fenderputy the Shady wrote:
Get DVR.
I don't see how this is even possible. Would someone have to wait until the show is over before changing the TV?
Quote:
The secret, according to a new patent filing, is to take advantage of Multimedia Home Platform - the technology behind interactive television in many countries around the world. MHP software now comes built into most modern digital TV receivers and recorders. It looks for digital flags buried in a broadcast, and displays messages on screen that let the viewer call up extra features, such as additional footage or information about a programme.
Philips suggests adding flags to commercial breaks to stop a viewer from changing channels until the adverts are over. The flags could also be recognised by digital video recorders, which would then disable the fast forward control while the ads are playing.
They're talking about flagging commercials, but I'm sure shows could be flagged as well. Even so there's going to be hax that get around the system. It's a waste of time working towards this.
However I think a very good way to utilize this technology would be to flag commercials based on type. I think better targeting commercials would be a great idea for advertisers. Imagine if an eighty year old woman's tv showed a commercial for dentures and wheelchairs, but the same channel at the same time on a twenty year old bachelor's tv showed a new gadget or latest fad commercial. Advertisers would pay more money to get a better targeted audience. I can see this happening.
