Software and method that enables selection of one of a plurality of online service providers

摘要

A novel electronic information transport component can be incorporated in a wide range of electronic information products, for example magazine collections, to automate the mass distribution of updates, such as current issues, from a remote server to a wide user base having a diversity of computer stations. Advantages of economy, immediacy and ease of use are provided. Extensions of the invention permit automated electronic catalog shopping with order placement and, optionally, order confirmation. A server-based update distribution service is also provided. In addition, an offline web browser system, with hyperlink redirection capabilities, a novel recorded music product with automated update capabilities and an Internet charging mechanism are provided.

主权项

1. A method for updating an information object stored in persistent storage at a client, comprising:
polling a plurality of independent online server-based information distribution services for corresponding lists of update fetch objects over a communications network including the Internet; receiving the lists of update fetch objects from the plurality of independent online server-based information distribution services over a communications network including the Internet; integrating the lists of update fetch objects into an information object to allow for seamless use of the lists of update fetch objects with the information object at the client; and requesting at least one update fetch object listed in the information object from each of the plurality of independent online server-based information distribution services over the communications network including the Internet.