Secure payments using radio frequency identification (RFID) enabled remote controls

Abstract

Embodiments of systems, apparatus, devices, methods, and / or computer program products for providing payment information for media systems using a radio frequency identification (RFID)-enabled remote controller, and combinations and sub-combinations thereof are provided. Example embodiments operate by a computer-executed method. The method includes receiving, by at least one computer processor of the media device, payment information from a remote control. Payment information is received at the remote controller using an RFID reader module of the remote controller. The method also includes proposing an authentication request and receiving an authentication response in response to the authentication request. The method also includes, in response to the authentication response satisfying the condition, sending the payment information to the service for further processing.

Description

background Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to methods and systems for providing payment information for a media system, and more particularly to methods and systems for providing payment information for a media system using a radio frequency identification (RFID) enabled remote control. Summary of the invention

[0003] Provided herein are embodiments of a system, apparatus, article, method, and / or computer program product for providing payment information to a media system, and / or combinations and sub-combinations thereof. For example, embodiments of a system, apparatus, article, method, and / or computer program product using a radio frequency identification (RFID) enabled remote control, and combinations and sub-combinations thereof, are provided to provide payment information to a media system.

[0004] The example embodiment operates through a computer-implemented method. The method includes receiving payment information from a remote controller by at least one computer processor of a media device. The payment information is received at the remote controller using a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader module of the remote controller. The method also includes making an authentication request and receiving an authentication response in response to the authentication request. The method also includes sending the payment information to a server for further processing in response to the authentication response satisfying a condition.

[0005] The method can also include providing one or more payment method options, receiving a payment method selection, and in response to the payment method selection, sending an activation signal to the remote control to activate the RFID reader module.

[0006] The authentication request can include a request for address information, a request for a security code, or a request for biometric information.

[0007] The method may also include displaying a failure message on a display device associated with the media device in response to the authentication response not satisfying the condition.

[0008] The method can also include displaying one or more payment method options on a display device associated with the media device, and in response to a payment method selection, displaying an instruction screen on the display device associated with the media device.

[0009] The payment information can be associated with an RFID enabled credit card and / or a digital wallet of an RFID enabled device.

[0010] The method can also include encrypting the payment information before sending the payment information to the server for further processing.

[0011] Example embodiments operate via a non-transitory computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by at least one computing device of a media device, causes the at least one computing device to perform operations. The operations may include: receiving payment information from a remote control, wherein a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader module of the remote control is used to receive the payment information at the remote control. The operations also include making an authentication request and receiving an authentication response in response to the authentication request. In response to the authentication response satisfying a condition, sending the payment information to a server for further processing.

[0012] Example embodiments operate via a system including one or more memories and at least one processor, each processor being coupled to the at least one memory. The at least one processor is configured to perform operations including: receiving payment information from a remote controller, wherein a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader module of the remote controller is used to receive the payment information at the remote controller. The operations also include making an authentication request and receiving an authentication response in response to the authentication request. The operations also include, in response to the authentication response satisfying a condition, sending the payment information to a server for further processing.

[0013] An example embodiment includes a remote control including a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader module configured to communicate with an RFID tag and a transceiver configured to communicate with a media device. The remote control also includes at least one processor configured to receive payment information from the RFID tag using the RFID reader module and to send the payment information to the media device using the transceiver.

[0014] The at least one processor can also be configured to receive an activation signal from the media device using the transceiver and switch the RFID reader module from a passive mode to an active mode.

[0015] The at least one processor can also be configured to send an authentication response to the media device, the authentication response can include one or more zip codes, security codes, or biometric information. The at least one processor can also be configured to encrypt the payment information before sending it to the media device using the transceiver. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein and constitute a part of this specification.

[0017] Figure 1 A block diagram of a multimedia environment is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0018] Figure 2 A block diagram of a streaming media device according to some embodiments is shown.

[0019] Figure 3 A block diagram of an example remote control is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0020] Figure 4 An example method of using an RFID enabled remote control in accordance with some embodiments is shown.

[0021] Figure 5 A flow chart of a method of using an RFID enabled remote controller according to an embodiment is shown.

[0022] Figure 6 An example computer system is shown for implementing various embodiments.

[0023] Figure 7 An example remote control according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0024] In the drawings, identical or similar elements are generally indicated by identical reference numerals. In addition, generally, the leftmost digit of a reference numeral indicates the drawing in which the reference numeral first appears. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] A user of the media system can use the media system to purchase content (e.g., but not limited to, television programs, movies, etc.), subscriptions, merchandise, etc. For example, the user can purchase content, subscriptions, merchandise, etc. through the media device and through the user's television. For example, the user can enter credit card information using a keyboard on a remote control. Entering credit card information, such as a credit card number, expiration date, billing address, etc., using a keyboard on a remote control can be inconvenient and time consuming, and can introduce errors into the information provided.

[0026] Provided herein are systems, apparatus, devices, methods, and / or computer program product embodiments, and combinations and sub-combinations thereof, for providing payment information to a media system using an RFID-enabled remote control.

[0027] Various embodiments of the present disclosure may use Figure 1 The multimedia environment 102 shown implements and / or may be Figure 1 102. However, it should be noted that the multimedia environment 102 is provided for illustration purposes only and is not limiting. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented using an environment other than and / or in addition to the multimedia environment 102 and / or may be a part of an environment other than and / or in addition to the multimedia environment 102, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art. An example of the multimedia environment 102 will now be described.

[0028] Multimedia Environment

[0029] Figure 1A block diagram of a multimedia environment 102 that can include an RFID-enabled remote control according to some embodiments is shown. In a non-limiting example, the multimedia environment 102 may be directed to streaming media. However, the present disclosure is applicable to any type of media (instead of or in addition to streaming media), and any mechanism, method, protocol, and / or process for distributing media.

