Abstract: Provided is a console unit for controlling a mobile device. The console unit includes a remote control unit and a tower section. The tower section includes a receptacle adapted for receiving the remote control unit at least partially therein. The tower section further includes a housing and an interface configured for coupling to the mobile device. The interface is configured for selectively receiving high definition media data and USB protocol data from the mobile device and for charging the mobile device. The tower section includes at least one media port for providing the high definition media data to a media player device and a power port for receiving power. The remote control unit includes a communications transceiver configured to communicate with the mobile device. The remote control unit includes a touchpad for receiving input from a user, including gestures, while the mobile device is coupled to the tower section.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed herein for detecting that a given segment in a media asset currently being consumed will be interrupted by an event and, responsively, modifying playback of the media asset such that either the start time or the end time of the given segment coincides with the start time of the interrupting event. Modifying playback of the media asset to cause the end time of the given segment to coincide with the start time of the interrupting event may entail fast-forwarding through or removing one or more segments from the playback of the media asset. Modifying playback of the media asset to cause the start time of the given segment to coincide with the start time of the interrupting event may entail inserting one or more segments of secondary content into the playback of the media asset.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for improving the bandwidth efficiency of delivering electronic program guide (EPG) data to consumer premises equipment (CPE). In one exemplary embodiment, electronic guide data is rendered by devices away from the CPE, shifting the executing data- and bandwidth-heavy operations away from the CPE. In particular, one or more gateways at the user's home bears the processing, memory, bandwidth load to reduce the inefficiency of delivering redundant information to CPE(s) interfacing with the gateway(s). Using guide data it receives from the cloud, the gateway produces and delivers to the CPE one or more “simple views” of the guide data, including a video stream, still image, or simple HTML or other renderable formats. As the end user interacts with the CPE, the user receives a series of the simple views, allowing the rich experience that is typically given by EPG rendered directly by the CPE.

Abstract: Embodiments related to the use of feedback to adapt digital video recording are disclosed. For example, one disclosed embodiment provides, on a computing device, a method of adapting an identification and scheduling of video items for recording based on usage. The method comprises detecting a trigger to perform a series update, and determining one or more video items to record as a part of a series by providing input to a series update module that returns candidate video items for inclusion in the series. The method further comprises scheduling zero or more of the candidate video items for recording, receiving feedback related to video item playback of one or more video items that were recorded based upon the scheduling, and based upon the feedback, adapting the input provided to the series update module for a later series update.

Abstract: A disclosed example may accurately start and stop a recording of an event based on accurate event scheduling information from a channel broadcaster. A start time and stop time for a recording of the event may be scheduled according to EPG data. In response to determining that the channel is a controlled channel, which includes accurate event scheduling information provided by a channel broadcaster, a recording may be initially scheduled for the event according to the EPG data with an extended duration of a predetermined time value. The digitally encoded transport stream may be continuously monitored to detect a new event and the detected new event may then be mapped to the event. As a result, the recording time of the event may be accurately updated by extracting a set of parameters from the accurate event schedule information of the new event.

Abstract: Method and systems for executing an interactive computer simulation of a simulated vehicle comprising a remote data management system, a central repository, a remote repository and an interactive computer simulation station. The central repository stores a synthetic natural environment database (SNEDB) that comprises data records for a plurality of geographically-located terrain skin representations of a computer generated environment. The remote data management system maintains the remote repository storing a subset of data records from the SNEDB. Each one of the subset of data records has a priority tag. The station sends a data request for geographical locations from the SNEDB and allows users to interact in the simulation for controlling the simulated vehicle.

Abstract: In particular embodiments a social networking system may receive authorization from a first user of a social-networking system to control at least in part one or more functions of a set-top box (STB) of the first user, determine one or more social actions of one or more second users of the social-networking system, determine one or more instructions for the STB of the first user based at least in part on the social actions, and provide the instructions for the STB of the first user. The social-networking system includes a graph having a plurality of nodes and edges connecting the nodes.

Abstract: A device receives a recording schedule for programs to record at a future time and causes, based on the recording schedule, at least some of the programs to be recorded in the device memory to create recorded content. The device detects use of the device, by a user, to initiate obtaining content that creates a conflict with the recording schedule. The device identifies alternate content, from the recorded content, that is related to the content that creates the conflict with the recording schedule. The device presents, to the user, a notification of the conflict. The notification includes a list of at least some of the alternate content from the recorded content such that the user can select alternate recorded content from the notification menu without disrupting the recording schedule.

