Abstract: The invention relates to a system and method to cause an apparatus to perform at least the following; identifying music preferences by understanding the listening history of a user from one or more context signals associated with a user mobile device.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for supporting content delivery service are described. In accordance with the invention content can be supplied to temporary storage of a regional or local server used to supply the content to a customer's premises when the requested content is not already available in the regional or local server. A content server hierarchy may be implemented with servers higher up in the hierarchy including more content, e.g., titles, than the number of titles stored in the lower level servers. By storing less frequently accessed content in servers higher in the hierarchy and frequently requested titles lower in the hierarchy, a vast number of titles can be supported without overburdening the storage available at local and regional servers. In addition, a national or other server high in the hierarchy can be used to store, move, and distribute local or other content as part of an on demand service.

Abstract: The inventive system provides real-time commercial services to users of mobile communication devices (MCDs) over a wireless communication network utilizing the short message service protocol (SMS). The inventive system establishes a dialog with a user of an MCD utilizing SMS to present the user with commercial service options and to allow the user to quickly and easily purchase the services by sending minimal SMS responses during the dialog process. Preferably, prior to utilization of the inventive system, the user subscribes with a service provider to pre-arrange payment options for purchased services, to provide information helpful in tailoring offered services and service options to the user, and optionally to receive enhanced services (such as discounted and/or last minute offers, etc.). Utilization of the inventive system occurs in three phases: trigger, purchase and claim. During the trigger phase (user or service provider initiated), the service to be purchased is selected.

Abstract: The invention provides a system to physically dispense an item, including tangible items and/or services or features, on-site from a dispenser whereby the item to be dispensed is selected by the system based on user-specific or item-specific information. In an embodiment, the system selects the dispensed item based on both user-specific and item-specific information. In another embodiment the invention comprises a system that activates gaming features in a gaming device based on user-specific information. In another embodiment, the invention comprises a system incorporated into an interactive amusement system to activate features of a playfield based on user-specific information.

Abstract: A medication dispensing cabinet provides controlled access to medications and supplies stored in it. The cabinet may include at least one lockable storage compartment, and a controller that controls access to the at least one lockable storage compartment. The cabinet may include multiple printers integrated into the cabinet. The cabinet may include a camera operably coupled to the controller. The cabinet may include a set of cabinet electronics, and a power distribution and communications circuit board. The cabinet may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, wherein the controller conditions access to the at least one lockable storage compartment on receipt of information from the RFID reader. Data may be stored in the controller according to an implementation of RAID technology. The controller may include multiple electronic communications network interfaces, and may include an out of band network communication channel. A dispensing cabinet may facilitate printing of labels for medications.

Abstract: A media player is presented that scans the media files stored on an external memory card in order to update the internal database of the player. Media manager software on a personal computer sets a dirty bit in the internal memory of the media player whenever the media files on the external memory card are altered. The media player checks the dirty bit on start up or when the memory card is inserted. If the dirty bit is set, the media player scans the media files on the memory card, updates its database, then clears the dirty bit. If the dirty bit is not set, the media player does not scan the memory card. The dirty bit is associated in the internal memory with an identifier for the memory card, allowing the use of multiple memory cards.

Abstract: Music is blanket transmitted to each customer's computer-based user station. Customers preselect from a list of available music in advance using an interactive screen selector, and pay only for music that they choose to have recorded for unlimited playback. An antipiracy “ID tag” is woven into the recorded music so that any illegal copies therefrom may be traced to the purchase transaction. Music is transmitted on a fixed schedule or through an active scheduling process that monitors music requests from all or a subset of satellite receivers and adjust scheduling according to demand for various CD's. In those instances where transmission interruptions result in data loss, the system downloads the next transmission of the requested CD and uses both transmissions to produce a “good copy”. In conjunction to the blanket transmission, an automated CD manufacturing facility may be provided to manufacture CD's and distribute them by ground transportation.

