U.S. patent application number 14/095670 was filed with the patent office on 2015-06-04 for website, user interfaces, and applications facilitating improved media search capability.
The applicant listed for this patent is Joshua Beroukhim, Joseph Michael. Invention is credited to Joshua Beroukhim, Joseph Michael.
Application Number | 20150154191 14/095670 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46878131 |
Filed Date | 2015-06-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150154191 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Beroukhim; Joshua ; et
al. |
June 4, 2015 |
WEBSITE, USER INTERFACES, AND APPLICATIONS FACILITATING IMPROVED
MEDIA SEARCH CAPABILITY
Abstract
A method for improving media search capability includes
providing a user with access to an interface that allows the user
to provide one or more inputs relating to an item of media (such as
an audio or video recording of a song or a cover song), performing
a media search in response to the one or more inputs, and
presenting search results via an interactive display generated
depending upon media ratings, wherein one or more of the media
ratings is determined from media ratings inputs depending upon one
or more metrics associated with sources or providers of the media
ratings inputs.
Inventors: |
Beroukhim; Joshua; (Los
Angeles, CA) ; Michael; Joseph; (Los Angeles,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Beroukhim; Joshua
Michael; Joseph |
Los Angeles
Los Angeles |
CA
CA |
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
46878131 |
Appl. No.: |
14/095670 |
Filed: |
December 3, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
707/723 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/06 20130101;
G06F 16/24578 20190101; G06F 16/43 20190101; G06Q 30/02
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06F 17/30 20060101
G06F017/30 |
Claims
1. A method for improving media search capability, the method
comprising: providing a user with access to an interface that
allows the user to provide one or more inputs relating to an item
of media; performing a media search in response to the one or more
inputs; and presenting search results via an interactive display
generated depending upon media rating inputs.
2-27. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a Continuation of U.S. Utility patent
application Ser. No. 13/053,148 filed Mar. 21, 2011, the entire
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates generally to locating and
accessing items of media and, in particular, methods and
technologies for improving media search capability utilizing media
ratings determined depending upon metrics or other information
associated with sources or providers of the media ratings.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] One of the most popular ways for many people to enjoy music
is by remaking or "covering" (e.g., performing or recording) their
favorite songs (e.g., previously recorded, released or popular
songs of someone else). The act of "covering a song" includes, for
example, singing a studio recorded song of an original artist with
your own voice. A performance covering a song can also include
playing the music of the song being covered with an instrument in
addition to singing the renowned song. A song can be covered, for
example, by singing the lyrics of the song while listening to a
recording of the original song (e.g., an instrumental version of
the song, or a recording of the song that does not include the
vocals. Some musicians recreate only the soundtrack of the songs,
leaving out the words. By way of example, YouTube member
alekseyvanin has recreated many popular songs using his electric
guitar.
[0004] Covers of songs are enjoyed by performers of the songs and
their audience alike and are often highly valued and sought after
by people who are interested in a specific song. Covers also
provide a different style and perspective of people's favorite
songs.
[0005] The popularity of music covers is evident from the billions
of views that covers receive on YouTube and other websites. There
are thousands of accounts on YouTube belonging to people who focus
solely on covering their favorite songs and sharing them on the
internet. (For example, the members tiffanyalvord and miaarose have
accounts dedicated solely to sharing covers.)
[0006] Thousands of top quality covers are uploaded to YouTube as
well as other on-line music outlets. Unfortunately, there often
appears to be little rhyme or reason to the presentation of search
results. For example, when searching for a cover on YouTube, it is
often difficult to differentiate between the covers listed in the
search results and time consuming as well to find the best
covers.
For example, when searching "celine dion my heart will go on cover"
in the YouTube search bar, 5,680 search results will appear. Out of
the 5,680 results, the overwhelming majorities are not relevant and
often times the best covers end up not being viewed by the searcher
because of their low placement in the search results.
[0007] Accordingly, it would be useful to be able to provide a
web-enabled venue or other interface that allows a person to more
easily search for items of media (e.g., covers of a particular
song). It would also be useful to be able to improve the capability
of a web-enabled venue or other interface to navigate, search or
browse for items of media, such as songs and videos.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In an example embodiment, a method for improving media
search capability includes providing a user with access to an
interface that allows the user to provide one or more inputs
relating to an item of media (such as an audio or video recording
of a song or a cover song), performing a media search in response
to the one or more inputs, and presenting search results via an
interactive display generated depending upon media ratings, wherein
one or more of the media ratings is determined from media ratings
inputs depending upon one or more metrics associated with sources
or providers of the media ratings inputs.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 shows an example implementation of a method for
improving media search capability, the example implementation
utilizing a network and communications links to provide user
interfaces at personal computing devices;
[0010] FIG. 2 shows an example interface at which visual
representations of items of media are presented and configured such
that a user can utilize the interface to select a presented item of
media and gain access to a media search resource;
[0011] FIG. 3 shows an example interface at which visual
representations of "artist-specific" items of media are presented
in different areas of the interface depending upon media selection
criteria associated with the different areas, respectively;
[0012] FIG. 4 shows an example interface at which visual
representations of "song-specific" items of media are presented in
different areas of the interface depending upon media selection
criteria associated with the different areas, respectively;
[0013] FIG. 5 shows an example interface at which visual
representations are presented and configured such that a user can
gain access to and provide rating inputs in relation to a selected
item of media;
[0014] FIG. 6 shows an example interface configured to allow a user
to designate parameters for controlling an automated process of
downloading specified media to specified destinations or devices;
and
[0015] FIG. 7 is a flow chart in accordance with an example method
for providing improving media search capability.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
[0016] Example embodiments described herein involve methods and
technologies for facilitating media search capability in which
media search results are provided in a manner responsive to
particular actions of consumers of media and/or creators or
providers of media. Example embodiments of the methods and
technologies described herein facilitate enhanced media search
capability and provide or present media search results in a manner
responsive to metrics or other information associated with sources
or providers of media ratings inputs and/or creators or providers
of media.
