WO2011110823A1 - Fourniture de contenu - Google Patents

Fourniture de contenu Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2011110823A1
WO2011110823A1 PCT/GB2011/000355 GB2011000355W WO2011110823A1 WO 2011110823 A1 WO2011110823 A1 WO 2011110823A1 GB 2011000355 W GB2011000355 W GB 2011000355W WO 2011110823 A1 WO2011110823 A1 WO 2011110823A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
user
list
page
content item
content items
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2011/000355
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Benjamin Lavender
Lee James Turner
Paul Johnson
Ida Olsen
Original Assignee
Lovefilm International Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Lovefilm International Limited filed Critical Lovefilm International Limited
Publication of WO2011110823A1 publication Critical patent/WO2011110823A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00—Commerce
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F16/00—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor
    • G06F16/40—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor of multimedia data, e.g. slideshows comprising image and additional audio data
    • G06F16/41—Indexing; Data structures therefor; Storage structures
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F16/00—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor
    • G06F16/40—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor of multimedia data, e.g. slideshows comprising image and additional audio data
    • G06F16/43—Querying
    • G06F16/435—Filtering based on additional data, e.g. user or group profiles
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F16/00—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor
    • G06F16/40—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor of multimedia data, e.g. slideshows comprising image and additional audio data
    • G06F16/43—Querying
    • G06F16/438—Presentation of query results
    • G06F16/4387—Presentation of query results by the use of playlists
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F16/00—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor
    • G06F16/40—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor of multimedia data, e.g. slideshows comprising image and additional audio data
    • G06F16/44—Browsing; Visualisation therefor
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F16/00—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor
    • G06F16/40—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor of multimedia data, e.g. slideshows comprising image and additional audio data
    • G06F16/48—Retrieval characterised by using metadata, e.g. metadata not derived from the content or metadata generated manually
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F16/00—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor
    • G06F16/90—Details of database functions independent of the retrieved data types
    • G06F16/95—Retrieval from the web
    • G06F16/953—Querying, e.g. by the use of web search engines
    • G06F16/9535—Search customisation based on user profiles and personalisation
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47—End-user applications
    • H04N21/472—End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content
    • H04N21/47202—End-user interface for requesting content, additional data or services; End-user interface for interacting with content, e.g. for content reservation or setting reminders, for requesting event notification, for manipulating displayed content for requesting content on demand, e.g. video on demand
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47—End-user applications
    • H04N21/475—End-user interface for inputting end-user data, e.g. personal identification number [PIN], preference data
    • H04N21/4756—End-user interface for inputting end-user data, e.g. personal identification number [PIN], preference data for rating content, e.g. scoring a recommended movie
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47—End-user applications
    • H04N21/482—End-user interface for program selection
    • H04N21/4825—End-user interface for program selection using a list of items to be played back in a given order, e.g. playlists
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47—End-user applications
    • H04N21/482—End-user interface for program selection
    • H04N21/4826—End-user interface for program selection using recommendation lists, e.g. of programs or channels sorted out according to their score
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47—End-user applications
    • H04N21/482—End-user interface for program selection
    • H04N21/4828—End-user interface for program selection for searching program descriptors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a system for providing content items to a user.
  • the invention also relates to a method for providing content items to a user, and to an apparatus for providing content items to a user.
  • the invention also relates to a graphical user interface.
  • the present invention relates to a combination video rental and video-on-demand system and describes an apparatus and a method for the provision of such a hybrid system via a consumer entertainment device such as a television, specifically an internet-enabled television.
  • a system for providing media content items to a user comprising a user interface for displaying graphical indications of content items available to a user; means (including a processor and associated memory) for enabling a user to select a particular media content item for consumption; and means (including a processor and associated memory) for adding and/or removing that particular media content item from a list of media content items desired to be consumed by a user off-line.
  • the system further comprises means for enabling a user to consume the content item in an on-demand fashion. More preferably, the system further comprises means for streaming the media content item to the user.
  • the content items on the list are not available for on-demand consumption.
  • the list of media content items is a rental list.
  • the content items on the list are provided on physical storage media, preferably for postage to a user.
  • the content items are provided on at least one of the following physical storage media: DVD's; Blu-ray discs, CD's; and flash memory cards.
  • the system further comprises means for storing the content item list.
  • the storage means includes a database.
  • the storage means is provided on a server adapted to be accessed via a communication network.
  • the system further comprises a remote user device connectable to the system, and wherein the user device comprises means for displaying the user interface.
  • the user device comprises a television and wherein the display means comprises a television screen.
  • the user interface is adapted to be driven via a selection of at least one key on user interface navigation device.
  • the navigation device is in the form of a remote control.
  • a selection of least one key on the navigation device enables a user to scroll through the graphical indications of content items available to a user.
  • the selection of a least one further key on the navigation device enables a user to select a particular content item.
  • the user interface is adapted to display a graphical indication of that content item together with means for enabling a user to access the content item, and means for enabling a user to add and/or remove that content item from the content item list.
  • the user is able to selectively navigate between the access enabling means and the means for adding and/or removing content item from the content item list using a key on the navigation device.
  • a content item is automatically removed from the content item list once a user has consumed the content item in an on-demand fashion.
  • the user interface is adapted to prompt the user to add and/or remove the content item from one of a plurality of separate content item lists.
  • the user interface is adapted to prompt the user to add a particular format of the content item to the user's content item list.
  • the user interface is adapted to prompt the user to attach a particular priority to the content item upon adding it to the content item list.
  • the system further comprises a further user interface adapted to enable a user to manage content item lists.
  • the further user interface is adapted to be driven via a point and click device.
  • the further user interface is provided on an internet website.
  • the content items are in the form of audio and/or visual media content items, and preferably films, television programmes, and/or music or other audio recordings.
  • the system is in the form of a subscription based on-demand media content service.
  • the system is in the form of a subscription based physical media content item rental service.
  • the system further comprises means for storing a catalogue of content items available for both on-demand consumption and off-line consumption; means for enabling a user to search the catalogue for particular content items; and wherein the user interface is adapted to display graphical indications of content item search results together with an indication of whether those content items are available for on-demand consumption and/or off-line consumption.
  • a system for providing media content items to a user comprising means (in the form of a storage device) for storing a catalogue of content items available for both on-demand consumption and off-line consumption; means (in the form of a processor and associated memory) for enabling a user to search the catalogue for particular content items; and a user interface for displaying graphical indications of content item search results together with an indication of whether those content items are available for on-demand consumption and/or off-line consumption.
  • the system further comprises means for enabling a user to access on-demand content items.
  • the user interface is adapted to enable a user to request that off-line content items be dispatched to the user.
  • the system further comprises means for enabling a user to add off-line content items to a list of content items desired to be consumed by a user off-line.
  • the system further comprises means for filtering the search results in dependence on whether the content items are available on-demand or off-line.
  • the filtering means is further adapted to filter off-line content items in dependence on the physical media upon which they are available.
  • an apparatus for providing media content items to users comprising means for displaying a graphical indication of a content item, means for displaying a set of user selectable function indicia adjacent the graphical indication of the content item, the selection of each function indicia activating a particular function associated with the content item, and means for navigating selectively between the function indicia in a predefined fashion using a key on a navigation device.
