Abstract: A system includes a ratings server that receives the list of top applications from a source external to the ratings server and selects at least a subset of the top applications based at least in part on a rank of each of the top applications in the list. The system further includes a test server that tests at least one characteristic of each of the subset of top applications selected by the ratings server and outputs a rating representing the at least one characteristic. The ratings server determines a behavior of each of the subset of top applications based on the rating and publishes the behavior of the subset of top applications for access by a user over a communication network.

Abstract: A system includes a ratings server that receives the list of top applications from a source external to the ratings server and selects at least a subset of the top applications based at least in part on a rank of each of the top applications in the list. The system further includes a test server that tests at least one characteristic of each of the subset of top applications selected by the ratings server and outputs a rating representing the at least one characteristic. The ratings server determines a behavior of each of the subset of top applications based on the rating and publishes the behavior of the subset of top applications for access by a user over a communication network.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing real-time access to movie information to viewers in an interactive television viewing system. During select times when viewing a program on a television, the viewer is presented information, typically an advertisement, regarding a movie available for viewing in a movie theater. The viewer can opt to review supplemental information regarding the movie, including information directed to the actors, plot, rating, and where and when it is showing relative to the viewer's location. The viewer can opt to purchase tickets as well. The system can be controlled in one embodiment by the user interacting with a set top box sending signaling information to a processor in the network headend that retrieves the appropriate information for display to the viewer. The information can be provided to the set-top-box and displayed to the user using an overlapping window, or other techniques.

Abstract: A subscriber to a video service generally has available to them an on-screen program guide. The program guide lists programming (e.g., TV shows) that are available to the subscriber for a certain upcoming time period. The programming guide may sort the listings by channel and time, areas of interest, age appropriateness and/or MPAA or TV rating, free or additional cost, etc. In an embodiment, the programming guide includes an ability to make a selection to see which TV shows are recommended by reviewers. Such reviewers may be individuals or panels or institutions to which some credibility may be attached—a trusted source. After selecting a reviewer, the subscriber is made aware of the programs recommended by the selected reviewer.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for enhanced television services such as an interactive audio programming guide for a television. Users may use an input device, such as a remote control, to select display objects displayed on an output device, such as a television, as part of an interactive programming guide. An IPG module on a network terminal, such as a set top box, may determine whether the display object requires an audio representation. If an audio representation is required, the set top box may transmit an audio representation of the display object to the television to be played for the user.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing real-time access to movie information to viewers in an interactive television viewing system. During select times when viewing a program on a television, the viewer is presented information, typically an advertisement, regarding a movie available for viewing in a movie theater. The viewer can opt to review supplemental information regarding the movie, including information directed to the actors, plot, rating, and where and when it is showing relative to the viewer's location. The viewer can opt to purchase tickets as well. The system can be controlled in one embodiment by the user interacting with a set top box sending signaling information to a processor in the network headend that retrieves the appropriate information for display to the viewer. The information can be provided to the set-top-box and displayed to the user using an overlapping window, or other techniques.