Comcast’s patent describes a network digital video recording (nDVR) system that optimizes playback by integrating a user’s local DVR capabilities. It tracks the local DVR’s temporary buffer usage and can utilize an unused tuner for simultaneous program recording, enhancing user experience during playback requests. GlobalData’s report on Comcast gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Comcast, Digital watermarking was a key innovation area identified from patents. Comcast's grant share as of June 2024 was 55%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Network digital video recording system managing local dvr capabilities

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Comcast Corp

The patent US12047631B2 outlines a method and apparatus for managing the recording and playback of television programs using a networked digital video recorder (nDVR) and a traditional digital video recorder (DVR). The method involves receiving a request to record a future program, with the nDVR storing a portion of the program while simultaneously allowing for playback requests. The playback can utilize both the recorded content from the nDVR and a temporary buffer from the DVR, enabling seamless viewing experiences. The claims detail various scenarios, such as determining playback start points, handling gaps in recordings, and managing tuner availability to optimize the recording process.

Additionally, the patent describes how the user device can record a second portion of the program while receiving the first portion from the nDVR. It emphasizes the importance of comparing storage capacity and the timing of the playback request to ensure efficient use of resources. The claims also cover the ability to switch between different portions of the program based on the playback start point and the recording status, ensuring that users can access content without interruption. Overall, the patent presents a comprehensive approach to enhancing the functionality of digital video recording systems through network integration and intelligent resource management.

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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.