Abstract: A multicasting download-to-mobile-device service that broadcasts and distributes digital media over cellular networks is described. The most preferred embodiments of the present invention comprise a network that distributes a plurality of media titles (e.g., movies, tv shows, concerts, etc.) via multicast streams where the media titles are stored in local storage on a mobile electronic device (e.g., cellular telephones and tablets) and, by way of a mobile device app, allows users to play the stored media titles locally from their devices using current on demand playback methodologies. In addition, at least some preferred embodiments of the present invention comprise a data carousel that curates and delivers discrete media titles to selected cell towers and/or hubs, thereby providing for relevant media titles to be multicast to discrete regions and not the entire network. Finally, the data carousel may be configured to synchronize relevant titles for discrete users of the service.

Abstract: A system for financing of film and media productions of individual movies or slates of movies which provides non-monetary enhancements to return on investment for subscribing members who may be television and media broadcasters such as cable systems and satellite broadcasters. The system enhanced return on investment such as earlier broadcast rights and advertisement availments for subscribing members as well as monetary return from revenues.

Abstract: A method of communicating targeted advertising to media reception devices of individual consumers, receiving electronic signals of said media from broadcasters through communication to a local system provider such as a cable or satellite television system provider. The system allows a single broadcaster to disseminate targeted advertising throughout multiple connected system providers to allow centralized target marketing to consumers.

Abstract: A digital coupon system for electronically distributing coupons and inducements to viewers over broadcast media. The system employs a viewable or audible signal to indicate to viewers the availability of a coupon or inducement during real time viewing using an image animation overlaid onto displayed ad or program content. Coupon inducements and delivery can be based on coupon business rules defining requirements for delivery. The system is especially well configured to encourage the viewing of broadcast media commercials which are frequently skipped over by viewers.

Abstract: A multi-source bridge content distribution system links multiple content owners with access network operators or content distribution providers leasing space on access networks so that multi-media content can be provided from multiple content owners to consumers through a multi-source bridge or data center. Content files and associated content owner preference settings are provided from a plurality of content sources or providers to the multi-source data center. Files stored at the data center or locally at an access network are provided to subscribers through the local access network Content files are provided if the content owner preference settings are a sufficient match with service provider access network preference settings set up by the service provider using the access network to provide content to subscribers.

Abstract: In a network user authentication system, a network user is identified for authentication purposes using the unique identifier for a dedicated physical communication line associated with the building in which the network user is located or a digital certificate which is associated with a secure component or communication line physically attached to a building. An authentication server initially verifies the identification of the dedicated communication line to be associated with a network service subscriber or issues a unique digital certificate to be associated with the dedicated communication line for authentication purposes. The digital certificate may be stored in a building gateway or in an edge site module which is connected to the secure components of a plurality of buildings and stores unique digital certificates for each building.

Abstract: Digital content files containing entertainment media such as movies, TV shows, and the like are distributed from at least one content source primarily responsible for the original creation of the media to subscribers over a network system. The content source is connected over at least one content source network to a plurality of distribution partners, and each distribution partner is connected with a selected group of subscribers over an access network. A requested digital content file is distributed from the content source to a subscriber in a network distribution path comprising at least the content source network, the distribution partner associated with the subscriber, and the second network. A profile information package containing subscriber preferences is transmitted from the subscriber to the content source by way of a proxy over the network distribution path, and the profile information package is stored at the content source.

Abstract: A method and system for providing highly targeted advertising to remotely located viewers. The viewers are matched to an identifiable receiver on the system and, based on user preferences for products and services developed and stored on each user, targeted advertising for products and services each said user is likely to want, is substituted for the broadcaster advertising and communicated to the individual receivers matched with the user.

Abstract: In a perfect world, citizens would have all of the sensing equipment and analysis capability with no concern about costs. Unfortunately, the costs are an impediment to most people and their health and well-being may be compromised as a result. By leveraging popular consumer devices such as mobile players and other CE devices, it is possible to create “piggy-back” solutions that effectively bring the costs into the range that ordinary people can afford. Once ordinary people can afford these solutions, the state of their health and/or well being can be improved greatly.

Abstract: A method for the provision of a hybrid premium television platform using terrestrial broadcasting. The system allows for enhanced services to subscribers using a terrestrial broadcast signal. The enhanced services are similar to those enjoyed by more expensive providers such as cable and satellite television providers.

