System and method for networked media access
Abstract
The present disclosure provides a method for making a playlist available to the public. In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for creating a playlist comprising user-defined descriptor information. In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for searching for such public playlists.

Term
Term ended
Expired 24 February 2026, 0.6 years ago.
- Priority and filed
- Granted
- Expired
- Today
12 claims: 12 independent, 0 dependent
- 1ネットワーク上の多数の位置からメディアファイルへユーザアクセスを与える、コンピュータによって実施される方法において、 将来の時間にメディアファイルにアクセスするためのユーザの希望を表わす第1の通信を受け取るステップであって、前記通信は前記メディアファイルを前記ユーザに関連するユーザプロフィールに関連するメディアライブラリに組み込むことを可能にするものであり、前記メディアファイルは、前記ネットワーク上の多数の位置から異なるメディアフォーマットで入手できるものであるステップと、 前記ユーザ及び前記メディアファイルに関連した情報を前記ユーザプロフィールに関連付けて記憶するステップであって、前記ユーザプロフィールへのアクセスは前記ユーザがネットワークを通じてログインして前記ユーザのログインを前記ユーザプロフィールに関連付けることが必要であるステップと、 特定される前記メディアファイルを前記メディアファイルから選択することによって、前記メディアファイルを経験するための前記ユーザの希望を表わす第2の通信を前記ユーザからデバイスによって受け取るステップと、 前記ユーザへ前記希望のメディアファイルを与えるところの位置を前記多数の位置から決定すると共に、前記希望のメディアファイルを与えるメディアフォーマットも決定するステップであって、前記希望のメディアファイルの前記位置およびメディアフォーマットは前記第2の通信及び前記デバイスに基づくものであるステップと、 前記希望のメディアファイルを前記メディアフォーマットで前記位置から前記ユーザにより経験されるべく利用できるようにするステップと、 を備え、 前記位置及び前記メディアフォーマットは、 前記メディアファイルが、前記ユーザに関連したローカルプロセッサ上のローカルメディアファイルとして利用できるかどうか決定するステップであって、前記メディアファイルが利用できる場合には、前記位置が前記ローカルプロセッサを含み、そして前記メディアフォーマットがローカルメディアファイルを含むようなステップと、 前記メディアファイルがローカルメディアファイルとして前記ローカルプロセッサから利用できない場合には、前記メディアファイルがサーバーからダウンロードとして利用できるかどうか決定するステップであって、前記メディアファイルが前記サーバーからダウンロードとして利用できる場合には、前記位置が前記サーバーを含み、そして前記メディアフォーマットがメディアファイルダウンロードを含むようなステップと、 前記メディアファイルが前記サーバーからダウンロードとして利用できない場合には、前記メディアファイルが前記サーバーからストリーミングメディアファイルとして利用できるかどうか決定するステップであって、前記メディアファイルがストリーミングメディアファイルとして利用できる場合には、前記位置が前記サーバーを含み、そして前記メディアフォーマットがストリーミングメディアファイルを含むようなステップと、によって決定され る方 法。
- 2前記ダウンロードは、テサードダウンロードである、請求項 1 に記載の方法。
- 3前記サーバーは、前記ネットワーク上に配置される、請求項 1 に記載の方法。
- 4前記サーバーは、インターネット上に配置される、請求項 1 に記載の方法。
- 5ネットワーク上の多数の位置からメディアファイルへユーザアクセスを与えるシステムにおいて、 将来の時間にメディアファイルにアクセスするためのユーザの希望を表わす第1の通信を受け取る第1通信コンポーネントであって、前記通信は前記メディアファイルを前記ユーザに関連するユーザプロフィールに関連するメディアライブラリに組み込むことを可能にするものであり、前記メディアファイルは、前記ネットワーク上の多数の位置から異なるメディアフォーマットで入手できるものである第1通信コンポーネントと、 ユーザ及び前記メディアファイルに関連した情報を前記ユーザプロフィールに関連付けて記憶する記憶装置であって、前記ユーザプロフィールへのアクセスは前記ユーザがネットワークを通じてログインして前記ユーザのログインを前記ユーザプロフィールに関連付けることが必要である記憶装置と、 特定される前記メディアファイルを前記メディアファイルから選択することによって、前記メディアファイルを経験するためのユーザの希望を表わす第2の通信を前記ユーザからデバイスにおいて受け取る第2通信コンポーネントと、 前記ユーザへ前記希望のメディアファイルを与えるところの位置を前記多数の位置から決定すると共に、前記希望のメディアファイルを与えるメディアフォーマットも決定し、前記希望のメディアファイルの前記位置およびメディアフォーマットは前記第2の通信及び前記デバイスに基づくものである判断コンポーネントと、 前記希望のメディアファイルを前記メディアフォーマットで前記位置から前記ユーザにより経験されるべく利用できるようにする配送コンポーネントと、 を備え、 前記位置及び前記メディアフォーマットは、 前記メディアファイルが、前記ユーザに関連したローカルプロセッサ上のローカルメディアファイルとして利用できるかどうか決定し、前記メディアファイルが利用できる場合には、前記位置が前記ローカルプロセッサを含み、そして前記メディアフォーマットがローカルメディアファイルを含むようにし、 前記メディアファイルがローカルメディアファイルとして前記ローカルプロセッサから利用できない場合には、前記メディアファイルがサーバーからダウンロードとして利用できるかどうか決定し、前記メディアファイルが前記サーバーからダウンロードとして利用できる場合には、前記位置が前記サーバーを含み、そして前記メディアフォーマットがメディアファイルダウンロードを含むようにし、更に、 前記メディアファイルが前記サーバーからダウンロードとして利用できない場合には、前記メディアファイルが前記サーバーからストリーミングメディアファイルとして利用できるかどうか決定し、前記メディアファイルがストリーミングメディアファイルとして利用できる場合には、前記位置が前記サーバーを含み、そして前記メディアフォーマットがストリーミングメディアファイルを含むようにする、ことによって決定され るシ ステム。
- 6前記ダウンロードは、テサードダウンロードである、請求項 5 に記載のシステム。
- 7前記サーバーは、前記ネットワーク上に配置される、請求項 5 に記載のシステム。
- 8前記サーバーは、インターネット上に配置される、請求項 5 に記載のシステム。
- 9ネットワーク上の多数の位置からメディアファイルへユーザアクセスを与えるためのメディアマネージメントアプリケーションにおいて、コンピューティング装置で実行されたときに、 メディアファイルのリストを表示するユーザインターフェイスを生成し、 前記ユーザインターフェイスを通して、将来の時間に前記メディアファイルの少なくとも1つにアクセスするためのユーザの希望を表わす第1の通信を受け取り、前記通信は前記メディアファイルを前記ユーザに関連するユーザプロフィールに関連するメディアライブラリに組み込むことを可能にするものであり、前記メディアファイルは、前記ネットワーク上の多数の位置から異なるメディアフォーマットで入手できるものであり、更に、 前記ユーザ及び前記メディアファイルに関連した情報を前記ユーザプロフィールに関連付けて記憶装置へ送信し、前記ユーザプロフィールへのアクセスは前記ユーザがネットワークを通じてログインして前記ユーザのログインを前記ユーザプロフィールに関連付けることが必要であり、 特定される前記メディアファイルを前記メディアファイルから選択することによって、前記ユーザインターフェイスを通して、前記メディアファイルを経験するための前記ユーザの希望を表わす第2の通信をデバイスにおいて受け取り、そして 前記記憶装置から、前記ユーザにより経験できるように前記メディアファイルに関連したメディアファイル識別子を受け取り、前記メディアファイルは、前記多数の位置の中のある位置から与えられると共に、前記メディアファイルは、前記異なるメディアフォーマットの中の1つであり、前記希望のメディアファイルの前記位置およびメディアフォーマットは前記第2の通信及び前記デバイスに基づくものである、 というように構成されたアプリケーションコードを備え、 前記位置及び前記メディアフォーマットは、 前記メディアファイルが、前記ユーザに関連したローカルプロセッサ上のローカルメディアファイルとして利用できるかどうか決定し、前記メディアファイルが利用できる場合には、前記位置が前記ローカルプロセッサを含み、そして前記メディアフォーマットがローカルメディアファイルを含むようにし、 前記メディアファイルがローカルメディアファイルとして前記ローカルプロセッサから利用できない場合には、前記メディアファイルがサーバーからダウンロードとして利用できるかどうか決定し、前記メディアファイルが前記サーバーからダウンロードとして利用できる場合には、前記位置が前記サーバーを含み、そして前記メディアフォーマットがメディアファイルダウンロードを含むようにし、更に、 前記メディアファイルが前記サーバーから利用できない場合には、前記メディアファイルが前記サーバーからストリーミングメディアファイルとして利用できるかどうか決定し、前記メディアファイルがストリーミングメディアファイルとして利用できる場合には、前記位置が前記サーバーを含み、そして前記メディアフォーマットがストリーミングメディアファイルを含むようにする、ことによって決定され るメ ディアマネージメントアプリケーション。
- 10前記ダウンロードは、テサードダウンロードである、請求項 9 に記載のメディアマネージメントアプリケーション。
- 11前記サーバーは、前記ネットワーク上に配置される、請求項 9 に記載のメディアマネージメントアプリケーション。
- 12前記サーバーは、インターネット上に配置される、請求項 9 に記載のメディアマネージメントアプリケーション。
Independent claims12
119 paragraphs, as filed
0001The present invention generally relates to methods, systems and media management applications for providing user access to media files from multiple locations on the network.
0002Cross-reference to related applications: This application is filed on February 28, 2005, entitled "A SYSMEM AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING MEDIA OVER A NETWORK", US Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 657,222, and May 2005. Claims for the benefit of US Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 678,718 entitled "A SYSMEM AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING MEDIA OVER A NETWORK" filed on the 5th, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. ..
0003The development of the Internet and the World Wide Web has given computer users an improved ability to view various different forms of media through their computers. This media is in the form of audio music, music videos, television programs, sporting events, or other form of audio or video media that the user wants to watch.
0004Traditionally, users have been able to purchase some form of removable media (eg, compact discs), put the media in their computer drive, and listen to songs recorded on the removable media. Over time, users have been able to retrieve music from compact discs, store it on their computers, and listen to it locally. Recently, web systems have been developed that allow users to log on to networks such as the Internet and use media players to listen to or radio select specific media from a group of media offered by a particular service. You can hear an array of media offerings such as stations, where different songs or other forms of media are combined and the user is either the user's choice or the network service operator's choice. Regardless, you can listen to a series of songs in sequence. For example, such a service is Yahoo!<sup>TM</sup>It's music. Numerous media players, services and other software tools allow media to be organized into playlists by users or services, which, as the name implies, have a sequence, or other selected order or random. A group or list of media files or file identifiers that the user can use in order to play.
<p num="0005"> New technology also allows computer users to purchase portable devices that can store their media, which makes their media portable in the sense that they can retrieve their music wherever they go. .. These devices allow the storage and transport of actual media files downloaded from the user's computer or network to the portable device. These portable devices can store individual media files and / or playlists that the user wants to be portable. Therefore, if a user has a media file on his computer, the user transfers the media file to a portable device and transports it to a location different from where the user's computer system is located. Can be done. Although these devices are popular today, they have a number of drawbacks in that they have severe limitations in the range of media formats that users can store in their portable devices and the ease with which they can store such media. .. For this reason, these devices only allow the user the ability to carry media locally available on the user's computer and media available from network services that offer such media. The drawback of this technique is that there is no system that allows users to extend the range of media that can be made portable without being constrained by the boundaries and limitations of the range of Internet services for media or offerings. Also, the system or service can generate playlists and / or suggest different media to the user based on the user's previous experience, and then make the media available and portable in a large number of media enable devices. Thus, the user does not have to download each particular song and / or other media that the user likes individually, but rather, in addition to the user's own choice, the system is available to the user wherever the user is. It would be effective if we could allow users more diversity and spontaneity in the media.</p><p num="0006"> Another by-product of the development of the web is the interaction between different users by various different means such as email and / or instant messaging. This dialogue allowed computer users to share many different forms of information. For example, one user can send another user a universal resource locator (URL) that points to a particular website that the other user wants to experience. In another situation, one user wants to send to another user a media file that the other user wants to experience. This can be achieved by sending the actual media file attached to the email or instant message to another user. On the other hand, one user can send a URL stored in a particular network that links to a particular media file to another user. However, all of these systems utilize email, instant messaging or similar services to transfer information about specific media that users wish to share and / or recommend. What is lacking in each currently available system is a system that allows a user to use his or her own media player to communicate with another user whether he likes or dislikes a particular media item. The drawback of this technology is whether a user communicates with another user from within the media system and / or improved media player, shares the media with that other user, and / or likes or dislikes that particular media. The media system or service that can be expressed is not available. Also, if a user does not have to rely on a large number of programs to share music or other media with other users or recommend them to other users, it would be an advantage over known systems. Similarly, a more accurate media player, a media engine that can play media and address the media-related needs of many other users, thus allowing users to have a better media experience. If obtained, a known system</p><p num="0007"> An additional by-product of the development of computer-related technology is that one user in different environments has two or more computers or media-capable devices located in many different locations, through which the user himself / herself. It is hoped that you will experience the medium of. Previously, users wishing to transfer or transport media files between different locations would manually transfer the media files (eg, on a compact disc), email or instant messaging the media files to themselves, and then a second. Attempts to open the file at the location or try to find the media file on a particular media network service, and then again go through the tedious steps of loading that particular media to a second computer location. I have to.</p>
<p num="0008"> In one embodiment, the invention receives a first communication representing a user's desire to access a media file at a future time in a method for providing user access to the media file from multiple locations on the network. A step in which the media file is available in different media formats from multiple locations on the network, a step of storing information related to the user and the media file, and a step to experience the media file. A step of receiving a second communication indicating the user's wish from the user, and a step of determining the position where the desired media file is given to the user from the above-mentioned many positions and also determining the media format for giving the desired media file. Includes a method comprising the steps of making a desired media file available in said media format from said location to be experienced by the user.</p><p num="0009"> In one embodiment, the invention receives a first communication representing a user's desire to access a media file at a future time in a system for providing user access to the media file from multiple locations on the network. A first communication component, the media file, which is available in different media formats from multiple locations on the network, and a storage device that stores information related to the user and the media file. The second communication component that receives the second communication indicating the user's desire to experience the media file from the user and the position where the desired media file is given to the user are determined from the above-mentioned many positions, and the desired media is determined. It includes a system comprising a decision component that also determines the media format that gives the file, and a delivery component that makes the desired media file available in the media format from the location to be experienced by the user.</p><p num="0010"> In one embodiment, the invention provides a user interface that displays a list of media files when run on a computing device in a media management application for granting user access to media files from multiple locations on the network. Through this user interface, it receives a first communication that represents the user's desire to generate and access at least one of the media files in a future time, said media files in different media formats from multiple locations on the network. In addition, it sends information related to the user and the media file to the storage device, receives a second communication through the user interface that represents the user's desire to experience the media file, and the storage device. Receives the media file identifier associated with the media file from, so that the user can experience it, the media file is given from one position among many positions, and the media file is one of different media formats. Includes media management applications with application code configured in this way.</p>
0011The accompanying drawings exemplify embodiments of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is limited by the claims. In general, the present invention relates to systems and methods for delivering media over a network and improving the user's experience in experiencing the media transferred over the network. In view of the shortcomings of this technique described above, it would be effective if a system were available that allowed the user complete and free access to all media files purchased, acquired and / or accessed by the user at any desired location. is there. Further, as mentioned above, current systems allow users the ability to carry media files in portable devices. These portable devices are space-constrained, and it is cumbersome to upload and download between the device and each particular location where the user wants to access the file. Therefore, it would be effective if there was a system that allowed users to access these files through mouse clicks on their local system with minimal cumbersome intermediate steps.
