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Method and apparatus for free previews of communication network services

  • US 5,594,794 A
  • Filed: 10/18/1994
  • Issued: 01/14/1997
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/18/1994
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A method for providing video services to consumers via an information network, comprising the steps of:

  • providing a video service on a pay-per-view basis during a program epoch of a particular program of said video service;

    providing a program pre-key;

    using said program pre-key to determine a fixed period during said program epoch when portions of said video service are available for viewing on a preview basis;

    allowing a consumer to preview, without purchase, portions of said video service at any time during said fixed period for up to a maximum preview duration that is shorter than said fixed period; and

    enforcing said maximum preview duration in a cryptographically secure manner.

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