Abstract: The various implementations described herein include methods and systems for synchronous audio playback. An electronic device can receive an identification of a first device as a common clock device that has a first internal clock being designated as a master clock. The electronic device receives a synchronized audio playback command that includes audio data to be output and a future playback time. In response to receiving the audio data, the device determines a synchronized audio playback time for audio to be output. An optimal time for output can be calculated and transmitted to the server system for future playback time calculations.

Abstract: The various implementations described herein include methods and systems for synchronous audio playback. In one aspect, a method is performed at each of a plurality of electronic devices, each having an audio system, an internal clock, processors and memory storing programs for execution by the processors. Each device is configured for two-way communications with a server and associated with a user account. The device receives an identification of a first device as a common clock device that has a first internal clock being designated as a master clock. The device receives a synchronized audio playback command that includes audio data to be output and a future playback time. In response to receiving the audio data, the device determines a synchronized audio playback time. If the determined synchronized audio playback time has not yet occurred, the electronic device outputs the audio data based on the determined synchronized audio playback time.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of controlling a quantity of liquid from extruding from a volumetric gap defined between a mold included in the substrate and a region of the substrate in superimposition therewith that features varying the capillary forces between the liquid and one of the template and the substrate. To that end, the method includes generating capillary forces between the liquid and one of the template and the substrate; and varying a magnitude of the forces to create a gradient of forces.

Abstract: The present invention includes a method and a composition to form a layer on a substrate having uniform etch characteristics. To that end, the method includes controlling variations in the characteristics of a solid layer, such etch characteristics over the area of the solid layer as a function of the relative rates of evaporation of the liquid components that comprise the composition from which the solid layer is formed.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to disposing a diamond-like composition on a template, wherein the diamond-like composition acts as a release layer. The diamond-like composition is substantially transparent to actinic radiation, e.g., ultraviolet (UV) light, and will also have a desired surface energy, wherein the desired surface energy minimizes adhesion between the template and an underlying material disposed on a substrate. The diamond-like composition is characterized with a low surface energy that exhibits desirable release characteristics.