0012Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in which the same components are designated with the same reference numbers. With reference to FIG. 1, the architecture of one embodiment of the present invention is shown schematicly. As seen in FIG. 1, a system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In general, system 100 allows user 102 to experience, share, or otherwise utilize different media. Although many embodiments are described with respect to music and / or audio files, the present invention relates to any form of audio, video, digital or analog media content, as well as other media files currently known or become known. It can also be used for formats.
0013Each user 102 uses a processor 103 coupled to the Internet 104 in one of many known ways, such as a personal computer (PC), a web-enabled cellular telephone, a personal digital assistant, and the like. In addition, each processor 103 is preferably an Internet browser (not shown), eg, one offered by Microsoft Corporation under the trade name INTERNET EXPLORER, or NETSCAPE. Includes software or hardware and other effects of said components offered by Netscape Corp under the trade name NAVIGATOR or that enable network intercommunication between users and service providers and / or between users. Each processor also includes a media engine 106, which, among other functions described below, transforms information or data into a recognizable form and manages media-related information or data by the user 102. Gives the ability to personalize experiences in various media. The media engine 106 may be incorporated into the processor 103 by the seller of the processor 103, or may be obtained as a separate component from the media engine provider or in other ways as recognized in the art. As detailed below, the media engine 106 may be a software application, a software / firmware combination, or a software / firmware / hardware combination, as a matter of design choice, to the user. In contrast, it acts as a central media manager and facilitates the management of all types of media files and services that a user wants to access through a computer or personal portable device or through a network device that is available at various locations over the network. The term media file as used herein is commonly used to refer to an item of media, as well as associated metadata and / or network location information for that item.
0014The media engine 106 described herein interacts through a graphic user interface and related features, and users collect individual sources and personally via a central and common entry point and through an easily understandable graphic user interface. You can manage and access media files available through organized sources. Therefore, first, with reference to FIG. 2, a preferred graphic user interface for the media engine 106 is illustrated. As is clear from examining Figure 2, the user interface from the media engine 106, in the example shown here, is a music file that can be used as part of the user's own stored media file library, an external service provider. Facilitates the management and organization of media files available through, music available on compact discs or related player devices, and other sources of music or media-related information. Therefore, the media engine acts as a gateway to all user media when the user's media is found through its user interface. Thus, the media engine intended by the present invention surpasses the capabilities of currently known media player software by significantly expanding features, knitting and integration capabilities previously not found in known media players. Spread out.
0015Further, in the embodiments described herein, the processor 103 also runs the instant messaging software program 108, which communicates with the instant messaging platform 116 and facilitates the exchange of messages and other information between users. Used for. One such example of an instant messaging program is Yahoo! Instant Messenger, or another instant messaging program that is currently known or will become known in the future. This embodiment is preferably described with respect to an instant messaging program, but other forms of communication over previously known or future known networks may be utilized. Processor 103 may also include storage for local media files 110 and / or other plug-in programs that are executed or interact with media engine 106. Also, the processor 103 is preferably connectable to device 114, which is an iPod, for example by a compact disc player and / or another external media file player commonly referred to as an MP3 player, such as Apple Computer Inc. It is a device sold under the brand name, which is used for portable storage and playback of media files.
0016In addition, Processor 103 includes Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) 105, which allows secure distribution and / or prevents or prevents illegal distribution of media files, thereby copyrighting the media files of user 102 and others. Protect your intellectual property. In one embodiment, the DRM 105 encrypts or decrypts media files and is free to use the content for controlled access by authorized users or to mark the content with digital watermarks or similar methods. Prevent distribution. The media engine 106 ensures that the media files experienced through the media engine 106 are not copied or shared with users who are not allowed to view or listen to the content. It is preferable to use.
0017In addition to the messaging platform 116, System 100 also includes a media server 118, as detailed below. In addition to servicing media to user 102 via the Internet 104, the media server 118 also preferably also includes a media database 120, which, in addition to storing the actual media, of each particular piece of media. Stores various metadata attributes or communicates with the storage device. Database 120 can be distributed across multiple servers or locations. The other server 130 makes other content and services available, as well as other management services made available through management services such as managing user logons, granting service access, managing digital rights, and service providers. Can provide services. Certain embodiments of the invention describe music, but include any form of streaming or non-streaming media including, but not limited to, news, entertainment, sporting events, web pages, or recognizable audio or video content. obtain. Also, although the present invention describes media content and, in particular, audio content, it should be understood that the scope of the invention includes any content or media format previously known or known in the future. ..
0018In one embodiment of the invention, the media server maintains its own DRM software 150, similar to the DRM software 105 located at the processor 103 of the user 102, which is located at the media database 120 or the user 102. Track the digital rights of media files stored on your processor. Thus, for example, the media server 118 confirms the title of a particular media fragment before it streams, serves up, or transfers the media file to user 102, and if the user has the appropriate rights. Only works to stream or transfer files.
0019As shown in FIG. 1, the user 102, the media server 118 and the messaging platform 116, and the other server 130 are communicated and connected via the Internet 104. In another embodiment, the different components of the system may be communicatively coupled in different ways, for example, each of which may be connected wirelessly or directly to each other, such as locally or on a wide area network (WAN). In addition, functional components can be distributed to perform certain functions of the media engine on the media server 118, or vice versa, or in modular form to operate in different locations throughout the system 100. It can also be dispersed. Therefore, the description here of a function or component related to a particular device or component or location is merely exemplary.
0020Yet another architecture of the network 300 according to another embodiment of the invention is described below with reference to FIG. This embodiment maintains a wider network that includes a plurality of users 102, such as, for example, user A, user B, and user C. Each user maintains at least one processor 103, which includes a media engine 106, a messaging program 108, a local media file 110 and various software plug-ins 112, as described with reference to FIG. Further, each processor 103 can also include a local device 114, and these processors preferably also include digital rights management software or function 105, as described with reference to FIG. Processors 103 may be directly connected to each other, or may be connected via the Internet 104 or some other communication network. In addition, these processors are connected to the media server 118 via the Internet 104. As mentioned above with reference to FIG. 1, the media server 118 includes a media database 120, a user information database 122, and a digital rights management 150. Also, an additional database is connected to the media server to manage or service the entire network 300. For example, the rating database 320 contains information about ratings that a particular user can apply to a particular media file in a number of different formats as described below with reference to FIG. An additional database connected to the media server is the playlist database 340, which stores playlists generated by users synthesizing various media files located in processor 103, media database 120, etc. Is. Also, these playlists stored in the playlist database will be made available to various different users 102 of the network 300, as described below. As mentioned with reference to Figure 1, Mede The ear server 118 is also connected to the messaging platform 116, which helps interconnect various users and also stores additional information about a particular user. For example, the messaging platform 116 can also connect to an additional user information database 360, which contains information about the characteristics of users' connectivity to the messaging platform and their connectivity to each other. For example, this user information database may include information about each particular user 102 and the user's processor 103, as well as information about the connections that the user's processor 103 maintains with other processors 103. How to use this information and how to use the messaging platform to improve interconnection between different users is illustrated with reference to Figure 71. In another embodiment, the media server 118 also includes a compatibility engine 4050 that is used to aid in generating compatibility playlists, as described below with reference to FIGS. 47, 48 and 45.
0021In addition, as seen in Figure 3, the media server and messaging platform are also directly connected to other sites or servers 380 available throughout the Internet. These sites may be sites that are openly accessible to User 102, such as commerce websites, or these sites may be internal sites that are only available to media servers and / or messaging platforms. Within network 300, each particular user preferably has a unique identifier or "username", which keeps track of the particular user as well as media servers and many other connected via network 300. Used to manage all activities involving the user through both servers. This user name is stored in the user information database 122 and is an individual identifier for each specific user. The additional information stored about the user preferably includes the user's personal information, such as a home address, email address and / or telephone number. The database may also contain the user's personal preferences for using the network, for example, whether User A uses the media engine 106 to access the media and directs preferences for a particular media. Or, if it dictates a preference that should be changed when a particular media item becomes available, such preference is stored in the user database 122 along with the username. Alternatively, these preferences can be stored somewhere in network 300, including the processor of user 102. Thus, the media server 118 searches for preferences in the user information database 122, for example, when these particular songs should be made available to users of network 300, finds out which users want the songs, and Similar to the example above, User A's preference is to send that particular song to User A's media engine 106 to media server 118, or otherwise available.
0022Further, in this embodiment, the entire network 300 is connected so that the media server 118 and other servers interconnect with each other to optimize the experience of the particular user 102. As described in detail below, when a particular user is connected to network 300 while being locally associated with a particular processor 103, that user has resources available on that particular server throughout network 300. You can access all of those resources, whether they are on or on another processor. The network 300 can collect and retain user-specific information to improve the user's experience through resources available as part of the network. Thus, across the network, different users 102 access the same media server 118 via their individual media engine 106, but their individual listening experience is tailored to their particular needs, and the network as a whole. You will use your abilities.
0023In one embodiment of the invention, the system 100 facilitates easy playback of different media files located at different locations throughout the network 300, and is more easily accessed by each individual user 102 from the processor in which the user 102 is located. User 102's media files can be managed to facilitate the generation of possible media playlists or other combinations. In another embodiment of the invention, two or more different users 102 can use the media engine 106 to share and / or recommend media files with each other (if properly authorized). This is done through interaction between the media engine 106 and the media server 118, both of which share the data associated with both users 102 and the media stored in each processor 103 of the media server 118 and user 102. And remember. When the user 102 installs or uses the media engine 106 on the processor 103, the media engine 106 becomes familiar with the media of the user 102 and interacts with the media server 118 through various different steps. Figure 4 shows the steps associated with this process.
0024Referring to FIG. 4, user 102 first installs or instantiates the media engine 106 on his processor 103. Step 402. When the user installs the media engine 106 on his processor 103, the media engine searches the processor 103 for media files that can be searched by the processor 103. Step 404. If the media engine 106 can search for media files in processor 103, the media engine 106 produces files stored in the media engine 106 that include information about the media files found. Step 406. This file contains information about each media file, including the location of the media file, and metadata stored with the media file, such as song names, artist names, or album names. If such information is not available with the media file, the media engine 106 makes a pointer and / or location reference to the media file with an indicator that there is no metadata available for that particular media file. Just remember. In other embodiments, the media engine 106 and / or the network's media server can take steps to search the network for information about a particular media file in order to obtain useful metadata for the user.
0025The media engine 106 also searches for devices 114 (MP3 players, CD drives, flash memory, etc.) that are located or connected to the processor 103 of the user 102 that can contain media. If such a peripheral is found, the media engine determines if there is media placed within the peripheral. Step 408. If so, the media engine 106 stores information about the media, including the relevant metadata, in a file so that the media engine 106 can access that data later. Step 410. When the media engine 106 gets all the information about the location and content of the media file in the processor 103 of user 102 or its peripherals 114, the media engine 106 communicates with the media server 118 with respect to the media file from processor 103. Information acquired by the media engine 106 can be passed through. The media server 118 receives this information through a file (s) generated by the media engine 106 that contains location and metadata information about the media file on processor 103, and transfers this information to other files. Stored in the user information database 122 together with the user information. Step 412. The media server 118 then compares the information received from the media engine 106 with the media files and associated metadata located in the media database 120. Step 414. If the media file located in processor 103 matches the media file located in media database 120, media server 118 looks at the location of the media file in media database 120 and from processor 103 by media engine 106. Attach the information to the file containing the acquired information. Step 416. Media server 118 then sends out a file containing an updated list of media files. It combines both the media files located on processor 103 with information about the media files that media server 118 wants to make available to user 102 from media database 120. Step 418. Upon retrieving this file, the media engine 106 creates an interface that allows the user to manage all media available to the user in an efficient and straightforward manner, as described with reference to FIG. Step 420. Therefore, when the media engine 106 gets all the information related to both the media files located locally on the processor 103 and the files available to the user 102 from the media server 118, the media engine 106 is in one central position for the user. To position and access the media through the media engine 106. In other words, when using the media engine 106, the user 102 accesses or manipulates media and information locally available on the processor 103 from the media server 118 or from anywhere on the network from a single central location. Can be done. Position and make it accessible. In other words, when using the media engine 106, the user 102 accesses or manipulates media and information locally available on the processor 103 from the media server 118 or from anywhere on the network from a single central location. Can be done. Position and make it accessible. In other words, when using the media engine 106, the user 102 accesses or manipulates media and information locally available on the processor 103 from the media server 118 or from anywhere on the network from a single central location. Can be done.
0026Further, the use of the media engine allows the user to bookmark locally located media that the user 102 wishes to have available from different processors 103 located in different locations. In other words, if the user 102 has both a processor 103 at home and a processor 103 at work, some or all of the media files on processor 103 at his home. You can specify the media file where you want to be experienced with the processor 103 located at work or somewhere else, or the system can specify it (based on your preference criteria). Again, this is managed via a media engine 106 that tracks, processes, and shares information about media files with media server 118. Therefore, if user 102 wants to experience media files located on processor 103 in different locations, he or she can seamlessly access these media files from a processor running media engine 106 and having access to media server 118. You will be able to experience it. Therefore, the media engine 106 stores all the metadata information and the location information about each media file on the processor 103 in advance, and transfers this information to the media server 118. So, for example, if the user 102 wants to experience a media file located on a different one of his processors, the media engine 106 located on the processor where the user is located requests the media file from the media server 118. It then looks up and makes accessible to all users' media files from the information available to the media server 118. When media server 118 searches for the specific media file requested, media server 118 searches for that media file, and user 102 is currently located. Stream it to a media engine 106 installed on a processor, transfer it, or make it available. Conversely, if another user logs on using the same processor, that user may access the media files bookmarked by the first user unless they bookmark independently of the first user. Can not. Obviously, the interaction between the media engine 106 and the media server 118 produces sound media collection and management tools for the collection and management of media files accessible to a particular user 102 from various locations. The media engine 106 can also use this feature to exchange music between different users 102, as described below. A user interface according to an embodiment of the present invention that implements the above-mentioned functions will be described below with reference to FIG.
0027Individual users 102 can maintain different processors and / or devices capable of obtaining and / or listening to media files. For example, a user can keep a processor in his home, a processor in his workplace, a portable device in his car, and / or media in another location. Players can be maintained, each capable of accessing network 300 and / or playing media files. In one embodiment of the invention, when a user accesses a media file using the media engine 106, the media engine can maintain information about the user and the media file being played. This allows users to improve their listening experience by allowing them to transfer their listening experience from one position to another. For example, if a user listens to a particular song on a home processor and then has to leave the house to drive, the user maintains the state of listening to the song from the media engine on the home processor, and himself. It can be picked up from that point with a local media device in the car or a media device at another location. Therefore, when the user leaves the home processor, the media engine 106 saves information about what song the user was listening to and passes that information to the media server 118. When the user reconnects to the network from a second position (eg, their car), the media engine 106 located in the current second position queries the server for the location of the music they are listening to, and then Explore the music and stream it or otherwise make it available in a second position. For some reason, for example, the media in the second location has no connection to the location where the media file is located, or because the location where the media file is streamed is currently offline. engine If the song is not accessible from the same location, the media engine attempts to search for the song from different allowed locations and streams it to the user at the new location. Thus, it is clear that this enhances the user's experience in that the user can enjoy all inclusive experiences that allow the experience to be extended to different different locations at different different times in different different devices. Let's go. A user interface based on an embodiment of the present invention that implements the above-mentioned functions will be described below with reference to FIG.
