CONTENT DELIVERY IN A COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK

摘要

A method is presented of requesting and receiving content over a network for use at a device. A request for the content is sent (S1) from the device to a content server located in the network. A response is received (S2) at the device from the content server. The response provides a content readiness estimate for the requested content. The readiness estimate is an estimate of when the content will be ready for use at the device according to a predetermined criterion based on network conditions affecting delivery of the content from the content server to the device. A content readiness indication is presented (S3) at the device to a user of the device. The readiness indication is derived in dependence upon the readiness estimate and indicates to the user when or whether the content will be or is ready for use at the device according to the predetermined criterion. An instruction is received (S4) at the device from the user indicating when the user wishes to commence use of the content at the device. Content is received (S5) at the device from the content server and stored it at least until it is required for use. Use of the content is commenced (S6) at the device according to the instruction.