WO2016123240A1

WO2016123240A1 - Methods and systems for advertising

Info

Publication number: WO2016123240A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/015173
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kurt WISEMAN
Original assignee: Adpalz, Inc.
Priority date: 2015-01-28
Filing date: 2016-01-27
Publication date: 2016-08-04

Abstract

The present disclosure provides methods for presenting an advertisement or messaging to a user. The method comprises providing an electronic display comprising a user interface having at least a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel is dedicated for displaying content to a user and the second panel is for displaying content to the user. The first panel has a first area and the second panel has a second area that is greater than the first area. Additionally, at least one of the first panel and second panel comprises a close indicator. The method also comprises receiving a first advertisement and a second advertisement from a content producer selected by the user, wherein the first advertisement is directed to a first advertiser and the second advertisement is directed to a second advertiser. Additionally, the method comprises using a computer processor coupled to the electronic display, (i) presenting the first advertisement in the first panel and (ii) presenting the second advertisement in the second panel.

Description

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ADVERTISING

CROSS-REFERENCED AND RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.

62/108,878, filed January 28, 2015, which application is entirely incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, this application is related to U.S. Non-provisional Application No. 14/338,251, filed July 22, 2014, which application is entirely incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Today's Internet users may be exposed to large amounts of advertising, the revenue from which usually supports the web sites and publishers viewed by the end user. Internet users may have humanitarian causes they support, often in the form of non-profit organizations or charities. In addition, internet users may be interested in staying current with other individuals, organizations, or businesses, including but not limited to celebrities, sports teams, or schools.

[0003] Companies routinely use advertisements to promote goods and services.

Advertisements can be used across different media, including print media, billboards, bus signage, radio broadcasts, and television broadcasts. Print media includes newspapers and magazines.

SUMMARY

[0004] Recognized herein are various issues associated with current systems and methods for distributing revenue generated from online advertising. Current revenue sharing systems may only work with purchases, and they may not be compatible with cost per impression (CPI) (or cost per mile, or "CPM") and cost per click (CPC) revenue models. CPI can be calculated on the basis of a cost per 1000 views basis; CPC can be calculated on a cost per user input (e.g., click) basis. Moreover, current revenue approaches may require users (e.g., consumers) to actively access a dedicated web site (or access port) prior to making any purchase. The purchase may be included in the revenue calculation.

[0005] The present disclosure provides a communication channel between users and third parties (e.g., individuals or organizations) of interest to them. The communication channel can be overlaid (e.g., periodically overlaid) on top of existing content viewing systems, such as a user interface of an electronic device of a user. The user interface can be a graphical user interface or web-based user interface, such as a web browser. Such a communication channel can comprise content and advertisement s), and a mechanism that allows at least a portion of the revenue generated from the advertisement(s) to be sent to a third party selected by the user, such as, for example, a humanitarian cause selected by the user.

[0006] In some cases, a logically separate communication channel between users and certain organizations of interest to them can be periodically overlaid on top of existing content viewing systems, such as a web browser, for unobtrusive display of messages and advertisements of interest to a user. A portion of the revenue generated from those advertisements (and any subsequent purchases) can be shared with beneficiaries by the user. Mechanisms are provided for the user to designate content producers and associated beneficiaries, for the content producers to manage their content, and for determining when and in what order messages and advertisements are to be displayed to the user.

[0007] Systems and methods of the present disclosure can enable advertisements (ads) to follow users to any web site to which they travel. Ads and messages can be delivered to each user through a message display panel window rather than an individual website. Wherever an opt-in user is on the web, ads and messages can be displayed to the user, such as in a dropdown display panel (or window).

[0008] In some cases, messages can be delivered through a broadcast platform instead of by website, which can enable advertisers to follow loyalty-based end users to any website and provide targeted ads and messages in real-time, in any media, and in the most desirable placement of a user interface (e.g., web page), such as at the top of the user interface. In some examples, a user's favorite site can be connected to their loyal followers with their logo displayed in the user's browser bar.

[0009] This provides various advantages and benefits. For example, a business or organization no longer has to rely on their end users visiting their web sites, opening their communications, or checking on their social media sites. An organization can have its most important messages (including advertisements) provided to their loyal followers no matter where they surf.

[0010] Systems and methods of the present disclosure can enable advertisers to advertise on locations they may not otherwise be able to access, and in some cases at lower cost. An advertisement can be provided to a user in real time. Systems provided herein enable advertisers to provide users with ads in a single location independent of the platform used to access those ads. This can help increase the chances that the ads reach their target audience. Effectiveness of advertising can be assessed by time of day, by discount, and by organization. [0011] Systems provided herein can enable advertisers to communicate with users by directing messages and ads to the users in a single location. In some cases, this enables such advertisers to bypass other types of electronic communication (e.g., email) to deliver messages and advertisements to users. Such messages can include an announcement of changes, product or service offerings, or promotions.

[0012] The present disclosure provides user interfaces that can enable messages and advertisements to be provided to users in a dedicated location. The location can be substantially unobtrusive and non-invasive with respect to other portions of the user interface, which can enable the user to view non-advertising content. This can provide for an improved experience for a user, as the user interface of the user may not be significantly obstructed by an advertisement or message.

[0013] An aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for deriving revenue from advertisement distribution, comprising providing an advertisement for display on a user interface of an electronic device of a user, wherein the advertisement is from a content producer selected by the user, and wherein the advertisement is directed to an advertiser. Next, using a computer processor, an item of value is collected from the advertiser for providing the advertisement for display on the user interface. At least a portion of the item of value can be directed to a third party selected by the user or the content producer. The third party can be a beneficiary. In some cases, the item of value can be assessed on a CPI or CPC basis.

[0014] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for presenting an advertisement to a user, comprising providing an electronic display comprising a user interface having at least a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel is dedicated for displaying content to a user, such as a title of a message, a message, or an advertisement. Additionally, the second panel is for displaying content such as a message or an

advertisement. The first panel has a first area and the second panel has a second area that is greater than the first area. Next, content such as an advertisement is received from a content producer selected by the user. In examples, the first panel may contain a message that is intended to cause a user to hover over the first panel in order to have the second panel display additional content. In some examples, the message displayed in the first panel that is intended to cause a user to hover over the first panel may be an advertisement. In additional examples, the additional content displayed in the second panel may be non-advertising content. Using a computer processor coupled to the electronic display, the advertisement can be presented in the first panel and non-advertising content can be presented in the second panel.

[0015] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a computer-readable medium comprising machine-executable code that, upon execution by one or more computer processors, implements any of the methods above or elsewhere herein.

