Food_M location in the airport, and identifies the location of the rental-car-company desk in the airport. 
     In this example, the smart sign generates a first-user content window  306  and a second-user content window  304 . The first-user content window  306  includes at least some of the first user-specific content for the first user, such as the items-of-interest list  310 , information  318  identifying the user&#39;s gate number and the arrow symbol indicating where the gate is located, and a key  316  illustrating the symbol used for the route  308  from the first user&#39;s current location to the gate. The second-user content window  304  includes at least some of the second user-specific content for the second user, such as items-of-interest list  320 , information  324  identifying the baggage claim number and the arrow symbol indicating where the gate is located, and a key  322  illustrating the symbol used for route  334  from the second user&#39;s current location to the baggage claim. 
     The smart sign may also display the initial content, i.e., the map, which may or may not include additional user-specific information. In this illustration, the icons,  312 , arrows  314  and  328 , and routes  308  and  334  are illustrated on the map to indicate where the various items of interest, the first user&#39;s gate, and the second user&#39;s baggage claim are located. 
       FIG. 3C  illustrates an example display  300 C of the smart sign. Example  300 C is an alternative embodiment to example  300 B in  FIG. 3B , where there are two users in the proximity of the smart sign. However, in this example, the user-specific content is separated into two distinct graphical user experiences in content windows  360   a  and  360   b.  Each content window  360  includes at least a partial view of the map from example  300 A in  FIG. 3A , but with only the user-specific content associated with a particular user. As described elsewhere herein, the location of each mobile communication device relative to the smart sign may be used to select which content window will display the first user-specific content and which window will display the second user-specific content. In this example, the content window  360   a  includes the second user-specific content for the second user and the content window  360   b  includes the first user-specific content for the first user. 
     In this illustration, the content window  360   a  includes the map along with icons  312   a,    312   c,  and  312   d;  baggage claim icon  328 ; route  334 ; and items of interest  320 , and the content window  360   b  includes the map along with icons  312   a  and  312   b,  gate arrow  314 , route  308 , and items of interest  310 . In this example, each user has a personalized and unique graphical user experience with the user-specific content that is generated specifically for that respective user. 
     In some embodiments, each content window  360  may be a graphical user interface with which the users can interact. For example, the users may be enabled to click on the icons  312  to obtain menu information, advertisements, or other information about the various stores or restaurants. In some embodiments, the second user can click on baggage claim icon  328  to obtain status information on the baggage claim. And, in other embodiments, the first user can click on the arrow  314  to obtain gate information. Assuming the first user clicks arrow  314 , the content window  360   b  may be modified or changed to a different screen with different user-specific content, such as what is illustrated in  FIG. 3D . 
       FIG. 3D  illustrates an example display  300 D of the smart sign. Example  300 D is a further illustrative embodiment of example  300 C in  FIG. 3C , but where the first user has selected the gate arrow to obtain additional information. In this illustration, content window  360   b  is modified to include gate information  340 ; amenities  346 ; and buttons  342 ,  344 , and  348 . A user can continue to interact with the smart sign by clicking on buttons  342 ,  344 , and  348 , which may allow the user to change his seat assignment, contact a gate agent, view menu items of a restaurant near the gate, or other pertinent information. As described elsewhere herein, the smart sign may provide information back to the user&#39;s mobile communication device based on these user interactions. 
     In various embodiments, the content that is displayed to the users may change as users enter or exit the proximity of the smart sign. Example  300 E in  FIG. 3E  is a further illustrative embodiment of example  300 D in  FIG. 3D , but where a third user has entered the proximity of the smart sign. In various embodiments, the content windows may be moved, resized, or deleted depending on the interactions by the users and where additional user-specific content is to be displayed. In this example, since the first user is interacting with the first user-specific content displayed in content window  360   b,  content window  360   b  may be reduced in size, but the user-specific content unchanged, while the user-specific content in content window  360   a  is changed to include user-specific information for all three users. As illustrated, content window  360   a  now includes the map, similar to what is illustrated in example  300 A in  FIG. 3A , and user-specific information for all three users. In this way, the first user can continue to interact with the content window  360   b,  while the other users can view their respective user-specific content in content window  360   a.  If the first user were to exit the proximity of the smart sign, then the content window  360   b  may be removed and the map may be displayed similar to what is illustrated in  FIG. 3A  but without the first user-specific content for the first user. 
