WO2009109958A2

WO2009109958A2 - Editing and embedding advertising multimedia content

Info

Publication number: WO2009109958A2
Application number: PCT/IL2009/000215
Authority: WO
Inventors: Aliza Barak; Shahar Frank
Original assignee: Aliza Barak; Shahar Frank
Priority date: 2008-03-03
Filing date: 2009-02-25
Publication date: 2009-09-11
Also published as: WO2009109958A3

Abstract

A computer implemented method of embedding multimedia elements in visual multimedia networked content, comprising: allowing users to select preferred multimedia elements; allowing the users to select preferred locations in the visual multimedia networked content; and injecting selected multimedia elements into preferred locations in the visual multimedia networked content. The users may comprise either end users or advertisers distributing promotional content. Preferred locations may comprise a message, an instant message, an error message, a logo location, a user characterizing location, an advertising area, and so forth. Users may edit multimedia collages from the multimedia elements and send them to other users.

Description

EDITING AND EMBEDDING ADVERTISING MULTIMEDIA CONTENT

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Applications 61/093,375 filed on September 1^st 2008; 61/046,460 filed on April 21^st 2008; and 61/033,038 filed on March 3^rd 2008, which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND 1. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of multimedia, and more particularly, to editing and embedding advertising multimedia content.

2. DISCUSSION OF RELATED ART [0003] Multimedia networks, such as the Internet, interactive television and cellular media have been in the focus of advertisement since the introduction of these technologies. As technology developed, more sophisticated advertisement means have evolved. The evolution in multimedia network advertisement pertains to focusing the advertisements on the target audience in accordance with the fields of interests of specific users. Interactivity which characterizes the multimedia networks environment enables advertisers to track content-related activities of the users and consequently customize the advertisement accordingly. Ongoing attempts are taken in order to make advertisements less intrusive. This is because many users are trying to avoid as much as they can unsolicited advertising content. One approach involves "Below The Line" (BTL) advertisement wherein the user is exposed unknowingly to subconscious advertising content. Some BTL advertising methods employ the use of games and entertainment. [0004] Cognitive psychological researches now show that implicit advertising is much more effective than explicit advertisement. Pop-up windows, moving pages and banners tend to irritate Web users, and many software tools are now directed at blocking these advertising means. On the contrary, sub conscious messages embedded within non advertising content prove themselves much more appealing to users, specifically in an advertisement rich environment such as the Internet. Therefore, the fundamental challenge of advertising is to reach to the sub conscious of the potential customer and establish a substantial bonding with him or her so that the potential customer becomes a paying customer.

[0005] Multimedia networks, the Internet included, involve high degree of user interface; Users are presented with dialog boxes and notifications pertaining to their performed actions and actions that need to be taken. Sometimes Web sites utilize embedded humoristic and dynamic messages as part of their user notifications. Also, the introduction of Web 2.0 has seen many web applications that enable users to upload multimedia content that has been partially created by the user. However, the use of notifications and dialog boxes is not known in the art in implementing as a methodological advertising campaign on the Internet. BRIEF SUMMARY

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention provide a computer implemented method of embedding at least one multimedia element in visual multimedia networked content. One computer implemented method comprises: allowing at least one user to select preferred multimedia elements; allowing the at least one user to select preferred locations in the visual multimedia networked content; and injecting selected multimedia elements into preferred locations in the visual multimedia networked content. [0007] Accordingly, according to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer implemented method wherein the at least one user comprises a plurality of users, the visual multimedia networked content supports exchange of messages among the plurality of users, wherein at least one predefined location is part of at least one message, and further comprising enabling the plurality of users to create a multimedia collage by editing different sections of the multimedia elements into one multimedia file. [0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer implemented method wherein the at least one user comprises at least one advertiser, the multimedia elements comprise promotional advertising content, the visual multimedia networked content comprises at least one website, the preferred locations comprise at least one functional user interface areas on the websites, and wherein the injecting selected multimedia elements into preferred locations in visual multimedia networked content is carried out according to an advertiser's campaign. One computer implemented method, wherein the visual multimedia networked content is reached via a search engine, further comprising selecting promotional advertising content in relation to at least one session of using the search engine.

[0009] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer implemented method, wherein the preferred locations comprise at least one of: an error message, a logo location, a user characterizing location, an advertising area, a user notification, an application or operating system event.

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention provide a data processing system for embedding multimedia elements in visual multimedia networked content relating to at least one user. One data processing system comprises a multimedia content database comprising the multimedia elements; a mediator server; and a plurality of visual multimedia networked contents. The mediator server is coupled to the multimedia content database and is further provided with access to the visual multimedia networked contents, and is arranged to inject multimedia elements from the multimedia database into user defined locations in the visual multimedia networked contents responsive to user's preferences.

[0011] Accordingly, according to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing system, wherein at least one of the plurality of visual multimedia networked contents comprises at least one functional user interface, and wherein the mediator server is arranged to inject at least one of the multimedia elements into the at least one functional user interface.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a processing system, further comprising graphical user interface arranged to allow a user to select and edit the multimedia elements and combine them into a multimedia collage, and wherein the mediator server is arranged to inject the multimedia collage into user defined locations in the visual multimedia networked contents.

