US20020194595A1 - Aggregation & substitution of user-specified content - Google Patents
Aggregation & substitution of user-specified content Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020194595A1 US20020194595A1 US09/963,093 US96309301A US2002194595A1 US 20020194595 A1 US20020194595 A1 US 20020194595A1 US 96309301 A US96309301 A US 96309301A US 2002194595 A1 US2002194595 A1 US 2002194595A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- content
- substitute
- broadcast
- substitute content
- break
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04H—BROADCAST COMMUNICATION
- H04H20/00—Arrangements for broadcast or for distribution combined with broadcast
- H04H20/28—Arrangements for simultaneous broadcast of plural pieces of information
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04H—BROADCAST COMMUNICATION
- H04H20/00—Arrangements for broadcast or for distribution combined with broadcast
- H04H20/10—Arrangements for replacing or switching information during the broadcast or the distribution
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/20—Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
- H04N21/23—Processing of content or additional data; Elementary server operations; Server middleware
- H04N21/235—Processing of additional data, e.g. scrambling of additional data or processing content descriptors
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/20—Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
- H04N21/25—Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
- H04N21/258—Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics, processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
- H04N21/25866—Management of end-user data
- H04N21/25891—Management of end-user data being end-user preferences
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/414—Specialised client platforms, e.g. receiver in car or embedded in a mobile appliance
- H04N21/4147—PVR [Personal Video Recorder]
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/431—Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering
- H04N21/4312—Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering involving specific graphical features, e.g. screen layout, special fonts or colors, blinking icons, highlights or animations
- H04N21/4316—Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering involving specific graphical features, e.g. screen layout, special fonts or colors, blinking icons, highlights or animations for displaying supplemental content in a region of the screen, e.g. an advertisement in a separate window
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/433—Content storage operation, e.g. storage operation in response to a pause request, caching operations
- H04N21/4333—Processing operations in response to a pause request
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/433—Content storage operation, e.g. storage operation in response to a pause request, caching operations
- H04N21/4334—Recording operations
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/433—Content storage operation, e.g. storage operation in response to a pause request, caching operations
- H04N21/4335—Housekeeping operations, e.g. prioritizing content for deletion because of storage space restrictions
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/435—Processing of additional data, e.g. decrypting of additional data, reconstructing software from modules extracted from the transport stream
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/437—Interfacing the upstream path of the transmission network, e.g. for transmitting client requests to a VOD server
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/44—Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream, rendering scenes according to MPEG-4 scene graphs
- H04N21/44008—Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream, rendering scenes according to MPEG-4 scene graphs involving operations for analysing video streams, e.g. detecting features or characteristics in the video stream
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/44—Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream, rendering scenes according to MPEG-4 scene graphs
- H04N21/44016—Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream, rendering scenes according to MPEG-4 scene graphs involving splicing one content stream with another content stream, e.g. for substituting a video clip
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/45—Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
- H04N21/4508—Management of client data or end-user data
- H04N21/4532—Management of client data or end-user data involving end-user characteristics, e.g. viewer profile, preferences
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/45—Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
- H04N21/454—Content or additional data filtering, e.g. blocking advertisements
- H04N21/4542—Blocking scenes or portions of the received content, e.g. censoring scenes
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/45—Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
- H04N21/458—Scheduling content for creating a personalised stream, e.g. by combining a locally stored advertisement with an incoming stream; Updating operations, e.g. for OS modules ; time-related management operations
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/45—Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies, resolving scheduling conflicts
- H04N21/462—Content or additional data management, e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end, controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabilities
- H04N21/4622—Retrieving content or additional data from different sources, e.g. from a broadcast channel and the Internet
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/47—End-user applications
- H04N21/472—End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content
- H04N21/47214—End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content for content reservation or setting reminders; for requesting event notification, e.g. of sport results or stock market
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/47—End-user applications
- H04N21/472—End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content
- H04N21/4722—End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content for requesting additional data associated with the content
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/47—End-user applications
- H04N21/478—Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification, shopping application
- H04N21/4782—Web browsing, e.g. WebTV
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/60—Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client
- H04N21/65—Transmission of management data between client and server
- H04N21/654—Transmission by server directed to the client
- H04N21/6543—Transmission by server directed to the client for forcing some client operations, e.g. recording
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/80—Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se
- H04N21/81—Monomedia components thereof
- H04N21/812—Monomedia components thereof involving advertisement data
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/80—Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se
- H04N21/85—Assembly of content; Generation of multimedia applications
- H04N21/858—Linking data to content, e.g. by linking an URL to a video object, by creating a hotspot
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/80—Generation or processing of content or additional data by content creator independently of the distribution process; Content per se
- H04N21/85—Assembly of content; Generation of multimedia applications
- H04N21/858—Linking data to content, e.g. by linking an URL to a video object, by creating a hotspot
- H04N21/8586—Linking data to content, e.g. by linking an URL to a video object, by creating a hotspot by using a URL
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N5/00—Details of television systems
- H04N5/76—Television signal recording
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N7/00—Television systems
- H04N7/08—Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division
- H04N7/087—Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only
- H04N7/088—Systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal, e.g. additional information signals, the signals occupying wholly or partially the same frequency band, e.g. by time division with signal insertion during the vertical blanking interval only the inserted signal being digital
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N7/00—Television systems
- H04N7/14—Systems for two-way working
- H04N7/15—Conference systems
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N7/00—Television systems
- H04N7/16—Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N7/00—Television systems
- H04N7/16—Analogue secrecy systems; Analogue subscription systems
- H04N7/162—Authorising the user terminal, e.g. by paying; Registering the use of a subscription channel, e.g. billing
- H04N7/165—Centralised control of user terminal ; Registering at central
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/47—End-user applications
- H04N21/478—Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification, shopping application
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N5/00—Details of television systems
- H04N5/76—Television signal recording
- H04N5/765—Interface circuits between an apparatus for recording and another apparatus
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N5/00—Details of television systems
- H04N5/76—Television signal recording
- H04N5/765—Interface circuits between an apparatus for recording and another apparatus
- H04N5/775—Interface circuits between an apparatus for recording and another apparatus between a recording apparatus and a television receiver
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N5/00—Details of television systems
- H04N5/76—Television signal recording
- H04N5/78—Television signal recording using magnetic recording
- H04N5/781—Television signal recording using magnetic recording on disks or drums
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N5/00—Details of television systems
- H04N5/76—Television signal recording
- H04N5/78—Television signal recording using magnetic recording
- H04N5/782—Television signal recording using magnetic recording on tape
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N5/00—Details of television systems
- H04N5/76—Television signal recording
- H04N5/84—Television signal recording using optical recording
- H04N5/85—Television signal recording using optical recording on discs or drums
Definitions
- This disclosure relates generally to television programming content substitution methods and systems, and more particularly but not exclusively, to techniques for substituting programming content during commercial breaks or other breaks in a broadcast content.
- PVRs personal video recorders
- PVRs enable a viewer to record television programming content and then to view the recorded television programming content at a later time.
- PVRs may enable a viewer to record specified programming content on a regular basis and to delete the recorded programming content after a pre-specified amount of time. For example, a viewer may program a PVR to record a daily news show (such as the 5 o'clock news) on a daily basis and then to automatically delete the recorded news show after one day since the news content would be stale.
- a daily news show such as the 5 o'clock news
- a viewer In order to view the recorded programming content, a viewer typically proceeds through multiple steps, which may include loading a user interface (UI) for display, selecting a “view pre-recorded programming content” option from a menu in the UI, and then selecting a pre-recorded programming content from a list of several pre-recorded programming content.
- UI user interface
- PVRs also enable a viewer to pause “live” programming content (and/or buffered programming content) and to skip commercials and/or other portions of live television programming content (or buffered programming content). For example, a viewer can skip commercials when viewing programming content on a television coupled to a PVR by pressing a “skip” button of the PVR remote control device.
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an interactive video casting system that can implement an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is a block diagram of another interactive video casting system that can implement an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a customer premise equipment, such as a set top box, according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a memory device of the customer premise equipment of FIG. 3.
- FIG. 5A is a block diagram of a television screen where the substitute content is shown as a full screen view across the television screen.
- FIG. 5B is a block diagram of a television screen where the substitute content is shown as the main screen view, while the programming content is shown as a picture-in-picture.
- FIG. 5C is a block diagram of a television screen where the substitute content is shown on the television screen foreground, while the programming content is shown on the television screen background.
- FIG. 5D is a block diagram of a television screen where the substitute content is shown on one portion of a split screen view, and the programming content is shown on another portion of the split screen view.
- FIG. 6A is a block diagram of a programming content that includes a disable feature to prevent disruption of the viewing of commercial segments in the programming content.
- FIG. 6B is a flowchart of a method of preventing the viewing of substitute content during program breaks.
- FIG. 6C is a flowchart of a method of permitting a user to view substitute content during program breaks.
- FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for substituting a live or pre-recorded (buffered) programming content with substitute content, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 8 is a block diagram of another representative customer premise equipment, such as a set top box, according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a memory device of the customer premise equipment of FIG. 8.
- FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method for substituting a live or other programming content with trigger-associated information, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 11A is a block diagram of another interactive television system that can implement an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 11B is a block diagram of a system for permitting sharing of aggregated substitute content.
- FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method of collecting and displaying aggregated substitute content, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- a broadcast content substitution system includes a customer premise equipment (or other processor) that can permit the display of broadcast content.
- the customer premise equipment can permit the display of substitute content.
- the break may be, for example, a commercial in a live broadcast content, a commercial skip segment in a buffered live broadcast content, a broadcast stoppage, or a non-activity in a broadcast event.
- the customer premise equipment can again permit the display of the broadcast content.
- the customer premise equipment may permit the display of the substitute content and images related to the break in the broadcast content.
- the invention broadly provides a customer premise equipment (or other processing device) that includes a recording engine and a playback engine.
- the recording engine enables a viewer to select programming content to record on, for example, a regular basis, which is sometimes referred to as a “season's pass.” For example, a viewer can program the recording engine to record a 5 o'clock news show on a daily basis.
- the recording engine may also automatically delete recorded programming content after a selected amount of time.
- the playback engine upon receiving a user-enabled command signal, can substitute the substitute content in place of the currently-displayed live programming content or buffered programming content.
- commercial breaks in the currently-displayed live programming content or buffered programming content are automatically detected, and the substitute content is automatically displayed during the commercial breaks.
- the substitute content can be a previously-recorded programming content, a live programming content, or content from an Internet Protocol (IP) channel, such as streaming video, electronic mail interaction, and so on.
- IP Internet Protocol
- the electronic mail interaction would be automatically activated during, for example, commercial breaks and de-activated (or paused/halted) during the non-commercial segments in the live programming content or buffered programming content.
- the substitute content may be specified by the user or may be a default content.
- the substitute content is displayed during breaks in a video telecast or teleconference (where a teleconference may be, for example, a Remote Learning Session or Video Conference).
- a break in a live action in a video telecast or teleconference may occur, for example, when there is a change in speakers, during the time when equipment is set up, during unforeseen delays in the presentation, and so on.
- the substitute content may, for example, be displayed in full screen mode on a television.
- the substitute content may be displayed as the main screen view, while the live or other programming content is displayed as a picture-in-picture on the television screen.
- the substitute content may be displayed as a picture overlay on the television screen foreground, while the live or other programming content is displayed on the television screen background.
- the substitute content and the live or other programming content may be displayed in separate screen areas as split screen views on the television screen.
- the invention broadly provides a customer premise equipment (or other processing device) that includes a trigger marking engine and a trigger viewing engine.
- the customer premise equipment can receive programming content that includes Advanced Television Enhancement Forum (ATVEF) triggers or other types of triggers.
- ATVEF B One type of trigger, ATVEF B, may also be used and includes content as well as triggers.
- ATVEF B may also be used and includes content as well as triggers.
- ATVEF B may also be used and includes content as well as triggers.
- ATVEF B may also be used and includes content as well as triggers.
- a command to signal the customer premise equipment to mark a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) address (or other address information peculiar to the Internet or other data communication network) where the address is associated with the trigger of interest.
- URL address or other address is then stored for later viewing and access.
- URL Uniform Resource Locator
- the viewer can then signal the customer premise equipment to show and access the stored URL address (or other address) in order to view information associated with previous triggers of interest.
- the website may, for example, be shown in full screen on the television.
- the website may be displayed on the television screen, while the live or buffered broadcast content is displayed as a picture-in-picture on the television screen.
- the website may be displayed as a picture overlay on the television screen foreground, while the live or buffered broadcast content is displayed on the television screen background.
- the website and the live or buffered broadcast content may be displayed in separate areas as split screen views on the television screen.
- the viewer can then, for example, obtain information or buy items or services in the displayed website.
- the viewer may then return to viewing the live or buffered broadcast content by enabling an appropriate command, for example, via the remote control device.
- an aggregator can be used to aggregate user-selected content.
- the aggregated user-selected content can then be provided for playback to the user, for example, during commercial breaks in a live or buffered programming content or during breaks in a video telecast or teleconference.
- the aggregator can be used to locate and collect programming content (or portions of a programming content) related to a specific topic as specified by the user.
- the collected programming content can then be displayed during commercial breaks in a live or buffered broadcast or during breaks in a video telecast or teleconference.
- the aggregator can provide the aggregated user-selected content to a storage unit (such as a PVR) for subsequent playback.
- a customer premise equipment (such as a set top box) can perform channel switching to switch from a channel where the live or buffered programming content is showing to another channel (e.g., a dedicated broadcast channel) where the aggregated user-selected content can be shown.
- a channel e.g., a dedicated broadcast channel
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an interactive video casting system 100 that can implement a specific embodiment of the invention.
- a production company 104 produces programming content for transmission to viewers.
- the transmission is sent via a satellite transmission transceiver 112 over an uplink channel to a satellite 102 .
- the satellite 102 then transmits the programming content over a downlink channel to a local studio 106 .
- the local studio 106 can insert additional programming content (e.g., regional programming content) and/or advertisements as needed into the programming content.
- the programming content with the insertions is then transmitted from the local studio 106 to a cable service provider 108 .
- the television programming content may be downloaded to a receiving station, such as a broadcast center (e.g., cable distribution head-end) (not shown) of the cable service provider 108 , rather than or in addition to the local studio 106 .
- a receiving station such as a broadcast center (e.g., cable distribution head-end) (not shown) of the cable service provider 108 , rather than or in addition to the local studio 106 .
- a reverse channel from the cable service provider 108 to the local studio 106 may be provided so that the local studio 106 can insert additional programming content and feed the television signal back to the cable service provider 108 .
- the cable service provider 108 then delivers the television signal over a cable network 134 to cable subscribers.
- the cable network 134 is provided by the cable service provider 108 to distribute the programming content to cable subscribers.
- a set top box (STB) 152 typically located on the premises of a cable television subscriber, receives the programming content or television signal from the cable net 134 , and delivers the television signal to the subscriber's television set (or other display device) 154 .
- the television signal can be broadcast over a wireless medium and received by a traditional aerial antenna or by a satellite dish, and then delivered to the set top box 152 .
- features and functionality of the set top box 152 may be integrated into a type of advanced television or other display device.
- embodiments of the invention can use other types of broadcast media, including but not limited to, digital cable systems, satellite, very-high-data-rate digital subscriber line (VDSL), web casts, and the like.
- the features provided by the television set 154 can also be provisioned, in one embodiment, by a personal computer (PC) suitably configured with an adapter to convert television signals into a digitized format, and then to deliver the television signals to the video portion of the computer for display.
- PC personal computer
- the invention is not limited to any one configuration of display hardware as embodiments of the invention can be realized using alternative reception and display arrangements, as known to those skilled in the art.
- a connection to a communication network is provided for the cable subscriber.
- the connection can be made via a cable modem 156 over a bi-directional communication link 155 to a cable modem termination system within the cable provider's 108 equipment.
- the connection continues to a data communication network, such as the Internet, by way of a public switched telephone network (PSTN) 132 .
- PSTN public switched telephone network
- the PSTN network 132 is provided herein as an example, and it is understood that other types of networks may be used for connectivity to the Internet.
- a cable modem arrangement can be used because of its high bandwidth capability. In situations where some cable companies are not equipped to provide cable modem service to their customers, various other arrangements can be made.
- a conventional modem connection can be used to access the Internet over a telephone line.
- Internet access can be gained over a DSL connection or an integrated services digital network (ISDN) connection using a telephone line.
- ISDN integrated services digital network
- Wireless systems are also available for providing Internet access.
- downstream data transmission may occur via cable or satellite, and upstream data transmission may occur via a telephone line.
- the Internet is chosen as an example of a data communication network because it is a well-established network, and connectivity to the Internet is easily made.
- a global communication network such as the Internet, is not required to practice other embodiments of the invention.
- a locally provided and maintained communication network may be used in an embodiment of the invention.
- the set top box 152 can include a transceiver 157 , such as an infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) transceiver, that can exchange signals with a remote control unit 158 or other user input device.
- the set top box 152 can be a component that is separate from the television set 154 as shown in FIG. 1, or its features can be built into circuitry of the television set 154 (e.g., an interactive television set).
- the set top box 152 enables a viewer to select television programming content to view and then delivers the television programming content to the television set 154 .
- a storage unit 162 can also be coupled to or be a part of the set top box 152 .
- the storage unit 162 can include a machine-readable storage medium such as a cache, buffer, memory, diskette, compact disk, tape, or the like and their associated hardware, in one embodiment.
- the storage unit 162 can include a video cassette recorder (VCR).
- the storage unit can include a hard disk such as a digital or personal video recorder (DVR or PVR).
- the local studio 106 can insert additional programming content into the received transmission, for example, to provide cable content that includes locally provided channels.
- the programming content is then distributed to customers over the cable network 134 .
- the local studio 106 can insert advertising content.
- Product supplemental information relating to the advertising for participating merchants 122 can also be inserted.
- Product supplemental information can include information relating to the goods or services being advertised in the commercial.
- coupons and other information services can be made available to the viewer, which in one embodiment can be obtained via the merchant's 122 web site 124 on the Internet.
- Triggers such as Advanced Television Enhancement Forum (ATVEF) triggers, which are related to the web site 124 and/or to its contents, can be continuously updated as the television broadcast is being received.
- ATVEF Advanced Television Enhancement Forum
- the triggers, resources, or announcements can be inserted by the originating broadcaster 104 , a local broadcaster 106 , or by the cable system operator 108 .
- FIG. 2 is another block diagram showing an example of an interactive video casting system 200 and illustrates another point of insertion of the product supplemental information.
- a merchant 222 operating a web site 224 , is located such that the merchant 222 is capable of inserting commercial prior to the uplink transmission to the satellite 102 .
- the cable provider 108 can supply the foregoing features, for example, by providing a web site or “walled garden” that is accessed by its subscribers. In such a case, the cable provider 108 serves as an intermediary and submits the purchases to the actual merchants 122 or 222 .
- programming content and/or other data may be distributed to a subscriber/customer via a satellite TV delivery system, which may include a direct broadcast satellite (DBS) system.
- a DBS system may include, for example, a small 18-inch satellite dish (which is an antenna that can receive a satellite broadcast signal); a digital integrated receiver/decoder (IRD), which separates each channel, and decompresses and translates the digital signal so that a television can show the digital signal; and a remote control that transmits command signals.
- Programming for a DBS system may be distributed by, for example, multiple high-powered satellites in geo-synchronous orbit, with each satellite having multiple transponders. Compression (e.g., Moving Pictures Experts Group or MPEG based compression) may be used to increase the amount of programming content that can be transmitted in the available bandwidth.
- Compression e.g., Moving Pictures Experts Group or MPEG based compression
- a digital broadcast center may be used to gather programming content, ensure the digital quality of the programming content, and transmit the signal up to the satellites for delivery.
- Programming content may be provided to the broadcast center from content providers (e.g., ABC, CNN, ESPN, and so on) via satellite, fiber optic cable, and/or special digital tape.
- Satellite-delivered programming content are typically immediately digitized, encrypted, and up-linked to the orbiting satellites. The satellites re-transmit the signal back down to every earth-station (or, in other words, every compatible DBS system receiver dish at, for example, homes and businesses of customers).
- Some programming content may be recorded on digital videotape in the broadcast center, and the programming content can be broadcast at later time or day. Before any recorded programming content are viewed by customers, technicians may use post-production equipment to view and analyze each tape to, for example, ensure audio and video quality. Tapes may then be loaded into, for example, a robotic tape handling system, and playback may be triggered by a computerized signal sent from a broadcast automation system. Back-up videotape playback equipment may ensure uninterrupted transmission at all times.
- FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of a representative set top box (or other suitable customer premise equipment or processing device) 152 a according to a specific embodiment of the invention. It is noted that the STB 152 a described below is one of the possible embodiments of the STB 152 that is shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. It is further noted that the components shown in FIG. 3 may be implemented in other types of customer premise equipment or other types of processing devices.
- the STB 152 a includes a network interface 300 , processor 310 , memory device 330 a , transceiver 157 , converter 320 , cable modem 156 , optional clock 350 , and hard disk 162 (which may be any suitable storage device), all interconnected together for communication via a system bus 340 .
- Network interface 300 connects the STB 152 a to the cable network 134 (FIG. 1).
- the cable modem 156 or the converter 320 may provide some or all of the functionality of the network interface 300 , and thus, the network interface 300 may be omitted.
- the network interface 300 may also provide some or all of the functionalities of the converter 320 and cable modem 156 , and as a result, the converter 320 and/or cable modem 156 may be omitted in this particular embodiment.
- the channels shown in FIG. 3 e.g., channel 322
- the processor (controller) 310 executes instructions stored in memory 330 a , which will be discussed in further detail in conjunction with FIG. 4.
- the processor 310 also typically performs other management functions of the STB 152 a.
- the transceiver 157 can include an infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) transceiver (or other transceiver types) that can exchange signals with the remote control unit 158 (FIG. 1 or FIG. 2) or other user input device.
- the converter 320 can convert, if necessary, digitally encoded broadcasts to a format usable by the television 154 (FIG. 1 or FIG. 2).
- the converter 320 can convert other data received in an out-of-band portion of a broadcast, such as television scheduling information to a format that can be stored in the memory 330 a or hard disk 162 .
- the cable modem 156 can transmit and receive digital information, such as television scheduling information, if not included in the out-of-band portion of a broadcast.
- the cable modem 156 may be a conventional modem for use over telephone lines or may include any other component or module for transmitting and receiving digital data.
- the STB 152 a may include the hard disk 162 or, in an alternative embodiment, the hard disk 162 may be external to STB 152 a .
- a PVR (not shown) may include the hard disk 162 and may be coupled to the STB 152 a .
- the hard disk 162 may store television programming content in MPEG format or other format or combination of formats.
- the optional clock 350 is typically a digital clock for use with the engines that can be stored in the memory device 330 a (see FIG. 4).
- the clock 350 can be updated regularly by using the cable modem 156 to contact an online clock, such as the Atomic Clock at the U.S. Naval Observatory, or to contact a head-end at the provider 108 so that the clock 350 is synchronized with the clock of provider 108 .
- the clock 350 may be set manually by a viewer or may be updated through other methods known to those skilled in the art.
- FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a memory device 330 a in the STB 152 a (FIG. 3).
- the memory device 330 a includes a recording engine 410 ; recording data 420 ; playback engine (or viewing engine) 430 ; playback data 440 ; and applications 445 .
- the various engines discussed herein may be, for example, software, commands, data files, programs, code, modules, instructions, or the like. It is also understood that the various engines described herein may be combined. For example, the recording engine 410 and playback engine 430 may be combined as a substitute content engine 432 .
- the various engines (e.g., applications 445 ) described herein may reside in other storage devices such as hard disk 162 .
- the recording engine 410 may enable a viewer to schedule a “season's pass” recording schedule, i.e., to record specific programming content on a daily or other regularly scheduled basis.
- the recording engine 410 may also enable a viewer to schedule the recording of a particular programming content at a specific day/time.
- the programming content may be received by the STB 152 a via, for example, the cable net 134 .
- the recording engine 410 then can record the programming content onto the hard disk 162 in MPEG format or other format for later viewing on the television 154 .
- the recording data 420 includes viewer-specified recording instructions for the recording engine 410 , such as the particular channel(s) to record, the time/day to start recording, and the length of the recording time and/or the time to stop recording.
- the playback engine 430 sends the recorded programming content to the converter 320 to convert to a format capable to be displayed on the television 154 , if necessary.
- the playback engine 430 may also convert the programming content into a format displayable by the television 154 depending on the capabilities of the converter 320 .
- the playback engine 430 can set the substitute content 442 (see FIG. 5A) in place of the currently displayed live programming content or buffered programming content as shown on the screen 444 of the television 154 .
- the user can enable the command signal 426 by directly actuating a button or switch on the set top box 152 a , instead of using, for example, the remote control device 158 .
- commercial breaks in the currently displayed live or buffered programming content are automatically detected by the playback engine 430 , and the substitute content 442 is automatically displayed during the commercial breaks and paused (or removed from the screen 444 ) when the commercial break ends and the main program in the broadcast resumes.
- Commercial breaks in the live or buffered programming content can be detected by having the set top box 152 a monitor for triggers or tags that demarcate commercial breaks.
- More than one substitute content 442 may be displayed by the playback engine 430 .
- the substitute content 442 can be a previously-recorded programming content (e.g., advertisements, news, movies, and/or other types of shows) as recorded by the recording engine 410 , live programming content as selected on a particular channel by the playback engine 430 , or content from an Internet Protocol channel, such as streaming video, electronic mail interaction, and so on.
- the electronic mail interaction would be automatically activated during, for example, commercial breaks and de-activated (or halted) during the non-commercial segments in the live or buffered programming content.
- the substitute content 442 may be, for example, stored content as specified by the user, may come from a selected channel as specified by the user, may be content from a default channel, and/or may be stored content that is chosen by default by the playback engine 430 . As described below with reference to FIG. 11A, the substitute content 442 may also be content from an aggregated content collection that is based upon a criteria selected by the viewer.
- the substitute content 442 is displayed for a particular amount of time (e.g., 30 seconds) by the playback engine 430 after a commercial break occurs in the programming content 446 currently displayed on the television screen 444 (see, e.g., FIG. 5C).
- the substitute content 442 is displayed during breaks in a video telecast or teleconference (where a teleconference may be, for example, a Remote Learning Session or Video Conference) that are shown in the television screen 444 .
- a break in a live action in a video telecast or teleconference may occur, for example, when there is a change in speakers, during the time when equipment is set up, during unforeseen delays in the presentation, during broadcast stoppage, and so on.
- an embodiment of the invention advantageously permits the user to view one or more substitute content 442 on the television screen 444 during commercials and/or other breaks (e.g., broadcast stoppage) in a currently-shown live broadcast content or buffered broadcast content.
- the user can, therefore, optimize his/her viewing time by viewing other content when a break occurs in a currently-shown live broadcast content or buffered broadcast content.
- An embodiment of the invention also advantageously enables an alternative medium for showing advertisements, since the substitute content 442 can also include advertisements.
- the advertisements in the substitute content 442 can be shown during commercial breaks of a currently shown broadcast content, during the skip segment (e.g., a 30-second skip segment) of a buffered broadcast where the skip segment contains recorded advertisements in the buffered broadcast, or during other breaks in a current broadcast content.
- the playback engine 430 may also have the functionality of a display engine for showing the images on the screen 444 (see FIG. 5A) of the television 154 in various formats.
- the substitute content 442 may be displayed in full screen mode on the television screen 444 , as shown in FIG. 5A, while the current programming content is removed from the screen 444 .
- the playback engine 430 may display the substitute content 442 as the main screen 444 view, while displaying the live or other programming content 446 as a picture-in-picture 448 on the television screen 444 .
- the substitute content 442 may alternatively be displayed in the picture-in-picture 448 , while the programming content 448 is displayed as the main screen 444 view.
- the substitute content 442 may be displayed as a picture overlay on the television screen 444 foreground, while the live or other programming content 446 is displayed on the television screen 444 background.
- the substitute content 442 and the live or other programming content 446 may be displayed in separate areas 448 and 450 , respectively, as, for example, split screen views on the television screen 444 .
- the substitute content 442 Prior to sending the substitute content 442 from the hard disk 162 (or via a selected broadcast channel as graphically represented by line 322 ), the substitute content 442 is typically decoded by the converter 320 (FIG. 3) prior to displaying the substitute content 442 on the television screen 444 . Similarly, prior to displaying the programming content 446 on the television screen 444 , the programming content 446 is typically decoded by the converter 320 .
- the memory 330 a may also store applications 445 which may represent one or more application.
- the applications 445 may also be stored in the digital storage device 162 .
- the applications 445 may include, for example, a browser for accessing a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) address on the Internet and for permitting web pages in a URL address to be displayed on the television screen 444 .
- the applications 445 may also include an e-mail engine that can detect when an e-mail message has been received by the set top box 152 a .
- the email engine can also permit the display of an e-mail message on the television screen 444 , the creation and transmission of an e-mail message from the STB 152 a , and/or other e-mail processing functions.
- the applications 445 may also include a streaming video engine for processing streaming video that is received from an IP channel.
- the applications 445 may also include middleware (sometimes called “plumbing”) for connecting two sides of an application and passing data between them.
- middleware sometimes called “plumbing”
- the playback data 440 may be stored in, for example, the hard disk 162 and include a list of recorded substitute content 442 (e.g., substitute contents 442 a and 442 b .
- the playback engine 430 determines the user-selected substitute content 442 to be displayed on the television screen 444 in response to a user-enabled command 426 (e.g., provided by a user via a remote control device) or in response to the detection of a break in the currently-shown programming content 446 .
- the playback data 440 may also include a tag 451 (FIG. 4) identifying a specific recorded substitute content to be displayed as the default substitute content in response to user-enabled commands 426 or in response to the detection of a break in the currently-shown programming content 446 .
- the default substitute content may also be displayed automatically when a commercial break is detected in the currently displayed programming content. Detection of commercial breaks in a programming content is performed by, for example, detecting identifiers that identify the beginning and end of a commercial.
- Various methods or mechanisms can be used to identify a sequence, such as, for example, include MPEG methods that multiplex special data stream(s) into the digital video transport stream, encoding/embedding data in the vertical blanking interval (VBI) portion of the analog television video signals (e.g., ATVEF triggers), using out-of-band modems (e.g., Digital Audio-Visual Council or “DAVIC” modems) to provide the interactive content, and other such techniques that provide information related to the content of the television signals.
- VBI vertical blanking interval
- DAVIC Digital Audio-Visual Council
- Another method to identify breaks in the programming content is by scanning the closed caption text in the programming content for keywords that are of interest to the user. This method can be used to determine the beginning and ending of break segments.
- a local new broadcast can be broken into “headlines”, prominent local stories, national news, international news, business news, human interest stories, sports, weather, and commentary.
- a user may elect to skip the sports or weather section (especially an interactive user that receives these content on-demand) and to use this segment time to view buffered content (i.e., substitute content).
- the playback data 440 may also include tags 452 indicating the portions of a recorded substitute content that have been shown by the playback engine 430 for viewing on the television screen 444 .
- the tags 452 thus permits the playback engine 430 to skip the showing of previously shown substitute content.
