US Patent 8069166 Managing user-to-user contact with inferred presence information

Means for allowing users to manage and make productive use of PIM data are provided. User status is determined by certain contextual indicia whereby other parties may contact the user through the most appropriate means as reflected by that contextual indicia. Information concerning presence, status, location, availability and so forth are aggregated from various PIM sources and communicated to other parties who initiate contact with the user in light of the aggregated information. Various groups and permissions may be implemented with regard to the collection and sharing of information.