Virtual image usage right management method, system, and computer-readable recording medium

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a virtual avatar use permission management method, a system, and a computer-readable recording medium. The virtual avatar use permission management method includes the steps of: in an instant messaging service, transmitting a request to use a virtual avatar of a second user registered as a messenger friend of a first user; and in response to the request to use the virtual avatar of the second user being accepted by the second user, allowing the virtual avatar of the second user to be used at a user terminal associated with the first user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a method and system for managing the usage rights of virtual avatars, specifically, to a method and system for managing the usage rights of virtual avatars used in instant messaging applications. Background Technology

[0002] With the widespread adoption of mobile devices such as smartphones and the development of the internet, instant messaging services using mobile devices are widely used. In these instant messaging services, virtual avatars are provided as a means of user representation. A virtual avatar can refer to a virtual graphic used online as a kind of alter ego for the user. That is, a virtual avatar possesses characteristics similar to the personal information of the user in the instant messaging service.

[0003] Typically, users of instant messaging services can use their own avatars to access various avatar services. However, because avatars share characteristics with users' personal information, various problems may arise when users are allowed to freely use other users' avatars without prior consent. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides a method for managing the usage rights of virtual avatars, a recording medium storing computer programs, and a system (device) for solving the above problems.

[0005] This disclosure can be implemented in various ways, including as a method, system (apparatus) or a recording medium storing a computer program.

[0006] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a virtual avatar usage permission management method executed by at least one processor of a user terminal includes the following steps: in an instant messaging service, transmitting a request to use the virtual avatar of a second user registered as a messenger friend of a first user; and in response to the request from the second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, allowing the use of the second user's virtual avatar on a user terminal associated with the first user.

[0007] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the method further includes the steps of: receiving data related to the virtual avatar of the second user; and generating a first image containing the virtual avatar of the second user based on the input of the first user.

[0008] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the method further includes the steps of: receiving data related to the virtual avatar of the second user; and generating a second image containing the virtual avatar of the first user and the virtual avatar of the second user based on the input of the second user.

[0009] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the method further includes the step of displaying a third image containing a virtual avatar of the second user in a chat room that includes a first user and a second user. The third image also includes at least one of a visual object and a message related to an anniversary associated with the first user.

[0010] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the use of a second user's virtual avatar, which is registered as a messenger friend of the first user, is not permitted before the second user accepts the request to use the second user's virtual avatar.

[0011] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, even if a second user accepts a request to use the second user's virtual avatar, the first user's virtual avatar is not allowed to be used on other user terminals associated with the second user.

[0012] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, even if the messenger friend relationship between the first user and the second user is terminated, the second user's virtual avatar is still allowed to be used on the user's terminal.

[0013] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the method further includes the following steps: in response to a request from a second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, displaying a fourth image containing the second user's virtual avatar instead of the personal profile image associated with the second user.

[0014] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the method further includes the following step: in response to a request from a second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, displaying an icon on the second user's profile indicating permission to use the second user's virtual avatar.

[0015] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the method further includes the following steps: receiving a request from another user terminal associated with the second user to use the virtual avatar of the first user; receiving input from a third user, the third user input being used to accept the request to use the virtual avatar of the first user; and in response to receiving the third user input, transmitting an acceptance message allowing the use of the virtual avatar of the first user on other user terminals.

[0016] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the virtual avatar of the first user is not allowed to be used on other user terminals before the transmission of the acceptance message.

[0017] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the method further includes the following steps: receiving fourth user input, wherein the fourth user input is used to allow other users to use the virtual avatar of the first user. In response to receiving the fourth user input, permission is granted to use the virtual avatar of the first user on other user terminals associated with the second user.

[0018] This disclosure provides a computer-readable recording medium having a computer program recorded thereon for performing the method described in an embodiment of this disclosure in a computer.

[0019] A user terminal according to an embodiment of this disclosure includes: a communication module; a memory; and at least one processor connected to the memory and configured to execute at least one computer-readable program contained in the memory. The at least one program includes instructions for performing the following steps: in an instant messaging service, transmitting a request to use a virtual avatar of a second user registered as a messenger friend of a first user; and in response to a request from the second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, allowing the use of the second user's virtual avatar on a user terminal associated with the first user.

[0020] An information processing system according to an embodiment of this disclosure includes: a communication module; a memory; and at least one processor connected to the memory and configured to execute at least one computer-readable program contained in the memory. The at least one program includes instructions for performing the following steps: receiving a request to use a second user's virtual avatar from a first user terminal associated with a first user via an instant messaging application, wherein the first user and the second user are registered as messenger friends in an instant messaging service; transmitting the request to use the second user's virtual avatar to the second user terminal associated with the second user via the instant messaging application; receiving an acceptance message from the second user terminal via the instant messaging application allowing the use of the second user's virtual avatar on the first user terminal; and registering the second user as a virtual avatar friend of the first user in response to receiving the acceptance message from the second user terminal.

[0021] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, at least one program further includes instructions for performing the following steps: in response to registering a second user as a virtual avatar friend of a first user, transmitting data related to the virtual avatar of the second user to the first user's terminal via an instant messaging application.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one program further includes instructions for performing the following steps: transmitting an image containing a virtual avatar of the second user to a first user terminal through a chat room including a first user and a second user, the image further including at least one of a visual object and a message for an anniversary associated with the first user.

[0023] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, before a second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of a first user, the first user's terminal is not allowed to use the virtual avatar of the second user who is registered as a messenger friend of the first user.

[0024] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, even if a second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of a first user, the second user is not allowed to use the first user's virtual avatar on their terminal.

[0025] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, at least one program further includes instructions for performing the following steps: receiving a request to use the virtual avatar of a first user from a second user terminal via an instant messaging application; transmitting the request to use the virtual avatar of the first user to the first user terminal via the instant messaging application; receiving an acceptance message from the first user terminal via the instant messaging application allowing the use of the virtual avatar of the first user on the second user terminal; registering the first user as a virtual avatar friend of the second user in response to receiving the acceptance message from the first user terminal; and transmitting data related to the virtual avatar of the first user to the second user terminal via the instant messaging application in response to registering the first user as a virtual avatar friend of the second user.

[0026] In various embodiments of this disclosure, multiple users of an instant messaging service can prevent their virtual avatars from being used arbitrarily by other users without their permission.