[0030] The multimedia environment 102 may include one or more media systems 104. The media system 104 may represent a family room, kitchen, backyard, home theater, school classroom, library, car, boat, bus, airplane, movie theater, stadium, auditorium, park, bar, restaurant, or any other location or space where it is desirable to receive and play streaming content. A user 132 may operate the media system 104 to select and consume content.

[0031] Each media system 104 may include one or more media devices 106 respectively coupled to one or more display devices 108. It should be noted that unless otherwise specified herein, terms such as "coupled," "coupled to," "attached," "connected," "combined," and similar terms may refer to physical, electrical, magnetic, logical, etc. connections.

[0032] The media device 106 may be a streaming device, a DVD or Blu-ray device, an audio / video playback device, a cable box, and / or a digital video recording device, to name a few examples. The display device 108 may be a monitor, a television (TV), a computer, a smartphone, a tablet, a wearable device (such as a watch or glasses), an appliance, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, and / or a projector, to name a few examples. In some embodiments, the media device 106 can be part of, integrated with, operably coupled to, and / or connected to its corresponding display device 108.

[0033] Each media device 106 can be configured to communicate with a network 118 via a communication device 114. The communication device 114 can include, for example, a cable modem or a satellite television transceiver. The media device 106 can communicate with the communication device 114 via a link 116, which can include a wireless (e.g., WiFi) and / or wired connection.

[0034] In various embodiments, the network 118 can include, but is not limited to, wired and / or wireless intranets, extranets, the Internet, cellular, Bluetooth TM , infrared and / or any other short-range, long-range, local, regional, global communication mechanism, device, method, protocol and / or network, and any combination thereof.

[0035] The media system 104 may include a remote control 110. The remote control 110 can be any component, part, means and / or method for controlling the media device 106 and / or the display device 108, such as a remote control, a tablet, a laptop, a smartphone, a wearable device, a screen control, integrated control buttons, audio controls, or any combination thereof, to name a few examples. In an embodiment, the remote control 110 may use cellular, Bluetooth, or a combination thereof. TM , infrared, etc., or any combination thereof to wirelessly communicate with the media device 106 and / or the display device 108. The remote control 110 may include a microphone 112, as described in detail below. According to some embodiments, and as discussed in more detail below, the remote control 110 can be an RFID-enabled remote control.

[0036] The multimedia environment 102 may include a plurality of content servers 120 (also referred to as content providers, channels, or sources 120). Figure 1 Only one content server 120 is shown, but in practice the multimedia environment 102 may include any number of content servers 120. Each content server 120 may be configured to communicate with the network 118.

[0037] Each content server 120 may store content 122 and metadata 124. Content 122 may include any combination of music, videos, movies, television programs, multimedia, images, still pictures, text, graphics, game applications, advertisements, programming content, public service content, government content, local community content, software, and / or any other content or data object in electronic form.

[0038] In some embodiments, metadata 124 includes data about content 122. For example, metadata 124 may include associated or supplemental information indicating or relating to writers, directors, producers, composers, artists, actors, summaries, chapters, productions, history, years, trailers, alternate versions, related content, applications, and / or any other information about or relating to content 122. Metadata 124 may also or alternatively include links to any such information about or relating to content 122. Metadata 124 may also or alternatively include one or more indexes to content 122, such as, but not limited to, a trick mode index.

[0039] The multimedia environment 102 may include one or more system servers 126. The system servers 126 may be operable to support the media devices 106 from the cloud. It should be noted that the structural and functional aspects of the system servers 126 may reside in whole or in part in the same or different system servers 126.

[0040] The media devices 106 may be present in thousands or millions of media systems 104. Thus, the media devices 106 may lend themselves to crowdsourcing embodiments, and thus, the system servers 126 may include one or more crowdsourcing servers 128.

[0041] For example, using information received from thousands or millions of media devices 106 in media systems 104, crowdsourcing server 128 can identify similarities and duplications between closed captioning requests made by different users 132 watching a particular movie. Based on this information, crowdsourcing server 128 can determine that turning on closed captioning in certain parts of the movie can enhance the user's viewing experience (e.g., when the movie's soundtrack is difficult to hear), while turning off closed captioning in other parts of the movie can enhance the user's viewing experience (e.g., when displaying closed captioning obstructs key visual aspects of the movie). As a result, crowdsourcing server 128 can operate to automatically turn on and / or turn off closed captioning in future streamings of the movie.

[0042] The system server 126 may also include an audio command processing module 130. As described above, the remote control 110 may include a microphone 112. The microphone 112 may receive audio data from a user 132 (as well as other sources, such as a display device 108). In some embodiments, the media device 106 may be audio-responsive, and the audio data may represent spoken commands from the user 132 to control the media device 106 as well as other components in the media system 104 (such as the display device 108).

[0043] In some embodiments, audio data received by microphone 112 in remote control 110 is transmitted to media device 106 and then forwarded to audio command processing module 130 in system server 126. Audio command processing module 130 may be operable to process and analyze the received audio data to identify spoken commands of user 132. Audio command processing module 130 may then forward the spoken commands back to media device 106 for processing.

[0044] In some embodiments, the audio data may also be alternatively or additionally processed by the audio command processing module 216 (see Figure 2 ) processing and analysis. The media device 106 and the system server 126 may then collaborate to select one of the spoken commands for processing (either the spoken command recognized by the audio command processing module 130 in the system server 126 or the spoken command recognized by the audio command processing module 216 in the media device 106).

[0045] Figure 2A block diagram of an example media device according to some embodiments is shown. The media device 106 may include a streaming module 202, a processing module 204, a memory / buffer 208, and a user interface module 206. As described above, the user interface module 206 may include an audio command processing module 216.

