Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device, information processing method and program for making it easier for a viewing user to select a gift not possessed by a distributing user when the viewing user grants a gift to the distributing user.MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM: An information processing apparatus has: a distribution unit that distributes content of a distributing user to terminals of viewing users; and a display control unit that displays a list including one or more gifts to terminals of the viewing users. The display control unit displays the gifts that can be granted to the distributing user on the list in a state of enabling the viewing users to select the gifts. When a first operation for selecting the first gift to be granted to the distributing user is received from a first viewing user, the display control unit updates and displays information in a second list displayed to a second viewing user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 16

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] It is already known that a broadcasting user's video content is broadcasted, and when a viewing user views the broadcasted video content, the viewing user gives (gives) an object that can be displayed within the video content to the broadcasting user as a gift (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] In the system described in Patent Document 1, video content displaying an avatar of a broadcasting user is distributed as video content, and a viewing user can give the broadcasting user an object such as clothing that can be worn on the avatar as a gift. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-27576 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When gifts are given multiple times to a distributor of the same video content, the viewing user needs to consider the gifts given in the past when selecting the type of gift to give each time, in order to avoid giving duplicate gifts. Therefore, it is required to support the viewing user in selecting a gift, and more specifically, to provide the viewing user with information that is effective in smoothly selecting a gift.

[0006] Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that, when a viewing user gives a gift to a broadcasting user, makes it easier for the viewing user to select a gift that the broadcasting user does not possess. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention has a distribution unit that distributes content of a broadcasting user to a terminal of a viewing user, and a display control unit that displays a list including one or more gifts on the terminal of the viewing user, wherein the display control unit displays gifts that can be given to the broadcasting user in a list selectable by the viewing user, and when a first operation for selecting a first gift to be given to the broadcasting user is received from the first viewing user, the display control unit updates and displays the information in the second list displayed to the second viewing user. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, when a viewing user gives a gift to a broadcaster user, it becomes possible for the viewing user to easily select a gift that the broadcaster user does not possess. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a conceptual diagram of a video distribution system including an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of video content. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of video content, showing an example of a screen on which a list of gifts is displayed. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen for video content, and is a diagram showing a display screen for an avatar equipped with a gift. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of video content, showing an example of the screen on which an updated list is displayed. [Figure 6]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of video content, and is a diagram showing another example of a screen on which an updated list is displayed. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a user terminal. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a server. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing user information. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing broadcast user information. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing avatar information. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing viewing user information. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing attachment object information. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of functions of a broadcast user's user terminal. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of functions of a user terminal of a viewing user. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of functions of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an information processing flow according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of a list update process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] The information processing device, information processing method, and program of the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings, taking specific embodiments as examples. Note that, for convenience of explanation, the following description may be given from the perspective of a GUI (Graphic User Interface). However, since the basic data processing technologies (communication / transmission technology, data acquisition technology, data recording technology, data processing / analysis technology, image processing technology, visualization technology, etc.) required to realize the contents are well-known technologies, the description thereof will be omitted.

[0011] In this specification, a "user" is a person who uses the functions of the information processing device of the present invention, and more specifically, a user can enjoy the benefits (services) provided by the functions of the information processing device of the present invention by operating a specific device. The specific device may be a device owned by the user (e.g., a user terminal 12 described later), or a device installed in a store or the like, which is not owned by the user but may be a terminal or computer that can be used by entering a PIN number, a password, or making a deposit when visiting the store or the like.

[0012] <Summary of the Invention> The present invention is an information processing technology for the distribution and display of video content and the associated details. An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as this embodiment) is composed of a server 10, and as shown in FIG. 1, configures a video distribution system S together with a user terminal 12. A user can distribute video content to other users through the video distribution system S, and the other users can view the distributed video on the user terminal 12. Note that, for convenience of illustration, the number of user terminals 12 is three in FIG. 1, but in reality, the number of user terminals 12 corresponds to the number of users who use the functions of the information processing device.

[0013] Hereinafter, a user who distributes video content will be referred to as a "distributing user", a user who views the distributed video content will be referred to as a "viewing user", and when there is no need to distinguish between them, they will simply be referred to as "users". Incidentally, when a distributing user is not distributing video content himself, he can also be a viewing user who views videos distributed by other distributing users. Furthermore, during the period in which the video content is distributed, the distributing user can view (check) that video content on his / her own user terminal 12.