[0027] In various embodiments of this disclosure, users can use their own virtual avatars and the virtual avatars of other users registered as friends of their own virtual avatars to generate images, videos, stickers, emoticons, etc.

[0028] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above. Those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains (also referred to as "those skilled in the art") can clearly understand other effects not mentioned by means of the description in the claims of this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Several embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the following drawings, wherein similar reference numerals denote similar structural elements, but are not limited thereto.

[0030] Figure 1 The figure illustrates an example of providing a virtual avatar service through an instant messaging application running on a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an information processing system that is connected in a manner that allows communication with multiple user terminals in order to provide a virtual avatar usage rights management service according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the internal structure of a user terminal and information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 4 The flowchart illustrates a method for performing virtual avatar friend registration between a first user terminal, an information processing system, and a second user terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 5The figure illustrates an example of a user transmitting a virtual avatar friend request according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 6 The diagram illustrates an example of a second user accepting a virtual avatar friend request from a first user according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 7 The figure illustrates an example of how a user sets the usage permissions of a virtual avatar according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 8 The diagram illustrates an example of generating an image containing a virtual avatar of another user according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 9 The diagram illustrates an example of hiding or blocking virtual avatar friends according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 10 The figure illustrates an example of displaying an image related to an anniversary according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a virtual avatar usage permission management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0042] 110: User; 120: User Terminal

[0043] 130: User interface; 132, 134: Virtual avatars Detailed Implementation

[0044] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, details the specific content used to implement this disclosure. However, in the following description, specific descriptions of known functions or structures will be omitted where such descriptions would obscure the main points of this disclosure.

[0045] In the accompanying drawings, the same or corresponding structural elements are given the same reference numerals. Furthermore, in the following description of embodiments, repeated descriptions of the same or corresponding structural elements may be omitted. However, even if descriptions related to structural elements are omitted, it does not mean that these structural elements are not included in any embodiment.

[0046] The advantages and features of the disclosed embodiments, as well as the methods of implementing them, will become clearer through reference to the various embodiments described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure can be implemented in many different ways and is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. These embodiments are provided merely to make the disclosure complete and to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the scope of the invention.

[0047] The terminology used in this specification is briefly described, and the disclosed embodiments are described in detail. Considering the functions in this disclosure, the terminology used in this specification has been selected as widely used and common terms as possible; however, this may vary depending on the intent or precedent of those skilled in the art, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, there may be terms arbitrarily chosen by the applicant; in such cases, their meanings are described in detail in the description section of the invention. Therefore, the terminology used in this disclosure should be defined according to the meaning of the term and the overall content of this disclosure, rather than simply as term names.

[0048] Unless explicitly stated in the context, the singular expression in this specification includes the plural expression. Furthermore, unless explicitly specified as plural in the context, the plural expression includes the singular expression. Throughout this specification, when a section includes a structural element, unless specifically stated otherwise, it implies that other structural elements may also be included, rather than excluding them.

[0049] Furthermore, the terms "module" or "section" used in this specification refer to software or hardware structural elements that perform a certain function. However, "module" or "section" does not mean it is limited to software or hardware. A "module" or "section" can be configured in addressable storage media or can be configured to reproduce more than one processor. Thus, as an example, a "module" or "section" may include structural elements such as software structural elements, object-oriented software structural elements, class structural elements, and task structural elements, as well as at least one of processes, functions, attributes, programs, subroutines, program code segments, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. The functionality provided within structural elements and "modules" or "sections" can be combined into a smaller number of structural elements and "modules" or "sections," or can be further separated into additional structural elements and "modules" or "sections."

[0050] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a "module" or "unit" may be implemented by a processor and a memory. "Processor" should be broadly interpreted to include general-purpose processors, central processing units (CPUs), microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), controllers, microcontrollers, state machines, etc. In various contexts, a "processor" may also be an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), etc. For example, a "processor" may also be a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, a combination of multiple microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors combined with a digital signal processor chip, or any other combination of such structures in a processing device. Furthermore, "memory" should be broadly interpreted to include any electronic component capable of storing electronic information. "Memory" may also be of various types of processor-readable media, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, magnetic or optical data storage devices, registers, etc. Memory is said to be in electronic communication with the processor as long as the processor can read information from and / or record information to the memory. Memory integrated into the processor is in electronic communication with the processor.

[0051] In this disclosure, a "chat room" can refer to a virtual space or group that one or more users (or user accounts) can participate in, and such space or group can be generated by instant messaging applications or the like installed on a computing device. For example, one or more users can participate in or be included in a chat room and send and receive messages, files, etc. in various forms. Furthermore, the chat room can provide VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) voice call functionality, VoIP video call functionality, live streaming functionality (VoIP real-time video broadcast functionality), and graphical object functionality (e.g., emoticons, animated emoticons, etc.) to perform voice calls, video calls, video streaming, and graphical object transmission between users.

[0052] In this disclosure, "user" can refer to a user or user account that uses an instant messaging service application, a virtual avatar service application, etc. A user account can refer to an account or related data generated and used by a user in an instant messaging service application, a virtual avatar service application, etc.

[0053] In this disclosure, "message friend" refers to a friend relationship in an instant messaging application where users can send and receive instant messages. Users can register as messenger friends using the other party's phone number, ID, etc., regardless of whether the other party accepts. "Avatar friend," on the other hand, refers to a relationship where users can use each other's avatars in instant messaging service applications, avatar service applications, etc. This relationship can be established or formed with the acceptance of the other party (e.g., the other party in a messenger friend relationship). A avatar friend relationship is different from a messenger friend relationship. Even if user A and user B are messenger friends, user A must obtain user B's permission and register user B as a avatar friend in order to use user B's avatar. Even if user A obtains user B's permission and registers user B as a avatar friend, user B cannot directly use user A's avatar; user B must also obtain user A's permission and register user A as a avatar friend before using user A's avatar.

[0054] Figure 1 The diagram illustrates an example of providing a virtual avatar service through an instant messaging application running on a user terminal 120 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. User 110 can use user terminal 120 to send and receive messages with other users joined to the instant messaging application or to use the virtual avatar service. The virtual avatar service may include video calling services using virtual avatars, image (e.g., images, videos, emoticons, stickers, etc.) generation services, profile editing services, story (e.g., SNS posts, etc.) editing services, etc.

