A television receiver which is coupled to a digital VCR to receive an ATSC-encoded multi-program stream containing video, audio and data programs. The receiver recognizes one of the data programs as containing computer software for the digital television receiver, extracts the data program from the multi-program stream into a memory area which is separate from the memory areas used to decode the audio and video programs and then uses data in the extracted data program to update information which controls the operation of the television receiver. The television receiver includes a microprocessor which is coupled to a video processor via an IC bus. The video processor includes registers which are coupled to the IC bus. The microprocessor updates these values from the information in the extracted data program. The extracted data program may include a program image for the operational software for the microprocessor and may replace the operational software to update the operation of the television receiver. Alternatively, the extracted data program may include programming which applies to video and audio data that is recorded on the video tape and allows a user to interact with the presentation of the video and audio data.