[0017] In example embodiments, methods and technologies for
improving media search capability facilitate presentations of media
search results responsive to metrics or other information
associated with a source or provider of an item of media. In other
example embodiments, methods and technologies for improving media
search capability facilitate presentations of media search results
responsive to metrics or other information associated with a
creator or provider of an item of media.
[0018] In an example method for improving media search capability,
a network (or other communication means) is utilized to provide
user interfaces at personal computing devices, or at other devices
capable of generating interfaces (e.g., interactive displays), in
response to commands received and/or resources accessed via the
network.
[0019] FIG. 1 shows an example implementation 100 of a method for
improving media search capability in which a network 102 (e.g., the
internet) is utilized to provide user interfaces for users 104a,
104b, and 104c at personal computing devices (PCD) 106a, 106b, and
106c, respectively. In this example, PCD 106a is a mobile telephone
configured to communicate with the network 102 via satellite 108,
PCD 106b is a tablet computer configured to communicate with the
network 102 via a communications path that includes as a portion
thereof a wireless communications link 110, and PCD 106c is a
notebook computer configured to communicate with the network 102
via a communications path 112 that includes as a portion/portions
thereof one or more wireless or wired communications links or a
combination of wireless and wired communications links. It should
be understood that the personal computing devices described herein
are presented as examples of devices capable of generating
interfaces (e.g., interactive displays) in response to commands
received and/or resources accessed via a network (or other
communication means) and that the scope of the invention(s)
includes implementations in which other devices are alternatively
or additionally utilized to provide interfaces in relation to, or
otherwise implement, the methodologies described herein.
[0020] The methods and technologies for improving media search
capability described herein can be implemented, by way of example,
utilizing one or more websites, user interfaces, and/or
applications. For example, referring again to FIG. 1, a service
host 120 (e.g., implemented in the form of servers, processors, or
the like operating under the control of software and/or other
sources of commands or inputs) can be configured to utilize a
system application or other platform to facilitate media searches
and/or sales of items of media, for example, by hosting a website
accessible by users via the network 102.
[0021] In example embodiments, methods and technologies for
improving media search capability are implemented via a website
(and/or one or more other resources accessible via a network or
otherwise).
[0022] In example embodiments, methods and technologies for
improving media search capability are implemented as an addition
and/or an improvement to an existing website such as YouTube. In an
example embodiment, one or more interfaces are generated utilizing
a custom plug-in system application which functions as an extension
and overlay to an existing system application or other platform
that facilitates media searches and/or sales of items of media. It
should be understood that the user interfaces described herein can
be implemented or provided utilizing a website, an addition and/or
an improvement to an existing website, or a resource other than a
website, and independent of whether the resource is directly
accessible by the user. Furthermore, resources can be distributed
with respect to their physical locations and can be controlled,
individually or as groups (e.g., shared resources), by one or more
service hosts and/or partners of the service host(s).
[0023] Referring again to FIG. 1, example methods and technologies
for facilitating media search capability involve one or more
service host entities and/or one or more partner entities. Entities
that can be "partners" of a service host include, for example,
artists, bands, and recording studios, denoted by numerals 130,
132, and 134, respectively. It should be appreciated that other
entities can also serve as "partners" to one or more service hosts
in relation to the methods and technologies described herein. The
"users" include, for example, members (e.g., users registered with
a particular service host and/or other web-enabled business entity)
and performers (e.g., singers of covers of songs, musicians and
instrumentalists playing covers), as well as other people. In an
example embodiment, a person or entity can be both a "user" and a
"partner". In other embodiments, a person/entity participates only
as a "user" or only as a "partner".
[0024] In example embodiments of the methods and technologies
described herein, users are provided with interfaces that
facilitate media search and other actions relating to particular
items of media, such as covers of songs or parodies of songs, that
have been uploaded to the service host 120 and/or other web-enabled
resource. A cover of a song (e.g., a video of a cover performance
of a song) can be created (e.g., recorded, produced, etc.), for
example, by one or more "users" (e.g., by cover performers and/or
cover musicians), by one or more "partners" (e.g., by a known,
popular, or famous artist or band), or by a collaborative effort
involving at least one "user" or "partner". A created item of media
can include content from sources other than "users" and "partners"
and, in the case of covers (or other performances of songs) can
include, for example, content in addition to and/or replacing one
or more portions of a "user" and/or "partner" cover
performance.
