Reader device content indexing

Abstract

A reader device and method for operating a reader device include content indexing features designed to make the use of a reader device more satisfying. A plurality of indexes is stored on a reader device. One of the indexes stored in the reader device is also stored at a remote site. Several indexes stored at the remote site may be substantially similar to one or more of the indexes stored on a reader device. The indexes stored at the remote site may be used to update one or more indexes stored on a reader device. In one implementation, the reader device is an electronic book (“eBook”) reader device.

Description

BACKGROUND

Electronic distribution of information has gained in importance with the proliferation of personal computers, and has undergone a tremendous upsurge in popularity as the Internet has become widely available. With the widespread use of the Internet, it has become possible to distribute large, coherent units of information, such as books, using electronic technologies. Books and other printed works available through electronic technologies are commonly referred to as electronic books (“eBooks”). Typical eBook reader devices attempt to mimic the experience of reading a conventional paper book or other printed works through display of electronic information on one or more electronic displays. A typical eBook reader device is a handheld digital device having a liquid crystal display panel and enough memory and processing capability to store several eBooks. Such a device is capable of retrieving and displaying an eBook, in whole or in part, for reading.

There are some advantages to using an eBook reader device over conventional paper books or other printed works. An eBook reader device is often capable of storing a number of complete works. Therefore, an eBook reader device containing a number of stored works weighs significantly less than the same number of printed works. This makes an eBook reader a particularly attractive alternative to paper books for travel, educational purposes, and professional business use. Also, because eBooks do not require the use of paper products, they are generally offered at a lower price than their printed counterparts. Furthermore, the use of eBook reader devices in conjunction with eBooks may be beneficial to the ecosystem, by reducing a number of printed works produced using paper products.

To date, however, eBook readers and the use of eBooks in general have not achieved widespread consumer acceptance. This is mainly attributable to the design and implementation particulars of conventional eBook reader devices and the manner in which content usable with such devices is attainable.

The preceding description of conventional eBook reader devices was provided herein for contextual reasons only.

SUMMARY

An electronic book (“eBook”) reader device and a method for operating a reader device are provided that include content indexing features designed to improve a reading experience. A plurality of electronic publication indexes is stored on the eBook reader device. At least one of the indexes stored in the reader device is also stored at a remote site. Several indexes stored at the remote site may be substantially similar to one or more of the indexes stored on the reader device. The indexes stored at the remote site may be used to update one or more indexes stored on the reader device. In one implementation, the remote site is a content repository that includes content available for purchase and download.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in different figures indicates similar or identical items.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary electronic content delivery environment. The environment includes an electronic book (“eBook”) reader device in communication with at least one content repository.

FIG. 2 illustrates content of storage contained within a content repository. The content includes eBooks for use with reader devices.

FIG. 3 illustrates content of memory contained within an eBook reader device. The content includes a plurality of indexes related to content useable with an eBook reader device.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary metadata composition that may be associated with one or more indexes stored in an eBook reader device.

FIG. 5 illustrates exemplary components that may be used to implement an eBook reader device.

FIG. 6 illustrates an index screen rendered on an eBook reader device. In this illustration, exemplary indexes stored in an eBook reader device are shown.

FIG. 7 illustrates an index search screen rendered on an eBook reader device. In this illustration, the index search screen is linked to an exemplary title only index stored in an eBook reader device.

FIG. 8 illustrates a local/remote search screen rendered on an eBook reader device. In this illustration, the local/remote search screen is linked to content stored in an eBook reader device and content stored at a remote content repository.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a process for retrieving eBook reader device content from a remote content repository or memory of the eBook reader device.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a process for creating and augmenting an index stored in an eBook reader device. The index is created after searching and identifying index entries referenced in a title only index.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a process for creating a user specific index stored in an eBook reader device. The index is created after searching and identifying index entries referenced in a title only index.

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of a process for performing a billing function in response to a content request by an eBook reader device.

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of a process for updating an index stored in an eBook reader device. An index update may be a solicited or unsolicited index update delivered by a remote content repository.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As will be appreciated from the following disclosure, linking a reader device with a content repository creates an arrangement that will generally make the use of reader devices more attractive. The implementations described herein provide an environment in which content is simple to locate, retrieve and consume using a reader device that includes systems and methods that provide several indexes related to content.

The terms “book” and/or electronic book (“eBook”) as used herein include electronic or digital representations of printed works, as well as digital content that may include text, multimedia, hypertext and/or hypermedia. Examples of printed and/or digital works include, but are not limited to, books, magazines, newspapers, periodicals, journals, reference materials, telephone books, textbooks, anthologies, instruction manuals, proceedings of meetings, forms, directories, maps, etc. Accordingly, the terms book and/or eBook may include any content that is in electronic or digital format.

The description herein provides a non-limiting implementation of an electronic device in the form of an eBook reader device. It is noted, however, that various aspects and features described herein may be implemented in other electronic devices or electronic readers besides eBook reader devices including, for example, portable computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable gaming devices, wireless phones, and the like.

Users of readers implemented as described herein will have a virtual bookstore literally at their finger tips. More specifically, a reader device according to an exemplary implementation described herein makes it possible to search for books, view book summaries, and retrieve books and read retrieved books. All of this is possible from the comfort of one's home, or virtually any other location for that matter.

As noted above, several indexes may allow an eBook reader device to access and use electronic content that may be displayed and/or stored in the device. At least one of the several indexes corresponds to an index stored at a content repository. The indexes stored on an eBook reader device may include a title only index, compiled indexes associated with recent index searches performed on an eBook reader device, and indexes that are associated with unique users of a reader device. In addition, several of the indexes stored in an eBook reader device may be compiled from metadata related to eBooks. The metadata may be used to locate eBooks or other content of interest stored in the eBook reader device and/or a content repository.

