Abstract:
An aspect of managing media content includes a memory device and a processor communicatively coupled to the memory device. The processor executes program instructions for causing the processor to perform operations. The operations include providing user-selectable options for managing storage space in the memory device that is allocated for an account. The options include an option for defining a condition for generating an alert when a threshold amount of the storage space is consumed. The operations also include receiving a data stream from a media device assigned to the account, determining an encoding rate corresponding to the data stream, monitoring consumption of the storage space, and upon determining the condition is met, transmitting the alert to the media device. The alert indicates an amount of storage space consumed and an approximated amount of recording time remaining for the data stream before a maximum capacity of the storage space is reached.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/311,787, filed Jun. 23, 2014 which is a continuation of Ser. No. 11/744,970, filed May 7, 2007, the content of both are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The present application relates generally to managing and delivering media content, and more particularly, to methods, devices, systems, and computer program products for managing and delivering media content. 
     Present devices allow for the capture of personal media that may be distributed via a variety of methods. Many of the current methods available for distributing personal media rely upon a device that requires a target viewer to utilize a personal computer to access a network (e.g., Internet). These current methods generally require several steps to implement. For example, a digital image is captured by a camera in its internal memory and then subsequently transferred to secondary storage (e.g., on a personal computer. The digital image may then be retrieved from storage for viewing or transmitted electronically to a designated recipient via, e.g., email attachment. Alternatively, a digital image may be uploaded to a web site where other network users can access the web site and view the image. 
     Thus, many of the current methods available provide distribution of the media subsequent to its capture and storage upon a storage device that is independent and distinct from the device which originally captured the media. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     Exemplary embodiments include systems, devices, methods, and computer program products for managing and delivering media content. 
     A system includes a memory device and a processor communicatively coupled to the memory device. The processor executes program instructions. The program instructions cause the processor to perform operations. The operations include providing, via a user interface, user-selectable options for managing storage space in the memory device that is allocated for a user account. The user-selectable options include an option for defining a condition for generating an alert when a threshold amount of the storage space is consumed. The operations also include receiving, over a network, a data stream from a media device assigned to the user account, determining an encoding rate corresponding to the data stream received by the media device, storing the data stream in the storage space, and monitoring consumption of the storage space in response to the storing. Upon determining the condition is met responsive to the monitoring, the operations include transmitting the alert to the media device. The alert indicates an amount of storage space consumed and an approximated amount of recording time remaining for the data stream before a maximum capacity of the storage space is reached. The approximated amount of recording time is determined as a function of the encoding rate. 
     Other systems, devices, methods, and/or computer program products according to embodiments will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon review of the following drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, and/or computer program products be included within this description, be within the scope of the exemplary embodiments, and be protected by the accompanying claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
       Referring now to the drawings wherein like elements are numbered alike in the several FIGURES: 
         FIG. 1  is a block diagram of a media file management system in exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 2  is a flow diagram describing a process for managing media content by a media recording device in exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 3  is a flow diagram describing a process for delivering a live media stream over a network in exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 4  is a display screen of a media recording device including options for taking action on a media file in exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 5  is a user interface screen depicting menu options for managing media files, accounts, and authorization information in exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 6  is a flow diagram describing a process for providing centralized media management services in exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 7  is a sample account record and media file directory created via the media file management system in exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 8  is a display screen including a sample communication transmitted via the media file management system in exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 9  is a display screen depicting a sample media file library and options provided by the media file management system in exemplary embodiments; and 
         FIG. 10  is a display screen depicting a sample alert and related options provided by the media file management system in exemplary embodiments. 
     
    
    
     The detailed description explains the exemplary embodiments, together with advantages and features, by way of example with reference to the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
     Media management and delivery systems, devices, methods, and computer program products are provided in exemplary embodiments. In one embodiment, a host system provides centralized media management services including storage management and delivery of media content to a target receiving device. In another embodiment, a media recording device includes features for enabling the delivery and management of media content. In a further embodiment, a media recording device includes features to enable the delivery of near real-time media content. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , a media file management system  100  will now be described in exemplary embodiments. The media file management system  100  includes a media recording device  110  configured to capture a media file by a user, and a media services system  105  in communication with the media recording device  110  via one or more networks  125  (referred to further herein as “network”). As used herein, the term “media file” shall refer to any representation of media content, such as a transmitted or stored audio signal, video signal, or image signal, for example. In exemplary embodiments, the media file is a video media file. In another embodiment, the media file is a near real-time video media file. As used herein, the term “near-real time” shall refer to a nearly contemporaneous transmission and delivery of the media file, and that such delivery may include small delays as a result of transfer among multiple transmission paths, and confirmation of appropriate access authorization, as will be discussed further below. 