Abstract: According to an illustrative embodiment, a data transmission device is provided. The device includes a communication unit for transmitting data to a receiver and transmitting data having a changed characteristic to the receiver, wherein when transmitting the data the device transmits timing information to the receiver indicating a time that the device will begin transmitting the data having a changed characteristic.

Abstract: A scheduler is used to identify a schedule conflict that affects a client device receiving multiple media programs over a network. The scheduler is associated with the client device or a head-end source from which the programs are received. The scheduler accesses a schedule, which specifies a scheduled time at which multiple media programs are to be received by the client device. The scheduler obtains the actual bitrate to be consumed by each of the media programs as they are to be streamed to the client device. Based at least in part on the bitrates obtained for each of the media programs, the scheduler identifies a conflict that prevents at least one of the media programs from being streamed to the client device over the network. The scheduler enumerates at least one solution to the conflict to thereby resolve the conflict.

Abstract: The present invention belongs to the field of display technology, in particular to a power supply control method for display device and a display device. The power supply control method for a display device comprises: acquiring images of a room where the display device is located; judging whether there is any person in the room; when determining that there is a person in the room, further recognizing an action state of the person in the room and judging whether the person in the room has a demand of watching the display device; according to a result of judging that there is no person in the room or that the person in the room has no demand of watching, cutting power supply of the display device off.

Abstract: A content recording method for a recording apparatus includes the following steps: an automatic recording control step of automatically recording a first plurality of pieces of content in a channel automatic recording area, each of the first plurality of pieces of content being broadcast through a channel in a time slot; a deletion step of instructing a mobile apparatus to delete a first piece of content that has previously been copied or moved from the channel automatic recording area to the mobile apparatus when the recording apparatus detects that the recording apparatus has become able to communicate with the mobile apparatus; and a content transfer step of copying or moving a second piece of content included in the first plurality of pieces of content to the mobile apparatus when the recording apparatus detects that the recording apparatus has become able to communicate with the mobile apparatus.

Abstract: Agreement information based on agreements between an intermediary service provider and a plurality of provider entities that operate respective multiple equipment is stored by an intermediary system. The agreement information includes information to enable access of each of the multiple equipment by a client device. Client information associated with the client device is also stored by the intermediary system. The agreement information is useable to provide access by the client device of selected ones of the equipment.

Abstract: A method for forming a game content group performed by a computer which includes an operation module and a shake detector for detecting a shake, and which forms the game content group formed by a plurality of game contents to be used in a game, includes storing a first state of the game content group in a storage module, changing the game content group to a second state according to an operation by a user via the operation module, and restoring the game content group to the first state based on a detection result by the shake detector.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for preparing presentation of recorded motion video. The method preparing and sending a request for recorded video that originates from a specific video source, receiving a video information message including data relating to characteristics of a plurality of motion video recordings captured by the video source, wherein the received characteristics of each motion video recording includes a recording identity, a video quality value, a media address, an indication of start time and end time for the recording, and generating a motion video play scheme based at least on said video quality value, said indication of start time, and said indication of end time for each motion video recording.

Abstract: In embodiments there are provided techniques for flexibly displaying information into one or more columns. One technique includes the user interface (UI) receiving from an end user a selection of display criteria configured by an administrative user. Data from a dataset may be selected and/or ordered for displaying according to the criterion selected by the end user. Alternative embodiments may provide displaying positive and negative data, sorting, and fixed locations.

Abstract: A disclosed example may accurately start and stop a recording of an event based on accurate event scheduling information from a channel broadcaster. A start time and stop time for a recording of the event may be scheduled according to EPG data. In response to determining that the channel is a controlled channel, which includes accurate event scheduling information provided by a channel broadcaster, a recording may be initially scheduled for the event according to the EPG data with an extended duration of a predetermined time value. The digitally encoded transport stream may be continuously monitored to detect a new event and the detected new event may then be mapped to the event. As a result, the recording time of the event may be accurately updated by extracting a set of parameters from the accurate event schedule information of the new event.

