CN101268639B - Systems and methods for enhancing a spectator's experience participating in a live sporting event - Google Patents

Abstract

A handheld electronic device for use at a venue hosting a live sporting event has a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission for transmitting a plurality of video streams from video cameras filming the live sporting event, a display, and a user interface for selecting among the plurality of video streams to display a video stream on the display. The handheld electronic device is capable of obtaining a locked mode of operation in which the handheld electronic device is disabled from displaying the video stream to the viewer and an unlocked mode of operation in which the handheld electronic device is enabled to display the video stream to the viewer, the handheld electronic device being capable of obtaining the unlocked mode of operation in response to receiving authentication data wirelessly transmitted to the handheld electronic device.

Description

Systems and methods for enhancing a spectator's experience participating in a live sporting event

Cross References to Related Applications

This application claims priority to: U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/701473, filed Jul. 22, 2005, by Jean Arseneau et al., hereby incorporated herein by reference; filed Mar. 3, 2006 by Jean Arseneau et al. U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/778363, hereby incorporated by reference; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/789911 filed April 7, 2006 by Jean Arseneau, hereby incorporated by reference here.

technical field

Broadly speaking, the present invention relates to systems that allow for the wireless distribution of video and/or audio content associated with an event. The invention also further relates to the various components of the system and related methods of operation and use.

Background technique

The concept of delivering video and/or audio content to viewers participating in a live sporting event is well known. A typical approach is to utilize local transmission stations to transmit video and/or audio content over the air to handheld electronic devices operated by individual viewers. Viewers are able to select specific video/audio streams of interest on the handheld electronic device.

Contents of the invention

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) the handheld electronic device is capable of obtaining a locked mode of operation in which the handheld electronic device cannot display the video stream to a viewer and an unlocked mode of operation in which the The handheld electronic device is capable of displaying a video stream to a viewer, and responsive to receiving authentication data wirelessly transmitted to the handheld electronic device, the handheld electronic device is capable of obtaining the unlock mode of operation.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention also provides a data structure embedded in a wireless RF transmission used by multiple hand-held electronic devices of spectators attending a live sporting event at a venue. Received by the device, the data structure includes:

a) An electronic representation of at least two video streams for display on a handheld electronic device, the video streams conveying live video sporting event content including footage of the action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue moving image;

b) authentication data allowing one or more of the plurality of handheld electronic devices to access a video stream for viewing by a viewer of the one or more handheld electronic devices.

As specifically and broadly illustrated herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) the handheld electronic device is capable of allowing a viewer to access the video stream for viewing in response to authentication data wirelessly communicated to the handheld electronic device.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention also provides a method of doing business comprising:

a) Offer for sale a service that includes the transmission of video streams of live video sporting content to hand-held electronic devices at venues where live sporting events are held, including Motion graphics of action taking place at live sporting events;

b) the handheld electronic device has a display that allows spectators attending the live sporting event to watch one or more of the video streams;

c) generating a wireless RF transmission comprising the video stream for reception by the handheld electronic device while a live sporting event is in progress;

d) including in the wireless RF transmission authentication data for processing by the handheld electronic device, the authentication data allowing the handheld electronic device to access one or more of the video streams for viewing by a viewer on a display.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method of doing business comprising:

a) Offer for sale a service that includes delivering a video stream of live video sporting content to a handheld electronic device at a venue for a live sporting event, including live sports moving images of the action taking place at the event;

b) the handheld electronic device has a display for allowing spectators attending the live sporting event to watch one or more of the video streams;

c) generating a wireless RF transmission comprising the video stream for reception by the handheld electronic device while a live sporting event is in progress;

d) Protecting the wireless RF transmission to prevent viewing of one or more video streams by viewers with handheld electronic devices for which the service was not purchased.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) an authentication processor for processing authentication information communicated in a wireless RF transmission to obtain an authentication decision indicating that viewers are permitted to access live video sporting events communicated in the wireless RF transmission on said handheld electronic device the extent of the content.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention also provides a plurality of handheld electronic devices for use at a venue for a live sporting event, each handheld electronic device comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including moving images of action occurring at a live sporting event held at the venue, the wireless The RF transmission also includes authentication information;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) Authentication Processor, where:

i) the authentication processor of the first handheld electronic device processes the authentication information and responds to a first user code entered at the user interface of the first handheld electronic device to allow at least a portion of the live video sporting event content to be viewed on the first handheld electronic device Viewed on the display of a handheld electronic device;

ii) the authentication processor of the second handheld electronic device processes the authentication information and responds to a second user code different from the first user code and entered at the user interface of the second handheld electronic device to allow the site At least a portion of the video sporting event content is viewed on the display of the second handheld electronic device.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a system for enhancing the experience of spectators participating in a live sporting event comprising:

a) a transmitter for generating a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event held at the venue, the wireless The RF transmission also includes authentication information;

b) multiple handheld electronic devices used by the respective audience, each handheld electronic device having:

i) user interface;

ii) a display that allows viewing of the video stream;

iii) an authentication processor for processing the authentication information and the user code input at the user interface to unlock the handheld electronic device to allow the viewer to watch the video stream, wherein the user codes for unlocking the corresponding handheld electronic devices are different from each other .

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention also provides a generator of a user code for unlocking a handheld electronic device to allow spectators attending a live sporting event to watch on the handheld electronic device wirelessly transmitted to the handheld electronic device. An electronic device that transmits at least two video streams of live video sporting content including moving images of action taking place at a live sporting event at the venue;

a) an input terminal for receiving the identifier of the handheld electronic device;

b) a processing element for processing the identifier to generate a user code;

c) an output terminal for issuing the user code.

As specifically and broadly stated herein, the present invention also provides a method for doing business comprising:

a) Offer for sale a service that includes the delivery of a video stream that transmits live video sporting content to a handheld electronic device at a venue where a live sporting event is held, including Moving images of action taking place at sporting events;

b) the handheld electronic device has a display for allowing spectators attending the live sporting event to watch one or more of the video streams;

c) provide user codes to those who have already purchased the service;

d) generating a wireless RF transmission comprising a video stream for reception by the handheld electronic device while a live sporting event is in progress;

e) inhibiting the handheld electronic device from displaying one or more of the video streams unless the person enters a user code on the user interface of the handheld electronic device.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention also provides a method for doing business comprising:

a) Offer for sale a service that includes the delivery of a video stream that transmits live video sporting content to a handheld electronic device at a venue where a live sporting event is held, including Moving images of action taking place at sporting events;

b) the handheld electronic device has a display for allowing spectators attending the live sporting event to watch one or more of the video streams;

c) establishing an electronic communication with the handheld electronic device that has purchased the service to load the handheld electronic device with a code;

d) generating a wireless RF transmission comprising a video stream for reception by the handheld electronic device while a live sporting event is in progress;

e) prohibiting the handheld electronic device from displaying at least a portion of the live video sporting event content unless the code has previously been loaded into the handheld electronic device.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue where a live sporting event is held, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) The handheld electronic device configures the user interface in response to the wirelessly transmitted data.

As specifically and broadly illustrated herein, the present invention also provides a method for remotely setting the user interface of a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, the handheld electronic device comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) The method includes wirelessly sending data to a receiver for processing by the handheld electronic device to configure the user interface.

As specifically and broadly described here, the present invention also provides a method, comprising:

a) Providing a transmitter at a venue where a live sporting event is held for generating a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams delivering live video sporting content included at a live sporting event held at the venue A moving image of the action taking place, this wireless RF transmission is sent to a plurality of handheld electronic devices, each handheld electronic device comprising:

i) display;

ii) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

b) causing the transmitter to wirelessly transmit data to the one or more handheld electronic devices for setting a user interface of the one or more handheld electronic devices.

As specifically and broadly illustrated herein, the present invention also provides a method for enhancing the experience of a spectator participating in a plurality of live sporting events, in each live sporting event, the method comprising:

a) When a live sporting event is in progress, generating a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event held at the venue , the handheld electronic device having a display to allow viewers attending a live sporting event to view one or more video streams, the handheld electronic device having a user interface;

b) wirelessly configuring the user interface to customize the user interface for the live sporting event, wherein the user interface changes from one live sporting event to another.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) a buffer for simultaneously buffering two or more video streams in the wireless RF transmission;

e) The handheld electronic device is capable of processing the video data in the buffer to implement a playback function allowing viewing of the video stream buffered in the buffer on the display.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) a buffer for simultaneously buffering two or more video streams in the wireless RF transmission;

e) The handheld electronic device can process the video data in the buffer, thereby realizing the functions for the video stream buffered in the buffer, from fast forward function, rewind function, still image function, Select this function from the group consisting of the frame-by-frame movement function and the image zoom function.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be viewed on said display;

d) a buffer for buffering at least one video stream in the wireless RF transmission in addition to the video stream selected for viewing on said display;

e) The handheld electronic device is capable of processing the video data in the buffer to view the video stream buffered in the buffer on the display.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving wireless RF transmissions comprising general audience content comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including live sporting events at the venue A moving image of the action taking place;

b) a storage medium for storing viewer profile data;

c) the handheld electronic device is capable of filtering the general audience content based at least in part on audience profile data to generate audience specific content that can be delivered to the audience via the handheld electronic device, the audience specific content including a plurality of Two or more of the video streams;

d) Display for allowing viewing of one or more video streams.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method of doing business comprising:

a) Selling to spectators planning to attend a live sporting event held at the venue a level of service selected by the spectator among a number of offered levels of service, one or more of which includes live sports broadcasted during the live sporting event Wireless RF transmission of video streams of event content, delivery to handheld electronic devices, the live sporting event content including moving images of the action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue, the handheld electronic device having a Displays for multiple video streams;

b) storing in the handheld electronic device viewer profile data distinguishing the service level selected by the viewer from other service levels offered;

c) filtering content delivered by wireless RF transmission at the handheld electronic device based on the viewer profile data.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) a user interface allowing viewers to define viewer profiles;

c) the handheld electronic device is capable of filtering content in wireless RF transmissions based on a viewer profile to generate filtered content;

d) A display for viewing at least a portion of the filtered content.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method of doing business comprising:

a) Selling services offered at different levels of service to spectators planning to attend a live sporting event held at the venue, two or more service levels comprising wireless RF transmission via a video stream carrying live sporting event content during the live sporting event . to a handheld electronic device having a display that allows viewers to view one or more video streams, the live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) generating a wireless RF transmission comprising content of the live sporting event while the live sporting event is in progress, the wireless RF transmission being adapted to be received by the handheld electronic device;

c) Protecting the wireless RF transmissions to prohibit viewers with handheld electronic devices from viewing content on the display associated with service levels that have not been purchased.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising a plurality of video streams conveying live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) Wireless RF transmission of the venue or live sporting event background information that the hand-held electronic device is capable of informing viewers of.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a data structure embedded in a wireless RF signal for receipt by a plurality of hand-held electronic devices at a venue where a live sporting event is held, the data Structures include:

a) transmitting multiple video streams of live sporting event content, the live sporting event content including moving images of action occurring at the live sporting event at the venue, the video streams for display on the handheld electronic device;

b) It is used to transmit the background information of the game location or live sports event to the audience through the handheld electronic device.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method comprising:

a) Providing a transmitter for wireless RF transmission at a venue where a live sporting event is held for generating multiple video streams comprising transmission of live sporting event content that takes place at the venue A moving image of the action, the wireless RF transmission is transmitted to a plurality of handheld electronic devices, each handheld electronic device comprising:

i) display;

ii) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

b) Including the game location or live sporting event background information in the wireless RF transmission, so that the game location or live sporting event background information can be transmitted to viewers via corresponding handheld electronic devices.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving wireless RF transmissions conveying a plurality of video streams from a video camera capturing the live sporting event including moving objects captured by the video camera;

b) a display for viewing two or more video streams;

c) the handheld electronic device switches the display from one video stream to another in response to a video stream switching command communicated in the wireless RF transmission.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a data structure embedded in a wireless RF transmission for reception by a plurality of handheld electronic devices, the data structure comprising:

a) multiple video streams for display on the handheld electronic device from a video camera capturing a live sporting event including moving objects captured by the video camera;

b) A command for causing at least one of the plurality of handheld electronic devices to switch the display from one video stream to another.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method comprising:

a) generating a wireless RF transmission comprising a plurality of video streams from a video camera filming a live sporting event for receipt by a plurality of handheld electronic devices having displays to allow respective viewers of the handheld electronic devices to view the Video streams of live sporting events including moving objects captured by such video cameras;

b) Introducing one or more commands in the wireless RF transmission to switch the display of at least one handheld electronic device from one video stream to another.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method comprising:

a) generating a wireless RF transmission comprising a plurality of video streams from a video camera filming a motorsport event on a racing track for reception by a plurality of handheld electronic devices having a display to allow the handheld electronic device to the viewer watches the video stream;

b) when an accident is transmitted on a track, identifying, among a plurality of video streams, at least one video stream that transmits images of the accident;

c) Introducing one or more commands in the wireless RF transmission to cause the display of at least one handheld electronic device to switch to the at least one video stream.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving wireless RF transmissions conveying a plurality of video streams from a video camera capturing the live sporting event including moving objects captured by the video camera;

b) a display for viewing two or more of the video streams;

c) a processor executing object tracking software to cause the display to switch from one video stream to another to keep the moving object within the display's field of view as the moving object moves.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission carrying a plurality of audio streams from a source at the live sporting event, the audio streams in the wireless RF transmission having at least two distinct operational states, namely an active state and an inactive state state;

b) a storage medium for storing priority profile data;

c) an output terminal for outputting an audio stream to a sound reproduction device;

d) an audio stream selector for selecting at least one audio stream from the plurality of audio streams for playback based at least in part on the priority profile data, and forwarding the selected audio stream to the output.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving wireless RF transmissions carrying multiple audio streams from a source at the live sporting event;

b) an output terminal for outputting the audio stream to be played via the sound reproduction device;

c) a storage medium for storing priority profiles;

d) a user interface that allows a viewer to define at least a portion of the priority profile that defines a preferred order in which audio streams from the wireless RF transmission are played.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a data structure embedded in a wireless RF transmission for reception by a plurality of handheld electronic devices, the data structure transmitting:

a) Multiple audio streams from sources at live sporting events;

b) Information allowing to determine whether each audio stream is valid or not.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method comprising:

a) electronically receive radio conversations taking place between team members during motor sports events;

b) generating corresponding audio streams for multiple teams, where each audio stream conveys a radio conversation between members of the corresponding team;

c) determining for each audio stream whether the audio stream is valid or invalid;

d) generating a wireless RF transmission to transmit the audio stream and information reflecting the result of said determination.

As specifically and broadly illustrated here, the present invention also provides a hand-held electronic device used at a competition venue where a live sporting event is held, including:

a) a receiver for receiving wireless RF transmissions carrying multiple audio streams from a source at the live sporting event;

b) an output terminal for outputting an audio stream to a sound reproduction device to play the audio stream;

c) a buffer for buffering one or more audio streams in the wireless RF transmission;

d) the handheld electronic device is capable of processing the audio data in the buffer to implement functions for the audio stream in the buffer in the group consisting of replay, rewind, fast forward and pause to choose from.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a data structure embedded in a wireless RF transmission for reception by a plurality of handheld electronic devices, the data structure conveying:

a) multiple audio streams from a source at a live sporting event comprising a game between players, wherein each audio stream is associated with a player;

b) information associating one or more of the audio streams with the ranking of the corresponding players in the game.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving wireless RF transmissions that transmit:

i) multiple audio streams from a source at the live sporting event comprising a game between players, wherein each audio stream is associated with a player;

ii) data that transmit information about player rankings;

b) an output terminal for outputting an audio stream to a sound reproduction device;

c) an audio stream selector for selecting at least one audio stream from a plurality of audio streams to play based at least in part on data conveying information about the ranking, and for delivering the selected audio stream to said output;

d) wherein said audio stream selector implements ranking based audio stream selection rules.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a computer device comprising:

a) user interface;

b) data network interface for connection with the data network;

c) said computer device allows a user to communicate via said user interface with a remote entity in the data network to perform an online purchase of a service delivered to a handheld electronic device for use at a venue where a live sporting event is held, wherein the service includes sending to The handheld electronic device transmits a wireless RF transmission comprising two or more video streams delivering live sporting event content including moving images of action occurring at the live sporting event at the venue, the handheld electronic device The device includes a selector allowing a viewer to select among the two or more video streams and a display for viewing the selected video stream.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a data network entity for use in a data network capable of establishing data communications with a remote computer device via the data network, said data network entity comprising:

a) a data communication interface for connecting to the data network;

b) a computing platform for controlling the exchange of information with the remote computer via the data network to allow a user at the remote computer device to perform online purchases of services delivered by hand-held electronic devices used at venues where live sporting events are held , wherein the service comprises transmitting to the handheld electronic device a wireless RF transmission comprising two or more video streams transmitting live sporting event content, the live sporting event content including footage of action occurring at the live sporting event held at the venue Moving images, the handheld electronic device includes a selector allowing a user to select among the two or more video streams, and a display for viewing the selected video stream.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method for on-line purchase of service delivery for a handheld electronic device for use at a venue where a live sporting event is held, wherein the service includes delivery of a service to the handheld electronic device An electronic device transmitting a wireless RF transmission comprising two or more video streams transmitting live sporting event content including moving images of action occurring at a live sporting event held at the venue, the handheld electronic device comprising A selector allowing a user to select among the two or more video streams, and a display for viewing the selected video stream, the method comprising:

a) accessing the website via a computing device, thereby communicating via a remote network entity hosting the website;

b) Provide identifying information to the website for online purchases of service delivery for the handheld electronic device.

