TV Web Browser Video Handoff for Unplayable Content

The patent introduces a web server as an intermediary between the TV and the content provider server. The web server receives video requests from the TV, retrieves videos from the content provider server, and delivers them to the TV. This intermediary approach allows the TV to access videos through a web browser while the web server handles compatibility with content provider policies and network connections, thus resolving the contradiction between improved video viewing capability and maintained access reliability.

The patent enables the TV system to automatically handle video retrieval and playback without requiring users to switch devices. When a user selects a video through the web browser on the TV, the system automatically communicates with the web server, which then retrieves and plays the video on the TV. This self-service mechanism maintains content accessibility while eliminating the need for users to manually switch to PC or mobile devices, thus preserving user convenience.

The patent implements error handling mechanisms that anticipate and prepare for network failures. The web server is configured to handle connection errors gracefully, attempting alternative retrieval methods or notifying users of available offline content. This beforehand cushioning approach allows the system to maintain service versatility through the web browser while protecting against network connection instability by having pre-prepared error response strategies.