[0025] FIG. 2 shows an example interface 200 at which visual
representations of items of media are presented and configured such
that a user can utilize the interface to select a presented item of
media and gain access to a media search resource (e.g., provided by
a service host or other web-enabled entity). In example embodiments
of the methods and technologies described herein, the visual
representations and/or other aspects of the interface pertain to a
specific type, form, category, or group of media and can be, but
are not necessarily, limited to presentations of a specific type,
form, category, or group of media. In this example embodiment, the
visual representations as well as other aspects of the interface
200 pertain to items of media of a specific type, form, category,
or group, namely, videos of cover performances. In another example
embodiment, presented items of media include multiple types of
media (e.g., sound recordings and video) of a common category or
group (e.g., items of media that are covers or include cover
content). In other example embodiments, the visual representations
and/or other aspects of the interface pertain to items of media of
a different category or group, such as parodies. In another example
embodiment, presented items of media include a single type of media
(e.g., videos) of multiple categories or groups (e.g., items of
media including either covers or parodies).
[0026] The interface 200 includes a navigation bar 202 which, in
this example embodiment, includes user selectable fields (or
buttons) denoted "Home", "About Us", "Register", "Best Videos",
"Random Videos", "Hot Lists" and "Mobile". These portions of the
interface, when selected by a user, provide a user input that
causes the service host, for example, to generate a different
display. For example, when a user clicks the "Register" field of
the navigation bar 202, the display is controlled to generate a new
interface (such as the interface described below in relation to
FIG. 6) through which a visitor can register and/or become a member
(e.g., with a service host and/or other web-enabled business
entity). The "Best Videos" and "Random Videos" buttons of the
navigation bar 202, upon selection, provide user inputs that cause
the display to be controlled to generate different and/or
additional interfaces (e.g., by accessing other webpages and/or
resources, generating pop-up displays, etc.) that present, for
example, "Top rated Covers in all Categories" and "Randomly
Displayed Videos in all Categories", respectively. In this example
embodiment, the navigation bar 202 is presented within multiple
different interfaces (as shown in the interfaces described herein
in relation to FIGS. 2-6).
[0027] In example embodiments, the methods and technologies
described herein allow a user to search for items of media by
entering query terms associated with one or more specific types,
forms, categories, or groups of media. Referring again to FIG. 2,
in an example implementation, the interface 200 includes a search
bar 204 configured to allow a user to search for covers by artist,
name of song, or covering musician. To facilitate the foregoing
media search functionality, artist, name of song, and covering
musician information is associated with uploaded items of media and
included as part of a larger database of information utilized, for
example, by the service host, to identify covers within the
database that match or otherwise associate with the search query
and display the results (e.g., by controlling an interface to
present visual representations of all covers included in the search
results). Moreover, search queries can be automatically associated
with the particular interface from which the search query was
submitted (e.g., an interface dedicated to covers), thereby
potentially reducing the amount of data in the database that needs
to be processed or otherwise simplifying media search processing.
In this example embodiment, the search bar 204 is presented within
multiple different interfaces (as shown in the interfaces described
herein in relation to FIGS. 2-6).
[0028] The interface 200 includes a field (or button) 210 denoted
"Browse All Artists A-Z" which, when selected, causes a portion 212
(of the interface 200) denoted "View All Artists" to present a list
of the names of all Artists from A-Z (e.g., a list of famous
artists that performed, or are otherwise associated with, the
original studio recordings of songs). In an example embodiment, the
interface 200 is configured such that selection of a name from the
list (e.g., "Artist J") causes the display to be controlled to
generate different and/or additional interfaces (e.g., by accessing
other webpages and/or resources, generating pop-up displays, etc.)
that present, for example, visual representations of the "Covers of
Artist J", making it easy and convenient for a user to navigate and
locate covers from an original artist.
[0029] In example embodiments of the methods and technologies
described herein, media search results are presented depending upon
media ratings. Referring to FIG. 2, in an example implementation,
the interface 200 includes display areas 220 and 222 within which
items of media are presented. In this example interface, items of
media are presented in the first display area 220 depending upon
media ratings, whereas items of media are presented in the second
display area 222 independent of media ratings. In an example
embodiment, top rated items of media are determined (or identified)
depending upon media ratings, and the first display area 220 is
utilized to present the top rated items of media (e.g., top rated
covers). For example, 10 Top Rated Covers can be randomly displayed
from a group of 1,000 of the highest rated covers (e.g., selected
from all covers and from all artists based on ratings). In an
example embodiment, items of media are randomly selected from a
group of media items determined (or identified) independent of
media ratings, and the second display area 222 is utilized to
present the randomly selected items of media (e.g., randomly
selected covers). For example, Newly Added Covers can be randomly
displayed (e.g., randomly selected from all covers and from all
artists). The randomly selected items of media presented in the
second display area 222 can include, for example, only newly or
recently added covers of songs. In this example interface, visual
representations of the items of media are presented in the display
areas 220 and 222, and the interface 200 is configured such that
selection of a visual representation causes the display to be
controlled to generate different and/or additional interfaces
(e.g., by accessing other webpages and/or resources, generating
pop-up displays, etc.) that present (e.g., via an interface such as
described below in relation to FIG. 5) the item of media and/or
resources or information that can be, but are not necessarily,
related to the item of media.
