Abstract: An interactive entertainment network system has a video-on-demand (VOD) application which allows viewers to create their own customized lists of preferred video content programs, such as movies, games, TV shows, and so forth. Viewers are permitted to select criteria for grouping various video content programs into manageable sets. Lists of programs are provided in one or more scrollable lists, the scrolling rates of which are programmable. Once grouped, previews for the set of programs are displayed. The VOD application allows the viewers to browse the previews at their own rate, skipping forward to the next preview or backward to the previous preview. During this automated browsing, the VOD application enables the viewer to add any of the programs of interest to a customized list. The viewer can retrieve the customized list at any time. If the viewer orders a program from the customized list, the program remains available to the viewer for a rental period (which is adjustable).

Abstract: An image transmission apparatus for processing hierarchically encoded image information includes an accounting unit for performing accounting processing in correspondence with the resolution of the image information.

Abstract: In a digital content distribution method to distribute digital contents via a network, distribution of a digital content is instructed according to a distribution schedule, the digital content is distributed according to the distribution schedule indicated, and a particular digital content is selected from the digital contents distributed and is then sold, thereby conducting the distribution of digital contents at a high speed.

Abstract: A server for a merchant computer system, the server comprising: a file store for storing a range of audio/video products in respective product files; a dialogue unit having a network connection and operable to invite and receive a client selection from among the products via the network connection; a product reader for reading the product files to generate a digital audio/video signal; a digital signal processing unit having an input connectable to receive the digital audio/video signal from the product reader, a processing core operable to apply a defined level of content degradation to the digital audio/video signal, and an output connected to output the degraded digital audio/video signal from the processing core to the network connection. It is therefore possible for a content provider to change the characteristics of an audio or video data stream supplied over a network to a potential purchaser in a controlled and variable manner.

Abstract: Content with a plurality of treatments, in the form of a movie, video, text, animation, music, etc., is stored on a network, each treatment having a storyline connection with all the other treatments. Subscribers to the content are classified in a subscriber tier based on subscription fee amounts. A top-level tier is capable of choosing a first and second sub-set of elements of a main presentation, e.g. a movie. The elements, in the example of a movie, may include characters and movie genre. Each subscriber's choice, within a tier, is registered and the majority of the top level determines a first element in the movie. Each subscriber in the second highest level is able to adjust the storyline, which includes a first element determined by the first tier, by choosing a second element. A further tier of subscribers views the content as determined by the higher level tiers.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for an interactive media services system to provide media to a user through an interactive media services client device. The client device is coupled to a programmable media services server device. The method includes the step of implementing an interactive media guide. Additionally, the client device is implemented to present the interactive media guide to the user. A system operator is provided an interface to the programmable media services server. Control options are provided within the interface to allow the system operator to configure a plurality of rental options available to the user. Finally the interactive media service system is implemented such that the plurality of rental options can be executed by the user in a requested active media session.

Abstract: A system and a method of providing on-line subscription services from a subscription server to a user of a mobile terminal through the Internet. The subscription server receives from the mobile terminal user-specific information relating to the user's mobile terminal capabilities, the user's preferences of products, and the user's financial information. The subscription server sends to the mobile terminal at least locally or remotely retrieved information related to a product based on the user-specific information. The subscription server receives from the mobile terminal a request indicating whether the user wishes to either cancel or purchase the product. The subscription server cancels the product when the user indicates so, and downloads the product to the mobile terminal when the user desires to purchase the product.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for compensating a viewer for viewing of a designated channel with reduction of telephone charges. The system comprises a signal input port to which image signals from a plurality of channels are accessed; a signal output port for supplying the image signals to a picture receiving device for displaying them; a telephone network port to which an external telephone network is accessed; a telephone connection port accessed to a telephone set; a channel filtering unit connected between the signal input port and the signal output port, for outputting only the image signals from a single channel among the plurality of channels to the signal output port; and a controller for controlling the channel filtering unit so that the designated channel is output when making a phone call. With this configuration, an audience rating of the designated channel can increase and the telephone charges of the user can be reduced.

Abstract: An information system for vehicles (35) includes a plurality of contactless transceivers (31-32) oriented in the direction of the passengers (36) that allow a data transfer at close range, with a central data processor (2). A data bus (3) is connected with the transceivers (31-32) and with the central data processor (2), so that data can be transmitted between private portable terminals (4) of the passengers and the central data processor (2) in both directions over the transceivers (31-32) and the data bus (3). The portable terminals (4) additionally store passengers' identification data in such a manner that the identification data are transmitted to the central data processor, so that the system can check the passengers' travel authorizations.

Abstract: The present invention is a video information charging system in which a fee-requiring program is broadcast from a transmitting apparatus (11) to a receiving apparatus (13). Moreover, in the video information charging system, a communication concerning an electronic commerce transaction for a commodity that appears in the program is performed between the receiving apparatus (13) and a commerce management apparatus (14). At a program data generating section (21), a related program for making a display concerning the commodity that appears in the program and conducting an electronic commerce transaction for the commodity is acquired. A control section (33) reproduces data of the program. Moreover, the control section (33) makes the display concerning the commodity that appears in the program in accordance with an instruction from a viewer. Furthermore, the control section (33) transmits a purchase request for the commodity to the commerce management apparatus in accordance with an instruction from the viewer.