In on implementation, an eBook reader device includes wireless communications capabilities. These capabilities allow the eBook reader device to receive index updates and content from a content repository. The index updates may be solicited or unsolicited deliveries from a content repository. The index updates may also be delivered from other sources that store electronic content that may be used on an eBook reader device.

Various examples of indexing features applied to an eBook reader are described below with reference to FIGS. 1-13.

Exemplary Environment

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary eBook content delivery environment 100 in which an eBook reader device 102 communicates with one or more content repositories 104(1)-104(M) and/or 106(1)-106(K). In one implementation, the reader device 102 communicates with the content repositories 104 and 106 via a network(s) 108 and/or a wireless link 110. For example, the reader device 102 may connect to the content repositories 104 and 106 using a wired-connection interfaced with the network(s) 108 and/or using wireless communications technology employed by the device 102. The content repositories 104 and 106 may be hosted by an entity or service that offers eBook content for purchase via the Web. The network 108 is representative of many different types of networks, such as cable networks, local area networks, wide area networks, the Internet, wireless networks, and any combinations thereof. Henceforth, this disclosure describes an eBook reader device communicating with one content repository. However, an eBook reader is capable of communicating with a plurality of content repositories. Moreover, content repositories described herein are capable of handling requests from a plurality of eBook reader devices.

The content repositories 104(1)-104(M) and/or 106(1)-106(K) are employed on one or more servers, perhaps arranged as a server farm. Other server architectures may also be used to implement the content repositories 104(1)-104(M) and/or 106(1)-106(K). The content repositories 104(1)-104(M) and/or 106(1)-106(K) are capable of handling requests from many entities and providing, in response, eBook related content that may be received by one or more eBook reader devices 102.

The wireless link 110 that is used by the eBook reader device 102 to communicate with the content repository 104 may be implemented using any applicable wireless technology. The wireless link 110 may also be used by the content repository 104 to communicate with the reader device 102. Ordinarily, the wireless link 110 includes cell sites, base stations and Mobile Telephone Switching Offices (MTSO). Each base station contains a radio transceiver and controller, and provides radio communications to wireless devices operating in its cell. The cells are typically engineered into a network that is deployed in a hexagonal cell pattern, in order to provide local, regional, or national wireless coverage. The MTSO links cells together using traditional copper, fiber optic, and/or microwave technology and acts as a central office exchange, allowing wireless devices to connect to various other communication mediums. One such communication medium is the network 108.

The content repositories 104 and 106 are configured to support providing content to one or more eBook reader devices 102. As will be described in greater detail later, the content may be works that are readable using the eBook reader device 102. Other content for use with the reader device 102 may be stored in the content repositories 104 and 106 as well, such as magazines and newspapers in electronic format. The content repositories 104 and 106 may also provide information related to conventional printed works. This information may include downloadable electronic summaries of the conventional printed works. Other non-limiting examples of information that may be stored in the content repositories 104 and 106 include periodicals and newspapers in electronic format, and Really Simple Syndication (RSS) feeds. Therefore, as noted above, the eBook reader device 102 may be considered as a general reader device that is capable of displaying any content that is stored in electronic format.

The content repository 104 includes a storage medium 126. The content repository 106 may include a similar storage medium as well. The storage 126 includes a title index 128, a plurality of user title indexes 130, various eBook files 132 and other content 134. Although the indexes 128 and 130 are shown as separate, they may be merged into one index as well. This is also true of the other indexes described in the following description. The storage 126 may be implemented using, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store information and which can be accessed by the content repository 104.

The eBook reader device 102 includes a device memory 112. The device memory 112 contains at least eBook indexes 114. These eBook indexes 114 include a title only index 116, recent search indexes 118, common search indexes 120, and user saved indexes 122. The device memory 112 also contains a complete eBook section 124 that is used to store one or more eBooks for use with the reader device 102.

Additional details related to the storage 126 and the device memory 112 are provided below.

Exemplary Repository Content

Content of the storage 126 employed in the content repository 104 is described in detail with reference to FIG. 2. The content described in the following is exemplary only. An entity managing the eBook reader repository 104 may update the content of the storage 126 from time-to-time and as required as new and/or additional content is added to the repository 104. The content update process may be similar to a synchronization process that may be triggered by a request for data, an expiration of a time period, a notification that an update is available, after a certain volume of new data is available, and so forth.

The title index 128 housed in the storage 126 includes a title only index 202 and a title metadata index 204. The title only index 202 has index entries that include titles of eBooks offered for download by the content repository 104. The title only index 202 is shown as including Titles 1-N (e.g., To Kill a Mocking Bird, etc.). The title metadata index 204 includes metadata entries related to eBooks offered for download by the content repository 104. The metadata entries are shown in FIG. 1 as including Title 1 Metadata-Title L Metadata. Particulars related to the metadata entries stored in the content repository 104 and the eBook reader device 102 are discussed in detail in connection with FIG. 4. EBook reader devices that connect to the content repository 104 may use the title index 128 to search for eBooks offered for purchase and download.

The user title indexes 130 of the storage 126 include several user indexes captured from eBook reader devices (e.g., reader device 102) that have connected with the content repository 104. The content repository 104 may track keyword searches performed by the eBook reader device 102. Generally, such keyword searches relate to eBook content stored in the content repository 104. The eBook titles/metadata relevant to those searches may be stored in the user title indexes 130 as user specific indexes directed to particular eBook topics/titles. The content repository 104 may use the user specific indexes to tailor the content of various updates sent to the eBook reader device 102.