     It should be understood that these examples are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as exhaustive or limiting. 
     The operation of certain aspects of the disclosure will now be described with respect to  FIGS. 4-7 . In at least one of various embodiments, processes  400 ,  500 , and  600  described in conjunction with  FIGS. 4-7 , respectively, may be implemented by or executed on one or more computing devices, such as dynamic smart sign  102 . 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a logical flow diagram generally showing one embodiment of an overview process for providing a multi-user display on a smart sign based on the device-specific information associated with one or more mobile communication devices in close proximity to the sign in accordance with embodiments described herein. 
     Process  400  begins, after a start block, at block  402 , where content is displayed on a smart sign, such as dynamic smart sign  102 . In some embodiments, the content is stored on the smart sign. In other embodiments, the content is provided to the smart sign by a server or some other computing device. 
     In various embodiments, the content that is initially displayed on the smart sign, or displayed when no mobile communication devices are in its proximity, is default content for the smart sign. For example, the default content may be a map, store or restaurant information, advertisements, or other content. 
     Process  400  proceeds to decision block  404 , where a determination is made whether there are any mobile communication devices in proximity to the smart sign. In various embodiments, the smart sign is configured to detect the presence of one or more mobile communication devices that are in proximity to the dynamic smart sign  102 , such as by using a beacon or other proximity detector. 
     A mobile communication device is in proximity to the smart sign when the mobile communication device is within a predetermined proximity distance from the smart sign, within communication range of the smart sign via a short-range communication technology, in a predetermined location relative to the smart sign, a user of the mobile communication device is touching or otherwise interacting with the smart sign, or a combination thereof. In various embodiments, the proximity of the smart sign is pre-determined or set by an administrator based on the purpose of the smart sign, what content is being displayed on the smart sign, the location of the smart sign, or other the environmental factors associated with smart sign. In some embodiments, a mobile communication device is in proximity to the smart sign when the mobile communication device is within the visual field of display of the smart sign  102 , such as the field-of-view area  204 , as described elsewhere herein. 
     If there is one or more mobile communication devices in the proximity of the smart sign, then process  400  flows to block  406 ; otherwise, process  400  loops to block  402  to display the default content. Since users can move around and come and go from the proximity of the smart sign, the smart sign is periodically, continuously, or at predetermined times checking to determine if mobile communication devices have left the proximity of the smart sign or if new mobile communication devices have come in the proximity of the smart sign. Accordingly, the smart sign is dynamically determining which mobile communication devices are in proximity to the smart sign, and if there are no mobile communication devices in the proximity of the smart sign, the smart sign returns to displaying the content in a default language at block  402 . 
     At block  406 , device-specific information is received from each mobile communication device that is in the proximity of the smart sign. In various embodiments, the device-specific information from a mobile communication device includes one or more settings or information associated with that mobile communication device. Mobile communication devices can have a variety of different privacy settings that define what information the mobile communication device can provide to other devices, with or without the user&#39;s knowledge. In some embodiments, the device-specific information of the mobile communication device may be provided to the smart sign by the mobile communication device without the user&#39;s knowledge. In other embodiments, the user may have to opt in to have its mobile communication device provide its device-specific information to the smart sign. 
     As described elsewhere herein, the device-specific information from a mobile communication device includes demographic information of a user of the mobile communication device, interests of the user of the mobile communication device, information from or about application(s) installed or executing on the mobile communication device, or other information that personalizes the mobile communication device for the user of that mobile communication device. 