- the user may be viewing a first program (e.g., programming content 446 ) on the screen 444 .
- a commercial break occurs in the first program
- the end user may initiate a second program (e.g., substitute content 442 ) to be displayed on the television screen 444 .
- the user may reduce the first program into, for example, a picture-in-picture 448 and bring the second program on the main window of screen 444 .
- the user can perform a swap function to bring the first program from the picture-in-picture 448 to the primary focus on the screen 444 .
- the second program will pause, and the tags 452 can be placed by the playback engine 430 (FIG. 4) at the segment where the second program is paused. The user can then resume viewing of the second program (based on the tag 452 location) during the next set of commercials.
- pause features or techniques may be used to indicate where the second program (substitute content) is paused.
- a live programming content (such as content 446 ) may also be continuously recorded (e.g., in a live program buffer in hard disk 162 ) while the viewer is viewing the substitute content (e.g., substitute content 442 ).
- the viewer can switch viewing to the substitute content while the recording engine 410 records the live programming content.
- the live programming content may be, for example, recorded automatically (as programmed by the user) or upon receiving user-enabled commands from, for example, a user-controlled remote control device 158 . If the commercial break (in the live programming content) ends before the viewer finishes watching at least a segment of the substitute content 442 , then the following compensation may occur.
- the user can, for example, issue via remote control device 158 a replay or rewind command so that the recorded portion of the live programming content is rewound to permit the user the opportunity to view the missed portions of the live programming content.
- the live programming content may be buffered in a live program buffer, the viewer can view the remaining segments of the live programming content after watching the missed recorded portions of the live programming content.
- the live program can be paused after the end of the commercial segment.
- FIG. 6A is a block diagram of a programming content 446 a with a disable feature to prevent the disruption of viewing of commercial segments in the programming content 446 a .
- an advertiser can pay the broadcaster extra fees (or rates) on the rate card to insert tags 455 prior to a commercial segment 457 .
- the tag 455 deactivates the playback engine 430 so that the viewer will not be able to view the substitute content 442 when the commercial segment 457 is showing on the television screen 444 .
- an advertiser can pay extra rates to the broadcaster to insure the viewing of the commercials of the advertisers to consumers.
- FIG. 6B is a flowchart diagram illustrating a method 460 of preventing the disruption of viewing of commercial segments in the programming content 446 a .
- An advertiser or broadcaster may pay ( 462 ) a multiple system operator (MSO) a fee or extra rate to prevent disruption of a commercial in the broadcast content.
- MSO multiple system operator
- the fee or extra rate enables triggers or tags that prevent s subscriber to view substitute content during a commercial break in the broadcast content.
- the advertiser (or broadcaster or other party) transmits ( 464 ) a trigger that prevents the display of substitute content during a commercial break in the broadcast content.
- the trigger or tag may prevent an overlay with substitute content from being displayed during the commercial break.
- the method 460 permits the MSO to obtain additional revenues from the fee (or extra rate) paid by an advertiser (or broadcaster), and permits an advertiser to prevent disruptions of commercials.
- FIG. 6C is a flowchart diagram illustrating a method 470 of permitting a subscriber to view substitute content during a commercial segment in the programming content 446 a .
- a subscriber may pay ( 472 ) a multiple system operator (MSO) a fee or extra rate to permit the subscriber to view substitute content during a commercial in the broadcast content.
- the advertiser (or broadcaster or other party) transmits ( 474 ) a trigger that prevents the display of substitute content during a commercial break in the broadcast content.
- the trigger or tag may prevent an overlay with substitute content from being displayed during the commercial break.
- the subscriber can disable ( 476 ) the trigger or tag that prevents the display of substitute content.
- the subscriber may view ( 478 ) a substitute during a commercial break.
- the method 470 permits the MSO to obtain additional revenues from the fee (or extra rate) paid subscriber, and permits a subscriber to view substitute content during commercial breaks.
- the tags 455 may work in cooperation with an MSO and/or subscriber authorization features to enable/disable the effectiveness of the tags 455 .
- a subscriber who pays an additional fee may be able to disable the tags 455 so that the subscriber can view substitute content during breaks in the programming content.
- An advertiser or broadcaster can pay ( 462 ) a fee or extra rates to an MSO to prevent the display of substitute content during a commercial break in a broadcast content or to prevent other disruptions of commercials in the broadcast content.
- FIG. 7 is a flowchart diagram of a method 500 for substituting a substitute content in place of a live or prerecorded programming content as shown on, for example, a television screen 444 .
- the playback engine 430 may perform the method 500 .
- the method 500 may run continuously or at representative intervals. Further, multiple instances of the method 500 may run simultaneously.
- a first programming content is displayed ( 510 ) on, for example, the screen of the television 154 or other display device.
- the first programming content may be a live programming content, buffered programming content, or other programming content, such as a video telecast, teleconference, or prerecorded programming content.
- a substitute signal is received ( 520 ).
- the substitute signal may be received by the STB 152 a from, for example, a remote control device or other device, such as the remote control device 158 .
- a viewer will send the substitute signal via the remote control device 158 upon viewing a commercial on the television 154 .
- the viewer may also send the substitute signal at any time, such as when live action takes a break between speakers in a teleconference.
- the substitute signal is a tag in the broadcast, indicating the start of a commercial.
- the substitute signal may be ignored if a commercial contains a signal, such as a particular tag, indicating that the viewing of the commercial in the programming content should not be disrupted. For example, this enables an advertiser, upon payment of an extra fee, to prevent skipping of commercials or substitution over commercials.
- the substitute content is displayed ( 530 ).
- the playback engine 430 selects the substitute content from the hard disk 162 for viewing based on the playback data 440 . For example, if there is multiple substitute content on the hard disk 162 , then the playback engine 430 can select a default programming content or pre-specified substitute content as indicated in data 440 . Further, if a portion of the substitute content has already been viewed, as indicated by a tag (tags 452 a & 542 b in FIG. 4) in the data 440 , then the playback engine 430 will begin displaying the substitute content starting from the end of the previously viewed content portion.
- the playback engine 430 enables a viewer to select a substitute content to view from a list of substitute content in the playback data 440 upon receipt of a substitute signal.
- the playback engine 430 selects substitute content including a live program that is transmitted along a specified channel.
- the playback engine 430 selects substitute content including IP channel content such as streaming video, e-mail interaction, and so on.
- the IP channel content may be received by the STB 152 a , for example, via the cable net 134 .
- a small window may also be optionally displayed ( 540 ) showing a reduced view of the first programming content, thus enabling a viewer to monitor the status of the first programming content. For example, if a viewer sends a substitute signal to avoid watching commercials, the viewer will want to return to view the first programming content after the end of the commercials.
- the first programming content may also be continuously recorded by recording engine 410 while viewing the substitute content.
- the first programming content may also be completely removed from the screen when the substitute content is being shown on the screen.
- only the replayed segment of a sports broadcast are recorded by recording engine 410 or tagged by playback engine 430 .
- various methods may be used such as detecting for a signal difference that characterize the replayed segment, or comparing the replayed segment with a prior recorded content stored in a buffer.
- many people are probably only interested in highlights (e.g., great plays in a baseball game) which are replayed in, for example, a sports news program.
- the close caption of a live programming content is watched by the viewer while the viewer is watching a pre-recorded or streaming content to view a highlight (e.g., a great play in a baseball game).
- a countdown timer may be displayed in addition to or as an alternative to the small window.
- the countdown timer may count down in 30-second increments, indicating the end portion of successive 30-second commercials. The viewer can then pause or halt the substitute content and continue viewing the first programming content on the screen.
- an end-substitution signal is received ( 550 ).
- the remote control device 158 can send the end-substitution signal to the STB 152 a .
- a tag in the programming content may indicate the end of a commercial or the restart of the noncommercial segment in the programming content.
- Tags 452 a and 452 b may then be stored ( 560 ) in, for example, the playback data 440 , marking the portion of the substitute content that has been viewed.
- the playback engine 430 stores the tags 452 a and 452 b .
- the first programming content is then displayed ( 570 ) in full screen on the television 154 by, for example, the playback engine 430 .
- the substitute content may be displayed in a small window in reduced size and in a paused mode.
- FIG. 8 illustrates a block diagram of another representative set top box (or other customer premise equipment or processing device) according to a specific embodiment of the invention.
- the STB 152 b includes a network interface 300 , processor 310 , memory device 330 b , transceiver 157 , converter 320 , cable modem 156 , clock 350 , and hard disk 162 (also referred to as storage device 162 ), all interconnected together for communication via system bus 340 .
- the components of STB 152 b except for at least some of the programming content in the memory device 330 b , may be substantially similar to corresponding components in the STB 152 a .
- the processor (controller) 310 executes instructions stored in the memory 330 b , which will be discussed in further detail in conjunction with FIG. 10.
- FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a memory device 330 b of the STB 152 b (FIG. 8).
- the memory device 330 b includes a trigger marking engine 710 , marked triggers 720 , and trigger viewing engine 730 .
- other applications such as the applications 445 in FIG. 4, may also be loaded in the memory 330 b .
- the engines 710 , 720 , and 730 may also be loaded into the memory 330 a (FIG. 4) and may enable the below described functionalities in the STB 152 a.
- the trigger marking engine 710 enables a viewer to mark triggers (in a broadcast content) during television viewing for follow up viewing.
- the trigger marking engine 710 stores the marked triggers in the marked triggers 720 where a marked trigger includes, for example, a URL address (or other address information) associated with the marked trigger.
- the trigger viewing engine 730 enables a viewer to later select a marked trigger and access a URL address (or other address information) associated with the selected marked trigger.
- a break occurs in a live programming content (or buffered programming content, recorded programming content, or other content)
- a viewer can select and access a URL address in order to access the website (or other interactive site) that is linked to the URL address.
- the user may access other information linked to the selected marked trigger.
- the website can be shown on the television screen 444 in various formats as similarly shown, for example, by the substitute content 442 in FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5 C, and/or 5 D, while the programming content may be removed from the screen 444 or shown as in FIGS. 5B, 5C, and 5 D during the break in the broadcast programming content.
- the viewer can view information and/or buy products or services from the displayed website (or other displayed information).
- FIG. 10 is a flowchart diagram of a method 800 for substituting live programming content or other programming content with trigger-associated information.
- the trigger marking engine 710 in conjunction with the trigger viewing engine 730 performs the operation of method 800 .
- the method 800 may run continuously or at representative intervals. Further, multiple instances of the method 800 may be run simultaneously on a single STB.
- a programming content is displayed ( 810 ) on, for example, the television screen 444 .
- the programming content may include a live programming content or pre-recorded or buffered programming content.
- the programming content also includes triggers, which may include associated URL or other address information.
- the URL or other address information is simultaneously displayed on the television screen 444 with the programming content. If a viewer of the programming content is interested in the trigger, the viewer can mark the trigger by, for example, sending a command via a remote control device, such as device 158 , to the STB 152 b , where the command is received ( 820 ). In a single viewing session, the viewer may mark a plurality of triggers.
- the marked triggers are then stored ( 830 ).
- the trigger marking engine 710 stores the marked triggers in marked triggers 720 which may be URL or other address information.
- a skip-program signal is received ( 840 ).
- information associated with the single trigger is displayed ( 850 ). For example, if the trigger is a website address, the website is loaded and displayed. In one embodiment, the website or information associated with the trigger is preloaded by the playback engine 430 so that when the website address is selected, the viewer during the commercial break does not need to wait for the website or information to load.
- information associated with the triggers may be cycled after a pre-defined amount of time or according to viewer input. Further, a viewer may be able to select which trigger information to display from list of stored triggers.
- the trigger viewing engine 730 displays the information associated with a trigger.
- the programming content may also be optionally displayed on the television screen 444 .
- a countdown timer may be displayed to indicate to the viewer when a commercial period ends. The timer may countdown in 30-second increments or other increments.
- An end-skip signal is then received ( 860 ).
- the remote control device 158 may send the end-skip signal, which is then received by STB 152 b .
- Triggers, for which trigger-associated information has been displayed, may then be deleted ( 870 ).
- the trigger viewing engine 730 deletes displayed triggers from the marked triggers 720 .
- the programming content is then displayed ( 880 ) in full screen mode on the screen 444 .
- the system 900 includes one or more head-ends 902 (or broadcast centers) to distribute television broadcast content and interactive television (sometimes referred to as “iTV”) content to a plurality of subscriber residences (or display stage) 904 .
- the head-end 902 includes broadcast content processing and iTV services hardware and software (including processors, servers, storage media, databases, and so on), which are shown generally in FIG. 11A as a unit 906 .
- the unit 906 can receive national broadcast content and iTV content 908 from content providers, satellite feeds, servers, and/or other sources.
- the unit 906 can also receive local broadcast content and iTV content 910 from parties such as local studios, servers, content providers, and/or other sources.
- a cable modem termination system (CMTS) 912 provides the head-end 902 (and ultimately the subscriber residences 904 ) with access to the Internet 914 .
- a combiner 916 places the signals and/or data provided by the unit 906 and the CMTS 912 into appropriate channels of a communication network 918 .
- the communication network 918 can include, for example, a hybrid fiber-coaxial cable distribution network comprising channels having a bandwidth of approximately six (6) MHz. Some of these channels of the communication network 918 are used to carry television signals (which may be accompanied by interactive content and other trigger information), while other channels are used for upstream and downstream communication of data with the Internet 914 .
- Some other channels (sometimes referred to as “out-of-band” channels) of the communication network 918 may be used to carry electronic program guide (EPG) information.
- EPG electronic program guide
- at least one of these out-of-band channels may be used to carry aggregated television programming content and/or related data.
- Examples of techniques that can be used to provide interactive content and other trigger information from the unit 906 to set top boxes (or other types of customer premise equipment) in the subscriber residences 904 , via channels of the communication network 918 include MPEG methods that multiplex special data stream(s) into the digital video transport stream, encoding/embedding data in the vertical blanking interval (VBI) portion of the analog television video signals (e.g., ATVEF triggers), using out-of-band modems (e.g., Digital Audio-Visual Council or “DAVIC” modems) to provide the interactive content, and other such techniques that provide information related to the content of the television signals.
- VBI vertical blanking interval
- ATVEF triggers e.g., ATVEF triggers
- out-of-band modems e.g., Digital Audio-Visual Council or “DAVIC” modems
- protocols such as Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications (DOCSIS), transmission control protocol/Internet protocol (TCP/IP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), file transfer protocol (FTP), or other suitable protocols/techniques may be used.
- DOCSIS Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications
- TCP/IP transmission control protocol/Internet protocol
- HTTP hypertext transfer protocol
- FTP file transfer protocol
- ATVEF triggers or other triggering mechanisms can be used to identify specific topics of particular television programming content in a television signal. For instance, if the sports segment of a news telecast is showing highlights of a particular baseball player's homerun, that baseball player can be identified in the trigger. As another example, triggers may be used to demarcate the beginning and ending locations of that baseball player's highlights, the sports segment, the commercial breaks of the news telecast, or the news telecast itself.
- an aggregator 940 can aggregate user-specified television programming content.
- the aggregator 940 can include a combination of hardware and software (such as one or more processors, one or more servers, databases and/or other storage media, software and other machine-readable instructions stored on a machine-readable medium, and so on) that delivers its aggregated content to client terminals of subscribers via at least one of the channels of the communication network 918 , or via some other communication link (such as a DSL connection or telephone modem connection).
- the aggregator 940 can be located in the head-end 902 in one embodiment, while in other embodiments, the aggregator 940 can be located outside of the head-end 902 , including somewhere in the Internet 914 .
- the aggregator 940 can be communicatively coupled to the unit 906 and/or to the CMTS 912 .
- the aggregator 940 can be communicatively coupled to the CMTS 912 .
- the aggregator 940 need not necessarily be coupled to the CMTS 912 in some embodiments, provided that the aggregator 940 can aggregate television programming content from various sources and then deliver the aggregated television programming content to subscribers.
- the aggregator 940 can be coupled to or comprise part of the unit 906 , as depicted in FIG. 11A.
- the aggregator 940 can have access to a database 905 that stores user-specified preferences for programming content as provided by a viewer. For instance, entries in the database 905 may indicate that the particular viewer wishes to aggregate all highlights for a particular baseball player for a specified time period.
- the database 905 may further identify the viewer by residence address, identification code of the viewer's client terminal (e.g., a set top box or recording device having network connectivity), or other information to uniquely identify the viewer from other viewers.
- the aggregator 940 can monitor television signals provided from sources 908 and 910 to the unit 906 for that baseball player's highlights for the specified time period, and then store the highlights in a storage unit (e.g., database 905 ) at the head-end 902 .
- a storage unit e.g., database 905
- the aggregator 940 can read triggers of all television signals that arrive at the unit 906 , so as to identify the topics/content of the television signals as specified in the triggers, and then correlate the trigger content with the entries in the database 905 . If relevant television programming content segments are detected from the triggers, then the aggregator 940 records such segments. In another embodiment, the aggregator 940 can identify television programming content segments of interest by reading close-captioning data that accompanies the television signals. Alternatively or in addition, the aggregator 940 can scan EPG information that is provided to the head-end 902 , with the EPG information specifying data such as show titles, actors, subjects, and the like.
- Various other techniques can be used by the aggregator 940 to aggregate television programming content and to provide the aggregated television programming content to subscribers. Examples of these techniques include receiving the television programming content from third-party entities that collect the programming content as a service, or receiving the television programming content via direct feeds from content providers to the aggregator 940 .
- a splitter 930 is coupled to receive the television signals (including interactive content and other trigger information) from the communication network 918 .
- the splitter 930 sends the received television signals (including interactive content and other trigger information) to a first client terminal, such as a set top box 152 , which subsequently sends the signals and other information to a television 154 .
- the set top box 152 includes components such as digital/analog video processing unit(s), VBI decoders, central processing units, memory, video graphics processing unit(s), software, and other components that can detect, extract, and process trigger information and other interactive content that is received from the communication network 918 .
- these components can extract URL addresses from the trigger information and present the URL addresses as hypertext links or other visual indicator on the television 154 , which the viewer can “click” to connect to the Internet 914 (or other suitable data communication network).
- the operation of these components is generally known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, the specifics of their operation are not shown in FIG. 11A or described in further detail herein for the sake of simplicity of explanation.
- the set top box 152 can include or be coupled to the storage unit 162 .
- the storage unit 162 can comprise a machine-readable storage medium such as a cache, buffer, memory, diskette, compact disk, tape, flash memory, random access memory (RAM) or the like and their associated hardware, in one embodiment.
- the storage unit 162 can comprise a hard disk such as a digital or personal video recorder (DVR or PVR).
- DVR digital or personal video recorder
- the splitter 930 can be coupled to the cable modem 156 .
- the cable modem 156 receives the same input as the set top box 152 (e.g., receives the same television signals).
- the cable modem 156 and the set top box 152 may receive different channels. Whether receiving the same or different channels from the splitter 930 , a primary function of the cable modem 156 is to provide one or more ancillary devices 938 with access to the Internet 914 .
- Examples of the ancillary device 938 can include, but not be limited to, Personal Computers (PCs), wireless handheld devices, companion set top boxes, two-way advanced remote controls, or other browser-enabled display devices or client terminals that have the capability to communicate with the Internet 914 .
- the ancillary device(s) 938 can include or be coupled to the storage unit 162 (or other storage unit).
- aggregated television programming content can be sent to the storage unit 162 (or to the memory 330 in the STB 152 ) by the aggregator 940 . This may be done by way of broadcast, IP multicast, or unicast from the aggregator 940 to storage unit(s) 162 of one or more subscriber residences 904 .
- the aggregated television programming content can be sent to the storage unit 162 by first identifying the storage unit that is to receive the aggregated television programming content, such as via an identification number of the storage unit 162 , and then sending the aggregated television programming content to the storage unit 162 in a format that is compatible with the particular communication network and with the storage unit 162 (such as a digital format).
- the aggregated television program can be sent to the storage unit 162 by way of the CMTS 912 , through a channel of the communication network 918 that uses the DOCSIS protocol, and then to the cable modem 156 .
- an out-of-band channel may be used to send the aggregated television programming content from the aggregator 940 .
- the aggregated television programming content may be sent to the storage unit 162 via a different connection to the Internet 914 , or the aggregated television programming content may be sent via one of the available channels of the communication network 918 .
- incoming real-time television programming content (or buffered incoming programming content) is monitored by the set top box 152 for triggers that demarcate commercial breaks.
- the television 154 when a trigger is received to indicate the beginning of a commercial break in the real-time television programming content, the television 154 is coupled to the storage unit 162 for playback of the stored programming content during the commercial break.
- the input to the television 154 is switched from the storage unit 162 back to the real-time programming content.
- a pause feature of the storage unit 162 may be used to pause or otherwise mark the stored television programming content, so that when it resumes playing during a subsequent commercial, it can begin playback at the proper location.
- the stored programming content (e.g., substitute content) 442 may also be displayed to a viewer during a break in the incoming television program (or during a break in the buffered incoming television program) by having the viewer enable a command 426 for displaying the stored programming content.
- the aggregated television programming content may be delivered for presentation by way of switching to a channel where the programming content is carried.
- the aggregator 940 may first store the aggregated television programming content in the storage unit 905 at the head-end 902 .
- the set top box 152 can send a signal to the unit 906 at the head-end 902 to instruct the unit 906 to provide the aggregated television programming content.
- the unit 906 then sends a command back to the set top box 152 that instructs the set top box 152 to tune/switch from the channel of the real-time programming content (e.g., channel 945 ) to a different channel (i.e., a dedicated broadcast channel 947 ) where the aggregated programming content is to be carried.
- the aggregated television programming content is then delivered on that dedicated broadcast channel 947 to the set top box 152 by the unit 906 .
- the process can work similarly (in reverse) when the set top box 152 recognizes a trigger that demarcates the end of the commercial break, resulting in a switch back to the original channel 945 and the pausing of the aggregated television programming content.
- the set top box 152 can also tune/switch from the original channel 945 to the dedicated broadcast channel 947 (and tune/switch from the dedicated broadcast channel 947 to the original channel 945 ) by having the viewer enable appropriate commands 960 .
- aggregator 940 directs commands 965 to STB 152 to tune to a particular channel (e.g., channel 947 ) at a particular time based on user-specified television programming content preferences.
- the aggregator 940 may also command STB 152 to begin recording and end recording so as to only record the programming content corresponding to the user preferences.
- the programming content may be recorded in, for example, the storage medium 162 .
- aggregator 940 can then command STB 152 to substitute a live programming content (or buffered incoming programming content) with the recorded programming content.
- the advantages of recording locally at the STB 152 may include the following: (1) the programming content does not have to be captured and recorded at the aggregator 940 and then transmitted to the STB 152 , and (2) dedicated bandwidth for transmission of the aggregated programming content is not required.
- the STB 152 will ignore commands received from aggregator 940 if STB 152 is currently tuned to a channel, indicating that the STB is in use. If the STB 152 has dual channel tuning capability and dual channel recording capability, then STB 152 may display the programming content from a first channel and still record from another channel as specified by the aggregator 940 .
- the STB 152 has only single channel tuning and single channel recording capability, then programming content aggregation can be accomplished during periods in which the STB 152 is not being used (e.g., during late at night or when the user is on vacation). This is because the only available resource is utilized during regular television viewing. If the STB 152 has dual channel tuning and dual channel recording capability, then one channel can be used for the aggregation of programming content, while another channel can be used for regular television viewing.
- the unit 906 can be capable of detecting triggers that demarcate the beginning and ending of commercial breaks.
- the unit 906 can send a command 970 to the set top box 152 to tune to the channel where the aggregated television programming content is to be carried, instead of having the set top box 152 send a signal to the unit 906 that requests playback of the aggregated television programming content.
- various subscriber areas 904 a to 904 c can communicate with each other via the Internet 914 or other data communication network.
- the number of subscriber areas 904 may vary.
- a server 980 may include an application 982 that permits the following functions.
- a user at the area 904 a may be able to access directories in the memory 330 b or hard drive 162 b (in area 904 b ) or directories in the memory 330 c or hard drive 162 c (in area 904 c ) to a file-sharing system via the Internet or network 914 .
- the user in area 904 a may then view and download the aggregated content in the accessed directories of the above-mentioned memory devices.
- the downloaded aggregated content may be stored in the memory devices 330 a and/or 162 a and displayed during a break in a programming content that is being received by the STB 1512 a.
- a user in the area 904 b may be able to access directories of memory devices in areas 904 a and 904 c and download aggregated content that are stored in those memory devices.
- FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method 1000 for collecting and displaying aggregated substitute content in accordance with a specific embodiment of the invention.
- the method 1000 first aggregates ( 1005 ) substitute content based upon user or viewer preference(s).
- the aggregate content may then be delivered ( 1010 ) to a customer premise equipment (e.g., set top box 152 ) of the viewer.
- a customer premise equipment e.g., set top box 152
- the display of the substitute content may be paused or halted ( 1020 ).
- the currently-shown content may continue to be displayed.
- FIGS. 3 and 4 may be implemented in a processing device such as a personal computer or a suitable notebook computer.
- At least some of the components of this invention may be implemented by using a programmed general purpose digital computer, by using application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs) or field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or by using a network of interconnected components and circuits. Connections may be wired, wireless, by modem, and the like.
- ASICs application specific integrated circuits
- PLDs programmable logic devices
- FPGAs field programmable gate arrays
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Signal Processing (AREA)
- Multimedia (AREA)
- Databases & Information Systems (AREA)
- Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
- Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
- Marketing (AREA)
- Strategic Management (AREA)
- Finance (AREA)
- Computer Security & Cryptography (AREA)
- Computer Graphics (AREA)
- Two-Way Televisions, Distribution Of Moving Picture Or The Like (AREA)
- Information Transfer Between Computers (AREA)
- Television Signal Processing For Recording (AREA)
Abstract
A method collecting content and performing a substitution for a broadcast content, includes: aggregating substitute content based upon a user preference; delivering the aggregated substitute content; and displaying the aggregated substitute content in response to a break in a broadcast content. A system for collecting content and performing a substitution for a broadcast content, includes: an aggregator configured to aggregate substitute content based upon a user preference; a transmission path communicatively coupled to the aggregator and configured to deliver the aggregated substitute content; and a display stage communicatively coupled to the transmission path and configured to display the aggregated substitute content in response to a break in a broadcast content.
Description
- The present application is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/883,098, entitled “ADVERTISEMENT SWAPPING USING AN AGGREGATOR FOR AN INTERACTIVE TELEVISION SYSTEM” by Douglas A. Miller, filed Jun. 14, 2001. Application Ser. No. 09/883,098 is fully incorporated herein by reference.
- This disclosure relates generally to television programming content substitution methods and systems, and more particularly but not exclusively, to techniques for substituting programming content during commercial breaks or other breaks in a broadcast content.
- Conventionally, personal video recorders (PVRs) enable a viewer to record television programming content and then to view the recorded television programming content at a later time. Further, PVRs may enable a viewer to record specified programming content on a regular basis and to delete the recorded programming content after a pre-specified amount of time. For example, a viewer may program a PVR to record a daily news show (such as the 5 o'clock news) on a daily basis and then to automatically delete the recorded news show after one day since the news content would be stale.
- In order to view the recorded programming content, a viewer typically proceeds through multiple steps, which may include loading a user interface (UI) for display, selecting a “view pre-recorded programming content” option from a menu in the UI, and then selecting a pre-recorded programming content from a list of several pre-recorded programming content.
- PVRs also enable a viewer to pause “live” programming content (and/or buffered programming content) and to skip commercials and/or other portions of live television programming content (or buffered programming content). For example, a viewer can skip commercials when viewing programming content on a television coupled to a PVR by pressing a “skip” button of the PVR remote control device.
- Thus, advertisers are concerned that the ability of viewers to skip commercials when viewing programming content with PVRs will lead to losses in revenue. Additionally, a viewer, while watching live TV may channel surf and lose the buffered portion of the content shown in the original channel.
- Accordingly, there is need for a new programming content substitution system and method that will overcome the deficiencies mentioned above.
- Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the following Figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified.
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an interactive video casting system that can implement an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is a block diagram of another interactive video casting system that can implement an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a customer premise equipment, such as a set top box, according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a memory device of the customer premise equipment of FIG. 3.
- FIG. 5A is a block diagram of a television screen where the substitute content is shown as a full screen view across the television screen.
- FIG. 5B is a block diagram of a television screen where the substitute content is shown as the main screen view, while the programming content is shown as a picture-in-picture.
- FIG. 5C is a block diagram of a television screen where the substitute content is shown on the television screen foreground, while the programming content is shown on the television screen background.
- FIG. 5D is a block diagram of a television screen where the substitute content is shown on one portion of a split screen view, and the programming content is shown on another portion of the split screen view.
- FIG. 6A is a block diagram of a programming content that includes a disable feature to prevent disruption of the viewing of commercial segments in the programming content.
- FIG. 6B is a flowchart of a method of preventing the viewing of substitute content during program breaks.
- FIG. 6C is a flowchart of a method of permitting a user to view substitute content during program breaks.
- FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for substituting a live or pre-recorded (buffered) programming content with substitute content, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 8 is a block diagram of another representative customer premise equipment, such as a set top box, according to an embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a memory device of the customer premise equipment of FIG. 8.
- FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method for substituting a live or other programming content with trigger-associated information, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 11A is a block diagram of another interactive television system that can implement an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 11B is a block diagram of a system for permitting sharing of aggregated substitute content.
- FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method of collecting and displaying aggregated substitute content, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- Embodiments of a system and method for substituting a live or pre-recorded (or buffered) programming content (i.e., broadcast content) with a substitute content are disclosed herein. The substitute content may be, for example, a viewer-selected content or default content. As an overview, in an embodiment, a broadcast content substitution system includes a customer premise equipment (or other processor) that can permit the display of broadcast content. In response to the occurrence of a break in the broadcast content, the customer premise equipment can permit the display of substitute content. The break may be, for example, a commercial in a live broadcast content, a commercial skip segment in a buffered live broadcast content, a broadcast stoppage, or a non-activity in a broadcast event. When the break in the broadcast content terminates, the customer premise equipment can again permit the display of the broadcast content. During the occurrence of the break, the customer premise equipment may permit the display of the substitute content and images related to the break in the broadcast content.
- In another embodiment, the invention broadly provides a customer premise equipment (or other processing device) that includes a recording engine and a playback engine. The recording engine enables a viewer to select programming content to record on, for example, a regular basis, which is sometimes referred to as a “season's pass.” For example, a viewer can program the recording engine to record a 5 o'clock news show on a daily basis. The recording engine may also automatically delete recorded programming content after a selected amount of time.
- The playback engine, upon receiving a user-enabled command signal, can substitute the substitute content in place of the currently-displayed live programming content or buffered programming content. In another embodiment, commercial breaks in the currently-displayed live programming content or buffered programming content are automatically detected, and the substitute content is automatically displayed during the commercial breaks. The substitute content can be a previously-recorded programming content, a live programming content, or content from an Internet Protocol (IP) channel, such as streaming video, electronic mail interaction, and so on. The electronic mail interaction would be automatically activated during, for example, commercial breaks and de-activated (or paused/halted) during the non-commercial segments in the live programming content or buffered programming content. The substitute content may be specified by the user or may be a default content.