In the exemplary implementation illustrated in FIG. 2, the user title indexes 130 include a recent search index 206 associated with a User N. The recent search index 206 includes Title 1 Metadata-Title Q Metadata. The recent search index 206 was captured by the content repository 104 during a searching process. The recent search index 206 includes content references (e.g., eBook metadata) that relate to a general keyword search performed by the eBook reader device 102.

The user title indexes 130 also include a purchase history index 208 associated with a User X. The purchase history index 208 includes Title 1 Metadata-Title 2 Metadata. In one implementation, the metadata listed in the index 208 relates to eBooks purchased by the User X. Those purchases were made possible through the use of the eBook reader device 102. Entries in the purchase history index 208 may be used to tailor future eBook related information and other information transmitted to the eBook reader device 102. For example, entries in the index 208 may serve as a basis for transmitting advertisements related to the purchase history, recommendations, promotional coupons or other forms of advertisements, and so forth.

The eBook files 132 of the storage 126 include numerous eBooks 1-N, or other electronic content that may be used by the eBook reader device 102. The eBooks are preferably stored in an electronic format that is displayable on a display of the eBook reader device 102. Depending on the storage capability of the content repository 104, the number of eBooks included in the eBook files 132 may be in the thousands and even the millions. Some or all of the eBooks included in the eBook files 132 are referenced in the title only index 202 and/or the title metadata index 204. In addition to the eBooks 1-N, the eBook files 132 may also include separate eBook Summary 1-K files related to eBooks offered for purchase and download.

These eBook summaries may be sent to the eBook reader device 102 upon request. Alternatively, the eBook summaries may be sent to the reader device 102 automatically during an update procedure implemented by the content repository 104. Such an update procedure may be triggered by the content repository 104 on a periodic basis, by an update schedule in the reader device 102, or some other update activation process. In addition, summaries related to conventional paper books may also be stored in the storage 126 and made available for download or delivery to the reader device 102. Summaries sent to the reader device 102 may be for the purpose of promoting a book recently offered for sale or about to be offered for sale, at the request of an author that desires increased sales, or any other applicable reason.

The other content 134 of the storage 126 include content that is not generally considered as being related to a printed work, but are otherwise useable on the eBook reader device 102. For example, the other content 134 is shown in FIG. 2 as including audio files (e.g., audio books), video files and multimedia files. The other content of the storage 126 may also include the mentioned downloadable electronic summaries of the conventional paper books, the periodicals and newspapers in electronic format, and the RSS feeds, to name a few.

Exemplary eBook Reader Device Memory

Content of the device memory 112 employed in the eBook reader device 102 is described in detail with reference to FIG. 3. The content described in the following is exemplary only.

The title only index 116 contains index entries related to eBook titles that are offered on the content repository 104. Generally, the title only index 116 includes the same index entries included in the title index 128 found in the storage 126. However, the total number of index entries included in the title only index 116 may be limited if the memory capacity of the eBook reader device 102 is approaching full capacity.

FIG. 3 shows that the title only index 116 includes eBook Titles 1-M (e.g., To Kill a Mocking Bird, etc.). Depending on the capacity of the device memory 112, the eBook Titles 1-M may number in the thousands and even in the millions. The title only index 116 is maintained in a current state through periodic updates received from the content repository 104. More particularly, eBook titles added to the title only index 202 may be wirelessly sent to the eBook reader device 102 for inclusion in the title only index 116. This type of update process may be solicited or unsolicited. The title only index 116 may also be replaced entirely by the title only index 202 located in the storage 126 of the content repository 104. Once again, this may occur during an update process performed by the repository 104, over a wireless or wired connection.

The recent search indexes 118 of the device memory 112 include indexes captured by the eBook reader device 102 during a searching process conducted therewith. For example, a recent search index 302(1) may include various eBook references that relate to a general keyword search performed by the reader device 102. In the FIG. 3, these references are shown as Title 1 Metadata-Title N Metadata. The metadata referenced in the recent search index 302(1) was received from the content repository 104 after a preliminary search of the title only index 116. After eBook titles are identified from the preliminary search, the reader device 102 wirelessly communicates with the content repository 104 to retrieve metadata related to the identified eBook titles. The reader device 102 may also communicate with the repository using a wired connection. The content repository 104 stores such metadata in the storage 126. The recent search indexes 302(1)-302(N) may be linked to unique user logon credentials held by the reader device 102.

The common search indexes 120 of the device memory 112 include indexes generated by the eBook reader device 102 during a searching process conducted therewith. More particularly, the indexes included in the common search indexes 120 may include various eBook references that relate to commonly used keyword searches performed by the reader device 102. For example, a user of the eBook reader device 102 may commonly search for eBooks that relate to computer architecture. Maintaining several indexes related to commonly searched keywords eliminates having to perform the same search again. Furthermore, similar to the indexes contained in the recent search indexes 118, the indexes of the common search indexes 120 are augmented with metadata after a preliminary search of the title only index 116. The metadata is retrieved from the content repository 104. The common search indexes 120 may be linked to unique user logon credentials held by the reader device 102. The common search indexes 120 are substantially similar to the recent search indexes 118. Therefore, a detailed illustration of the common search indexes 120 is not provided in FIG. 3.

The user saved search indexes 122 of the device memory 112 include indexes generated by the eBook reader device 102 during a searching process conducted therewith. The indexes included in the user saved search indexes 118 were retained in the eBook reader device 102 by user request. In one implementation, the user indexes are linked with unique user logon credentials held by the reader device 102.

