Method and system for device discovery and content management on a network

摘要

Apparatus and methods for downloading selected multimedia content and applications. In one embodiment, the apparatus and methods enable various options or functionalities for programming content over a home network. A web-based user interface on a consumer device controls a set-top box (STB) over a local home network is utilized. An initial process connects the consumer device to an application server for the necessary web software. After discovery of both the consumer device and the STB on the local home network, an initial page of the application is loaded and the application calls the web services on the STB via the home network to retrieve data and control the STB with a compatible web browser on the consumer device.

主权项

1. A method for providing programming content between a Internet Protocol (IP)-enabled device and a legacy device on a local network, said method comprising:
receiving an application at said IP-enabled device from an application server in a non-managed network; detecting a message transmitted by said legacy device, said message comprising a uniform resource locator (URL), said URL being configured to contain information which at least identifies a managed network programming content server and services available via said managed network programming content server; reading said URL to load a web-page associated to said managed network programming content server via said application; receiving, in response to said act of reading said URL to load said web-page, a web-based user interface at said IP-enabled device from said managed network programming content server; requesting said programming content aria said web-based user interface on said IP-enabled device; and receiving at said IP-enabled device said programming content from said legacy device.