Abstract: A method for providing a progressive download service for a playback apparatus supporting a BD-J specification is disclosed. In accordance with the present invention, a standby time and a communication overhead necessary for receiving and playing a A/V data by a playback apparatus supporting a BD-J specification are minimized by dividing and playing a first clip and a second clip according to a size of clips.

Abstract: A system and method of delivering video content over a network in communication with a subscriber having an associated electronic device is disclosed. A plurality of staggered streams of video content is delivered over a network. A segment of the video content is pushed onto the electronic device. A request for the video content is received at the electronic device, the pushed segment of video content is retrieved from the electronic device and the pushed segment of video content is displayed to the subscriber. A staggered stream of video content delivered over network is located and recorded on the electronic device.

Abstract: A transmitting terminal can transmit a content held by itself to a specific receiving terminal having no email software as if using a mailer. The transmitting terminal (10) and the receiving terminal (20) are connected to a delivery server (30) via a network (4). The delivery server (30) comprises: a database (36) for registering the device ID that specifies the receiving terminal (20); a content storage (39) for temporarily storing a content transmitted from the transmitting terminal (10); and table (33, 37) for managing contents separately on a per device ID basis of the receiving terminal. The delivery server (30), when receiving a request from the receiving terminal (20), refers to the tables (33, 27) and transmits to the receiving terminal (20) a content, the transmission destination of which corresponds to the device ID of the receiving terminal (20).

Abstract: A method of forming a picture in picture (PIP) service over an internet protocol (IP) transmission to one or more users, the method comprising the steps of: receiving a request for a PIP channel comprising a first predetermined channel superimposed with a second predetermined channel; determining if the PIP channel already exists; forming the PIP channel if it does not already exist; and transmitting the PIP channel on a dedicated channel to any users who have requested that PIP channel.

Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for enabling multicast synchronization of initially unicasted content. Multiple unicast streams are synchronized in order to convert the unicast streams into a multicast stream. Each unicast stream may be accelerated or slowed down in relation to a reference stream to a common point within each stream upon which the unicast streams are replaced by a multicast stream of the same content.

Abstract: A technique for managing the distribution of digital video content to multiple end-user devices is disclosed. The technique involves statistically multiplexing multiple VBR encoded video streams into an access channel, such as a data over cable service interface specifications (DOCSIS) bonded group, and utilizing quality of service capabilities of an edge device, such as a cable modem termination system (CMTS) or an edge quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) device, to buffer and schedule IP packets, which carry the VBR encoded video streams, so that packets are not dropped during periods of congestion. Utilizing the quality of service capabilities of an edge device makes it possible to statistically multiplex VBR encoded video streams in a narrowcast application such as Video on Demand (VOD) or Switched Digital Video (SDV) while eliminating the need for process intensive transrating/transcoding operations.

Abstract: A “personal television channel” is created for a user by a television head-end server. The personal channel has its own playlist that can include, in addition to service offerings from a television-delivery service, content stored locally by the user, media sent to the user from third parties (e.g., an electronic magazine publisher), and messages from other users. The user selects the personal channel just as he would select any other television channel. He then sees a playlist for the personal channel (which may be integrated into a general electronic program guide (“EPG”) supplied by the television provider). The user selects and plays content from the playlist just as he would interact with a traditional EPG. The user can specify local content to be included in his personal channel. He can also send content to another user to be included in the playlist of the recipient's personal channel.

Abstract: A method includes sending a unicast transmission including at least a portion of media content to a media device in response to determining, at a media distribution computing device, that a request for a media stream to be provided to the media device does not indicate a scheduled recording of the media content associated with the media stream and joining the media device to a multicast group associated with the media stream without sending the unicast transmission to the media device in response to determining, at the media distribution computing device, that the request indicates the scheduled recording of the media content.

