Interactive wagering system with promotions

Abstract

An interactive wagering system is provided that promotes wagering to users at user equipment. The user equipment may be based on a set-top box and television, a personal computer, a cellular telephone with a display, or other such devices. Wagering may be promoted by notifying the user of an opportunity to place a wager on a given race. Wagering may also be promoted by providing the user with an on-screen opportunity to sign up for a wagering television channel or interactive wagering service. The on-screen promotions that are displayed to the user may be targeted based on the television programming that is being displayed or the user's interests. The user's activities may be monitored to collect information on the user's interests. If a particular race or the like is being discussed during a television program, the user may be provided with an opportunity to wager on that race. In this situation, racetrack, race, and horse selections may be made in advance for the user.

Description

[0001] This is a divisional patent application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 522,227, filed Mar. 9, 2000, which claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 60 / 142,307, filed Jul. 1, 1999, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention relates to interactive wagering systems and methods, and particularly to wagering systems and methods that allow users to place wagers on live wagering events, such as thoroughbred races, harness races, dog races, etc., at locations remote from the locations where the wagering events take place, such as the users' homes. More particularly, this invention relates to wagering systems and methods that allow users to conveniently place wagers on live wagering events using wagering information that is provided with wagering-related video content. [0003] Wagering on live events, such as thoroughbred races, harness races, dog races, etc., is an exciting and increasing...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This solution enhances user awareness of interactive wagering services, simplifies the wagering process, and allows users to place bets more conveniently by integrating wagering information directly into their viewing experience, improving user engagement and accessibility.

Problems solved by technology

However, it is difficult or inconvenient for many racing enthusiasts to attend wagering events in person.

Although off-track betting establishments provide greater access to wagering opportunities, they are still inconvenient because users must spend time locating and traveling to such establishments to place wagers.

However, unless specifically mentioned in the broadcast, the viewers may not know when a wagering opportunity relating to the subject matter of the broadcast will be available, if at all.

Moreover, users who are watching programming other television channels may not even be made aware of the availability of the interactive wagering service or of the TVG Network wagering television channel.

Images