[0013] Embodiments of the present invention provide a computer program product for promoting sales of products and services via at least one user. One computer program product comprises: a computer usable medium having computer usable program code tangibly embodied thereon, the computer usable program code comprising: a computer usable program code for presenting the user with a plurality of multimedia elements comprising advertising material; a computer usable program code for allowing the user to create a multimedia collage by editing different sections of the multimedia elements into one multimedia element; a computer usable program code for injecting multimedia elements into predefined locations in a visual multimedia networked content; and a computer usable program code for allowing users to exchange visual multimedia networked content. [0014] These, additional, and/or other aspects and/or advantages of the present invention are: set forth in the detailed description which follows; possibly inferable from the detailed description; and/or learnable by practice of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be more readily understood from the detailed description of embodiments thereof made in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of which:

Fig. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a data processing system for embedding multimedia elements in web based messages, according to some embodiments of the invention; Fig. 2 is a high level schematic block diagram of a data processing system according to some embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 3 is a high level schematic block diagram of a data processing system according to some embodiments of the invention; Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a computer implemented method of embedding multimedia element in visual multimedia networked contents, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a computer implemented method of using session events to provide promotional advertisement, according to some embodiments of the invention; Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a computer implemented method of using interactive games to provide promotional advertisement, according to some embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a computer implemented method of using multimedia elements to generate advertising messages, according to some embodiments of the invention; and

[0015] Fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a computer implemented method of using multimedia elements to generate advertising in error messages, according to some embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is applicable to other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0017] Fig. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a data processing system for embedding multimedia elements in web based messages, according to some embodiments of the invention. The data processing system comprises a multimedia content database 106 comprising the multimedia elements coupled via a communication link 96 to a mediator server 100. The data processing system further comprises a plurality of visual multimedia networked contents 110 connected to users 129 via a communication link 99. Visual multimedia networked contents 110 may support exchanging web based messages, for example among users 129. Mediator server 100 is provided with access to visual multimedia networked contents 110, for example via communication link 98. Mediator server 100 receives via a communication link 97 from a content distributer 120 multimedia elements that users may use in a personalized manner. Multimedia content database 106 may comprise multimedia elements from content distributers 120 with data relating to different content distributers, their contents, and data related to the usage of the multimedia elements by users 129. Multimedia content database 106 may comprise multimedia elements from various sources. Mediator server 100 is arranged to inject multimedia elements from multimedia content database 106 into user defined locations on visual multimedia networked contents 110, for example responsive to user's 129 preferences. Users 129 may interact via visual multimedia networked contents 110 by exchanging the multimedia elements from content distributers 120 as stored in multimedia content database 106.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the invention, visual multimedia networked contents 110 may comprise functional user interfaces, such as allowing sending messages, various templates, or editing interfaces for multimedia elements. Mediator server 100 may be arranged to inject multimedia elements into at least one functional user interface. Visual multimedia networked contents 110 may comprise a web based message, and mediator server 100 may be arranged to inject multimedia elements into the web based message. The multimedia elements may comprise advertising material affiliated with advertisers, and mediator server 100 may be arranged to inject the advertising material into the functional user interface responsive to preferences of the advertisers and in view of the user's profile.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the invention, mediator server 100 may further comprise a graphical user interface arranged to allow a user to select and edit the multimedia elements and combine them into a multimedia collage. Mediator server 100 may be arranged to inject the multimedia collage into user defined locations in the visual multimedia networked contents 110. Mediator server 100 may be arranged to inject the multimedia collage into user defined locations in a web based message. [0020] According to some embodiments of the invention, the data processing system and the computer implemented method may relate to cellular and wireless (e.g. WLAN,WiFi,Bluetooth) applications. Each of communication links 96, 97, 98, 99 may comprise a communication link over a cellular (or any wireless) network. Visual multimedia networked contents 110 may be supplied to users 129 via a cellular network. According to some embodiments of the invention, users 129 may be paid for exchanging multimedia elements from content distributers 120, e.g. for sending or receiving visual multimedia networked contents 110, or for creating visual multimedia networked contents 110 with embedded multimedia elements. [0021] According to some embodiments of the invention, visual multimedia networked contents 110 may comprise instant messages, exchanged among users 129. Inserted content 115 may be inserted into visual multimedia networked contents 110 (e.g. instant message) by drag-and-drop. [0022] According to some embodiments of the invention, users 129 may select multimedia content in relation to categories, or search multimedia elements in database 106. Presenting users 129 with alternative multimedia content may relate to payments by advertisers to promote their multimedia elements. According to some embodiments of the invention, mediator server 100 may be arranged to select multimedia elements in relation to different user characteristics such as search engine sessions and their content, or content of related visual multimedia networked contents 110 such as content of a message.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the invention, data processing system content distributer 120 provides users 129 with several multimedia elements, relating to which users 129 may carry out tasks interactively with distributer 120. [0024] According to some embodiments of the invention, visual multimedia networked content 110 may comprise any of: a web page, a blog, a message, an email message, an instant message, a logo, a language term, a computer software application, a computer operating system. [0025] According to some embodiments of the invention, visual multimedia networked content 110 may comprise messages relating to feelings, questions, jokes or gifts that user may exchange. Gifts may include coupons, or coupon advertisements created by users, supplied by advertisers or a combination thereof. Coupons may relate to visual multimedia networked content 110 as well as to different user data and characteristics, visual multimedia networked content 110 may relate to calendar events derived e.g., from a digital calendar, such as birthdays of other user, anniversaries, etc. The system may relate various coupons to various events. A user may define the system different events, and the system may initiate sending visual multimedia networked content 110 according to user definitions.