[0030] In example embodiments, media search results are presented
depending upon media ratings, which are determined from media
ratings inputs and one or more metrics associated with sources or
providers of the media ratings inputs. For example, one or more of
the media ratings inputs is assigned a value or weighted depending
upon the one or more metrics or information associated with sources
or providers of the media ratings inputs.
[0031] In example implementations of the methods and technologies
described herein, media consumption activities or trends associated
with a source or provider of a media rating input are monitored,
and one or more metrics associated with the source or provider of a
media rating input are adjusted depending upon the media
consumption activities or trends. For example, a metric associated
with a user who watches a video from beginning to end can be
adjusted such that a media rating input (provided by that user) is
more heavily weighted than the media rating inputs provided by
users who also rated but only watched a portion of said video.
Moreover, it should be understood that information or data relating
to the media consumption activities or trends (e.g., associated
with sources or providers of the media ratings inputs) is not
limited to information or data resulting from a process of
monitoring or collecting data over time and can be otherwise
accessed or acquired.
[0032] In example implementations of the methods and technologies
described herein, information (or data) associated with a source or
provider of a media rating input is accessed, and one or more
metrics associated with the source or provider of a media rating
input are adjusted depending upon the information (or data). Media
consumption information associated with sources or providers of the
media ratings inputs can include, for example, one or more of: a
percentage of an item of media streamed by the source or provider
of the media rating input, a number of items of media accessed by
the source or provider of the media rating input, a number of
artist-specific items of media accessed by the source or provider
of the media rating input, a number of genre-specific items of
media accessed by the source or provider of the media rating input,
an amount of bandwidth utilized by the source or provider of the
media rating input, a history of media consumption activity by the
source or provider of the media rating input, an amount of recent
media consumption activity by the source or provider of the media
rating input, a number of unique pages visited by the source or
provider of the media rating input, a number of visits to partner
websites by the source or provider of the media rating input, and
information regarding media purchases by the source or provider of
the media rating input.
[0033] Other information associated with sources or providers of
the media ratings inputs can include, for example, one or more of:
a rating of the source or provider of the media rating input (e.g.,
provided via a website or other platform through which a visual
representation of an item of media identified in the search results
is presented), proximity of the source or provider of the media
rating input to a location associated with an item of media, a
status of the source or provider of the media rating input in
relation to a business or other entity involved with providing a
website or other platform through which the search results are
generated, and information regarding media-related services
utilized by the source or provider of the media rating input.
[0034] The one or more metrics associated with the source or
provider of a media rating can be adjusted depending upon
additional and/or alternative information, behaviors, trends, and
statuses, or depending upon analytics, determinations,
measurements, conditions, commands, overrides, interrupts,
requests, responses, and/or inputs, in conjunction with or
independent of information, behaviors, trends, and statuses.
[0035] In example embodiments, media search results are presented
depending upon a media status (e.g., preferred media, featured
media, non-preferred media, banned media), which is determined from
one or more metrics associated with a creator or provider of an
item of media. For example, the media status associated with an
item of media is assigned or adjusted depending upon one or more
metrics associated with the creator or provider of the item of
media.
[0036] In example implementations of the methods and technologies
described herein, information (or data) associated with a creator
or provider of an item of media is accessed, and one or more
metrics associated with the creator or provider of an item of media
are adjusted depending upon the information (or data). Information
(or data) associated with a creator or provider of an item of media
can include, for example, one or more of: ratings associated with
the creator or provider of an item of media, a status of the
creator or provider of an item of media (e.g., in relation to a
business or other entity involved with a website or other platform
providing a media search interface through which a resource or
information facilitating access to the item of media is presented),
and information or trends regarding media-related services utilized
by the creator or provider of an item of media.
[0037] The one or more metrics associated with the creator or
provider of an item of media can be adjusted depending upon
additional and/or alternative information, behaviors, trends, and
statuses, or depending upon analytics, determinations,
measurements, conditions, commands, overrides, interrupts,
requests, responses, and/or inputs, in conjunction with or
independent of information, behaviors, trends, and statuses.
[0038] FIG. 3 shows an example interface 300 at which visual
representations of "artist-specific" items of media are presented
in different areas of the interface depending upon media selection
criteria associated with the different areas, respectively. The
interface 300 (denoted "ARTIST J's Home Page", in this example)
includes a portion 312 in which songs by the artist (all songs by
ARTIST J, in this example) are listed. The interface 300 is
presented, for example, in response to a search for a specific
artist using the search bar 204.
[0039] The interface 300 can be configured to present (e.g., within
the portion 312) all songs by a specific artist, for example, 48
songs by ARTIST J. The interface 300 includes display areas 320 and
322 within which "artist-specific" items of media are presented.