0028Note that the components with different functions mentioned above may be in different components of the network 300, and the information may be in different components or in the same component. For example, either the media engine 106 or the media server 118 may maintain some or all data about the media file and location information about the media file. For example, if information about a media file is completely maintained in the media engine 106, different media engines 106 can communicate between themselves without having to access the media server 118. Similarly, the network 300 can idealize additional services and distribute information more widely.
0029As seen in FIG. 2 and further described below, when the user 102 uses the media engine 106, all media files available to the user are in logical form for display to the user in the user interface 200. Be organized. The user interface 200 is preferably represented by a plurality of panes in which media information is displayed. With reference to frame 201, a list of various media resources or sources in which the user's media is located is displayed. As mentioned above, the media engine 106 acquires and stores information about the user's media located at processor 103 and available via media server 118. For example, with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, in this embodiment the user can see a complete list of all media files, or all available media files, configured by a particular source or location. .. For example, my By clicking on the music tab 222, the user can use any music available to that user that is stored locally in the media database 120 or sent from another site or server 380. Music can be viewed. Preferably, when the user chooses to access the "my music" tab 222, the user is told via the user media file 110, the local device 114, the media database 120, or another site or server 380. A list of all available media is listed in the rightmost box 231. This list is, for example, the song title (Song). Stored in a column representing information about each media file, including Title 202, Artist 204, Album 206, Duration 210, and Genre 212, and other desired by the user. They can be arranged in order (eg, alphabetically by the artist). The media engine 106 can search for this information from the metadata for each characteristic item of the media it has previously acquired and stored as described above. Frame 231 gives the user the ability to look at all the media available in one location and classify the media in a format that is familiar to the user by categorizing the media in a well-known manner.
0030Further, through the frame 201, the user can separately view the media stored in the media database 120 by clicking the network media site tab 224. Again, this information is available to the media engine 106 based on the information received from the media server 118, as described above with reference to FIG. When the user clicks tab 224, a display representing the media available from the media database 120 appears in frame 231 as described below with reference to FIG. 33. To compile this list, the media engine 106 queries media server 118 for all available user-related media information and media files located in the media database 120, as described above, and frame 231. Populate the appropriate metadata. It is also preferred to provide a search function that allows the user to search the media database 120 for the desired item of media, for example by searching for an artist, song title, genre or other media criteria.
0031In one embodiment, the media database may include media files available for leasing or purchasing, in which case the media server 118 searches for and purchases an authorized version of the media retrieved through the media database 120. Includes commerce components that give users the option to lease, rent, or otherwise obtain. For example, if the site or server 380 accessed through tab 224 is a music seller, the user clicks tab 224 to enter the commerce site and purchase music or media to be added to the user's collection. It can then be managed by the media engine. In addition, user preference information obtained through user interaction with the media engine can be made available to the commerce site to give recommended purchases.
0032Various embodiments are described in connection with the "my music" collection or the "my music" tab, but the title of this tab or collection can be anything, and the term "my music" is used for ease of explanation. It is clear that it will be used.
0033In this embodiment, the user can also access the Internet radio provider site 380, which is available via the button or link displayed in frame 201. For example, if the user clicks on the Internet Radio tab 226, Internet Radio available from Media Server 118 or another site 380 will open, allowing the user to experience various radio stations via the Media Engine 106. .. Similar to commerce features, user preference information obtained through user interaction with the media engine is made available to the radio station to influence the music selection given by the radio station. One such radio station is Launchcast from Yahoo! Inc in Sunnyvale, California.
0034Alternatively, similarly, the user can also see a comprehensive list of songs obtained, for example, on a compact disc tab 228 or a local device 114 accessible via MP3 play or tab 230. Again, this information is utilized by the media engine 106 from the information initially acquired by the media engine 106 at startup, installation, or afterwards, as described above with reference to FIG. In addition, the user can also list the songs in a particular playlist 232, as detailed below. The information available through the media engine 106 is updated at user selection or automatically when an event occurs, for example, when a CD is inserted into a drive or MP3 device plugged into processor 103. It can also be started at program start or installation, or at intervals, or under instructions from media server 118, other network site 380, or other processors 103 on network 300. It can also be programmed to do under the program.
0035Also, in one embodiment, it is preferred that the user is allowed the additional ability to use the rating tools shown in column 208 to rate a particular song from within frame 231. For example, a user can rate a particular song that the user actually likes with four stars, while not starring songs that the user does not particularly care about. Once rated, the user can see a list of songs ordered by a particular rating. Therefore, songs that the user particularly enjoys are placed at the top of the list, while songs that the user does not particularly care about are moved further down.
0036In another embodiment, the rating applied by the user is associated with the user identification. The user id and its associated rating are stored in the user information database located on the media server. Therefore, the user can see and access this rating from a large number of processors and locations.
0037In yet another embodiment, the other item may be stored in the user information database or other database residing on the media server as well, in association with the user identification, where the item allows the user to use the media engine. It can be accessed by the user at a position where it can be connected to the system.
0038The user information database 122 is preferably made available to any application with proper access to the system, leveraging the user information and improving the user experience in all aspects of the system 100/300.
0039By organizing and storing user information and making it available to a number of applications on System 100/300, users only need to rate a song or artist or album once, and that rating is the user's rating. The data will be available for 100/300 system 100/300 applications or features or features. So, for example, if a user "rips" a song from a CD using the client-side music engine 106 and then rates it using a user interface, eg, frame 231 then the rating is media. It is passed to the user database 122 on the server 118. When the user then selects a radio station to listen to from slot 201, a radio station application (not shown) accesses the user database 122 and gets the song rating and gives it to the user. Incorporate into the programming algorithms used to program radio content. The same process applies backwards when a user rates a song while listening to the radio. Thus, once a user has rated a song, the user's preferences can be stored and / or incorporated into the various features, functions and applications available in the system 100/300.
0040Further, the user information is centrally maintained or distributed by maintaining all or part of the user information in the user information database 8410 (FIG. 84) of the processor 103 in addition to or separately from the user database 122. Will be done.
0041As further described here, the rating chosen by the user allows the system to better classify the music in terms of the user's special likes and dislikes, and significantly enhance the user's experience. Again, as described below, the user can also watch and listen to other users' music by clicking on tab 234, or another user can incorporate the user's rating or preference.
0042When a user selects a particular item of media, eg, a song, for experience, a window containing the media player 240 opens (or is always present) within the user interface 200, allowing user control to play the media. It is preferable to display the song title 242, artist 244, and album 246 of the specific song being played. From within this media player 240, the user has the ability to control the media by rewinding, fast-forwarding, or pausing a particular song by using a controller 250 common to known media players. In addition, when the song is played, the user has the ability to rate the song, artist, and / or album by clicking on the rating tool sequence 252, and the rating is as described above. It is preferably incorporated into the information database 122 as part of the user's preference.
0043The user 102 can also incorporate the plug-in program into the media engine 106. Access to this plug-in program can be obtained via tab 236 newly generated from frame 201. These plugins may be programmed using known programming techniques to make the media engine healthier in actions that can be performed from within the media engine. The plug-in may be provided by the media engine provider or a third party. In other words, the user interfaces and features according to one embodiment of the invention are based on different plug-ins, designed in different locations, designed by different people, including users or operators of network 300, user interfaces, which The functions provided and the dialogue with the media engine can be improved.
0044When the user places a compact disc or other form of removable media on device 114, the system is located on that removable media, for example by clicking tab 228, as seen in FIG. Having the ability to identify and list songs, the user can choose to import those songs into the "my music" collection. For example, by clicking on the compact disc tab 228, user 102 is given a list of all songs and / or other media available for removable media in frame 500. This list can include track titles, song times, artists, and genres. From this list, the user wants to play the CD by clicking the play CD icon 502 and eject the CD from the CD player by clicking the eject CD icon 504, or the user wants to include it in the "my music" collection. From the CD your my by clicking on the box 510 adjacent to a particular song and then clicking on the additional icon 506 to my music Any or all songs can be added to the "music" collection, or the media engine 106 also allows the user to "my" songs when the CD is inserted into the CD drive. Prompts the user if they want to import into the music collection. As you can see in Figure 5, when the system checks for a CD or other removable media placed on device 114, the title of that removable media is Populate the compact disc tab 228 in frame 201. In addition, the name of the album, and in one embodiment, the cover of the album is shown in frame 520. Generally, to obtain this information about the CD, the media engine uses the compact disc. Alternatively, the digitized content present in the MP3 can be identified, what the digitized content is, and the identity of the CD, ie the actual title, artist, content, etc., can be verified. The database is generated from a set of master CDs. This example is for CDs, but the same method applies to different media. The validation database is a CD record and its corresponding table of of. It contains table-of-contents and the corresponding audio data selected from the CD. Once the validation database is generated, the CD can be validated against the master CD. First, the table from the CD. CDs are identified by matching the content to a validation database. Using the table of content data, the media engine uses one or more master CDs with similar table of content. Identify. The identified CD is then authenticated by matching the audio data selected from the CD to a validation database generated from a set of master CDs. In other embodiments, the CD or The identity of other media is captured through known techniques, including viewing the waveform and associated metadata or bit size of a particular media content to help identify the content. Once identified, it is captured. Identity is the same as where you can find the mediaIs passed to the media server 118.
0045In another embodiment, the user is given the ability to generate playlists on albums or add albums to existing playlists. In this embodiment, the media engine 106 also accesses the information it has about the album and offers the user a similar album in slot 530. When a user chooses to import a particular song into their my music collection, the media engine 106 selects one or more songs from a compact disc or other removable media. Files related to media that are copied or "lipped" to local storage or processor 103 or portable device 114 in a format or automatically selected format, or media files are made available to media server 118. And / or metadata information can be stored with files related to the user's other media. Therefore, these songs (s) are the user's my. Along with other media in the music collection, it can be accessed from where the user can access the media server 118 on the media engine 106. The media server 118 lists the user's entire my music collection, as well as the media. Having some or all of the metadata connected to and the location of the media, the media server 118 searches for the media file at the location where the user is and wherever the media file exists on the network to that user. Therefore, users can easily add any media files to their "my music" collection, and with proper permission, compliance with DRM practices, and other ownership or protection. Allowing access to media files at other locations with the media engine 106, assuming supervision issues are taken into account.
0046According to another embodiment, another way for the user to import music from a removable media device such as a compact disc into the user's "my music" collection is included in the "my music" collection by the user from frame 500. Click on the displayed song title of the actual song you want to let.
0047Therefore, in the embodiments described herein, the user does not have to constantly transport his or her media files and / or removable media to different locations. This media is available via the media engine 106, media server 118, network 300, and the components and functions described herein. Moreover, the user does not have to re-learn his favorite media available from the media database 120 and select the media he has previously heard and wants to hear again. Rather, all media selected by the user is available to or through its media engine 106, and is available to specific users as part of their media collection at any time or place desired by the user. Become.
0048By convention according to one embodiment of the invention, a virtual collection of media is generated for each user 102. As revealed by reference to FIG. 6 and as described above with reference to FIG. 4, the media engine 106 searches each user's processor 103 and / or device 114 and identifies the media file. After all the media have been identified, the user can choose which media he wants to add to his "my music" collection. Step 610. The user my a specific media file When you want to add to a music collection, a virtual collection is created with one or more media files, which allows the user to bookmark each particular piece of media for future use. Step 620. In one embodiment, bookmarking of a particular media file is accomplished by storing in the user information database 122 an identifier for each user's bookmarked media. Step 630. In addition to other information about the user stored in the information database 122, the media server 118 also stores information about the bookmarks of a particular user for later retrieval. Therefore, when a user identifies a particular piece of media that should be bookmarked for later use, the identifier for that particular piece of media is combined with other identifying pieces of user 102 stored in the user information database 122. Remembered in, and the user's my A virtual collection of all media in the music collection is generated. Therefore, the user information database 122 contains, for each user, a list of identifiers pointing to a particular media flagged by a particular user, thus, for example, 2. Even if one user uses the same processor to access the system, each user can easily gain access to their "bookmarked" media, while others are confident in their "bookmarks". Except when accessing the provided media.
0049When a user wants to retrieve a particular piece of bookmarked media, the media server accesses the media identifier from the user information database 122 and then uses that identifier to stream the particular media file to the user, otherwise. , Make it available. Step. Thus, the user can easily identify the particular media that he or she wants to be available in various locations, and the media server uses the media in the user information database 122 based on the information stored about that particular user. It is clear that it is easy to search. Therefore, it is not necessary for the media server to initiate a search for a particular media file, but rather when the identifier for the media file is stored and attached to the particular user information, the media server 118 will use the bookmarked media. Can be easily utilized as if it were stored locally. The information database 122 may also contain a number of separate locations on the network where the media files are located, thus giving another source if one particular source becomes unavailable for any reason. Can be done.
0050As seen in FIG. 7, according to one embodiment of the invention, when a request is made to the media engine 106 to reproduce a piece of media, the media engine 106 media in the most conceivable way. Performs a process to ensure that is played and / or streamed to the user. When a request is made to play a particular media, the media engine 106 first searches to see if the particular media file is locally located on the user's processor 103. Step 701. If locally located, the media engine will play the file from the local location. Step 702. If the media file is not locally located, the media engine then searches the cache of processor 103 for user 102 to see if the media file is there. Step 703. If the media file is in the processor cache, the media engine plays the media file from the cache location. Step 704. However, if the media file is not in the cache, the media engine 106 then queries the media server 118 to see if the media server 118 can retrieve the file from another authorized source on the network. An example of a primary source or another source of files is for a media server 118 or another server 130 to provide a tethered download to a user. Step 705. A tesard download is a portable file that contains a time-based DRM that expires after a certain length of time. In other words, for example, if a user is involved in a contract service and has the right to obtain rights to a media file for a certain length of time, the tesard download of that media file is loaded into the user's processor. And the user can play the file for a certain length of time (eg 30 days) Wear. After a given length of time, the file becomes unusable and can no longer be played by the user. Therefore, the media server 118 searches the entire network 300 to see if a tesard download is available for the particular requested media file. Tesard download is the next preferred option for Media Engine 106. This is because Tesad Download downloads a local copy to the user's processor and allows the user to play the media file without having to access the media server 118.
0051If the media server 118 can search for a tessard download for a particular media file, the media server 118 searches for the tessard download and downloads it to the cache or local storage of the user's processor 103. To do. Upon obtaining the tesard download, the media engine 106 plays the media file to the user. Step 706. If the tesard download is not available, the media engine 106 queries the media server 118 to see if a particular media file is available from the media database 120 to a particular user. Step 707. Access to the media in the media database 120 is preferably based on tiered membership or different contract fees. Therefore, the media available in the media database is not available to each particular user based on the contract the user has within the network 300. If a media file is available within the media database 120 and the particular user requesting the file has a contract or permission level that allows access to the media file, then the file is userd from the media database 120 by the media server 118. Is streamed to processor 103 and played back by media engine 106. Step 708. However, if the requested media file is not available to a particular user, the media server may optionally stream a sample of the media file to the user's processor 103. Step 709. In one embodiment, a message is displayed to the user instructing that this media file is not available due to the user's contract or membership, and to the user with instructions explaining how to improve that contract or membership. Information can be given.
