Video menu offers hit songs a la carte; viewers, passive no more, are paying to become active participants
Article Abstract:
The Box cable network utilizes computer technology to offer the advantages of interactive television. Established in 1989 as the Jukebox Network, the Box changed its name in 1992. Its programming consists of 24 hours of all-music videos; viewers can choose from a menu of 200-300 selections on-screen. The selections range from Latin to pop, country to rap and classic videos from the 1980s. Access to the videos of choice can be had via a 900 number and a three-digit selection code. Because the Box's programming emanates from local affiliates, menus can be customized to suit local tastes. Local performers who have their own music video can therefore be included in the menu, thereby allowing unknowns public exposure. The Box has been credited for helping shape the careers of artists such as Vanilla Ice, Color Me Badd and Ice Cube. The cost of watching a Box video range from 99 cents each for a multiple request to $3 per-view for those without touch-tone phones.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1992
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Will they sit by the set or ride a data highway?
Article Abstract:
Interactive cable appears to be a service that people would be willing to pay for, judging by current products and surveys. A New York Times/CBS survey found that the majority of Americans would be willing to pay for interactive control over their televisions. The success of Montreal, Canada's, VideoWay interactive television system lends credence to that fact. The system has 160,000 subscribers, who at $6.50 per month use the system to select camera angles for sports viewing, control the advertising they receive and play along with 'Jeopardy.' Another interactive system, the America Online information service, offers users games, library access, news and special-interest services for $9.95 per month. America Online has attracted 275,000 subscribers so far.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1993
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Computer traces links in culture
Article Abstract:
Alan Lomax is developing a prototype interactive computer system that enables users to access a wide range of anthropological information, including music and dance from around the world. The prototype, called the 'Global Jukebox,' is receiving a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation so Lomax can publish different versions of the system for sale to libraries, schools and individual persons. Apple Computer has contributed $100,000 and $75,000 worth of equipment for the project, which will eventually come out as a data base of 4,000 songs and 1,000 dances from 400 cultures. Lomax, who is 77 years old, has been a folk art proponent for some time and has spent 50 years collecting, analyzing and disseminating traditional music.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1992
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