CUSTOMIZING A SEARCH EXPERIENCE USING IMAGES
BACKGROUND
[0001] In response to user queries, search results are oftentimes presented in the form of
captions including a title, a URL, and a snippet. In this regard, a search results page can
be cluttered with a large amount of content. The amount of content that fills the viewing
space of a mobile device is even more restricted. In addition, search query suggestions
displayed over the background or search results, although potentially beneficial to a user,
can occupy too much viewing area of the display screen. A display screen cluttered with
content (e.g., text, search query suggestions, etc.) can be overwhelming and uninteresting
to a user. As a result, a dissatisfied user might exit the search experience prior to
obtaining desired information. Accordingly, it is important that the content that occupies
the viewing space captures the user's attention, particularly with mobile devices due to the
limited size of the display screen.
SUMMARY
[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and computerreadable
media for, among other things, customizing a search experience using images. In
this regard, embodiments of the present invention utilize a search query entered by a user
and/or user data associated with a user to select an image(s) to display in association with
a search results webpage. Such an image might be a background image displayed as the
background of a search results webpage or an icon image that represents a category of
search results. A background image corresponding with the search query and/or user data
may be of interest to the user and capture the user's attention. An icon image related to
the search query and/or user data can be interesting to the user and simplify or organize
the content provided to the user in connection with a search experience.
[0003] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified
form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not
intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is
it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] The present invention is described in detail below with reference to the attached
drawing figures, wherein:
[0005] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing environment suitable for
use in implementing embodiments of the present invention;
[0006] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing system architecture
suitable for use in implementing embodiments of the present invention;
[0007] FIG. 3 is an exemplary screen display showing a background image and icon
images, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0008] FIG. 4 is an exemplary screen display showing a display of information
presented upon selection of an icon image, in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0009] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram showing a method for presenting one or more
background images customized for a user, in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0010] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram showing a method for presenting one or more icon
images customized for a user, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
and
[0011] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram showing a method for presenting a suggested-query
selector to view suggested search queries, in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] The subject matter of the present invention is described with specificity herein to
meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the
scope of this patent. Rather, the inventors have contemplated that the claimed subject
matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include different steps or combinations of
steps similar to the ones described in this document, in conjunction with other present or
future technologies. Moreover, although the terms "step" and/or "block" may be used
herein to connote different elements of methods employed, the terms should not be
interpreted as implying any particular order among or between various steps herein
disclosed unless and except when the order of individual steps is explicitly described.
[0013] Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and computer
storage media having computer-executable instructions embodied thereon that customize a
search experience using images. In this regard, embodiments of the present invention
provide images, such as background images and/or icon images, that are dynamically
customized for a user based on a search query and/or user data associated with the user.
Accordingly, a user search experience can provide background images that are relevant
and interesting to the user. Additionally or alternatively, icon images that represent
categories of search results can be provided to simplify and organize a user search
experience. Such images can engage a user to enhance the user search experience.
[0014] Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention is directed to one or more
computer storage media having computer-executable instructions embodied thereon, that
when executed, cause a computing device to perform a method for presenting one or more
background images customized for a user. The method includes referencing a search
query input by a user. The method further includes referencing one or more user data in
association with the user. The search query and the user data in association with the user
are utilized to select an image to display as a background image of a search results
webpage. The selected image is displayed as a background of the search results webpage.
[0015] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for presenting
icon images customized for a user. The method includes referencing a search query input
by a user. The method further includes referencing user data in association with the user.
Icon images to be displayed are identified based on the search query and the user data in
association with the user. The icon images represent a category of search results and are
displayed within a search results webpage. Selection of an icon image results in display of
one or more search results, or information in association therewith, that correspond with
the category of search results represented by the selected icon image.
[0016] In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a system for
customizing a search experience for a user. The system includes a computing device
associated with one or more processors and one or more computer-readable storage media,
a data store coupled with the computing device, and an image selecting engine. The image
selecting engine receives a search query input by a user, user profile data that indicates at
least one interest of the user, and device data in association with the computing device
being used by the user. Further, the image selecting engine uses the search query, the user
profile data, and the device data to identify a background image to be displayed as a
background of a search results webpage and identify icon images to be displayed on the
search results webpage. The icon images represent categories of search results. The
image selecting engine outputs the background image and the one or more icon images for
presentation.
[0017] Having briefly described an overview of the present invention, an exemplary
operating environment in which various aspects of the present invention may be
implemented is described below in order to provide a general context for various aspects
of the present invention. Referring to the drawings in general, and initially to FIG. 1 in
particular, an exemplary operating environment for implementing embodiments of the
present invention is shown and designated generally as computing device 100. Computing
device 100 is but one example of a suitable computing environment and is not intended to
suggest any limitation as to the scope of use or functionality of the invention. Neither
should the computing device 100 be interpreted as having any dependency or requirement
relating to any one or combination of components illustrated.