[0026] According to some embodiments of the invention, the preferred locations may comprise at least one of: an error message, a logo location, a user characterizing location, an advertising area, a user notification, an application or operating system event. [0027] Advantageously, the multimedia collage generation and sharing may enhance the advertisement industry in a similar way to what web logs (known as 'blogs') did several year ago in regards to the exchange of human ideas and emotions.

[0028] Fig. 2 is a high level schematic block diagram of a data processing system according to some embodiments of the invention. The system comprises a mediator server 400, an editor 450 and visual multimedia networked content 420 all connected via a communication link 95 (that may comprise several independent communication links). Mediator server 400 comprises a database 402, an editor GUI 404 (Graphical User Interface), a content database 406 and an interface 408. Editor GUI 404 may comprise in some embodiments editor 450. Editor 450 may comprise an encoding and decoding unit 452, and editing unit 454, an input clip viewer 456 and an output clip viewer 458. Mediator server 400 may receive multimedia elements, such as movie clips from different sources 410 such as a user's computer 411, internet 412 (for example web sites) or from content database 406. The multimedia elements may comprise promotional material, advertises, genuine movie clips from different sources. Advertising material may be affiliated with an advertiser with an advertising campaign.

[0029] According to some embodiments of the invention, editor 450 may be used to edit the multimedia elements, for example encoding and decoding them via encoding and decoding unit 452, cutting and pasting predefined parts and sections onto a clip-board or into other multimedia via editing unit 454. For example, sections of various multimedia elements may be edited and combined into a multimedia collage. Input multimedia elements and output multimedia elements may be viewed and managed via input clip viewer 456 and output clip viewer 458 respectively. [0030] According to some embodiments of the invention, editor 450 may be coupled to content database 406. Editor GUI 404 enables the user to select the required multimedia source files and select from it the section to be combined into a customized collage. The collage thus comprises a variety of implicit information that has an implicit below the line (BTL) effect while shown to other users. This is done by sharing and sending prepared multimedia collage. [0031] According to some embodiments of the invention, multimedia elements (edited and not edited) may be stored in database 402. Mediator server 400 is arranged to inject multimedia elements from database 402 into predefined locations 425 in visual multimedia networked content 425. Editor GUI 404 may be either utilize to further edit multimedia elements from editor 450, may comprise editor 450, or may comprise automatic editing capabilities. Interface 408 may comprise user interface such as interface for sending messages or instant messages, creating logos, sending emails and creating language terms. [0032] The present invention, in embodiments thereof discloses a new form of advertising method and system on multimedia networks. The system comprises a mediator server that interface between advertising entities and web sites. Pre-made or ready-made advertisements are provided by any advertising entity. Web sites provide entry-point or access into their sites for mediator server 400 such that mediator server 400 injects promotional and advertising content. More specifically, the promotional advertising content is injected by mediator server 400 into the appropriate places in the site (predefined locations 425), wherein these places are selected such that advertising effect is optimal in terms of functionality, location and timing. [0033] More specifically, multimedia network, and the Internet included comprise many features focused on user interface, in the form of notification and dialog boxes. These functionalities usually are static and plain - they merely serve the web site to notify the user of error and/or special conditions.

[0034] Such notification may comprise but are not limited to: Web page not found, Server error in requested page, Your search yielded no results, No such user name, Email address not found, Incorrect password, Email is already in use, Username is taken and the like. [0035] According to the present invention these functional notifications are replaced by mediator server 400 according to the present invention with promotional content that is pre-selected so that it is relevant and representative of the notification it replaces. [0036] According to some embodiments of the invention, the content may include images, text and movies - these will be displayed when the user should receive notifications from the web-site in accordance with the user's profile as detected by the web site and delivered to mediator server 400.

[0037] According to some embodiments of the invention, the data processing system may further comprise a search engine for multimedia elements, allowing the user to search multimedia elements using keywords.

[0038] Fig. 3 is a high level schematic block diagram of a data processing system according to some embodiments of the invention. The system comprises an ad center 500, an ad library 510, a server side embedded component 520 and a client side embedded component 530, all connected via at least one communication link 94. Ad center 500 comprises a communication module 502, and ad customization module 504, a session manager 506 and billing and management data 508. Ad library 510 comprises a data management and retrieval module 512 and media files and media data 514. Server side embedded component 520 comprises a communication module 522, a web site setting module 524, a media redirector 526, session data and connection 528 and a client browser data analyzer 529. Client side embedded component 530 comprises a browser data collector 532 and a media player / display 534.

