Different plug-ins enable web browsers to function as a variety of multimedia players, often transparently to the user. Recent versions of many web browsers can display the most common forms of graphics found on the Internet. However, plug-ins still are necessary for some more specialized applications and advanced manipulations. If such a fingerprint is located, Cybersleuth takes the user to a worldwide registry page that contains contact information for the photographer, stock photography library or picture agency. If the image owner has an Internet presence, the plug-in will convey the user directly there.
Surfers can navigate panoramic images embedded within web sites freely using a mouse or keypad.
These images may include hot spots that launch audio, video or other hyperlinks. In the area of computer video, Apple's QuickTime is recognized by many as the industry leader. Apple has developed a plug-in that allows QuickTime animation, music, MIDI, audio, video or virtual reality panoramas and objects to be viewed directly in a web page. A fast-start feature allows users to experience QuickTime content while the movie or music is downloading. With Apple's QuickTimeVR player, users can view panoramic scenes, as with SmoothMove, or objects in fashion similar to virtual reality.