A method and system are provided for allowing channel surfing during the
presentation of a commercial broadcast by returning the viewer to the
desired program channel after the commercial broadcast has concluded.
When a commercial broadcast is received that interrupts the presentation
of a viewer's desired programming, channel surfing is facilitated based
on increased audio volume levels broadcast with the commercial broadcast.
During channel surfing, the present audio level of the primary channel
presenting the undesired commercial broadcast is monitored. If the audio
volume level drops below the level of the commercial broadcast or returns
to the level set by the viewer for the desired program prior to receipt
of the commercial broadcast, the desired program channel may be
reselected to return the viewer to her desired program channel. The
viewer may be notified that the commercial broadcast has ended prior to
reselection of the desired program channel. Notification may be in the
form of a notification message displayed to the viewer.