As specifically and broadly illustrated herein, the present invention provides a data network entity for use in a data network capable of establishing a data communication session with a remote computer device via the data network, said data network entity comprising:

a) data communication interface for connection with the data network;

b) computing platform for:

i) Controlling the exchange of information with a remote computer device via the data network to allow the user at the remote computer device to perform an online purchase for the service delivery of the corresponding handheld electronic device, each of which is provided at the venue where the live sporting event is held Use where the service includes transmitting to the handheld electronic device a wireless RF transmission comprising two or more video streams transmitting live sporting content including action occurring at the live sporting event at the venue a moving image of a handheld electronic device including a selector allowing a viewer to choose between two or more video streams, and a display for viewing the selected video stream;

ii) Building a list of online purchased handheld electronic devices that have undergone service delivery.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method for storing data in a handheld electronic device for use at a venue where a live sporting event is held, wherein the handheld electronic device is capable of The event location receives a wireless RF transmission comprising two or more video streams transmitting live sporting event content including moving images of action occurring at a live sporting event held at the venue, the handheld electronic device comprising A selector allowing a user to select among the two or more video streams, and a display for viewing the selected video stream, the method comprising:

a) accessing the website via a computing device, thereby communicating via a remote network entity hosting the website;

b) receiving data from the remote network entity for storage in the handheld electronic device;

c) establishing data communication between the computer device and the handheld electronic device;

d) transferring the data from the computer device to the handheld electronic device.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a data network entity for use in a data network, wherein the data network entity is capable of establishing a data communication with a remote computer device via the data network, the data network entity comprising :

a) a data communication interface for connecting to the data network;

b) computing platform for:

i) Controlling the exchange of information with a remote computer device via the data network to allow a user at the remote computer device to perform an online purchase for service delivery of a handheld electronic device for use at a venue where a live sporting event is held, wherein the service includes sending to The handheld electronic device transmits wireless RF transmissions that include two or more video streams transmitting live sporting event content including moving images of action occurring at the live sporting event at the venue, the handheld electronic device The device includes a selector allowing the viewer to select between two or more video streams, and a display for viewing the selected video stream;

ii) sending data via the data network to the remote computer, the data being suitable for storage in the handheld electronic device.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a computer device comprising:

a) user interface;

b) data network interface for connection with the data network;

c) the computer device allows a user to communicate with a remote entity in the data network via the user interface to set up an online account for performing online services delivered for handheld electronic devices used at venues where live sporting events are held; Purchases where the service includes the transmission of wireless RF transmissions to the handheld electronic device of two or more video streams including the transmission of live sporting content including action occurring at the live sporting event at the venue The handheld electronic device includes a selector allowing a viewer to select among the two or more video streams and a display for viewing the selected video stream.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a data network entity for use in a data network, wherein the data network entity is capable of establishing a data communication with a remote computer device via the data network, the data network entity comprising :

a) a data communication interface for connecting to the data network;

b) a computing platform for controlling the exchange of information with the remote computer device via the user interface to set up an online account on the data network entity, thereby allowing the user at the remote computer device to perform a Online purchase of a service delivered to a handheld electronic device used at a venue for an event, wherein the service includes delivery to the handheld electronic device of a wireless RF transmission comprising two or more video streams delivering live sporting event content, the live sporting event content Including moving images of action occurring at a live sporting event at the venue, the handheld electronic device including a selector that allows viewers to use the handheld electronic device to select between two or more video streams, and a The monitor for the selected video stream.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method for setting up an online account to allow a user to perform online purchases of service delivery for a handheld electronic device used at a venue where a live sporting event is held, Wherein the service includes transmitting to the handheld electronic device a wireless RF transmission comprising two or more video streams transmitting live sporting event content including motion of action occurring at the live sporting event at the venue An image, the handheld electronic device comprising a selector allowing a viewer to select among the two or more video streams using the handheld electronic device, and a display for viewing the selected video stream, the method comprising:

a) accessing the website via a computer device, thereby communicating via a remote network entity hosting the website;

b) Provide identifying information to the website for use in authenticating the user when wishing to access the online account in the future.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method for performing the purchase of a service delivery for a handheld electronic device for use at a venue where a live sporting event is held, wherein the service includes sending a The device transmits wireless RF transmissions that include two or more video streams transmitting live sporting event content including moving images of action occurring at a live sporting event at the venue, the handheld electronic device including allowing A selector for a user to select among the two or more video streams, and a display for viewing the selected video stream, the method comprising:

a) make payment for the service;

b) Receive user code;

c) Entering the user code on the user interface to unlock the handheld electronic device and allow viewing of the live sporting event content.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising a plurality of video streams conveying live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) The user interface allows a viewer to bookmark using the handheld electronic device to mark a location in the video stream being displayed on the display.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a data structure embedded in a wireless RF signal received by a plurality of handheld electronic devices used at a venue where a live sporting event is held, the data structure Structures include:

a) delivering multiple video streams of live sporting event content for display on the handheld electronic device, the live sporting event content including moving images of action occurring at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) Bookmark data for marking a position in one of the video streams.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a wireless RF receiver for receiving wireless RF transmissions transmitting:

i) transmitting multiple video streams of live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

ii) Cartographic data conveying information about maps of competition venues;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) means for generating location information from wireless signals received by said handheld electronic device;

e) the handheld electronic device is responsive to the cartographic data and the location information to show the position of the handheld electronic device on the display in relation to the map of the venue.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a wireless RF receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising a plurality of video streams conveying live sporting event content including moving images of action occurring at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) means for generating location information from wireless signals received by said handheld electronic device;

e) said user interface allows spectators to use the receiver to input a request for directions to a location in the venue;

f) The handheld electronic device, in response to the request and the location information, generates directions to the location at the competition location, and displays the directions on the display to the spectators.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a wireless RF receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising a plurality of video streams conveying live sporting event content including moving images of action occurring at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) means for generating location information from wireless signals received by said handheld electronic device;

e) the user interface allows a viewer to enter commands using the handheld electronic device for storing location information from the GPS receiver corresponding to the location of the handheld electronic device when the command was entered;

f) The handheld electronic device responds to the command input on the user interface to call the location information, and corresponding to the location information, displays the information on the display in a manner related to the map of the game location. Describe the location of the handheld electronic device.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a data structure embedded in a wireless RF transmission for use by a plurality of handheld electronic devices used by spectators attending a live sporting event held at a venue. Receive, the data structure includes:

a) transmitting multiple video streams of live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) Cartographic data conveying information about a map of a game location that can be used to refer to a map of a game location on the display of a given handheld electronic device, together with location information generated by the handheld electronic device Instead, the location of the given handheld electronic device is displayed.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising a plurality of video streams conveying live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) A transmitter for sending wireless RF signals.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a system for use at a venue where a live sporting event is held, comprising:

a) a transmitter for broadcasting a wireless RF transmission comprising a plurality of video streams transmitting live sporting event content including moving images of the action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) Handheld electronic devices used to receive the wireless RF transmission at the competition location;

c) each handheld electronic device includes a transmitter for transmitting a wireless RF signal to a remote entity, the transmitter allowing the handheld electronic device to independently communicate with other handheld electronic devices of the plurality of handheld electronic devices.

As specifically and broadly described here, the present invention provides a method for online shopping, including:

a) When a live sporting event held at a venue is in progress, generating a wireless RF transmission comprising multiple video streams transmitting live sporting event content including events occurring at the live sporting event held at the venue A moving image of the action, the wireless RF transmission for receipt by a handheld electronic device of a spectator at the venue where the live sporting event is held, the handheld electronic device including a display that allows the spectator to view the video stream;

b) sending online shopping information to the handheld electronic device via the wireless RF transmission;

c) using the online shopping information to initiate an online shopping transaction on the handheld electronic device, the online shopping transaction comprising sending a wireless RF signal from the handheld electronic device conveying information about the product or service the viewer desires to purchase.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method for enhancing the experience of spectators attending a live sporting event held at a venue, comprising:

a) when a live sporting event is in progress, generating a wireless RF transmission comprising a plurality of video streams transmitting live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue, The wireless RF transmission is for receipt by each viewer's handheld electronic device, each handheld electronic device including a display that allows the respective viewer to view the video stream;

b) sending the viewer a query prompting the viewer to enter information on the respective handheld electronic device;

c) transmit information entered by the viewer on each handheld electronic device to the central entity using wireless communication;

d) process those responses;

e) Transmitting information from the process to the viewer.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving wireless RF transmissions that transmit:

i) transmitting multiple video streams of live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

ii) Physiological data associated with players participating in a live sporting event at the venue;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) The handheld electronic device is capable of processing the physiological data to display physiological information associated with the player on the display.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a data structure embedded in a wireless RF transmission intended to be received by a plurality of handheld electronic devices at a venue where a live sporting event is held, the data Structures include:

a) multiple video streams for display on a handheld electronic device, the multiple video streams conveying live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) Physiological data associated with players participating in a live sporting event at the venue.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a handheld electronic device for use at a venue for a live sporting event, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving wireless RF transmissions that transmit:

i) transmitting multiple video streams of live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

ii) video game data;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) The handheld electronic device is capable of processing the video game data to allow a viewer to play the video game on the display.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a data structure embedded in a wireless RF transmission for reception by a plurality of handheld electronic devices, said data structure comprising:

a) multiple video streams for viewing on a handheld electronic device, the multiple video streams conveying live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue;

b) Video game data for execution by handheld electronic devices to allow users of the handheld electronic devices to play video games on the displays of the respective handheld electronic devices.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a method for enhancing the experience of spectators attending a live sporting event held at a venue, the method comprising:

a) when a live sporting event is in progress, generating a wireless RF transmission comprising a plurality of video streams transmitting live sporting event content including moving images of action taking place at the live sporting event at the venue, The wireless RF transmissions are intended to be received by handheld electronic devices of various spectators at the venue, each handheld electronic device:

i) includes a display that allows individual viewers to view the video stream;

ii) have a game-playing function that allows viewers to play games on the handheld electronic device;

b) transmitting in the wireless RF transmission data received by the handheld electronic device that enables the handheld electronic device to perform game-playing functions;

c) controlling the transmission based on the progress of the live sporting event, enabling the handheld electronic device to play games based on the occurrence of one or more predetermined events during the live sporting event.

As specifically and broadly described herein, the present invention provides a hand-held electronic device for use at a venue for a live golf game, comprising:

a) a receiver for receiving wireless RF transmissions comprising a plurality of video streams conveying different views of the golf game;

b) display;

c) a user interface for selecting a video stream among said plurality of video streams to be displayed on said display;

d) The wireless RF transmission transmits information about the current weather at the venue, and the handheld electronic device is capable of informing spectators about the current weather at the venue.

Description of drawings

A detailed description of embodiments of the present invention will be provided below with reference to the following drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a block diagram of the overall system architecture;

Fig. 2 is the specific block diagram of head end (head end);

Figure 3 is a perspective view of a handheld electronic device;

4 is a block diagram of a handheld electronic device;

Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the authentication process of the handheld electronic device;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a video viewing process;

7-18 are examples of display screen views on handheld electronic devices illustrating typical information that can be communicated to a viewer;

Figure 19 is a variation of the system in which two-way communication capabilities are provided to personal handheld electronic devices;

Figure 20 is a flowchart of a process for managing locks/surveys/game data;

21 is a block diagram of a system for performing online service purchases and handheld electronic device management;

22-24 illustrate dialog boxes of user interfaces that allow viewers to enter information to perform online service purchases and handheld electronic device management.

Figure 25 is a high-level block diagram of a handheld electronic device showing components that perform authentication functions;

26 is a block diagram of a processor that generates user codes external to the handheld electronic device; and

FIG. 27 is a block diagram of the authentication processor shown in FIG. 25 .

In the figures, embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example. It is easy to understand that the specification and drawings are only for the purpose of illustration and aid in understanding, and should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention.

Detailed ways

According to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 1 shows the overall system architecture. Typically, the system indicated by reference numeral 10 is intended for use at live sporting events. Live sporting events are gatherings of many people, with hundreds or more participating in a public performance. Examples of live sporting events include, but are not limited to: motor sporting events, such as race cars, or motorcycle races; golf games; football games; soccer games; baseball games; hockey games; tennis games; horse racing; polo games; basketball competition; the Olympic Games.

System 10 delivers video, audio, and data content to spectators attending a live sporting event. For clarity, the present invention may be used in connection with a wide variety of formats for live sporting events without departing from the spirit of the invention. Therefore, even though the description provides an example in relation to a racing car, this should not be considered as a limiting feature.

As shown in FIG. 1, system 10 includes a headend 12, a transmitter 14, and a plurality of handheld electronic devices 16, each electronic device 16 being used by a viewer. Although only one electronic device 16 is shown, almost any number of handheld electronic devices 16 may be provided in most practical applications. For example, in a race car that attracts thousands of spectators, the headend 12 and transmitter 14 may support the same number of handheld electronic devices 16 .

Transmitter 14 communicates wirelessly with each handheld electronic device 16 . In the example in the figure, the communication is radio frequency (RF) communication. This RF transmission is unidirectional. In other words, the flow of information is from the transmitter 14 to each electronic device 16 . This is done in broadcast mode, where each electronic device 16 receives the same information from the transmitter 14 . In a one-way RF transmission, the handheld electronic device 16 cannot transmit information back to the transmitter 14 via the wireless RF communication link.

In a non-limiting example, the wireless RF transmission is performed on-site at the game location. "On-site" means that the antennas producing the wireless RF transmissions are located within the venue of the competition or located outside but generally close to the venue of the competition. Signal power levels are also controlled so that the handheld electronic device 16 is able to adequately receive wireless RF transmissions within the venue, but at considerable distances from the venue, the signal attenuates and no longer allows high quality reception. A distance from "quite far" means a distance on the order of kilometers.

It should be appreciated that handheld electronic devices 16 are capable of one-way wireless communication, as described above, or alternatively, they are capable of two-way wireless communication. In the case of one-way wireless communication, handheld electronic device 16 can only receive wireless information. In other words, they cannot transmit information back to transmitter 14 or another entity via the wireless communication link. It should be appreciated that while handheld electronic devices 16 may only be capable of one-way wireless communication, they may also be operable to send and receive information via a wired link, eg, via a USB connection port.

In two-way wireless communication, each electronic device 16 is capable of receiving information via the wireless communication link and is also capable of sending information via the wireless communication link. In this case, the electronic device 16 is equipped with an RF transceiver (not shown in the figure) to be able to handle the receiving and transmitting functions. The transmitted information may be transmitted to an entity of the system 10 (not shown), or to an entity belonging to an external network. Handheld electronic device 16 is operable to transmit information via a wireless RF communication link (eg, a cellular link). When using the cell link, the handheld electronic device 16 will dial a telephone number and then send information to the receiver/transceiver via the cell link. These situations will be described in detail in the specification, wherein a hand-held electronic device 16 with two-way wireless communication capability is preferred.

The two-way communication feature can be achieved by providing the same or similar bandwidth on the receive and transmit links. In most cases, however, this is unnecessary since the amount of information that needs to be sent from handheld electronic device 16 is often different than the amount of information it needs to receive. Typically, handheld electronic device 16 needs to send far less information than it receives. An embodiment using a network of cells is an example of providing sufficient bandwidth on the transmit link. By "cellular" network is meant a network that uses a series of cells having a limited geographical area in which communication services are provided. In one possible form of embodiment, the cells may be arranged to provide hand-off for moving the handheld electronic device 16 so that when the handheld electronic device 16 moves out of a cell and into a new cell, communication services are seamless. transferred from one community facility to another. The term "cell" network includes communication facilities using licensed bandwidth, such as typical cellular telephones based on Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Groupe Station Mobile (GSM) or other technologies. ), and communication facilities using unlicensed bandwidth, such as Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), which are commonly used to provide wireless access to computer networks. Another possible example of "cell" technology using unlicensed bandwidth is the so-called "Bluetooth" protocol, which provides very short-range wireless communication capabilities.

The cell link allows the electronic device 16 to send information over a relatively limited bandwidth, however, in most cases the amount of information that needs to be sent is small, so the available bandwidth should be sufficient. The receive link, on the other hand, has a larger bandwidth to provide multiple video streams and other data that should be sent to the electronic device 16 . Furthermore, cell links allow handheld electronic devices 16 to transmit information independently of each other.

The headend 12 receives content from various sources. This content may be formatted or edited prior to input to the headend 12 . In the example of FIG. 1 , a number of content sources are shown, which for the purposes of this application will be illustrated in the context of a racing car. There are a number of video input signals 31 originating from cameras arranged along the track or at locations near the track, such as pits. These cameras capture images of live sporting events and output video information that makes up the corresponding video input signal. A plurality of audio input signals 32 are also provided, where each audio input signal 32 is associated with a video input signal 31 . The audio input signal 32 conveys audio information, eg noise picked up by a microphone at the location where the associated camera is placed, or audio commentary. These audio commentaries may be the voice of a commentator picked up by a microphone or any individual present at one or more video input terminals. A separate audio input signal 32 may also be provided for the transmission of separate audio content not associated with any particular video content. These separate audio input signals 32 could be, for example, radio conversations between the driver and pit crew. These audio conversations are picked up by an array of radio scanners 15 each tuned to a particular frequency assigned to a particular racing team.

Typically, audio and video data is provided by the organization managing the live sporting event. For example, in a motorsports event, video and audio data may be provided by the National Association for Automobile Racing (NASCAR). In another non-limiting example, a separate audio input signal containing audio commentary may be provided by the television network to which the narrator is a member, such as TSN.

The content source also contains real-time data content 35 . This real-time data content 35 conveys information related to the game being viewed by the spectator. For example, real-time data content in the context of a motor vehicle competition (eg, race car) may be time and ranking information, lap times, positions of individual cars on the track, and physiological information of the drivers, among others. Typically, real-time data content may also be provided by organizations that manage live sporting events.

The video input signal 31 and the audio input signal 32 (in addition to the independent audio input signal) are edited in the content production station 20 . The content production station 20 is not part of the system and merely provides a tool in which a technician can compose or edit original content to make it more suitable for presentation to an audience. The content authoring station 20 includes a workbench that allows a technician to perform necessary content editing operations. The content production station 20 does not form part of the present invention.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the headend 12 receives seven different inputs. These inputs are broadly described as follows:

1. A first input, indicated by reference numeral 100, comprises a plurality of edited video input signals, sent in Serial Digital Interface (SDI) format.

