Abstract: An embedded device is connected to a portable device via an alternate connection that is separate from a first network interface used by the embedded device to connect to an Internet service. The Internet service provides support for the embedded device. The portable device connects to the Internet service via a second network interface of the portable device. First messages are exchanged between the portable device and the embedded device via the alternate connection, and second messages are exchanged between the portable device and the Internet service based on the first messages. The first messages and the second messages facilitate an interactive support session between the embedded device and the Internet service in place of the first network interface of the embedded device.

Abstract: Systems and methods for using broadcast bandwidth for updating firmware of digital televisions may include identifying a portion of unused bandwidth corresponding to a television station; selecting at least one update module, the update module comprising an update to firmware of a digital television; transmitting, via the unused bandwidth of the television station, the at least one update module; and receiving by a digital television, the at least one update module.