Abstract: A method and mobile terminal for reproducing contents is provided. A list of a plurality of contents is displayed and a touch input is detected to select at least one of the plurality of contents from list, with the selected at least one of the plurality of contents reproduced either entirely or partially according to a type of the detected touch input.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a personalized media service. In one aspect, the system includes an on-demand system, a plurality of subscriber devices, and a network to which the on-demand system and the subscriber devices are coupled so that the on-demand system and the subscriber devices can communicate with each other. The on-demand system enables a user to create one or more personalized media channels by enabling the user to specify his/her media preferences for each channel. The on-demand system includes a media server for streaming media to the plurality of subscriber devices. The media is preferably implemented using a video-on-demand server.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assembling and vending a food or drink product using a machine having a viewing window into the interior thereof. The user selects through a user interface one of a plurality of characters, then selects through the interface the ingredients to include in the product. The ingredients are dispensed into a receptacle that is moved between dispensing locations within the machine by a robotic arm. An animated sequence, soundtrack and lighting pattern is associated with each character. As the robotic arm assembles the product, the animated sequence, soundtrack and lighting for the selected character are run and shown on a display. The user is able to watch the movements of the robotic arm and the animated sequence simultaneously.

Abstract: A method, system and apparatus is provided for dispensing drugs quickly, conveniently, securely, and accurately and at relatively less cost than traditional pharmacy-based dispensing systems. A script for a drug prescribed to a user is generated comprising a human readable description of the drug and the user or a machine readable description of the drug and the user. The script is provided to a robotic prescription dispensary operable to recognize either the human readable description or the machine readable description, and validate and dispense the drug accordingly. The robotic prescription dispensary includes a user interface, a tele conferencing or video conferencing means enabling communication between the user and a human validation agent, and a scanning means for capturing an image of the script. A method for managing inventory and distribution of drugs is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to an interactive fuel dispenser system having a plurality of fuel dispensers operating in conjunction with a local server. Each dispenser generally has two fueling positions, each with a graphical user interface through which a customer interacts. In contrast with efforts to turn fuel dispensers into super computers, applicants' provide a dispenser architecture that need only be sufficient to establish interactivity with a server to create multimedia applications and carry out POS functions with a browser interface. Each fueling position acts as a client of a local server at the fuel station store. In the preferred embodiment, each fueling position client also may access remote servers connected to the same network in which the fueling position clients and the local server are connected. Preferably, this network is connected to the Worldwide Web of the Internet.

Abstract: Data content providers transfer data content (including DRM protected content) over a broadband network onto one or more information filling stations (IFSs) situated at one or more physical locations. Users are able to wirelessly communicate with the IFSs via one or more of portable devices that are operable in close proximity to the IFS. Data content requested by the portable devices include, but are not limited to: multimedia files, WWW data, real-time and interactive games, e-mail (with or without attachments), electronic newspapers, news and sports information, traffic and weather information, e-books, interactive messaging, and/or data files. Additionally, the portable devices are also capable of facilitating point-of-sale purchases and electronic funds transfers. Optionally, the IFS also forwards advertisements promoting products and services to the portable devices.

Abstract: A feature of a computing device application may be selected by user or other input and then demonstrated using a demonstration application. The demonstration application may select simulated user inputs from a script or other source that, when input to the computing device application, drive it to demonstrate the selected feature. The demonstration application may then begin to input the one or more simulated user inputs to the computing device application. Before all of the simulated user inputs have been input, the demonstration application may determine that the user has interrupted the demonstration. In response to the determination, the demonstration application may cease inputting the simulated inputs, leaving the computing device application in the state it was in at the time of interruption, thereby enabling the user to explore the application or feature of the application being demonstrated at a time and in a manner of the user's choosing.

Abstract: The machine or method buys gold or precious metal items. A housing with a vault is linked to a central office for tracking buy/no-buy sales events and uploading current exchange rate data. The item is placed on a platform leading to processing stations which weigh, image, assay and convey the item to the vault (buy) or return-route (no-buy). User display commands and offers-to-buy, capture user images, scan identity and biometric data and permit user-keyed input. A computer processor calculates a discounted market value based upon exchange rate, weight, assayed purity and discounts. A compiler stores seller's data including seller responses, images and scanner data and buy/no-buy data. An acceptance module initiates a credit event and delivers the item to the vault. A rejection module negates acceptance upon user command or if an error in gold purity, weight, discounted market value or size.