2. The second input 200 comprises a plurality of edited audio input signals 32 associated with corresponding video input signals 31 . These audio input signals 32 are sent in analog format. For example, each audio input signal 32 may be transmitted in a separate frequency band.

3. The third input 300 comprises independent audio input signals 33 which may also be sent in analog format via independent frequency bands. As previously mentioned, the independent audio input signal 33 may convey spoken dialogue, audio commentary, etc. captured by the radio scanner 15 .

4. The fourth input 400 includes the real-time data content 35 sent to the headend 12 in digital form. In one non-limiting example, the real-time data content includes information related to live sports events, such as score and player ranking information, or other information. In the specific example of a car race, real-time information may include: current standings; laps remaining; competitors still in the race; competitors no longer in the race; current leader or fastest time of any competitor the lap of the current leader or any competitor, or otherwise; the current speed of any competitor; the revolutions per minute (RPM) of any competitor's engine; Constantly meshed gears in transmission.

In another example, the real-time data content can also convey physiological information related to any of the contestants. Also in a racing environment, physiological information could include a driver's heart rate or body temperature, among others. Live data content is usually provided by the organization supporting the live sporting event. In the case of transmitting physiological information, one possible implementation would entail providing one or more competitors with the necessary sensors to measure heart rate, body temperature, etc., and transmitting the collected information to the headend 12 so that it can be included in the In wireless RF transmission. It is not necessary to describe in detail how to collect physiological information and transmit it to the head end 12, since this is known to those skilled in the art.

5. The fifth input 500 includes authentication data received from the authentication database 502 . The authentication data 500 is digitally transmitted to the headend 12 .

6. The sixth input 600 includes auxiliary content output from the auxiliary information database 602 . Ancillary content 600 may be in the form of video, audio, or data, such as text for display to a viewer. Examples of secondary content include:

a) Advertising content. Advertising content can be delivered in the form of video, audio, or a combination of video and audio. Various examples include short clips, still images, or portions of still images displayed as overlays on other video content displayed on the viewer's display screen. Advertising content can be sent in various forms. Examples include:

(1) One possibility is to broadcast the advertising content to be played on each electronic device 16 . In this way, every viewer receives the same content. Advertisements can be sent to the handheld electronic device 16 via separate video/audio streams so that the viewer can choose when to watch the ad or not. For example, the electronic device 16 could be programmed in a manner to allow the viewer to access a particular advertising channel that continuously plays advertising content. Alternatively, advertisements can also be inserted into the video/audio stream delivering event-related content. The insertion of advertisements may be performed upon the occurrence of one or more predetermined events during the game. For example, during idle time, advertisements may be played. These advertisements may be in the form of short films that are played on the electronic device 16 for a predetermined period of time, for example 30 seconds. Another possibility is to present the advertisement as a banner, a logo or in the form of a ticker displayed on certain areas of the screen of the handheld electronic device 16 .

(2) The second possibility is to deliver advertising content according to the viewer's profile. Advertisements are divided into blocks, where each block corresponds to a viewer profile. The audience profile can be described in various ways, such as age group, gender, income level, aspect of interest, or a combination of the above, or others. For example, with profiles differentiated from each other based on gender, advertisements designed to appeal to men's interest are placed in one profile, while advertisements more likely to attract women's interest are placed in another profile. Where profiles are differentiated based on income level, advertisements for products or services will be placed in the profile based on how much they cost; more expensive products or services will be placed in profiles associated with higher income levels profile.

b) contextual content about the venue or event. In motor vehicle competitions, such as racing, background content may include information about the track or venue, such as: a map of the track and/or venue; history of the track and/or venue; a list of racing teams; Information about each team; information about the drivers and cars; an indication of where certain facilities can be found at the race location, such as restrooms, vending machines or stands, or others.

c) News. News content may include "breaking" news bulletin boards, weather information and economic information like stock exchange averages or indices, or others.

d) Environmental conditions. During certain events, such as a golf game, environmental conditions can significantly affect the way the game is played. Thus, information about environmental conditions such as: current air temperature; wind speed; wind direction; humidity; weather forecast.

e) shopping information. Shopping services are provided to spectators in order to enable spectators to purchase products or services related to live sporting events, such as T-shirts, hats, related sports equipment, and autographed products from players or contestants. Shopping information may be presented in the form of an electronic catalog of available products listing products and gear for sale. The shopping catalog may also include products from sponsors of the sporting event.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the advertising information described in paragraph a) can also be bundled into the shopping service. For example, during a sporting event, an advertising message may explain to viewers in a shopping catalog that products from the event sponsor are available for purchase. In addition, when an exciting event occurs during a live sporting event, such as the determination of the champion of the game, the advertising message can explain to the viewer that T-shirts and other items related to the champion of the game are available for purchase through the shopping catalog .

To purchase products from the shopping catalog, viewers will add selected items to a virtual "shopping cart" and then "check out."

While the electronic device 16 can only communicate wirelessly one way, viewers must physically connect the electronic device 16 (eg, via a USB port) to a purchasing terminal at the sporting event, or to their PC when they get home. The purchase information will be downloaded from the electronic device 16 to the terminal or PC which in turn sends the information to the appropriate entity.

Alternatively, when electronic device 16 is capable of two-way wireless communication, as described above, the purchase information may be immediately sent via the wireless communication link to the appropriate receiver/transmitter to complete the online purchase. Suitable receiver/transmitters may be part of system 10, or may be part of an external network.

f) Mini-games and/or surveys. During a live sporting event, the handheld electronic device 16 can present the audience with a series of questions in the form of mini-games or surveys. These can be done to gather information from viewers, or to entertain viewers during the breaks of a live sports event. The viewer will be able to answer these questions via the user interface of the electronic device 16 in a yes/no format or in a multiple choice format.

When the electronic device 16 can only communicate wirelessly one way, viewers will physically connect the device (e.g., via a USB port) to a terminal located at a live sports event, or to a PC when they get home, thereby sending their answers sent to an external device. This information can then be routed to the appropriate entity. When the question is in the form of a mini-game, the viewer is eligible to win a prize by submitting the viewer's answer to the game.

Alternatively, when the device is capable of two-way wireless communication, as described above, the answers to the mini-game or survey questions can be sent directly to the monitor results via a wireless communication link, such as a wireless RF link (e.g., a cell link). entity. Ideally, in the context of a mini-game, a large audience at a live sporting event would be able to answer these questions in real time, so that the results could be edited and sent to the audience almost immediately. Incentives generated by real-time mini-games, ie prizes awarded to contestants, will help enhance the enjoyment of spectators at live sports events. Ability to adapt minigames/surveys to the unfolding of live sporting events. For example, the mini-game is designed to generate questions related to the competitors who are leading the competition. Typically, the service data periodically sent to handheld electronic devices 16 will include information that allows each handheld electronic device 16 to display question and answer options. Responses from the audience may be collected in the manner previously described. Another option is to send the answers along with the quiz/survey so the viewer can know if he or she provided the correct answer to the question. At this point, the mini-game/survey is used to provide entertainment to the audience without requiring any centralized collection of answers.

7. Finally, the seventh input 700 includes service data. The service data is located in database 702 . The database can also be connected to the Internet for updates or planned releases that will not be provided until the events served by the system 10 start. Examples of Service Data include:

a) Data for setting the software running on each electronic device 16 (for the purpose of this description, "setting" refers to changing the software already present in the electronic device 16, or loading new software that is not in the electronic device 16 software). For example, service data may be used to load an entirely new or partial graphical user interface (GUI) to the handheld electronic device 16, thereby customizing the handheld electronic device 16 for the event. An example of a partial GUI that can be loaded is data forming a menu on the electronic device 16 . This menu provides list options to the viewer. Another GUI component may be graphical information that can be customized for the event, such as a background image on which other GUI components can be displayed to the audience. Service data can be loaded into a graphical user interface (GUI) in a number of different languages, thereby providing multilingual support to viewers using the handheld electronic device 16 . In this manner, viewers using handheld electronic devices 16 are able to select their preferred language. The choice of language may be displayed to the viewer on an initial startup screen displayed when the electronic device 16 is powered on. Specifically, the following components of the user interface can be set via service data:

i) background image information;

As mentioned above, this is graphical information related to the user interface.

ii) menu structure and appearance;

It refers to the options of a menu, specifically the hierarchy of options, the options themselves (which are the options available to the viewer from which the viewer can select actions), the graphical components of the menu, such as the arrangement of the options on the display, the color of the options and shape, etc.

iii) softkey deployment and appearance (softkeys will be discussed later);

The aesthetic components of the softkeys, such as their position on the screen, their shape, color, etc.

iv) Assignment of soft keys;

The function assigned to the corresponding softkey.

v) the deployment of icons on the screen;

The appearance and arrangement of icons on the screen.

vi) Navigation mechanism

The type of navigation mechanism that the user interface responds to, such as up, down, left, and right arrows, pointing devices, speech recognition, and so on.

b) Cartographic data that can be used by the electronic device 16 to display a map of the venue or parts thereof. The cartographic data can be used in a stand-alone manner to display a map of the venue on the display of the handheld electronic device 16, which can be zoomed in or out to a desired level of detail, or moved to show different areas of the map. Alternatively, the cartographic data can be used with a coordinate receiver, such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver capable of generating coordinates of the location of electronic device 16 . These coordinates can then be used to display a map of the game location on the display and pinpoint the location of the electronic device 16 . Mapping data can also include specific locations of interest, such as restrooms, kiosks, parking lots, and the like. When cartographic data is intended to be combined with location information generated by a GPS receiver or any other suitable device capable of generating location information, it will typically serve as a georeference. For a map that is not intended to be integrated with a device that generates location information, no such georeferencing is needed, since the map is simply treated as an image for viewing by the viewer.

c) Video game data for allowing a viewer to play one or more video games on the personal handheld electronic device 16. The video game data includes program code executed by the processor of the electronic device 16 to enable a viewer to play the video game on the display of the handheld electronic device 16 . Video games for audience entertainment have graphics that can be manipulated on a display. The video game is controlled via a user interface.

Ancillary content 600 can be obtained from a variety of sources. Advertisement, shopping, game location or information about the event can be recorded on any suitable medium and inserted in the head end 12 into the video/audio content. In particular, advertisements, shopping, game locations, or information about events may be stored in database 602 in digital form. The output of the database 602 is connected to the headend 12 so that the video/audio content in the database 602 can be inserted into the video/audio content being broadcast to the handheld electronic device 16 . The Internet is another source of auxiliary content. In particular, news services can be sourced from the Internet and inserted into the video/audio content being broadcast to the handheld electronic device 16 .

FIG. 2 shows a more detailed block diagram of the headend 12 . Headend 12 organizes data from various inputs into a structured information stream for broadcast to personal handheld electronic device 16 . The headend 12 has a video processor 40 , an audio processor 42 , a control entity 44 and a multiplexer 46 . Control entity 44 includes a computing platform that runs programs to perform various tasks. Although not shown in the figures, the computing platform includes a processor, and memory that retains program code and data processed by the processor. In addition, the computing platform has a graphical user interface (GUI) 48 that provides the technician with the ability to send commands to, or receive information from, the control entity 44 . GUI 48 may have different forms without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, GUI 48 can include a display to display information to a technician and a keyboard and mouse combination for data and command entry.

The control entity 44 receives various forms of information and passes them to the appropriate encoders for processing. In particular, all video input signals received at the first input of the control entity 44 are switched to the video processor 40 which converts the SDI format to the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG)-4 format. Each video stream is compressed to provide motion images at 30 frames per second (fps), 16-bit color, 320 x 240 pixel resolution on a handheld electronic device. The final bit rate is 384kbit/s. Since the video processor 40 needs to process multiple video input signals simultaneously, it is designed to process these input signals in parallel. A preferred form of embodiment employs a plurality of encoder stations, each assigned a video input signal 31 . Encoder stations can be based on dedicated video processing chips or purely software based, or a combination of both. Alternatively, video processor 40 may employ a single processing module with buffering capabilities to sequentially process data blocks from different video input signals 31 . With sufficiently large buffers and sufficiently fast processing modules, all video input signals 31 can be encoded without data loss.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the encoder station of video processor 40 is capable of encoding "bookmark" data into the video input signal. The "bookmark" data acts as a pointer to a particular portion of the video input signal. Typically, these pointers are included to mark portions of the video input signal that may be of interest to viewers of electronic device 16 .

For example, if the live sporting event is a race car, and one of the video feeds includes footage of a crash, an encoder that formats that video feed 31 may include a "bookmark" pointing to the location in the video feed where the crash occurred data. Thus, when the video feed is sent to the electronic device 16, the viewer is notified that there is a crash-related bookmark, and by selecting the bookmark, the electronic device 16 plays the video feed starting from the portion indicated by the "bookmark" data. In this way, the electronic device 16 will display the particular portion of the video related to the crash. This feature is especially useful when the electronic device 16 has video playback capabilities, so viewers can playback the video content and use bookmarks as a reference to find events of interest. Another example where bookmarks could be used includes a football game. When a touchdown occurs, bookmark data is placed in the video feed so viewers can easily locate highlights of the game. The person managing the headend 12 or any other person with content editing rights decides to insert bookmark data in the video input signal. In response to operator input on user interface 48, headend 12 generates bookmark data. The use of "bookmarks" will be further explained in the instructions.

Note that the audio input signal 32 associated with the corresponding video input signal 31 is also transmitted to the video processor 40 since MPEG-4 encoding also processes audio. Thus, the output of video processor 40 is MPEG-4 encoded video channels, where each channel has a video stream portion and an audio stream portion.

The independent audio input signals 33 received at the third input 300 are passed to an audio processor 42 which will encode them into Moving Picture Experts Group Audio Layer 3 (MP3) format. Since MP3 encoded video input signals 31 carry sound information, they can be compressed at a data rate of 8 kbit/s while maintaining sufficient quality. As in video processor 40, audio processor 42 employs a series of audio encoding stations, each dedicated to a given audio input signal (from the second and third inputs). Alternatively, audio processor 42 may employ a single, fast enough, buffer-capable encoding module to sequentially process data blocks from all audio input signals 32 .

As will be explained in more detail further down in the description, the encoding station is capable of encoding each audio input signal such that transmitter 14 and/or handheld electronic device 16 can detect whether the input signal is valid or invalid based on the encoding. A valid audio stream is one that conveys some form of information that a viewer can understand. Conversely, an invalid audio stream refers to a stream that does not convey such information, such as low-intensity noise, eg, silence. In particular, the encoding station can be provided with logic to detect an activity level in the signal in an attempt to identify whether the signal is carrying valid speech or sound or just low intensity noise. The rules of logic that allow distinguishing between active audio and silence are well known and need not be described in detail.

A specific possibility is to monitor the signal level or the level of energy transmitted by this signal and use a threshold as a decision point. Any signal below the threshold is considered low-intensity noise, such as silence, while all above the threshold is valid audio information, such as speech. The status of the audio stream, in other words, silent or active audio information, may be communicated to the handheld electronic device 16 by inserting a flag or any other form of marking in the binary stream that is wirelessly broadcast to the handheld electronic device 16 . When flags are used, one binary value represents silence and the other binary value represents active speech. In addition to making a determination based on the state of the audio stream, the observed state can also be used to simply stop the encoding process when silence is encountered, and then resume the encoding process when valid speech is produced.

The control entity 44 performs the processing of the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh inputs referred to as real-time data, authentication data, auxiliary content and service data. The purpose of this process is to package this data so that it can be sent to the personal handheld electronic device 16 .

The outputs of the control entity 44, video and audio processors 40 and 42 are sent to a multiplexer 46 which combines the data into a common data stream. This data stream is then transmitted to a transmitter 14 which generates a wireless RF transmission, thereby broadcasting the information to a personal handheld electronic device 16 . Transmitter 14 may be designed to broadcast the entire payload to handheld electronic device 16 using a single 6 MHz contiguous channel bandwidth. The table below provides examples of payloads.

illustrate Required unit bit rate Number of input signals total bit rate Live video input signal 31, 320×240 pixels, 16-bit color, 30FPS (MPEG4) Each 384Kbit/s 10 3.84Mbit/s Audio input signal 32 (synchronized with video input signal-MP3) Each 28.8Kbit/s 10 288Kbit/s Independent voice-level compressed audio input signal 33 (MP3) Each 8Kbit/s 48 384Kbit/s Real-time data 35-high priority refresh Each 480K bits/ 1 480K bits/

New 6,000 ASCII characters (or equivalent data payload) Second Second Auxiliary content and service data (several priority refresh levels) 1Mbit/s 1 1Mbit/s authentication data 256 bits/30 seconds 50,000 425Kbit/s idle ≈1Mbit/s all payloads 7.5M bits

The data stream broadcast from transmitter 14 to personal handheld electronic device 16 is organized into digital packets. In a specific, non-limiting embodiment, three types of packets are sent. The first type includes video information. Essentially, the MPEG-4 stream is encapsulated and sent. The video information packet includes a header containing relevant data to allow the electronic device 16 to properly decode and process the video information packet. Advantageously, error detection and correction data are also included in the header for more reliable transmission. The second packet type includes independent audio information. The third packet type includes the remaining payload, such as auxiliary information and real and service type data. As with the first packet type, the second and third packet types include identification data in the header to inform the handheld electronic device 16 of what type of content the packet contains so that the content can be properly processed.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the electronic device 16 . The electronic device 16 is a handheld device designed to feel comfortable in the hands of the viewer. It includes a keyboard 800 with the necessary keys to control the operation of the electronic device 16 . Above the keyboard 800 there is a display section in which a display screen 802 is placed.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of electronic device 16 . Electronic device 16 is a computer-based device that receives information sent by transmitter 14 . Video information is displayed on the display screen 802 while audio information is played through suitable speakers/earphones 124 . The viewer can control the selection of the video channel, among other operations. By a video channel on an electronic device 16, it means a combination of a video stream and an associated audio stream.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the electronic device 16 has a processor 100 that executes software that controls various functions of the electronic device 16 . Generally, software has 4 main layers called:

·Configuration layer

This configuration layer allows the viewer or manufacturer to set the characteristics of the electronic device 16, such as enable or disable options, language, time, password, etc.

