Abstract: A method implemented on a multi-tuner receiver system coupled to a plurality of multimedia nodes is disclosed, comprising: monitoring user input on the multi-tuner receiver system; identifying a first channel which the user is likely to select based on the user input; and speculatively tuning to the first channel using a first tuner prior to the user selecting the first channel.

Abstract: A method implemented on a multi-tuner receiver system comprises successively displaying a set of visual cards where each visual card of the set of visual cards comprises a graphical representation. A visual card of the set of visual cards is selected, the visual card being associated with a first television program. Based on a characteristic of the selected visual card, a second television program is identified. The second television program is then tuned.

Abstract: Various system embodiments of the present invention are directed to an automated concierge system through which users of the automated concierge system can request and obtain many types of information and services. Unlike traditional search engines and electronic query-processing interfaces, the automated concierge systems provide much greater flexibility with respect to means of access, including types of electronic devices and communications media that can be used to access the concierge services, greater flexibility in the timing of responses to information and service requests, more efficient information and service provision, and access to a much broader range of information sources and service providers.

Abstract: A system for automatically tuning to a channel based on an event includes a tuner to tune to a first channel, an event table to associate an event with a second channel, and event detector to detect the event and to instruct the tuner to tune to the second channel in response to the event.

Abstract: A method implemented on a multi-tuner receiver system comprises successively displaying a set of visual cards where each visual card of the set of visual cards comprises a graphical representation. A visual card of the set of visual cards is selected, the visual card being associated with a first television program. Based on a characteristic of the selected visual card, a second television program is identified. The second television program is then tuned.

Abstract: Methods and systems for monitoring and budgeting television viewing in order to influence and manage television-viewing habits in a manner that promotes self-monitoring. Example embodiments provide a Content Viewer Control System (“CVCS”), which enables devices and systems connected to a head-end, such as through a standard set-top box or a media center, to track and potentially control differing aspects of television viewing according to a viewing budget. For example, the CVCS can allow tracking and control over what content is viewed according to a variety of criteria, during which time periods, and for what duration on an individual or on a per-location basis, and/or based upon other configurable parameters. In summary, the CVCS receives notification of content as potential viewing events, compares a potential viewing event to stored viewing budget “allocations,” and reconciles the potential viewing event against the viewing budget.

Abstract: Various system embodiments of the present invention are directed to an automated concierge system through which users of the automated concierge system can request and obtain many types of information and services. Unlike traditional search engines and electronic query-processing interfaces, the automated concierge systems provide much greater flexibility with respect to means of access, including types of electronic devices and communications media that can be used to access the concierge services, greater flexibility in the timing of responses to information and service requests, more efficient information and service provision, and access to a much broader range of information sources and service providers.

Abstract: Icons representing a plurality of interactive options periodically available within an interactive television system are stored in an icon repository. Each interactive option corresponds to a button on a remote control. Furthermore, each icon shares a common visual characteristic with a corresponding button on the remote control. Exemplary shared visual characteristics include shape, color, size, relative position, etc. In response to an interactive option corresponding to a first icon becoming available, the first icon is displayed on a television to alert the user to the interactive option. The first icon may be visually emphasized in various ways, such as by highlighting, animation, and scaling.

Abstract: A method implemented on a multi-tuner receiver system coupled to a plurality of multimedia nodes is disclosed, comprising: monitoring user input on the multi-tuner receiver system; identifying a first channel which the user is likely to select based on the user input; and speculatively tuning to the first channel using a first tuner prior to the user selecting the first channel.

Abstract: In response to an interactive option becoming available, an icon sharing visual characteristics with a corresponding button of a remote control is displayed. A description of the interactive option in the language of the user may also be presented visually or audibly. The icon and description may be displayed alone or in a configuration of a map of the remote control. The description may be audibly output using voice synthesis techniques.

Abstract: Icons representing a plurality of interactive options periodically available within an interactive television system are stored in an icon repository. Each interactive option corresponds to a button on a remote control. Furthermore, each icon shares a common visual characteristic with a corresponding button on the remote control. Exemplary shared visual characteristics include shape, color, size, relative position, etc. In response to an interactive option corresponding to a first icon becoming available, the first icon is displayed on a television to alert the user to the interactive option. The first icon may be visually emphasized in various ways, such as by highlighting, animation, and scaling.

Abstract: In response to an interactive option becoming available, an icon sharing visual characteristics with a corresponding button of a remote control is displayed. A description of the interactive option in the language of the user may also be presented visually or audibly. The icon and description may be displayed alone or in a configuration of a map of the remote control. The description may be audibly output using voice synthesis techniques.