Abstract: A system for content adaptively decoding video content is disclosed. The system receives a bitstream which was segmented into segments based on predefined classifications. Examples of such classifications include action scenes, slow scenes, low or high detail scenes, and brightness of the scenes. Based on the segment classifications, each segment was encoded with a different encoder chosen from a plurality of encoders. The chosen encoder is particularly suited to encoding the unique subject matter of the segment. The coded bit-stream for each segment includes information regarding which encoder was used to encode that segment. A matching decoder of a plurality of decoders is chosen using the information in the coded bitstream to decode each segment using a decoder suited for the classification of the segment.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of receiving an encoded bitstream wherein video content is segmented into portions based on predefined classifications or models. Based on the segment classifications, each segment or portion is encoded with a different encoder chosen from a plurality of encoders, each encoder being associated with a model. The chosen encoder is particularly suited to encoding the unique subject matter of the segment. The coded bit-stream for each segment includes information regarding which encoder was used to encode that segment. A matching decoder of a plurality of decoders is chosen using the information in the coded bitstream to decode each segment using a decoder suited for the classification or model of the segment. If scenes exist which do not fall in a predefined classification, or where classification is more difficult based on the scene content, these scenes are segmented, coded and decoded using a generic coder and decoder.

Abstract: A method for customizing a voice in a multi-media message created by a sender for a recipient is disclosed. The multi-media message comprises a text message from the sender to be delivered by an animated entity. The method comprises presenting an option to the sender to insert voice emoticons into the text message associated with parameters of a voice used by the animated entity to deliver the text message. The message is then delivered wherein the voice of the animated entity is modified throughout the message according to the voice emoticons. The voice emoticons may relate to features such as voice stress, volume, pauses, emotion, yelling, or whispering. After the sender inserts various voice emoticons into the text of the message, the animated entity delivers the multi-media message giving effect to each voice emoticon in the text. A volume or intensity of the voice emoticons may be given effect by repeating the tags.

Abstract: A system for content adaptive encoding and decoding video is disclosed. The system comprises modules for segmenting video content into segments based on predefined classifications or models. Examples of such classifications comprise action scenes, slow scenes, low or high detail scenes, and brightness of the scenes. Based on the segment classifications, each segment is encoded with a different encoder chosen from a plurality of encoders. Each encoder is associated with a model. The chosen encoder is particularly suited to encoding the unique subject matter of the segment. The coded bit-stream for each segment includes information regarding which encoder was used to encode that segment. A matching decoder of a plurality of decoders is chosen using the information in the coded bitstream to decode each segment using a decoder suited for the classification or model of the segment.

Abstract: A system and method of removing noise in a bitstream is disclosed. The system and method are most applicable to removing noise in a bitstream wherein the bitstream is encoded after being segmented into portions based on predefined classifications or models. Based on the segment classifications, each segment or portion is encoded with a different encoder associated with the portion model and chosen from a plurality of encoders. The coded bit-stream for each segment includes information regarding which encoder was used to encode that segment. A circuit for removing noise in video content comprises a first filter connected to a first input switch and a first output switch, the first filter being in parallel with a first pass-through line, a second filter connected to a second input switch and a second output switch, the second filter connected in parallel with a second pass-through line, and a third filter connected to a third input switch in a third output switch.

Abstract: A method is provided for establishing a toll-free connection between an end user and a site provider associated with a data-network connected device. The method includes the steps of: receiving predefined log-in information from the end user; identifying a site provider associated with the log-in information as belonging to a class of site providers offering toll-free data network access to end users; establishing a data network connection to the device associated with the site provider while preventing the end user from communicating over the data network with any party other than those parties authorized by the site provider; and allocating charges associated with the data network connection to the site provider.

Abstract: "A method of using personal information as a decryption key for encrypted software. When software is sold, a purchaser provides a seller with several pieces of personal information that will be used as part of a decryption key. The personal information is tied to the purchaser or a user of the software. For example, the personal information can include, but is not limited to, the purchaser's social security number, telephone number, expiration date of the credit card, address, mother's maiden name, children's names, bank account information. This personal information is embedded in the purchased or licensed software. The material is then conveyed to the purchaser. To activate the software the purchaser must enter the key that includes the personal information. The software compares the key that the purchaser enters with the personal information embedded in the software. The software will only be installed if the key and the personal information match.

Abstract: A client-server network enables interconnection to both the Internet and switched network. In response to a received client service request, a connection is established over the Internet between a client and a server. Client information transmitted from the client to the server over the Internet connection is used to enable the server to provide the requested service by establishing a switched network connection to the client using a client's communication number determined from the client information.

Abstract: Real time delivery of multimedia information accessed either through the Internet, or otherwise, simultaneously, or sequentially time delayed to one more users, is enabled by delivering the multimedia information over a switched network via a multipoint control unit. A client establishes a connection with a server, or other remote location where desired multimedia information is resident, identifies the desired multimedia information and provides client information identifying the locations of the users. The client information may include the telephone numbers or other access numbers of each of the multiple users. The multimedia information is then delivered by a multimedia server to a bridging apparatus through a switched network guaranteeing high quality of service, secure connection and billing control. Connecting one or more users to a live agent is also made possible by providing the telephone numbers of the users and the live agent directly to the multipoint control unit.

Abstract: An improved client-server architecture of the present invention utilizes the advantages of known QOS networks to provide guaranteed quality of service, security, and a charge mechanism for handling requests initiated over a packet network, such as the Internet, for access to distributed media sources. Such media sources may be independent of the QOS network provider and may be located by browsing the Internet. A method of operating a client-server network enables the system level merger of the Internet and a guaranteed QOS network, such as the public switched telephone network, in order to provide the users with a complete information superhighway today. It will appear to the average user that the Internet and the QOS network are fused together.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for determining the authenticity of an individual. In accordance with the method, audio and video data of the individual speaking at least one selected phrase is obtained. Identifying audio features and video features are then extracted from the audio data and the video data, respectively. A feature vector is formed which incorporates both the audio features and the video features. The feature vector is compared to a stored feature vector of a validated user speaking the same selected phrase. The individual is authenticated if the feature vector and the stored feature vector form a match within a prescribed threshold.

Abstract: A video system is disclosed in which a single generic MPEG standard encoder (107) is used to simultaneously code and compress plural different resolution video signals from a single input video signal; and in which a single generic MPEG standard decoder (402) is used to simultaneously decode plural coded and compressed video signals of different resolutions and form a single composite video signal. The coder converts each frame of pixel data of the input video signal into plural frames having different resolutions, which are then combined into a common frame (106) for input to the generic MPEG encoder. The MPEG encoder produces a single coded and compressed output bitstream in slices of macroblocks of pixel data, which output bitstream is demultiplexed (108) into separate resolution bitstreams using Slice Start Code identifiers associated with each slice and Macroblock Address Increments associated with the first macroblock in each slice, to properly route each slice to the appropriate output.