Audio content player methods, systems, and articles of manufacture

ES 2 397 501 T3

DESCRIPTION

Methods, systems and fabricated elements of audio content reproduction

Technical field

The present invention relates to methods and systems for distributing and reproducing audio content.

Background of the invention

An increasing number of audio content items are accessible via the Internet. Many radio stations now simultaneously broadcast their broadcasts over the air via the Internet. Some television networks also simultaneously broadcast their broadcasts over the air or via cable via the Internet. Additionally, archived items such as archived radio shows, speeches, and music are also available via the Internet.

An item of audio content is communicated to an end-user computer using streamed data or a data file. The end-user computer decodes the streamed data or data file using audio playback software. Examples of audio playback software include RealPlayer from Real Networks and Netscape Media Player from Netscape. The audio playback software directs the computer to play the audio content item.

Services such as AudioNet (www.audionet.com) and Timecast (www.timecast.com) provide directories for items of audio content available via the Internet. Using these services, the end user can select an item of audio content for playback using their computer. However, the interaction between the audio playback software and the service can be limited to that necessary to reproduce the audio content item.

Currently the user feedback to movies and music is also interesting. Movie Critic (at www.moviecritic.com) recommends movies of potential interest to an end user as a reward for the end user's evaluation of a movie he / she has seen. Billboard magazine and its partner website provide music rankings based on over-the-air sales and streaming.

Broadcast Architecture provides a service for testing audio playlists. One methodology employed by Broadcast Architecture includes physically bringing one or more listeners together to test a playlist, play one or more songs for listeners, and receive evaluation signals from listeners. Evaluation signals are generated by listeners turning a dial up or down depending on whether or not they like a song. The evaluation signals can be represented in a time series to interpret the results.

PCT Application Publication No. WO 97/40514 describes an electronic mail system that presents advertisements to remote users, and in particular, a system that presents desired advertisements to remote users when users are offline. Whenever a user (for example, the user's client program) establishes a connection to the server system (for example, to send and / or receive mail), eligible advertisements (based on an item profile transmitted to the server system) can be transmitted from the server system to the client program and stored in a memory device of the client computer. "Downloaded" advertisements that are stored locally can later be presented to the user when the user is offline, for example, when composing and reading email messages.

Summary of the invention

In accordance with the present invention, methods of operation are provided for a server that interacts with a plurality of client devices to provide personalized content to each client device, as set forth in the accompanying claims.

Brief description of the drawings

The invention is set forth in detail in the appended claims. However, other features of the invention are described in the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a system for providing audio content over an electronic network.

Figure 2 is a first screen window in one embodiment of a graphical user interface.

Figure 3 is a presentation of a portion of the graphical user interface including selection attribute flags.

ES 2 397 501 T3

Figure 4 is an illustration of one embodiment of a streaming indicator.

Figure 5 is an illustration of one embodiment of volume controls.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of an example of a portion of a display window upon receiving a user-initiated selection of a radio category control.

Fig. 7 is an illustration of an example of a graphical radio dial for selecting Internet or other electronic network broadcasts.

Figure 8 is an exemplary illustration of the use of a position attribute field.

Figure 9 is an example of a second screen region that provides auxiliary information about a particular station.

Figure 10 is an example of a programming guide in a second screen region.

Figure 11 is an illustration of an example of a portion of the interface displayed upon receipt of a user-initiated selection of an event category control.

Figure 12 is an exemplary illustration of the use of a time attribute field.

Figure 13 is an exemplary illustration of the use of an event attribute field.

Fig. 14 is an illustration of an example of a notification notice.

Figure 15 illustrates an example of the second screen region displaying auxiliary information about an event.

FIG. 16 is an illustration of an example of a portion of the interface displayed upon receipt of a user-initiated selection of the library category control.

Figure 17 represents an example of text in the fields associated with an approach to browsing a library material.

Figure 18 represents an indicator of which chapter is the current and the number of chapters there are.

Figure 19 illustrates an example of the second screen region used to provide auxiliary information about a title.

Figure 20 is an illustration of an example of a portion of the interface displayed upon receiving a user-initiated selection of a music category control.

Figure 21 represents an indicator of which track is the current and the number of tracks there are.

Figure 22 illustrates an example of a search item provided in the second screen region.

Figure 23 illustrates an example of search results displayed in the second screen region.

Figure 24 illustrates an example of a listening booth element provided in the second screen region.

Figure 25 is an example of a second screen of the listening booth element.

Figure 26 is an example of a third screen of the listening booth element.

Figure 27 is an exemplary screen provided when selecting the control.

Figure 28 illustrates an example of a portion of the interface displayed by selecting an icon.

Figure 29 illustrates an example of a card organizer screen for a smart card element.

Figure 30 is an exemplary portion of the interface displayed in response to a drag and drop operation.

Figure 31 depicts a display of a defect zone initiated by selecting a second graphic button.

ES 2 397 501 T3

Figure 32 depicts a display of a payment options area initiated by selecting a third graphical button.

FIG. 33 is an exemplary portion of the interface displayed in response to a drag and drop operation from a playlist smart card to the fourth portion.

FIG. 34 is an exemplary portion of the interface displayed in response to a drag and drop operation of a promotions smart card to the fourth portion.

Figure 35 is a screen shot of a first preferred embodiment of the graphical user interface in radio content mode.

Fig. 36 is a screen shot depicting a content selection interface in the first preferred embodiment.

Figure 37 is a screen shot of a second preferred embodiment of the graphical user interface.

Fig. 38 is a screen shot of the second preferred embodiment in a radio playback mode.

Fig. 39 is a screen shot of the second preferred embodiment in an event replay mode.

Figure 40 is a flow chart of one embodiment of a method of providing the graphical user interface.

Figures 41-43 are block diagrams summarizing a location map for one embodiment of the graphical user interface.

FIG. 44 is a flow chart summarizing the steps performed in one embodiment of a method of playing a first audio content using a computer.

FIG. 45 is a flow chart summarizing the steps in one embodiment of a method of obtaining user feedback to music content.

Fig. 46 is a flow chart summarizing the steps in one embodiment of a method of assisting the operation of an audio content player.

Figure 47 is a screen shot of a third embodiment of the graphical user interface.

Figure 48 is an example of a first screen in a preferred embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element.

Figure 49 is an example of a second screen for reviewing evaluated items in an embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element.

Figure 50 is an example of a third screen for rating an item in a preferred embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space item.

Figure 51 is a view of one embodiment of the graphical evaluation tool.

Figure 52 is an example of a modified third screen, in one embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element, after all tracks for an element have been evaluated.

Fig. 53 is an example of the second screen, in one embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element, updated based on a display of ratings for the element.

Fig. 54 is an example of a fourth screen in an embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element.

Fig. 55 is an example of a fifth screen in an embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element.

FIG. 56 is an example of a sixth screen in an embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element.

FIG. 57 is a block diagram summarizing a location map for an embodiment of the listening booth or evaluation space element.

ES 2 397 501 T3

And Fig. 58 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a content input subsystem.

Detailed description of preferred embodiments

Figure 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a system for providing audio content over an electronic network 100. Preferably, the electronic network 100 includes the Internet, the global web, an intranet, an extranet, or an online service such as America Online or WebTV.

The system includes a server 102 that communicates with a plurality of client devices 104 including a client device 106 via the electronic network 100. The server 102 includes a computer 110 having a processor 112, a memory 114, and a storage device 116. Server 102 has a transceiver 120 such as a modem, network adapter, or wireless transceiver that interfaces with electronic network 100.

Client apparatus 106 may take various forms, including, but not limited to, a general purpose computer, a network computer, a network television, an Internet television, and a wireless device. Regardless of its shape, client apparatus 106 typically includes a processor 122 in communication with at least one input device 124, a transceiver 126, a memory 130, at least one storage device 132, a display device 134, and a device. audible output 136. Optionally, client apparatus 106 includes a smart card reader 140.

Processor 122 may include a microprocessor, application specific integrated circuit, or other suitable integrated circuit. Memory 130 may include read-only memory and / or random access memory in communication with processor 122. Transceiver 126 may include a modem, network adapter, or wireless transceiver for communicating signals over electronic network 100. . The at least one input device 124 may include a keyboard, a pointing device, and / or a touch screen to receive user-initiated events, actions, and selections from an end user. The at least single storage device 132 may include a floppy disk drive, a PC card storage device, an optical drive, a digital video disk drive (DVD), a compact disc read-only memory drive (CD - ROM), or a hard drive to store computer-readable data. The display device 134 may include a monitor such as a liquid crystal display or a cathode ray tube to display a graphical user interface. The audible output device 136 may include a sound card and / or one or more speakers to reproduce audio content for the end user.

A content delivery component 141, including a player 142, resides on server 102 to assist in selecting, retrieving, and playing the audio content. Player 142 includes a computer program or other form of software or firmware that directs server 102 and client apparatus 106 to provide a graphical user interface for selecting, retrieving, and playing audio content. More specifically, the computer program is operative to process and respond to user-initiated events, actions, and selections made using the at least one input device 124, to select, retrieve, and play the audio content using the audio output device. 136. Preferably, the computer program includes one or more Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML) code, an applet (for example a JAVA applet), and animation plug-in code (for example Shockwave code) to provide the graphical user interface. Player 142 is accessible via electronic network 100 by a dedicated electronic address such as "http://www.audiosense.com or another URL (Uniform Resource Locator).

Player 142 accesses audio content locally from server 102 or remotely from server 144, and communicates the audio content to client apparatus 106 using streaming technology. Server 144 may include, for example, a server from which AudioNet content can be accessed.

The player 142 can operate in two modes: a browse mode and a search mode. Search mode provides a user-invoked function to perform a keyword text-based content search. The navigation mode supports a content search by category using a visual interface. The content is classified into a plurality of content categories to assist navigation in search of content. Preferably, the categories include a radio category, an event category, a bookstore category, and a music category.

The player 142 is responsive to a smart card 146 or a virtual smart card stored in one or more of the client apparatus 106 and the server 102. The real or virtual smart card can be used to separate access to content from the content itself. Additionally, the actual or physical smart card can act as a preference key to uniquely customize a person's player consistently across all entry points or platforms. For a virtual smart card in this case, the client side provides a key to the server side of the preferences.

Optionally, player 142 can provide a second visual interface that has a smaller window that appears in the background. The smaller window provides a subset of the controls for the entire

ES 2 397 501 T3 graphical user interface. The subset of controls may include controls for selecting from programmed presets. For example, the smaller window can illustrate the presets.

The player 142 may cooperate with a navigation program and / or a streaming audio plug-in program executed by the client apparatus 106. Examples of the navigation program include, but are not limited to, Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer. Examples of the streaming audio plug-in program include, but are not limited to: RealAudio and RealPlayer from Real Networks, VxTreme and Netshow from Microsoft Corporation, VDOnet from VDO, TrueStream from Motorola, LiquidAudio, and other active streaming formats. Alternatively, player 142 may include a standalone, application-based software program that is run by client apparatus 106. In this case, it is preferred that the software program can operate without requiring interaction with a navigation program. The software program cooperates with a network access routine executed by the client apparatus 106.

It is noted that, in general, the system may include a plurality of servers such as server 102. Each of the servers is identified by a corresponding location identification code. Each of the servers may include a database 148 to manage and monitor the operation of the system. In this case, each database 148 may include a set of global parameters stored on its storage device 116. A global parameter includes a threshold listening time parameter. If an end user listens to an audio element for a time that reaches or exceeds the listening threshold time, an audience entry is recorded in a database 148; otherwise, no entry is logged. Other global parameters include user permission parameters, and parameters for system-level performance reports.

In general, some parameters are kept for all databases. These parameters include those necessary for the operation and performance of the system. Here, a parameter generated in one database place can be communicated to each of the other database places. Each parameter change is entered with time and date stamps to reference its value at a specified time and date. This information can be useful when generating system reports.

To provide additional features, the server 102 includes a customer profile component 150, a music testing component 152, an audience measurement component 154, a promotions component 156, an advertising component 160, a video feedback component. listener 162, and a transaction component 164. Each of these components includes a computer program module or other form of software or firmware to direct the server 102 to provide its associated element.

The customer profile component 150 stores and manages an end user data table. End user data includes a record including one or more than a name, an address, a login, an email address, preferences, and demographic data for each end user. Examples of end users include listeners and other consumers, broadcasters, and promoters (eg, record companies). Optionally, the customer profile component 150 purges a record after a predetermined period of inactivity from its associated end user.

Each record in the table has a unique identification code, here called CustomerlD, to identify its associated end user. The customer profile component 150 checks to ensure that only one CustomerID is created for each user. The CustomerlD is used throughout the system to identify a specific end user. Each end user enters their unique login to access their preferences when using player 142.

There can be multiple levels of customer profiles. At a guest level, a generic CustomerlD is created without prompting for profile information. Whenever a personalization item or music testability is used, a message is presented that allows a user to create a profile. Listener feedback and advertising information is tracked with respect to guests who do not create a profile. All of those guest-related responses are grouped together.

At a basic customer level, a CustomerlD is created to provide the system preference capabilities using a basic profile. A unique login name and password is included in the end user registry. The login name and password is entered by the end user to access their profile. The end user may be prompted for specific demographic information before accessing the basic customer status.

At a preferred customer level, a CustomerlD is created with a more detailed profile than the basic customer level. In addition to the profile information at the basic customer level, the preferred customer level may require that an end user address be maintained in the end user registry. In compensation, the end user is given exclusive features such as being enabled for the promotions described here.

The customer profile component 150 is provided so that preferences can be made regardless of where the end user accesses the system. For example, the end user can access the player 142 on the client appliance 106 or a client appliance 104 using their preferences in the client profile component 150.

ES 2 397 501 T3

The music testing component 152 provides a user interface (also referred to herein as a listening booth or an evaluation space element) for a music testing service. The music testing service allows record companies and other promoters to test new versions of music. The music test component 152 manages the mechanics of the test.

The audience measurement component 154 monitors and records data associated with a listening behavior of each end user when using the player 142. Based on the data, one or more audience measurement reports are generated. Audience measurement reports can be of particular interest to directors of music radio stations. The audience measurement component 154 may provide an "Arbitron-like" evaluation system for Internet radio that is familiar to terrestrial radio stations.

Promotions component 156 tracks the performance of offered promotions to elicit responses using music testing component 152. Promotions component 156 also manages the administration of music testing component 152 by providing a delivery vehicle for promotional items such as albums evaluated.

Advertising component 160 handles audible and visible advertisements presented by player 142. Audible advertisements can be inserted into the audio stream to replace audible advertisements played by a broadcaster (eg, a radio station). Viewable advertisements can be displayed in one of several areas of the display device 134.

The listener feedback component 162 receives and manages feedback messages from end users. The feedback messages can belong to the system to provide audio content, broadcasters (eg radio stations), content (eg events) or advertising. Preferably, the feedback messages are input using the player 142. The listener feedback component 162 identifies the content and / or the sender presented to the end user at the time their feedback message was generated. Using this information, a suitable destination is determined to direct the feedback message. The listener feedback component 162 may include an email server to direct the feedback messages. The listener feedback component 162 may also generate reports based on the feedback.

Transaction component 164 is used to process transactions made by end users and customers. Examples of transactions include end users purchasing content, and customers purchasing reports online. Transaction component 164 includes a database for recording transactions, and for processing credit card information.

Figure 2 is a first screen window in one embodiment of the graphical user interface. As with the other display screens described herein, the display windows and the display regions, the first display window is displayed by the display device 134. The first screen window provides a primary navigation window to offer basic elements including basic content selection control and playback control to the end user.