[0018] Embodiments of the invention may be described in the general context of
computer code or machine-useable instructions, including computer-executable
instructions such as program modules, being executed by a computer or other machine,
such as a personal data assistant or other handheld device. Generally, program modules
including routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., refer to code that
perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Embodiments of the
invention may be practiced in a variety of system configurations, including hand-held
devices, consumer electronics, general-purpose computers, more specialty computing
devices, etc. Embodiments of the invention may also be practiced in distributed
computing environments where tasks are performed by remote-processing devices that are
linked through a communications network.
[0019] With reference to FIG. 1, computing device 100 includes a bus 110 that directly
or indirectly couples the following devices: memory 112, one or more processors 114,
one or more presentation components 116, input/output ports 118, input/output
components 120, and an illustrative power supply 122. Bus 110 represents what may be
one or more busses (such as an address bus, data bus, or combination thereof). Although
the various blocks of FIG. 1 are shown with lines for the sake of clarity, in reality,
delineating various components is not so clear, and metaphorically, the lines would more
accurately be grey and fuzzy. For example, one may consider a presentation component
such as a display device to be an I/O component. Additionally, many processors have
memory. The inventors hereof recognize that such is the nature of the art, and reiterate
that the diagram of FIG. 1 is merely illustrative of an exemplary computing device that
can be used in connection with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
Distinction is not made between such categories as "workstation," "server," "laptop,"
"hand-held device," etc., as all are contemplated within the scope of FIG. 1 and reference
to "computing device."
[0020] The computing device 100 typically includes a variety of computer-readable
media. Computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by the
computing device 100 and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and
non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of
information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or
other data. Computer-readable media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM,
EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks
(DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk
storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store
the desired information and which can be accessed by the computing device 100.
Combinations of any of the above should also be included within the scope of computerreadable
media.
[0021] Memory 112 includes computer-storage media in the form of volatile and/or
nonvolatile memory. The memory may be removable, nonremovable, or a combination
thereof. Exemplary hardware devices include solid-state memory, hard drives, opticaldisc
drives, etc. Computing device 100 includes one or more processors that read data
from various entities such as memory 112 or I/O components 120. Presentation
component(s) 116 present data indications to a user or other device. Exemplary
presentation components include a display device, speaker, printing component, vibrating
component, etc.
[0022] I/O ports 118 allow computing device 100 to be logically coupled to other
devices including I/O components 120, some of which may be built in. Illustrative
components include a microphone, joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, printer,
wireless device, etc.
[0023] With reference to FIG. 2, a block diagram is illustrated that shows an exemplary
computing system architecture 200 configured for use in implementing embodiments of
the present invention. It will be understood and appreciated by those of ordinary skill in
the art that the computing system architecture 200 shown in FIG. 2 is merely an example
of one suitable computing system and is not intended to suggest any limitation as to the
scope of use or functionality of the present invention. Neither should the computing
system architecture 200 be interpreted as having any dependency or requirement related to
any single module/component or combination of modules/components illustrated therein.
[0024] Computing system architecture 200 includes a computing device 202 (illustrated
in FIG. 2 as a mobile computing device), an image selection engine 204, and a data store
206, all in communication with one another via a network 208. The network 208 may
include, without limitation, one or more local area networks (LANs) and/or wide area
networks (WANs). Such networking environments are commonplace in offices,
enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets and the Internet. Accordingly, the network
208 is not further described herein.
[0025] In some embodiments, one or more of the illustrated components/modules may
be implemented as stand-alone applications. In other embodiments, one or more of the
illustrated components/modules may be integrated directly into the operating system of the
image selection engine 204 and/or the end-user computing device 202. It will be
understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the components/modules illustrated in
FIG. 1 are exemplary in nature and in number and should not be construed as limiting.
Any number of components/modules may be employed to achieve the desired
functionality within the scope of embodiments hereof. Further, components/modules may
be located on any number of servers or client computing devices. By way of example
only, the image selection engine 204 might reside on a server, cluster of servers, or a
computing device remote from one or more of the remaining components.
[0026] It should be understood that this and other arrangements described herein are set
forth only as examples. Other arrangements and elements (e.g., machines, interfaces,
functions, orders, and groupings of functions, etc.) can be used in addition to or instead of
those shown, and some elements may be omitted altogether. Further, many of the
elements described herein are functional entities that may be implemented as discrete or
distributed components or in conjunction with other components/modules, and in any
suitable combination and location. Various functions described herein as being performed
by one or more entities may be carried out by hardware, firmware, and/or software. For
instance, various functions may be carried out by a processor executing instructions stored
in memory.