[0039] In operation, ad center 500 is arranged to supply and manage multimedia elements in relation to multimedia providers and advertisers. Ad library 510 comprises multimedia elements and optionally multimedia elements edited by users. Server side embedded component 520 is arranged to allow and support dispersal of multimedia elements, editing multimedia elements and injecting multimedia elements into visual multimedia networked content such as webpages, web sites, messages and so forth. Server side embedded component 520 is further arranged to manage multimedia elements in relation to advertisers and advertising campaign, in interaction with ad center 500. Client side embedded component 530 is arranged to allow a user to browse multimedia element collections (supplied via server side embedded component 520 from ad center 500 and ad library 510) and play selected multimedia elements. Client side embedded component 530 further allows the user to edit multimedia elements via its connection to server side embedded component 520.

[0040] According to some embodiments, the invention comprises two main parts - generating functional-ads and embedding functional-ads. Generation of functional-ads may be carried out in advance, either offline, online or using user generated content, by creating the media itself- be it a movie, image or just text - and attaching metadata to the media that describes the media properties in such a way that the software application may use it.

[0041] Embedding the functional-ads is done by planting software component within target site web-servers and web-pages and connecting them to a distribution center that supplies them with dynamic functional-ad content.

[0042] Functional-ad media may be created by an advertisement agency, the brand itself or by a UGC (User Generated Content) platform. After the media is ready it is classified by the system operators of ad center 500, every media is embedded with properties that include an identifier which identifies to what classes of functionality it may be applicable. Other properties may specify customization support - e.g. locations, ages, races and genders to which the ad may be applicable. The fully ready functional-ad can now be added to ad library 510 inside ad center 500. [0043] Functional-ads may be embedded into web-sites that wish to add to their revenue by posting such ads. To display functional-ads, the web-sites are required to embed software components into the web-server and into designated web-pages. Embedded components 520, 530 interact with the target site by displaying functional-ad content in designated areas of the site according to definitions received from the site and according to information from the client browser.

[0044] When the embedded component is activated it contacts ad center 500 to create a session for management and billing purposes. After the initial connection ad center 500 will be contacted each time a new functional-ad is requested. The functional-ad media will then be downloaded into the client browser and displayed. [0045] Ad center 500 is responsible for managing functional-ad designation and upload as well as storing the information needed for billing, statistics and data management. [0046] According to some embodiment of the invention, ad center 500 is a non site specific server meaning that it belongs to the authority which the functional-ads belong to. In principal ad center 500 is a global server that contains and manages functional-ads for all brands and serves all web-sites. Naturally ad center 500 may be divided into clusters for better service.

[0047] According to some embodiment of the invention, ads may be injected into error messages, in relation to their content, and ads may be adjusted in relation to the content of the error message. Ads may be selected in relation to sessions of using a search engine. Ads may be selected in relation to search history, weighted search history (weighting for example in relation to time of search), statistics relating to search history data, such as frequency of different searches. [0048] Advantageously, the invention adds the use of normal functionality that is part of web-sites to create a new advertisement platform. By using functionality that by definition serves a valid purpose we expose the user to ad-content but such that the user wants/needs to see. [0049] Further, the invention also increases the virtual space where advertisements may be used. If traditionally ads could be displayed as a side attraction or a popup now they may become an integral part of the way the site works. The invention is making use of an area that exists today and yet is not used for advertisements at all — web-site functionality. Another advantage derives from the fact that one of the problems in on-line advertisement is that users do not want to see the ads and try to avoid or disregard them. Using functional advertisement may create ads that provide actual functionality that is required for the user.

[0050] According to some embodiments of the invention, preparing the ad-notifications or 'functional ads' requires video/image editing - and may be done using user generated content technology or by a professional editor. [0051] Advantageously, the present invention makes ads appear helpful and informative while exposing the user to ad-content. Viewing the ad will be required for the user to understand the notification and so the brand/logo is embedded. The functional-ad may be customized so that the user receives ads that are matched according to a classification of user info - e.g. location, gender, age, race, interests and shopping preferences. [0052] Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a computer implemented method of embedding multimedia element in visual multimedia networked contents, according to some embodiments of the invention. The computer implemented method comprises the stages: receiving multimedia elements (stage 130) affiliated with content distributers; allowing users to select preferred multimedia elements (stage 135); allowing users to select preferred locations in visual multimedia networked content (stage 140); and injecting selected multimedia elements into preferred locations in visual multimedia networked content (stage 145).

[0053] According to some embodiments of the invention, the computer implemented method further comprises any of the following stages: monitoring the multimedia elements used by the users (stage 150); users exchanging multimedia elements from content distributers; and providing users with tasks relating to the multimedia elements (stage 160).

[0054] Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a computer implemented method of using session events to provide promotional advertisement, according to some embodiments of the invention. The computer implemented method comprises the stages: identifying at least one event relating to at least one session of the user (stage 200); generating a multimedia content with inserted content relating to the at least one event (stage 210); and sending the user the multimedia content with inserted content relating to the at least one event (stage 230). [0055] According to some embodiments of the invention, the inserted content may comprise promotional advertisements such as multimedia elements from multimedia content database 106 or from content distributers 120.

[0056] According to some embodiments of the invention, the computer implemented method may further comprise adapting the inserted content in relation to at least one of: the at least one event, the at least one session, characteristics of the at least one user (stage 220). According to some embodiments of the invention, adapting the inserted content (stage 220) may relate to search history, search session, weighting thereof in relation to time, frequency and the like, or , adapting the inserted content (stage 220) may relate to the multimedia contents such as the content of a message (e.g. an instant message, an email, an error message).