Abstract: This disclosure describes system and methods related to entitlement validation and quality control of content in a cloud-enabled network-based digital video recording system. In some embodiments, whether a record event exists may be determined. The record event may indicate an entitlement check associated with a content asset needs to be completed. A determination may be made as to whether a user account is authorized to access the content asset. An asset record associated with the content asset may be modified to prevent future recording of the content asset. A record to delete the content asset may be generated in association with the user account in response to determining the user account is not authorized to access the content asset. The record event may be removed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a hybrid delivery method for content in which content is divided corresponding to the number of means of delivery and transmitted. An hybrid delivery method of content comprises the steps of: detecting the number of delivery means by which a server can transmit content to a client; dividing the content so as to correspond to the detected number of delivery means; generating composition information for each of the divided content; and transmitting the divided content and the composition information to the client using the transmission means. Thus, a variety of transmission means can be used effectively.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided so as to capture video images such that an image of a moment of significance is captured within the video. In the context of a method, an indication is received that a video capture user input will be subsequently provided directing that video images be captured. The method then determines whether a pre-roll is to be captured in advance of the video capture user input. The method causes the video images to be captured in response to the video capture user input. The video images include a start frame captured temporarily proximate receipt of the video capture user input. The method receives a video capture completion user input indicating that the capturing of the video images should be ceased. In response to receipt of the video capture completion user input, the method causes a post-roll to be captured.

Abstract: A redundantly operated industrial communication system includes communication devices that are redundantly linked to an industrial communication network and includes network infrastructure devices associated with the industrial communication network, wherein message transmission occurs wirelessly at least in sections. The industrial communication network contains a plurality of buffer memory units for message elements that are received at a network node by wire and message elements that are to be sent by the network node wirelessly. When a maximum buffer size is exceeded, an oldest message element situated in a respective buffer memory unit is erased. Until the maximum buffer size is exceeded, the oldest message element is selected as the next message element to be sent wirelessly.

Abstract: A method that incorporates teachings of the subject disclosure may include, for example performing, by a wireless communication device comprising a processor, wireless telephony communications via a first wireless interface, transmitting information associated with media-related activities to a server, receiving from the server a media recommendation that is generated according to the information associated with media-related activities, initiating communications with a network via a second wireless interface, downloading a media content item of the media recommendation from a content provider via the second wireless interface, and presenting the media content item at a display. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for creating and managing artist-specific applications (ASAs) that each relate to an individual artist, integrates content related to the artist, and connects fans with the artist through multimedia experiences provided through the ASA. An ASA may include a unified player interface that displays a selectable plurality of songs that are associated with the ASA. The ASA may search for other music (such as locally stored music, music associated with other ASAs, and/or streaming music) and display the other music in the unified player interface for selection as well. Upon selection of the other music, the unified player interface may play the selected music, delivering a seamless experience for users who have locally downloaded music (or other music) and an ASA.

Abstract: A system and method for time-shifted viewing of broadcast television programs is disclosed. Simultaneous recording and playback are provided by using buffer storage as the source and destination of compressed or uncompressed digital video/audio programs, Full VCR-like control is provided for all playback within the buffer storage. Playback and control of recorded programs may be initiated by the user at any time after initiation of the broadcast program with simultaneous continuous recording of the ongoing live broadcast. Larger archival storage and removable is also provided for storing and building a library of programs. Viewer playback control data may be stored as part of the program or used as edit points prior to archival. Numerous options are provided for features such as continuous automatic recording in a circular buffer fashion, program archival, editing, Internet interfaces, multiple-channel recording and more.

Abstract: A system for receiving satellite signals for display on a monitor. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises an antenna, a server receiver, coupled to the antenna, and at least one client receiver, coupled to the server receiver, wherein the server receiver maintains a list of satellite video signals to be recorded by the server receiver, the satellite video signals including network recorded data and metadata associated with the network recorded data, and wherein the list can be accessed by the server receiver and the at least one client receiver.

Abstract: An information processing system includes a recording apparatus and a portable device, wherein the recording apparatus includes a recording control section, a selection section, a creation section, a digest information transfer control section, an operation information reception control section, and an operation information reflection section, and wherein the portable device includes a digest information reception control section, and an operation information transfer control section.

Abstract: Provided is a method and system for television channel selection, including a television controller operatively connected to an electronic memory and configured to process a video selection script. The television controller is also operatively connected to the television and to a television network comprising a plurality of channels. Also provided is a script authoring tool for authoring a video selection script in a Web-based scripting language by a viewer. The television controller is further configured to select a channel to display on the television based on the video selection script and to dynamically update the video selection script based on the occurrence of an event.

Abstract: A content management system may assist users in managing the storage of various pieces of content, such as television programs, that the user has recorded. The system may track the user's consumption behavior, determining which programs the user regularly watches and which programs the user regularly ignores, and use that consumption behavior to determine which recorded programs to recommend for relocation to a remote storage, or for outright deletion. The system can also use the behavior information to modify new recording requests, such as directing a new request to a secondary storage location if it is unlikely that the user will view the recording.