[0016] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a system comprising one or more computer processors and a computer-readable medium coupled thereto. The computer- readable medium comprises machine-executable code that, upon execution by the one or more computer processors, implements any of the methods above or elsewhere herein. The system can also include an electronic display coupled to the one or more computer processors. The electronic display can include a user interface.

[0017] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a system for presenting advertising content, comprising an electronic display comprising a user interface having at least a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel is dedicated for displaying content to a user, such as a title of a message, a message, or an advertisement, and the second panel is for displaying content, such as a message or an advertisement. The first panel has a first area and the second panel has a second area that is greater than the first area. The system further comprises a computer processor coupled to the electronic display and programmed to (i) receive content, such as advertisement content, from a content producer selected by the user, which advertising content is directed to an advertiser, and (ii) present the advertising content in the first panel or second panel.

[0018] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0019] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings (also "figure" and "FIG." herein), of which:

[0021] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a method for distributing advertising revenue;

[0022] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a user interface for presenting advertising content;

[0023] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates an alternative configuration of the user interface of FIG. 2;

[0024] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a system for advertising and revenue distribution;

[0025] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a computer system that is programmed or otherwise configured to implement methods of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 6 is a screenshot of an example user interface having a first panel;

[0027] FIG. 7 illustrates a screenshot of an example user interface displaying a control panel configured to implement methods of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIGs. 8A-8B are screenshots of an example user interface having an example advertisement oriented at the top left of the user interface. FIG. 8A shows a user interface with a World Wide Web search field and an advertising panel in a first size, and FIG. 8B shows the user interface of FIG. 8A in which the advertising panel is in a second, expanded size that displays an example advertisement;

[0029] FIGs. 9A-9B are screenshots of an example user interface having an example advertisement oriented at the top center of the user interface. FIG. 9A shows a user interface with a World Wide Web search field and an advertising panel in a first size, and FIG. 9B shows the user interface of FIG. 9A in which the advertising panel is in a second, expanded size that displays an example advertisement; and

[0030] FIGs. 10A-10B are screenshots of an example user interface having an example advertisement oriented at the top right of the user interface. FIG. 10A shows a user interface with a World Wide Web search field and an advertising panel in a first size, and FIG. 10B shows the user interface of FIG. 10A in which the advertising panel is in a second, expanded size that displays an example advertisement. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] While various embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed.

[0032] The term "content consumer," as used herein, generally refers to a consumer of information or content, such as advertising content or messaging. Advertising content can be provided or directed by way of one or more advertisements. A content consumer can be a user of methods and systems of the present disclosure.

[0033] The term "content producer," as used herein, generally refers to a person, company or other organization that creates content that a content consumer may wish to consume (e.g., listen to or view). A content producer can be a third party that generates an advertisement or message to be consumed by a content consumer. The advertisements and messages produced by a content producer may include but not be limited to any media or rich media format, including live video streaming. In an example, a content producer is an advertising firm.

[0034] The term "advertiser," as used herein, generally refers to a person, company or other organization that provides an item of value (e.g., money) in exchange for advertising content that is of or related to the advertiser to be provided to a content consumer. The advertising content can be generated by the advertiser or a third party for the advertiser. In an example, an advertiser is a company (e.g., a car company) that has a product or service (e.g., a car) that they wish to have advertised.

[0035] The term "beneficiary," as used herein, generally refers to a third party that receives at least a portion of the item of value (e.g., money) from the advertiser. A beneficiary can be a person, company or other organization. In an example, a beneficiary is a charity or a non-profit organization.

[0036] In some embodiments, a content producer selects one or more beneficiaries to receive a portion of the advertising revenue received by the system by displaying

advertisements ("ads") to content consumers that have selected that content producer and/or one or more beneficiaries. Each content producer can send content to one or more content consumers. The content can be generated and distributed by the content producer using systems of the present disclosure. A content consumer can select one or more content producers and/or advertisers whose content they wish to consume, and whose associated beneficiary they wish to support.

Methods for revenue distribution from advertising

[0037] An aspect of the present disclosure provides methods for deriving revenue from advertisement ("ad") distribution. The methods can be facilitated by a computer system that is programmed or otherwise configured for revenue distribution from advertising (see, e.g., FIG. 5 and the corresponding text).

[0038] A method for deriving revenue from advertisement distribution can comprise providing an advertisement for display on a user interface of an electronic device of a user. The user can be a content consumer. The advertisement can be from a content producer selected by the user. The advertisement can be directed to an advertiser. The content producer and advertiser can be different entities. In some cases, the content producer and advertiser are unaffiliated; alternatively, the content producer and advertiser can be affiliated with each other.

[0039] The user interface can be presented on an electronic display of the electronic device. The electronic display can be a passive display or an active display, such as a touchscreen (e.g., capacitive touchscreen or resistive touchscreen).

[0040] Next, using a computer processor, an item of value (e.g., money) can be collected from the advertiser for providing the advertisement for display on the user interface. Next, at least a portion of the item of value can be directed to one or more third parties selected by the user or the content producer.

[0041] In some cases, the content producer and/or advertiser can be provided an indication that the advertisement was provided for display on the user interface. For example, the content producer and/or advertiser can be provided an indication that the user was presented with and viewed the advertisement. In some cases, an indication that the advertisement was reviewed (e.g., viewed) by the user can be received from the electronic device of the user. The indication can be an electronic communication or a database entry, for example.

[0042] The user can select a content producer. The user can select the content producer that is associated with the advertiser. For example, the user may wish to receive advertising content from car manufacturers and selects a content producer that produces advertising content for car manufacturers.

[0043] In some cases, the third party is selected by the user. As an alternative, the third party can be selected by the content producer. In some examples, the content producer selects the third party and the user selects the content producer. For example, a content producer selects a research foundation as the third party, and the user selects the content producer for the advertisement because the user wishes to provide money to the research foundation.

[0044] The advertisement can be provided from an electronic repository. In examples, the advertisement can be provided from a third party such as an advertisement exchange or other repository. The electronic repository can be in communication with the computer processor. The electronic repository can be part of a computer server that is programmed to provide advertising content.

[0045] The electronic device can be personal computer (PC), slate or tablet PC's (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab), telephones, Smart phones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enabled device, Blackberry®), smart televisions and televisions that access the internet for content delivery, or personal digital assistants. The electronic device can be a mobile (or portable) electronic device.

[0046] The item of value can be directed to at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 third parties, such as beneficiaries. The third parties can be selected by the user or the content producer.

[0047] FIG. 1 shows a method for distributing advertising revenue. The method can be facilitated by a computer system ("system") that is programmed to distribute advertising revenue. In a first operation 101, an election for a content producer is received by the system from a user. The user can be a content consumer. Next, in a second operation 102, an advertisement from the content producer is provided for display on a user interface of an electronic device of the user. The advertisement can be directed to an advertiser or multiple advertisers. Next, in a third operation 103, an item of value is collected from the advertiser for providing the advertisement for display on the user interface. In a fourth operation 104, at least a portion of the item of value is directed to a third party selected by the user or the content producer. The third party can be a beneficiary.

