Transparent billing and display of multiple directory numbers in wireless telephone systems

Abstract

A system and methods for allowing wireless users to make and send calls using a second wireless billing number or 'line' assigned to a single wireless telephone advantageously requires no changes to the air interface or messaging protocol between a Mobile Switching Center and the wireless telephone. The second line is provisioned in the HLR. When the wireless telephone registers with a VLR, the HLR inserts the second billing number. When making a call, the user flags that the second line or number is to be billed by adding a predefined set of digits or characters to the called telephone number. The system recognizes the digits and creates appropriate billing records for the second number. When a call is received on the second billing number or line, the system recognizes that the call is destined for the second billing number, and adds the predefined flag digits to the Calling Party Number to be displayed. The user can recognize from the flag digits that the call was received on the second billing number or line.