0052With reference to FIG. 8, additional features of the user interface 200 are described below. From within the user interface 200, the user can Has the ability to browse and view different albums with songs from the music collection. To view songs by album, as seen in Figure 8, the user selects Browse by Album from the drop-down menu 802. After choosing to browse by album, the user is given a collection of albums 801 available for the user to listen to. In addition to the names of the listed albums, the user has an album cover for each individual album. The album cover is preferably stored as a ".gif" video along with the media and metadata stored in the media engine 106 and / or the media server 118, but the media and related meta. The structure and organization of data storage and retrieval can be performed in multiple ways, i.e., distributed or centralized across one or more servers or locations. If the album cover is not stored in a particular media file, the system can be configured to search the network and try and find the cover footage. We will discuss ".gif" video, but use a file format that displays the video, such as ".jpg", ".tif", or any other video file format known so far and in the future. You can also display the album cover.
0053In one embodiment of the invention, one or more videos are stored in the video database 370. These videos can be stored in any video format known so far and in the future. These footages are, for example, other footage related to album covers, artists, or pieces of media. Along with the media stored in the media database 120, a URL or other pointer that links to or points to the video in the video database 370 is stored. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the user selects a particular piece of media, the media engine 106 searches for images associated with it (eg, album cover, artist's photo), and uses those images. Can be displayed for.
0054Also, the display of the album cover to the user has been improved so that the user can listen to music and view the album cover as if the user were actually holding a compact disc or other media in their hands. It will be clear to offer experience. When the user selects an album from interface 801, all the songs in that album are displayed in frame 812 with all the details about that song, as seen in FIG. Similar to the previous embodiment, in this embodiment, the user has the ability to play a song on the media player 240 by clicking on the song title in frame 812. In this embodiment, the user has the additional ability to browse music in a more efficient way (eg, through an album), which leads to an improved experience for the user.
0055In another embodiment, the user can browse songs in his "my music" collection by genre. For example, as seen in Figure 10, the user can select "browse by genre" from the drop-down menu 802, for example, through interface 1000 to different genres (eg, blues, folk, jazz). , Lock). Again, this is made possible by the metadata information acquired and stored by the media engine 106. The genre information may be obtained and used by the system after the human operator adds the genre information, or the genre information is provided as metadata, eg, record level, by the original source of the media file. May be done. Similar to how users browse through the my music collection through album covers, users select a particular genre, and their my The songs obtained in the music collection can display all songs that fit that particular genre, again as seen in Figure 11, where the user can see, for example, rock / pop from frame 1002. When the "(Rock / Pop)" genre is picked up, all songs in the user's "my music" collection that meet the "Rock / Pop" genre criteria are displayed in frame 812.
0056To further enhance the user's experience, the user can pick up a particular artist in a selected genre from frame 1004 and see songs from that particular artist. For example, as seen in FIG. 12, when the user clicks Peter Gabriel from the artist frame 1004, only the song by Peter Gabriel is displayed in the frame 812. The user can then further narrow the song by clicking on a particular album from the album list frame 1006. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, when the user clicks on the album "Security" by Peter Gabriel, only the songs of that album are displayed in the frame 812. Then, when the user clicks on a particular song, such as "Shock the Monkey," the selected song is played on the media player 240. The browsing according to a specific criterion is the user's "my" Note that it was described regarding browsing music in the music collection. In one embodiment, this browsing can be performed on all media located somewhere throughout the network 300. In addition. In another embodiment, the user can also search through another user's "my music" collection, as described below with reference to FIG.
0057In another embodiment, the user browses for media available in his "my music" collection by searching for songs and / or albums through song and / or album artists, as shown in FIG. be able to. In this embodiment, the user accesses interface 1500 by selecting "browse by Artist" from the drop-down menu 802 to view all artists of the media in the user's "my music" collection. Can be explored. Again, as in the previous embodiment, the user can pick up a particular artist from the list of artists in frame 1502 and see the song from that particular artist. For example, as seen in Figure 16, if the user clicks on The Clash from artist frame 1502, only the songs from The Clash will be displayed in frame 1504, and The Clash. Only albums from "Clash" are displayed in frame 1506. The user can then further narrow the song by selecting a particular album from album list frame 1506. For example, the user can narrow down the song from album list frame 1506. When "Give em Enough Rope" is selected, only the songs from the album "Give em Enough Rope" are displayed in frame 1504, as seen in FIG. 17, as in the previous embodiment and in the figure. As can be seen in 17, if the user wants to hear any song in frame 1504, the user only has to highlight that song in frame 1504, and that song is sent to the user by interface 240. In one embodiment, an icon 1702 appears next to the song being played to indicate that it is being played.
0058As mentioned earlier with reference to FIG. 2, through the media engine 106, the user rates a particular song, artist and / or album based on whether the user likes or dislikes the artist or album of the particular song. Have the ability. This ability to rate songs is described in "my" above or below. It is preferably available to the user for any stage of the music "interface. In addition, user 102 selects a new song available from the media database 120 and for a particular song, artist and / or album. The song can be rated by indicating likes and dislikes. In one embodiment of the present invention, the system automatically assigns a predetermined rating to a song placed on the user's processor 103 or peripheral device 114. Can be specified. By rating songs, albums and artists, the media engine is allowed the ability to organize and group songs according to specific likes and / or dislikes. The more songs rated, the more the system The media engine can select more specific songs, albums and / or artists that a particular user can enjoy, for example, when generating a playlist or streaming music via an internet radio station. The information obtained from the user rating can be used to filter or play songs based on what is more enjoyable for a particular user. Is preference information from radio stations used only by the media engine? Or, in conjunction with a media server or other server, can personalize commerce offers and influence playlist generation or system recommendations. Similarly, media engines and / or servers are users. It is possible to improve the user's experience in all respects, regardless of which specific component or function is used by the user, by utilizing the preference information of the user and passing it to other servers / applications.
0059In one embodiment, the system can automatically rate locally located songs with a given rating when the details of a particular song are first acquired and stored by the media engine 106. For example, if a piece of media is located on the user's processor 103, the system can automatically rate the song, for example, with a rating of 3 on a scale of 1 to 4. It should be understood that this automatically gives media located locally on the user's processor a high rating, even before the user himself manually rates the song album and / or artist. This is because in most situations it is very safe to assume that when a particular piece of media is located locally on the user's processor, the user tends to prefer that particular media. The automatic rating can also be based on other factors such as the user's playback frequency, the genre or artist rating, the frequency with which media is skipped or repeated, and so on. The user preferably re-grades the media at other times and gives the media a higher or lower rating if he or she wants to better reflect the user's preferences. Moreover, in one embodiment, if the user has already manually rated a particular song, artist and / or album, that rating will not be overwritten by the automatic rating. In addition, each user preferably has the ability to decide not to incorporate automatic ratings, but rather to use only manual ratings. Thus, as is apparent from the embodiments described above, the media engine loads the user's media each time the user accesses the media engine and allows the media to be classified by a more personal classification. To do. The user can also synthesize both his or her manual rating and likes or dislike instructions on the media available through the media server along with the local media located on the user's processor, and the user's subsequent fineness. After being adjusted, that low
0060In one embodiment of the automatic rating mechanism, the following factors are used to generate an automatic rating for the user when the user adds music to his "my music" collection. When a user adds music to his or her "my music" collection from, for example, the media database 120, peripherals 114, hard drive located on processor 103, and / or another user's "my music" collection, that song. Or an album and / or artist associated with a group of songs is given a set rating based on the number of songs from the album or artist already in the user's "my music" collection. For example, an album with three or more tracks in a user's "my music" collection will be given a rating of 70 on a scale from 1 to 100. Similarly, artists with more than 10 songs and less than 20 songs in the user's "my music" collection are also given a rating of 70 on a scale from 1 to 100. Finally, the user my Artists with more than 20 songs in the music collection are given a rating of 80 on a scale from 1 to 100. This rating agency is the most popular artist and / or album in the user's my music collection. Are given a higher rating than the unpopular ones. In different embodiments, when songs, albums and / or artists are stored in the user's "my music" collection, they are given different automatic ratings. Note that scales can be applied. In addition, automatic ratings are stored separately or differently in rating database 320 to distinguish between automatically generated ratings and manually generated ratings. You can also set a flag with.
0061Another feature according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG. With reference to FIG. 18, user 102 can obtain all media available through the user's my music collection, or via media database 120 on media server 118, or anywhere on network 300 or the Internet in general. Has the ability to perform search functions within interface 200 for. As is clear from FIG. 18, the user interface 200 includes a field 1801 in which search terms can be entered. For example, in Figure 18, by selecting All from the drop-down menu 1802 and inserting the phrase ou in field 1801, the user my, including the song title, artist, album, and genre. A display is shown where the user chooses to search for the term "ou" across all discriminating characteristics of the music "collection or media available anywhere on the network. The user has selected the search term (eg, ou). ) Is shown in frame 1803 for a list of artists for songs that match the criteria, and all songs that match the term are displayed in frame 1805. Therefore, the user's "my" All songs in the "music" collection that have the term "ou" in their song title, artist, album or genre are displayed in frame 1805. The following examples are specific criteria or media sources or media. We will discuss category-focused searches, which can be performed on multiple sources based on one search term at a time, so results are returned from multiple sources and shown in the search results. Therefore, one search term is for the installed device and / or local processor, as well as for server 118, media database 120, other server 130, other user 102, or other source on network 300. Search is limited to only a few of these sources in order to limit the size of the results, or user selection or system design issues.
0062The user can further narrow the search results by clicking on the artist in frame 1803. For example, as seen in Figure 19, if the user clicks on the artist The Clash from frame 1803, frame 1805 will meet the criteria (ie, including the ou string) and the artist The Clash. Shows only songs that are from. The user can also search for results from a particular album by selecting an album from frame 1804, as seen in FIG. As seen in FIG. 20, the user selects a particular album (Give em Enough Rope) in slot 1804, and only songs for that particular album are displayed in slot 1805.
0063In another embodiment, the user selects an album from the drop-down menu 1802 and inserts a search criterion in field 1801 in the "my music" collection (or network) with variables that are only in the song's album name. You can search for songs (somewhere above). As can be seen in Figure 21, if the user chooses to search for an album name from the drop-down menu 1802, and for example, to populate field 1801 with the search string p, the media engine 106 will be specific. Return a list of artists in frame 1803, an album in frame 1804, and a song in frame 1805 that match the criteria. The user then selects a song directly from frame 1805, or selects an artist from frame 1803, or an album from frame 1804, further narrowing the search to include only songs from that artist or album. be able to. For example, as seen in Figure 22, the user has the song American Idol with the search term p. If you choose to see only "Finalists", the user selects "American Idol Finalists" from frame 1803, which brings all "American Idol Finalists" albums to frame 1804 and all "American". Bring the "Idol Finalists" song to frame 1805. As can be seen further in Figure 23, if the user selects one of these albums in frame 1804, frame 1805 will only pick songs from that particular album. indicate.
0064A similar additional embodiment that allows the user's "my music" collection (or somewhere on the network) to be searched by artist, song and / or genre is described below with reference to FIGS. 24-30. As can be seen in Figure 24, the user selects an artist from the drop-down menu 1802 and includes the artist name from the my music collection by including a search term such as er in field 1801. You can choose to search. Again, this causes the songs in which the artist names have the term "er" in their names to be displayed in frame 1805. As can be seen in FIG. 25, again, the user can further narrow the search by selecting a particular artist from frame 1803, where only songs belonging to that particular artist are displayed in frame 1805. .. Again, the user can further narrow the search by selecting an album from frame 1804, and in this situation, only songs that meet the album and search criteria will be displayed in frame 1805, as seen in Figure 26. ..
0065In another embodiment, the user can search for a particular term in the song title, as seen in FIG. Similar to the embodiment, the user can select a song from the drop-down menu 1802 and enter specific search criteria in field 1801. As can be seen in Figure 27, if the user selects a song from the drop-down menu 1802 and selects the string ou from field 1801, the song with the string ou in the song title will be displayed in frame 1805. Along with that, a list of artists and albums for those songs is displayed in frames 1803 and 1804, respectively. Again, this search can be narrowed down when the user selects a particular artist from the artist frame 1803, as seen in FIG. Selected artist (Peter) as shown in Figure 28 Only songs that match Gabriel) are shown in frame 1805, and only albums that match that artist are shown in frame 1804. As can be seen in FIG. 29, if the user selects an album from frame 1804, the search can be further narrowed, then frame 1805 is a song that meets the criteria and is selected by the user. Show only songs that are from the album.
0066In another embodiment, as seen in FIG. 30, the user selects his term genre from the drop-down menu 1802 and enters his search term in field 1801 to my A search for the "music" collection (or anywhere on the network) can be performed by genre. As seen in Figure 30, the user selects a genre search from the drop-down menu 1802, and the search term, eg, ". If pop is entered in field 1801, frame 1805 displays all songs that meet that criterion, and frame 1803 displays artists that match those songs. In this particular embodiment. , Frame 1804 is not populated by album name until an artist is selected, as described with reference to FIG. 31, in different embodiments, frames 1803, 1804 and 1805 are as soon as the initial search is performed. It may be populated or may remain unpopulated until additional criteria are selected. As in the previous embodiment, if the user wants to further narrow the search, see Figure 31. A specific artist can be selected from the frame 1803 so that the user can select a specific artist, for example, "The". If you select "Clash" from frame 1803, the albums that match that particular artist and criteria are displayed in frame 1804, and the songs that belong to that particular artist are displayed in frame 1805, as shown in Figure 31. Again, as shown in FIG. 32, the user can further narrow the search by selecting a specific album from frame 1804. If the user selects a specific album, that identification. Only songs from that particular artist that meet the genre criteria selected from field 1801 in the album of are displayed in frame 1805.
0067In one embodiment, the search field 1801 automatically populates based on a search previously performed by the user, for example by filling in the word "Jones" when the user types "JO". Again, as in the previous embodiment, the user has the ability to play any song returned in the search by clicking on a particular song in the list in slot 1805. Furthermore, if the album is already in the user's "my music" collection, the add button 526 will not appear, but rather an empty box 527 indicating "already in my music", for example. Or an icon appears. These searches can be performed either in the user's "my music" collection, in the entire collection available from the media database 120, or anywhere in the entire network 300.
0068As described above, in one embodiment of the invention, the user can access the media files in the media database 120 via the media server 118. The media engine 106 is a specific user's my Similar to how the music contained in the music collection is displayed, a list of music contained in the media database 120 can be generated for the user. As seen in FIG. 33, the user can generate a frame 201. When selecting Network Media Sites tab 224 from, an interface 3300 is generated for the user that lists the songs that are put into the media database 120 and that the media site operator wants to recommend or inform the user. This recommendation is preferably based on the user information database 122 or preference information stored somewhere on the user's processor or network, but not necessarily. For the purpose of personalizing the user's experience, such information can be stored and accessed from a location (s) on the network where it can be stored, for example, as seen in frame 3305. The media engine is contained in the media database 120, but the user my Generates a list of recommended songs not found in the music collection. In addition, as seen in Listing 3310, the media engine can also generate a list of recently released albums that users have found interest in. Further, in one embodiment, the media engine can also generate a list of specific albums or songs just added to the database, as shown in Listing 3315. In a different embodiment, the media engine 106. Note that it is possible to generate different lists and groups of songs and / or albums contained in the media database 120. For example, as seen in Figure 34, the media engine 106 is the most popular artist from 120 in the database. The most popular artist categories 3410, including a list of, and the ".gif" footage 3420 of these particular artists can be generated. Again, the ".gif" video can be stored with the media and metadata stored in the media engine 106 and / or the media server 118. We will discuss ".gif" video, but use a file format that displays the video, such as ".jpg", ".tif", or any other video file format known so far and in the future. You can also display a photo of the artist.
