Method and apparatus for delivering information referred to by content

Abstract

Disclosed herein, in various embodiments, are methods and apparatus incorporating, among other things, the concept of using, in particular but without limitation, traditionally non-commercial programming as a medium for selling products or services on-line, and again in particular over the Internet. Using this concept, for example, a content element identified in a broadcast can be made identifiable by a user of the broadcast, and thereby enabling a user to determine the source, location, or other information referred to by the content element. Using this concept, for example, a user viewing a soap opera is able to use a device to electronically select a content element identified in the broadcast. In turn, information referred to by the content element can be displayed to the user, including purchase information. Using this particular concept of the invention, traditionally non-commercial programming can be efficiently used to indirectly advertise goods or services and offer them for sale on-line.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is a continuation of commonly assigned Robinson et al. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 393,608 filed Mar. 21, 2003, which is a continuation of PCT / US01 / 29560 filed Sep. 21, 2001 and published in English as WO 02 / 25556 A1 on Mar. 28, 2002, which claims priority from U.S. provisional application 60 / 234,128 filed Sep. 21, 2000, which applications and publications are hereby incorporated by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention pertains generally to delivering information, and in particular to method and apparatus for delivering information referred to by content.BACKGROUND OF INVENTION[0003]Broadcast television has long existed as a premier medium for the advertisement and sale of goods and services. The overwhelming volume of advertising and sales is conducted on television using advertising spots, typically running between 15 and 60 seconds each, that are broadcast during commercial break...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Non-commercial programming may, however, include “product placements” such as brand name products or services that appear in such programming but are not expressly offered for sale.

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