Multi-threaded chat room providing method, computer-readable recording medium, and user terminal

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for providing a multithreaded chat room in an instant messaging application executed by at least one processor, a computer-readable recording medium, and a user terminal. The method includes the steps of: receiving a request issued by a user participating in a chat room to generate a user input of a separate multi-threaded chat room different from the chat room based on a root message within the chat room; in response to the received user input, generating a multi-thread chat room; and displaying the directory of the multi-threaded chat room.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a multi-threaded chat room providing method and system. In particular, the present invention relates to a method and system of generating a multi-threaded chat room based on a user's multi-threaded chat room generation request and displaying a list of the multi-threaded chat room in an instant messenger application. BACKGROUND

[0002] With the spread of mobile devices such as smart phones and the development of networks, the use of instant messenger applications using mobile devices is becoming more widespread. Users using instant messenger applications through mobile devices can exchange various messages and contents with other users through chat rooms.

[0003] In an instant messenger application, a user can exchange messages with other users by participating in a plurality of chat rooms. In a chat room in which a plurality of users participate, chats on a plurality of topics can be simultaneously performed, and the chat topics can be changed in real time. A user who wants to obtain information on a specific topic can have difficulty obtaining the information in such an environment, and the progress of the chat can be interrupted. Therefore, it can take a long time to search for chat contents on a topic of interest in a chat room.

[0004] Also, a large number of chats can be performed in real time in a chat room in an instant messenger application. In the process of chatting on a specific topic, a new chat on a new topic can be newly initiated by other users. As such, as chats on a plurality of topics are irregularly performed in a chat room, it can be cumbersome to store and manage only chats on a specific topic. SUMMARY

[0005] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0006] The present invention provides an instant messenger application multi-threaded chat room providing method, a recording medium storing a computer program, and an apparatus (system) for solving the problems as described above.

[0007] TECHNICAL SOLUTION

[0008] The present invention can be implemented in various ways including a method, an apparatus (system), or a recording medium storing a computer program.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an instant messenger application multi-threaded chat room providing method can include receiving a user input of a request to generate a separate multi-threaded chat room different from a chat room based on a root message in the chat room, which is issued by a user participating in the chat room, in response to receiving the user input, generating the multi-threaded chat room, and displaying a list of the multi-threaded chat room.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method can further include the step of providing a multi-thread chat room to a plurality of users included in the chat room, the multi-thread chat room providing a root message in the chat room and information related to a user who sent the root message in the chat room.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the list of the multi-thread chat rooms can be separately provided in a different manner from a list of chat rooms included in the chat room.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the list of the multi-thread chat rooms can include a list of favorite multi-thread chat rooms.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the list of the multi-thread chat rooms can include a list of favorite threads including a list of multi-thread chat rooms designated as favorites by a user and a list of all threads including a list of all multi-thread chat rooms available to the user, and the step of displaying the list of the multi-thread chat rooms can include the step of displaying the list of favorite threads and the list of all threads in a selectable manner.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method can further include the step of receiving an addition request to add the multi-thread chat room to the list of favorite threads, and the multi-thread chat room can provide a first interface enabling the addition of the multi-thread chat room to the list of favorite threads.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method can further include the step of adding the multi-thread chat room to the list of favorite threads of the user in response to the user input for generating the multi-thread chat room.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the chat room can provide a second interface connected to the list of the multi-thread chat rooms.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the step of displaying the list of favorite threads and the list of all threads in a selectable manner can include the step of preferentially displaying the list of all threads if the list of favorite threads is empty.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the step of displaying the list of favorite threads and the list of all threads in a selectable manner can include the step of preferentially displaying the list of favorite threads if there is more than one multi-thread chat room designated as a favorite by the user in the list of favorite threads.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method can further include the step of displaying information related to the multi-thread chat room in the chat room, and the information related to the multi-thread chat room can include at least one of information related to a number of messages of the multi-thread chat room and information related to a number of unread messages of the user among messages in the multi-thread chat room.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method can further include the step of displaying a list of the multi-threaded chat room, and the list of the multi-threaded chat room can provide a fourth interface connected to a root message within the chat room.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the multi-threaded chat room can provide a fourth interface connected to a root message within the chat room.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the step of displaying the list of the multi-threaded chat room can include the step of sequentially displaying the multi-threaded chat room from a message sent within the multi-threaded chat room being the latest.

[0023] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method can further include the steps of determining whether a critical time elapses from a first point of time at which the root message within the chat room is received, and closing the multi-threaded chat room if it is determined that the critical time elapses from the first point of time at which the root message within the chat room is received.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method can further include the steps of receiving a deletion request for the root message within the chat room, and deleting the multi-threaded chat room from the list of the multi-threaded chat room based on the received deletion request.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method can further include the steps of determining whether a critical time elapses from a second point of time at which a user input requesting to generate the multi-threaded chat room is received, and closing the multi-threaded chat room if it is determined that the critical time elapses from the second point of time at which the user input requesting to generate the multi-threaded chat room is received.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the step of generating the multi-threaded chat room includes the steps of determining whether a critical time elapses from a third point of time at which the root message within the chat room is received, and displaying a request rejection screen for the user input in response to receiving the user input if it is determined that the critical time elapses from the third point of time at which the root message within the chat room is received.

[0027] The present invention can provide a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a computer program for executing the method of an embodiment of the present invention in a computer.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the present invention provides a user terminal. The user terminal includes a display, a memory, and at least one processor connected to the memory and configured to execute at least one program readable by a computer included in the memory, the at least one program being executable to receive a user input requesting to generate a separate multi-threaded chat room different from a chat room based on a root message within the chat room from a user participating in the chat room, generate the multi-threaded chat room in response to receiving the user input, and display a list of the multi-threaded chat room.

[0029] Effects of Invention

[0030] According to the embodiments of the present invention, a user in a multi-threaded chat room can easily understand which root message a multi-threaded chat room is generated based on, and can easily understand the chat topic in the multi-threaded chat room.

[0031] According to the embodiments of the present invention, blind generation of a multi-threaded chat room can be prevented, and a multi-threaded chat room in which information related to a latest topic is exchanged can be generated.

[0032] According to the embodiments of the present invention, a conversation related to a specific topic can be guided in a multi-threaded chat room, and a server managing the multi-threaded chat room can be efficiently operated by closing a multi-threaded chat room that has passed a predetermined time.

[0033] According to the embodiments of the present invention, a user can participate in a conversation or acquire information related to a specific topic among various topics in a chat room. Also, a progress of a conversation related to the specific topic can not be interrupted by providing a separate multi-threaded chat room for the specific topic. In this way, a user can easily acquire desired information in a chat room, and can manage a conversation in units of a specific topic.

[0034] According to the embodiments of the present invention, a user can easily grasp whether a corresponding multi-threaded chat room is added to a directory of a favorite multi-threaded chat room, and can conveniently manage the directory of the favorite multi-threaded chat room.

[0035] According to the embodiments of the present invention, movement between a chat room and a multi-threaded chat room can be effectively implemented.

[0036] According to the embodiments of the present invention, a multi-threaded chat room related to a specific user can be effectively managed.

[0037] According to the embodiments of the present invention, a user can easily see a directory of a multi-threaded chat room without searching for a root message that becomes a basis for generation of a multi-threaded chat room in a chat room by a method such as scrolling. Accordingly, accessibility to a multi-threaded chat room can be improved, and a multi-threaded chat room can be easily managed.

[0038] According to the embodiments of the present invention, a multi-threaded chat room related to a specific topic that a user is interested in can be effectively managed by providing a directory of a favorite multi-threaded chat room, and accessibility to a multi-threaded chat room generated in a chat room can be improved by providing a directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms, and participation in a multi-threaded chat room and activity of a multi-threaded chat room can be improved.

