New DirecTV guide suggests content to subscribers based on viewing habits

DirecTV (Nasdaq: DTV) is launching a new "My DirecTV" feature for its interactive program guide which will recommend TV shows and movies to subscribers based on data about their viewing habits that it collects from HDTV set-tops.

DirecTV's recommendation feature

"My DirecTV highlights what's on now, and actually learns your viewing habits, and provides you with personalized movie and show recommendations. Think of it as your own personal video advisor," DirecTV says in a video that it posted about the new guide on its Web site.

Cable technology vendors such as SeaChange International (Nasdaq: SEAC) are pitching pay TV providers technology that would allow them to add recommendation engines to their interactive program guides. Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) also recently struck a deal with Israeli technology firm Jinni which to license the company's recommendation engine for possible use in the Xbox 360.

While DirecTV is teasing its new user interface and program guide on its Web site, the company hasn't yet said when it will become available to subscribers. DirecTV officials didn't respond to requests for comment by deadline.

For more:
- see DirecTV Web page detailing its new HD guide
- Zatz Not Funny has this story

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