A messaging device is disclosed. The device is connected to a telephone
line and communicates with other devices identical to itself via a
communications link established over existing phone lines, power lines or
via wireless communications mechanisms. The messaging device records
caller ID data upon detection of an incoming telephone call and prompts
the user to enter additional data regarding the caller in assembling a
message data packet including predefined messages. The message data packet
is then transmitted to an identical messaging device wherein the caller ID
data, caller name, caller's company, and predefined messages are presented
to the intended recipient of the message contained in the message data
packet. Additional features include handwritten or typed detailed messages
contained in said message data packet and security for preventing
unauthorized viewing of message data. The messaging device is optionally
integrated into the design of a telephone.