[0039] Effects of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art (referred to as "those skilled in the art") through the contents recited in the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Hereinafter, several embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this process, similar reference numerals indicate similar structures, but are not limited thereto.

[0041] Figure 1 The diagram illustrates an example of generating a multi-threaded chat room in an instant messaging application according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 This is a simplified diagram illustrating the structure of an information processing system that can communicate with multiple user terminals in order to provide services for multi-threaded chat rooms within an instant messaging application, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] 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 invention.

[0044] Figure 4 The figure illustrates an example of a multi-threaded chat room in an instant messaging application according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates an example of entering the directory of a multi-threaded chat room according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates an example of moving from the directory of a chat room to the directory of a multi-threaded chat room generated in association with the chat room, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 7 The diagram illustrates an example of moving from the chat room directory to the directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms added to the favorites according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating an example of a method for providing a multi-threaded chat room within an instant messaging application according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0050] 110: First screen

[0051] 112: User A

[0052] 114: User B

[0053] 120: Second screen

[0054] 122: Interface used to perform the added function

[0055] 124: Button for creating a multi-threaded chat room

[0056] 126: root message

[0057] 130: third screen

[0058] 132: screen for generating multi-threaded chat room

[0059] 134: message input box

[0060] 140: fourth screen

[0061] 142: multi-threaded chat room

[0062] 144: contents of root message

[0063] 146: information related to a user who transmitted the root message

[0064] 148: information of a chat room that becomes a basis for generating a multi-threaded chat room DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] Hereinafter, specific contents for implementing the present application will be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, in the following explanation, when there is a possibility that the gist of the present application can be unnecessarily confused, specific explanation of well-known functions or structures will be omitted.

[0066] In the drawings, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same or corresponding structural elements. Also, in explaining the following embodiments, repeated explanation related to the same or corresponding structural elements will be omitted. However, even if the explanation of the structural elements is omitted, it does not mean that such structural elements are not included in any of the embodiments.

[0067] Advantages, features and implementation methods of the disclosed embodiments can be understood with reference to the accompanying drawings and the detailed explanation of the embodiments. Figure 1 However, the present application is not limited to the following disclosed embodiments, can be implemented in various different ways, and the present embodiments are used to ensure the integrity of the present application, and the present application is provided only to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the scope of the present application.

[0068] In the present specification, the terms used will be briefly explained and the disclosed embodiments will be specifically explained. In the present specification, although the common terms currently widely used are selected as much as possible in consideration of the functions of the present application, the terms used herein can be changed according to the intention of those skilled in the relevant art or precedents, the appearance of new technology, etc. Also, in a specific case, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this case, the meanings thereof will be specifically described in the corresponding description part of the present application. Therefore, in the present specification, the terms used should be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the entire contents of the specification, and not just the names of the terms.

[0069] In the present specification, unless explicitly specified otherwise in the context, an expression of a singular number includes an expression of a plural number. Also, unless explicitly specified otherwise in the context, an expression of a plural number includes an expression of a singular number. In the entire contents of the present specification, when it is indicated that a certain part includes a certain structural element, unless there is a specific recitation to the contrary, it means that other structural elements can also be included, rather than excluding other structural elements.

[0070] Also, in the present specification, the term "module" or "part" used can refer to a software structural element or a hardware structural element, and the "module" or "part" performs a certain function. However, the "module" or "part" is not limited to software or hardware. The "module" or "part" can exist in an accessible storage medium, or can also reproduce one or more processors. Accordingly, as an example, the "module" or "part" can include at least one of a software structural element, an object-oriented software structural element, a class structural element, and a task structural element, etc., a process, a function, an attribute, a program, a subroutine, a program code segment, a driver, firmware, a microcode, a circuit, data, a database, a data structure, a table, an array, and a variable. The structural element and the function provided by the "module" or "part" internally can be combined by a smaller number of structural elements and "modules" or "parts" or further separated into additional structural elements and "modules" or "parts".

[0071] According to an embodiment of the present application, the "module" or "part" can be implemented by a processor and a memory. The "processor" is interpreted broadly to include a general processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a controller, a microcontroller, a state machine, etc. In various environments, the "processor" can also refer to an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), etc. For example, the "processor" can also refer to a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, a combination of a plurality of microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors with a digital signal processor core, or a combination of other any combination of such processing devices, etc. Also, the "memory" is interpreted broadly to include any electronic component that can store electronic information. The "memory" can also refer to a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), a programmable read only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), a flash memory, a magnetic or optical data storage device, a register, etc. various types of processor readable media. If the processor reads information from the memory or records information to the memory, it is said that the memory and the processor are in an electronic communication state. The memory integrated in the processor is in an electronic communication state with the processor.

[0072] In the present disclosure, the "system" can include at least one of a server device and a cloud device, but is not limited thereto. For example, the system can be constituted by more than one server device. As another example, the system can be constituted by more than one cloud device. As another example, the system can be constituted by a server device and a cloud device together to operate.

[0073] In the present disclosure, the "display" can refer to any display device associated with a computing device, for example, can refer to any display device controlled by a computing device or capable of displaying any information / data provided from a computing device.

[0074] In the present disclosure, "each of a plurality of A" or "a plurality of A respectively" can refer to each of all structural elements included in a plurality of A, or can refer to each of partial structural elements included in a plurality of A.

[0075] In the present disclosure, the "user" can refer to a user using an instant messaging application or a user account of an instant messaging application. Among them, the user account can mean an account or data associated therewith generated and used by the user in the instant messaging application.

[0076] In the present disclosure, the "chat room" can refer to a virtual space or group in which more than one user (or user account) can participate, which can be generated in an instant messaging application installed in a computing device. For example, various forms of messages, files, etc. can be exchanged with each other by participating or including more than one user account in the chat room. Also, in the chat room, voice calls and / or video calls between user accounts can be performed by supporting VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) call or VoIP group call functions.

[0077] In the present disclosure, the "multi-threaded chat room" can refer to a virtual space or group in which more than one user (or user account) can participate, which can be generated based on a message generated in a chat room generated in an instant messaging application. For example, a user (or user account) participating in a chat room can generate a multi-threaded chat room for free discussion, questioning, or sharing answers on a common theme based on a specific message in the chat room. Also, in the multi-threaded chat room, as in the chat room, more than one user account can participate or be included in the multi-threaded chat room to exchange various forms of messages, files, etc. with each other.

[0078] In the present application, the "directory of multi-threaded chat rooms" can be a directory of multi-threaded chat rooms generated in the instant messenger application. The directory of multi-threaded chat rooms can refer to a directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms in which a user (or a user account) participates or belongs, regardless of whether it is generated in relation to a specific chat room. Also, the directory of multi-threaded chat rooms can refer to a directory of multi-threaded chat rooms generated in relation to a specific chat room in which a user (or a user account) participates or belongs.

[0079] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The size or position of a display screen, an image, a button, etc. shown and described in the drawings is merely an example and is not limited thereto. For example, some buttons can be added or omitted, or can be configured in different sizes and positions from the drawings.

[0080] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of generating a multi-threaded chat room in an instant messenger application according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in the diagram, a multi-threaded chat room can be generated through the steps shown in the first to fourth screens 110 to 140.

[0081] The first screen 110 illustrates an example of a scenario in which a user chats in a chat room. Various chat topics can be formed among users participating in the chat room. For example, while a user A 112 can raise a chat topic of "all new products are sold on the Internet" 116, a user B 114 can raise a chat topic of "I am looking for a good restaurant" 118.

[0082] In an embodiment, a user participating in a chat room can transmit and receive messages in various forms. For example, the messages that a user can transmit and receive can include text messages, voice messages, image messages, video messages, etc., but are not limited thereto.

