Abstract: The storage of items, such as media items, in a playback device may be managed automatically without user intervention in some embodiments. An algorithm, based on heuristics, may predict which items are most likely to be used or played in the future and, based on that determination, may select the least likely to be used items for replacement. In addition, replacement may be affected by the size of space needed for additional storage versus the size of particular candidates for replacement.

Abstract: Embodiments of this invention provide a system and method for managing the power of networked devices. A power managed device in accordance with embodiments of this invention, include a network power manager connected to a network interface and a local power manager. The network power manager transmits event notifications to a control point device. An event notification indicates a current, recent, and/or pending power state of the power managed device. In certain applications, the network power manager transmits power management information to a subscribing control point device. The power management information allows the control point device to direct the power managed device to operate at a certain power level.

Abstract: A method for authenticating different rendering devices with different service providers and/or different servers in a network. A controlling device identifies a tuner associated with a rendering device. The tuner includes a unique identification. The rendering device is registered with the controlling device. Registration includes storing the rendering device identification and storing the capabilities of the rendering device. At the completion of the registration process, the controlling device assumes control of programming the rendering device. An administrator is enabled to select services that can be used on the rendering device. The tuner of the rendering device is programmed according to the selections made by the administrator. The controlling device acts as an authorization agent to enable media to flow from the selected services to the rendering device.

Abstract: A system and method for intelligent transcoding: A user is enabled to select a media item that the user desires to have played on a particular rendering device on a network. The media item is then requested from a service provider. Upon receiving the media item, it is determined whether the media item needs intelligent transcoding to be played on the particular rendering device. If the media item needs intelligent transcoding, then the media item is intelligently transcoded. Intelligent transcoding includes one or more of transcoding, transcaling, transrating, transformatting, and transcripting. The media item is then streamed to the particular rendering device.

Abstract: Suggesting and targeting advertising based at least in part on relationships between individuals in a community and monitored activity of the individuals. Advertising may be targeted according to inferred relationships between individuals. For example, if a household is determined to have four members comprising a man and woman much older than two children, it may be inferred that the man and woman are parents, and the parents may be targeted to receive advertising for birthday presents for the children. Targeting may be refined based at least in part on monitored responses to previous advertising. A common access point, such as a home computer or portable device may be used as one means of monitoring individual activity.