- In another embodiment, the substitute content is displayed during breaks in a video telecast or teleconference (where a teleconference may be, for example, a Remote Learning Session or Video Conference). A break in a live action in a video telecast or teleconference may occur, for example, when there is a change in speakers, during the time when equipment is set up, during unforeseen delays in the presentation, and so on.
- The substitute content may, for example, be displayed in full screen mode on a television. Alternatively or in addition, the substitute content may be displayed as the main screen view, while the live or other programming content is displayed as a picture-in-picture on the television screen. Alternatively or in addition, the substitute content may be displayed as a picture overlay on the television screen foreground, while the live or other programming content is displayed on the television screen background. Alternatively or in addition, the substitute content and the live or other programming content may be displayed in separate screen areas as split screen views on the television screen.
- In another embodiment, the invention broadly provides a customer premise equipment (or other processing device) that includes a trigger marking engine and a trigger viewing engine. The customer premise equipment can receive programming content that includes Advanced Television Enhancement Forum (ATVEF) triggers or other types of triggers. One type of trigger, ATVEF B, may also be used and includes content as well as triggers. If a viewer is interested in a particular trigger that appears on the television screen, then the viewer can, for example, enable a command to signal the customer premise equipment to mark a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) address (or other address information peculiar to the Internet or other data communication network) where the address is associated with the trigger of interest. The URL address or other address is then stored for later viewing and access. During a commercial or other breaks in a live or buffered broadcast content, the viewer can then signal the customer premise equipment to show and access the stored URL address (or other address) in order to view information associated with previous triggers of interest. When a website (or other information) associated with the accessed URL address (or other address) is shown, the website may, for example, be shown in full screen on the television. Alternatively or in addition, the website may be displayed on the television screen, while the live or buffered broadcast content is displayed as a picture-in-picture on the television screen. Alternatively or in addition, the website may be displayed as a picture overlay on the television screen foreground, while the live or buffered broadcast content is displayed on the television screen background. Alternatively or in addition, the website and the live or buffered broadcast content may be displayed in separate areas as split screen views on the television screen. The viewer can then, for example, obtain information or buy items or services in the displayed website. The viewer may then return to viewing the live or buffered broadcast content by enabling an appropriate command, for example, via the remote control device.
- In another embodiment of the invention, an aggregator can be used to aggregate user-selected content. The aggregated user-selected content can then be provided for playback to the user, for example, during commercial breaks in a live or buffered programming content or during breaks in a video telecast or teleconference. For example, the aggregator can be used to locate and collect programming content (or portions of a programming content) related to a specific topic as specified by the user. The collected programming content can then be displayed during commercial breaks in a live or buffered broadcast or during breaks in a video telecast or teleconference. In one embodiment, the aggregator can provide the aggregated user-selected content to a storage unit (such as a PVR) for subsequent playback. In another embodiment, a customer premise equipment (such as a set top box) can perform channel switching to switch from a channel where the live or buffered programming content is showing to another channel (e.g., a dedicated broadcast channel) where the aggregated user-selected content can be shown.
- In the description herein, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of system components and/or methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other systems, methods, components, materials, parts, and/or the like. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.
- Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or “a specific embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment”, “in an embodiment”, or “in a specific embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
- Additionally, the signal arrows in the drawings/Figures are considered as exemplary and are not limiting, unless otherwise specifically noted. Furthermore, the term “or” as used in this disclosure is generally intended to mean “and/or” unless otherwise indicated. Combinations of components or steps will also be considered as being noted, where terminology is foreseen as rendering the ability to separate or combine is unclear.
- It will also be appreciated that one or more of the elements depicted in the drawings/figures can also be implemented in a more separated or integrated manner, or even removed or rendered as inoperable in certain cases, as is useful in accordance with a particular application.
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an interactive
video casting system 100 that can implement a specific embodiment of the invention. Of course, the illustratedsystem 100 is provided for example purposes only, and other systems or topologies may be used within the scope of the invention. In an embodiment, aproduction company 104 produces programming content for transmission to viewers. The transmission is sent via asatellite transmission transceiver 112 over an uplink channel to asatellite 102. Thesatellite 102 then transmits the programming content over a downlink channel to alocal studio 106. Thelocal studio 106 can insert additional programming content (e.g., regional programming content) and/or advertisements as needed into the programming content. The programming content with the insertions is then transmitted from thelocal studio 106 to acable service provider 108. The television programming content may be downloaded to a receiving station, such as a broadcast center (e.g., cable distribution head-end) (not shown) of thecable service provider 108, rather than or in addition to thelocal studio 106. A reverse channel from thecable service provider 108 to thelocal studio 106 may be provided so that thelocal studio 106 can insert additional programming content and feed the television signal back to thecable service provider 108. Thecable service provider 108 then delivers the television signal over acable network 134 to cable subscribers. - The
cable network 134 is provided by thecable service provider 108 to distribute the programming content to cable subscribers. A set top box (STB) 152, typically located on the premises of a cable television subscriber, receives the programming content or television signal from thecable net 134, and delivers the television signal to the subscriber's television set (or other display device) 154. In some specific embodiments, alternatively or in addition, the television signal can be broadcast over a wireless medium and received by a traditional aerial antenna or by a satellite dish, and then delivered to the settop box 152. Alternatively or additionally, features and functionality of the settop box 152 may be integrated into a type of advanced television or other display device. - Moreover, embodiments of the invention can use other types of broadcast media, including but not limited to, digital cable systems, satellite, very-high-data-rate digital subscriber line (VDSL), web casts, and the like. The features provided by the
television set 154 can also be provisioned, in one embodiment, by a personal computer (PC) suitably configured with an adapter to convert television signals into a digitized format, and then to deliver the television signals to the video portion of the computer for display. It is noted that the invention is not limited to any one configuration of display hardware as embodiments of the invention can be realized using alternative reception and display arrangements, as known to those skilled in the art. - In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a connection to a communication network is provided for the cable subscriber. In one embodiment, the connection can be made via a
cable modem 156 over abi-directional communication link 155 to a cable modem termination system within the cable provider's 108 equipment. The connection continues to a data communication network, such as the Internet, by way of a public switched telephone network (PSTN) 132. ThePSTN network 132 is provided herein as an example, and it is understood that other types of networks may be used for connectivity to the Internet. A cable modem arrangement can be used because of its high bandwidth capability. In situations where some cable companies are not equipped to provide cable modem service to their customers, various other arrangements can be made. For example, a conventional modem connection can be used to access the Internet over a telephone line. As another example, Internet access can be gained over a DSL connection or an integrated services digital network (ISDN) connection using a telephone line. Wireless systems are also available for providing Internet access. In one embodiment, downstream data transmission may occur via cable or satellite, and upstream data transmission may occur via a telephone line. - It is noted that the Internet is chosen as an example of a data communication network because it is a well-established network, and connectivity to the Internet is easily made. However, it is noted that a global communication network, such as the Internet, is not required to practice other embodiments of the invention. A locally provided and maintained communication network may be used in an embodiment of the invention.
- Continuing with FIG. 1, the set
top box 152 can include atransceiver 157, such as an infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) transceiver, that can exchange signals with aremote control unit 158 or other user input device. The settop box 152 can be a component that is separate from thetelevision set 154 as shown in FIG. 1, or its features can be built into circuitry of the television set 154 (e.g., an interactive television set). The settop box 152 enables a viewer to select television programming content to view and then delivers the television programming content to thetelevision set 154. Astorage unit 162 can also be coupled to or be a part of the settop box 152. Thestorage unit 162 can include a machine-readable storage medium such as a cache, buffer, memory, diskette, compact disk, tape, or the like and their associated hardware, in one embodiment. In another embodiment, thestorage unit 162 can include a video cassette recorder (VCR). In another embodiment, the storage unit can include a hard disk such as a digital or personal video recorder (DVR or PVR). - As noted above, the
local studio 106 can insert additional programming content into the received transmission, for example, to provide cable content that includes locally provided channels. The programming content is then distributed to customers over thecable network 134. In addition to local programming content insertion, thelocal studio 106 can insert advertising content. Product supplemental information relating to the advertising for participatingmerchants 122 can also be inserted. Product supplemental information can include information relating to the goods or services being advertised in the commercial. In addition to goods and services, coupons and other information services can be made available to the viewer, which in one embodiment can be obtained via the merchant's 122web site 124 on the Internet. Triggers, such as Advanced Television Enhancement Forum (ATVEF) triggers, which are related to theweb site 124 and/or to its contents, can be continuously updated as the television broadcast is being received. - As noted above, the triggers, resources, or announcements can be inserted by the originating
broadcaster 104, alocal broadcaster 106, or by thecable system operator 108. - FIG. 2 is another block diagram showing an example of an interactive video casting system200 and illustrates another point of insertion of the product supplemental information. In a specific embodiment shown in FIG. 2, a
merchant 222, operating aweb site 224, is located such that themerchant 222 is capable of inserting commercial prior to the uplink transmission to thesatellite 102. - As noted above, Internet access is not necessary to practice the invention. A locally provided network may, for example, be used to practice an embodiment of the invention. The
cable provider 108 can supply the foregoing features, for example, by providing a web site or “walled garden” that is accessed by its subscribers. In such a case, thecable provider 108 serves as an intermediary and submits the purchases to theactual merchants - In another embodiment, programming content and/or other data may be distributed to a subscriber/customer via a satellite TV delivery system, which may include a direct broadcast satellite (DBS) system. A DBS system may include, for example, a small 18-inch satellite dish (which is an antenna that can receive a satellite broadcast signal); a digital integrated receiver/decoder (IRD), which separates each channel, and decompresses and translates the digital signal so that a television can show the digital signal; and a remote control that transmits command signals. Programming for a DBS system may be distributed by, for example, multiple high-powered satellites in geo-synchronous orbit, with each satellite having multiple transponders. Compression (e.g., Moving Pictures Experts Group or MPEG based compression) may be used to increase the amount of programming content that can be transmitted in the available bandwidth.
- A digital broadcast center may be used to gather programming content, ensure the digital quality of the programming content, and transmit the signal up to the satellites for delivery. Programming content may be provided to the broadcast center from content providers (e.g., ABC, CNN, ESPN, and so on) via satellite, fiber optic cable, and/or special digital tape. Satellite-delivered programming content are typically immediately digitized, encrypted, and up-linked to the orbiting satellites. The satellites re-transmit the signal back down to every earth-station (or, in other words, every compatible DBS system receiver dish at, for example, homes and businesses of customers).
- Some programming content may be recorded on digital videotape in the broadcast center, and the programming content can be broadcast at later time or day. Before any recorded programming content are viewed by customers, technicians may use post-production equipment to view and analyze each tape to, for example, ensure audio and video quality. Tapes may then be loaded into, for example, a robotic tape handling system, and playback may be triggered by a computerized signal sent from a broadcast automation system. Back-up videotape playback equipment may ensure uninterrupted transmission at all times.
- FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of a representative set top box (or other suitable customer premise equipment or processing device)152 a according to a specific embodiment of the invention. It is noted that the
STB 152 a described below is one of the possible embodiments of theSTB 152 that is shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. It is further noted that the components shown in FIG. 3 may be implemented in other types of customer premise equipment or other types of processing devices. In an embodiment, theSTB 152 a includes anetwork interface 300,processor 310,memory device 330 a,transceiver 157,converter 320,cable modem 156,optional clock 350, and hard disk 162 (which may be any suitable storage device), all interconnected together for communication via asystem bus 340. For purposes of explaining the functionality of the invention, other known components or modules or software in a set top box have been omitted in FIG. 3.Network interface 300 connects theSTB 152 a to the cable network 134 (FIG. 1). In an alternative embodiment, thecable modem 156 or theconverter 320 may provide some or all of the functionality of thenetwork interface 300, and thus, thenetwork interface 300 may be omitted. In another embodiment, thenetwork interface 300 may also provide some or all of the functionalities of theconverter 320 andcable modem 156, and as a result, theconverter 320 and/orcable modem 156 may be omitted in this particular embodiment. Thus, the channels shown in FIG. 3 (e.g., channel 322) may be coupled to thecable modem 156 and/or to thenetwork interface 300. - The processor (controller)310 executes instructions stored in
memory 330 a, which will be discussed in further detail in conjunction with FIG. 4. Theprocessor 310 also typically performs other management functions of theSTB 152 a. - The
transceiver 157 can include an infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) transceiver (or other transceiver types) that can exchange signals with the remote control unit 158 (FIG. 1 or FIG. 2) or other user input device. Theconverter 320 can convert, if necessary, digitally encoded broadcasts to a format usable by the television 154 (FIG. 1 or FIG. 2). In addition, theconverter 320 can convert other data received in an out-of-band portion of a broadcast, such as television scheduling information to a format that can be stored in thememory 330 a orhard disk 162. - The
cable modem 156 can transmit and receive digital information, such as television scheduling information, if not included in the out-of-band portion of a broadcast. In alternative embodiments, thecable modem 156 may be a conventional modem for use over telephone lines or may include any other component or module for transmitting and receiving digital data. - The
STB 152 a may include thehard disk 162 or, in an alternative embodiment, thehard disk 162 may be external toSTB 152 a. For example, in one embodiment, a PVR (not shown) may include thehard disk 162 and may be coupled to theSTB 152 a. Thehard disk 162 may store television programming content in MPEG format or other format or combination of formats. - The
optional clock 350 is typically a digital clock for use with the engines that can be stored in thememory device 330 a (see FIG. 4). Theclock 350 can be updated regularly by using thecable modem 156 to contact an online clock, such as the Atomic Clock at the U.S. Naval Observatory, or to contact a head-end at theprovider 108 so that theclock 350 is synchronized with the clock ofprovider 108. Alternatively, theclock 350 may be set manually by a viewer or may be updated through other methods known to those skilled in the art. - FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a
memory device 330 a in theSTB 152 a (FIG. 3). In the specific embodiment shown in FIG. 4, thememory device 330 a includes arecording engine 410; recordingdata 420; playback engine (or viewing engine) 430;playback data 440; andapplications 445. The various engines discussed herein may be, for example, software, commands, data files, programs, code, modules, instructions, or the like. It is also understood that the various engines described herein may be combined. For example, therecording engine 410 andplayback engine 430 may be combined as asubstitute content engine 432. Furthermore, the various engines (e.g., applications 445) described herein may reside in other storage devices such ashard disk 162. - The
recording engine 410 may enable a viewer to schedule a “season's pass” recording schedule, i.e., to record specific programming content on a daily or other regularly scheduled basis. Therecording engine 410 may also enable a viewer to schedule the recording of a particular programming content at a specific day/time. The programming content may be received by theSTB 152 a via, for example, thecable net 134. Therecording engine 410 then can record the programming content onto thehard disk 162 in MPEG format or other format for later viewing on thetelevision 154. - The
recording data 420 includes viewer-specified recording instructions for therecording engine 410, such as the particular channel(s) to record, the time/day to start recording, and the length of the recording time and/or the time to stop recording. Theplayback engine 430 sends the recorded programming content to theconverter 320 to convert to a format capable to be displayed on thetelevision 154, if necessary. Theplayback engine 430 may also convert the programming content into a format displayable by thetelevision 154 depending on the capabilities of theconverter 320. - In one embodiment, upon receiving a user-enabled command signal426 (e.g., from the user-controlled remote control device 158), the
playback engine 430 can set the substitute content 442 (see FIG. 5A) in place of the currently displayed live programming content or buffered programming content as shown on thescreen 444 of thetelevision 154. Of course, the user can enable thecommand signal 426 by directly actuating a button or switch on the settop box 152 a, instead of using, for example, theremote control device 158. In another embodiment, commercial breaks in the currently displayed live or buffered programming content are automatically detected by theplayback engine 430, and thesubstitute content 442 is automatically displayed during the commercial breaks and paused (or removed from the screen 444) when the commercial break ends and the main program in the broadcast resumes. Commercial breaks in the live or buffered programming content can be detected by having the settop box 152 a monitor for triggers or tags that demarcate commercial breaks. - More than one
substitute content 442 may be displayed by theplayback engine 430. Thesubstitute content 442 can be a previously-recorded programming content (e.g., advertisements, news, movies, and/or other types of shows) as recorded by therecording engine 410, live programming content as selected on a particular channel by theplayback engine 430, or content from an Internet Protocol channel, such as streaming video, electronic mail interaction, and so on. The electronic mail interaction would be automatically activated during, for example, commercial breaks and de-activated (or halted) during the non-commercial segments in the live or buffered programming content. Thesubstitute content 442 may be, for example, stored content as specified by the user, may come from a selected channel as specified by the user, may be content from a default channel, and/or may be stored content that is chosen by default by theplayback engine 430. As described below with reference to FIG. 11A, thesubstitute content 442 may also be content from an aggregated content collection that is based upon a criteria selected by the viewer. - In another embodiment, the
substitute content 442 is displayed for a particular amount of time (e.g., 30 seconds) by theplayback engine 430 after a commercial break occurs in theprogramming content 446 currently displayed on the television screen 444 (see, e.g., FIG. 5C). - In another embodiment, the
substitute content 442 is displayed during breaks in a video telecast or teleconference (where a teleconference may be, for example, a Remote Learning Session or Video Conference) that are shown in thetelevision screen 444. A break in a live action in a video telecast or teleconference may occur, for example, when there is a change in speakers, during the time when equipment is set up, during unforeseen delays in the presentation, during broadcast stoppage, and so on. - Thus, an embodiment of the invention advantageously permits the user to view one or
more substitute content 442 on thetelevision screen 444 during commercials and/or other breaks (e.g., broadcast stoppage) in a currently-shown live broadcast content or buffered broadcast content. The user can, therefore, optimize his/her viewing time by viewing other content when a break occurs in a currently-shown live broadcast content or buffered broadcast content. - An embodiment of the invention also advantageously enables an alternative medium for showing advertisements, since the
substitute content 442 can also include advertisements. The advertisements in thesubstitute content 442 can be shown during commercial breaks of a currently shown broadcast content, during the skip segment (e.g., a 30-second skip segment) of a buffered broadcast where the skip segment contains recorded advertisements in the buffered broadcast, or during other breaks in a current broadcast content. - The
playback engine 430 may also have the functionality of a display engine for showing the images on the screen 444 (see FIG. 5A) of thetelevision 154 in various formats. For example, thesubstitute content 442 may be displayed in full screen mode on thetelevision screen 444, as shown in FIG. 5A, while the current programming content is removed from thescreen 444. - Alternatively or in addition, as shown in FIG. 5B, the
playback engine 430 may display thesubstitute content 442 as themain screen 444 view, while displaying the live orother programming content 446 as a picture-in-picture 448 on thetelevision screen 444. Of course, thesubstitute content 442 may alternatively be displayed in the picture-in-picture 448, while theprogramming content 448 is displayed as themain screen 444 view. - Alternatively or in addition, as shown in FIG. 5C, the
substitute content 442 may be displayed as a picture overlay on thetelevision screen 444 foreground, while the live orother programming content 446 is displayed on thetelevision screen 444 background. - Alternatively or in addition, as shown in FIG. 5D, the
substitute content 442 and the live orother programming content 446 may be displayed inseparate areas television screen 444. - Prior to sending the
substitute content 442 from the hard disk 162 (or via a selected broadcast channel as graphically represented by line 322), thesubstitute content 442 is typically decoded by the converter 320 (FIG. 3) prior to displaying thesubstitute content 442 on thetelevision screen 444. Similarly, prior to displaying theprogramming content 446 on thetelevision screen 444, theprogramming content 446 is typically decoded by theconverter 320. - Referring again to FIG. 4, the
memory 330 a may also storeapplications 445 which may represent one or more application. Theapplications 445 may also be stored in thedigital storage device 162. Theapplications 445 may include, for example, a browser for accessing a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) address on the Internet and for permitting web pages in a URL address to be displayed on thetelevision screen 444. Theapplications 445 may also include an e-mail engine that can detect when an e-mail message has been received by the settop box 152 a. The email engine can also permit the display of an e-mail message on thetelevision screen 444, the creation and transmission of an e-mail message from theSTB 152 a, and/or other e-mail processing functions. Theapplications 445 may also include a streaming video engine for processing streaming video that is received from an IP channel. - The
applications 445 may also include middleware (sometimes called “plumbing”) for connecting two sides of an application and passing data between them. - The
playback data 440 may be stored in, for example, thehard disk 162 and include a list of recorded substitute content 442 (e.g., substitute contents 442 a and 442 b. Theplayback engine 430 determines the user-selectedsubstitute content 442 to be displayed on thetelevision screen 444 in response to a user-enabled command 426 (e.g., provided by a user via a remote control device) or in response to the detection of a break in the currently-shownprogramming content 446. - The
playback data 440 may also include a tag 451 (FIG. 4) identifying a specific recorded substitute content to be displayed as the default substitute content in response to user-enabledcommands 426 or in response to the detection of a break in the currently-shownprogramming content 446. Thus, the default substitute content may also be displayed automatically when a commercial break is detected in the currently displayed programming content. Detection of commercial breaks in a programming content is performed by, for example, detecting identifiers that identify the beginning and end of a commercial. Various methods or mechanisms can be used to identify a sequence, such as, for example, include MPEG methods that multiplex special data stream(s) into the digital video transport stream, encoding/embedding data in the vertical blanking interval (VBI) portion of the analog television video signals (e.g., ATVEF triggers), using out-of-band modems (e.g., Digital Audio-Visual Council or “DAVIC” modems) to provide the interactive content, and other such techniques that provide information related to the content of the television signals. Another method to identify breaks in the programming content is by scanning the closed caption text in the programming content for keywords that are of interest to the user. This method can be used to determine the beginning and ending of break segments. For example, a local new broadcast can be broken into “headlines”, prominent local stories, national news, international news, business news, human interest stories, sports, weather, and commentary. A user may elect to skip the sports or weather section (especially an interactive user that receives these content on-demand) and to use this segment time to view buffered content (i.e., substitute content). - Further, the
playback data 440 may also include tags 452 indicating the portions of a recorded substitute content that have been shown by theplayback engine 430 for viewing on thetelevision screen 444. The tags 452 thus permits theplayback engine 430 to skip the showing of previously shown substitute content. Thus, as an example, the user may be viewing a first program (e.g., programming content 446) on thescreen 444. When a commercial break occurs in the first program, the end user may initiate a second program (e.g., substitute content 442) to be displayed on thetelevision screen 444. As discussed above, the user may reduce the first program into, for example, a picture-in-picture 448 and bring the second program on the main window ofscreen 444. When the commercial break in the first program comes to an end, the user can perform a swap function to bring the first program from the picture-in-picture 448 to the primary focus on thescreen 444. In one embodiment, the second program will pause, and the tags 452 can be placed by the playback engine 430 (FIG. 4) at the segment where the second program is paused. The user can then resume viewing of the second program (based on the tag 452 location) during the next set of commercials. Of course, other types of pause features or techniques may be used to indicate where the second program (substitute content) is paused. - In one embodiment, a live programming content (such as content446) may also be continuously recorded (e.g., in a live program buffer in hard disk 162) while the viewer is viewing the substitute content (e.g., substitute content 442). Thus, if a commercial break occurs in the live programming content, the viewer can switch viewing to the substitute content while the
recording engine 410 records the live programming content. The live programming content may be, for example, recorded automatically (as programmed by the user) or upon receiving user-enabled commands from, for example, a user-controlledremote control device 158. If the commercial break (in the live programming content) ends before the viewer finishes watching at least a segment of thesubstitute content 442, then the following compensation may occur. When the viewer switches viewing from the substitute content back to theprogramming content 446, the user can, for example, issue via remote control device 158 a replay or rewind command so that the recorded portion of the live programming content is rewound to permit the user the opportunity to view the missed portions of the live programming content. Since the live programming content may be buffered in a live program buffer, the viewer can view the remaining segments of the live programming content after watching the missed recorded portions of the live programming content. Alternatively or in addition, the live program can be paused after the end of the commercial segment. - FIG. 6A is a block diagram of a
programming content 446 a with a disable feature to prevent the disruption of viewing of commercial segments in theprogramming content 446 a. For example, an advertiser can pay the broadcaster extra fees (or rates) on the rate card to inserttags 455 prior to acommercial segment 457. Thetag 455 deactivates theplayback engine 430 so that the viewer will not be able to view thesubstitute content 442 when thecommercial segment 457 is showing on thetelevision screen 444. As a result, an advertiser can pay extra rates to the broadcaster to insure the viewing of the commercials of the advertisers to consumers. - FIG. 6B is a flowchart diagram illustrating a
method 460 of preventing the disruption of viewing of commercial segments in theprogramming content 446 a. An advertiser or broadcaster (or other party) may pay (462) a multiple system operator (MSO) a fee or extra rate to prevent disruption of a commercial in the broadcast content. The fee or extra rate enables triggers or tags that prevent s subscriber to view substitute content during a commercial break in the broadcast content. The advertiser (or broadcaster or other party) transmits (464) a trigger that prevents the display of substitute content during a commercial break in the broadcast content. For example, the trigger or tag may prevent an overlay with substitute content from being displayed during the commercial break. As a result, the display of a substitute content is prevented (466) during a commercial break. Themethod 460 permits the MSO to obtain additional revenues from the fee (or extra rate) paid by an advertiser (or broadcaster), and permits an advertiser to prevent disruptions of commercials. - FIG. 6C is a flowchart diagram illustrating a
method 470 of permitting a subscriber to view substitute content during a commercial segment in theprogramming content 446 a. A subscriber may pay (472) a multiple system operator (MSO) a fee or extra rate to permit the subscriber to view substitute content during a commercial in the broadcast content. The advertiser (or broadcaster or other party) transmits (474) a trigger that prevents the display of substitute content during a commercial break in the broadcast content. For example, the trigger or tag may prevent an overlay with substitute content from being displayed during the commercial break. The subscriber can disable (476) the trigger or tag that prevents the display of substitute content. As a result, the subscriber may view (478) a substitute during a commercial break. Themethod 470 permits the MSO to obtain additional revenues from the fee (or extra rate) paid subscriber, and permits a subscriber to view substitute content during commercial breaks. - Thus, the tags455 (FIG. 6A) may work in cooperation with an MSO and/or subscriber authorization features to enable/disable the effectiveness of the
tags 455. As mentioned above, a subscriber who pays an additional fee may be able to disable thetags 455 so that the subscriber can view substitute content during breaks in the programming content. An advertiser or broadcaster can pay (462) a fee or extra rates to an MSO to prevent the display of substitute content during a commercial break in a broadcast content or to prevent other disruptions of commercials in the broadcast content. - FIG. 7 is a flowchart diagram of a
method 500 for substituting a substitute content in place of a live or prerecorded programming content as shown on, for example, atelevision screen 444. In one embodiment, the playback engine 430 (FIG. 4) may perform themethod 500. Themethod 500 may run continuously or at representative intervals. Further, multiple instances of themethod 500 may run simultaneously. A first programming content is displayed (510) on, for example, the screen of thetelevision 154 or other display device. The first programming content may be a live programming content, buffered programming content, or other programming content, such as a video telecast, teleconference, or prerecorded programming content. Next, a substitute signal is received (520). The substitute signal may be received by theSTB 152 a from, for example, a remote control device or other device, such as theremote control device 158. Typically, a viewer will send the substitute signal via theremote control device 158 upon viewing a commercial on thetelevision 154. However, the viewer may also send the substitute signal at any time, such as when live action takes a break between speakers in a teleconference. In another embodiment of the invention, the substitute signal is a tag in the broadcast, indicating the start of a commercial. - In one embodiment, the substitute signal may be ignored if a commercial contains a signal, such as a particular tag, indicating that the viewing of the commercial in the programming content should not be disrupted. For example, this enables an advertiser, upon payment of an extra fee, to prevent skipping of commercials or substitution over commercials.
- Next, the substitute content is displayed (530). In an embodiment of the invention, the
playback engine 430 selects the substitute content from thehard disk 162 for viewing based on theplayback data 440. For example, if there is multiple substitute content on thehard disk 162, then theplayback engine 430 can select a default programming content or pre-specified substitute content as indicated indata 440. Further, if a portion of the substitute content has already been viewed, as indicated by a tag (tags 452 a & 542 b in FIG. 4) in thedata 440, then theplayback engine 430 will begin displaying the substitute content starting from the end of the previously viewed content portion. In another embodiment of the invention, theplayback engine 430 enables a viewer to select a substitute content to view from a list of substitute content in theplayback data 440 upon receipt of a substitute signal. In another embodiment, theplayback engine 430 selects substitute content including a live program that is transmitted along a specified channel. In another embodiment, theplayback engine 430 selects substitute content including IP channel content such as streaming video, e-mail interaction, and so on. The IP channel content may be received by theSTB 152 a, for example, via thecable net 134. - While the substitute content is being displayed (530), a small window may also be optionally displayed (540) showing a reduced view of the first programming content, thus enabling a viewer to monitor the status of the first programming content. For example, if a viewer sends a substitute signal to avoid watching commercials, the viewer will want to return to view the first programming content after the end of the commercials. In one embodiment, the first programming content may also be continuously recorded by
recording engine 410 while viewing the substitute content. Of course, the first programming content may also be completely removed from the screen when the substitute content is being shown on the screen. - In another embodiment, only the replayed segment of a sports broadcast are recorded by
recording engine 410 or tagged byplayback engine 430. To determine the replayed segment, various methods may be used such as detecting for a signal difference that characterize the replayed segment, or comparing the replayed segment with a prior recorded content stored in a buffer. Typically, many people are probably only interested in highlights (e.g., great plays in a baseball game) which are replayed in, for example, a sports news program. - In another embodiment, the close caption of a live programming content (e.g., a sports news show) is watched by the viewer while the viewer is watching a pre-recorded or streaming content to view a highlight (e.g., a great play in a baseball game).
- In another embodiment of the invention, a countdown timer may be displayed in addition to or as an alternative to the small window. The countdown timer may count down in 30-second increments, indicating the end portion of successive 30-second commercials. The viewer can then pause or halt the substitute content and continue viewing the first programming content on the screen.