[0083] The second screen 120 illustrates an example of a user input of a user participating in a chat room raising a request to generate a multi-threaded chat room. In order to chat on a specific topic only, a user participating in a chat room can raise a request to generate a multi-threaded chat room by selecting one of various messages arranged in the chat room.

[0084] In an embodiment, an interface 122 for performing an addition function of a specific message can be provided to a user. In this case, the interface 122 for performing the addition function can be displayed to a user by pressing a specific message by a user for a predetermined time. However, the condition for displaying the interface 122 is not limited thereto. Additionally or alternatively, the interface 122 for performing the addition function can be displayed to a user by double-clicking or right-clicking a specific message.

[0085] After that, the user can be provided with a button 124 for generating a multi-threaded chat room from the interface 122 for executing an addition function of a specific message. If the user clicks the button 124 for generating a multi-threaded chat room, the user can be displayed with a screen 132 for generating a multi-threaded chat room. Here, a message within a chat room that becomes a basis for generating a multi-threaded chat room can be referred to as a root message 126.

[0086] In an embodiment, the user who wishes to generate a multi-threaded chat room can input a message responding to the root message 126 to a message input box 134. For example, the user who wishes to generate a multi-threaded chat room can input a response message of "Can you tell me which online store? I am also looking for new products" to the root message 126 of "All new products are sold on the Internet" within a chat room. As described above, a multi-threaded chat room can be generated by the user who wishes to generate a multi-threaded chat room inputting a message responding to the root message 126 to the message input box 134 provided in the screen 132 for generating a multi-threaded chat room.

[0087] The fourth screen 140 illustrates an example of a screen for ending the generation of a multi-threaded chat room. As illustrated, the multi-threaded chat room 142 can be a separate chat room from a chat room.

[0088] In an embodiment, the multi-threaded chat room 142 can be provided with the content 144 of the root message within a chat room and information 146 related to a user who transmitted the root message within a chat room. For example, if a multi-threaded chat room is generated based on the root message 126 transmitted by the user A 112, the multi-threaded chat room can be provided with the personal information 146 of the user A 112 and the content 144 of the root message. Differently, the multi-threaded chat room can be provided with only the personal information 146 of the user A 112 or the content 144 of the root message that becomes a basis for generating the multi-threaded chat room. The information provided to the multi-threaded chat room is not limited to this, and can include other contents. Through this structure, a user within the multi-threaded chat room can easily understand that the multi-threaded chat room is generated based on a root message issued by which user, and can easily grasp a chat theme within the multi-threaded chat room.

[0089] In an embodiment, the multi-threaded chat room can be provided with information 148 of a chat room that becomes a basis for generating the multi-threaded chat room. For example, if a multi-threaded chat room is generated based on the root message 126 transmitted in the chat room A, the multi-threaded chat room can be provided with the name information 148 of the chat room A. Through this structure, a user within the multi-threaded chat room can easily grasp that the multi-threaded chat room is generated based on which chat room.

[0090] In an embodiment, if a user requests to generate a multi-threaded chat room based on a root message sent after a prescribed time, a request rejection screen (not shown) can be displayed to the user who requested to generate the multi-threaded chat room. For example, if 24 hours have passed after a root message is sent in a chat room, a request rejection screen can be displayed to the user who requested to generate a multi-threaded chat room based on the root message. The request rejection screen can be displayed in a pop-up form on the user's display in correspondence to the user's input of clicking the button 124 for generating a multi-threaded chat room in the second screen 120. With this configuration, blind generation of a multi-threaded chat room can be prevented, and a multi-threaded chat room in which information on the latest topic is exchanged can be generated.

[0091] In an embodiment, if a prescribed time has passed after a root message is sent in a chat room, a multi-threaded chat room generated based on the root message can be closed. For example, if 6 months have passed after a root message is sent in a chat room, a multi-threaded chat room generated based on the root message can be closed. In this case, in the closed multi-threaded chat room, although the messages that have been input are not deleted and can be viewed, new messages cannot be sent.

[0092] In an embodiment, if a root message is deleted in a chat room, a multi-threaded chat room generated based on the root message can be deleted.

[0093] In an embodiment, if a prescribed time has passed after a multi-threaded chat room is generated, the multi-threaded chat room can be closed. For example, if 1 month has passed from the time point at which the multi-threaded chat room is generated, the multi-threaded chat room can be closed. In this case, in the closed multi-threaded chat room, although the messages that have been input are not deleted and can be viewed, new messages cannot be sent. With this configuration, chatting on a specific topic in a multi-threaded chat room can be guided, and the efficiency of a server that manages the multi-threaded chat room can be improved by closing the multi-threaded chat room that has passed a prescribed time.

[0094] With this configuration, a user can receive a chat space in which only a specific topic is chatted or information is obtained among a plurality of topics chatted in a chat room. Also, the progress of chatting on a specific topic can not be interrupted by a separate multi-threaded chat room for chatting on only a specific topic. In this way, a user can easily obtain desired information in a chat room, and a chat room can be managed in units of topics.

[0095] Figure 2A diagram showing a configuration in which the information processing system 230 is connected in a communicable manner with the plurality of user terminals 210_1, 210_2, 210_3 in order to provide the multi-threaded chat room providing service in accordance with an embodiment of the present application. The information processing system 230 can include a system that can provide an instant messaging service and / or a system(s) that can provide a multi-threaded chat room providing service. In an embodiment, the information processing system 230 can include one or more server devices and / or databases that can store, provide, and execute computer executable programs (e.g., downloadable applications) and data related to the instant messaging service and / or the multi-threaded chat room providing service, or one or more distributed computing devices and / or distributed databases based on a cloud computing service. For example, the information processing system 230 can include separate systems (e.g., servers) for the instant messaging service and / or the multi-threaded chat room providing service.

[0096] The instant messaging service, the multi-threaded chat room providing service, and the like provided by the information processing system 230 can be provided to users through instant messaging applications and the like respectively provided in the plurality of user terminals 210_1, 210_2, 210_3. For example, the instant messaging service can include a text communication service, a voice communication service, a video call service, a voice call service, a video streaming service, a social network service, a multi-threaded chat room providing service, and the like between users of the instant messaging application.

[0097] The plurality of user terminals 210_1, 210_2, 210_3 can communicate with the information processing system 230 through the network 220. The network 220 can enable communication between the plurality of user terminals 210_1, 210_2, 210_3 and the information processing system 230. For example, the network 220 can be implemented by a wired network such as an Ethernet, a power line communication network, a telephone line communication device, and an RS-serial communication, a wireless network such as a mobile communication network, a wireless LAN (WLAN), a mobile hotspot (Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, and ZigBee, or a combination thereof according to a setting environment. The communication manner is not limited, and can include near distance wireless communication between the user terminals 210_1, 210_2, 210_3 in addition to communication networks (e.g., a mobile communication network, a wired Internet, a wireless Internet, a broadcast network, a satellite network, and the like) that the network 220 can include.

[0098] In Figure 2In the present embodiment, as examples of the user terminals, although the mobile phone terminal 210_1, the tablet terminal 210_2, and the personal computer (PC) terminal 210_3 are illustrated, the present embodiment is not limited thereto, and the user terminals 210_1, 210_2, 210_3 can be any computing device capable of wired and / or wireless communication and capable of installing and running an instant messaging application or the like. For example, the user terminals can include a smartphone, a mobile phone, a navigator, a computer (e.g., a notebook computer or a tablet personal computer), a digital broadcast terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a game console, a wearable device, an internet of things (IoT) device, a virtual reality (VR) device, an augmented reality (AR) device, or the like. Also, in the present embodiment, although the case where three user terminals 210_1, 210_2, 210_3 communicate with the information processing system 230 through the network 220 is illustrated, the present embodiment is not limited thereto, and the user terminals that communicate with the information processing system 230 through the network 220 can be different in number. Figure 2

[0099] In an embodiment, the user terminals 210_1, 210_2, 210_3 respectively receive information or data from other user terminals through the network 220, or can transmit information or data to other user terminals.