The interface 300 can be configured to present "artist-specific"
items of media for only a single artist or band. In this example,
only covers of a specific artist's songs are presented in the
display areas 320 and 322, making it easier and more convenient for
a user to navigate and locate "artist-specific" covers. In an
example embodiment, "artist-specific" top rated items of media are
presented in the first display area 320 and include only covers of
songs from a specified artist. In an example embodiment,
"artist-specific" randomly selected items of media are presented in
the second display area 322 and include only covers of songs from a
specified artist.
[0040] In this example interface, "artist-specific" items of media
are presented in the first display area 320 depending upon media
ratings, whereas "artist-specific" items of media are presented in
the second display area 322 independent of media ratings. In an
example embodiment, "artist-specific" top rated items of media are
determined (or identified) depending upon media ratings, and the
first display area 320 is utilized to present the "artist-specific"
top rated items of media (e.g., "artist-specific" top rated
covers). For example, if there are 405 covers for the 48 songs by
ARTIST J, the 5 highest rated covers of ARTIST J's songs can be
displayed (e.g., selected from all covers and from all of ARTIST
J's songs based on ratings). In an example embodiment, items of
media are randomly selected from an "artist specific" group of
media items determined (or identified) independent of media
ratings, and the second display area 322 is utilized to present the
"artist-specific" randomly selected items of media (e.g.,
"artist-specific" randomly selected covers). For example, the
remaining 400 covers can alternate randomly in their ordering or
arrangement (e.g., each time the second display area 322 is
presented or refreshed). This provides each item of media with at
least some likelihood of being presented at a location on the
display likely to attract user attention (regardless of how or
whether it has been rated). In this manner, newly added items of
media have the potential to more quickly gain notice and, if
favorably received, garner high ratings and rise (by virtue of
ratings-based merit) to a presentation position within the first
display area 320. In addition, this way of organizing and
presenting items of media (e.g., covers) allows a website, for
example, to more easily create or present contests related to
specific artists.
[0041] In another example embodiment, an item of media (e.g., an
"artist-specific" item of media) is guaranteed a minimum number or
percentage of "first page" presentations within a number of display
area presentations (e.g., a newly added item of media is guaranteed
at least one "first page" presentation per 1,000 presentations of
groups of items of media that include the newly added item of
media). Regardless, in example implementations, the interface 300
can be configured to permit a user to view all of the "artist
specific" items of media in the second display area 322 (e.g., by
scrolling downward to view those items less favorably positioned or
arranged).
[0042] FIG. 4 shows an example interface 400 at which visual
representations of "song-specific" items of media are presented in
different areas of the interface depending upon media selection
criteria associated with the different areas, respectively. The
interface 400 (denoted "ARTIST J--SONG #25 COVERS", in this
example) also includes the portion 312 in which songs by the artist
(all songs by ARTIST J, in this example) are listed. The interface
400 is presented, for example, in response to a search for a
specific song using the search bar 204 or the selection of a
specific song (e.g., from the portion 312 of interface 300).
[0043] The interface 400 includes display areas 420 and 422 within
which "song-specific" items of media are presented. The interface
400 can be configured to present "song-specific" items of media for
only a single song. In this example, only covers of a specific song
are presented in the display areas 420 and 422, making it easier
and more convenient for a user to navigate and locate
"song-specific" covers. In an example embodiment, "song-specific"
top rated items of media are presented in the first display area
420 and include only covers of a specified song. In an example
embodiment, "song-specific" randomly selected items of media are
presented in the second display area 422 and include only covers of
a specified song.
[0044] In this example interface, "song-specific" items of media
are presented in the first display area 420 depending upon media
ratings, whereas "song-specific" items of media are presented in
the second display area 422 independent of media ratings. In an
example embodiment, "song-specific" top rated items of media are
determined (or identified) depending upon media ratings, and the
first display area 420 is utilized to present the "song-specific"
top rated items of media (e.g., "song-specific" top rated covers).
For example, if there are 80 covers of ARTIST J's Song #25, the top
two highest rated covers of ARTIST J's Song #25 can be displayed
(e.g., selected from all covers of Song #25 based on ratings). In
an example embodiment, items of media are randomly selected from a
"song-specific" group of media items determined (or identified)
independent of media ratings, and the second display area 422 is
utilized to present the "song-specific" randomly selected items of
media (e.g., "song-specific" randomly selected covers). For
example, the remaining covers of ARTIST J's Song #25 can alternate
randomly in their ordering or arrangement (e.g., each time the
second display area 422 is presented or refreshed). This provides
each item of media with at least some likelihood of being presented
at a location on the display likely to attract user attention
(regardless of how or whether an item of media has been rated). In
this manner, newly added items of media have the potential to more
quickly gain notice and, if favorably received, garner high ratings
and rise (by virtue of ratings-based merit) to a presentation
position within the first display area 420. In addition, this way
of organizing and presenting items of media (e.g., covers) allows a
website or other network- or web-enabled venue, by way of example,
to more easily create or present contests related to specific
songs.
[0045] In another example embodiment, an item of media (e.g., a
"song-specific" item of media) is guaranteed a minimum number or
percentage of "first page" presentations within a number of display
area presentations or presentation events (e.g., a newly added item
of media is guaranteed at least one "first page" presentation per
1,000 presentations of groups of items of media that include the
newly added item of media). Regardless, in example implementations,
the interface 400 can be configured to permit a user to view all of
the "song specific" items of media in the second display area 422
(e.g., by scrolling downward to view those items less favorably
positioned or arranged).