[0014] A viewing user can also register any distribution user as a favorite. A favorite registration is performed by the viewing user specifying the distribution user to be registered and making a registration request to that distribution user. In addition, a predetermined relationship (friend relationship) may be established between viewing users or between a viewing user and a distribution user when a predetermined condition is met. A friend relationship is established when one user accepts a request from the other user. Users who can make a request are not particularly limited, but may be limited to the registrants of the distribution user of the video content the viewing user is viewing, i.e., viewing users who have registered that distribution user as a favorite.

[0015] Video content (corresponding to the content of the present invention) is content (more specifically, electronic data) including video data and audio data, and is the video content of the broadcasting user. Here, the video content of the broadcasting user is, for example, content created based on the broadcasting user's broadcasting operation. The broadcasting operation is a series of operations required for creating and distributing video content, such as starting a content distribution program installed in the broadcasting user's user terminal 12. The broadcasting operation includes an operation in which the broadcasting user photographs himself / herself with a camera mounted on the user terminal 12, and an operation in which the broadcasting user collects his / her own vocalizations or singing, etc., with a microphone mounted on the user terminal 12. The photographing operation, the sound collection operation, etc. may be performed by another person (for example, a collaborator of the broadcasting user, etc.) at the request of the broadcasting user.

[0016] The server 10 acquires video content from the user terminal 12 of the delivery user via the communication network N, identifies a viewing user who is to be the content delivery destination, and delivers the video content to the identified viewing user. The viewing user identified as the content delivery destination starts a content viewing program installed in his / her user terminal 12, and specifies the delivery user who is the content delivery source. The server 10 transmits the video content acquired from the delivery user specified by each viewing user to the user terminal 12 of each viewing user.

[0017] In this embodiment, the server 10 instantly distributes video content acquired from a distribution user to a viewing user. This allows the viewing user to view the distributed video content substantially in real time. In other words, the video content distribution method in this embodiment is a live distribution method. The live distribution may be realized using existing live distribution technologies such as HTTP Live Streaming, Common Media Application Format, Web Real-Time Communications, Real-Time Messasing Protocol, and MPEG DASH.

[0018] It should be noted that live streaming includes a streaming method in which, when video content (more specifically, elemental images at each point in time in the video content) is transmitted from the streaming user, the viewing user can view the video content with a certain delay. In terms of delay, at least a delay large enough to allow communication between the streaming user and the viewing user is acceptable. On the other hand, live streaming is distinguished from on-demand streaming in which the video content is temporarily stored in the server 10 and then the video content is distributed from the server 10 to the viewing user at any time in response to a request from the viewing user. However, the present invention is also applicable to on-demand video content distribution.

[0019] In this embodiment, the video content is video content that displays the avatar (Avatar A) of the distribution user, that is, an animated video of Avatar A, as shown in Fig. 2. In the video content, Avatar A is the main display object, and audio, music, still images, etc. may be added to the video content together with Avatar A. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and audio, music, still images, etc. may be the main distribution content, and Avatar A may be displayed together with these contents as a character that acts as a commentator or facilitator of the content.

[0020] Avatar A is a virtual object that resembles, for example, a person or a character, and is created by a broadcasting user. The procedure for creating an avatar is publicly known, so a detailed explanation will be omitted, but for example, for each of the multiple body parts (parts) that make up the avatar, one part material is selected for each part from a part material candidate group that includes one or more part materials, and the avatar can be created by combining the part materials for each part. Note that these part materials (for example, hairstyle, skin, etc.) may be obtained by paying a fee, and may be the subject of a gift, as described later, in the same way as wearable objects.

[0021] The avatar A according to the present embodiment is, for example, a humanoid avatar, and includes at least the head, face, neck, shoulders, torso, arms, hands, waist, legs, and feet. In addition, in the video content, the avatar A moves based on the distribution operation of the distribution user, specifically, moves in conjunction with the filmed body movements of the distribution user, shows facial expressions according to the facial expressions of the distribution user, and emits sounds according to the vocalizations or singing of the distribution user.