  • the navigation means is adapted to selectively navigate between the function indicia in a predefined fashion using a pair of keys on a navigation device.
  • the pair of keys is in the form of a set of "arrow" keys.
  • the function indicia are arranged vertically, in which case the pair of keys are "up” and “down” arrow keys.
  • the function indicia are arranged horizontally, in which case the pair of keys are "right” and “left” arrow keys.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for consuming the content item.
  • at least one of the function indicia is adapted to activate a player thereby to enable a user to consume the content item.
  • At least one of the function indicia is adapted to enable a user to add and/or remove the content item from a list of user content items desired to be viewed off-line.
  • the set of user selectable function indicia changes in dependence on the type of content item.
  • the navigation means comprises means for selecting a particular function indicia using a further key.
  • the navigation means comprises a point and click device, and preferably a remote control.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for displaying a dialog box including a number of options associated with a particular function item upon user selection of at least one of the function indicia.
  • the navigation means is adapted to enable a user to modify at least one option displayed within the dialog box using a second pair of keys.
  • the apparatus further comprising means for rating content items.
  • At least one of the function indicia enables a user to activate the rating means.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for displaying a dialog box including a set of rating indicia in response to the activation of the rating means.
  • the navigation means is adapted to enable a user to modify the rating indicia using a pair of keys, and preferably using the second pair of keys.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for displaying a list of available content items in a cover-flow or carousel fashion, means for displaying a set of user selectable function indicia adjacent the cover-flow; and means for selectively navigating in a predefined fashion between each of the content items and each of the function indicia using a set of keys on a navigation device.
  • moving between the carousel and the function indicia is effected using keystrokes in a different direction to those to move between each of the content items in the carousel and each of the function indicia.
  • the system as described above further comprises an apparatus as described above.
  • a method of providing media content items to a user comprising displaying graphical indications of content items available to a user; enabling a user to select a particular media content item for consumption; and adding and/or removing that particular media content item from a list of media content items desired to be consumed by a user off-line.
  • a method of providing media content items to a user comprising means for storing a catalogue of content items available for both on-demand consumption and off-line consumption; enabling a user to search the catalogue for particular content items; and displaying graphical indications of content item search results together with an indication of whether those content items are available for on-demand consumption and/or off-line consumption.
  • a user interface for a media content provision system comprising means for displaying a graphical indication of a content item, means for displaying a set of user selectable function indicia adjacent the graphical indication of the content item, the selection of each function indicia activating a particular function associated with the content item, and means for enabling a user to navigate selectively between the function indicia in a predefined fashion using a key on a navigation device.
  • a computer program product comprising software code, adapted when executed on a data processing device, for executing the methods as described herein.
  • an apparatus for providing content items to a user which comprises means for displaying a graphical indication of a content item; means for enabling a user to access the content item; means for enabling a user to modify a list of user preferred content items; and means for switching between the access enabling means and the modification enabling means via at least one key on a navigation device.
  • an apparatus for providing content to a user which comprises means for accessing the content item; means for modifying a list of user preferred content items; and a graphical user interface which comprises means for displaying a graphical indication of the content item together with means for enabling a user to access the content item and means for enabling a user to modify the list of preferred content items, wherein the user is able to selectively navigate between the access enabling means and the modification enabling means using a key on a navigation device.
  • an apparatus for providing content to users which comprises means for displaying a graphical indication of a content item, means for displaying a set of user selectable function items adjacent the graphical indication of the content item, the selection of each function item activating a particular function associated with the content item, and means for navigating selectively between the function items in a predefined fashion using a key on a navigation device.
  • the navigation means is adapted to selectively navigate between the function items in a predefined fashion using a pair of keys on a navigation device.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for accessing the content item.
  • the access means comprises means for playing or viewing the content item.
  • At least one of the function items is adapted to activate the playing means thereby enabling a user to view the content item in an immediate (on demand) fashion.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for modifying a list of user preferred content items.
  • At least one of the function items enables a user to activate the means for modifying the list of user preferred content items.
  • the modifying means is adapted to add the displayed content item to the list of user preferred content items if said content item is not already on the list, and to remove the displayed content item from the list if said content item is already on the list.
  • the navigation means comprises means for selecting a particular function item using a further key.
  • the navigation means comprises a point and click device, and more preferably a remote control.
  • the pair of keys is in the form of a set of "arrow" keys.
  • the function items are arranged vertically, in which case the pair of keys is “up” and “down” arrow keys.
  • the function items may be arranged horizontally, in which case the keys are "right” and “left” arrow keys.
  • the modifying means is adapted to add the content item to one of a plurality of preferred content item lists.
  • the modifying means is adapted to add a particular format of the content item to the preferred content item list.
  • the modifying means is adapted to attach a particular priority to the content item upon adding it to the preferred content item list
  • the apparatus further comprises means for displaying a dialog box including a number of options associated with a particular function item upon user selection of at least one of the function items.
  • the navigation means is adapted to enable a user to selectively navigate between the options displayed in the dialog box in a predefined fashion using the same pair of keys.
  • the navigation means is adapted to enable a user to modify at least one option displayed within the dialog box using a second pair of keys.
  • the navigation means is adapted to enable a user to select a particular option by pressing a third key.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for rating content items.
  • At least one of the function items enables a user to activate the rating means.
  • the activation of the rating means results in the display of a dialog box which displays a set of rating indicia.
  • the navigation means is adapted to enable a user to modify the rating indicia using a pair of keys, and preferably using the second pair of keys.
  • a user selects a particular function item using the first pair of keys, typically the up and down arrow keys, which in some cases results in the display of a dialog box including options relating to a particular function associated with the content item, and then uses the second pair of keys, typically the left and right arrow keys, to alter options displayed within the dialog box.
  • the content items are audio/visual content items, and preferably films, television shows and/or songs.
  • a system for providing content items to users which comprises means for storing content items, and an apparatus preferably as herein described connectable to said storage means.
  • the apparatus is connectable to the storage means via a communications network, and preferably via the internet.
  • the system further comprises a server to which the apparatus is connectable, and wherein the storage means is connectable to said server.
  • the functionality of the apparatus is at least in part implemented in software running on the apparatus and/or the server.
  • the apparatus comprises a web browser which is connectable to the server.
  • connection between the apparatus and the server is provided within a walled garden.
  • the apparatus includes a television, and wherein the display means is in the form of a television screen.
  • the preferred list of content items is a list of content items that will be made available to the user in due course.
  • the list of content items is a rental list.
  • physical copies of the content items on the rental list are arranged to be forwarded to the user.
  • the content items on the list are in the form of DVD's, Blu-Ray Discs or CDs that are sent to the user.
  • the list of items is stored on the storage means. More preferably, the list of items is stored within a database on the storage means.
  • the system comprises a video-on-demand service, and wherein the access means enables users to access on demand content items stored on the storage means.
  • the server comprises means for streaming content items to the apparatus.
  • the system comprises a subscription based rental service that operates side by side with a subscription based video on demand service.
