{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854312","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854312","title":"Program shortcuts","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2013-11-07T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N"],"num_claims":23,"abstract":"Techniques are described that allow DVR users to create program shortcuts to different types of media content from content providers. A program shortcut comprises a reference to another media content. A user may generate a shortcut so that the user may easily find and return to media content without performing a new search. In addition, techniques may be used to automatically generate program shortcuts for a user based at least in part to user-indicated preferences or actions. Shortcuts may be generated to media content that is related to a preferred genre or media type specified by a user. Shortcuts may also be generated to content that is determined to be similar to content that is often viewed or recorded by the user."},"analysis":{"summary":"Program Shortcuts introduces a novel approach to content discovery and navigation within DVR systems. The core innovation lies in allowing users to create program shortcuts to different types of media content from various providers, effectively streamlining the process of finding and returning to specific programs without the need for repeated searches. This patent addresses the problem of cumbersome DVR interfaces and the time-consuming nature of navigating menus to locate desired content. The technology enables users to manually create shortcuts to specific media content. In addition, techniques may be used to automatically generate program shortcuts for a user based at least in part to user-indicated preferences or actions. These shortcuts are organized and accessed through a user-friendly interface, providing a personalized and efficient viewing experience.\n\nThe business value of Program Shortcuts is significant. By enhancing the user experience, DVR providers can improve customer retention and attract new subscribers. The technology also opens up opportunities for targeted advertising and personalized recommendations based on user preferences and viewing habits. The market opportunity for this innovation is substantial, as it addresses a common pain point for DVR users and offers a compelling solution for improving content discovery and engagement.\n\nThis approach allows for shortcuts to be generated to media content that is related to a preferred genre or media type specified by a user. Shortcuts may also be generated to content that is determined to be similar to content that is often viewed or recorded by the user. The flexibility and adaptability of this approach make it a valuable asset for any DVR provider looking to enhance its user experience.","layman_explanation":"Program Shortcuts addresses the problem of inefficient content discovery on DVR systems. Existing DVR interfaces often require users to navigate through complex menus and search repeatedly for the same content. This can be frustrating and time-consuming, leading to a suboptimal user experience.\n\nThis patent introduces a system that allows users to create program shortcuts to different types of media content from content providers. These shortcuts act as direct links to specific programs, movies, or even specific scenes, eliminating the need for repeated searches. A user may generate a shortcut so that the user may easily find and return to media content without performing a new search. In addition, techniques may be used to automatically generate program shortcuts for a user based at least in part to user-indicated preferences or actions. Think of it like creating bookmarks for your favorite websites, but for your DVR content. Instead of having to scroll through a long list of channels or search for a specific show, you can simply click on a shortcut and go directly to the content you want.\n\nThis innovation matters because it improves the user experience and increases engagement with DVR systems. By making it easier to find and access content, users are more likely to watch more shows and movies. This can lead to increased customer retention and revenue for DVR providers. The market opportunity for Program Shortcuts is significant, as it addresses a common pain point for DVR users and offers a valuable solution for improving content discovery.\n\nLooking ahead, Program Shortcuts could be integrated with other media platforms, such as streaming services and on-demand content providers. This would create a unified experience for users, allowing them to seamlessly access all their favorite content from a single interface. The system's ability to learn from user behavior and automatically generate shortcuts based on preferences and viewing history could also be further enhanced, providing an even more personalized and efficient content navigation experience.","technical_analysis":"Program Shortcuts presents a technically innovative solution to the problem of content discovery within DVR systems. The system architecture comprises a user interface, a shortcut database, and a recommendation engine. The user interface allows users to create, manage, and access program shortcuts. The shortcut database stores information about each shortcut, including the content it points to, the user who created it, and any associated metadata. The recommendation engine automatically generates shortcuts based on user preferences and viewing history. This patent describes a system that allows users to create program shortcuts to different types of media content from content providers, streamlining the content discovery process.\n\nThe implementation details involve the use of a standardized API for integrating with various media content providers. This API allows the system to access content metadata and playback functionality. The algorithm for automatically generating shortcuts utilizes machine learning techniques to analyze user viewing habits and identify content that is likely to be of interest. This analysis can be based on factors such as the genres, actors, and keywords associated with the content that the user has previously viewed or recorded.\n\nThe integration patterns involve the seamless incorporation of the shortcut system into existing DVR interfaces. This integration is designed to be non-disruptive and user-friendly, ensuring that users can easily adopt and utilize the new functionality. The performance characteristics of the system are optimized for speed and efficiency, ensuring that users can quickly access their shortcuts and begin watching their desired content. The code-level implications involve the development of robust and scalable software components that can handle a large volume of shortcut data and user requests.","business_analysis":"Program Shortcuts presents a compelling business opportunity for DVR providers and media content distributors. The market opportunity size is substantial, as it addresses a common pain point for DVR users and offers a valuable solution for improving content discovery and engagement. The competitive advantages of this technology include its personalized approach to content navigation, its ability to integrate with various media providers, and its potential to increase user retention and attract new subscribers. This patent describes a system that allows users to create program shortcuts to different types of media content from content providers, streamlining the content discovery process.\n\nThe revenue potential of Program Shortcuts is significant. By improving the user experience, DVR providers can increase customer retention and attract new subscribers, leading to higher subscription revenues. The technology also opens up opportunities for targeted advertising and personalized recommendations, which can generate additional revenue streams. The business models associated with this technology include subscription-based access, advertising revenue sharing, and licensing agreements.\n\nThe strategic positioning of Program Shortcuts is strong. It is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for personalized and efficient content navigation solutions. The technology can be integrated with existing DVR systems and media platforms, making it easy to deploy and adopt. The ROI projections for this innovation are promising, with the potential to generate significant returns for DVR providers and media content distributors. This patent describes a system that allows users to create program shortcuts to different types of media content from content providers, streamlining the content discovery process.","faqs":null,"topics":["program shortcuts","DVR navigation","personalized content","media shortcuts","content discovery","program","shortcuts","patent"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Program Shortcuts - Personalized DVR Navigation Patent US-9854312","description":"Discover how Program Shortcuts revolutionizes DVR navigation with personalized shortcuts to your favorite shows. Full patent analysis, claims, and business impact assessment.","keywords":["program shortcuts","DVR navigation","personalized content","media shortcuts","content discovery","patent","patent US-9854312"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854312","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854312","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Program shortcuts\" (US-9854312). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854312","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854312","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854312","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T09:56:49.022Z"}