[0022] 2 to 6, each part of avatar A can be fitted with a wearable object such as clothing and accessories, and the video content can display the avatar with the wearable object attached. In other words, the distributor user can use the wearable object (specifically, wear it on the avatar), and in that case, the video content is distributed in which the wearable object is superimposed on avatar A.

[0023] The parts of Avatar A that can be worn (hereinafter, referred to as "wearing parts") are predetermined, and the wearing object includes part information that is information indicating the wearing part. When the wearing object is used, a video content is created of Avatar A in a state in which the wearing object is worn on the wearing part indicated by the part information. In the video content, the wearing object follows the movement (displacement) of each part of Avatar A, and if the wearing object is clothing, it changes shape or displaces in accordance with the movement of the wearing part.

[0024] In addition, it is possible to replace the attachment object by attaching another attachment object to the same part (attachment part) of avatar A where an attachment object is already attached, that is, to change the clothes. Changing the clothes may be performed before the video content is distributed or may be performed during the video content distribution.

[0025] The wearable object can be obtained by paying a fee or the like. For example, a user can purchase a wearable object by following a prescribed procedure and possess the purchased wearable object. Here, possession means that the wearable object is possessed in a state in which it can be used in video content, and more specifically, data of the wearable object is associated with the ID or the like of the user who possesses it and is stored in a state in which it can be used by that user.

[0026] The procedure for purchasing a wearable object can be carried out by starting a program for distributing or viewing video content and using the functions of that program. The procedure for purchasing a wearable object will be explained in the section "Gift Granting" below. The settlement process (a series of information processes related to the payment of the price) associated with the purchase of a wearable object is the same as normal billing processing and is well known, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0027] Furthermore, in this embodiment, multiple attachment objects are prepared, and the status (status regarding use / possession) of each attachment object is managed for each user. The status of each attachment object is represented, for example, by one of "wearing", "possessing", and "not possessing". Here, "wearing" is a state in which the attachment object is possessed and worn on the corresponding attachment part of avatar A, "possessing" is a state in which the attachment object is simply possessed without being worn, and "not possessing" is a state in which the attachment object has not yet been obtained (possessed).

[0028] Furthermore, wearable objects can be given (given) as gifts, and a viewing user can give a wearable object that he or she has purchased or that he or she currently owns as a gift to a distributing user. The distributing user can wear the wearable object that he or she received as a gift from the viewing user on avatar A, and distribute video content of avatar A wearing the wearable object. In the following description, a gift refers to a wearable object, and wearing a wearable object given as a gift will be expressed as "wearing a gift."

[0029] The attached gift may be attached to avatar A for a preset time (set time). In other words, the display time of avatar A attached with the gift given by the viewing user in the video content may be limited to a certain time, and the gift may disappear from the video content after the set time has elapsed.

[0030] <Gift Granting> Next, the procedure by which a viewing user gives (gives) a gift to a broadcasting user will be described. For example, a viewing user can purchase a gift while viewing video content on the user terminal 12. To be more specific, as shown in Fig. 2, a gift button Bt is provided on the screen on which the video content is displayed, and when the viewing user touches the gift button Bt, a list LS1 is displayed on the screen on which the video content is displayed, as shown in Fig. 3. Note that in this embodiment, the list LS1 is displayed in a state where it is superimposed on the avatar A, but this is not limiting.

[0031] In the list LS1, part of the information (gift information) of gifts that can be purchased by the viewing user at that time, i.e., gifts that can be given by the viewing user to the broadcasting user, is posted for each gift. The gift information includes the appearance, name, purchase price, and additional information of the gift, and the additional information may include information about the gift seller (e.g., brand information, etc.), specifications (e.g., color, pattern, material, or design concept such as summer or winter clothing), wearing site, and number of sales (sales) to date. In this embodiment, the appearance, name, and purchase price of the gift are displayed on the list LS1, and the additional information of the gift is displayed when the viewing user performs an operation to select gift information (e.g., an operation to touch the picture of the corresponding gift in FIG. 3).