Abstract: A method of substituting digital alternative media for a physical media article at an article dispensing machine to a customer is provided. The method includes receiving a request related to the media article through a user interface from the customer, identifying an associated content provider, and determining the alternative media selection at the associated content provider that corresponds to the media article. The method also includes receiving a unique customer identifier and identifying the associated content provider based on the unique customer identifier. The method further includes mapping the media article to the alternative media selection based on metadata. The media article may be available at the article dispensing machine or may be unavailable due to being out-of-stock or reserved to another customer. The associated content provider may be linked to the customer based on a subscription. The digital alternative media selection may be accessed by an audio/visual display interface.

Abstract: Provided are an apparatus and method for searching a start position of a broadcast program. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a received broadcast program is recorded in a recording medium while being output as video and audio. If a new broadcast program is started, position information regarding a start part of the new broadcast program is stored in a memory. Thus, a current broadcast program is reproduced from a start part by searching a start position of the current broadcast program recorded in the recording medium with reference to stored position information. A determination on whether the new broadcast program is started is done on the basis of Electronic Program Guide (EPG) information or a change in audio and video signals. Accordingly, it is possible to quickly search and reproduce a start part of a broadcast program which is currently recorded.

Abstract: An apparatus, method and system are presented for delivering multi-media products using a self-service kiosk. The kiosk delivers the multi-media product on a DVD or electronically downloads the multi-media product via high-speed communications to a portable device. The high-speed communications allows the multi-media product to be downloaded in relatively short time period.

Abstract: A kiosk for sale or rental of secure USB flash drives employing digital rights management to implement secure digital media storage such as that provided by encrypted storage utilizing content protection for recordable media (CPRM) or the like. Preferably, the form factor of the secure USB flash drives is that of a standard USB flash drive, and a standard USB connector is employed therein making the devices and their use familiar and comfortable to the average consumer. Further, the kiosk may employ an array of USB ports and support writing of content from one drive to another to advantageously adjust inventory to respond to demand. Light, simple kiosks may be designed.

Abstract: Methods and techniques are described to dynamically provide preloaded movies on digital storage devices that may be purchased or leased by a consumer on a self-service media content dispensing device, such as a kiosk. A media content dispensing device stores various media content obtained physically or via a network on a server at a dispensing device. When a request is received from a user to purchase or lease a particular title, the user may provide a blank storage device and exchange the blank storage device to receive the media content preloaded on a storage device provided by the dispensing device. The dispensing device will then store the title, or a different title, on the blank storage device provided by the user for purchase or lease by another to maintain inventory. The dispensing device may also change an existing preloaded storage device to a different title to maintain inventory.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling ambiance devices, or an embedded device, using a device style sheet are disclosed. Ambiance devices include devices used to control an environment in a room or area, such as a lighting device or a heating/cooling system. A device style sheet declaration is received, in one embodiment, at an ambiance device controller. The declaration comprises a scope selector that identifies a scope of a style to be applied, a property identifier that identifies a style property to be altered, and a property value that identifies a style property value to be applied. At least one ambiance device, within the scope identified by the scope selector, that is in electronic communication with the ambiance device controller is identified. A control signal for the ambiance device is formulated based on the property identifier and property value. The control signal is then transmitted to the ambiance device.

Abstract: An advertising information display method obtains the terminal location information, which is transmitted from a mobile telephone device, a terminal, retail store location information, which is transmitted from a plurality of retail stores, and advertising information, selects the neighborhood advertising information, which should be transmitted to the mobile telephone device, based on the terminal location information and a plurality of retail store location information, associates the terminal ID with the neighborhood advertising information, transmits the neighborhood advertising information to the mobile telephone device, and displays, on the display of the mobile telephone device, the neighborhood advertising information.

Abstract: A control panel for automatic beverage machines includes a touch screen that visually represents icons saved in a memory unit as the displayed basic setting as a first selector mechanism used for choosing a desired beverage and by which a predetermined preparation process is triggered. The steps of the selected beverage preparation process may be visually represented on the touch screen. Alternatively, the touch screen is used as a second selector mechanism for choosing a desired preparation setting after a beverage is chosen by actuating the first selector mechanism. When a preparation setting is selected, the touch screen displays the icon for the selected beverage in addition to setting key icons that allow an operator to select and save a desired setting.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the automated monitoring and the management of objects, especially medications in hospital environments, wherein this method consists, from a network of n individual housings containing a set of n objects, of transmitting to at least one of these objects, one or more movements selected from the extractions of said object from its housing and re-introductions of this object into an empty housing amongst the n housings, of automatically detecting the movement made and of using this detection in computer processes.

