| 摘要 |
The invention provides a way for a caller to send a conference invitation for an ad-hoc conference while they are engaged in a call. The caller is able to return to the call while waiting for a reply from a conference invitee. Specifically the conferencing method comprises receiving a join-us request from a first user currently engaged in a communication session with a second user; transmitting the join-us request to a third user as a call from the first user, e.g. using a SIP INVITE message, and allowing the first user to engage in the session with the second user before the third user responds, i.e, the session is not placed on hold. The invention employs a "join-us" concept that links functionality in non-real time messaging systems with real-time ongoing state of calls information. This combines the spontaneity and security of an ad-hoc conference call with the join-as-you-can nature of messaging and reservation of conference bridges. |
