Method for Delivering Multimedia Files

A method for delivering a multimedia data file, such as an MMS, from an originator having an originator server associated therewith to a recipient having a recipient server associated therewith, the method comprising the steps of:

• establishing a communication path from the originator to the recipient via the originator server and the recipient server,
• receiving, by the originator server from the originator, the data file or portions of the data file, and, if the data file is received, splitting the data file into data file portions;
• individually forwarding, by the originator server and without waiting for receipt of the complete data file, the data file portions received from the originator for reassembly by the recipient.

22-24. (canceled)

An apparatus to deliver a multimedia data file, via an established communication path from an originator having an originator server associated therewith to a recipient, the apparatus comprising:

• a reception unit to receive from the originator server portions of the data file, the data file or the data file portions being uploaded to the originator server from the originator;
• and
• a relay unit to individually forward the data file portions received from the originator server for reassembly by the recipient, wherein the data file portions are forwarded without waiting for receipt of the complete data file.

An apparatus to deliver a multimedia data file, via an established communication path from an originator to a recipient having a recipient server associated therewith, the apparatus comprising:

• a reception unit to receive from the originator the data file or portions of the data file, and, if the data file is received, to split the data file into data file portions;
• and
• a relay unit to individually forward the data file portions received from the originator for reassembly by the recipient, wherein the data file portions are forwarded without waiting for receipt of the complete data file.