     In exemplary embodiments, the media services system  105  further includes a host system  130  in communication with the network  125 . The host system  130  executes a media services application  103  for storing, managing, and distributing media files as described further herein. In exemplary embodiments, host system  130  may be implemented using any suitable high-speed microprocessor capable of handling the volume of activities provided by the features and functions of the media services system  105 . Host system  130  may be accessed over the network  125  and may further include a security feature or firewall (not shown) in order to protect the integrity of the data stored within the media services system  105 . Other security features are described further herein. In addition to the media management services described herein, the media services application  103  also includes an accounts management component  120 , an authentication component  122 , a media files management component  124 , and an authorization component  126 . The account management component  120  administers media management accounts (accounts) on behalf of various users. For example, the account management component  120  may be tasked with provisioning users, or groups of users (e.g., a family) with the services made available through the media management services described herein, which are further managed through account records established for each user or group of users. In addition, media devices associated with these users may be managed through the account management component  120 . The authentication component  122  verifies the identities of users seeking to access or view media files. The media files management component  124  manages media file storage for account users. The authorization component  126  controls access to the host system  130  or to the storage component. These components  120 - 126  are described further herein. 
     The host system  130  is in communication with a storage device  106 . Storage device  106  stores media files captured by media recording devices, account records of individuals that subscribe to the media management services provided by the host system  130 , as well as related information. Network  125  may employ various wireless communications and transmissions protocols, such as personal communications service (PCS), WiFi, Ultrawideband, Bluetooth, and satellite transmission, as well as different wireline protocols, such as telephone communications, cable communications and power line communications, to name a few. In exemplary embodiments, the host system  130  includes a location address, e.g., a uniform resource locator (URL), to make it available to any media file receiving device (e.g., media file receiving devices  150 A- 150 C) that has capability to access the network  125 . 
     For purposes of illustration, media file receiving device  150 A is a general-purpose computer, media file receiving device  150 B is a television, and media file receiving device  150 C is a mobile wireless media player (e.g., MP3 player). These devices are also referred to herein as “receiving devices.” In exemplary embodiments, each of receiving devices  150 A- 150 C includes a network interface for enabling the respective receiving devices to communicate with the host system  130  and/or media recording device  110  over network  125 . For example, the network interface of receiving device  150 A may include a modem. Receiving device  150 B may communicate over network  125  via an Internet Protocol-enabled set top box (STB) interface  140 . Receiving device  150 C may include a network card or similar means that enables communications over network  125 . 
     While embodiments have been described having at least one of a television, a personal computer, and a mobile media player as receiving devices  150 , it will be appreciated that the scope of the invention is not so limited, and that the invention may also apply to media file management systems that include other devices (e.g., cellular telephones, personal digital assistants, etc.) capable of accessing network  125 , such as via a URL for example, and to display media files. 
     In exemplary embodiments, STB  140  is in communication with an interface device  160 , such as a remote control, as one of many possible implementations, for example. The interface device  160  may be configured to allow entry of an access code for the selection of a personal channel. A personal channel may be a channel created by an account holder via the media services application  103 . The personal channel may include a customizable selection of media files and media content that include one or more stored media file and near real-time media file. In exemplary embodiments, a display adapter on receiving devices  150 A- 150 C may be configured to visually or audibly distinguish the availability of the stored media file from the near real-time media file. For example, live media files may be distinguished visually by applying characteristics, such as blinking or flashing, underlining, color or tone differences, etc. 
