Verizon's "Big Ben" Patent

       In May of 2011, Verizon communications filed for a controversial patent (#20120304206) for an advertising technology on their DVR systems. This was reported only as of a couple weeks ago due to patent publication restrictions. This technology will use an infrared camera and microphones to watch its viewers movement and emotions when they are using the DVR. One can only imagine what this surveillance system could detect; if the people watching television start canoodling, then something like a commercial for condoms or other contraceptives will be advertised. If someone mentions that they are hungry for pizza, a pizza commercial might be the first thing to come on next. Verizon also proposes a detection system that connects a user's smartphone/mobile device. Verizon writes: "...not only may the selected advertisement be specifically targeted to the user, but it may also be delivered right to the user's hands." This technology will take the influence of advertising to a new level and convince people that whatever is wrong with themselves can instantly be repaired by the purchase of a material good. A woman may complain that she has gained too much weight and instantly there is a diet pill advertisement or a gym membership deal that will fix this problem. Instead of people focusing on the flaws of the system they live in, they will focus on their personal problems even more due to such invasive advertising. The people in control of these advertisements will remain in power and the pawns that they are controlling will rely on material goods for artificial gratification.

Sources:
uspto.gov
fiercecable.com