The first screen window includes category selection controls 200, preset selection indicators 202, preset selection controls 204, forward / review controls 206, playback controls 210, volume controls 212, selection attribute indicators 214 , a streaming indicator 216, a first display region 218, an information control 220, a second display region 222, a search control 224, a user feedback control 226, a smart card control 230, a help mode control 232, a first logo 234, a second logo 236, an advertising window 240, and an attractions window 242.

Preferably, each of said controls includes a hot spot region or graphic button designated to receive user-initiated selections and actions from the at least one input device 124. Examples of user-initiated actions include, but are not limited to, point-and-click operations with a pointing device such as a mouse, trackball, or touch pad, and touch actions using a touch screen or keyboard.

The category selection controls 200 are intended to receive user-initiated actions to choose a content category within which audio content can be selected. The category selection controls 200 include a radio category control 244, an event category control 245, a library category control 246, and a music category control 247. Each of the category selection controls 200 is presented as a graphical tab.

The radio category includes available over-the-air content (including, but not limited to, AM and FM broadcasts) and material streamed over the Internet encoded and distributed through the electronic network 100. The events category includes content from special appearances, conventions , announcements, news, and events

ES 2 397 501 T3 sports, for example, distributed by a programmer or an event manager. The category of events includes scheduled broadcasts of live or archived material that can be made available over the electronic network 100 at a scheduled time. The library category includes stored audio content from books, archived speeches, spoken audio, and other content that appears without reference to a particular broadcast. The music category includes collections of music such as albums and other audio versions.

The radio category and the event category include content associated with a specific time, such as a live broadcast. The bookstore category and the music category include content generally not referenced to a specific time.

If, while the material is active in a first content category, the end user moves to a second content category, the tab associated with the first content category is presented with flashing text. In this case, the end user can move to the second content category using a point-and-click operation with the tab associated with the second content category or by using the smart card. For example, if the radio category is active when the end user selects the music category tab, the radio category tab blinks until the end user returns to the radio category or until new material is streamed. When the new material is chosen, the tab returns to its inactive state.

To easily identify the active feature, each of the four content categories is color-coded. Preferably, the CMYK values ​​for each content category are as follows: radio 0-49-96-0, events 2396-100-9, library 79-7-100-0, and music 88-80-0-0.

If there is no selection of a content category, the text "INFO" is presented in the information control 220. In this case, the text "INFO" is presented in one color such as gray rather than a second color such as black. when a content category is selected. Alternatively, information control 220 may be selected to present guidance on how to make a selection in the current mode.

Playback controls 210 include play button 250 and cancel button 252. Play button 250 is designed to receive user-initiated action to initiate playback of an audio selection. The text within the play button 250 is redisplayed in reverse color upon receipt of the user-initiated action. The reverse color indicates to the end user that the action has been received.

The default value of the play button 250 is to automatically play titles and stations whenever they are available. If a title or station cannot be played with the chosen attributes, at least a portion of the play button 250 including the text "PLAY" is displayed in a first color such as gray. If a title or station can be played with the chosen attributes, the portion of the play button 250 including the text "PLAY" is again displayed in a second color such as black. If an event has not yet occurred, the play button 250 displays the word "PROGRAM."

During playback, the play button 250 is designated to receive a user-initiated action to pause the playback of the audio selection. Once paused, the play button 250 may receive a subsequent user-initiated action to continue playback.

Cancel button 252 is designated to receive a user-initiated action of canceling a player activity. For example, when selecting items using a selection table (described in detail below), the cancel button 252 may be selected to exit the selection table. As another example, when playing an audio selection, the cancel button 252 may be selected to stop the reproduction of the audio selection and to reset the player in order to keep the chosen audio selection.

Advertising window 240 provides advertising images. The advertisement window 240 may also provide back and forth ad navigation.

Figure 3 is a presentation of a portion of the graphical user interface including the selection attribute flags 214. The selection attribute flags 214 include a select button 260 and three attribute fields 262, 264, and 266. The Select button 260 is designated to receive user-initiated actions to toggle between the three attribute fields 262, 264, and 266.

For radio content, the three attribute fields 262, 264, and 266 include a category attribute field, a band attribute field, and a position attribute field. For events, the three attribute fields 262, 264, and 266 include a category attribute field, a time attribute field, and an event attribute field. For library content, the three attribute fields 262, 264, and 266 include a category attribute field, an author attribute field, and a title attribute field. For music content, the three attribute fields 262, 264, and 266 include a category attribute field, an artist attribute field, and a title attribute field.

ES 2 397 501 T3

A selection of the radio button 260 causes the following attribute field to be displayed along with its associated options. For example, clicking the radio button 260 while the band attribute field 264 is active causes the position attribute field 266 to be active, as illustrated.

A list of options 270 associated with an active attribute is displayed alongside the three attribute fields 262, 264, and 266. The end user can scroll through the list using a scroll bar 272, an up scroll control 274, and / or a scroll down control 276. The end user can also navigate to an option by entering a letter or number of an item in the option list 270.

When a desired option is highlighted (such as "Chicago" as illustrated), the end user can select the option: (i) by double-clicking the option; (ii) clicking on the selection button 260; (iii) selecting another attribute to choose; or (iv) clicking on the play button 250 if all attributes are chosen. Once chosen, the desired option is presented in its respective field of the three attribute fields 262, 264, and 266. If the cancel button 252 is selected at any time in this operation, no attribute is chosen and the player is reset to a previous state or an idle state.

Optionally, you can select attributes from a custom set of options so that a list of probable options is smaller than a full set of options, and is populated with items of most probable interest.

Note that, except where noted, the list of options for each attribute includes an "ALL" option. Content is not filtered on an attribute that has the "ALL" option. If a user-initiated selection of select button 260 is received without receiving a user-initiated selection of an option from option list 270, the attribute is automatically set to "ALL".

Referring again to FIG. 2, the preset selection indicators 202 and the preset selection controls 204 provide a graphical user interface for operating presets. The preset selection indicators 202 present a subset of the available presets. The preset selection controls 204 control which subset of the available presets is displayed. The preset selection controls 204 include an up arrow control and a down arrow control for scrolling up and down, respectively, through the available presets. When a date control is clicked, the available presets scroll such that the preset buttons 290, rather than the text they contain, appear visually in motion.

Presets act as filters to easily sift through available content for specific, frequently used material. Presets can be used to store access to specific content or titles, or can be used to specify sets of titles. For example, a first preset can specify a set of all stations that broadcast jazz, and a second preset can specify all recordings by a specific artist. The presets are available as preferences for users of the same client device, and are available through different client devices with the use of a smart card (physical or virtual).

There is a different set of presets for each content category (radio, events, bookstore, and music). If desired, each content category can have a predetermined number of presets (such as twenty, for example) associated with it. In general, a preset made for a particular content category may not appear as a preset for another content category.

Alternatively, the presets can be used across more than one content category, such as for all content categories. In this case, each preset can be assigned a priority within a content category. A border color for a preset selection indicates the content category to which it refers.

A preset can be stored by dragging the cursor from selection attribute indicators 214 to a preset title bar 292 when a title is active. In this case, the attribute set is stored in a next available preset. If no presets are available, the end user is suggested to overwrite a preset or abandon the request to store the preset.

Another way to store a preset is to click and hold one of the preset select flags 202 for a time that exceeds a predetermined threshold. In a preferred embodiment, the predetermined threshold is approximately one second. Next, a window is presented to see if the end user wants to store attributes in the selected indicator from the preset selection indicators 202, or delete a preset associated with the selected indicator from the preset selection indicators 202. The attributes are stored in response to a first action initiated by the user using the window. The preset is cleared in response to a second action initiated by the user using the window.

ES 2 397 501 T3

Another way to add a preset is by a user selection of an attraction from the attractions window 240. The attractions window 240 provides rotating attractions in the form of presets. Attractions may include content advertisements. The end user can click on an attraction to add its associated preset to the presets.

Optionally, controls can be provided for rearranging stored presets, and for selecting a set of attributes or a specific station or title to be stored as a preset. As another option, presets can have functionality that overrides any function change so that a specific preset is active throughout the system. These presets can also be reordered by the end user.

Within each of the preset selection flags 202 are presented two lines of text with twelve characters per line. For a radio station preset, the text includes call letters and a radio station frequency. For an event preset, the text includes as much of the event title that it can fit within its preset selection indicator. For a library preset and music preset, the text includes the first twenty-four letters of the title. With the use of the smart card (physical or virtual), the user is offered an option to edit the titles.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of one embodiment of the streaming indicator 216. The streaming indicator 216 is displayed whenever an encoded stream is being decoded in accordance with a streaming technique. The streaming indicator 216 provides a bar graph display representing a percentage of the encoded stream that is decoded. In essence, the streaming indicator 216 provides a streaming strength meter that represents how close the decoded audio is to the original encoded audio in the stream.

In addition, the streaming indicator 216 provides an indicator of player activity through its resulting flashing. When data transmission via electronic network 100 is stopped, a segment 300 of a plurality of segments 302 is displayed in a first color, such as red. When the electronic network is not congested, two or more segments 302 are displayed in a second color, such as green.

The streaming indicator 216 also includes two text indicators 304 and 306 to the right of the segments 302. The text indicator 304 indicates whether the audio signal is separated into stereo channels. Text indicator 306 indicates a transport mode to receive the encoded stream.

With an assist mode activated (as described in detail below), the streaming indicator 216 provides a control to receive a user-initiated action to display the statistics of the transmission. For example, when clicking on the bar graph, the percentage of the encoded stream used to generate the bar graph is presented in numerical form. The number form of the percentage is updated repeatedly over a period of approximately three seconds. The number form is then replaced by the bar graph.

To provide an indication that a flow is starting and that a buffer is filling up, each function includes a dial or scale. The dial or scale fills from opaque to solid from left to right to indicate how much buffer has been filled. In this way, the left side of the dial begins to fill when the buffer starts, and reaches the right side of the dial when the buffer is full. Then, the audio starts playing.

Also, during loading, a text indication of system action may be displayed. Examples of system actions that can be displayed include, but are not limited to, a "server call" action and a "file upload" action. If an error occurs when trying to locate a streaming file, an error message is displayed at the position of the bar graph.

Figure 5 is an illustration of one embodiment of the volume controls 212. The volume controls 212 include a plurality of analogous shapes having different sizes. Each of the shapes is dedicated to receiving a user-initiated selection to play the audio at a volume monotonously related to its size. As illustrated, shapes can include circles that have five different radii. In this case, each larger circle orders a higher volume. Canceling the volume is ordered by clicking on the smallest circle. Advantageously, the end user can quickly adjust the volume from low to high progressively to larger circles.

Referring again to Figure 2, it is noted that the size of the first screen window can be adjusted by the end user, if desired. Preferably, the first screen window can be displayed entirely within a navigation window without requiring scrolling. It is also preferred that the player is capable of providing a collapsed view of the first display window. The folded mode view can expose only the presets, for example. The view in folded mode is nice for use as a desktop player.

ES 2 397 501 T3

Preferably, all of the listed controls have an expression or description associated with them to provide assistance to the end user. A default in the player is to provide an enabled help mode, where an expression or description associated with a control is presented automatically when a cursor is held on the control for a predetermined period of time such as one second.

The help mode control 232 is designed to receive user-initiated actions to turn the help mode on and off. To disable the help mode, the end user selects the help mode control 232. When disabled, the help mode control 232 is displayed without the question mark. To reactivate the help mode, the end user selects the help mode control 232 again. When enabled, the assist mode control 232 is displayed with the question mark.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of an example of a portion of the display window upon receiving a user-initiated selection of the radio category control 244. A graphical radio dial 330 is displayed in the radio category. The radio dial Graphic 330 resembles an analog dial for AM and FM broadcasts. A graphical pointer 332 indicates a current position on the graphical radio dial 330. Preferably, the graphical pointer 332 is in the shape of a graphing needle.

Above and below the graphical indicator 332 are text boxes 334 and 336 containing information about a radio station at the current position. The information may include call letters 340, a frequency 342, a format 344, and a hometown 346 associated with the radio station. When the graphical indicator 332 is moved from one station to another, the information in the text boxes 334 and 336 is updated accordingly.

If there are multiple radio stations close to each other, several traces 350 are displayed indicating how many radio stations there are. A plurality of markings 352 (each having the shape of a semicircle) are used to separate available radio stations. The number of the marks 352 can be limited to a limit such as fifteen, if desired.

If there are multiple radio stations on the same frequency, a number of the marks 352 indicative of how many radio stations there are on the frequency is displayed extending downward from the frequency position. For example, if there are two radio stations on one frequency, two semicircles are displayed on that frequency. Scanning through these stations presents each station sequentially in alphabetical order of call letters.

A radio station not broadcasting over the electronic network 100 may appear in a slot on the graphical radio dial 330 to indicate its existence. A message or other indicator is displayed to indicate that the radio station is not currently broadcasting over the electronic network 100.

A city guide corresponding to the city of the radio station can optionally be presented. For example, if the graphical radio dial 330 provides a radio dial for San Francisco radio stations, an option (not illustrated) may be selected by the user to initiate a presentation of the San Francisco city guide.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of an example of the graphical radio dial 330 for selecting broadcasts over the Internet or other electronic networks. In this case, the graphical radio dial 330 has markings for alphabetizing Internet broadcasts by identification text. For example, ESPNet SportsZone content is located when chart indicator 332 is at “E”, and C | NET content is located when chart indicator 332 is at “C”. A text box 360 above the graphical indicator 332 displays the text that identifies the audio content (such as "ESPN", for example). A text box 362 below the graphical indicator 332 presents the format and country of origin of the audio content.

With reference to both Figure 6 and Figure 7, the graphical user interface provides multiple ways to navigate to a radio station or Internet broadcast. One way includes using the selection attribute flags 214 to select a plurality of stations having chosen attributes, followed by tuning the dial to one of the stations. The attribute selection is carried out in the manner described with reference to Figure 3. In the radio category, selecting an "ALL" option produces all categories of stations broadcasting on FM from anywhere in the world.

The band attribute field 264 allows the end user to specify which band is to be presented by the graphical radio dial 332. This is a required attribute to perform in the first step. Bands include Am, FM (representing stations primarily broadcasting on AM and FM, respectively), and the Internet (representing broadcasts only available on the Internet). The default option is FM.

Category attribute field 262 allows the end user to limit the dial to at least one specific category or format. A plurality of categories or formats can be selected by holding down the scroll key while selecting options. In this way, the end user can repeatedly select options from the list without causing the attribute selection to proceed to the next field. The text presented within

ES 2 397 501 T3 of the category attribute field 262 includes the first chosen category followed by periods to indicate more than one category.

Figure 8 is an exemplary illustration of using the position attribute field 266. The position attribute field 266 allows the end user to limit the dial to stations that have a specified position. Stations that broadcast on the Internet depend on the country only. A list of 370 options for the position attribute is segmented into three fields: city 372, state 374, and country 376. At the top of the list are headings 382, ​​384, and 386 that can be selected to initiate an alphabetical sorting of 370 options by city, state, and country, respectively. The current field by which options 370 are sorted is indicated by underlining their associated heading (eg heading 382 is illustrated underlined to indicate that options 370 are sorted alphabetically by city). If, for example, the end user wanted to have the 370 options sorted by state, they could click on heading 384.

For options that do not have an associated status, which can occur in some countries around the world, the field for status 374 is left blank. These options are presented at the top of the 370 option list.

A plurality of positions can be selected by holding down the scroll key while selecting positions. In this way, the end user can repeatedly select positions from the list without causing the attribute selection to proceed to the next field. The text displayed within the position attribute field 266 includes the first chosen position followed by periods to indicate more than one position.