[0032] Note that list LS1 may be set for each broadcast user, and for example, gifts that the broadcast user does not possess at that time may be listed in list LS1. Furthermore, when preference information relating to the broadcast user's preferences is received from the broadcast user, the gift information listed in list LS1 may be updated, and gifts corresponding to the preference information, i.e., gifts designated by the broadcast user or automatically selected based on the broadcast user's profile, may be displayed preferentially. For example, the gift desired by the broadcast user may be displayed larger or higher on the list, so that the gift can be displayed in a state that is identifiable by the viewing user and stands out as a gift that corresponds to the broadcast user's preference information.

[0033] Each piece of gift information in list LS1 is displayed selectably, and the viewing user can purchase the gift by selecting one or more pieces of gift information and performing an operation for deciding to purchase (for example, an operation such as pressing a purchase button (not shown) displayed together with the accompanying information after the gift selection). After that, the viewing user decides whether or not to give the purchased gift to the distribution user of the video content currently being viewed, and inputs the result of the decision.

[0034] Then, when the viewing user decides to give the purchased gift and performs a giving operation to give the gift to the broadcasting user (including the case of giving the purchased gift as is), information indicating the operation content is sent from the viewing user's user terminal 12 to the server 10. The server 10 accepts the giving operation of the viewing user by receiving the above information, and sets the gift (e.g., a straw hat) given by the viewing user to a state usable by the broadcasting user based on the accepted giving operation. This allows the broadcasting user to equip avatar A with the gift given by the viewing user, and as a result, avatar A wearing the above gift is displayed in the video content as shown in FIG. 4.

[0035] When a gift is given to the broadcasting user, the given gift may be equipped to avatar A and displayed in the video content. Also, each time a gift is given, the broadcasting user may be notified of the gift being given and may confirm whether or not to wear the gift. That is, the broadcasting user may be inquired about whether or not the gift given by the viewing user will be used (equipped), and if the broadcasting user answers that the gift will be used, the gift may be equipped to avatar A. Alternatively, the display of the gift may be put on hold until the number of gifts given reaches a predetermined number, and when a predetermined number of gifts have been given, the predetermined number of gifts may be collectively equipped to avatar A and displayed in the video content.

[0036] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the viewing user can purchase multiple gifts in a lump sum. When multiple gifts purchased in a lump sum can be worn on different attachment sites, the multiple gifts purchased in a lump sum are given (given) to the broadcasting user in a lump sum, and the broadcasting user can wear the multiple gifts he or she received on avatar A at the same time. That is, the multiple gifts purchased in a lump sum can be displayed in the video content in a lump sum. Furthermore, when multiple gifts that can be worn on the same attachment site are purchased in a lump sum and given to the broadcasting user, each of the multiple gifts may be displayed for a fixed time in the video content. That is, after one gift of the multiple gifts is displayed for a fixed time, the next gift may be displayed for a fixed time.

[0037] In this embodiment, when a viewing user gives a new gift to a broadcast user to which a gift has already been given, the list LS1 is updated and displayed, and gifts appropriate for both the viewing user and the broadcast user, i.e., recommended gifts, are introduced to the viewing user. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, an updated list LS2 is displayed in which recommended gifts that can be given to the broadcast user (strictly speaking, gifts that the broadcast user does not own) are displayed in an identifiable state. Note that, hereinafter, a gift previously given to the broadcast user is referred to as a "first gift", a viewing user who selected the first gift and gave it to the broadcast user is referred to as a "first viewing user", and a viewing user other than the first viewing user is referred to as a "second viewing user". Also, a list in which recommended gifts are displayed in an identifiable state after the first gift is given to the broadcast user and displayed to the first viewing user is referred to as a "first list", and a list in which recommended gifts are displayed in an identifiable state after the first gift is given to the broadcast user and displayed to the second viewing user is referred to as a "second list".

[0038] The second viewing user is a user other than the first viewing user, and includes other users who are viewing the same video content as the video content being viewed by the first viewing user. The second viewing user may be a user who has registered the first viewing user as a favorite, or a user who is viewing the content of the broadcasting user and is a friend of the first viewing user. It is also possible that the broadcasting user views the video content that he or she broadcasts and gives the first gift or other gifts to the video content. Therefore, the broadcasting user may also be included in the first viewing user and / or the second viewing user.

