Method and apparatus for selecting a channel from a multiple channel display
US6118493A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 1, 1997 |
| Grant date | Sep 12, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 1, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N21/8153
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus that allows a user to preview live audio and/or video of a channel displayed in a multiple channel selection display prior to making a complete selection is generally accomplished by providing pixel information for displaying visual representations of a plurality of channels where the video representation of each channel is displayed in a corresponding channel display area (i.e., a video thumbnail). When the user selects one of the video representations in a preview mode, the video thumbnail is switched from a still image with no audio to an image that includes live audio and/or video. This preview mode remains until the user deselects the preview mode, selects full display area viewing, or a time-out period expires. In addition to the preview option, the user is provided with an editing option that allows the user to customize his or her multiple channel display.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.