A radio station is played automatically once a station or a set of stations has been selected and presented. A first station, which is preferably the station to the left on the graphical radio dial 330, or a commercial business can determine which station is to be played first if a set of stations is selected.

It is noted that any of these attributes can be modified while a station is playing. When the modified attributes do not include the current station, the graphical radio dial 330 is again displayed without the current station, and playback of the first station on the graphical radio dial 330 is started.

A second way of navigating to a radio station or webcast using the graphical user interface includes the advance / review controls 206. A user-initiated selection of a advance control 390 advances from a currently active station to a station arranged to the right of it on the graphical radio dial 330. A user-initiated selection of a review control 392 changes from a currently active station to a station disposed to the left of it on the graphical radio dial 330. A user-initiated selection of one of the marks 352 navigates to a station associated with it. Regardless of the way the radio station is navigated, the radio station's streaming starts after your selection.

A third way to navigate to a radio station or webcast is to use presets. As described with reference to Figure 2, presets are available to access frequently used radio stations. If the preset attributes include more than one option per attribute, that attribute is used to populate the text of the sets. Each preset button can have up to two feature items that define its associated radio station or group of radio stations.

A fourth way to navigate to a radio station or Internet broadcast is to use a smart card (physical or virtual). In addition or as an alternative to storing preferences, a smart card can be used by a promoter to allow the end user easy or unrestricted access to specific content. When a smart card is activated for a specific station, the station or group of stations is displayed within the graphical radio dial 330. If the attribute options include more than one element, that attribute reads the associated text. Any activity controlled by a smart card is represented by a biased version of the font to present a function text label (ie the label "radio" in the radio content control 244, the label "events" in the control event category 245, the label "library" in the library category control 246, and the label "music" in the music category control 247). The smart card control 230 displays the title of the smart card.

FIG. 9 is an example of the second display region 222 that provides auxiliary information about a particular station. Auxiliary information is presented in response to receiving a user-initiated selection of information control 220. The auxiliary information may include a title of a current song played by the station, an artist associated with the song, an album containing the song, a label of the song, and an album cover image. An option 402 is designed to receive a user initiated event to present more auxiliary information about the song. An option 404 is the one designated to receive an event initiated by the user to purchase the song or an album containing the song. An option 406 is designated to receive a user initiated event to present a programming guide.

ES 2 397 501 T3

Auxiliary information may also include promotional advertising provided by the station, such as a logo.

410 or another image, and one or more links to related places on the electronic network. Logo 410 acts as a control to initiate a hyperlink to a destination on the electronic network 100, such as a radio station home page. Another window opens to present information from the destination.

FIG. 10 is an example of a schedule guide in the second screen region 222. The schedule guide includes a scheduled program from the radio station in a list format. The list includes days of the week and program hours. Active content 420 is highlighted with bold type. Specific events listed in the programming guide can provide links to archived material. Clicking or otherwise selecting a link takes the end user to the event category with the attributes populated for an event corresponding to the link. Optionally, the program guide can accept entries to present the show at other times throughout an entire day or week. Future events can be scheduled in this way.

When no station is active, the second screen region 222 can be used to present an advertisement. The advertisement may take place as a viewable object while the streaming buffering takes place. When there is a period of inactivity of the player, the second screen region 222 may resume the display of advertising from a station or other business entity.

It is noted that the radio category may optionally provide additional functionality not specifically illustrated in the drawings. Examples of additional functionality include: (i) a call button in the main area of ​​the interface to initiate an Internet telephone call between the client apparatus 106 and the radio station; (ii) options to support a chat space between listeners of a radio station; (iii) a presentation of player information in languages ​​other than English; (iv) a "present map" option to choose a position using a graphical representation that has zones mapped to represent cities or regions of the country and the world; (v) a feedback mechanism for evaluating the station as a whole, a playlist, a disc jockey, or a current song with a list from 1 to 10 on a station information screen; and (vi) a comment line that allows the end user to send text to the station with or without said evaluation.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of an example of a portion of the interface displayed upon receipt of a user-initiated selection of the event category control 245. A graphical timescale 450 is displayed in the event category. A time marker 452 indicates, for an event, a current time position on the graphical timescale 450. The current time position is calibrated relative to the time the event occurred. An indication 454 of a standard time or time zone is displayed to the right of the graphic timescale 450.

An indication 456 is presented as to whether the event is live. If the event is archived, the entry 456 is replaced by the date the event took place.

A start time 460 and an end time 462 on the graphical timescale 450 can be specified as a preference. However, the default is to display the start time 460 and the end time 462 based on the actual occurrence of the event. Alternatively, a timeline can be presented indicating an amount of time that the end user has been listening to the event. This timeline is preferable in cases where there is an inaccurate record of the original recording.

For live events that have an uncertain duration (for example, a sporting event), an estimated timeline is initially presented. If the duration of the event exceeds the estimated timeline, an updated timeline is presented with a start time set to the end time of the estimated timeline.

For an archived event, the time marker 452 can be advanced and delayed using the advance / review controls 206. For a live event, the advance / review controls 206 are not active. To indicate this to the end user, the advance / review controls 206 are presented in a first color, such as gray, rather than a second color, such as black, for a live event.

The graphical user interface provides multiple ways to navigate to an event. One way includes using the selection attribute flags 214 to select an event that has chosen attributes. Attribute selection is carried out in the manner described with reference to Figure 3. In the event category, selecting an option "ALL" creates a list of all events.

Category attribute field 262 allows the end user to limit events to at least one specific category or format. A plurality of categories or formats can be selected by holding down the scroll key while selecting options. In this way, the end user can repeatedly select options from the list without causing the attribute selection to proceed to the next field. Text presented within category attribute field 262 includes the first chosen category followed by periods to indicate more than one category.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary illustration of the use of time attribute field 264. Time attribute field 264 allows the end user to specify a date and time period when the event is scheduled or scheduled.

ES 2 397 501 T3 has produced. You can have several options to specify specific dates. One option is to display a calendar 470 on the first screen region 218 to select a day or a block of days. A day is selected by browsing the 470 calendar to the day, and clicking on the day. A block of days is selected by clicking on a first date while keeping the scroll key pressed, and then clicking on the end date.

Figure 13 is an exemplary illustration of the use of event attribute field 266. Selecting event attribute field 266 displays a list of events 480 defined by category attribute field 262 and time attribute field. 264. Event list 480 has a first column to display the name of the event, and a second column to display the start date and time of the event. At the top of the list are headings 482 and 484 that can be selected to start a sort of 450 events by event name (alphabetically) or by start time (numerically), respectively. The current field by which events 480 are sorted is indicated by underlining their associated heading (eg, heading 482 is illustrated underlined to indicate that events 480 are sorted alphabetically by event name). By default, 480 events are classified by event name.

A second way to navigate to an event is to use a preset. As described with reference to Figure 2, some presets are dedicated to event access. If a preset specifies a category attribute and a time attribute rather than an event, the list of event attributes is activated by selecting its preset button. The end user can then select an event from the list. If a preset specifies an event, the event will start playing by selecting its preset button as soon as the file is available.

A third way to navigate to an event is to select an archived event or a scheduled event from a radio station schedule guide. In response to receiving a user-initiated selection of an event from the programming guide, the graphical user interface provides the category of events. Event attribute field 266 is populated with the selected event. Playback of archived events starts automatically. For scheduled events, an indication is provided to receive a user-initiated selection of a notification method.

Fig. 14 is an illustration of an example of a notification notice. If an event has not occurred at the time of the selection, but is scheduled to take place after the time of the selection, a notification options window 490 is presented rather than the graphical timeline. Although not illustrated, the streaming indicator 216 indicates the status of the event (such as not yet occurred) in this case. In addition, the play button 250 is modified to display the word "SCHEDULE" as a confirmation that the event is scheduled. If the end user has not provided program preferences, a prompt is displayed to enter the preferences. The program and preferences are stored on a smart preference card (physical or virtual).

The notification options window 490 provides three options. A first option is to send a message to the end user before the event takes place. For example, the message can be sent a predetermined number of minutes before the event. The message may include an email message sent to client apparatus 106 or a pager message sent to a pager associated with the end user. A second option is to automatically activate the player, if client appliance 106 is activated, at the time of the event. A third option is to record the event for later replay. In this case, the logged event is a preset for later access. The text associated with the preset button is presented in bold. If an event is not yet available, an indication of it can be provided. If an event file is no longer available, the preset is automatically removed.

It is noted that a personal notification message can be sent to an end user without using such notification notice. In this case, a notification message is sent to the end user regarding an event or program that may be of interest based on the listening behavior or other activity of the end user. Therefore, in general, the server 102 can provide a personal notification of the content that is broadcast at a scheduled time based on the expressed interest of the end user (for example through said asset marking of the content using the notification notice). or a passive interest of the end user (for example, through the monitoring of user activity).

A fourth way to navigate to an event is to use a smart card (physical or virtual). The smart card can allow access to specific events such as promotions, for example. When a promotional smart card is activated, the content specified on the card is used to populate attributes in the player. Any text populated by a smart card is rendered by a skewed version of the font to present a function text label.

Smart cards (physical or virtual) also make it easy to access specific events as part of a playlist. In this case, the end user can specify and save an event playlist on the smart card. The playlist is used to control the player. The playlist can

ES 2 397 501 T3 jump to different selections, in which case the selection text is presented in a skewed font. It is noted that the stored playlist information can be separated from a physical or virtual smart card.

For example, the playlist information can be stored by the storage device

116 from the server 102 or by the storage device 132 of the client appliance 106.

Figure 15 illustrates an example of the second screen region 222 that displays auxiliary information about an event. Auxiliary information is displayed in response to receiving a user-initiated selection of information control 220, which includes the text "EVENT INFO" for events.

Auxiliary information depends on the type of the event. Examples of default information include an original event time, location, guests, and topics. For example, with a sporting event, the ancillary information may include team logos 500 and 502, a running evaluation of the sporting event, players, hosts, guests, and links to locations related to the event. The link to one of the places causes another window to open.

It is noted that the event category may optionally provide additional functionality not specifically illustrated in the drawings. Examples of additional functionality include: (i) replacing the event attribute field 266 with a different attribute field, such as a position attribute field, and providing a timeline with markers representing the joining of events; (ii) temporarily arrange events on the timeline so that an event can be selected in a manner similar to the graphical radio dial (allow the end user to quickly switch between two selections); (iii) insert advertising in the form of markers at predetermined positions along the timeline (allowing the end user to move to another location when there is a break in the event without losing track of where they are in the event); (iv) a feedback mechanism to rank the event as a whole, the subject of the event, a particular participant in the event, or the broadcast of the event with a list from 1 to 10 on an event information screen; and (v) a comment line that allows the end user to submit a text feedback with or without said evaluation.

FIG. 16 is an illustration of an example of a portion of the interface displayed upon receipt of a user-initiated selection of the library category control 246. A graphical timescale 520 is displayed in the library category. A time marker 522 indicates a current time position, for a library content selection, on graphic timescale 520. Graphic timescale 520 represents a total time 524 for selection. The time marker 522 can be moved manually using the aiming device or it can be moved using the advance / review controls 206.

The graphical user interface provides multiple ways to navigate to content in the library category. A first way includes using the selection attribute pointers 214 to select content that has chosen attributes. The attribute selection is carried out in the manner described with reference to FIG. 3. In the library category, the selection of an option "ALL" produces a list of all the library content.

Category attribute field 262 allows the end user to limit library content to at least one specific category or format of spoken audio. A custom attribute allows a plurality of categories or formats to be selected by holding down the scroll key while selecting options. In this way, the end user can repeatedly select options from the list without causing the attribute selection to proceed to the next field. It is noted that categories can be specialized with options such as best sellers and reviews.

Author attribute field 264 allows the end user to specify an author of the content. In a work that does not have an author (such as a material other than a book), a main person in the work can be listed as the author. Selecting author attribute field 264 displays a list of authors who have content limited to the category specified in category attribute field 262. The end user can select an author from the list.

Selecting the title attribute field 266 displays a list of titles that meet the parameters specified in the category attribute field 262 and the author attribute field 264. The end user can select a title from the list.

Figure 17 depicts an example of text in fields 262, 264, and 266 associated with such an approach to navigating to library material. When the information in a field is longer than the width of the field, the full text of the information is available by holding a cursor in the field. In response to this user-initiated event, the width of the field is expanded to accommodate all of the text.

A second way to navigate to library content is to use a preset. As described with reference to Figure 2, some presets are dedicated to the library section. When selecting a preset button, attributes specified by its corresponding preset are used to populate attribute fields 262, 264, and 266. If the preset defines a set of titles, the user can select one of the titles using the attribute field Title 266.

ES 2 397 501 T3

A third way to navigate to library content is to use a smart card (physical or virtual). The smart card is used to populate attributes in the player. The user is then presented with the content that has been skipped and is ready for playback, or is presented with a list of titles to select from. The smart card may allow access to otherwise unavailable content that is made available through privileges stored on the smart card. During smart card operation, the library function label is displayed using a skewed font.

Smart cards also make it easy to access specific titles as part of a playlist. In this case, the end user can specify and save a title playlist on the smart card. The playlist is used to control the player. The playlist serves to transfer between the end user and another end user, and between a plurality of access points for the end user. When an item is selected from a playlist, its attributes populate attribute fields 262, 264, and 266, and the item is passed for playback.

Regardless of the method of navigating to a title, the graphical user interface can provide indicators and controls to provide access to specific chapters or sections of material similar to tracks on a compact disc. A time indicator can be presented at the top of the time scale relative to each specific segment or relative to the time of the start of the material. As illustrated in Figure 18, an indicator 540 of which chapter is current and the number of chapters there are is displayed at the end of the timeline. Clicking on indicator 540 a list of chapter selections is presented.

Moving to another part of the content can be accomplished by using the advance / review controls 206 to advance through the time bar. When you advance beyond the length of one chapter, you get a later chapter. Holding down the forward / review controls 206 advances or returns to other chapters.

Alternatively, the tags marking specific content in the time bar can be selected by the user to advance to specific content. Additionally, a user-initiated selection of a point on the timeline moves the time marker to that point.

Optionally, the time marker can have specially encoded material associated with it to allow users to find specific segments. This is beneficial in educational applications. Another option is to provide chapter titles rather than chapter numbers in the 540 prompt. Links to reviews or other comments can be embedded in the timeline so that the end user can pause and reflect on current material.

Figure 19 illustrates an example of the second screen region 222 that is used to provide auxiliary information about a title. Auxiliary information is displayed in response to receiving a user-initiated selection of information control 220, which includes the text "TITLE INFO" for library content. Auxiliary information may include specific information regarding the title, a summary of the title, a table of contents, credits, comments about the title, accompanying text, links to title reviews, links to related areas, an image 550 of the author or authors, and an image 552 of a book cover, for example.

It is noted that the library category may optionally provide additional functionality not specifically illustrated in the drawings. Examples of additional functionality include: (i) a feedback mechanism to evaluate the overall title, author, reading or translation of the title against a list of 1 to 10 on a library information screen; and (ii) a comment line that allows the end user to submit text feedback with or without said evaluation.

Figure 20 is an illustration of an example of a portion of the interface displayed upon receipt of a user-initiated selection of the music category control 247. In the music category, a graphical time scale 600 is displayed very analogous to the time scale. Graphic 520 for the bookstore category. A time marker 602 indicates a current time position for a selection of music, such as an album or song, on the graphical timescale 600. The graphical timescale 600 represents a total time 604 for the music selection. The time marker 602 can be moved manually using a click and drag operation with a pointing device or it can be moved using the advance / review controls 206.