FIG. 3 shows that the user saved search indexes 122 include user search indexes 304(1)-304(N). Similar to the indexes included in the recent search indexes 118, the user search index 304(1) may include various eBook references that relate to a general keyword search performed by the reader device 102. These references are shown as Title 1 Metadata-Title J Metadata. The metadata referenced in the recent search index 302(1) was received from the content repository 104 after a preliminary search of the title only index 116. After eBook titles are identified from the preliminary search, the reader device 102 wirelessly communicates with the content repository 104 to retrieve metadata related to the identified eBook titles. The reader device 102 may also communicate with the repository using a wired connection. As previously indicated, the content repository 104 stores such metadata in the storage 126.

The complete eBook section 124 of the device memory 112 holds eBooks 1-N that are stored locally on the eBook reader device 102. The eBook section 124 may also hold eBook summaries 1-K. The amount of content stored in the section 124 is a function of the storage capability of the device memory 112, the design particulars of the reader device 102, and/or user specified parameters. In one implementation, some or all of the content stored in eBook section 124 was obtained from the content repository 104. The eBook section 124 may also hold summaries related to conventional paper books. The complete eBook section 124, or some other portion of the device memory 112, may also store other content that may be utilized with the eBook reader device 102. Such content may include periodicals and newspapers in electronic format, RSS feeds, audio books, music, and video media.

Exemplary Metadata

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary implementation of metadata that may be stored in an eBook reader device and a content repository. For example, the eBook metadata 402 illustrated in FIG. 4 is indicative of the type of metadata stored in the device memory 112 and the storage 126. Information included as part of the eBook metadata 402 is fully searchable using a keyword search, or the like.

In the figure, an eBook metadata 402 includes category fields 404 and value fields 406. In this example, the metadata includes M pairs of fields, including eight particular categories: Title; Contributor (e.g., Author); Publisher; Publishing Data; International Standard Book Number (ISBN); Page Count; eBook File Size; eBook Abstract; and Other. If an eBook reader device has limited storage capability, the eBook metadata 402 may include a subset of these categories, such as the Title, Contributor and eBook Abstract categories.

In one exemplary implementation of the eBook metadata 402 the Other category includes information related to other available formats for a given eBook. Such formats may include one or more audio-book versions of the given eBook, and different language versions of the eBook. The Other category may include rating information that is compiled from reviews of the given eBook and/or a related conventional printed work. For example, an entity may employ a four or five star rating system that is used to convey users' opinions given after reading the eBook. Therefore, the information associated with the Other category may be periodically updated to reflect current reviews provided by others. Certainly, other categories of the metadata 402 may be changed/updated from time-to-time as well.

Additional category and value field combinations may be included in metadata as well. Accordingly, although eight different categories are shown in the eBook metadata 402, this is entirely exemplary and more or less categories may be used in various implementations. Associated with each category is a value field. The value field is shown as being one contiguous data field, but may be a plurality of data fields as well. On example of a value field associated with the title field is “To Kill a Mocking Bird”.

Exemplary eBook Reader Device

Exemplary eBook reader device components 500 are described in detail with reference to FIG. 5. The eBook reader device 102 may include some or all of the components described in relation to the eBook reader device 502 depicted in the figure.

In a very basic configuration, the eBook reader device 502 includes a processing unit 508, the device memory 112 and a display driver 520 that controls eBook content output to a display 522 of the reader device 502. Depending on the exact configuration of an eBook reader device 502, the device memory 112 includes a volatile memory 504 (such as RAM) and a nonvolatile memory 510. The volatile memory 504 includes a memory portion designated as an immediate page memory 506. The immediate page memory 506 may include one or more pages of an eBook. The pages held by the immediate page memory 506 are placed therein a short period before a next page request is expected. An algorithm may be used to predict the rate at which a user turns pages. Pages retrieved from the page memory 506 are displayed on the display of the reader device 502.

The term “page” as used herein refers to a collection of content that is presented at one time in the display 522. Thus, a “page” as described herein may be understood as a virtual frame of the content, or a visual display window presenting the content to the user. Thus, “pages” as described herein are not fixed permanently, in contrast to the pages of published “hard” books or other printed works. Instead, pages described herein may be redefined or repaginated when, for example, the user chooses a different font for displaying the content in the display 522.

The nonvolatile memory 510 includes a flash memory 512 that typically contains an operating system of the eBook reader device 502. The memory 510 also includes the eBook indexes 114 and the complete eBook section 124. Several program modules 514 are stored in the memory 510 and may include a user access module 516 and other modules 518. The other modules 518 may include power management instructions that may be used to control an amount of electrical energy supplied to various components of the eBook reader device 502. Copending application “Predictive Reader Power Management”, application Ser. No. 11/277,880, filed Mar. 29, 2006, discloses various implementations for controlling device power consumption. The entirely of application Ser. No. 11/277,880 is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Other modules may also be included in accordance with the design particulars of the reader device 502.

The user access module 516 includes instructions associated with user logon procedures and requirements. For example, a logon procedure may be implemented to identify and obtain identification information related to users of the eBook reader device 502. This identification information may be used to establish user credentials assigned to users of the reader device 502. Verifying user credentials may include requiring users to enter assigned usernames and passwords before operation of the reader device 502 is permitted, or access to privileged information is allowed. The logon procedure may be included as part of the operating system of the eBook reader device 502. Alternatively, biometric authentication (e.g., fingerprint user identification) may be employed by the eBook reader device 502 to identify distinct users. Technologies related to logon procedures and biometrics are known and thus are not described in further detail herein.