[0046] In example embodiments of the methods and technologies
described herein a user interface is generated or presented that
allows the user to provide one or more ratings inputs for an item
of media. FIG. 5 shows an example interface 500 at which visual
representations are presented and configured such that a user can
gain access to and provide rating inputs in relation to a selected
item of media. The interface 500 is presented, for example, in
response to the selection of a specific item of media (e.g., a
cover selected at interface 400).
[0047] The interface 500 includes a display area 520 within which a
selected item of media (e.g., a selected cover video) is presented
and a display area 522 configured to allow a user to provide media
ratings inputs in relation to the selected item of media. The
display area 520 presents a selected item of media ("SONG #25 VIDEO
Cover by XXXX XXXXX", in this example) and, additionally, includes
a field (or button) 521 which, when selected, causes the display to
be controlled to generate different and/or additional interfaces
(e.g., by accessing other webpages and/or resources, generating
pop-up displays, etc.) that present, for example, resources or
information that allow the user to purchase the item of media
(e.g., a link to iTunes). In an example embodiment, a user
interface is generated that prompts the user to purchase an item of
media and/or create a virtual album.
[0048] Media ratings inputs are provided (e.g., to the service
host) when a user selects particular portions of the display area
522. Interactive fields, star-shaped, in this example, are
presented and configured to permit a user to rate items of media
(and/or artists) according to different criteria. For example, in
the case of a cover video, the criteria can include: voice (e.g.,
how good is the coverer's voice?), video quality (e.g., how good
was the quality of the video/sound?), and performance (e.g., did
the coverer make the song their own/add their personality?) A user
can submit a rating between 1 and 5 stars, for example, for each of
the three criteria using interactive fields 523, 524, and 525,
respectively. In an example embodiment, a user is free to vote in
all, none, or any of the criteria they choose. In other
embodiments, whether a user provides media ratings inputs (e.g., in
relation to all or multiple criteria) can be monitored for purposes
of scaling or applying weights to inputs provided by that user.
[0049] In relation to the effect of ratings on the presentation of
items of media, one or more of the criteria can be used to
determine which of a group of items of media is eligible for top or
prominent placement. A minimum number of votes for a particular
item of media can also be required as a prerequisite to said item
of media being eligible for top or prominent placement.
[0050] In an example approach or algorithm for determining a media
rating, a score for an item of media is determined by averaging the
ratings for each of the criteria. For example, if a cover receives
an average of 3.5 in voice, 4.2 in performance, and 4.7 in video
quality, it will have a score of 4.13 which can be its media
rating. The score can be modified or adjusted depending upon other
criteria and/or depending upon metrics or other information
associated with sources or providers of media ratings inputs and/or
creators or providers of media.
[0051] Other approaches or algorithms for determining a media
rating take into consideration one of more of the following: an
amount or percentage of an item of media listened to or viewed by
the user, whether the user has already submitted a particular
rating for a particular item of media, and a comparison between the
item of media being rated and another item of media. With regard to
an amount or percentage of an item of media listened to or viewed
by the user, by way of example, if a song is 3 minutes long, and a
user listens to it for 1 minute, a rating input submitted by said
user would not be carry as high a score as the rating input of a
different user who listens to the entirety of the song. For
example, the rating input submitted by the user who listened to the
song for only 1 minute can be attributed 1/3 of the value of a
rating input submitted by a user who listens to the entire song.
Moreover, a minimum amount or percentage of an item of media
listened to or viewed by the user can be required as a prerequisite
to allowing a user to submit a rating in relation to the item of
media. For example, a minimum time (e.g., 10 seconds) spent by the
user listening to or viewing an item of media can be required
before a user is allowed to submit a rating input in relation to
the item of media. With regard to whether the user has already
submitted a particular rating for a particular item of media,
identifying information or data such as an IP address of a user can
be tracked or checked against a previously saved address (e.g., to
prevent or otherwise take into consideration the submission of
redundant ratings by the same user). With regard to a comparison
between the item of media being rated and another item of media,
the ratings inputs can also include, for example, a comparison of a
cover song to the original version of the song. In this example
interface, the display area 522 includes a rating bar 526 ranging
from zero (0) to ten (10), where the original song is placed in the
middle at position five (5). Depending on how a cover compares to
the original, a user can click the rating bar 526 to the left or
right direction indicating the user's opinion as to whether the
cover is better or worse than the original and by what magnitude.
For example, a cover that is twice as good as the original can be
moved to position ten (10). A cover that is half as good as the
original can be moved to position two and one-half (2.5). Different
portions of the rating bar 526 can be color coded (e.g., with
transitions from one portion to the next occurring at the locations
along the rating bar 526 marked by perforated vertical lines).
[0052] The interface 500 (denoted "ARTIST J--SONG #25 COVERS", in
this example) also includes the portion 312 in which songs by the
artist (all songs by ARTIST J, in this example) are listed. The
interface 400 (FIG. 4) is presented, for example, in response to
the selection of a specific song from portion 312 of interface
500.
