Method and apparatus for creating and using video playlists within a network

摘要

The invention pertains to a method and apparatus for creating and using video playlists within a network. In accordance with the invention, a user is enabled to create a playlist comprising a plurality of video segments and store the playlist for later access and viewing. In some implementations, the user may upload playlists to the network in order to permit other users to view the playlist and, if desired, watch the playlist's contents. In other implementations, the content provider or third parties may create playlists and make the contents available for viewing. In yet other implementations, the content provider or a third party may insert advertisements into a playlist's contents.

主权项

1. A method comprising:
storing, in a network, a playlist comprising a plurality of pointers to a plurality of video segments, wherein the plurality of pointers comprises a pointer to an uploaded video segment from a user of the network and a pointer to a first memory location for a future video segment; receiving a selection of the playlist from a requesting user; and responsive to receiving the selection of the playlist, transmitting a first of the plurality of video segments to the requesting user.