[0046] The media device 106 may also include one or more audio decoders 212 and one or more video decoders 214 .

[0047] Each audio decoder 212 can be configured to decode audio in one or more audio formats, such as, but not limited to, AAC, HE-AAC, AC3 (Dolby Digital), EAC3 (Dolby Digital Enhanced), WMA, WAV, PCM, MP3, OGG GSM, FLAC, AU, AIFF and / or VOX, to name a few.

[0048] Similarly, each video decoder 214 can be configured to decode video in one or more video formats, such as, but not limited to, MP4 (mp4, m4a, m4v, f4v, f4a, m4b, m4r, f4b, mov), 3GP (3gp, 3gp2, 3g2, 3gpp, 3gpp2), OGG (ogg, oga, ogv, ogx), WMV (wmv, wma, asf), WEBM, FLV, AVI, QuickTime, HDV, MXF (OP1a, OP-Atom), MPEG-TS, MPEG-2PS, MPEG-2TS, WAV, Broadcast WAV, LXF, GXF and / or VOB, to name just a few examples. Each video decoder 214 may include one or more video codecs, such as, but not limited to, H.263, H.264, H.265, AVI, HEV, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG-TS, MPEG-4, Theora, 3GP, DV, DVCPRO, DVCPRO, DVCProHD, IMX, XDCAM HD, XDCAM HD422 and / or XDCAM EX, to name a few examples.

[0049] Reference now Figure 1 and Figure 2In some embodiments, the user 132 may interact with the media device 106, for example, through the remote control 110. For example, the user 132 may interact with the user interface module 206 of the media device 106 using the remote control 110 to select content, such as movies, television programs, music, books, applications, games, etc. The streaming module 202 of the media device 106 may request the selected content from the content server 120 through the network 118. The content server 120 may send the requested content to the streaming module 202. The media device 106 may send the received content to the display device 108 for playing to the user 132.

[0050] In streaming embodiments, the streaming module 202 may send the content to the display device 108 in real time or near real time as the content is received from the content server 120. In non-streaming embodiments, the media device 106 may store the content received from the content server 120 in the memory / buffer 208 for later playback on the display device 108.

[0051] RFID-enabled remote control

[0052] An RFID-enabled remote control (also referred to as an RFID-enabled remote control device) may allow a user (e.g., user 132) to easily enter payment information (e.g., credit card information, digital wallet information, etc.) by tapping the user's credit card and / or digital wallet (e.g., a digital wallet on a smartphone) to the RFID-enabled remote control.

[0053] The RFID-enabled remote control enables a user to securely enter payment information to one or more media devices (e.g., media device 106), a system server (e.g., system server 126), a payment server, etc. The user can enter payment information in a convenient and secure manner. As an example, as discussed in detail below, the user can use the RFID-enabled remote control and the media device to navigate to the Add Payment Method section (and / or the One-time Payment section) displayed on the display device (e.g., display device 108). The user can select a method for entering payment information on the displayed screen. For example, the user can select an option to tap a card on the RFID-enabled remote control as a method for entering payment information. In an optional example, a visual display on the display device can demonstrate a method for the RFID-enabled remote control to enter payment information. For example, the visual display can demonstrate how to tap a credit card or a smartphone on the RFID-enabled remote control while the RFID-enabled remote control generates a sound (e.g., a beep) and / or a light (e.g., a flash). The user can tap their credit card and / or smartphone to the RFID-enabled remote control. The payment information is sent from the credit card and / or smartphone to the RFID-enabled remote control. The RFID-enabled remote control then sends the payment information to the media device. In an alternative example, the media device can authenticate the user before sending the payment information to, for example, a system server. The system server can be configured to generate a security token based on the payment information.

[0054] It is noted that although some embodiments are discussed with respect to an RFID-enabled remote control (also referred to as an RFID-enabled remote control device) that includes an RFID reader module, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to these examples, and other devices can also include an RFID reader module. For example, one or more devices such as a display device (e.g., display device 108), a media device (e.g., media device 106), a smartphone, a laptop, a computer, a tablet, a kitchen appliance, a camera, a doorbell, various sensors, etc. can include an RFID reader module. In addition, it is noted that although some embodiments are discussed with respect to paying for content, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to these examples, and can be used to pay for other services and / or items.

[0055] Figure 3 A block diagram of an example remote control is shown in accordance with some embodiments. Figure 3 The remote controller 110 can be Figure 1The remote controller 110 in FIG. The remote controller 110 can include an RFID reader module 301, an antenna 303, a processing module 305, a transceiver 307, an antenna 309, and a memory 311. The remote controller 110 can include more or fewer components. Herein, the remote controller 110 is also referred to as an RFID-enabled remote controller 110 (and / or an RFID-enabled remote control device 110).

[0056] The remote control 110 can include one or more RFID reader modules 301. The RFID reader module 301 can be configured to communicate with one or more RFID tags to receive information and / or data (hereinafter referred to as information) stored at the RFID tags. The RFID tags can be associated with credit cards, user devices (such as mobile devices, such as smartphones), ID cards, tracking devices, etc.

[0057] The RFID reader module 301 can include an antenna and a transceiver. For example, the RFID reader module 301 can include and / or be coupled to an antenna 303. Figure 3 301, but the RFID reader module 301 can include and / or be coupled to one or more transceivers. The RFID reader module 301 can use the transceiver of the RFID reader module 301 and transmit a signal (e.g., an interrogator signal) to the RFID tag through the antenna 303 of the RFID reader module 301. The RFID reader module 301 can use the transmitted signal to activate the RFID tag. The RFID reader module 301 can then receive information and / or data from the RFID tag through the antenna 303 of the RFID reader module 301 and using the transceiver of the RFID reader module 301.