[0039] The first list and the second list may be lists that identifiably display gifts that were recommended at the time the first gift was selected by the first viewing user, regardless of whether the first gift was actually granted to the broadcast user. In addition, if multiple gifts have already been granted to the broadcast user, the most recently granted gift among those multiple gifts may be set as the first gift.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 4, a gift button Bt is also provided on the screen displaying the video content including avatar A wearing a first gift (e.g., a straw hat), and when the second viewing user touches the gift button Bt, an update list LS2 is displayed as a second list on the screen displaying the video content, as shown in FIG. 5.

[0041] The update list LS2 includes gifts that can be given by the second viewing user to the broadcasting user, and information on a first gift that has already been given to the broadcasting user is displayed in a manner that enables it to be distinguished from information on gifts that the broadcasting user does not yet possess. Specifically, the information on the first gift (strictly speaking, the image of the first gift) is displayed in a grayed-out manner so that the second viewing user can distinguish that the first gift has already been given to the broadcasting user. Note that the first gift may be deleted so that it is not displayed in the update list LS2.

[0042] Furthermore, the display manner of the first gift included in the update list LS2 may be changed depending on whether avatar A is wearing the first gift or not. Specifically, when avatar A is wearing the first gift, the first gift is displayed in the update list LS2 in a grayed-out state or the like and is displayed as "Wearing" or the like (not shown), so that the second viewing user can discern that the first gift is worn by avatar A. On the other hand, when avatar A is not wearing the first gift, the first gift is displayed in the update list LS2 in a grayed-out state or the like and is displayed as "In possession" or the like (not shown), so that the second viewing user can discern that the first gift is not worn by avatar A but is already in the possession of the distributor user.

[0043] Furthermore, when avatar A is fitted with a first gift, among the gifts included in update list LS2, information on gifts corresponding to wearing objects that were worn on the same wearing part as the first gift by avatar A before the first gift was worn, but cannot be worn at the same time as the first gift, i.e., wearing objects (gifts) that have been changed into clothes by wearing the first gift, is updated. For example, if a headband (not shown) that was previously worn on the head is changed and removed in order to wear the first gift, a straw hat, in update list LS2, the gift corresponding to that headband is grayed out or the like and is displayed as "worn" or "in possession" or the like (not shown), so that the second viewing user can identify that the headband is not currently worn by avatar A but has been worn by avatar A up until now, i.e., that the broadcasting user already possesses it.

[0044] Also, when the first gift is worn by avatar A, a first related gift associated with the first gift may be added to list LS1 or update list LS2. The first related gift is a gift that has some relationship with the first gift, and specifically includes a gift that is offered by the same seller (brand) as the first gift, or a gift that has the same or similar specifications as the first gift (e.g., classification based on a design concept such as color, pattern, material, or summer clothing or winter clothing). For example, if the first gift is a straw hat, earrings of the same brand, or a summer dress or basket bag of a different brand that harmonizes with the straw hat when combined with it, are first related gifts of the straw hat.

[0045] The correspondence between the first gift and the first related gift may be stored in advance as data in the form of a LUT (Look Up Table). In this case, the server 10 may refer to this LUT to identify the first related gift from the first gift. Also, after the first gift is worn on the avatar A, the first related gift may be automatically selected each time in consideration of the total coordination. Also, the number of first related gifts identified based on the first gift, that is, the number of first related gifts associated with the first gift, may be two or more. In this case, the two or more first related gifts may include gifts worn on the same wearing part of the avatar A, or may include gifts worn on different wearing parts.

[0046] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 6, an updated list LS3 to which a first related gift (e.g., earrings of the same brand) corresponding to the first gift worn by avatar A has been added is displayed as a second list on a screen on which video content is displayed. At this time, in the updated list LS3, in order to make it easier for the second viewing user to select the first related gift, the first related gift may be displayed in a large size or at a higher position in order to make it stand out as an added gift and to be distinguishable from other gifts. Also, among the first related gifts, gifts that can be worn on a body part different from the body part on which the first gift is worn, i.e., gifts that can be worn simultaneously with the first gift, such as the relationship between a straw hat and earrings, may be preferentially added to the list and displayed.

[0047] Furthermore, when multiple gifts are attached to avatar A, a second related gift associated with a specific gift designated by a second operation in which the second viewing user designates an arbitrary gift from among the multiple gifts may be added to list LS1 or update list LS2. The specific gift is a gift that corresponds to a portion designated by the second viewing user in the video content, and specifically may be a gift designated by the second viewing user from among the gifts currently attached to avatar A. The gift is designated, for example, by the second viewing user touching on the screen any one of the gifts attached to avatar A appearing in the video content being viewed.

