Apparatus and methods for forwarding and handling telephonic messages over a data network

摘要

Disclosed is a method for handling telephonic messages within a data network. A forwarded call is received from a caller. The forwarded call is intended for a particular user. A voice message associated with the forwarded call is stored in a format that is accessible through a data network by the particular user. In one embodiment, the particular user is notified that the forwarded call has been received. In a preferred embodiment, the user is notified through the data network when the user is in communication with the data network. In other embodiments, the user is notified via an email message, a chat message, a pager, or through agent software residing on a computer being used by the particular user.