[0048] The item of value can be collected from the advertiser directly or through at least one intermediary. An intermediary can be, for example, the content producer. For example, the advertiser can pay the content producer and the content producer can in provide funds to the system.

[0049] The item of value can be collected from the advertiser only if the system determines that the advertisement has been provided for display on the user interface. In some cases, the item of value is collected from the advertiser only if the system determines that the advertisement has been viewed by the user. The item of value can be collected only if the system determines that the advertisement was viewed for a minimum period of time, such as, for example, between 1 second and 30 seconds.

User interfaces for advertising

[0050] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a system for presenting an advertisement to a user. The system comprises an electronic display comprising a user interface having at least a first panel and a second panel. In examples, the first panel may contain a message that is intended to cause a user to hover over the first panel in order to have the second panel display additional content. In some examples, the message displayed in the first panel that is intended to cause a user to hover over the first panel may be an advertisement. In some examples, the first panel can be dedicated for displaying advertising content to a user and the second panel can be for displaying non-advertising content.

Alternatively, the first panel and the second panel may display advertisements and/or messages. The second panel can be dedicated for displaying non-advertising content, such as, e.g., social media feeds, web search results, documents, images or video. A computer processor coupled to the electronic display can be programmed to (i) receive advertising content from a content producer selected by the user and (ii) present the advertising content in the first panel. The advertising content can be related to an advertiser.

[0051] The first panel has a first area and the second panel has a second area. In some cases, the second area is greater than the first area. For example, the first area can be at most 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, 5%, or 1% of the second area. This can provide for the presentation of advertising content in the first panel without substantially obstructing the delivery and presentation of content in the second panel.

[0052] The user interface can include additional panels. For example, the user interface can include at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 additional panels.

[0053] The user interface can display the first panel periodically. For example, the user interface can display the first panel every 30 seconds, upon request by the user to view the first panel (e.g., user input on the first area), or upon a given user interface action, such as the user performing a search. In some cases, the user interface displays the second panel continually. For instance, the second panel is displayed while the first panel is periodically displayed and hidden.

[0054] The user interface can display the first panel for a first period of time and the second panel for a second period of time. The first period of time can be less than the second period of time. [0055] The first and second panels can have various shapes, sizes and configurations. The first panel can have a shape that has a circular, triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, or hexagonal cross-section, or any partial shape and/or combination thereof.

[0056] In some situations, the first panel is or is included in a pull-down element of the user interface. For example, the first panel can include a pull-down element that enables the user to access or reveal the second panel.

[0057] During operation of the system, an advertisement can be received from a content producer selected by the user, as described elsewhere herein. Next, using the computer processor, (i) the advertisement is presented in the first panel and (ii) non-advertising content is presented in the second panel.

[0058] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a user interface 201 comprising a first panel 202 and second panel 203. The user interface 201 is displayed on an electronic display of an electronic device of a user. In some examples, the first panel 202 can be for presenting advertising content, such as one or more advertisements. In some examples, the first panel 202 may provide a message, such as "News Stories" or "Social Media Feeds" or "Coupons", that is intended to cause a user to hover over the first panel in order to have the second panel display additional content. As such, in examples, the first panel may display advertising content, non-advertising content, or a combination of advertising content and non-advertising content. The second panel 203 can be for presenting non- advertising content, such as a World Wide Web ("web") search query field or the results of a web search. In some examples, the second panel 203 may display social media content, news stories, or advertisements such as coupons. As such, in examples, the second panel may display advertising content, non-advertising content, or a combination of advertising content and non-advertising content. The first panel 202 can be displayed periodically - in such a case, the user interface 201 can include periods in which the first panel 202 is not displayed but the second panel 203 is displayed, and time periods in which both the first panel 202 and second panel 203 are displayed.

[0059] The first panel 202 is displayed as being positioned at the top of the user interface 201 and horizontally centered, but the first panel 202 can have various shapes, sizes, locations and configurations. For example, with reference to FIG. 3, the first panel 202 is positioned at the top right hand corner of the user interface 201.

[0060] The first panel 202 can be displayed and hidden dynamically, such as upon the occurrence of a system or application-level event. In an example, the first panel 202 is shown on a set time schedule, such as every 30 seconds. This time schedule can be adjusted by the user. In another example, the first panel 202 is shown upon the receipt of a message directed to the user. The message can contain one or more advertisements.

[0061] The size of the first panel 202 can be increased or decreased. The electronic device of the user can maintain a record of when the user consumes a message or

advertisement, which can aid the electronic device to provide an assessment of advertisement capture. For example, when the user directs a mouse or other pointing device of the user over the first panel 202, the first panel 202 can expand or enlarge. The electronic device can find that this is indicative of the user having greater interest in the content presented in the first panel 202, and make a note that the advertisement has been captured by the user.

[0062] In some situations, the first panel 202 can periodically appear and disappear for a first period of time, such as every 30 seconds. Once shown, the first panel 202 can be shown for a second period of time, such as 3 or 5 seconds. If the user directs a pointing device over the first panel 202, the first panel can be shown for a longer time period. This can permit the user to consume (e.g., view) the content in the first panel 202. The first panel 202 can be shown as long as the user has the pointing device over the first panel 202. In some cases, the period of time in which the first panel 202 is shown may be indicative of the user's interest with respect to the material presented in the first panel 202. Such information can be directed to content producers and advertisers, which can be used to better tailor advertising content to the user.

[0063] The first panel 202 can include a navigation link to enable the user to view other messages, including advertisements. For example, the first panel 202 can include left and right pointing arrows to enable the user to view previous and new messages, respectively. The first panel 202 can include a graphical element that enables the user to collapse the first panel 202, which may be indicative of the user not having interest in the content presented in the first panel 202.

[0064] The user interface 201 can be integrated into the electronic device of the user as a system-level component, an application-level component, or an add-on to the system or application. In some examples, the user interface 201 is integrated into the electronic device as a web browser extension.

Systems for advertising and revenue distribution

[0065] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides systems for advertising and revenue distribution. An advertising and revenue distribution system can include various components. Such components can provide various benefits with respect to methods and systems provided herein. Such components can be integrated with an electronic device of a user or a computer system that is programmed or otherwise configured to facilitate advertising and revenue distribution.