Abstract: An apparatus, method and system are presented for delivering multi-media products using a self-service kiosk. The kiosk delivers the multi-media product on a DVD or electronically downloads the multi-media product via high-speed communications to a portable device. The high-speed communications allows the multi-media product to be downloaded in relatively short time period.

Abstract: A management apparatus, a charging object apparatus and a management system and method by which a product of an object of use can be used in an efficiency as high as possible when it is used commonly by a plurality of people.

Abstract: Confectionary image design system including a graphical user interface through which a user defines a pattern of confectionary pieces to be arranged on a substrate. A computer processor controls the graphical user interface through which the user defines the pattern, and provides instructions for arranging the confectionary pieces in the defined pattern. A container retains the confectionary pieces used to form the defined pattern. A robot receives from the computer processor the instructions for arranging the confectionary pieces, retrieves the confectionary pieces stored in the container, and arranges the pieces on the substrate in the pattern defined by the user.

Abstract: A vending-machine has one or more displays that inform the customer regarding available vendable selections and that facilitate the purchase of a selected item. By one approach this display can comprise a touchscreen display. Such an approach can support a highly intuitive interaction between the purchasing context and the customer. A display of dynamic content serves to attract a potential customer, provide the customer with a wealth of information regarding available selections, offer the customer a variety of ways to consider and assess available vendable items, support the building of a customer relationship between the customer and one or more marketing brands, and effect the successful conclusion of a vending transaction.

Abstract: A system and method integrates the functions of manipulating foods/beverages and the interactions of the information related with the manipulation. The system includes a remote server, and a foodstuff equipment operation system. The operation system further includes a foodstuff equipment comprising an operation circuit; a display panel; and a computer control system comprising a network interface, an input interface, a data processing unit, and a circuit control unit. The integration system receives users' commands via the input interface, and delivers the commands to the data processing unit. The data processing unit interprets users' commands, and then requires the circuit control unit to make the operation circuit to manipulate foods/beverages, meanwhile, the data processing unit also sends out information to the remote server for analyzing.

Abstract: Disclosed is a store management system capable of switching between manned or unmanned sales. During the daytime, a clerk or owner stays in a store to allow a customer, who visits the opened store, to purchase goods which are received in a vending machine or are displayed in a showcase. On the other hand, in a state wherein the store is closed at night to provide no reception or store management of the clerk or owner, the customer is able to select and order goods of the vending machine at the outside of a show window of the store using a display device and an ordering/settlement device installed at the show window. The vending machine is operated to dispense the selected goods as soon as the customer pays for the goods, and the dispensed goods are discharged out of the show window via a goods discharge device, such as a conveyor belt, to thereby be provided to the customer.

Abstract: This invention provides an improved method to deliver large amounts of digital content to portable electronic devices at low cost, without requiring the users of such devices to download such content from the Internet. Neither do the users have to purchase or manipulate data storage media such as CDs, DVDs, or memory cards. Moreover, the digital content delivery system of this invention can facilitate digital rights management, a major concern of content publishers.

Abstract: A kiosk or machine for buying media discs includes a dispense/receive system for dispensing the media discs to consumers and receiving media discs from customers, a disc identification system for identifying the media discs, a disc transfer system for moving the media discs within the kiosk, a control system operably connected to dispense/receive system, the disc transfer system, and a user interface system. The user interface includes a buy-back indicator or prompt which can be selectively activated by the customer. In response to activation of the buy-back indicator, the controller activates the dispense/receive system to receive a media disc for buy-back, activates the disc transfer system to move the media disc to the disc identification system, activates the disc identification system to identify the media disc, determines a buy-back price for the media disc, and activates the user interface system to display the buy-back price.

Abstract: A vending machine comprises a first product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza crust product, a second product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza topping product, and an information processing apparatus coupled to the first product dispensing unit and the second dispensing unit. The information processing apparatus is configured for facilitating input and processing of a customer-configured pizza preparation kit order. The first product dispensing unit is a frozen product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza crust product to be selectively dispensed. The second product dispensing unit is a refrigerated product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza topping product to be selectively dispensed. The information processing apparatus includes an user interface arrangement, an order processing arrangement and a kit component management arrangement.

