Abstract: A hybrid channel map is described. In an implementation, a client obtains a plurality of channel maps, each from a respective one of a plurality of content providers that are configured to provide content via channels to the client. A hybrid channel map is formed from the plurality of channel maps.

Abstract: A hybrid channel map is described. In an implementation, a client obtains a plurality of channel maps, each from a respective one of a plurality of content providers that are configured to provide content via channels to the client. A hybrid channel map is formed from the plurality of channel maps.

Abstract: In a method for expanding upon media content information presented in a listing of a media content item in an electronic program guide, metadata of a listing of a media content item in an electronic program guide is analyzed to identify trigger information associated with the media content item. The trigger information is provided to an individualized media content information gathering engine. The individualized media content information gathering engine is utilized to perform a specialized data collection process based upon the trigger information. The specialized data collection process is for gathering expanded media content information regarding the media content item.

Abstract: Content ratings and recommendations is described. In an embodiment, a ratings service compiles ratings of programs for a rating system that is associated with a group of viewers, where a viewer of the group establishes the rating system, and where at least some of the viewers of the group rate the programs for the group of viewers. A recommendation service then provides program recommendations to the viewers of the group based on the rating system.

Abstract: Integrated media content is described. In an embodiment, scheduled programs metadata is received that describes scheduled programs which are available for viewing when the scheduled programs are delivered from a content provider according to a programming schedule. The scheduled programs metadata can be compared to on-demand programs metadata that describes on-demand programs which are available for viewing upon request, and a determination can be made that a scheduled program corresponds to an on-demand program such that either program can be substituted for the other when selected for viewing.

Abstract: A software application program and method are disclosed for allowing blacked-out television content to be viewed when restrictions on the television content have been lifted. The present system may be part of a software platform for providing television content to subscribers via a broadband IP network service provider such as a telephone company. For situations where a content owner has made deferred rights to television content available, the present system employs a deferred rights management software application program for affecting the download and storage of restricted content to subscribers. The restricted content is downloaded to subscribers in an encrypted format, and remains locked and unusable by subscribers as long as the license restrictions last. When the license restrictions are lifted, the SMS 116 transmits decryption keys allowing decryption and viewing of the content.