Macrovision Guides Vizio HDTVs

Macrovision Solutions signed a multiyear patent-licensing agreement with HDTV manufacturer Vizio for Macrovision's interactive program guide technologies.

The deal gives Vizio the option to incorporate Macrovision's IPG technologies into future products to provide on-screen navigation, sorting and scheduling of TV programming. Macrovision acquired Gemstar-TV Guide International last year.

"We recognize that consumers today have an unprecedented amount of content to choose from across a growing number of digital channels and sources," Vizio vice president of products Matthew McRae. "Simplifying that user experience is a critical part of our design philosophy, as we continue to develop innovative new ways of bringing value to the Vizio customer."

Macrovision's other IPG licensees include Sony, Samsung, Panasonic, Sharp, Hitachi, Motorola and Scientific Atlanta (now Cisco Systems).