Abstract: Systems and methods for recording multiple copies of a program are provided. The method may include receiving a user instruction to record a program. A determination may be made to record multiple copies of the program. In response to the determination, multiple copies of the program may be recorded. A user instruction to display the recorded program may be received. A copy of the program may be played back. The user may switch to another copy of the recorded program if the original copy lacks desirable recording attributes, or the interactive television application may automatically switch to another copy of the program.

Abstract: A particular method includes receiving program data designating media content to be recorded at a media recorder. An electronic program guide accessible to the media recorder includes multiple scheduled delivery times for the media content. The method includes receiving delay data. The delay data enables delayed recording of the media content and specifies at least one delay recording condition. The method includes determining an onset time to begin recording the media content based on the multiple scheduled delivery times for the media content and based on the at least one delay recording condition. The method also includes scheduling the media content to be recorded at the media recorder beginning at the onset time.

Abstract: Systems and methods for trimming recorded content or segments using a media guidance application are provided. A first program scheduled for recording during one timeslot. A determination is made that the first program will run beyond the scheduled broadcast time. The first program may be rescheduled for recording during a second larger timeslot that overlaps with the scheduled broadcast time of a second program. Content provided by the program source may be recorded during the second timeslot. The recorded content may be trimmed to remove portions of the recorded content that correspond to the second program.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for communicating a recommended item to a user of a network-based transaction facility are described. The method comprises determining that the user has been unsuccessful in concluding a transaction pertaining to an item offered for sale via the network-based transaction facility, and in response to this determination, communicating information concerning a recommended item to the user over a network. The recommended item is available for purchase via the network-based transaction facility.

Abstract: A system and method for storing and providing media objects in a navigable environment implemented on at least one computer executing computer readable program code stored in a tangible memory medium. The at least one computer is configured to access a plurality of media objects comprising a media recording and metadata. The at least one computer is further configured to generate an index of said plurality of media objects based on said metadata.

Abstract: A computer implemented method and apparatus for managing digital video recorder storage for one or more users. Each user in the multi-user environment is assigned an amount of program storage in the digital video recorder. Responsive to receiving a request to record a new program from a user in the multi-user environment, an associated amount of program storage assigned to the use is determined. Responsive to a determination that addition of the new program will not exceed the associated amount of program storage assigned to the user, the new program is recorded to the program storage.

Abstract: A customized content calendar may include reminders or invitations to access particular media content, where the reminders or invitations may be pushed to the content calendar based on user-specific preferences.

Abstract: A content player includes a pausable mass storage device player that can be used to record and play content. The pausable mass storage device can become paused in response to an assertion of a pause signal. Once paused, the content player remains paused until the pause signal is deasserted. The content player also includes an event detector that is coupled to the pausable mass storage device player. The content player detects a non-viewer initiated event, (e.g., an automatic event such as the receipt of an email with embedded enhanced content), and to assert the pause signal in response thereto. The content player receives content, detects an event, and in response to detecting the event, pauses the content to a presentation device and spools the content onto the mass storage device.

Abstract: A television viewer interface system provides a viewer interface that allows the viewer to access different functions of a system. A highlight bar is responsive to the user's commands and is used to indicate the current menu item that can be selected by the user. Information is presented in a successive disclosure format where the user navigates through menus by moving the highlight bar to the right to obtain more information or to the left to see less information and return to the previous location. The background colors of each set of menus remains consistent throughout the user's experience such that the user intuitively knows what menu area he is in through the color cues. The invention provides indicators that tell the user that more information is available in a particular direction for a menu item.

Abstract: Digital data associated with recorded programs are uploaded to a Head End facility from user devices (e.g., set-top boxes) in a media distribution network. The Head End facility stores a library of the Digital Video Recording (DVR) assets for programs and makes them available, by streaming, to user devices, including user devices that do not have DVR capability. Techniques are also provided to efficiently upload a DVR asset simultaneously in segments or chunks from multiple user devices.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided which facilitate the resolution of recording conflicts of a digital video recorder (DVR). A DVR identifies a recording conflict between a first recording timer associated with a first television program and a second recording timer associated with a second television program. A communication is initiated to a communication device associated with a user of the digital video recorder to inform the user of the recording conflict. Responsive to the communication, the user provides information to the DVR via the communication device requesting to resolve the recording conflict. The DVR utilizes the provided information to modify one or more of the conflicted recording timers to resolve the conflict.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for personal video recorders (PVRs) and other devices configured for recording and playing back media content from a data storage unit, preferably a random access unit such as a hard drive. A system is described having network connectivity, such as a power-line communications, with other PVRs or similar units, wherein media content can be automatically shifted from one unit to another over the network, such as in response to changes in available storage space. Content transfers and deletions within the system being intelligently performed based on content status, user preference settings, and user preference information such as received from a preference engine, toward optimizing the value to the user of the content which is retained network wide. An additional aspect provides content restoration after mistaken deletion by the user or automated deletion functions.