·GUI layer

In the examples illustrated in this specification, the GUI includes graphics and navigation layers that allow the viewer to access certain functions of the electronic device 16 . Typically, a GUI presents the viewer with options on a display screen, such as a menu that the viewer can navigate to access desired features. As previously mentioned, the service data portion of the payload broadcast by the transmitter 14 includes information defining how the graphics and navigation layers are displayed to the viewer. An example of the type of information that can be transmitted in the service data section, which belongs to the GUI, is given below for setting the GUI to use:

i. Background Image - An image displayed on a display screen and overlaid with other types of information (eg menu selections). For example, the background may have a visual theme related to the event or location of the game. The background image can change with different events or venues.

ii. Menu Selection - Defines the level of options offered to the viewer. For example, for a certain event, 10 video channels may be selected, while for other events, there may be fewer or more channels.

iii. Menu Appearance and Details—Visual appearance and cues related to various menu selections. For example, different video channels may have different names or identifiers associated with them, such as the video channel at the pits, the video channel from the camera in Driver XYZ's car, or the video channel from the left corner of the track.

iv. Soft Key Assignment - Referring briefly to Figure 3, the handheld electronic device has function keys 810 (F1, F2, F3 and F4). The user interface can assign different functions to each physical key F1, F2, F3 or F4. In a specific, non-limiting embodiment, the current assignment of a key is displayed in the display 802 directly above the associated physical key (F1, F2, F3 or F4).

v. Softkey Arrangement and Appearance - The aesthetic composition of the softkeys, such as their location on the display screen, their shape, color, etc.

vi. Deployment of Icons on Display - Appearance and arrangement of icons on display screen.

vii. Navigation Mechanism—The type of navigation mechanism to which the user interface responds, such as up, down, left, and right arrows, pointing devices, voice recognition, etc.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the data used to set up the GUI in the electronic device 16 is sent wirelessly from the transmitter 14, which is used to send wireless RF transmissions carrying the payload. In one possible embodiment, the data for implementing the GUI settings are sent during an operating window earlier than the start of the video streaming. For example, in the context of a motor vehicle race, such as a racing car, this operation is performed before the race starts. In the second example, data for setting up the GUI is sent along with other payloads. As far as the electronic device 16 is concerned, after the data for configuring the GUI is received, it is loaded so that the new GUI can be presented to the viewer. When an authentication process is required to allow the electronic device 16 to access the video stream - this will be explained later - the actual loading of the new GUI will be postponed until the authentication has been completed.

· Baseline code

In a specific, non-limiting embodiment, a LINUX kernel is used to provide common core services such as memory management, task scheduling, and user interface, among others.

·Basic firmware

Software embedded in hardware to control it. For example, algorithms to decode video and audio information broadcast by transmitters may be implemented in hardware.

Software is stored in the general-purpose memory 102 . Typically, the memory 102 includes a read only memory (ROM) portion containing data to be permanently retained, such as program code executed by the processor 100 . In addition, the memory 102 also includes a Random Access Memory (RAM) section that temporarily stores processed data. Memory 102 may be implemented as a single unit, eg, as a semiconductor-based module, or may include a combination of semiconductor-based modules and mass storage devices, such as hard disk drives.

A Universal Serial Bus 104 (USB) port is provided to allow the electronic device 16 to connect to external devices. In particular, the USB port 104 allows the electronic device 16 to be connected to a computer that can download information from or upload data to the electronic device 16 . For example, download processing can be used when it is desired to transfer data stored in the memory 102 to an external computer. Likewise, use the upload process to do the opposite. This is useful, for example, where it is desired to change the program running the electronic device 16 by installing one or more updates. When the electronic device 16 is powered on, the USB port 104 requires the appropriate drivers, which are loaded and run by the processor 100 .

A removable storage medium reader/writer 106 is provided to allow the electronic device 16 to read and write data on a removable storage medium, such as a memory card. Using this feature can permanently record the content related to the event sent to the electronic device 16 . This function will be described in more detail later.

As previously described, keypad 800 allows the viewer to control the operation of electronic device 16 . The number and type of keys making up keypad 800 is a matter of choice based on the particular application. As a possible variation, a touch screen or voice recognition capability could be used in place of, or in combination with, keypad 800 to form a means for entry of commands and data by a viewer.

The electronic device 16 has a wireless RF receiver and demodulator 110 for sensing the wireless RF transmission, demodulating it and sending it to the data bus 112 as properly organized and formatted data blocks. Data sent over data bus 112 is available to memory 102 , processor 100 , USB port 104 , and removable storage media reader/writer 106 . In a particular embodiment, the wireless RF receiver and demodulator 110 operates in the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) range, specifically in the sub-range of 470 MHz to 806 MHz. A contiguous bandwidth of 6 MHz (equal to one regular TV channel) is sufficient for sending the aforementioned exemplary payload. Alternatively, the transmission can also be in the 2.5GHz range.

A video decoder 114 is provided to perform decoding of the video channel received from the wireless RF receiver and demodulator 110 . For the sake of clarity, it must be mentioned that although this specification considers decoder 114 to be a "video" decoder, it may also perform audio decoding on audio information associated with the video stream. The video decoder 114 has a memory 27 in the form of a buffer which will store undecoded video/audio information representing a period of video channel play. For example, the size of the buffer can be chosen so that it can store 5 minutes of video channel images for each channel. In use, undecoded video/audio information received from wireless RF receiver and demodulator 110 is sent via data bus 112 to video decoder 114 . The video decoder 114 decodes the video/audio information and then transmits it to the display screen 802 for viewing by the viewer. Simultaneously, undecoded video/audio information is transferred to the storage buffer 27 which starts to fill. When the storage buffer 27 has been completely filled, it starts to overflow, so that only the last 5 minutes of video channel images are kept. The same operation is performed for each video channel except that only the video channel the viewer wants to watch is decoded and transmitted to the display screen 802 . Accordingly, memory buffer 27 is functionally segmented into regions, each region being associated with a video channel.

The audio stream associated with the video stream being viewed is decoded, converted to analog format, amplified, and transmitted to speakers/headphones 124 so that the viewer can watch the video stream on the display screen 802 and hear the audio at the same time.

The ability to retain the last 5 minutes of video channel footage provides the possibility of interest to the viewer. For example, the viewer can manipulate the data in the storage buffer 27 to replay a certain video channel content, perform fast-forward operations, rewind operations, and copy it to the storage medium in the removable storage medium reader/writer 106. , record the video/audio information in the memory buffer 27 in a part or whole content. In this way, the video/audio information that the audience is interested in can be permanently stored. Also, by switching channels and then "rewinding" the contents of memory buffer 27 associated with the newly selected channel, the viewer can view any performances that may have been missed.

Additionally, viewers can create "bookmarks" to identify portions of the video feed that they may wish to re-watch. A "bookmark" marks a position in the video stream. For example, a "bookmark" may be in the form of a pointer to a specific address of a video input signal stored in a buffer or stored in the storage medium reader/writer 106 . When a bookmark is accessed, it is sufficient to play the video content starting from the address pointed to by the bookmark.

Viewers create such "bookmarks" by selecting options provided by one of the GUI menus of the user interface. The viewer navigates the menu by operating the keys on the keyboard. These keys may be arrow keys or any other suitable keys. When a selection has been made, the selection or option may be activated by pressing any suitable key, such as an "enter" key.

When a viewer watches a live video channel and sees a performance of interest to them, a "bookmark" can be created. Create a bookmark by entering the necessary commands. During playback, viewers can quickly identify video images of interest by using bookmarks. Bookmarks are also useful when a viewer wants to copy some video content on a removable storage medium in the reader/writer 106 . If the bookmark points to the video content being copied, the bookmark is also copied so that the identification of the event of interest is also retained in the copy.

The ability for viewers to create bookmarks may be used instead of or in conjunction with bookmark generation at the headend 12 and communicated in wireless RF transmissions. These bookmarks function in the same manner as bookmarks created by viewers. When data representing a bookmark is observed in the information transmitted in the wireless RF transmission, a bookmark is created and stored with the remaining bookmarks.

Once created, a "bookmark" or pointer is stored in the memory 102 of the electronic device 16 so that it can be accessed by the processor 100 . Whenever the viewer wants to rewatch the "bookmarked" portion of the video feed, the handheld electronic device software will cause the video decoder 114 to retrieve the video feed pointed to by the "bookmark" and start playing the video feed from that point . The video input signal is stored in the video memory 27 or the storage medium reader/writer 106 as described above. When the video input signal is only stored in the video memory 27, the video memory 27 acts as a circular buffer that replaces the old video input signal with the most recent video input signal, once the "bookmarked" portion of the video input signal is updated When replaced by video input signals, video decoder 114 cannot access those "bookmarked" video input signals. Thus, when the viewer wishes to keep the "bookmarked" video input longer than the storage buffer 27 allows (eg, 5 minutes), the viewer must transfer that portion of the video input to the storage medium reader/writer 106 in.

The ability to create "bookmarks" provides viewers with the ability to quickly return to portions of video information that they may wish to revisit. As noted above, "bookmarks" may not only be created by the viewer, but may also be provided directly from the transmitter 14 to the electronic device 16 . These "bookmarks" are presented to the viewer so that if the viewer wishes to see the portion of video information related to a particular bookmark, they can easily do so. Typically, the "bookmarks" provided from the transmitter 14 to the handheld electronic device 16 are related to exciting events that occurred during the live sporting event, such as a car crash, a car crossing the finish line, or any other that the viewer may have missed and would like to re-watch event.

It is generally considered suitable to use the memory buffer 27 in the form of a semiconductor based cell. In applications requiring large storage capabilities for storing large amounts of video content, storage devices such as hard drives may be used.

Display 802 may be of any suitable type. One possibility is to utilize a 3.5-inch diagonal air-transflective (transrelfective) thin-film-transistor (TFT) display that can provide images with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels and have a 16-bit color depth. Obviously, other display types may be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. Optionally, an illumination system (not shown) may be provided to electronic device 16 using light emitting diodes (LEDs) for viewing in low light level conditions.

Audio decoder 120 works somewhat similarly to video decoder 114 . In particular, the audio decoder 120 is associated with the audio storage buffer 29 and it processes the audio stream conveying audio information from the independent audio input signal 32 (independent audio stream). These separate audio streams are stored in the audio storage buffer 29 in a compressed format, thereby recording the received audio content for a predetermined period of time.

By storing audio content received by the electronic device 16 for a period of time determined by the capacity of the audio storage buffer 29, the viewer is provided with the ability to "replay" the audio content, perform "fast forward", "rewind", and bookmark ability. In addition, the audio information in the audio storage buffer 29 can be recorded in part or in whole by copying the content to the storage medium in the removable storage medium reader/writer 106 . As mentioned above, it is also possible to create bookmarks for audio messages.

The function of the electronic device 16 will now be described in detail.

1. Handheld electronic device certification

The flow chart in Figure 5 shows the registration process for a generic electronic device 16, which also includes an authentication feature. When a viewer purchases an electronic device 16 , the seller will record the unique identifier of the electronic device 16 . The identifier can be any code, such as a number or a string, assigned to the electronic device 16 so that it can be distinguished from other handheld electronic devices 16 . Typically, the identifier is a binary code permanently stored in the handheld electronic device 16 and cannot be changed. The binary code is readily accessible to the processor 100 when the handheld electronic device 16 is in use. For convenience, the unique identifier may be placed on a removable label located on the electronic device 16 or on the box in which the device is shipped by the manufacturer. The identifier may be printed as a machine (eg, barcode reader) readable barcode, displayed as alphanumeric characters, or both. In this way, the clerk making the transaction can easily record the identifier without having to retrieve it from the electronic device 16 .

In a next step, once the identifier has been recorded, the seller typically creates a user account in the database. Another option is to allow the user to create his/her account online. This choice will be discussed later. The user account will allow the user to purchase content transfers to the electronic device 16 . In the example depicted in FIG. 5, a user purchases content access based on an event. That is, for each event that the user wishes to participate in, the user will pay and provide service delivery only for that event. Clearly, other options exist. For example, a user may self-purchase access to content based on a subscription, thereby accessing content for all events during a predetermined time period during that time period. Additionally, the account can be designed to allow different levels of service, such as Basic or Premium. For example, a high-level service provides users with features that are not available at the basic level.

Continuing with the example above, assume that the user now wishes to access content on electronic device 16 regarding a certain live sporting event in which the user plans to participate. Subsequently, the user pays the fee to his account. The fee may be delivered in person at a kiosk or anywhere else authorized to receive payment. Advantageously, electronic means of payment can be used, such as via the Internet. In this way, the user logs on to the service provider's Internet site, pays by credit card or otherwise. Typically, the payment process will involve selecting the event or group of events for which content is desired to be accessed, the level of service, if applicable, and then paying the fee. When the fee has been paid and validated, the entry is automatically recorded in the user's account and indicates that the electronic device 16 designated for the account has enabled access to the content. Detailed examples of online service delivery purchases are provided in subsequent descriptions.

During the event, before starting to broadcast the content to the personal handheld electronic devices 16, the database 502 is connected to the service provider's network via the Internet, so that the identification of all handheld electronic devices 16 that have paid for the content delivery is recorded in the database 502 symbol. Once this is done, the identifiers of all electronic devices 16 in the database 502 are sent to the headend 12 so that they are all included in the broadcast by the transmitter 14 . Specifically, the identifier block is broadcast periodically, eg, every minute, which allows the personal handheld electronic device 16 to perform the authentication process at any time.

Each electronic device 16 is designed to be inoperable unless it is electronically unlocked. When power is applied to the electronic device 16, it automatically enters the locked mode. During the locked mode, the electronic device 16 will capture the wireless RF transmission and decode the information, thereby extracting the identifier block being sent. In this example, the identifier block constitutes authentication data that determines whether a particular electronic device 16 is permitted to receive service. Once the identifier block has been extracted from the transmission, the electronic device 16 will compare each code in the identifier block with the electronic device 16 identifier. If there is a match, the electronic device 16 enters an unlocked mode and can adequately receive the content being broadcast. However, if a mismatch is found after a period of time, say 2 minutes, the electronic device 16 is automatically turned off.

The method explained above is an easy way to ensure that content is delivered only to viewers who have paid, as there is no need to encrypt the video/audio content. Furthermore, wirelessly transmitting authentication information - such as an identifier block - to the personal handheld electronic device 16 is simple from a logistical standpoint.

For enhanced security, the identifier block being transmitted may be encrypted using any suitable encryption technique. Therefore, the electronic device 16 should be provided with the ability to decrypt the identifier block using a suitable key.

Another option is to encrypt the entire transmission and ask the electronic device 16 to decrypt it. In this implementation, encryption constitutes the authentication data carried by the wireless RF transmissions processed by the personal handheld electronic device 16 . The viewer may be required to enter a decryption key or password to allow electronic device 16 to be unlocked. In this case, the decryption key may be provided to the viewer after payment for the service. When the viewer powers up the hand-held electronic device 16, the viewer enters the key and uses that key to decrypt.

If encryption or decryption is required, this function can be implemented on the electronic device 16 by suitable software or hardware, both of which are known in the art.

The authentication described earlier can be altered to provide service level access control. As will be discussed later, the handheld electronic device 16 may be designed in such a way that different levels or classes of service are delivered to the viewer. For example, the various levels may be distinguished on the basis of content. A basic level of service may include basic content, eg, a limited number of video channels. Higher level services may contain more video channels and background information or other content. The reader will understand that the differentiating characteristics of the different service levels will vary depending on the application targeted. Generally, the higher the service level, the richer the content provided to the audience.

For viewers, service levels may be offered at different prices. More specifically, the basic level of service is likely to be the least expensive, while moving to higher levels of service with more content options will increase costs for viewers.

It is desirable to provide the handheld electronic device 16 with an authentication function that would allow the handheld electronic device 16 to provide the viewer with access to that level of service for which the viewer has paid, thereby preventing unauthorized access to content or service levels not purchased by wireless RF transmissions .

One possible option is to create a different list of identifiers for each level of service offered when a viewer purchases a service. It is assumed that three service levels, namely service level A, service level B, and service level C, are provided. Service level A is the basic and cheapest. Service level B is an intermediate level and includes features not offered in service level A. For example, more video channels and a limited amount of background information. Service level C is the highest level and provides the richest content, ie the most channels and the most background information. When a viewer is purchasing a service, create a list of three different electronic identifiers, one for those who have purchased service level A, one for those who have purchased service level B, and one for service level C Those ones.

In this example, wireless RF transmissions are structured in such a way that the distinction between different service classes is preserved. For example, the core block of the frame carries the content of service class A - basic level -. The first additional block of the frame carries additional content added to service class A to upgrade to service class B. Finally, the second additional block of the frame carries the additional content added to service class B to upgrade to service class C. In this case, service level C contains the content of service level B and service level A, and service level B contains the content of service level A.

Authentication information sent to handheld electronic device 16 may also be organized into groups. The first group contains a list of identifiers of handheld electronic devices 16 that have purchased Class A service, one group has a list of identifiers of handheld electronic devices 16 that have purchased Class B service, and one group has a list of identifiers of handheld electronic devices 16 that have purchased Class C service. A list of identifiers for electronic devices 16 .

When the handheld electronic device 16 picks up a wireless RF transmission, it will attempt to find its own electronic identifier in any of these lists, as previously described. If the identifier is not found in any of these lists, then the handheld electronic device 16 will not unlock itself and the viewer will not be able to access the content. However, if the handheld electronic device 16 finds its identifier in any of these lists, it will unlock itself. If the identifier is found in the list for service A, the viewer will only be able to watch the content carried in the core block of the frame, which core block is associated with service class A. Access to frames associated with other service classes will not be allowed. Handheld electronic device 16 exercises control to determine which portion of the wireless transmission may be provided to the viewer. Since the different blocks of the frame are distinct from each other and are associated with respective groups of identifiers, the determination of the group to which the identifier of the handheld electronic device 16 belongs allows control of access to the relevant blocks of the frame holding the content. If the identifiers are within the group associated with the core block of the frame, only those will be processed and validated, and the viewer will only have access to Class A services. If the identifier of the handheld electronic device 16 is in the group associated with the first additional block of the frame, only the core block and that additional block are processed, effectively restricting access to Class B content. Finally, if the identifier of the handheld electronic device 16 is in the group associated with the second additional block of the frame, full access to the entire content is given.

