Abstract: A request is received to view a virtual television channel. A user associated with the request is identified along with user preferences associated with that user. Content, such as television programs, music, and games, is identified that satisfies the identified user preferences. The identified content is ranked based on the user preferences, which generates highest-ranked content. At least a portion of the highest-ranked content is then displayed.

Abstract: Searching electronic program guide (EPG) data is described. The EPG data may be compartmentalized into channel metadata that describes characteristics of one or more channels and content metadata that describes characteristics of one or more content items. In a implementation, a method includes searching channel metadata and content metadata. A result of the searching is formed for output in conjunction with an electronic program guide (EPG).

Abstract: Methods and systems for distributing digital media. In one implementation, the system includes a distributor to store digital media on a digital medium at a first site, the digital media having been previously generated by a content generator; a first end user to purchase the digital media from the distributor, and download the digital media from the first site onto a digital medium at a second site; and a second end user to purchase the digital media from the first end user, and download the digital media from the second site onto a digital medium at a third site, wherein the distributor provides a credit to the first end user for the purchase of the digital media by the second end user.