[0027] The data store 206 is configured to store information associated with images,
user queries, and user data. In various embodiments, such information may include,
without limitation, images, image attributes, user profile data, device data, and/or the like.
In embodiments, the data store 206 is configured to be searchable for one or more of the
items stored in association therewith. It will be understood and appreciated by those of
ordinary skill in the art that the information stored in association with the data store 206
may be configurable and may include any information relevant to one or more images,
user queries, user data, and/or the like. The content and volume of such information are
not intended to limit the scope of embodiments of the present invention in any way.
Further, though illustrated as a single, independent component, the data store 206 may, in
fact, be a plurality of storage devices, for instance a database cluster, portions of which
may reside on the image selection engine 204, the computing device 202, another external
computing device (not shown), and/or any combination thereof.
[0028] Each of the computing device 202 and the image selection engine 204 shown in
FIG. 2 may be any type of computing device, such as, for example, computing device 100
described above with reference to FIG. 1. By way of example only and not limitation,
each of the computing device 202 and the image selection engine 204 may be a personal
computer, desktop computer, laptop computer, handheld device, mobile handset,
consumer electronic device, server, or the like. It should be noted, however, that
embodiments are not limited to implementation on such computing devices, but may be
implemented on any of a variety of different types of computing devices within the scope
of embodiments hereof.
[0029] Components of the computing device 202 and the image selection engine 204
(not shown for clarity) may include, without limitation, a processing unit, internal system
memory, and a suitable system bus for coupling various system components, including
one or more databases for storing information (e.g., files and metadata associated
therewith). Each of the computing device 202 and the image selection engine 204
typically includes, or has access to, a variety of computer-readable media. By way of
example, and not limitation, computer-readable media may include computer-storage
media and/or communication media. In general, communication media enables each
server to exchange data via a network, e.g., network 208. More specifically,
communication media may embody computer-readable instructions, data structures,
program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave or other
transport mechanism, and may include any information-delivery media. As used herein,
the term "modulated data signal" refers to a signal that has one or more of its attributes set
or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example,
and not limitation, communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or
direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, F, infrared, and other
wireless media. Combinations of any of the above also may be included within the scope
of computer-readable media.
[0030] It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that computing system
architecture 200 is merely exemplary. While the image selection engine 204 is illustrated
as a single unit, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the image selection engine 204 is
scalable. For example, the image selection engine 204 may in actuality include a plurality
of computing devices in communication with one another. Moreover, the data store 206,
or portions thereof, may be included within the computing device 202 and/or the image
selection engine 204 as a computer-storage medium. The single unit depictions are meant
for clarity, not to limit the scope of embodiments in any form.
[0031] The computing device 202 shown in FIG. 2 is a mobile computing device, such
as a mobile telephone. It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the
mobile computing device 202 is merely exemplary and that the computing device 202 may
be any type of computing and/or communication device, such as a personal computer, a
textual communication device, a television (IPTV), a desktop, or the like. The computing
device 202 includes a user input module and a presentation module.
[0032] The user input module is configured for receiving input. Such input might
include, for example, user search queries. Typically, input is input via a keyboard or
keypad (hard or virtual such as a touchscreen keypad) associated with the computing
device 202, or the like. Other hardware selectors (e.g., hard buttons) or software selectors
(e.g., virtual selector or button) associated with the computing device 202 can be used to
input data or selections. For example, as discussed more fully below, a suggested-query
selector can be presented on the display screen that, when selected or contacted, triggers
an indication to a query search engine (not shown) that query suggestions are desired. The
presentation module of the computing device is configured for presenting content, such as
background images, icon images, etc. in association with search results webpages.
Embodiments are not intended to be limited to visual display but rather may also include
audio presentation, combined audio/video presentation, and the like.
[0033] As shown in FIG. 2, the image selecting engine 204 includes, among other
components, includes a query referencing component 214, a user-data referencing
component 216, a background-image selecting component 218, an icon-image selecting
component 220, and an outputting component 222. The query referencing component 214
is configured to reference one or more search queries, or portions thereof (e.g., search
terms or search phrases). The query referencing component 214 might receive, retrieve,
obtain, access, or intercept a search query, or a portion thereof, entered by a user into a
search engine via a search engine webpage or client. Such a search engine might be any
information retrieval system used to locate information within a computer system (e.g., the
World Wide Web or other computer system) and provide search results. As such, in one
embodiment, a search engine might be a web search engine that may search the World
Wide Web generally based on a user's search query. Such a web search engine may
provide search results related to any variety of products, services, information, data, or
other information available on the World Wide Web. In this regard, a web search engine
provides search results via a search engine webpage or client that are based generally on
the user search query. For example, based on a user search query input into a general
search website (e.g., Microsoft's Live.com), a general search engine (Microsoft® Live
Search) searches for and provides general search results related to the search query.
