Universal methods and device for hand-held promotional opportunities

Abstract

A system is described for deriving benefits from the reception and processing of composite video signals from a display deviceby a hand-held device, such as a smart card, personal digital assistant ('PDA'), or mobile phone. Video signals are modulated with auxiliary data creating composite video signals. The users directs the hand-held devicetoward display deviceby placing leading edgein the path of the video signal. The composite video signals are then transmitted to and received by a hand-held device. Aiming lightand/or audio transduceralert the user of hand-held devicethat auxiliary data is being received. The auxiliary data is then utilized by hand-held device In other embodiments of hand-held device, the auxiliary data is received from a decoder box, which in turn transmits the information to deviceby RF which may be received by the RF antennaof the device. The user receives benefits such as promotional opportunities resulting from the reception of the auxiliary data. Such opportunities are expressed on visual display, which may include a series of lights, and/or, or an LCD. The lights and LCD provide promotional opportunities which may be redeemable and conventional stores or via the Internet. Hand-held devicesare outfitted with a PCMCIA interfaceor wireless Internet access to obtain such promotional activities on the Internet. Hand-held devicemay have housingin various shapes to promote various promotional opportunities. On front surfaceof the hand-held device may have indication of a sponsor