Abstract: A method of providing video-on-demand content includes receiving a request from a set-top box, and determining the video-on-demand content is not stored locally. The request includes a content identifier for the video-on-demand content. The method further includes identifying a peer likely to have the video-on-demand content, receiving at least a first portion of the video-on-demand content from the peer, and providing the video-on-demand content to the set-top box.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and a method for receiving digital broadcasts by using a mobile communication terminal. The system includes a digital broadcast receiving device for receiving digital data from a contents provision unit by using a wired/wireless communication network and transmitting the digital data; and a mobile communication terminal for receiving the digital data from the digital broadcast receiving device, decoding the digital data, creating video and audio signals, and outputting the video and audio signals. The mobile communication terminal replaces circuits of the digital broadcast receiving device, which are in charge of predetermined functions. This simplifies the construction of the digital broadcast receiving device and reduces the cost for implementing the device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hybrid central/distributed and tiered video on demand (VOD) service network with tiered content structure. In particular, the present invention uses media servers located in both the headend station and the hub stations. Set-top boxes generally would be supplied VOD services from the high-demand content media servers located in the hub station nearest to the user. The central media server located in the headend would be used as an installed backup to the hub media servers; as the primary source for lower demand VOD services and as the source of the real time, centrally encoded programs with PVR (personal video recorder) capabilities. By distributing the servers to the hub stations, the size of the fiber transport network associated with delivering VOD services from the central headend media server is reduced. The invention provides that each user has access to several server ports located on at least two servers.

Abstract: A system and methods are described for transcoding media content in the background on a source computer device prior to such time as a target media playback device is connected to the source computer for synchronization of the media content. The system and methods anticipate which media content to background-transcode based on user input rules and media status data that are maintained in a transcode database. Pre-transcoding media content provides advantages that include a significant reduction in the time needed to synchronize media content between a source computer and a target media playback device, and an efficient use of CPU power for transcoding media content at times when the CPU might otherwise stand idle.

Abstract: A system of distributing video and/or audio information employs digital signal processing to achieve high rates of data compression. The compressed and encoded audio and/or video information is sent over standard telephone, cable or satellite broadcast channels to a receiver specified by a subscriber of the service, preferably in less than real time, for later playback and optional recording on standard audio and/or video tape.

Abstract: A system and method for selecting a network path for delivering on-demand content in a multi-channel network. A hybrid central/distributed and tiered video on demand (VOD) service network with tiered content structure uses media servers located in both the headend station and the hub stations. The hub media server is configured as a primary source for VOD content and the central media server located in the headend is configured as a secondary source of video content. A path for delivery of content may be determined based on the availability of content and network components.

Abstract: The primitives between an upper management layer and the MAC layer within a mobile station and a base station are defined in order to specify and clarify the operations within the protocol stack layers in a broadband wireless access system to allow a mobile station to perform a method of connecting to the network. Media Independent Handover (MIH) procedures can be achieved because the NCMS and MIH layer can communicate through use of these primitives.

Abstract: The present invention, in particular embodiments, is directed to methods, apparatuses and systems directed to rate adaptive video transmission. In a particular implementation, the present invention provides a video server that delivers video frames received from a video source in response to video frame requests transmitted by one or more video clients. In such a configuration, video clients essentially pull video frames of a video stream at a rate adapted to various attributes of the client and/or the client application consuming the video stream, such as bandwidth available to the client the video client application requirements, and the like. Additional embodiments also provide for novel video data compression techniques that use client pull mechanisms to achieve an adaptive video streaming mechanism. In one implementation, only lower levels of a multi-resolution or wavelet video stream are requested to optimally utilize system bandwidth.

Abstract: A distributed electronic entertainment method and apparatus are described. In one embodiment, a central management resource is coupled to multiple out-of-home venues through a wide area network (WAN). The central management resource stores content and performs management, monitoring and entertainment content delivery functions. At each venue at least one entertainment unit is coupled to the WAN. Multiple entertainment units in a venue are coupled to each other through a local area network (LAN). In one embodiment, an entertainment unit includes a user interface that comprises at least one graphical user interface (GUI). The entertainment unit further comprises a local memory device that stores entertainment content comprising music, a peripheral interface, and a user input device.