Abstract: A method includes receiving first, second, and third content streams at a first device via a distribution system. The second content stream is selected by a second device and the third content stream is selected by a third device. The method also includes sending data to a display device to concurrently present the first, second, and third content streams and first, second, and third regions, respectively. A content control and buffer module is instructed to request a fourth content stream in response to receiving a request made at the second device. The method further includes sending data to the display device to display the fourth content stream in the first region. In response to the request, the first content stream replaces the second content stream in the second region.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing an interactive service during a broadcast service includes a transmitting element and a processing element. The transmitting element is capable of communicating broadcast content of the broadcast service to a plurality of receiving terminals. The processing element is configured to at least partially control the transmitting element. The processing element is configured to communicate with a network device in order to request a program specific group for communication of the interactive service to a receiving terminal that is a member of the program specific group. The interactive service is communicated to the receiving terminal that is a member of the program specific group with reception of the broadcast service. The content associated with the interactive service originates from the receiving terminals.

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to a system and method for grouping program identifiers into multimast groups. More specifically, there is provided a method comprising receiving a request for satellite services from a requester device, wherein the request includes at least one program identifier, creating a second group of program identifiers, comparing the requested program identifier with a first group of previously requested program identifiers stored on a satellite service providing device, and moving the matching program identifier from the first group of program identifiers to the second group of program identifiers if the requested program identifier matches one of the program identifiers in the first group of program identifiers, wherein a multicast of the second group of program identifiers is adapted to be shared by the requester device and another device.

Abstract: A method for monitoring a bandwidth configuration for a plurality of customer premises connected to a video head-end office in an Internet Protocol television network is disclosed. The bandwidth configuration is received for each of the plurality of customer premises. The bandwidth configuration is stored for each of the plurality of customer premises in a memory of a first server. A data file is received from the video head-end office. The data file indicates that a set-top box device located at one of the customer premises has requested a video stream that would exceed a first number of video streams available to the one of the customer premises and that would exceed a first bandwidth currently available between the video head-end office and the one of the customer premises. The data file is stored in the memory of the first server.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention disclose a method, an apparatus, and a system for implementing an interactive near video on demand (NVOD) channel. The present invention relates to the field of NVOD channels and can implement an interactive NVOD channel at a low operation cost. The method includes: sending NVOD program metadata to a user equipment; receiving a request for playing an NVOD program, where the playing request is sent by the user equipment and includes the NVOD program that a user selects from the NVOD program metadata through the user equipment; determining, according to the playing request, a next NVOD program to be played, and sending a media stream of the determined NVOD program in multicast/broadcast mode. The present invention is mainly applied to NVOD channels and may be applied to IMS-based IPTV systems.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for identifying an appropriate video signal path is provided for delivery of video-on-demand (VOD) data to a subscriber in a VOD system. The signal path may be a portion of an hybrid fiber optic and cable (HFC) network so that other signal paths in the HFC network may service subscribers in other areas. Because each path need not service every area, the total bandwidth provided by the VOD server need not be provided to every area so that the bandwidth provided to each area can be commensurate with the needs of that area. When a subscriber requests VOD programming, the identification received by the subscriber's terminal from the VOD server is returned to the server along with the request. From the identification, the VOD server may determine the area in which the requesting subscriber is located and the VOD server may then transmit the requested programming to the area in which the subscriber is located for reception by the subscriber.

Abstract: A programming communication synchronizer embodiment communicates a portion of a program to a receiving device during a first time period, communicates a corresponding portion of the program to a mobile device during a second time period, and coordinates the first time period with the second time period so that the portion of the program is deliverable to a presentation device coupleable to the receiving device at approximately the same time the corresponding portion of the program is deliverable to the mobile device.

Abstract: Content download technology, in which a network-based video scheduled to be played at a particular time is identified, and multiple sources from which the network-based video is available for downloading are identified. An initial source from which to download the network-based video is selected from among the multiple sources, and a first process to download the network-based video from the initial source is initiated. Progress of the download of the network-based video is monitored. When an estimated amount of time remaining for the download of the network-based video from the initial source to complete does not enable viewing of the network-based video at the particular time without interruption, an alternative source from which to download at least a portion of the network-based video is selected from among the multiple sources, and a second process to download at least the portion the network-based video from the alternative source is initiated.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the continuous transmission of a video from a server to a number of client machines over a communication network, comprising the following steps: obtaining requests from client machines, at least some of the requests obtained each specifying at least one spatial zone of interest in one or more images of the video, a spatial zone representing a set of digital data, processing the requests obtained so as to determine one or more intersections defining common data between the spatial zones of interest of the video, creating a multipoint network session for each intersection thus determined.