The eBook reader device 502 also includes a communication connection(s) 524 to allow the eBook reader device 502 to communicate with other devices, such as over a network (e.g., the Internet). At the very least, the communication connection(s) 524 includes technology that enables the reader device 502 to communicate wirelessly. The communication connection(s) 524 is one example of communication media. Communication media may typically be embodied by computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media. The eBook reader device 502 also includes a power control unit 526 and a battery 528. The power control unit 524 operatively controls an amount of electrical energy supplied by the battery 528. The manner in which the power control unit 524 controls an amount of electrical energy supplied by the battery 528 is dictated by the power management instructions of the other modules 518. The processing unit 508 supplies computing resources to the power control unit 526, as well as the other components of the eBook reader device 502.

The eBook reader device 502 may have additional features or functionality. For example, the eBook reader device 502 may also include additional data storage devices (removable and/or non-removable) such as, for example, magnetic disks, optical disks, or tape. The additional data storage media may include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data.

The device memory 112 is an exemplary example of computer storage media. Thus, computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by the eBook reader device 502. Any such computer storage media may be part of the eBook reader device 502. The eBook reader device 102 may also have input device(s) such as keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, touch input device, external electrical energy connectivity, etc. Output device(s) such as an auxiliary display, speakers, printer, etc. may also be included. Such input/output device(s) may be connected to one or more I/O ports(s) 530. Various devices described above are well know in the art and need not be discussed at length.

Various instructions, methods and techniques described herein may be considered in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by one or more computers or other devices. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. for performing particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. These program modules and the like may be executed as native code or may be downloaded and executed, such as in a virtual machine or other just-in-time compilation execution environment. Typically, the functionality of the program modules may be combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments. An implementation of these modules and techniques may be stored on or transmitted across some form of computer readable media.

Exemplary eBook Reader Device Interface

FIGS. 6-9 illustrate exemplary implementations of various screens that may be displayed on a display 602 of the eBook reader device 102. The illustrated screens may be accessed using an options button 632, through the display 602 if it is touch screen enabled, or through any suitable interface technology of the eBook reader device 102. Generally, the illustrated screens offer graphical user interfaces that allow users to operate the eBook reader device 102 in a desired manner. The particular screens illustrated in FIGS. 6-7 illustrate exemplary user interfaces that may be used to access and otherwise use various indexes that the reader device 102 is capable of referencing.

As is illustrated in FIG. 6, the display 602 includes an eBook indexes screen 604 rendered thereon. The eBook indexes screen 604 is rendered on the display 602 when an eBook indexes button 606 is depressed. The eBook indexes button 606 is touch screen implemented in this example. The eBook indexes screen 604 includes five user selectable categories. These categories include touch screen implemented buttons labeled title only index 608, recent search indexes 610, common search indexes 612, user saved search indexes 614, and local/remote search 616. A user may select one of the buttons 608-616 to cause another screen rendering on the display 602. An example of this is illustrated in FIG. 7.

The eBook reader device 102 also includes several additional touch screen implemented buttons labeled logon 618, eBook titles 620, title refresh 622, eBook display 624 and editing tools 626. Depressing the logon button 618 initiates a logon screen that will accept user logon information. Properly logging on through such a screen allows a user to save user specific information in storage of the eBook reader device 102. Use of the eBooks titles button 620 will show a screen that lists titles of complete eBooks stored in the complete eBook section 124. If eBook/book summaries are also stored in the section 124, those titles will also be shown on the screen.

The title refresh button 622 may be used to initiate wireless or other means of communication with the content repository 104. Once a connection is established with the content repository 104, a downloading and/or uploading process may commence. For example, the title only index 116 may be refreshed; metadata may be retrieved and associated with the recent search indexes 118, the common search indexes 120 and/or the user saved search indexes 122. The content repository 104 may also use this connection opportunity to retrieve one or more recent search indexes, common search indexes and/or user specific indexes and save them in the storage 126. Other information exchanges may also occur during the wireless or other communication session established between the eBook reader device 102 and the content repository 104.

The eBook display button 624 is used to display pages of an eBook loaded in the immediate page memory 606. Generally, the button 624 allows a user of the eBook reader device 102 to return to a current eBook being read regardless of a screen displayed on the display 602. The editing tools button 626 is used to access eBook annotation, commenting and editing tools that may part of the reader device's 102 operating system. The reader device 102 also includes a previous page button 628, an on/off button 630, and a next page button 634. The buttons 628 and 630 may be used to “turn” pages of an eBook displayed on the reader device 102. The options button 632, referenced previously, may be used to alter various operating parameters of the reader device 102 (e.g., display contrast, power control functions, etc.).

FIG. 7 illustrates a title only index screen 702 that appears after a user has selected the title only index button 608. The title only index screen 702 is the graphical user interface to the title only index 116 stored in the device memory 112. The title only index screen 702 may also provide an interface to the title index 128 of the content repository 104. Connection with the title index 128 may occur automatically if the eBook reader device 102 is wirelessly (or by other means) connected with the content repository 104. Alternatively, once the title only index button 608 is selected, the eBook reader device 102 graphically inquires if connection with the content repository 104 is desired. For example, the graphical user interface may display a dialog box asking if a wireless connection, or another communications connection, with the content repository 104 is desired.

The title only index screen 702 allows users of the eBook reader device 102 to search and browse titles included in the title only index 116 and/or the title index 128. The screen includes a search field 704 that is capable of receiving keywords related to a topic of interest. Using these keywords, the title only index 116 and/or the title index 128 are searched. Titles matching the entered keywords are shown in a results section 706.