Abstract: Particular embodiments generally relate to providing media for display to a user. In one embodiment, the media may be stored on a remote computing device. An intermediary device may be used to display the media on output device. Even though the media may be stored on the remote computing device, the user may believe that the media is stored on the intermediary device when displaying content using the intermediary device. Representations of the media units may be received at the intermediary device. The intermediary device automatically predicts which representations of the media may be most likely to be accessed by the user. When a request to access the media units is received, if the requested media unit is stored on the intermediary device, then it can be automatically displayed using the corresponding representation of the media unit.

Abstract: A system and method for the management of common consumption of media in a media exchange network is disclosed. Various embodiments of the present invention provide for control by a first user at a first location in a media exchange network of the simultaneous consumption of media content by other users at other locations in the media exchange network. The media content consumed may comprise audio, still pictures, video, and data. The first user may consume the media content simultaneous with the consumption of the other users, and the media content may be stored at the location of the first user, or at other locations in the media exchange network.

Abstract: A remote user interface transmits a digital media request through a communication link to a control which is coupled to a digital audio-visual playback device for selecting and playing a stored digital media by the playback device. The control receives the digital media request and transmits digital media selection and/or the selected digital media content directly to a selected playback device or indirectly to the selected playback device through a playback device server. The communication between the control and the playback device can be through a global communication network.

Abstract: A method for a client to receive streaming media over a network includes receiving data having the streaming media encoded therein and storing the received data in a de-jitter buffer thereby increasing a fullness of the de-jitter buffer. The method further includes, when the fullness reaches a fill level, initiating play out of the stored data from the de-jitter buffer, and changing the fill level while playing out the stored data.

Abstract: A method and device prevent a set-top terminal from accepting a download of new programming or data over a cable network when the download would be redundant of information already possessed by the set-top terminal or would cause an inconvenience to subscribers. When the set-top terminal is signaled that a new download is being offered, the set-top terminal checks to see if the download in fact contains a newer version of data or programming than is currently resident in the set-top terminal. The set-top terminal also checks whether criteria for accepting a download are met. The criteria are conditions that tend to indicate that an interruption of service to accept a download would not inconvenience the subscriber at that time. When the criteria are met, the download is accepted. Otherwise, the download is not accepted or is not accepted until the criteria are satisfied.

Abstract: Techniques to manage television content for clients are described. In an implementation, a call is formed to an application programming interface (API) to include an identifier of a client that requested television content and a network address via which the television content is accessible. Whether the television content is to be streamed to the client is managed based on an answer that is received responsive to the call; and includes a result of a determination of whether the client is permitted to consume the television content from the network address.

Abstract: Provided are downloading methods and apparatuses related to a terminal entity presenting an event related to at least one download item related to an Internet protocol television (IPTV) service.

Abstract: Video content is uploaded via the Internet to a video-on-demand (VOD) server identified by a title and a hierarchical address of categories and subcategories for categorizing the title. The VOD server converts and stores the video content at a storage address in a video content database linked to the title. The title is listed in a location of an electronic program guide (EPG) using the same categories and subcategories as in its hierarchical address. Any TV subscriber can access the EPG and navigate through its categories and subcategories to find a title for viewing on the TV. This can enable many, new blogging or podcasting-like programs by popular “Hosts” to be self-published on the Internet and readily navigated for display on TV. The EPG can also store TV program addresses as bookmarks and allow them to be shared with other subscribers or with friends and contacts online by sending to their email addresses.

Abstract: A system and method for providing time-sensitive information to a handset using a scrolling ticker. The method includes receiving the time-sensitive information at a server, determining the time period before the next update for a second set of information, and if less than a pre-determined value, then streaming the time sensitive information at the end of the time period to the handset. If the time period is greater that than the pre-determined value, then streaming the time-sensitive information immediately. In an alternative embodiment, a method is provided which includes determining a base schedule for periodically streaming the information to a handset via a scrolling ticker, receiving time-sensitive information relating to an event, determining a second schedule for periodically streaming time-sensitive information related to the event, and streaming the time-sensitive information in accordance with the second schedule during a time period associated with the event.

