HIDING AND DETECTING MESSAGES IN MEDIA SIGNALS

The present invention relates generally to audio and video signal processing, e.g., audio or video signal encoding and detection. One claim recites a method of analyzing an embedded media signal to extract a message information signal therefrom. The method recites —in combination with other features —utilizing a multi-purpose electronic processor configured for: detecting from an embedded media signal embedded code signals corresponding to registration symbols and variable message information symbols; verifying detection of the embedded code signals coffesponding to the registration symbols; and verifying detection of the variable message information symbols by checking correspondence of the values of the variable message information symbols relative to the registration symbols with an expected sequence of values. The multi-purpose electronic processor is configured for analyzing a plurality of fragments of the embedded media signal with greater or lesser confidence in an extracted message information signal being obtained by processing more or less fragments of the embedded media signal, respectively. Of course, other combinations and claims are provided as well.