  • the system further comprises a website for providing content items to users.
  • the system comprises means for enabling users to view content items in an on-demand fashion off the website.
  • the system comprises means for streaming content stored on the storage means via the website.
  • the website comprises means for enabling a user to mange their list of preferred content items.
  • website comprises means for enabling users to add and/or remove content items to their preferred content items list.
  • the website further comprises means for enabling a user to view their list of preferred content items. Since the user's one or more preferred lists of content items are all stored centrally on the database located on the storage means, the modification of these lists made by way of the apparatus will be reflected on the lists when they are viewed via the website. Thus, it is possible for a user to manage their rental lists via a PC connected to the website and/or via their television.
  • the content ratings applied by a user to particular content items are also stored centrally on the server and are thus also accessible via the website.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for searching for content items. More preferably, the searching means is adapted to search for content items that are available for immediate access and content items that are only available via the rental service. In this way, if a user desires a particular content item they are able to search for it and then either view it immediately, if it is available for on-demand viewing, or add it to a rental list, if it is only available in a physical format.
  • the apparatus further comprises means for displaying an editorially selected list of content items in a cover-flow or carousel fashion, and means for selectively navigating between the editorially selected lists of content items using a key on a navigation device.
  • the editorially selected list includes content items of the following types: content items that are available for on-demand viewing and which are provided on user's list of preferred content items; content items that have recently become available for on-demand viewing; and recommended content items.
  • the system further comprises a set of user selectable function items adjacent the cover- flow, and means for navigating selectively between the function items in a predefined fashion using a key on a navigation device.
  • the function items enable the user to activate the searching means.
  • an user interface for a content provision system which comprises means for displaying a graphical indication of a content item, means for displaying a set of user selectable function items adjacent the graphical indication of the content item, the selection of each function item activating a particular function associated with the content item, and means for navigating selectively between the function items in a predefined fashion using a key on a navigation device.
  • Advantageously users may use a TV remote control to easily browse through the system catalogue, to easily find titles they want to watch, no matter how many titles are in the catalogue.
  • Advantageously users may use a TV remote control to easily browse through the system's DVD and Blu-ray catalogues, to easily find titles they want to watch, no matter how many titles are in the catalogue.
  • Advantageously users may use a TV remote control to easily search through the system catalogue, to easily find titles they want to watch, no matter how many titles are in the catalogue.
  • users may use a TV remote control to easily view detailed information about a title, and be able to choose to Watch Now, add or remove the title to their rental list, or make changes to their rental list options.
  • Advantageously users may use a TV remote control to easily view similar titles for the title they are looking at on the product page.
  • Advantageously users may use a TV remote control to easily see the rating for titles they have rated, and rate or change a rating for a title.
  • users may use a TV remote control to easily view detailed reviews about a title.
  • Advantageously users may be able to watch, control and rate content on their TV at the highest quality possible using a standard remote control.
  • Advantageously users may use a TV remote control to navigate shortcut keys buttons such as red, yellow, green and blue.
  • Advantageously users may gain access to reporting and analytics insight to inform product and operational development decisions.
  • Advantageously users may use the system website to easily manage their TV on demand services - including devices, playlist and parental control.
  • Advantageously users may use a TV remote control to easily access all areas within the system interface with an associated device, or see information about the TV service without an associated device.
  • the present invention relates to any, some or all of the following features, in any appropriate combination (herein the term “watch” and like items includes “listening to” (whether also watching or not) :-
  • searching and browsing is effected using keystrokes in a different direction to those to move between watching, searching and browsing
  • searching and browsing is effected via watching (so that in effect priority is given to watchable media assets)
  • the watching has categories and optionally sub-categories for categorising media assets and enables a viewer to watch a media asset that is available for watching e.
  • the searching enables a viewer to search, for example by keyword entry, all the media assets, whether they are available to watch or will only be available offline, and optionally to filter
  • the browsing has categories and optionally sub-categories for categorising media assets and enables a user to browse all media assets
  • a carousel that provides any some or all of the following:
  • system as herein described may be implemented wholly on a central server, or a set interconnected servers, which is/are connectable to a plurality of remote client and/or user devices.
  • aspects of the system may be implemented, at least in part, on the or each (remote) client device.
  • aspects of the system, client device, method, and/or user interface described herein may be implemented in software running on a computer such as a personal computer or a receiver/decoder (which may be connected directly to a monitor or to a television or other display means or incorporated within a television), and it is to be appreciated that inventive aspects may therefore reside in the software running on such devices.
  • a computer such as a personal computer or a receiver/decoder (which may be connected directly to a monitor or to a television or other display means or incorporated within a television), and it is to be appreciated that inventive aspects may therefore reside in the software running on such devices.
  • the invention also extends to a server or a plurality of interconnected servers running software adapted to implement the system or method as herein described.
  • the invention also provides a computer program and a computer program product for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the apparatus features described herein, and a computer readable medium having stored thereon a program for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the apparatus features described herein.
  • the invention also provides a signal embodying a computer program for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the apparatus features described herein, a method of transmitting such a signal, and a computer product having an operating system which supports a computer program for carrying out any of the methods described herein and/or for embodying any of the apparatus features described herein.
  • Any apparatus feature as described herein may also be provided as a method feature, and vice versa.
  • means plus function features may be expressed alternatively in terms of their corresponding structure, such as a suitably programmed processor and associated memory.
  • any feature in one aspect of the invention may be applied to other aspects of the invention, in any appropriate combination.
  • method aspects may be applied to apparatus aspects, and vice versa.
  • any, some and/or all features in one aspect can be applied to any, some and/or all features in any other aspect, in any appropriate combination.