- Next, an end-substitution signal is received (550). In an embodiment of the invention, the
remote control device 158 can send the end-substitution signal to theSTB 152 a. In another embodiment of the invention, a tag in the programming content may indicate the end of a commercial or the restart of the noncommercial segment in the programming content. Tags 452 a and 452 b may then be stored (560) in, for example, theplayback data 440, marking the portion of the substitute content that has been viewed. In an embodiment of the invention, theplayback engine 430 stores the tags 452 a and 452 b. The first programming content is then displayed (570) in full screen on thetelevision 154 by, for example, theplayback engine 430. In addition, the substitute content may be displayed in a small window in reduced size and in a paused mode. - FIG. 8 illustrates a block diagram of another representative set top box (or other customer premise equipment or processing device) according to a specific embodiment of the invention. The
STB 152 b includes anetwork interface 300,processor 310,memory device 330 b,transceiver 157,converter 320,cable modem 156,clock 350, and hard disk 162 (also referred to as storage device 162), all interconnected together for communication viasystem bus 340. In one embodiment, the components ofSTB 152 b, except for at least some of the programming content in thememory device 330 b, may be substantially similar to corresponding components in theSTB 152 a. The processor (controller) 310 executes instructions stored in thememory 330 b, which will be discussed in further detail in conjunction with FIG. 10. - FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a
memory device 330 b of theSTB 152 b (FIG. 8). In one embodiment, thememory device 330 b includes atrigger marking engine 710,marked triggers 720, and triggerviewing engine 730. Of course, other applications, such as theapplications 445 in FIG. 4, may also be loaded in thememory 330 b. Additionally, theengines memory 330 a (FIG. 4) and may enable the below described functionalities in theSTB 152 a. - The
trigger marking engine 710 enables a viewer to mark triggers (in a broadcast content) during television viewing for follow up viewing. In one embodiment, thetrigger marking engine 710 stores the marked triggers in themarked triggers 720 where a marked trigger includes, for example, a URL address (or other address information) associated with the marked trigger. Thetrigger viewing engine 730 enables a viewer to later select a marked trigger and access a URL address (or other address information) associated with the selected marked trigger. Thus, when, for example, a break occurs in a live programming content (or buffered programming content, recorded programming content, or other content), a viewer can select and access a URL address in order to access the website (or other interactive site) that is linked to the URL address. Alternatively, the user may access other information linked to the selected marked trigger. The website can be shown on thetelevision screen 444 in various formats as similarly shown, for example, by thesubstitute content 442 in FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and/or 5D, while the programming content may be removed from thescreen 444 or shown as in FIGS. 5B, 5C, and 5D during the break in the broadcast programming content. Thus, during the break, the viewer can view information and/or buy products or services from the displayed website (or other displayed information). - FIG. 10 is a flowchart diagram of a
method 800 for substituting live programming content or other programming content with trigger-associated information. In one embodiment, thetrigger marking engine 710 in conjunction with thetrigger viewing engine 730 performs the operation ofmethod 800. Themethod 800 may run continuously or at representative intervals. Further, multiple instances of themethod 800 may be run simultaneously on a single STB. - First, a programming content is displayed (810) on, for example, the
television screen 444. The programming content may include a live programming content or pre-recorded or buffered programming content. The programming content also includes triggers, which may include associated URL or other address information. The URL or other address information is simultaneously displayed on thetelevision screen 444 with the programming content. If a viewer of the programming content is interested in the trigger, the viewer can mark the trigger by, for example, sending a command via a remote control device, such asdevice 158, to theSTB 152 b, where the command is received (820). In a single viewing session, the viewer may mark a plurality of triggers. - The marked triggers are then stored (830). In one embodiment, the
trigger marking engine 710 stores the marked triggers inmarked triggers 720 which may be URL or other address information. Next, a skip-program signal is received (840). If there is a single stored marked trigger, then information associated with the single trigger is displayed (850). For example, if the trigger is a website address, the website is loaded and displayed. In one embodiment, the website or information associated with the trigger is preloaded by theplayback engine 430 so that when the website address is selected, the viewer during the commercial break does not need to wait for the website or information to load. If there are multiple stored triggers, then information associated with the triggers may be cycled after a pre-defined amount of time or according to viewer input. Further, a viewer may be able to select which trigger information to display from list of stored triggers. In an embodiment of the invention, thetrigger viewing engine 730 displays the information associated with a trigger. - In addition to displaying information associated with a trigger, the programming content may also be optionally displayed on the
television screen 444. Alternatively or in addition to displaying the programming content, a countdown timer may be displayed to indicate to the viewer when a commercial period ends. The timer may countdown in 30-second increments or other increments. - An end-skip signal is then received (860). In one embodiment of the invention, the
remote control device 158 may send the end-skip signal, which is then received bySTB 152 b. Triggers, for which trigger-associated information has been displayed, may then be deleted (870). In one embodiment of the invention, thetrigger viewing engine 730 deletes displayed triggers from the marked triggers 720. The programming content is then displayed (880) in full screen mode on thescreen 444. - Aggregation of Substitute Content
- Referring now to FIG. 11A, shown generally at900 is an interactive television system that can implement another specific embodiment of the invention. The
system 900 includes one or more head-ends 902 (or broadcast centers) to distribute television broadcast content and interactive television (sometimes referred to as “iTV”) content to a plurality of subscriber residences (or display stage) 904. The head-end 902 includes broadcast content processing and iTV services hardware and software (including processors, servers, storage media, databases, and so on), which are shown generally in FIG. 11A as aunit 906. Theunit 906 can receive national broadcast content andiTV content 908 from content providers, satellite feeds, servers, and/or other sources. Theunit 906 can also receive local broadcast content andiTV content 910 from parties such as local studios, servers, content providers, and/or other sources. - A cable modem termination system (CMTS)912 provides the head-end 902 (and ultimately the subscriber residences 904) with access to the
Internet 914. Acombiner 916 places the signals and/or data provided by theunit 906 and theCMTS 912 into appropriate channels of acommunication network 918. In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, thecommunication network 918 can include, for example, a hybrid fiber-coaxial cable distribution network comprising channels having a bandwidth of approximately six (6) MHz. Some of these channels of thecommunication network 918 are used to carry television signals (which may be accompanied by interactive content and other trigger information), while other channels are used for upstream and downstream communication of data with theInternet 914. Some other channels (sometimes referred to as “out-of-band” channels) of thecommunication network 918 may be used to carry electronic program guide (EPG) information. In one embodiment, at least one of these out-of-band channels may be used to carry aggregated television programming content and/or related data. - Examples of techniques that can be used to provide interactive content and other trigger information from the
unit 906 to set top boxes (or other types of customer premise equipment) in thesubscriber residences 904, via channels of thecommunication network 918, include MPEG methods that multiplex special data stream(s) into the digital video transport stream, encoding/embedding data in the vertical blanking interval (VBI) portion of the analog television video signals (e.g., ATVEF triggers), using out-of-band modems (e.g., Digital Audio-Visual Council or “DAVIC” modems) to provide the interactive content, and other such techniques that provide information related to the content of the television signals. For the channels of thecommunication network 918 that are used for communication of data to and from theInternet 914, protocols such as Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications (DOCSIS), transmission control protocol/Internet protocol (TCP/IP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), file transfer protocol (FTP), or other suitable protocols/techniques may be used. - In an embodiment of the invention, ATVEF triggers or other triggering mechanisms can be used to identify specific topics of particular television programming content in a television signal. For instance, if the sports segment of a news telecast is showing highlights of a particular baseball player's homerun, that baseball player can be identified in the trigger. As another example, triggers may be used to demarcate the beginning and ending locations of that baseball player's highlights, the sports segment, the commercial breaks of the news telecast, or the news telecast itself.
- In an embodiment of the invention, an
aggregator 940 can aggregate user-specified television programming content. Theaggregator 940 can include a combination of hardware and software (such as one or more processors, one or more servers, databases and/or other storage media, software and other machine-readable instructions stored on a machine-readable medium, and so on) that delivers its aggregated content to client terminals of subscribers via at least one of the channels of thecommunication network 918, or via some other communication link (such as a DSL connection or telephone modem connection). Theaggregator 940 can be located in the head-end 902 in one embodiment, while in other embodiments, theaggregator 940 can be located outside of the head-end 902, including somewhere in theInternet 914. - The
aggregator 940 can be communicatively coupled to theunit 906 and/or to theCMTS 912. For instance, in several example implementations where theaggregator 940 operates to provide URL addresses (or other interactive information peculiar to theInternet 914 or other suitable data communication network) to the client terminals of subscribers, theaggregator 940 can be communicatively coupled to theCMTS 912. It is to be appreciated that theaggregator 940 need not necessarily be coupled to theCMTS 912 in some embodiments, provided that theaggregator 940 can aggregate television programming content from various sources and then deliver the aggregated television programming content to subscribers. - As mentioned, the
aggregator 940 can be coupled to or comprise part of theunit 906, as depicted in FIG. 11A. In such an embodiment, theaggregator 940 can have access to a database 905 that stores user-specified preferences for programming content as provided by a viewer. For instance, entries in the database 905 may indicate that the particular viewer wishes to aggregate all highlights for a particular baseball player for a specified time period. The database 905 may further identify the viewer by residence address, identification code of the viewer's client terminal (e.g., a set top box or recording device having network connectivity), or other information to uniquely identify the viewer from other viewers. Then, theaggregator 940 can monitor television signals provided fromsources unit 906 for that baseball player's highlights for the specified time period, and then store the highlights in a storage unit (e.g., database 905) at the head-end 902. - Various techniques may be used by the
aggregator 940 to locate the user-specified television programming content. In one embodiment, theaggregator 940 can read triggers of all television signals that arrive at theunit 906, so as to identify the topics/content of the television signals as specified in the triggers, and then correlate the trigger content with the entries in the database 905. If relevant television programming content segments are detected from the triggers, then theaggregator 940 records such segments. In another embodiment, theaggregator 940 can identify television programming content segments of interest by reading close-captioning data that accompanies the television signals. Alternatively or in addition, theaggregator 940 can scan EPG information that is provided to the head-end 902, with the EPG information specifying data such as show titles, actors, subjects, and the like. - Various other techniques can be used by the
aggregator 940 to aggregate television programming content and to provide the aggregated television programming content to subscribers. Examples of these techniques include receiving the television programming content from third-party entities that collect the programming content as a service, or receiving the television programming content via direct feeds from content providers to theaggregator 940. - At the
residence 904, asplitter 930 is coupled to receive the television signals (including interactive content and other trigger information) from thecommunication network 918. Thesplitter 930 sends the received television signals (including interactive content and other trigger information) to a first client terminal, such as aset top box 152, which subsequently sends the signals and other information to atelevision 154. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the settop box 152 includes components such as digital/analog video processing unit(s), VBI decoders, central processing units, memory, video graphics processing unit(s), software, and other components that can detect, extract, and process trigger information and other interactive content that is received from thecommunication network 918. For instance, these components can extract URL addresses from the trigger information and present the URL addresses as hypertext links or other visual indicator on thetelevision 154, which the viewer can “click” to connect to the Internet 914 (or other suitable data communication network). The operation of these components is generally known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, the specifics of their operation are not shown in FIG. 11A or described in further detail herein for the sake of simplicity of explanation. - As previously stated above, the set
top box 152 can include or be coupled to thestorage unit 162. Thestorage unit 162 can comprise a machine-readable storage medium such as a cache, buffer, memory, diskette, compact disk, tape, flash memory, random access memory (RAM) or the like and their associated hardware, in one embodiment. In an embodiment thestorage unit 162 can comprise a hard disk such as a digital or personal video recorder (DVR or PVR). - In some embodiments, the
splitter 930 can be coupled to thecable modem 156. With basic embodiments of thesplitter 930, thecable modem 156 receives the same input as the set top box 152 (e.g., receives the same television signals). With more complicated embodiments of thesplitter 930, thecable modem 156 and the settop box 152 may receive different channels. Whether receiving the same or different channels from thesplitter 930, a primary function of thecable modem 156 is to provide one or moreancillary devices 938 with access to theInternet 914. Examples of theancillary device 938 can include, but not be limited to, Personal Computers (PCs), wireless handheld devices, companion set top boxes, two-way advanced remote controls, or other browser-enabled display devices or client terminals that have the capability to communicate with theInternet 914. The ancillary device(s) 938 can include or be coupled to the storage unit 162 (or other storage unit). - In operation according to an embodiment, aggregated television programming content can be sent to the storage unit162 (or to the
memory 330 in the STB 152) by theaggregator 940. This may be done by way of broadcast, IP multicast, or unicast from theaggregator 940 to storage unit(s) 162 of one ormore subscriber residences 904. In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the aggregated television programming content can be sent to thestorage unit 162 by first identifying the storage unit that is to receive the aggregated television programming content, such as via an identification number of thestorage unit 162, and then sending the aggregated television programming content to thestorage unit 162 in a format that is compatible with the particular communication network and with the storage unit 162 (such as a digital format). For example, the aggregated television program can be sent to thestorage unit 162 by way of theCMTS 912, through a channel of thecommunication network 918 that uses the DOCSIS protocol, and then to thecable modem 156. Alternatively or in addition, an out-of-band channel may be used to send the aggregated television programming content from theaggregator 940. In yet other embodiments, the aggregated television programming content may be sent to thestorage unit 162 via a different connection to theInternet 914, or the aggregated television programming content may be sent via one of the available channels of thecommunication network 918. - Afterwards, incoming real-time television programming content (or buffered incoming programming content) is monitored by the set
top box 152 for triggers that demarcate commercial breaks. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention when a trigger is received to indicate the beginning of a commercial break in the real-time television programming content, thetelevision 154 is coupled to thestorage unit 162 for playback of the stored programming content during the commercial break. When a trigger is received to indicate the end of the commercial break, the input to thetelevision 154 is switched from thestorage unit 162 back to the real-time programming content. During presentation of the real-time television programming content, a pause feature of thestorage unit 162 may be used to pause or otherwise mark the stored television programming content, so that when it resumes playing during a subsequent commercial, it can begin playback at the proper location. - As similarly described above, the stored programming content (e.g., substitute content)442 may also be displayed to a viewer during a break in the incoming television program (or during a break in the buffered incoming television program) by having the viewer enable a
command 426 for displaying the stored programming content. - In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the aggregated television programming content may be delivered for presentation by way of switching to a channel where the programming content is carried. For example, the
aggregator 940 may first store the aggregated television programming content in the storage unit 905 at the head-end 902. Upon recognition of a trigger that demarcates the beginning of a commercial break in a real-time television programming content, the settop box 152 can send a signal to theunit 906 at the head-end 902 to instruct theunit 906 to provide the aggregated television programming content. Theunit 906 then sends a command back to the settop box 152 that instructs the settop box 152 to tune/switch from the channel of the real-time programming content (e.g., channel 945) to a different channel (i.e., a dedicated broadcast channel 947) where the aggregated programming content is to be carried. The aggregated television programming content is then delivered on thatdedicated broadcast channel 947 to the settop box 152 by theunit 906. The process can work similarly (in reverse) when the settop box 152 recognizes a trigger that demarcates the end of the commercial break, resulting in a switch back to theoriginal channel 945 and the pausing of the aggregated television programming content. - The set
top box 152 can also tune/switch from theoriginal channel 945 to the dedicated broadcast channel 947 (and tune/switch from thededicated broadcast channel 947 to the original channel 945) by having the viewer enableappropriate commands 960. - In another embodiment of the invention,
aggregator 940 directscommands 965 toSTB 152 to tune to a particular channel (e.g., channel 947) at a particular time based on user-specified television programming content preferences. Theaggregator 940 may also commandSTB 152 to begin recording and end recording so as to only record the programming content corresponding to the user preferences. The programming content may be recorded in, for example, thestorage medium 162. At a later time,aggregator 940 can then commandSTB 152 to substitute a live programming content (or buffered incoming programming content) with the recorded programming content. The advantages of recording locally at theSTB 152 may include the following: (1) the programming content does not have to be captured and recorded at theaggregator 940 and then transmitted to theSTB 152, and (2) dedicated bandwidth for transmission of the aggregated programming content is not required. In this embodiment, preferably, theSTB 152 will ignore commands received fromaggregator 940 ifSTB 152 is currently tuned to a channel, indicating that the STB is in use. If theSTB 152 has dual channel tuning capability and dual channel recording capability, thenSTB 152 may display the programming content from a first channel and still record from another channel as specified by theaggregator 940. - In the above-embodiment, if the
STB 152 has only single channel tuning and single channel recording capability, then programming content aggregation can be accomplished during periods in which theSTB 152 is not being used (e.g., during late at night or when the user is on vacation). This is because the only available resource is utilized during regular television viewing. If theSTB 152 has dual channel tuning and dual channel recording capability, then one channel can be used for the aggregation of programming content, while another channel can be used for regular television viewing. - It is to be appreciated that in other embodiments, the
unit 906 can be capable of detecting triggers that demarcate the beginning and ending of commercial breaks. In such embodiments, theunit 906 can send a command 970 to the settop box 152 to tune to the channel where the aggregated television programming content is to be carried, instead of having the settop box 152 send a signal to theunit 906 that requests playback of the aggregated television programming content. - In another embodiment as shown in FIG. 12, various subscriber areas904 a to 904 c can communicate with each other via the
Internet 914 or other data communication network. The number ofsubscriber areas 904 may vary. Aserver 980 may include an application 982 that permits the following functions. For example, a user at the area 904 a may be able to access directories in thememory 330 b orhard drive 162 b (in area 904 b) or directories in the memory 330 c orhard drive 162 c (in area 904 c) to a file-sharing system via the Internet ornetwork 914. The user in area 904 a may then view and download the aggregated content in the accessed directories of the above-mentioned memory devices. The downloaded aggregated content may be stored in thememory devices 330 a and/or 162 a and displayed during a break in a programming content that is being received by the STB 1512 a. - Similarly, a user in the area904 b may be able to access directories of memory devices in areas 904 a and 904 c and download aggregated content that are stored in those memory devices.
- FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a
method 1000 for collecting and displaying aggregated substitute content in accordance with a specific embodiment of the invention. Themethod 1000 first aggregates (1005) substitute content based upon user or viewer preference(s). The aggregate content may then be delivered (1010) to a customer premise equipment (e.g., set top box 152) of the viewer. During a break in a currently-shown content, at least one of the substitute content in the aggregate content may be displayed (1015). When the break in the currently-shown content terminates, the display of the substitute content may be paused or halted (1020). The currently-shown content may continue to be displayed. - Other variations and modifications of the above-described embodiments and methods are possible in light of the foregoing teaching. For example, the components, modules and software shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 may be implemented in a processing device such as a personal computer or a suitable notebook computer.
- Further, at least some of the components of this invention may be implemented by using a programmed general purpose digital computer, by using application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs) or field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or by using a network of interconnected components and circuits. Connections may be wired, wireless, by modem, and the like.
- It is also within the scope of the present invention to implement a program or code that can be stored in an electronically-readable medium to permit a computer to perform any of the methods described above.
- The above description of illustrated embodiments of the invention, including what is described in the Abstract, is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. While specific embodiments of, and examples for, the invention are described herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the invention, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize.
- These modifications can be made to the invention in light of the above detailed description. The terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the invention to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims. Rather, the scope of the invention is to be determined entirely by the following claims, which are to be construed in accordance with established doctrines of claim interpretation.
Claims (62)
1. A method collecting content and performing a substitution for a broadcast content, the method comprising:
aggregating substitute content based upon a user preference;
delivering the aggregated substitute content; and
displaying the aggregated substitute content in response to a break in a broadcast content.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the aggregated substitute content is stored in a memory.
3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:
prior to displaying the aggregated substitute content, retrieving the substitute content from the memory.
4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:
prior to displaying the aggregate substitute content, selecting a channel capable to deliver the aggregate substitute content.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the substitute content is aggregated by identifying the substitute content as a particular topic.
6. The method of claim 5 wherein the substitute content is identified by reading a trigger content of the substitute content.
7. The method of claim 5 wherein the substitute content is identified by the close-captioning data of the substitute content.
8. The method of claim 5 wherein the substitute content is identified by scanning electronic program guide information.
9. The method of claim 5 wherein the substitute content is identified based upon a source of the substitute content.
10. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:
displaying the broadcast content when the break terminates.
11. The method of claim 1 wherein the broadcast content comprises live programming content.
12. The method of claim 1 wherein the broadcast content comprises buffered programming content.
13. The method of claim 1 wherein the broadcast content comprises video telecast content.
14. The method of claim 1 wherein the broadcast content comprises teleconference content.
15. The method of claim 14 wherein the teleconference content comprises remote learning session broadcast content.
16. The method of claim 14 wherein the teleconference content comprises video conference content.
17. The method of claim 1 wherein the break in the broadcast content includes a commercial segment.
18. The method of claim 1 wherein the break in the broadcast content includes a commercial skip segment.
19. The method of claim 1 wherein the break in the broadcast content represents a broadcast stoppage.
20. The method of claim 1 wherein the break in the broadcast content represents non-activity in a broadcast event.
21. The method of claim 1 wherein the substitute content comprises live broadcast content.
22. The method of claim 1 wherein the substitute content comprises buffered broadcast content.
23. The method of claim 1 wherein the substitute content comprises recorded broadcast content.
24. The method of claim 1 wherein the substitute content comprises Internet Protocol channel content.
25. The method of claim 24 wherein the Internet Protocol channel content comprises streaming video.
26. The method of claim 25 wherein the Internet Protocol channel content comprises electronic mail interaction.
27. The method of claim 1 wherein the substitute content is displayed in full screen mode.
28. The method of claim 1 wherein the substitute content is displayed as a main screen view and the broadcast content is displayed as a picture-in-picture.
29. The method of claim 1 wherein the substitute content is displayed in the screen foreground and the broadcast content is displayed in the screen background.
30. The method of claim 1 wherein the substitute content is displayed in a first screen area and the broadcast content is displayed in a second screen area.
31. The method of claim 1 wherein the substitute content is displayed in response to a user-enabled command.
32. The method of claim 1 wherein the substitute content is automatically displayed upon detection of the break in the broadcast content.
33. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:
displaying a timer to indicate a time length for showing the substitute content.
34. The method of claim 1 wherein the substitute content is automatically displayed in response to the break in the broadcast content.
35. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:
pausing the substitute content when the break in the broadcast content terminates.
36. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:
recording the broadcast content when the substitute content is displayed.
37. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:
pausing the broadcast content when the break ends.
38. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:
including a tag to prevent disruption of the display of the broadcast content during the occurrence of the break.
39. The method of claim 38 , further comprising:
paying an operator to include the tag in the broadcast content.
40. The method of claim 38 , further comprising:
paying an operator to disable the tag.
41. The method of claim 1 wherein the broadcast content includes a trigger.
42. The method of claim 1 wherein the broadcast content is recorded to permit viewing of a missed segment in the broadcast content when the display of the substitute content terminates.
43. The method of claim 1 wherein a pre-selected segment of the broadcast content is recorded during display of the substitute content.
44. The method of claim 43 wherein the pre-selected segment is content replayed during the showing of the broadcast content.
45. The method of claim 40 wherein the pre-selected segment is viewed while displaying close caption text from the broadcast content.
46. A method of substituting broadcast content displayed on a screen, the method comprising:
determining an occurrence of a break in a broadcast content; and
displaying user-specified substitute content on the screen in response to the occurrence of the break.
47. A method of substituting broadcast content displayed on a screen, the method comprising:
receiving broadcast content; and
permitting the display of user-specified substitute content in response to a break in the broadcast content.
48. A system for collecting content and performing a substitution for a broadcast content, the system comprising:
an aggregator configured to aggregate substitute content based upon a user preference;
a transmission path communicatively coupled to the aggregator and configured to deliver the aggregated substitute content; and
a display stage communicatively coupled to the transmission path and configured to display the aggregated substitute content in response to a break in a broadcast content.
49. The system of claim 48 wherein the aggregated substitute content is stored in a memory.
50. The system of claim 49 , further comprising:
prior to displaying the aggregated substitute content, retrieving the substitute content from the memory.
51. The system of claim 48 , further comprising:
prior to displaying the aggregate substitute content, selecting a channel capable to deliver the aggregate substitute content.
52. The system of claim 48 , wherein the substitute content is aggregated by identifying the substitute content as a particular topic.
53. The system of claim 52 wherein the substitute content is identified by reading a trigger content of the substitute content.
54. The system of claim 52 wherein the substitute content is identified by the close-captioning data of the substitute content.
55. The system of claim 52 wherein the substitute content is identified by scanning electronic program guide information.
56. The system of claim 52 wherein the substitute content is identified based upon a source of the substitute content.
57. The system of claim 1 wherein the display stage is configured to display the broadcast content when the break terminates.
58. An article of manufacture, comprising:
a machine-readable medium having stored thereon instructions to:
receive broadcast content; and
permit the display of user-specified substitute content in response to a break in the broadcast content.
59. A system for substituting broadcast content displayed on a screen, the system comprising:
means for receiving broadcast content; and
communicatively coupled to the receiving means, means for permitting the display of user-specified substitute content in response to a break in the broadcast content.
60. A method of collecting user-specified content, the method comprising:
aggregating substitute content in a plurality of storage areas, the aggregation based upon a user preference; and
accessing one of the storage areas and copying the substitute content in the accessed storage area to another storage area.
61. A system for collecting user-specified content, the system comprising:
an aggregator configured to aggregating substitute content in at least one of plurality of storage areas, the aggregation based upon a user preference; and
an application communicatively coupled to the aggregator and configured to access one of the storage areas and copy the substitute content in the accessed storage area to another storage area.
62. A system for collecting user-specified content, the method comprising:
means for aggregating substitute content in a plurality of storage areas, the aggregation based upon a user preference; and
communicatively coupled to the aggregating means, means for accessing one of the storage areas and copying the substitute content in the accessed storage area to another storage area.
