Methods for bundling credits with electronic devices and systems for implementing the same

摘要

Methods are provided in which electronic devices are distributed while systems are maintained for conducting transactions with the electronic devices across a network. Each electronic device includes a unique device identification, and across the network a database stores an amount of credit in association with each unique device identification. To conduct a transaction, the electronic device establishes a connection over the network to a network location that can access the database. The network location receives the device identification from the electronic device and uses the device identification to determine the amount of stored credit from the database. A user of the electronic device can then exchange stored credit for goods and/or services, transfer credits to others, and purchase additional credits.