Abstract: Digital content files may include media content, metadata uniquely identifying a transaction in which the content file was obtained, and a digital signature of at least a portion of the metadata. The metadata may include a distributor ID, a date and time of the transaction, an asset ID, a secure hash of the media content, a nonce, and one of a user ID, uniquely identifying a user who obtained the content file in the transaction, and a transaction ID uniquely identifying the transaction.

Abstract: A method for distributing content over a network by providing a predetermined electronic contract for distributing the content between a retailer and a distributor, wherein terms of the contract are independent of the content and the retailer distributes the content to a consumer and the distributor has rights in the content. A step of presenting a candidate retail offer for the distribution of the content to the consumer and receiving a request from the consumer to exercise the candidate retail offer. Finally, validating the candidate retail offer for the distribution of the content by accessing the electronic contract and determining if the candidate retail offer is consistent with the electronic contract. Upon successful validation, providing the content to the consumer, receiving compensation information from the consumer indicating at least the amount of compensation for the content provided and allocating the compensation according to the electronic contract.

Abstract: An electronic media distribution system which facilitates the distribution of media to consumers over a network, such as the Internet, while achieving commercial business objectives and protecting the intellectual property rights associated with the media being distributed. The system provides the infrastructure and support for various market participants to engage in buying, selling, finding and distributing music. The system provides an interface for consumers to locate, access and receive musical content over the Internet. The system facilitates continued control over the musical content sent to consumers by dynamically enforcing retailer agreements and restrictions governing the purchase, use, and distribution of the content. The system also provides a service to retailers and distributors in assisting with the management of sales and distribution of music over the Internet.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and system of allowing a user to receive additional information regarding broadcast content. A user's playback device is provided with an “Info Button” that can be clicked by the user to tag the content or sub-content while experiencing the content or sub-content. The user can be provided with information and/or commerce opportunities relating to the tagged content. Identifiers, markers and fingerprints that can identify the individual content and sub-content can be captured by the playback device when the Info Button is clicked. A Content ID can be transmitted or played back with the content and can be a unique identifier to the content. Further, a Broadcast ID, a FSA ID and a Device Manufacturer ID can also be transmitted or associated with the content.

Abstract: A method for distributing content over a network by providing a predetermined electronic contract for distributing the content between a retailer and a distributor, wherein terms of the contract are independent of the content and the retailer distributes the content to a consumer and the distributor has rights in the content. A step of presenting a candidate retail offer for the distribution of the content to the consumer and receiving a request from the consumer to exercise the candidate retail offer. Finally, validating the candidate retail offer for the distribution of the content by accessing the electronic contract and determining if the candidate retail offer is consistent with the electronic contract. Upon successful validation, providing the content to the consumer, receiving compensation information from the consumer indicating at least the amount of compensation for the content provided and allocating the compensation according to the electronic contract.