     It will be appreciated that the user of media recording device  110  may desire to limit, or restrict the access by others to the media file. This may be accomplished, e.g., by creating an authorization requirement to be associated with the media file. The authorization requirement may control to whom access to the media file is granted. In one exemplary embodiment, the authorization requirement is implemented by authorization settings provided via the authorization component  126 . The authorization settings may specifically identify a target viewer (e.g., one or more of receiving devices  150 A- 150 C) for which access to a media file may be granted. In another exemplary embodiment, the authorization requirement may be implemented by assigning an access code to a media file (e.g., via the authorization settings of component  126 ) and then forwarding the access code to a target viewer, e.g., by email. In exemplary embodiments, in response to the identity associated with the target viewer meeting the authorization requirement, the media recording device  110  is configured to make available to the receiving devices  150 A- 150 C access to the media file via network  125 . In another embodiment, a media services application  103  is configured to store and distribute the set of media files in accordance with the authorization requirement. 
     In exemplary embodiments, the host system  130 , via media services application  103 , is receptive of the media file, the authorization requirement, a request by the target viewer to access the media file, and the identity associated with the target viewer, and is configured to confirm that the identity associated with the target viewer meets the authorization requirement via, e.g., the authentication component  122  of the media services application  103 . In response to confirming that the identity associated with the target viewer is in accordance with, or meets the authorization requirement associated with the media file, the host system  130  is configured to make available to the receiving devices  150 A- 150 C access to the media file. In exemplary embodiments, the identity associated with the target viewer via the receiving device  150  is a globally unique identifier (GUID). The GUID is associated with, and uniquely identifies, the receiving device  150 . Correspondingly, a target viewer may be identified via a receiving device GUID. Alternatively, the identity may be a MAC address, IP address, etc. It will be further appreciated that, in a similar fashion, an identity associated with the user may allow access by the user to a set of media files stored, e.g., in storage device  106  in accordance with the authorization requirement associated with the set of media files. Further, the identity associated with the user may define the personal channel into which the media files are stored, and may be assigned via the media recording device  110 , as will be described further below. 
     In exemplary embodiments, the user may purchase or otherwise obtain an amount of storage space within the storage device  106  of host system  130  to be used for the storage of media files within the personal channel. In exemplary embodiments, access to the personal channel of the user may be granted to the target viewer following successful entry of an access code, e.g., via the interface device  160 . In another embodiment, access to media files stored within the personal channel will be granted to the target viewer according to the authorization requirement associated with the media file and the identity associated with the target viewer via the receiving device  150 . 
     The media recording device  110  includes a media recording structure as may be found in current media recording systems. The media recording device  110  further includes a computer processor  111  in communication with other components of the media recording device  110 . In exemplary embodiments, the processor  111  executes a media management application  116  for facilitating the media management activities described herein. 
     In exemplary embodiments, the media recording device  110  further includes a transmitter  112  configured to transmit communication signals, including the media file, the authorization requirement associated with the media file, and the identity associated with the user. In exemplary embodiments, the transmitter  112  is configured to transmit the media file, the authorization requirement associated with the media file, and the identity associated with the user and/or target receiving device via a communications path, e.g., wireless or wireline network connection. In exemplary embodiments, the transmitter  112  is configured to transmit a near-real time media file to the network  125 . 
     In exemplary embodiments, the media recording device  110  also includes a receiver  113 , configured to receive communication signals, including media files that may be stored in storage device  106 , as well as other communication signals. 
     While embodiments have been described with a media recording device  110  having a separate receiver  113  and transmitter  112 , it will be appreciated that the scope of the embodiments is not so limited, and that the embodiments may also apply to media recording devices having other means to transmit and receive media files, such as a transceiver, for example. 
     In exemplary embodiments, a signal detection component  119  implemented by the media recording device  110  may be configured to determine and compare signal strengths of available networks (e.g., network within signaling range of the media recording device  110 ), and to select one of the available networks based upon that which has the stronger signal according to the signal strength comparison. The signal detection component  119  may be implemented using signal detection theory techniques (e.g., signal-to-noise ratio analysis) as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. In exemplary embodiments, the media management application  116  is configured to select the connection based upon one of a number of criteria. For example, criteria for selecting a network for transmitting a media file may include: the connection manner that has the greater bandwidth capability, the connection manner that is able to provide the most efficient transfer of the media file, and that which is able to provide the transfer of the media file with the lowest service cost to the user. In exemplary embodiments, the media management application  116  is configured to assign the identity associated with the user of the media recording device  110 . 