[0034] One skilled in the art will appreciate that a user can interact with a search engine
in any variety of ways. A user might interact with a search engine in a webpage format.
That is, a search engine webpage might be utilized to enter a search query (e.g., via an
initial search webpage) and provide search results (e.g., via a search results webpage).
Exemplary search engine and corresponding webpages include, but are not limited to,
Microsoft® Live Search accessible via Microsoft's Live.com and MSN.com web portal,
Google™ search accessible through Google's google.com web portal, and Yahoo! search
accessible through Yahoo's yahoo.com web portal. Alternatively, a user might interact
with a search engine in a toolbar format in which a search query entry field is placed on a
user's web browser for easier access to the search engine.
[0035] The user-data referencing component 216 is configured to reference one or more
user data. The user-data referencing component 216 might receive, retrieve, obtain,
access, intercept, etc., one or more user data. User data, as used herein, refers to any data
in association with a user of a search engine and/or a device being used by the user to
access the search engine, such as the computing device 202. User data includes, for
example, user profile data, device data, related data, global data, and/or the like. User
profile data is any data or indicator in association with a user including, for example,
habitual or routine behaviors of the user and/or indicators associated with events, activities
or behaviors of the user. User profile data may include, by way of example only, routine
search behaviors of the user, searches or queries previously provided by the user, text
and/or email conversations engaged in by the user, events scheduled on the user's
electronic calendar, multimedia events engaged in by the user (such as listening to music,
watching television programming, etc.), links to uniform resource locators (URLs)
frequented by the user, keywords extracted from text and/or email conversations engaged
in by the user, and/or the like. As such, user profile data might be data that is identified or
captured in association with the search engine. Alternatively or additionally, user profile
data might be data that is identified or captured in association with user interaction of the
web browser, the client, and/or the computing device of the user. User profile data may
also include user information input and/or modified directly by the user (e.g., user
interests, birthday, etc.). In some embodiments, user profile data can be captured or
identified in association with a user identifier (e.g., a user identifier used by the user to log
in) or a user device, such as computing device 202.
[0036] Device data refers to any data in association with the computing device, such as
computing device 202, being used by the user. Device data might include an indication of
whether the device is touched enabled, a screen size of the device, a device identifier, an
indication of available bandwidth for transferring data (e.g., a particular service provider
supports a particular amount of bits per second), or the like.
[0037] Relational data refers to data in association with another user related to the
current user of the search engine. In this regard, relational data can provide information
regarding content another related user desired or intended to view. A user might be
related to another user based on a contact with a user (e.g., via electronic mail, electronic
calendar, address book, instant message, social networking, etc.). In another embodiment,
a user might be related to another user based on similar interests. Such similar interests
shared by users can be determined, for example, based on queries entered or searches
performed by users.
[0038] Global data refers to data generally associated with one or more users of a search
engine. For example, global data might refer to a popular, most frequently used, or
preferred data or image.
[0039] The background-image selecting component 218 is configured to select one or
more background images. In this regard, a background image(s) is selected to be
displayed as a background of a search results page that generally presents one or more
search results associated with a search query. An image, as used herein, refers to any
image including, but not limited to, a photograph, a graphic, a video, an animated image,
etc. As can be appreciated, an image might be a still image (i.e., computer graphic,
photograph, etc.) or a moving image (i.e., video, movie, etc.). A background image is
used to refer to an image presented as a background of a search results page on which one
or more search results, or indications thereof (e.g., icon images) are presented. Such a
background image(s) enables a user to initially engage in the search experience. Although
generally discussed herein as a background of a search results page, as can be appreciated
such an image could be a background of an initial search engine page (e.g., prior to a user
inputting or entering a user query). In such a case, the background image might be
selected based solely on user data. In some cases, a background image might be an
advertisement. In such a case, an advertisement engine might be utilized to select or assist
in selecting an advertisement to display as a background image.
[0040] In embodiments, the background- image selecting component 218 utilizes query
data, such as one or more queries referenced by the query referencing component 14,
and/or user data, such as one or more user data referenced by the user-data referencing
component 216, to identify or select one or more background images. In this regard, a
user query is used to select an image that is related to the search query. User data is used
to select an image that is suitable for the user and/or user device. Accordingly, user
profile data can be used to select an image that matches or corresponds with the users
interests. By way of example only, assume that a user enters a query of "Iron Man 2."
