Recently, it has come to light that a patent has been filed for displaying advertisements on TVs when the HDMI signal from a device is interrupted. This has garnered attention from both the patent industry and consumers. The patent was filed by the streaming device manufacturer Roku, and the details were extensively reported by the overseas newsletter “Lowpass.”
This patent involves monitoring the HDMI port of a TV and displaying advertisements when the signal output from devices like gaming consoles or streaming devices stops. Moreover, the patent considers methods to understand what users are watching and display related advertisements. If such technology is realized, it could provide a new revenue stream for the advertising industry. However, there are concerns about its significant impact on consumers’ entertainment experiences.
Last year, Roku began displaying advertisements in the screensavers of its devices and has already acquired notable clients. This move seems to have led to the current patent application, although they have not yet started developing devices with this feature. Nevertheless, depending on technological advancements and market needs, the implementation of this technology in the near future cannot be ruled out.
From a patent application perspective, Roku’s attempt is very intriguing. Patent law grants exclusive rights to inventions that meet requirements such as novelty and inventiveness. Whether this patent application meets these requirements is up to the examiners, but if granted, Roku would gain the exclusive right to use this technology.
However, from a consumer perspective, the impact of this technology is divisive. Interrupting the viewing experience with advertisements would likely be unpleasant for many users. As “The Verge” points out, this system, described as an “unavoidable hell” that ruins entertainment, spreading to other TV brands is indeed a concerning prospect.
It is essential to support companies’ intellectual property strategies while considering the balance between technological innovation and consumer interests. In the case of Roku’s patent application, understanding the potential impact of the technology broadly and providing clients with appropriate advice is crucial.