0069In an additional embodiment, the user can search the media database 120 or a song somewhere on the network for a particular term in either the song title, the artist name, or the album name. For example, as seen in FIG. 35, user 102 is obtained in media database 120 and / or user "my". It has the ability to perform search functions within interface 3300 for the music collection or all media placed somewhere. As seen in Figure 35, user interface 3300 sets specific search variables that can be entered in field 3502. Includes a field 3504 that allows you to select criteria for searching. For example, in Figure 35, a display is shown where the user has selected to search for the term "combine" in all song titles of songs stored in the media database 120. This is because the user chooses "song" from the drop-down menu 3504, then enters the word "combine" in the field 3502, and chooses to search the media database from the drop-down menu 3506. When the user enters a search term and the search is performed, a list of songs that meet the criteria is displayed in box 3508, which list includes song title 3510, artist name 3512, and album name 3514. In one embodiment, this list is my It also contains the music column 3516, which contains a button 3518 next to a particular song that users can click to add to their my music collection, for example, as seen in Figure 36. If the user wants to add the song "Combine" by "Pino Colony", click button 3518 and the song will be automatically added to the user's "my music" collection. The song in the media database 120. Access to can be based on gradual membership or different contract fees. Therefore, some users are allowed to add some songs to the "my music" collection, while others Not allowed. Therefore, the "my music" column 3516 indicates to the user which songs can be added to a particular user's "my music" collection, or the "my music" column 3516 also indicates that a particular song is It may include a button 3520 that can indicate that it is already in a particular user's my music collection. Therefore, from this display, the user can my any song. You can easily see if you want to add to the "music" collection and / or which songs you already have in the "my music" collection.
0070In one embodiment, the user my clicks a button 3518 to play a particular song. around) Eliminate the need. In another embodiment, in addition to both options listed in interface 3508, as seen in Figure 36, the user right-clicks on a particular song title to raise the drop-down menu 3610, which is that Display a list of options available to the user in relation to a particular song. For example, as seen in Figure 36, the user has the option to play a song, in which case the song is played on the music player 240, and a particular song is added to his "my music" collection. Then add the song to the currently playing music, add the song to the playlist, generate a similar song playlist, or generate a song and / / as described below in connection with Figures 46-47. Or buy an album, in which case the user is directed to a payment page, where, for example, the user can enter credit card information. Alternatively, from Menu 3610, the user can go to a song page, album page, or artist page, which is a web page with information about that particular song, album, or artist. In addition, other options available to the user include sending the song to a friend via a messaging program, email or other communication software, or searching the network for words or lyricism for that particular song. In one embodiment, interface 3300 may include a frame 3620 containing a list of other options that the user wants to use to perform a search similar to that already performed. For example, as seen in FIG. 36, frame 3620 allows the user to easily search other artists' albums, users and / or the web for specific search terms already entered in field 5001 with a mouse click. It can be so. Alternatively, it may be given the option to view similar artists or songs or albums based on similarity data stored somewhere on the media server 118 or the network.
0071In another embodiment, the user can search for songs in the media database 120 with variables in the song artist name only by selecting an artist from the drop-down menu 3504 and entering a search term in field 3502. it can. As can be seen in Figure 37, if the user chooses to search for an artist name from the drop-down menu 3504 and, for example, populates the search term jam in field 3502, the media engine 106 will use that particular. We will return a list of artists in frame 3710 that meet the criteria. Again, the user can select a specific location (s) from the drop-down menu 3506 to select the media database 120, the user's my. You can choose to search in the music "collection, both, or somewhere else. In addition, as mentioned above with reference to the album cover and the artist's footage, identify next to the artist's name in frame 3710. The image of the artist can also be displayed. If the user wants to obtain additional information about a particular artist listed in frame 3710, the user clicks on the name and / or image of that particular artist, and As seen in Figure 38, it is directed to a display listing information about that particular artist. As seen in Figure 38, the interface 3810 for a particular artist contains the artist's biography, artist's photo, or artist's music. A list of specific genres can be included. In addition, the user can generate a similar artist playlist by clicking the generate similar artist playlist button 3815, as described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, the user 102 can also rate a specific artist by clicking the rating tool button 3820. As described above, the rating entered by the specific user is such that the media server is the specific user. It helps to generate an improved experience for the user by obtaining additional information about the likes and dislikes of the user. In addition, in one embodiment, the display 3825 includes a list of similar artists, and the user can also be a similar artist. Music can be explored. Additional albums by that particular artist can also be displayed, as seen in Display 3830. In another embodiment, the user, as further seen in Figures 37-38. Has the ability to move forward or backward from one display to another by navigating within the display and clicking the backward and / or forward buttons 3720 respectively, which enhances the user's experience, eg, It fits inside a typical Internet browser, allowing users to navigate between different displays.
0072In another embodiment, the user can search for songs in the media database 120 with variables in the song album name only by selecting an album from the drop-down menu 3504 and entering search criteria in field 3502. .. As seen in Figure 39, if the user chooses to search for albums from the drop-down menu 3504 and, for example, populates field 3502 with the search string crazy, the media engine 106 has a specific criterion. The list of albums will be returned in the frame 3910 that matches. Again, the user can choose from the drop-down menu 3506 whether to search for media in the media database, the user's "my music" collection, and / or both. In addition to the album name, the image of the album cover can also be displayed in frame 3910 along with the artist's name, and in one embodiment, the year the album was produced. As in the previous embodiment, my is used to indicate whether songs from a particular album have been placed in the user's my music collection. A music column can also be indicated, again as in the previous embodiment, where the user can add about a particular album by clicking on the particular album name and / or video, as seen in FIG. Information can be accessed. As can be seen in Figure 40, a display containing additional information about the album is shown in frame 4010. Again, from within the display, the user can use the rating tool 4015. You can rate a particular album by clicking, or you can see the names of additional users who enjoyed that particular album by clicking the fan button 4025 for this album. In, frame 4020 can show a list of all the songs contained in that particular album, again by the user clicking the forward or backward button 3720 to previously view from this album page. You can navigate to the page.
0073In another embodiment, the user is given the ability to search for information related to another user in the media engine 106 and access the song that the other user likes. As mentioned above, the different users 102 are individually identified by the user's name or other identifier, which is preferably associated with various preferences for that user stored on the network. Thus, in one embodiment, a system in which a user finds a user (s) that meet certain search criteria by using another user's identifier or based on the user's preferences and / or user behavior. Allows you to search for another user's music. For example, as seen in Figure 41, if the user populates field 3502 with a search term (eg John) and chooses to search by user's name from the drop-down menu 3504, then the user's name Search results indicating all users having that particular search term (eg, John) are displayed in box 4110. If the user clicks on a particular user (eg John_g) from within frame 4110, the page seen in Figure 42 will be displayed in frame 4210, which is an artist, genre or album highly rated by the selected user. Indicates additional information about the user, including. Alternatively, the song title may be entered, and the drop-down menu may include an "all users" selection to initiate a search for the user's media files for a particular song. In another example, if the search is done in a genre, a list of users who prefer a particular genre will be returned, or in yet another example, all users who like a particular song, artist, album, etc. Will be returned.
0074The use and generation of playlists in connection with one embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 43-48. Playlists allow users to listen to a large number of media files organized by them based on their preferences or other criteria.
0075Using the user's "my music" collection or other media available through the media server 118 or network 300, the user plays by ordering the songs as the user wants to play or in some other order. The list can be easily generated. The order of this song is then stored in the playlist database 340, the processor 103, both locations, or any other location on the network 300. For example, the user is the user's my If you want to generate a playlist of songs 6, song 8 and song 10 in the music collection, the media engine 106 will generate a file containing a list of pointers to the locations of song 6, song 8 and song 10, respectively. And then send the file to the playlist database 340, although this location information is preferably made available as a result of the media engine 106 first collecting information about each of the user's available media files. , May occur when a song is selected for inclusion in a playlist. Therefore, when a user wants to access a newly generated playlist, the media engine searches for the song in the playlist. These playlists can be accessed from where the user runs the media engine 106.
0076The ability to generate healthier and more diverse playlists from the user's "my music" interface, described with reference to FIG. 2, which can be heard by user 102 from processor 103 where user 102 is located. It will be described below with reference to 43. From the user's interface 200, the user 102 can generate a playlist by selecting a specific song that the user 102 wants to add to generate a new playlist. For example, as seen in FIG. 43, interface 4305 displays the results of a search that searches all media within the "my music" collection of this particular user with the string "mo". In addition, as seen in FIG. 43, the user then has the ability to generate and refine his playlist by clicking button 4306 or 4307. For example, in FIG. 43, frame 4310 does not have a song in the playlist, but displays instructions to the user on how to add the song to the playlist. As seen in Figure 44, the user clicks on a song selection and then "add to" If you choose to add a song to a playlist by clicking the "playlist)" button 4306, a new playlist will be generated for that particular user in frame 4410. This can also be achieved through the drag-drop method by dragging the song to frame 4310 or to playlist tab 232. Thus, through this interface, the user can generate a playlist of all media available as part of the user's collection, including the string "mo". For example, if a user wants to remove one song or all songs from a particular playlist, he or she can cook the "remove from playlist" button 4307, which in turn will then them. Remove the song from the playlist. After this playlist is generated, the user "save new" It has the ability to save a new playlist as a file by clicking the "playlist)" button 4308. When the user clicks the Save New Playlist button, they are preferably given the ability to name or otherwise identify the playlist, and then at interface 201 at any time from the playlist list 232 of the user. You can access playlists. As mentioned above with reference to FIG. 2, the playlists listed in the pull-down list 232 will be available for user access using the media engine 106 from where the user is.
0077In another embodiment, the user can easily generate a playlist of songs with specific search criteria by manually selecting each song that the user wants to include in a particular playlist area. Therefore, the user manually uses the "my music" collection or the entire network to generate a playlist that incorporates a particular song that the user wants to put in a particular playlist, and that playlist from various locations. Can be accessed. Again, this is facilitated by the media engine 106 and the information compiled by the media engine regarding the media available to the user. Like the individual songs added to the user's "my music" collection, these playlists will be accessible to the user from where the user can access the media engine 106.
0078Another embodiment of the invention used to generate playlists is described below with reference to FIG. 45 and the interface shown in FIGS. 46-48. In this embodiment, the system can generate playlists based on the relationships between specific songs, artists or albums and the compatibility these songs, artists or albums have with each other. Different users have different likes and dislikes for different songs, artists and / or albums. However, in general, for example, a user who likes a particular song will probably also enjoy other songs by the artist, or songs similar to that particular song. Therefore, a user can usually generate a compatibility relationship between songs, albums, and / or artists by compiling a list of favorite songs. So, for example, if the user likes song A and song B, it is considered that there is some relationship between the two songs, that is, why the user likes both songs. If two users both like song A and song B, then the other user also indicates that they like both songs, so they are similar. Prospects or mutual compatibility will be strong. Similarly, if 1000 users like both song A and song B, they are more likely to be compatible or similar. In this embodiment, including the likes and dislikes of a particular user, the media server uses the compatibility engine 350 to the compatibility criteria and / or the degree of similarity between the artist, album or song desired by the user. Generate a matching playlist. As shown in FIG. 45, the media engine 106 receives a reference (eg, a particular artist or song) from user 102. Step 4510. When received by the media engine 106, the criteria are passed to the media server 118. Step 4520. The media server then executes the criteria through the compatibility engine 350. Step 4530. For example, the system collects user information about listening patterns and preferences. The information can be processed to generate a database of relationships between items in the media. Thus, for example, the system collects a large number of users who listen to artist A and also listen to artist B through the processing of user information or by direct input by a system administrator or operator, so the system resembles artist A and artist B. Can be associated with. The system may also utilize user genre ratings, third-party reviews, implicit or explicit user behavior analysis, human editors, or other sources of information to create compatibility relationships. it can. For example, but not limited to, exemplary formulas processed by the compatibility engine to establish compatibility between songs, artists and / or albums are described below.
0079When the compatibility engine calculates the compatibility based on the criteria selected by the user, the media server 118 generates playlists based on those compatibility results. Step 4540. The media server then transfers a file containing pointers to the songs in the newly generated playlist to the media engine 106. Step 4550. The media engine then creates a user interface that displays the songs in the playlist and allows the user access to those songs. Step 4560.
0080With reference to FIGS. 46 and 38, it is shown to generate a compatibility playlist from the user's point of view. As mentioned above with reference to FIG. 38, the user is based on music similar to an artist, for example by selecting the "create a playlist of similar artist" button 3815. Has the ability to generate playlists. When the user chooses to generate a similar artist playlist, the media engine 106 queries the media server 118 for the results of the playlist for a particular artist, and then the playlist is framed, as seen in Figure 46. Displayed to user 102 at 4610. As you can see in Figure 46, a new playlist called, for example, Like Pearl "Jam" is added to user 102's playlist 232 in slot 201, and the user can access it at any time. In another embodiment, the media server 118 is asked for a compatible playlist each time. Note that you can generate a playlist that matches the selected compatibility. Once the playlist is generated, user 102 can burn the playlist by clicking the "Burn CD" button 4601. It is preferable to be able to burn it to a CD or move it to another removable media device. This causes the actual media file to be stored on an external device or burned to a portable medium such as a CD or other storage medium that is currently known or will become known.
0081The question of whether a user has the proper right to experience a medium can also be addressed by the media engine. The media engine 106 preferably includes a digital rights management function to ensure that the various copyrights and media rights of the owner's license are respected. Thus, although embodiments that facilitate users to share media experiences will be described herein, sufficient control can be incorporated into the system to frustrate unauthorized use of the media. For example, the media engine 106 reviews digital rights management information that is part of a media file and / or media metadata, and appropriately responds to the user's request by allowing or denying access to the media based on the user's rights. Software and / or hardware for responding to can be incorporated. For example, as mentioned above, access to songs in the media database 120 can be based on gradual membership based on different contract fees. Therefore, some users are allowed access to some media, but others are not. In this case, there is a possibility that one user transfers a song to another user that the other user has not been granted access to. In such situations, one embodiment of the invention provides a second user to be alerted to this fact and offered the ability to apply for appropriate contract services or purchase rights to the desired media item. To.
0082In another embodiment, access, viewing ability, and sharing rights between users are preferably based on some conditions confirmed by the media management system of media server 118. In one example, the ability to access, view, and share is whether the system first checks the metadata associated with the media file and whether a particular media file is available through the services of the media management system (eg, contract). Whether or not to do). The system checks the metadata associated with the media file, and the media file is in the system's services (eg, available in the media database 120 or other authorized service 130) or in the user's contract. In some cases, media files can be shared, viewed, and accessed among users. However, if the system does not check the metadata of the media file and / or the media file is something other than the system's authorized offer, the receiving user may also access a particular media file. I can't even see it. These conditions are merely examples, and the system may base access and sharing rights on other conditions, such as whether the user is in a contract plan, or on other DRM parameters.
