Us Patent 8246454b2

Cynthia May

2 min read

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22-01-2025

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US Patent 8,246,454 B2, titled "System and method for providing context-aware recommendations," describes a sophisticated system for delivering personalized recommendations based on user context. This isn't your average "you might also like" algorithm; it's a more nuanced approach that considers a wider array of factors to improve the relevance and accuracy of its suggestions.

Understanding the Context

The core innovation lies in its understanding of "context." The patent outlines a system that goes beyond simple user history and preferences. Instead, it incorporates a multitude of contextual factors, including:

• Time: Recommendations can vary depending on the time of day or week. Think about recommending a relaxing activity in the evening versus a productive one during the workday.
• Location: Geographic location plays a significant role. Suggestions might be tailored to local businesses, events, or points of interest.
• Device: The type of device used (smartphone, tablet, desktop) can influence the type and format of the recommendations.
• User Activity: The patent emphasizes the integration of real-time user activity, allowing for dynamic and adaptive recommendations. For example, if a user is actively searching for information on a specific topic, relevant suggestions will be prioritized.
• Social Context: The patent hints at the possibility of incorporating social connections and interactions to further personalize recommendations.

How It Works: A Technical Overview

The patent details a multi-stage process. It involves:

1. Data Collection: Gathering comprehensive data on user activity, preferences, and contextual information.
2. Contextual Analysis: Processing and interpreting the collected data to determine the relevant context.
3. Recommendation Generation: Utilizing sophisticated algorithms to generate a list of personalized recommendations based on the determined context.
4. Recommendation Delivery: Presenting the recommendations to the user in a relevant and user-friendly manner.

The Significance and Potential Impact

This patent signifies a significant advancement in recommendation systems. By incorporating multiple contextual factors, it promises to deliver more relevant and accurate recommendations, leading to improved user experience and engagement. The applications are potentially vast, ranging from e-commerce and entertainment to personalized learning and healthcare. The system's adaptability makes it suitable for various platforms and applications.

Limitations and Future Considerations

While the patent outlines a powerful system, several aspects remain unexplored. Further research might focus on:

• Data Privacy: The collection of extensive user data raises significant privacy concerns. Robust data security and privacy measures are essential.
• Algorithm Transparency: Understanding the intricacies of the recommendation algorithms is crucial to ensure fairness and prevent bias.
• Scalability: The system's ability to handle large volumes of data and maintain performance needs to be thoroughly evaluated.

Ultimately, US Patent 8,246,454 B2 represents a notable contribution to the field of recommendation systems. Its focus on context-awareness addresses a key limitation of traditional methods and opens up exciting possibilities for more personalized and relevant experiences across numerous applications.