[0066] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a system 401 for advertising and revenue distribution. The system includes an electronic device of a content consumer 402, an electronic device of a content producer 403, and an electronic device of an advertiser 404. The electronic devices 402-404 can be in communication with a computer system that is configured to facilitate advertising and revenue distribution. The computer system can include various sub-systems, such as content management sub-system 405, a content server sub-system 406, a content producer and beneficiary sub-system 407 and a revenue management sub-system 408. The sub-systems 405-408 can be in communication with an electronic data repository 410 (e.g., database) that stores profiles and content, such as content producer account profiles and advertising content (e.g., advertisements). The sub-systems 405-408 can be in communication with the electronic devices 402-404 through a computer network 41 1, such as the Internet.

[0067] A user interface of the electronic device 402 of the content consumer can include an overlay display mechanism for overlaying selected content on a display being used by a content consumer. The overlay display mechanism can be an application that is executable by a computer processor of the device 402 to display content, such as advertising content and messages. A message can include advertising content, such as one or more advertisements. In an example, the message includes a communication (e.g., "Hi Mary, you might like this product.") In another example, the message includes a communication and an advertisement. In another example, the message only includes an advertisement.

[0068] The overlay mechanism can provide selected content on other applications. For example, the overlay mechanism can provide a panel that is dedicated for advertising content, as described elsewhere herein.

[0069] The content management sub-system 405 can allow content producers to create and manage content targeted to content consumers. The content management sub-system 405 can provide content producers a portal to provide such content for use in generating advertisements.

[0070] The content server sub-system 406 can be used to select and send targeted content and advertisements to content consumers based on which content producer(s) the content consumer has selected. The sub-system 406 can include an algorithm that matches content consumers with advertisements. [0071] The content producer and beneficiary sub-system 407 can allow a content consumer to select one or more content producers whose content they wish to consume and/or select a beneficiary they wish to support. Such selection can be simultaneous - for example, by selecting a given content producer that is associated with a given beneficiary, the content consumer can also select the beneficiary. The beneficiary in such a case can be selected by the content producer. However, in some cases the content consumer separately selects the content producer and the beneficiary.

[0072] The revenue management sub-system 408 can include an advertisement revenue collection system and a payment system to allow a portion of the revenue collected to be paid towards beneficiaries 409. The sub-system 408 can be configured for an item of value (e.g., money) to be collected and transferred electronically.

[0073] An installation and hook sub-system can allow the system to take sufficient control of a software application ("application") used by a content consumer to consume content. This may be referred to as a "hooked application." A web browser is an example of such a hooked application. A hooked application can be implemented in various settings, such as, for example, mobile phones, televisions, and other devices or software used by content consumers.

[0074] A multiple content producer apportioning sub-system can allow content consumers to direct a relative percent of content and advertisements consumed from a plurality of content producers. Items of value received from advertisers associated with advertising content from the content producers can be directed to various beneficiaries. Such items of value can be aggregated, and a relative fraction of the aggregate can be apportioned to a beneficiary. The fraction can be selected by the content consumer or content producer. Such revenue sharing can permit at least a portion of advertising revenue to be distributed to multiple beneficiaries.

[0075] For example, $500 in advertising revenue is generated from a content consumer viewing advertisements. Of this amount, $200 is to be distributed to beneficiaries. The content consumer requests that $100 be distributed to a first beneficiary, $50 be distributed to a second beneficiary and $50 be distributed to a third beneficiary.

[0076] The system of FIG. 4 can include logically independent servers, all

communicating with the electronic data repository 410. Although the servers can be logically independent, the servers and associated data can be combined in the same physical device, with appropriate access controls to maintain confidentiality of any included proprietary information. [0077] These servers and databases are all connected (directly or indirectly) to the network 41 1 such that they can be accessed at various times. The system of FIG. 4 can include other components, such as a firewall, router, and networking hardware employed to enable the servers and electronic devices to communicate with one another.

[0078] Each content producer can establish a respective account in the content management sub-system 405. Each account can comprise an associated username and password, as well as one or more messages that may be delivered to content consumers. These messages may, for example, be in the form of text, rich text, HTML, audio, images, video, or any other type of media.

[0079] An advertiser can create a separate account in the content management subsystem. The advertiser can provide advertisements in the content management sub-system 405. In some cases, the advertiser may not enter content messages.

[0080] The content management sub-system 405 can include controls that allow a content producer and advertiser to create, list, update, and delete content messages and

advertisements associated with their accounts. The advertisements can be targeted to a select audience or suitable for general distribution. The messages can be targeted messages, in some cases targeted to one or more select users.

[0081] The content management sub-system 405 can include in the database 410 unique activation uniform resource locators (URL' s) associated with each content producer, which may be subsequently advertised or made generally available through a public web site, email notifications, quick response (QR) codes, or other modes of advertising.

[0082] In some cases, when a content consumer clicks or otherwise accesses a particular activation URL, this causes a network connection to the client producer and beneficiary selection sub-system 407. At this point the client producer and beneficiary selection subsystem 407 can contact the database 410 to determine which content producer corresponds to that activation URL. It then sends to that content consumer's electronic device 402 a unique identifier which can be used to identify the selected content producer. This identifier can be stored in a local storage of the electronic device 402 based on the particular display mechanism associated with that content consumer, for example a cookie for a web browser.

[0083] At this point, if a suitable overlay display mechanism is not detected, it can be installed, for example by downloading a web browser extension which contains the code for the overlay display mechanism suitable for an electronic display of the electronic device 402, as well as the ability to patch the appropriate events in the browser. [0084] Once installed, the overlay display mechanism can monitor that content consumer's display system to determine when it is in active use, for example by detecting a "hooking event," such as navigation to a new web page or refreshing an existing web page, or entering data. A hooking event can be a system or application-level event (e.g., application refresh, such as web browser refresh), such as navigation from one application to another or navigation from one site to another. Other examples of system-level events include the passage of time. For example, a hooking event can automatically occur every 30 seconds.

[0085] Once such a hooking event has been detected, the overlay display mechanism contacts the content server sub-system 406 and provides the list of content producers it has received and stored from the selection sub-system 407. The content server sub-system 406 then contacts the database 410 using identification (ID) of the content producer it has received, and looks up the messages for each content producer in the list. The content- server sub-system 406 can use a look-up table to identify a message for a given content producer.

[0086] Next, the content server sub-system 406 can combine messages from each specified content producer and appropriately selected advertisements into a single unified list and return that list to the overlay display mechanism. The messages and/or advertisements can then be displayed on the electronic device 402.

[0087] The percentage of each content producer's messages relative to each other, the selection and number of advertisements, and the sequence in which they can be seen by the content consumer can be determined by a customizable message selection algorithm.

