Abstract: In one arrangement, information useful in understanding the content of user speech (e.g., phonemes identified by a speech recognition algorithm, data indicating the gender of the speaker, etc.) is determined at an apparatus (e.g., a cell phone), and accompanies speech data sent from that apparatus. (Steganographic encoding of the speech data can be employed to convey this information.) A receiving device can use this accompanying information to better understand the content of the speech. A great variety of other features and arrangements—some dealing with imagery rather than audio—are also detailed.

Abstract: The application discloses various methods and systems to provide substitute information or objects for, e.g., substitution when making copies of media objects (e.g., audio, video or images). One method includes: receiving i) an identifier obtained from a steganographic encoding encoded in a media object, and ii) state information associated with the steganographic encoding or associated with the media object; obtaining—from a storage location—a substitute media object corresponding to the identifier; adjusting the substitute media object in accordance with the state information; providing the adjusted, substituted media object.

Abstract: A method of associating metadata with a media signal receives an identifier for the media signal, uses the identifier to look up metadata in a metadata database, validates the metadata by checking attributes of the media signal relative to at least a portion of the metadata to provide validated metadata; and provides the validated metadata to a requesting application. Related methods enable searching of metadata across metadata databases, routing metadata requests to the metadata databases, controlling access to and validating metadata for media content, and re-associating valid metadata with media content.

Abstract: The disclosed technology generally relates to methods and systems to aid in verifying a person's identity, e.g., in connection with applying for an identity document (such as a passport or driver's license), or in connection with qualifying to enter a secured area (such as at an airport). Many arrangements involve testing the person concerning specific knowledge with which he or she should be familiar, e.g., by reason of living in a particular residence and neighborhood, by reason of their particular employment, or by reason of their particular education. An appendix particularly addresses crowdsourcing technology, including its applicability in redressing some of the shortcomings of fingerprint-based content identification.

Abstract: A portable device uses a microphone to listen to ambient audio, decodes a watermark signal therein, and uses the decoded data to request delivery of the audio or related information to the user's home or other location. The device is desirably pocket-sized, or suitable for carrying on a key-ring. The device may also detect a second watermark signal that is present in the user's environment (e.g., played through a public address speaker system) to aid the user in recalling the context from which the audio was requested.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods to provide or establish links, web addresses or web content with media (e.g., audio, videos or imagery). In one implementation, we provide a method comprising: upon receipt of a content identifier associated with media, initiating a time-limited auction for a right to associated a link or website with the content identifier; receiving additional bids for the right; and at a conclusion of a predetermined time associated with the time-limited auction, awarding the right to associate a link or website with the content identifier. In another implementation we provide a method including awarding a right to provide or host web content; and monitoring provided or hosted web content to ensure that non-advertising content is maintained at or above a predetermined level.

Abstract: A media object sensed at one location is delivered at a second remote location, or an application associated with the object is made available at the second location. In some embodiments, the delivered object is of a higher quality than the sensed object. In other embodiments, larger objects requiring higher bandwidth for effective transmission are delivered notwithstanding low bandwidth bottlenecks between the first and second locations. Such advantages are achieved by employing watermark data as proxies for media objects and associated applications. These techniques are advantageously applied to cell phones.

Abstract: Digital watermarking is provided in a printed photograph. The digital watermarking includes an identifier. The printed photograph is scanned and the digital watermark is decoded to obtain the identifier. The identifier is used to obtain a substitute image for use when generating a copy of the printed photograph. A user interface can be provided to allow a user to select options prior to printing the copy.

Abstract: Digital watermarks can be employed in conjunction with trading cards (e.g., baseball cards, fantasy game cards, etc.) to serve a variety of purposes. Among these are facilitating on-line collecting and game-play. Digital watermarks may also be used in distinguishing genuine cards from counterfeits.