0083Also, in another embodiment, similar playlists can be generated for songs and / or artists as well. That is, as seen in FIG. 47, if the user selected the "create a similar playlist of songs" button 4715 from song page 4700, the media engine 106 was selected. It queries media server 118 for songs that are highly compatible with the song, and displays such a playlist to the user, as seen in Figure 48. Again, as described above with reference to FIG. 46, the user can either burn the generated playlist to a CD by selecting the "Burn CD" button 4802, or list 232 of the playlist. You can choose to play the playlist from within the my music interface by selecting the like Yellow playlist from. Alternatively, from song page 4700, the user can play the song by clicking the "Play Song" button 4705 and "In My Music". Click the "Music" button 4710 to add a song to the "my music" collection, click the "Buy Song" button 4720 to buy the song and "Send to a" You can send the song to another user by clicking the Friend) button 4725, or you can rate the song by clicking the rating tool 4730.
0084As mentioned above with reference to FIG. 45, an exemplary compatibility engine produces identification and memorized compatibility between songs, artists or albums, or other media-related information or metadata for use by the system. Used to do. In one embodiment, compatibility is used to generate playlists as described above, but presents new media options to the user, or other services or networks 300, such as radio stations, commerce sites. It can also be used to do what is presented by. For example, but not limited to, the following formulas are preferably used by compatibility engines to calculate artist compatibility. A = number of users who like artist A, B = number of users who like artist B, and AB = Number of users who like Artist A and Artist B
0085Artist A's compatibility with artist B is equal to (AB / A) x100, while artist B's compatibility with artist A is equal to (AB / B) x100. Such an equation allows the system to calculate the compatibility or relationship between two artists. This formula describes artists, but similar formulas can be used for albums and / or songs, or other items in the media. It is preferred that the media rating data is sent to and compiled into the media server 118, so that the system can use the rating data to generate relationships between different media, artists, and / or albums. When this data is compiled using the formula, compatibility is determined between two different artists, albums, and / or songs. Once this compatibility is established and stored, playlists can be generated based on that compatibility. Songs or other media items can be compiled with a degree of dispersion based on their compatibility with each other, based on whether the user wants to generate playlists of high similarity or difference. In addition to the techniques exemplified herein, compatibility determination applications or techniques recognized in other techniques can be used or developed to identify compatibility.
0086In one embodiment of the invention, it is preferred that additional factors be considered to generate compatible playlists. This factor is the number (N) of all 102 users using the system. This variable factor is considered when the compatibility between one artist and another is distorted by a very popular artist vs. a totally unpopular artist. For example, using the formula, an artist who is popular with 95% of users can be more compatible with many more artists than an artist who is only popular with 5% of users. Therefore, artists that are popular with 95% of users appear to be highly compatible with almost every other artist. This is because a popular artist will invariably overlap with another artist who is rated higher by many users of the system. Therefore, instead of using the formula (AB / A) x100 to balance this formula, the formula for determining the compatibility from artist A to artist B, taking into account the popularity of the artist, is (AB / A) ÷ (B / N), and the formula for determining the compatibility between artist B and artist A, including the popularity of the artist as a factor, is (AB / B) ÷ (A / N). This formula divides the relationship between artists A and B by the total number of users who like artist A. This reduces compatibility with very popular artists, while increasing compatibility with less popular artists. A popular artist must have a large number of users who like that artist, and another artist who has a strong affinity for that artist, while an unpopular artist has a small number of people who share the same affinity. You only need to have a user of. Therefore, using the formulas described above, the system can determine the compatibility between one artist, album or song and another artist, album or song based on the likes and dislikes of other users. Specific based on compatibility calculations and criteria selected by the user
0087Also note that compatibility data can be used to automatically generate a list of similar albums, artists or songs for a particular user. Thus, in one embodiment, the user can request a list of albums similar to a particular album without generating a playlist, and based on the compatibility data described above, a list of similar albums. Can be compiled. Alternatively, the media engine 106 can automatically recommend similar albums to the user based on this compatibility data. For example, each time the user opens the media engine 106, the interface can display a list of recommended albums based on the album's compatibility with the user's higher rated album. Thus, in addition to tracking the media available to the user, the media engine 106 knows that the user prefers it alone or in collaboration with or in combination with the media server 118. You can also intelligently recommend other media to your users based on your music.
0088In another embodiment, the media engine can manage playlists so that they are not simply played by the user in a particular pre-specified or random order. Rather, the media engine and / or media server 118 can form a sequence of songs in a playlist that better reflects the likes and dislikes of the user. Again, referring to FIG. 48, the user interface incorporates the ability to give the user the ability to use randomized features based on the data acquired by the media engine 106 when playing playlists. To access such random playback of playlisted media, the user preferably selects the smart shuffle button 4805. When you select the smart shuffle button 4805, the playlist starts playing the songs in the playlist in an order that is not completely randomly selected, but rather the playlist order is Media Engine 106 and / or Media. Based in part on the data that server 118 retrieves about the user. In other words, as described in detail below, the system has various factors such as the user's rating and / or other factors such as the frequency of playback, the time the song was last played, the song being the user. Consider what other artists are included in the playlist, whether they are burned by or recommended by friends, or other factors. The smart shuffle feature factor in the system's knowledge of the user's listening preferences produces a better user experience. This is yet another use of the user data acquired by the media engine 106 and / or the media server 118, which allows the user to generate a better and more personalized listening experience for the user. It will be supplemented as you continue to use it.
0089As will be apparent with reference to FIG. 49, according to one embodiment of the invention, the order produces playlists based on different user preferences, and the order produces more enjoyable playlists for user 102. The process for is executed. In this embodiment, the user 102 selects a list of media files to be included in the playlist. Step 4901. Describes the user's choice of which media files to include in the playlist, but also note that playlists can be generated using any or all of the media files located somewhere across the network 300. I want to. Further, the functions and processes can be executed not only as described above but also at various locations on the network. This processing and data storage can be distributed across the components of the network and is not constrained to a single element on the network 300. Once the list of songs for the playlist has been created, the media engine 106 queries media server 118 for information about each particular media file that should be classified into a playlist. Step 4903. This information includes rating information available to user 102 for this particular media file and information about when the media file was last played. When the media engine 106 receives this information from the media server 118, a score is generated for each particular media file based on when the media file was last played by user 102. Step 4905. This "last played score" according to one embodiment score) is generated on a scale of 1 to 100, where 100 is the last played media file from the list of media files contained in the playlist and 1 is the earliest played. All other songs, which are songs and contain values between 1 and 100, are based on a linear relationship between the last played song and the earliest played song. .. When a "last play score" is specified for each media file or song, the media engine 106 looks at the rating data available for a particular song and sees if user 102 rated this song. Find out. Step 4907. If the user rates a song, a "song rating score" is specified in the media file, for example, based on a rating scale of 1 to 100, where 100 is the highest rating, and 1 is. It is the lowest rating. Step 4908. If the song has not been rated by the user, the media engine will look at the rating information to determine if the album associated with the song has been rated by the user. Step 4909. If the album is rated by user 102, an "album rating score" is assigned to the media file based on the user rating of the album associated with the song. Step 4910. Again, in one embodiment, the score is based on a scale of 1 to 100, where 100 is the highest rated album, and 1 is the lowest rated album. If the album is not rated by the user, the media engine 106 reviews the rating information to see if the artist associated with the album was rated by the user. Step 4911. If the artist is rated by the user, an "artist rating score" is generated by the media engine 106 based on the rating given by the user 102. Step 4912. Again, according to one embodiment, this score is generated on a scale of 1 to 100. Preferably, 100 is the highest rated artist, and 1 is the lowest rated artist. If the artist associated with this song is also unrated, a "default rating score" will be associated with the media file. Step 4913. In one embodiment, this rating score is a score of 50. Given that all the various scores are assigned to a particular media file or song, it is preferable that the scores be weighted to give appropriate significance to each score. In one embodiment, this rating multiplies the "recently played rating" by 0.17, and if obtained, the "song rating score" is 0.83, the "album rating score" is 0.80, and the "artist's rating". Achieved by multiplying the "Rating Score" and "Default Rating Score" by 0.77. Step 4915. Once all scores have been calculated and weighted (this calculation is done on the user processor 103 as part of the media engine 106, on the media server 118, or somewhere in the network 300). The weighted scores are added together and compiled to produce one "overall score" for each media file in the list of files to be included in the playlist. Once the "overall score" has been calculated for each media file, an expression is run for each individual file to ensure the appropriate slot in the playlist for that media file. Step 4917. According to one embodiment, the formula used to select a slot for a media file is: Achieved by multiplying by 77. Step 4915. Once all scores have been calculated and weighted (this calculation is done on the user processor 103 as part of the media engine 106, on the media server 118, or somewhere in the network 300). The weighted scores are added together and compiled to produce one "overall score" for each media file in the list of files to be included in the playlist. Once the "overall score" has been calculated for each media file, an expression is run for each individual file to ensure the appropriate slot in the playlist for that media file. Step 4917. According to one embodiment, the formula used to select a slot for a media file is: i = [N * (R / N)<sup>p</sup>]<sup>0.94</sup>, N = number of items in the list #, R = Random integer in range [0, N], p = constant value used to increase weight in items with high scores, and i = Selected slot for inserting media files.
0090Once slots have been determined for each particular media file, playlists are generated based on those results. Step 4919.
0091According to another embodiment of the invention, an additional factor used by the media engine 106 in connection with playlist generation is artist separation. This factor causes the media engine 106 to generate a playlist that ensures that songs from a particular artist are not repeated in the playlist, or at least not too close in time, when possible. forgive. This embodiment describes artist separation, but similar embodiments are also conceivable such that playlists are separated by song or album separation and / or genre separation, or other factors associated with the song or media file. .. To generate artist separation, a list is created by a media engine or media server that sums the number of songs for each particular artist from the songs selected for the playlist. Once this task is complete, a minimum number of separations can be generated for each song based on the information gathered from this created list. The following equation is used to generate the minimum number of separations.<u style="single">Total number of songs </u> Number of songs by a particular artist
0092Therefore, a minimum number of separations is generated for each artist associated with a song in this list of media files that should be included in the playlist. For example, if a user selects a total of 50 songs to be included in a playlist, and 10 of these songs are associated with a particular artist X, then the minimum number of separations for artist X is 50. Is divided by 10, that is, 5. When a playlist is generated, the media engine 106 tracks the last slot occupied by the media file for each particular artist, then the minimum number of separations is added to that slot number, and the slot number + Slot numbers higher than the number of separations cannot contain songs by that particular artist. For example, if after the expression is executed on that particular media file, the song by Artist X is chosen to be placed in playlist slot number 3, and the minimum separation number for that particular artist is 5. When generating a playlist with artist separation, a song by artist A is not allowed in slots 4, 5, 6 or 7, and the media engine attempts to put the song in slot 8 and beyond. If a slot is selected for a particular song that is not available, the media file will be placed in the next available slot. In one embodiment, if the end of the playlist is reached by proceeding with this slot filling process, the process is started again from the first slot of the playlist. Note that any or all of the preferences mentioned above can be set by the media engine 106 or can be selected by each individual user for each individual playlist.
0093In another embodiment of the invention, playlists may be automatically generated based on specific criteria. In this embodiment, the system can generate playlists based on specific user criteria. For example, the user may select different criteria from the drop-down menu, such as artist, album, genre, date the song was added to the system, last time the song was played for this particular user, rating, etc. Can be done. Based on this selected criterion, a list of modifiers is given to users who are appropriate for these particular criteria. For example, if the selected criterion is "date added", the modifier list will be, for example, "is", "is after", "is before", "on or before", "on". Includes "or after" and "is not". All of these options are applicable to a particular date entered by the user. On the other hand, if the criterion selected by the user is a genre, this modifier is "is" or "is". These choices can be applied to genre criteria, including choices such as "not". After the modifier is selected, the user is prompted to insert applicable terms into the desired playlist, for example. If the user selects "genre" as a criterion, "is not" as a modifier, and the word "disco" as a term, the system will automatically generate a playlist of songs whose genre is not disco. Again, these playlists can be accessed from where the user runs the media engine 106.
0094In one embodiment of the invention, there are additional options that can be given to the user when generating playlists. For example, the user is given the option to choose whether he wants to include a large number of conditions for the playlist, or prefers a playlist that satisfies only a certain number of conditions. In addition, the user can choose how long the playlist should exist and whether the playlist should be limited to a certain number of songs. Therefore, if the playlist condition is, for example, to return 1000 songs, and the user only wants to have a playlist with a length of 25 songs, the user limits the playlist to 25 songs. Alleviate this problem by choosing to do so. The 25 songs used in the playlist can be randomly selected by the media engine, or again, using criteria chosen by the user. For example, the user can further narrow the playlist by choosing that the playlist of 25 songs must be the highest rated 25 songs or the last 25 songs heard. Therefore, the media engine can return playlists with a number of different graded criteria. This eliminates the generation of playlists that are larger than the user envisions or larger than a certain size that the user's storage media can hold. Thus, in the example described above, the user has generated a 25-track playlist of the most popular or most recent songs that meet the user's criteria.
0095Additional criteria that can be set by the user include whether the user wants the system to keep updating playlists based on the criteria. The playlist generated by generating this option can change periodically based on the media added to the system. So, for example, the genre is "not disco" disco) When a playlist containing all media is generated, the composition of the playlist changes each time an additional piece of non-disco media is added to the system. Therefore, if the user selects a live update feature, the media engine will execute the search criteria at fixed or variable times, or each time a playlist is requested, since the last time the search was performed. New media added to the system can be incorporated. Thus, the user may have the ability to listen to a playlist of songs that meet the selected conditions and criteria, but the playlist does not necessarily have to consist of the same song each time the playlist is requested. .. In other words, each time a playlist is selected or requested, the media engine will generate an updated playlist based on the previous criteria specified for that playlist.
0096An example of a user interface used in connection with the function of generating playlist criteria described in the previous embodiment is shown in FIG. 73. For example, from this interface, the user can select a criterion from drop-down list 7301, select a modifier term from drop-down list 7302, and insert a value into field 7303. When all conditions are set, the user can use the "generate playlist" button 7310 and / or "save criteria". You can click any of the "as)" buttons 7312. When clicked, the media engine 106 alone, or in tandem with the media server 118, or the media server 118 itself, produces a playlist, eg, in the form shown in user interface portion 7315. However, if the user does not want to generate a playlist for immediate viewing, click the "Criteria Save" button 7312, which saves the selected condition and allows the user at a later time. Make it easy to generate playlists that match those selected criteria. Once a playlist is generated, the user preferably has various options for what to do with the playlist by clicking a button located below interface 7315. In this embodiment, the user can play the playlist by clicking the play button 7316, or can download the playlist to the local device by clicking the download button 7318. In addition, the user adds You can add a song or all playlists to another playlist by clicking the "on)" button 7317, or you can get more information about the playlist or a particular song by clicking the info button 7319. You can also do it. Also, the user can use "save list". You can also choose to save the playlist by clicking the "as)" button 7320. In one embodiment, if the user chooses to save the playlist, the playlist will be saved in the form in which it was generated. In other words, a particular song selected by the system to meet the conditions set by the user is always present in the playlist. The saved file preferably contains only a pointer to the position of each individual song in the playlist. However, in contrast, if the user chooses to save only the playlist criteria by clicking the "Save Criteria" button 7312, then only the specific criteria for generating the playlist are the user. Saved to a file on the processor, so the next time this playlist is run, the media engine will generate a playlist that will also produce a different list of songs that also match the criteria selected by the user. .. Of course, if the user chooses to save the playlist to a portable device or storage media, the actual media file may be stored.
