"Roku Seeks Patent for Displaying Ads When TVs Are Paused"
Roku has filed a patent application to display ads on its branded smart TVs when HDMI devices like game consoles are paused, aiming to generate advertising revenue during moments of inactivity. The patent proposes the TV to study the HDMI signal to determine when the picture and audio have been the same for a period, intercept the HDMI picture, and replace it with an ad until the HDMI picture changes again. While the patent explores the idea of tailoring ads based on the paused content, it's important to note that the implementation of this technology is not guaranteed even if the patent is granted.