[0058] Different combinations of active / passive RFID tags and active / passive RFID reader modules 301 can be used. For example, RFID reader module 301 can be a passive RFID reader module, and the RFID tag can be an active RFID tag. In some examples, RFID reader module 301 can be an active RFID reader module, and the RFID tag can be a passive RFID tag. In some examples, RFID reader module 301 can be an active RFID reader module, and the RFID tag can also be an active RFID tag.

[0059] The information received by the RFID reader module 301 can include payment information. The payment information can include any information used to pay for streaming content, subscriptions, merchandise, etc. For example, the payment information can include credit card information, such as but not limited to a credit card number, expiration date, security code, billing address, account number, routing number, transaction time and date, terminal identifier, one or more reference numbers, digital tokens, etc. Aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to these examples and can include other payment information. According to some embodiments, the information received by the RFID reader module 301 can include encrypted payment information. The encrypted payment information can be stored on an RFID tag.

[0060] The remote control 110 can send information to the media device (e.g., Figure 1 The media device 106 in FIG. 10A ). The media device can send information received (from the remote control 110 ) to the system server (e.g., Figure 1 The system server 126 in the system server 126). Information (e.g., payment information) can be added to the user profile for current and / or future payments. Additionally or alternatively, the information (e.g., payment information) can be used for a one-time payment. The user profile can include a user account associated with the media device 106 and / or the display device 108.

[0061] The remote control 110 can send information (e.g., payment information) received by the remote control 110 to the media device without further encrypting the information. For example, the remote control 110 can receive payment information encrypted from the RFID tag, and the remote control 110 can send the encrypted payment information to, for example, the media device without further encryption. Additionally or alternatively, the remote control 110 can receive payment information (encrypted or unencrypted) and encrypt the payment information before sending the encrypted payment information to, for example, the media device. For example, the remote control 110 can use the processing module 305 to encrypt (or further encrypt) the payment information received from the RFID tag.

[0062] The processing module 305 can be coupled to the memory 311 to retrieve and / or store encryption information for encrypting and / or decrypting payment information at the memory 311. Additionally or alternatively, the processing module 305 can use the memory 311 to store and / or retrieve payment information. The processing module 305 can include one or more processors. The memory 311 can include random access memory (RAM) and / or cache, and can include control logic (e.g., computer software) and / or data. The memory 311 can include other storage devices or memories, such as, but not limited to, hard disk drives and / or removable storage devices / units.

[0063] The remote control 110 can use the transceiver 307 and antenna 309 to send the payment information (received from the RFID tag) to the media device (e.g., Figure 1 media device 106 in the system server (e.g., Figure 1 system server 126 in the system server 126), content server (e.g., Figure 1 content server 120), payment server, etc.

[0064] The transceiver 307 can send and receive communication signals for the RFID-enabled remote controller of the present disclosure. The transceiver 307 can be coupled to an antenna 309. The antenna 309 can include one or more antennas of the same or different types. The transceiver 307 can allow the remote controller 110 to communicate with other wired and / or wireless devices (e.g., media devices and / or system servers). In some examples, the transceiver 307 can include a processor, a controller, a radio, a socket, a plug, a buffer, and similar circuits / devices for connecting to a network and communicating on the network. Although one transceiver 307 is shown, the remote controller 110 can include any number of transceivers.

[0065] The transceiver 307 may include a cellular subsystem, a WLAN subsystem, and / or a Bluetooth subsystem. TM Subsystems, each including its own radio transceiver and protocol. In some embodiments, transceiver 307 can include more or fewer systems for communicating with other devices. In some examples, transceiver 307 can include one or more circuits (including a cellular transceiver) for connecting to a cellular network and communicating on the cellular network. Cellular networks can include but are not limited to 3G / 4G / 5G / 6G networks, such as Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Long Term Evolution (LTE), etc. Additionally or alternatively, transceiver 307 can include one or more circuits (including Bluetooth TM transceiver) to enable Bluetooth-based TM Protocol, Bluetooth TM Low Energy Protocol or Bluetooth TM In addition, the transceiver 307 can include one or more circuits (including a WLAN transceiver) to enable connection and communication through a WLAN network, such as, but not limited to, a network based on the standards described in IEEE 802.11. The network 110 can include infrared and / or any other short-range, long-range, local, regional, global communication mechanism, device, method, protocol and / or network, and any combination thereof.

[0066] Figure 4 An example method of using an RFID-enabled remote control according to some embodiments is shown. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that Figure 4 Some steps can be performed simultaneously or in parallel. Figure 4 The order shown in the figure is different from the order in which it is executed. Figure 4 You can refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 However, method 400 is not limited to this example embodiment.

[0067] A user (e.g., user 132) can request payment for content, items, services, or the like. Additionally or alternatively, user 132 can request payment information to be added to, for example, a user profile for current and / or future purchases. The user can use remote control 110 to communicate with a display device (e.g., Figure 1 ) and / or media device 106 to request payment and / or add payment information.

[0068] In response to (and / or in conjunction with) a request from user 132, at 403, display device 108 can display a screen for the user to enter payment information. The payment information can be used for a one-time payment and can also be used to add to a user profile. The screen can include an option to tap the RFID tag to remote control 110. Remote control 110 can be an RFID-enabled remote control (also referred to as an RFID-enabled remote control device). As described above, user 132 can use other RFID-enabled remote control devices to perform embodiments of the present disclosure. The RFID tag can be associated with a credit card, a user device (such as a mobile device, such as a smartphone), an identification card, a tracking device, etc. At 405, user 132 can select the option to tap the RFID tag to remote control 110.