Abstract: An adaptive timeshift service is described. In embodiment(s), television content can be distributed from a live content server to television client devices, and the television content that is distributed from the live content server can be recorded at a timeshift server. Recorded television content can then be distributed from the timeshift server when requested by a television client device. An additional timeshift server can be allocated, and both the television content from the live content server and the recorded television content from the timeshift server can be written to a buffer of the additional timeshift server.

Abstract: Methods for providing video on demand service from an Application Service Provider (“ASP”) to a user over a Regional/Access Network (“RAN”) are provided. A request for a video on demand application flow may be received from the user. In response to the request, information may be obtained from the RAN regarding the capabilities of the user's Customer Premises Equipment (“CPE”). A profile may then be forwarded from the ASP to the RAN that specifies at least one policy regarding the transmission of data associated with the video on demand application flow across the RAN. The data associated with the video on demand application flow may then be forwarded across the RAN in accordance with the profile. The RAN may also be provided a default profile that specifies default policies that apply with respect to video on demand application flows that are transmitted across the RAN prior to obtaining information from the RAN regarding the capabilities of the CPE of any specific user.

Abstract: Provided are a video on demand (VOD) transmission/reception method and system using a divided transport stream (TS). The VOD transmission method includes setting a division coefficient for dividing a TS; dividing the TS into a unicast segment and multicast segments according to the division coefficient; and transmitting the unicast segment by using a unicast method and transmitting the multicast segments by using a multicast method.

Abstract: A method of transmitting digital images implemented in a server device able to cooperate with at least one client device connected to the server device through a telecommunication network, where the digital images comprising a plurality of elementary entities and the client device is able to request from the server device a transmission of at least one elementary entity. The method comprises storing statistical data for each of the elementary entities, and at the client device's request, transmitting to it the elementary entities in accordance with the statistical data, wherein the statistical data comprises the quantity of data transmitted following the requests to the requesting client devices.

Abstract: A system includes a receiver and a communication interface. The receiver is adapted to tune to an audio/video portion over a transport medium. The communication interface is adapted to receive announcement data associated with the tuned audio/video content directed to a first addressable location and to receive a special announcement directed to the first addressable location. The special announcement indicates availability of the announcement data associated with the tuned audio/video program, and the announcement data is associated with the tuned audio/video content and indicates enhancement data is being transmitted. The controller is adapted to redirect the announcement data to a second addressable location other than the first addressable location in response to the special announcement.

Abstract: A video-on-demand (VOD) content delivery system for a digital television service provider manages a database of templates ordered in a hierarchy for presentation of video content elements of different selected types categorized in hierarchical order. The hierarchical templatized displays enable viewers to navigate through a series of displays to the end subject of interest. For example, a viewer can navigate from national product to local product ad, or classified ad category to specific classified ad, or bulletin board topic category to specific posting. In another embodiment, a web-based Content Management System converts video content uploaded online with metadata for title and topical area into digital TV program format compatible with the VOD content delivery system and indexed on a TV program menu by title and topical area.

Abstract: A user may purchase in a retail outlet a host device for receiving cable services. The cable operator needs to provide a point-of-deployment (POD) module for insertion into the host device to realize out-of-band communications, and provide conditional access to premium subscription channels. Security measures are implemented to detect removal of the host device from its connection to a broadband communications system. If its removal is unauthorized, the service area in which the host device is located may be identified when it is reconnected to the system. In addition, a transmission device in the host device may be activated to transmit detectable signals to help recover the host device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a movie channel to a user on a mobile device. Movie based content associated with a movie channel is automatically delivered and stored on a mobile electronic device for access by a user. Using the device, users can quickly and efficiently access movie information without having to type in information, or specifically request the movie information to be downloaded to the device. The movie channel includes several different modes for categorically displaying different types of movie information. Some example modes include: a movies mode; a theaters mode; and a current top movies mode. The movies mode is organized to display information relating to particular movies on the electronic device. The theaters mode is arranged to display information relating to particular theaters on the electronic device. The current top movies mode displays information relating to the current “hot” movies.