     In various embodiments, the smart sign may receive the device-specific information from a mobile communication device when the mobile communication device comes within communication range of the smart sign. In some embodiments, the mobile communication device may be periodically broadcasting information that can be received by other devices. The mobile communication device may be broadcasting the device-specific information itself or it may be broadcasting its identifier such that the smart sign can respond to the mobile communication device and request the device-specific information. 
     In other embodiments, the mobile communication device may not be broadcasting any information, but the smart sign may poll mobile communication devices that are within communication range of the smart sign to provide their device-specific information. In some embodiments, the smart sign may poll a mobile communication device for its device-specific information when a user interacts with the smart sign. In other embodiments, the smart sign may periodically transmit requests for mobile communication devices that are within communication range of the smart sign to respond to the smart sign with its device-specific information. In various embodiments, the smart sign and the mobile communication device may establish a communication link between the devices, such that the smart sign can request the device-specific information from the mobile communication device and the mobile communication device can respond to the smart sign with the device-specific information of the mobile communication device. 
     In various embodiments, a plurality of mobile communication devices may be determined at decision block  404  to be in proximity to the smart sign at any given point in time. The smart sign obtains or otherwise receives the device-specific information of each separate mobile communication device that is in proximity to the smart sign. Accordingly, a plurality of device-specific information (which may be the same or different from one another) are received from the plurality of mobile communication devices. 
     Process  400  proceeds to block  408 , where user-specific content is generated for each respective user of each mobile communication device that is in proximity to the smart sign based on the respective device-specific information for the respective mobile communication device. The user-specific content may be text, graphics, symbols, video, audio, or other information or content that is personalized for a user based on the device-specific information. Examples of user-specific content can include, but is not limited to, advertisements, directions to stores or restaurants, restaurant menus, descriptive information, or other content or information. In some embodiments, the user-specific content may be separate and different from the initially displayed content. In other embodiments, the user-specific content may be the initially displayed content but personalized for that user based on the user&#39;s device-specific information. 
     It should be understood that the above examples are not to be limiting, but are for illustrative purposes, and virtually any content that is generated or selected based on the device-specific information may be utilized as the user-specific content. 
     Process  400  continues at block  410 , where the displayed content is customized to include the user-specific content. In some embodiments, the user-specific content may be added to the currently displayed content, such as, for example, by adding text, icons, symbols, or other graphics to the displayed content. In other embodiments, the currently displayed content may be modified to include the user-specific content, such as, for example, by zooming in or altering a map to a desired location based on the device-specific information and highlighting the a feature on the map. 
     In yet other embodiments, the user-specific content may be displayed separate from the currently displayed content, such as in separate graphical user experiences or interfaces. In some embodiments, the graphical user experience for a user is a content window that includes the respective user-specific content and is separate from other content that is being displayed. In some embodiments, the user may be enabled to interact with the user-specific content, such as via a graphical user interface. In at least one embodiment, the graphical user interface may be a graphical user experience with which the user can interact. 
     In some embodiments, a location of each respective mobile communication device may be utilized to determine how to display the user-specific content, which is described in more detail below in conjunction with  FIG. 5 . 
     It should be understood that the above examples are not to be limiting, but are for illustrative purposes, and the displayed content can be customized to include the user-specific content in virtually any manner. 
     Process  400  proceeds next to block  412 , where the modified content is displayed on the smart sign. 
     Process  400  continues next at decision block  414 , where a determination is made whether one or more new mobile communication devices have entered the proximity of the smart sign. In various embodiments, decision block  414  may employ embodiments of decision block  404  to determine if there is a new mobile communication device in the proximity of the smart sign. As described elsewhere herein, the mobile communication devices that are in proximity to the smart sign can change over time. Accordingly, the smart sign periodically, continuously, or at predetermined times checks to determine which mobile communication devices are in the proximity of the smart sign and if any new mobile communication devices have come in the proximity of the smart sign. 
     In one non-limiting example, the smart sign may receive a mobile communication device identifier from each mobile communication device that it communicates with and store it while the mobile communication device is within the proximity of the smart sign. As the smart sign checks to determine which mobile communication devices are in its proximity, if the smart sign receives any new identifiers, then those mobile communication devices are determined to be new mobile communication devices in the proximity of the smart sign. 