Abstract: An electronic device comprises a first interface operable to receive from a user a selection of a first data set and a processor coupled to the first interface. The processor is operable to access the selected first data set, determine if the user is authorized to receive the first data set, and store the first data set on a memory device.

Abstract: A system for purchasing and downloading an audio file broadcasted through a satellite network to a predetermined storage device. The system includes a hub site containing a resident database of audio file content, transmission means, a satellite network for transmitting the audio files to subscribers, a portable satellite transceiver unit for receiving the satellite broadcasts, a purchase request function and signal for notifying the hub site of the subscriber's desire to purchase the broadcast audio file, and a storage device for receiving a download of the audio file from the hub site.

Abstract: A vending machine comprises a first product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza crust product, a second product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza topping product, and an information processing apparatus coupled to the first product dispensing unit and the second dispensing unit. The information processing apparatus is configured for facilitating input and processing of a customer-configured pizza preparation kit order. The first product dispensing unit is a frozen product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza crust product to be selectively dispensed. The second product dispensing unit is a refrigerated product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza topping product to be selectively dispensed. The information processing apparatus includes an user interface arrangement, an order processing arrangement and a kit component management arrangement.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and articles of manufacture for promoting multiple transactions at a retail establishment are provided. According to an aspect of the invention, products and processes are disclosed for receiving, via a point-of-sale terminal that is not a vending machine, an indication of a set of products which a customer desires to purchase. At least one product is offered to the customer via the point-of-sale terminal, and an acceptance of the offer is received. Thereafter a request to receive the product is received. A unit of the product is dispensed via the vending machine.

Abstract: A vending distribution system having an enclosure capable of housing a storage assembly containing a plurality of actual and sample items. Access to and controls for the storage assembly are separate from the access area thus creating a system with potential for two distinct areas. Interaction with the system determines the ability exclude items from vending without staff intervention thus providing usage for drive up unattended vending.

Abstract: A vending machine comprises a first product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza crust product, a second product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza topping product, and an information processing apparatus coupled to the first product dispensing unit and the second dispensing unit. The information processing apparatus is configured for facilitating input and processing of a customer-configured pizza preparation kit order. The first product dispensing unit is a frozen product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza crust product to be selectively dispensed. The second product dispensing unit is a refrigerated product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza topping product to be selectively dispensed. The information processing apparatus includes an user interface arrangement, an order processing arrangement and a kit component management arrangement.

Abstract: Vending machine (1) with a housing designed for delivering at least one cosmetic product or a voucher arranged inside the housing: with at least one dispensing device (6) which feeds the cosmetic product or the voucher from a storage container (7) to a dispensing aperture (5), with an operating panel (2) for selecting the cosmetic product, with a presentation region which extends from the outside into the housing and which is configured such that at least one tester of each cosmetic product which is located within the housing or the vouchers thereof located inside the housing may be positioned therein, and thus is accessible from outside in order to use the tester.

Abstract: A vending machine handles a purchase transaction by receiving a payment, receiving a product selection from the customer, and dispensing the product indicated by the product selection. As part of the same transaction, the vending machine offers an information item such as an audio recording or a video recording. The vending machine also receives from the customer a destination address, which may be an e-mail address. The vending machine or a system of which it is part transmits the information item to the received destination address.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an audio-visual retrieval and playback apparatus for a single use which has a housing having a viewing screen thereon 22 which can be sealed and packaged 14 having a headphone 16 with a pair of earpiecess 18 along with wiring 20 which connects the headphone to the housing. The present invention has a play button 24, along with a stop button 26 having slot 28 which accepts audiovisual cards along with a pair of ports 30, 32 for interfacing with another computer. Data can be retrieved from an external database having a plurality of audio video data for download. A user views the collection of audio video data and selects an audio video datafile for download to a disposable player that will retain the audio video datafile for later use.