Abstract: A media renting system includes a media rental provider and a client machine. The provider communicates with the client machine via a data transmission network. The provider stores user information including a payment card number of a user and a hardware ID of the client machine. In a related media renting method, when the user information from the client machine is recorded in the provider, the client machine succeeds to rent the media file and displays the media file. When rental fees of the media file are greater than or equal to a purchase price of the media file, the provider deducts the purchase price from a balance of the payment card and binds the media file to the client machine.

Abstract: A switched digital video (SDV) system includes an SDV manager for coordinating a SDV session requested by a subscriber terminal and a storage medium on which resides content to be transmitted during the SDV session. The system also includes a plurality of edge devices for receiving a transport stream that includes content provided by the storage medium and transmitting the transport stream over an access network to the subscriber terminal on one of a plurality of SDV channels. The SDV manager is configured to cause different renditions of an SDV program to be provided by the edge devices to subscriber terminals associated with different target groups. The target groups each include a plurality of subscriber terminals that is less than a number of subscriber terminals serviced by a distinct edge device or devices.

Abstract: A picture transmission method is disclosed which involves encoding moving picture data and transmitting the encoded data. The picture transmission method includes the steps of encoding firstly the moving picture data into a moving picture stream for transmission at a predetermined data transfer rate, and encoding secondly, based on position information acquired from a transmission destination, a part of the moving picture data which constitutes a partial picture region for transmission at a higher resolution than the first encoding step.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for providing enhanced features for streaming video-on-demand systems. The system comprises a media server and a client player, wherein a user can select a desired video for transmission from the media server to the client player for subsequent display for the user via the client player. The system comprises a mechanism that enables a user to interactively select a desired new starting point for the display of the selected video signal. The mechanism is provided by a first and second series of searchable index frames, wherein the first series is generated by the media server during transmission of the selected video signal and the second series is generated by the client player during receipt of the selected video signal. Upon receipt by the client player of the desired new starting point, the first or second series are accessed in order to identify a required searchable index frame that best represents the desired new starting point.

Abstract: A system and method for analyzing video-on-demand (VOD) transaction errors in a hybrid fiber coax (HFC) cable network. Raw XOD transaction error data is acquired from an XOD server. XOD-related subscriber information is acquired from a subscriber datastore. VOD transaction data is acquired from a VOD server. A correlator acquires the raw XOD transaction error, determines from the XOD-related subscriber information that a subscriber is not entitled to receive XOD service, creates filtered XOD transaction error data by removing from the raw XOD transaction error data XOD transaction errors associated with the subscriber, and correlates a filtered XOD transaction error with VOD transaction data to identify a network path of the filtered XOD transaction error. A result processor reviews the correlated transaction error data to determine whether correlated transaction error data entries are related by a common cause.

Abstract: A system and method for analyzing video-on-demand (VOD) transaction errors in a hybrid fiber coax (HFC) cable network. Raw XOD transaction error data is acquired from an XOD server. XOD-related subscriber information is acquired from a subscriber datastore. VOD transaction data is acquired from a VOD server. A correlator acquires the raw XOD transaction error, determines from the XOD-related subscriber information that a subscriber is not entitled to receive XOD service, creates filtered XOD transaction error data by removing from the raw XOD transaction error data XOD transaction errors associated with the subscriber, and correlates a filtered XOD transaction error with VOD transaction data to identify a network path of the filtered XOD transaction error. A result processor reviews the correlated transaction error data to determine whether correlated transaction error data entries are related by a common cause.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for blocking content. In one embodiment, an image is examined for pre-selected body portions. If the image contains a body portion (e.g. an image of a face larger than a pre-selected portion of the image) access is allowed. Otherwise, the content may be obscured or blocked with a translucent object either before or after an initial transmission. The image may be part of a video stream such as an instant messaging, web-cam, or video chat room session. The image may be sent or received and-may be examined with facial recognition technology. Additionally, the image may be tagged to indicate whether it contains the sub-image. In addition, the method may be incorporated in a computer program associated with a particular instant messaging program (e.g., the program is a Miranda IM add-on). Server, network, and client computers which may incorporate portions of the program are also provided.