[0100] Figure 3 A block diagram illustrating the internal structure of the user terminal 210 and the information processing system 230 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The user terminal 210 can also refer to any computing device capable of executing an application, a web browser, or the like, and capable of wired and / or wireless communication, for example, can include the mobile phone terminal 210_1, the tablet terminal 210_2, the PC terminal 210_3, or the like. Figure 2 As illustrated, the user terminal 210 can include a memory 312, a processor 314, a communication module 316, and an input / output interface 318. Similarly, the information processing system 230 can include a memory 332, a processor 334, a communication module 336, and an input / output interface 338. As described above, the user terminal 210 and the information processing system 230 can communicate with each other through the network 220. Figure 3 ​As shown, the user terminal 210 and the information processing system 230 can utilize the respective communication modules 316, 336 to transceive information and / or data over the network 220. Also, the input / output device 320 can input information and / or data to the user terminal 210 through the input / output interface 318, or can output information and / or data generated by the user terminal 210.

[0101] The memories 312, 332 can include any non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. According to an embodiment, the memories 312, 332 can include a read only memory (ROM), a magnetic disk drive, a solid state drive (SSD), or a flash memory, etc. non-volatile mass storage device. As a further example, the read only memory, the solid state drive, the flash memory, the magnetic disk drive, etc. non-volatile mass storage device can be included in the user terminal 210 or the information processing system 230 as an additional permanent storage device different from the memory. Also, an operating system and at least one program code can be stored in the memories 312, 332.

[0102] Such software structural elements can be loaded from an additional computer-readable recording medium different from the memories 312, 332. Such an additional computer-readable recording medium can include a recording medium directly connectable to the user terminal 210 and the information processing system 230, for example, a computer-readable recording medium such as a floppy disk drive, a magnetic disk, a magnetic tape, a DVD / CD-ROM drive, and / or a memory card. As a further example, the software structural elements can also be loaded in the memories 312, 332 through the communication modules 316, 336, rather than a computer-readable recording medium. For example, at least one program can be loaded in the memories 312, 332 based on a computer program installed by a file provided by a file distribution system that installs files of an application program developed by a developer or distributed by a file distribution system through the network 220.

[0103] The processors 314, 334 can process instructions of a computer program by performing basic arithmetic, logical, and input / output operations. The instructions can be provided to the processors 314, 334 through the memories 312, 332 or the communication modules 316, 336. For example, the processors 314, 334 can execute instructions received based on program codes stored in a recording device such as the memories 312, 332.

[0104] The communication modules 316, 336 can provide structure or functionality that enables the user terminal 210 and the information processing system 230 to communicate with each other over the network 220, and can provide structure or functionality that enables the user terminal 210 and / or the information processing system 230 to communicate with other user terminals or other systems (e.g., additional cloud systems, etc.). As an example, a request or data (e.g., a chat room search request, etc.) generated by the processor 314 of the user terminal 210 in accordance with program code stored in the memory 312 or other recording device can be transmitted to the information processing system 230 over the network 220 in accordance with control by the communication module 316. Conversely, the user terminal 210 can receive control signals or instructions provided in accordance with control by the processor 334 of the information processing system 230 via the communication module 336 and the network 220 through the communication module 316 of the user terminal 210.

[0105] The input / output interface 318 can refer to a device for connecting the input / output device 320. As an example, the input device can include a camera having an audio sensor and / or an image sensor, a keyboard, a microphone, a mouse, or the like, and the output device can include a display, a speaker, a haptic feedback device, or the like. As a further example, the input / output interface 318 can be a device for interfacing with a device in which structure or functionality for performing input and output is integrated, such as a touch screen. For example, a service screen or the like constituted based on information and / or data provided by the information processing system 230 or other user terminals can be displayed on the display through the input / output interface 318 as the processor 314 of the user terminal 210 processes computer program instructions loaded in the memory 312. Figure 3 In the example, although the input / output device 320 is not included in the user terminal 210, it is not limited thereto, and can be integrated with the user terminal 210. Also, the input / output interface 338 of the information processing system 230 can be connected to the information processing system 230, or can be a device for interfacing with a device (not shown) for input or output that can be included in the information processing system 230. In the example, although the input / output interface 318, 338 is separated from the processor 314, 334 as a separate structural element, it is not limited thereto, and the input / output interface 318, 338 can be included in the processor 314, 334. Figure 3 In the example, although the input / output interface 318, 338 is separated from the processor 314, 334 as a separate structural element, it is not limited thereto, and the input / output interface 318, 338 can be included in the processor 314, 334.

[0106] In the example, although the input / output interface 318, 338 is separated from the processor 314, 334 as a separate structural element, it is not limited thereto, and the input / output interface 318, 338 can be included in the processor 314, 334. Figure 3The user terminal 210 and the information processing system 230 can include more structural elements than those shown. However, most of the structural elements of the prior art are not explicitly shown. In an embodiment, the user terminal 210 can include at least a part of the input and output devices 320. Also, the user terminal 210 can further include a transceiver, a Global Positioning System (GPS) module, a camera, various sensors, a database, and other structural elements. For example, if the user terminal 210 is a smartphone, it can include structural elements that a smartphone typically includes. For example, the user terminal 210 can further include an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a microphone module, a camera module, various physical buttons, buttons using a touch pad, an input and output port, a vibrator for vibration, and various structural elements.

[0107] During program operation for an instant messaging application including a multi-threaded chat room providing service, the processor 314 can receive text, images, videos, voice, and / or operations, etc. input or selected through a touch screen, a keyboard, a camera having an audio sensor and / or an image sensor, a microphone, and / or other input devices connected to the input and output interface 318, and can store the received text, images, videos, voice, and / or operations, etc. in the memory 312 or provide them to the information processing system 230 through the communication module 316 and the network 220.

[0108] The processor 314 of the user terminal 210 can be configured to manage, process, and / or store information and / or data received from the input and output devices 320, other user terminals, the information processing system 230, and / or a plurality of external systems. The information and / or data processed by the processor 314 can be provided to the information processing system 230 through the communication module 316 and the network 220. The processor 314 of the user terminal 210 can transmit and output information and / or data to the input and output devices 320 through the input and output interface 318. For example, the processor 314 can display the received information and / or data on a screen of the user terminal 210.

[0109] The processor 334 of the information processing system 230 can manage, process, and / or store information and / or data received from a plurality of user terminals 210 and / or a plurality of external systems. The information and / or data processed by the processor 334 can be provided to the user terminals 210 through the communication module 336 and the network 220.

[0110] Figure 4 A diagram showing an example of a multi-threaded chat room in an instant messaging application according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0111] The first screen 410 shows an example of a chat room that transmits a root message that becomes the basis for generating a multi-threaded chat room. The second screen 420 shows an example of a multi-threaded chat room generated based on the root message. The third screen 430 shows an example of a multi-threaded chat room added in a state where the directory of the favorite multi-threaded chat room is collected.

[0112] In an embodiment, a button 412 for entering a multi-threaded chat room related to the root message 414 can be provided to the chat room. In the first screen 410, the button 412 for entering the multi-threaded chat room related to the root message 414 can be provided at the periphery of the root message 414 in the chat room. For example, a user can enter the multi-threaded chat room generated based on the message "I want to buy a lamp. Do you know any online store?" by clicking the button 412 labeled "999+ messages" provided at the lower end of the message 414.

