Method for providing access to media content through a server

摘要

A system for providing devices such as WCDs, televisions, stereos, video game systems, etc. access to media content through an entity such as a web server. In accordance with at least one embodiment, UPnP or DLNA compliant devices may utilize a user's home network to access a user's media library from on an online media service. The media service may provide a user interface to the device to enable the user to access his media library. The media may be stored on a networked storage device connected to the media service, on the user's network devices, on the user's WCD, etc. The media service may automatically query the user's WCD to determine the presence of other persons in his proximity, and determine their preferences. A customized media stream that is suitable for the whole group may be generated based at least in part on the combined preferences of the group.

主权项

1. An apparatus comprising:
a storage device configured to store information, including media files, corresponding to one or more users registered with the apparatus; a processor operably connected to the storage device, the processor configured to:
allow communication between the apparatus and a second apparatus associated with one registered user of the one or more users registered with the apparatus;query the second apparatus to determine the presence of other potential registered users within short-range communication with the second apparatus; based on the determination that one or more potential users are within short-range communication with the second apparatus,
receive identification information from the second apparatus based on the query, the identification information associated with the other potential registered users within short-range communication with the second apparatus;based on the identification information received from the second apparatus, determine which of the potential registered users are actually registered users of the apparatus; andgrant access to the user of the second apparatus to one or more media files, stored on the apparatus, associated with the other actual registered users within short-range communication with the second apparatus.