Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a three-dimensional graphical user interface includes processing that begins by detecting selection of an information thumbnail of a plurality of information thumbnails. Note that the plurality of information thumbnails are presented on a display area that is at least a portion of a display. The processing then continues by retrieving detailed information based on the selected thumbnail. The process then continues by providing a three-dimensional object in a foreground viewing perspective to the plurality of information thumbnails. On at least some of the surfaces of the three-dimensional object, the retrieved detailed information is provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing live video on a three-dimensional object begins by receiving a video stream into a capture buffer. The process then continues by mapping, directly from the capture buffer, the video stream onto the three-dimensional object. Having mapped the live video onto the three-dimensional object it is rendered into a frame buffer and subsequently displayed on a display device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a three-dimensional object on live video includes processing that begins by filling at least a portion of a back butler with a key color, where the key color indicates the presentation of the video. The processing then continues by writing the three-dimensional object into the back buffer. Note that by providing the key color into the back buffer as a clearing operation or having a back most Z value, when the three-dimensional object is written into the back buffer, it will be in a foreground viewing perspective with respect to the live video. The processing then continues by flipping the back buffer to become a primary surface such that the data stored in the primary surface is subsequently displayed on a display device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for transitioning between a first type of display data and a second type of display data begins by mapping the first display data onto a plurality of object elements in accordance with a first alteration level. Note that the plurality of object-elements corresponds to a display area, which is a full-screen of a display device or a portion thereof. The process then continues then by successively altering Z values and/or physical coordinates of the plurality of object-elements.