Abstract: A mall bid server is coupled to retailers within a geographic boundary of a mall. The mall server receives bids from authenticated consumers via wireless communication devices for bid products offered during a bid event. The winning bid from one consumer is selected and allows the consumer to pick up the bid product at the participating retailer at the bid price.

Abstract: A remote user interface transmits a digital media request through a first communication link to a media management control which is coupled by a second communication link to a digital audio-visual playback device for selecting and playing a stored digital media by the playback device. The media management control executes a set of rules applicable to each playback device in determining whether or not a user request will be accepted or rejected for play on a particular playback device.

Abstract: A remote user interface transmits a digital media request through a communication link to a control which is coupled to a digital audio-visual playback device for selecting and playing a stored digital media by the playback device. The control receives the digital media request and transmits digital media selection and/or the selected digital media content directly to a selected playback device or indirectly to the selected playback device through a playback device server. The communication between the control and the playback device can be through a global communication network.

Abstract: A remote user interface transmits a digital media request through a first communication link to a media management control which is coupled by a second communication link to a digital audio-visual playback device for selecting and playing a stored digital media by the playback device. The media management control executes a set of rules applicable to each playback device in determining whether or not a user request will be accepted or rejected for play on a particular playback device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating a reward points issuance, accumulation management and redemption program in which a wireless device user accumulates reward points by messaging a reward code to a wireless communications gateway associated with a plurality of independent product entities or location-based proximity services. Earned reward points are tracked in a user reward point account stored on a rewards server. A dedicated account server accumulates some or all of a customer's earned reward points from the reward servers and credits the accumulated points into a single reward redemption account associated with the customer. The customer may then select an item for purchase from the reward points issuing entity or redeem credits for access to a plurality of services with the accumulated reward points.

Abstract: A remote user interface transmits a digital media request through a communication link to a control which is coupled to a digital audio-visual playback device for selecting and playing a stored digital media by the playback device. The control receives the digital media request and transmits digital media selection and/or the selected digital media content directly to a selected playback device or indirectly to the selected playback device through a playback device server. The communication between the control and the playback device can be through a global communication network.