Abstract: A method for processing media content requests includes receiving, at a multimedia distribution computing device, a request for a media stream to be provided to a media device. The method includes determining, at the multimedia distribution computing device, whether media content of the media stream is for time-shifted viewing. The method includes sending a unicast transmission including at least a portion of the media content to the media device when the media content is not determined to be for time-shifted viewing. The method includes joining the media device to a multicast group associated with the media stream without sending the unicast transmission to the media device when the media content is determined to be for time-shifted viewing.

Abstract: A method of delivering a regional television channel to a user over an Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) service comprising the steps of forming a multicast of channels intended for delivery to a user each channel having a specific channel slot, the multicast of channels including one or more regional channels corresponding to one of the multicast of channels; broadcasting the multicast channels to the user through a regional gateway; forming a regional channel control signal for scheduling and requesting broadcast of the at least one regional channel instead of the one of the multicast of channels; transmitting the regional channel control signal to the regional gateway; and in accordance with the regional channel control signal, at the required time, switching the regional gateway to the at least one regional channel instead of the corresponding one of the multicast channels such that the regional channel is in the specific channel slot of the corresponding channel.

Abstract: A method and system for minimizing data streams of the same program on a shared medium. A user device receives a first data stream of a program and effects display of the program based on the first data stream to a display device. The user device halts display of the program and provides an advertisement to a viewer. A second data stream of the program being provided over the same medium to a second viewer that was initiated after the first data stream is provided to the user device. The user device buffers the second data stream, and after the advertisement is finished, provides the program to the viewer based on the second data stream.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing an interactive service and a method and apparatus for performing communication are provided. An Open Cable Application Platform (OCAP) application may be directly executed in at least one broadcasting receiving apparatus by determining whether an application for providing the interactive service is independently executable using middleware installed in the broadcasting receiving apparatus and selectively requesting a set-top box to provide data needed for executing the application based on the determination result.

Abstract: Meta-channels identify content entries and indicate an order with which to experience the content entries. The meta-channels may include a multi-source meta-channel that includes at least a first content entry that relates to first content broadcast by a first content provider at a specific time and a second content entry that relates to second content made available, over a network, by a second content provider in response to user requests. A selection of a meta-channel is received and the selection of the meta-channel is mapped to a content entry defined by the selected meta-channel. A media system is controlled to render content based on a content entry mapped to by the selected meta-channel.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for indirectly monitoring and controlling at least one media peripheral device in a media exchange network by accessing a media management system (MMS) via a first media peripheral (MP) device (e.g., a TV screen) using a user control device (e.g., a remote control). An operation corresponding to a second media peripheral (MP) device (e.g., a digital camera) may be selected via the MMS using the first MP device and the user control device. The operation is then carried out (i.e., performed) by the second MP device. A status of the second MP device may be selected via the MMS using the first MP device and the user control device. The selected status is then displayed on the first MP device.

Abstract: A method of providing image-associated information by an image-associated information providing apparatus includes receiving broadcasting image information from a mobile device, searching an object that matches the broadcasting image information, extracting image-associated information that matches the found object and transmitting the extracted image-associated information to the mobile device.

Abstract: A method includes receiving, at a first server, data from a set-top box device including login information for a user to establish a first session with a multimedia distribution system. The method includes determining at the first server that the user belongs to at least one presence group when the login information is verified. The method includes identifying one or more on-line members that are members of the at least one presence group and have established sessions with the multimedia distribution system. The method also includes sending information from the first server to the set-top box device, the information corresponding to session activity of each of the one or more on-line members. The information includes video content selected by a user of a particular set-top box corresponding to one of the one or more on-line members, where the video content is concurrently sent to the particular set-top box device.

Abstract: A system and method for delivering video content over a network in communication with a subscriber having an associated electronic device is disclosed. A network server is provided and is configured to transmit a plurality of multicast streams of video content over the network. A scheduled start time for the transmission of a first stream of the multicast streams is assigned. A request for the video content is received at a first time, which is after said scheduled start time and the request is the first request for the video content received by the network server after the scheduled start time. The first stream is transmitted over the network only after the request.

