Abstract: A method and apparatus for viewing multimedia-based information in accordance with user controls for the speed and direction of the multimedia presentation. Different techniques for presenting multimedia data items are disclosed. User controls provide control for speed and direction in accordance with a user selection device being in a particular location. When a user device is within the defined area, the speed and direction control are turned on. When the user device leaves the defined area, the speed and direction are turned off.

Abstract: A system for browsing multidimensional information includes a digital data storage circuit 48 that stores the multidimensional information in a database and a digital logic circuit 44 that imports, manipulates and outputs the multidimensional information in the database in accordance with a mapping model maps each dimension of multidimensional information space to a location in abstract physical space, and a user interface 70 interactively accepts input from a user and, using the mapping model, renders a graphical representation 78 of the multidimensional information space. The graphical representation 78 is responsive to input of user-initiated restrictions on the multidimensional information space by effecting corresponding visible manifestations in the graphical representation 78.