Patent ID: 8396501

Claim:
A method for initiating a group call in a communication device, the method comprising: at the communication device: accessing a call list comprising a plurality of identifiers used to enter a call with at least one other communication device; receiving a user's selection of an identifier for a talkgroup from the call list; switching to a first channel associated with the selected identifier to allow a call with the talkgroup; when the call ends, setting a first timer and monitoring the first channel for voice activity, and if voice activity is detected, remaining on the first channel to allow the call with the talkgroup, and resetting the first timer when the call ends; when the first timer expires and no voice activity is detected on the first channel, setting a second timer and scanning a home channel for voice activity, and if no voice activity is detected on the home channel, continuing to automatically switch between monitoring the first channel and scanning the home channel, using the second timer, until the second timer expires or voice activity is detected on the home channel, then automatically switching to the home channel.