Mechanism for distributing content data

Abstract

The current invention provides a system for distributing content data to user locations. The content data preferably includes digital video data that is available on demand from a requesting location. A system server stores user accounts and generated customized program schedules for the user account based on user criteria which includes user preferences. Authorized users access their accounts to modify user criteria and to select program transmissions. Preferably, a computer and a television set receive program transmissions from a system network, wherein the computer provides a logical interface between the television set and content data transmitted over the system network.

1 . A method for distributing one or more digital content items to at least one receiver of one or more receiving devices, the method comprising:
 obtaining user preference data including one or more user preferred content types, user billing information, and data identifying a location of the at least one receiving device, and associating the user preference data with a user account;   generating a customized content listing comprising a plurality of digital content items from a plurality of digital content providers selected based on the user preferred content types and the data identifying the location of at least one receiving device;   receiving a selection of one of the plurality of digital content items included in the customized content listing;   transmitting a request for payment from the user account for the selected digital content item using a cost associated with the selected digital content item and the user billing information;   receiving confirmation of payment and authorizing transmission of the selected digital content item; and   transmitting the selected digital content item to a receiver corresponding to the data identifying the location of the at least one receiving device.