[0088] In an example message selection algorithm, up to the 20 most recently added messages from each content producer selected by the content consumer are assembled into a single list of n messages. The algorithm then determines some fraction (for example 0.25) of n, and adds 0.25 n advertisements to that list of messages. The selection of which

advertisements are chosen can be based on a number of demographic targeting functions, comprising comparing the affinity group or keyword of the advertisement with that of the selected content producer. The algorithm may also determine whether the advertisement is on a "white list" of advertisements preferred by that content producer, a hint that the content consumer may also prefer that advertisement. The content producer may also maintain a black list of advertisements it does not support or with which it is not compatible.

[0089] Messages can also be marked as urgent or high priority. The overlay display mechanism can periodically poll for new urgent or high priority messages based on a poll cycle. This can allow content producers to publish new messages that they wish to have supersede (or appear before) other messages already received by the overlay display mechanism.

[0090] The content consumer can also have control over the message selection algorithm. They may, for example, control the relative percentage of messages displayed for each selected content producer. Such selection can be sent to the content server sub-system 406 so that it can be taken into account when executing the message selection algorithm.

[0091] Once message selection has been implemented and a list of messages and ads has been generated into a precise or targeted sequence, the list can be sent to the overlay display mechanism. The overlay display mechanism can store this list locally using suitable local data storage, such as a cookie or memory (e.g., flash storage). The overlay display mechanism can keep track of which message(s) it has displayed and in what order, in order to display those messages to the user in the appropriate sequence. It may accomplish this by maintaining an array of message objects, where each message object contains the information needed to display that message. In addition, an index into a current position of the array can allow the mechanism to remember where it is in the list and which message to display next.

[0092] In some cases, when a new hooked event has occurred after a predetermined period of time (e.g., 1 minute) from the last hooked event, the overlay display mechanism can draw a new message display area over an existing display area. In the new message display area, the overlay display mechanism can render or draws the next message and/or

advertisement in the list. A message can include advertising content, such as one or more advertisements. At this point, the electronic device 402, using the overlay display

mechanism, can notify the revenue management sub-system 408 to make a note that the message and/or advertisement has been viewed.

[0093] The content consumer can interact with the overlay display mechanism, for example, by recording a user event, such as moving a mouse over a message or

advertisement, tapping the message or advertisement, highlighting the message or

advertisement, or selecting the message or advertisement. In such a case, expanded information can be displayed or other actions can be taken. The electronic device 402 can relay such a user event to the revenue management sub-system 408, which can record such an event in memory.

[0094] The revenue management sub-system 408 can use a programmable algorithm to calculate how beneficiaries 409 can be paid. The revenue management sub-system 408 can arrange for appropriate payment to the beneficiaries 409 at the appropriate time and for the calculated amount. An example of such a programmable algorithm can be to pay 25% of all advertising revenue associating with each content producer to beneficiaries associated with that content producer.

[0095] In some cases, as part of initial set up, the content consumer can use the content producer and beneficiary selection sub-system 407 to select one or more content producers and any associated beneficiaries they would like to support. Once the content consumer completes this process, the list of content producers or their ID's is stored locally on the electronic device 402 with the overlay display mechanism, for example as a cookie or other local storage.

[0096] The overlay display mechanism can be integrated into an event stream of the electronic device 402, such that it can detect (or is notified of) key or actionable events that can signal when a message and/or advertisement may be presented to the content consumer. In some examples, such events comprise navigating to a new web page or refreshing an existing web page. In some cases, the overlay display mechanism is integrated into the event stream via a browser extension or plug-in, or an application ("app") that can monitor such events.

[0097] The overlay display mechanism can contact the content server sub-system 406 to retrieve a list of messages and advertisements to display to the content consumer. The list can be ordered or otherwise sorted in a manner in which messages and/or advertisements are to be displayed to the content consumer. In some situations, the messages and/or

advertisements are stored locally (i.e., on the electronic device 402). As an alternative, the messages and/or advertisements may be directed to the electronic device 402 on a periodic or action-drive basis (e.g., pushed to the electronic device 402). After cycling through all of the messages and/or advertisements, the overlay display mechanism can contact the content server sub-system 406 to retrieve new or updated list of messages and/or advertisements.

[0098] Once the signal to start a message is received, the overlay display mechanism can activate drawing or rendering routines appropriate to the type of display environment being used, comprising HyperText Markup Language (HTML), JavaScript, and Flash, to overlay a panel on top of the main display area. The panel can be opaque, transparent, or partially transparent. For example, the panel can have a transparency between 10% and 50% (relative to full opacity). The panel can be shown periodically by the overlay display mechanism, such as every 30 seconds, 1 minute or 10 minutes. In an example, the panel can dynamically appear and disappear as a drop-down or pop-up. Inside the panel, the overlay display mechanism can draw or render a message and/or advertisement. Each time the panel is shown, it can display the next message in the sequence received from the content server subsystem 406.

[0099] In some situations, the content producer and beneficiary selection sub-system 407 can allow the content consumer to select one or more content producers. In an example, a content producer is selected by the content consumer through a link, such as an HTML link, using the name or image or other identifying information of the content producer. The overlay display mechanism can connect to the content producer and beneficiary selection sub-system 407 to determine which content producer(s) the content consumer is interested in, such as by determining which content producer(s) the content consumer has selected. The list of content producers can be stored locally by the overlay display mechanism on the electronic device 402, such as by way of a cookie stored on the electronic device 402. This is later used by the Overlay Display Mechanism to retrieve the list of messages for the Content Consumer.

[00100] In some examples, the content management sub-system 405 can allow a content producer to create, update (or edit), list, and delete messages and/or advertisements that can be delivered to a content consumer that has selected the content producer. This can allow the content producer to directly communicate with the content consumer. Such content can comprise text, rich text, images, video, flash, audio, or any type of media that may be delivered to the content consumer.

[00101] In some situations, the content server sub-system 406 can receive a query from the overlay display mechanism. The query can include a list of content producer(s) associated with the content consumer, such as a list of one or more content producers selected by the content consumer. The content server sub -system 406 can then return an ordered list of messages and/or advertisements comprising one or more messages entered by the selected content producer(s) in the content management sub-system 405, and one or more

advertisements entered or selected by the content producer or an administrator of the system. The content server sub-system 406 can send a sequence of messages to the overlay display mechanism. The message can include content entered in the content management sub-system 405 and advertisements entered by an administrator.

[00102] The revenue management sub-system 408 can track the number of times an advertisement is viewed, clicked on, or otherwise acted upon (e.g., product or service purchased) by a content consumer. This can be accomplished, for example, by having the overlay display mechanism send a network signal indicating the type of interaction that comprises a viewed, clicked, or purchased event. Such signal can be sent from the overlay display mechanism to the revenue management sub-system 408 and then recorded in an appropriate data storage unit, such as a relational database. Based on this data and a configurable advertising revenue formula that takes this data into account, the revenue management sub-system 408 can calculate the percentage of revenue that is owed to the beneficiary(s) associated with the content producer and, in some cases, selected by the content consumer.

