Abstract: Methods and structure are provided for collection and analysis of real-time reactions of a large audience during an event. For example, one method includes collecting responses to an event from a plurality of user devices and linking a timestamp associated with each individual response to a corresponding point of time in the event. Each individual response indicates either a positive user response or a negative user response. The method also includes compiling a subset of the responses having one or more demographic factors in common and displaying a graph of the subset as a function of time with respect to the event.

Abstract: A broadcast programming network device includes a tuner capable of being tuned to any one of multiple broadcast video programming reception channels. When tuned to a particular channel, the broadcast video programming scheduled for that channel and icon related data indicative of the availability of commerce related information are received. A processor is provided to process the received icon related data to direct a simultaneous display of an icon with the scheduled broadcast video programming. A display screen then displays the scheduled broadcast video programming and, in accordance with the directive, simultaneously displays the icon.

Abstract: A commerce control network is provided for obtaining product information and for purchasing products through a two-way interactive broadcast distribution system, such as a cable or satellite television system. The network includes advanced television set top boxes that provide users with the ability to access product information through the system. A unique identifier is received with the program being viewed and included in the user's request for product information to assure that the information retrieved from the network is timely and related to that program.

Abstract: An interactive television commerce system, includes a video broadcast distribution network having multiple in-band channels and an out-of-band data path. A video on demand server stores a plurality of product video clips. Each of the plurality of product video clips is stored in association with a respective unique clip identifier and has video images promoting a specific product and associated interactive data embedded in the video images. A commerce transfer point server broadcast, via a first of the multiple in-band channels, a first commerce related video program having video images promoting multiple different products and associated interactive data embedded in the video images, and the unique clip identifiers associated with those of the stored plurality of product video clips having video images promoting the multiple different products promoted in the video images of the first commerce related video program.

Abstract: An apparatus for saving commerce information in a broadcast programming network includes a communications device capable of being tuned to receive any of multiple broadcast video programming reception channels. The communications device is also capable of receiving commerce information, including a list identifying a plurality of available products. A processor is provided to display the list on a display screen simultaneously with the broadcast vide programming being received. An input device enables a user to select one or more items from the displayed list of produces and to store the one or more selected items for retrieval and use at a later time.

Abstract: A commerce control network is accessible through an interactive television system, such as a cable television or satellite system. The network includes client applications that provide users with the ability to buy products or get product information through the television.