Method and apparatus for sending and receiving lightweight messages

Abstract

The present invention teaches methods and apparatus for social interaction allowing users to communicate at their leisure (asynchronously or “semi-synchronously”) by providing simple, flexible access to a persistent, shared space. For example, an electronic communication system according to one embodiment provides a shared persistent data space to a plurality of clients. This system comprises a server and at least two input/display units (IDUS) which clients use to access shared persistent data in the form of group boards. The group boards store discrete notes in a group database made accessible to all members of the group. In order to allow clients to select a desired group, each IDU includes an input detection space operable to receive user input indicative of a request to access a specific group. The input detection space can take on many forms such as electromechanical buttons, touch or pressure sensitive devices, a digital inking device, a token input device (tokens each have some identification in the form of circuitry or such), or a voice command device. In order to allow clients to enter data into the board group database, each IDU includes a note data input device. Like the input detection space, a wide variety of note data input devices are contemplated. For example, a touch, stylus or pressure sensitive device would be suitable. A scanning device also works well, creating a unique persistent space wherein users can exchange discrete note messages of a variety of forms such as handwritten notes and photographs.