[00103] An example of a configurable advertising revenue formula can take into account classic CPM (cost per 1000 views), CPC (cost per click) and CPA (cost per action, comprising registration or purchase), as well as any other data relating to this calculation. Such algorithm can charge an advertiser upon the occurrence of a given event, such as a view, a click, or a purchase resulting from an advertisement of an advertiser. The cost can be adjusted based on which location (e.g., web site) the content consumer was viewing at the time the advertisement was displayed to the content consumer, with premium web sites being charged higher rates, or based on the geographic location of the content consumer at the time the advertisement was displayed to the content consumer. A configurable percentage of this advertising revenue can then be paid to the beneficiary.

[00104] The overlay display mechanism can include software that is executed locally in the electronic device 402 of the content consumer. As such, it has the ability to hook into the event system of the electronic device 402 and be notified upon the occurrence of events that can trigger the display of the next message or advertisement, such as visiting a new web site in a browser of the electronic device 402. In some cases, when such event is detected, the overlay display mechanism can compare the current URL of the web site to which the user is navigating against a list of web sites that are supported by an affiliate program. Upon detection of such a web site, an appropriate affiliate identifier can be appended to the information received by the web site (e.g., information provided in the URL), which can notify the web site that the affiliate revenue can be directed to the revenue management subsystem 408. That revenue can then be disbursed to the beneficiary(s) 409, as described elsewhere herein.

[00105] Methods and systems of the present disclosure can generate revenue for charities while respecting the privacy of the consumer. The content consumer may be requested to select one or more content producers and one or more beneficiaries, but the content consumer may not be required to register or enter any information, especially personally identifiable information, in order to receive messages and/or advertisements. In some situations, such selection may be made simply by clicking a link (e.g., a download activation URL) for the web site and charity the content consumer wishes to support. In order to help maximize privacy, the identifying information that the content consumer may be required to provide may be minimized. In some cases, the content consumer may not be required to enter any identifying information, such as a name, electronic mail (email) address, credit card information, or to even make a purchase.

Computer systems

[00106] The present disclosure provides computer control systems that are programmed to implement methods and systems of the disclosure. FIG. 5 shows a computer system 501 that is programmed or otherwise configured to for advertising and revenue distribution. The computer system 501 includes a central processing unit (CPU, also "processor" and

"computer processor" herein) 505, which can be a single core or multi core processor, or a plurality of processors for parallel processing. The computer system 501 also includes memory or memory location 510 (e.g., random-access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronic storage unit 515 (e.g., hard disk), communication interface 520 (e.g., network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices 525, such as cache, other memory, data storage and/or electronic display adapters. The memory 510, storage unit 515, interface 520 and peripheral devices 525 are in

communication with the CPU 505 through a communication bus (solid lines), such as a motherboard. The storage unit 515 can be a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The computer system 501 can be operatively coupled to a computer network

("network") 530 with the aid of the communication interface 520. The network 530 can be the Internet, an internet and/or extranet, or an intranet and/or extranet that is in

communication with the Internet. The network 530 in some cases is a telecommunication and/or data network. The network 530 can include one or more computer servers, which can enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network 530, in some cases with the aid of the computer system 501, can implement a peer-to-peer network, which may enable devices coupled to the computer system 501 to behave as a client or a server.

[00107] The CPU 505 can execute a sequence of machine-readable instructions, which can be embodied in a program or software. The instructions may be stored in a memory location, such as the memory 510. The instructions can be directed to the CPU 205, which can subsequently program or otherwise configure the CPU 205 to implement methods of the present disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the CPU 505 can include fetch, decode, execute, and writeback. [00108] The CPU 505 can be part of a circuit, such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the system 501 can be included in the circuit. In some cases, the circuit is an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[00109] The storage unit 515 can store files, such as drivers, libraries and saved programs. The storage unit 515 can store user data, e.g., user preferences and user programs. The computer system 501 in some cases can include one or more additional data storage units that are external to the computer system 501, such as located on a remote server that is in communication with the computer system 501 through an intranet or the Internet.

[00110] The computer system 501 can communicate with one or more remote computer systems through the network 530. For instance, the computer system 501 can communicate with a remote computer system of a user (e.g., content consumer). Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e.g., portable PC), slate or tablet PC's (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab), telephones, Smart phones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enabled device, Blackberry®), smart televisions and televisions that access the internet for content delivery, or personal digital assistants. The user can access the computer system 501 via the network 530.

[00111] Methods as described herein can be implemented by way of machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on an electronic storage location of the computer system 501, such as, for example, on the memory 510 or electronic storage unit 515. The machine executable or machine readable code can be provided in the form of software.

During use, the code can be executed by the processor 505. In some cases, the code can be retrieved from the storage unit 515 and stored on the memory 510 for ready access by the processor 505. In some situations, the electronic storage unit 515 can be precluded, and machine-executable instructions are stored on memory 510.

[00112] The code can be pre-compiled and configured for use with a machine have a processer adapted to execute the code, or can be compiled during runtime. The code can be supplied in a programming language that can be selected to enable the code to execute in a pre-compiled or as-compiled fashion.

[00113] Aspects of the systems and methods provided herein, such as the computer system 501, can be embodied in programming. Various aspects of the technology may be thought of as "products" or "articles of manufacture" typically in the form of machine (or processor) executable code and/or associated data that is carried on or embodied in a type of machine readable medium. Machine-executable code can be stored on an electronic storage unit, such memory (e.g., read-only memory, random-access memory, flash memory) or a hard disk. "Storage" type media can include any or all of the tangible memory of the computers, processors or the like, or associated modules thereof, such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives and the like, which may provide non-transitory storage at any time for the software programming. All or portions of the software may at times be communicated through the Internet or various other telecommunication networks. Such communications, for example, may enable loading of the software from one computer or processor into another, for example, from a management server or host computer into the computer platform of an application server. Thus, another type of media that may bear the software elements includes optical, electrical and electromagnetic waves, such as used across physical interfaces between local devices, through wired and optical landline networks and over various air-links. The physical elements that carry such waves, such as wired or wireless links, optical links or the like, also may be considered as media bearing the software. As used herein, unless restricted to non-transitory, tangible "storage" media, terms such as computer or machine "readable medium" refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution.

