A method and implementing processing system are provided in which, in addition
to normal playback modes, users of voice mail devices are enabled to select a vignette
playback mode in which shortened versions of received messages are played back
to the user. In one embodiment, a user is able to have the shortened versions or
vignettes played back sequentially without interruption. In another embodiment,
the user may select to pause after each playback in order to manage or otherwise
dispose of the played message. In yet another embodiment, the user is enabled to
select vignette mode playback default values including, but not limited to, selecting
which portion of received messages are to be played back, and the duration of each
vignette message playback. The user is also enabled to input new vignette playback
values in place of the default values for each received message or group of received
messages. User inputs and menu options are implemented using any input and/or selection
means including, but not limited to, voice recognition and voice processing methodologies,
device button selection with reference to a displayed "soft" menu, voiced menu
presentation from the receiving device, voiced input from a user, and/or wireless
or hard-wired stylus input from a user.