[0069] In optional step 407, display device 108 can display the instruction screen and demonstration. In some examples, remote control 110 can generate sound (e.g., beep) and / or light (e.g., flash) while the instruction screen and demonstration are presented. In response to user 132 selecting the option to tap the RFID tag to remote control 110 at 405, media device 106 can enter polling (e.g., waiting) mode at 409. In polling mode, media device 106 can wait to receive payment information from remote control 110.

[0070] Additionally or alternatively, in response to the user 132 selecting the option to touch the RFID tag to the remote control 110 at 405, the media device 106 can activate the RFID reader module of the remote control 110 at 411. The RFID reader module of the remote control 110 (e.g., the RFID reader module 301) can be in a passive mode (e.g., a sleep mode) until the remote control 110 and / or the RFID reader module of the remote control 110 is activated by the media device 106. For example, in response to the user 132 selecting the option to touch the RFID tag to the remote control 110 at 405, the media device 106 can send an activation signal to the remote control 110 to activate the RFID reader module of the remote control 110. The remote control 110 can activate the RFID reader module of the remote control 110 by, for example Figure 3 The transceiver 307 of the remote controller 110 receives the activation signal. Activating the RFID reader module of the remote controller 110 can include switching the RFID reader module of the remote controller 110 from a passive mode (eg, a sleep mode) to an active mode (eg, a wake-up mode).

[0071] When the user 132 selects to touch the RFID tag to the remote control 110 at 405, the user 132 can activate the RFID reader module of the remote control 110 at 411. For example, the user 132 can use an option (e.g., a button) on the remote control 110 to activate the RFID reader module of the remote control 110. In some embodiments, the RFID reader module of the remote control 110 can periodically switch between a passive mode and an active mode. Additionally or alternatively, operation 411 can be optional and the RFID reader module can be activated.

[0072] At 413, user 132 can touch the RFID tag to remote control 110. Touching the RFID tag to remote control 110 can include touching the RFID tag (or other device with an RFID tag) to remote control 110. Additionally or alternatively, touching the RFID tag to remote control 110 can include bringing the RFID tag (or other device with an RFID tag) close enough to remote control 110 without touching remote control 110. User 132 can bring the RFID tag (or other device with an RFID tag) close to remote control 110 so that the RFID tag is within range of an RFID reader module of remote control 110 that can "read" the RFID tag.

[0073] At 415, the remote controller 110 reads the information stored on the RFID tag. The information can include the payment information described above. The RFID reader module of the remote controller 110 can send a signal (e.g., an interrogator signal) to the RFID tag. In response, the RFID tag can send information (e.g., payment information) to the RFID reader module of the remote controller 110. For example, the RFID tag sends a signal (e.g., a response signal) to the RFID reader module of the remote controller 110. The signal can include information (e.g., payment information).

[0074] In optional step 417, remote control 110 can encrypt the received payment information. At 419, remote control 110 sends the payment information to media device 106. According to some embodiments, remote control 110 can generate other data based on the payment information, wherein the data is compatible with media device 106 and / or system server 126. Remote control 110 can send the data generated based on the payment information to media device 106.

[0075] In optional step 421, the media device 106 connected to the display device 108 can authenticate the user 132 to verify that the user 132 is authorized to use the RFID tag and / or use the payment information. For example, at 421, the user 132 is prompted to authenticate on the display device 108. Authentication can include requiring the user 132 to provide authentication information. In some examples, authentication can include requiring the user 132 to enter a zip code associated with the payment information. In some examples, authentication can include requiring the user 132 to enter a security code associated with the payment information. In some examples, authentication can include requiring the user 132 to enter a security code sent to the device (e.g., a smartphone) of the user 132. In some examples, authentication can include requiring the user 132 to provide biometric information. Biometric information can include facial recognition (ID-face recognition), iris recognition, retinal scanning, fingerprints, voice recognition, vein recognition, etc. In some examples, in optional step 421, the media device 106 connected to the display device 108 can challenge the user 132 to verify that the user 132 is authorized to use the RFID tag and / or use the payment information. The embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to these examples, and other methods can be used to verify that the user 132 is authorized to use the RFID tag and / or use the payment information.

[0076] At 423, the user 132 makes an authentication response to the authentication request. In some embodiments, the user 132 can use the remote control 110 to enter a zip code, security code, code, biometric information, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the user 132 can use other devices to enter authentication information.

[0077] After receiving the authentication information, the media device 106 can compare the authentication information to the stored information to verify whether the user 132 is authorized to use the RFID tag and / or use the payment information. At 425, if the authentication is successful, the media device 106 can send the payment information to the system server 126. In some examples, the media device 106 can send the payment information to the system server 126, the content server 120, the payment server, etc.

[0078] At 427, the system server 126 (or content server 120, payment server, etc.) can process the received payment information. In some examples, processing the payment information can include adding the payment information to a user profile associated with the user 132. In some examples, processing the payment information can include providing the payment information required for the purchase requested by the user 132. In some examples, processing the payment information can also include decrypting, encrypting, and / or formatting the payment information. At 429, a success screen message can be displayed to the user 132 on the display device 108.

[0079] Although the display device 108 and the media device 106 are discussed Figure 4 Although some examples are provided, embodiments of the invention can include implementations in which display device 108 and media device 106 are part of the same device and / or different devices.

[0080] Although some examples of using an RFID tag (e.g., associated with a credit card or a digital wallet of a user device) with an RFID-enabled remote control are discussed, embodiments of the present disclosure can include implementations in which the RFID-enabled remote control is a user device (e.g., a smartphone), and the digital wallet of the user device can be used without touching the RFID tag to the RFID-enabled remote control. For example, the user device (e.g., a smartphone) can include an application for remote control. At 403, when a screen is presented for the user to enter payment information, the user 132 can select an option to use the payment information from the digital wallet of the user device. At optional step 407, the display device 108 can present an instruction screen and demonstrate how to use the digital wallet. The user 132 can activate the digital wallet of the user device to send the payment information to the remote control application of the user device. The method can continue as described above. Figure 4 Steps 417-429.