[0057] According to some embodiments of the invention, the events may comprise at least one of: events relating to user session such as error messages, system messages, user action, types of programs or files used or initiated, browser messages, user activity using the browser actions and so forth. According to some embodiments of the invention, the computer implemented method may be carried out by a software component installed willfully by the user onto user's computer system. The software component may hook any desired system event, registry key and setting that is needed for the capturing of internet errors and warnings such as: 'bad URLs', 'connection failure', 'blocked sites'. The software component may be downloaded by the user in various ways such as: an application executable, a cabinet file, an ActiveX control or a script file. The computer implemented method may handle any of such hooks and system events by displaying the user a visual representation comprising video advertisement as well as any other audio and visual information such as sound tracks, text and images. Such content may be displayed as a popup window or a segment inside a web page or as any other method for displaying visual content on any computer system.

[0058] According to some embodiments of the invention, the computer implemented method may contact a remote service via the internet to retrieve content to be displayed as described. The remote server may be designed to provide advertisement content to user components on demand and content may be determined according to parameters sent by the software component such as information related to the operation system type and version, hardware types, physical location and address, browser type, specific error (or hook or event) triggered at the user computer and specific URL or request that was made by the user.

[0059] According to some embodiments of the invention, the server may contain a content database that maps advertisement content according to all possible user information such as user hardware and software states and types, browser type and version, message/event/hook/trigger types and physical location (address) of the user computer. This database may be used by the server to compile a list of content items to be downloaded to the user. This list may contain all the information from the database related to such items. The list may be sent as a response to the user component. The software component may use the list to build a local database with the information and then attempt to download content items to the local cache.

[0060] According to some embodiments of the invention, a cache may be locally stored to allow the component to display such content if the internet connection is not available. The software component may download content to the local cache as specified by the server whenever connection is available. The content may be stored locally to be used when the software component handles an event, trigger or hook. The amount of content and the download rates may be determined by the server and affected by parameters supplied by the software component such as download bandwidth availability, user CPU status and type, other user hardware types and states. The software component may use the local database to determine which content is to be displayed according to the parameters at the time of the message/event/hook or trigger.

[0061] According to some embodiments of the invention, the computer implemented method, adapting the inserted content (stage 220) may comprise analyzing requested webpages and error messages related to requested webpages. The inserted content may be related to the results of the analysis and further related in different ways to found requested webpages and to error messages.

[0062] Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a computer implemented method of using interactive games to provide promotional advertisement, according to some embodiments of the invention. The computer implemented method comprises the stages: providing users with interactive games (stage 300). The interactive games may be selected in relation to characteristics of the users; generating a multimedia content with inserted content relating to the interactive games (stage 310); sending the user the multimedia content with inserted content (stage 330). [0063] According to some embodiments of the invention, the inserted content may comprise information related to the interactive games such as hints to solving or succeeding in them. The inserted content may comprise promotional advertisements such as multimedia elements from multimedia content database 106 or from content distributers 120.

[0064] According to some embodiments of the invention, the interactive games may be offered by any media, e.g. the internet, cellular networks and interactive TV. [0065] According to some embodiments of the invention, the computer implemented method further comprises adapting the inserted content in relation to characteristics of the at least one user (stage 320).

[0066] According to some embodiments of the invention, the computer implemented method may further comprise logging users to a provider of the interactive games, and creating respective user accounts holding information about the user such as - name, address, ID, computer IP, as well as application specific data about the user such as scores, earned credits and hints received.

[0067] According to some embodiments of the invention, the interactive games may comprise riddles and hints comprising e.g. texts, images and video/audio streams or any other multimedia content. Users are provided with interactive games relating to data in the user account. Users may be provided with hints that may comprise promotional advertisements such as multimedia elements from multimedia content database 106 or from content distributers 120. Hints displayed to the user may be added to the user account to allow tracking of hint usage. Riddles and hints may further be related to content distributers 120 and/or the related multimedia elements. For example, a riddle may include a text describing this request and several video clips that are segments of advertisement clips by the company and that have been prepared by any method. The user may be notified about related available hints by using any communication protocol and any means for display such as TCP/IP, cellular communication, GPRS, SMS, MMS, email, HTTP and may appear to the user in a visual method that may include but is not limited to a pop-up inside the site HTML page, a pop-up window or widget, an email, an SMS or MMS. [0068] According to some embodiments of the invention, the computer implemented method may be carried out by a software component allowing to display such messages and notifications to the user using any installation technique including but not limited to a setup executable, an ActiveX control, a Java Applet, a script file or flash script. [0069] The computer implemented method may comprise awarding users for solving the riddles or generally playing the interactive games (e.g. according to time). Users may also be scored according e.g. to the time it took the user to solve the riddle, the number of users that have solved this riddle before and the amount of hints used by the user. Users may also earn points to their account according to the amount of time they spent viewing the advertisements in the riddle and hints. [0070] According to some embodiments of the invention, the interactive games may comprise modified cross-word puzzles assigned and adapted according to data in the user account, that is presented to the user to solve. The modified cross-word puzzles may comprise inserted content (such as video or audio clips) that represent the riddle phrases. The inserted content may be displayed inside the puzzle or outside the puzzle in any way, for example a group of clips for horizontal and a group for vertical clips or inside the puzzle with a clip per riddle located on the "black square" that divides words. Inserted content may comprise promotional advertisements such as multimedia elements from multimedia content database 106 or from content distributers 120. When activated by the user the clip may be displayed to the user visually e.g. by using a pop-up. The amount of time the user has viewed the specific clip may be stored into the user account. Users may be scored or awarded in relation to their achievements in solving the puzzles. [0071] According to some embodiments of the invention, the interactive games may involve several users, and the users may commonly view or exchange content items comprising multimedia elements from multimedia content database 106 or from content distributers 120.