     If there is a new mobile communication device in the proximity of the smart sign, then process  400  loops to block  406  to receive device-specific information from the new mobile communication device; otherwise, process  400  flows to decision block  416 . 
     At decision block  416 , a determination is made whether a mobile communication device that was in the proximity of the smart sign has exited the proximity of the smart sign. In various embodiments, a mobile communication device may have exited the proximity of the smart sign if the smart sign is no longer in communication with the mobile communication device, if the user of the mobile communication device has stopped interacting with the smart sign, if a predetermined amount of time has lapsed, or any combination thereof. In various embodiments, the smart sign periodically, continuously, or at predetermined times checks to determine if a mobile communication device has exited the proximity of the smart sign. If a mobile communication device has exited the proximity of the smart sign, then process  400  flows to block  418 ; otherwise, process  400  loops to decision block  414  to continue to monitor for mobile communication devices entering or exiting the proximity of the smart sign. 
     At block  418 , the user-specific content for the user of the mobile communication device that has exited the proximity of the smart sign is removed from the displayed content. In various embodiments, only the user-specific content for the mobile communication device that is no longer in the proximity of the smart sign is removed. 
     In some embodiments, the user-specific content for other users of other mobile communication devices that are still in the proximity of the smart sign may be unmodified and may continue to be displayed. In other embodiments, the format of the remaining displayed content, e.g., the default content plus the user-specific content for remaining users in proximity to the smart sign, may be adjusted based on the mobile communication device exiting the proximity of the smart sign. For example, if two users are interacting with a map, similar to what is illustrated in  FIG. 3C , and a first user leaves the proximity of the smart sign, then the format of the content with the user-specific content for the second user may be adjusted to be similar to what is illustrated in  FIG. 3B , such as if the first user was never in the proximity of the smart sign. It should be recognized that in some situations and embodiments, such an adjustment may not be desirable because it could negatively impact the second user&#39;s experience of the smart sign. 
     After block  418 , process  400  loops to decision block  404  to continue to monitor if there are mobile communication devices in the proximity of the smart sign. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a logical flow diagram generally showing one embodiment of a process for selecting the graphical position of user-specific content to display on the multi-user display on the smart sign in accordance with embodiments described herein. Process  500  begins, after a start block, at block  502 , where a location of the mobile communication device(s) in proximity to the smart sign is determined relative to the smart sign. In various embodiments, the smart sign may utilize a variety of range and directional sensors, technologies, or mechanisms known to those skilled in the art, to determine the location of each mobile communication device relative to the smart sign. In at least one embodiment, the location of the mobile communication device may be determined based on where on the display screen of the smart sign a user touches or interacts with the smart sign. In some embodiments, the smart sign may determine the location of each mobile communication device over a period of time to determine if and in what direction and rate the mobile communication device is moving relative to the smart sign. 
     Process  500  continues at block  504 , where a graphical display position is determined for each user-specific content based on the location of each respective mobile communication device. In various embodiments, the displayed content is modified so that the user-specific content for each corresponding user is closer to or in a display position that is logically easier for the corresponding user(s) to view or interact with relative to other users. 
     As mentioned above, the viewable area in front of the smart sign, or field-of-view area, may be logically separated into multiple different sections. Each logical section may be associated with a display position on the smart sign so that the rendered user-specific content is closer to the user in that section or more easily viewed based on the user&#39;s location. For example, assume the field-of-view area in front of the smart sign is logically separated into a left-viewing section and a right-viewing section from the perspective of the users viewing the smart sign, such as field-of-view-area sections  204   b  and  204   a  of  FIG. 2B , respectively. User-specific content for the user in the left-viewing section is generated based on device-specific information obtained from the mobile communication device of that user and displayed on the left side of the display screen of the smart sign, and user-specific content for the user in the right-viewing section is generated based on device-specific information obtained from the mobile communication device of that user and displayed on the right side of the display screen of the smart sign, both being from the perspective of the users, such as illustrated in  FIGS. 3B or 3C . 
