Methods and apparatus for reproducing prerecorded and live works stored on a server

摘要

Prerecorded audio, video and audiovisual works stored and catalogued on a server can be reproduced by storing a work in a RAM array (46) and streaming the work fairly directly to customers on demand. A customer (12,14) can enjoy an audiovisual work such as a television show, sports event on television, or the like, from the beginning of the broadcast, even if the customer begins watching the work while it is still in progress. The work can also be reproduced after it is completed. Advertisements shown during the reproduction can be selected and changed by the provider, as desired. <IMAGE>