[0048] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, when avatar A is wearing a straw hat and multiple gifts such as clothes on a screen on which video content is displayed, and the second viewing user specifies the straw hat as a specific gift by the second operation, an update list LS3 is displayed in which a second related gift (e.g., earrings of the same brand as the straw hat) corresponding to the specific gift is added. At this time, the update list LS3 displays the second related gift in a distinguishable manner from other gifts. Also, for example, the second related gifts may be added to the list so as to increase the number of second related gifts associated with the specified specific gift, or the first related gifts of gifts that were not specified may not be displayed in the list, and the second related gifts of the specified specific gift may be displayed prominently in the list. The second related gifts are gifts that have some relationship with the specific gift specified by the second viewing user, and the relationship is the same as that between the first gift and the first related gift described above.

[0049] For example, when the viewing user X performs the second operation, an updated list LS3 in which the second related gift is added to the list displayed to the viewing user X is displayed, and the second related gift associated with the specific gift designated by the second operation of the viewing user X is not added to the list displayed to the other viewing users other than the viewing user X. In other words, the lists of the other viewing users are not updated by the second operation of the viewing user X. On the other hand, when the viewing user X performs the second operation, the updated list LS3 in which the second related gift is added may be displayed not only to the viewing user X himself, but also to the list displayed to the users related to the viewing user X, such as users who have registered the viewing user X as a favorite or users who are friends with the viewing user X.

[0050] In addition, when two or more different gifts are selected by the second operations of multiple viewing users, different second related gifts are added as gifts to be displayed in the lists of each viewing user. For example, when the second viewing user and the first viewing user each perform a second operation and the specific gift designated by the second operation is different between the second viewing user and the first viewing user, different second related gifts are added to the second list and the first list.

[0051] In addition, when there is a common second related gift among the second related gifts of the two or more gifts selected by the second viewing user and the first viewing user, the second viewing user and the first viewing user may be recommended to select the common second related gift, for example, by prominently displaying the common second related gift in each list. For example, when the second viewing user selects a red scarf as a specific gift by the second operation and the first viewing user selects a shirt of brand Y as a specific gift by the second operation, red shoes of brand Y may be more highly recommended from among the second related gifts to the second viewing user and the first viewing user.

[0052] <Example of video distribution system configuration> Next, a configuration example of the video distribution system S will be described. In the video distribution system S, a server 10 and a user terminal 12 are communicatively connected to each other via a communication network N. The communication network N is a communication line network consisting of, for example, the Internet or a mobile communication network, and may include a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), an intranet, Ethernet (registered trademark), and the like.

[0053] The user terminal 12 is configured by a personal computer, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, a television receiver capable of inputting information, a wearable terminal, or the like. In addition, a program for an OS (Operating System) and an application program (hereinafter, an app) for using video content are installed in the user terminal 12. This app includes a program for distributing video content and a program for viewing. When using video content, the user starts one of the above two programs that corresponds to the mode of use of the video content desired by the user (specifically, whether to distribute or view the video content).

[0054] 7, the user terminal 12 includes a processor 12a, a memory 12b, and a communication interface 12c. The configuration of these devices is similar to that of the devices (specifically, the processor 10a, the memory 10b, and the communication interface 10c) included in the server 10 described below. The user terminal 12 also includes an input device 12d including a touch panel, a mouse, a keyboard, and the like, and an output device 12e including a display, a speaker, and the like. The input device 12d includes a camera for taking pictures, a microphone for collecting sound, and the like.

[0055] The user terminal 12 is used by a user, who performs various operations through the user terminal 12. To be more specific, a distribution user performs distribution operations and the like through the user terminal 12 in order to distribute video content. Also, a viewing user views video content on the user terminal 12, and performs granting operations (including a purchase operation to purchase a gift) and the like through the user terminal 12 in order to grant a gift to the distribution user.

[0056] The server 10 is an example of a computer, and specifically, is configured by an SNS server or a server computer for cloud services. Server computers for cloud services include server computers for ASP (Application Service Provider), SaaS (Software as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service), or IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service). The server 10 may be a single computer or multiple computers distributed in parallel.