[0081] Figure 5A flow chart of a method for using an RFID-enabled remote control according to an embodiment is shown. Method 500 can be performed by processing logic, which can include hardware (e.g., circuits, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, etc.), software (e.g., instructions executed on a processing device), or a combination of both. It should be understood that not all steps are required to perform the present disclosure. In addition, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, some steps may be performed simultaneously or in different steps. Figure 5 Execute in the order shown.

[0082] Method 500 will refer to Figure 1-4 However, method 500 is not limited to this example embodiment.

[0083] At 502, payment information is received from a remote control. For example, a media device (e.g., media device 106) receives (e.g., remote control 110) payment information from a remote control. The remote control can be an RFID-enabled remote control, where the payment information is received at the remote control using an RFID reader module of the remote control. Alternatively or additionally, a display device (e.g., display device 108) receives payment information from the remote control.

[0084] Prior to receiving payment information, method 500 can include optional operations including displaying one or more payment method options on a display device associated with the media device (e.g., display device 108), and in response to a payment method selection, displaying an instruction screen on the display device associated with the media device. The instruction screen can include an introductory screen on how to use the RFID-enabled remote control.

[0085] The payment information can be associated with one or more RFID-enabled credit cards, RFID-enabled digital wallets, and the like.

[0086] Prior to receiving the payment information, the method 500 can also include providing one or more payment method options and receiving a payment method selection. The method 500 can also include, in response to the payment method selection, sending an activation signal to the remote controller to activate the RFID reader module.

[0087] At 504, an authentication request is prompted. For example, in response to receiving payment information from the remote control, the media device (and / or display device) can prompt the user for an authentication request. The authentication request can include one or more address information requests, security code requests, biometric information requests, etc. The authentication request can include other requests for authenticating the user of the payment information.

[0088] At 506, an authentication response is received in response to the authentication request. For example, the media device (and / or display device) can receive the authentication response from, for example, a user.

[0089] Method 500 can also include comparing the received authentication response to a stored response. The response can be stored in Figure 3 Memory 311, Figure 2 Memory 208, Figure 1 System server 126, Figure 1 One or more of the content servers 120, etc.

[0090] At 508, in response to the authentication response satisfying the condition, the payment information is sent to the server for further processing. For example, if the authentication response matches the stored response (e.g., the user of the payment information is authorized to use the payment device (e.g., an RFID-enabled credit card, a digital wallet of an RFID-enabled device, etc.), then the condition is satisfied and the media device can send the payment information to the server for further processing. The method 500 can also include encrypting the payment information before sending the payment information to the server for further processing. The server can include one or more of the content server 120, the system server 126, the payment server, the processing server, etc.

[0091] However, in response to the authentication response not satisfying the condition (eg, the authentication response does not match any stored responses), a failure message is displayed on a display device associated with the media device.

[0092] Although some aspects of the present disclosure are discussed with respect to using an RFID-enabled remote control to deliver payment information for content, services, products, and the like, some examples of the present disclosure can be used for authentication of users of media devices and / or display devices. For example, aspects of the present disclosure can be used for age identification of users. For example, a user can use an RFID tag associated with, for example, a credit card, an ID card, and the like, with an RFID-enabled remote control to verify the user's age, and whether the user can view content based on the user's age. The systems and methods described in the present disclosure can be used for other authentication and / or certification purposes.

[0093] Example Computer System

[0094] For example, various embodiments may be implemented using one or more well-known computer systems, such as Figure 6 The computer system 600 is shown. For example, the media device 106 can be implemented by a combination or sub-combination of the computer systems 600. Additionally or alternatively, one or more computer systems 600 can also be used to, for example, implement any of the embodiments discussed herein, as well as combinations and sub-combinations thereof.

[0095] Computer system 600 may include one or more processors (also referred to as central processing units, or CPUs), such as processor 604. Processor 604 may be connected to a communication infrastructure or bus 606.

[0096] The computer system 600 may also include user input / output devices 603 , such as a display, a keyboard, a pointing device, etc., which may communicate with the communication infrastructure 606 via the user input / output interface 602 .

[0097] One or more processors 604 may be a graphics processing unit (GPU). In an embodiment, a GPU may be a processor that is a dedicated electronic circuit designed to process mathematically intensive applications. A GPU may have a parallel structure that is efficient for processing large blocks of data in parallel, such as mathematically intensive data commonly found in computer graphics applications, images, videos, etc.

[0098] The computer system 600 may also include a main memory 608, such as a random access memory (RAM). The main memory 608 may include one or more levels of cache. The main memory 608 may store control logic (ie, computer software) and / or data therein.

[0099] The computer system 600 may also include one or more secondary storage devices or memories 610. The secondary storage 610 may include, for example, a hard disk drive 612 and / or a removable storage device or drive 614. The removable storage drive 614 may be a floppy disk drive, a tape drive, an optical drive, an optical storage device, a tape backup device, and / or any other storage device / drive.

[0100] The removable storage drive 614 can interact with the removable storage unit 618. The removable storage unit 618 may include a computer-usable or readable storage device having computer software (control logic) and / or data stored therein. The removable storage unit 618 may be a floppy disk, a magnetic tape, a compact disk, a DVD, an optical storage disk, and / or any other computer data storage device. The removable storage drive 614 can read from and / or write to the removable storage unit 618.

[0101] Secondary storage 610 may include other devices, apparatuses, components, tools, or other methods that allow computer programs and / or other instructions and / or data to be accessed by computer system 600. These devices, apparatuses, components, tools, or other methods may include, for example, a removable storage unit 622 and an interface 620. Examples of removable storage unit 622 and interface 620 may include a program cartridge and a cartridge interface (such as that found in video game devices), a removable memory chip (such as an EPROM or PROM) and an associated socket, a memory stick and a USB or other port, a memory card and an associated memory card slot, and / or any other removable storage unit and associated interface.

