Method and system for subscriber-based audio service over a communication network

Abstract

Disclosed is a method and system for providing audio service to a client through a communication network. A user subscribes to the service and the user's access to audio files is contingent upon authorization and validation. Once authorized, the user may access and stream out audio date files, or similar types of files, to the client device through the communication network. Metrics are maintained for the play-out of each audio file and payment may be allocated to an owner of rights in the audio file based on the play-out statistics. The user may maintain customized play lists on the server for playing out preselected audio files. A play list may be sent to another user. The server may also be configured to select audio files not previously selected by the user based on the user's past selection behavior or based on the user's stated preferences. The audio files identified by the server are then suggested to the user. The user may also be referred by the server to a sales site to purchase a recording of the audio file.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.