[0053] In example embodiments of the methods and technologies
described herein, a user interface is generated or presented that
prompts the user to take one or more actions. Referring again to
FIG. 5, in this example interface, visual representations in the
form of pop-up displays 530, 532, 534, 536, 538, 540, and 542 are
presented and configured such that a user is prompted to provide
one or more additional inputs via the interface. The pop-up
displays are generated, for example, in response to inputs provided
by the user and/or commands from or provided by the service
host.
[0054] The pop-up display 530 (denoted "Buy/Download this Cover as
a MP3/Music Video"), when selected by a user, causes a different
and/or additional interface to be generated presenting, for
example, resources or information that allow the user to purchase
or download audio, video or ring tone items of media (e.g.,
directly from a website of the service host, or from a partner
entity).
[0055] The pop-up display 532 (denoted "Use our Blank
(Instrumental) Soundtrack to Record your own Cover"), when selected
by a user, cause a different and/or additional interface to be
generated presenting, for example, resources or information that
allow the user to use an instrumental soundtrack to record a cover
song. In an example embodiment, a webpage or other interface is
configured to provide a user with access to soundtracks (e.g., the
soundtracks of all songs by all artists, or some other selection or
group of song soundtracks), which will potentially simplify,
especially for amateur and/or upcoming artists/singers/musicians,
the process of creating and uploading covers. In example
embodiments, one or more interfaces are presented and configured to
allow a user with a webcam/video camera to use instrumental or
blank soundtracks and video shot or captured with the webcam/video
camera to create and upload a cover (e.g., to a website hosted by,
or partnered or associated with, the service host).
[0056] The pop-up display 534 (denoted "Access video editing
software on-line to Edit your Cover"), when selected by a user,
cause a different and/or additional interface to be generated
presenting, for example, resources or information that allow the
user to access video editing software on-line to edit a cover song.
In an example embodiment, a webpage or other interface is
configured to provide a user with access to one or more software
programs that allow the user to perform video editing tasks. For
example, a user is provided with access to video editing tools
embodying a combination of features/functionalities sufficient for
creating covers from scratch.
[0057] The pop-up display 536 (denoted "Arrange to have your Cover
Professionally Recorded"), when selected by a user, cause a
different and/or additional interface to be generated presenting,
for example, resources or information that allow the user to
arrange to have a cover song professionally recorded. For example,
the user is provided with access to a list of nationwide
professional recording studios. Alternatively, a geographically
limited or bounded list can be provided (e.g., professional
recording studios within 5, 10, 20 or 100 miles of a particular or
specified location). Example implementations of the methods and
technologies described herein involve arranging (or providing the
user with access to a service that arranges) for a cover to be
professionally recorded at a recording studio.
[0058] The pop-up displays 538, 540, 542 (denoted "View other
Videos by this Member", "Favorite this Video", and "Share this
Video", respectively) perform their respective described
functionalities, e.g., in conventional fashion and/or as otherwise
described herein.
[0059] FIG. 6 shows an example interface 600 (denoted
"Registration/Membership") which is presented, for example, in
response to the selection of the "Register" field of the navigation
bar 202 from any of the previously described interfaces. As shown
in this example, the interface 600 can include fields for entering
Name, Address, Email address, Phone, Credit Card information as may
be requested/required by a service host and/or partner entity in
order to register a user. For example, a website or other interface
is presented and configured to allow a visitor to join in as a
member by registering their information which will be kept
confidential.
[0060] In example implementations of the methods and technologies
described herein, an interface is presented and configured to allow
a user to provide inputs relating to items of media that the user
is interested in. To this end, the interface 600 includes a portion
602 with columns denoted "Genres", "Favorite Genres", "Favorite
Artists", and "Favorite Songs" configured to allow a user to
identify (select) favorite genres and list favorite artists and
songs. For example, a favorite song is added to the "Favorite
Songs" column in response to selection of the pop-up display 540
(FIG. 5). In example embodiments, the service host and/or a partner
entity utilizes user selections and information provided (e.g., via
portion 602) to notify the user (e.g., by e-mail or text message)
of items of media that may be of interest, such as recent top rated
covers by favorite artists of the user or recent top rated covers
of favorite songs of the user.
[0061] The interface 600 additionally includes input field portions
604, 605, and 606 configured to allow a user to designate
parameters for controlling an automated process of downloading
specified media to specified destinations or devices. The
parameters can include, by way of example, a maximum number of
items of a specified group of media to be downloaded to a specified
destination or device. The parameters can be used to limit download
activity associated with media download processes that
automatically download items of media (e.g., no user input required
to initiate a download) as well as processes that require a user to
manually or otherwise provide an input in order for the media
download to begin.
[0062] In this example, the interface 600 is configured to allow a
user to indicate, using the input field portion 604, a maximum
number of Top Covers performed by specified Artist(s) that are to
be automatically downloaded to destinations or devices specified by
the user. The interface 600 is also configured to allow a user to
indicate, using the input field portion 605, a maximum number of
Top Covers of songs performed by the user's favorite Artist(s) that
are to be automatically downloaded to destinations or devices
specified by the user. Input fields (denoted "Mobile" and "Email"),
adjacent to both the input field portions 604 and 605 as shown, are
configured to allow the user to specify destination(s)/device(s) to
which the specified items are media are to be downloaded.