[0055] In one embodiment, user 110 can use their own avatar 134 and / or other users' avatars 132 in an instant messaging application. As shown, user 110 can capture images / videos (e.g., augmented reality (AR) images / videos, etc.) containing their own avatar 134 and other users' avatars 132 through user interface 130, but is not limited to this. For example, user 110 can generate emoticons, stickers, profile pictures, profile decorations, etc., containing their own avatar 134 and / or other users' avatars 132, and apply them in various ways such as profile editing, use in chat rooms, and story generation.

[0056] In one embodiment, user 110 can use another user's virtual avatar 132 after the other user has granted permission to use that avatar. For example, user 110 can send a request to another user registered as a messenger friend in the instant messaging service to use the virtual avatar 132. Thus, if the other user accepts the request to use the virtual avatar 132, user 110 can use various services by using the other user's virtual avatar 132. That is, user 110 cannot use the other user's virtual avatar 132 until the other user accepts the request (even if the other user is a messenger friend).

[0057] In one embodiment, even if user 110 can use another user's virtual avatar 132 (the other user is registered as a friend of user 110's virtual avatar), other users may not be allowed to use user 110's virtual avatar 134. That is, even if another user accepts the request to use virtual avatar 132, the other user still needs to transmit a request to user 110 to use virtual avatar 134, and only after user 110 accepts the request can they use user 110's virtual avatar 134. Through this configuration, multiple users of the instant messaging service can prevent their virtual avatars from being used arbitrarily by other users without permission.

[0058] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an information processing system 230 connected to multiple user terminals 210_1, 210_2, and 210_3 to provide a virtual avatar usage permission management service according to an embodiment of this disclosure. The information processing system 230 may include multiple systems providing instant messaging services, including virtual avatar service provision and virtual avatar usage permission management services, via a network 220. The multiple user terminals 210_1, 210_2, and 210_3 may include a first user terminal, a second user terminal, etc., associated with the instant messaging service. In one embodiment, the information processing system 230 may include one or more server devices and / or databases, or one or more distributed computing devices and / or distributed databases based on cloud computing services, which can store, provide, and execute computer-executable programs (e.g., downloadable applications) and data related to the instant messaging service and virtual avatar usage permission management. For example, the information processing system 230 may include multiple separate systems (e.g., servers) for providing virtual avatar usage permission management services and / or instant messaging services.

[0059] The instant messaging service provided by the information processing system 230 can be provided to users through instant messaging applications (instant messaging service applications) installed on multiple user terminals 210_1, 210_2, and 210_3 respectively. For example, the instant messaging service may include text messaging service, voice messaging service, video call service, voice call service, video streaming service, and virtual avatar service (e.g., image generation service, profile editing service, story editing service, etc.) provided by the instant messaging application users.

[0060] Multiple user terminals 210_1, 210_2, and 210_3 can communicate with the information processing system 230 via network 220. Network 220 can be configured to enable communication between the multiple user terminals 210_1, 210_2, and 210_3 and the information processing system 230. For example, network 220 can be composed of wired networks such as Ethernet, power line communication, telephone line communication devices, and RS serial communication; mobile communication networks; wireless LAN (WLAN); Wi-Fi; Bluetooth; and ZigBee, or combinations thereof, depending on the setup environment. The communication method is not limited and can include communication methods using communication networks that network 220 can include (for example, mobile communication networks, wired internet, wireless internet, broadcast networks, satellite networks, etc.) and short-range wireless communication between user terminals 210_1, 210_2, and 210_3.

[0061] Figure 2 The example illustrates mobile phone terminal 210_1, tablet computer terminal 210_2, and personal computer terminal 210_3 as user terminals, but is not limited to these. User terminals 210_1, 210_2, and 210_3 can be any computing device capable of wired and / or wireless communication and capable of installing and executing instant messaging applications, etc. For example, user terminals may include smartphones, mobile phones, navigators, computers, laptops, digital broadcasting terminals, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), tablet computers (PCs), game consoles, wearable devices, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, etc. Furthermore, Figure 2It is shown that three user terminals 210_1, 210_2, and 210_3 can communicate with the information processing system 230 through the network 220, but it is not limited to this. Different numbers of user terminals can communicate with the information processing system 230 through the network 220.

[0062] In one embodiment, the information processing system 230 can receive a request to use a second user's virtual avatar from a first user terminal associated with a first user via an instant messaging application. The first user and the second user can be users registered as messenger friends in the instant messaging service. The information processing system 230 then transmits the request to use the second user's virtual avatar to the second user terminal associated with the second user via the instant messaging application, and receives an acceptance message from the second user terminal allowing the use of the second user's virtual avatar on the first user terminal via the instant messaging application. In this case, in response to receiving the acceptance message from the second user terminal, the information processing system 230 can register the second user as a virtual avatar friend of the first user. As mentioned above, even if the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, it does not mean that the first user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the second user.

[0063] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the internal structure of a user terminal 210 and an information processing system 230 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The user terminal 210 can refer to any computing device capable of executing instant messaging applications and performing wired / wireless communication; for example, it may include… Figure 2 Mobile terminal 210_1, tablet computer terminal 210_2, personal computer terminal 210_3, etc. In one embodiment, user terminal 210 may refer to a user terminal associated with a first user of the instant messaging service and / or a user terminal associated with a second user.

[0064] As shown in the figure, the user terminal 210 may include a memory 312, a processor 314, a communication module 316, and an input / output interface 318. Similarly, the information processing system 230 may include a memory 332, a processor 334, a communication module 336, and an input / output interface 338. Figure 3 As shown, the user terminal 210 and the information processing system 230 can be configured to communicate information and / or data via the network 220 using their respective communication modules 316 and 336. Furthermore, the input / output device 320 can be configured to input information and / or data to the user terminal 210 via the input / output interface 318, or to output information and / or data generated by the user terminal 210.