A receive additional information button 708 is included as part of the title only index screen 702. If a wireless (or other) connection is not already active, actuation of the button 708 initiates the eBook reader device 102 to connect wirelessly (or by other means) with the content repository 104. A user of the reader device 102 may highlight various titles included in the results section 706 and request additional information regarding those titles selected using the button 708. Such additional information may include retrieving metadata associated with selected titles, retrieving summaries, or initiating a purchase of one or more of the selected titles. Title searches may be saved in the storage 126 of the content repository 104 and/or in the device memory 112 of the reader device 102.

FIG. 8 illustrates a local/remote search screen 802 that appears after a user has selected the local/remote button 606. The local/remote search screen 802 is a graphical user interface that may be used to search indexes and content stored in the device memory 112. The local/remote search screen 802 also provides an interface that may be used to search indexes and content stored in the content repository 104. Searching indexes and content stored in the repository 104 may occur automatically if the eBook reader device 102 is wirelessly (or by other means) connected with the content repository 104. Alternatively, once the local/remote button 606 is selected, the eBook reader device 102 may graphically inquire if connection with the content repository 104 is desired. For example, the graphical user interface may display a dialog box asking if a wireless (or other) connection with the content repository 104 is desired. Note that even if a wireless (or other) connection is not established, local search of content stored in the eBook reader device 102 is still enabled.

The local/remote search screen 802 allows users of the eBook reader device 102 to search and browse content stored both locally in the device 102 and/or remotely in the content repository 104. The screen includes a search field 804 that is capable of receiving keywords related to a topic of interest. Using these keywords, the content stored both locally in the device 102 and/or remotely in the content repository 104 are searched. Content matching the entered keywords are shown in a results section 806.

In one exemplary implementation, the results section 806 displays content in categories. One category lists content that is found locally in the eBook reader device 102 and another category lists content that is found remotely in the content repository 104. The user of the device 102 may select one or more of the returned results and appropriate information will be displayed. Selection of search results returned from the content repository 104 may necessitate submission of payment information before content is fully retrievable from the repository 104.

Although not illustrated in the figures, selection of the various other buttons discussed in the foregoing may cause the eBook reader device 102 to display a range of other types of graphical user interfaces on the display 602. For example, to name a few, the reader device 102 may be implemented with graphical user interfaces that enable users to play music, watch video content, and/or browse the Internet.

Exemplary Processes

FIGS. 9-13 illustrate example processes related to operation of an eBook reader device. Each process is illustrated as a collection of blocks in a logical flow graph, which represent a sequence of operations that can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In the context of software, the blocks represent computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the recited operations. Generally, computer-executable instructions include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and the like that perform particular functions or implement particular abstract data types. The order in which the operations are described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and in general, number of the described blocks can be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the process.

For discussion purposes, the example processes of FIGS. 9-13 are described with reference to the eBook reader device 102 and the content repository 104. In particular, the acts described below may be implemented and performed by the eBook reader device 102 and the content repository 104.

FIG. 9 illustrates a process that occurs when a user of the eBook reader device 102 accesses content stored in the device memory 112. The process illustrated in FIG. 9 also applies to accessing content of the content repository 104. This may occur when the reader device 102 is wirelessly (or by other means) connected with the content repository 104. More specifically, when a wireless (or other) connection is active, or if a wireless (or other) connection is established with the repository 104, content stored in the device memory 112 and the repository 104 may be accessed and searched simultaneously. This enables the eBook reader device 102 to display the results of searches on both content stored locally and content stored in the repository 104.

At block 902, one of several indexes stored in the device memory 112 is accessed. For example, the reader device 102 may access the title only index 116, the recent search indexes 118, or the common search indexes 122. Other indexes may be accessed if they are stored in the reader device 102. At block 904, the accessed index is searched. In one implementation, the index is searched using one or more keywords. The one or more keywords may be input into the reader device 102 using a user interface. Exemplary user interfaces are discussed in connection with FIGS. 6-8.

At block 906, index entries that relate to the keywords are identified. Depending on the index searched, the identified index entries may be title only index entries and/or metadata index entries. The block 906 may also include a process that detects direct user input actively selecting index entries that relate to the search keywords. Allowing a user to select index entries that relate to the search keywords may serve to narrow or reduce the number of index entries used when the device memory 112 is searched for eBook content. At block 908, the eBook reader device 102 searches the device memory 112 for eBook content (e.g., metadata, summaries, complete eBooks, etc.) that relates to the identified or user selected eBook index entries. If the related eBook content is stored in the eBook reader device 102 (determined at block 910), the desired content is retrieved and displayed on the reader device 102 (block 912).

At block 914, if the eBook related content is not stored on the eBook reader device 102, a wireless (or other) connection is established with the content repository 104. The instructions of block 914 are not performed if a wireless (or other) connection is already active. At block 916, the reader device 102 requests delivery of the related content. The content repository 104 will deliver the requested related content to the reader device 102 if a billing process is not required. If charges are required before delivery of the requested content may occur, a billing process is commenced. An exemplary billing process is discussed in connection with FIG. 12. Related eBook content that would generally not require a billing process are eBook/book summaries, additional metadata and updates to the title only index 116. At block 918, the requested eBook content is received from the content repository 104.

FIG. 10 illustrates a process for creating an index storable in the eBook reader device 102. Such an index may be stored in the device memory 112, and more particularly, included in the eBook indexes 114. At block 1002, the title only index 116 in the device memory 112 is searched. The search may be conducted using one or more keywords entered by a user of the eBook reader device 102. If a wireless session (or other communication session) is currently established with the content repository 104, the title index 128 may be searched as well, or instead of searching the title only index 116.

At block 1004, index entries that result from a search based on the keywords are identified. Depending on the index searched, the identified index entries may be title only index entries and/or metadata index entries. At block 1006, the identified index entries are saved as a group to create an additional index. The created additional index may be saved in one of the indexes 116-120. The additional index may also be saved in the user title indexes 130 located in the content repository 104.