The graphical user interface provides multiple ways to navigate to content in the music category. A first way includes using the selection attribute pointers 214 to select content having the chosen attributes. The attribute selection is carried out in the manner described with reference to FIG. 3. In the music category, the selection of an option "ALL" produces a list of all the music content.

Category attribute field 262 allows the end user to limit library content to at least one specific category or format. Traditional music categories and formats (eg rock, jazz, pop, etc) can be provided. A plurality of categories or formats can be selected by holding down the scroll key while selecting options. In this way, the end user can repeatedly select options from the list without causing the attribute selection to proceed to the next field.

ES 2 397 501 T3

Artist attribute field 264 allows the end user to specify an artist for the content. Selecting the artist attribute field 264 presents a list of artists that have content limited to the category specified in the category attribute field 262. The end user can select an artist from the list.

Selecting the title attribute field 266 displays a list of titles that meet the parameters specified in the category attribute field 262 and the artist attribute field 264. The end user can select a title from the list. The title list can include album titles and song titles.

When the information in one of the fields 262, 264, and 266 is longer than the display width of the field, all the text of the information is available by holding a cursor in the field. In response to this user-initiated event, the width of the field is expanded to accommodate all of the text.

A second way to navigate to music content is to use a preset. As described with reference to Figure 2, some presets are dedicated to the music section. When selecting a preset button, the attributes specified by its corresponding preset are used to populate attribute fields 262, 264, and 266. If the preset defines a set of titles, the user can select one of the titles using the title field. title attribute 266.

A third way to navigate to music content is to use a smart card (physical or virtual). The smart card is used to populate attributes in the player. The user is then presented with the content that has been skipped and is ready for playback, or is presented with a list of titles to select from.

Smart cards also make it easy to access specific titles as part of a playlist. In this case, the end user can specify and save a title playlist on the smart card. The playlist is used to control the player. The playlist serves to transfer between the end user and another end user, and between a plurality of access points for the end user. When an item is selected from a playlist, its attributes populate attribute fields 262, 264, and 266, and the item is passed for playback.

Regardless of the method of navigating to a title, the graphical user interface can provide indicators and controls to provide access to specific tracks, sections, or parts of music. As illustrated in FIG. 21, an indicator 620 of which track is current and the number of tracks there are is displayed at the end of the timeline. Clicking on the 620 prompt a list of tracks is displayed.

Moving to another part of the music content can be accomplished by using the forward / review controls 206 to advance through the time bar. Holding down the forward / review controls 206 for longer than the predetermined time (such as one second, for example) immediately advances or returns to other tracks. A user-initiated selection of a point on the timeline moves the time marker to that point.

Optionally, time marker 602 may have specially encoded material associated with it so that users can find specific songs or other segments. Another option is to provide song titles and / or credits rather than track numbers at the 620 indicator. Controls can be provided to be able to reorder titles in an album for playback.

Referring again to FIG. 2, the second screen region 222 can be used to provide auxiliary information about music content. Auxiliary information is displayed in response to receiving a user-initiated selection of information control 220, which includes the text "ALBUM INFO" for music content. The auxiliary information may include specific information about the current title such as album cover graphics, cover comments, back tray images, artist (s) images, producer and writer credits, and distributor information, for example.

It is noted that the music category may optionally provide additional functionality not specifically illustrated in the drawings. Examples of additional functionality include: (i) a feedback mechanism for evaluating aspects of music such as artist, album, song, and producer, using a list of 1 to 10 on a music information screen; (ii) a comment line that allows the end user to submit text feedback with or without such an evaluation; and (iii) an ability to receive, decode, and display live music video on the second screen region 222.

Figure 22 illustrates an example of a search item provided in the second screen region 222. The search item is activated in response to receiving a user-initiated selection from the search control 224. If the user-initiated selection is received while the search element is active, the search fields described here are reset.

The search element receives a search string entered by the user. The search string occurs at position 630. The search string includes one or more keywords that can take the form

ES 2 397 501 T3 of a Boolean expression. You can combine a list of keywords using a "+" character. To limit the selection to one of the keywords, a “-” character precedes the keyword. Keywords are generally case insensitive.

Using the search string, a database search is carried out depending on user-selectable search criteria. The database may be provided by server 102 and / or server 144. Search criteria limit where to search based on the data in the search string. The search criteria include fields for the radio category, the event category, the bookstore category, and the music category. Each search criterion can be enabled and disabled using a graphical check box associated with it. An “x” character is displayed in the graphic check box to indicate that its associated search criteria is enabled. By default, all search criteria are enabled.

A first button 632 is responsive to a user-initiated selection to provide more fields to search. The first button 632 can be selected later to provide more fields to search. Each additional field provided in response to the first button 632 is enabled by default. The end user can deselect the enabled fields if they wish. A second button 634 is responsive to a user-initiated selection to provide fewer fields to search.

The search is performed in response to a user-initiated selection of a button 636. The search results are presented in the second screen region 222.

Figure 23 illustrates an example of search results displayed in the second screen region 222. The search results are sorted by category (in the order of radio, events, bookstore, and music). Preferably items are color coded depending on their category. Within each category there are three attribute headings. Search results within each category can be sorted by an attribute by selecting its associated heading from the attribute headings.

A first button 640 is responsive to a user initiated selection to return to previously established search fields (including search string and search criteria). The end user can modify the search fields to modify the search. A second button 642 is responsive to a user-initiated selection to reset the search fields to perform a new search.

Figure 24 illustrates an example of a listening booth element provided in the second display region 222. The listening booth element is activated in response to receiving a user-initiated selection from the user feedback control 226. The element The listening booth can provide a realm of new music from a relatively unknown talent. End users listen to the music, and provide user feedback to a service via electronic network 100. In return, the service provides the end user with an incentive, such as a complimentary copy of the music, a coupon, a t-shirt, or other. promotional element. Each end user evaluates the music based on the user's preference parameter, such as a category most listened to by the end user. In general, any audible material can be evaluated, including, but not limited to, albums, radio station playlists, and experimental audible material.

The listening booth element provides a 650 option to view your directions. In response to a user-initiated selection of option 650, the addresses are displayed in the second display region 222. The addresses may include exemplary displays to explain the use of the listening booth element.

After each return to the listening booth element, an end user status is displayed. The end user is registered with the server 102 through an active preferences smart card. The status can include a number of albums evaluated by the end user, and / or a remaining number of albums to receive a companion album.

The status information includes information about the end user, which can be stored using the smart preference card. If this information is not present, the user is instructed to activate a preference smart card or to create a preference smart card. The smart preference card provides a method of tracking end-user listening preferences in order to determine which albums to present in the listening booth element.

Figure 25 is an example of a second screen of the listening booth element. The second screen is presented by confirming the identity of the end user, such as receiving a password on the first screen.

The second screen provides several categories of music content to select from. These categories are determined through the past listening behavior of the end user. Option 660 can be selected to provide additional different categories. Option 660 can be repeatedly selected to repeatedly provide more categories.

ES 2 397 501 T3

A user-initiated selection of text or graphics associated with one of the categories is received to select a category. The text may include a radio station associated with the category for which the end user has preset a radio. Graphics can include an album cover from a typical album in the category.

Figure 26 is an example of a third screen for the listening booth element. The third screen is presented after a user-initiated selection of one of the categories on the second screen.

The third screen includes at least one image 670 associated with a selection of music from the category. The at least one image 670 may include a cover comment-based slide, a CD rear tray image, or a random image, for example. The third screen also includes text information including an artist, album, producer, record company, and copyright associated with the music selection.

The music selection is loaded into the attributes. Based on user preferences, tracks can automatically start playing when queued. The music selection can include samples of a few seconds from each track in an album, for example. During playback, the end user enters an evaluation using a control 674. The control 674 includes a marker 676 that is manipulated relative to a 680 numerical scale. The 680 numerical scale can run between two numerical limits, such as 0 to 100.

Upon completion of sample playback, the user-entered rating is recorded and the music selection is counted as end-user rated. If no evaluation has been entered, no evaluation is recorded. If the end user exits the listening booth element during playback, the evaluation is not recorded. An evaluation can be canceled by a user-initiated selection of the cancel button 252.

As an alternative to a numerical evaluation, a graphical representation of the evaluation can be used. The graphic representation can be calibrated repeatedly throughout the music selection. In this way, specific aspects and specific tracks of the music selection can be evaluated.

Referring again to FIG. 24, a control 690 can be selected by the end user to view previously reviewed albums. FIG. 27 is an exemplary screen provided by selecting control 690. The display includes a list 692 of each album reviewed by the end user. A 694 album title, 696 artist, 700 copyright, 702 date, and 704 icon are listed for each album. Icon 704 can be selected to view images and credits, and to listen to an audio clip of samples from its associated album.

An example of a portion of the interface presented by selecting the icon is illustrated in Figure 28. As illustrated, the at least one image 670, the text information 672, the marker 676, and the numerical scale 680 representing the rating. they are presented as in figure 26. A date 720 is additionally presented in which the album was evaluated. An option 722 is dedicated to receiving a user initiated event to initiate playback of the samples. An option 724 is dedicated to receiving a user initiated event to return to the previous screen.

Once the number of albums evaluated by the end user has reached a predetermined number, the end user can order a supplemental copy by selecting any of the albums on the list. A dedicated button (not illustrated) can be selected to request that the supplemental copy be sent to an end-user address.

Figure 29 illustrates an example of a card organizer screen for a smart card element. The smart card feature is activated in response to receiving a user-initiated selection from the smart card control 230. The card organizer screen is displayed within the second screen region 222.

There are four types of smart cards (physical or virtual) that can be used in the system. The four types of smart cards include a preferences smart card, a promotions smart card, a playlist smart card, and a payment smart card.

A preference smart card or personality smart card stores identity, demographics, presets, defaults, payment options and preferences, and event schedule for an end user. The smart preference card is read / write and password protected. Each smart preference card may be unique to an associated end user of client appliance 106. Using a plurality of smart preference cards, a plurality of individual preferences can be provided to a plurality of end users of the client apparatus 106.

A playlist smart card is a personalized card for one person. The playlist smart card is a device for collecting and organizing content available over the network.

ES 2 397 501 T3 electronics 100. The playlist smart card can be used to collect music, library content, events, or radio shows using custom icons, event schedules, and playlists.

Access to certain content can be ensured using the playlist smart card through purchase. The playlist smart card can be traded, downloaded, sold, and / or traded between two individuals. Typically, the playlist smart card is dedicated to a single function.

A promotions smart card provides privileged access to predetermined events, such as special events. For example, the promotions smart card can put the end user in a specified position via electronic network 100 to listen to scheduled content. The promotions smart card can be purchased or received free of charge. Typically, the promotions smart card is dedicated to accessing a single function. It is preferred that the promotions smart card is the equivalent of a playlist read-only smart card.

A smart payment card provides a means of paying for content. The smart payment card can store billing information for content purchases in the absence of credit card information. The ability to buy or rent content can allow the end user to access new versions or obscure content.

The card organizer screen includes a first portion 730 dedicated to preference smart cards, a second portion 732 dedicated to playlist smart cards, and a third portion 734 dedicated to promotion smart cards. Only three portions are presented because the smart payment card provides part of the end-user preferences.

Each of the first portion 730, the second portion 732, and the third portion 734 includes one or more card icons (the respective icon being indicated by a reference number 736). Each of the card icons is user selectable to select an associated smart card for further action. Each card icon can be selected using a point and click operation, or by using one of the scroll up controls 740 and one of the scroll down controls 742.

After clicking or otherwise selecting a card icon such as the card icon 736, a step of presenting a cover and / or a description of the associated smart card is performed. To view the content of the smart card, the associated card icon 736 is dragged and dropped into a fourth portion 750 of the display. The fourth portion 750 includes a graphical representation of a card slot 752. Figure 30 is an exemplary portion of the interface displayed in response to such a drag and drop operation. For the purposes of illustration and example, a preference smart card associated with the card icon 736 was dragged and dropped into the fourth portion 750. In response to this operation, a 760 graphics card is displayed within the card slot, a text name 762 of the smart card is displayed in skewed font within a 764 graphics tab, and the content of the smart card is displayed in the first portion 730, the second portion 732, and the third portion 734 in FIG. 29.

The text name 762 on the graphics tab 764 indicates which smart card is active. A function of the player controlled by the smart card is also presented in skewed font. The text name 762 includes up to fifteen characters of the smart card name. The smart card name can include up to two lines of text to describe the smart card. If the smart card name is longer than fifteen characters, the first fifteen characters are displayed, followed by a series of periods.

The preferences smart card has three zones that can be viewed and / or edited. The three zones include an identity zone, a default zone, and a payment options zone. A first graphical button 770 is dedicated to receiving an action initiated by the user to access the identity zone. A second graphical button 772 is dedicated to receiving a user-initiated action to access the default zone. A third graphic button 774 is dedicated to receiving an action initiated by the user to access the payment options area.

As illustrated, Figure 30 depicts a presentation of the identity zone. The identity area includes a plurality of fields for storing identity information. The fields can include fields for login information, password information, name information, address information, city information, and an email address.

Figure 31 represents a display of the defect area initiated by selecting the second graphical button 772. The default area includes information on how to handle specific actions, such as whether to automatically play a selected title from the radio content category, the category Event content category, Library content category, and Music content category.

FIG. 32 depicts a display of the payment options area initiated by selecting the third graphical button 774. The payment options area includes a shipping address and a billing address. The payment options area also provides an option 780 for the end user to enter a credit card number in order to make a purchase. It is indicated that the credit card number is not saved in the player.

ES 2 397 501 T3

With reference to each of Figures 29 through 32, an edit button 790 may be selected to edit any information associated with the smart card. A cancel button 792 can be selected to cancel editing. A save button 794 can be selected to save the edited fields. A warning message can be given to instruct the end user to save edited fields after an exit attempt. The end user can reject the notice by canceling all editing activity with the smart card.

FIG. 33 is an exemplary portion of the interface displayed in response to a drag-and-drop operation of a playlist smart card to the fourth portion 750. A playlist 800 of a plurality of items is displayed in response to the drag and drop operation. Playlist 800 is specific to a predetermined content area. Items from Playlist 800 can be selected for automatic playback, or they can be selected using the dial.

Items can be added and deleted from the playlist 800. To add an item, the material is selected using the browser, followed by a selection of the save button 794. Clicking or otherwise selecting the save button 794 saves all Qualified radio stations, events, or titles on the playlist smart card. Although you can add and delete items, the content of items within the playlist smart card is not editable by the user.

FIG. 34 is an exemplary portion of the interface displayed in response to a drag and drop operation of a promotions smart card in the fourth portion 750. The promotions smart card is similar to a playlist smart card. However, you cannot add, delete or edit items within the promotions smart card. Promotions smart card items can be selected for autoplay, or they can be selected using the selector.

Referring to Figures 30 to 34, a graphical button 810 may be selected to send smart card information in an email message. The virtual smart card information, stored as a file in the client apparatus 106, is transmitted as a file in the email message. The e-mail message may be communicated to another of the plurality of client devices 104 via electronic network 100. If there are unique privileges for the smart card, the smart card information can be erased at the sending device. Alternatively, communication of smart card information can be prevented if there are unique privileges.

A new smart card is created by selecting a graphic button 820 when no smart card is active. A list of options is presented in response to receiving a selection of the graphic button 820. Options include an option to create a preferences smart card, an option to create a playlist smart card, and an option to obtain a smart card. from an incoming email message. For a smart card created from an incoming email message, the type of smart card depends on the type of smart card used to generate the email message.

By selecting the option to obtain the smart card from an e-mail message, a directory of possible virtual cards is presented. The end user can navigate the directory to find and select a virtual smart card of interest.

