Method for streaming multimedia data over a non-streaming protocol

摘要

Methods and apparatuses for real-time or near real-time streaming of content using transfer protocols such as an HTTP compliant protocol. In one embodiment, a method includes dividing a stream of data, representing the contiguous time based content of a program (e.g. a live video broadcast), into a plurality of distinct media file segments, and generating a playlist file having a plurality of tags and Universal Resource Indicators indicating an order of presentation of the plurality of distinct media file segments. The plurality of media file segments and the playlist file can be made available for transmission to a client device which can retrieve the media file segments using the playlist file.