[0065] Memory 312, 332 may include non-transitory arbitrary computer-readable recording media. In one embodiment, memory 312, 332 may include random access memory (RAM), such as read-only memory (ROM), disk drives, solid-state drives (SSDs), flash memory, and other non-volatile mass storage devices. As another example, non-volatile mass storage devices such as read-only memory, solid-state drives, flash memory, and disk drives may be included as separate permanent storage devices separate from memory in user terminal 210 or information processing system 230. Furthermore, memory 312, 332 may store an operating system and at least one program code (e.g., code for instant messaging applications, etc., installed and driven in user terminal 210).

[0066] These software structural elements can be loaded from a computer-readable recording medium separate from the memories 312 and 332. Such a separate computer-readable recording medium may include a recording medium that can be directly connected to the user terminal 210 and the information processing system 230, such as a floppy disk drive, magnetic disk, magnetic tape, digital video optical disc / optical disc-read-only memory (DVD / CD-ROM) drive, memory card, etc. Alternatively, multiple software structural elements may be loaded into the memories 312 and 332 via communication modules 316 and 336, instead of a computer-readable recording medium. For example, at least one program may be loaded into the memories 312 and 332 based on a computer program (e.g., an application providing instant messaging services, avatar services, avatar usage rights management services, etc.), which is installed via multiple files provided by the developer or an application installation file distribution system through network 220.

[0067] Processors 314 and 334 can be configured to process instructions of a computer program by performing basic calculations, logic, and input / output operations. Instructions can be provided to processors 314 and 334 via memories 312 and 332 or communication modules 316 and 336. For example, processors 314 and 334 can be configured to execute received instructions based on program code stored in recording devices such as memories 312 and 332.

[0068] Communication modules 316 and 336 provide a structure or function that enables user terminal 210 and information processing system 230 to communicate with each other via network 220, and provide a structure or function that enables user terminal 210 and / or information processing system 230 to communicate with other user terminals or other systems (for example, a standalone cloud system, etc.). For example, requests or data (e.g., requests to use a second user's virtual avatar, etc.) generated by processor 314 of user terminal 210 based on program code stored in a recording medium such as memory 312 can be transmitted to information processing system 230 via network 220 under the control of communication module 316. Conversely, control signals or instructions provided under the control of processor 334 of information processing system 230 can be received by user terminal 210 via communication module 316 through communication module 336 and network 220. For example, user terminal 210 can receive data related to the second user's virtual avatar from information processing system 230.

[0069] The input / output interface 318 may be an interface unit between the input / output device 320 and the input / output device 320. As an example, the input device may include a camera, keyboard, microphone, mouse, etc., including an audio sensor and / or an image sensor, and the output device may include a display, speaker, haptic feedback device, etc. As another example, the input / output interface 318 may be an interface unit between the input / output interface 318 and a device such as a touchscreen that integrates the structure or function of performing input and output.

[0070] exist Figure 3 Although the input / output device 320 is shown as not being included in the user terminal 210, this is not a limitation; the input / output device 320 may be integrated with the user terminal 210 into a single device. Furthermore, the input / output interface 338 of the information processing system 230 may be an interface unit between itself and devices (not shown) connected to the information processing system 230 or that may be included in the information processing system 230 for input or output. Figure 3 Although the input / output interfaces 318 and 338 are shown as separate structural elements distinct from processors 314 and 334, this is not a limitation; the input / output interfaces 318 and 338 may be included in processors 314 and 334.

[0071] User terminal 210 and information processing system 230 may include... Figure 3The structural elements shown are more than a number of structural elements. However, most of the prior art structural elements do not need to be explicitly illustrated. According to one embodiment, the user terminal 210 can be implemented in a manner that includes at least a portion of the above-described input / output devices 320. Furthermore, the user terminal 210 may also include other structural elements such as a transceiver, a Global Positioning System (GPS) module, a camera, various sensors, and a database. For example, if the user terminal 210 is a smartphone, it can include structural elements typically found in smartphones, such as an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a microphone module, a camera module, various physical buttons, touchpad buttons, input / output ports, and a vibrator for generating vibrations.

[0072] In one embodiment, the processor 314 of the user terminal 210 may be configured to run an instant messaging application that provides virtual avatar usage permission management services, a virtual avatar service application, or a web browser application. In this case, the program code associated with the application can be loaded into the memory 312 of the user terminal 210. During application execution, the processor 314 of the user terminal 210 may receive information and / or data provided from the input / output device 320 via the input / output interface 318, or receive information and / or data from the information processing system 230 via the communication module 316, and may process the received information and / or data to store it in the memory 312. Furthermore, such information and / or data may be provided to the information processing system 230 via the communication module 316.

[0073] During the operation of the instant messaging application, the processor 314 can receive input via input devices such as a touchscreen, keyboard, camera including an audio sensor and / or image sensor, microphone, etc., connected to the input / output interface 318, or receive selected voice data, text, images, videos, etc., and store the received voice data, text, images, and / or videos in the memory 312, or provide them to the information processing system 230 via the communication module 316 and the network 220. In one embodiment, when receiving user input related to a request to use a second user's virtual avatar from a first user via an input device, the processor 314 can provide the data / request to the information processing system 230 via the network 220 and the communication module 316.

[0074] The processor 334 of the information processing system 230 can be configured to manage, process, and / or store information and / or data received from multiple user terminals and / or multiple external systems. In one embodiment, when an acceptance message allowing the use of a second user's virtual avatar is received via an instant messaging application, the processor 334 can register the second user as a virtual avatar friend of the first user. When the first user wants to use the second user's virtual avatar, the processor 334 can transmit data related to the second user's virtual avatar to the user terminal 210 via the instant messaging application.

[0075] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for performing virtual avatar friend registration between a first user terminal 410, an information processing system 420, and a second user terminal 430 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the first user terminal 410 may be a terminal associated with a first user in an instant messaging application, and the second user terminal 430 may be a terminal associated with a second user in the instant messaging application. In the instant messaging service, the first user and the second user may be messenger friends.

[0076] As shown in the figure, the first user terminal 410 can transmit a virtual avatar friend request 412 for the second user to the information processing system 420. For example, the virtual avatar friend request 412 for the second user can be a request to use the second user's virtual avatar. In one embodiment, the information processing system 420 can receive the virtual avatar friend request 412 for the second user from the first user terminal 410 through an instant messaging application.