Further assume that user profile data of the user indicates that the user habitually searches
for music. In such a case, the image of the music album cover in association with "Iron
Man 2" can be selected and displayed.
[0041] Device data can be used to select an image that is appropriate with regard to
capabilities and functionality of the computing device being used by the user. In this
regard, images attributes, such as quality of images, sizes of images, may be considered in
association with device data to select an appropriate set of one or more images. Relational
data can be used to select an image that corresponds with assumed or deducted interests of
the user, that is, interests of one or more other users that are related to the present user of
the search engine. Global data can be used to select an image that is generally of interest
to one or more other users of the search engine.
[0042] In addition to selecting one or more images for display, the background-image
selecting component 216 can also select a number of images to be displayed as a
background. In one embodiment, multiple images can be simultaneously displayed as a
unified or dispersed background image. In an alternative embodiment, multiple images
can be displayed subsequently. Accordingly, one image or group of images might be
displayed as a background image and, subsequently, another image or group of images
might be displayed as the background. By way of example only, a subsequent image
might be displayed based on an occurrence of an event (e.g., lapse of time, etc.) or based
on a user indication (e.g., user selects a background selector, etc.). A number of images to
display might be based on device data, such as capabilities of the computing device, or
user data, such as preferences of the user (e.g., three images correspond with the user
interests, two images is set in a user profile, etc.). In further embodiments, a background
image might be modified in response to a user selecting an icon image. In such
embodiments, upon a user selection of an icon image, a background image can be selected
and/or displayed that corresponds with the icon image. For instance, if a "music" icon
image is selected by a user, the background image might be changed to be the image of the
album cover.
[0043] The icon-image selecting component 220 is configured to select one or more icon
images. An icon image refers to an image that is an icon representing a category of search
results. This allows a search results page to be intuitive and uncluttered. Icon images
might represent various categories, such as, for example, images, videos, movies, news,
calendar, related locations, shopping or merchandise, music, etc. A music icon might
present, upon selection thereof, for example, tracks, artists, downloads, locations (e.g.,
virtual locations, physical nearby locations) at which to purchase music, etc. A
merchandise icon might present, upon selection thereof, merchandise related to the search
query and/or user data. A movie icon might present, upon selection thereof, nearby
theatres showing the movie, movie purchase tickets options, directions to a nearby theatre,
etc. A calendar icon might present, upon selection thereof, information in a user's
electronic calendar, an option to create a calendar event, an option to share/invite others,
etc. A news icon might present, upon selection thereof, news information in association
with the search query and/or user interests. A video icon might present, upon selection
thereof, videos, trailers, consumer content, etc. in relation to the search query, similar user
queries, user data, etc. An image icon might present, upon selection thereof, images in
relation to the search query, similar user queries, user data, etc. Additionally or
alternatively, an image icon represents data related to search results, such as instant
answers or information presented as a result of performing a task.
[0044] In embodiments, the icon-image selecting component 220 utilizes query data,
such as one or more queries referenced by the query referencing component 214, and/or
user data, such as one or more user data referenced by the user-data referencing
component 216, to identify or select one or more icon images. In this regard, a user search
query is used to select one or more icon image that is related, appropriate, or suitable to
the search query. Icon images can be predetermined (e.g., stored within the data store) or
dynamically determined based on appropriateness to the search query.
[0045] By way of example and with reference to FIG. 3, assume that a user enters the
search query "iron man 2" as illustrated at 302. In this regard, upon referencing the search
query "iron man 2," the icon images that correspond with and are appropriate for the
search query are identified and selected in accordance with the search query. Because the
search query and/or search results related to the categories of images 308, videos 310,
news 312, electronic calendar 314, theater location 316, merchandise 318, and music 320
exist, icon images representing such categories are appropriate selected and displayed. In
some cases, if numerous search result categories are available and appropriate, particular
icons might be selected such that a predetermined number of icon images displayed is not
exceeded. Selection of icon images might be based on, for example, popularity, number
of corresponding search results, etc. As can be appreciated, icon images representing
search result categories can initially be solely displayed on a search results webpage or in
addition to other search results being displayed (e.g., top search results, search results that
do not correspond with a selected category, particular types of search results, such as
images, etc.).
[0046] Prior to or subsequent to selecting one or more icon images for display, search
results or tasks available to perform can be associated with one or more icon images. In
instances that search results are associated with icon images prior to selecting icon images
to display, the search results, or quantity thereof, in association with particular categories
might be used to select one or more icon images for display. For example, assume that a
plethora of "news" search results is associated with a search query input by a user, such
information may assist in selecting a "news" image icon for display. In instances that
search results are associated with icon images after selecting icon images to display, such
a categorization enables the user to select an icon image to view search results related to
such a category (as identified/represented by the icon image).