Priority Applications (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/963,093 US20020194595A1 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2001-09-24 | Aggregation & substitution of user-specified content |
AU2002250431A AU2002250431A1 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2002-03-25 | Method of substituting content during program breaks |
PCT/US2002/009157 WO2002104001A2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2002-03-25 | Method of substituting content during program breaks |
PCT/US2002/009080 WO2002104000A2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2002-03-25 | Aggregation & substitution of user-specified content |
AU2002254360A AU2002254360A1 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2002-03-25 | Aggregation and substitution of user-specified content |
PCT/US2002/009148 WO2002104037A1 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2002-03-25 | System and apparatus for displaying substitute content |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/883,098 US7266832B2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2001-06-14 | Advertisement swapping using an aggregator for an interactive television system |
US09/963,093 US20020194595A1 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2001-09-24 | Aggregation & substitution of user-specified content |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/883,098 Continuation-In-Part US7266832B2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2001-06-14 | Advertisement swapping using an aggregator for an interactive television system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20020194595A1 true US20020194595A1 (en) | 2002-12-19 |
Family
ID=25381979
Family Applications (4)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/883,098 Expired - Lifetime US7266832B2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2001-06-14 | Advertisement swapping using an aggregator for an interactive television system |
US09/963,093 Abandoned US20020194595A1 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2001-09-24 | Aggregation & substitution of user-specified content |
US09/963,092 Active 2028-07-27 US8375407B2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2001-09-24 | System and apparatus for displaying substitute content |
US09/963,136 Active 2029-02-25 US8434103B2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2001-09-24 | Method of substituting content during program breaks |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/883,098 Expired - Lifetime US7266832B2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2001-06-14 | Advertisement swapping using an aggregator for an interactive television system |
Family Applications After (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/963,092 Active 2028-07-27 US8375407B2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2001-09-24 | System and apparatus for displaying substitute content |
US09/963,136 Active 2029-02-25 US8434103B2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2001-09-24 | Method of substituting content during program breaks |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (4) | US7266832B2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2002104020A1 (en) |
Cited By (137)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20030221194A1 (en) * | 2002-05-23 | 2003-11-27 | Balaji Thiagarajan | Fast-advance while recording on-demand content |
US20040083484A1 (en) * | 2002-10-28 | 2004-04-29 | Sony Corporation | Commercial replacement on personal digital recordings |
US20040158858A1 (en) * | 2003-02-12 | 2004-08-12 | Brian Paxton | System and method for identification and insertion of advertising in broadcast programs |
US20040177368A1 (en) * | 2003-03-06 | 2004-09-09 | Wegener Communications, Inc. | Apparatus and method for addressing control in a network for distributed data |
US20040216034A1 (en) * | 2003-04-28 | 2004-10-28 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method, system and program product for controlling web content usage |
US20040261096A1 (en) * | 2002-06-20 | 2004-12-23 | Bellsouth Intellectual Property Corporation | System and method for monitoring blocked content |
US20050050579A1 (en) * | 2001-12-13 | 2005-03-03 | Dietz Timothy Alan | Method and apparatus for managing audio broadcasts in an automobile |
US20050081252A1 (en) * | 2003-10-14 | 2005-04-14 | International Business Machines Corporation | Device and method for bandwidth optimization using a local cache |
US20050102700A1 (en) * | 2003-11-07 | 2005-05-12 | Cormack Christopher J. | Automatic program restoration when a programming break ends |
US20050235331A1 (en) * | 2002-04-11 | 2005-10-20 | Lynch David J | Apparatus and method for switching between an interactive mode and a television program mode |
US7020689B2 (en) | 2003-03-07 | 2006-03-28 | Wegener Communications, Inc. | System and method for command transmission utilizing an email return path |
US20060085724A1 (en) * | 2003-05-30 | 2006-04-20 | Wegener Communications, Inc. | Error correction apparatus and method |
US20060200575A1 (en) * | 2005-02-23 | 2006-09-07 | Sherer W P | Playout-dependent unicast streaming of digital video content |
US20060294557A1 (en) * | 2005-06-23 | 2006-12-28 | Microsoft Corporation | Presentation of information relating to change of a programming state |
US7194754B2 (en) * | 2000-07-25 | 2007-03-20 | Digeo, Inc. | Method and system to defer transactions conducted via interactive television |
US20070156589A1 (en) * | 2005-12-30 | 2007-07-05 | Randy Zimler | Integrating personalized listings of media content into an electronic program guide |
US20070180382A1 (en) * | 2006-02-02 | 2007-08-02 | Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. | System and method for sharing content with a remote device |
US20070256015A1 (en) * | 2002-06-20 | 2007-11-01 | Matz William R | Methods, systems, and products for providing substitute content |
WO2008007274A2 (en) | 2006-07-04 | 2008-01-17 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Method of content substitution |
US20080028422A1 (en) * | 2005-07-01 | 2008-01-31 | Searete Llc, A Limited Liability Corporation Of The State Of Delaware | Implementation of media content alteration |
US20080059999A1 (en) * | 2006-08-29 | 2008-03-06 | John Winans | Multi-function display controller |
US20080184319A1 (en) * | 1997-04-21 | 2008-07-31 | Gemstar Development Corporation | Method and apparatus for time-shifting video and text in a text-enhanced television program |
US20080307483A1 (en) * | 2007-06-06 | 2008-12-11 | Akinori Iida | Information processing device, video playback method, program, and video playback system |
US20080320545A1 (en) * | 2007-06-22 | 2008-12-25 | Schwartz Richard T | System and method for providing audio-visual programming with alternative content |
US20090165038A1 (en) * | 2007-10-12 | 2009-06-25 | Bob Hall | Network media insertion system |
US20090172724A1 (en) * | 2007-12-31 | 2009-07-02 | Ergen Charles W | Methods and apparatus for presenting advertisements based on a location of a presentation device |
US20090183198A1 (en) * | 2006-07-04 | 2009-07-16 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Method of content substitution |
US20090193456A1 (en) * | 2008-01-29 | 2009-07-30 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Information storage medium storing metadata and method of providing additional contents, and digital broadcast reception apparatus |
US20090193455A1 (en) * | 2008-01-29 | 2009-07-30 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Information storage medium and method for providing additional contents based on trigger, and digital broadcast reception apparatus |
US20090235301A1 (en) * | 2004-05-04 | 2009-09-17 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Method and apparatus for programming blackout and retune |
US7600189B2 (en) * | 2002-10-11 | 2009-10-06 | Sony Corporation | Display device, display method, and program |
US7698720B2 (en) | 2002-06-20 | 2010-04-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L. P. | Content blocking |
US20100122277A1 (en) * | 2006-07-12 | 2010-05-13 | Koninklijike Phillips Electronics, N.V. | device and a method for playing audio-video content |
US20100162301A1 (en) * | 2008-12-24 | 2010-06-24 | Echostar Technologies L.L.C. | Targeted advertising management |
US20100199312A1 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2010-08-05 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel based media system control technolgy |
US20100199299A1 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2010-08-05 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel media system control and advertisement technology |
US20100199311A1 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2010-08-05 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel caching and instant viewing related technology |
US20100199318A1 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2010-08-05 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel network-based content download technology |
USRE41919E1 (en) | 2003-06-25 | 2010-11-09 | Steve Olivier | Rapid decryption of data by key synchronization and indexing |
US7860342B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2010-12-28 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Modifying restricted images |
US20100328465A1 (en) * | 1998-05-07 | 2010-12-30 | Astute Technology, Llc | Enhanced capture, management and distribution of live presentations |
US20110004665A1 (en) * | 2008-01-29 | 2011-01-06 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Method for providing a content-sharing service, and a device therefor |
US20110243533A1 (en) * | 2010-04-06 | 2011-10-06 | Peter Stern | Use of multiple embedded messages in program signal streams |
US20120047528A1 (en) * | 2010-08-23 | 2012-02-23 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Display apparatus and method for providing application function applying thereto |
US8126938B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2012-02-28 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Group content substitution in media works |
US8126190B2 (en) | 2007-01-31 | 2012-02-28 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Targeted obstrufication of an image |
US8196168B1 (en) * | 2003-12-10 | 2012-06-05 | Time Warner, Inc. | Method and apparatus for exchanging preferences for replaying a program on a personal video recorder |
US8203609B2 (en) | 2007-01-31 | 2012-06-19 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Anonymization pursuant to a broadcasted policy |
US20120320894A1 (en) * | 2004-12-13 | 2012-12-20 | Broadcom Corporation | Concurrent Communicating of Multimedia Information in a Multistandard Wireless Communication System |
US20130031582A1 (en) * | 2003-12-23 | 2013-01-31 | Opentv, Inc. | Automatic localization of advertisements |
US20130036443A1 (en) * | 2011-08-03 | 2013-02-07 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Interactive and program half-screen |
US20130073738A1 (en) * | 2002-05-10 | 2013-03-21 | Richard Reisman | Method and Apparatus for Browsing Using Multiple Coordinated Device Sets |
US8646005B2 (en) | 1996-05-03 | 2014-02-04 | Starsight Telecast, Inc. | Information system |
US8671423B1 (en) * | 2010-06-07 | 2014-03-11 | Purplecomm Inc. | Method for monitoring and controlling viewing preferences of a user |
US8732087B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2014-05-20 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Authorization for media content alteration |
US20150040176A1 (en) * | 2013-07-31 | 2015-02-05 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus that facilitate channel switching during commercial breaks and/or other program segments |
US9065979B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2015-06-23 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Promotional placement in media works |
US20150195608A1 (en) * | 2014-01-09 | 2015-07-09 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Multimedia device and method for displaying advertisement broadcasting thereof |
US9092928B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2015-07-28 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Implementing group content substitution in media works |
US9166714B2 (en) | 2009-09-11 | 2015-10-20 | Veveo, Inc. | Method of and system for presenting enriched video viewing analytics |
US20150302480A1 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2015-10-22 | Myine Electronics, Inc. | System and method for providing targeted advertisements and geolocation information to an operator of a vehicle |
US9191722B2 (en) | 1997-07-21 | 2015-11-17 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | System and method for modifying advertisement responsive to EPG information |
US9204084B2 (en) | 2008-01-29 | 2015-12-01 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Content recording control method for peers, and a device therefor |
US20150358690A1 (en) * | 2013-05-22 | 2015-12-10 | David S. Thompson | Techniques for Backfilling Content |
US9215512B2 (en) | 2007-04-27 | 2015-12-15 | Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Implementation of media content alteration |
US9232190B1 (en) | 2015-04-01 | 2016-01-05 | Ringcentral, Inc. | Systems and methods for managing multimedia conference calls |
US9230601B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2016-01-05 | Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Media markup system for content alteration in derivative works |
US9319735B2 (en) | 1995-06-07 | 2016-04-19 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Electronic television program guide schedule system and method with data feed access |
US9326025B2 (en) | 2007-03-09 | 2016-04-26 | Rovi Technologies Corporation | Media content search results ranked by popularity |
US20160150288A1 (en) * | 2014-11-26 | 2016-05-26 | Aol Inc. | Systems and methods for providing non-intrusive advertising content to set-top boxes |
US9386358B2 (en) * | 2014-05-29 | 2016-07-05 | Echostar Technologies L.L.C. | Automatic identification of relevant video content through replays |
US9426509B2 (en) | 1998-08-21 | 2016-08-23 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Client-server electronic program guide |
US20160255378A1 (en) * | 2007-02-14 | 2016-09-01 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus for content delivery notification and management |
US9519728B2 (en) | 2009-12-04 | 2016-12-13 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for monitoring and optimizing delivery of content in a network |
US9531760B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2016-12-27 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus for packetized content delivery over a content delivery network |
US9583141B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2017-02-28 | Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Implementing audio substitution options in media works |
US9621929B1 (en) * | 2016-07-22 | 2017-04-11 | Samuel Chenillo | Method of video content selection and display |
US9648358B2 (en) | 2001-02-21 | 2017-05-09 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Systems and methods for interactive program guides with personal video recording features |
US9723371B2 (en) * | 2014-05-12 | 2017-08-01 | Echostar Uk Holdings Limited | Systems and method for timing commercial breaks |
US9788024B1 (en) * | 2016-06-29 | 2017-10-10 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Systems and methods for achieving ad avoidance by selectively switching media streams |
US9865017B2 (en) | 2003-12-23 | 2018-01-09 | Opentv, Inc. | System and method for providing interactive advertisement |
US9872081B2 (en) * | 2014-10-20 | 2018-01-16 | Nbcuniversal Media, Llc | Digital content spatial replacement system and method |
US9889382B2 (en) | 2013-05-22 | 2018-02-13 | Clip Engine LLC | Scraping fantasy sports data |
US9906838B2 (en) | 2010-07-12 | 2018-02-27 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for content delivery and message exchange across multiple content delivery networks |
US9973808B2 (en) * | 2015-01-05 | 2018-05-15 | The Directv Group, Inc. | Streamlined viewing of recorded programs based on markers |
US10116676B2 (en) | 2015-02-13 | 2018-10-30 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for data collection, analysis and service modification based on online activity |
US10136172B2 (en) | 2008-11-24 | 2018-11-20 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for content delivery and message exchange across multiple content delivery networks |
US10153000B2 (en) * | 2006-06-22 | 2018-12-11 | Tivo Solutions Inc. | In-band data recognition and synchronization system |
US10171256B2 (en) * | 2017-02-07 | 2019-01-01 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Interactive timeline for a teleconference session |
US10178435B1 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2019-01-08 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus for enabling media functionality in a content delivery network |
US10193940B2 (en) | 2017-02-07 | 2019-01-29 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Adding recorded content to an interactive timeline of a teleconference session |
US10218760B2 (en) | 2016-06-22 | 2019-02-26 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Dynamic summary generation for real-time switchable videos |
US20190068477A1 (en) * | 2017-08-25 | 2019-02-28 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Communication polling and analytics |
US10250932B2 (en) | 2012-04-04 | 2019-04-02 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for automated highlight reel creation in a content delivery network |
US10257578B1 (en) | 2018-01-05 | 2019-04-09 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Dynamic library display for interactive videos |
US20190132616A1 (en) * | 2017-11-02 | 2019-05-02 | Ateme | Method and system for processing multimedia content within a metropolitan area network |
US10313755B2 (en) | 2009-03-30 | 2019-06-04 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Recommendation engine apparatus and methods |
US10339281B2 (en) | 2010-03-02 | 2019-07-02 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for rights-managed content and data delivery |
US10387920B2 (en) | 2003-12-23 | 2019-08-20 | Roku, Inc. | System and method for offering and billing advertisement opportunities |
US10404758B2 (en) | 2016-02-26 | 2019-09-03 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for centralized message exchange in a user premises device |
US10418066B2 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2019-09-17 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | System and method for synchronization of selectably presentable media streams |
US10448119B2 (en) | 2013-08-30 | 2019-10-15 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Methods and systems for unfolding video pre-roll |
US10462202B2 (en) | 2016-03-30 | 2019-10-29 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Media stream rate synchronization |
US10460765B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2019-10-29 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for adaptive and responsive video |
US20190335231A1 (en) * | 2018-04-25 | 2019-10-31 | Roku, Inc. | Client side stitching of content into a multimedia stream |
US10474334B2 (en) | 2012-09-19 | 2019-11-12 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Progress bar for branched videos |
US10506195B2 (en) | 2017-02-24 | 2019-12-10 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Concurrent viewing of live content and recorded content |
US10582265B2 (en) | 2015-04-30 | 2020-03-03 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for nonlinear video playback using linear real-time video players |
US10652607B2 (en) | 2009-06-08 | 2020-05-12 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Media bridge apparatus and methods |
US10692540B2 (en) | 2014-10-08 | 2020-06-23 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for dynamic video bookmarking |
US10755747B2 (en) | 2014-04-10 | 2020-08-25 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for creating linear video from branched video |
US10911794B2 (en) | 2016-11-09 | 2021-02-02 | Charter Communications Operating, Llc | Apparatus and methods for selective secondary content insertion in a digital network |
US10958629B2 (en) | 2012-12-10 | 2021-03-23 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for content transfer protection |
US11050809B2 (en) | 2016-12-30 | 2021-06-29 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for dynamic weighting of branched video paths |
US11076189B2 (en) | 2009-03-30 | 2021-07-27 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Personal media channel apparatus and methods |
US11128853B2 (en) | 2015-12-22 | 2021-09-21 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Seamless transitions in large-scale video |
US11159851B2 (en) | 2012-09-14 | 2021-10-26 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for providing enhanced or interactive features |
US11164548B2 (en) | 2015-12-22 | 2021-11-02 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Intelligent buffering of large-scale video |
US11232458B2 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2022-01-25 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | System and method for data mining within interactive multimedia |
US11245961B2 (en) | 2020-02-18 | 2022-02-08 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | System and methods for detecting anomalous activities for interactive videos |
US11291920B2 (en) | 2013-05-22 | 2022-04-05 | David S. Thompson | Interaction interleaver |
US11314936B2 (en) | 2009-05-12 | 2022-04-26 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | System and method for assembling a recorded composition |
US11381549B2 (en) | 2006-10-20 | 2022-07-05 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Downloadable security and protection methods and apparatus |
US11412276B2 (en) | 2014-10-10 | 2022-08-09 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for parallel track transitions |
US20220286716A1 (en) * | 2021-03-08 | 2022-09-08 | Beijing Dajia Internet Information Technology Co., Ltd. | Method and apparatus for live streaming, server, system and storage medium |
US11490047B2 (en) | 2019-10-02 | 2022-11-01 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for dynamically adjusting video aspect ratios |
US11552999B2 (en) | 2007-01-24 | 2023-01-10 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for provisioning in a download-enabled system |
US11563915B2 (en) | 2019-03-11 | 2023-01-24 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Media content presentation |
US11582537B2 (en) * | 2019-10-14 | 2023-02-14 | Inscape Data, Inc. | Dynamic content serving using a media device |
US11601721B2 (en) | 2018-06-04 | 2023-03-07 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Interactive video dynamic adaptation and user profiling |
US11671191B2 (en) * | 2010-07-29 | 2023-06-06 | Paul D. Marko | Method and apparatus for content navigation in digital broadcast radio |
US11792462B2 (en) | 2014-05-29 | 2023-10-17 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for recording, accessing, and delivering packetized content |
US11856271B2 (en) | 2016-04-12 | 2023-12-26 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Symbiotic interactive video |
US11882337B2 (en) | 2021-05-28 | 2024-01-23 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Automated platform for generating interactive videos |
US11934477B2 (en) | 2021-09-24 | 2024-03-19 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Video player integration within websites |
US11961124B2 (en) | 2014-11-17 | 2024-04-16 | Yahoo Ad Tech Llc | Systems and methods for providing non-intrusive advertising content |
US11973992B2 (en) | 2021-02-01 | 2024-04-30 | Charter Communications Operating, Llc | Apparatus and methods for selective secondary content insertion in a digital network |
Families Citing this family (418)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5818438A (en) | 1995-04-25 | 1998-10-06 | Bellsouth Corporation | System and method for providing television services |
US8290351B2 (en) * | 2001-04-03 | 2012-10-16 | Prime Research Alliance E., Inc. | Alternative advertising in prerecorded media |
WO2001047257A1 (en) | 1999-12-21 | 2001-06-28 | Tivo, Inc. | Intelligent system and methods of recommending media content items based on user preferences |
US7886054B1 (en) | 2000-10-11 | 2011-02-08 | Siddhartha Nag | Graphical user interface (GUI) for administering a network implementing media aggregation |
US7013338B1 (en) * | 2000-07-28 | 2006-03-14 | Prominence Networks, Inc. | Multiplexing several individual application sessions over a pre-allocated reservation protocol session |
US7774468B1 (en) | 2000-07-28 | 2010-08-10 | Siddhartha Nag | Network traffic admission control |
US7788354B2 (en) * | 2000-07-28 | 2010-08-31 | Siddhartha Nag | End-to-end service quality in a voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Network |
US7237250B2 (en) * | 2000-11-28 | 2007-06-26 | Navic Systems, Inc. | Promotion server using video on demand channel |
US20020100062A1 (en) * | 2001-01-19 | 2002-07-25 | Lowthert Jonathan E. | Content with advertisement information segment |
US8667553B2 (en) * | 2001-06-19 | 2014-03-04 | Opentv, Inc. | Automated input in an interactive television system |
US20030023981A1 (en) * | 2001-07-25 | 2003-01-30 | Thomas Lemmons | Method and apparatus for transmission of interactive and enhanced television data |
US7908628B2 (en) * | 2001-08-03 | 2011-03-15 | Comcast Ip Holdings I, Llc | Video and digital multimedia aggregator content coding and formatting |
US7979884B1 (en) * | 2001-09-26 | 2011-07-12 | Cisco Technology, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for allowing component interchangeability |
US7849476B2 (en) * | 2001-12-13 | 2010-12-07 | Thomson Licensing | System and method for automatic switching to interactive application during television program breaks |
JP4005374B2 (en) * | 2002-01-22 | 2007-11-07 | 富士通テン株式会社 | Digital broadcast receiver |
EP1472879A1 (en) * | 2002-01-24 | 2004-11-03 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Embedding tv anytime crids |
US6947772B2 (en) * | 2002-01-31 | 2005-09-20 | Qualcomm Incorporated | System and method for providing messages on a wireless device connecting to an application server |
US7240330B2 (en) * | 2002-02-01 | 2007-07-03 | John Fairweather | Use of ontologies for auto-generating and handling applications, their persistent storage, and user interfaces |
US20030154128A1 (en) * | 2002-02-11 | 2003-08-14 | Liga Kevin M. | Communicating and displaying an advertisement using a personal video recorder |
US20030172378A1 (en) * | 2002-03-07 | 2003-09-11 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Method and apparatus for creating a personal commercials channel |
US20030192045A1 (en) * | 2002-04-04 | 2003-10-09 | International Business Machines Corporation | Apparatus and method for blocking television commercials and displaying alternative programming |
US20030227475A1 (en) * | 2002-06-06 | 2003-12-11 | International Business Machines Corporation | Apparatus and method for blocking television commercials and delivering micro-programming content |
US7649889B2 (en) * | 2002-07-23 | 2010-01-19 | Vectormax Corporation | Server arbitrated reliable multicast system and process for accessing the same |
US7454772B2 (en) * | 2002-07-25 | 2008-11-18 | International Business Machines Corporation | Apparatus and method for blocking television commercials and providing an archive interrogation program |
US7239981B2 (en) | 2002-07-26 | 2007-07-03 | Arbitron Inc. | Systems and methods for gathering audience measurement data |
US6996394B2 (en) | 2002-08-30 | 2006-02-07 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Server processing in providing messages for a wireless device connecting to a server |
US7039398B2 (en) | 2002-08-30 | 2006-05-02 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Server processing of interactive screens for a wireless device |
US7219367B2 (en) * | 2002-09-09 | 2007-05-15 | Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. | Backup communication modes |
US8245252B2 (en) * | 2002-09-10 | 2012-08-14 | Caption Tv, Inc. | System, method, and computer program product for selective replacement of objectionable program content with less-objectionable content |
US8230476B2 (en) * | 2002-09-17 | 2012-07-24 | Intel Corporation | Real-time interactive personal video recorder interface |
US8151293B1 (en) * | 2002-09-27 | 2012-04-03 | Arris Group, Inc. | System and method for event-based automatic tuning |
US8959016B2 (en) | 2002-09-27 | 2015-02-17 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Activating functions in processing devices using start codes embedded in audio |
US9711153B2 (en) | 2002-09-27 | 2017-07-18 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Activating functions in processing devices using encoded audio and detecting audio signatures |
JP2004128779A (en) * | 2002-10-01 | 2004-04-22 | Sony Corp | Broadcast system, recording apparatus, recording method, program, and record medium |
US20040261100A1 (en) * | 2002-10-18 | 2004-12-23 | Thomas Huber | iChoose video advertising |
US20040210942A1 (en) * | 2002-10-18 | 2004-10-21 | Thomas Lemmons | Demographic/preference sniffer |
AU2003234420A1 (en) | 2002-12-27 | 2004-07-29 | Nielsen Media Research, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for transcoding metadata |
US20040194130A1 (en) * | 2003-03-07 | 2004-09-30 | Richard Konig | Method and system for advertisement detection and subsitution |
US7738704B2 (en) * | 2003-03-07 | 2010-06-15 | Technology, Patents And Licensing, Inc. | Detecting known video entities utilizing fingerprints |
US20050149968A1 (en) * | 2003-03-07 | 2005-07-07 | Richard Konig | Ending advertisement insertion |
US20050177847A1 (en) * | 2003-03-07 | 2005-08-11 | Richard Konig | Determining channel associated with video stream |
US7809154B2 (en) | 2003-03-07 | 2010-10-05 | Technology, Patents & Licensing, Inc. | Video entity recognition in compressed digital video streams |
US7694318B2 (en) | 2003-03-07 | 2010-04-06 | Technology, Patents & Licensing, Inc. | Video detection and insertion |
US20040226035A1 (en) * | 2003-05-05 | 2004-11-11 | Hauser David L. | Method and apparatus for detecting media content |
US20040244035A1 (en) * | 2003-05-28 | 2004-12-02 | Microspace Communications Corporation | Commercial replacement systems and methods using synchronized and buffered TV program and commercial replacement streams |
US20040268384A1 (en) * | 2003-06-30 | 2004-12-30 | Stone Christopher J. | Method and apparatus for processing a video signal, method for playback of a recorded video signal and method of providing an advertising service |
EP2144440A1 (en) * | 2003-10-02 | 2010-01-13 | Tivo, Inc. | Modifying commercials for multi-speed playback |
US20050086690A1 (en) * | 2003-10-16 | 2005-04-21 | International Business Machines Corporation | Interactive, non-intrusive television advertising |
US20050108091A1 (en) * | 2003-11-14 | 2005-05-19 | John Sotak | Methods, systems and computer program products for providing resident aware home management |
US8286203B2 (en) * | 2003-12-19 | 2012-10-09 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | System and method for enhanced hot key delivery |
JP2005210686A (en) * | 2003-12-26 | 2005-08-04 | Canon Inc | Signal output method and channel-selecting apparatus |
WO2005079501A2 (en) * | 2004-02-18 | 2005-09-01 | Nielsen Media Research, Inc., Et Al. | Methods and apparatus to determine audience viewing of video-on-demand programs |
GB0408550D0 (en) * | 2004-04-16 | 2004-05-19 | Papaya Ltd | Programme content delivery |
CA2933668C (en) | 2004-04-23 | 2019-01-08 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to maintain audience privacy while determining viewing of video-on-demand programs |
US9959383B1 (en) | 2004-04-30 | 2018-05-01 | Time Warner, Inc. | Apparatus, method and system for brokering and provision of intelligent advertisement |
US7409205B2 (en) * | 2004-06-29 | 2008-08-05 | Nokia Corporation | Virtual radio |
CA2574998C (en) | 2004-07-23 | 2011-03-15 | Nielsen Media Research, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for monitoring the insertion of local media content into a program stream |
US20060168624A1 (en) * | 2004-11-22 | 2006-07-27 | John Carney | Method and system for delivering enhanced TV content |
US7873979B1 (en) * | 2004-12-10 | 2011-01-18 | Oracle America, Inc. | Method and apparatus for javaTV xlets for analog broadcast channels |
US20100312129A1 (en) | 2005-01-26 | 2010-12-09 | Schecter Stuart O | Cardiovascular haptic handle system |
US20060179466A1 (en) * | 2005-02-04 | 2006-08-10 | Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. | System and method of providing email service via a set top box |
US20060179468A1 (en) * | 2005-02-04 | 2006-08-10 | Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. | System and method of providing a television content guide |
US9118882B2 (en) * | 2005-02-07 | 2015-08-25 | Home Box Office, Inc. | Updating information in time-shifted multimedia content |
US20060195860A1 (en) * | 2005-02-25 | 2006-08-31 | Eldering Charles A | Acting on known video entities detected utilizing fingerprinting |
US20060242667A1 (en) * | 2005-04-22 | 2006-10-26 | Petersen Erin L | Ad monitoring and indication |
US7400364B2 (en) * | 2005-04-26 | 2008-07-15 | International Business Machines Corporation | Sub-program avoidance redirection for broadcast receivers |
US8428074B2 (en) * | 2005-04-29 | 2013-04-23 | Prom Ks Mgmt Limited Liability Company | Back-to back H.323 proxy gatekeeper |
US7690011B2 (en) | 2005-05-02 | 2010-03-30 | Technology, Patents & Licensing, Inc. | Video stream modification to defeat detection |
WO2006120768A1 (en) * | 2005-05-11 | 2006-11-16 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Video preproduction limiting method and video player |
KR100725397B1 (en) * | 2005-07-22 | 2007-06-07 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Broadcasting receiving device and method for performing data broadcasting application using the broadcasting receiving device |
US8074248B2 (en) | 2005-07-26 | 2011-12-06 | Activevideo Networks, Inc. | System and method for providing video content associated with a source image to a television in a communication network |
JP4702743B2 (en) * | 2005-09-13 | 2011-06-15 | 株式会社ソニー・コンピュータエンタテインメント | Content display control apparatus and content display control method |
US8069348B2 (en) * | 2005-10-11 | 2011-11-29 | Bacon Kinney C | Client digital program insertion in a conditional access module |
US9269088B2 (en) * | 2005-11-23 | 2016-02-23 | Cable Television Laboratories, Inc. | Method and system of advertising |
US7592912B2 (en) | 2005-12-09 | 2009-09-22 | Time Warner Cable Inc. | Emergency alert data delivery apparatus and methods |
US8566887B2 (en) * | 2005-12-09 | 2013-10-22 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Caption data delivery apparatus and methods |
US9015740B2 (en) | 2005-12-12 | 2015-04-21 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Systems and methods to wirelessly meter audio/visual devices |
CA2633577C (en) | 2005-12-12 | 2016-04-05 | Nielsen Media Research, Inc. | Systems and methods to wirelessly meter audio/visual devices |
US7693171B2 (en) | 2006-01-03 | 2010-04-06 | Time Warner Cable Inc. | Methods and apparatus for efficient IP multicasting in a content-based network |
US8402503B2 (en) | 2006-02-08 | 2013-03-19 | At& T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Interactive program manager and methods for presenting program content |
US8011012B2 (en) * | 2006-02-17 | 2011-08-30 | Microsoft Corporation | Program substitution |
US20070199040A1 (en) * | 2006-02-23 | 2007-08-23 | Lawrence Kates | Multi-channel parallel digital video recorder |
US8069461B2 (en) | 2006-03-30 | 2011-11-29 | Verizon Services Corp. | On-screen program guide with interactive programming recommendations |
US8280982B2 (en) | 2006-05-24 | 2012-10-02 | Time Warner Cable Inc. | Personal content server apparatus and methods |
US9386327B2 (en) * | 2006-05-24 | 2016-07-05 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Secondary content insertion apparatus and methods |
US8024762B2 (en) | 2006-06-13 | 2011-09-20 | Time Warner Cable Inc. | Methods and apparatus for providing virtual content over a network |
US7647332B2 (en) * | 2006-06-29 | 2010-01-12 | Microsoft Corporation | Aggregating content from multiple content delivery types in a discovery interface |
US7840979B2 (en) * | 2006-06-30 | 2010-11-23 | Microsoft Corporation | Graphical tile-based expansion cell guide |
US8015580B2 (en) * | 2006-06-30 | 2011-09-06 | Microsoft Corporation | Customizing virtual channels in a discovery interface |
US20080004960A1 (en) * | 2006-06-30 | 2008-01-03 | Microsoft Corporation Microsoft Patent Group | Interactive promotional space in a discovery interface |
US8522269B2 (en) | 2006-08-22 | 2013-08-27 | Goldspot Media, Inc. | Method and apparatus for alternate content scheduling on mobile devices |
US20080040743A1 (en) * | 2006-07-29 | 2008-02-14 | Srinivasa Dharmaji | Micro-splicer for inserting alternate content to a content stream on a handheld device |
US8677395B2 (en) * | 2006-07-29 | 2014-03-18 | Goldspot Media, Inc. | Method and apparatus for operating a micro-splicer to insert alternate content while viewing multimedia content on a handheld device |
US8898073B2 (en) | 2006-07-29 | 2014-11-25 | Goldspot Media, Inc. | Advertisement insertion during application launch in handheld, mobile display devices |
US8418217B2 (en) | 2006-09-06 | 2013-04-09 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Systems and methods for accessing media content |
DE102006043701B4 (en) * | 2006-09-18 | 2008-10-09 | Nokia Siemens Networks Gmbh & Co.Kg | Device and method for individual switching between shipments |
