Patent ID: 8405775

Claim:
A video output apparatus comprising: a first output unit that outputs predetermined data to a display apparatus via a first path if the display apparatus does not support a predetermined transmission, wherein the predetermined data includes data generated by combining video data with video data relating to additional information, the predetermined transmission is used for transmitting data relating to additional information without combining video data with video data relating to additional information, and the first path is used for transmitting data based on TMDS (Transition Minimized Differential Signaling); a second output unit that outputs data relating to additional information to the display apparatus via a second path if the display apparatus supports the predetermined transmission, wherein the second path is used for transmitting data based on CEC (Consumer Electronics Control); and a control unit that (a) compares a first function with a second function if the display apparatus supports the predetermined transmission, (b) selects one of the first path and the second path based on a comparison of the first function and the second function, and (c) performs a process for outputting data relating to additional data via a selected path, wherein the first function indicates a function of the video output apparatus, and wherein the second function indicates a function of the display apparatus.