The invention is related to methods and apparatus that can advantageously
alter a playback rate of a multimedia presentation, such as a video clip.
One embodiment of the invention permits a multimedia presentation to be
sped up or slowed down with a controlled change in pitch of the sped up
or slowed down audio. In one embodiment, this controlled change in the
pitch permits the sped up or slowed down audio to retain a same sounding
pitch as at normal playback speeds. In one embodiment, a duration is
specified and playback of the video clip is advantageously sped to
complete playback within the specified duration. In another embodiment, a
finish by a time is specified, and the playback of the video clip is
advantageously sped to complete playback by the specified time.