US8566874B2 (en) | 2006-10-03 | 2013-10-22 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Control tools for media content access systems and methods |
US8464295B2 (en) | 2006-10-03 | 2013-06-11 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Interactive search graphical user interface systems and methods |
US20080098433A1 (en) * | 2006-10-23 | 2008-04-24 | Hardacker Robert L | User managed internet links from TV |
US8935738B2 (en) * | 2006-12-13 | 2015-01-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | System and method of providing interactive video content |
WO2008072093A2 (en) | 2006-12-13 | 2008-06-19 | Quickplay Media Inc. | Mobile media platform |
US8510780B2 (en) | 2006-12-21 | 2013-08-13 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Program guide navigation tools for media content access systems and methods |
US8938765B2 (en) * | 2006-12-22 | 2015-01-20 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods, apparatus and user interface for providing content on demand |
US8438603B2 (en) * | 2006-12-22 | 2013-05-07 | Time Warner Cable Inc. | Methods and apparatus for supporting content distribution |
WO2008082891A2 (en) | 2006-12-29 | 2008-07-10 | Echostar Technologies Corporation | Incremental transmission of data |
US8015581B2 (en) | 2007-01-05 | 2011-09-06 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Resource data configuration for media content access systems and methods |
US9826197B2 (en) * | 2007-01-12 | 2017-11-21 | Activevideo Networks, Inc. | Providing television broadcasts over a managed network and interactive content over an unmanaged network to a client device |
US20080201736A1 (en) * | 2007-01-12 | 2008-08-21 | Ictv, Inc. | Using Triggers with Video for Interactive Content Identification |
WO2008088741A2 (en) | 2007-01-12 | 2008-07-24 | Ictv, Inc. | Interactive encoded content system including object models for viewing on a remote device |
US8850473B2 (en) | 2007-02-01 | 2014-09-30 | Invidi Technologies Corporation | Targeting content based on location |
US8181206B2 (en) | 2007-02-28 | 2012-05-15 | Time Warner Cable Inc. | Personal content server apparatus and methods |
US20080260352A1 (en) * | 2007-04-19 | 2008-10-23 | Gary Turner | Recorded advertisement enhancement |
US20080306814A1 (en) * | 2007-06-05 | 2008-12-11 | International Business Machines Corporation | Localized advertisement substitution in web-based content |
JP2008311692A (en) * | 2007-06-12 | 2008-12-25 | Sanyo Electric Co Ltd | Television broadcast receiver, television broadcast reproducing method and television broadcast reproducing program |
EP2160734A4 (en) * | 2007-06-18 | 2010-08-25 | Synergy Sports Technology Llc | System and method for distributed and parallel video editing, tagging, and indexing |
US8103965B2 (en) | 2007-06-28 | 2012-01-24 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Media content recording and healing statuses |
US9961296B2 (en) * | 2007-08-03 | 2018-05-01 | Adobe Systems Incorporated | Methods and apparatus for mandatory video viewing |
US20100114704A1 (en) * | 2007-09-07 | 2010-05-06 | Ryan Steelberg | System and method for brand affinity content distribution and optimization |
US7926081B2 (en) * | 2007-09-10 | 2011-04-12 | The Directv Group, Inc. | Method and system for forming a countdown clock channel output |
US20090070805A1 (en) * | 2007-09-11 | 2009-03-12 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method and system for optional suppression of television broadcast low-priority graphic interruptions |
US20090133053A1 (en) * | 2007-11-16 | 2009-05-21 | Alcatel Lucent | Method and apparatus to perform television program insertion during commercial time slot interval |
US8165451B2 (en) | 2007-11-20 | 2012-04-24 | Echostar Technologies L.L.C. | Methods and apparatus for displaying information regarding interstitials of a video stream |
US8165450B2 (en) | 2007-11-19 | 2012-04-24 | Echostar Technologies L.L.C. | Methods and apparatus for filtering content in a video stream using text data |
US8136140B2 (en) | 2007-11-20 | 2012-03-13 | Dish Network L.L.C. | Methods and apparatus for generating metadata utilized to filter content from a video stream using text data |
US20090133057A1 (en) * | 2007-11-21 | 2009-05-21 | Microsoft Corporation | Revenue Techniques Involving Segmented Content and Advertisements |
US8051447B2 (en) | 2007-12-19 | 2011-11-01 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Condensed program guide for media content access systems and methods |
US8756101B2 (en) * | 2008-01-25 | 2014-06-17 | Tunein, Inc. | User and stream demographics metadata guide based content services |
US8595373B2 (en) | 2008-01-25 | 2013-11-26 | Tuneln, Inc. | Guide based content services |
US9503691B2 (en) | 2008-02-19 | 2016-11-22 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus for enhanced advertising and promotional delivery in a network |
WO2012047659A1 (en) | 2010-09-27 | 2012-04-12 | Hulu Llc | Method and apparatus for providing directed advertising based on user preferences |
WO2012047671A1 (en) * | 2010-09-27 | 2012-04-12 | Hulu Llc | Method and apparatus for interrupting an advertisement and the substitution of alternate advertisement |
US20090235312A1 (en) * | 2008-03-11 | 2009-09-17 | Amir Morad | Targeted content with broadcast material |
US8606085B2 (en) | 2008-03-20 | 2013-12-10 | Dish Network L.L.C. | Method and apparatus for replacement of audio data in recorded audio/video stream |
US8095610B2 (en) | 2008-03-28 | 2012-01-10 | Time Warner Cable Inc. | Methods and apparatus for centralized and decentralized emergency alert messaging |
US8239896B2 (en) * | 2008-05-28 | 2012-08-07 | Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. | Integration of control data into digital broadcast content for access to ancillary information |
US8156520B2 (en) | 2008-05-30 | 2012-04-10 | EchoStar Technologies, L.L.C. | Methods and apparatus for presenting substitute content in an audio/video stream using text data |
US20090320061A1 (en) * | 2008-06-19 | 2009-12-24 | Microsoft Corporation | Advertising Based on Keywords in Media Content |
US8707342B2 (en) * | 2008-06-19 | 2014-04-22 | Microsoft Corporation | Referencing data in triggers from applications |
US20090320064A1 (en) * | 2008-06-19 | 2009-12-24 | Microsoft Corporation | Triggers for Media Content Firing Other Triggers |
US20090319373A1 (en) * | 2008-06-23 | 2009-12-24 | Microsoft Corporation | National advertisement linking |
CN102132578A (en) * | 2008-06-25 | 2011-07-20 | 活动视频网络有限公司 | Providing television broadcasts over managed network and interactive content over unmanaged network to client device |
US8959556B2 (en) | 2008-09-29 | 2015-02-17 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus for determining the operating state of audio-video devices |
US8359205B2 (en) | 2008-10-24 | 2013-01-22 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to perform audio watermarking and watermark detection and extraction |
US9667365B2 (en) | 2008-10-24 | 2017-05-30 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to perform audio watermarking and watermark detection and extraction |
US8121830B2 (en) | 2008-10-24 | 2012-02-21 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to extract data encoded in media content |
US9124769B2 (en) | 2008-10-31 | 2015-09-01 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to verify presentation of media content |
KR101597783B1 (en) * | 2008-11-19 | 2016-02-25 | 포스월 미디어, 인코포레이티드 | Dynamic application insertion for mpeg stream switching |
US8508357B2 (en) | 2008-11-26 | 2013-08-13 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to encode and decode audio for shopper location and advertisement presentation tracking |
US8588579B2 (en) | 2008-12-24 | 2013-11-19 | Echostar Technologies L.L.C. | Methods and apparatus for filtering and inserting content into a presentation stream using signature data |
US8510771B2 (en) | 2008-12-24 | 2013-08-13 | Echostar Technologies L.L.C. | Methods and apparatus for filtering content from a presentation stream using signature data |
US8407735B2 (en) | 2008-12-24 | 2013-03-26 | Echostar Technologies L.L.C. | Methods and apparatus for identifying segments of content in a presentation stream using signature data |
US9591265B2 (en) * | 2008-12-29 | 2017-03-07 | Google Technology Holdings LLC | System and method for interactive advertising via network generated overlays |
US20100211988A1 (en) * | 2009-02-18 | 2010-08-19 | Microsoft Corporation | Managing resources to display media content |
US20100215340A1 (en) * | 2009-02-20 | 2010-08-26 | Microsoft Corporation | Triggers For Launching Applications |
US9069585B2 (en) * | 2009-03-02 | 2015-06-30 | Microsoft Corporation | Application tune manifests and tune state recovery |
US8660128B2 (en) * | 2009-04-15 | 2014-02-25 | Ibiquity Digital Corporation | Systems and methods for a multiport synchronous-asynchronous client for scheduling and delivering content for digital radio broadcast transmission |
US8144612B2 (en) | 2009-04-15 | 2012-03-27 | Ibiquity Digital Corporation | Systems and methods for transmitting media content via digital radio broadcast transmission for synchronized rendering by a receiver |
US8064819B2 (en) | 2009-04-17 | 2011-11-22 | Apple Inc. | Seamless switching between radio and local media |
US20100269145A1 (en) | 2009-04-17 | 2010-10-21 | Apple Inc. | Accessing radio content from a non-radio source |
US8244171B2 (en) * | 2009-04-17 | 2012-08-14 | Apple Inc. | Identifying radio stations of interest based on preference information |
EP2425563A1 (en) | 2009-05-01 | 2012-03-07 | The Nielsen Company (US), LLC | Methods, apparatus and articles of manufacture to provide secondary content in association with primary broadcast media content |
US8437617B2 (en) | 2009-06-17 | 2013-05-07 | Echostar Technologies L.L.C. | Method and apparatus for modifying the presentation of content |
GB2472264B (en) | 2009-07-31 | 2014-12-17 | British Sky Broadcasting Ltd | Media substitution system |
US20110072456A1 (en) * | 2009-09-24 | 2011-03-24 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | System and Method for Substituting Broadband Delivered Advertisements for Expired Advertisements |
EP2497247A2 (en) | 2009-11-04 | 2012-09-12 | NDTV Convergence Ltd. | A system and method for trigger based switching between multiple video streams on internet protocol (ip) at client level |
US20110150426A1 (en) * | 2009-12-21 | 2011-06-23 | Sony Corporation | System and method for actively managing play back of demo content by a display device based on detected radio frequency signaling |
US20110149160A1 (en) * | 2009-12-21 | 2011-06-23 | Sony Corporation | System and method for actively managing play back of demo content by a display device based on customer actions |
US20110149159A1 (en) * | 2009-12-21 | 2011-06-23 | Sony Corporation | System and method for actively managing playback of demo content by display device |
US20110150425A1 (en) * | 2009-12-21 | 2011-06-23 | Sony Corporation | System and method for actively managing play back of demo content by a display device based on signaling from a presence sensor |
FR2954639B1 (en) * | 2009-12-23 | 2016-02-12 | Franz Cantarano | METHOD FOR TRANSMITTING AND RENDERING DIGITAL SEQUENCES FORMING A PROGRAMMING GRID |
US10356465B2 (en) * | 2010-01-06 | 2019-07-16 | Sony Corporation | Video system demonstration |
US8934758B2 (en) | 2010-02-09 | 2015-01-13 | Echostar Global B.V. | Methods and apparatus for presenting supplemental content in association with recorded content |
JP2011171822A (en) * | 2010-02-16 | 2011-09-01 | Sanyo Electric Co Ltd | Television broadcasting receiver |
US9237294B2 (en) | 2010-03-05 | 2016-01-12 | Sony Corporation | Apparatus and method for replacing a broadcasted advertisement based on both heuristic information and attempts in altering the playback of the advertisement |
US8768713B2 (en) * | 2010-03-15 | 2014-07-01 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Set-top-box with integrated encoder/decoder for audience measurement |
CN102209213B (en) * | 2010-03-29 | 2015-07-29 | 联想(北京)有限公司 | Playback equipment and player method |
US9774923B2 (en) * | 2010-05-28 | 2017-09-26 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Bandwidth management and advertisement insertion in media content delivery systems and methods |
US8918803B2 (en) | 2010-06-25 | 2014-12-23 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | System and method for automatic identification of key phrases during a multimedia broadcast |
US8307006B2 (en) | 2010-06-30 | 2012-11-06 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to obtain anonymous audience measurement data from network server data for particular demographic and usage profiles |
WO2012030430A1 (en) * | 2010-09-01 | 2012-03-08 | Ihigh. Com, Inc. | Dynamically providing advertisement data |
US8715078B1 (en) * | 2010-09-20 | 2014-05-06 | Keith D. White | Advertising and golf practice device |
CA2814070A1 (en) | 2010-10-14 | 2012-04-19 | Activevideo Networks, Inc. | Streaming digital video between video devices using a cable television system |
US9832528B2 (en) | 2010-10-21 | 2017-11-28 | Sony Corporation | System and method for merging network-based content with broadcasted programming content |
US8863165B2 (en) * | 2010-11-01 | 2014-10-14 | Gracenote, Inc. | Method and system for presenting additional content at a media system |
US20120144320A1 (en) * | 2010-12-03 | 2012-06-07 | Avaya Inc. | System and method for enhancing video conference breaks |
US8656422B2 (en) | 2011-01-25 | 2014-02-18 | Motorola Mobility Llc | Method and apparatus for managing targeted advertisements for a linear television service |
EP2695388B1 (en) | 2011-04-07 | 2017-06-07 | ActiveVideo Networks, Inc. | Reduction of latency in video distribution networks using adaptive bit rates |
US9380356B2 (en) | 2011-04-12 | 2016-06-28 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to generate a tag for media content |
US8942828B1 (en) | 2011-04-13 | 2015-01-27 | Stuart Schecter, LLC | Minimally invasive cardiovascular support system with true haptic coupling |
US9515904B2 (en) | 2011-06-21 | 2016-12-06 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Monitoring streaming media content |
US9209978B2 (en) | 2012-05-15 | 2015-12-08 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to measure exposure to streaming media |
NL2006978C2 (en) * | 2011-06-21 | 2012-12-28 | Civolution B V | Rendering device with content substitution. |
US9319815B2 (en) * | 2011-07-14 | 2016-04-19 | Vivint, Inc. | Managing audio output through an intermediary |
US9554175B2 (en) | 2011-07-20 | 2017-01-24 | Sony Corporation | Method, computer program, reception apparatus, and information providing apparatus for trigger compaction |
US8966512B2 (en) | 2011-07-22 | 2015-02-24 | American Megatrends, Inc. | Inserting advertisement content in video stream |
WO2013015919A2 (en) * | 2011-07-28 | 2013-01-31 | United Video Properties, Inc. | Systems and methods for selectively modifying the display of advertisements and providing supplementary media content |
US9066121B2 (en) * | 2011-08-09 | 2015-06-23 | Google Technology Holdings LLC | Addressable advertising switch by decoupling decoding from service acquisitions |
US9226018B1 (en) * | 2011-08-16 | 2015-12-29 | Spb Tv Ag | Methods and apparatus for rendering a video on a mobile device utilizing a local server |
US8966520B2 (en) | 2011-10-03 | 2015-02-24 | Hulu, LLC | Video ad swapping in a video streaming system |
US9270718B2 (en) * | 2011-11-25 | 2016-02-23 | Harry E Emerson, III | Internet streaming and the presentation of dynamic content |
US10142121B2 (en) | 2011-12-07 | 2018-11-27 | Comcast Cable Communications, Llc | Providing synchronous content and supplemental experiences |
WO2013106390A1 (en) | 2012-01-09 | 2013-07-18 | Activevideo Networks, Inc. | Rendering of an interactive lean-backward user interface on a television |
US9692535B2 (en) | 2012-02-20 | 2017-06-27 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus for automatic TV on/off detection |
US9800945B2 (en) | 2012-04-03 | 2017-10-24 | Activevideo Networks, Inc. | Class-based intelligent multiplexing over unmanaged networks |
US20130268962A1 (en) * | 2012-04-10 | 2013-10-10 | Shawn Andrew SNIDER | Integration of social media with live events |
US9123084B2 (en) | 2012-04-12 | 2015-09-01 | Activevideo Networks, Inc. | Graphical application integration with MPEG objects |
US9699513B2 (en) * | 2012-06-01 | 2017-07-04 | Google Inc. | Methods and apparatus for providing access to content |
US10013082B2 (en) | 2012-06-05 | 2018-07-03 | Stuart Schecter, LLC | Operating system with haptic interface for minimally invasive, hand-held surgical instrument |
KR102222166B1 (en) | 2012-06-19 | 2021-03-04 | 소니 주식회사 | Extensions to trigger parameters table for interactive television |
WO2014059078A1 (en) * | 2012-10-12 | 2014-04-17 | Google Inc. | Unsupervised content replay in live video |
US9032434B2 (en) | 2012-10-12 | 2015-05-12 | Google Inc. | Unsupervised content replay in live video |
US9066159B2 (en) | 2012-10-23 | 2015-06-23 | Hulu, LLC | User control of ad selection for subsequent ad break of a video |
WO2014078805A1 (en) | 2012-11-19 | 2014-05-22 | John Douglas Steinberg | System and method for creating customized, multi-platform video programming |
US20140157305A1 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2014-06-05 | General Instrument Corporation | Advertisement Distribution in a Subscriber Network |
US10009065B2 (en) | 2012-12-05 | 2018-06-26 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Backhaul link for distributed antenna system |
US9113347B2 (en) | 2012-12-05 | 2015-08-18 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Backhaul link for distributed antenna system |
US9942601B2 (en) * | 2013-01-24 | 2018-04-10 | Saturn Licensing Llc | Storing non-real time content |
US9313544B2 (en) | 2013-02-14 | 2016-04-12 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to measure exposure to streaming media |
US20140282786A1 (en) | 2013-03-12 | 2014-09-18 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus for providing and uploading content to personalized network storage |
US9204186B2 (en) * | 2013-03-13 | 2015-12-01 | Comcast Cable Communications, Llc | Buffering content |
US10368142B2 (en) | 2013-03-14 | 2019-07-30 | Comcast Cable Communications, Llc | Delivery of content and priority messages |
US10291942B2 (en) * | 2013-03-14 | 2019-05-14 | NBCUniversal Medial, LLC | Interactive broadcast system and method |
WO2014145921A1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-18 | Activevideo Networks, Inc. | A multiple-mode system and method for providing user selectable video content |
KR101535837B1 (en) * | 2013-05-15 | 2015-07-13 | 경북대학교 산학협력단 | Media server and method for transmitting contents |
US9999038B2 (en) | 2013-05-31 | 2018-06-12 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Remote distributed antenna system |
US9525524B2 (en) | 2013-05-31 | 2016-12-20 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Remote distributed antenna system |
US9326047B2 (en) | 2013-06-06 | 2016-04-26 | Activevideo Networks, Inc. | Overlay rendering of user interface onto source video |
US9294785B2 (en) | 2013-06-06 | 2016-03-22 | Activevideo Networks, Inc. | System and method for exploiting scene graph information in construction of an encoded video sequence |
US9219922B2 (en) | 2013-06-06 | 2015-12-22 | Activevideo Networks, Inc. | System and method for exploiting scene graph information in construction of an encoded video sequence |
US9711152B2 (en) | 2013-07-31 | 2017-07-18 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Systems apparatus and methods for encoding/decoding persistent universal media codes to encoded audio |
US20150039321A1 (en) | 2013-07-31 | 2015-02-05 | Arbitron Inc. | Apparatus, System and Method for Reading Codes From Digital Audio on a Processing Device |
US9368158B2 (en) | 2013-09-26 | 2016-06-14 | Thomson Licensing | Method and apparatus for re-inserting a commercial during playback of a recorded program |
US9332035B2 (en) | 2013-10-10 | 2016-05-03 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to measure exposure to streaming media |
US9472091B2 (en) | 2013-10-21 | 2016-10-18 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Systems and methods for providing emergency alerts |
US8897697B1 (en) | 2013-11-06 | 2014-11-25 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Millimeter-wave surface-wave communications |
US9209902B2 (en) | 2013-12-10 | 2015-12-08 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Quasi-optical coupler |
US10482163B2 (en) | 2014-04-23 | 2019-11-19 | Klickafy, Llc | Clickable emoji |
US9788029B2 (en) | 2014-04-25 | 2017-10-10 | Activevideo Networks, Inc. | Intelligent multiplexing using class-based, multi-dimensioned decision logic for managed networks |
US9756393B2 (en) | 2014-07-31 | 2017-09-05 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Recording option for advertised programs |
US9692101B2 (en) | 2014-08-26 | 2017-06-27 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Guided wave couplers for coupling electromagnetic waves between a waveguide surface and a surface of a wire |
US10142697B2 (en) | 2014-08-28 | 2018-11-27 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Enhanced interactive television experiences |
US9768833B2 (en) | 2014-09-15 | 2017-09-19 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for sensing a condition in a transmission medium of electromagnetic waves |
US10063280B2 (en) | 2014-09-17 | 2018-08-28 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Monitoring and mitigating conditions in a communication network |
US9628854B2 (en) | 2014-09-29 | 2017-04-18 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for distributing content in a communication network |
US9615269B2 (en) | 2014-10-02 | 2017-04-04 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus that provides fault tolerance in a communication network |
US9685992B2 (en) | 2014-10-03 | 2017-06-20 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Circuit panel network and methods thereof |
US9288533B1 (en) | 2014-10-07 | 2016-03-15 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | System and method for delivering interactive trigger events |
US9503189B2 (en) | 2014-10-10 | 2016-11-22 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for arranging communication sessions in a communication system |
US9973299B2 (en) | 2014-10-14 | 2018-05-15 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for adjusting a mode of communication in a communication network |
US9762289B2 (en) | 2014-10-14 | 2017-09-12 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for transmitting or receiving signals in a transportation system |
US9564947B2 (en) | 2014-10-21 | 2017-02-07 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Guided-wave transmission device with diversity and methods for use therewith |
US9653770B2 (en) | 2014-10-21 | 2017-05-16 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Guided wave coupler, coupling module and methods for use therewith |
US9520945B2 (en) | 2014-10-21 | 2016-12-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus for providing communication services and methods thereof |
US9627768B2 (en) | 2014-10-21 | 2017-04-18 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Guided-wave transmission device with non-fundamental mode propagation and methods for use therewith |
US9577306B2 (en) | 2014-10-21 | 2017-02-21 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Guided-wave transmission device and methods for use therewith |
US9769020B2 (en) | 2014-10-21 | 2017-09-19 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for responding to events affecting communications in a communication network |
US9780834B2 (en) | 2014-10-21 | 2017-10-03 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for transmitting electromagnetic waves |
US9312919B1 (en) | 2014-10-21 | 2016-04-12 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Transmission device with impairment compensation and methods for use therewith |
US9554195B2 (en) | 2014-10-31 | 2017-01-24 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for targeted advertising with delivery of content |
US10340573B2 (en) | 2016-10-26 | 2019-07-02 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Launcher with cylindrical coupling device and methods for use therewith |
US9800327B2 (en) | 2014-11-20 | 2017-10-24 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus for controlling operations of a communication device and methods thereof |
US9461706B1 (en) | 2015-07-31 | 2016-10-04 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Method and apparatus for exchanging communication signals |
US9742462B2 (en) | 2014-12-04 | 2017-08-22 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Transmission medium and communication interfaces and methods for use therewith |
US9680670B2 (en) | 2014-11-20 | 2017-06-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Transmission device with channel equalization and control and methods for use therewith |
US9544006B2 (en) | 2014-11-20 | 2017-01-10 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Transmission device with mode division multiplexing and methods for use therewith |
US9997819B2 (en) | 2015-06-09 | 2018-06-12 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Transmission medium and method for facilitating propagation of electromagnetic waves via a core |
US9654173B2 (en) | 2014-11-20 | 2017-05-16 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus for powering a communication device and methods thereof |
US10009067B2 (en) | 2014-12-04 | 2018-06-26 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for configuring a communication interface |
US10243784B2 (en) | 2014-11-20 | 2019-03-26 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | System for generating topology information and methods thereof |
US9954287B2 (en) | 2014-11-20 | 2018-04-24 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus for converting wireless signals and electromagnetic waves and methods thereof |
US20160182954A1 (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2016-06-23 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Methods and systems for generating a notification |
US9697295B1 (en) * | 2015-01-20 | 2017-07-04 | Cox Communications, Inc | URL monitor with trick mode handling |
US10144036B2 (en) | 2015-01-30 | 2018-12-04 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for mitigating interference affecting a propagation of electromagnetic waves guided by a transmission medium |
US9876570B2 (en) | 2015-02-20 | 2018-01-23 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Guided-wave transmission device with non-fundamental mode propagation and methods for use therewith |
US9749013B2 (en) | 2015-03-17 | 2017-08-29 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for reducing attenuation of electromagnetic waves guided by a transmission medium |
US10224981B2 (en) | 2015-04-24 | 2019-03-05 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Passive electrical coupling device and methods for use therewith |
US9705561B2 (en) | 2015-04-24 | 2017-07-11 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Directional coupling device and methods for use therewith |
US9793954B2 (en) | 2015-04-28 | 2017-10-17 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Magnetic coupling device and methods for use therewith |
US9948354B2 (en) | 2015-04-28 | 2018-04-17 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Magnetic coupling device with reflective plate and methods for use therewith |
US9871282B2 (en) | 2015-05-14 | 2018-01-16 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | At least one transmission medium having a dielectric surface that is covered at least in part by a second dielectric |
US9490869B1 (en) | 2015-05-14 | 2016-11-08 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Transmission medium having multiple cores and methods for use therewith |
US9748626B2 (en) | 2015-05-14 | 2017-08-29 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Plurality of cables having different cross-sectional shapes which are bundled together to form a transmission medium |
US10679767B2 (en) | 2015-05-15 | 2020-06-09 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Transmission medium having a conductive material and methods for use therewith |
US10650940B2 (en) | 2015-05-15 | 2020-05-12 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Transmission medium having a conductive material and methods for use therewith |
US9917341B2 (en) | 2015-05-27 | 2018-03-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and method for launching electromagnetic waves and for modifying radial dimensions of the propagating electromagnetic waves |
US9762965B2 (en) | 2015-05-29 | 2017-09-12 | The Nielsen Company (Us), Llc | Methods and apparatus to measure exposure to streaming media |
US10154493B2 (en) | 2015-06-03 | 2018-12-11 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Network termination and methods for use therewith |
US10812174B2 (en) | 2015-06-03 | 2020-10-20 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Client node device and methods for use therewith |
US9866309B2 (en) | 2015-06-03 | 2018-01-09 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Host node device and methods for use therewith |
US9912381B2 (en) | 2015-06-03 | 2018-03-06 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Network termination and methods for use therewith |
US10348391B2 (en) | 2015-06-03 | 2019-07-09 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Client node device with frequency conversion and methods for use therewith |
US10103801B2 (en) | 2015-06-03 | 2018-10-16 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Host node device and methods for use therewith |
US9913139B2 (en) | 2015-06-09 | 2018-03-06 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Signal fingerprinting for authentication of communicating devices |
US10142086B2 (en) | 2015-06-11 | 2018-11-27 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Repeater and methods for use therewith |
US9608692B2 (en) | 2015-06-11 | 2017-03-28 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Repeater and methods for use therewith |
US9820146B2 (en) | 2015-06-12 | 2017-11-14 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for authentication and identity management of communicating devices |
US9667317B2 (en) | 2015-06-15 | 2017-05-30 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for providing security using network traffic adjustments |
US9640850B2 (en) | 2015-06-25 | 2017-05-02 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Methods and apparatus for inducing a non-fundamental wave mode on a transmission medium |
US9865911B2 (en) | 2015-06-25 | 2018-01-09 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Waveguide system for slot radiating first electromagnetic waves that are combined into a non-fundamental wave mode second electromagnetic wave on a transmission medium |
US9509415B1 (en) | 2015-06-25 | 2016-11-29 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Methods and apparatus for inducing a fundamental wave mode on a transmission medium |
US10148016B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2018-12-04 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for communicating utilizing an antenna array |
US10044409B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2018-08-07 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Transmission medium and methods for use therewith |
US9722318B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2017-08-01 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for coupling an antenna to a device |
US9628116B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2017-04-18 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for transmitting wireless signals |
US10170840B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2019-01-01 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for sending or receiving electromagnetic signals |
US10320586B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2019-06-11 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for generating non-interfering electromagnetic waves on an insulated transmission medium |
US9836957B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2017-12-05 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for communicating with premises equipment |
US9882257B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2018-01-30 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for launching a wave mode that mitigates interference |
US10033108B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2018-07-24 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for generating an electromagnetic wave having a wave mode that mitigates interference |
US9847566B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2017-12-19 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for adjusting a field of a signal to mitigate interference |
US10205655B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2019-02-12 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for communicating utilizing an antenna array and multiple communication paths |
US9853342B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2017-12-26 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Dielectric transmission medium connector and methods for use therewith |
US10033107B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2018-07-24 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for coupling an antenna to a device |
US10341142B2 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2019-07-02 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for generating non-interfering electromagnetic waves on an uninsulated conductor |
US9793951B2 (en) | 2015-07-15 | 2017-10-17 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for launching a wave mode that mitigates interference |
US10090606B2 (en) | 2015-07-15 | 2018-10-02 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Antenna system with dielectric array and methods for use therewith |
US9608740B2 (en) | 2015-07-15 | 2017-03-28 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for launching a wave mode that mitigates interference |
US9871283B2 (en) | 2015-07-23 | 2018-01-16 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Transmission medium having a dielectric core comprised of plural members connected by a ball and socket configuration |
US9749053B2 (en) | 2015-07-23 | 2017-08-29 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Node device, repeater and methods for use therewith |
US10784670B2 (en) | 2015-07-23 | 2020-09-22 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Antenna support for aligning an antenna |
US9912027B2 (en) | 2015-07-23 | 2018-03-06 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for exchanging communication signals |
US9948333B2 (en) | 2015-07-23 | 2018-04-17 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for wireless communications to mitigate interference |
US10020587B2 (en) | 2015-07-31 | 2018-07-10 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Radial antenna and methods for use therewith |
US9967173B2 (en) | 2015-07-31 | 2018-05-08 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for authentication and identity management of communicating devices |
US9735833B2 (en) | 2015-07-31 | 2017-08-15 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for communications management in a neighborhood network |
US9904535B2 (en) | 2015-09-14 | 2018-02-27 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for distributing software |
US10051629B2 (en) | 2015-09-16 | 2018-08-14 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for use with a radio distributed antenna system having an in-band reference signal |
US9705571B2 (en) | 2015-09-16 | 2017-07-11 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for use with a radio distributed antenna system |
US10009063B2 (en) | 2015-09-16 | 2018-06-26 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for use with a radio distributed antenna system having an out-of-band reference signal |
US10136434B2 (en) | 2015-09-16 | 2018-11-20 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for use with a radio distributed antenna system having an ultra-wideband control channel |
US10079661B2 (en) | 2015-09-16 | 2018-09-18 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for use with a radio distributed antenna system having a clock reference |
US10009901B2 (en) | 2015-09-16 | 2018-06-26 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method, apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium for managing utilization of wireless resources between base stations |
US9769128B2 (en) | 2015-09-28 | 2017-09-19 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for encryption of communications over a network |
US9729197B2 (en) | 2015-10-01 | 2017-08-08 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for communicating network management traffic over a network |
US9882277B2 (en) | 2015-10-02 | 2018-01-30 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Communication device and antenna assembly with actuated gimbal mount |
US9876264B2 (en) | 2015-10-02 | 2018-01-23 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Communication system, guided wave switch and methods for use therewith |
US10074890B2 (en) | 2015-10-02 | 2018-09-11 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Communication device and antenna with integrated light assembly |
US10355367B2 (en) | 2015-10-16 | 2019-07-16 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Antenna structure for exchanging wireless signals |
US10051483B2 (en) | 2015-10-16 | 2018-08-14 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for directing wireless signals |
US10665942B2 (en) | 2015-10-16 | 2020-05-26 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for adjusting wireless communications |
US10679214B2 (en) * | 2016-03-09 | 2020-06-09 | Mastercard International Incorporation | Method and system for electronic distribution of controlled tokens |
