Patent ID: 7870584
Filing Date: 2011-01-11
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
1. A method for providing an interactive program guide (IPG) via a digital home communication terminal (DHCT) located at a customer premises, the method comprising steps of: receiving a plurality of listings of a first type via a subscriber television network; receiving data related to at least one local device capable of communicating with the DHCT; providing a user with an IPG, the IPG including a first IPG menu screen that includes the plurality of listings of the first type and at least one listing of a second type corresponding to the data related to the at least one local device, wherein the plurality of listings of the first type and the at least one listing of the second type are displayed as elements in an IPG grid; providing, within the IPG, a user selectable option on the first IPG menu screen for a user to access a second IPG menu screen, the second IPG menu screen including at least one designation associated with the at least one local device, wherein the second IPG menu screen enables the user to select the at least one designation to be provided to a user on the first IPG menu screen; receiving user input requesting that a functionality instance be provided by the at least one local device, wherein the functionality instance is displayed in the second IPG menu screen and wherein the functionality instance describes an action the local device is capable of performing; and responsive to receiving the user input, transmitting to the at least one local device a message requesting that the functionality instance be provided.