Detecting Ads in Video Streams Using Acoustic and Visual Cues

A new technique provides accurate, efficient ad detection for online TV rebroadcasts. As online television grows in popularity, providers are seeking cost-effective ways to replace original advertisements in rebroadcasts with new ads that are not only fresher but that can target individual viewers' interests and preferences. Alternatively, completely removing commercials might be desirable for subscribers who pay for reused content. Researchers have developed various heuristic techniques to detect and remove ads in video streams. Many of these exploit common differences between advertising and program material including cut rates, soundtrack volume, and surrounding black frames