US10713693B2 (en) * | 2016-03-11 | 2020-07-14 | Devnet, Inc. | Method and apparatus for advertising content management |
US11568380B2 (en) * | 2016-03-21 | 2023-01-31 | Mastercard International Incorporated | Systems and methods for use in providing payment transaction notifications |
CN105933725B (en) * | 2016-06-28 | 2019-01-04 | 北京中传数广技术有限公司 | The method and system that a kind of live telecast accurate advertisement, information are launched |
WO2018026162A1 (en) | 2016-08-01 | 2018-02-08 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Electronic apparatus and method of operating the same |
US9912419B1 (en) | 2016-08-24 | 2018-03-06 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for managing a fault in a distributed antenna system |
US9860075B1 (en) | 2016-08-26 | 2018-01-02 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and communication node for broadband distribution |
US10291311B2 (en) | 2016-09-09 | 2019-05-14 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for mitigating a fault in a distributed antenna system |
US11032819B2 (en) | 2016-09-15 | 2021-06-08 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for use with a radio distributed antenna system having a control channel reference signal |
US10135147B2 (en) | 2016-10-18 | 2018-11-20 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for launching guided waves via an antenna |
US10135146B2 (en) | 2016-10-18 | 2018-11-20 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for launching guided waves via circuits |
US10340600B2 (en) | 2016-10-18 | 2019-07-02 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for launching guided waves via plural waveguide systems |
US9876605B1 (en) | 2016-10-21 | 2018-01-23 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Launcher and coupling system to support desired guided wave mode |
US9991580B2 (en) | 2016-10-21 | 2018-06-05 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Launcher and coupling system for guided wave mode cancellation |
US10811767B2 (en) | 2016-10-21 | 2020-10-20 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | System and dielectric antenna with convex dielectric radome |
US10374316B2 (en) | 2016-10-21 | 2019-08-06 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | System and dielectric antenna with non-uniform dielectric |
US10312567B2 (en) | 2016-10-26 | 2019-06-04 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Launcher with planar strip antenna and methods for use therewith |
US10224634B2 (en) | 2016-11-03 | 2019-03-05 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Methods and apparatus for adjusting an operational characteristic of an antenna |
US10291334B2 (en) | 2016-11-03 | 2019-05-14 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | System for detecting a fault in a communication system |
US10225025B2 (en) | 2016-11-03 | 2019-03-05 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for detecting a fault in a communication system |
US10498044B2 (en) | 2016-11-03 | 2019-12-03 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus for configuring a surface of an antenna |
US10340603B2 (en) | 2016-11-23 | 2019-07-02 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Antenna system having shielded structural configurations for assembly |
US10340601B2 (en) | 2016-11-23 | 2019-07-02 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Multi-antenna system and methods for use therewith |
US10090594B2 (en) | 2016-11-23 | 2018-10-02 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Antenna system having structural configurations for assembly |
US10535928B2 (en) | 2016-11-23 | 2020-01-14 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Antenna system and methods for use therewith |
US10178445B2 (en) | 2016-11-23 | 2019-01-08 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Methods, devices, and systems for load balancing between a plurality of waveguides |
US10305190B2 (en) | 2016-12-01 | 2019-05-28 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Reflecting dielectric antenna system and methods for use therewith |
US10361489B2 (en) | 2016-12-01 | 2019-07-23 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Dielectric dish antenna system and methods for use therewith |
US10382976B2 (en) | 2016-12-06 | 2019-08-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for managing wireless communications based on communication paths and network device positions |
US10637149B2 (en) | 2016-12-06 | 2020-04-28 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Injection molded dielectric antenna and methods for use therewith |
US10326494B2 (en) | 2016-12-06 | 2019-06-18 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus for measurement de-embedding and methods for use therewith |
US10020844B2 (en) | 2016-12-06 | 2018-07-10 | T&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for broadcast communication via guided waves |
US10727599B2 (en) | 2016-12-06 | 2020-07-28 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Launcher with slot antenna and methods for use therewith |
US10819035B2 (en) | 2016-12-06 | 2020-10-27 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Launcher with helical antenna and methods for use therewith |
US10755542B2 (en) | 2016-12-06 | 2020-08-25 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for surveillance via guided wave communication |
US10439675B2 (en) | 2016-12-06 | 2019-10-08 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for repeating guided wave communication signals |
US10135145B2 (en) | 2016-12-06 | 2018-11-20 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for generating an electromagnetic wave along a transmission medium |
US9927517B1 (en) | 2016-12-06 | 2018-03-27 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for sensing rainfall |
US10694379B2 (en) | 2016-12-06 | 2020-06-23 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Waveguide system with device-based authentication and methods for use therewith |
US10027397B2 (en) | 2016-12-07 | 2018-07-17 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Distributed antenna system and methods for use therewith |
US9893795B1 (en) | 2016-12-07 | 2018-02-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp | Method and repeater for broadband distribution |
US10389029B2 (en) | 2016-12-07 | 2019-08-20 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Multi-feed dielectric antenna system with core selection and methods for use therewith |
US10359749B2 (en) | 2016-12-07 | 2019-07-23 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for utilities management via guided wave communication |
US10547348B2 (en) | 2016-12-07 | 2020-01-28 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for switching transmission mediums in a communication system |
US10446936B2 (en) | 2016-12-07 | 2019-10-15 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Multi-feed dielectric antenna system and methods for use therewith |
US10243270B2 (en) | 2016-12-07 | 2019-03-26 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Beam adaptive multi-feed dielectric antenna system and methods for use therewith |
US10139820B2 (en) | 2016-12-07 | 2018-11-27 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for deploying equipment of a communication system |
US10168695B2 (en) | 2016-12-07 | 2019-01-01 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for controlling an unmanned aircraft |
US9911020B1 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2018-03-06 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for tracking via a radio frequency identification device |
US10326689B2 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2019-06-18 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and system for providing alternative communication paths |
US10530505B2 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2020-01-07 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for launching electromagnetic waves along a transmission medium |
US10103422B2 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2018-10-16 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for mounting network devices |
US10601494B2 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2020-03-24 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Dual-band communication device and method for use therewith |
US9998870B1 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2018-06-12 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for proximity sensing |
US10411356B2 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2019-09-10 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for selectively targeting communication devices with an antenna array |
US10916969B2 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2021-02-09 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for providing power using an inductive coupling |
US10389037B2 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2019-08-20 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for selecting sections of an antenna array and use therewith |
US10777873B2 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2020-09-15 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for mounting network devices |
US10069535B2 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2018-09-04 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for launching electromagnetic waves having a certain electric field structure |
US10938108B2 (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2021-03-02 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Frequency selective multi-feed dielectric antenna system and methods for use therewith |
US9838896B1 (en) | 2016-12-09 | 2017-12-05 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for assessing network coverage |
US10264586B2 (en) | 2016-12-09 | 2019-04-16 | At&T Mobility Ii Llc | Cloud-based packet controller and methods for use therewith |
US10340983B2 (en) | 2016-12-09 | 2019-07-02 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Method and apparatus for surveying remote sites via guided wave communications |
US9973940B1 (en) | 2017-02-27 | 2018-05-15 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus and methods for dynamic impedance matching of a guided wave launcher |
US10298293B2 (en) | 2017-03-13 | 2019-05-21 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Apparatus of communication utilizing wireless network devices |
KR102532299B1 (en) | 2017-07-27 | 2023-05-15 | 삼성전자주식회사 | Apparatus and method for replacing and outputting an advertisement |
US10257547B1 (en) | 2018-06-29 | 2019-04-09 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Systems and methods for altering a progress bar to prevent spoilers in a media asset |
US10779028B2 (en) * | 2018-08-21 | 2020-09-15 | Verizon Digital Media Services Inc. | Progressive delivery of targeted third-party content |
WO2020132682A1 (en) | 2018-12-21 | 2020-06-25 | Streamlayer Inc. | Method and system for providing interactive content delivery and audience engagement |
USD947233S1 (en) | 2018-12-21 | 2022-03-29 | Streamlayer, Inc. | Display screen or portion thereof with transitional graphical user interface |
USD997952S1 (en) | 2018-12-21 | 2023-09-05 | Streamlayer, Inc. | Display screen with transitional graphical user interface |
US11144956B1 (en) * | 2019-02-14 | 2021-10-12 | Amazon Technologies, Inc. | Targeted media delivery based on previous consumer interactions |
USD951267S1 (en) | 2019-04-09 | 2022-05-10 | Streamlayer, Inc. | Display screen with a transitional graphical user interface for an interactive content overlay |
US11182449B2 (en) | 2019-09-09 | 2021-11-23 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Method and system of re-associating location mappings for uniform resource identifier named objects |
US11172269B2 (en) | 2020-03-04 | 2021-11-09 | Dish Network L.L.C. | Automated commercial content shifting in a video streaming system |
US20230300407A1 (en) * | 2020-07-24 | 2023-09-21 | Free Stream Media Corp. dba Samba TV | System and method for channel change detection and overlay detection for a broadcast output |
WO2022046248A1 (en) * | 2020-08-31 | 2022-03-03 | Arris Enterprises Llc | Managing advertising content |
US11843824B2 (en) | 2021-10-18 | 2023-12-12 | Synamedia Limited | Digital processing systems and methods for managing presentation of stream portions |
Citations (75)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4303937A (en) * | 1979-07-30 | 1981-12-01 | Cook Tommy D | Communication system for supplementing off-air or cable TV signals with locally generated video messages |
US4331974A (en) * | 1980-10-21 | 1982-05-25 | Iri, Inc. | Cable television with controlled signal substitution |
US4404589A (en) * | 1980-10-21 | 1983-09-13 | Iri, Inc. | Cable television with multi-event signal substitution |
US4630108A (en) * | 1984-03-26 | 1986-12-16 | A. C. Nielsen Company | Preprogrammed over-the-air marketing research system |
US4706121A (en) * | 1985-07-12 | 1987-11-10 | Patrick Young | TV schedule system and process |
US4814883A (en) * | 1988-01-04 | 1989-03-21 | Beam Laser Systems, Inc. | Multiple input/output video switch for commerical insertion system |
US4829372A (en) * | 1987-08-20 | 1989-05-09 | Telaction Corporation | Presentation player |
US4888638A (en) * | 1988-10-11 | 1989-12-19 | A. C. Nielsen Company | System for substituting television programs transmitted via telephone lines |
US4974085A (en) * | 1989-05-02 | 1990-11-27 | Bases Burke Institute, Inc. | Television signal substitution |
US5029014A (en) * | 1989-10-26 | 1991-07-02 | James E. Lindstrom | Ad insertion system and method for broadcasting spot messages out of recorded sequence |
US5055924A (en) * | 1989-01-21 | 1991-10-08 | Gfk Gmbh | Remote-controlled substitution of a defined program part of a tv program by a separately transmitted program part for defined, selected receivers, household terminal for executing the method and method for operating a household terminal |
US5099319A (en) * | 1989-10-23 | 1992-03-24 | Esch Arthur G | Video information delivery method and apparatus |
US5155591A (en) * | 1989-10-23 | 1992-10-13 | General Instrument Corporation | Method and apparatus for providing demographically targeted television commercials |
US5233423A (en) * | 1990-11-26 | 1993-08-03 | North American Philips Corporation | Embedded commericals within a television receiver using an integrated electronic billboard |
US5353121A (en) * | 1989-10-30 | 1994-10-04 | Starsight Telecast, Inc. | Television schedule system |
US5446919A (en) * | 1990-02-20 | 1995-08-29 | Wilkins; Jeff K. | Communication system and method with demographically or psychographically defined audiences |
US5479268A (en) * | 1990-09-10 | 1995-12-26 | Starsight Telecast Inc. | User interface for television schedule system |
US5585858A (en) * | 1994-04-15 | 1996-12-17 | Actv, Inc. | Simulcast of interactive signals with a conventional video signal |
US5600366A (en) * | 1995-03-22 | 1997-02-04 | Npb Partners, Ltd. | Methods and apparatus for digital advertisement insertion in video programming |
US5661516A (en) * | 1994-09-08 | 1997-08-26 | Carles; John B. | System and method for selectively distributing commercial messages over a communications network |
US5715018A (en) * | 1992-04-10 | 1998-02-03 | Avid Technology, Inc. | Digital advertisement insertion system |
US5727060A (en) * | 1989-10-30 | 1998-03-10 | Starsight Telecast, Inc. | Television schedule system |
US5745837A (en) * | 1995-08-25 | 1998-04-28 | Terayon Corporation | Apparatus and method for digital data transmission over a CATV system using an ATM transport protocol and SCDMA |
US5774664A (en) * | 1996-03-08 | 1998-06-30 | Actv, Inc. | Enhanced video programming system and method for incorporating and displaying retrieved integrated internet information segments |
US5774666A (en) * | 1996-10-18 | 1998-06-30 | Silicon Graphics, Inc. | System and method for displaying uniform network resource locators embedded in time-based medium |
US5774170A (en) * | 1994-12-13 | 1998-06-30 | Hite; Kenneth C. | System and method for delivering targeted advertisements to consumers |
US5790806A (en) * | 1996-04-03 | 1998-08-04 | Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. | Cable data network architecture |
US5805974A (en) * | 1995-08-08 | 1998-09-08 | Hite; Kenneth C. | Method and apparatus for synchronizing commercial advertisements across multiple communication channels |
US5809204A (en) * | 1988-07-15 | 1998-09-15 | Starsight Telecast, Inc. | User interface for television schedule system |
US5833468A (en) * | 1996-01-24 | 1998-11-10 | Frederick R. Guy | Remote learning system using a television signal and a network connection |
US5870150A (en) * | 1995-08-30 | 1999-02-09 | Gemstar Development Corporation | Television guide reader and programmer |
US5886748A (en) * | 1996-01-09 | 1999-03-23 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Equalizing method and equalizer using reference signal |
US5892536A (en) * | 1996-10-03 | 1999-04-06 | Personal Audio | Systems and methods for computer enhanced broadcast monitoring |
US5929850A (en) * | 1996-07-01 | 1999-07-27 | Thomson Consumer Electronices, Inc. | Interactive television system and method having on-demand web-like navigational capabilities for displaying requested hyperlinked web-like still images associated with television content |
US5940073A (en) * | 1996-05-03 | 1999-08-17 | Starsight Telecast Inc. | Method and system for displaying other information in a TV program guide |
US5970206A (en) * | 1988-12-23 | 1999-10-19 | Gemstar Development Corporation | Television calendar and method for creating same |
US5974222A (en) * | 1988-12-23 | 1999-10-26 | Gemstar Development Corporation | Apparatus and method using compressed codes for scheduling broadcast information recording |
US5973723A (en) * | 1997-12-12 | 1999-10-26 | Deluca; Michael Joseph | Selective commercial detector and eliminator apparatus and method |
US5986692A (en) * | 1996-10-03 | 1999-11-16 | Logan; James D. | Systems and methods for computer enhanced broadcast monitoring |
US5995092A (en) * | 1996-08-30 | 1999-11-30 | Yuen; Henry C. | Television system and method for subscription of information services |
US6002393A (en) * | 1995-08-22 | 1999-12-14 | Hite; Kenneth C. | System and method for delivering targeted advertisements to consumers using direct commands |
US6029045A (en) * | 1997-12-09 | 2000-02-22 | Cogent Technology, Inc. | System and method for inserting local content into programming content |
US6061719A (en) * | 1997-11-06 | 2000-05-09 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | Synchronized presentation of television programming and web content |
US6064420A (en) * | 1995-06-15 | 2000-05-16 | Intel Corporation | Simulating two way connectivity for one way data streams for multiple parties |
US6070186A (en) * | 1995-06-21 | 2000-05-30 | Nec Corporation | Video server and video-on-demand system capable of effectively transmitting a special video program |
US6100941A (en) * | 1998-07-28 | 2000-08-08 | U.S. Philips Corporation | Apparatus and method for locating a commercial disposed within a video data stream |
US6119098A (en) * | 1997-10-14 | 2000-09-12 | Patrice D. Guyot | System and method for targeting and distributing advertisements over a distributed network |
US6141010A (en) * | 1998-07-17 | 2000-10-31 | B. E. Technology, Llc | Computer interface method and apparatus with targeted advertising |
US6160570A (en) * | 1998-04-20 | 2000-12-12 | U.S. Philips Corporation | Digital television system which selects images for display in a video sequence |
US6177931B1 (en) * | 1996-12-19 | 2001-01-23 | Index Systems, Inc. | Systems and methods for displaying and recording control interface with television programs, video, advertising information and program scheduling information |
US6215483B1 (en) * | 1998-06-17 | 2001-04-10 | Webtv Networks, Inc. | Combining real-time and batch mode logical address links |
US6230203B1 (en) * | 1995-10-20 | 2001-05-08 | Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. | System and method for providing statistics for flexible billing in a cable environment |
US6233389B1 (en) * | 1998-07-30 | 2001-05-15 | Tivo, Inc. | Multimedia time warping system |
US6240555B1 (en) * | 1996-03-29 | 2001-05-29 | Microsoft Corporation | Interactive entertainment system for presenting supplemental interactive content together with continuous video programs |
US6252952B1 (en) * | 1999-12-30 | 2001-06-26 | At&T Corp | Personal user network (closed user network) PUN/CUN |
US6263505B1 (en) * | 1997-03-21 | 2001-07-17 | United States Of America | System and method for supplying supplemental information for video programs |
US20010013123A1 (en) * | 1991-11-25 | 2001-08-09 | Freeman Michael J. | Customized program creation by splicing server based video, audio, or graphical segments |
US20010050920A1 (en) * | 2000-03-29 | 2001-12-13 | Hassell Joel Gerard | Rate controlled insertion of asynchronous data into a synchronous stream |
US20020042914A1 (en) * | 2000-10-11 | 2002-04-11 | United Video Properties, Inc. | Systems and methods for providing targeted advertisements based on current activity |
US20020100043A1 (en) * | 2001-01-19 | 2002-07-25 | Lowthert Jonathan E. | Content with advertisement information segment |
US20020124246A1 (en) * | 2001-03-02 | 2002-09-05 | Kaminsky David Louis | Methods, systems and program products for tracking information distribution |
US20020144262A1 (en) * | 2001-04-03 | 2002-10-03 | Plotnick Michael A. | Alternative advertising in prerecorded media |
US6487538B1 (en) * | 1998-11-16 | 2002-11-26 | Sun Microsystems, Inc. | Method and apparatus for local advertising |
US20020194589A1 (en) * | 2001-05-08 | 2002-12-19 | Cristofalo Michael | Technique for optimizing the delivery of advertisements and other programming segments by making bandwidth tradeoffs |
US20030005463A1 (en) * | 1999-09-30 | 2003-01-02 | Douglas B Macrae | Access to internet data through a television system |
US20030037068A1 (en) * | 2000-03-31 | 2003-02-20 | United Video Properties, Inc. | Interactive media system and method for presenting pause-time content |
US6546556B1 (en) * | 1997-12-26 | 2003-04-08 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Video clip identification system unusable for commercial cutting |
US6546566B1 (en) * | 2001-08-29 | 2003-04-15 | Anthony Geisel | Water conserving urination system |
US6588015B1 (en) * | 1998-01-14 | 2003-07-01 | General Instrument Corporation | Broadcast interactive digital radio |
US6636271B1 (en) * | 1998-01-07 | 2003-10-21 | Thomson Licensing S.A. | Apparatus and method for playing back a recorded video signal in a time compressed manner |
US6698020B1 (en) * | 1998-06-15 | 2004-02-24 | Webtv Networks, Inc. | Techniques for intelligent video ad insertion |
US6732183B1 (en) * | 1996-12-31 | 2004-05-04 | Broadware Technologies, Inc. | Video and audio streaming for multiple users |
US6792615B1 (en) * | 1999-05-19 | 2004-09-14 | New Horizons Telecasting, Inc. | Encapsulated, streaming media automation and distribution system |
US20050015796A1 (en) * | 2001-04-25 | 2005-01-20 | Bruckner John Anthony | System and method for managing interactive programming and advertisements in interactive broadcast systems |
US6961954B1 (en) * | 1997-10-27 | 2005-11-01 | The Mitre Corporation | Automated segmentation, information extraction, summarization, and presentation of broadcast news |
Family Cites Families (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4888838A (en) * | 1988-07-25 | 1989-12-26 | Pelski Ronald E | Mattress support |
US7079176B1 (en) * | 1991-11-25 | 2006-07-18 | Actv, Inc. | Digital interactive system for providing full interactivity with live programming events |
US5886746A (en) * | 1994-12-13 | 1999-03-23 | Gemstar Development Corporation | Method for channel scanning |
US5745882A (en) | 1995-01-09 | 1998-04-28 | Us West Marketing Resources Group, Inc. | Electronic classified advertising interface method and instructions with continuous search notification |
US6198977B1 (en) * | 1995-01-09 | 2001-03-06 | Qwest Communication International Inc. | Electronic classified advertising interface method and instructions with ad replay options |
DE69607579T2 (en) * | 1995-07-11 | 2000-10-19 | Koninkl Philips Electronics Nv | VIDEO ON REQUEST SYSTEM |
US5929849A (en) | 1996-05-02 | 1999-07-27 | Phoenix Technologies, Ltd. | Integration of dynamic universal resource locators with television presentations |
US6252595B1 (en) * | 1996-06-16 | 2001-06-26 | Ati Technologies Inc. | Method and apparatus for a multi-state window |
DE19629640C1 (en) * | 1996-07-23 | 1997-08-28 | Metallgesellschaft Ag | Production of crystalline D-sorbitol with high gamma-content |
JP3584727B2 (en) | 1998-03-30 | 2004-11-04 | 株式会社日立製作所 | Information transmitting device and information receiving device |
CA2328913A1 (en) | 1998-04-17 | 1999-10-28 | Karl D. Zetmeir | Telephone call management software and internet marketing method |
US7181756B1 (en) * | 1998-06-17 | 2007-02-20 | Microsoft Corporation | Television/internet terminal user interface |
US20020083439A1 (en) * | 2000-08-31 | 2002-06-27 | Eldering Charles A. | System for rescheduling and inserting advertisements |
US6282713B1 (en) * | 1998-12-21 | 2001-08-28 | Sony Corporation | Method and apparatus for providing on-demand electronic advertising |
US20020026351A1 (en) * | 1999-06-30 | 2002-02-28 | Thomas E. Coleman | Method and system for delivery of targeted commercial messages |
US20010025377A1 (en) * | 1999-12-30 | 2001-09-27 | Hinderks Larry W. | High bandwidth transmission system and method having local insertion, delay play and demand play |
US20030126597A1 (en) * | 2000-02-01 | 2003-07-03 | Geoffrey Darby | On-screen stripe and other methods for delivering information that facilitate convergence of audio/visual programming and advertisements with internet and other media usage |
US6654036B1 (en) * | 2000-06-05 | 2003-11-25 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method, article of manufacture and apparatus for controlling relative positioning of objects in a windows environment |
EP1340377A2 (en) * | 2000-10-15 | 2003-09-03 | Digital Networks North America, Inc. | Method and system for dynamic ad placement |
CA3011879C (en) * | 2001-02-21 | 2021-10-19 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Systems and methods for interactive program guides with personal video recordng features |
US7359987B2 (en) * | 2001-07-05 | 2008-04-15 | Enom, Inc. | Method and system for providing static addresses for Internet connected devices even if the underlying address is dynamic |
-
2001
- 2001-06-14 US US09/883,098 patent/US7266832B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-09-24 US US09/963,093 patent/US20020194595A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2001-09-24 US US09/963,092 patent/US8375407B2/en active Active
- 2001-09-24 US US09/963,136 patent/US8434103B2/en active Active
- 2001-12-05 WO PCT/US2001/048406 patent/WO2002104020A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
Patent Citations (79)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4303937A (en) * | 1979-07-30 | 1981-12-01 | Cook Tommy D | Communication system for supplementing off-air or cable TV signals with locally generated video messages |
US4331974A (en) * | 1980-10-21 | 1982-05-25 | Iri, Inc. | Cable television with controlled signal substitution |
US4404589A (en) * | 1980-10-21 | 1983-09-13 | Iri, Inc. | Cable television with multi-event signal substitution |
US4630108A (en) * | 1984-03-26 | 1986-12-16 | A. C. Nielsen Company | Preprogrammed over-the-air marketing research system |
US4706121A (en) * | 1985-07-12 | 1987-11-10 | Patrick Young | TV schedule system and process |
US4706121B1 (en) * | 1985-07-12 | 1993-12-14 | Insight Telecast, Inc. | Tv schedule system and process |
US4829372A (en) * | 1987-08-20 | 1989-05-09 | Telaction Corporation | Presentation player |
US4814883A (en) * | 1988-01-04 | 1989-03-21 | Beam Laser Systems, Inc. | Multiple input/output video switch for commerical insertion system |
US5809204A (en) * | 1988-07-15 | 1998-09-15 | Starsight Telecast, Inc. | User interface for television schedule system |
US4888638A (en) * | 1988-10-11 | 1989-12-19 | A. C. Nielsen Company | System for substituting television programs transmitted via telephone lines |
US5974222A (en) * | 1988-12-23 | 1999-10-26 | Gemstar Development Corporation | Apparatus and method using compressed codes for scheduling broadcast information recording |
US5970206A (en) * | 1988-12-23 | 1999-10-19 | Gemstar Development Corporation | Television calendar and method for creating same |
US5055924A (en) * | 1989-01-21 | 1991-10-08 | Gfk Gmbh | Remote-controlled substitution of a defined program part of a tv program by a separately transmitted program part for defined, selected receivers, household terminal for executing the method and method for operating a household terminal |
US4974085A (en) * | 1989-05-02 | 1990-11-27 | Bases Burke Institute, Inc. | Television signal substitution |
US5155591A (en) * | 1989-10-23 | 1992-10-13 | General Instrument Corporation | Method and apparatus for providing demographically targeted television commercials |
US5099319A (en) * | 1989-10-23 | 1992-03-24 | Esch Arthur G | Video information delivery method and apparatus |
US5029014A (en) * | 1989-10-26 | 1991-07-02 | James E. Lindstrom | Ad insertion system and method for broadcasting spot messages out of recorded sequence |
US5353121A (en) * | 1989-10-30 | 1994-10-04 | Starsight Telecast, Inc. | Television schedule system |
US5727060A (en) * | 1989-10-30 | 1998-03-10 | Starsight Telecast, Inc. | Television schedule system |
US5532754A (en) * | 1989-10-30 | 1996-07-02 | Starsight Telecast Inc. | Background television schedule system |
US5446919A (en) * | 1990-02-20 | 1995-08-29 | Wilkins; Jeff K. | Communication system and method with demographically or psychographically defined audiences |
US5479266A (en) * | 1990-09-10 | 1995-12-26 | Starsight Telecast Inc. | User interface for television schedule system |
US5479268A (en) * | 1990-09-10 | 1995-12-26 | Starsight Telecast Inc. | User interface for television schedule system |
US5233423A (en) * | 1990-11-26 | 1993-08-03 | North American Philips Corporation | Embedded commericals within a television receiver using an integrated electronic billboard |
US20010013123A1 (en) * | 1991-11-25 | 2001-08-09 | Freeman Michael J. | Customized program creation by splicing server based video, audio, or graphical segments |
US5715018A (en) * | 1992-04-10 | 1998-02-03 | Avid Technology, Inc. | Digital advertisement insertion system |
US5585858A (en) * | 1994-04-15 | 1996-12-17 | Actv, Inc. | Simulcast of interactive signals with a conventional video signal |
US5661516A (en) * | 1994-09-08 | 1997-08-26 | Carles; John B. | System and method for selectively distributing commercial messages over a communications network |
US5774170A (en) * | 1994-12-13 | 1998-06-30 | Hite; Kenneth C. | System and method for delivering targeted advertisements to consumers |
US5600366A (en) * | 1995-03-22 | 1997-02-04 | Npb Partners, Ltd. | Methods and apparatus for digital advertisement insertion in video programming |
US6064420A (en) * | 1995-06-15 | 2000-05-16 | Intel Corporation | Simulating two way connectivity for one way data streams for multiple parties |
US6070186A (en) * | 1995-06-21 | 2000-05-30 | Nec Corporation | Video server and video-on-demand system capable of effectively transmitting a special video program |
US5805974A (en) * | 1995-08-08 | 1998-09-08 | Hite; Kenneth C. | Method and apparatus for synchronizing commercial advertisements across multiple communication channels |
US6002393A (en) * | 1995-08-22 | 1999-12-14 | Hite; Kenneth C. | System and method for delivering targeted advertisements to consumers using direct commands |
US5745837A (en) * | 1995-08-25 | 1998-04-28 | Terayon Corporation | Apparatus and method for digital data transmission over a CATV system using an ATM transport protocol and SCDMA |
US5870150A (en) * | 1995-08-30 | 1999-02-09 | Gemstar Development Corporation | Television guide reader and programmer |
US6230203B1 (en) * | 1995-10-20 | 2001-05-08 | Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. | System and method for providing statistics for flexible billing in a cable environment |
US5886748A (en) * | 1996-01-09 | 1999-03-23 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Equalizing method and equalizer using reference signal |
US5833468A (en) * | 1996-01-24 | 1998-11-10 | Frederick R. Guy | Remote learning system using a television signal and a network connection |
US6937841B1 (en) * | 1996-01-24 | 2005-08-30 | Frederick R. Guy | Remote communication system and method |
US5774664A (en) * | 1996-03-08 | 1998-06-30 | Actv, Inc. | Enhanced video programming system and method for incorporating and displaying retrieved integrated internet information segments |
US6240555B1 (en) * | 1996-03-29 | 2001-05-29 | Microsoft Corporation | Interactive entertainment system for presenting supplemental interactive content together with continuous video programs |
US5790806A (en) * | 1996-04-03 | 1998-08-04 | Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. | Cable data network architecture |
US5940073A (en) * | 1996-05-03 | 1999-08-17 | Starsight Telecast Inc. | Method and system for displaying other information in a TV program guide |
US5929850A (en) * | 1996-07-01 | 1999-07-27 | Thomson Consumer Electronices, Inc. | Interactive television system and method having on-demand web-like navigational capabilities for displaying requested hyperlinked web-like still images associated with television content |
US5995092A (en) * | 1996-08-30 | 1999-11-30 | Yuen; Henry C. | Television system and method for subscription of information services |
US5986692A (en) * | 1996-10-03 | 1999-11-16 | Logan; James D. | Systems and methods for computer enhanced broadcast monitoring |
US5892536A (en) * | 1996-10-03 | 1999-04-06 | Personal Audio | Systems and methods for computer enhanced broadcast monitoring |
US5774666A (en) * | 1996-10-18 | 1998-06-30 | Silicon Graphics, Inc. | System and method for displaying uniform network resource locators embedded in time-based medium |
US6177931B1 (en) * | 1996-12-19 | 2001-01-23 | Index Systems, Inc. | Systems and methods for displaying and recording control interface with television programs, video, advertising information and program scheduling information |
US6732183B1 (en) * | 1996-12-31 | 2004-05-04 | Broadware Technologies, Inc. | Video and audio streaming for multiple users |
US6263505B1 (en) * | 1997-03-21 | 2001-07-17 | United States Of America | System and method for supplying supplemental information for video programs |
US6119098A (en) * | 1997-10-14 | 2000-09-12 | Patrice D. Guyot | System and method for targeting and distributing advertisements over a distributed network |
US6961954B1 (en) * | 1997-10-27 | 2005-11-01 | The Mitre Corporation | Automated segmentation, information extraction, summarization, and presentation of broadcast news |
US6061719A (en) * | 1997-11-06 | 2000-05-09 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | Synchronized presentation of television programming and web content |
US6029045A (en) * | 1997-12-09 | 2000-02-22 | Cogent Technology, Inc. | System and method for inserting local content into programming content |
US5973723A (en) * | 1997-12-12 | 1999-10-26 | Deluca; Michael Joseph | Selective commercial detector and eliminator apparatus and method |
US6546556B1 (en) * | 1997-12-26 | 2003-04-08 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Video clip identification system unusable for commercial cutting |
US6636271B1 (en) * | 1998-01-07 | 2003-10-21 | Thomson Licensing S.A. | Apparatus and method for playing back a recorded video signal in a time compressed manner |
US6588015B1 (en) * | 1998-01-14 | 2003-07-01 | General Instrument Corporation | Broadcast interactive digital radio |
US6160570A (en) * | 1998-04-20 | 2000-12-12 | U.S. Philips Corporation | Digital television system which selects images for display in a video sequence |
US6698020B1 (en) * | 1998-06-15 | 2004-02-24 | Webtv Networks, Inc. | Techniques for intelligent video ad insertion |
US6215483B1 (en) * | 1998-06-17 | 2001-04-10 | Webtv Networks, Inc. | Combining real-time and batch mode logical address links |
US6141010A (en) * | 1998-07-17 | 2000-10-31 | B. E. Technology, Llc | Computer interface method and apparatus with targeted advertising |
US6100941A (en) * | 1998-07-28 | 2000-08-08 | U.S. Philips Corporation | Apparatus and method for locating a commercial disposed within a video data stream |
US6233389B1 (en) * | 1998-07-30 | 2001-05-15 | Tivo, Inc. | Multimedia time warping system |
US6487538B1 (en) * | 1998-11-16 | 2002-11-26 | Sun Microsystems, Inc. | Method and apparatus for local advertising |
US6792615B1 (en) * | 1999-05-19 | 2004-09-14 | New Horizons Telecasting, Inc. | Encapsulated, streaming media automation and distribution system |
US20030005463A1 (en) * | 1999-09-30 | 2003-01-02 | Douglas B Macrae | Access to internet data through a television system |
US6252952B1 (en) * | 1999-12-30 | 2001-06-26 | At&T Corp | Personal user network (closed user network) PUN/CUN |
US20010050920A1 (en) * | 2000-03-29 | 2001-12-13 | Hassell Joel Gerard | Rate controlled insertion of asynchronous data into a synchronous stream |
US20030037068A1 (en) * | 2000-03-31 | 2003-02-20 | United Video Properties, Inc. | Interactive media system and method for presenting pause-time content |
US20020042914A1 (en) * | 2000-10-11 | 2002-04-11 | United Video Properties, Inc. | Systems and methods for providing targeted advertisements based on current activity |
US20020100043A1 (en) * | 2001-01-19 | 2002-07-25 | Lowthert Jonathan E. | Content with advertisement information segment |
US20020124246A1 (en) * | 2001-03-02 | 2002-09-05 | Kaminsky David Louis | Methods, systems and program products for tracking information distribution |
