Abstract: A method and apparatus to perform trickplay processing by a client computing system during the playback of a downloaded media file, regardless of how far along the download has progressed. The client computing system determines whether it is configured to play the media file in trickplay mode and identifies, by a keyframe identifier module, a first keyframe in the media file. The keyframe is retrieved using index information contained within the media file and displayed on a display as part of the trickplay processing. If the client computing system is still in trickplay mode, the next keyframe is identified and the process repeats. Once the client computing system has exited trickplay mode, the keyframe identifier module identifies the closest keyframe to the current position in the media file and begins normal playback of the media file at the location of the closest keyframe.

Abstract: Audio cues often convey different information to users that video cues do not. Audio feedback techniques are provided to convey audio cues about navigable data. Audio cues associated with a collection may indicate a variety of characteristics about items in the collection.

Abstract: By varying the levels of detail associated with items in an ordered collection of information, items may be organized in a way to emphasize details about item of current interest. Displaying varying levels of detail about items in an ordered collection of information involves determining a focus, and based on their relative location to the focus adding additional detail to other items displayed from the collection of information. For instance, a user browsing a web search results list typically only sees a few essential details such as the name, link, and brief abstract about each item in the list. Providing the user with varying levels of detail about each item in the list helps them decide to where they want to navigate.

Abstract: A nonlinear response navigator allows users to move at variable speeds through collections of information without having to use either paging or scrolling techniques. The navigator provides a fun, intuitive feel while navigating data and provides a direct engagement interaction between user and data. The navigator enhances the normal browsing experience by visually enhancing the display based on the speed at which the user moves through the data.

Abstract: Dynamically suggested information helps users navigate collections of information and the underlying reference items in the collections with a reduced need to perform search queries. For example, a user browsing an Internet sports site might be shown dynamically generated links to fantasy sports websites, sports and team message boards, and other sports-related sites. Clicking on a dynamically generated link, such as a fantasy sports website link, redirects the user to a new site. When the user arrives at the new site, the dynamically generated links and any other suggested information are automatically updated.

Abstract: Techniques for integrating instant messaging with Internet search features are provided. An instant messaging (IM) application allows users to launch a search of the Internet or the World Wide Web for information about another IM user or another topic. If an IM user wishes to locate information relating to a friend, a search is performed through a database of registered IM members to locate a user profile for the friend. If the friend's profile is found, the profile is displayed to the IM user. An IM application can also launch a Internet search for information relating to a topic or a friend. The IM application can link to an Internet search engine to search the Internet for web sites relating to the topic or person. Search results from an Internet search can be sorted based on information about a friend that is stored in the friend's user profile.

Abstract: Techniques for performing inline searches in an instant messaging environment are provided. A user can implement a web search in an instant messaging window by entering a search query. A search query can be preceded by a predefined search trigger to identify the associated text as the search query. The search query is sent to an Internet search server, which processes the query and gathers search results. One or more of the search results is displayed inline in the instant messaging window to the sender and the recipient. The search result can be in XML or HTML format and can include graphics and hyperlinks.