The examples of authentication features described above are relatively simple to implement. However, a complete list of electronic identifiers of handheld electronic devices 16 that are permitted to receive content needs to be carried in the wireless RF transmission. If a large number of handheld electronic devices are served by wireless RF transmission, the number of electronic tags that need to be transmitted may become too large to be practical.

Figures 25 to 27 illustrate a variation in which the complete list of handheld electronic devices 16 that are permitted to access content via wireless RF transmission is not necessarily included in the wireless RF transmitted authentication information. Figure 25 shows a high-level block diagram of a handheld electronic device 16 showing storage areas (including memory 102, volatile or non-volatile, in addition to any other storage areas). The non-volatile portion of this memory area holds the aforementioned electronic identifier. In this figure, this electronic identifier is indicated by reference numeral 1002 .

The handheld electronic device 16 is also provided with a machine-readable barcode 1000 on its packaging, such as with a barcode reader (not shown). The barcode is a representation of the electronic identifier 1002 . Note that a label with a barcode may also contain another representation of the electronic identifier 1002, for example, in human-readable alphanumeric characters.

A barcode 1000 other than the electronic identifier 1002 may also be used on the packaging of the handheld electronic device 16 . In other words, electronic identifier 1002 and barcode 1000 are different codes. Some embodiments of the authentication process to be described later require access to the electronic identifier 1002 via the barcode 1000 . In embodiments where electronic identifier 1002 and barcode 1000 are the same code, reading barcode 1000 will generate the electronic identifier. However, when they are different codes, a mapping mechanism can be used to relate one to the other. The mapping mechanism may be a database storing all electronic identifiers 1002 and corresponding barcodes 1000 . When it is necessary to obtain the electronic identifier 1002 of a certain handheld electronic device 16 , the barcode 1000 is read and the database is searched to obtain the corresponding electronic identifier 1002 .

The handheld electronic device 16 also includes an authentication processor 1006 . The authentication processor 1006 is designed to handle authentication-related tasks, such as outputting an electronic identifier 1002 to an external device (which will be described later), processing user codes input by viewers and authentication information contained in wireless RF transmissions, thereby electronically Unlocking the handheld electronic device 16 allows the viewer to gain access to the content in the wireless RF transmission. The authentication processor 1006 can be implemented in software, but it can also be implemented in hardware through a dedicated circuit. Another option is to combine software and hardware.

When a viewer wishes to purchase a service delivery for the handheld electronic device 16, the viewer completes the transaction by interacting with an external entity that generates the user code. During a live event, viewers enter a previously provided user code via the user interface. Authentication processor 1006 performs validation of user code information provided by the viewer and issues an authentication decision. The authentication decision is conveyed in any suitable internal signal which will be used to allow the viewer to gain access to the content in the wireless RF signal if the user code is the correct code, or to deny such access if the user code is the wrong code. For example, the signal conveying the authentication decision can be designed to process the content of the wireless RF transmission when the authentication decision confirms the user code so that it can be seen and/or heard by the viewer. On the other hand, when the authentication decides not to validate the user code, the internal signal is designed to prevent the content from being provided to the viewer. Authentication decisions issued by authentication processor 1006 may also be designed to address multiple service levels. In this case, the authentication decision indicates which level of service, if any, the handheld electronic device 16 is eligible for.

Figure 26 shows a block diagram of an external entity. More specifically, the external entity has a user code generator 1008 that receives as input the electronic identifier 1002 and the event code. User code generator 1008 processes these inputs by any suitable function that generates user code. The function takes electronic identifiers and event codes as parameters and performs mathematical processing on them. User code is the result of mathematical processing. The mathematical manipulation itself is not critical to the invention and many different mathematical functions can be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. A desirable property of mathematical processing is that it should be irreversible. Irreversibility means that the knowledge of the user code cannot reproduce the electronic identifier 1002, neither can the game code, nor can the mathematical function used to generate the user code based on these two inputs.

For example, user code generator 1008 can be implemented at a ticket booth for a live sporting event that a spectator plans to attend. The attendant at the ticket booth receives payment from the spectator, which may depend on the desired level of service. Then, the attendant places a reader (such as an infrared reader) close to the handheld electronic device 16 to interact with the infrared port (not shown in FIGS. 25 to 27 ) on the handheld electronic device 16 . The infrared reader establishes communication with the handheld electronic device 16 and the authentication processor 1006 issues the electronic identifier 1002 via the infrared link. The infrared link is indicated in FIG. 25 by a large arrow 1007 . Alternatively, communication between the handheld electronic device 16 and the reader may be established through the use of a wired connection, such as a USB port, or any other suitable structure.

In addition to providing the user code generator 1008 with the event code, the user code generator 1008 is also provided with an electronic identifier. Typically, the same event code is used for each handheld electronic device 16 that has purchased the service. The event code is the code that specifies the event for which the service has been purchased, while the electronic identifier is the code that distinguishes one handheld electronic device 16 from another. In one particular embodiment, the event code typically varies from event to event. For example, in a motorsports application, different race codes would belong to different races during a given year's season.

The user code generator 1008 will process the two input terms according to the desired mathematical irreversible function and output the user code. In this particular example, the mathematical process is a series of mathematical operations on the two inputs, resulting in a user code that is smaller than (fewer digits) the event code and the electronic identifier 1002 . Send user codes to viewers by any convenient means. It can be printed eg on a ticket and handed over to the audience. Typically, this code is unique to each handheld electronic device 16 .

Note that the user code generator 1008 that generates user codes for different handheld electronic devices 16 may also be implemented without establishing electronic communication with the handheld electronic device 16 . This is accomplished by a barcode reader reading the barcode 1000 on the packaging of each handheld electronic device 16 . If the barcode 1000 is identical to the electronic identifier 1002, the processing performed by the user code generator 1008 may be implemented as previously described. Otherwise, if the barcode 1000 is different from the electronic identifier 1002, a database (not shown) mapping the barcode 1000 to the electronic identifier 1002 of a set of handheld electronic devices 16 is searched to extract the electronic identifier corresponding to the barcode 1000 read character 1002.

When a spectator enters the stadium, the spectator turns on the handheld electronic device 16 and the authentication processor 1006 asks him to provide a user code. For example, the request may be a prompt to enter a user code displayed on the display 802 of the handheld electronic device 16 (assuming the system requires manual entry of the user code). The viewer enters the user code printed on the ticket via the user interface of the handheld electronic device 16 . The authentication processor 1006, which has been provided with the electronic identifier 1002 and the event code communicated in the wireless RF transmission, processes the electronic identifier 1002 and the event code according to the same mathematical functions utilized by the user code generator 1008. If the output of this process issues a code that matches the user code entered by the viewer, the authentication processor 1008 issues an authentication decision allowing access to the content in the wireless RF transmission. Otherwise, access to the content is denied.

One possibility is to electronically transmit the user code to the handheld electronic device 16 immediately after the electronic identifier 1002 is transmitted to the user code generator 1008 . Once the user code generator 1008 has calculated the user code, the code is transmitted to the authentication processor 1006 via the communication link 1007 . This option eliminates the need for the viewer to manually enter a user code for confirmation. The electronic transaction 1007 automatically unlocks the handheld electronic device for use at the live sports event without requiring the viewer to enter any user code.

In one possible variation, spectators are provided with user codes via an online purchase setup that can be created at any time prior to the start of the live event. The principle of such an arrangement will be described later. In simple terms, a viewer accesses the Internet via a personal computer or any other communication device, and connects to an online purchasing website that provides a delivery service. The server hosting the website implements the user code generator and calculates the user code. The generated user code is communicated to the user, for example by displaying it on the screen of a personal computer, by email to a designated email address, or by any other suitable means. The user will store the user code and enter it in the handheld electronic device 16 during the live event.

Another possible option that can be considered is to transmit the event code (as in the previous embodiment) in a wireless RF transmission, as well as all user codes of the handheld electronic devices 16 that have purchased the service. This option requires calculating a user code for each hand-held electronic device 16 that purchases the service (for example at a point of purchase of the service), and storing all user codes to form a database. During live broadcasting of sporting events, the contents of the database are periodically broadcast along with the event codes. Each handheld electronic device 16 at the live sporting event receives the wireless RF transmission and extracts the game code. The authentication processor 1006 then uses the event code to calculate a user code. This user code is then checked against a set of user codes contained in the wireless RF transmission. If a match is found, the authentication processor 1006 issues an authentication decision allowing the handheld electronic device 16 to access the video/audio content in the wireless RF transmission. If no match is found, the handheld electronic device 16 remains locked.

The various embodiments described above using user codes for authentication purposes are also applicable to multi-service level arrangements. In multiple service level systems, viewers are provided with different user codes based on the particular service level purchased. The wireless RF transmission has content structured to differentiate between service levels, and each service level is associated with different authentication information. The authentication information is a composite event code including a plurality of service level codes different from each other between service levels. Therefore, in this example, the authentication information will contain as many service level codes as there are different service levels. In use, the authentication processor 1008 will attempt to match the user code provided by the spectator with the composite event code. Specifically, when a match is established between the user code and any of the service level codes, the authentication processor 1008 will issue an authentication decision to unlock the handheld electronic device 16, but the authentication decision will control access to the content, as previously discussed, Viewers are thus only able to gain access to the level of service purchased.

Note that during the live broadcast of an event, the institution or organization controlling the delivery of services to viewers generates the event code (unique or composite in a multi-level approach). These codes may be randomly generated for each new event.

2. Video streaming reception and related functions.

Assuming that the authentication process described above has been successfully passed, the graphics and navigation layers are loaded, and a user interface is displayed on the display screen 802 that allows the viewer to access different functions. Typically, the user interface presents a menu displaying a list of choices. The viewer navigates the menu by operating the keys on the keyboard. These keys may be arrow keys or any other suitable keys. When a selection has been made, the selection or option is activated by pressing any suitable key, such as an "enter" key.

Depending on the desired application, the menu options presented to the viewer can vary widely. The description provided below will illustrate a few possible examples.

• Watch Video Channel - The viewer will access this selection, and activate it. Design the menu hierarchy to present a list of possible video channels viewers can watch on the screen. The viewer selects which channel he or she wishes by pressing the appropriate selection key, and confirms the selection by pressing the "enter" key. At this point, the handheld electronic device software will instruct the video decoder 114 to begin decoding the appropriate channel. The decoded video information is transmitted to the screen and displayed to the audience. Simultaneously, the audio output is played through speaker/headphone 124 .

At any time, the viewer can invoke the graphical interface to stop video viewing or switch to a different video channel.

An option that may also be considered is to watch thumbnails of the video channels on the screen, allowing the viewer to choose the one he or she finds most interesting. Specifically, a viewer invokes the thumbnail option on the GUI, and as a result he/she sees multiple thumbnails on the screen, each associated with a given video channel. Depending on the desired application, the number of thumbnails can vary. In one possible example, four thumbnails are given, each associated with a video channel, so that each thumbnail occupies a quarter of the screen space. 10 video channels would require two and a half thumbnail pages for viewers to view. By pressing the appropriate key on keyboard 108, the viewer can switch from one thumbnail page to another. When a viewer wants to watch the video channel from a certain thumbnail, he/she selects that thumbnail to enlarge the image and make it occupy the entire screen.

The thumbnail function requires the video decoder 114 to process multiple video channels simultaneously. This is done so that the resolution is reduced sufficiently to reduce each image to a portion that fits in the thumbnail space. When displaying 4 thumbnails on the screen, the resolution of each video input 31 is reduced to a quarter.

When viewing a thumbnail page, there are different options in processing the audio stream associated with the corresponding video input signal. First, audio streams may be interrupted all together, since each page is associated with multiple audio streams. Audio streaming is activated if and only if the viewer has chosen to watch a video channel on the full screen. In a possible variant, the viewer is offered the option of highlighted thumbnails when he/she browses among them by pressing the select key on the keyboard 108 . When a thumbnail is highlighted, the audio stream associated with a particular video stream is decoded and sent to the audio output. Once a thumbnail is highlighted, it can be selected and then expanded to the full screen by pressing any appropriate key (such as an "enter" key).

In addition to a purely manual method of selecting a video channel for viewing, the system can be designed to perform some automatic video channel switching based on some specific parameters. This will be explained in more detail later.

• Data Overlay - The viewer may choose to view data content overlaid on the screen of the electronic device 16 . In a first example, in a non-limiting example, the real-time data content includes information related to a live sporting event, such as score and player ranking information, and the like. In the specific example of a motorsports event, real-time information could include current standings, laps remaining, competitors still in the race, competitors no longer in the race, current leader or fastest lap of any competitor, current lead The average speed of the competitor or any competitor, etc. In another example, the real-time data content can also convey physiological information related to any contestant. Also in the context of racing, physiological information may include a driver's heart rate or his body temperature, among others. Live data content is usually provided from the institution supporting the live sporting event. In the case of transmitting physiological information, it is necessary to provide one or more competitors with the necessary sensors to measure heart rate, body temperature, etc., and transmit the collected information to the head end 12 so that it can be included in the wireless RF transmission. It is not necessary to detail how the physiological information is collected and transmitted to the front end 12, as this is well known to those skilled in the art.

When the data is not specific to a video channel, it can be organized as a sort of "ticker" type of band that is displayed at any appropriate location on the screen and continually loops over time and score information is updated in real time . In this example, the same information is seen on each video channel.

In the second example, associated data content is provided for each video channel. Video channel specific data content may include name and other identifying information related to the team or race car being viewed, current standings, best lap times, and the like. When the amount of displayed information is relatively small, it can be displayed in the form of a static overlay compared to the "automatic cycle mark" method. Change the data in the static overlay form only when an update is required.

In order to provide as much flexibility as possible, multiple options are presented on the screen, allowing the viewer to see additional information of interest. Specifically, the screen displays tabs for area suggestions selected by pressing the select key on the keyboard 108 . Each tab provides access to lower-level additional information that will appear at the data overlay. This additional information may include information about the driver's career, information about the driver's vehicle, promotional information about the driver's team or gear, etc.

For video channel specific data content it is useful to organize the data content which is being broadcast in such a way as to create a logical association with the corresponding video input signal 31 . For example, data contained in data packets being broadcast may be grouped into blocks, each block being associated with a given video channel. Additional blocks corresponding to data shared by all video channels or a subset of video channels may be provided.

When this association is created, the video channel specific data content is automatically displayed in the overlay as soon as that video channel is selected for viewing.

The flowchart in Figure 6 summarizes the process of video viewing. The viewer accesses the main menu 19 from which he/she navigates to the video channel selection command 21 . These commands may be grouped into thumbnail page commands 23 or direct selection commands 25 . The thumbnail page command allows viewers to watch live video channels in thumbnail size and select one to watch in full screen. The direct select command allows the viewer to directly specify a video channel for full screen viewing. In the next step, select the data to overlay. Data and video information are superimposed and displayed on the screen.

● Video playback function - Since the video channel content is being continuously buffered, the viewer can realize the video playback function by selecting which part of the video in the current storage buffer 27 will be displayed on the screen. The level of playback depth, in other words, how far the viewer can playback the video content, depends on the size of the storage buffer 27 . As suggested earlier, this size can be chosen to accommodate a playback depth of 5 minutes. Of course, this is a possible example, which should not be interpreted in a limiting manner.

Viewers can invoke replay functionality on the user interface. For example, the viewer accesses the main menu item using the appropriate selection key, then presses the "enter" key to confirm. When the replay function is enabled, the following functions are provided:

o rewind - the rewind function places the pointer at the previous location in the memory buffer 27 . The speed at which the viewer rewinds can be set or selected. During rewind, there are two options. One is to display a blank screen and resume video playback when the rewind key is released. Video playback will start from the location in memory buffer 27 where the pointer was pushed back. Another option is to watch the video content played in reverse when "replay" is active, allowing the viewer to more easily find an image or portion of the video content of interest. When rewinding the memory buffer 27, the speed at which the video content is played back may be fixed or variable under the viewer's control.

○ Fast Forward - the opposite of the rewind function. Can only be called when the pointer in the store buffer 27 has been retired to some extent.

o Bookmarks - By selecting a previously created "bookmark" from a menu option, the viewer can jump to a certain point in the video content as previously described. Each "bookmark" points to a specific portion of the video input signal in the storage buffer. This way, when a viewer selects a "bookmark," video playback will begin at the location of the pointer associated with that bookmark. The "bookmark" feature allows viewers to quickly jump back and forth to interesting parts of the video playback. The bookmark feature also allows viewers to quickly jump from one bookmark to another. In this manner, viewers can easily jump from one intense event to another in the video content held in video memory 27 without having to fast forward or rewind the video content.

o Still Image - The viewer can pause the image by holding the pointer at a fixed location in the memory buffer 27 . In this way, the viewer sees the same image frame.

○ Frame-by-frame motion - Viewers are able to see images that slowly move frame-by-frame ("move" means move forward or backward) at a lower than normal frame rate. Pressing the appropriate key on the keyboard causes the image to jump from one frame to the next. Alternatively, the image can be automatically moved frame by frame, but at a slower than normal rate so that the viewer sees each frame individually.

○Zoom - The viewer can zoom in or out on the frame displayed on the screen. Typically, this function is used when the still image function is active. By pressing an appropriate key on the keyboard 108, the zoom-in function can be invoked, and conversely, by pressing a different key, the zoom-out function can be invoked.

o Video Recording - The viewer can transfer some or all of the video stream content in the storage buffer 27 to a removable storage medium in the storage medium reader/writer 106 . Again, operating the appropriate key on keypad 108 activates this function. Several options exist:

■ Start recording video content that is played live on the screen. This feature is useful when the viewer sees footage that interests him or her and he/she wants to record it. The video content transferred to the video storage buffer 27 is also copied to the removable storage medium 106 in compressed form. In this manner, the video content may be played back on electronic device 16 or on any other suitable electronic device capable of reading video information stored on removable storage medium 106 . The amount of video information that can be recorded on the removable storage medium 106 depends on the size of the storage medium.