[00114] Hence, a machine readable medium, such as computer-executable code, may take many forms, including but not limited to, a tangible storage medium, a carrier wave medium or physical transmission medium. Non-volatile storage media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as any of the storage devices in any computer(s) or the like, such as may be used to implement the databases, etc. shown in the drawings. Volatile storage media include dynamic memory, such as main memory of such a computer platform. Tangible transmission media include coaxial cables; copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a bus within a computer system. Carrier-wave transmission media may take the form of electric or electromagnetic signals, or acoustic or light waves such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media therefore include for example: a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD or DVD- ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards paper tape, any other physical storage medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a ROM, a PROM and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave transporting data or instructions, cables or links transporting such a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer may read programming code and/or data. Many of these forms of computer-readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to a processor for execution. [00115] The computer system 501 can include or be in communication with an electronic display that comprises a user interface (UI) for providing, for example, advertising content, as described elsewhere herein. Examples of UI's include, without limitation, a graphical user interface (GUI) and web-based user interface.

[00116] Methods and systems of the present disclosure can be implemented by way of one or more algorithms. An algorithm can be implemented by way of software upon execution by one or more computer processors.

Examples

[00117] FIG. 6 is a screenshot of an example user interface 601 having a first panel 602. The user interface 601 can be a web-based user interface (e.g., provided in a web browser). The user interface 601 can be presented on an electronic display of an electronic device of a user, such as a content consumer. The user interface 601 may be used for displaying content, such as non-advertising content. Additionally, the user interface 601 can display a first panel 602 periodically. The first panel 602 can be dedicated to advertising content or other content, such as electronic communications or messages (e.g., electronic mail, text messages, or instant messaging). The first panel 602 can be displayed momentarily, such as for a time period that is less than 30 seconds. This time period may vary, and in other examples can be configurable by a user. The first panel 602 can be overlaid on top of the user interface 601.In some cases, after a message or advertisement is displayed in the first panel 602 for a given amount of time (e.g., 30 seconds), the first panel 602 may be removed.

[00118] The first panel 602 can be displayed in increments. For instance, the first panel 602 can be displayed with a first area (Al). The first panel 602 can include an advertisement and/or message of or related to an advertiser. When the user hovers over the first panel 602, the first panel 602 can be expanded and be displayed with a second area (A2). A2 can be greater than Al . The expanded first panel 602 can include additional information about the advertiser or message, such as additional information about a product or service of the advertiser or content provider, or the ability to purchase the product or service of the advertiser.

[00119] The features and functionalities of the first panel 602 can be customized by the user. For example, The user can (i) adjust the time each message is displayed to the user; (ii) determine the direction the message appears from the top, the bottom, or the side, (iii) adjust the frequency that a message includes an advertisement versus a message from an

organization, (iv) link their email and social network web sites as part of their messaging stream, and (v) select the categories, specific companies, and advertisements that they would like to see and for which they would like to receive content and advertisements. Such customization can be made on the electronic device of the user or a computer server that is in communication with the electronic device.

[00120] FIG. 7 illustrates a screenshot of an example user interface 701 displaying a control panel 702 configured to implement methods of the present disclosure. The user interface 701 may display content, such as non-advertising content. In FIG. 7, user interface 701 is displaying a World Wide Web search field, but may also be used to display another type of webpage. The user interface 701 can also display a control panel 702 either periodically or when a user activates a display control. In FIG. 7, control panel 702 is displayed when the button 703 is engaged.

[00121] As seen in FIG. 7, control panel 702 includes a "Settings" tab 710 which includes an ability to control settings for dropdown frequency 720. The dropdown frequency bar 722 allows users to engage an indicator 724 and move the indicator along a spectrum of frequency choices, such as low, medium, and high. The dropdown frequency may be indicated in a step-wise manner among these three options, or the dropdown frequency may be gradually increased or decreased between these three options. In other examples, the frequency of dropdowns may utilize another form of selection. For example, rather than using a dropdown frequency bar 722, other examples may utilize a dropdown frequency pulldown menu (not shown) having options of "High," "Medium," or "Low." Alternatively, instead of using a dropdown frequency bar 722, a number scale (not shown) may be used. For example, the number scale may have frequency options of 1-10, with increasing frequency as the numbers increase.

[00122] By using the dropdown frequency setting 720, a user may control the frequency that a dropdown window will appear. In some embodiments, a dropdown window may appear each time a page refreshes or, alternatively, each time a user navigates to a new web page. By utilizing the dropdown frequency setting 720, however, the user may control the frequency at which the dropdown window appears. The user may not want to display a dropdown every time that a page refreshes, but rather, may prefer that a dropdown is presented after every 3^rd or 4^th or 5^th refresh, for example. Similarly, the user may not want to display a dropdown every time that a new web page is visited, but rather, may prefer that a dropdown is presented after every 3^rd or 4^th or 5^th new web page is visited, for example.

[00123] In another example, a user may choose to base the frequency of displaying a dropdown window based on a length of time rather than a number of page refreshes. For example, a user may choose to have a dropdown displayed at a frequency of every two minutes or every five minutes. In another example, the user may choose a custom length of time between displaying dropdown windows, or the user may select a program of dropdown frequencies based on factors such as the time of day, the day of the week, or other

categorizable factors. In this way, the user may use the dropdown frequency setting 720 to select a rate at which a dropdown display window will appear.

[00124] As also seen in FIG. 7, the "Settings" tab 710 of control panel 702 may include an ability to control settings for dropdown position 730. As an example, the dropdown position buttons 732, 734, and 736 allows users to choose the placement of dropdowns as being oriented at the top-left, top-center, or top-right, respectively. The position of the dropdown can be controlled by the end user, such as a content consumer, and may be positioned in any perimeter location. Additionally, users may utilize dropdown frequency setting 720 and/or dropdown position setting 730 to control the way that advertisements are displayed. For example, a user may control where an advertisement is displayed, how it is displayed, and how often it is displayed. In this way, the user may find advertisements less invasive when they are presented in such a way that is chosen by the user. Examples of dropdown windows displayed in these various orientations are shown in FIGs. 8A-8B, 9A-9B, and 10A-10B, as discussed below.

[00125] FIGs. 8 A and 8B are screenshots of an example user interface 801 having an example advertisement oriented at the top left of the user interface. The user interface 801 can be a web-based user interface that is presented in a browser. The user interface 801 may also be an application-based user interface. As seen in FIGs. 8A and 8B, the user interface 801 may be used for displaying content, such as non-advertising content. Additionally, the user interface 801 can display a first panel 802 periodically. First panel 802 may display advertising or non-advertising content. The first panel 802 may have a small size as seen in FIG. 8A. Alternatively or additionally, the first panel 802 may expand to become second panel 804 and may be displayed. Alternatively or additionally, first panel 802 may be removed and an independent second panel may be displayed.

[00126] An example of a second panel 804, an expanded first panel or independent panel, is seen in FIG. 8B. As seen in FIG. 8B, second panel 804 is larger than first panel 802.

