Abstract: Systems and methods for enabling concurrent user interaction with a plurality of applications executing on a computer system are disclosed. Generally, the computer system includes a video game controller, a remote control including a plurality of buttons, and a video game system communicatively coupled with the remote control and the video game controller. While presenting video game output of video game in a foreground of a display and media output of a media application on the display, the video game system may maintain a mapping indicating that a first set of the plurality of buttons is used for controlling execution of a media application. Based on receiving a signal corresponding to a push of a button of the first set, and the mapping, the video game system may control the execution of the media application while continuing to present the video game output in the foreground.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes methods and systems directed at implementing a video thumbnail that facilitates user viewing of video content alongside additional content such as an electronic program guide. The video thumbnail would display the video content that was currently playing when the user requests access to the electronic program guide. The video thumbnail would be situated in a pre-defined portion of the display such that the information within the electronic program guide is not obscured. Furthermore, additional information (e.g. metadata) associated with the video thumbnail can be provided that provides information to the user about what is currently being displayed in the video thumbnail. Lastly, the user is able to perform actions with the electronic program guide without losing the video thumbnail so that the user is able to view the video content while the electronic program guide is displayed.

Abstract: Systems and methods for enabling concurrent user interaction with a plurality of applications executing on a computer system are disclosed. Generally, the computer system includes a video game controller, a remote control including a plurality of buttons, and a video game system communicatively coupled with the remote control and the video game controller. While presenting video game output of video game in a foreground of a display and media output of a media application on the display, the video game system may maintain a mapping indicating that a first set of the plurality of buttons is used for controlling execution of a media application. Based on receiving a signal corresponding to a push of a button of the first set, and the mapping, the video game system may control the execution of the media application while continuing to present the video game output in the foreground.

Abstract: Systems and methods for enabling concurrent user interaction with a plurality of applications executing on a computer system are disclosed. Generally, the computer system includes a video game controller, a remote control including a plurality of buttons, and a video game system communicatively coupled with the remote control and the video game controller. While presenting video game output of video game in a foreground of a display and media output of a media application on the display, the video game system may maintain a mapping indicating that a first set of the plurality of buttons is used for controlling execution of a media application. Based on receiving a signal corresponding to a push of a button of the first set, and the mapping, the video game system may control the execution of the media application while continuing to present the video game output in the foreground.

Abstract: A kiosk system which is capable of maintaining kiosk devices online without physical manipulation is disclosed. The kiosk system is capable of forcing a programmatic re-initialization of kiosk devices when necessary. Individual devices in the kiosk system can be initialized and re-initialized in parallel with normal operation of the kiosk system.

Abstract: A kiosk system which is capable of maintaining kiosk devices online without physical manipulation is disclosed. The kiosk system capable of forcing a programmatic re-initialization of kiosk devices when necessary. Individual devices in the kiosk system can be initialized and re-initialized in parallel with normal operation of the kiosk system.

Abstract: A kiosk system which is capable of maintaining kiosk devices online without physical manipulation is disclosed. The kiosk system is capable of forcing a programmatic re-initialization of kiosk devices when necessary. Individual devices in the kiosk system can be initialized and re-initialized in parallel with normal operation of the kiosk system.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes methods and systems directed towards implementations of a quick menu. The quick menu provides a user with easy and quick access to different user interfaces, content, and/or content sources. The user can request display of the quick menu with a user input and can subsequently choose which subsequent user interface to access via displayed icons within the quick menu.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes methods and systems directed at implementing a video thumbnail that facilitates user viewing of video content alongside additional content such as an electronic program guide. The video thumbnail would display the video content that was currently playing when the user requests access to the electronic program guide. The video thumbnail would be situated in a pre-defined portion of the display such that the information within the electronic program guide is not obscured. Furthermore, additional information (e.g. metadata) associated with the video thumbnail can be provided that provides information to the user about what is currently being displayed in the video thumbnail.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes various embodiments of methods and systems for operating a kiosk that is configured to purchase electronic items from a user. One or more cameras on the kiosk record a transaction which is stored as a record on a computer-readable medium. A record is also kept of the times at which events occur such as the user activating a control or button, as well as times when graphical user interface (GUI) screens are presented to the user. The transaction record can be analyzed in real time or at a later date to determine why some transactions are not completed or to improve the user experience with the kiosk.

Abstract: A kiosk system which is capable of maintaining kiosk devices online without physical manipulation is disclosed. The kiosk system capable of forcing a programmatic re-initialization of kiosk devices when necessary. Individual devices in the kiosk system can be initialized and re-initialized in parallel with normal operation of the kiosk system.

Abstract: The present invention is a type of hand tool apparatus for use as a trowel, scrapper, spatula and others. The tool comprises a handle, to which a plate member is securely coupled. A blade member is securely attached to the plate member; the blade member having opposing parallel edges of typically unlike configurations. The handle has a locking device that is pressure sensitive and provides a means to immobilize the pivot mechanism and secure and lock in place the blade member. Activated by the user, such as finger/thumb manipulation, disengagement and release of the locking device allows the pivot mechanism to operate and the blade member to rotate from the first blade edge to the second blade edge. The new method and novel tool allows for achieving a consistently uniform layer of compound spread much more rapidly and with a reduction of material waste and reduces the need for two or more tools needed in task succession.