At block 1008, additional data may be received from the content repository 104. For example, additional data may be delivered to augment the index entries now associated with the created additional index. Such additional data may include metadata related to the index entries included in the additional index, or one or more eBook summaries related to the index entries. Delivery of the additional data may be requested by a user of the eBook reader device 102. Delivery of the additional data may also be directed by the content repository 104. For example, the additional data may be delivered automatically in accordance with a defined communications schedule between the reader device 102 and the repository 104.

FIG. 11 illustrates a process for creating a user specific index storable in the eBook reader device 102. Generally, the process illustrated in the figure is designed to create indexes that are associated with unique user credentials. In one implementation of the eBook reader device 102, the user specific indexes are stored in the user saved search indexes 122 of the device memory 112.

At block 1102, the title only index 116 in the device memory 112 is searched. The search may be conducted using one or more keywords entered by a user of the eBook reader device 102. If a wireless session (or other communication session) is currently established with the content repository 104, the title index 128 may be searched as well, or instead of searching the title only index 116.

At block 1104, index entries that result from a search based on the keywords are identified. Depending on the index searched, the identified index entries may be title only index entries and/or metadata index entries. At block 1106, the identified index entries are saved as a group to create a user specific index. The created additional index may be saved and included in the user saved search indexes 122. The user specific index may also be saved in the user title indexes 130 located in the content repository 104. At block 1108, the user specific index is associated with the user credentials of a current user of the eBook reader device 102. This association limits access to the user specific index. More specifically, only those users that possess the proper logon username and password of the current user will be able to gain access to the created user specific index.

Additional data may be delivered to augment the index entries associated with the created user specific index. Such additional data may include metadata related to the index entries included in the user specific index, or one or more eBook/book summaries related to the index entries. Delivery of the additional data may be requested by a user of the eBook reader device 102. Delivery of the additional data may also be directed by the content repository 104. For example, the additional data may be delivered automatically in accordance with a defined communications schedule between the reader device 102 and the repository 104.

FIG. 12 illustrates a billing process that may be used when content is requested from the content repository 104. At block 1202, an eBook content request is received by the content repository 104. The request was originated by the eBook reader device 102. The eBook content request may include a request for one or more eBooks available for purchase in the content repository 104. However, the request may also be for other content stored in the content repository 104.

At block 1204, the eBook reader device 102 receives a billing request from the content repository 104. A billing request is sent to the reader device 102 when requested content has associated fees and payment of those fees is required before delivery and/or download of the content may commence. As is discussed herein, some content available at the content repository 104 may not have associated fees (e.g., eBook titles, metadata, some or all eBook summaries, etc.).

At block 1206, the reader device 102 sends a reply that includes payment information. The payment information may include credit card information, bank account information, etc. Generally, any conventional manner of completing payment between various sources may be used in block 1206. Including, for example, payment by means of a previously established account with a provider of one or more of the eBook services described herein. At block 1208, the content requested in block 1202 is received by the eBook reader device 102. This may be by direct download by the eBook reader device 102, background download, or delivery during a later wireless (or other communication) session with the content repository 104. Moreover, content obtained by the reader device 102 may occur during one contiguous wireless (or other communication) session, or over multiple sessions.

The billing process illustrated in FIG. 12 may not be required if a user of the eBook reader device 102 has established a subscription based billing arrangement with a proprietor of the content repository 104. If this is the case, the billing process may be required only under special circumstances. For example, if requested content is not included as part of the subscription agreement.

FIG. 13 illustrates an update process that may be used to update content stored in the eBook reader device 102. At block 1302, a wireless (or other communication) session is established with the content repository 104. The wireless (or other communication) session may be established by the reader device 102 or the content repository 104. At block 1304, unsolicited and/or solicited updates for one or more indexes are received by the reader device 102. The updates may include additional index entries for the various indexes stored in the eBook indexes 114. The updates may also include recommendations and promotional offers generated based on indexes stored in the user title indexes 130 of the content repository 104. For example, methods may be in place at the content repository 104 that are designed to analyze users' search indexes and purchase history indexes. This type of analysis may tailor the type and frequency of the updates delivered by the content repository 104.

At block 1306, the eBook reader device 102 processes the received updates and appropriately updates one or more indexes stored in the eBook indexes 114. At block 1308, if the reader device 102 is designed to do so, a message indicating receipt of the updates is sent to the content repository 104.

CONCLUSION

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as exemplary forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A method of accessing content for an electronic reader device, comprising: displaying on the electronic reader device, user-selectable categories each associated with a respective index of a set of indexes stored on the electronic reader device, the set of indexes comprising: a title only index comprising index entries related to titles of electronic books that are offered on a remote content repository; anda search index comprising one or more or:a recent search index comprising keyword searches recently performed by the electronic reader device:a common search index comprising keyword searches commonly performed by the electronic reader device: anda user saved search index comprising keyword searches performed by electronic reader device and saved by user request;receiving a selection of one of the user-selectable categories and, in response, accessing the associated index including an index entry also stored in the remote content repository;sending information regarding the search index stored on the electronic reader device to the remote content repository; andreceiving an update to an index of the set of indexes stored on the electronic reader device at least partly in response to the sending, the update being generated for the electronic reader device based at least in part on the information regarding the search index.

2. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising receiving index entries from the remote content repository, the index entries augmenting an index stored in the electronic reader device.

3. The method as recited in claim 2, wherein the received index entries are a subset of index entries stored in an index held by the remote content repository.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the user interface is divided into sections corresponding to the selected content storage locations, and the mapped search results are displayed in different individual sections of the user interface that correspond to individual selected content storage locations from which the mapped search results are received.

