Methods and apparatus that support easy access and browsing of program and channel listings in a program guide
US9986297B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 12, 2016 |
| Grant date | May 29, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 12, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N21/84
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Methods and apparatus for improving channel browsing experience for users by presenting an automatically appearing and automatically scrolling program guide are described. The methods and apparatus are well suited for use with remote control devices with limited numbers of input buttons, e.g., under five buttons, but can be used with remote controls with more buttons. The program guide can be used to allow access to a grid guide to users of hospital remotes or other remotes with limited input keys, e.g., an up down arrow and/or a power button. The method in some embodiments uses time spent on a channel in combination with user selection of an input key to determine an action to be taken, e.g., enter or display the program grid guide and/or select a channel and/or corresponding program being displayed in the grid guide.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.