  • Figure 1 is a diagrammatic overview of a media content provision system
  • Figures 2 (a) and (b) show schematically the different menu styles in the PC and TV-based embodiments
  • Figure 3 shows the interaction between the PC and TV based embodiments
  • Figure 4 shows interactions between the catalogue, rental and VOD lists of the system in a first scenario
  • Figure 5 shows interactions between the catalogue, rental and VOD lists of the system in a second scenario
  • Figure 6 shows an initial screen in the television embodiment
  • Figure 7 shows the welcome screen at application at start-up
  • Figure 8 shows an introductory information screen
  • Figure 9 shows a still from an introductory video
  • Figures 10 show the device activation process
  • Figures 11 show the main movie selection screen
  • Figure 12 shows the main options/functions screen for a selected movie
  • Figure 13 shows movie playback
  • Figures 14 show the rental list management options for a selected movie
  • Figures 15 show the ratings options for a selected movie
  • Figures 16 show the reviews page for a selected movie
  • Figures 17 show recommendation options for a selected movie
  • Figures 18 show options from the Watch Now side-panel
  • FIG. 19 show further options from the Watch Now list
  • Figures 20 show search options
  • Figures 21 show search filter options
  • Figures 22 show browse options
  • Figures 23 show options available from the help screen
  • Figure 24 show screens displayed in the event of various access errors:
  • Figure 25 show screens displayed in the event of various connection errors
  • Figure 26 shows the TV service map
  • Figure 27 shows the site map for the accompanying web site of the service provider
  • Figure 28 shows a high level functional requirements map for the system
  • Figure 29 shows steps in the high level user journey
  • Figure 30 shows a flow diagram of the steps a user undertakes to select and view content
  • Figure 31 shows the flow diagram of Figure 30 with screen shots of the various stages
  • Figure 32 shows an example of a high level overview of the system web site
  • Figure 33 shows a high level user journey for web-based user interfacing
  • Figure 34 shows a high level user journey for user-device interfacing
  • Figure 35 shows a flow diagram of steps taken by the user after selecting the application
  • Figure 36 shows a flow diagram of the functional requirements for the Home Screen when a user has successfully activated their device
  • Figure 37 shows a high level user journey initiated by the user selecting 'watch now'
  • Figure 38 shows a flow diagram of the choices a user has following selecting 'watch now'
  • Figure 39 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken after a user selects the 'categories' option
  • Figure 40 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken after a user selects the 'collections' option
  • Figures 41 (a), (b) and (c) show example screen shots of different collection types
  • Figure 42 shows a high level user journey starting with the user selecting 'watch now'
  • Figure 43 shows a flow diagram of the steps after a user selects the 'more...' option
  • Figure 44 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken in order to select a particular physical format
  • Figure 45 shows an example screen shot of remote control options
  • Figure 46 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken after a user selects the 'categories' option
  • Figure 47 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken after a user selects the 'collections' option
  • Figures 48 (a) and (b) show screen shots of different catagories for physical disks
  • Figure 49 shows a high level user journey for searching
  • Figure 50 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken after a user selects 'search'
  • Figure 51 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps involved in using the keypad for searching
  • Figure 52 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to perform an actor/director search
  • Figure 53 a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to perform a title search
  • Figure 54 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to display the search results list
  • Figure 55 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to filter the display options of the search results list
  • Figure 56 shows a high level user journey starting at the 'product page'
  • Figure 57 shows a flow diagram illustrating the system requirements to display the 'Product Page'
  • Figure 58 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken after a user selects 'go back'
  • Figure 59 shows an exampe screen shot of the 'Add to rental list' option
  • Figure 60 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to remove an item from the rental list
  • Figure 61 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to display the rental list
  • Figure 62 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to process rental list actions
  • Figure 63 shows example screen shots of a user moving to a different rental list
  • Figure 64 shows example screen shots of a user selecting a different format
  • Figure 65 shows an example screen shot of when an alternate format is on 'Pre Release'
  • Figure 66 shows example screen shots of a user changing the priority of a title
  • Figures 67 (a) to (p) show example scenarios of the default display when adding a title to a rental list
  • Figure 68 shows a high level user journey starting at 'display more like this'
  • Figure 69 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken after the user selects 'more like this';
  • Figure 70 shows an example screen shot of a product page
  • Figure 71 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to display 'more like this' results
  • Figure 72 shows example screen shots at different stages of a user back-navigating
  • Figure 73 shows a flow diagram of a user back-navigating
  • Figure 74 shows a high level user journey for rating a title
  • Figure 75 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to rate a title
  • Figure 76 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to rate a title using the 'star rating panel'
  • Figure 77 (a), (b) and (c) show example screen shots of different 'star ratings';
  • Figure 78 shows an example screen shot when confirming a 'star rating'
  • Figure 79 shows a high level user journey for displaying reviews
  • Figure 80 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to determine if reviews are available
  • Figure 81 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to display reviews
  • Figures 82 (a), (b) and (c) show the example remote control functionality at different stages of the review summary process
  • Figure 83 shows a flow diagram of the processing steps taken to display detailed reviews
  • Figure 84 shows a high level user journey starting witht the user selecting a title
  • Figure 85 shows an example popup menu for changing the rental list.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic overview of a media content provision system 10.
  • the system 10 comprises a media content (such audio/video) provision server 100 comprising a central processing unit (CPU) 102, read-only memory (ROM) 104, random-access memory (RAM) 106 and a network adapter 108.
  • the server 100 provides storage (for example in a disk array) for:
  • VoD video-on-demand
  • a VoD database 116 of videos available on-demand (for example for streaming over the internet to a user's television)
  • communication is via means such as cable or satellite.
  • the server applications are implemented in one or more programming languages such as Javascript, XML and HTML, and deployed as for example as a TV Widget on the Yahoo! Widget Engine Platform.
  • PC personal computer
  • TV internet-enabled television
  • the PC 126 is of a standard form and comprises typical components CPU 130, ROM 132, RAM 134, a display 136, a network adapter 138 for communicating with other entities on the internet, and an I/O (input/output) interface 140 for accepting user input via the keyboard 142 and mouse 144.
  • the TV 128 is internet-enabled in that as well as a standard screen 146 and an I/O (input/output) interface 148 for accepting user input via a remote control handset 150 it also comprises a CPU 152, ROM 154 and RAM 156 and a network adapter 158 - which allows it to run an operating system and download and run applications.
  • I/O input/output
  • Suitable TVs 128 include internet-enabled televisions as manufactured by Samsung, Sony, LG and VIZIO, which connect to the internet 124 (potentially via a domestic network) via Ethernet cable or wirelessly via wi-fi connections.
  • the televisions 128 run operating systems such as Linux.
  • Described below is an application which runs on an internet-enabled television 128 and which forms part of a composite rental and video-on-demand service. Also described is an optimised user interface for the television 128 with an ergonomic menu structure which allows for easy one-hop access to features by means of operation of a TV remote control 150, for example by use of the cursor / arrow keys and optionally certain 'function' keys. Thus items on a user's rental list as stored on a server 100 of a video service provider may be manipulated directly from a television 128 rather than requiring a PC 126.
  • Figures 2 show schematically the different menu styles in the PC and TV-based embodiments.
  • the PC menu 200 being accessible via the service provider website, is navigable by keyboard 142 and/or mouse 144 and therefore allows for the use of drop-down menus and other complex interaction schemes (option E 204 as illustrated being accessible only via a secondary submenu).
  • the TV menu 202 is optimised for navigation by remote control handset 150 i.e. a restricted number of buttons is used, for example the arrow keys, number keys, function / option / tools / coloured (red/green/yellow/blue) buttons of the remote control handset 150 have to suffice for providing access to the requisite functions.
  • the TV menu system 202 need not be inferior to the PC menu 200 system.
  • the TV menu 202 system makes great use of the selection of an item, or asset, changing the resultant function according to context, available options dependent on the selected asset, asset availability and user parameters.
  • FIG. 3 shows the interaction between the PC and TV based embodiments.
  • Both PC and TV embodiments allow access to the same server databases (i.e. the VOD database 116, the rental media database 110, and the rental list database 112) via the respective user interfaces (represented locally as Website Ul 300 and TV Ul 302).
  • the website Ul 300 and the TV Ul 302 allow access to the same information regarding the available media content they are adapted to enable the user to perform different functions.
  • the PC website Ul 300 allows the user to perform detailed operations on his/her rental list, while the TV Ul 302 primarily allows the user to access the lists of media content, and select it for consumption either immediately via streaming of the media over the internet (or the like), or for consumption at a later date once the media content is delivered via the postal service (or the like).
