Patent ID: 7017120
Filing Date: 2006-03-21
Classification: G06F,H04N

Abstract:
1. A method for creating and playing a customized program while connected to a data communications network, comprising: a) storing media references in a storage means connected to said data communications network, each media reference providing descriptive information and an address to locate corresponding media content on media servers connected to said data communications network, said media servers comprising: b) providing means for a plurality of users to create and store their own customized programs, including: c) providing means for receiving and playing a plurality of media streams, including: whereby each said user's customized program can include predetermined start times and maximum play durations of both the continuously-playing live broadcast streaming media and the archived media segments, so that the receiving of the customized program can be entirely automatic and not require manual intervention to start, stop, or resume any type of media, and whereby said users can access their customized programs and immediately receive and simultaneously play their corresponding media streams using any media stream receiving and playing means connected to said data communications network without the need for advance downloads of media content.