Each of the smart card categories can have a limited number of smart cards. For example, each of the playlist category and the promotions category can be limited to ten smart cards, and the preference category can be limited to five smart cards. If the limit has been reached, the graphic button 820 is displayed in a second color such as gray instead of black.

The content of the active smart card can be erased by selecting a graphical button 822. A message is displayed confirming that the content is to be erased (such as “are you sure?”) Prior to erasing the content.

A graphical button such as an icon 824 can be selected by the user to deselect the active smart card in the card slot. Icon 824 includes a graphical eject button. In response to a user selection of the icon 824, the graphics card 824 is removed from the fourth portion 824, and the previously active smart card is returned to its position.

A graphical button such as an icon 826 may be selected by the user to return to the card organizer presentation. The 826 icon graphically resembles a file folder. The active smart card is indicated to remain active in response to selecting the 826 icon.

As described with reference to FIG. 1, the player 142 may provide a second visual interface that has a folded view. Preferably, in the folded view, the tabs for the lower portion of the window including the information control 220, the search control 224, the user feedback control 226, and the smart card control 230 remain visible. A user-initiated selection of any of the controls 220, 224, 226, and 230 directs the player to open the second screen region 222, and to initiate an item associated with it.

ES 2 397 501 T3

Figure 35 is a screen shot of a first embodiment of the graphical user interface in radio content mode. The default radio station indicated by graphic marker 332 on graphic radio dial 330 starts playing after being selected.

As with the previously described embodiments, the interface includes category selection controls 244, 245, 246, and 247, preset selection indicators 202, preset selection controls 204, advance / review controls 206, playback controls 210, volume controls 212, selection attribute indicators 214, streaming indicator 216, first display region 218, information control 220, the second screen region 222, the search control 224, the user feedback control 226, the smart card control 230, the help mode control 232, the first logo 234, the second logo 236, the advertising window 240, and attractions window 242. User feedback control 226 provides access to chat items in this embodiment.

Fig. 36 is a screen shot depicting a content selection interface in the first preferred embodiment. A window 850 is opened by clicking the selection button 260 or one of the attributes that define the dial in time.

Figure 37 is a screen shot of a second preferred embodiment of the graphical user interface. The second preferred embodiment may be programmed in a markup language such as HTML, as compared to the first preferred embodiment which may include plug-in specific code to provide animation (such as Shockwave code).

A radio dial 870 spatially presents the band and position of all available stations that match the selected criteria. A station take list 872 allows the user to select from among all the stations on the radio dial 870. An advertisement 874 features advertisements that rotate according to a predetermined schedule. A region 876 features logos and attractions that rotate according to a predetermined schedule. A selection zone 880 provides category selection controls and player function controls. A region 882 features clickable, streamed text that may include attractions and advertisements. An information space 884 presents supplemental information about current content, including programs, links to other destinations, and feedback. A control panel 886 indicates and controls playback, pause, volume, and streaming status. A region 890 is dedicated to entering a keyword to perform a content search using a single click. A region 892 is dedicated to the presentation and management of presets with a set of presets per end user.

Fig. 38 is a screen shot of the second embodiment in a radio playback mode. Upon receiving a user-initiated selection of a selection attribute (band, category, or position) in selection area 880, a fetch list 894 of available options is populated from a database. To speed up the process of selecting material, the interface jumps from a submit button. Therefore, as soon as the end user releases a mouse button on an item in the fetch list 894, the item is selected.

Fig. 39 is a screen shot of the second embodiment in an event playback mode. Radio buttons 896 indicate a current position within an event or other time-based selection relative to the entire duration. The selection of events, spoken audio and music is facilitated in selection area 880. When selecting a content category (or live events, spoken audio, or collected music), the end user is prompted to select two attributes to narrow or filter the content to a list of manageable length.

It is noted that the embodiments of the graphical user interface may change in a region dependent manner (eg depending on the position of the client apparatus 106). For example, the FM broadcast spectrum (which differs in different regions in the world) can depend on the position of the client device 106. Furthermore, the text information can be presented in one of multiple languages ​​depending on the position of the client device. 106.

It is also noted that alternative controls may be provided to control environments and parameters of the herein described embodiments of graphical user interfaces. These graphical controls include, but are not limited to, graphical buttons, check boxes, radio buttons, scroll bars, slide bars, pop-up menus, and dialog boxes. In addition, alternative indicators can be provided to present information in embodiments of the graphical user interfaces.

Other options that can be included in embodiments of the present invention are as follows.

A physical login card can be sent to a new end user after each login creation. The physical login card can allow advertisements that transcend content (eg regularly scheduled shows or collections).

Before starting playback or providing a login screen, a tip of the day can be provided to promote GUI features.

ES 2 397 501 T3

An event of the day or item of the day may be broadcast for display on the second screen region 222. In response to a click operation or other action initiated by the user, other information may be displayed on the second screen region 222.

A station of the day may be broadcast for presentation similar to that item of the day. A list of featured stations can be provided based on ensembles rather than individual stations (eg favorite stations of a famous person).

An element of music criticism allows end users to discuss music and other content to create a cooperative filter product.

A special preset such as a mystery of the day preset can be arranged in the preset set. This preset may be the first preset in the set, for example.

Presets may have expiration dates. For example, an event preset can expire after a predetermined expiration date.

An advertising slot machine can be provided. The advertising slot machine can be facilitated by a JAVA applet that rotates slot machine-like attractions in the advertising window 240. The attractions can rotate randomly. If three analogous ads are lined up, the end user can win a prize.

A separate attraction window can be provided. In this case, the end user can click on an image associated with content to retrieve information related to the content. The end user is given the option to play or not play the content. The end user can make his decision to reproduce or not to reproduce based on the information.

Alternative content can be streamed in cases such as a blackout period or when there is a technical difficulty.

Figure 40 is a flow chart of one embodiment of a method of providing the graphical user interface. As indicated by block 900, steps are performed to verify that the necessary components are installed in the client apparatus 106 and to offer system options to an end user. As indicated by block 902, a step of determining whether a smart card (physical or virtual) that identifies the end user is present in the client appliance 106.

If the end user is a recognized user (block 904), then a step of entering a password (block 906) or a step of entering a login and password is carried out (block 910). Next, a main page of the graphical user interface is provided (block 912). Upon termination of the player, an outgoing message is communicated (block 914) to the client apparatus.

If the end user is an unrecognized user (block 916), then a step of entering a login and password is carried out (block 920). Next, a main page of the graphical user interface is provided (block 922). Upon termination of the player, an outgoing message is communicated (block 924) to the client apparatus.

If the end user made a previous visit without login (block 926), then a step of creating a login and password (block 930) or a step of selecting a visiting mode (block 932) is carried out. If a login and password are created (block 930), a main page of the graphical user interface is provided (block 934). Upon termination of the player, an outgoing message is communicated (block 936) to the client apparatus.

If the visit mode was selected (block 932), a main page of the graphical user interface is provided (block 940). Upon termination of the player, a first outgoing message (block 942) is communicated to the client apparatus. The first output message provides options to save or not save preferences generated during a player session. If the option to save preferences is selected (block 944), the steps of creating a login / password profile are performed (block 946) and returning to the main page (block 950). Then, upon termination of the player, a second outbound message is communicated to the client apparatus (block 952). If the option not to save the preferences is selected (block 954), a second outgoing message is communicated to the client apparatus (block 956).

If the end user is a first time user (block 960), then a step of creating a login and password (block 962) and a step of providing a main page of the graphical user interface are carried out (block 964 ). Upon termination of the player, an outgoing message is communicated (block 966) to client apparatus 106.

If the end user is a first time user selecting a visiting mode (block 970), a main page of the graphical user interface is provided (block 972). Upon termination of the player, a first

ES 2 397 501 T3 outgoing message (block 974) to the client device. The first output message provides options to save or not save preferences generated during a player session. If an option to save preferences is selected (block 976), the steps of creating a login / password profile (block 980) and returning to the main page are carried out (block 982). Then, upon termination of the player, a second outbound message is communicated to the client apparatus (block 984). If an option to not save the preferences is selected (block 986), a second output message is communicated to the client apparatus (block 990).

If an invalid login and / or password is received in any of the above-described steps of receiving a login and password, a message is communicated to the client device 106. The message may include a message such as "Invalid login / password." and / or "Please try again." Then you can perform a step to receive another login and password.

If a blank text input field is received, a message is communicated to the client apparatus 106. The message may include a message such as "Please fill in all text fields." Then a step of receiving data from subsequent texts can be performed.

The step of creating a login provides a consultation dialog of demographic information and hearing preference of the end user. The end user enters information in response to inquiries. Typically, the information is entered during initial use of the player, such as upon initial arrival at a website associated with the player. The initial landing on the website can be initiated by the end user by clicking on an advertisement or other hyperlink from another website.

Information is retrieved for each visit or subsequent use in order to uniquely identify the end user, and to adapt the graphical user interface and / or the reproduction made by it to the end user. In addition, the information allows you to track listening habits, such as radio stations and musical tastes.

Figures 41 to 43 are block diagrams summarizing a site map of one embodiment of the graphical user interface. The location map illustrates potential user-selectable flow paths between different elements of the graphical user interface.

The end user can select between a high bandwidth interface (block 1010) and a low bandwidth interface (block 1012) for the audio player. For example, the high-bandwidth interface can include code specific to an animation plug-in, such as Shockwave, while the low-bandwidth interface can include only the HTML code. Next, a main page of the interface is provided according to the bandwidth selected by the user.

From the main page, the end user can navigate to a radio content item (block 1014), an event content item (block 1016), a library content item (block 1020), a music content item (block 1022), an evaluation room (or listening booth) element (block 1024), a preferences element (block 1026), a characteristics element (block 1030), a search element (block 1032), and a contact element (block 1034).

Using the radio content item (block 1014), a radio station can be selected (block 1040), station information can be obtained (block 1042), and a radio preset can be selected (block 1044). Next, a link to a related website can be provided (block 1050), a list of station programs can be provided (block 1052), and station feedback can be received (block 1054).

Using the event content element (block 1016), an event can be selected (block 1060), event information can be obtained (block 1062), and an event preset can be selected (block 1064). Next, a link to a related Web site can be provided (block 1070), an event schedule can be provided (block 1072), and event feedback can be received (block 1074).

Using the library content item (block 1020), library content can be selected (block 1080), library content information can be obtained (block 1082), and a library preset content can be selected (block 1084). . A link to a related website can then be provided (block 1090) and content feedback can be received (block 1094).

Using the music content item (block 1022), music content can be selected (block 1100), music content information can be obtained (block 1102), and a music content preset can be selected (block 1104). . A link to a related website can then be provided (block 1110) and content feedback can be received (block 1114).

Using the evaluation space element (block 1024), a welcome message and a registration process are provided (block 1120). Once the end user is registered, an overview of the evaluation space element can be presented (block 1130), an album can be selected depending on a genre selected by the user (block 1132), the album can be evaluated by the end user (block 1134), can

ES 2 397 501 T3 display the information associated with the album (block 1136), and an output message may be displayed (block

1140) when exiting the evaluation space element. In addition, a status of the points of the accumulated evaluation of the end user can be presented (block 1142), the points can be redeemed (block 1144), a list of albums to be received in compensation for the points can be presented (block 1146) , an album can be selected from the list (block 1150), and an outgoing message can be displayed (block 1152).

Using the preferences item (block 1026), presets can be managed (block 1160), and a profile can be displayed and edited (block 1162).

Fig. 44 is a flow chart summarizing the steps performed in one embodiment of a method of playing a first audio content using a computer. As block 1200 indicates, a step of displaying a graphical radio dial indicating the first audio content is performed. As described above, the graphical radio dial may include an alphabetical scale and a graphical pointer. In this case, the graphic indicator can be positioned relative to the alphabetical scale based on the text that identifies the first audio content. Alternatively, the graphical radio dial may indicate an over-the-air frequency associated with the first audio content. In this case, the graphical radio dial may include a numerical scale and a graphical pointer, where the graphical pointer is positioned relative to the numerical scale based on over-the-air frequency.

Optionally, the method includes a step of receiving a user-initiated selection of the first audio content from a plurality of audio content using the graphical radio dial (as indicated by block 1202). The step of receiving the user-initiated selection may include receiving a user-initiated action of navigating to the first audio content from the second audio content indicated adjacently by the graphical radio dial.

As described above, the graphical radio dial can include a plurality of marks associated with a plurality of audio content having at least one attribute. For broadcasts, the at least one attribute includes at least two of a category attribute, a band attribute, and a position attribute. The band attribute can indicate one of an AM band, an FM band, and an Internet band for broadcasts. Optionally, a step is performed (block 1204) of receiving a user-initiated selection of a preset associated with the at least one attribute.

The plurality of marks includes a first mark associated with the first audio content. In this case, the step of receiving the user-initiated selection of the first audio content may include the steps of receiving the at least one attribute, determining the plurality of audio content based on the at least one attribute, and receiving a selection initiated by the user of the first brand.

As block 1206 indicates, a step of receiving data is performed via an electronic network. The data encodes the first audio content. If the data includes streamed data received via the Internet, the method further includes the step of decoding the streamed data, as indicated by block 1210. As indicated by block 1212, a step of reproducing the first audio content is performed. .

Fig. 45 is a flow chart summarizing the steps of one embodiment of a method of obtaining user feedback to music content. As block 1240 indicates, a step of receiving a music content category selected by an end user is performed. Optionally, a step of presenting a plurality of categories of music content is performed (block 1242) prior to the step indicated by block 1240. In this case, the category of music content is selected by the end user from the plurality of categories. As another option, a step of determining the plurality of categories is carried out based on a listening behavior of the end user. Another option is to make the plurality of categories dependent on at least one end-user preference.

As block 1244 indicates, a step of communicating at least a portion of a music item within the category is performed to the end user. The music item is selected from the independent end-user category. If the music item includes an album including a plurality of songs, the step of communicating at least a portion of the music item may include communicating time-limited samples of the plurality of songs.

As block 1246 indicates, a step of receiving an evaluation of the music item by the end user is performed. As indicated by block 1250, a step of accounting for the evaluation of the music item by the end user is performed. The accounting step of the music item evaluation may include maintaining a count of music items evaluated by the end user. In this case, the method may further include the step of determining whether the count reaches a threshold. This step is done to determine if the end user is qualified to receive a complimentary copy of music.

Optionally, a step of displaying a list of a plurality of music items previously evaluated by the end user is performed (block 1254). The list can include the music item whose evaluation was received in block 1246. The steps of receiving a selection started can also be performed.

ES 2 397 501 T3 by the user of the music item from the list (block 1256), submit the evaluation for the music item (block 1260), and play at least a portion of the music item (block 1262).

Fig. 46 is a flow chart summarizing the steps of one embodiment of a method of assisting the operation of an audio content player. As indicated by block 1270, the method includes a step of displaying a plurality of icons including at least one icon associated with user information and at least one icon associated with playlist information. Optionally, the plurality of icons includes at least one icon associated with privileged access to audio content.

As block 1272 indicates, a step of receiving a user-initiated selection of a first icon of the plurality of icons is performed. The first icon can be associated with at least one of a real smart card and a virtual smart card. The step of receiving the user-initiated selection may include receiving a user-initiated dragging action of the first icon to a portion of a presentation. In this case, the steps of presenting a graphics card slot in the display portion (block 1274) and presenting a graphics card within the graphics card slot in response to the drag action initiated by the user (block 1276).

As block 1280 indicates, the method includes a step of operating the audio content player depending on the first information associated with the first icon. If the first icon is associated with privileged access to audio content, the step of operating the audio content player may include providing privileged access to audio content. If the first icon is associated with playlist information, the step of operating the audio content player may include playing at least a portion of a playlist.