     In various embodiments, the display position of the user-specific content may be based on the number of mobile communication devices that have overlapping or similar device-specific information. For example, if multiple users share device-specific information, such as both mobile communication devices having the application for the coffeehouse chain Coffee_A, then the smart sign may add the device-specific information to a central content window, such as illustrated in  FIG. 3B . This may be helpful to both users, because both users may want to go to the coffeehouse and both may need to look at the map to determine its location. But if the users do not have common or overlapping device-specific information, then separate content windows or graphical user experiences or interfaces may be provided, such as illustrated in  FIGS. 3C and 3D . However, embodiments are not so limited and a combination of shared content and separate content may be provided to the users, such as is illustrated in  FIG. 3E . 
     Although the above example relies on left- and right-viewing sections, embodiments are not so limited, as further described and illustrated above in conjunction with  FIGS. 2A-3C . It should be understood that the above examples are not to be limiting, but are for illustrative purposes. Other mechanisms may be utilized to determine a graphical display position for each user-specific content based on the relative location of each mobile communication device. 
     Process  500  continues at block  506 , where the displayed content is modified based on the selected graphical positions. As described herein, the user-specific content may be positioned in separate graphical positions on the display screen of the smart sign, added to other content, or some combination thereof. Similarly, as described elsewhere, separate graphical user experiences or graphical user interfaces may be generated to include the respective user-specific content. Each graphical user experience or graphical user interface may be graphically positioned on the smart sign based on the location of the respective mobile communication devices. 
     After block  506 , process  500  terminates or returns to a calling process to perform other actions. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a logical flow diagram generally showing one embodiment of a process for receiving user interactions with a multi-user display and performing actions based on those interactions in accordance with embodiments described herein. Process  600  begins, after a start block, at block  602 , where user-specific content is displayed on a smart sign for multiple users. In various embodiments, block  602  may employ embodiments described above in conjunction with processes  400  and  500  of  FIGS. 4 and 5 , respectively, to determine and display user-specific content. 
     Process  600  proceeds to decision block  604 , where a determination is made whether the smart sign has received an interaction from a user. In various embodiments, interaction by the user may be an input onto a touch screen or buttons on the smart sign, speaking to the smart sign, or other interaction. If the smart sign receives an interaction, process  600  flows to block  606 ; otherwise, process  600  loops to decision block  604  to continue to wait for receipt of an interaction from a user. 
     At block  606 , user-specific content is modified based on the interaction. In various embodiments, the user-specific content displayed at block  602  may include buttons or other visual graphics with which the user can interact. If the user interacts with the user-specific content, the smart sign can respond by modifying the user-specific content. In various embodiments, the smart sign generates new or additional user-specific content. Such a modification may be based on only the user interaction or on a combination of the user interaction and the device-specific information associated with the user-specific content. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 3C , the user-specific content may include an arrow illustrating where the user&#39;s gate is located. If the user clicks on the arrow, then the smart sign may generate a new content window showing information about the gate, such as departure time and status, amenities near the gate, etc. Again, this modified user-specific content may be interactive or not. 
     It should be noted that some or all of the displayed content may be modified in response to the user&#39;s interactions depending on the number of users interacting with the sign, the number of mobile communication devices in the proximity of the smart sign, or other factors. For example, if there is only one user in the proximity of the sign, then the entire display may be modified to include new user-specific content. But if there is another user in the proximity of the smart sign, then only the user-specific content associated with the interaction may be modified while leaving the other user-specific content unmodified. In this way, each user in proximity of the smart sign can have a personalized experience with the smart sign without impacting the other user&#39;s experience by interacting with the smart sign. 
     Process  600  continues at block  608 , where the modified content is displayed on the sign. As indicated above, there may be other unmodified content that is to still be displayed on the smart sign along with the modified content. 
