Data transmission system with enhancement data

Abstract

A method of enhancing an electronic communication is disclosed, be it in the form of a message, file, or other type of transmission. The method includes the steps of transmitting and receiving a message or file with a content and, along with the message or file, transmitting and receiving enhancement information enabling a recipient of the message or file to more fully appreciate the content. In one embodiment, the enhancement information enables the recipient to visualize the sender or listen to the content of a message. For example, the enhancement information may include phonemes enabling the recipient to listen to the content of a message in a synthesized voice of the sender. In all embodiments, the enhancement information may be stored at the location of the recipient to limit the need for retransmission thereof.

1 . A method of enhancing an electronic communication, comprising the steps of:
 transmitting and receiving a message from a sender; and   storing, at the location of a recipient, enhancement information enabling the recipient to construct a moving image in which the sender would be shown speaking the words of the message as they are played back.   
   
   
       2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the message is transmitted and received through a local- or wide-area network. 
   
   
       3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the message is transmitted and received through a wireless communication system. 
   
   
       4 . The method of  claim 1 , including the step of periodically updating the enhancement information.