[0077] Subsequently, the information processing system 420 can transmit the first user's virtual avatar friend request 422 to the second user terminal 430 associated with the second user. In one embodiment, the information processing system 420 can transmit the first user's virtual avatar friend request 422 to the second user terminal 430 via an instant messaging application. When the second user accepts the first user's virtual avatar friend request 422, the information processing system 420 can receive an acceptance message 432 from the second user terminal 430, allowing the first user terminal 410 to use the second user's virtual avatar, via the instant messaging application.

[0078] In response to receiving an acceptance message 432 from the second user terminal 430, the information processing system 420 can register the second user as a virtual avatar friend of the first user (step 424). When the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, the virtual avatar of the second user can be used on the first user terminal 410 associated with the first user. For example, the first user terminal 410 can receive data related to the virtual avatar of the second user from the information processing system 420, and can generate an image / video containing the virtual avatar of the first user and / or the virtual avatar of the second user based on the user's input.

[0079] As described above, even if a second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, it does not mean that the second user terminal 430 is allowed to use the first user's virtual avatar. In order to use the first user's virtual avatar, the second user terminal 430 associated with the second user can transmit a virtual avatar friend request 434 for the first user to the information processing system 420. For example, the virtual avatar friend request 434 for the first user could be a request to use the first user's virtual avatar. In one embodiment, the information processing system 420 can receive the virtual avatar friend request 434 for the first user from the second user terminal 430 via an instant messaging application.

[0080] Then, the information processing system 420 can transmit the second user's virtual avatar friend request 426 to the first user terminal 410. In one embodiment, the information processing system 420 can transmit the second user's virtual avatar friend request 426 to the first user terminal 410 via an instant messaging application. Thus, the first user terminal 410 can receive a request to use the first user's virtual avatar from the second user terminal 430 via the instant messaging application.

[0081] In one embodiment, the first user terminal 410 can receive user input from a first user, the user input being used to accept a request to use the first user's virtual avatar (or a second user's virtual avatar friend request 426). In this case, the first user terminal 410 can transmit an acceptance message 414 to the information processing system 420, allowing the second user terminal 430 to use the first user's virtual avatar. In one embodiment, the information processing system 420 can receive the acceptance message 414 from the first user terminal 410, allowing the second user terminal 430 to use the first user's virtual avatar, via an instant messaging application.

[0082] In response to receiving an acceptance message 414 from the first user terminal 410, the information processing system 420 can register the first user as a virtual avatar friend of the second user (step 428). When the first user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the second user, the virtual avatar of the first user can be used on the second user terminal 430 associated with the second user. For example, the second user terminal 430 can receive data related to the virtual avatar of the first user from the information processing system 420, and can generate an image / video containing the virtual avatar of the first user and / or the virtual avatar of the second user based on the user's input.

[0083] exist Figure 4 In this scenario, after the first user's virtual avatar friend request 422 is accepted, the second user terminal 430 transmits a virtual avatar friend request 434 for the first user, but this is not a limitation. For example, the second user terminal 430 may transmit a virtual avatar friend request 434 for the first user even if it has not received the first user's virtual avatar friend request 422 or before transmitting the acceptance message 432. In another example, the second user terminal 430 may also not transmit a virtual avatar friend request 434 for the first user. In this case, the first user can use the second user's virtual avatar, but the second user cannot use the first user's virtual avatar. That is, although the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, the first user is not registered as a virtual avatar friend of the second user.

[0084] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates an example of a user transmitting a virtual avatar friend request according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, a user may transmit a virtual avatar friend request to another user (e.g., Wendy) who is registered as a messenger friend in an instant messaging service. For example, a virtual avatar friend request may be a request to use the other party's virtual avatar. As shown, the user may transmit a request to use Wendy's virtual avatar through a first operation 510 and a second operation 520.

[0085] The first operation 510 represents an example of transmitting a virtual avatar friend request through a user interface including a virtual avatar friend recommendation directory. In the illustrated example, the user interface may include a directory of user-generated virtual avatars, the user's virtual avatar friend directory (e.g., Lia), a virtual avatar friend recommendation directory, etc. The virtual avatar friend directory may include multiple users registered as virtual avatar friends of the user, and the user can use the virtual avatars of multiple virtual avatar friends. In one embodiment, in the case of virtual avatar friends, an image including the other party's virtual avatar (e.g., a thumbnail of the virtual avatar) may be displayed instead of the other party's profile image. Furthermore, in the case of virtual avatar friends, an icon indicating permission to use the user's virtual avatar (e.g., a virtual avatar icon; not shown) may be displayed on the other party's profile.

[0086] The virtual avatar friend recommendation directory can include messenger friends of users who are not registered as virtual avatar friends of the user. That is, the virtual avatar friend recommendation directory can include users among the user's messenger friends who are not allowed to use virtual avatars. In one embodiment, the virtual avatar friend recommendation directory may only include users who own virtual avatars.

[0087] As shown in the figure, the virtual avatar friend recommendation directory can include each user's profile picture, name, virtual avatar friend request icon, etc. Users can send a virtual avatar friend request (or a request using a virtual avatar) to Wendy by selecting the virtual avatar friend request icon 512 via touch input or other means. Alternatively, users can send virtual avatar friend requests to others through the messenger friend directory or the other party's profile screen.

[0088] The second operation 520 represents an example where the virtual avatar friend request icon 512 is changed due to the user selecting it. For example, when the first user selects the virtual avatar friend request icon 512 via touch input, the icon 512 can be changed to a waiting icon 522. The waiting icon 522 can be displayed until a virtual avatar friend request is transmitted to Wendy and Wendy accepts the request. Before Wendy accepts the request to use Wendy's virtual avatar, the user can only view Wendy's virtual avatar thumbnail and cannot use Wendy's virtual avatar registered as a messenger friend.

[0089] When Wendy accepts a request to use her avatar, she can be removed from the avatar friend recommendation list and displayed in the avatar friend directory. In one embodiment, in response to Wendy accepting the avatar friend request, an image including Wendy's avatar (e.g., a thumbnail of Wendy's avatar) can be displayed instead of Wendy's profile image. Furthermore, an icon indicating permission to use Wendy's avatar can be displayed on Wendy's profile.

