A phone (12) identifies the nature of a desired communication by receiving data related to a purpose of the communication from parsers (26) and comparing the data to predetermined criteria specified by filters (24). A ring tone is selected from a set of ring tone responsive to the comparison. The ring tone could provide either audio or tactile stimulation, or both. Tactile stimulation could be provided, for example through different vibration patterns. Alternatively, a graphic may be shown responsive to the comparison.