Abstract: A computer implemented method synchronizes content state on multiple devices that are independently accessing the content. Each device synchronizes their clock and broadcasts an update message that includes an update message timestamp obtained from the clock and a playing state of content being played on the device. Update messages are received from the other devices and the corresponding time stamps are compared to identify the most recent update message and most recent playing state of the content. Each device updates to play the content from the most recent playing state included in the most recent update message.

Abstract: A computer implemented method controls a first device to coordinate with other devices in suspending playback of a media stream that is accessed and played by each device. A first wait point identifies a first playback position and is associated with a first action. Upon encountering the first playback position, playback of the first media stream is suspended. Upon detection of completion of the first action by the first device, the suspension is ended and an update message representing a ready to resume state is broadcast to other devices that are playing respective media streams. Playback is resumed by the first device in response to receiving a threshold number of the update messages from the other devices.