     In exemplary embodiments, the media recording device  110  further includes a user interface in communication with the media recording device  110 . The user interface includes an input component  114  (e.g., a keyboard, data entry device, etc.) and an output component  115  (e.g., display screen, sound card, etc.). The user interface may be configured via the media management application  116  to display the media file, configuration settings related to the media recording device  110 , and to be responsive to user input. In exemplary embodiments, the user interface is configured to allow user input of information related to the media file. For example, the user may utilize the user interface to create a title or descriptor related to the media file, so that the ease of subsequent identification of the media file may be enhanced, particularly among other media files that may be stored within the storage device  106  and/or media recording device  110 . A descriptor provides information relating to the media file, such that the media file can be easily distinguished among other media files. The descriptor may be implemented as embedded content within the media file itself using, e.g., MPEG or other standards. In exemplary embodiments, the media recording device  110  is configured to communicate with the host system  130  via the transmitter  112  and the receiver  113 . In exemplary embodiments, the output component  115  of the user interface is configured to display any media files stored in storage device  106  for which access has been granted to the identity associated with the user of the media recording device  110 . 
     While embodiments of the media recording device  110  have been depicted having an integrated user interface, it will be appreciated that the scope of the embodiments is not so limited, and that the embodiments may also apply to media recording devices that are in communication with the user interface via other way, such as a user interface that is detached from the media recording device  110  and is in wireline or wireless communication with the media recording device  110 , for example. 
     In exemplary embodiments, the media management application  116  is configured to assign a unique identity associated with the media recording device  110  that will be matched to the location address (e.g., URL) of the personal channel, or account associated with the user. However, it will be appreciated that it may be desirable to allow the user to assign, or change, the association between the media recording device  110  and the personal channel. For example, if the media recording device  110  is destroyed during a vacation, the user may quickly acquire a new media recording device  110 , and appropriately enter the location address (e.g., URL) assignment via the user interface. As a second example, multiple users, having multiple location addresses (e.g., URLs) associated with multiple personal channels, may desire to share the same media recording device  110 . As a third example, an amount of storage space within storage device  106  that is assigned to a particular personal channel may be shared and allocated among multiple users. In exemplary embodiments, the media management application  116  allows entry of an access code via the user interface, such as a user name and password combination, for example, to appropriately assign the association of the media recording device  110  with the corresponding personal channel. 
     In exemplary embodiments, media recording devices may be assigned to one account record (e.g., where one account includes one or more individuals and one or more media recording devices). In alternative exemplary embodiments, a single media recording device may be assigned to multiple users. The media account records may be configured to permit authorized account members to establish permissions with respect to the media management activities described herein. For example, a parent on an account may permit a junior account member to view media files stored in storage device  106  but not transmit media files. 
     While embodiments have been described using a combination of user name and password to assign the association of the media recording device  110 , it will be appreciated that the scope of the embodiments is not so limited, and that the embodiments may also apply to media recording devices that may use other identification methods to assign the association of the media recording device to the personal channel, such as a fingerprint reader, and an iris scanner, for example. 
     It will be appreciated that a viewer of the media file (to whom access has been granted) may desire to communicate with the user of the media recording device  110  via a target receiving device (e.g., one of receiving devices  150 A- 150 C). For example, a grandparent viewing a near real-time media file of a grandchild&#39;s sporting event may have a comment of encouragement to be passed on to the grandchild. In exemplary embodiments, the media recording device  110  further includes an instant messaging client  117  configured to receive and send instant messages via the transmitter  112  and the receiver  113 . In exemplary embodiments, the user interface is configured to display and compose instant messages via the input component  114  and the output component  115 . In exemplary embodiments, the receiver  113  is configured to make available to the instant messaging client  117  instant messages received by the media recording device  110  and the transmitter  112  is configured to transmit instant messages made available by the instant messaging client  117 . In exemplary embodiments, at least one of the receiving devices  150 A- 150 C include an instant messaging client (not shown) configured to make available instant messages between the media recording device  110  and a respective display component of the receiving devices via network  125 . 