[0090] When Wendy is registered as a user's virtual avatar friend, the user can use Wendy's virtual avatar. For example, the user can receive data related to Wendy's virtual avatar and generate images / videos containing Wendy's virtual avatar. In one embodiment, even if the user terminates the messenger friend relationship with Wendy, the user can continue to use Wendy's virtual avatar. That is, even if the user terminates the messenger friend relationship with Wendy, Wendy can remain registered as the user's virtual avatar friend.

[0091] Figure 6The diagram illustrates an example of a second user accepting a virtual avatar friend request from a first user according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, when a first user (e.g., Henry) transmits a request to use a virtual avatar of a second user (Wendy), the second user can acknowledge and accept the request. In one embodiment, the second user can acknowledge and accept the first user's virtual avatar friend request through a first operation 610, a second operation 620, and a third operation 630.

[0092] The first operation 610 represents an example of a second user accepting a virtual avatar friend request from a first user. As shown, when the first user transmits a request to use the second user's virtual avatar, a message including the request can be displayed in a chat room that includes both the first and second users. For example, the message may include the first user's profile picture 612, an accept button 614 for the request, etc. The second user can accept the first user's virtual avatar friend request by selecting the accept button 614 through touch input or the like. In this case, the second user can be registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, and the first user can use the second user's virtual avatar.

[0093] The second operation 620 represents an example where the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user. As described above, when the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, the first user can use the second user's virtual avatar. Conversely, if the first user is not registered as a virtual avatar friend of the second user, the second user cannot use the first user's virtual avatar. In this case, the user interface indicating that the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user may include a virtual avatar friend request button 622 for the second user to use the first user's virtual avatar. The second user can transmit a request (or virtual avatar friend request) to use the first user's virtual avatar by selecting the virtual avatar friend request button 622 via touch input or the like.

[0094] The third operation 630 represents an example where the second user selects the virtual avatar friend request button 622 to transmit a request to the first user to use the first user's virtual avatar. For example, a message including this request can be displayed in a chat room that includes both the first and second users. Then, when the first user accepts the second user's virtual avatar friend request, the first user is registered as the second user's virtual avatar friend, and thus the second user can use the first user's virtual avatar. In one embodiment, when the first user is registered as the second user's virtual avatar friend, an image including the first user's virtual avatar can be displayed instead of the first user's profile picture 612.

[0095] Figure 7The figure illustrates an example of a user setting virtual avatar usage permissions according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, a user can set virtual avatar usage permissions through an instant messaging application. In one embodiment, the user can set usage permissions for their own virtual avatar through a first operation 710 and a second operation 720.

[0096] The first operation 710 represents an example of the settings screen of an instant messaging application. As shown, the settings screen of the instant messaging application includes a avatar settings menu 712 for changing / confirming various settings related to the avatar. In addition to the avatar settings menu, the settings screen of the instant messaging application may also include menus associated with various services / functions.

[0097] The second operation 720 refers to the display of various settings menus related to the virtual avatar in response to the user selecting the virtual avatar settings menu 712 via touch input or the like in the settings screen of the instant messaging application. In one embodiment, the user can select the virtual avatar usage allow button 722 via touch input or the like to pre-authorize other users of the instant messaging application (or all users registered as messenger friends) to use their virtual avatar. In this case, other users can use the user's virtual avatar without a separate request and / or acceptance.

[0098] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates an example of generating an image containing a virtual avatar of another user according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, a user can use an in-app camera of an instant messaging application or a camera application, etc., to capture images, videos (e.g., augmented reality videos), etc., including virtual avatars of other users. In one embodiment, the user can capture images, etc., including virtual avatars of other users, through a first operation 810 and a second operation 820.

[0099] The first operation 810 represents an example of running the in-app camera of an instant messaging application to capture images, including the user's virtual avatar. For example, a user can generate augmented reality images / videos containing their own virtual avatar (images / videos combining a real-world background with their own virtual avatar), etc. In one embodiment, the user can add / change the virtual avatar included in the image / video by selecting the virtual avatar addition button 812 via touch input or the like.

[0100] The second operation 820 represents an example of selecting a portion of the virtual avatars of other users registered as virtual avatar friends of the user. In one embodiment, the user can confirm the list of users (or their virtual avatars) registered as their virtual avatar friends by selecting the virtual avatar add button 812. As shown, the user can select the virtual avatar 822 of virtual avatar friend 1 and the virtual avatar 824 of virtual avatar friend 2. In this case, the virtual avatar 822 of virtual avatar friend 1 and the virtual avatar 824 of virtual avatar friend 2 can be displayed on the camera screen, and the user can generate an image / video containing virtual avatars 822 and 824. For this purpose, data related to the virtual avatar 822 of virtual avatar friend 1 and data related to the virtual avatar 824 of virtual avatar friend 2 can be received. The data related to the virtual avatar may include, but is not limited to, information such as the virtual avatar's appearance, clothing, and owned items.

[0101] exist Figure 8 The illustration shows a user using other users' virtual avatars to generate images, videos, etc., but this is not a limitation. For example, a user can generate images, videos, etc., that include their own virtual avatar and those of other users. Through this configuration, users can not only use their own virtual avatar, but also use the virtual avatars of other users who are registered as friends of their virtual avatars to generate images, videos, stickers, emoticons, etc.

[0102] Figure 9 The diagram illustrates an example of hiding or blocking virtual avatar friends according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, a user can hide or block other users (e.g., Lia) registered as their virtual avatar friends through a first operation 910 and a second operation 920. The first operation 910 is an example of the user selecting the area 912 corresponding to Lia among the virtual avatar friends by swiping or long-pressing.

[0103] The second operation 920 indicates that when the user selects the area 912 corresponding to Lia by sliding or long-pressing, examples of displaying the Hide button 922 and the Block button 924 are shown. For example, the Hide button 922 and the Block button 924 can be displayed to the right of the selected other user (Lia). The Hide button 922 can be equivalent to a button used to hide Lia in the virtual avatar friend list, and the Block button 924 can be equivalent to a button used to block the virtual avatar friend relationship with Lia.

[0104] In one embodiment, the user can select the hide button 922 via touch input or other means to prevent Lia from appearing in the virtual avatar friend list. Furthermore, the user can select the block button 924 to prevent Lia from using their virtual avatar. In this case, the user also cannot use Lia's virtual avatar, Lia will not appear in the user's virtual avatar friend list, and the user may also not appear in Lia's virtual avatar friend list.

