CUSTOMIZABLE AND UPGRADABLE DEVICES AND METHODS RELATED THERETO

摘要

A customizable and an upgradable remote control is provided which may be customized or upgraded via a Web site or through other remote, and preferabl y interactive, processes. A database is provided which includes a plurality of functions of a consumer electronic device, such as a T.V. or and DVD player. A user selects among the plurality of functions at least one of the desired functions. In response to the user selection a virtual configuration is created to virtually configure the customized remote control. The virtual configuration may be downloaded to th e customizable remote control. Preferably, the customizable remote control is provided with a plurality of preprogrammed standard keys and a plurality of configurable keys. A plurality of customized labels corresponding to the plurality of configurable keys may be provided separately or printed as part of the virtual configuration download process. More generally methods for providing a customized consumer electron ic device are disclosed, including a preferred embodiment using a touch screen remote control. In one embodiment a database of command codes operable with a hand- held device is maintained. A user is allowed to access the database via a Web sit e. The user may then download at least one of the plurality of command codes provid ed inthe selection. The hand-held device may also be utilized in an interactive environment. Such an interactive environment may include pay-per-event acces s, and the like.