[0102] The computer system 600 may also include a communication or network interface 624. The communication interface 624 may enable the computer system 600 to communicate and interact with any combination of external devices, external networks, external entities, etc. (individually or collectively referred to as reference numeral 628). For example, the communication interface 624 may enable the computer system 600 to communicate with external or remote devices 628 via communication paths 626, which may be wired and / or wireless (or a combination thereof) and may include any combination of LANs, WANs, the Internet, etc. Control logic and / or data may be sent to and from the computer system 600 via the communication paths 626.

[0103] The computer system 600 may also be any one of a personal digital assistant (PDA), a desktop workstation, a laptop, a handheld computer, a netbook, a tablet computer, a smart phone, a smart watch or other wearable device, an appliance, part of the Internet of Things, and / or an embedded system, to name a few non-limiting examples, or any combination of these devices.

[0104] Computer system 600 can be a client or server, accessing or hosting applications and / or data through any delivery model, including but not limited to remote or distributed cloud computing solutions; local or in-house software ("in-house" cloud-based solutions); "as a service" models (e.g., content as a service (CaaS), digital content as a service (DCaaS), software as a service (SaaS), management software as a service (MSaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), desktop as a service (DaaS), framework as a service (FaaS), backend as a service (BaaS), mobile backend as a service (MBaaS), infrastructure as a service (IaaS), etc.); and / or a hybrid model including any combination of the foregoing examples or other services or delivery paradigms.

[0105] Any suitable data structures, file formats, and schemas in computer system 600 may be derived from standards including, but not limited to, JavaScript Object Notation (JSON), Extensible Markup Language (XML), Still a Markup Language (YAML), Extensible Hypertext Markup Language (XHTML), Wireless Markup Language (WML), MessagePack, XML User Interface Language (XUL), or any other functionally similar representation (alone or in combination). Alternatively, proprietary data structures, formats, or schemas may be used, either alone or in combination with known or open standards.

[0106] In some embodiments, a tangible, non-transitory device or article of manufacture comprising a tangible, non-transitory computer-usable or readable medium having control logic (software) stored thereon may also be referred to herein as a computer program product or program storage device. This includes, but is not limited to, computer system 600, main memory 608, secondary memory 610, and removable storage units 618 and 622, as well as tangible articles of manufacture embodying any combination of the foregoing. When executed by one or more data processing devices (such as computer system 600 or processor 604), these control logics may cause these data processing devices to operate as described herein.

[0107] Based on the teachings contained in the present invention, it will be clear to those skilled in the relevant art how to use the Figure 6 The embodiments of the present disclosure may be made and used with data processing devices, computer systems, and / or computer architectures other than those shown in the drawings. In particular, the embodiments can operate with software, hardware, and / or operating system implementations other than those described herein.

[0108] Sample Remote Control

[0109] For example, various embodiments may be implemented using one or more computer systems, such as Figure 6 The computer system 600 shown in the figure is configured in an embedded system to achieve high energy efficiency in a handheld form factor. For example, in one embodiment, the remote control 700 (also referred to as the remote control device 700) can be implemented using a combination or sub-combination of the computer system 600, including at least one processor 604 and a memory 608. According to some embodiments, the remote control 700 can be an RFID-enabled remote control (also referred to as an RFID-enabled remote control device) as discussed in the present disclosure. For example, the remote control 700 can include, for example, the above-mentioned Figure 3 Systems and modules discussed.

[0110] like Figure 7 As shown, with the front view 700a and the rear view 700b as orthogonal projections of the remote controller 700, exemplary embodiments may include an outer body molded or otherwise formed from one or more parts of any of a variety of solid materials of different hardness (e.g., metal, wood, glass, rubber, plastic, etc.). In embodiments of a plastic body, the material forming one or more parts may include a synthetic resin, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), ultra-high molecular polyethylene (UHPE), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyarylate (PAR), polyacetal (POM), polyamide (PA), polycarbonate (PC), polyether sulfone (PES), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), etc.

[0111] Some parts of the body may be made of different materials with different physical properties. For example, at the far end of the body of the remote control 700, a lens 702 may be integrated, snap-fitted, bonded, welded, heat-fitted, or otherwise fixed to or formed in a portion of the body, such as the arc-shaped end of the lower half of the body corresponding to the lens 702 as shown in the shaded portion of the rear view 700b. Other embodiments may have multiple such lenses 702 at any other location of the body.

[0112] The lens 702 may be composed of a material having physical properties that allow electromagnetic waves, at least at some wavelengths, to pass into and / or out of the lens 702. Some embodiments of the lens 702 may include filters, collimators, and / or direction directors for specific wavelengths of light or other electromagnetic waves, including ultraviolet or infrared beams or projections.

[0113] At least one sensor, at least one transmitter, or a combination thereof may be disposed inside the body of the remote controller 700, near the inner surface of the lens 702. The lens 702 may be optically shaped or formed so as to direct electromagnetic waves from outside the body to the at least one sensor at different angles. Additionally or alternatively, the lens 702 may be optically shaped or formed so as to direct electromagnetic waves generated by the at least one transmitter to the outside of the body through the lens 702 in a specific direction or pattern.

[0114] Additionally or alternatively, various apertures 704 of any number of different shapes, sizes, and groupings may be provided at various locations on the front and / or rear of the body of the remote control 700, which may be configured to allow sound waves to pass through the body to and / or from any acoustic transducers within the body of the remote control 700. The apertures 704 may be positioned and / or shaped in an appropriate manner to improve directional detection of sound by a transducer such as a microphone or equivalent device. Additionally or alternatively, the apertures 704 may be positioned and / or shaped in an appropriate manner to allow sound output, such as for computer-generated voice notifications and / or audio playback (e.g., soundtracks of media content, music, etc.).