  • Data replication is arranged between the various lists so that changes made via one interface propagates to the lists stored in the various databases 110, 1 12, and 116. Therefore, the user can interface with the server from either the website interface or the TV interface, and be provided with a seamless experience.
  • Figure 4 shows interactions between the catalogue 400, rental 402 and VOD lists 404 of the system 10 in a first scenario.
  • the user Via the PC website user interface 300, the user maintains a rental list 402, having perused the full catalogue list 400 of available videos (videos A-G) and selected a subset of videos A, C and E he wishes to rent.
  • the rental list 402 may be numerically ordered (1-3) according to preferred order of delivery. Videos are delivered to the user on physical media e.g. DVD, Blu-ray disks or other media formats. A maximum number of simultaneous video rentals is set by the terms of the user's subscription (an unlimited subscription is also possible in some cases). Once the user has watched a video, he returns the media to the service provider; the next video on the rental list 402 is only sent to the user if not at the subscription limit.
  • rental may involve a download rather than receipt of a physical media; return of the video to the service provider involves erasure (or expiry of playback ability) of the downloaded video.
  • the rental list 402 is available to the user of the video service over the internet 124 via a PC 126 (or similar device).
  • Video-on-demand (VoD) list 404 which indicates videos B, C, D and F are available to view by video-on-demand, for example as a video stream over the internet.
  • Video C is present on both on the user rental list and also available to view via VoD.
  • the television presents the user via its screen a highlight list 406 (presented as a carousel, for example as shown in Figures 1 1 ) which is a subset of the rental 402 and VOD lists 404 and shows:
  • the user can therefore elect to view video C as VoD in preference to media rental with the advantage that he can view the video immediately without having to wait for physical media delivery. In this way, the user can be prompted to view VOD content that is on his/her rental list.
  • video C may optionally be removed from the rental list; the user may be prompted to remove the video from his/her rental list.
  • Figure 5 shows a second scenario.
  • the full catalogue 400 shows videos A-G.
  • the user's rental list 402 initially has items A, C and E selected from the full catalogue 400. Videos B, C, D and F are available to view immediately as VoD.
  • the user can search or browse either:
  • the user is able to add items from the highlight list 406 and/or from the search results to the rental list 402 - or remove them - via the TV menu 202.
  • the user has added videos to the rental list 402 from
  • the user searches for specific media content and it is not available for VOD consumption, the user is prompted to add the media content to his/her rental list. In this way, the user is provided with access to the media content that they wish to view, but is required to wait for delivery of the physical media content (i.e. delivered via the postal system). Operation
  • Figure 6 shows the initial screen that a user views in the television embodiment.
  • the user is presented with an array of applications or widgets (which may have been downloaded previously or pre-installed). Selecting and activating the video content provision system application icon initiates execution of the application.
  • FIG 7 shows the home or welcome screen at application at start-up.
  • the Welcome screen presents the user with options for television device activation and a "Tell me more" help option. Selecting "Tell me more” displays an introductory information screen as shown in Figure 8 and, optionally an introductory video - a still from which is shown in Figure 9.
  • Figures 10 show the device activation process entitled "Activate user TV device".
  • the user's television In order to access the service the user's television must undergo an activation / authorisation process to ensure the correct television is associated with the user's subscription account at the server to allow the required subscription services and personalisation to be applied.
  • the activation process comprises a series of steps to be performed both on the television and via the web site of the service provider (accessed, for example, via a PC).
  • An alphanumeric code is presented to the user by the television display screen. The user must enter this same code at the activation page of the service provider's website and then complete further registration requirements (for example, selecting a TV device name) at the website.
  • a second alphanumeric code is then presented to the user by the web site for entering at the television to complete the activation process.
  • Parental controls may also be applied via the web site to restrict access to video services, for example to minors.
  • Figures 11 show the main movie selection screen.
  • the selection screen comprises a carousel or 'coverflow' style selection interface (described above as a "highlight list") in which videos are represented by recognisable stills with associated information (for example, video title, description, rating and availability).
  • a 'progress' bar may also be provided to indicate the position of the currently displayed video within the set of videos available for consideration via the carousel interface.
  • the carousel displays a subset of the full movie catalogue, for example:
  • the carousel may be advanced ('rotated') by means of the left- and right- arrow buttons (or equivalent) of the television remote control. Alternatively, on-screen arrows may be selected to advance the carousel.
  • the action taken by the user i.e. the button pressed on the television remote control
  • Figure 1 a the "right direction" key is pressed in order to move the carousel one content item to the right.
  • Figure 11 b) shows the result of that key press, i.e. the view has moved from "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" to "Chopper”.
  • Figure 11 b) shows the "select” key being pressed in order to select "Chopper” and show additional information related to that media content item.
  • the availability information informs the user of relevant information such as whether the video is available to watch via video-on-demand (VoD) as part of the subscription package, or whether the video is available to watch via VoD and is on the user's rental list.
  • VoD video-on-demand
  • Selecting the video panel itself selects the displayed video and changes the menu context accordingly.
  • Figure 12 shows the main options screen for a selected video.
  • the main panel displays information about the video, such as a category, a brief summary, duration, actor / director data, release dates on various media.
  • a selectable side panel provides further options, including:
  • Figure 13 shows video playback, accessed via the "Watch Now” panel (as shown in Figure 12, the "select” key was pressed when the "watch now” panel was highlighted in order to activate the "watch now” functionality.
  • the interface provides standard video controls (play, pause, stop, fast forward, reverse etc) accessible via the television remote control.
  • a timeline to show video playback time elapsed / remaining is optionally provided.
  • Figures 14 shows the rental list management options for a selected movie, accessed via the "Add to rental list" panel.
  • a plurality of rental lists is provided, with names pre-determined or adaptable by the user. Nested lists may be also possible. Further options allow for the selection by the user of a specific media format (for example DVD or Blu-ray) and a priority (to determine a viewing urgency).
  • the button pressed on the user's remote control is shown in the bottom right hand corner of the figure.
  • Figures 15 show the ratings options screen for a selected movie, accessed via the "Rate this title" panel.
  • the user can assign a desired number of stars (or other indicator of recommendation) to the selected video (for example, an arrow keyed right increments the number of stars assigned; a left arrow key decrements).
  • the number of stars is further described by an adjacent descriptor such as "Average” (3 stars out of 5) or "I love it” (5 stars out of 5).
  • the user's rating is displayed beside the average rating for all users on the ratings options screen for the selected video. Further details relating to the ratings features are provided below with reference to Figures 74 to 78.
  • Figures 16 show the reviews page for a selected movie, also accessed via the "Rate this title" panel. This provides the user with access to and the ability to contribute to reviews of the selected video.
  • User review headers are listed with their star ratings and (optionally) a user picture; highlighting and selecting a particular review header displays the full review. Further details relating to the reviews features are provided below with reference to Figures 79 to 83.