[0047] Additionally or alternatively, user data can be used to select one or more icon
images. Accordingly, user profile data can be used to select an image that aligns or
corresponds with the users interests. Device data can be used to select an image that is
appropriate with regard to capabilities and functionality of the computing device being
used by the user. Relational data can be used to select an image that corresponds with
suspected interests of the user, that is, interests of other users that are related to the user
currently using performing a search. Global data can be used to select an image that is
generally of interest to the other users of the search engine. By way of example only, and
with reference again to FIG. 3, assume that a user enters the search query "iron man 2" as
indicated at 302. Further assume that, historically, the user has expressed an interest (e.g.,
via previous search experiences) in going to movies at the theater. In such a case, a
"related location" icon that, when selected, presents nearby theaters showing the movie
might be selected for display. A user can select the "related location" icon to view nearby
theatres showing the movie, purchase tickets for a theatre, get directions to the theatre, etc.
[0048] The icon-image selecting component 220 can also be configured to select a
number of icon images to be displayed in association with search results. By way of
example only, a number of search results corresponding with a category, user profile data,
device data, relational data, global data, etc., can be used to determine a number of icon
images to display. In one embodiment, multiple icon images can be simultaneously
displayed. In an alternative embodiment, multiple icon images can be displayed
subsequently. By way of example only, a subsequent icon image might be displayed
based on an occurrence of an event (e.g., lapse of time, etc.) or based on a user indication
(e.g., user selects a next image indicator, etc.). A number of images to display might be
based on device data, such as capabilities of the computing device, or user data, such as
preferences of the user (e.g., three icon images correspond with the user interests, two icon
images is set in a user profile, etc.).
[0049] Query data, such as one or more queries referenced by the query referencing
component 214, and/or user data, such as one or more user data referenced by the userdata
referencing component 216, can also be used to select an order or arrangement in
which to present one or more selected icon images. For example, a more popular
category, such as a category more related to the user query, more related to an interest(s)
of the user, more globally popular, etc. can be placed in the center or mid-point of the
image icons displayed, displayed on a larger scale, displayed on a first page of results, or
the like. For instance, assume that user data in association with a user indicates that the
user is interested in comics. In such a case, a comic icon image might be selected and
displayed in the center of the display screen.
[0050] The outputting component 222 is configured for causing presentation of images
in association with the computing device of the user. For instance, the output component
222 is configured for causing presentation of one or more selected background images in
association with the display screen 120 of the mobile computing device 110 of FIG. 1. In
another example, the output component 222 is configured for causing presentation of one
or more selected icon images in association with the display screen 120 of the mobile
computing device 110 of FIG. 1. While images are described as being provided and
presented, it is straightforward for the system 100 to provide a link or other reference by
which the user device may retrieve the relevant images. Note that the link need not be
followed by a conventional browser; for example, an application that outputs contacts or a
call history list can follow the link, obtain the image(s) and insert a representation of the
image(s) into its output. Any and all such variations, and any combination thereof, are
contemplated to be within the scope of embodiments of the present invention.
[0051] As previously discussed, a computing device displays images in the context of a
search results page. As shown in FIG. 3, a background image 304 in association with a
user query and/or user data is displayed as the background for the search results. As can
be appreciated, in some embodiments, a background image(s) might be displayed upon a
user entering a user query. In alternative embodiments, a background image might be
displayed as a user inputs a search query.
[0052] Similarly, as shown in FIG. 3, a set of one or more icon images 306 that
represent categories of search results are displayed within a search results page. In
embodiments, such icon images are selected based on the user query and/or user data. In
FIG. 3, such icon images include an images icon 308, a videos icon 310, a news icon 312,
a calendar icon 314, a location icon 316, a merchandise icon 318, and a music icon 320.
Although particular icon images 308-320 are shown in FIG. 3, as can be appreciated, any
number or types of icon images can be displayed in various embodiments. Selecting such
icons results in a display of information relevant to the search query and corresponding
with the category represented by the image icon. In this regard, selecting an icon image
can result in search results, or information in association therewith (e.g., instant answers),
being displayed. By way of example only, assume that a user selects the location icon 316
of FIG. 3. In such a case, nearby theaters at which the user can view the movie are
displayed, as illustrated in display screen 400 of FIG. 4. Such a display screen 400 may
include, for example, information pertaining to the theater including, but not limited to,
location, phone number, hours, current movies, show times, link to website, menus, etc.
In this regard, selecting an icon image can result in a display of search results related to
the icon image. Alternatively or additionally, selecting an icon image can result in
performance of a task, the result of which is displayed. For instance, rather than
displaying search results, upon selecting an icon image, performance of a task or
application can be initiated, such as, providing instant answers that relate to the user query,
identifying stores for purchasing merchandise (physical stores or virtual stores), generating
a map, or performance of other tasks related to the search query or search results in
association therewith.