[0105] The hide button 922 can be displayed only if the other party is registered as a user's virtual avatar friend, and the block button 924 can be displayed even if the other party is not registered as a user's virtual avatar friend. When the block button 924 is used to block a user who is not registered as a virtual avatar friend, the user cannot send a virtual avatar friend request to the blocked user, and the blocked user cannot send a virtual avatar friend request to the user.

[0106] Figure 10 The diagram illustrates an example of displaying an image 1020 related to an anniversary according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, an image including the avatar of the second user (Henry) can be displayed in a chat room including a first user and a second user (Henry). The first user can be a user who is permitted to use the avatar of the second user (i.e., the second user is registered as a friend of the first user's avatar), and the image may also include at least one of visuals and messages related to an anniversary associated with the first user.

[0107] For example, as shown in the figure, in the case of the first user's birthday, an image 1020 or emoticons including the second user's (Henry's) virtual avatar, a "Happy Birthday" message, and visual objects such as cakes and confetti can be displayed in the chat room including both the first and second users. For example, image 1020 can be displayed in the chat room as an instant message transmitted by the second user. In this case, an image 1010 including the second user's virtual avatar can be displayed instead of the second user's profile picture.

[0108] In one embodiment, image 1020 can be automatically displayed in the chat room on an anniversary associated with the first user (e.g., the first user's birthday) without requiring user input. Alternatively or additionally, when the first user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the second user (i.e., when the second user can use the first user's virtual avatar), an image including both the first and second user's virtual avatars can be displayed in the chat room instead of image 1020 including only the second user's (Henry's) virtual avatar.

[0109] In one embodiment, in a chat room comprising three or more users, images including virtual avatars permitted for use by at least one other user can be displayed. For example, in a chat room comprising users one through four, if a third user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of users one, two, and four, an image including the third user's virtual avatar can be displayed in the chat room. Furthermore, in a chat room comprising users one through four, if a second user is not a virtual avatar friend of users three and four, but is registered as a virtual avatar friend of a user associated with an anniversary (user one), an image including the second user's virtual avatar can be displayed in the chat room. In another embodiment, for images associated with an anniversary, images including virtual avatars registered and associated with users included in the chat room can be displayed in the chat room regardless of whether the user is a virtual avatar friend.

[0110] Figure 11 The flowchart illustrates a virtual avatar usage permission management method 1100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The virtual avatar usage permission management method 1100 can be executed via a user terminal (e.g., at least one processor of the user terminal). The virtual avatar usage permission management method 1100 can begin by the processor transmitting a request in an instant messaging service to use the virtual avatar of a second user registered as a messenger friend of a first user (step S1110). The request to use the second user's virtual avatar can be transmitted via an information processing system to other user terminals associated with the second user.

[0111] In response to a request from the second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, the processor may allow the use of the second user's virtual avatar on user terminals associated with the first user (step S1120). That is, before the second user accepts the request to use the second user's virtual avatar, the use of the second user's virtual avatar, who is registered as a messenger friend of the first user, may not be permitted. Furthermore, even if the second user accepts the request to use the second user's virtual avatar, the use of the first user's virtual avatar on other user terminals associated with the second user may not be permitted. Additionally, even if the messenger friend relationship between the first user and the second user is terminated, the use of the second user's virtual avatar on user terminals may still be permitted.

[0112] In one embodiment, in response to a request from a second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, the processor may display a fourth image containing the second user's virtual avatar instead of the profile image associated with the second user. Furthermore, in response to a request from a second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, the processor may display an icon on the second user's profile indicating permission to use the second user's virtual avatar.

[0113] After allowing the use of the second user's virtual avatar, the processor can receive data related to the second user's virtual avatar (step S1130). Furthermore, the processor can generate a first image containing the second user's virtual avatar based on the first user's input (step S1140). Alternatively or additionally, the processor can receive data related to the second user's virtual avatar and can generate a second image containing both the first user's and the second user's virtual avatars based on the second user's input. Alternatively or additionally, in a chat room including both the first and second users, the processor can display a third image containing the second user's virtual avatar. The third image may also include at least one of a visual object and a message related to an anniversary associated with the first user.

[0114] The above method can be implemented as computer-readable code on a computer-readable recording medium. The medium can persistently store a computer-executable program or temporarily store it for execution or download. Furthermore, the medium can be a combination of multiple recording or storage units in the form of a single piece of hardware, and is not limited to a medium directly connected to a computer system; it can be distributed across a network. Examples of media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes; optical recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs; magneto-optical media such as floppy disks; and media configured to store program instructions, such as read-only memory, random access memory, and flash memory. Other examples of media include recording or storage media managed by application stores that distribute applications, websites that provide or distribute various other software, and servers.

[0115] The methods, operations, or construction techniques of this disclosure can be implemented by various units. For example, such construction techniques can be implemented by hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will understand that the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described in relation to the content of this disclosure can be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate this substitution between hardware and software, the various exemplary structural elements, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above from their functional perspective. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the design requirements attached to the specific application and the overall system. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functions in various ways for each specific application, but these implementations should not be construed as exceeding the scope of this disclosure.

[0116] In the hardware implementation, the processing unit used in the execution of the method can be implemented in one or more application-specific integrated circuits, digital signal processors, digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, electronic devices, other electronic units designed to perform the functions described in this disclosure, computers, or combinations thereof.

[0117] Therefore, the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with this disclosure may be implemented or executed by a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field-programmable gate array or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination designed to perform the functions described in this disclosure. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor; alternatively, the processor may be any existing processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor may also be implemented by a combination of computing devices, such as a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors connected to a digital signal processor core, or any other combination of architectures.

[0118] In firmware and / or software implementations, the instructions can be implemented as instructions stored in a computer-readable medium such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, compact disc (CD), magnetic or optical data storage devices, etc. The instructions can be executed by more than one processor, causing the processor to perform specific implementations of the functions described in this disclosure.

[0119] The embodiments described above illustrate implementations of the currently disclosed subject matter in one or more standalone computer systems, but this disclosure is not limited thereto and can also be implemented in relation to any computing environment, such as a network or distributed computing environment. Furthermore, in this disclosure, implementations of the subject matter can be implemented in multiple processing chips or devices, and storage can be similarly affected by multiple devices. Such devices may also include personal computers, network servers, and portable devices.