     In exemplary embodiments, the media services application  103  manages the amount of storage space within storage device  106  that is assigned to the account of the user. It will be appreciated that as media files are transmitted from the media recording device  110  to the host system  130 , an amount of remaining storage space available on the host system  130  may continue to decrease. In exemplary embodiments, media management application  116  is configured to receive information provided by the host system  130  related to the amount of remaining storage space, such as to alert the user to a diminishing amount of remaining storage space, for example. A sample alert is shown in  FIG. 10 . The receiver  113  is configured to make the alert available to the user via the output component  115  of the user interface. In exemplary embodiments, the alert is a display. In another embodiment, the alert is an instant message. In exemplary embodiments, the alert will notify the user of the amount of remaining storage space in the storage device  106 . In exemplary embodiments, the alert will notify the user of an amount of time remaining that corresponds to an encoding rate at which the media file is currently being captured, as well as an amount of time remaining that corresponds to alternate encoding rates available for selection by the user. 
     In exemplary embodiments, subsequent to receipt of the alert, the media management application  116  allows the user, via the input component  114 , to select a response to the alert regarding the diminishing amount of remaining storage space. The user may elect to continue making available the media file at the current encoding rate, which will effectively make no change in a duration of the media file that remaining amount of storage space can hold. The user may also elect to begin making available the media file at a reduced encoding rate, which will effectively increase the duration of the media file that the remaining amount of storage space can hold. The user may also elect to purchase an additional amount of storage space, thereby increasing the amount of assigned storage space as well as a length of time that the media file may be stored in storage device  106 . In exemplary embodiments, the user will be able to purchase the additional amount of storage space via any device configured to access one of the personal channel and the Internet, such as a personal digital assistant, cell phone, personal computer, and set-top box, for example. The user may also elect to remove any of the set of media files stored in storage device  106 , thereby increasing the amount of remaining storage space, as well as a duration of the media file that can be stored in storage device  106  of host system  130 . In exemplary embodiments, the user may preview the media file prior to removal from the storage device  106  via the output component  115  of the user interface. 
     In exemplary embodiments, the user may select a default response to a shortage of remaining storage. In exemplary embodiments, the default response will include at least one of deleting media files based upon the file creation date, deleting media files based upon time elapsed subsequent to the last access date, deleting media files based upon the media file size, and deleting media files based upon a user assigned priority. 
     It will be appreciated that in some circumstances, the media recording device  110  may not be able to establish a connection with the host system  130  via the network  125 . In exemplary embodiments, the media recording device  110  further includes a storage component  118  configured to store media files. In exemplary embodiments, the storage component of host system  130  is a magnetic media storage device, such as a hard disc drive, for example. In exemplary embodiments, the storage component  118  is a solid state storage device, including non-volatile solid state memory circuits. The storage component  118  allows the media file to be stored and subsequently transmitted to the host system  130  for storage and distribution. 
     While embodiments have been described having magnetic media or solid state storage devices, it will be appreciated that the scope of the embodiments is not so limited, and that the embodiments may also apply to media recording devices that have other devices configured to store media files. 
     In exemplary embodiments, the storage component  118  is configured to provide temporary storage of the near real-time media file prior to transmission to the network  125 . Use of the temporary storage, often known as “caching” in the art, can provide time for the user to select the appropriate response following the alert notifying the user of the diminishing amount of remaining allocated storage space in storage device  106 , as discussed above. Further, in exemplary embodiments, the user interface is configured to display the media files stored on the storage component  118  via the media management application  116 . 
     In exemplary embodiments, the storage component  118  is configured to function as a server to store and distribute the media files, and may allow any of the receiving devices  150 A- 150 C, absent a connection to the host system  130 , to connect to the storage component  118  of the media recording device  110  via network  125 . This is a connection type often known in the art as a peer-to-peer connection. In exemplary embodiments, the receiving device  150  is in communication with the network  125  and is configured to request access to the media files. In exemplary embodiments, the media management application  116  receives a request for access to any of the set media files stored in the storage component  118  from the receiving device  150  via receiver  113  and transceiver  120 , absent connection through the host system  130 . The media management application  116  confirms that the identity associated with the target viewer meets the authorization requirement, or to confirm the authorization of the request to access the media file. In exemplary embodiments, the confirmation of the authorization is performed by comparing a set of identities, defined by the authorization requirement, to whom access is granted, with the identity associated with target viewer originating the request. In response to confirmation of authorization of the request, the media management application  116  permits access, via the transmitter  112  and receiver  113  to the requested media file. It will be appreciated that a request for access to the media file may be made that has not been previously authorized for access, and that the user of the media recording device  110  may desire to grant such access. In exemplary embodiments, the user interface is configured to allow the user to provide authorization of the request that was not previously authorized. 