[0053] Further, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the selected location icon 402 may appear larger
and/or brighter to indicate that such an icon is currently selected. Although illustrated in
FIG. 4 as a larger icon, upon selecting an icon image, such an icon image can be modified
in any manner to provide an indication that the particular icon is the currently selected
icon or most recently selected icon. Alternatively to modifying the icon image, another
indicator can be provided in association with the icon image to provide such an indication
(e.g., a highlight or symbol can be placed around or near the icon image).
[0054] In some embodiments, various selectors can be used. A selector, as used herein,
can be presented on the display screen such that, when selected or contacted, an indication
that performance of a particular function is desired. A selector can be used so that the
display screen is not cluttered with various display items. A selector also allows a user to
quickly and easily view more related items (e.g., suggested queries, background images,
icon images, etc.). Accordingly, a selector, when selected, triggers an indication that more
related items are desired. While shown in FIG. 1 as a software selector, more indicators
may be a hardware selector, or a combination thereof. A selector can be selected by a user
by way of a touchscreen, hovering over the selector via a mouse or pointer, selecting the
selector via a mouse, pointer, or commands, etc.
[0055] Selectors may be, for example, an icon selector, a suggested-query selector, a
background selector, and the like. An icon selector, as shown at 322 of FIG. 3, can be
selected to display more icon images. Accordingly, upon selection of the icon selector
322, a complete new set of one or more icon images might be displayed to replace one or
more of the currently displayed icon images or to add to the currently displayed icon
images. A suggested-query selector, as shown at 324 of FIG. 3, can be selected to display
alternative search query suggestions. In embodiments, such query suggestions can be
based on the user query and/or user data. In this regard, the query suggestions can be
provided based on interests of the user as identified from, for example, prior search
routines. Although not illustrated, as can be appreciated, a background selector can also
be associated with the background image such that, upon selection, an alternative
background image(s) is displayed as a background for the search results. Such an
alternative background image(s) can be displayed either simultaneously with the currently
presented background image or subsequent to a currently presented background image.
Although selectors are shown in FIG. 3 as having a particular design and location, such
design and location are not intended to limit the scope of selectors.
[0056] Turning now to FIG. 5, a flow diagram is illustrated which shows a method 500
for presenting one or more background images customized for a user, in accordance with
an embodiment of the present invention. Initially, at block 510, a search query provided
by a user is referenced. For example, a search query entered by a user of a mobile
computing device may be referenced. At block 51 , user data in association with the user
is referenced. Subsequently, at block 514, the search query and/or the user data are used
to select one or more background images to display. In embodiments, such a background
image(s) corresponds with and is suitable for display to the user as a background image of
the search results page. In this regard, the selected background image can be related to the
query entered by the user and to historical interests of the user. At block 516, the selected
images, or representations thereof, are provided to the user device for display. At block
518, the selected background image(s) are displayed via a display screen of the user
device. In embodiments, the background image is displayed in association with search
results or icon images representing categories of search results. As can be appreciated,
various items, such as search results or icon images representing such results, can be
displayed over the background image. In this regard, the background image and/or the
search results/icon images may be at least partially transparent to enable viewing of both
the background image and the search results/icon images.
[0057] With reference to FIG. 6, a flow diagram is illustrated which shows a method
600 for presenting one or more icon images customized for a user, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. Initially, at block 610, a search query provided by a
user is referenced. At block 61 , user data in association with the user is referenced.
Subsequently, at block 614, the search query and/or the user data are used to identify one
or more icon images to display. In embodiments, the identified icon images correspond
with and are suitable for display to the user as icon images of the search results page.
Search results corresponding with the search query are associated with icon images. This
is indicated at block 616. At block 618, an arrangement of the identified icon images is
determined. Such an arrangement may include position relative to one another, position
relative to the background image, position on the display screen, size of the icon image,
etc. In embodiments, an arrangement of the identified icon images might be based on, for
example, the quantity of search results associated with each icon image, user profile data
(e.g., user interests), device data, etc. At block 620, the identified images, or
representations thereof, are provided to the user device for display. Arrangement
indicators can also be provided to the user device to provide an indication of an
arrangement of one or more icon images. As can be appreciated, in other embodiments,
such an arrangement determination can be made by the user computing device. At block
622, the identified icon image(s) are displayed via a display screen of the user device in
accordance with the determined arrangement. In embodiments, the icon images are
displayed in association with other search results or a background image(s).