Abstract: A method of preparing data streams to facilitate seamless switching by a switching device to produce an output data stream without any switching artifacts. Bi-directional switching between any plurality of data streams is supported The data streams are divided into segments, wherein the segments include synchronized starting points and end points. The data rate is increased before an end point of a segment. Gaps may be inserted between the segments. Increasing the data rate can include increasing a bandwidth of the plurality of data streams, for example by multiplexing, or compressing the data. The present invention can be used with media data streams, for example with MPEG encoded transport streams.

Abstract: To provide a terminal apparatus, an information processing program, and an information processing method, with which a noise reduction and power saving are possible. A terminal apparatus puts an HDD into a stopped condition when a main switch is in a deactivated condition and, receiving a distribution request, temporarily puts the HDD into a driven condition when contents information which is a subject of the distribution request is stored in the HDD, and distributes the contents information. When the distribution of the contents information is completed, the terminal apparatus puts the HDD into the stopped condition. By this means, holding a time of the driven condition of the HDD to a minimum, a noise reduction and power saving are realized.

Abstract: A content download system includes a content providing apparatus providing content and a content receiving apparatus receiving the content from the content providing apparatus via a network. The content receiving apparatus includes an operation input unit, a downloader obtaining download control data and downloading encrypted content and play control data, an obtaining unit obtaining a license including a key for decrypting the encrypted content, checking the license based on the play control data, and re-obtaining the license according to a checking result, and a player decrypting and playing the encrypted content using the license. The content providing apparatus includes a control-data providing unit providing the download control data and the play control data to the content receiving apparatus, a content providing unit providing encrypted content, and a license providing unit providing the license based on the download control data and the license based on the play control data.

Abstract: The disclosed systems and methods may save bandwidth by using concurrent multichannels, which are transmitting separate sections of a file in parallel from server to client. The systems and methods may also be applicable to transmitting and receiving multimedia content (video and audio) for Video on Demand applications (VOD) while minimizing wait time at the client side. Aspects of the present invention may also allow servers to connect simultaneously with a very large number of clients to download large files and essential data.

Abstract: System and method for managing distribution of content such as television programs to portable multi-media devices which are capable of using such content and communicating includes a broadcast management system arranged to manage delivery of content from content sources to the devices, an account management system arranged to manage requests for use of the content from the devices and manage communications to and from the devices, and a processing system coupled to the account management system and arranged to analyze requests to use content relative to information about users of the devices in order to determine whether delivery of the content to the users can be offset against a preallocated amount of resource usage. If so, a message is delivered to that user's device and the device presents the message to the user as a condition for use of the content.

Abstract: An optical ring network for use, for example, in a motor vehicle, includes an optical data line that defines a ring network, a playback transducer and at least one data source connected to the optical data line, where the data source provides compressed data onto the optical data line. The network also includes at least one data sink connected to the optical data line, which receives the compressed data from the optical data line. The data sink includes a bit stream decoder that decompresses the received compressed data and provides the decompressed data to the playback transducer. The local network transmits audio and video data in compressed form via the data line, and has a single bit stream decoder, centrally situated at the respective data sink, for decompressing the audio and/or video data. As a result, the individual data sources no longer need their own bit stream decoder for decompressing the data.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and systems to remove the dependence on the IP layer (OSI layer three) in Video-on-Demand (VoD) transport networks. The present invention replaces the IP layer with Ethernet layer two addressing and even layer one, allowing connectivity in access/aggregation networks without IP layer three capabilities. The present invention enables STBs to communicate with VoD controllers, servers, and the like at layer two and/or layer one, eliminating the need for layer three routing capabilities in access/aggregation networks.

Abstract: The system and method for displaying Internet-sourced video programming utilizes a computer system to access and receive a video program from a video programming source. A video processor (126) in communication with the personal computer (100) converts the video program into a video signal for projection, or other video display. In a method for displaying Internet-sourced video programming, a user's personal computer (100) serves as a network client to receive digital video programming from a server (200). In a method for providing Internet-sourced video programming, an Internet receives video programming from numerous video programming providers, and redistributes video programs to network clients. A database (202) contains video programming and programming information received from the video programming providers (204). The server (200) creates a programming menu for display and selection by a network client.