■Transfer all content on the storage buffer 27 to the removable storage medium 106 . This option is possible if the removable storage medium 106 is sized to accommodate the information in the storage buffer 27 .

■ Transfer only a selected portion of the storage buffer 27 to the removable storage medium 106 . By first performing a "rewind", "fast forward" or "move frame by frame" until a location of interest in the storage buffer 27 has been reached, then performing a "play" and a "play" which will stream the compressed image to a removable storage medium "Record function" to activate this function. When a desired portion of the video content has been recorded on the removable storage medium 106, the viewer can stop the recording process.

■ Any bookmarks entered by the viewer may also be transferred to the removable storage medium 106 . This function is realized by copying the address of the video information pointed to by the bookmark to the removable storage medium 106 . In this manner, if the viewer has placed bookmarks while watching a live sporting event, these will not be lost when the video content is transferred to the removable storage medium 106 .

3. Audio stream reception and related functions

The following examples focus on the transfer of independent audio streams, since the processing of audio streams in relation to corresponding video streams has been explained in the previous sections.

As previously mentioned, the individual audio streams carry radio conversations between members of the racing teams (typically, audio streams are associated with each racing team), commentary or advertising information about the race, and the like. On the electronic device 16, the viewer can manually select any of the streams and route them to an output 124 that drives a sound reproduction device such as speakers or headphones. Another possibility exists which allows the viewer to define a priority profile whereby the audio streams are played according to a priority order.

The priority order is defined by storing priority general data in the electronic device 16 . More specifically, priority general data is stored in memory 102 or any other suitable memory that allows processor 100 to easily access it. For convenience, the priority general rule data can be stored in the non-volatile part of memory 102, thereby even after electronic device 16 is powered off, this information will still be kept, thereby avoiding re-entering again every time electronic device 16 is powered on. the information.

The priority general rule defines the priority order in which audio streams will be played. Here's an example of a general rule of precedence:

Priority 1 (highest) - Team C's radio conversation

Priority 2 - Team A's radio conversation

Priority 3 - Team K's radio conversation

Priority 4 - Audio commentary on the game

Priority 5 - Advertising content

The software running the electronic device 16 includes modules that provide audio stream selector functionality. An audio stream selector, which is part of the user interface of the handheld electronic device 16, determines which audio stream contained in the wireless RF transmission is played based on a priority algorithm. The audio stream selector will distinguish valid audio streams from invalid audio streams in wireless RF transmission before executing priority rules. A valid audio stream is one that conveys some type of information that a viewer can understand. In contrast, an invalid audio stream refers to a stream that does not carry that information. A typical valid audio stream is one that conveys dialogue, while an invalid audio stream conveys only silence or low-intensity noise. One way to distinguish valid audio streams from invalid audio streams is to analyze the data carrying the audio information and determine what the signal level is. A high signal level may indicate a valid audio stream, while a low signal level may indicate an invalid audio stream. Those skilled in the art know that there are a variety of signal analysis techniques available in the art to distinguish valid audio streams from invalid audio streams, and no further description is needed here.

In another embodiment, the audio processor 42 located at the headend 12 encodes each audio signal and adds an indication as to whether that signal is valid or not. This feature has been described above and will not be discussed here. Accordingly, an audio signal selector at the electronic device can determine whether a signal is valid or invalid based on its encoding. This would avoid having to use any analysis techniques at the handheld electronic device 16 to determine invalid and valid audio streams.

For example, assume that the electronic device 16 receives 10 audio streams, wherein streams 1-8 are related to the corresponding sports teams, audio stream 9 transmits audio commentary, and audio stream 10 transmits advertisement information. After performing a validity analysis on the audio stream, the audio stream selector classifies the audio stream as follows:

efficient:

Audio Stream 1 (Team A)

Audio Stream 5 (Team K)

Audio Stream 7 (Team B)

Audio Stream 9 (Audio Commentary)

Audio stream 10 (advertising content)

invalid:

The rest of the 10 audio streams.

The audio stream selector will then look in the active list for the highest priority audio stream in the priority general rule. This position corresponds to team C which is not in the active list. Next, the audio stream selector looks for a record with the second priority in the priority general rule in the active list. It corresponds to team A associated with audio stream 1 . Since this audio stream is available, the audio stream selector plays it to the audience by passing it to an output connected to speakers or headphones.

Periodically (e.g., every 15 or 30 seconds) a scan of audio streams is performed to identify valid and invalid audio streams, and if there is any audio stream with a higher priority than the currently playing audio stream, it is passed to output. In this way, the viewer is always presented with the audio stream information that is most relevant or interesting to him/her.

Optionally, the viewer interface of the electronic device 16 can be designed to allow the viewer to stop periodic scanning of the audio streams and continue to play the currently selected audio stream.

In order to somewhat simplify the structure of the electronic device 16, the head-end 12 may be designed so as to perform a validity analysis of the audio stream and insert for this purpose into the payload information. As previously mentioned, audio streams are broadcast in packets, where each packet may contain audio information for a single audio stream or for a collection of audio streams, based on the particular packet structure chosen for the desired application. For a given block of audio data corresponding to a certain playback time of a given audio stream, the headend performs a validity analysis and, based on the value of the flag, associates that block with the flag indicating whether the audio information is considered valid or invalid . In this way, each electronic device 16 always knows which audio streams are currently valid, so that the audio stream selector can perform audio stream switching without having to perform any audio stream validity analysis.

Since the priority profile defines the viewer's preferences, the user interface of the electronic device 16 is designed to allow the viewer to configure the priority profile, and to modify the profile when an initial configuration has been made. As the reader in the art knows, many possible configurations can be devised. One simple way is to present the viewer with a list into which the viewer enters one by one (in descending priority order) teams or other types of content that the audio stream can deliver. Then, these data are saved in the memory 102, for example, in the form of a file. Audio stream processing is then performed as previously described. Obviously, at some point a mapping operation will need to be performed to associate a team name or identifier (if the data in the preference general is entered in this way rather than specifying the audio stream directly) with the corresponding audio stream for that team. For example, the mapping information may be sent via wireless RF transmission to accomplish this.

Another possible improvement is to send the viewer a priority flag associated with any audio stream, which indicates content that may be of great interest to the viewer, for example, a conversation between first responders in the event of an accident. At this point, the audio stream selector is designed to play that audio stream regardless of any priority general settings. If desired, the user interface of electronic device 16 may be designed to disable the functionality of forcing electronic device 16 to play an audio stream with a high interest flag.

However, it is also conceivable to assign priority to the position of the competitors in the game rather than to specific persons or competitors. For example, the priority number 1 is assigned to the leader in a race regardless of the particular competitor occupying that position at the time. A more detailed example of a priority scheme includes the following:

Priority #1 - race leader;

Priority #2 - second position;

Priority #3 - Any vehicle at the repair shop

According to this priority scheme, the currently playing audio is selected. If there is no active audio stream associated with the race leader, then the audio selection moves to priority #2, and so on. To accomplish this function, the head-end 12 tags individual audio streams with data associating the audio streams with the ranks of the corresponding competitors of the team. In this way, the electronic device 16 is able to adequately identify the various locations of the competitors in the team. An example would be to insert in the appropriate field of the binary transmission of the wireless RF transmitted information to allow identification of the game position. By following the priority scheme described above, each audio stream is described by data representing the current position in the game. Also, additional descriptive data is provided to indicate the audio stream associated with the car at the repair station.

One possible variation is to use the real-time data contained in the wireless RF transmissions to map the different teams with the corresponding game positions.

Assuming an appropriate team or player identifier is provided to the individual audio streams in the wireless RF transmission, real-time data informing the team or player's location can be used to establish a correlation between the audio stream and the game location.

Although implementing the audio management functions described above involves electronic equipment 16 providing video reception capabilities, similar audio management functions may be implemented with simple audio only electronic equipment. In the previously described infrastructure, which used the headend 12 to build the signal structure to carry audio/video/data payloads, such electronics could be designed to process only audio and data information without considering any video information. In infrastructures where the headend 12 is not used, the electronics may be designed to perform at least some of the functions described above, while directly accessing the original audio source. In this case, the electronic device includes a series of tuners, each tuner being set on a frequency corresponding to a given audio source, eg, the frequency used by a competing team for communication. At this point, the wireless RF transmission captured by the electronic device includes the set of frequencies to which the tuner is set. These frequencies may require manual input by the spectator using the electronic device, for example, before the game begins. At this point, the audio stream selector analyzes the outputs of the different tuners to determine if they are available, and applies the priority policy defined by the priority rules to determine which audio stream should be played.

Viewers are able to implement audio playback functionality due to the continuous buffering of the audio stream. The playback depth level, in other words, the degree to which the viewer can rewind the audio content, is determined by the size of the storage buffer 29 . Its size can be chosen to accommodate a playback depth of 5 minutes. Of course, this is one possible example and should not be construed in a limiting manner.

Viewers can invoke replay functionality on the user interface. For example, the viewer uses the appropriate selection key to access a menu item, then presses the "enter" key to confirm. When the replay function is enabled, the following functions are provided:

o Rewind - The rewind function places the cursor at the previous position in the audio storage buffer 29 . The speed at which the viewer rewinds can be set or selected. Audio playback will start from the location in memory buffer 29 where the pointer was pushed back. When rewinding the memory buffer 29, the speed at which the audio content is played back may be fixed or variable under the viewer's control.

○ Fast Forward - the opposite of the rewind function. Can only be called when the pointer in store buffer 29 has been retired to some extent.

4. Play auxiliary content and related functions

In addition to delivering primary video channel content to viewers, electronic device 16 is also designed to deliver auxiliary content. Examples of auxiliary content include advertising content, game location or background content related to the event, online shopping options, and news, among others. Both can be in the form of video content, audio content or a combination of video and audio content.

■ Advertising Content - Advertising content can be delivered to viewers in a variety of ways. Some examples are discussed below:

o The advertisement video channel selected by the viewer can be provided to the broadcast received by the viewer in the same way that he/she selects the main video channel. For clarity, primary video channel means a video channel that conveys real-time video information related to live sporting events. Of course, there may be more than one advertising video channel. The channels may be organized by language, for example, one advertising video channel in English, one in Spanish, and one in French. Alternatively, the channels may be organized by product type or advertised service.

o Embed advertising content into the video content delivered via the main video channel. Advertising content can be inserted in the editing stage of the content production console, (as shown in the block diagram of FIG. 1 ). In this way, each viewer receives the same advertisement. Advertisements may take the form of advertising clips such as short films, banners or graphic elements superimposed over an image or area in the form of an "auto-loop marker" running across the screen. It should be appreciated that other ways of presenting advertising video content on the primary video channel exist without departing from the spirit of the invention.

o It is also possible to insert advertising content in the video content delivered via the main video channel, where the insertion takes place in the electronic device 16 instead of at the content production console. Specifically, advertising video content is broadcast over a dedicated channel and instructions are sent to electronic device 16 that control when advertising content from the advertising channel is inserted into the primary video channel. These instructions will determine when and for how long the advertising content will start playing over the primary video channel. Software managing the operation of electronic device 16 interprets these instructions to control when insertion of advertising content begins and when it stops.

■ Venue or event-related background information—venue-related background information refers to information related to the location where the event is held. In the case of a motorsports event, contextual information about a location can include:

○ a map of the competition venue;

○The map of the track

○ Information on key locations such as restrooms, vending machine stands, medical facilities and emergency exits, etc.;

○ the history of the venue;

○ the history of the track (if different from the race location);

○The schedule of future events at the venue;

○A list of costs for services or products that spectators can obtain at the venue.

In a non-limiting example, electronic device 16 may have GPS reception capability. In such an embodiment, electronic device 16 is equipped with a GPS receiver (not shown), so that electronic device 16 may obtain location information in the form of GPS coordinates associated with the location. This assumes that the GPS receiver has an unobstructed view of the sky to receive satellite signals. More specifically, these GPS coordinates may be displayed to the spectators on the electronic device's display screen 802 in a manner that correlates with the map of the game location, specifically showing the spectators their location relative to the map. This way, the viewer will know where he/she is in relation to the floor plan of the venue.

These GPS coordinates may enable the spectator to locate himself/herself relative to the particular facility of the live sporting event. For example, transmitter 14 may send the cartographic data to electronic device 16 via wireless RF transmission. For example, the cartographic data provides a map of the game location and shows the location of some major facilities (eg, restrooms, food vendors, medical/emergency facilities, exits, etc.). The electronic device 16 then stores this database in its memory 102 so that the processor 100 can easily access it. Thus, when the GPS coordinates are generated, depending on the zoom level, part or all of the map is displayed on the display screen 802 and the viewer's location is marked. The location of these facilities can then also be displayed on a map of the venue of the match along with the GPS coordinates of the spectators. In this way, the viewer will be able to orientate his/her own position relative to these facilities.

These facilities can be displayed on the map of the competition location in the form of symbols or text. Preferably, these symbols or text will indicate the services/facilities located in that area on the map. For example, medical/emergency facilities would be marked on the map with a red cross, restrooms would be marked with a W/C symbol, or the traditional man and woman symbol Catering establishments may be marked with a knife and fork symbol etc. In addition, the location of the electronic device 16 can also be shown on the map with an icon, such as an asterisk, so that the viewer knows his/her relationship to other facilities marked on the map. In another embodiment, the location of the electronic device 16 may be marked with a flashing dot.

In order to avoid the map being filled with symbols for every different facility provided, the viewer can choose which facility to display on the map by designating a particular type of facility from a menu. For example, if a spectator needs to find a restroom, they can access a map of the game location and have an icon related to the restroom appear on the map, along with an icon related to the spectator's location. In this way, the viewer will have a clear indication of where the nearest restroom is located.

It is also possible that the electronic device 16 may be installed with software that enables the electronic device 16 to provide the viewer with directions on how to get to a certain location. For example, based on the GPS coordinates of the electronic device 16 and the GPS coordinates of the selected location stored in the GPS coordinates database, the processor 100 may use direction software to determine the best route from the viewer's current location to the desired location. These directions are then displayed to the viewer on the display of the electronic device 16 . The manner in which the viewer may request directions may vary without departing from the spirit of the invention. In one example, the viewer simply accesses a directions menu on the user interface and selects from a list of options such as "directions to restrooms", "directions to nearest exit", "directions to hot dog stand", etc. Alternatively, the viewer can use the up/down keys on the keyboard to highlight a particular facility icon displayed on the screen, and then press the "enter" key to select that icon. The directions software will then provide directions to the facility associated with the selected icon. Directions provided to the user may be in the form of text listing the path to be taken, or in the form of arrows showing the path to be taken on a map of the venue.

The electronic device 16 may also enable the viewer to store user-defined GPS coordinates in its memory 102 . This can be very beneficial when spectators wish to jot down a specific location on the field of play. For example, when a spectator parks his/her car in the sports tube parking lot, when leaving the car, the spectator may choose to store the GPS coordinates related to the location of the car in the memory 102 of the electronic device 16 . This can be done by invoking the GPS function on the user interface, then selecting the "store coordinates" option from the menu item with the appropriate selection key. Then, confirm and store the coordinates by pressing the "enter" key. These coordinates can then be associated with any suitable icon displayed on the map, allowing the viewer to quickly and easily locate the car's location. In this way, the spectator enters commands in the user interface of the electronic device 16 to recall the stored location information, which is displayed on the display in relation to a map of the game location. The priority for this feature is at the end of a live sporting event when a spectator wants to find his/her car, as mentioned above, they can use the directions feature to get back from their current location to the GPS coordinates associated with their car .

The event-related background information is information related to the event held at the venue of the event. In the racing example, the following is considered background information relevant to the event:

○ List of racing teams;

○Introduction of each driver;

○ current ranking in the tournament;

○ Information about the setup of one or more cars participating in a motorsport competition;

○ Information about the rules governing racing competitions.

Background information related to the venue or event can be delivered to the viewer via a dedicated channel so that the viewer can choose to watch it when he/she is free. Channel selection is performed as described previously. Optionally, background information related to the game location or event can be embedded in the video content of the main video channel.

Ancillary content provided to viewers via wireless RF transmissions may also include:

■ News - relates to different types of news services, such as "breaking news", weather information and economic information, etc. As with information about game locations or events, news information can be delivered to viewers.

■ Quiz/Survey/Game - Provides spectators with quizzes or surveys or games to keep spectators occupied during break times of the game.

■Meteorological/Environmental Information—These information will provide viewers with current weather information and forecasts for future weather conditions. This is useful when spectators at an outdoor race want to be notified in advance if it is going to start raining or snowing. Environmental information may provide viewers with environmental conditions relevant to the live sporting event. For example, in a golf game, environmental information may include wind speed and direction, the slope of the green, or any other condition that may affect the game.

■ Shopping Information - Provide viewers with information that allows viewers to purchase products or services related to the live sporting event (such as T-shirts, hats, etc.).

Electronic device 16 may include a viewer preference profile such that electronic device 16 provides auxiliary data to the viewer according to the viewer's listed rules. The auxiliary data preference profile may be stored in memory 102 or storage medium reader/writer 106 so that it can be accessed by processor 100 . The preference profile will suggest to the processor 100 what assistance data the viewer is most interested in and how the viewer wishes to be provided with the assistance data. Here are some examples of rules that list ancillary data preference profiles for specific audiences:

1. Always provide news information to the audience in the form of an automatic cycle mark at the bottom of the screen;

2. Whenever the score or ranking changes, display the screen showing the current ranking for 10 seconds.

3. Display any mini-games or audience surveys to the audience during the idle time of the event or game (such as the halftime break of a football game).

The software running the electronic device 16 includes modules that provide auxiliary data selector functionality. The auxiliary data selector decides which type of auxiliary data to present to the viewer based on the preference profile. For example, based on the preference profile information, electronic device 16 presents the assistance data in the manner listed in the preference profile.