     In exemplary embodiments, the receiving devices  150 A- 15 C are configured to display a media file library indicating a selection of media files that allows the target viewer to select one of the media files that are stored in storage device  106 , the media files stored in the storage component  118 , and the near-real time media file. In exemplary embodiments, the receiving devices  150  are configured to distinguish the selection of the media files stored in storage device  106 , the media files stored in the storage component  118 , and the near-real time media file. In exemplary embodiments, the receiving devices  150  are configured to distinguish the different media files via visual and/or audio attributes, such as color, intensity, and additional symbols, for example. 
     In exemplary embodiments, the personal channel may be configured to allow capture of the media file. For example, while the viewer is accessing the media file, they may also record a copy of the media file to a digital video recorder (DVR), and subsequently copy the media file to a digital video disc (DVD)/digital versatile disc (DVD) for subsequent viewing. 
     It will be appreciated that access to the media file may be commercially desirable. For example, if the user is located at a news-making event, target viewers may be willing to compensate the user for access to the media file. In exemplary embodiments, the user interface in conjunction with the media management application  116 , the transmitter  112  and the receiver  113 , is configured to access an online merchant, such as an online auction merchant, for example, via the network  125  and to offer for sale access to the media file. The media management application  116  enables the user to receive an offer for purchase of access to the media file, accept the offer for purchase, and grant access, or make available access to the purchased media file. 
     While embodiments have been described as offering for sale access to the media file the via an online auction merchant, it will be appreciated the scope of the embodiments is not so limited, and that the embodiments may also apply to media recording devices that may offer access to the media files via alternate means, such as by an electronic storefront, or agreement via instant message, for example. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 2 , a flow diagram describing a process for managing media content by a media recording device will now be described in exemplary embodiments. At operation  202 , a media recording device (e.g., media recording device  110 ) captures media content (e.g., a live event) via a media recording structure disposed therein. At operation  204 , a user identification (ID) is assigned to a media file that comprises the media content. In exemplary embodiments, the media file represents a digitized version of the media content. The user ID specifies an identity of a user of the media recording device  110  (e.g., an individual who is capturing the media content via the media recording device  110 ). The user ID may be assigned to the media file via, e.g., electronic tag or other structure for associating a media file with additional data elements. The media management application  116  includes a user interface for enabling user inputs to the media recording device  110 . The user interface provides selectable options, e.g., on the output component  115 , such as a display of the media recording device. A sample display screen is shown in  FIG. 4 . In exemplary embodiments, a descriptor may be created for the media file at operation  205 . The descriptor may be added by selecting an option ADD DESCRIPTOR  410  in window  402  of  FIG. 4 . 
     At operation  206 , it is determined whether a media file that is stored in storage component  118  of media recording device  110  is to be transmitted, e.g., over network  125 . This determination may be made by the user via, e.g., the user interface of media recording device (e.g., input keys, voice commands, etc.). As shown in the display screen  400  of  FIG. 4 , the user may select the option, TRANSMIT FILE  404  provided in the window  402  of the display screen  400 . 
     In alternative exemplary embodiments, the determination may be made in response to a request from one of receiving devices  150 A- 150 C to access the media file. In either case, if it is determined that the media file will not be transmitted at operation  206 , it may be stored in storage device  118  by the user if desired at operation  208  (e.g., by selecting the option SAVE  406  in window  402 ). 
     If, however, it is determined that the media file is to be transmitted at operation  206 , one or more destination addresses for transmitting the media file are received at operation  210 . The destination address includes, e.g., a URL or a similar location-addressable element that identifies a receiving device (e.g., one receiving devices  150 A- 150 C) or a network storage facility (e.g., host system  130 ). 