Panels 802 and 804 may be dropdown panels. In embodiments, second panel 804 displays the original content of first panel 802, and also presents further content. The additional content of second panel 804 may be complementary to the content of first panel 802. In another embodiment, second panel 804 may present the original content of first panel 802 but the additional content of second panel 804 may be distinct from the content of first panel 802. In further embodiments, the entire content presented on second panel 804 may be distinct from the content displayed on first panel 802.

[00127] FIGs. 8 A and 8B also illustrate the use of a close indicator 810 on panels 802 and 804. In particular, panels 802 and 804 have a close indicator 810 located at the left portion of the panels. The use of a close indicator 810 allows a user to close the dropdown panels 802 and 804 at will. The user may engage the "X"-shaped close indicator 810 by clicking it. When the close indicator 810 of FIGs. 8 A and 8B is engaged by the user, the panel closes. For example, if a user clicks the close indicator 810 of panel 802 as seen in FIG. 8 A, the engaging of the close indicator 810 will cause panel 802 to close.

[00128] Similar to FIGs. 8A and 8B, FIGs. 9A and 9B are screenshots of an example user interface 801 having an example advertisement oriented on the user interface 801. However, while FIGs. 8A and 8B have panels 802 and 804 oriented at the top left of the user interface 801, FIGs. 9A and 9B have panels 902 and 904 oriented at the top center of the user interface 801. Likewise, FIGs. 10A and 10B are screen shots of an example user interface 801 having an advertisement oriented on the user interface 801. However, the panels 1002 and 1004 of FIGs. 10A and 10B, respectively, are oriented at the top right of the user interface.

[00129] Additionally, FIGs. 9A, 9B, 10A, and 10B have a user interface 801 that may be used for displaying content, such as non-advertising content. As seen in FIGs. 8A-10B, the non-advertising content of user interface 801 includes a World Wide Web search field.

Further, FIGs. 9A, 9B, 10A, and 10B also periodically display second panels 902 and 1002, respectively. In particular, panels 902 and 1002 represent first panels and panels 904 and 1004 represent second panels, respectively. Further, panels 902, 904, 1002, and 1004 each include a close indicator 910 and 1010 respectively. As such, when a user engages close indicator 910 or 1010, the panel having each close indicator will close.

[00130] Systems and methods of the present disclosure may be combined with or modified by other systems and methods, such as, for example, those disclosed in Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) publication No. WO2013152390, which is entirely incorporated herein by reference.

[00131] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. It is not intended that the invention be limited by the specific examples provided within the specification. While the invention has been described with reference to the aforementioned specification, the descriptions and illustrations of the embodiments herein are not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. Furthermore, it shall be understood that all aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific depictions, configurations or relative proportions set forth herein which depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is therefore contemplated that the invention shall also cover any such alternatives, modifications, variations or equivalents. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for presenting advertisements to a user, comprising:

a) providing an electronic display comprising a user interface having at least a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel is dedicated for displaying content to a user and the second panel is for displaying content to the user, and wherein the first panel has a first area and the second panel has a second area that is greater than the first area, wherein each of the first panel and the second panel comprises a close indicator;

b) receiving a first advertisement and a second advertisement from a content producer selected by the user, wherein the first advertisement is directed to a first advertiser and wherein the second advertisement is directed to the second advertiser; and

c) using a computer processor coupled to the electronic display, (i) presenting the first advertisement in the first panel and (ii) presenting the second advertisement in the second panel.

2. The method of Claim 1, wherein engaging the close indicator of the second panel closes the second panel.

3. The method of Claim 1, wherein the second area of the second panel may comprise the first area in a first mode, wherein the second area is greater than the first area.

4. The method of Claim 3, wherein the second area comprises an area that is

independent of the first area in a second mode.

5. A method for presenting an advertisement to a user, comprising:

a) providing an electronic display comprising a user interface having at least a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel is dedicated for displaying non- advertising content to a user and the second panel is for displaying an advertisement to the user, and wherein the first panel has a first area and the second panel has a second area that is greater than the first area, wherein at least one of the first panel and the second panel comprises a close indicator;

b) receiving an advertisement from a content producer selected by the user, wherein the advertisement is directed to an advertiser; and

c) using a computer processor coupled to the electronic display, (i) presenting non-advertising content in the first panel and (ii) presenting the advertisement in the second panel.

6. The method of Claim 5, wherein engaging the close indicator of the second panel closes the second panel.

7. The method of Claim 5, wherein the second area of the second panel may comprise the first area in a first mode, wherein the second area is greater than the first area.

8. The method of Claim 7, wherein the second area comprises an area that is

independent of the first area in a second mode.

9. A method for presenting an advertisement to a user, comprising:

a) providing an electronic display comprising a user interface having at least a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel is dedicated for displaying non- advertising content to a user and the second panel is for displaying an advertisement to the user, and wherein the first panel has a first area and the second panel has a second area that is greater than the first area, wherein the second panel comprises a close indicator;

c) using a computer processor coupled to the electronic display, (i) presenting the advertisement in the second panel and (ii) presenting non-advertising content in the first panel.

10. The method of Claim 9, wherein the first panel is periodically displayed in the user interface.

11. The method of Claim 10, wherein the second panel is continually displayed in the user interface.

12. The method of Claim 9, wherein the first panel is displayed for a first period of time and the second panel is displayed for a second period of time, which first period of time is less than the second period of time.

13. The method of Claim 9, wherein the first panel is displayed in the user interface upon request from the user.

14. The method of Claim 9, wherein the first panel is displayed in a pull-down element of the user interface.

15. The method of Claim 9, wherein the advertisement is presented in the first panel in response to the occurrence of an application or system event.

16. A system for presenting advertising content, comprising:

an electronic display comprising a user interface having at least a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel is dedicated for displaying content to a user and the second panel is for displaying content, and wherein the first panel has a first area and the second panel has a second area that is greater than the first area, wherein the second panel has a close indicator; and

a computer processor coupled to the electronic display and programmed to (i) receive advertising content from a content producer selected by the user, which advertising content is directed to an advertiser, and (ii) present the advertising content in at least one of the first panel and second panel.

17. The system of Claim 16, wherein the user interface displays the first panel periodically.

18. The system of Claim 17, wherein the user interface displays the second panel continually.

19. The system of Claim 16, wherein the user interface displays the first panel for a first period of time and the second panel for a second period of time, which first period of time is less than the second period of time.

20. The system of Claim 16, wherein the user interface displays the advertising content in the first panel upon the occurrence of an application or system event.

21. The method of Claim 1, wherein the first advertiser and the second advertiser are the same advertiser.

22. The method of Claim 1, wherein the first advertiser and the second advertiser are different advertisers.