Abstract: A digital image storage and management system for automatically generating distinct recorded media volumes by recording selected data thereon includes a combination of computer hardware and software components that are configured to operably receive and act upon user-defined commands delivered to the computer via a graphical user interface, which may be coupled to the computer through an external network. The hardware and software combination in the computer direct robotics to manipulate distinct recordable media volumes into and out from respective media recording drives. Data retrieved from local or distributed databases by the computer according to specific user-defined commands is compiled into discreet associated data sets and recorded onto one or more recordable media volumes. The computer also automatically creates a pre-defined association with the particular data set for cataloging purposes.

Abstract: This invention relates to an interactive medication cassette with a machine readable and writable information strip that contains information corresponding to the medication in the cassette. The interactive medication cassette holds the medication and couples the corresponding information to the medication. The cassette is designed for use in a medication distribution and inventory system that includes at least one medication dispensing machine having a sensor for reading the information in the strip and updating or altering this information when medication is added to or removed from the cassette. The cassette travels with the medication during the distribution of the medication to a patient, and its information is reported to one or more memory devices or hospital or pharmacy data base during this process. The cassette is filled by a pharmacy dispensing machine holding a bulk container filled with a particular type of medication and a singulator for counting the quantity of medication added to the cassette.

Abstract: A peer-to-peer network of devices connected together with data being streamed over a digital network. Network devices include one or more data communication units that are locatable in two or more zones. Data communication units may be room stations and door stations connected to hub modules at an entertainment hub and local units connected to the entertainment hub. The entertainment hub may be connected to the Internet, either directly or, indirectly through one of the connected data communications units. Room stations include a sending unit, a receiving unit and an intercom unit (provide intercom, paging and station monitoring) and are located in different zones, each controlling local reception of data from the data stream and each may place data into the data stream.

Abstract: User interface systems gain access to media data stored in a database for a predetermined amount of time. Access is gained through a server that presents to the interface a selection menu for selecting media data. Upon selection of media data the server accesses the data from the database and transmits it to the user interface. The server also presents to the user interface a content history menu by which ancillary data associated with the content played by the system during the predetermined time is presented. The ancillary data may include the title of the content, the artist of the content, the availability of the content for purchase and its price, the title of one or more compilations, e.g., CDs, on which the content is contained and the availability of the compilations/CD for purchase and the price.

Abstract: The invention provides a data vending system 10 including the storing data such as digitised music and/or video and/or computer programs on one or more main computer i.e. the data depot 12 and dispensing the data to a uniquely identifiable data carrier 30. The data on the data depot 12 includes a database which maintains owner and/or possessor records for each said data carrier 30, the data being selected from the group including ownership or possession history of the data carrier, personal details of the past and present owner and/or possessor of the data carrier, demographic data about the user/owner of the data carrier, data recorded onto the data carrier at an authorised data dispensing device (either cumulatively or periodically, by title, by artist, etc), data rented and the rental period (either cumulatively or periodically, by title, by artist, etc), the user's normal requirements, the user's payment records, royalties paid to the copyright owner by the user, and favourite data of the user.

Abstract: Robot-related information held at a robot user and data held at a robot manufacturer are used to enhance the user's sense of attachment to the robot. Each terminal device is operable to send information about the robot to a telecommunication line and to receive answer information sent from a server to the robot user via the telecommunication line. The server generates answer information on the basis of robot-related information sent from the personal terminal device and previously stored reference information corresponding to the robot-related information; and sends the answer information to the personal terminal device—via the telecommunication line. The answer information is for example a diagnostic report on the robot.

Abstract: An interactive vending machine is provided that facilitates the purchase of digital media. The machine includes audio speakers and a video screen that presents displays controlled by a consumer and that enables audio-visual promotional material and informational material to be produced on the vending machine in conjunction with purchasing digital media from the vending machine or from a source remote from the machine.

Abstract: The invention relates to an interactive fuel dispenser system having a plurality of fuel dispensers operating in conjunction with a local server. Each dispenser generally has two fueling positions, each with a graphical user interface through which a customer interacts. In contrast with the recent trend in turning fuel dispensers into super computers, applicants' provide a dispenser architecture that need only be sufficient to establish interactivity with a server to create multimedia applications and carry out POS functions with a browser interface. Each fueling position acts as a client of a local server at the fuel station store. In the preferred embodiment, each fueling position client also may access remote servers connected to the same network in which the fueling position clients and the local server are connected. Preferably, this network is or is connected to the Worldwide Web of the Internet.