Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for presenting network media streaming content. A user interface is presented to the user in which content is presented soon after activation of the presentation device such as a television or sound system. The user interface may be configured to accept an input such as the user activating a “channel up” or a “channel down” button on a remote control after which different content is presented. The content presented may be determined randomly or may be selected.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods of processing images comprising border features including, but not limited to letterboxing, pillarboxing, or windowboxing. Between the border features is primary content. The processing comprises scaling the primary content to increase prominence during presentation. Space unused during the presentation is filled with a revised border. Supplemental content may be presented in at least a portion of the revised border.

Abstract: Multi-dimensional gesture input to a computing device can be improved by providing a mechanism to lock or reduce the effects of motion in unintended directions. In one example, a user can navigate in two dimensions, then provide a selection action through motion in a third dimension. If a computing device analyzing the gesture is able to detect the selection action, the device can limit motion outside the corresponding third dimension in order to ensure that the proper selection action is performed. Various thresholds, values, or motions can be used to limit motion in one or more axes for any appropriate purpose as discussed herein.

Abstract: Users with limited data plans for a network connection can have usage of that network connection by various applications monitored such that the user can determine how much bandwidth each application uses based on activity of that user. Upon viewing application-specific usage information and/or determining how much each application can contribute to overage charges, the user can determine how to adjust behavior to meet personal usage targets. In at least some embodiments, a user can specify limits for specific applications, after which the traffic for that application can be blocked or at least require approval from the user. Such limits also can guarantee enough bandwidth for specific applications when the user otherwise would reach or exceed the maximum amount of bandwidth under the data plan.

Abstract: Users with limited data plans for a network connection can have usage of that network connection by various applications monitored such that the user can determine how much bandwidth each application uses based on activity of that user. Upon viewing application-specific usage information and/or determining how much each application can contribute to overage charges, the user can determine how to adjust behavior to meet personal usage targets. In at least some embodiments, a user can specify limits for specific applications, after which the traffic for that application can be blocked or at least require approval from the user. Such limits also can guarantee enough bandwidth for specific applications when the user otherwise would reach or exceed the maximum amount of bandwidth under the data plan.

Abstract: Multi-dimensional gesture input to a computing device can be improved by providing a mechanism to lock or reduce the effects of motion in unintended directions. In one example, a user can navigate in two dimensions, then provide a selection action through motion in a third dimension. If a computing device analyzing the gesture is able to detect the selection action, the device can limit motion outside the corresponding third dimension in order to ensure that the proper selection action is performed. Various thresholds, values, or motions can be used to limit motion in one or more axes for any appropriate purpose as discussed herein.

Abstract: A camera on a computing device can capture a plurality of images, each with a different exposure setting but having the same subject. The images can be stored, at least temporarily, in a memory device on the computing device. The device can determine a time subsequent to the capturing of the images at which to process the plurality of images. For example, the time can be when the camera is not being used and/or when the computing device has sufficient resources (e.g., processing power, battery life, etc.) to process the plurality of images. At the determined time, the computing device can process the plurality of images to generate at least one high dynamic range (HDR) image. The processing of the plurality of images to generate the at least one HDR image can be based at least in part upon combining at least some portions of the plurality of images.

Abstract: Multi-dimensional gesture input to a computing device can be improved by providing a mechanism to lock or reduce the effects of motion in unintended directions. In one example, a user can navigate in two dimensions, then provide a selection action through motion in a third dimension. If a computing device analyzing the gesture is able to detect the selection action, the device can limit motion outside the corresponding third dimension in order to ensure that the proper selection action is performed. Various thresholds, values, or motions can be used to limit motion in one or more axes for any appropriate purpose as discussed herein.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods to facilitate and enhance compatibility between a source device, such as a set-top box, and a sink device, such as a television or audio system. The source device is configured to recognize extended display identification data (“EDID”) associated with sink devices which have been determined to provide incorrect EDID data. A replacement EDID is used by the source to provide operability. Likewise, commands from the source which are incompatible with, or produce undesired results in the sink may be removed or replaced with replacement commands.

Abstract: A computing device can enable and/or provide communication functionality based at least in part upon a type of pressure applied to the device by a user. In some embodiments, a device can attempt to determine a mood or disposition of the user based upon the way in which the user is gripping and/or squeezing the device, and can provide the user or another person with information about that user's current mood. Similarly, a user might be able to use certain motions or pressure applications at one or more locations on a device to cause certain communications to be sent, such as to send a specific message or convey a certain mood of the user. At least a portion of the computing device can have pressure-sensitive material or capability, in order to allow for input on the sides, back, or other appropriate locations on the device.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for initiating on a first device distribution and presentation of content to a second device. A server facilitates the distribution by determining a presentation context of the second device. Based at least in part on the presentation context, the server retrieves and processes the content and provides output content to the second device for presentation. A consolidated content list may also be maintained. The consolidated content list allows the user to add content for later consumption, or access the content, regardless of the content provider supplying the content.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for determining infrared signaling codes used for controlling various media devices. The system may determine signaling codes based on user input in response to a graphical user interface, by receiving signals transmitted by a media device remote, or a combination thereof. When determined, a media controller remote control may receive commands from a media controller using a radio frequency interface and transmit particular signaling codes using infrared emitters to allow for control of the media devices.

Abstract: Interactive applications such as board games, puzzles, and so forth may utilize an input/output (“I/O”) device described herein. The physical I/O device may be configured to accept input via one or more sensors including touch and proximity sensors. In some implementations the surface of the I/O device may present data of the interactive application. Physical input tokens may be used in conjunction with the I/O device to receive input from a user.

Abstract: Multi-dimensional gesture input to a computing device can be improved by providing a mechanism to lock or reduce the effects of motion in unintended directions. In one example, a user can navigate in two dimensions, then provide a selection action through motion in a third dimension. If a computing device analyzing the gesture is able to detect the selection action, the device can limit motion outside the corresponding third dimension in order to ensure that the proper selection action is performed. Various thresholds, values, or motions can be used to limit motion in one or more axes for any appropriate purpose as discussed herein.