[0057] The server 10 executes various information processes related to the use of video content. Specifically, the server 10 acquires video content created by the broadcasting user by communicating with the user terminal 12 of the broadcasting user, and distributes the acquired video content to the viewing user. In addition, when the viewing user performs a granting operation to grant a gift to the broadcasting user, the server 10 accepts the granting operation, and specifically, communicates with the user terminal 12 of the viewing user to acquire information indicating the content of the granting operation. The server 10 that accepts the granting operation sets the gift granted by the viewing user to a state that can be used by the broadcasting user based on the content of the operation. In addition, when the broadcasting user uses a gift, the server 10 distributes video content of an avatar wearing the used gift.

[0058] Regarding the configuration of the server 10, the server 10 has, as hardware devices, a processor 10a, a memory 10b, a communication interface 10c, and a storage 10d, as shown in FIG.

[0059] The processor 10a may be composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), an MCU (Micro Controller Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a TPU (Tensor Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or the like.

[0060] The memory 10b may be configured with semiconductor memories such as a Read Only Memory (ROM) and a Random Access Memory (RAM).

[0061] The communication interface 10c may be, for example, a network interface card, a communication interface board, etc. The standard of data communication by the communication interface 10c is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include communication by wireless LAN based on Wi-fi (registered trademark), communication by a 3G to 5G or later generation mobile communication system, and communication based on LTE (Long Term Evolution).

[0062] The storage 10d may be configured by a flash memory, a hard disc drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a flexible disc (FD), a magneto-optical disc (MO disc), a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a secure digital card (SD card), a universal serial bus memory (USB memory), etc. The storage 10d may be built into the server 10, may be attached to the server body in an external form, or may be a network attached storage (NAS), etc.

[0063] Furthermore, the storage 10d may be configured by a third computer communicatively connected to the server 10, such as a database server or online storage. In this case, the server 10 and the third computer constituting the storage 10d constitute the information processing device of the present invention.

[0064] Various types of information are stored and accumulated in the storage 10d. Specifically, the storage 10d stores user information shown in Fig. 9. The user information includes a user's identification ID (user ID) and name, flag information (distribution flag) indicating whether or not the user is currently a distribution user, whether or not the user is currently a viewing user (viewing flag), whether or not the user has friends, the user IDs of the friends if the user has friends, and the amount of value held. Here, the value is used when using a paid service such as gift purchase during the distribution or viewing of video content, and specifically refers to electronic money, a dedicated currency for using the service, virtual currency, or the like.

[0065] Furthermore, for the distributor user, distributor user information shown in Fig. 10 is generated and stored in storage 10d. The distributor user information includes the ID of the video content to be distributed (content ID), the user ID of the viewing user who is viewing the video content, the user ID of the viewing user who has registered the video content as a favorite, and the type and number of wearable objects currently possessed. The wearable objects possessed include wearable objects given as gifts, and for the wearable objects given as gifts, the date and time of gifting of the gift and information on the viewing user who gave it are also stored.

[0066] The broadcast user information further includes avatar information shown in Fig. 11. The avatar information includes an avatar identification ID (avatar ID), information on each part that constitutes the avatar body, and information on currently worn worn objects. Worn worn objects include worn objects given as gifts. For worn gifts, the date and time of gifting of the gift and information on the viewing user who gave it are also stored.

[0067] 12 is generated and stored in storage 10d for the viewing user. The viewing user information includes the content ID of the video content currently being viewed, the type and number of gifts possessed for gifting, and the user IDs of broadcast users who have registered the content as favorites.

[0068] The storage 10d also stores the wearing object information shown in Fig. 13. The wearing object information is information about a wearing object that can be purchased by the user at the present time, and specifically indicates an object identification ID, a design (appearance) of the wearing object, a wearing part, a purchase price, attributes, etc. The attributes are, for example, the seller (brand) of the wearing object, or the specifications of the gift (for example, a classification based on a design concept such as color, pattern, material, or summer clothes or winter clothes, etc.). Note that other wearing objects having the above-mentioned relationship may be set in advance for each wearing object.