0097The ability to generate a reference playlist allows the user to generate a playlist based on a particular criterion and then save the playlist for later listening. Alternatively, a user can send a reference playlist to another user via email, instant messaging, peer networking, or other known or upcoming communication channels. For example, if a user generates a criteria playlist containing criteria for songs uploaded after September 1, 2004 with certain criteria, one user can send the criteria to another. .. Other users can use the same criteria to generate their own playlists based on the media available to the other users. For example, user A has his own my When executing a playlist in the music collection, the playlist returns songs A, B and C, user 2 executes the same playlist criteria and songs D, E and F are returned, on the other hand. The user also has the ability to save the playlist as it was generated, i.e. to have the same songs and / or media that were generated when the user first generated the playlist. Therefore, when communicating such playlists, another user receives a file containing pointers to the positions of these particular songs on network 300.
0098The generation of an exemplary compatibility playlist according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 74 and 75. With reference to FIG. 74, the user has the ability to generate playlists based on music that is similar or dissimilar to an album or artist, for example by selecting a criterion from the drop-down menu 7401. When the user chooses whether he wants music that resembles a particular album and / or does not resemble a particular album, music that resembles a particular artist and / or does not resemble a particular artist, the artist drop-down list 7402 or You can select an artist and / or an album from the Album drop-down list 7403. Also, the degree of similarity is selected from, for example, "not too similar", "very similar", and the like. The system then adjusts the algorithm used to find similarities between two or more items by applying a slightly stricter similarity factor with respect to the user's choice.
0099In addition, the user is preferably given the option to select an intelligibility level by selecting an intelligibility level with the obscurity knob 7404. The intelligibility of a particular song / artist or album is a measure of the level of compatibility an item has with other items in the selected category. The intelligibility is preferably determined by the collective rating or listening pattern of the song / artist / album among other users on the network and / or through system operator input. For example, if a user wants to generate a playlist with a very obscure song, the media engine 106 queries media server 118 and the song is unrated by x users in the last y days. Find out. Therefore, the resulting playlist consists of songs that are obscure to other songs on the network, which means that other users have not rated the song and do not listen to it often. ..
0100After selecting the intelligibility, the user wants to generate playlists with a wide variety of artists and / or albums, or whether the songs must be from almost the same artist and / or album. It is preferable that an option to select is also given. When the user selects the criteria, the user can either generate the playlist by clicking the "generate playlist" button 7406, or "save criteria", similar to the playlist described above. You can have the option to save the criteria as a file by clicking the "as)" button 7407. The media engine 106 preferably transfers the reference to the media server 118. When the playlist is generated, the playlist results are displayed on interface 7410. Further, similar to the playlist described above, the user plays the playlist by clicking the play button 7416, downloads the playlist by clicking the button 7418, and clicks the button 7417 to play the playlist. Additional information about the playlist or songs in the playlist can be obtained by adding to another playlist or clicking the info button 7419. The user can save the playlist as a file by clicking the "save list as" button 7420.
0101In another embodiment, playlists can be generated based on the artist's and / or similarity to a particular song, as seen in Figure 75. Similar to the embodiments described above, the user selects criteria as to whether he or she desires music similar or dissimilar to a particular song by selecting the criteria from the drop-down list 7401, with the only difference being this embodiment. Now, the user selects a song from the drop-down menu 7403 instead of the album. Other similar options such as artist, genre or rating are also available.
0102In one embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 76, when a playlist is generated, the user has various different options for what to do with the generated playlist. For example, the user can also play the playlist by clicking the "play playlist" button 7630, as in the previous embodiment, or "burn a". You can also burn a playlist to a CD located on device 114 by clicking the CD) button 7631. In one embodiment, the user clicks the "Burn CD" button 7631 or saves it to a portable media player or other storage media so that the playlist can be burned to a CD. You will be prompted to insert it into device 114. If the playlist is too long and / or too large for the CD, the user will be alerted to this and either change the format of the media or which song the user wants to burn from the playlist to the CD. You will be offered the option to choose. Alternatively, the user may choose to make the playlist portable by copying the playlist to, for example, but not limited to, a portable media storage device such as an MP3 player. In such an embodiment, the playlist does not simply include pointers, but includes actual media files and any relevant metadata.
0103In addition, the user can choose to publish the playlist to other users of the system, for example by clicking the "publish playlist" button 7633. Choosing to publish a playlist prompts the user to enter a name for the playlist. Playlists are stored in processor 103 and / or media server 118, or elsewhere on network 300. Users are given the option to publish published playlists, so it is preferable to allow other users to not only view the playlist, but also listen to the media contained in the playlist. The ability to publish playlists has the added benefit of making playlists completely portable by making them available to all users. This is because it will reside on the media server 118 or in any other user-accessible location (s) on the network.
0104Issuing a playlist according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG. 77. First, the user creates a playlist. Step 7700. This playlist can be generated in a number of different ways, as described above (ie, reference playlist; compatible playlist). Once the playlist is generated, the user can choose to publish the playlist. Step 7710. If the user chooses to publish a playlist, the media engine 106 queries the media server 118 to determine if all the songs in the playlist are available in the media database 120. Step 7720. If the songs in the playlist are not in the media database 120, the media engine 106 copies these songs to the media database 120. Step 7730. When the media database 120 has all the songs in the playlist, the playlist name and content are saved in the playlist database 120. Step 7740. So, for example, if another user requests the playlist, either by the search function mentioned somewhere in this document, or also by the "friends" function mentioned somewhere in this document, the playlist is made to that user. Can be saved in. Step 7750. Published playlists can contain pointers (pointers include URLs or URIs), metadata, or actual media files that identify the network location where the media files exist or can be accessed, but play. The list preferably contains pointers to avoid the need to store many copies of the same media file on the network. Therefore, the playlist can be made available to the user by issuing the playlist via the network.
0105According to another embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 50, the user can use the media engine 106 to identify and communicate with other users connected to the system via an instant messaging program. .. As mentioned above, each user preferably has a messaging program 108 on processor 103, which allows them to communicate with other users using a messaging platform. The messaging program 108 may simply be presented as a stand-alone feature for messaging and / or may be integrated with the functions of the media engine 106 when extended media-related functions are desired. Core messaging functions can also be utilized by a number of applications on processor 103 based on user requirements. Information about the user's messaging preferences is preferably stored within the messaging program. This information can include, for example, a list of "friends" or other users that the user has been informed of in some way. This list is compiled by each individual user and can include, for example, collaborators, families or classmates. From within the messenger client, this list of "friends" allows users to easily interact with other users who wish to interact with them on a regular basis. According to one embodiment of the invention, the media engine 106 can use this information from the messaging program 108 to improve the user's media listening experience. For example, the media engine 106 can use "friend" information from a messaging program to share media information and experiences among users. As mentioned above, the media engine 106 preferably compiles and stores information about a particular available media file for each user. In this embodiment, the media engine uses a messaging program in which each user tells their friends.
0106One exemplary user interface associated with this function is shown in Figure 50. As can be seen in FIG. 50, when the user accesses the messenger button 234 from the frame 201, the list 5005 of the user's "friends" is displayed in the frame 5010. As seen in FIG. 51, in one embodiment, the user can see the "friends" drop-down list 5106 in frame 5106 by clicking the arrow 5104 next to the messenger button 234. Through the user interface shown in Figures 50-54, the user can view the media files that one of his "friends" has in the "my music" collection. The media engine 106 can generate a user interface that displays information about the media of another user running both the media engine 106 and the messaging program 108. User my As with the music collection, the user has the ability to explore and listen to the music of that friend and any of the playlists and / or other preferences of that friend , preferably with appropriate rights management permissions. Also has. For example, as shown in Figure 52, if a user highlights a particular friend (eg John B) from Listing 5106, Frame 5220 populates the list with all the songs in John B's my music collection. .. John B's my, similar to the embodiment described above for the user's my music collection interface. A list of all songs in the music collection is given in the bottom frame 5220 on the right, for example, song title 5222, time width 5224, artist 5226, album 5228, track 5230, and this particular song. It is categorized into columns that represent information about each song, including the last time 5232 played. These columns are for illustration purposes only, and see other information about a particular song, such as the genre or Figure 2. As mentioned above, columns containing the ability to rate a particular song with the rating tool can also be included in the list in frame 5220, as well as the full list of all artist's songs in John B's "my music" collection. It is preferable to be displayed in frame 5240. My of Friend In addition to information about media files in the music collection, users can also access additional information about friends from within Interface 5000. The user-to-user information is preferably passed through the messaging program 108, but can also be passed through data transfer methods that are currently known or will become known in the future. For example, the user can access profile information about his or her "friend", for example, profile information that can indicate the hobbies and / or likes and dislikes of the "friend", and Internet radio of the "friend" from frame 5210. You can also access the station. Information about each user is stored in the user information database 360, as described with reference to FIG. User preference data can also be stored and exchanged. The media engine 106 obtains this profile information and allows the user to access it from within slot 5210. In one embodiment, the user may also choose to add his "friend" as an "influencer" to the radio station. If the user chooses to add his "friend" as an "affected person", then when the media server 118 streams music to the user via internet radio, he will patronize the songs that the "affected person" prefers. When streaming songs or giving recommendations to users, make these recommendations based on songs that are rated higher by the "influencers." In other words, the songs streamed or recommended by the media server 118 will be highly rated by the "friends" selected as the influencers. The degree of impact may vary by the user and / or system based on certain or calculated factors, such as implied or explicit user behavior, or other preference-based techniques described herein. it can.
0107As can be seen in FIG. 53, the user can further narrow the view of the "my music" list of "friends" by clicking on a particular artist (ie, Emmylou Harris) from the list of artists in frame 5240. The user can then see the list of albums in frame 5310 for that particular artist. In addition, only songs by specific artists in the "my music" collection of "friends" are displayed in frame 5220. The user can further narrow the field of view in frame 5220 by selecting an album from the list in frame 5310, as seen in FIG. 54. By selecting a particular album from slot 5310, the user is given only songs from the album in the "my music" collection of the particular "friend" (ie, John B). In addition, as seen in Figures 50-54, users can "my" by either artist, album, genre or song, as described above with reference to Figure 2-3. Similar to how you can browse the "music" collection, users can browse the "my music" collection of "friends" as well by selecting by which criteria they want to browse from the drop-down menu 5201. You can then play, remember, add to playlists, select media items, etc. in the same or similar way as described anywhere in this book. In short, a user's friend's "my music" collection is an extension of that user's "my music" collection.
0108Similar to the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 18-32, another embodiment of the invention allows a user to search through another user's media collection. As seen in FIG. 55, the user interface 5500 includes a field 5501 in which the search term is entered and a drop-down menu 5502 in which the category to be searched for is selected for the search term. For example, FIG. 55 shows a display in which a user chooses to search for the term "John" through all artists in John B's "my music" collection. When the user selects a search term (eg John), a list of artists for songs that meet the criteria is shown in artist box 5505. All songs that meet the criteria are also shown in frame 5515. In addition, a list of albums that meet the criteria is shown in frame 5510. The user can further narrow the search results by clicking on the artist in frame 5505. For example, as seen in Figure 56, the user is from frame 5505 to artist John. If you click Coltrane, frame 5515 will only display songs from artist John Coltrane. Similarly, only albums that match the selected artist are displayed in the album frame 5510.
0109As can be seen in FIG. 57, the user can further narrow the search results by selecting a particular album from the frame 5510. If a particular album is selected from frame 5510, only songs from that album will be displayed in frame 5515. In this embodiment, the user browses the "my music" collection of his "friends" and from there, similar to how the user can browse his own "my music" collection and play songs from it. Can play the song. As seen in FIG. 58, when the user highlights and clicks on a particular song from song 5515, that song is played on the media player 240. In addition, users can add songs from their "friends" "my music" collection to their own "my music" collection. In one embodiment, this can be done by dragging a particular song from frame 5515 and dropping it onto the user's "my music" button 222. Similarly, "my" of "friend" Songs from the music collection can also be dragged and dropped onto a specific user's playlist by dragging a specific song from slot 5515 and dropping it into playlist list 232. However, preferably, taking into account appropriate digital rights or other permissions, actions that can be performed in one's own "my music" collection can be performed in one's "friend"'s "my music" collection. Please note that
0110In another embodiment, the user selects "Song" from the drop-down menu 5502 and inserts a search variable in field 5501, a variable in the song title of the song in the "Friends" "my music" collection. You can search for songs in the "my music" collection of "friends" in the section. As can be seen in Figure 59, if the user chooses to search for a song title from the drop-down menu 5502 and, for example, populates field 5501 with the search term fin, the media engine 106 will use that particular criterion. Return a list of artists in frame 5505, albums in frame 5510, and songs in frame 5515 that match. The user then selects a song directly from frame 5515, or an artist from frame 5505, or an album from frame 5510 and further searches to include only songs from that particular artist or album. Can be narrowed. For example, as seen in Figure 60, the user has a Roger in John B's my music collection with the term fin. If you choose to watch only "Miller" songs, select Roger Miller from frames 5505 that display all Roger Miller albums in frame 5510 and all Roger Miller songs in frame 5515. As you can see, if the user selects one of these albums in frame 5510, frame 5515 will only display songs from that particular album, again the user will identify from frame 5515. By selecting a song, you can play it, memorize it, transfer it, and so on.
0111An additional similar embodiment in which the user can search the "my music" collection of "friends" by album and / or genre is described below with reference to FIGS. 62-70. As can be seen in Figure 62, the user selects an album from the drop-down menu 5502 and includes a search term, for example "love" in the field 5501, from the "friends" "my music" collection. You can choose to search for a specific search term in the album name. Again, this is a song whose album name appears in frame 5515 and has the term "love" in its name, "my" of a particular "friend". Generated in the music collection. As shown in Figure 63, again, the user can further narrow the search by selecting a particular artist from frame 5505, in which case the song from that particular artist. Only displayed in frame 5515. The user can also further narrow the search by selecting an album from frame 5510, in which case it matches the album and as seen in Figure 64. Only songs that meet the search criteria are displayed in frame 5515.
0112In another embodiment, the user can search for a particular term within a song genre in the "my music" collection of "friends", as seen in Figure 65. Similar to the embodiment, in order to carry out such a search, the user can select "genre" from the drop-down menu 5502 and enter specific search criteria in the field 5501. As seen in Figure 65, if the user selects a genre from the drop-down menu 5502 and selects the string rock from the field 5501, the song with the string rock in the genre name is displayed in frame 5515. And a list of artists and albums for those songs is displayed in slots 5505 and 5510, respectively. As can be seen in FIG. 66, the search can be further narrowed if the user selects a particular artist from the artist frame 5505. As shown in Figure 66, the song New York that matches the selected artist Only "Dolls" are shown in frame 5515, and only albums that match that artist are shown in frame 5510. If the user selects an album from frame 5510, the search can be further narrowed. See Figure 67. As such, frame 5515 only displays songs that meet the criteria and are from an album selected by the user.