Alternatively, information allowing or an invitation inviting a
user to download the specified items of media can be automatically
sent to the specified destination(s)/device(s).
[0063] The interface 600 is also configured to allow a user to
indicate, using the input field portion 606, a maximum number of
Covers that are to be downloaded directly to destinations or
devices specified by the user. Input fields (denoted "Mobile" and
"Computer"), adjacent to the input field portion 606 as shown, is
configured to allow the user to specify destination(s)/device(s) to
which items are media are to be downloaded. In an example
embodiment, the items of media downloaded are limited to items
selected based on inputs and information provided by the user. In
other embodiments, the items of media can be selected exclusively,
in part, or intermittently by the service host and/or partner
entity.
[0064] Further with regard to the navigation bar 202, the user
selectable field (or button) denoted "Hot Lists" is configured, in
an example embodiment, to allow a user (e.g., a member) to view
their favorite songs. For example, selection of "Hot Lists" by a
user causes an interface to present or generate the portion 602. In
an example embodiment, selection of "Hot Lists" also initiates a
process of automatically transmitting items of media, e.g., Top
Covers performed by specified Artist(s) and Top Covers of songs
performed by the user's favorite Artist(s), as previously
discussed.
[0065] In an example embodiment, selection of the field (or button)
denoted "Mobile" causes a webpage or other interface to be
presented providing information to the user regarding a mobile
registration/membership. Interfaces can also be configured such
that selection of "Mobile" causes a webpage or other interface to
be presented that allows the user to download items of media (e.g.,
covers) to their mobile telephone (or PDC).
[0066] In example implementations of the methods and technologies
described herein, a user interface is generated that prompts the
user to become a member and/or register and offers a search bar,
tool bar or other add-on as an incentive. To this end, the
interface 600 is controlled to generate (e.g., after a
user/non-member has viewed the interface for a particular amount of
time) displays presenting prompts, information, and/or visual
representations designed to incentivize a user into registering
with or becoming a member of, by way of example, a website or other
network- or web-enabled venue associated with a service host or
partner entity thereof. For example, a pop-up display 610 includes
text informing a user of the advantages of becoming a
member/registering and offering an incentive to the user for taking
this action. In this example, the incentive offered is a program
download (e.g., add-on) that provides, upon installation, a browser
toolbar that allows the user to listen to covers while browsing the
internet. A pop-up display 612 provides a visual representation of
the browser tool bar (or other incentive program or add-on), as it
would appear during operation. In this example, the browser tool
bar includes, as shown, a "COVER SEARCH BAR" and user-selectable
drop down menu elements denoted, from top to bottom, "Play Favorite
Covers", "Play Random Covers", "Play Top Rated Covers", "Play Top
Covers performed by my specified Artist(s)", "Play Top Covers of
Songs from my favorite Artist(s), and "Visit Cover Website",
reflecting the functionalities that they respectively provide. A
pop-up display 614 includes text providing a user with information
about a control bar that will also appear on the user's browser,
allowing the user to adjust volume and start and stop play. An
accompanying pop-up display 616 provides a visual representation of
the control bar which also allows the user to fast forward or
reverse play. Multiple incentives can be presented, for example,
either in a burst (e.g., all at once) or spread out over time
(e.g., sequentially).
[0067] Referring to FIG. 7, an example method 700 for providing
improving media search capability includes, at 702, providing a
user with access to an interface that allows the user to provide
one or more inputs relating to an item of media. The method 700
further includes, at 704, performing a media search in response to
the one or more inputs and, at 706, presenting search results via
an interactive display generated depending upon media ratings,
wherein one or more of the media ratings is determined from media
ratings inputs depending upon one or more metrics associated with
sources or providers of the media ratings inputs. Optionally, at
708 (as denoted with dashed lines), in an example embodiment, the
method 700 further includes uploading an item of media to a website
or other platform that provides a media search interface through
which a resource or information facilitating access to the item of
media is presented and, if authorized by the creator or provider of
the item of media, automatically submitting the uploaded item of
media to one or more partner businesses or entities and/or
authorizing the one or more partner businesses or entities to sell
the item of media. By way of example, items of media such a covers
and parodies uploaded to a website (e.g., associated with the
service host or a partner entity thereof) are automatically
provided or submitted to a seller of music (e.g., the iTunes
Store). Optionally, at 710 (as denoted with dashed lines), in an
example embodiment, the method 700 further includes sharing a
portion of revenue generated from sales of the item of media (e.g.,
by the one or more partner businesses or entities) with the creator
or provider of the item of media. For example, the service host or
a partner entity thereof shares revenue generated from sales and/or
downloads (e.g., through their website), which provides an
additional incentive for performers, musicians, and other users to
post their covers and other items of media.
[0068] Although the present invention has been described in terms
of the example embodiments above, numerous modifications and/or
additions to the above-described embodiments would be readily
apparent to one skilled in the art. It is intended that the scope
of the present invention extend to all such modifications and/or
additions.
* * * * *