5. The method as recited in claim 4, wherein the identified titles relate to both electronic content and printed content.

6. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein at least one index stored in the electronic reader device includes index entries that are comprised of metadata.

7. The method as recited in claim 6, wherein the metadata includes a category and associated value related to content.

8. The method as recited in claim 7, wherein the category includes at least one of title, contributor, publisher, publishing data, International Standard Book Number, page count, abstract and file size.

9. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising receiving an update for an index stored in the electronic reader device through communication with the remote content repository.

10. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising receiving an update for an index stored in the electronic reader device, the update including a title index entry for inclusion in the title only index.

11. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising sending search related information to the remote content repository.

12. The method as recited in claim 11, wherein the search related information is a set of content information assembled from one or more searches of an index stored on the electronic reader device.

13. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein the set of content information includes content titles.

14. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising receiving multiple indexes from the remote content repository, wherein each of the multiple indexes is substantially unique when compared to another of the received multiple indexes.

15. The method as recited in claim 14, wherein one of the received multiple indexes includes title entries and another of the received multiple indexes includes content metadata.

16. The method as recited in claim 14, wherein one of the received multiple indexes includes index entries that result from a keyword search performed using the electronic reader device.

17. The method as recited in claim 14, wherein one of the received multiple indexes includes index entries related to a plurality of keyword searches performed using the electronic reader device.

18. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising receiving from the remote content repository an electronic book summary that is readable using the electronic reader device.

19. An article of manufacture for use in programming a processor, the article of manufacture comprising at least one computer readable storage device including at least one computer program embedded therein that causes the processor to perform the method of claim 1.

20. A non-transitory computer-usable storage medium having computer readable instructions stored thereon for execution by one or more processors to perform the method of claim 1.

21. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the electronic reader device is an electronic book reader device.

22. An electronic book reader device, comprising: one or more memories; a display capable of displaying content stored in the one or more memories; andone or more processors capable of accessing content stored in the one or more memories;wherein the one or more memories store computer-executable instructions that, when executed, cause the one or more processors to perform acts comprising: displaying, on the electronic book reader device, user-selectable categories each associated with a respective index of a set of indexes stored on the electronic book reader device, the set of indexes comprising:a title only index comprising index entries related to titles of content that are offered on a remote content repository;a search index comprising one or more of:a recent search index comprising keyword searches recently performed by the electronic book reader device;a common search index comprising keyword searches commonly performed by the electronic book reader device; anda user saved search index comprising keyword searches performed by the electronic book reader device and saved by user request;receiving a selection of one of the user-selectable categories and, in response, accessing the associated index of the set of indexes stored in the electronic book reader device, the associated index including an index entry also stored in the remote content repository;sending information regarding the search index stored on the electronic book reader device to the remote content repository; andreceiving an update to an index of the set of indexes stored on the electronic book reader device at least partly in response to the sending, the update being generated for the electronic book reader device based at least in part on the information regarding the search index.

23. The electronic book reader device as recited in claim 22, wherein the recent search index, the common search index and the user saved search index are accessible using user logon credentials stored in the electronic book reader device.

24. The electronic book reader device as recited in claim 22, further comprising a user access module implemented in the one or more memories, the user access module maintaining and facilitating use of user logon credentials and the recent search index, the common search index and the user saved search index associated with the user logon credentials.

25. The electronic book reader device as recited in claim 24, wherein the user logon credentials each include a username and an associated password.

26. The electronic book reader device as recited in claim 24, wherein the user logon credentials each include biometric information associated with a user of the electronic book reader device.

27. The electronic book reader device as recited in claim 22, further comprising wireless capability capable of communicating with a remote content repository containing at least electronic books available for retrieval.

28. The electronic book reader device as recited in claim 22, wherein at least one index stored in the electronic book reader device includes index entries that are comprised of metadata, and wherein the metadata includes categories and associated values related to books.

29. The electronic book reader device as recited in claim 28, wherein the categories include at least title, contributor, and abstract.

30. The electronic book reader device as recited in claim 22, wherein the one or more memories include one or more electronic books stored therein.

31. The electronic book reader device as recited in claim 22, wherein the one or more memories are non-volatile or volatile memory, or a combination of both non-volatile and volatile memory.

32. One or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing computer-executable instructions that, when executed, cause one or more processors to perform acts comprising: displaying, on an electronic reader device, user-selectable categories each associated with a respective index of a set of indexes stored on the electronic reader device, the set of indexes comprising: a title only index comprising index entries related to titles of content that are offered on a remote content repository;a search index comprising one or more of:a recent search index comprising keyword searches recently performed by the electronic reader device;a common search index comprising keyword searches commonly performed by the electronic reader device; anda user saved search index comprising keyword searches performed by the electronic reader device and saved by user request;receiving a selection of one of the user-selectable categories and, in response, accessing the associated index of the set of indexes stored in the electronic reader device, the associated index including an index entry also stored in the remote content repository;sending information regarding the search index stored on the electronic reader device to the remote content repository; andreceiving an update to an index of the set of indexes stored on the electronic reader device at least partly in response to the sending, the update being generated for the electronic reader device based at least in part on the information regarding the search index.

33. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein receiving an update to an index comprises receiving an update to the title only index stored on the electronic reader device, the update comprising a title of an electronic book associated with the information regarding the search index.

34. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising receiving a promotional offer for an electronic book offered by the remote content repository at least partly in response to the sending of the information regarding the search index.

35. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising receiving a recommendation for an electronic book offered by the remote content repository at least partly in response to the sending of the information regarding the search index.