[0120] This disclosure has been described in connection with a number of embodiments, but various modifications and alterations can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, these modifications and alterations also fall within the scope of the appended claims in this specification.

Claims

1. A method for managing the usage rights of a virtual avatar, executed by at least one processor of a user terminal, characterized in that, The steps include the following: In instant messaging services, a request is transmitted to use the virtual avatar of a second user who is registered as a messenger friend of the first user; and In response to the request from the second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, the use of the second user's virtual avatar is permitted on the user terminal associated with the first user. In response to the request from the second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, the second user was registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user. During the period when the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, even if the messenger friend relationship between the first user and the second user is terminated, the second user's virtual avatar is still allowed to be used on the user terminal associated with the first user.

2. The virtual avatar usage permission management method according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: Receive data related to the virtual avatar of the aforementioned second user; and Based on the input from the first user, a first image containing the virtual image of the aforementioned second user is generated.

3. The virtual avatar usage permission management method according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: Receive data related to the virtual avatar of the aforementioned second user; and Based on the input from the second user, a second image is generated that includes the virtual avatar of the first user and the virtual avatar of the second user.

4. The virtual avatar usage permission management method according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: A third image containing the virtual avatar of the second user is displayed in the chat room that includes both the first user and the second user. The third image also includes at least one of a visual object and a message related to an anniversary associated with the first user.

5. The virtual avatar usage permission management method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The use of the virtual avatar of the aforementioned second user, who is registered as a messenger friend of the aforementioned first user, is not permitted until the aforementioned second user accepts the request to use the virtual avatar of the aforementioned second user.

6. The virtual avatar usage permission management method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Even if the second user accepts the request to use the second user's virtual avatar, the first user's virtual avatar is not allowed to be used on other user terminals associated with the second user.

7. The virtual avatar usage permission management method according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: In response to a request from the second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, a fourth image containing the second user's virtual avatar is displayed in place of the profile image associated with the second user.

8. The virtual avatar usage permission management method according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: In response to a request from the second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, an icon indicating permission to use the second user's virtual avatar is displayed on the second user's profile.

9. The virtual avatar usage permission management method according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: Receive requests from other user terminals associated with the second user to use the virtual avatar of the first user; Receive input from a third user, wherein the third user input is used to accept a request to use the virtual avatar of the first user; and In response to receiving input from the third user, an acceptance message is transmitted allowing the use of the first user's virtual avatar on the other user terminals.

10. The virtual avatar usage permission management method according to claim 9, characterized in that, Before the aforementioned acceptance message is transmitted, the virtual avatar of the first user is not permitted to be used on the aforementioned other user terminals.

11. The virtual avatar usage permission management method according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: Receive fourth user input, which allows other users to use the virtual avatar of the first user. In response to receiving the aforementioned fourth user input, the virtual avatar of the aforementioned first user is allowed to be used on other user terminals associated with the aforementioned second user.

12. A computer-readable recording medium, characterized in that, The computer program is recorded for performing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 11 in a computer.

13. A user terminal, characterized in that, include: Communication module; Memory; as well as At least one processor, connected to the aforementioned memory, is configured to execute at least one computer-readable program contained in the aforementioned memory. At least one of the above procedures includes instructions for performing the following steps: In instant messaging services, a request is transmitted to use the virtual avatar of a second user who is registered as a messenger friend of the first user; and In response to the request from the second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, the use of the second user's virtual avatar is permitted on the user terminal associated with the first user. In response to a request from the second user to accept the use of the second user's virtual avatar, the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user. During the period when the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, even if the messenger friend relationship between the first user and the second user is terminated, the use of the second user's virtual avatar on the user terminal associated with the first user is still permitted.

14. An information processing system, characterized in that, include: Communication module; Memory; as well as At least one processor, connected to the aforementioned memory, is configured to execute at least one computer-readable program contained in the aforementioned memory. At least one of the above procedures includes instructions for performing the following steps: The request to use the virtual avatar of the second user is received from the first user terminal associated with the first user through an instant messaging application. The first user and the second user are registered as messenger friends in the instant messaging service. The request to use the virtual avatar of the second user is transmitted to the second user terminal associated with the second user through the aforementioned instant messaging application. Receive, via the aforementioned instant messaging application, an acceptance message from the aforementioned second user terminal allowing the use of the aforementioned second user's virtual avatar on the aforementioned first user terminal; and In response to receiving the acceptance message from the second user terminal, the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user. During the period when the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, even if the messenger friend relationship between the first user and the second user is terminated, the use of the second user's virtual avatar on the first user's terminal associated with the first user will still be permitted.

15. The information processing system according to claim 14, characterized in that, At least one of the above procedures also includes instructions for performing the following steps: In response to registering the second user as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, data related to the virtual avatar of the second user is transmitted to the first user's terminal via the instant messaging application.

16. The information processing system according to claim 14, characterized in that, At least one of the above procedures also includes instructions for performing the following steps: Through the chat room comprising the first user and the second user, an image containing the virtual avatar of the second user is transmitted to the first user's terminal. The aforementioned image also includes at least one of a visual object and a message related to an anniversary associated with the aforementioned first user.

17. The information processing system according to claim 14, characterized in that, Before the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, the virtual avatar of the second user, who is registered as a messenger friend of the first user, is not allowed to be used on the first user's terminal.

18. The information processing system according to claim 14, characterized in that, Even if the second user is registered as a virtual avatar friend of the first user, the first user's virtual avatar is not allowed to be used on the second user's terminal.

19. The information processing system according to claim 14, characterized in that, At least one of the above procedures also includes instructions for performing the following steps: The request to use the virtual avatar of the first user is received from the second user terminal through the aforementioned instant messaging application. The request to use the virtual avatar of the first user is transmitted to the first user terminal through the aforementioned instant messaging application. The instant messaging application receives an acceptance message from the first user terminal allowing the use of the first user's virtual avatar on the second user terminal. In response to receiving the acceptance message from the first user terminal, the first user is registered as the virtual avatar friend of the second user. as well as In response to registering the first user as a virtual avatar friend of the second user, data related to the virtual avatar of the first user is transmitted to the second user's terminal through the instant messaging application.

Images