Optionally, the method further includes the step of modifying the first information associated with the first icon (step 1282). In this case, the audio content player is operated depending on the first modified information in block 1280. If the first icon is associated with user information, the step of modifying the first information may include modifying the user identity information, modifying a default value for autoplay, or modifying a payment option. If the first icon is associated with playlist information, the step of modifying the first information may include adding an item to a playlist or deleting an item from a playlist.

It is noted that the methods described herein may be performed by a computer (which may be included in the client apparatus 106 and / or the server 102). Furthermore, the computer can be directed to perform the methods described herein by computer-readable data stored on a computer-readable storage medium.

Figure 47 is a screen shot of a third embodiment of the graphical user interface. A radio dial 1300 spatially displays the band and position of all available stations matching the selected criteria. A station take list 1302 allows a user selection of any of the stations on the radio dial 1300. An advertisement region 1304 displays advertisements that rotate according to a predetermined schedule. An attraction region 1306 features logos and attractions that rotate according to a predetermined schedule. A selection area 1310 provides category selection controls and player function controls. A region 1312 features clickable, streamed text that may include attractions and advertisements.

An information space 1314 presents supplemental information about current content, including programs, links to other destinations, and feedback. In general, any visual content can be combined with audio content for presentation in information space 1314. Preferably, information space 1314 provides a title of the played audio content (eg, the title "Shepherd of the Night Flock" of a song played by radio station WBEZ), a title, and an image of an album containing the content. audio (for example, the album title “Blue Nance”), an artist name associated with the audio content (for example, the name of the singer of the song: "The Junior Mance Trio"), and a name and logo of an entity associated with the audio content (for example, a copyright notice from Chiaroscuro Records which is the record company of the song, and its logo).

A user-initiated selection of the album title or album image can initiate a presentation of information associated with the album (e.g., cover art comments, performance credits, and other information) and / or a sample playback. album audio. A user-initiated selection of the artist name can initiate a display of information associated with the artist. A user-initiated selection of the entity's name or entity's logo may initiate a presentation of information associated with the entity (eg, information from other albums and audio content provided by the entity). Each information may be provided by the server 102 or by hyperlink to other destinations on the electronic network 100 (eg, album, artist, and entity web pages).

It is also preferred that the information space 1314 includes an option to purchase the played audio content (for example, the "buy now" option), an option to present a programming guide from the radio station that plays the audio content (for example, example, the option "programming guide" to present

ES 2 397 501 T3 WBEZ information), and an option to provide user feedback (for example, the "user feedback" option).

A control panel 1316 indicates and controls playback, pause, volume, and streaming status. A region 1320 is dedicated to entering a keyword to perform a content search using a single click.

A region 1322 is dedicated to the presentation and management of presets with one set of presets per end user. Region 1322 provides an option to create a new login, that is, to create preferences and profile of a new end user. Region 1322 also provides an option to load preferences associated with an end user.

Fig. 48 is an example of a first screen in an embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element. The evaluation space element may be activated in response to receiving a user-initiated selection from user feedback control 226 or other link to it. The link may include information indicating a number of audio items (eg, music items) to be evaluated and an amount of evaluation time that must be met in order to receive supplemental music. For example, text information such as "you have 15 days left to evaluate 6 more CDs to choose a free one" may be associated with the link.

Preferably, the link is arranged on a main graphic page provided by the player. In this case, if the end user posts their navigation program to an email address associated with the player (eg www.audiosense.com), the home page is presented at the launch of the navigation program. Additionally, when the main page downloads to the end user, the personal profile of the end user created in an initial login is retrieved. The personal profile uniquely identifies the end user when browsing through the player.

The presentation includes a norms and rules presentation option 1330 to receive a supplemental item, such as a supplemental music item. Option 1330 may include, for example, text information indicating a portion of the rules and regulations such as "Rate 10 CDs and choose 1 free."

The presentation includes an option 1332 to review which audio elements have been previously evaluated by the end user. Option 1332 may include text information indicating a number of music items previously evaluated by the end user. For example, the text information may include "4 albums rated for one free CD." Alternatively, option 1332 may include text information indicating a number of items that remain to be evaluated before receiving a supplemental item such as a supplemental music item.

The presentation includes a plurality of options 1334 for categories or genres of music content. For example, categories can include jazz, classical, alternative rock, country, and Latin. It is noted that other categories of music content may be presented in addition to or as alternatives to those categories. The categories may depend on the personal profile or the preferences of the end user collected when the user profile is created. Alternatively, the categories may depend on the listening behavior of the end user using the player. In this case, the categories are selected to better show the current listening habits of the end user.

For each category, an artist name, a title, and a cover image of an item, such as an album, are presented. Preferably, the end user does not influence which item is presented with respect to the category.

Figure 49 is an example of a second screen for reviewing rated items in a preferred embodiment of a listening booth or rating space item. The second screen is provided in response to receiving a user-initiated selection of review option 1332 of which items have previously been evaluated by the end user. The second screen includes a plurality of element regions. The number of element regions corresponds to a total number of elements that must be evaluated to receive a complementary element. For example, Figure 49 illustrates ten item regions corresponding to ten total audio items to be evaluated to receive a complementary item.

Information associated with each previously evaluated item is presented in a corresponding item region (a representative one denoted by reference numeral 1340). The information can include an artist, a title, an image such as an album cover, and a category for the item. For example, four of the ten item regions have information presented to identify four items previously evaluated by the end user. Each element region corresponding to a previously evaluated element includes a user-selectable portion. In response to receiving a user-initiated selection of the portion (such as the album cover), additional information associated with the item is displayed. Additional information may include a complete media archive including a complete track list with ratings for the reviewed songs, promotional information, cover comments, lyrics, and credits.

ES 2 397 501 T3

The remaining regions of the element regions (a representative one indicated by reference numeral 1342) can be selected by the user to return to the main selection page (such as in FIG. 48). Rather than the item information, the remaining regions of the item regions may have text information indicating a portion of the rules and regulations such as "Rate 10 CDs to choose 1 free." For example, six item regions corresponding to six more music items to evaluate before receiving the supplemental item are missing from the item information in Figure 49.

Fig. 50 is an example of a third screen for evaluating an item in an embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space item. The third screen is provided in response to receiving a user-initiated selection of one of the options associated with categories of music content. For the purposes of illustration and example, a user-initiated selection of the option associated with the jazz category in Figure 48 is considered.

The third screen includes information associated with the item to be evaluated. The information includes the artist (for example Earl Hines), the title (for example In New Orleans), the cover image, and a label (for example Chiaroscuro) for the item. The cover image is displayed on a larger screen region than the cover image of FIG. 48.

The third screen includes a list of a plurality of tracks of the item to be evaluated. For example, the list may include four tracks (that is, songs) from the In New Orleans album. The end user has to rate each of the tracks in order to get credit for rating the album. It is noted that the album may include additional tracks that do not have to be evaluated by the end user.

Each track is identified by text information such as a title 1350 in the list. Also associated with each track is an icon 1352 that indicates whether the track has previously been evaluated by the end user. Icon 1352 includes a question mark to indicate that the track has not been evaluated by the end user. If the track has been previously evaluated, an indication of the evaluation is displayed on the 1352 icon.

The end user selects a title from the list or its associated icon to initiate an evaluation process for an associated track. In response to receiving a user-initiated selection of a title or icon, at least a portion of the associated track is communicated to client apparatus 106. Although an entire portion of the associated track can be communicated, it is preferred that a time-limited sample of the associated track. For example, the limited duration sample can be made up of a 30 second clip from the associated track.

Preferably, the associated track portion is communicated to client apparatus 106 using streaming technology. Client apparatus 106, in turn, plays the portion of the associated track for the end user.

A graphical evaluation tool is presented during playback or at the end of playback of the associated track portion. The graphical evaluation tool is used to receive at least one evaluation of the track. The graphical evaluation tool can be presented in place of the 1352 icon or near the 1352 icon.

The third screen includes an option 1354 to buy the item. In response to receiving a user-initiated selection of option 1354, the item is tagged for purchase. Additionally, the item can be placed in a virtual shopping cart that stores all items tagged for purchase. A verification option is provided below to finalize the purchase of tagged items. A verification reminder can be automatically started if the end user exits the player while there are items tagged for purchase. The verification reminder may include a visual message or an audible message presented by the client apparatus 106.

The third screen includes an option 1356 to cancel an evaluation of the current item. In response to receiving a user-initiated selection of option 1356, the user interface returns to the main selection page (such as in FIG. 48) where the end user can select another item to evaluate.

Figure 51 is a view of one embodiment of the graphical evaluation tool. The graphical evaluation tool includes a plurality of evaluation options 1360. Preferably, each of the evaluation options 1360 is in the form of a hot region associated with an evaluation. For example, the rating options can include five hot regions to receive ratings from one to five.

During track playback, the end user varies a position of a cursor 1362 over the rating options to indicate that he dislikes or likes the track. For example, the end user can put cursor 1362 over the hot region for a rating of one during portions of the track they don't like, and can put cursor 1362 over the hot region for a rating of five during portions of the track. the track you like. Preferably, a graphic display within the hot region is modified in response to the placement of the cursor 1362 over it. For example, the graphic display may appear to light up (eg, light up) in response to the placement of the cursor 1362 in the hot region.

ES 2 397 501 T3

A plurality of time-generated evaluations are logged by the client apparatus 104 and / or the server.

102. The time sequence of the plurality of evaluations can be formed by repeatedly sampling the evaluation during equal or unequal time intervals.

When the end user has formulated a general evaluation or an evaluation for the item as a whole, they point and click on a specific evaluation option. An indication of the overall assessment is recorded and presented. Preferably, the overall rating is displayed within the icon 1352 associated with the track. Title 1350 and icon 1352 for rated tracks are displayed in a second color that differs from a first color used to display titles and icons for non-rated tracks.

Figure 52 is an example of a modified third screen, in one embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element, after all tracks for an element have been evaluated. The modified third screen includes indications of the general evaluations for the tracks. The third screen is modified to include an option 1370 to submit the evaluations. Before submitting the evaluation points, the end user is offered an opportunity to re-evaluate any of the tracks by selecting (for example, pointing and clicking on) its associated title or its evaluation icon.

Fig. 53 is an example of the second screen, in one embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element, updated based on a submission of evaluations for the element. Information associated with the item is displayed in a corresponding item region 1380. The information may include an artist, a title, an image such as an album cover, and a category for the item. Therefore, five of the ten element regions have information presented to identify five previously evaluated elements. As described with reference to FIG. 49, the remaining regions of the element regions can be selected by the user to return to the main selection page. However, the category or genre of music associated with the item is removed from the main selection page. The category or genre can be removed until a predetermined number of users have provided reviews for it. For example, the category or genre can be removed until evaluations have been received from at least 100 other end users or more.

As also described with reference to FIG. 49, a user-initiated selection of the image, such as the album cover, initiates a display of additional information associated with the item. An example of the display of additional information is illustrated in Figure 54.

Fig. 54 is an example of a fourth screen in an embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element. The fourth screen is displayed in response to receiving user-initiated input such as a selection of an album cover image.

The fourth screen includes an advertisement region 1390, a cover drawing region 1392, a controls region 1394, and an information region 1396. The advertisement message region 1390 includes a service icon, text information indicating the category or genre of the item (for example "Jazz"), and a 1400 option to return to the category selection page. Option 1400 may include text information indicating a number of music items previously evaluated by the end user. For example, the text information may include "5 albums rated for a free CD."

Alternatively, option 1400 may include text information indicating a remaining number of items to evaluate before receiving a supplemental item such as a supplemental music item.

The cover drawing region 1392 includes information identifying the element. The information includes the artist (for example Earl Hines), title (for example, In New Orleans), cover image, and label (for example Chiaroscuro) for the item. In response to a user-initiated selection of a portion of the cover drawing region 1392 (such as the album cover), a larger, higher resolution image of the cover drawing is displayed. This allows the end user to print a paper copy of the element cover drawing.

Information region 1396 is used to display information associated with the item. The information may include a track list with reviews of the reviewed songs, promotional information, cover comments, lyrics, and credits. Preferably, all of that information is included in a single media file for the item. This allows the end user to print all the information at once.

The portion of the information displayed in information region 1396 is controlled by a scroll bar 1402 or by controls in control region 1394. Control region 1394 includes a first control 1404 for initiating a track list display, a second control 1406 for initiating a promotional information display, a third control 1410 for initiating a cover comment display, a fourth control 1412 to start a presentation of the letter, and a fifth control 1414 to start a presentation of the credits. Each of these controls in the 1394 control region is used to jump to a

ES 2 397 501 T3 directed portion of the single media file. Control region 1394 further includes a sixth control 1410 to initiate a purchase of the item (eg, the "Buy CD" option).

Optionally, the album review page described with reference to FIG. 50 may include an option to provide additional feedback for the item. The option can be in the form of a button or control including text such as "More information." In response to a user-initiated selection of the option, a detailed evaluation criteria interface is provided. An example of this interface is illustrated in Figure 55.

Furthermore, the category or genre selection interface described with reference to FIG. 48 may include an option to provide a comparative ranking for a plurality of items. The option can be in the form of a button or a control. In response to a user-initiated selection of the option, a comparative ranking interface is provided. An example of this interface is illustrated in Figure 56. The comparative ranking interface is advantageous in providing additional record company feedback for albums such as albums that were successful during their initial evaluation and albums that receive a commercial boost.

Fig. 55 is an example of a fifth screen in an embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element. The fifth screen includes a plurality of evaluation criteria. The judging criteria can be encoded by information associated with the track or song. In this way, each track or song can have its own set of judging criteria. Preferably, an entity such as a record company indicates what evaluation criteria are to be provided for one of your songs. The entity may select the assessment criteria from a checklist of all potential assessment criteria.

For illustration and example purposes, the fifth screen provides a graphical interface 1420 for receiving from the end user and presenting a vocal evaluation, a rhythm evaluation, a brass evaluation, and a danceability evaluation. Each evaluation is entered using an associated up control and / or an associated down control. Each evaluation can be numeric, such as integers from one to ten. Each assessment is presented both in text and with a bar graph presentation.

The fifth screen also provides an option 1422 to include additional criteria. In response to a user-initiated selection of option 1422, a list of all potential evaluation criteria may be presented. The end user can select an evaluation criterion from the list and can enter his evaluation.

The fifth screen also provides an interface 1424 for entering user comments. Interface 1424 may include a text box for the end user to enter comments in the form of a text message.

To send the additional feedback, the end user selects an option 1426 provided by the fifth screen. Option 1426 may include a graphical button that has text such as "submit reviews." In response to receiving the user-initiated selection of option 1426, the additional feedback is logged by the server 102.

FIG. 56 is an example of a sixth screen in an embodiment of a listening booth or evaluation space element. The sixth screen provides a graphical interface for receiving a comparative ranking of a plurality of items. The plurality of items are typically selected by an entity such as a record company, and not by the end user. The plurality of elements may or may not be within a genre or category of music.

The sixth screen includes a plurality of images, such as a plurality of album cover images, associated with the plurality of items. Each image is user selectable, such as by a point and click operation, to initiate the playback of audio samples for its associated element. If available, evaluations and comments previously submitted by the end user are also presented in response to that user selection.

The sixth screen also includes a plurality of display positions for comparative ranking of the plurality of items. Each of the plurality of display positions is responsive to a drag and drop of one of the plurality of images. For example, an end user may click on a first image 1440, drag the first image 1440 to a first display position 1442, and drop the first image 1440 in the first display position 1442 to indicate that the element associated with the first image 1440 is his favorite of the plurality of elements. Similarly, the end user can click on a second image 1444, drag the second image 1444 to a second display position 1446, and drop the second image 1444 in the second display position 1446 to indicate that the item associated with the second image 1444 is your next favorite of the plurality of items. Once the end user has entered a comparative ranking of the items, the comparative ranking is sent to server 102.