     Process  600  proceeds next to block  610 , where the smart sign performs other actions based on the interaction. In various embodiments, the other actions may include accessing information on a remote server or computing device, providing commands to other computing devices, etc. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 3D , the user-specific content may include various information about the gate of the user. This information may include a button that opens another interface enabling the user to change his seat. In this way, the smart sign performs other actions to communicate with the airline to adjust the user&#39;s seat. In another example, the user-specific content may be an advertisement or a restaurant menu. The user may click on the advertisement or a menu item to pre-purchase the item. It should be noted that these examples are for illustrative purposes and other actions may also be performed. In some embodiments, block  610  may be optional, and may not be performed. 
     Process  600  continues next at decision block  612 , where a determination is made whether to provide information or content to the user&#39;s mobile communication device. In some embodiments, this determination may be based on the user interactions or what additional actions are performed by the smart sign. For example, in some embodiments, if the user utilizes the user-specific content and the smart sign to change his seat, then the smart sign may provide updated boarding pass information or a new e-ticket to the user&#39;s mobile communication device. 
     In other embodiments the user-specific content or the displayed content may be provided to the mobile communication device. For example, a screenshot of the user-specific content is provided to the user&#39;s mobile communication device. In this way, if a user is looking for his gate in an airport, the smart sign can provide an image of the map with the user&#39;s gate depicted on the map and the most efficient route to get there. As a result, the user can rely on the information provided to their mobile communication device rather than find another smart sign and start the entire process all over again. If additional information is to be provided to the user&#39;s mobile communication device, then process  600  flows to block  614  to provide the information or content to the mobile communication device; otherwise, process  600  loops to decision block  604  to continue to monitor for interactions by the user with the smart sign. 
     In various embodiments, the information provided to the mobile communication device may be stored in the memory of the mobile communication device until it is deleted by the user, until the user leaves the proximity of the sign or some other designated area, or for a predetermined period of time. In some embodiments, this information may be accessible to the user via a smart-sign application executing on the mobile communication device or via an application associated with the particular information provided. For example, if the information is updated boarding pass information, then the information may be accessible to the user via an e-ticket application. 
     It should be noted that a variety of different types of information or content can be provided to the user&#39;s mobile communication device based on what content or information is being displayed by the smart sign, the purpose of the smart sign, the interactions the user had with the smart sign, the additional actions performed by the smart sign, or the like. 
       FIG. 7  shows a system diagram that describes one implementation of computing systems for implementing embodiments described herein. System  700  includes a dynamic smart sign  102 . 
     One or more special-purpose computing systems are used to implement dynamic smart sign  102  to receive device-specific information from mobile communication devices  108  that are in close proximity to the dynamic smart sign  102 , and in some embodiments generate user-specific content or modify displayed content based on the device-specific information, as described herein. Accordingly, various embodiments described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or in some combination thereof. Dynamic smart sign  102  includes memory  704 , processor  722 , display  724 , I/O interfaces  726 , other computer-readable media  728 , network interface  730 , and proximity detector  732 . 
     Processor  722  includes one or more processing devices that execute instructions to perform actions, including at least some embodiments described herein. In various embodiments, the processor  722  may include one or more central processing units (CPUs). 
     Memory  704  may include one or more various types of non-volatile and/or volatile storage technologies. Examples of memory  704  include, but are not limited to, flash memory, hard disk drives, optical drives, solid-state drives, various types of random access memory (RAM), various types of read-only memory (ROM), other computer-readable storage media (also referred to as processor-readable storage media), or other memory technologies, or any combination thereof. Memory  704  may be utilized to store information, including computer-readable instructions that are utilized by processor  722  to perform actions, including at least some embodiments described herein. 