Abstract: A method for a PPV referral that provides to a subscriber the time, date, and channel of the next showing of a PPV event if the subscriber tries to purchase the PPV event after the purchase window is closed for the current showing. The subscriber is provided information on the next showing of the PPV event regardless of when or on which channel the next showing occurs. In addition, a method and system for providing a single multipurpose PPV channel that a subscriber tunes for all PPV services. There can be a single multipurpose PPV channel for all PPV services or single PPV channels for groups of similar services, such as a Family PPV channel. Each represents a single multipurpose channel of similar programming. Once a subscriber purchases a PPV event, the HCT tunes to the MPEG transport stream and program information for the selected PPV event and displays the PPV event on the single multipurpose PPV channel at its associated start time. The subscriber does not have to select another channel.

Abstract: The present invention provides a remote control video recording and playing system, and its method, comprising: at least a video program broadcasting system, a video server, and a client computer. A video program broadcasting system includes a channel sending video programs through the broadcasting network to the computers at the client's end. A video server stores a plurality of digital video programs, each corresponding to a broadcasted video program. The said video server is able to receive the user instructions, and to send the stored digital videos to the computer at the client end, both through the internet. A client computer is used for selecting channels, and sending instructions to the video server. The said client computer is able to receive the video programs broadcasted through the network, and record a plurality of digital video programs in the video server, each requested with a separate instruction, sent by the said video server through the internet simultaneously.

Abstract: The invention consists of a method for controlling the use of a device for viewing audiovisual transmissions, aiming to limit the duration of viewing audiovisual transmissions during determined time periods. The method comprises steps of inserting and displaying a first and a second duration, which define a maximum viewing time. The method also comprises a step of displaying values of binary indicators associated with determined time periods, and a step of inserting a binary indicator value for each time period, the binary value allocating the first or the second duration at this time period in order to define the viewing duration authorized during this time period. The invention also relates to the viewing device for implementing the method and a graphics interface for presenting parameters of the method.

Abstract: There is provided a digital broadcasting receiver capable of reducing the occurrence of situations where a charge for purchase is forced to be paid, although a purchased pay program cannot be viewed due to worsened weather, power failure, or the like. When a channel is turned in to a pay per view (PPV) program, a part of the program can be viewed free of charge in a preview period. When a user performs a purchase operation in an attempt to purchase the program, a digital broadcasting receiver 30 does not immediately perform purchase processing but waits until the preview period is almost terminated, and performs the purchase processing for an IC card 21A only when the receiving condition is within an allowable range at this time point. On the other hand, it does not perform purchase processing when the receiving condition is not within the allowable range.

Abstract: The proposed system defines a comprehensive video license distribution system to achieve the zero-reject of requests from subscribers, maximizing the usage of licenses and minimizing the churn rate by (a) using symbolic and numeric features of movies; (b) planning video license distribution of different license kinds to a predictable group of subscribers based on the analysis of subscriber video viewing patterns; (c) exclusive handling of unpredictable behavior of subscribers; (d) the effective trading of favor points; (e) intelligent timing and selection of subscriber specific previews; and (f) the detailed analysis of subscriber complaints.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing subscription-on-demand (SOD) services for a interactive information distribution system, where a consumer may subscribe to packages of on-demand programs for a single price and view the programs in the subscribed package at any time for no additional cost. The apparatus and method are embodied in a combination of software, which provides a so called navigator, and hardware, including a subscriber terminal that provides certain functionality for the navigator and service provider equipment that supports the functionality of the terminal. As such, graphical user interface functionality is distributed between the service provider equipment and subscriber equipment (subscriber terminal). Such distribution provides an enjoyable, real time interactive process for accessing SOD services that allows the subscriber to rapidly identify and access a subscription service.

Abstract: A system and method by which programming is delivered via the internet to an end-user. The delivered programming can be based on specified selection criteria. The programming can be supported by information generated by support tools, including, but not limited to: ebooks, articles, games, content summaries, links to websites, telephone numbers, learning confirmation sessions, recommended reading and resources, etc. The service can be provided through a variety of revenue models. If a subscriber revenue model is used, the user can elect to pay for this programming in a number of ways, including either as a time-based subscription or on a pay-per-view/pay-per-topic basis.

Abstract: A method for managing television advertisements. The method includes determining if a subscriber has reached a minimum level of advertisement viewing and curtailing the service level of the subscriber if the subscriber does not maintain the minimum level of advertisement viewing.

Abstract: A method and system that provides a single multipurpose PPV channel that a subscriber tunes for all PPV services. From the subscriber's perspective, the program guide, previews, advertising, purchasing options, and showings of all PPV events occur on a single channel. There can be a single multipurpose PPV channel for all PPV services or single PPV channels for groups of similar services, such as a single Family PPV channel, a single Sports PPV channel, and a single Adult PPV channel that each represent single multipurpose channels for similar programming. The advertising on a single multipurpose channel can be directed to the type of programming on all the channels in the group. Once a subscriber purchases a PPV event, the HCT tunes to the MPEG transport stream and program information for the selected PPV event and displays the PPV event on the single multipurpose PPV channel at its associated start time. The subscriber does not have to select another channel.