Abstract: A method and device for the provision of enhanced media content distribution over a network. The method enables content providers, advertisers, and consumers to benefit from targeted advertising and promotions. The precise targeting for advertising and promotions are gleaned from consumer information provided by the system as to their geographic location which may be related to other known and mined information about the consumer.

Abstract: A method and system for transferring electronic media information over a public network in such a way as to provide safeguards for inappropriate distribution of copyright or otherwise protected materials are described. The media information is transparently watermarked with a unique ID, such as one generated from X.509 Digital Certificate and public-key cryptography public/private key pairs, such that the information can be identified as belonging to a particular individual. A system and method for monitoring the movement of such watermarked files, positively identifying people who have inappropriately distributed copyright materials over a public network without permission, and taking appropriate enforcement action against such people.

Abstract: A game cartridge includes instructions designed to transform a state-of-the-art game player device into a platform for numerous pay television-related services and offerings. In one aspect the systems and methods described may include the leveraging of emerging state-of-the-art and highly secure game players to create applications targeted toward Pay Television subscribers. The system may generate a log configured to create a user profile based upon previous tendencies of the user. The log may be used to recommend offerings for products or services to the user.

Abstract: A method and system for transferring electronic media information over a public network in such a way as to provide safeguards for inappropriate distribution of copyright or otherwise protected materials are described. The media information is transparently watermarked with a unique ID, such as one generated from X.509 Digital Certificate and public-key cryptography public/private key pairs, such that the information can be identified as belonging to a particular individual. A system and method for monitoring the movement of such watermarked files, positively identifying people who have inappropriately distributed copyright materials over a public network without permission, and taking appropriate enforcement action against such people.

Abstract: A system and method for the distribution of content to subscribers while maintaining the distribution rights associated with the content. Tags identifying aspects and features, including distribution rights, of the content are associated with the content. The tagged content is aggregated into a centralized data center that receives requests from subscribers to access the content. The tags associated with the requested content are evaluated to determine if the subscriber is authorized to access the content before the content is provided to the subscriber.

Abstract: A multi-source bridge content distribution system links multiple content owners with access network operators or content distribution providers leasing space on access networks so that multi-media content can be provided from multiple content owners to consumers through a multi-source bridge or data center. Content files and associated content owner preference settings are provided from a plurality of content sources or providers to the multi-source data center. Files stored at the data center or locally at an access network are provided to subscribers through the local access network Content files are provided if the content owner preference settings are a sufficient match with service provider access network preference settings set up by the service provider using the access network to provide content to subscribers.

Abstract: A video shop access system allows consumers to receive information on title inventories available at local video shops in the consumers' geographical area through their home or wireless media servers. A video shop data center receives title information on inventory available at the local video shops and stores the title information in an inventory data base. On receipt of a request from a consumer's media server, a video shop user interface is provided to the media server and displayed on an associated user display device, the user interface providing a link to the stored title inventories. The consumer can select and order titles through the interface, and orders are forwarded by the data center to the appropriate local video shop, which delivers a physical copy of the title to the requesting consumer.

Abstract: In a method of monitoring the distribution of digital content files, transaction information regarding transfer of a selected digital content file stored at a distribution provider to a distributor is obtained by a transaction monitoring module and analyzed to detect whether the transfer is valid and associated with a valid security device for the transfer. A report is generated if a security breach is detected and is used by a piracy insurance provider to assess risks in connection with a piracy insurance policy issued to the distribution provider. The security device may be an encrypted watermark or digital signature using a digital certificate associated with the distributor to which the file is transferred.

Abstract: Digital content files containing entertainment media such as movies, TV shows, and the like are distributed from at least one content source primarily responsible for the original creation of the media to subscribers over a network system. The content source is connected over at least one content source network to a plurality of distribution partners, and each distribution partner is connected with a selected group of subscribers over an access network. A requested digital content file is distributed from the content source to a subscriber in a network distribution path comprising at least the content source network, the distribution partner associated with the subscriber, and the second network. A profile information package containing subscriber preferences is transmitted from the subscriber to the content source by way of a proxy over the network distribution path, and the profile information package is stored at the content source.

Abstract: A system and method for providing protection of ownership rights of digital content files while also providing distribution of the content files to consumers that are authorized to receive the digital content files. A system and method for preventing or deterring the unauthorized distribution of digital content files. Several possible protection schemes include, for example, proactive protections such as encryption, SSL or VPN technologies, and reactive protections such as watermarking, PKI, piracy watch systems, or legal action management.