[0058] Turning now to FIG. 7, a flow diagram is illustrated which shows a method 700
for using a suggested-query selector to view alternative suggested search queries, in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Initially, as indicated at block
710, a user search query is recognized. The search query might be recognized based on a
user inputting the query or upon entering the query (e.g., rolling). At block 712, one or
more suggested search queries are determined. The suggested search queries might be
identified or determined based on the entered data or the determined intent of the entered
data. In embodiments, suggested search queries might also be identified based on various
user data, such as user interests. At block 714, a suggested-query selector is displayed in
association with a search experience (e.g., initially or upon performing the search). The
suggested-query selector can provide an indication to the user that suggested queries exist.
The suggested-query selector might be presented near the query entry or at any location.
At block 716, a selection of the suggested-query selector is received. In accordance with
the selection of the suggested-query selector, search query suggestions (e.g., additional or
alternative) are presented to the user. This is indicated at block 718. Such query
suggestions might be presented in a drop down list or any other list or formatting desired.
[0059] It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the order of steps
shown in the method 500 of FIG. 5, method 600 of FIG. 6, and method 700 of FIG. 7 are
not meant to limit the scope of the present invention in any way and, in fact, the steps may
occur in a variety of different sequences within embodiments hereof. Any and all such
variations, and any combination thereof, are contemplated to be within the scope of
embodiments of the present invention.
[0060] The present invention has been described in relation to particular embodiments,
which are intended in all respects to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Alternative
embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the
present invention pertains without departing from its scope.
[0061] From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to
attain all the ends and objects set forth above, together with other advantages which are
obvious and inherent to the system and method. It will be understood that certain features
and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other
features and subcombinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the
claims.
CLAIMS
What is claimed is:
1. One or more computer storage media having computer-executable
instructions embodied thereon, that when executed, cause a computing device to perform a
method for presenting one or more background images customized for a user, the method
comprising:
referencing a search query input by a user;
referencing one or more user data in association with the user;
utilizing the search query and the one or more user data in association with
the user to select an image to display as a background image of a search results webpage;
and
displaying the background image as a background of the search results
webpage.
2. The media of claim 1, wherein the one or more user data comprises
at least one user profile data associated with an event, activity, or behavior of the user.
3. The media of claim 2, wherein the at least one user profile data
comprises a routine search behavior of the user, a search or query previously provided by
the user, a text or email conversation engaged in by the user, a multimedia event engaged
in by the user, or a combination thereof.
4. The media of claim 1, wherein the one or more user data comprises
at least one device data associated with a computing device being used by the user.
5. The media of claim 4, wherein the at least one device data
comprises an indication of whether the computing device is touch enabled, an indication
of a screen size of the device, a device identifier, an indication of available bandwidth for
transferring data, or a combination thereof.
6. The media of claim 1, wherein the one or more user data comprises
at least one relational data associated with another user that is related to the user.
7. The media of claim 1, wherein the search query is used to identify a
plurality of images related to the search query and the one or more user data is used to
select the image to display from the identified plurality of images related to the search
query.
8. The media of claim 1, wherein the background image is displayed
in association with a set of search results, or representations thereof.
9. A method for presenting icon images customized for a user, the
method comprising:
referencing a search query input by a user;
referencing one or more user data in association with the user;
identifying one or more icon images to display based on the search query
and the one or more user data in association with the user, each of the one or more icon
images representing a category of search results; and
displaying the one or more icon images within a search results webpage,
wherein selection of an icon image results in display of one or more search results, or
information in association therewith, that correspond with the category of search results
represented by the selected icon image.
10. The method of claim 9 further comprising associating search results
related to the search query with the appropriate one or more icon images.
11. The method of claim 10 further comprising determining an
arrangement for displaying the one or more icon images relative to one another.
1 . The method of claim 11, wherein the arrangement is based on the
user data or a quantity of search results related to each of the one or more icon images.
13. The method of claim 9 wherein the one or more user data comprises
one or more user profile data, one or more device data, one or more relational data, one or
more global data, or a combination thereof.
14. A system for customizing a search experience for a user,
comprising:
a computing device associated with one or more processors and one
or more computer-readable storage media;
a data store coupled with the computing device; and
an image selecting engine that
(1) receives a search query input by a user, user profile data
that indicates at least one interest of the user, and device
data in association with the computing device being used by
the user,
(2) uses the search query, the user profile data, and the
device data to identify a background image to be displayed
as a background of a search results webpage and identify
one or more icon images to be displayed on the search
results webpage, the one or more icon images representing
categories of search results, and
(3) outputs the background image and the one or more icon
images for presentation.
15. The system of claim 14, wherein the image selecting engine
determines an arrangement or position in which to place the one or more icon images
based on the user profile data.