In this way, the viewer is presented with the auxiliary data that is most relevant or interesting to him/her. The user interface of the electronic device 16 is designed to allow the viewer to stop the presentation of the auxiliary data at any time via a menu option presented to the viewer.

5. Profile-based content management

Electronic device 16 is designed to enable profile-based content management. The memory 102 of the electronic device 16 includes data defining a profile. Based on this data, electronic device 16 may filter the video, audio, or data displayed to the viewer. In one form of embodiment, the wireless RF transmission from the transmitter 14 conveys general audience content that is the same for a group of electronic devices 16 or for all electronic devices 16 that receive the wireless RF transmission . Viewer profiles in one or more electronic devices 16 filter this general content, thereby creating viewer-specific content. Audience-specific content differs from audience-general content in a number of possible ways. For example, setting an audience profile to prevent access to certain content within general audience content. In another example, the audience profile changes the manner in which content in general audience content is presented to the audience. Several possibilities are discussed in more detail below.

In a specific example, the profile defines an audience category among a plurality of possible audience categories. For example, the profile may allow gender-based classification, such as men and women. In another possibility, the profiles are designed to create age-based categories. Another possibility is to create income-based classifications, where audiences are categorized according to the amount of personal income. Another possible option is to define profiles based on personal preferences, for example:

■ My favorite racing team;

■ Favorite type of food;

■The type of car that the audience is interested in.

Profile data is loaded into memory 102 via the graphics and navigation layers. The viewer is presented with an information screen that invites the viewer to answer some questions that will define the profile. The number of questions needed to define a profile can be minimal, such as asking the viewer to specify "male" or "female," or it can be greater when more complex profile structures are produced.

A profile can be designed so that it is defined only once, or it can be updated over time. Simple profile structures such as gender-based profiles only need to be defined once and do not need to be changed as long as the electronic device 16 is held by the same viewer. More complex profile structures will require more frequent changes. Profiles based on viewer selections will likely change over time to reflect the viewer's changing preferences. For complex spectator profiles, such as those events or conditions that occur at specific car events, the viewer will be required to update the profile at each specific event.

Based on these viewer profiles, advertisements delivered to the viewer are tailored to the viewer's particular profile or interests. Likewise, the type of items that are most prominently displayed in the shopping list can also be tailored to the specific profile of the viewer.

Content management based on audience profiles means that content is treated differently based on the data in the profile. As the reader will appreciate, a variety of options may exist. The following concrete example illustrates this concept:

■ Profiles in electronic devices 16 are defined based on age groups. There are three age groups: (1) 25 years old or less, (2) from 26 years old to 60 years old, and (3) 61 years old or older. Ad content is structured based on age-based categories. Specifically, the advertising content includes three streams, each suitable for a particular age group. When an advertisement is played, the viewer only watches the stream corresponding to the profile data stored in memory 102 . Additionally, the products that are most prominently displayed in the shopping catalog can also be constructed based on age-based categories. For example, for a first age group, T-shirts and hats are displayed most prominently, while for a second age group, more expensive items - such as autographed collector's items may be displayed most prominently.

■ The profile in the electronic device 16 is defined based on the amount of background information on the venue or event that the viewer is willing to receive. For example, a profile allows two levels of information: low level and high level. The background information on the venue or event sent to the electronic device 16 is structured as separate streams, one containing more information than the other, so that the stream presented to the viewer is the one that satisfies the profile data stored in the memory 102 .

■ The profiles in the electronic device 16 are based on the racing teams the viewer is most interested in. For example, a profile allows a viewer to specify three teams of interest, such as Team A, Team B, and Team C, in order of preference. The video input signal played to the electronic device 16 includes the views from the cameras on all race cars. Profile data based on favorite teams will allow the viewer to define a favorite order in which the video feed will appear on the screen of the electronic device 16 when the viewer switches "channels". For example, the default view will be the video feed from Team A's on-board camera. When the viewer switches to another video input signal, the video input signal that appears on the screen of the electronic device 16 is the video input signal from Team B. The next view will be the video feed from Team C.

■ Service Level Profiles. This profile will allow the viewer to only access services for which the viewer has paid. For example, a viewer may have chosen to access a financial news service during a live sporting event and have paid for the service. Viewer profile data in memory 102 of electronic device 16 reflects this selection and causes electronic device 16 to deliver the financial news service for on-screen viewing. When using service level profiles, the viewer profile structure stored in the memory 102 of the electronic device 16 is preferably designed in such a way that the viewer cannot freely change the service level portion of the profile. For example, the service level portion of the profile may be modified remotely by sending data indicating which service level is associated with a particular electronic device 16 along with the authentication information used to unlock that electronic device 16 . Specifically, this is accomplished by broadcasting a block of identifiers and sending with each identifier a code identifying the service level of the electronic device 16 associated with that identifier. When the electronic device 16 unlocks itself by matching the broadcasted identifier with its own identifier, it reads the service level identification code and stores it in memory 102 as viewer profile data. At this point, the viewer profile data will indicate which services the viewer can and cannot access.

The manner in which the data in the profile stored in memory 102 manages the content communicated to electronic device 16 may vary, and there may be multiple implementations. Profile data is a data structure, and this data structure is associated with the structure of the content delivered to the electronic device 16 to enable content management. In such an embodiment, the content is structured as a collection of independent components that can be processed according to the data in the profile. In a first example, the profiles are grouped based on age, the advertising content is delivered as three separate streams, and based on the data stored in the profile, only the corresponding stream is displayed. In a second example, event or venue background information is transmitted in two separate streams, one stream containing more information than the other.

7-18 are more detailed examples of the operation of the electronic device 16, showing specific menu possibilities and the different types of information that can be communicated. It should be clearly pointed out that the above are examples only and should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a root menu page that allows the viewer to access different types of functions and content of the electronic device 16 . Specifically, viewers can select the "Live Video" option located at the top of the screen, which leads to a set of live video channels. Below this option are other options, some of which are explained in detail:

■Scanner—allows access to independent audio input signals such as driver-team radio communications, audio commentary, etc.

■ Timing and Scoring - This option page is selected from the pages in Figure 12. The Timing and Scoring page provides information of the type shown in the figure, such as best lap, lag time, and so on. Additional information may also include the number of laps completed, the number of laps still to be run, and the like.

■ Results - Allows access to the results page.

■ Event Information - By selecting this option, the viewer accesses the submenu shown in FIG. 7 . This submenu has several options, some of which are described below:

o Game Location - A map showing the game location, as shown in FIG. 8 . Viewers have the option to zoom to different parts of the map. The map is divided into four parts, each of which can be highlighted. Currently, the upper left quarter is highlighted. By selecting the highlighted part, the zoom function can be performed on the part, as shown in FIG. 9 .

○ Track—displays information about the track, as shown in Figure 11.

○Schedule—displays schedule information, as shown in Figure 10.

■ Racing (champ car) information - referring back to Figure 12, by selecting this option, the viewer accesses a submenu. This submenu has several options, some of which are described below:

o Drivers - By selecting this option, the viewer accesses the list of drivers shown in FIG. 13 . By highlighting and selecting a driver in the list, the viewer can access a detailed page about a particular driver, eg, the example of FIG. 14 .

o Ranked - By selecting this option, the viewer accesses the current ranked list, as shown in FIG. 15 .

o Teams - By selecting this option, the viewer accesses a list of the teams participating in this race, as shown in Figure 16. Viewers have the option to highlight a team in the list and access a more detailed page that displays additional information about the selected team.

■ Game Specifications - Referring back to Figure 12, by selecting this option, the viewer accesses the submenu shown in Figure 17, which provides information about the game.

6. Automatic/forced video switching

In one embodiment, electronic device 16 is designed to provide automatic ordering of video channels so that viewers are presented with events of most interest to the viewer. For example, a spectator may wish to visually follow a certain car on a track. Without any automatic control, viewers need to manually switch video channels to keep the car of interest always in view. For obvious reasons, this is not optimal. Electronics 16 in the present invention provide mechanisms that allow automatic sequencing of video channels to track moving objects such as cars on a race track. Various options exist to implement this functionality. Some examples are discussed below:

■ Switching video channels based on commands in wireless RF transmissions - The content production team determines for each car what is the best viewing channel at any given moment. This can be done manually or automatically. The video channel switch command is then sent to the personal electronic device 16 in a wireless RF transmission. For example, for a given racing car, say car A, the data sent to the electronic device 16 includes a field specifying the video channel that provides the best viewing. The information in this field is continuously updated as the car moves on the track. If automatic sequencing is enabled on the electronic device 16, the electronic device 16 will display on the display screen 802 the video channel specified in the number field. The software running the electronics 16 is constantly looking for video channel switching commands in the wireless RF transmission, and when those commands are observed, switches the display to the new video channel.

■Video channel switching based on vehicle displacement information (speed information). Electronic device 16 receives data for automatic sequencing contained in wireless RF transmissions defining a set of video channels. These data will specify the following parameters to be determined prior to the start of the car race:

○ which channels are used for sequencing, say, channel A, channel B, and channel C;

○ Sequential — switch from channel A to channel B, then switch to channel C, and start again;

○The field of view of each channel is expressed according to the distance of the track. For example, channel A has a field of view of 5 kilometers, channel B has a field of view of 7 kilometers, and channel C has a field of view of 9 kilometers.

The spectator of the electronic device 16 starts watching the event and watches the car that the spectator wants to track automatically. The viewer designates (via menu selection or otherwise) the car to be followed, waits until the car comes into view on any of channels A, B or C, and then initiates the automatic tracking function. The auto-track feature invokes car-tracking software that utilizes an algorithm that will read the speed of the car specified by the constantly broadcast real-time data and determine that the car will leave the currently viewed channel based on a simple speed-versus-distance calculation time of view. Specifically, when using channel C, the algorithm calculates the time it takes for the car to travel 9 kilometers (ie, the field of view for that channel). After completing this calculation, the internal clock is started. When the time interval has elapsed, the algorithm issues a video channel switching command to automatically switch video channels according to the specified switching sequence. Repeat the same operation continuously. Assuming the speed of the car is reported with reasonable accuracy, the timing of video channel switching events can be dynamically controlled to keep the car always within view of the viewer.

■Video channel switching based on vehicle displacement information (position coordinate information). This is somewhat the same as the example above, except that the video channel switching is done based on the car's coordinates reported in the broadcasted real-time data. Specifically, coordinate information may be obtained from a Global Positioning System (GPS) in each car and sent to the headend 12 and then broadcast to each electronic device 16 in a wireless RF transmission. The video channels in the sorted group are characterized by the range of coordinates covered by the field of view. The viewer simply specifies the cars to track. Based on the coordinates of the car of interest, the algorithm determines which video channel the car is within the coordinates of and then automatically switches to that channel. The same operation is performed on each coordinate update received in the wireless RF transmission, and the algorithm will therefore perform a switch if the car is in view of a different channel.

In another embodiment, the electronic device 16 is designed to provide a forced video channel switch when an important event occurs on the track. For example, if an accident occurs, the viewer of electronic device 16 may want to immediately switch to a video channel that transmits images of the accident. This can be accomplished by introducing a flag in the wireless RF transmission that designates the video channel that will show the best angle for such priority events. Typically, a technician at the content production station 20 will identify the video channel that best shows the event and introduce a flag marking that channel in the wireless RF transmission. The flag can be of any data type. For example, the flag may be a channel identifier. When the electronic device 16 receives the flag, the software interprets it and it causes the display to automatically switch to the indicated video channel. If desired, a function may be provided by which this automatic video channel switching may be disabled when the viewer is not interested.

However, in another possible variant, the automatic video switching takes place according to certain characteristics related to the game, for example, the specific position of the competitors in the game. For example, the position may be a lead position, such that electronic device 16 is caused to automatically switch video channels to continuously display the leader of the game. As in the previous example, a technician at the headend 12, either manually or with the help of an automated tool, identifies which video channel best shows the leader of the game and inserts the appropriate logo in the wireless RF transmission. The electronic device 16 is programmed to alternately play the video channel associated with the logo. Thus, when the logo changes, in other words, when it moves from one video channel to another, the electronic device 16 will switch the video channel on the display screen 802 accordingly.

In another possible variation, the electronic device 16 has two-way wireless communication capabilities. Accordingly, electronic device 16 may receive information wirelessly and may transmit information wirelessly. According to a non-limiting example, Figure 19 shows a two-way communication system.

For the sake of example, assume there is a group 100 of electronic devices 16 at a live sporting event, say a car race. All electronic devices 16 receive wireless RF transmissions from headend 12 . Electronic device 16 may also communicate solely with remote entities via cellular network 102 . In this example, the cell network 102 has two cell towers 104 and 106 located far from each other to provide sufficient reception coverage for any one of the electronic devices 16 at the live sporting event. Each electronic device 16 is provided with functionality allowing it to establish communication with the cellular network 102 via the air interface. The feature consists of transmitter and receiver parts that are able to communicate in the same way as a cell phone. Since these techniques are widely known, they are not described here. Instead of a cellular network, another possibility that could be used is a WiFi network, or other cellular type infrastructure that allows independent wireless communication between each electronic device 16 and a remote entity.

It is neither necessary nor desirable to provide the same bandwidth to the communication channel from the electronic device 16 to the cellular network 102 as the bandwidth of the link between the headend 12 and the handheld electronic device 16 . In practice, the amount of information that needs to be transmitted from the personal handheld electronic device 16 is small, and the data carrying capacity required for wireless RF transmission from the headend 12 is not necessary.

7. Online Shopping and Games

The wireless two-way communication capability allows more interactivity to be provided to the audience, thus enhancing their entertainment experience. Specific examples are discussed below.

■ Online Shopping via Electronic Device 16 - The concept of delivering an electronic catalog to an electronic device 16 has been discussed previously. The provision of two-way communication allows the viewer to select items to purchase and complete the online purchase electronically. For the sake of this example, assume that a viewer wishes to access online shopping information, such as an electronic catalog, in order to purchase souvenirs, say a T-shirt with the logo of his/her favorite team. Having preloaded the electronic catalog in the manner previously described, the viewer accesses the catalog via the user interface 800 . This is accomplished by pressing one or more dedicated keys on the viewer interface 800 or via a menu item on the GUI of the electronic device 16 . Once the electronic catalog is accessed, the viewer is directed to the desired product by pressing keys on the user interface 800 . At that point, the viewer makes a selection and proceeds to the payment page. The payment process can be designed in many different ways. The first possibility is to ask for the necessary information to be entered so that the online transaction can be completed. This information includes his/her name, payment instrument (such as credit card details), delivery address information, etc. The viewer enters this information using keys on the user interface 800 . Note that the example user interface shown in Figure 3 needs to be extended to include the necessary alphanumeric characters to allow entry of such data. After completing all the fields on the payment page, the electronic device 16 communicates with the remote server 108 via the cell network 102 to complete the transaction. This stage may include sending information contained in the payment page to the server 108, such as the goods or services purchased, payment information, and shipping address information. At this point, the transaction is complete and the viewer will receive their merchandise via the selected shipping method. Another possibility to implement an online transaction is to store the necessary information about the viewer on the server 108 (or any other web server in communication with the server 108 ), thereby avoiding the viewer from entering these data via the electronic device 16 . This possibility will be discussed in more detail in conjunction with FIG. 21 . Specifically, server 108 contains user records associated with different viewers, where each user record includes an identifier for authentication purposes, a payment instrument for an online transaction, a shipping address, and the like. In this manner, the payment process will involve sending an identification of the good or service the viewer wishes to purchase along with the viewer identifier via the cell network 102 to allow the server 108 to retrieve the correct user record. The second possibility is arguably more practical because it avoids the need to enter much information on the user interface 800 .

■Lock matter/investigation/game. This option was discussed above in connection with embodiments having unidirectional communication capabilities. Two-way communication can greatly enhance the interactivity of the audience experience. Several examples are provided to illustrate this point. In a first example, an audience is presented with a mini-game that includes a number of questions related to the players of a live sporting event or competition. The questions are displayed on the display of the handheld electronic device 16 and extracted from the data transmitted in the wireless RF transmission. The viewer responds to the selection by operating the keys on the user interface 800 . Can be a series of questions or a single question. Answers are collected and sent to server 108 when all questions have been answered. The flowchart of Figure 20 shows this process. Step 200 represents the insertion of the necessary data in the wireless RF transmission to generate the minigame problem. The headend 12 performs this step. This data may be stored in database 602 . At step 202 , the personal electronic device 16 receives the data, generates a question on the display, and the viewer enters the answer on the corresponding electronic device 16 . Step 202 corresponds to a number of boxes, which indicate that a number of electronic devices 16 are involved in the process. At step 204 , each personal electronic device 16 sends a response to server 108 via cell network 102 . In step 206, the server 108 processes the responses and then performs some type of operation based on the processing. The types of operations that can be selected depend on the specific game strategy. Examples include:

o Send to each electronic device 16 information indicating the correctness of the response. This information is communicated via the cell network 102 . This approach allows a personalized message to be delivered to each viewer, such as his/her score.

o Compile responses from personal electronic devices 16 and sort participants by score. The score is transmitted to the personal electronic device 16 via the cell network 102 . Accordingly, the electronic device 16 may receive a list of the highest ranked participants, such as the top 10 participants;

o rewarding the highest scorer and notifying that particular electronic device 16 of the award;

o According to this process, information is sent to the electronic device 16 using wireless RF transmission. This way does not allow for personalized messages, but can still be used to present information to the viewer about the quiz/survey, e.g. a list of top-ranked participants and/or correct answers to trivia questions, or in the case of surveys Compiled results of the survey.

Another possibility is to link events or questionnaires to events that take place at live sporting events. For example:

o In the case of a car race, when an accident is detected, a question is sent to each electronic device 16 to identify the competitors involved and to ask who is at fault;

○ In the case of a hockey/football or soccer game, ask if the referee's call was correct. For example, in hockey, when a penalty is given to a player, the question asks whether the penalty is correct. In this manner, spectators in possession of electronic devices 16 can vote on the referee's calls during the actual game.

o In the case of a hockey/rugby/soccer game, an inquiry is made at the end of the game or at the end of a segment to identify the player who played best or was most valuable to his team during the game/segment. In this way, spectators possessing electronic devices 16 can vote on the behavior or performance of the players during the actual game.

