Abstract: The method is provided for downloading video content to a user/client's device. The video content includes episode content and ads content. Each content includes metadata. The ads content is inserted in the episode content for viewing during a playback. The ads content is inserted automatically or at a certain designated time based on certain criteria.

Abstract: A method of filtering an electronic program guide (EPG) information is disclosed. EPG information is retrieved from an EPG provider. The EPG information is filtered to retain program information related to programs delivered by a content delivery provider to a subscriber. The content delivery provider is different from the EPG provider.

Abstract: One embodiment of the invention is a technique to stop recording a program intelligently. Stopping recording a program is delayed from a scheduled stop recording time. A transition between the program and a commercial is detected after the scheduled stop recording time. Recording the program is stopped at the detected transition. Another embodiment of the invention is a technique to start recording a program intelligently. Starting recording a program is advanced from a scheduled start recording time. A transition between a commercial and the program is detected within a recording window before the scheduled start recording time. Recording the program is started if the transition is detected within the recording window.

Abstract: One embodiment of the invention is a technique to resolve recording conflict in program recording. A conflict is detected in recording first and second programs. The conflict is caused by an overlapping segment occupying a time period common to desired recording times of the first and second programs. A user is allowed to select recording the first program without the overlapping segment.

Abstract: The three-dimensional graphical rendering of a live broadcast signal onto an output device such as a television or a monitor is described herein. The three-dimensional graphical rendering is performed by a set-top box or other device that has a graphics processor. In operation, a live broadcast signal is provided as input to the set-top box or other graphical rendering device. The signal initially is in the form of uncompressed video data from a video decoder or other YUV video source. The signal can be for use with a conventional television system, a high definition television system (HDTV), a computer system with a monitor, or any other applicable output device. The uncompressed video data is mapped to a texture memory in the graphics processor. The video data is then rendered to a three-dimensional surface and displayed on an output device, for example a television screen.