Second screen methods and arrangements

Abstract

Cell phones and other devices are used to complement enjoyment of television or other video media, through use of corresponding software applications. A great variety of related features and arrangements are particularly detailed.

1 - 26 . (canceled) 
     
     
         27 . A second screen method comprising the acts:
 determining that a user device, and a television system displaying video content, are in proximity;   in response to the determined proximity, activating first software on the user device;   the user device receiving a signal sent from the television system indicating availability of second screen content corresponding to the displayed video content; and   the activated first software alerting the user to said availability of second screen content corresponding to the displayed video content, indicated by the signal sent from the television system.   
     
     
         28 . The method of  claim 27  wherein the received data identifies second screen content discovered by the television system using a keyword search. 
     
     
         29 . The method of  claim 27  wherein the act of determining proximity employs a sensor in the mobile device. 
     
     
         30 . The method of  claim 27  wherein the act of determining proximity employs a GPS sensor in the mobile device. 
     
     
         31 . The method of  claim 27  in which the received signal comprises an address from which the second screen content can be downloaded by the user device. 
     
     
         32 . The method of  claim 27  in which the receiving act comprises receiving a wireless service discovery protocol broadcast. 
     
     
         33 . The method of  claim 27  in which the receiving act comprises receiving by WiFi. 
     
     
         34 . The method of  claim 27  in which, when the user changes a channel of the television system from a previous channel to a new channel, the user device receives a signal sent by the television system indicating second screen content corresponding to the new channel. 
     
     
         35 . The method of  claim 27  in which the received signal comprises data specifying a channel and/or network to which the television system is currently tuned. 
     
     
         36 . The method of  claim 27  in which the received signal comprises data specifying the video content that is being displayed by the television system. 
     
     
         37 . The method of  claim 27  that further includes presenting electronic program guide (EPG) information to the user, the presented EPG information including visual features indicating availability of associated second screen content. 
     
     
         38 . The method of  claim 27  in which the act of receiving video content comprises receiving the video content via a network connection, through a router. 
     
     
         39 . The method of  claim 27  that in which the second screen content employs JavaScript, XML, HTML, or Adobe Flash technology.