Abstract: Systems and methods are configured to manage streaming video content. A first time length specification for a content pod is accessed. If a determination is made that a response to a request for ancillary content of a duration corresponding to the first time length of the content pod includes ancillary content of insufficient duration to populate the first time length of the content pod, the content pod time length is reduced. Ancillary content items associated with the response to the request are streamed to a user device as part of a streaming channel comprising primary content having scheduled start times. A primary content item, having a scheduled start time, is streamed to the user device after the items of ancillary content, and earlier than the scheduled start time of the item of primary content.

Abstract: Electronic and automatic gifting techniques are provided for messages, such as short message service (SMS) or multimedia messaging service (MMS) messages, wherein a gifter designates a recipient for one or more gift(s) offered in a set of gifts. Based on a selection of gift(s), message(s) are automatically generated for the gift(s) having unique identifier(s) that correspond to products or services of an enabling entity that enables the products or services. The message(s) including the unique identifier(s) are then automatically transmitted to the recipient. The unique identifier(s) can be encrypted/hashed with a secret provided by the recipient for an additional layer of security. Any of gifter information, giftee information, context of the service, or external information, such as global positioning service (GPS) location, can be used to make recommendations for gifts in the set of gifts.