  • Figures 17 show recommendation options for a selected movie, accessed via the "More like this" panel. Selecting this option summons a list of headers for videos determined to be similar to the selected video (for example, in terms of genre or known user preferences). Information regarding the recommended videos includes their availability i.e. whether they are available to view via video- on-demand or in which media format to rent. Watch now
  • Figures 18 show options accessible from the Watch Now side-panel. This provides the user with access to the VoD list of videos available to view immediately, for example by being streamed over the internet.
  • the selectable sub-options provide access to simple lists of VoD-available videos sorted or selected by the following categories:
  • Figures 19 show further options accessible from the video-on-demand list, in which videos available via VoD are sorted or selected according to the following criteria:
  • Access to composite listings is also provided via sub-menus, for example 'Children's - Just added'.
  • Figures 20 show options accessible from the Search side-panel.
  • An on-screen keyboard is provided which can be driven via the arrow keys of the television remote control to allow input of alphanumeric search terms.
  • a selectable search category button interface is provided to limit the search by film (video) title or by actor/director.
  • the results of the search are presented as a list of video headers with associated summary information including video title, date of release (including release date and availability on various media formats), age categorisation etc.
  • Availability information (whether as VoD or as physical media to rent) is also displayed. The media content can then either be "watched now” or added to a rental list as described in detail above.
  • the search feature is described in further detail below with reference to Figures 50 to 53.
  • a selectable 'tools' option allows for the application of filters to the search results, for example to filter by media type (e.g. DVD only).
  • Figure 21 shows the application of such a filter - in this example, the search results are filtered to show only those video titles available on Blu-ray.
  • the filter feature is described in further detail below, with reference to Figures 38 to 41 , 46, 47, 54, 55.
  • Figures 22 show browse options accessible from the "More... " side-panel. This allows the user to browse the full rental database, for example according to media format (DVD or Blu-ray) and subsequent categories and classifications (with sub-menus and optionally filters) as previously described.
  • media format DVD or Blu-ray
  • categories and classifications with sub-menus and optionally filters
  • Figures 23 show options available from the help screen. Options selectable from the side-panel include:
  • Typical remote control functions are as follows:
  • ARROWS - Move the on-screen highlight
  • Figure 24 show screens displayed in the event of various access errors, for example:
  • Figures 25 show screens displayed in the event of various connection errors, for example: • for connection errors encountered during video playback, the option to resume from the point of interruption is presented
  • Figure 26 shows a summary of the TV service map.
  • Figure 27 shows the site map for the accompanying web site of the service provider.
  • the system can provide the following features:
  • Search results may be faceted by format if available (Watch Now, DVD & Blu-ray).
  • Figure 28 shows a high level functional requirements map for the system.
  • the system may provide a way for users to easily navigate to the application on their device as associate the user's device with the user's account.
  • Figure 29 shows steps in the high level user journey
  • the User may be able to...
  • the device may authenticate the user and access to the user's account
  • DV40 the remote control so that it is as simple for the user to remember and key in the number.
  • the User Services Representative may be able to...
  • the Marketing Manager may be able to...
  • the System may be able to...
  • the application will function correctly Verify that the device can access local storage so that the system can ensure that the
  • DV180 pin If a PIN has not been set up then the user may not be allowed to set parental control options.
  • Figure 30 shows a flow diagram of the steps a user undertakes to select and view content
  • Figure 31 shows the same steps pictorially.
  • the user selects the system widget on their TV
  • the user is taken straight to the homepage even if they have not activated their device.
  • the user selects "Watch Now”.
  • the user navigates to the right and selects a title.
  • the product page is displayed
  • Advantageously users may use the system website to easily manage their TV on demand services - including devices, playlist and parental control.
  • Figure 32 shows a high level overview of the system web site.
  • the system may provide for "unlimited” subscribers (i.e. those with privileges to access all features) to be able to use the web site to associate, de associate and manage TV devices that are connected to their subscription.
  • the system may also enable unlimited subscribers to manage their playlist and parental controls.
  • the system may also enable any user to find out about the system's On Demand services and what they need to take advantage of these services.
  • Figure 33 shows a high level user journey for web-based user interfacing.
  • the user may be able to...
  • WEB20 ...associate device(s) to only one account. If the user tries to associate a second account using the same request PIN the website will reject the request and message the user appropriately.
  • WEB40 view any TV devices associated with the user's account via the web site so that the user is aware of the device status even when the user is not physically near their device.
  • WEB110 ...set or unset a parental access code via the web site that when set does not allow content, based on a system Certificate, to be watched without a PIN entry - so that the user can stop users accessing titles they do not want them to see
  • WEB120 buy TV devices through the system Shop or other vendors so that the user can take advantage of the system service via their TV
  • the System may be able to...
  • Advantageously users may use a TV remote control to easily access all areas within the system interface with an associated device, or see information about the TV service without an associated device.
  • the system may provide a way for users to browse through a hierarchical navigation of On Demand categories.
  • Figure 34 shows a high level user journey for user-device interfacing.
  • the user may be able to...
  • Figure 35 shows a flow diagram of steps taken by the user after selecting the application.
  • the system will also display the following remote control options:
  • the system will display a Content Carousel
  • the system will place the active focus by default, on the first title being displayed in the Content Carousel.
  • the Content Carousel will contain no more than 10 titles:
  • the first 3 titles in the list are created based upon titles that are available to Watch NOW which are also titles in the users Rental List.
  • the system will display as many titles as is available up to a maximum of 3.
  • the system will display a navigational breadcrumb which will identify which title the user is seeing in relation to the entire list of titles available on the Content
  • the Content Carousel will automatically scroll based upon the following rules: i) Auto scroll is initiated 4 seconds after last byte of default title in carousel has been rendered.
  • the system will display a static image for any titles that do not have a pack shot or hero image available
  • the system will not display any titles, which do not have either a BBFC Online certification, or a LF equivalent certification.
  • the Content Carousel will allow looped navigation e.g. a user is able to navigate ⁇ Right> from the last title [in list] and the system will display the first title i.e. default starting position for Content Carousel.
  • step 4 If user navigates to a different title - Go to step 4.
  • step 5 If user does not navigate to a different title, then go to step 5.
  • a user is able to navigate between the Content Carousel and the Menu items by using the ⁇ Down> or ⁇ Up> buttons on their remote control.
  • step 6 If the user navigates ⁇ Down> from the Content Carousel, then go to step 6.
  • step 13 If the user does not navigate ⁇ Down> to the menu items, then go to step 13.
  • the user is able to navigate ⁇ Up> from any menu item.
  • step 7 If the user does not navigate back to the Content Carousel (or use Green soft key 'Help'), then go to step 7.
  • Advantageously users may use a TV remote control to easily browse through the system catalogue, to easily find titles they want to watch, no matter how many titles are in the catalogue.
  • the system may provide a way for users to browse through a hierarchical navigation of On Demand categories.
  • Figure 37 shows a high level user journey initiated by the user selecting 'watch now'.
  • the User may be able to...
  • the Marketing Manager may be able to...
  • the Product Manager may be able to...
  • the System may be able to...
  • B140 display summary information for each title in the browse results.
