How IMDb Knew If You'd Go to a Movie or Concert

This 2015 IMDb patent describes a system that predicts if you'll attend an event, like a movie, by checking your phone's location near the event time and place, then sending you related content.

What it covers

This patent explains how a computer system can guess if you're going to an event, such as a movie or concert. It works by looking at what you do online related to the event (like looking up showtimes). Then, it checks your phone's GPS data to see if you are physically near the event's location around the event's scheduled time. If your phone's location and the event's details match within a certain window, the system determines you're likely attending. For example, if you search for a movie's showtime and location on IMDb, and your phone is later detected near that cinema around the showtime, the system flags you as an attendee. Based on this likelihood, it can then send you content, like an invitation to write a review or join a discussion about the event.

What it doesn't cover

• —Determining attendance without using a user's device location data.
• —Predicting attendance without considering user actions on electronic information about the event.
• —Sending content related to an event if the system cannot determine the user's likelihood of attendance.
• —Methods that do not involve a scheduled performance with a specific time and location.
• —Systems that do not obtain GPS data from a user's device.

The clever bit

The core innovation lies in combining a user's digital 'interest' signals (like searching for event details) with their physical 'presence' signals (phone GPS near the venue) to confidently predict attendance, enabling targeted content delivery.

Why it matters

This patent is significant because it outlines an early method for inferring user behavior and intent based on digital interactions and real-world location data. It was developed by IMDb, a major player in entertainment information, suggesting its application in understanding audience engagement for movies, concerts, and other performances.

Real-world examples

• 1.IMDb's own systems for predicting moviegoer attendance
• 2.Event ticketing platforms suggesting relevant content based on user location
• 3.Concert promotion apps sending reminders or related info to users near venues