Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for targeting specific audiences for coupon distribution. In one embodiment, users of an entertainment network are monitored to determine specific preferences. Alternatively, the users may be surveyed to determine preferences. A preference profile is determined based on the preferences. Coupons are distributed only to the users that fit a coupon distributor's chosen preference profile. The coupons may be delivered in a variety of ways. For example, coupons may be downloaded to a user's system automatically or on demand. Alternatively, coupons may be mailed to the user automatically or on demand. The coupons may then be redeemed by the user. Coupons are provided and monitored such that each coupon may be redeemed a predetermined number of times.

Abstract: In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a method and apparatus for automatically performing a function based on the reception of information corresponding to broadcast data is provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a receiver to receive information corresponding to broadcast data, a control logic to compare the information to target data, and a programming guide to store programming information. The control logic accesses the programming guide if at least a portion of the information matches at least a portion of the target data. The control logic then performs a predetermined function based on accessing the programming guide.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically configuring a system based on a user's monitored system interaction and preferred system access times updates a user profile corresponding to the user based at least in part on the monitored user interaction with the system. Preferred system access times of the user are identified based at least in part on the user profile, and the system is automatically configured based at least in part on the user profile and the user's preferred system access times.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically determining and dynamically updating user preferences in an entertainment system is provided. In a first embodiment, an apparatus comprises a storage medium to store user preference information corresponding to at least a subset of a plurality of entertainment system users and a processor agent. The processor agent, communicatively coupled to the storage medium, is operative to monitor user interaction with the entertainment system and to automatically detect which user of the plurality of entertainment system users is currently using the entertainment system.