  • buttons under each state e.g. user will not be able to navigate ⁇ left> if the active focus is in the 'Navigation Panel', User is able to navigate ⁇ left> if active focus is in the 'Content Panel'.
  • Figure 38 shows a flow diagram of the choices a user has following selecting 'watch now'.
  • the breadcrumb When the active focus is not on the option which is being displayed in the content panel, the breadcrumb will indicate this by changing colour. I.e.
  • the system will determine if the user ⁇ selects> one of the options in the navigation panel.
  • step 4 If user does not select 'Categories', then go to step 4.
  • the user is able to navigate between the 'navigation panel' and the 'content panel' using the ⁇ right> and ⁇ left> buttons.
  • step 5 If user does not select a collection, then go to step 5
  • Page Up (Blue) and Page Down (Yellow) soft keys will not display when the active focus is on any item in the navigational panel.
  • step 3 If user does not select ⁇ Return> button, then go back to step 3 i.e. system waits for user to trigger an action / process.
  • a user will navigate to a results list by selecting the ⁇ right> button on their remote control, from the 'navigation panel'.
  • Page Up (Blue) and Page Down (Yellow) soft keys will only display when the user moves the active focus to the content panel.
  • the user is able to navigate title by title within a results list by selecting ⁇ down> or ⁇ up> on their remote control. 3.
  • the user will also be able to use the ⁇ P+> or ⁇ P-> or the 'Page Up' (Blue) and 'Page Down' (Yellow) soft keys to navigate page by page at a time. A user is able to use these buttons when active focus is anywhere on the screen.
  • step 10 If user does NOT select a title, then go to step 10.
  • step 6 i.e. system waits for user to trigger an action / process.
  • Figure 39 shows a flow diagram of the steps after a user selects the 'catagories' option.
  • the system will display default content in the 'Content Panel', which is linked to the starting position for the default active focus position i.e. Just Added for Action & Adventure.
  • the system will also place the active focus on the previous category i.e. not a default position.
  • a user will navigate to a results list by selecting the ⁇ right> button on their remote control, from the 'navigation panel'.
  • Page Up (Blue) and Page Down (Yellow) soft keys will only display when the user moves the active focus to the content panel.
  • the user is able to navigate title by title within a results list by selecting ⁇ down> or ⁇ up> on their remote control.
  • the user will also be able to use the ⁇ P+> or ⁇ P-> or the 'Page Up' (Blue) and 'Page Down' (Yellow) soft keys to navigate page by page at a time.
  • a user is able to use these buttons when active focus is anywhere on the screen.
  • step 7 If user does NOT select a title, then go to step 7.
  • the system will take the active focus back to the 'navigation panel'. Active focus position is placed on the previous active category in the list e.g. if user was on the 'Most Watched' results list for genre category 'Family' and navigates ⁇ Left>, then the active focus will move back to 'Most Watched'.
  • step 8 If user does not navigate back using the ⁇ left> button on their remote, then go to step 8.
  • the system will take them back to the 'Watch NOW category page - go to section 2.3 step 1.
  • the active focus position is placed on the previous option in the list. In this case it is placed on 'Categories' option.
  • the filter options are:
  • the system will display a results list for the genre the user selected in step 3.
  • the default view is based upon the 'editorial collection' 'Just Added'.
  • This breadcrumb will display the following:
  • Each title in the results list may display the following 'short form information': i) Thumbnail image (hero shot)
  • the system will display a static image for any titles that do not have a pack shot or hero image available.
  • Marketing Manager ma be able to select up to 20 titles, create and publish 'Just Added' collection to each genre category.
  • the Marketing Manager is able to specify the order in which the 'Just Added' titles are displayed in the results list.
  • step 10 If user selects a different filter option, then go back to step 10
  • step 12 If user does not select a different filter option, then go to step 12
  • step 15 If user navigates to the results list, then go to step 15
  • step 9 If user does NOT go back using the ⁇ return> button, then go back to step 9 (i.e.
  • step 9 If user does NOT select a remote control option, then go back to step 9 (i.e. Until user triggers a different process stage or step e.g. selects title, etc)
  • a user will navigate to a results list by selecting the ⁇ right> button on their remote control, from the 'navigation panel'.
  • the user is able to navigate title by title within a results list by selecting ⁇ down> or ⁇ up> on their remote control. 2.
  • the user will also be able to use the ⁇ P+> or ⁇ P-> or the 'Page Up' (Blue) and 'Page Down' (Yellow) soft keys to navigate page by page at a time.
  • a user is able to use these buttons when active focus is anywhere on the screen.
  • step 16 If user does NOT select a title, then go to step 16.
  • step 15 If user does not navigate back using the ⁇ left> button on their remote, then go to step 15.
  • Figure 40 shows a flow diagram of the steps after a user selects the 'collections' option.
  • a user is able to select the 'Collection' option from the 'Watch NOW category page.
  • the system will display the 'Collections' category page.
  • the system will display the following collections in the 'navigation panel':
  • Marketing Manager is able to create and select up to 12 Collections to be displayed to users.
  • the Marketing Manager is able to specify the order in which the Collections List is displayed.
  • the Marketing Manager is able to specify the order in which the titles are displayed in the results list of each Collection.
  • the system will display a static image for any titles that do not have a pack shot or hero image available
  • a user will navigate to a results list by selecting the ⁇ right> button on their remote control, from the 'navigation panel'.
  • the user is able to navigate title by title within a results list by selecting ⁇ down> or ⁇ up> on their remote control.
  • the user will also be able to use the ⁇ P+> or ⁇ P-> or the 'Page Up' (Blue) and 'Page Down' (Yellow) soft keys to navigate page by page at a time.
  • a user is able to use these buttons when active focus is anywhere on the screen.
  • step 7 If user does NOT select a title, then go to step 7.
  • step 1 If user navigates back from the selected results list using ⁇ left> button, then the system will take the user back to the 'navigation panel' - in this instance the system will move the active focus back to the Collection in the Collection list. Go back to step 3. 2. If user navigates back using ⁇ Return> button, then system will take them back to the 'Watch NOW Category Page - refer to step 2 in section 2.3, and active focus is placed onto the previous position. In this case it is placed on 'Collections' option.
  • step 6 If user does NOT select a remote control option, then go back to step 6 (i.e. Until user triggers a different process stage or step e.g. selects title, etc)
  • Figure 41 (c) Or displayed as an editorial collection from the Browse Category Pages i.e.
  • Category Demand platforms i.e. Online, TV On periods - 'last day', 'last Page Demand. week', 'last month', 'last
  • a 'successful view' is defined as the months', 'all time' play event being initiated (
  • a 'successful view' is defined as the months', 'last 12 play event being initiated ( months', 'all time' handle_play_digital_item method called )
  • a maximum of 12 collections are displayed to the user.
  • the system will allow the editorial team to flag which collections to display to the user and configure the order of this list of collections, which will in turn determine which 12 collections are displayed to the user.
  • the system will allow infinite (within limit of the catalogue tool) number of collections to be created.
  • Advantageously users may use a TV remote control to easily browse through the system's DVD and Blu-ray catalogues, to easily find titles they want to watch, no matter how many titles are in the catalogue.