     As indicated above, the media management application  116  may be configured to select an optimum communication path for transmitting the media file. This feature may be implemented, e.g., via the option TRANSMIT FILE  404  or in response to user selected preferences as described further in  FIG. 5 . If this feature is selected, the signal detection component  119  of the media recording device  110  analyzes the signal strength of any available, or identified, communication paths at operation  212 . 
     At operation  214 , the signal detection component  119  determines whether there are any available communication paths. If not, the media file may be stored locally in storage component  118  at operation  216 , and the process returns to operation  212  whereby the signal detection component  119  continues to monitor signals from available networks. 
     At operation  218 , if more than one available communication path is determined, the signal quality of each path is compared by the signal detection component  119 . From this comparison, an optimal communication path is determined by the signal detection component  119  at operation  220 , based upon any one or more of criteria described above with respect to  FIG. 1 . The media file is then transmitted from the media recording device  110  to the destination address via the optimal communication path at operation  222 . Alternatively, if only a single communication path is determined from operation  214 , the media file is transmitted at operation  222  via the available communication path. 
     As described above with respect to  FIG. 1 , the media recording device  110  is configured to manage and deliver live media streams captured by the device  110  to designated network elements. Turning now to  FIG. 3 , a flow diagram describing a process for delivering a live media stream over a network will now be described in exemplary embodiments. 
     At operation  302 , one or more network addresses for transmitting a live media stream are received at the media recording device  110 . At operation  304 , a user identification (ID) is assigned to the live media stream. The network address and/or user ID may be provided, e.g., via user input to the user interface of media recording device  110  (e.g., via the option TRANSMIT LIVE  408  in the window  402  of  FIG. 4 , or by entering user preferences in response to a menu of options as described further in  FIG. 5 ). 
     If the network address corresponds to a target receiving device (or final destination device), such as one of receiving devices  150 A- 150 C, the live media stream is transmitted to the target receiving device  150  over a network (e.g., a peer-to-peer network) in near real time at operation  306 . If the network address corresponds to a network storage facility (e.g., media services system  105 ), the live media stream may be transmitted to the network storage facility at operation  308 , along with an authorization requirement for providing access to a target receiving device (or final destination device), such as one of receiving devices  150 A- 150 C at operation  310 . A notification is generated and transmitted to the target receiving device at operation  312 . A sample notification is shown in  FIG. 8 . As described above, the live media files may be distinguished from the stored media files. This feature is shown and described further in  FIG. 9 . 
     As indicated above, media management and related services may include providing options for enabling a user of media recording device  110 , or authorized individual, to establish preferences with respect to authorization, account management, and storage management. The media management services include a user interface for this purpose as shown in  FIG. 5 . A user interface screen  500  depicting menu options for managing media files and account information is shown in  FIG. 5 . The selectable menu options correspond generally to the components  120 - 126  described above in  FIG. 1 . The menu options include AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS  502 , ACCOUNT INFORMATION  504 , DEVICE INFORMATION  505 , ACCOUNT PREFERENCES  506 , and MEDIA FILES  508 . The user interface screen  500  may be presented to the user via, e.g., output component  115  of media recording device  110  or via a Web interface provided to, e.g., one of receiving devices  150 A- 150 C, where the receiving device  150  is under the operation or control of the user. The option, AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS  502  enables a user to add, change, or delete an authorization requirement. 
     The user may also add, change, or delete users who may be associated with the account to which the user is assigned via the ACCOUNT INFORMATION option  504 . Likewise, a user may add, change, or delete devices associated with the account via the DEVICE INFORMATION option  505 . In further exemplary embodiments, the user may select storage preferences and transmission preferences via the option, ACCOUNT PREFERENCES  506 . The storage preferences may provide instructions for determining the conditions for which an alert regarding available storage may be transmitted as described above with respect to  FIG. 1 . A sample alert is shown in  FIG. 10 . The transmission preferences may provide instructions for selecting a communications path for transmitting media files as described above with respect to  FIG. 1 . The MEDIA FILES option  508  enables a user to view a listing of media files stored locally in storage component  118 , stored in storage device  106 , or both. In addition, this option  508  enables a user to preview files, e.g., before making a determination to delete a media file from storage device  106 . When this option is selected, a portion of a selected media file in the listing may be streamed from the storage device  106  to the media recording device  110 . In alternative exemplary embodiments, a portion of each media file may be stored locally in storage component  118  and presented upon selection. 
