US Patent 7398009 Method and apparatus for managing video storage

A method and apparatus for tracking the viewing of stored video content. A video event is recorded, such as with a personal video recorder, and is subsequently displayed on a display screen having identified thereon at least one user who is to view the recorded video event. The user enters an option (e.g., “OK to Erase”) associated with the displayed recorded event. The entered option is displayed on the display screen so subsequent users will know the desired option of the prior user. A machine-readable medium having stored thereon instructions for recording and displaying a video event, as well as instructions for receiving and displaying an option associated with the displayed recorded event.