Based on the user generated evaluation information and the comments described herein, the music test component 152 of FIG. 1 generates and provides reports including the actual data and / or its summaries.

ES 2 397 501 T3

Each report can be specific to one or more songs associated with an entity such as a recording company. The report is communicated to the entity to provide evaluation information and comments for its music elements. The report can be stratified by demographic data such as gender, age, occupation, and geographic region of the end users. Each report can be generated automatically at predetermined or periodic times, or after a predetermined number of end users have evaluated an item, or upon receipt of a request. For example, a report for an item can be automatically generated and communicated to the entity via the electronic network 100 after one hundred end users have evaluated the item. As another example, a report for an item may be communicated to an entity in response to a request received from the entity via electronic network 100.

In a particular embodiment, the music test component 152 and the promotions component 156 operate in the following manner. To start the music test, a customer supplies an album to be tested (on CD or other medium), indicates that four tracks are to be tested, identifies a 30-second clip from each track, and provides additional test information. If desired, this initiation process can be carried out online through the electronic network 100.

Typically, the client is associated with an album promoter such as a record company for the album. Preferably, the customer also supplies additional copies of the album for end users who redeem their credits to obtain the album. Additional copies of the album can be supplied by a fulfillment company indicated by the customer. The number of additional copies is based on a required lot size.

The 30 second clips are digitally encoded for streaming, and made available to the server 102. An entry for the test music is made in a database (here called MusicTestingBatch). The entry (here called Batch) includes a universal product code (UPC) for the album, a scheduled start date for trial, or a scheduled end date for trial or a scheduled number of trial days, a required number of responses (batch size), an album genre, and descriptive information such as cover comments, credits, and lyrics. The input is assigned a unique identification code (here called BatchlD). The database includes a customer identification code (here called ClientID) used for billing and reporting purposes. Optionally, the data indicating a total number of songs sent by the client is updated based on the input.

Each entry in MusicTestingBatch is assigned a queue position for its genre. To easily identify which album an end user will evaluate, a batch queue cache stores an active queue position identifier and an associated BatchlD for each genre.

The database includes data (here called BatchResponse) that identifies all end users (by their CustomerlDs) who have reviewed a particular album (using their BatchlD). Using this data, a check is carried out to ensure that the end user has not previously completed the evaluation of the album identified by the batch queue cache. Alternatively, the check can be performed using data stored in the user profile. In this case, the user profile includes an AlbumID for each album evaluated by the end user.

If the end user has previously completed the album evaluation, the queue position is incremented to a later position. The queue position is repeatedly increased until a previously unrated album is identified. If all albums in the genre were evaluated by the end user, a message indicating that the end user chooses another genre is communicated and presented by the client apparatus 106.

Once the end user has listened to and evaluated all of the song samples within the batch, the music test component 152 records the response and increments the tail position. To record the response, the music test component 152 saves the evaluations to a MusicTestingResponse table and a MusicTestingScore table by CustomerlD and BatchlD. The MusicTestingScore table tracks user evaluations by mapping BatchlD, SongID, and CustomerlD. Optionally, LA AlbumID is stored in the user profile to prevent the album from being evaluated more than once by the end user. If the end user has not evaluated all the samples, no information about the end user is saved.

Note that separate MusicTestingResponde and MusicTestingScore tables may not be necessary since the difference between these two tables is that MusicTestingScore has one additional entry per song.

In addition to an entry made in the MusicTestingResponse table, the end-user customer profile can be modified based on the test. If the end user is eligible to receive promotions (for example, by having a preferred customer profile), the music trial component 152 credits their account upon completion of the evaluation. If the end user is unable to receive promotions (for example, due to having a lower status, such as basic customer or visitor), no credit is offered to the end user account. Optionally, each credit has an expiration date after which the credit is purged.

Preferably, a customer profile enabled for promotions maintains a number of trial credits (here called NumMusicTestingCredits) and a promotion enable date (here called

ES 2 397 501 T3

PromotionEnableDate). The presence of a PromotionEnableDate greater than the current date indicates that the end user has already received a promotional item, and will not receive credit for the trial. If the PromotionEnableDate is not present (for example, if the end user has not received a promotional item) or if the PromotionEnableDate is less than the current date, then the end user is eligible to receive credit for the trial. In this case, the number of test credits is increased by taking the test. Additionally in this case, an entry is made in a promotions database (here called PromotionResponseAlbumsPresented). The input includes the BatchID, the CustomerlD, and a flag is assigned a false value (here called PromoUsedFlag). The entry indicates that the end user has checked the item and that the item can be used for a promotion.

If the cumulative number of trial credits for the end user reaches a threshold, the end user is offered a promotional item such as a CD. The end user can select the promotional item from a plurality of promotional items that have a false PromoUsedFlag in the promotions database. Note that each promotional item may have a limited availability duration based on its scheduled end date.

The promotions component 156 receives a response (acceptance or rejection) from the end user. If the end user accepts an item, the following steps are performed. A flag (here called SelectedFlag) associated with the item is set to true in the promotions database. Information about the customer profile required to distribute the item to the end user (for example, a name and shipping address or an email address) is sent to the fulfillment company. Using the information, the fulfillment company can distribute a physical copy of the item or it can distribute an electronic copy of the item over the electronic network 100. The number of trial credits is reset to zero. PromotionEnableDate is set to a date equal to a predetermined period of time beyond the current date. As a result, the end user can continue evaluating items after the cumulative number of credits has reached the threshold; however, end-user credit accumulation is inhibited for the predetermined period of time. PromoUsedFlag is set to true for all entries associated with the end-user CustomerlD in PromotionResponseAlbumsPresented. This step ensures that the same albums are not presented to the end user in a subsequent promotion.

If the end user refuses to receive an item (for example, by not selecting an item from a list of available items), the following steps are performed. The number of trial credits is reset to zero. PromoUsedFlag is set to true for all entries associated with end-user CustomerlD in PromotionResponseAlbumsPresented. As a result, the end user has forfeited their credits, and cannot select from these items in a subsequent promotion. However, the PromotionEnableDate is maintained so that the end user's ability to purchase credits is not affected.

After completing a promotion transaction (accepting or rejecting the item), the records associated with it migrate from the promotions database to an archive database.

Optionally, the end user may be occasionally sent a notification message via the electronic network 100 indicating the status of their credits.

Once a batch has reached the required number of responses, the end date of the test is set to the current date, and a full batch flag is set to a true logic. It is noted that the number of responses may slightly exceed the required number of responses in this case. During overnight processing, batch response data is summarized and packed into a report. The report provides demographic data about respondents and provides a measure to compare results across albums within a genre for a specific customer. The customer can be a record company that submitted the test request or a radio station looking for well-rated music.

The report may include: the BatchlD; a report date and time; the scheduled start and end times; the actual start and end times; the MusiclD of the album, the title of the album; the first and last name of the album's lead artist; the SonglD, title, artist and publisher of each verified song on the album; a count of the number of test responses in the album; a score index that provides a count of responses evaluating each song as worst / best; an average evaluation of the music tests for each song and batch; a bar graph representing a percentage of responses in each assessment; and demographics of listeners. The report may also indicate a number of promotions that were accepted and the number that were declined, a promotion end time, and a comparison of respondents' ratings of redeemed albums versus unredeemed albums.

The report or its notification may be sent to the customer via electronic network 100. For example, the music testing component 152 may initiate an e-mail message to be sent to the customer after one hundred people have rated songs from an album. The client, in turn, navigates to a website that has the report in a markup language format such as HTML. The client can review the report using a navigation program. The music test component 152 generates a note to provide the test service to the customer.

ES 2 397 501 T3

As an alternative to generating a report after receiving a predetermined number of evaluations, the report can be generated after a predetermined period of time. Once the predetermined period of time has elapsed, the music test component 143 generates a report summarizing all the collected information. If a customer wishes to receive reviews within a shortened time period, the queue can be adjusted to make the album more likely to be presented to an end user than other albums in its genre or category. If desired, the queue can be set to present the album to all end users who select its genre or category.

It is noted that, as an alternative to testing a batch of songs from a single album, a batch may include songs from a plurality of albums. In this case, it is preferred that the songs in a batch have a certain relationship to each other. It is also preferred that each tested song be included in only one batch.

Preferably, the genre or music category is associated with an entire album. For compilations and other multi-format albums, a multi-genre category can be provided.

The music testing component 152 frequently checks tables against the database to ensure that there are no null evaluators. For example, a checked album may still be in the database after its associated audio files have been removed and / or archived.

FIG. 57 is a block diagram summarizing a location map for an embodiment of the listening booth or evaluation space element. The place map identifies functions available to the end user at specific points throughout the graphical interface. Upon entering the evaluation space element, a main interface page (block 1500) is provided where a step of verifying installed components is carried out. The main interface page provides an element to check the status of the end user (block 1502), an element to choose an album to evaluate by genre (block 1504), an optional element to rearrange album options (block 1506), and a item to present an overview and help information (block 1510).

From the element to check the status of the end user (block 1502), the end user can choose to fulfill an option to receive a complementary music element in compensation for the evaluation of several elements in a period of time (block 1512). A confirmation message for this option is provided at block 1514.

Also from the element to check the status of the end user (block 1502), the end user can review previously evaluated albums (block 1516). In this walkthrough, an item for viewing album information is provided (block 1520). From this element elements are provided to view song titles (block 1522), to view comments on the cover (block 1524), to review evaluated songs (block 1526), ​​and to buy a CD (block 1530).

The element for choosing an album to evaluate by genre (block 1504) provides an element for viewing album information (block 1532), an element for choosing a song title to evaluate (block 1534), and an element for buying a CD ( block 1536). The element for choosing the song title to evaluate (block 1534) provides an element for evaluating a song (block 1540), an element for viewing cover art comments (block 1542), and an element for buying a CD (block 1544) . The element for evaluating the song (block 1540) provides an element for submitting evaluations of the album (block 1546).

FIG. 58 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a content input subsystem 1600. The content input subsystem 1600 is described with reference to the elements of FIG. 1.

The content input subsystem 1600 is used to acquire, convert, and / or update content stored by the storage device 116. In general, the content is acquired, converted or updated: (i) importing the content from an external source such like server 144; or (ii) entering the content using a 1602 administrative interface. The content input subsystem 1600 enables these two methods of maintaining and populating the storage device 116 with content.

Content input subsystem 1600 includes content converter 1604 for converting content from a first format associated with server 144 to a second format associated with server 102. Content converter 1604 may include one or more rules, and / or one or more filters to convert data from server 144 to data that conforms to the system requirements for server 102. Similarly, the administrative interface 1602 performs a step of verifying that the manually entered data conforms to the system requirements.

Preferably, content input subsystem 1600 periodically imports content data from server 144. For example, content input subsystem 1600 may be programmed to import content data from server 144 on a nightly basis. The content data may be in the form of a table retrieved from a web page provided by the server 144. The web page is updated periodically (eg, at night) for this purpose. The content input subsystem 1600 retrieves a content data file over HTTP, and saves a copy of the file with field delimiting separators. If the

ES 2 397 501 T3 website is password protected, the content input subsystem can automatically provide a password to access it.

Once retrieved, the content data is converted or otherwise converted to the second format. The content data in the second format is stored in a permanence database 1606. Preferably, the permanence database 1606 substantially replicates the information stored on the server 144.

The content entry subsystem 1600 helps update the database 148 using the converted data in the permanence database 1606. In general, the content entry subsystem 1600 updates the database 148 based on the most recent changes. Recent entries in the permanence database 1606. The content input subsystem 1600 compares the converted data with existing active data in the database 148. Rules are generated to convert the newest data to the active data. Caution must be taken to avoid changes that involve deletion of rows and key updates. Rules and exceptions can be dynamically generated to interpret changes on server 144.

The difference between the converted data and the active data is formatted to be an entry (update / add / delete) for the persistence database 1606. The data becomes active after passing an integrity check.

Daily changes to database 1606 are logged. The changes can be summarized in a nightly administrative report generated by the content input subsystem 1600. A daily report of the data import process can be communicated by email or other means to system administrators. The update logs can be formed using transaction logs from a database software package such as SQL.

After one or more databases, including database 148, are upgraded by persistence database 1606, a data backup and recovery system 1610 backs up the data in the database. Dwell Data 1606, and purges it. The 1610 data backup and recovery process provides the most recent copy of the 1606 persistence database.

The manually entered data received by the administrative interface 1602 may include the media position and other information used throughout the system. The media location may be in the form of an electronic address, such as a URL or a uniform resource name (URN), for accessing content via the electronic network 100. Some information attributes may be considered optional. The content entry subsystem 1600 accepts a new entry without requiring the optional information attributes. The content input subsystem 1600 verifies the information attributes. An encoded music file associated with the media position is available after verification.

Two examples of server 144 data formats include a broadcast format and a content format. Table I shows radio station data extracted from the broadcast format to generate data in the second format. Table II shows music data extracted from the broadcast format to generate data in the second format. Tables III through VII show song data extracted from the Liquid Audio format to generate data in the second format.

The Station ID parameter is a code to uniquely identify each radio station. Preferably, the station ID is not relied upon to identify the station. The Call Letters parameter provides the call letters that identify the radio station. The Frequency parameter provides the over-the-air frequency of the radio station. The Format parameter identifies the format or category of content broadcast by the radio station. The City, State, and Country parameters identify the city, state, and country of origin, respectively, of the radio station. The Description parameter provides a description, designation, or other identifier of the radio station.

The Station Logo Address parameter includes an electronic address of a logo or other image associated with the radio station. Preferably, the logo is stored locally on the server 102 to enhance the playback operation. The Station WWW Address parameter provides an electronic address such as a URL that identifies a website for the radio station. The Program Address parameter provides an electronic address for a venue that has a program for the radio station.

The Audio Stream Indicator (LQ) Address provides an electronic address of a lower quality audio stream of content broadcast by the radio station. The Audio Stream Address (LQ) provides a file name and email address to verify the correct lower quality audio stream for the station. The Audio Stream Bit Rate (LQ) parameter indicates the bit rate of the lowest quality audio stream.

The Audio Stream Indicator (HQ) Address provides an electronic address of a higher quality audio stream of content broadcast by the radio station. The Audio Stream Address (HQ) provides a name of

ES 2 397 501 T3 file and email address to verify correct highest quality audio stream for station. Parameter

Audio Stream Bit Rate (HQ) indicates the bit rate of the highest quality audio stream.

The Blackout Period parameter indicates the hours and / or dates during which the content of the radio station is turned off or is otherwise prevented from being received via the electronic network 100.

The Album ID parameter includes a code to uniquely identify a music item such as an album. Preferably, the AudioNet Album ID is not relied upon to identify the album. The Album Title parameter includes a title for an album or other music item. The Format parameter identifies the format of the music item. The Artist Classification Name parameter provides a name, used for classification purposes, of an artist associated with the music item. The Artist Name parameter provides an artist name to use for descriptive purposes.

The Album Image Address parameter provides an electronic address of a cover image associated with the music item. Preferably, the cover image is stored locally by the server 102 to enhance the playback operation. The Artist WWW Address parameter provides an electronic address, such as a URL, of an artist website. The Album Description parameter provides descriptive information for the music item. The Audio Stream Meta File Address parameter provides an electronic address, such as a MetaURL, to provide an audio stream of the music item. The Audio Stream Direction parameter provides a file name (such as a ra or .asf file name) and an electronic address that identifies the audio stream of the music item. The Audio Bit Rate parameter indicates the bit rate or encoding bandwidth of the audio stream.