US20020144262A1 (en) * | 2001-04-03 | 2002-10-03 | Plotnick Michael A. | Alternative advertising in prerecorded media |
US20050015796A1 (en) * | 2001-04-25 | 2005-01-20 | Bruckner John Anthony | System and method for managing interactive programming and advertisements in interactive broadcast systems |
US20020194589A1 (en) * | 2001-05-08 | 2002-12-19 | Cristofalo Michael | Technique for optimizing the delivery of advertisements and other programming segments by making bandwidth tradeoffs |
US6546566B1 (en) * | 2001-08-29 | 2003-04-15 | Anthony Geisel | Water conserving urination system |
Cited By (237)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9319735B2 (en) | 1995-06-07 | 2016-04-19 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Electronic television program guide schedule system and method with data feed access |
US9027058B2 (en) | 1996-05-03 | 2015-05-05 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Information system |
US9423936B2 (en) | 1996-05-03 | 2016-08-23 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Information system |
US8646005B2 (en) | 1996-05-03 | 2014-02-04 | Starsight Telecast, Inc. | Information system |
US8806538B2 (en) | 1996-05-03 | 2014-08-12 | Starsight Telecast, Inc. | Information system |
US20080184319A1 (en) * | 1997-04-21 | 2008-07-31 | Gemstar Development Corporation | Method and apparatus for time-shifting video and text in a text-enhanced television program |
US9113122B2 (en) | 1997-04-21 | 2015-08-18 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Method and apparatus for time-shifting video and text in a text-enhanced television program |
US9191722B2 (en) | 1997-07-21 | 2015-11-17 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | System and method for modifying advertisement responsive to EPG information |
US20120324323A1 (en) * | 1998-05-07 | 2012-12-20 | Astute Technology, Llc | Enhanced capture, management and distribution of live presentations |
US8286070B2 (en) * | 1998-05-07 | 2012-10-09 | Astute Technology, Llc | Enhanced capture, management and distribution of live presentations |
US8918708B2 (en) * | 1998-05-07 | 2014-12-23 | Astute Technology, Llc | Enhanced capture, management and distribution of live presentations |
US20100328465A1 (en) * | 1998-05-07 | 2010-12-30 | Astute Technology, Llc | Enhanced capture, management and distribution of live presentations |
US9837077B2 (en) | 1998-05-07 | 2017-12-05 | Echo 360 Continuing Education, Llc | Enhanced capture, management and distribution of live presentations |
US9426509B2 (en) | 1998-08-21 | 2016-08-23 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Client-server electronic program guide |
US7194754B2 (en) * | 2000-07-25 | 2007-03-20 | Digeo, Inc. | Method and system to defer transactions conducted via interactive television |
US9930374B2 (en) | 2001-02-21 | 2018-03-27 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Systems and methods for interactive program guides with personal video recording features |
US9648358B2 (en) | 2001-02-21 | 2017-05-09 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Systems and methods for interactive program guides with personal video recording features |
US7319869B2 (en) * | 2001-12-13 | 2008-01-15 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method and apparatus for managing audio broadcasts in an automobile |
US20050050579A1 (en) * | 2001-12-13 | 2005-03-03 | Dietz Timothy Alan | Method and apparatus for managing audio broadcasts in an automobile |
US8434124B2 (en) * | 2002-04-11 | 2013-04-30 | Thomson Licensing Llc | Apparatus and method for switching between an interactive mode and a television program mode |
US20050235331A1 (en) * | 2002-04-11 | 2005-10-20 | Lynch David J | Apparatus and method for switching between an interactive mode and a television program mode |
US20130073738A1 (en) * | 2002-05-10 | 2013-03-21 | Richard Reisman | Method and Apparatus for Browsing Using Multiple Coordinated Device Sets |
US9143839B2 (en) * | 2002-05-10 | 2015-09-22 | Convergent Media Solutions Llc | Method and apparatus for browsing using multiple coordinated device sets |
US20030221194A1 (en) * | 2002-05-23 | 2003-11-27 | Balaji Thiagarajan | Fast-advance while recording on-demand content |
US20040261096A1 (en) * | 2002-06-20 | 2004-12-23 | Bellsouth Intellectual Property Corporation | System and method for monitoring blocked content |
US20070256015A1 (en) * | 2002-06-20 | 2007-11-01 | Matz William R | Methods, systems, and products for providing substitute content |
US7818764B2 (en) * | 2002-06-20 | 2010-10-19 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | System and method for monitoring blocked content |
US8136135B2 (en) * | 2002-06-20 | 2012-03-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Methods, systems, and products for blocking content |
US7698720B2 (en) | 2002-06-20 | 2010-04-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L. P. | Content blocking |
US8935722B2 (en) | 2002-06-20 | 2015-01-13 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Methods, systems, and products for content blocking |
US20100325653A1 (en) * | 2002-06-20 | 2010-12-23 | Matz William R | Methods, Systems, and Products for Blocking Content |
US8762850B2 (en) | 2002-06-20 | 2014-06-24 | Wantage Technologies Llc | Methods systems, and products for providing substitute content |
US7600189B2 (en) * | 2002-10-11 | 2009-10-06 | Sony Corporation | Display device, display method, and program |
US20040083484A1 (en) * | 2002-10-28 | 2004-04-29 | Sony Corporation | Commercial replacement on personal digital recordings |
US20040158858A1 (en) * | 2003-02-12 | 2004-08-12 | Brian Paxton | System and method for identification and insertion of advertising in broadcast programs |
US20040177368A1 (en) * | 2003-03-06 | 2004-09-09 | Wegener Communications, Inc. | Apparatus and method for addressing control in a network for distributed data |
US7930711B2 (en) | 2003-03-06 | 2011-04-19 | Wegener Communications, Inc. | Apparatus and method for addressing control in a network for distributed data |
US7020689B2 (en) | 2003-03-07 | 2006-03-28 | Wegener Communications, Inc. | System and method for command transmission utilizing an email return path |
US20040216034A1 (en) * | 2003-04-28 | 2004-10-28 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method, system and program product for controlling web content usage |
US7386783B2 (en) * | 2003-04-28 | 2008-06-10 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method, system and program product for controlling web content usage |
US7506235B2 (en) | 2003-05-30 | 2009-03-17 | Wegener Communications | Error correction apparatus and method |
US20080228787A1 (en) * | 2003-05-30 | 2008-09-18 | Wegener Communications, Inc. | Error Correction Apparatus and Method |
US7937638B2 (en) | 2003-05-30 | 2011-05-03 | Wegener Communications, Inc. | Error correction apparatus and method |
US20060085724A1 (en) * | 2003-05-30 | 2006-04-20 | Wegener Communications, Inc. | Error correction apparatus and method |
US7296204B2 (en) | 2003-05-30 | 2007-11-13 | Wegener Communications, Inc. | Error correction apparatus and method |
USRE41919E1 (en) | 2003-06-25 | 2010-11-09 | Steve Olivier | Rapid decryption of data by key synchronization and indexing |
US20050081252A1 (en) * | 2003-10-14 | 2005-04-14 | International Business Machines Corporation | Device and method for bandwidth optimization using a local cache |
US20050102700A1 (en) * | 2003-11-07 | 2005-05-12 | Cormack Christopher J. | Automatic program restoration when a programming break ends |
US8196168B1 (en) * | 2003-12-10 | 2012-06-05 | Time Warner, Inc. | Method and apparatus for exchanging preferences for replaying a program on a personal video recorder |
US10032192B2 (en) * | 2003-12-23 | 2018-07-24 | Roku, Inc. | Automatic localization of advertisements |
US10387920B2 (en) | 2003-12-23 | 2019-08-20 | Roku, Inc. | System and method for offering and billing advertisement opportunities |
US10387949B2 (en) | 2003-12-23 | 2019-08-20 | Roku, Inc. | System and method for providing interactive advertisement |
US9865017B2 (en) | 2003-12-23 | 2018-01-09 | Opentv, Inc. | System and method for providing interactive advertisement |
US20130031582A1 (en) * | 2003-12-23 | 2013-01-31 | Opentv, Inc. | Automatic localization of advertisements |
US20090235301A1 (en) * | 2004-05-04 | 2009-09-17 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Method and apparatus for programming blackout and retune |
US8499318B2 (en) * | 2004-05-04 | 2013-07-30 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Method and apparatus for programming blackout and retune |
US20120320894A1 (en) * | 2004-12-13 | 2012-12-20 | Broadcom Corporation | Concurrent Communicating of Multimedia Information in a Multistandard Wireless Communication System |
US20060200575A1 (en) * | 2005-02-23 | 2006-09-07 | Sherer W P | Playout-dependent unicast streaming of digital video content |
US8452885B2 (en) * | 2005-02-23 | 2013-05-28 | Cisco Technology, Inc. | Playout-dependent unicast streaming of digital video content |
US20060294557A1 (en) * | 2005-06-23 | 2006-12-28 | Microsoft Corporation | Presentation of information relating to change of a programming state |
US9065979B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2015-06-23 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Promotional placement in media works |
US9426387B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2016-08-23 | Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Image anonymization |
US8792673B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2014-07-29 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Modifying restricted images |
US8126938B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2012-02-28 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Group content substitution in media works |
US20080028422A1 (en) * | 2005-07-01 | 2008-01-31 | Searete Llc, A Limited Liability Corporation Of The State Of Delaware | Implementation of media content alteration |
US9230601B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2016-01-05 | Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Media markup system for content alteration in derivative works |
US7860342B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2010-12-28 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Modifying restricted images |
US8910033B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2014-12-09 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Implementing group content substitution in media works |
US9583141B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2017-02-28 | Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Implementing audio substitution options in media works |
US8732087B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2014-05-20 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Authorization for media content alteration |
US9092928B2 (en) | 2005-07-01 | 2015-07-28 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Implementing group content substitution in media works |
US20070156589A1 (en) * | 2005-12-30 | 2007-07-05 | Randy Zimler | Integrating personalized listings of media content into an electronic program guide |
US20070180382A1 (en) * | 2006-02-02 | 2007-08-02 | Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. | System and method for sharing content with a remote device |
US9495072B2 (en) * | 2006-02-02 | 2016-11-15 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | System and method for sharing content with a remote device |
US10991394B2 (en) * | 2006-06-22 | 2021-04-27 | Tivo Solutions Inc. | In-band data recognition and synchronization system |
US11825144B2 (en) * | 2006-06-22 | 2023-11-21 | Tivo Solutions Inc. | In-band data recognition and synchronization system |
US20210217442A1 (en) * | 2006-06-22 | 2021-07-15 | Tivo Solutions Inc. | In-band data recognition and synchronization system |
US10153000B2 (en) * | 2006-06-22 | 2018-12-11 | Tivo Solutions Inc. | In-band data recognition and synchronization system |
US20090235308A1 (en) * | 2006-07-04 | 2009-09-17 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Method of content substitution |
WO2008007274A2 (en) | 2006-07-04 | 2008-01-17 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Method of content substitution |
US8930984B2 (en) | 2006-07-04 | 2015-01-06 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Method of content substitution |
US20090183198A1 (en) * | 2006-07-04 | 2009-07-16 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Method of content substitution |
US20100122277A1 (en) * | 2006-07-12 | 2010-05-13 | Koninklijike Phillips Electronics, N.V. | device and a method for playing audio-video content |
US20080059999A1 (en) * | 2006-08-29 | 2008-03-06 | John Winans | Multi-function display controller |
US11381549B2 (en) | 2006-10-20 | 2022-07-05 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Downloadable security and protection methods and apparatus |
US11552999B2 (en) | 2007-01-24 | 2023-01-10 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for provisioning in a download-enabled system |
US8126190B2 (en) | 2007-01-31 | 2012-02-28 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Targeted obstrufication of an image |
US8203609B2 (en) | 2007-01-31 | 2012-06-19 | The Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Anonymization pursuant to a broadcasted policy |
US11057655B2 (en) * | 2007-02-14 | 2021-07-06 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus for content delivery notification and management |
US20160255378A1 (en) * | 2007-02-14 | 2016-09-01 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus for content delivery notification and management |
US9326025B2 (en) | 2007-03-09 | 2016-04-26 | Rovi Technologies Corporation | Media content search results ranked by popularity |
US10694256B2 (en) | 2007-03-09 | 2020-06-23 | Rovi Technologies Corporation | Media content search results ranked by popularity |
US9215512B2 (en) | 2007-04-27 | 2015-12-15 | Invention Science Fund I, Llc | Implementation of media content alteration |
US20080307483A1 (en) * | 2007-06-06 | 2008-12-11 | Akinori Iida | Information processing device, video playback method, program, and video playback system |
US8589972B2 (en) * | 2007-06-06 | 2013-11-19 | Sony Corporation | Information processing device, video playback method, program, and video playback system |
US9898764B2 (en) | 2007-06-06 | 2018-02-20 | Sony Corporation | Information processing device, video playback method, program, and video playback system |
US20080320545A1 (en) * | 2007-06-22 | 2008-12-25 | Schwartz Richard T | System and method for providing audio-visual programming with alternative content |
US20090165038A1 (en) * | 2007-10-12 | 2009-06-25 | Bob Hall | Network media insertion system |
US20090172724A1 (en) * | 2007-12-31 | 2009-07-02 | Ergen Charles W | Methods and apparatus for presenting advertisements based on a location of a presentation device |
US8051442B2 (en) * | 2007-12-31 | 2011-11-01 | Dish Network L.L.C. | Methods and apparatus for presenting advertisements based on a location of a presentation device |
US8973028B2 (en) | 2008-01-29 | 2015-03-03 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Information storage medium storing metadata and method of providing additional contents, and digital broadcast reception apparatus |
US9301000B2 (en) | 2008-01-29 | 2016-03-29 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Method for providing a content-sharing service, and a device therefor |
US20090193456A1 (en) * | 2008-01-29 | 2009-07-30 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Information storage medium storing metadata and method of providing additional contents, and digital broadcast reception apparatus |
US20090193455A1 (en) * | 2008-01-29 | 2009-07-30 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Information storage medium and method for providing additional contents based on trigger, and digital broadcast reception apparatus |
US20110004665A1 (en) * | 2008-01-29 | 2011-01-06 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Method for providing a content-sharing service, and a device therefor |
US9204084B2 (en) | 2008-01-29 | 2015-12-01 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Content recording control method for peers, and a device therefor |
US8762465B2 (en) | 2008-01-29 | 2014-06-24 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Method for providing a content-sharing service, and device therefor |
US10587906B2 (en) | 2008-11-24 | 2020-03-10 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for content delivery and message exchange across multiple content delivery networks |
US11343554B2 (en) | 2008-11-24 | 2022-05-24 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for content delivery and message exchange across multiple content delivery networks |
US10136172B2 (en) | 2008-11-24 | 2018-11-20 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for content delivery and message exchange across multiple content delivery networks |
US20100162301A1 (en) * | 2008-12-24 | 2010-06-24 | Echostar Technologies L.L.C. | Targeted advertising management |
US8607274B2 (en) | 2009-02-05 | 2013-12-10 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel based media system control technology |
US8375409B2 (en) | 2009-02-05 | 2013-02-12 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel based media system control technology |
US8601512B2 (en) | 2009-02-05 | 2013-12-03 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel network-based content download technology |
US9137565B1 (en) | 2009-02-05 | 2015-09-15 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel caching and instant viewing related technology |
US9258577B2 (en) | 2009-02-05 | 2016-02-09 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel media system control and advertisement technology |
US20100199312A1 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2010-08-05 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel based media system control technolgy |
US8990852B2 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2015-03-24 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel media system control and advertisement technology |
US8402497B2 (en) | 2009-02-05 | 2013-03-19 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel network-based content download technology |
US20100199299A1 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2010-08-05 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel media system control and advertisement technology |
US8458746B2 (en) | 2009-02-05 | 2013-06-04 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel caching and instant viewing related technology |
US9451295B2 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2016-09-20 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel media system control and advertisement technology |
US20100199311A1 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2010-08-05 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel caching and instant viewing related technology |
US20140250459A1 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2014-09-04 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel media system control and advertisement technology |
US8726310B2 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2014-05-13 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel media system control and advertisement technology |
US8769582B2 (en) | 2009-02-05 | 2014-07-01 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel based media system control technology |
US8769580B2 (en) | 2009-02-05 | 2014-07-01 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel based media system control technology |
US20100199318A1 (en) * | 2009-02-05 | 2010-08-05 | Purplecomm Inc. | Meta channel network-based content download technology |
US11076189B2 (en) | 2009-03-30 | 2021-07-27 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Personal media channel apparatus and methods |
US10313755B2 (en) | 2009-03-30 | 2019-06-04 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Recommendation engine apparatus and methods |
US11012749B2 (en) | 2009-03-30 | 2021-05-18 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Recommendation engine apparatus and methods |
US11659224B2 (en) | 2009-03-30 | 2023-05-23 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Personal media channel apparatus and methods |
US11314936B2 (en) | 2009-05-12 | 2022-04-26 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | System and method for assembling a recorded composition |
US10652607B2 (en) | 2009-06-08 | 2020-05-12 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Media bridge apparatus and methods |
US9166714B2 (en) | 2009-09-11 | 2015-10-20 | Veveo, Inc. | Method of and system for presenting enriched video viewing analytics |
US10178435B1 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2019-01-08 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus for enabling media functionality in a content delivery network |
US9531760B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2016-12-27 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus for packetized content delivery over a content delivery network |
US11368498B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2022-06-21 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus for packetized content delivery over a content delivery network |
US10264029B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2019-04-16 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus for packetized content delivery over a content delivery network |
US9519728B2 (en) | 2009-12-04 | 2016-12-13 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for monitoring and optimizing delivery of content in a network |
US10455262B2 (en) | 2009-12-04 | 2019-10-22 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for monitoring and optimizing delivery of content in a network |
US11563995B2 (en) | 2009-12-04 | 2023-01-24 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for monitoring and optimizing delivery of content in a network |
US11232458B2 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2022-01-25 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | System and method for data mining within interactive multimedia |
US10339281B2 (en) | 2010-03-02 | 2019-07-02 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for rights-managed content and data delivery |
US11609972B2 (en) | 2010-03-02 | 2023-03-21 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for rights-managed data delivery |
US8855470B2 (en) * | 2010-04-06 | 2014-10-07 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Use of multiple embedded messages in program signal streams |
US20110243533A1 (en) * | 2010-04-06 | 2011-10-06 | Peter Stern | Use of multiple embedded messages in program signal streams |
US10477263B2 (en) * | 2010-04-06 | 2019-11-12 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Use of multiple embedded messages in program signal streams |
US9560423B1 (en) | 2010-06-07 | 2017-01-31 | Purplecomm Inc. | Method for monitoring and controlling viewing preferences of a user |
US8671423B1 (en) * | 2010-06-07 | 2014-03-11 | Purplecomm Inc. | Method for monitoring and controlling viewing preferences of a user |
US10917694B2 (en) | 2010-07-12 | 2021-02-09 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for content management and account linking across multiple content delivery networks |
US11831955B2 (en) | 2010-07-12 | 2023-11-28 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for content management and account linking across multiple content delivery networks |
US9906838B2 (en) | 2010-07-12 | 2018-02-27 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for content delivery and message exchange across multiple content delivery networks |
US11671191B2 (en) * | 2010-07-29 | 2023-06-06 | Paul D. Marko | Method and apparatus for content navigation in digital broadcast radio |
US8769563B2 (en) * | 2010-08-23 | 2014-07-01 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Display apparatus and method for providing application function applying thereto |
US20120047528A1 (en) * | 2010-08-23 | 2012-02-23 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Display apparatus and method for providing application function applying thereto |
US20130036443A1 (en) * | 2011-08-03 | 2013-02-07 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Interactive and program half-screen |
US11109090B2 (en) | 2012-04-04 | 2021-08-31 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for automated highlight reel creation in a content delivery network |
US10250932B2 (en) | 2012-04-04 | 2019-04-02 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for automated highlight reel creation in a content delivery network |
US11159851B2 (en) | 2012-09-14 | 2021-10-26 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for providing enhanced or interactive features |
US10474334B2 (en) | 2012-09-19 | 2019-11-12 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Progress bar for branched videos |
US9947027B2 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2018-04-17 | Myine Electronics, Inc. | System and method for providing targeted advertisements and geolocation information to an operator of a vehicle |
US20150302480A1 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2015-10-22 | Myine Electronics, Inc. | System and method for providing targeted advertisements and geolocation information to an operator of a vehicle |
US10958629B2 (en) | 2012-12-10 | 2021-03-23 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for content transfer protection |
US10418066B2 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2019-09-17 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | System and method for synchronization of selectably presentable media streams |
US10293263B2 (en) | 2013-05-22 | 2019-05-21 | David S. Thompson | Custom content feed based on fantasy sports data |
US20150358690A1 (en) * | 2013-05-22 | 2015-12-10 | David S. Thompson | Techniques for Backfilling Content |
US9889382B2 (en) | 2013-05-22 | 2018-02-13 | Clip Engine LLC | Scraping fantasy sports data |
US10158925B2 (en) * | 2013-05-22 | 2018-12-18 | David S. Thompson | Techniques for backfilling content |
US11291920B2 (en) | 2013-05-22 | 2022-04-05 | David S. Thompson | Interaction interleaver |
US20150040176A1 (en) * | 2013-07-31 | 2015-02-05 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus that facilitate channel switching during commercial breaks and/or other program segments |
US11134304B2 (en) * | 2013-07-31 | 2021-09-28 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Methods and apparatus that facilitate channel switching during commercial breaks and/or other program segments |
US10448119B2 (en) | 2013-08-30 | 2019-10-15 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Methods and systems for unfolding video pre-roll |
US9332301B2 (en) * | 2014-01-09 | 2016-05-03 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Multimedia device and method for displaying advertisement broadcasting thereof |
US20150195608A1 (en) * | 2014-01-09 | 2015-07-09 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Multimedia device and method for displaying advertisement broadcasting thereof |
US11501802B2 (en) | 2014-04-10 | 2022-11-15 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for creating linear video from branched video |
US10755747B2 (en) | 2014-04-10 | 2020-08-25 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for creating linear video from branched video |
US9723371B2 (en) * | 2014-05-12 | 2017-08-01 | Echostar Uk Holdings Limited | Systems and method for timing commercial breaks |
US9386358B2 (en) * | 2014-05-29 | 2016-07-05 | Echostar Technologies L.L.C. | Automatic identification of relevant video content through replays |
US11792462B2 (en) | 2014-05-29 | 2023-10-17 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for recording, accessing, and delivering packetized content |
US11348618B2 (en) | 2014-10-08 | 2022-05-31 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for dynamic video bookmarking |
US11900968B2 (en) | 2014-10-08 | 2024-02-13 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for dynamic video bookmarking |
US10692540B2 (en) | 2014-10-08 | 2020-06-23 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for dynamic video bookmarking |
US10885944B2 (en) | 2014-10-08 | 2021-01-05 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for dynamic video bookmarking |
US11412276B2 (en) | 2014-10-10 | 2022-08-09 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for parallel track transitions |
US9872081B2 (en) * | 2014-10-20 | 2018-01-16 | Nbcuniversal Media, Llc | Digital content spatial replacement system and method |
US11961124B2 (en) | 2014-11-17 | 2024-04-16 | Yahoo Ad Tech Llc | Systems and methods for providing non-intrusive advertising content |
US9781491B2 (en) * | 2014-11-26 | 2017-10-03 | Oath Inc. | Systems and methods for providing non-intrusive advertising content to set-top boxes |
US11128930B2 (en) * | 2014-11-26 | 2021-09-21 | Verizon Media Inc. | Systems and methods for providing non-intrusive advertising content to set-top boxes |
US9544659B2 (en) * | 2014-11-26 | 2017-01-10 | Aol Inc. | Systems and methods for providing non-intrusive advertising content to set-top boxes |
US11582533B2 (en) | 2014-11-26 | 2023-02-14 | Yahoo Ad Tech Llc | Systems and methods for providing non-intrusive advertising content to set-top boxes |
US20170085963A1 (en) * | 2014-11-26 | 2017-03-23 | Aol Inc. | Systems and methods for providing non-intrusive advertising content to set-top boxes |
US20160150288A1 (en) * | 2014-11-26 | 2016-05-26 | Aol Inc. | Systems and methods for providing non-intrusive advertising content to set-top boxes |
US10805685B2 (en) * | 2015-01-05 | 2020-10-13 | The Directv Group, Inc. | Streamlined viewing of recorded programs based on markers |
US9973808B2 (en) * | 2015-01-05 | 2018-05-15 | The Directv Group, Inc. | Streamlined viewing of recorded programs based on markers |
US11057408B2 (en) | 2015-02-13 | 2021-07-06 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for data collection, analysis and service modification based on online activity |
US10116676B2 (en) | 2015-02-13 | 2018-10-30 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for data collection, analysis and service modification based on online activity |
US11606380B2 (en) | 2015-02-13 | 2023-03-14 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for data collection, analysis and service modification based on online activity |
US9232190B1 (en) | 2015-04-01 | 2016-01-05 | Ringcentral, Inc. | Systems and methods for managing multimedia conference calls |
US10582265B2 (en) | 2015-04-30 | 2020-03-03 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for nonlinear video playback using linear real-time video players |
US11804249B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2023-10-31 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for adaptive and responsive video |
US10460765B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2019-10-29 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for adaptive and responsive video |
US11128853B2 (en) | 2015-12-22 | 2021-09-21 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Seamless transitions in large-scale video |
US11164548B2 (en) | 2015-12-22 | 2021-11-02 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Intelligent buffering of large-scale video |
US11258832B2 (en) | 2016-02-26 | 2022-02-22 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for centralized message exchange in a user premises device |
US10404758B2 (en) | 2016-02-26 | 2019-09-03 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for centralized message exchange in a user premises device |
US11843641B2 (en) | 2016-02-26 | 2023-12-12 | Time Warner Cable Enterprises Llc | Apparatus and methods for centralized message exchange in a user premises device |
US10462202B2 (en) | 2016-03-30 | 2019-10-29 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Media stream rate synchronization |
US11856271B2 (en) | 2016-04-12 | 2023-12-26 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Symbiotic interactive video |
US10218760B2 (en) | 2016-06-22 | 2019-02-26 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Dynamic summary generation for real-time switchable videos |
US9788024B1 (en) * | 2016-06-29 | 2017-10-10 | Rovi Guides, Inc. | Systems and methods for achieving ad avoidance by selectively switching media streams |
US9621929B1 (en) * | 2016-07-22 | 2017-04-11 | Samuel Chenillo | Method of video content selection and display |
US10911794B2 (en) | 2016-11-09 | 2021-02-02 | Charter Communications Operating, Llc | Apparatus and methods for selective secondary content insertion in a digital network |
US11553024B2 (en) | 2016-12-30 | 2023-01-10 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for dynamic weighting of branched video paths |
US11050809B2 (en) | 2016-12-30 | 2021-06-29 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for dynamic weighting of branched video paths |
US10193940B2 (en) | 2017-02-07 | 2019-01-29 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Adding recorded content to an interactive timeline of a teleconference session |
US10171256B2 (en) * | 2017-02-07 | 2019-01-01 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Interactive timeline for a teleconference session |
US10630740B2 (en) | 2017-02-07 | 2020-04-21 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Adding recorded content to an interactive timeline of a teleconference session |
US10506195B2 (en) | 2017-02-24 | 2019-12-10 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Concurrent viewing of live content and recorded content |
US20190068477A1 (en) * | 2017-08-25 | 2019-02-28 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Communication polling and analytics |
US20190132616A1 (en) * | 2017-11-02 | 2019-05-02 | Ateme | Method and system for processing multimedia content within a metropolitan area network |
US11523147B2 (en) * | 2017-11-02 | 2022-12-06 | Ateme | Method and system for processing multimedia content within a metropolitan area network |
US10856049B2 (en) | 2018-01-05 | 2020-12-01 | Jbf Interlude 2009 Ltd. | Dynamic library display for interactive videos |
US11528534B2 (en) | 2018-01-05 | 2022-12-13 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Dynamic library display for interactive videos |
US10257578B1 (en) | 2018-01-05 | 2019-04-09 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Dynamic library display for interactive videos |
US11128914B2 (en) * | 2018-04-25 | 2021-09-21 | Roku, Inc. | Client side stitching of content into a multimedia stream |
US20190335231A1 (en) * | 2018-04-25 | 2019-10-31 | Roku, Inc. | Client side stitching of content into a multimedia stream |
US11601721B2 (en) | 2018-06-04 | 2023-03-07 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Interactive video dynamic adaptation and user profiling |
US11563915B2 (en) | 2019-03-11 | 2023-01-24 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Media content presentation |
US11490047B2 (en) | 2019-10-02 | 2022-11-01 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Systems and methods for dynamically adjusting video aspect ratios |
US11582537B2 (en) * | 2019-10-14 | 2023-02-14 | Inscape Data, Inc. | Dynamic content serving using a media device |
US11245961B2 (en) | 2020-02-18 | 2022-02-08 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | System and methods for detecting anomalous activities for interactive videos |
US11973992B2 (en) | 2021-02-01 | 2024-04-30 | Charter Communications Operating, Llc | Apparatus and methods for selective secondary content insertion in a digital network |
US20220286716A1 (en) * | 2021-03-08 | 2022-09-08 | Beijing Dajia Internet Information Technology Co., Ltd. | Method and apparatus for live streaming, server, system and storage medium |
US11601690B2 (en) * | 2021-03-08 | 2023-03-07 | Beijing Dajia Internet Information Technology Co., Ltd. | Method and apparatus for live streaming, server, system and storage medium |
US11882337B2 (en) | 2021-05-28 | 2024-01-23 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Automated platform for generating interactive videos |
US11934477B2 (en) | 2021-09-24 | 2024-03-19 | JBF Interlude 2009 LTD | Video player integration within websites |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2002104020A1 (en) | 2002-12-27 |
US20030046690A1 (en) | 2003-03-06 |
US7266832B2 (en) | 2007-09-04 |
US8434103B2 (en) | 2013-04-30 |
US20020194593A1 (en) | 2002-12-19 |
US8375407B2 (en) | 2013-02-12 |
US20020194592A1 (en) | 2002-12-19 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US8434103B2 (en) | Method of substituting content during program breaks | |
US9479803B2 (en) | Alternative advertising in prerecorded media | |
US10743064B2 (en) | Systems and methods for improved audience measuring | |
CA2402318C (en) | Personal recorder and method of implementing and using same | |
US9032456B2 (en) | Modifying commercials for multi-speed playback | |
US20040158858A1 (en) | System and method for identification and insertion of advertising in broadcast programs | |
CA2603257C (en) | Networked multi-room system ad insertion | |
US20060222319A1 (en) | Pre-recorded dvd ad insertion | |
JP2017216731A (en) | Automatic play-back system of commercial | |
US20070300269A1 (en) | Snippet access systems and methods | |
US20060222335A1 (en) | Dvd recording of tuned source with ad inwertion | |
GB2399250A (en) | System and method for identification and insertion of advertising in broadcast programmes | |
WO2002104000A2 (en) | Aggregation & substitution of user-specified content | |
US20120219273A1 (en) | Digital video recording apparatus, system and method with catchup viewing feature |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: DIGEO, INC., WASHINGTON Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:MILLER, DOUGLAS A.;TSUCHIDA, TED;NOVAK, ROBERT E.;REEL/FRAME:012568/0341;SIGNING DATES FROM 20011113 TO 20011114 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |