Patent ID: 8253772
Filing Date: 2012-08-28
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
1. A system for incorporating voice or video communication into a television or compatible audio capable visual display comprising: a television tuner configured to receive a television signal containing audio and video data from a remote source and to transmit a first digital video signal corresponding to the video data and a first audio signal corresponding to the audio data; a communication interface apparatus including: wherein said digital memory device stores at least one set of instructions executable by said controller to: a digital display configured to receive the second video signal from said communication interface apparatus and to display visual images based on the second video signal; an audio system configured to receive the second audio signal from said communication interface apparatus and to generate audible sounds based on the audio signal; a remote control unit including: a microphone coupled with one of said communication interface apparatus and said remote control unit and configured to generate a third audio signal in response to audible sounds, wherein said communication interface apparatus is configured to receive the third audio signal from said microphone and to transmit said third audio signal over the communication network.