Abstract: A programming communication synchronizer embodiment communicates a portion of a program to a receiving device during a first time period, communicates a corresponding portion of the program to a mobile device during a second time period, and coordinates the first time period with the second time period so that the portion of the program is deliverable to a presentation device coupleable to the receiving device at approximately the same time the corresponding portion of the program is deliverable to the mobile device.

Abstract: In a substitutional media system, one of a set of media items is selected at a programme receiver for output within a predefined programming slot, based on profile data available at the receiver. Sets of the media items are scheduled to slots according to one or more constraints pertaining to that slot and/or to media items scheduled to other slots. The receiver may select a media item for output in a slot by resolving constraints with media items scheduled to other slots, or selected for output in other slots.

Abstract: A system for remotely controlling client recording and storage behavior schedules the recording, storing, and deleting of multimedia content on a client system storage device. The invention accepts as input a prioritized list of program viewing preferences which is compared with a database of program guide objects that indicate when programs of interest are actually broadcast. A schedule of time versus available storage space is generated that is optimal for the viewer's explicit or derived preferred content. The viewer may request that certain content be captured, which results in the highest possible priority for those content. The invention provides objects called a capture requests that are sent by the service to client systems. Capture requests reflect local storage management decisions about how the client system storage is partitioned.

Abstract: A method and system for arranging advertising breaks based on channel surfing characteristics of viewers. The surfing characteristics of a plurality of viewers is determined, the surfing characteristics bearing on a likelihood of a respective viewer channel surfing. Advertisements are assigned to time slots among a plurality of channels based on the surfing characteristics of the plurality of viewers to form an advertising schedule. Programming is delivered with the plurality of advertisements according to the advertising schedule. The reduction of simultaneous channel surfing increases availability and efficient use of a shared medium by a plurality of different users.

Abstract: A method and system of presenting a continuous programming sequence at a client terminal, e.g., a set top box. A method in accordance with an embodiment includes: defining a programming sequence at a server; and the server instructing the client terminal associated with the programming sequence to retrieve a first program item specified in the programming sequence from a specified location.

Abstract: A technique for providing program restart functionality in a digital video network involves receiving requests from different end-user devices to restart a program and servicing the program restart requests from the different end-user devices via a single broadcast stream. In an embodiment, program restart requests that are received within an established time interval, referred to as an aggregation interval, are serviced by the same broadcast stream. Additionally, during the aggregation interval and before the program restart begins, personalized content can be provided to the end-user devices via, for example, unicasting. Once the aggregation interval is over, all of the unicast streams are switched over to the same broadcast stream and the program broadcast is restarted. In an embodiment, a switch buffer is provided just before the restarted broadcast stream in order to ensure a smooth transition from each of the multiple unicast streams to the restarted broadcast stream.

Abstract: An interface for a multi-processor gateway apparatus and method for using the same. A user device communicates with a multi-processor gateway apparatus over a wired or wireless path. A first processor within the multi-processor gateway apparatus provides the user device a user interface. The user interface allows the user to select a function that is managed by one of the multiple processors. If the selected function is assigned to the first processor, the function is performed by the first. However, if the selected function is performed by one of the other processors, the first processor executes calls to an API layer associated with the processor assigned to perform the requested function. The requested function is performed by the processor to which it is assigned and the results reported to the first processor. The first processor then provides the results of the request to the user device via the path.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for aggregating the data for a plurality of individualized programs into a single channel, and allocating the channel bandwidth as-needed for provision of short video programs on an “on demand” basis, so that the total bandwidth required to provide the individualized channels and associated video clips is substantially reduced. Also provided is a real-time, single-user-targeted individualized advertising associated with the viewer selection that personalizes the user's iTV experience. The advertisements are targeted in real-time based on an immediate interest revealed by the user in a search request for content. Short duration videos are provided so as not to over-tax the individualized “on demand” channel's limited bandwidth.

Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for presenting a movie on demand over a network is described. According to one system and method, the network has one or more nodes, portions of a video being encoded as encoded portions each having sections, the sections for each encoded portion being distributed among segments, the segments being distributed among the one or more nodes; an apparatus including a network interface is coupled to the network; a control system is coupled to the network interface and configured to initiate a movie request and to communicate with a subset of the one or more nodes to receive a subset of the segments; and a decoder coupled to the network interface and configured to decode a subset of the sections so that less than all of the sections are used to play back the movie; and a presentation device coupled to the apparatus, the presentation device presenting the portions of the video. Each portion of the movie is played back, in its entirety, without using all of the sections of that portion.

Abstract: A verbal request for an action to be performed in connection with a user's set-top box may be received by a Program Content Manager (PCM) from a voice-enabled input/output device such as a VoIP-enabled device or a mobile communication device. Alternatively, the user may request an action via email, text message, and the like. The PCM receiving the action request may execute, or schedule the request for later execution, depending on whether the request is for a real-time or future action. The user may also request to send an alert or a program recording request to others. Recipients may be able to request further alerts or confirm a program recording invitation if certain criteria are met.

Abstract: An information processing apparatus that includes an interface that receives first content transmitted from a content distribution apparatus to the information processing apparatus and another information processing apparatus in synchronization. The information processing apparatus also includes a processor that controls a reproduction state of the first content at the information processing apparatus, and controls the interface to transmit reproduction state information corresponding to the reproduction state to the content distribution apparatus. The content distribution apparatus controls transmission of second content to the another information processing apparatus based on the received reproduction state information.

Abstract: A content distribution system includes a distribution center, a processor, a switch, and first and second multiplexers. The distribution center receives and applies program content on program channels. The processor identifies subsets of the program channels in response to a respective score associated with the program channels. The switch couples the distribution center to the multiplexers. The switch applies program channels to respective inputs of the first and second multiplexers in response to the processor. A method for optimizing a multiplexed transport channel includes the steps of identifying a set of program channels designated for distribution via the multiplexed transport channel, arranging the set of program channels in subsets, the program channels within a subset grouped in accordance with a viewing score, multiplexing the program channels of the subsets to a respective transport channel and applying the respective transport channels to a distribution medium for delivery to the destination.

Abstract: A method and a system for replacement of programs on a video recorder based on preferences and size constraints of a video recorder. The video recorder compares recorded programs in the computer readable storage media and a schedule of programs to be recorded to a plurality of global preferences and program specific preferences specifying preferred recording quality. For each recorded program whose quality does not match a global preference or program specific preference, a listing of future programs is examined for alternate versions of the program which do match a global preference or program specific preference.

Abstract: Particular embodiments provide interaction between items in a network. For example, lists of content may be shared between items connected through a network. A user may use a first item to select a second item in which content should be outputted. Instead of sending the content to the second item, the first item may generate and send a list of content to the second item instead of the content. A messaging infrastructure is used to allow the items to communicate the list of content between each other. The second item can then process the list and then determine how to access the item. This allows two different items to share content without the transfer of content between them. In another example, an item may be used to interact with a user interface of a second item. For example, an input device on a first item is used to provide input to a second item.

Abstract: An interactive television program guide system is provided. An interactive television program guide provides users with an opportunity to select programs for recording on a remote media server. Programs may also be recorded on a local media server. The program guide provides users with VCR-like control over programs that are played back from the media servers and over real-time cached copies of the programs. The program guide also provides users with an opportunity to designate gift recipients for whom programs may be recorded.

Abstract: A system and method for providing content over a network. In particular, the system and method is capable of providing content, such as broadband streaming multimedia and Internet Protocol (IP) data, to network devices, including mobile devices, with interactive functionality. The network employs at least one core and a plurality of clients. The core and clients each comprise a plurality of modules that cooperatively communicate with each other to monitor and control the delivery of content and to allow for interactive functionality by a user.