Abstract: An effective, entertaining and rewarding way to advertise. Transforms advertising from something Consumers avoid to a drawing card that attracts the Consumers. Communicates Consumer Rewarded Advertising Vehicle Immersive Ad Bundles (“CRAV Ads”). The CRAV Ads include a Vignette, a Query, an optional Alert, and an optional Answer. Promoters can sell CRAV Ads to Advertisers. Promoters or Advertisers can use the Broadcast Network to promote future CRAV Ads. Promoters can use the Broadcast Network, the Device, the Information Gathering System, and the Data Storage Center to communicate the CRAV Ads to Consumers and to interact with Consumers. Promoters or Advertisers can use the Device, the Information Gathering System, and the Data Storage Center to gather Consumers'responses to CRAV Ads. Promoters can edit and/or distribute registration and response information to Advertisers. Promoters can select winners and distribute prizes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a broadcast channel link server and method therefore. In particular, the present invention relates to a broadcast channel link server for providing a selected broadcast program in a predetermined period of time for free-charge when a client selects the broadcast program of charged Internet broadcasts in an Internet site which provides broadcast search and display services, so as to promote the client's interests and derive the client to register as a member of the charged broadcast site to make more profits by a corresponding site entrepreneur.

Abstract: A method an apparatus for providing a video preview as part of an electronic program guide in a Set-Top Box or other television receiver device. A listing of television programs is presented to a viewer, for example, in the form of a grid showing television programming as a function of time. When a command is transmitted by the viewer from a remote commander to initiate a preview of a specified program, the program is mapped to a video file containing a preview of the specified program. The video file may be stored in a local disc drive or at a service provider head end. The video file can then be played in a window of the electronic program guide to provide a preview of the specified program to the user.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of transmitting/receiving additional information. The method includes the steps of transmitting video, audio, trailer, and EPG(program guide) signals respectively having independent PIDs(packet identification numbers), receiving the transmitted signals and extracting the video, audio, EPG, and trailer signals from the received signals, displaying the extracted EPG, and displaying the trailer signal for a selected broadcast program of the EPG. Preferably, the trailer is displayed as a motion picture or still image. Accordingly, when the audience selects a specific program on an EPG screen, the present invention displays a summary or preview of the selected program. Therefore, the transmitting side such as a broadcasting station enables to inform the audiences of the corresponding program of the broadcasting station, and the audiences are helped to select programs through program previews or summaries.

Abstract: There is disclosed an image transmission system for transmitting MPEG data through a transmission path, capable of setting frames for the MPEG data to be transmitted, according to the traffic in the transmission path, and effecting an accounting process with a charge system corresponding to thus set frames.

Abstract: A subscriber terminal ms sends the demand including at least information for identifying the demand subscriber terminal and information for identifying the requested information to the information distribution transmission center HE through the going-up line. The information distribution transmission center HE makes a transmission plan of the information based on this demand, and sends the information transmission plan to the subscriber terminal ms prior to the actual information transmission. The subscriber terminal ms sends an information transmission request including a share information transmission request of the transmission information when desired transmission information is listed in the obtained transmission schedule.

Abstract: A graphical depiction of a carousel containing the icons or windows is provided for convenient presentation and manipulation on a screen of multiple windows, icons or TV broadcasts. These icons or windows are rotated into or out of view as the carousel rotates. Rotation can be controlled by mouse driven cursor, keyboard, application software, etc. Various identifying characteristics can be used to help users search through windows; for example, the title text of each window may be visible when the windows are in the carousel. Color can be an additional identifying characteristic. In instances where a large number of icons are used, this is a means for consolidating them. Multiple carousels can be used to consolidate different kinds of windows, icons, or TV broadcasts.

Abstract: An image transmission apparatus for processing hierarchically encoded image information includes an accounting unit for performing accounting processing in correspondence with the resolution of the image information.

Abstract: An image transmission apparatus for processing hierarchically encoded image information includes an accounting unit for performing accounting processing in correspondence with the resolution of the image information.

Abstract: A cable television broadcasting system has a set top box having a function of selecting a charging system among a plurality of charging systems depending on the viewing type for a chargeable program. If the viewer allows an advertisement program to be displayed during display of the chargeable program, the fee is lowered. If the viewer clicks the icon for the advertisement program to display the advertisement program, if the viewer makes an access to the advertisement data through the internet, and if the viewer buys a commodity through the internet, then the fee is stepwise lowered. The sponsors of the advertisements pay sponsor fees depending on the access frequency by the viewers.

Abstract: A method for managing recording of broadcast data includes recording the broadcast data on a recordable medium. Whether a commercial or a program is being broadcasted in the broadcast data is determined. Recording is stopped when a commercial is being broadcasted in the broadcast data. Recording is resumed at a location on the recordable medium where a previously recorded video signal in the broadcast data dropped to a black level after a next video signal in the broadcast data drops to the black level.