Real-time communications architecture and methods for use with a personal computer system

Abstract

A system and method for improved real-time communications in a computer system that eliminates the distinctions between various communication devices, communication channels and types of communication, including voice, text and video, is provided. When connected for communication, the user may easily move between modalities, including switching devices on which the user is communicating, switching networks, and transitioning between types of communication. A computer system includes various integrated communications-related devices, and a controller controls those devices based on user actions entered via buttons or user interface software and provides notifications to the user. The user is able to input data via any appropriate input mechanism, and receive data on any suitable output mechanism. Improved non-linear caller ID navigation is also provided.

1 . In a computing environment, a method comprising:
 receiving a call on one of a plurality of communications networks;   providing a notification of the call; and   coupling the call to a selected communication device independent of the communication network on which the call was received.