[0072] According to some embodiments of the invention, the interactive games may comprise fitting a sound track to a video. For example a sound track line game or video time line may be provided with a GUI presenting them and allows the user to perform actions such as play specific segments, change play speed and repeat. The GUI may also display a list of video segments or sound track segments (respectively, as are the following) of varying lengths and with a random order. The user is asked to order the video or sound track segments according to the sound track or video time line so that the entire clip can be played with the video and audio synchronized. The user may select and order the video segments or sound track segments using any input device and method including but not limited to mouse drag-and-drop, keyboard keys or combo boxes. Each time the user plays any video or sound track segment the server may record the usage of the specific segment and the time played into the user account. [0073] According to some embodiments of the invention, the sound track and video may comprise multimedia elements from multimedia content database 106 or from content distributers 120. Users may be scored or awarded for completing or participating in the interactive game. [0074] According to some embodiments of the invention, any of the computer implemented methods described above may further comprise billing for services of presenting the multimedia elements. Billing may be carried out by a billing module by determining the time spent by the user viewing the multimedia elements. The billing module may be embedded into hardware or entirely implemented using software, installed or not, and comprise e.g. an ActiveX object, a flash script, an HTML page, javascript or visual basic script. The billing module may be integrated in a personal computer (PC, Mac etc.), a pocket pc, palm, mobile cell phone or iPod and use as communication protocol any of: TCP/IP, Ethernet, GPRS, FTP, HTTP, Bluetooth and WiFi. Billing may be carried out by measuring the period of time the user actually spends viewing the content, measuring multiple views of the same content, repetitions and changes to parameters including but not limited to viewing speed and size. Billing information may be stored in the user's account and be used in statistical analysis, market analysis, focused advertisement and billing. [0075] According to some embodiments of the invention, computer implemented method may further comprise providing users with tasks relating to the multimedia elements (stage 160).

[0076] According to some embodiments of the invention, tasks may comprise any of: guessing which multimedia elements relates to which advertiser or distributer; finding errors or discrepancies in the multimedia elements; combining the multimedia elements to create a derived multimedia element; guessing the correct combination of the multimedia elements to create a derived multimedia element; solving a crossword puzzle comprising multimedia elements as at least some of the definitions or squares. [0077] According to some embodiments of the invention, users 129 may be paid according to the time they view or interact with each multimedia element. [0078] Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a computer implemented method of using multimedia elements to generate advertising messages, according to some embodiments of the invention. The computer implemented method comprises the stages: providing users with multimedia elements by content providers and advertisers (stage 600); users selecting a multimedia element (stage 610); users receiving the selected multimedia element (stage 620); users selecting segments of the multimedia element (stage 630); Users may continue editing (stage 640) by adding segments of additional multimedia elements. After all segments are chose, users may combine segments (stage 650) and Use multimedia elements as messages, emails, logos, trademarks or language terms (stage 660).

[0079] The suggested dataflow shows how a user may create and share a multimedia collage and add explicit message embedded within the implicit messages that are integral to the collage by virtue of its advertising source. It may be apparent that other data flows are possible as well.

[0080] According to some embodiments, the present invention provides the ability to integrate commercial content from different sources into a newly created advertisement. It further comprises the ability to integrate genuine content created by the customer into the advertisement creates a genuine advertisement. The created advertisement is exposed to the audience on the web site and/or using other media channels to the wide audience — generating product exposure. [0081] Thus, dynamic creation of new promotional content by the general audience and potential customers is achieved instead of commercial companies as in traditional ways. Advantageously, the genuine promotional content that is created in the process will match the customer taste better due to the fact it was created by a customer. [0082] Similarly, user may be encouraged to create a logo or a trademark for a commercial company. The created logo may be later registered as a trademark. In this way, user participates in the actual creative process of designing the company's logo. This has a deep impact on users' perception regarding the company by making them more involved with the company. [0083] According to some embodiments of the invention, users may use the advertising content created by them (or other users) and slice it to portions that are subsequently put together to form standalone messages. These messages are then sent from on user to another. Thus, the slices of personalized advertising content become a new means of communication that implicitly contains a hidden channel for delivering advertising content.