  • the system may provide a way for users to browse through a hierarchical navigation of DVD and Blu-ray categories.
  • Figure 42 shows a high level user journey starting at the user selecting 'watch now'.
  • the User may be able to.
  • Figure 43 shows a flow diagram of the steps after a user selects the 'more.
  • a user begins the Browse DVD and Blu-ray journey by selecting ⁇ Select> "More, from the Home Screen: The following options are displayed on the 'More' category page:
  • the system will also display default content for each physical format, on the 'More' category screen.
  • the active focus is on the 'Blu-ray' action button.
  • the user is able to navigate and select the 'Blu-ray' or 'DVD' action buttons by using ⁇ Right> and ⁇ Left> and ⁇ Select> remote control buttons.
  • step 4 o If user does not select Blu-ray or DVD action button, go to step 4 o 1. If user selects a remote control option, then go elsewhere
  • step 4 If user does NOT select a remote control option, then go to step 4
  • step 3 i.e. system waits for user to trigger an action / process.
  • Figure 44 shows a flow diagram of the steps in order to select a particular physical format.
  • the user will reach either the Blu-ray or DVD category page when they ⁇ select> the format they wish to browse from the format browse options page (see previous section).
  • the system may display a "New Releases” Option. This is the default position for the active focus when a user navigates to this screen.
  • the system may display a "Most Popular” Option.
  • the system may display a "Highest Rated” Option.
  • the system may display a "Coming Soon” Option.
  • the system may display a "Categories >" Option.
  • the system may display a "Collections >" Option. Go to step 2.
  • This breadcrumb will display the following:
  • Each title in the results list may display the following 'short form information':
  • the system will display a static image for any titles that do not have a pack shot or hero image available.
  • the active focus is in a fixed position on the page i.e. menu items move, not the active focus.
  • the breadcrumb will indicate this by changing colour (e.g. greyed out as opposed to highlighted).
  • the system will determine if the user ⁇ selects> one of the options in the navigation panel.
  • step 4 If user does not select 'Categories', then go to step 4.
  • step 6 If user ⁇ select> the 'Collections' category, the system will take the user to the next level of browse. Refer to section 2.3.4 below. 2. If user does not select 'Collections', then go to step 6.
  • step 10 If user does not navigate to the results list, then go to step 10.
  • a user will navigate to a results list by selecting the ⁇ right> button on their remote control, from the 'navigation panel'.
  • the user is able to navigate title by title within a results list by selecting ⁇ down> or ⁇ up> on their remote control.
  • the user will also be able to use the ⁇ P+> or ⁇ P-> or the 'Page Up' (Blue) and 'Page Down' (Yellow) soft keys to navigate page by page at a time.
  • a user is able to use these buttons when active focus is anywhere on the screen.
  • step 8 If user does NOT select a title, then go to step 8.
  • step 9 If the user goes back using the ⁇ Return> button, then the system will take them back to the previous screen. In this instance it is the format browse options screen. The system will also place the active focus on the previous category i.e. not the default position. GO back to section 2.3.1 step 1. 2. If user does not select ⁇ Return> button, then go back to step 9
  • step 7 i.e. system waits for user to trigger an action / process.
  • Figure 46 shows a flow diagram of the steps after a user selects the 'categories' option.
  • step 8 If user does not navigate back using the ⁇ left> button on their remote, then go to step 8.
  • the filter options are:
  • the system will display a results list for the genre the user selected in step 3.
  • the default view is based upon the 'editorial collection' 'New Releases'.
  • This breadcrumb will display the following:
  • Each title in the results list may display the following 'short form information':
  • Thumbnail image here shot or pack shot

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Abstract

L'invention concerne un système (10) permettant de fournir des éléments de contenu multimédia à un utilisateur. Le système (10) comprend une interface utilisateur pour afficher des indications graphiques d'éléments de contenu à la disposition d'un utilisateur ; un moyen pour permettre à un utilisateur de sélectionner un élément de contenu multimédia particulier à des fins de consommation ; et un moyen pour ajouter et/ou supprimer cet élément de contenu multimédia particulier d'une liste d'éléments de contenu multimédia qu'un utilisateur souhaite consommer hors ligne. L'invention concerne également un système (10) comprenant un moyen pour enregistrer un catalogue d'éléments de contenu disponibles à la fois pour la consommation sur demande et pour la consommation hors ligne ; un moyen pour permettre à un utilisateur de rechercher des éléments dans le catalogue ; et une interface utilisateur pour afficher des indications graphiques des résultats de recherche d'éléments de contenu avec une indication spécifiant si ces éléments de contenu sont disponibles pour la consommation sur demande et/ou pour la consommation hors ligne. L'invention concerne également les appareils et les procédés associés.
PCT/GB2011/000355 2010-03-11 2011-03-11 Fourniture de contenu WO2011110823A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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GBGB1004070.7A GB201004070D0 (en) 2010-03-11 2010-03-11 Content provision

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WO2011110823A1 true WO2011110823A1 (fr) 2011-09-15

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Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2486002A (en) * 2010-11-30 2012-06-06 Youview Tv Ltd Media Content Provision
WO2015025122A1 (fr) 2013-08-23 2015-02-26 Logicor (R & D) Ltd Améliorations apportées à des systèmes de chauffage électrique et procédé d'utilisation associé
US9134881B2 (en) 2013-03-04 2015-09-15 Google Inc. Graphical input display having a carousel of characters to facilitate character input

Citations (3)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20050071323A1 (en) * 2003-09-29 2005-03-31 Michael Gabriel Media content searching and notification
US20060101504A1 (en) * 2004-11-09 2006-05-11 Veveo.Tv, Inc. Method and system for performing searches for television content and channels using a non-intrusive television interface and with reduced text input
US20070294726A1 (en) * 2004-09-29 2007-12-20 Drazin Jonathan P V Ipg With Dvd Ordering Facility

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US20050071323A1 (en) * 2003-09-29 2005-03-31 Michael Gabriel Media content searching and notification
US20070294726A1 (en) * 2004-09-29 2007-12-20 Drazin Jonathan P V Ipg With Dvd Ordering Facility
US20060101504A1 (en) * 2004-11-09 2006-05-11 Veveo.Tv, Inc. Method and system for performing searches for television content and channels using a non-intrusive television interface and with reduced text input

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MIGUEL HELFT: "Netflix to Deliver Movies to the PC", THE NEW YORK TIMES, 16 January 2007 (2007-01-16), pages 1 - 4, XP002636239, Retrieved from the Internet <URL:http://gtl-usa.net/images/CP_NetFlix_to_Deliver_Movies_to_the_PC.pdf> [retrieved on 20110510] *

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2486002A (en) * 2010-11-30 2012-06-06 Youview Tv Ltd Media Content Provision
US9134881B2 (en) 2013-03-04 2015-09-15 Google Inc. Graphical input display having a carousel of characters to facilitate character input
WO2015025122A1 (fr) 2013-08-23 2015-02-26 Logicor (R & D) Ltd Améliorations apportées à des systèmes de chauffage électrique et procédé d'utilisation associé

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