摘要 |
The present invention relates to systems and methods for obtaining health and financial information with a handheld device. One embodiment of the present invention relates to a system for obtaining real time financial information utilizing a bar code or RF ID reader on a handheld device. A bar code or RF ID reader is used to obtain the product identity of a particular product in a retail environment. The product identity is correlated with the particular retailer's product price. This information can then be analyzed versus current financial budgets or recorded as part of a financial plan. In addition, real time financial advice and information can be given on the product including whether a competitor offers a lower price on a similar product, consumer reviews of the product, value rating, etc. A second embodiment of the present invention relates to a system for providing real time health information utilizing a bar code or RF ID reader on a handheld device. The bar code or RF ID reader could be used to obtain a product identity in a retail or home environment. Health information is correlated with the product based on the product's identity. This information could then be used for a variety of health related purposes including ingredient alerts, high fat content, high calorie content, nutritional budgets, etc. Alternatively, products could be scanned before consumption in the home environment to assist in health budgets for particular nutritional values such as calories, fat, carbohydrate, or protein. The bar code or RF ID reader for both embodiments may be incorporated into any existing handheld device including a PDA, media player, cell phone, calculator, watch, or shopping device. |