[0084] Fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a computer implemented method of using multimedia elements to generate advertising in error messages, according to some embodiments of the invention. The computer implemented method comprises the following stages: requesting a web page while user performing a search (stage 700); Upon a notification (e.g., an error notification) - server side component 520 analyzing user session, using data from client side component 530 (stage 710); ad center 500 providing ads responsive to data from server side component 520 (stage 720); and embedding ads in the error message. According to some embodiments of the invention, the computer implemented method may further comprise selecting promotional advertising content in relation to sessions of using the search engine (stage 725). The content may be selected in relation to search history, weighted search history (weighting for example in relation to time of search), statistics relating to search history data, such as frequency of different searches. According to some embodiments of the invention providing ads responsive to data from server side component 520 (stage 720) may comprise relating ads to the type of error message and adjusting the ad in relation to the content of the error message. [0085] The computer implemented method allows embedding content and advertising content in error messages a user receives during regular web sessions. Content may be embedded according to user and session characteristics, optionally in relation to user defined preferences, relation to other users, edited multimedia elements and more. [0086] The present invention discloses a new form of commercial sale promotion advertisement system and method that enable users to create a collage of multimedia content from a selection of multimedia content that may comprise advertising content. The user-made collage thus includes implicit advertising material and being a personalized and so-called amateur multimedia content has greater appeal for other users. It thus serves as a more efficient vehicle for promoting sales of products and services than explicit advertising. [0087] According to some embodiments of the invention, the invention is implemented as a computer program product for promoting sales of products and services via at least one user. The computer program product comprises a computer usable medium having computer usable program code tangibly embodied thereon. The computer usable program code comprises: a computer usable program code for presenting the user with a plurality of multimedia elements comprising advertising material; a computer usable program code for allowing the user to create a multimedia collage by editing different sections of the multimedia elements into one multimedia element; a computer usable program code for injecting multimedia elements into predefined locations in a visual multimedia networked content; and a computer usable program code for allowing users to exchange visual multimedia networked content.

[0088] According to some embodiments of the invention, the invention is implemented as an article of manufacture comprising an electrical signal implementing the computer usable program code for embedding advertisement content into entertainment content and a computer usable program code for presenting users with the entertainment content having the advertisement content embedded thereto.

[0089] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or in combinations of them. Apparatus of the invention can be implemented in a computer or in a cellular phone program (software) product tangibly embodied in an information carrier, e.g., in a machine-readable storage device or in a propagated signal, for execution by a programmable processor; and method steps of the invention can be performed by a programmable processor executing a program of instructions to perform functions of the invention by operating on input data and generating output.

[0090] The invention can be implemented advantageously in one or more computer programs (software) that are executable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a data storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device. A computer program is a set of instructions that can be used, directly or indirectly, in a computer to perform (software) a certain activity or bring about a certain result. A computer program (software) can be written in any form of programming language, (any kind of software that may be available in the future) including compiled or interpreted languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. [0091] Suitable processors for the execution of a program of instructions include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and the sole processor or one of multiple processors of any kind of computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memories for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or be operatively coupled to communicate with, one or more mass storage devices for storing data files; such devices include magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and optical disks. Storage devices suitable for tangibly embodying computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, ASICs (application-specific integrated circuits). [0092] To provide for interaction with a user, the invention can be implemented on a computer having a display device such as a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device such as a mouse or a trackball by which the user can provide input to the computer or cell phone keyboard, joystick or any other relevant device.

[0093] The invention can be implemented in a computer system that includes a back-end component, such as a data server, or that includes a middleware component, such as an application server or an Internet server, or that includes a front-end component, such as a client computer or cell phone having a graphical user interface or an Internet browser, or any other useful software application, or any combination of them. The components of the system can be connected by any form or medium of digital data communication such as a communication network. Examples of communication networks include, e.g., a LAN, a WAN, and the computers and networks forming the Internet and wireless network as well. [0094] The computer system can include multimedia clients and servers. A client and server are generally remote from each other and typically interact through a network, such as the described one. The relationship of multimedia client and server arises by virtue of computer programs or any software running on the respective computers or any hardware and having a client-server relationship to each other. [0095] According to some embodiments of the invention, the methods and systems may further allow users to register and be rewarded for actions they take and promotional multimedia content they transfer. Registering may further allow following user characteristics and communication and usage patterns, and allow adapting promotional content to user habits and characteristics. Users may receive any kind of reward, including coupons, credits (for example, cellular time credits, downloading credits of various content elements such as movies, music, games or ringtones), or free registration to web sites. [0096] In the above description, an embodiment is an example or implementation of the inventions. The various appearances of "one embodiment," "an embodiment" or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiments.

[0097] Although various features of the invention may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, the invention may also be implemented in a single embodiment.

[0098] Reference in the specification to "some embodiments", "an embodiment", "one embodiment" or "other embodiments" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the inventions.

[0099] It is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is not to be construed as limiting and are for descriptive purpose only.

[00100] The principles and uses of the teachings of the present invention may be better understood with reference to the accompanying description, figures and examples.

[00101] It is to be understood that the details set forth herein do not construe a limitation to an application of the invention. [00102] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention can be carried out or practiced in various ways and that the invention can be implemented in embodiments other than the ones outlined in the description above.

[00103] It is to be understood that the terms "including", "comprising", "consisting" and grammatical variants thereof do not preclude the addition of one or more components, features, steps, or integers or groups thereof and that the terms are to be construed as specifying components, features, steps or integers.