Abstract: Techniques are described for managing distributed execution of programs, including by dynamically scaling a cluster of multiple computing nodes used to perform ongoing distributed execution of a program, such as to increase and/or decrease the quantity of computing nodes in the cluster at various times and for various reasons. An architecture may be used that facilitates the dynamic scaling of a cluster, including by having at least some of the computing nodes act as core nodes that each participate in a distributed storage system for the distributed program execution, and having one or more other computing nodes that act as auxiliary nodes that do not participate in the distributed storage system. If computing nodes are selected to be removed from the cluster during ongoing distributed execution of a program, one or more nodes of the auxiliary computing node type may be selected for the removal.

Abstract: Network content delivery apparatus and methods based on content compiled from various sources and particularly selected for a given user. In one embodiment, the network comprises a cable television network, and the content sources include DVR, broadcast, nPVR, and VOD. The user-targeted content is assembled into a playlist, and displayed as a continuous stream on a virtual channel particular to that user. User interfaces accessible through the virtual channel present various functional options, including the selection or exploration of content having similarity or prescribed relationships to other content, and the ability to order purchasable content. An improved electronic program guide is also disclosed which allows a user to start over, record, view, receive information on, “catch up”, and rate content. Apparatus for remote access and configuration of the playlist and virtual channel functions, as well as a business rules “engine” implementing operational or business goals, are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and systems for processing multimedia content captured from a plurality of locations via one or more capturing devices include obtaining multimedia content from one or more capturing devices. The capturing devices identify a type of content being captured and/or location of capture. An interest type for multimedia content is obtained from a consuming user. The multimedia content from the capturing devices are searched based on the interest type of the consuming user. A subset of the multimedia content conforming to the interest type is presented in substantial real-time at the receiving devices of the consuming users. Feedback regarding the presented multimedia content is obtained from consuming users and communicated to the capturing devices in substantial real-time so as to influence future capture of multimedia content.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and machine readable media are disclosed for managing bandwidth utilization including off-peak, background delivery of content. According to one embodiment, a method of managing bandwidth used for delivering content to a plurality of users can comprise determining one or more destinations for the content and determining available bandwidth for delivering the content to the one or more destinations. A set of criteria can be applied to the content, the one or more destinations for the content, and the available bandwidth. A schedule for delivery of the content can be generated based on applying the set of criteria. The content can be delivered to the one or more destinations based on the schedule.

Abstract: What is disclosed is a method of operating a video system. The method includes determining a projected geographic path of a mobile communication device and determining a transfer schedule for reference frames of a video based on the projected geographic path. The method also includes transferring the reference frames of the video based on the transfer schedule for delivery to the mobile communication device over a wireless communication system and transferring update frames of the video for delivery to the mobile communication device over the wireless communication system without regard to the projected geographic path.

Abstract: Multicast adaptive stream switching for delivery of video content over an IP-based packet network is provided. A network device obtains multiple synchronized multicast streams of the same video content, where each of the multiple synchronized multicast streams includes a different bit-rate encoding. The network device receives, from a user device, a request to join a multicast group for one of the multiple synchronized multicast streams and provides, to the user device, the one of the multiple synchronized multicast streams corresponding to the requested multicast group. The user device detects a congestion level associated with the current multicast stream. The network device receives, from the user device, a request to join a different multicast group for a different one of the multiple synchronized multicast streams and provides, to the user device, the different one of the multiple synchronized multicast streams corresponding to the requested different multicast group.

Abstract: Apparatus for distributing streaming multimedia to at least one end client over a network includes memory and at least one processor operatively connected to the memory. The processor is operative: (i) to receive the streaming multimedia from at least one multimedia source via at least one of a plurality of channels in the network; (ii) when a channel change request generated by the end client for changing a channel and corresponding multimedia content from the multimedia source is not detected, to deliver the at least one multimedia stream to the end client at a first data rate; and (iii) when the channel change request has been detected, to deliver the at least one multimedia stream to the end client at a second rate for a prescribed period of time after receiving the channel change request and, after the prescribed period of time, to deliver the at least one multimedia stream to the end client at the first data rate, wherein the second data rate is greater than the first data rate.

Abstract: Delivery of feedback information to a scheduling service to determine optimum broadcast times based upon client platform tuner contention is described. A usage pattern of an electronic media device is recorded. The usage pattern is communicated to a scheduling server. Media content is received during a time period selected by the scheduling server based upon the usage pattern.