[0113] In an embodiment, the button 412 for entering the multi-threaded chat room can include information related to the multi-threaded chat room. The information related to the multi-threaded chat room can be information related to the number of messages of the multi-threaded chat room or information related to the number of unread messages of the user in the multi-threaded chat room. For example, if the number of messages of the multi-threaded chat room is 5, the button for entering the multi-threaded chat room can be labeled "5 messages". In contrast, if the number of messages of the multi-threaded chat room reaches more than 10 and less than 50, more than 50 and less than 100, more than 100 and less than 1000, the button for entering the multi-threaded chat room can be labeled "10+ messages", "50+ messages", "100+ messages", or "200+ messages", etc. In contrast, if the number of messages of the multi-threaded chat room reaches more than 1000, the button for entering the multi-threaded chat room can be labeled "999+ messages". As another example, if the number of unread messages of the user in the multi-threaded chat room is 5, the button for entering the multi-threaded chat room can be labeled "5 messages". In contrast, if the number of unread messages of the user in the multi-threaded chat room reaches more than 10 and less than 50, more than 50 and less than 100, more than 100 and less than 1000, the button for entering the multi-threaded chat room can be labeled "10+ messages", "50+ messages", "100+ messages", or "200+ messages", etc. In contrast, if the number of unread messages of the user in the multi-threaded chat room reaches more than 1000, the button for entering the multi-threaded chat room can be labeled "999+ messages". The method of displaying the information related to the multi-threaded chat room described above is an example and is not limited thereto.

[0114] In one embodiment, the multi-threaded chat room can be provided with an interface 422 that enables the multi-threaded chat room to be added to a favorite thread list. The favorite thread list can be a list of multi-threaded chat rooms that a user designates as favorites. As will be described below, multi-threaded chat rooms added to the favorite thread list can be individually managed through the favorite thread list and can be easily accessed by the user. Figure 5

[0115] As the user selects the interface 422 provided to the multi-threaded chat room that enables the multi-threaded chat room to be added to the favorite thread list through a touch input or the like, the multi-threaded chat room can be added to the favorite thread list. Confirmation information indicating a state in which the multi-threaded chat room is added to the favorite thread list can be displayed on the display. For example, if the user selects the interface 422 of the star with an empty interior, the interface 432 of the star with a filled interior can be displayed on the display. In this case, the multi-threaded chat room can be in a state of being added to the favorite thread list. Conversely, even if the multi-threaded chat room is in a state of being added to the favorite thread list, the interface 432 provided to the multi-threaded chat room can be selected through a touch input or the like to be deleted from the favorite thread list. Confirmation information indicating a state in which the multi-threaded chat room is not added to the favorite thread list can be displayed on the display through the interface 422 that can be added to the favorite thread list. For example, if the user selects the interface 432 of the star with a filled interior, the interface 422 of the star with an empty interior can be displayed on the display. Through this configuration, the user can easily grasp whether the multi-threaded chat room is in a state of being added to the favorite thread list and can effectively manage the favorite thread list.

[0116] In one embodiment, an interface 424 that links to a root message 414 that becomes the basis for generation of the multi-threaded chat room can be provided in the multi-threaded chat room. As the interface 424 that links to the root message 414 is selected through a touch input or the like, a chat room screen at a point in time at which the root message 414 is transmitted can be displayed on the display. For example, if the multi-threaded chat room is generated based on the root message 414 of "I want to buy a lantern. Do you know any online stores?", as the interface 424 of "See message in chat" provided to the multi-threaded chat room is selected through a touch input or the like, a chat room screen in which the root message 414 of "I want to buy a lantern. Do you know any online stores?" is located at the top end can be displayed on the display. Through this configuration, movement of screens between the chat room and the multi-threaded chat room can be effectively implemented.

[0117] ​In an embodiment, the functions that can be performed in a chat room can also be performed in a multi-threaded chat room. For example, sending a text message, taking a photo, sending an image message, sending a voice message, sending a file, etc. can be performed in a multi-threaded chat room. Also, it is possible to implement that a user in a multi-threaded chat room can mention 428 another user or can send 426 a reply to a specific message. The above-mentioned functions that can be performed in a multi-threaded chat room are only examples and are not limited thereto.

[0118] In an embodiment, if a user participating in a multi-threaded chat room is mentioned 428 by another user participating in the multi-threaded chat room, the multi-threaded chat room in which the mention message is sent can be automatically added to the favorite thread directory of the user who is mentioned by another user. For example, if a user A mentions a user B by a message of "@user B Thanks to you, I should be able to buy a good lantern!", the multi-threaded chat room in which the mention message is sent can be automatically added to the favorite thread directory of the user B. Through this structure, a user can effectively manage the multi-threaded chat rooms that the user has mentioned.

[0119] In an embodiment, if a reply to a message sent by a specific user participating in a multi-threaded chat room is sent 426 by another user participating in the multi-threaded chat room, the multi-threaded chat room in which the reply is sent can be automatically added to the favorite thread directory of the specific user. For example, if a user B sends a reply of "Yes, I am shopping online" to a message of "Can you shop online?" sent by a user C, the multi-threaded chat room in which the reply is sent can be automatically added to the favorite thread directory of the user C. Through this structure, a user can effectively manage the multi-threaded chat rooms to which the user has sent a reply.

[0120] In an embodiment, a multi-threaded chat room generated by a user's request can be added to the favorite thread directory of the user who requested the generation of the multi-threaded chat room. For example, if a user B requests the generation of a multi-threaded chat room based on a root message 414 of "I want to buy a lantern. Do you know any online store?", the multi-threaded chat room generated by the user B's request can be added to the favorite thread directory of the user B. Through this structure, a user can effectively manage the multi-threaded chat rooms generated by the user's request.

[0121] Figure 5 A diagram to show an example of an entry into a directory of a multi-threaded chat room according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0122] The first screen 510 shows an example of an interface 512 provided to a chat room to connect to a list of multi-threaded chat rooms. The second screen 520 shows an example of a favorite thread list 522. The third screen 530 shows an example of a full thread list 532. Among them, the list of multi-threaded chat rooms connected through a chat room can be a list of multi-threaded chat rooms generated in association with a specific chat room. Also, the favorite thread list can be a list of multi-threaded chat rooms designated by a user as a favorite, and the full thread list can be a list of all multi-threaded chat rooms available to a user.

[0123] In an embodiment, the interface 512 to connect to a list of multi-threaded chat rooms can be provided to a chat room. As a user belonging to the chat room selects the interface 512 to connect to a list of multi-threaded chat rooms through a touch input or the like, a list of multi-threaded chat rooms 522, 532 can be displayed on a display. Through this structure, a user can easily see a list of multi-threaded chat rooms instead of entering a multi-threaded chat room after searching for a root message that becomes a basis for generation of a multi-threaded chat room through a method of scrolling or the like. Accordingly, accessibility to a multi-threaded chat room can be improved, and a multi-threaded chat room can be easily managed.

[0124] In an embodiment, the list of multi-threaded chat rooms connected through the interface 512 provided to a chat room can be a list of multi-threaded chat rooms generated in association with the chat room. For example, a list of multi-threaded chat rooms generated in a chat room A can be connected through an interface provided to the chat room A, and can not be connected through an interface provided to a chat room B.

[0125] In an embodiment, a list of multi-threaded chat rooms can be separately provided from a list of chat rooms. Also, the list of multi-threaded chat rooms can include a favorite thread list 522 and a full thread list 532. Among them, the favorite thread list 522 and the full thread list 532 can be displayed in a manner selectable by a user. The favorite thread list 522 can be generated in association with a chat room, and can arrange multi-threaded chat rooms designated by a user as a favorite. The full thread list 532 can arrange all multi-threaded chat rooms generated in association with a chat room. In this case, multi-threaded chat rooms belonging to the favorite thread list 522 and the full thread list 532 can at least partially overlap. By providing the favorite thread list 522, multi-threaded chat rooms related to a specific theme of interest to a user can be effectively managed, and by providing the full thread list 532, accessibility to multi-threaded chat rooms generated in a chat room can be improved, and participation in a multi-threaded chat room and activity of a multi-threaded chat room can be improved.

