Method for initiating software update through version-aware content

摘要

Systems and methods are disclosed for updating players that run, display, or otherwise use electronically-stored content. Information is included in the content that not only indicates the player version needed to play the content, but also the existence of a newer player version. Content providing such an indication is termed “version-aware content” and allows a player to recognize that a newer player version exists. Version-aware content may be interpreted to provide a user with a message indicating that there is a newer version available. In another example, a player may automatically update based on the version-aware content's indication that a newer player exists. Content created to be compatible with older player versions can be created as version-aware content. Similarly, existing content can be modified to be version-aware content. In both cases, distribution of such content can encourage player updates and thus more rapid proliferation of a newer player version.

主权项

1. A computer-implemented method comprising:
receiving, by a computer apparatus, electronic content that comprises metadata; determining, by the computer apparatus, compatibility of the electronic content with a first version of a content player, the computer apparatus comprising the first version of the content player-to play the electronic content; playing the electronic content on the computer apparatus via the first version of the content player based on the determination that the electronic content is compatible with the first version of the content player; determining, by the computer apparatus as it plays the electronic content, that a second version of the content player is available based at least in part on the metadata included in the electronic content, the metadata indicating that the second version of the content player is available; downloading, by the computer apparatus, the second version of the content player to the computer apparatus, at least some of the downloading occurring simultaneously with or after playing the electronic content; and installing, by the computer apparatus, the second version of the content player.