Interactive video distribution systems – Operator interface – To facilitate tuning or selection of video signal
Reexamination Certificate
2002-03-29
2009-06-23
Kelley, Christopher (Department: 2424)
Interactive video distribution systems
Operator interface
To facilitate tuning or selection of video signal
C725S040000, C725S039000, C725S038000, C725S037000, C725S009000, C715S745000, C715S721000
Reexamination Certificate
active
07552460
ABSTRACT:
Displaying the numbers of viewers who are watching currently-broadcasted television programs on electronic program guides (EPGs) using information gathered via back channels from home entertainment systems. A signal source transmits a television broadcast signal to televisions used by viewers. Processing devices associated with the televisions determine which program is being displayed and transmit this information to a central server using a back channel from the home entertainment system. Viewing behavior information is gathered from a large number of viewers and is compiled into a report that is transmitted to the individual processing devices of the home entertainment systems. Using the information included in the report, the processing devices modify the EPGs to visually display the number of viewers watching the various television programs. The modification can take the form of selected colors, sizes, or shapes of the EPG entries or icons or animation displayed with the EPG.
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Kelley Christopher
Microsoft Corporation
Raman Usha
Workman Nydegger
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