[0126] In an embodiment, an interface 524 connected to the entire thread directory 532 can be provided in the favorite thread directory 522. Likewise, an interface 534 connected to the favorite thread directory 522 can be provided in the entire thread directory 532. The user can select the interface by a touch input or the like to enter the directory of the desired multi-thread chat room.

[0127] In an embodiment, information 526, 536 related to the multi-thread chat room can be displayed in the favorite thread directory and the entire thread directory. Among them, the information 526, 536 related to the multi-thread chat room can include personal information of the user who sent the root message, contents of the root message, information related to the number of messages in the multi-thread chat room, contents of the last message sent in the multi-thread chat room, information related to the time of sending, information related to the number of unread messages of the user in the multi-thread chat room, and the like. The information 526, 536 related to the multi-thread chat room is not limited to the above-mentioned structure, and other structures can be added thereto, or a part of the above-mentioned structure can be excluded. Through such a structure, the user can easily grasp the information related to the multi-thread chat room arranged in the directory of the multi-thread chat room, and can effectively identify the multi-thread chat room searched by the user.

[0128] Each information related to a plurality of multi-thread chat rooms can be provided to the favorite thread directory 522. For example, in the favorite thread directory 522, each information related to the multi-thread chat room related to the root message of the user A and the multi-thread chat room related to the root message of the user B can be displayed in the favorite thread directory 522. Similarly, each information related to a plurality of multi-thread chat rooms can be provided to the entire thread directory 532. For example, each information related to the multi-thread chat room related to the root message of the user C, the multi-thread chat room related to the root message of the user D, and the multi-thread chat room related to the root message of the user E can be displayed in the entire thread directory 532.

[0129] In an embodiment, the interface 528, 538 for connecting to the multi-threaded chat room can be provided to the favorite thread directory and the all thread directory. As the user selects the interface 528, 538 for connecting to the multi-threaded chat room by a touch input or the like, the user enters the desired multi-threaded chat room. In an embodiment, the interface 528, 538 for connecting to the multi-threaded chat room can include information related to the multi-threaded chat room. Among them, the information related to the multi-threaded chat room can be information related to the number of messages of the multi-threaded chat room or information related to the number of unread messages of the user in the multi-threaded chat room. For example, if the number of messages of the multi-threaded chat room is 5, the interface for connecting to the multi-threaded chat room can be displayed as "5 messages". Unlike this, if the number of messages of the multi-threaded chat room reaches 10 or more and less than 50, 50 or more and less than 100, 100 or more and less than 1000, the interface for connecting to the multi-threaded chat room can be displayed as "10+ messages", "50+ messages", "100+ messages", or "200+ messages", or the like. Unlike this, if the number of messages of the multi-threaded chat room reaches 1000 or more, the interface for connecting to the multi-threaded chat room can be displayed as "999+ messages". As other examples, if the number of unread messages of the user in the multi-threaded chat room is 5, the button for entering the multi-threaded chat room can be displayed as "5 messages". Unlike this, if the number of unread messages of the user in the multi-threaded chat room reaches 10 or more and less than 50, the interface for connecting to the multi-threaded chat room can be displayed as "10+ messages". Unlike this, if the number of unread messages of the user in the multi-threaded chat room reaches 50 or more and less than 100, the interface for connecting to the multi-threaded chat room can be displayed as "50+ messages". Unlike this, if the number of unread messages of the user in the multi-threaded chat room reaches 100 or more and less than 1000, the interface for connecting to the multi-threaded chat room can be displayed as "100+ messages" or "200+ messages", or the like according to the number of unread messages. Unlike this, if the number of unread messages of the user in the multi-threaded chat room reaches 1000 or more, the interface for connecting to the multi-threaded chat room can be displayed as "999+ messages". The method of displaying the information related to the multi-threaded chat room described above is an example and is not limited thereto.

[0130] In an embodiment, the interface 540, 542 for returning to the chat room can be provided to the favorite thread directory and the all thread directory. As the user selects the interface 540, 542 for returning to the chat room by a touch input or the like, the user can return to the chat room before entering the directory of the multi-threaded chat room. Through this structure, the movement between the chat room and the directory of the multi-threaded chat room becomes smooth, and the management of the multi-threaded chat room and the access to the multi-threaded chat room can be effectively performed.

[0131] In an embodiment, in the case of connecting from the directory of the chat room to the directory of the multi-thread chat room, if the favorite thread directory 522 is empty, the entire thread directory 532 can be preferentially displayed. In contrast, if one or more multi-thread chat rooms designated as favorites by the user exist in the favorite thread directory 522, the favorite thread directory 522 can be preferentially displayed.

[0132] In an embodiment, in the directory of the multi-thread chat room, the multi-thread chat rooms can be sequentially arranged from the most recent message sent in the multi-thread chat room. If a message is sent in the multi-thread chat room, the multi-thread chat room can be arranged at the uppermost end. As the multi-thread chat room is arranged at the uppermost end, the remaining multi-thread chat rooms can be sequentially arranged to the lower end by stages. Additionally or alternatively, in the directory of the multi-thread chat room, the multi-thread chat rooms can be arranged and displayed on the input / output interface 318 by a popularity ranking or a recommendation ranking determined by an artificial intelligence-based learning model electrically connected to the processor 314, 334.

[0133] Figure 6 A diagram to illustrate an example of moving to the directory of the multi-thread chat room generated in association with the chat room through the directory of the chat room according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] The first screen 610 illustrates an example of the directory of the chat room including the interface 612 connecting from the directory of the chat room 614 to the directory of the multi-thread chat room 622. The second screen 620 illustrates an example of the directory of the multi-thread chat room 622 connected from the directory of the chat room 614. The directory of the multi-thread chat room 622 connected from the directory of the chat room 614 can be the directory of the multi-thread chat room generated in association with a specific chat room.

[0135] In an embodiment, the chat rooms in which the user participates can be arranged in the directory of the chat room 614. Also, the interface 612 connecting to the directory of the multi-thread chat room 622 generated in association with each chat room can be provided to the directory of the chat room 614. For example, as the user selects the interface 612 of "New thread messages" arranged at the lower end of the chat room name by touch input or the like, the directory of the multi-thread chat room 622 generated in association with the chat room can be connected. In this case, the directory of the multi-thread chat room 622 connected from the directory of the chat room 614 can be the favorite thread directory or the directory of the entire chat room. Accordingly, although the favorite thread directory is illustrated in the second screen 620, it is not excluded that the entire thread directory is connected through the directory of the chat room. Through this structure, the user can enter the directory of the multi-thread chat room 622 generated in association with the chat room from the directory of the chat room 614 without a plurality of steps. In this way, the user can effectively manage the directory of the multi-thread chat room, and the accessibility to the multi-thread chat room can be improved.

[0136] In an embodiment, in the directory 614 of the chat room, the relevant information 616 of the multi-threaded chat room generated in relation to the chat room can be displayed on the display. Among them, the relevant information 616 of the multi-threaded chat room can include information related to the number of messages unread by the user included in the message of the multi-threaded chat room. Additionally or alternatively, the relevant information 616 of the multi-threaded chat room can be at least one of the contents of the root message, the time of sending the root message, information related to the user who sent the root message. In other examples, the relevant information 616 of the multi-threaded chat room can include information related to the number of multi-threaded chat rooms within the chat room or information related to the number of multi-threaded chat rooms including messages unread by the user within the chat room.