[00104] If the specification or claims refer to "an additional" element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional element. [00105] It is to be understood that where the claims or specification refer to "a" or "an" element, such reference is not be construed that there is only one of that element. [00106] It is to be understood that where the specification states that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic "may", "might", "can" or "could" be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included. [00107] Where applicable, although state diagrams, flow diagrams or both may be used to describe embodiments, the invention is not limited to those diagrams or to the corresponding descriptions. For example, flow need not move through each illustrated box or state, or in exactly the same order as illustrated and described. [00108] Methods of the present invention may be implemented by performing or completing manually, automatically, or a combination thereof, selected steps or tasks.

[00109] The term "method" may refer to manners, means, techniques and procedures for accomplishing a given task including, but not limited to, those manners, means, techniques and procedures either known to, or readily developed from known manners, means, techniques and procedures by practitioners of the art to which the invention belongs.

[00110] The descriptions, examples, methods and materials presented in the claims and the specification are not to be construed as limiting but rather as illustrative only. [00111] Meanings of technical and scientific terms used herein are to be commonly understood as by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs, unless otherwise defined.

[00112] The present invention may be implemented in the testing or practice with methods and materials equivalent or similar to those described herein. [00113] Any publications, including patents, patent applications and articles, referenced or mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in the description of some embodiments of the invention shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention.

[00114] While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as exemplifications of some of the preferred embodiments. Other possible variations, modifications, and applications are also within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should not be limited by what has thus far been described, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A computer implemented methoφof embedding at least one multimedia element in visual multimedia networked content, the computer implemented method comprising: allowing at least one user to select preferred multimedia elements; allowing the at least one user to select preferred locations in the visual multimedia networked content; and injecting selected multimedia elements into preferred locations in the visual multimedia networked content.

2. The computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the at least one user comprises a plurality of users, the visual multimedia networked content supports exchange of messages among the plurality of users, and wherein at least one predefined location is part of at least one message.

3. The computer implemented method of claim 2, further comprising enabling the plurality of users to create a multimedia collage by editing different sections of the multimedia elements into one multimedia file.

4. The computer implemented method of claim 3, further comprising using the computer implemented method to promote sales of products and services by relating the multimedia elements to the products and services.

5. The computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the at least one user comprises at least one advertiser, the multimedia elements comprise promotional advertising content, the visual multimedia networked content comprises at least one website, the preferred locations comprise at least one functional user interface areas on the websites, and wherein the injecting selected multimedia elements into preferred locations in visual multimedia networked content is carried out according to an advertiser's campaign.

6. The computer implemented method of claim 5, wherein the visual multimedia networked content is reached via a search engine and further comprising selecting promotional advertising content in relation to at least one session of using the search engine.

7. The computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the visual multimedia networked content comprises one of: a web page, a blog, a message, an email message, an instant message, a logo, a language term, a computer software application , a computer operating system.

8. The computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the preferred locations comprise at least one of: an error message, a logo location, a user characterizing location, an advertising area, a user notification , an application or operating system event.

9. A data processing system for embedding multimedia elements in visual multimedia networked content relating to at least one user, the data processing system comprising: a multimedia content database comprising the multimedia elements; a mediator server; and a plurality of visual multimedia networked contents, wherein the mediator server is coupled to the multimedia content database and is further provided with access to the visual multimedia networked contents, and wherein the mediator server is arranged to inject multimedia elements from the multimedia database into user defined locations in the" visual multimedia networked contents responsive to user's preferences.

10. The data processing system of claim 9, wherein at least one of the plurality of visual multimedia networked contents comprises at least one functional user interface, and wherein the mediator server is arranged to inject at least one of the multimedia elements into the at least one functional user interface.

11. The data processing system of claim 10, wherein at least one of the plurality of visual multimedia networked contents comprises a web based message, and wherein the mediator server is arranged to inject at least one multimedia element into the web based message.

12. The data processing system of claim 9, wherein at least one of the multimedia elements comprises advertising material affiliated with at least one advertiser, and wherein the mediator server is arranged to inject the advertising material into the at least one functional user interface responsive to preferences of the at least one advertiser and in view of the user's profile.

13. The data processing system of claim 9, further comprising graphical user interface arranged to allow a user to select and edit the multimedia elements and combine them into a multimedia collage, and wherein the mediator server is arranged to inject the multimedia collage into user defined locations in the visual multimedia networked contents.

14. The data processing system of claim 13, wherein the mediator server is arranged to inject the multimedia collage into user defined locations in a web based message.

15. The data processing system of claim 9, wherein the visual multimedia networked content is reached via a search engine and the mediator server is further arranged to select multimedia elements in relation to at least one session of using the search engine.

16. The data processing system of claim 9, wherein the visual multimedia networked content comprises one of: a web page, a blog, a message, an email message, an instant message, a logo, a language term, a computer software application , a computer operating system.

17. The data processing system of claim 9, wherein the user defined locations comprise at least one of: an error message, a logo location, a user characterizing location, an advertising area, a user notification, an application or operating system event.

18. A computer program product for promoting sales of products and services via at least one user, the computer program product comprising: a computer usable medium having computer usable program code tangibly embodied thereon, the computer usable program code comprising: a computer usable program code for presenting the user with a plurality of multimedia elements comprising advertising material; a computer usable program code for allowing the user to create a multimedia collage by editing different sections of the multimedia elements into one multimedia element; a computer usable program code for injecting multimedia elements into predefined locations in a visual multimedia networked content; and a computer usable program code for allowing users to exchange visual multimedia networked content.