Frame scattering for video scrubbing

FIGS. 13-16Disclosed is a method of retrieving video frames over a network for subsequent display. A user interaction with a timeline represented by a client coupled to the network is detected. From the detected interaction, a request for video to be retrieved from a server across the network is formed. A series of non-contiguous (scattered) sample frames received in response to the request are then cached for subsequent display. This method permits efficient handling of video scrubbing requests for streamlining video as only selected ones of the cached sample frames close to a GUI play head position need be reproduced. Since the frames are non-contiguous, the scope of the source video is quickly sampled permitting improved user response and, where desired, adjustment of the play head position.