     Memory  704  may have stored thereon various modules, such as multi-user module  708  and mobile communication device tracker module  710 , or other programs  718 . The mobile communication device tracker module  710  utilizes the proximity detector  732  to determine and track mobile communication devices  108  that are in close proximity to the dynamic smart sign  102 . In some embodiments, the mobile communication device tracker module  710  obtains the device-specific information and a location of those mobile communication devices. The multi-user module  708  can generate user-specific content for the users of the mobile communication devices that are in proximity to the dynamic smart sign  102 . In various embodiments, the multi-user module  708  performs actions to enable user interaction with the smart sign  102 , such as but not limited to receiving inputs from a touch display associated with display  724  or from other I/O interfaces  726 . Based on those received inputs, the multi-user module  708  can modify the content or user-specific content that is displayed on the display  724  to the users. In some embodiments, the multi-user module  708  can provide information to the mobile communication device  108  via the network interface  730 . 
     Memory  704  may also store content  720 . Content  720  may include default content as well as other content or information that can be used to generate the user-specific content. 
     Proximity detector  732  is a device capable of detecting the presence of one or more mobile communication devices that are in close proximity or within a predetermined range of the dynamic smart sign  102 . The proximity detector  732  may be an embodiment of proximity detector  117  in  FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, the proximity detector  732  is configured to receive signals, such as via Near Field Communication (NFC) protocols, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocols, Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, or other short-range communication technologies. In some embodiments, the dynamic smart sign  102  communicates with the mobile communication devices to receive various user settings and other device-specific information from the mobile communication devices. In some embodiments, the proximity detector  732  can determine range and direction of signals from the mobile communication devices utilizing a variety of ranging techniques known to those skilled in the art. This information is used by the mobile communication device tracker module  710  to determine a location of each corresponding mobile communication device and whether the mobile communication device is moving or has exited the proximity of the dynamic smart sign  102 . 
     Display  724  is a display device capable of rendering content to a user. The display  724  may be a liquid crystal display, light emitting diode, or other type of display device, and include a touch sensitive screen capable of receiving inputs from a user&#39;s hand, stylus, or other object. 
     I/O interfaces  726  may include interfaces for various other input or output devices, such as audio interfaces, other video interfaces, USB interfaces, physical buttons, or the like. Other computer-readable media  728  may include other types of stationary or removable computer-readable media, such as removable flash drives, external hard drives, or the like. Network interfaces  730  are configured to communicate with other computing devices, such as mobile communication device  108  via a communication network (not illustrated). 
     One or more computing systems are used to implement the mobile communication device  108  to provide device-specific information to the dynamic smart sign  102 . Accordingly, various embodiments described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or in some combination thereof. The mobile communication device  108  includes memory  754 , one or more processors  762 , display  764 , I/O interfaces  766 , and network interfaces  770 . 
     Processor  762  includes one or more processing devices that execute instructions to perform actions. In various embodiments, the processor  762  may include one or more central processing units (CPUs). 
     Memory  754  may include one or more various types of non-volatile and/or volatile storage technologies. In some embodiments, memory  754  may be employ storage technology similar to what is described above for memory  704 . Memory  754  may be utilized to store information, such as computer-readable instructions that are utilized by processor  762  to perform actions, including at least some embodiments described herein. 
     Memory  754  may have stored thereon various programs  756  and device-specific information  758 . The programs  756  can include operating system programs, mobile applications, or other programs. The device-specific information  758  includes information, settings, or parameters about the mobile communication device  108 , programs  756 , or other stored information about a user of the mobile communication device  108 . In various embodiments, the mobile communication device  108  provides the device-specific information  758  to the dynamic smart sign  102  when requested by the dynamic smart sign  102  or it may periodically broadcast some or all of the device-specific information  758 , which can be captured by the dynamic smart sign  102  when the mobile communication device  108  is within communication range of the dynamic smart sign  102 . 
     I/O interfaces  766  may include interfaces for various other input or output devices, such as audio interfaces, display interfaces, other video interfaces, USB interfaces, or the like. Network interfaces  770  are configured to communicate with other computing devices, such as dynamic smart sign  102  via a communication network (not illustrated). 
     The various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. These and other changes can be made to the embodiments in light of the above-detailed description. In general, in the following claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should be construed to include all possible embodiments along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Accordingly, the claims are not limited by the disclosure.