Multimedia message system with revenue allocation

Abstract

The Multimedia Message System of the present invention provides revenue allocation between disparate sender-receiver service providers on a per message basis for a sender, connected to a telecommunications network of one service provider, sending a message to a receiver, connected to a telecommunications network of another service provider. Each message has a 'message stamp' associated with it which allows for distribution of revenue associated with that individual message among service providers involved for transmission of that message. A Clearinghouse is utilized to issue the message stamps and process revenue allocation for each service provider according to the message stamps. The stamp is added to each message by the clearinghouse to provide for revenue allocation between the originating (sender) and destination (receiver) service providers. Removal or canceling of the stamp is performed by the destination unit that may additionally route the message to a mailbox (e.g., service node) or further destination service providers. The stamp revenue is shared by the message sender service provider, the stamp issuer, and message receiver service provider, the collector of the used/canceled stamp. The canceled stamp may be exchanged or redeemed between the service providers via their respective clearinghouses, for currency or additional stamps according to a predetermined revenue sharing arrangement between participating service providers.