Abstract: A method, digital video recording (DVR) device/system and computer program provide a mechanism for recording video content associated with unpredictable events. A user specifies particular event classifications, keywords, or other control parameters from which the occurrence of an event can be determined, and when such event is detected, the DVR is triggered to record content from a specified channel/location. The events can be detected from feeds such as RSS feeds, websites, video content scans or other mechanisms. The event detection may be provided by a remote service that is accessible for user-configuration via a network, or the event detection may be performed in a DVR device or local computer system.

Abstract: A processing system decodes packetized program information including ancillary program specific information comprising a plurality of hierarchically ordered information tables. The ancillary information is used in acquiring and decoding packetized program information to provide a video program for display. The processing system employs a method involving detection of a mismatch between a version number of a first table of the program specific information (e.g. a virtual channel table (VCT), or channel information table (CIT)) and a corresponding version number of the first table conveyed in a second table (e.g. a master guide table (MGT)). If a mismatch is detected, the first and second tables are forced to contain a compatible first table version number. The packetized program information is decoded to provide a video program for display using the program specific information including the first and second tables including the forced compatible version number.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosed invention include a system and method for recording media content. For example, in one embodiment, a method for recording media content is disclosed that includes communicating with a home gateway to determine whether a device connected to the home gateway has enough free storage space to store a media content in response to a determination that an internal data storage unit of a set top box does not have sufficient free storage space to store the media content. In one embodiment, the method routes the storage of the media content to the device via the home gateway in response to a determination that the device connected to the home gateway has sufficient free storage space to store the media content.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a receiving apparatus for sending received contents to a recording apparatus and for getting the recording apparatus to record the contents in accordance with preset recording reservations, the receiving apparatus including: a recording ready time information acquisition section configured to acquire from the recording apparatus information about a recording ready time; a continuous recording determination section configured to determine whether two chronologically successive broadcast contents are reserved for recording based on the preset recording reservations; and an end time setting section configured such that if the two chronologically successive broadcast contents are found reserved for recording, then the end time setting section sets the time at which to end processing for recording the earlier of the two contents based on a broadcast start time of the latter of the two contents and on the acquired information about the recording ready time.

Abstract: Systems and methods for capturing media content in accordance with viewer expression are disclosed. In some implementations, a method includes: at a computer system having one or more processors and memory storing one or more programs for execution by the one or more processors: detecting display of a media content item; while the media content item is being displayed: detecting a viewer expression corresponding to a predefined viewer expression; and in response to detecting the viewer expression: identifying a portion of the media content item corresponding in time to the viewer expression. In some implementations, the viewer expression—selected from one of: a facial expression, a body movement, a voice, or an arm, leg or finger gesture—is presumed to be a viewer reaction to the portion of the media content item.

Abstract: Segmentation messages indicative of locations of upcoming events, such as the start and end of programs and program portions, and/or rights related to the programs and program portions, are used by cable systems and the like to store programs and program portions for later retrieval and transmission to customers on request. Storage, retrieval and management of programming is thereby facilitated. Methods and systems are disclosed.

Abstract: A mobile device running a mobile application accesses a remote content receiver to request the remote content receiver to retrieve a particular recording timer, and upon receiving the recording timer from the remote content receiver, establishes a radio communication link with a second mobile device and transfers the recording timer to the second mobile device over the established radio communication link. The radio communication link is preferably the Near Field Communication (NFC) link.

Abstract: An apparatus for recording multimedia content transmitted over a network including a reception interface for receiving the multimedia content from the network, a user input interface for receiving user inputs, and a storage resource including executable instructions including a recording module for recording the multimedia content in accordance with the user inputs. The user inputs also include a multimedia selection signal for indicating the multimedia content to be recorded, and a segmenting signal for indicating a size of at least one of a plurality of segments in which the multimedia content is recorded.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided herein in relation to notifications about alternative viewing opportunities for recording and playback of media programs. In particular, the systems and methods provide users with information related to alternative recorded programming viewing opportunities for programs scheduled for recording by a user.

Abstract: An exemplary method includes a DVR schedule collaboration system 1) maintaining data representative of a plurality of DVR schedules associated with a plurality of users, 2) creating a master DVR schedule based on the plurality of DVR schedules, and 3) facilitating creation of a personal DVR schedule by a user in accordance with at least one of the master DVR schedule and one or more of the DVR schedules associated with the plurality of users. Corresponding methods and systems are also disclosed.