0113In another embodiment, the user searches all of the specific search terms at once through the various distinguishing characteristics of his "friend" "my music" collection (ie, album name, song name, artist name, genre, preference rating). You can search. As seen in Figure 68, if the user selects all from the drop-down menu 5502 and then selects a specific search term (eg morn) in field 5501, the user interface will be in frame 5515. Return all songs in the "my music" collection of a particular "friend" that has that criterion. In addition, a list of all artists who meet these criteria will be displayed in frame 5505, and all albums that meet those criteria will be displayed in frame 5510. As in the previous embodiment, the user can select a particular artist from frame 5505 (eg, my morning, as seen in FIG. 69. jacket ), the search can be further narrowed. When the user selects a particular artist, only albums from that particular artist that meet the criteria are displayed in frame 5510, and that particular artist and criteria are met. Only songs are displayed in frame 5515. As seen in Figure 70, if the user selects a particular album from frame 5510, the search can be further narrowed. As seen in Figure 70, the user. When a particular album is selected from frame 5510, only songs from that particular album are displayed in frame 5515. Similar to the embodiment described above with reference to FIGS. 18-32, in one embodiment a search field. The 5501 can be automatically populated based on previous searches performed by the user, for example, when the user types "MI", the word "mirror" can be filled.
0114In another embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 71, the various processors 103 connected to the messaging platform 116 can be interconnected by connecting to the network 300 without using the messaging platform 116. The use of a similar form of network was filed on November 18, 2003, in the Method and MFP for Assisting With Playback of Remotely Stored Media. It is disclosed in No. 694, which has been assigned to the assignee of this application and is incorporated herein by reference. In one embodiment of the invention, for example, User A uses both Processor 7110 and Processor 7140, Processor 7110 is located in User A's home, and Processor 7140 is located in User A's workplace. .. User B uses processor 7120, user C uses processor 7130, user D uses processor 7150 and processor 7160, processor 7150 is placed in, for example, user D's house, and processor 7160. Is placed in the workplace of user D, for example. All of these processors can be interconnected without having to stay connected via the messaging platform 116. More specifically, if all processors are connected to the messaging platform 116, the messaging platform 116 can sense the information and relay it between each processor. For example, in addition to being connected to a messaging platform, User A's processors, namely processor 7110 and processor 7140, are both connected to each other via network 300, and user D's processors, namely processor 7150 and processor 7160, are both connected to the network. If processor 7120 is connected to processor 7140 while connected to each other via 300, and processor 7150 is connected to processor 7130, then all processors shown in FIG. 71 can be considered interconnected. .. For this reason, processor 7110 maintains connectivity with both processor 7140 and processor 7130, so processor 7130 can also be used as a conduit for connecting to processor 7120, 7150 or 7160. This conduit is preferably managed through messaging program 108, but individual peer networking software applications running on processor 102 It can also be used alone, in collaboration with the messaging program 108, or as part of it. That is, if user A in processor 7110 wants to exchange media files or other information with processor 7150, he sends the file through a connection with processor 7130, which processor 7130 transfers it through the connection with processor 7160. This processor 7160 can then be executed by being able to transfer it via a link or point directly to the processor 7150. Alternatively, processor 7110 receives a location containing a particular media file or other information. Processor 7110 can proceed and stream it, for example, from processor 7150. Note that again, in certain embodiments, validation is first performed to ensure that the user has the appropriate digital rights to stream a particular song. In other words, as described in other embodiments, it is preferable that the system can manage digital rights to avoid illegal distribution of media files between users. Note that the verification is done first to ensure that the user has the earnest digital rights. In other words, as described in other embodiments, it is preferable that the system can manage digital rights to avoid illegal distribution of media files between users. Note that the verification is done first to ensure that the user has the earnest digital rights. In other words, as described in other embodiments, it is preferable that the system can manage digital rights to avoid illegal distribution of media files between users.
0115In this embodiment, a network in which a group of users uses their various interconnects to exchange files between different processors and / or generate networks that can be used to stream information and media files. Generated. As is apparent from FIG. 72, processor 103 connects to messaging platform 116 and lists other processors 103 that messaging platform 116 knows and can act as members of processor 103's extended network. To get. Step 7201. In other words, the messaging platform 116 informs the request generating processor 103 of all other processors that maintain a connection to that messaging platform 116, which is a direct connection or a connection of another processor. It is available to the request generating processor 103 by either. This list of processors provided by the messaging platform 116 is referred to as a list of all the different "peers" available to the request generating processor through their "peer network". Step 7202. Once processor 103 gets a list of "peers" from messaging platform 116, processor 103 no longer needs to be connected to messaging platform 116. Processor 103 then attempts to initiate a connection with each of the other processors 103 or peers passed through it by the messaging platform 116. Step 7203. This can be done by sending a messenger to each of the processor peers requesting information about processor utilization. If other processors are available, they will return a message indicating their availability. Step 7204. When processor 103 receives all information about the utilization of other processors or peers in the processor's network, it is information about the "peer" to return a message. Compile the information, including the time it takes. Step 7205. Thus, in addition to having a list of available processors in the peer network, the processors respond to which connections faster, thus maintaining faster connections between peers, and which connections are slower. It also has a list of what it is. Then, if processor 103 wants to search for a particular media file (eg, a song), the processor sends a search request to all the processors listed in the peer network. Step 7206. Each processor in the network checks for the requested file and returns an appropriate message to the requesting processor instructing it to have the file. Step 7207. When the request-generating processor receives any or all responses from peers in the peer network, the media file can be streamed or copied to that request-generating processor. Step 7208.
0116When searching for files in the network, the processors being searched can include two directly connected processors, such as the processors 7110 and 7130 in Figure 71, or they are not directly connected to each other and are connected through another processor. It can also include a processor. For example, referring again to FIG. 71, the peer network generated from processor 7130 can include processors 7160 and 7110, both of which are directly connected to processor 7130. However, when searching for files or other information, the processor 7130, in addition to searching for processors within its peer network (ie, processors 7110 and 7160), within its peer network, ie, the network of 7110. And you can also search within the 7160 network. Therefore, processor 7130 can also search for processors 7120, 7240 and 7150. As a result, these processors are not directly in the processor 7130's network, but are in one of the 7130's peer networks.
0117When querying messaging platform 116 for a list of other processors that can act as peers to processor 103, the messaging platform in one embodiment is information about the state of the processor, or the processor is actually connected to the network at that time. It can also provide a state of whether or not the processor is actively receiving messages. In another embodiment, the messaging platform provides only information that there are several processors to which the request generating processor can connect, but not information about the current state of those processors. In such an embodiment, it is up to the processor to individually connect to each processor and / or peer and obtain the current state. Thus, by using messaging and / or peer connections, the media engine 106 embeds a large area of media for a particular user and sets the user's media file access options beyond that user's particular collection. , Can be extended to the user's collection of friends.
0118In another embodiment, the user interface allows the user to utilize the similarity reconnaissance function to generate a list of similar users / members, albums, artists, songs or genres. This function is performed in whole or in part by the compatibility engine 350, which produces a list of wishes based on the user's rating, preference, playback data, and / or explicit and / or implicit user behavior. To do. In yet another embodiment, the compatibility engine preferably applies a filter function or threshold when generating the list. The threshold is preferably related to the number, amount or size of items or actions associated with each potential candidate for the similarity list. In order for the potential candidate to be considered to be a good match for the similarity list, the candidate must preferably satisfy a particular threshold.
0119In one embodiment using the similarity reconnaissance function, the user can access a list of similar users or members in the network. The compatibility engine preferably generates a similar member list based on the user's rating, preference and / or playback data. In addition, the compatibility engine can apply thresholds when generating similar member / user lists. In one example, the threshold can be set to a predetermined number of items (genre / album / artist / song) rated by a particular user. For example, a user must rate at least 20 items, and those selected as similar must rate at least 100 items. Therefore, members / users who do not match this threshold number are not included in the list of similar members / users. As is clear from reference to Figure 78, the user interface allows members to access and view a list of similar members. First, the user clicks on a link associated with the frequent member function 7810 located in a particular frame 7815 of the user interface. The user is then presented with a frame 7910 listing similar members 7915 generated by the compatibility engine 350, as shown in FIG. 79. This generation may be done when the list is requested by the user, or as a background function or batch function that is periodically performed by the compatibility engine 350. From this frame, the user can also access information 7915 about each listed member. For example, the user can access artist 7925, which is highly rated by a particular listed member. In another example, the user can access member 7920, which is believed to be similar to member 7915 listed. This allows the user to explore and to similar members of different degrees and branches. Allow to expand. In yet another example, the user can browse the incarnations or other related information of each listed member 7915, such as the username, which artist a particular member likes, and so on.
0120In another embodiment using the similarity reconnaissance function, the user can access the list of similar artists. Thus, similar to user similarity reconnaissance, the compatibility engine 350 generates a list of similar artists based on aggregated implicit or explicit user information, or information given by the operator of the system, but the user's rating, preference. And / or preferably based at least in part on the regenerated data. In addition, the compatibility engine 350 can optionally apply the threshold parameter when generating a similar artist list. Therefore, artists who do not satisfy the threshold are not included in the similar artist list. An example of a threshold parameter is how many times a particular artist appears in the user's library, or how many times an artist appears in the user's library with a particular artist (s). As is clear from reference to Figure 80, the user interface allows members to access and view the list of similar artists. First, the user clicks on the link associated with the similar artist function 8010 located in the user interface. A truncated or abbreviated list of similar artists is displayed to the user (8015). The user can then click on the more 8020 link to access more similar artists and related details. The user is then given a frame 8110 listing similar artists 8115 produced by the compatibility engine, as shown in FIG. From this frame, the user can access information about each listed artist 8115. For example, the user can access an artist 8120 that is considered similar to the listed artist 8115. Therefore, if the user clicks on the "similar artist" 8120 link, the user will be given a similar artist 821 to one of the previously listed artists 8115 shown in Figure 82. Frame 8210 of 5 is presented. This allows the user to explore and extend to similar artists of different degrees and branches with a series of single clicks through a simple and intuitive user interface. The user can perform the dialogue as many times as the user desires, which is a dialogue for selecting a similar artist. In addition, at any time, the user, as mentioned somewhere in this document, for example, via interface element 8226, using various parameters, a similar artist, eg, a more mainstream or popular artist vs. It is preferable to be able to filter or narrow the display of less obscure or less popular artists. As shown in Figures 82 and 83, the user may have all similarity results 8220 or only similarities available to User 8225 through System 100/300 based on contract level, authorization criteria, DRM compliance or other limiting factors. You can choose to display the results.
0121The reconnaissance functions described above can be applied to other criteria beyond users and artists, using the similarity user interface and compatibility engine 350 to produce similar songs, albums, genres, or other criteria. be able to.
0122Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the methods and systems of the invention described herein can be practiced in a number of ways and are not limited to the embodiments and examples described above. In other words, a single or multiple components can distribute various combinations of hardware and software, as well as the functional elements performed in individual functions, among software applications at either the client or server level. it can. In this regard, a large number of features of the different embodiments described herein may be combined into one single embodiment, or another embodiment having fewer or more features than all of the features described herein may be considered. .. Part or all of the function can also be distributed among a number of components in a manner currently known or known in the future. Therefore, a myriad of software / hardware / firmware combinations are conceivable to achieve the functions, features, interfaces and preferences described herein. In addition, the scope of the present invention also covers what is conventionally known and features of modification and modification through the system components described herein as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.
0123<figref num="1">It is the schematic which shows the exemplary system architecture of one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="2">It is an exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="3">It is a schematic diagram which shows the exemplary network architecture by one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="4">It is a flowchart which shows the organization and classification of the user media file by one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="5">An additional exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to another embodiment of the invention.</figref><figref num="6">It is a flowchart which shows the process of bookmarking a medium by one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="7">It is a flowchart which shows the process of searching a file by one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="8">An additional exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to another embodiment of the invention.</figref><figref num="9">An additional exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="10">An additional exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="11">An additional exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="12">An additional exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="13">An additional exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="14">An additional exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="15">An additional exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="16">An additional exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="17">An additional exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="18">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="19">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to another embodiment of the invention.</figref><figref num="20">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="21">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="22">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="23">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="24">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="25">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="26">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="27">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="28">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="29">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="30">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="31">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="32">An additional exemplary user interface that uses a search engine in connection with an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="33">It is an exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="34">It is an exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to an embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="35">It is an exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="36">It is an exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="37">It is an exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="38">It is an exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="39">It is an exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="40">It is an exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="41">It is an exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="42">It is an exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="43">An exemplary user interface used to generate playlists in an exemplary media engine according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="44">An additional exemplary user interface used to generate playlists in an exemplary media engine according to another embodiment of the invention.</figref><figref num="45">It is a flowchart which shows the generation of a compatibility playlist.</figref><figref num="46">An exemplary user interface used to generate playlists in an exemplary media engine according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="47">An exemplary user interface used to generate playlists in an exemplary media engine according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="48">An additional exemplary user interface used to generate playlists in an exemplary media engine according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="49">It is a flowchart which shows the process of creating a playlist by one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="50">Another exemplary user interface of the exemplary media engine according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="51">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to another embodiment of the invention.</figref><figref num="52">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="53">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="54">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="55">Another exemplary user interface of the exemplary media engine according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="56">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to another embodiment of the invention.</figref><figref num="57">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="58">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="59">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="60">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="61">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="62">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="63">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="64">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="65">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="66">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="67">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="68">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="69">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="70">Another exemplary user interface of an exemplary media engine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="71">It is a schematic diagram which shows the exemplary system architecture by one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="72">It is a flowchart which shows the process of generating a network and having a dialogue by one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="73">An exemplary user interface used to generate playlists in an exemplary media engine according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="74">An exemplary user interface used to generate playlists in an exemplary media engine according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="75">An additional exemplary user interface used to generate playlists in an exemplary media engine according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="76">An exemplary user interface used to generate playlists in an exemplary media engine according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="77">It is a flowchart which shows the place which publishes the playlist by one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="78">An exemplary user interface used to generate a similar user / member list according to one embodiment of the invention.</figref><figref num="80">An exemplary user interface used to generate a similar user / member list according to one embodiment of the invention.</figref><figref num="81">An exemplary user interface used to generate a similar artist list according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="82">An exemplary user interface used to generate a similar artist list according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="83">An exemplary user interface used to generate a similar artist list according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="84">It is a schematic diagram which shows the exemplary system architecture by one Embodiment of this invention.</figref>
84 sheets
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Numbers
- Publication
- 5216331
- Application
- 2007558089
Titles2
- Japanese
- ネットワーク化メディアアクセスのためのシステム及び方法
- English
- Systems and methods for networked media access
Classification
- CPC, 49
- H04L67/06
- G06Q20/386
- G06F21/10
- G06F21/6236
- G06F2213/0038
- G06F2216/01
- G06F2221/2113
- G06F2221/2137
- G06Q10/10
- G06Q20/1235
- G06Q30/02
- G06Q30/06
- G11B20/00086
- G11B27/105
- G11B27/34
- H04L12/1822
- H04L51/04
- H04L63/101
- H04L2463/101
- H04N7/17318
- H04N21/2541
- H04N21/4126
- H04N21/41407
- H04N21/4331
- H04N21/4622
- H04N21/4627
- H04N21/47214
- H04N21/4788
- H04N21/4825
- H04N21/658
- H04N21/8113
- H04N21/8355
- H04L67/34
- H04L67/306
- G06F16/273
- G06F16/637
- G06F16/639
- G06F16/3344
- G06F16/4387
- G06F16/4393
- G06F16/9535
- H04L67/535
- H04L67/62
- H04L67/63
- H04L63/0263
- Y10S707/913
- H04L63/105
- H04L65/612
- G06F16/9536
- IPC, 6
- G06F13 00
- G06F12 00
- G06Q10 10
- G06Q20 12
- G06Q30 02
- G06Q30 06