[0137] In an embodiment, in the directory 622 of the multi-threaded chat room, the multi-threaded chat rooms can be sequentially arranged from the message sent in the multi-threaded chat room being the latest. If a message is sent in the multi-threaded chat room, the multi-threaded chat room thereof can be configured at the uppermost end. With the multi-threaded chat room thereof being configured at the uppermost end, the remaining multi-threaded chat rooms can be configured one by one to the lower end in stages. Additionally or alternatively, in the directory 622 of the multi-threaded chat room, the multi-threaded chat rooms are aligned and displayed on the input / output interface 318 by the popularity ranking or the recommendation ranking determined by the artificial intelligence-based learning model electrically connected to the processor 314, 334.

[0138] Figure 7 FIG. showing an example of the directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms added through the directory of the chat room to the favorites according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0139] The first screen 710 shows an example of the directory 712 of the chat room providing an interface 714 connected to the directory 722 of all multi-threaded chat rooms added to the favorites from the directory 712 of the chat room. The second screen 720 shows an example of the directory 722 of all multi-threaded chat rooms added to the favorites connected from the directory 712 of the chat room.

[0140] In an embodiment, the chat rooms in which the user participates can be arranged in the directory 712 of chat rooms. Also, the interface 714 to the directory 722 of all multi-threaded chat rooms added to the favorites can be provided to the directory 712 of chat rooms. As the user selects the interface 714 of "Open Chat Threads" provided in the directory 712 of chat rooms by touch input or the like, the directory 722 of all multi-threaded chat rooms added to the favorites can be connected. In this case, the directory 722 of all multi-threaded chat rooms added to the favorites connected from the directory 712 of chat rooms can arrange all multi-threaded chat rooms specified as favorites by the user within the instant messenger application regardless of whether or not the multi-threaded chat rooms are associated with a particular chat room. For example, the multi-threaded chat rooms specified as favorites by the user among the multi-threaded chat rooms generated based on chat room A and the multi-threaded chat rooms generated based on chat room B can be arranged in the directory 722 of all multi-threaded chat rooms added to the favorites.

[0141] Additionally or alternatively, although not shown, an interface to the directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms in which the user participates can be provided to the directory 712 of chat rooms. As the user selects the interface to the directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms provided to the directory 712 of chat rooms by touch input or the like, the directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms in which the user participates can be connected. In this case, the directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms connected from the directory 712 of chat rooms can arrange all multi-threaded chat rooms in which the user participates within the instant messenger application regardless of whether or not the multi-threaded chat rooms are associated with a particular chat room.

[0142] In an embodiment, the interface 714 can include the related information 716 of the multi-threaded chat room. The related information 716 of the multi-threaded chat room can be information related to the number of messages unread by the user included in the messages of the multi-threaded chat room. Additionally or alternatively, the related information 716 of the multi-threaded chat room can be the content of the message most recently transmitted in the multi-threaded chat room. In other embodiments, the related information 716 of the multi-threaded chat room can include information related to the number of multi-threaded chat rooms or information related to the number of multi-threaded chat rooms in which the messages unread by the user in the chat room in which the user participates are included.

[0143] In an embodiment, as described above, the interface 724 to the multi-threaded chat room can be provided in the directory 722 of all multi-threaded chat rooms added to the favorites.

[0144] With this configuration, the user can enter the directory 722 of all multi-threaded chat rooms added to the favorites from the directory 712 of chat rooms without going through a plurality of steps. In this way, the user can efficiently manage the directory of multi-threaded chat rooms, and the accessibility to the multi-threaded chat rooms can be improved.

[0145] In an embodiment, in the folder-added directory 722 of the multi-threaded chat room, the multi-threaded chat rooms can be sequentially arranged from the most recent message sent in the multi-threaded chat room. If a message is sent in the multi-threaded chat room, the multi-threaded chat room can be arranged at the top. As the multi-threaded chat room is arranged at the top, the remaining multi-threaded chat rooms can be sequentially arranged to the lower end by stages. Additionally or alternatively, in the directory 722 of the multi-threaded chat room, the multi-threaded chat rooms can be arranged and displayed on the input / output interface 318 by a popularity ranking or a recommendation ranking determined by an artificial intelligence-based learning model electrically connected to the processors 314, 334.

[0146] Figure 8 A flowchart of an example of a method 800 of providing a multi-threaded chat room in an instant messaging application according to an embodiment of the present application is shown. In an embodiment, the method 800 can be performed by at least one processor (at least one processor of a user terminal or an information processing system). In the method 800, a processor can receive a user input of a request to generate a separate multi-threaded chat room based on a root message in a chat room from a user participating in the chat room (step S810). In response to receiving the user input, the processor can generate the multi-threaded chat room (step S820). Thereafter, the processor can display a directory of the multi-threaded chat room (step S830).

[0147] In an embodiment, the directory of the multi-threaded chat room can be separately provided from a chat room directory including the chat room.

[0148] In an embodiment, the directory of the multi-threaded chat room can include a folder thread directory that is a directory of the multi-threaded chat room designated as a folder by a user. Also, the directory of the multi-threaded chat room can include a directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms that is a directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms that a user can inquire. In this case, the processor can display the folder thread directory and the directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms in a selectable manner.

[0149] In an embodiment, the processor can receive an addition request to add the multi-threaded chat room to the folder thread directory. In this case, the multi-threaded chat room can provide a first interface capable of adding the multi-threaded chat room to the folder thread directory.

[0150] In an embodiment, in response to receiving the user input of a request to generate the multi-threaded chat room, the processor can add the multi-threaded chat room to the folder thread directory of the user.

[0151] In an embodiment, the chat room can provide a second interface connected to a directory of the multi-threaded chat room. In this case, if the favorite thread directory is empty, the processor can preferentially display the entire thread directory. Additionally or alternatively, if one or more multi-threaded chat rooms designated as favorites by the user exist in the favorite thread directory, the processor can preferentially display the favorite thread directory.

[0152] In an embodiment, the processor can display information related to the multi-threaded chat room in the chat room. In this case, the information related to the multi-threaded chat room can include at least one of information related to the number of messages of the multi-threaded chat room or information related to the number of messages unread by the user among messages in the multi-threaded chat room.

[0153] In an embodiment, the processor can provide the multi-threaded chat room to a plurality of users in the chat room including the user. In this case, the multi-threaded chat room can provide a root message in the chat room and information related to a user who transmits the root message in the chat room.

[0154] In an embodiment, the processor can display a chat room directory. In this case, the chat room directory can provide a third interface connected to a directory of the multi-threaded chat room.

[0155] In an embodiment, the multi-threaded chat room can provide a fourth interface connected to a root message in the chat room.

[0156] In an embodiment, the processor can display the multi-threaded chat room in order from a message transmitted in the multi-threaded chat room being the newest.

[0157] In an embodiment, the processor can determine whether a critical time elapses from a first point of time at which the root message in the chat room is received. Also, if it is determined that the critical time elapses from the first point of time at which the root message in the chat room is received, the processor can close the multi-threaded chat room.

[0158] In an embodiment, the processor can receive a deletion request for the root message in the chat room. Also, the processor can delete the multi-threaded chat room from a directory of the multi-threaded chat room based on the received deletion request.

[0159] In an embodiment, the processor can determine whether a critical time elapses from a second point of time at which a user input requesting generation of the multi-threaded chat room is received. Also, if it is determined that the critical time elapses from the second point of time at which the user input requesting generation of the multi-threaded chat room is received, the processor can close the multi-threaded chat room.