Abstract: A method of serving out video over a network of video servers includes evaluating a capacity of the network as a whole to serve out specific video items by establishing, for each video server in the network, an established ability of each server to serve out the specific items that are potentially servable from each video server. The method further includes using the established abilities of each video server to evaluate an overall capability of the network as whole to serve out each of the specific video items. The method also includes varying the overall capability to serve out at least a selected one of the specific video items in accordance with the overall capability of the network.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reproducing network content are provided. An apparatus for reproducing network content includes a first content list queue storing a content list received from content providing servers; a content list queue management module changing a content list stored in the first content list queue according to a user's command to change the content list; a second content list queue storing the content list changed by the content list queue management module; a content pre-fetch module pre-fetching at least one element of content from the content providing servers based on the second content list queue and storing the content in a local storage unit; and a content reproduction module seamlessly reproducing the at least one element of content stored in the local storage unit.

Abstract: Systems and methods for presenting time-varying multimedia content are described. In one aspect, a lower quality data stream for an initial portion of the multimedia content is received. The lower quality data stream is received at a rate faster than a real-time playback rate for the multimedia content. The lower quality data stream was encoded at a bit rate below a transmission rate. A higher quality data stream of a subsequent portion of the multimedia content is received. The higher quality data stream was encoded at a bit rate that equals the transmission rate. The initial portion and the subsequent portion of the multimedia content are presented at the real-time playback rate. Receiving the initial portion faster than the real-time playback rate provides for a reduction of latency due to buffering by a desired amount.

Abstract: A system and method for the management of common consumption of media in a media exchange network is disclosed. Various embodiments of the present invention provide for control by a first user at a first location in a media exchange network of the simultaneous consumption of media content by other users at other locations in the media exchange network. The media content consumed may comprise audio, still pictures, video, and data. The first user may consume the media content simultaneous with the consumption of the other users, and the media content may be stored at the location of the first user, or at other locations in the media exchange network.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for determining and selecting digital coding and/or decoding technology, delivery bitrates, and resolution parameters for programming and data delivery over, e.g., a content-based network. In one embodiment, the network comprises an HFC cable or satellite network that includes a server process interfacing with a plurality of customer premises equipment (CPE), and/or associated client devices, each having different display resolution, bitrate, and/or decoding capabilities profiles. The server determines the one or more capabilities possessed by the CPE or client device, and evaluates one or more program or content choices for possible delivery to that CPE or device based on its profile. The selection process may also take into consideration network and/or CPE operational considerations, such as conservation of downstream bandwidth, CPE uprating capability, client device power consumption, and the like.

Abstract: A system and method for efficiently adding a new network resource to a digital video network, without the need to purchase costly ancillary network hardware or extensive manual configuration, is disclosed. The inventive system and method provide for a loop-through for adding new resources to a digital video network. The present invention provides for the resources to be daisy chained from the network switch, where each resource is configured simply as either a loop-through (“LT”) resource or the “last” resource in the daisy chain. Then, only upstream traffic with Media Access Control (“MAC”) addresses of upstream LT resources are transmitted out of the loop-through by the last network resource.

Abstract: A processing device and computer KVM switch for providing true video on demand, and which is mainly to provide true video information for many computing devices is proposed. The processing device is connected with the video display electrically through the video display interface, and is connected with the computing devices electrically through the computing device interface. The acquisition module in the microprocessor acquires the video information from the video display through the video display interface and then stores the information inside the video information database. When these computing devices are booted, they can acquire the true video information, which is not predetermined at random, corresponding to the video display from the video information database. At the same time, when the video display is being switched, it is not necessary that these computing devices to be rebooted so as to be informed of the video formats to be replaced.

Abstract: A video segment can be shared over a computer network by first receiving the video segment at a receiving computer on the network. The receiving computer assures that the video segment is in a streaming video format, and creates at least one identification tag for the video segment. The receiving computer also stores the video segment, and communicates the identification tag to another computer on the network. Upon subsequent receipt of that identification tag, the receiving computer streams the video segment to a destination computer on the network.

Abstract: An advanced information display method is disclosed wherein a first video having at least an image of a first element is presented, the tracking information of the first element in the first video is obtained, a second video having at least an image of the first element is obtained, the images of a second element which bears certain information to be displayed are also presented, and the images of the second element are added to the second video based on the tracking information.