Abstract: A device for storing and reproducing audio and/or video data includes a semiconductor memory (3) for storing the data in difference form and a conversion unit (4, 5) capable of converting the digital audio and/or video data into analog signals suitable for reproducing apparatuses. Preferably, only analog useful signals issuing from the conversion unit appear on the output lines. Thus, the user does not have access to the original digital data, which precludes unauthorized copying of the digital audio and/or video data. The processing logic connected to the semiconductor memory is preferably configurable in different manners so as to allow the medium to be tailored to the customer's ideas about features and quality when it is purchased.

Abstract: In television receivers and similar systems, user profiles (301, 302, 303, 311, 312, 313, 321, 322, 323) are needed for use with interactive agents which suggest or recommend content. The invention relates to a method and system for determining a user profile for a user. A first set (30) of profiles is presented, from which the user makes a selection. Next “generations” (31, 32) of profiles are created based upon previous ones, preferably using a genetic algorithm. Each next generation (31, 23) will be more suited to the user's preferences, because the relevant attributes are passed on to this next generation. Presentation of the profiles can be adapted to the attributes, so that the user can visually recognize each profile and make a more informed selection.

Abstract: The behavior of a consumer electronics system is modeled by a plurality of dynamically changing system elements, such as system states or variables. Preferably the system is voice controlled. Instead of representing all system elements, like time span and whether or not a command has been recognized, individually to the user, one appearance is chosen which represents actual values of a plurality of the system elements. The appearance is chosen from a plurality of different visual and/or auditive appearances of one object. Preferably, the object is an anthropomorphic character. The chosen appearance is presented to the user.