The processing results of the responses received by the server 108 may be processed in the manner discussed above, in other words, providing feedback to the personal electronic device 16 via the cellular network 102 or wireless RF transmission. Another option, however, is to announce or display the results publicly. At a live sporting event in a stadium or similar facility, which typically has some kind of large display screen, the results of the processing can be displayed on the large display screen for everyone to see. For example, the displayed message might say that the investigation showed that the referee was wrong, or that the best player for the segment was player X.

Information to be displayed on a display screen or announced to an audience may be generated from the server 108 and sent to the display device in any suitable manner. When the server 108 is local, it can be sent to the display in a wireless or wired manner.

Electronic device 16 may also be provided with game playing functionality that does not require two-way communication. Several examples will be given to illustrate this variant. For example, a wireless RF transmission may be designed as the means of transmission of data enabling electronic device 16 to obtain game play functionality. In particular, headend 12 may be designed to generate video game data carried by wireless RF transmissions and received by personal electronic device 16 . The video game data includes program code for execution by processor 100 to cause a viewer to play the video game on display screen 802 . Video games for the entertainment of the audience have images that can be manipulated on the display screen 802 . The video game is controlled via user interface 800 . Functions are assigned to the various keys of the user interface to interact with and manipulate the images displayed on the display screen 802 .

Another option is to preload the video game data on the electronic device 16 and simply send the data via wireless RF transmission that enables game play by "unlocking" the operation of the video game data. In other words, the viewer is generally prohibited from playing the video game unless data to unlock the game is received via wireless RF transmission.

The options discussed above are not limited to video games, but can be extended to mini-games/surveys, etc. In other words, the game can be loaded or enabled via wireless RF transmission, as previously described. When the electronic device 16 is provided with two-way communication functionality, responses to game questions, surveys or polls may be output as described above.

There is also the ability to time game play based on the progress of live sporting events. For example, the game play function of the electronic device 16 is activated only when a predetermined event occurs during a live sporting event. One type of event is a timeout, during which the game is stopped.

Another non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 21 . In this example, prior to the event, the personal electronic device 16 is activated for the upcoming event so that, at the event location, the electronic device 16 is programmed and includes event specific information. After the user purchases the electronic device 16, the user typically sets up a user account with a business that delivers services during the live sporting event.

8. Online service purchase

The electronic device 16 is connected to a user's personal computer (PC) 300 via a USB port 104 connected to the electronic device interface of the PC 300. The electronics interface of PC 300 may be a USB port on PC 300. The block diagram in FIG. 21 assumes that PC 300 can communicate with server 304 via Internet 302. PC 300 has a data network interface allowing data communication over data network 302 (in this example, the Internet). In a specific, non-limiting embodiment, the data network interface is an Ethernet connection. PC 300 has a user interface that allows a user to receive information from and enter information on PC 300. The user interface includes a keyboard, a display screen, and a pointing device. Obviously, other forms of user interface may be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. The PC may also be provided with a processor and a memory storing program data for execution by the processor. As previously mentioned, the PC is connected to a server 304 via the Internet 302 or any other network. The server 304 has a computing platform (not shown) including a processor and memory, the processor executing software implementing the functions of the server 304 . To enable data communication between the computing platform and the data network 302, a data communication interface (not shown) is provided to the server 304, which interface is under the control of the computing platform. The computing platform dictates the exchange of information with the PC 300 via the data communication interface.

After all connections are established, the server 304 sends data to the PC 300 which, along with the program data run by the processor, presents information to the user via the user interface to allow the user to electronically purchase and specify services delivered to the electronic device 16 . From the user's point of view, the user is directed to a website (hosted by server 304) and a screen of the type shown in FIG. 22 is displayed to the user. The website allows users to set up accounts for one or more live sporting events, manage personal profiles, and purchase services delivered to the electronic device 16 . For the sake of this example, assume that the user must create a new account with the server 304 . At this point, in response to the data sent by the server 304, the PC 300 prompts the user to select account identification information to allow him/her secure access to the account. Account identification information may be user name 308 and password 310 . Once the user name 308 and password 310 are selected or when they are automatically generated by the server 304 and accepted by the user, they will be required by the server 304 to allow the user to access his/her account again.

Next, the user is asked to provide personal information such as:

■Name 312;

■Address 314;

■ Payment instrument 316, such as credit card number and expiration date and possibly a security code. The payment facility 316 is used to pay for services delivered to the electronic device 16 during the live sporting event, as well as for merchandise purchased during the live sporting event, as previously described.

■ Shipping address information 317 for online shopping. The shipping address is the address to which the products purchased by the user are sent, as described above.

■ The language in which the online account is set.

In addition to information provided by the user, the electronic exchange of information occurs between the electronic device 16 and the server 304 . The electronic exchange of information includes transmitting the unique electronic identifier of the electronic device 16 to the server 304 . Such an electronic identifier has been discussed previously, and it is a form of a hard-coded identifier. In this example, when the electronic device 16 is connected to the PC 300 via the USB interface 104, this identifier is submitted to the PC 300 and it is automatically sent to the server 304. Note that the PC 300 may need to use software capable of communicating with the electronic device 16, thereby extracting the hardcoded identifier from it and transmitting it to the server 304 when the user is creating or accessing his records.

A record created on server 304 has three information elements that distinguish it from other records. These information elements are: (1) a user name; (2) a password and (3) an identifier of the electronic device 16 associated with that user name and password. Note that there is the possibility of assigning more than one electronic device 16 to a certain record or account.

The next step in account creation is to specify certain preferences for the user that allow the service to be customized according to the individual's choices. The page in FIG. 22 has an "Options" key 315 which, when "clicked", directs the user to the "Options" page as shown in FIG. 23 . From that page, the user is able to specify advertising options 318, such as whether advertising is desired, the type of advertising to be delivered, ie the characteristics of the products and services that are of interest to the user. In one simple case, a user can enter a gender so that the ad is tailored accordingly. In a more detailed example, users can specify income level, education level, topics of interest, geographic location and language, and more. This information is then used to create filters that allow customization of the advertising information delivered to the user. In a non-limiting embodiment, server 304 creates filters and uploads them to electronic device 16 via PC 300. This filter, in the form of a file stored on the electronic device 16, will determine what information will be communicated to the user when advertising information is received in a wireless RF transmission during a live sporting event. This filter can block certain advertisements, choose the language in which advertisements are delivered, etc.

In a possible variant, the user is able to specify other preferences regarding the information received during the game other than advertisements. For example, a user can specify a favorite team or player to allow information to be delivered to the user during a live sporting event in a manner consistent with these preferences. Figure 23 shows a button 320 "My Team" which allows access to a different page (not shown) where those preferences can be specified. Server 304 then uses that information to create another filter stored on electronic device 16 that will determine the information received during the live sporting event. A specific example of this situation is the order in which information about teams or players is displayed to the user. Depending on the filter, the selection menu that provides more detailed information about the team or player is changed so that teams or players that have been designated as favorites will be given higher priority over less favorite teams or players. In this manner, favorite teams or players will appear first, followed by those teams or players not designated as favorites.

Once the items in the options page of FIG. 23 have been completed, the user returns to FIG. 22 and presses the "Online Service Purchase" key 319 which takes the user to the online service purchase page in FIG. 24 . At this point, the user will be required to authenticate himself to enable online purchase of service delivery. In response to the authentication request data issued by the server 304, an authentication prompt appears on the PC 300. The user then enters authentication information, such as user name and password, which are transmitted to server 304 for confirmation.

If the authentication data is authentic and accepted by the server 304, the user is directed to a web page that allows the user to select the live sporting event for which the content is desired, and customize the content to be distributed according to the user's taste and budget. For example, the server 304 sends data to the PC 300 causing the PC 300 to display a control 322 that allows the user to select an event to purchase the service. Control 322 may be any suitable control, such as a drop-down menu box providing a list of all events for which the service may be purchased.

Once a certain event is selected, the server 304 sends to the PC 300 data that causes the PC 300 to display to the user a control 324 "Service Options" that requests the user to provide information identifying the level of service desired. Specifically, service options control 324 allows the user to select a service level from a set of levels. Various levels of service may vary based on content. For example, the highest level allows access to all content such as live video streaming, available GPS and online shopping features, weather information, trending news, and more. The level just below the highest level offers everything but top news. The lowest level of service can be limited to live video only. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the number of service levels offered to users and the manner in which those service levels differ from one another are merely a matter of design and can vary widely without departing from the spirit of the invention.

When multiple service selections are complete, the user activates the "Pay" control 326 . At this point, the server 304 will determine based on the service level selection 324 the monetary amount that the user should pay. Next, the server 304 will perform the payment step of the process. There are two possible options. One is payment from a credit card provided by the user and currently on file, or any other payment instrument provided. Another option is to send data to the PC 300 which prompts the user to provide payment instrument information, such as the credit card to be charged. The server 304 will process this payment instrument information to complete the payment steps.

After completing the payment steps, the server 304 will set up the electronic device 16 for the live sporting event for which the service has been purchased. The settings include the following:

The server 304 will download necessary service data to the PC 300, such as data for setting/changing the GUI of the electronic device 16 and/or mapping data for the game location, assuming the electronic device 16 has GPS functionality;

■Ancillary data, such as:

о advertising content;

о Background content related to a place or event;

о Shopping information, such as online catalogs;

о lock up or investigate;

o video games;

оEnvironmental/weather information;

o News.

■Authentication information

In the case of auxiliary data, only the relevant or latest data should be downloaded when an event occurs. In order to make the auxiliary data appear as if it was presented "spontaneously" to the audience during the event, it is designed to be viewed only when the user is present at the event. For example, the data may be "hidden" from the user, or designed in such a way that the user cannot access the data unless a "trigger" is entered by the electronic device 16 . This trigger could be specific data contained in the wireless RF transmission, thereby "unlocking" the hidden auxiliary content. In this way, the assistance data downloaded to PC 300 can be customized according to the user's profile. More specifically, this information may be requested to submit preference information when creating a user account. This type of information was discussed earlier. The server 304 determines what type of assistance data to download based on the preference information.

Downloading of the authentication information allows for secure booting of the electronic device 16 to receive services. For example, wireless RF transmissions can be designed to be protected. The authentication information downloaded to the PC 300 and transmitted to the handheld electronic device 16 allows the handheld electronic device 16 to be unlocked at the time of a live sporting event. The authentication information may be in the form of a user code (discussed below), or a decryption key (which is unique to the electronic device 16, or the same for all electronic devices 16 subscribing to a particular live sporting event )form. The decryption key can be used to decrypt content encrypted during wireless RF transmissions.

When all the data for setting up the electronic device 16 has been downloaded to the PC 300, the data is transferred to the electronic device 16 via the USB interface 104. At this point, the electronic device 16 is ready for use. When activated by a spectator at a live sporting event, the electronic device 16 will capture the wireless RF transmission and use the decryption key to fully decode the data. Furthermore, the electronic device 16 will also detect a "trigger" in the wireless RF transmission for the viewer to unlock to view and access the hidden ancillary data. Accordingly, viewers are able to view advertisement information, conduct online shopping, and the like.

The aforementioned online transactions may be used as a mechanism to inform the server 304 of the identity of the electronic device 16 . Thus, when a user is making an online purchase of service delivery for a corresponding electronic device 16, the server 304 is creating a list of electronic devices 16 that are authorized to receive that service. This list is stored on a storage medium of server 304, for example in a database (not shown). Just prior to a live sporting event, the server 304 , which stores in its database a list of all electronic devices 16 (electronic identifiers) that have purchased service for the event, transmits the list to the authentication database 502 . These identifiers are then included in wireless RF transmissions as previously described.

The server 304 may also be designed to generate the aforementioned user code, which the viewer needs to enter on the user interface of the handheld electronic device 16 in order to be able to access some or all of the content carried in the wireless RF transmission. The server implements a user code generator 1008 as shown in FIG. 26 . During the interaction of PC 300 with server 304, electronic identifier 1002 is communicated to server 304. The authentication processor 1006 of the handheld electronic device 16 extracts the electronic identifier 1002 and transmits it to the PC 300 and then to the server 304. The user code generator 1008 receives this information and processes it with the event code (either a single code or a composite code for multiple service levels) to generate a user code. In the case of a composite event code, which consists of several different service level codes, the process is run multiple times, each time with a different service level code. The output of this processing (ie user code) is sent back to PC 300. The user code appears on the display of the PC 300 so that the user can notice it and print it out or write it down, or send it to the specified e-mail address in the form of an e-mail to the user, or in any other suitable manner. As previously mentioned, user codes may also be loaded directly on the handheld electronic device 16 . This eliminates the need for the user to manually enter a user code on the handheld electronic device 16 .

Note that where the user has created an account on the server 304 , the electronic identifier 1002 can be stored in that account so that it does not have to be extracted from the handheld electronic device and communicated to the server 304 . In this implementation, the user logs in as previously described, and he/she automatically obtains a user code calculated using the electronic identifier 1002 stored in the account and the event code.

Note that another possibility of transmitting the user code is via the telephone system. Here, the user dials a predetermined number and, when prompted, enters an electronic identifier 1002 on the dial pad. The user code generator at the telephone processing station generates a user code based on the electronic identifier 1002 and the game code, and informs the user after speech synthesis. Additionally, if an account is created for the user at the telephony processing station, the electronic identifier 1002 can be stored so that it does not have to be re-entered for each transaction.

In a possible variation, electronic device 16 may be designed with wireless communication capabilities, such as Bluetooth technology via Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) ”) communicates directly with the server 304. In this way, the electronic device 16 does not require a connection to the PC 300 to be set up by the server 304. In this variant, all commands and service selections can be done directly from the electronic device 16 .

Note that when the electronic device 16 has two-way communication capabilities, online purchases are made by allowing the electronic device 16 to communicate with the server 304 where the user is recorded via the cell network. Here, the online purchase process is as described above, in which spectators participating in a live sports event select products or services to be purchased, and connect to the server 304 via the Internet 302 to complete the transaction. Transactions include authenticating the user by providing a user ID and password. Assuming the payment instrument information and shipping information are already recorded in the user's account, the transaction is complete.

While various embodiments have been described, this has been done for purposes of illustration only, not limitation of the invention. Various modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are within the scope of the invention, which is defined in more detail by the appended claims.

Claims (19)

1. A handheld electronic device for use at a venue where a live sporting event is held, comprising: a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams and authentication data conveying live video sporting content, including moving images of action occurring at the live sporting event at the venue; a display for displaying a user interface for selecting a video stream among the plurality of video streams to be displayed on the display, The handheld electronic device is capable of a locked mode of operation, in which the handheld electronic device cannot display a video stream to a viewer, and an unlocked mode of operation, in which the handheld electronic device An electronic device capable of displaying a video stream to a viewer, said hand-held electronic device performing authentication based on said authentication data and a stored identifier to obtain said unlock mode of operation, said identifier allowing said hand-held electronic device to be In contrast to another handheld electronic device, Wherein, when the handheld electronic device is powered on, it enters the locked mode of operation. 2. The handheld electronic device of claim 1, wherein at least two video streams are from cameras capturing the live sporting event and convey different action scenes. 3. The handheld electronic device of claim 1, wherein the authentication data includes a plurality of identification codes. 4. The handheld electronic device of claim 1, wherein the handheld electronic device is capable of performing a comparison function to compare the identifier with the identification code transmitted by the authentication data. 5. A hand-held electronic device as claimed in claim 4, wherein when the comparison function cannot find a match between the identifier and the identification code transmitted by the authentication data, the hand-held electronic device is inhibited from switching to the unlocked model. 6. The handheld electronic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, after said handheld electronic device is powered on, it is turned off for a predetermined time, unless within the predetermined time, said handheld electronic device has switched to said operating unlock mode. 7. The handheld electronic device of claim 2, wherein the wireless RF transmission is broadcast. 8. The handheld electronic device of claim 1, wherein the authentication data includes an encrypted portion. 9. The handheld electronic device of claim 8, wherein the handheld electronic device is capable of decrypting encrypted portions of wireless RF transmissions. 10. The hand-held electronic device of claim 1 , wherein, during an automobile sporting event, a golf game, a football game, a football game, a baseball game, a hockey game, a tennis game, a horse race, a polo game, a basketball game, and the Olympic Games Select that live sporting event from the group. 11. A handheld electronic device for use at a venue where a live sporting event is held, comprising: a receiver for receiving a wireless RF transmission comprising at least two video streams conveying live video sporting content including moving images of action occurring at the live sporting event at the venue; a display for displaying a user interface for selecting a video stream among the plurality of video streams to be displayed on the display; an authentication processor for processing authentication information communicated in the wireless RF transmission to make an authentication decision based on the authentication information and a stored identifier that permits linking the handheld electronic device with another handheld electronic device The authentication decision indicates the extent to which viewers are permitted to access the live video sporting event content conveyed in the wireless RF transmission on said handheld electronic device. 12. The handheld electronic device of claim 11, wherein at least two video streams are from cameras capturing the live sporting event and convey different action scenes. 13. The handheld electronic device of claim 12, the authentication processor processes the identifier and the authentication information to obtain an authentication decision. 14. The handheld electronic device of claim 13, wherein the authentication determination is such that the handheld electronic device is prohibited from displaying the live video sporting event content to an audience on a display. 15. The handheld electronic device of claim 13, wherein the authentication determination is such that the handheld electronic device is permitted to display the live video sporting event content to an audience on the display. 16. The handheld electronic device of claim 13, wherein the authentication determination is such that the handheld electronic device is permitted to display to a viewer on the display only a portion of the live video sporting event content transmitted in the wireless RF transmission. 17. The handheld electronic device of claim 12, wherein the authentication processor processes the identifier, authentication information, and a user code entered by the viewer on the user interface to obtain an authentication decision. 18. The handheld electronic device of claim 17, wherein the authentication information includes a game code. 19. The handheld electronic device of claim 13, wherein the authentication information includes a game code and a user code.