The Label Name parameter identifies a publisher of the music item, such as a record company or record company. The Label Address parameter includes an electronic address, such as a URL, for a company or record company website.

Tables III to VII show song data extracted from the content format to generate data in the second format. The data includes song information, artist information, registration information, rights information, watermark information, and various information.

Table III

Parameter

Artist (s)

Song title

Album title

Parameter

Composer (music)

Composer (lyrics)

Arranger

Editor

Gender

Tongue

Table III illustrates song information parameters extracted from data having the content format. An Artist parameter identifies the artist or artists who performed the song. Separate parameters can be defined for the main artist, as well as session artists, orchestras, conductors, choirs, etc. A Song Title parameter provides a title for a song or analog music item. An Album Title parameter provides a title of an album containing the song. A Composer parameter identifies at least one composer of the song. An additional parameter can identify the author of the lyrics of the song. An Arranger parameter identifies at least one arranger for the song. The Editor parameter identifies the editor of the song. A Genre parameter indicates the genre or category of the song. The Language parameter indicates the language of the song lyrics. An ISRC ID parameter includes a 12-digit alphanumeric serial code consisting of a two-letter country code, a three-character author code, a two-digit year code, and a five-digit song identifier.

Table V illustrates record information parameters extracted from data having the content format. A Format parameter indicates an audio or video format for the song. A Record Type parameter indicates a record type of the song. A Release Date parameter indicates a release date for the song. A Country of Origin parameter identifies a country of origin for the song. A Play Time parameter indicates a song play time.

A Recording Studio parameter identifies one or more recording studios used to record the song. A Mix Studio parameter identifies one or more studios used to mix the song. A Mastering Studio parameter identifies one or more studios used to master the song.

ES 2 397 501 T3

A Producer parameter identifies one or more producers of the song. An Engineer parameter identifies one or more recording engineers for the song. A Mastering Engineer parameter identifies one or more mastering engineers for the song. A Remixer parameter identifies any remixers in the song. An ISRC ID parameter includes a 12-digit alphanumeric serial code consisting of a two-letter country code, a three-character author code, a two-digit year code, and a five-digit song identifier.

Table V

PARAMETER

Format

Recording type

Publication date

Country of origin

Play time

Recording studios

Mixing studio (s)

Mastering studio (s)

Producer (s)

Engineer (s)

Mastering Engineer (s)

Remixer (s)

ISRC code

Table VI illustrates rights information parameters extracted from data that is in the content format. A UPC Code parameter includes a 20-digit UPC code that identifies the album. Preferably, UPC is the convention for identifying all music titles in a music library from sync signals broadcast by radio station. A cross-reference database can be used for translation between a car code from a radio station to a UPC.

Table VI

PARAMETER

UPC code

Copyright

Sound recording rights

Action rights agency

Mechanic Rights Agency

Recording label

Dealers

Encoded date

Encoded by

A Copyright parameter provides copyright information for the song. A Sound Recording Rights parameter provides sound recording rights information for the song. A Performance Rights Agency identifies a performance rights agency for the song. A Mechanical Rights agency identifies a mechanical rights agency for the song. A Record Company parameter identifies the record company of the song. A Distributors parameter identifies one or more Distributors for the song.

An Encoded Date parameter indicates a date the song was encoded. An Encoded By parameter identifies the part that encoded the song.

Table VII illustrates watermark information parameters and various parameters extracted from data that are in the content format. A Standard Watermark parameter provides a standard digital watermark to identify a song source. A User Defined Watermark parameter provides a user-defined digital watermark for the song. A Notes parameter includes notes associated with the song.

Table VII

PARAMETER

Standard watermark

User-defined watermark

Grades

Referring again to FIG. 1, audience measurement component 154 monitors and reports audience information of items played using player 142. Preferably, activity data is recorded.

ES 2 397 501 T3 listening for each case of an end user who plays an item of audio content for a time that reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold listening time. If the duration is less than the default listening threshold time, the listening behavior is not considered significant, and the listening activity data is not recorded.

Preferably, the predetermined listening threshold time is a global system parameter used for all audio content items.

Any of the audio content items described herein, including, but not limited to, radio category items, event category items, library category items, and music category items, can be monitored in this manner. The data may include an indication of the audio content item, an indication that the end user is playing the item, a demographic of the end user, a time that the audio content item is played, and a position of the end user.

Based on any audience information, the audience measurement component generates and provides reports including actual data and / or its summaries. These reports may include measurements that are familiar to advertisers, such as Average Quarter Hour, Cume, and time spent listening, that are familiar to radio advertisers. Each of these measurements can be derived from data tracked by the system. Each report can be specific to one or more radio stations associated with an entity such as a broadcast company, or to one or more songs associated with an entity such as a recording company, for example. The report is communicated to the entity to provide information from the hearing of the audience. The report can be communicated through the electronic network 100. The report can be stratified by demographic data such as gender, age, occupation, and geographic region of the end users. Each report can be generated automatically or at periodic or predetermined times or upon receiving a request for it.

A particular embodiment of the audience measurement component 154 is as follows. When an end user initially enters the location provided by the player 142, an entry is made in a listener registration database. The listener registration database to which the input is made depends on what type of audio content item the end user is receiving. Preferably, the listener registration database is selected from a radio registration database, a music registration database, an event registration database, and a library registration database. The input includes an end-user identifier (for example, the end-user's CustomerlD) and a content identifier (for example, a radio station identifier, an event identifier, an album identifier, and / or a media identifier. song).

When the end user continues to listen to the content item for a predetermined threshold time, a subsequent entry is made in the appropriate listener log database. This process is repeated so that a new entry is made after each period that has the predetermined threshold time. If the content item has changed, the end time is recorded, and the new entry identifies the new content item. New content is monitored in the same way as the old content item. In this way, when the end user leaves the venue, only the final listening seconds (up to a maximum of the predetermined threshold time) are not tracked. A clock (not illustrated) associated with server 102 is preferably used to reference all time-based data relative to audience measurement component 154.

The audience measurement component 154 periodically generates reports based on the listener registration databases. Each report can be generated daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, or annually, and can be communicated to a customer (eg, a radio station) via paper or the electronic network 100 using email, the world web, or HTML. Each report can be dynamically created instead of being stored. Preferably, the report indicates listening habits by hours of the day and the number of listeners. Listener demographics can also be provided.

The report can include any combination of: (i) a measurement interval or period (eg, daily, monthly, quarterly, or yearly); (ii) a range of measurement interval dates; (iii) call letters and band of the radio station; (iv) a count of unique listeners; (v) a count of all listeners; (vi) an average listening time per connection; (vii) an average listening time per single listener; (viii) a graphical interval (for example in minutes); (ix) an average of simultaneous users; (x) a measure of listeners per hour per quarter; and (xi) a cumulative measure of listeners (cume).

Listener log databases can be maintained by archiving the data, and purging the databases on a daily basis. Preferably, the archived data includes a record of the start time and the end time for each end user based on a plurality of entries in the listener registration databases.

Still referring to FIG. 1, a detailed description of advertising component 160 is provided. Advertising component 160 maintains a database of advertising records. Each advertising record can include an advertisement type, an electronic address, such as a URL, for an audible or visible advertisement, customer information that identifies the advertiser, and information that designates a desired audience (for example,

ES 2 397 501 T3 based on client presentation information, music, and radio station genre). Preferably, there are four types of advertisements: a mailer, an attraction advertisement, an item advertisement, and an audio advertisement.

A plurality of advertisements from the database are queued for presentation with the player 142. The advertisements are presented successively based on an automated process performed by the advertisement component 160. For example, a subsequent advertisement in the queue may be displayed every 150 seconds in the ad region 1304 described with reference to FIG. 47.

A plurality of attraction advertisements from the database are queued for presentation with player 142. Attraction advertisements are presented successively based on an automated process performed by advertising component 160. For example, attraction advertisements may be displayed in attraction region 1306 or region 1312 described with reference to FIG. 47. Preferably, the attraction advertisements are contextually associated with the audio content played using the player 142. For example, an attraction advertisement may promote an upcoming concert or album signing related to the audio content played using the player 142. In this way, advertising component 160 may provide content-specific advertisements.

A plurality of item advertisements from the database are selected based on broadcast signals. Item advertisements may include static information such as a radio station logo displayed continuously while player 142 is playing content from a partner radio station. Item ads can include dynamic information such as an image from each album that is played. Additionally, item ads can include a viewable ad tailored to appear during a commercial ad run. Item advertisements may be displayed in the information space 1314 described with reference to FIG. 47, for example.

Audio announcements replace announcements within the broadcast prior to communication with the client apparatus 106. In this way, alternative Internet-based broadcasts and regional broadcasts can be generated.

The advertising component 160 may determine an associated subset of the advertisements directed to each end user. In addition, the advertising component 160 may determine the sequence in which the subset of advertisements is to be displayed. Ads can be selected for an end user based on any of the following: online and offline shopping, demographic, psychographic, geographic data, sonagraphic data (for example, listening preferences), and listener behavior. In this way, the advertising component 160 can serve user-specific advertisements.

The advertising component 160 tracks the number of people who see and hear each of the advertisements based on data. Data indicative of which end users have seen or heard an ad in an active window for at least a predetermined period of time, and the hours the ad was seen or heard, is logged. The data can also track which end users select each ad per click or otherwise for additional information, and track contemporaneous end-user activity.

The advertising component 160 generates reports based on the tracking data. The reports correlate the demographic data of the end user with the measurement of the data of vision and hearing. Customer advertising billing reports can also be generated based on tracking data.

It is noted that some of the advertising images and audio files may be cached in the storage device 132 of the client apparatus 106 to improve the performance of the system. Audio files can be pre-queued or pre-buffered for streaming on client apparatus 106. In-band signaling or out-of-band signaling can be used to trigger the images and audio files. An example of in-band signaling includes a coded tone within an audio data stream to identify and trigger content insertion. An example of out-of-band signaling includes data streamed with the audio data stream.

It is also noted that, to improve system performance, server 102 may provide client apparatus 106 with content, in addition to active content, based on a closer subset of content selections on the graphical radio dial, presets, or favorites based on the listening behavior of the end user. Additional content may be pre-buffered by client apparatus 106.

The components of server 102 described herein may interact with player 133 (and optionally player 142) to provide personalized content to each of a plurality of end users of client apparatus 104 and 106. Personalized content can be provided to a first user: (i) communicating from the server 144 a first audio content associated with a broadcast to a first user position 106, together with control data with information regarding the content, the sender, the user or other attributes such as user position, examples of which are set forth below; (ii) selecting (on server 102) a

ES 2 397 501 T3 second content based on a first user profile (preferably located on the server 102); and (iii) communicating a first signal to the first user position.

The first signal to the first user position comes from a server such as server 102 or 144, and the player (player 142 and player 133 in combination) switches content from a first server 102 to a second server 144 or from server 144 to another server (not shown), from which the inserted advertisement or other material is derived.

The content switching can take place in the player 133 or in the player 142. In the first case, upon detection of the relevant code, the player 133 can cause the additional content to be inserted from a local storage device 132 or from the additional content server (not shown in figure 1).

Upon client registration with the server 102, the server will preload a queue of advertisements or other content items on the storage device or will preload addresses or URLs for the content items on the storage device 132. Next, when the client 106 receives content from the server 144 and when it identifies an insertion point of the associated data, instead of presenting some content that it receives from the server 144 at that insertion point, the client will present one of the preloaded advertisements u other content items from your storage device 132.

These announcements may be of appropriate length in the case of audio announcements such that an insertion point indicating an opportunity (for example) of a twenty or thirty second audible announcement can cause said announcement to be retrieved from the storage device 132 . Alternatively, these insertion points can indicate addresses or URLs that cause the client 106 to go to another server (not shown) to find a content element to insert at that point, and that other server will decide what content it should be.

Another example of an insert item could be a complete song by a local artist, and the insert point indicates that this should be the inserted item, so the client refers to the local server and the server manages any local songs selected from the selected local artist.

Instead of using identifiable insert points in the data stream from the primary content server 144, the server 102 can provide the client 106 with a schedule of insert times and the client 106 can maintain a real-time clock and on the times of insertion. Designated insert will go to its next insert element for insert into content that is received from server 144.

It is preferable, in the case of streaming audio, that the data is interleaved in the audio indicating information such as the artist or song that is then being played. This interleaved data can be used by the client 106 as the trigger to make a replacement for the data received from the server 144. For example, an entire song would be replaced. Alternatively, the data could have a separate logical connection rather than being embedded in the audio.

Of special interest are the cases in which the first audio content and the first signal are in communication through an electronic network including at least one of the Internet, an intranet, and an extranet. The first signal synchronizes the playback of the second content with respect to the playback of the first audio content.

The second content may include at least a first selected image depending on the first user profile 150. In this case, the first signal will synchronize the presentation of the at least first image with the reproduction of the first audio content. The at least first image can also be selected depending on the content within the first audio content. Of particular interest are cases where the first image is a content-specific image and / or a specific station image.

Personalized visual content may be provided to a second user 104 by communicating the first audio content associated with the broadcast (from the server 144) to a second user location 104, selecting at least a second image based on a second user profile stored in client profile 150, and communicating a second signal to the second user location (eg from server 102 or from another server not shown). The second signal synchronizes the presentation of at least the second image with the reproduction of the first audio content. At least the second image may differ from at least the first image.

The second content may include a selected second audio content depending on the first user profile. In this case, the first signal will synchronize the playback of the second audio content with respect to the playback of the first audio content. The second audio content can be synchronized for insertion into the first audio content. Of particular interest are cases where the second content includes at least one of advertising content and programming content.

Personalized audible content can be provided to the second user by communicating the first audio content associated with the broadcast to the second user position, selecting a third audio content based on the

ES 2 397 501 T3 second user profile, and communicating a second signal to the second user profile, and communicating a second signal to the second user position to synchronize the reproduction of the third audio content with respect to the reproduction of the first audio content. To personalize the content, the third audio content may differ from the second audio content. The third audio content can be synchronized for insertion into the first audio content.

Each user profile is updated by monitoring information associated with device-independent user-specific use of a plurality of audio content reproducing devices via the electronic network. For example, the user profile for a user can be based on their use in both client appliance 106 and client appliance 104. Each user profile may include transaction information, demographic information, psychographic information, geographic information, sonaggraphic information, and listening behavior information for its associated user.

Thus, various embodiments have been described herein including preferred embodiments of audio content reproduction methods, systems and fabricated elements.

Embodiments of the present invention can provide an Internet-based digital audio service that combines an easy-to-use, customizable audio player interface with a wide variety of audio content. Users are able to access audio on demand through a music file and spoken word titles, and are able to tune in to live radio broadcasts from around the world. Additionally, content information is integrated with content distribution. In this way, an end user can obtain information about the content they are listening to. In addition, the end user is provided with a means of purchasing the content, such as music content, that they are listening to.

User preferences and behavior are tracked to generate information of interest to each user. This information may be related to your musical taste, geographic position, and / or other personalized criteria. The information can also be used by radio stations and record companies to determine what music is worth playing.

The player embodiments advantageously support browsing of audio content on the Internet using two metaphors: (i) a radio station metaphor and (ii) a stored recordings listening booth metaphor.

Additional elements include: simultaneous presentation of visual information based on material broadcast by a radio station; end user search for scheduled events; an interactive program for radio programming; list of stations available during a day; and a map to show a home position of a radio station.

It is noted that, as an alternative to or in addition to providing audio content, the methods and systems described herein may be used to provide video content.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the described embodiments can be modified in numerous ways and can take on many other forms than the preferred form specifically set forth and described above.