METHODS AND APPARATUSES PROVIDING SYNCHRONISED ELECTRONIC PROGRAM GUIDE

摘要

Disclosed herein are methods and apparatuses that provide a synchronized electronic program guide (EPG). EPG data is continuously provided from a media server (300) to associated media centers (334) to synchronize the EPG data with the most recent programming changes implemented by broadcast content providers. In one aspect, a single EPG database (361) may be used to describe content provided from a variety of broadcast sources. Each of the media centers (334) will determine which content is relevant to a particular user based upon user inputs. In addition, the media centers (334) will also know to which content a user does not subscribe, and will accordingly filter that portion of the EPG data. Another aspect of the synchronized EPG is its ability to automatically adjust the recording times of digital video recorded in the media center (334) based upon last minute programming changes received via instantaneous updates, even as the program is being recorded. In another aspect, a recorded broadcast program may be annotated in real time, which allows a user to efficiently move to relevant portions of the program. Another feature is the ability to identify specific broadcast programs based upon a variety of search or mood factors. For example, a user may select content to be viewed or recorded based upon a particular mood, such as entertainment, educational, inspirational, or romance. These program selection features can be implemented either at the server level or at the client level for an added level of security.