     As indicated above, media services system  105  provides centralized media management services to account members (e.g., a user of media recording device  110 ). Turning now to  FIG. 6 , a flow diagram describing a process for providing centralized media management services will now be described in exemplary embodiments. 
     A new account is initiated upon a request by an individual to receive the media services via the account management component  120  of the media services application  103 . At operation  602 , an account record is created for the individual (e.g., user of media recording device  110 ). A sample account record and media file directory are shown and described in  FIG. 7 . An account identification (ID) is stored in the account record at operation  604 . The account ID differentiates the account from other accounts serviced by the media services system  105 . A user ID may be generated for the account as well. The user ID differentiates the user from other users within the same account. At operation  606 , the account ID is mapped to storage space via a media file directory allocated in storage device  106  for the account. As shown in  FIG. 7 , for example, the account ID of the account record  700  is used as a key for mapping the account with the allocated storage space via media file directory  702 . In alternative exemplary embodiments, a user may request that an authorization requirement established for a particular target receiving device  150  and/or user be mapped to specified media files stored in the allocated storage space of storage device  106 . This optional mapping is shown in  FIG. 7  for purposes of illustration. 
     At operation  608 , a user interface is presented to the user with menu options for managing accounts, devices, media files, and authorization settings. The menu options may be presented, e.g., via the user interface screen  500  shown in  FIG. 5 . At operation  610 , selections entered by the user are received and the selections are stored in the account record  700  at operation  612 . 
     As indicated above, a target receiving device (e.g., one of receiving devices  150 A- 150 C) may be presented with a notification of a new media file to which the receiving device  150  has been identified in the authorization requirement (e.g., via the communication shown in display screen  800  of  FIG. 8 ) or may request access to a media file via an input component of the receiving device  150 . Upon successful authorization of the receiving device  150  by the host system  130  via, e.g., the authorization component  126 , a library or listing of media files associated with the authorization requirement and receiving device  150  may be presented to a user of the receiving device  150 . A sample media file library is shown in  FIG. 9 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 9 , a display screen  900  depicting a sample media file library and options provided by the media file management system  100  will now be described in exemplary embodiments. The media file library lists media files MF1-MFn associated with the receiving device  150 . As indicated above, the live media files may be distinguished from the stored media files by ways, such as color, symbol, brightness, audio signal, etc. As shown in the display screen  900  of  FIG. 9 , a live media file is distinguished by the element (LIVE) following the descriptor, ALEX VARSITY BASEBALL GAME 4-25-06. The display screen  900  also includes instructions for guiding a user through the library. 
     As indicated above, a user may select preferences establishing conditions upon which a storage alert may be transmitted. A display screen  1000  depicting a sample notification and related options provided by the media file management system is shown in  FIG. 10 . A user may select from the available options as shown in display screen  1000  and as described above with respect to  FIG. 1 . 
     As described above, the exemplary embodiments can be in the form of computer-implemented processes and apparatuses for practicing those processes. The exemplary embodiments can also be in the form of computer program code containing instructions embodied in tangible media, such as floppy diskettes, CD ROMs, hard drives, or any other computer-readable storage medium, wherein, when the computer program code is loaded into and executed by a computer, the computer becomes an apparatus for practicing the exemplary embodiments. The exemplary embodiments can also be in the form of computer program code, for example, whether stored in a storage medium, loaded into and/or executed by a computer, or transmitted over some transmission medium, loaded into and/or executed by a computer, or transmitted over some transmission medium, such as over electrical wiring or cabling, through fiber optics, or via electromagnetic radiation, wherein, when the computer program code is loaded into an executed by a computer, the computer becomes an apparatus for practicing the exemplary embodiments. When implemented on a general-purpose microprocessor, the computer program code segments execute specific microprocessor machine instructions. The computer program product code could also be implemented using electronic logic circuits or a microchip. 
     While the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims. Moreover, the use of the terms first, second, etc. do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element from another. Furthermore, the use of the terms a, an, etc. do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.