[0160] In an embodiment, the processor can determine whether a critical time elapses from a third time point at which the root message in the chat room is received. Also, if it is determined that the critical time elapses from the third time point at which the root message in the chat room is received, the processor can display a request rejection screen for the user input in response to the generation of the multi-threaded chat room user input in response to the reception request.

[0161] Figure 8 The flowchart and the description thereof shown in FIG. 6 are merely one example, and can be implemented differently in other embodiments. For example, the order of some steps can be changed, some steps can be omitted, other structures can be added, and some steps described as being performed sequentially can be performed simultaneously.

[0162] To be executable on a computer, the method can be provided by a computer program stored in a computer-readable recording medium. The medium can also be a medium that stores a computer executable program temporarily for execution or download, and can be a plurality of recording units or storage units combined by one or more hardware, and is not limited to a medium directly connected to any computer system, but can be distributed on a network. As an example, the medium can include a magnetic medium such as a hard disk, a floppy disk, and a magnetic tape, an optical recording medium such as a CD-ROM and a DVD, a magneto optical medium such as a floppy disk (floptical disk), and a structure storing program instructions such as a ROM, a RAM, and a flash memory. Also, as another example, the medium can be a recording medium or a storage medium managed by an application program store that sells an application program or a website or a server that provides and sells a plurality of other software.

[0163] The method, operation, or technique of the present application can be implemented by various units. For example, the technique can also be implemented by hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. In relation to the disclosure of the present application, those skilled in the art will understand that the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described can be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the various exemplary structural elements, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps are simply described above on the basis of functions. Whether the functions are implemented by hardware or software depends on the design requirements of a specific application and the overall system. Those skilled in the art can also implement the described functions in various ways for each specific application, but such implementation should not be interpreted as departing from the scope of the present application.

[0164] In a hardware implementation, the processing units for performing the techniques can be implemented within one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), processors, controllers, micro-controllers, microprocessors, other electronic units designed to perform the functions described herein, a computer or a combination thereof.

[0165] Accordingly, the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the disclosure can be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor can be a microprocessor, but, in the alternative, the processor can be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a digital signal processor core, or any other

[0166] In a software implementation, the techniques can be implemented with instructions understood by a processing unit, such as a computer, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or any combination thereof. The instructions can be executed by one or more processing units and can cause the processing unit(s) to perform the functions described herein. The instructions can be stored in a computer readable medium, which can include any available memory or storage, such as volatile, non-volatile, removable, non-removable media implemented in a method or technology for storage and / or retrieval of information. The computer readable medium can be computer readable storage medium or computer readable signal medium.

[0167] Where the technology is implemented in software, the techniques can be stored or transmitted using one or more computer readable media such as computer readable storage media or communication media in one or more examples. Computer readable storage media include any available media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer readable media can comprise random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), compact disk (CD-ROM) or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer. Also, any connection is properly termed a computer readable medium. For example, if the software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or a wireless

[0168] For example, if the software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or a wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of medium. Disk and disc, as used herein, include CD, laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and Blu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer readable media.

[0169] The software module can exist in a machine-readable medium such as random access memory (RAM), flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. The software module can be present in a processing device such as a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller, or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) that controls the processing device. The processing device and the software module can reside in the same device or in different devices.

[0170] In the above-described embodiments, although the implementation of the presently disclosed subject matter can be applied by one or more standalone computer systems, the present application is not limited thereto and can be implemented in any computing environment such as a networked or distributed computing environment. Also, the implementation of the presently disclosed subject matter can be implemented by multiple processing chips or devices, and the storage can be subjected to similar effects by multiple devices. Such devices can include personal computers, network servers, and portable devices.

[0171] In the present specification, although the present application is explained in relation to some embodiments, a person skilled in the art can make various modifications and changes without departing from the scope of the present application. And, such modifications and changes also belong to the scope of the claims attached to the present specification.

Claims

1. A method for providing a multi-threaded chat room, comprising providing a method for providing a multi-threaded chat room within an instant messaging application executed by at least one processor, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Receive requests from users participating in the chat room and generate user input for a separate multi-threaded chat room, distinct from the main chat room, based on the root message within the chat room; In response to receiving the user input, the multi-threaded chat room is generated; as well as Display the directory of the multi-threaded chat room.

2. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: The multi-threaded chat room is provided to multiple users within the chat room, including the user mentioned above. The multi-threaded chat room provides the root message within the chat room and information related to the user who sent the root message within the chat room.

3. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, The directory of the multi-threaded chat room is provided separately in a manner different from the chat room directory that includes the chat room.

4. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, The directory of the multi-threaded chat room includes a collection thread directory, which serves as the directory of the multi-threaded chat room designated as a collection by the user.

5. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, The directory of the multi-threaded chat room includes a favorites directory, which is the directory of multi-threaded chat rooms designated as favorites by the user, and a total directory, which is the directory of all multi-threaded chat rooms that the user can query. The steps for displaying the directory of the multi-threaded chat room include the following steps: displaying the favorite thread directory and the all thread directory in a selectable manner.

6. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: Receive an add request to add the multi-threaded chat room to the favorites thread directory. The multi-threaded chat room provides a first interface that allows users to add the multi-threaded chat room to the favorites thread directory.

7. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: In response to receiving a request to generate user input for the multi-threaded chat room, the multi-threaded chat room is added to the user's favorite threads directory.

8. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chat room provides a second interface that connects to a directory of the multi-threaded chat room.

9. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 5, characterized in that, The steps to display the favorites thread directory and the all thread directory in a selectable manner include the following steps: If the bookmark thread directory is empty, then all thread directories will be displayed first.

10. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 5, characterized in that, The steps to display the favorites thread directory and the all thread directory in a selectable manner include the following steps: If the Favorites thread directory contains more than one multi-threaded chat room that the user has designated as a favorite, then the Favorites thread directory will be displayed first.

11. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: The chat room displays information related to the multi-threaded chat room. Information related to the multi-threaded chat room includes at least one of information related to the number of messages in the multi-threaded chat room and information related to the number of unread messages by the user in the messages in the multi-threaded chat room.

12. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: Display the chat room directory. The chat room's directory provides a third interface that connects to the directory of the multi-threaded chat room.

13. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-threaded chat room provides a fourth interface that connects to the root message within the chat room.

14. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steps for displaying the directory of the multi-threaded chat room include the following steps: The multi-threaded chat rooms are displayed sequentially, starting with the latest message sent from each chat room.

15. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: Determine whether a critical time has elapsed since the first time point from which the root message in the chat room was received; and If it is determined that the critical time has elapsed since the first time point when the root message in the chat room was received, then the multi-threaded chat room is closed.

16. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: Receive a deletion request for the root message in the chat room; and Based on the received deletion request, the multi-threaded chat room is deleted from the directory of the multi-threaded chat room.

17. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: Determine whether a critical time has elapsed since the second time point from the moment the user input was generated upon receiving the request to create the multi-threaded chat room; and If it is determined that the critical time has elapsed since the second time point from the user input that generated the multi-threaded chat room upon receiving the request, then the multi-threaded chat room is closed.

18. The method for providing a multi-threaded chat room according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steps for generating the multi-threaded chat room include the following: Determine whether a critical time has elapsed since the third time point from which the root message in the chat room was received; and If it is determined that the critical time has elapsed since the third time point from which the root message in the chat room was received, then in response to receiving the user input, a request rejection screen for the user input is displayed.

19. 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 18 in a computer.

20. A user terminal, characterized in that, include: monitor; Memory; as well as At least one processor is connected to the memory and configured to run at least one computer-readable program contained in the memory. The at least one program performs the following steps: Receive requests from users participating in the chat room and generate user input for a separate multi-threaded chat room, distinct from the main chat room, based on the root message within the chat room; In response to receiving the user input, the multi-threaded chat room is generated; as well as Display the directory of the multi-threaded chat room.

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