[0115] In addition, various embodiments can have any number of buttons disposed at least on the front of the body of the remote control 700 and, in some embodiments, on the back. The buttons can be formed of relatively hard or soft thermoplastic resins, rubber, silicone, or similar materials, and may be engaged with at least one membrane or other type of sensor or mechanical switch below the button. At least one button 706 can control the input of some sensor (e.g., a microphone). In some embodiments, the microphone can be turned on or configured to receive and process input signals regularly, but can change the configuration of how to process input signals in response to a user pressing and / or holding a given button 706.

[0116] Additionally or alternatively, at least one toggle switch 708 may be disposed on any portion of the body of the remote controller 700, such as laterally disposed on at least one side. Figure 7 As shown. Toggle switch 708 can have a function similar to keeping button 706 pressed or other similar functions. Toggle switch 708 can have various forms (e.g., a slider, a rocker, a knob, a joystick, a flip switch, a dual in-line package (DIP), a button, etc.) and can be configured to allow a user to change any number of settings using hardware circuits. For example, toggle switch 708 can allow a user to set a night mode, as described elsewhere in this document. As another example, toggle switch 708 can be configured to act as a hardware kill-switch for some sensors or processing units, for example, to allow a privacy mode.

[0117] Additionally, as an alternative to lens 702, or in combination with lens 702, in some embodiments, at least one light pipe 710 may be used for similar purposes as lens 702, and / or may be configured to serve as an indicator light, such as to help a user configure or troubleshoot other onboard processing elements. In some embodiments, in place of light pipe 710 may be a sensor or transmitter that is flush with the body of remote control 700, allowing for less material and design complexity.

[0118] Although Figure 7 The illustrated remote control 700 depicts an example embodiment that may be used to implement the remote control 110 or other aspects of the enhanced techniques described herein, but it should be understood that other device form factors may be used to implement at least the same or equivalent functionality. Existing commercial platforms for handheld remote controls may be equipped with or retrofitted with specific sensors, transmitters, processors, and / or program logic configured to implement the enhanced techniques disclosed herein.

[0119] Additionally, various general purpose computing platforms, including handheld devices such as smartphones or tablets, may be sold with various environmental sensors and may be configured or programmed at different levels of the implementation stack (hardware, firmware, system-level software, application-level software, etc.) to implement processing capabilities that can execute the enhanced techniques described in this document and in the appended claims. Figure 7 Without intending to be limiting, the remote control for the device according to the appended claims is not limited to Figure 7 The appearance shown.

[0120] in conclusion

[0121] It should be understood that the detailed description section, rather than any other section, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The other sections may list one or more exemplary embodiments contemplated by the inventor, but not all embodiments, and therefore, are not intended to limit the present disclosure or the appended claims in any way.

[0122] Although the present disclosure describes exemplary embodiments for exemplary fields and applications, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Other embodiments and modifications thereto are possible and within the scope and essence of the present disclosure. For example, without limiting the generality of this paragraph, the embodiments are not limited to the software, hardware, firmware, and / or entities shown in the figures and / or described herein. In addition, the embodiments (whether or not explicitly described herein) have significant practicality for fields and applications beyond the examples described herein.

[0123] Embodiments are described herein with the aid of functional building blocks, which illustrate implementations of specified functions and their relationships. For ease of description, the boundaries of these functional building blocks are arbitrarily defined herein. As long as the specified functions and relationships (or their equivalents) are appropriately performed, alternative boundaries may be defined. In addition, alternative embodiments may perform functional blocks, steps, operations, methods, etc., in a different order than described herein.

[0124] "One embodiment", "embodiment", "exemplary embodiment" or similar phrases mentioned herein indicate that the described embodiment may include specific features, structures or characteristics, but not necessarily every embodiment includes the specific features, structures or characteristics. In addition, these phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, when describing specific features, structures or characteristics in conjunction with an embodiment, a person skilled in the relevant art may incorporate these features, structures, or characteristics into other embodiments, regardless of whether they are explicitly mentioned or described herein. In addition, some embodiments may be described using "coupling" and "connection" and their derivatives. These terms are not necessarily synonymous with each other. For example, some embodiments may be described using the terms "connection" and / or "coupling" to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact with each other. However, the term "coupling" may also mean that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other, but still cooperate or interact with each other.

[0125] The breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method comprising: receiving, by at least one computer processor of the media device, payment information from a remote control, wherein the payment information is received at the remote control using a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader module of the remote control; Make a request for certification; receiving an authentication response in response to the authentication request; and In response to the authentication response satisfying a condition, the payment information is sent to a server for further processing.

2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising: providing one or more payment method options; Receive payment method selection; as well as In response to the payment method selection, an activation signal is sent to the remote controller to activate the RFID reader module.

3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein: The authentication request indicates a request for address information, a request for a security code, or a request for biometric information.

4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising: In response to the authentication response not satisfying the condition, a failure message is displayed on a display device associated with the media device.

5. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising: displaying one or more payment method options on a display device associated with the media device; as well as In response to the payment method selection, an instruction screen is displayed on a display device associated with the media device.

6. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein: The payment information is associated with an RFID enabled credit card.

7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein: The payment information is associated with the digital wallet of the RFID enabled device.

8. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising: The payment information is encrypted before being sent to a server for further processing.

9. A non-transitory computer readable medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by at least one computing device of a media device, causes the at least one computing device to perform the operations of the method of any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A system comprising: one or more memories; as well as At least one processor, each processor is coupled to at least one memory and configured to perform operations of performing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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