[0069] In addition, the server 10 has installed therein, as software, a program for an operating system (OS) and various processing programs related to video content. These programs correspond to the "programs" of the present invention. When the processor 10a of the server 10 operates according to the above programs, the server 10 functions as an information processing device of the present invention and executes a series of data processes related to video content, including the distribution of video content. The above programs may be obtained by reading them from a recording medium readable by the server 10, or may be obtained by receiving (downloading) them via a network such as the Internet or an intranet.

[0070] Next, a functional description will be given of the configuration of each of the server 10 and the user terminal 12. In addition, the user terminal 12 will be described separately into functions on the distribution user side and functions on the viewing user side.

[0071] (Functions provided on the distribution user's device) 14, the user terminal 12 of the distributor user has an input unit 21, a content creation unit 22, a content display unit 23, a content transmission unit 24, and an operation data transmission unit 25. These functional units are realized by cooperation between the hardware devices of the user terminal 12 of the distributor user and software installed in that user terminal 12 (specifically, a program for video content distribution included in an app).

[0072] The input unit 21 receives input of information (input information) necessary for creating and distributing video content, and acquires the input information. The input information includes video information of the broadcast user himself obtained by the broadcast user photographing himself, audio information obtained by collecting the voice of the broadcast user, and operation information obtained by the broadcast user operating the user terminal 12. The operation information also includes information regarding a request for distribution of video content (information based on a distribution operation), information regarding the purchase of a wearable object (information based on a purchase operation), information regarding the use of a wearable object including a gift (information based on a wearing operation), information regarding the setting of preferences related to the broadcast user's own tastes (information based on a preference setting operation), and various other information regarding the selection and designation made by the broadcast user through the user terminal 12.

[0073] The content creation unit 22 creates video content based on the input information acquired by the input unit 21. Specifically, the content creation unit 22 creates video content of an avatar that moves in response to the video of the broadcast user and speaks in response to the voice of the broadcast user based on the video information and audio information. In addition, when the broadcast user designates a wearing object that he currently owns and uses the designated wearing object, the content creation unit 22 creates video content of an avatar in which the wearing object is worn in the corresponding wearing part. In addition, when the broadcast user uses a gift given by the viewing user, the content creation unit 22 creates video content of an avatar in which the gift is worn in the corresponding wearing part.

[0074] The content display unit 23 displays the video content created by the content creation unit 22 on a display provided in the user terminal 12 of the distribution user. The distribution user can check the video content to be distributed by looking at the video content displayed on the display.

[0075] The content transmitting unit 24 transmits the video content created by the content creating unit 22 to the server 10.

[0076] The operation data transmission unit 25 converts operation information relating to operations performed by the broadcast user, out of the input information acquired by the input unit 21, into data, and transmits the obtained operation data to the server 10.

[0077] (Functions provided on the viewing user's device) 15, the user terminal 12 of the viewing user has a content output unit 31, an operation input unit 32, and an operation data transmission unit 33. These functional units are realized by cooperation between the hardware devices of the user terminal 12 of the viewing user and software installed in the user terminal 12 (specifically, a program for viewing video content included in an app).

[0078] The content output unit 31 receives video content from the server 10 via the communication network N, and outputs the received video content. As a result, an image of an avatar as the video content is displayed on the display of the user terminal 12 of the viewing user, and audio contained in the content is emitted from the speaker of the user terminal 12 of the viewing user. In addition, on the user terminal 12 of the viewing user, while the content output unit 31 is displaying the video content, a list including selectable gifts that can be given to the distribution user is displayed together with the avatar in the video content. In addition, this list is appropriately updated and displayed based on the above-mentioned predetermined conditions.

[0079] The operation input unit 32 receives input of operations performed by the viewing user through the user terminal 12 while viewing video content, and acquires input operation information. The input operation information includes information on operations for selecting, purchasing, and granting a gift (information based on a granting operation), information on a designation operation for arbitrarily designating a specific gift from among multiple gifts worn by the avatar (information based on a second operation), and various other information on selection and designation performed by the viewing user through the user terminal 12.

[0080] The operation data transmission unit 33 converts the input operation information acquired by the operation input unit 32 into data, and transmits the obtained operation data to the server 10.

[0081] (Functions provided by the server) 16, the server 10 has an operation reception unit 41, a distribution unit 42, a display control unit 43, and a gift control unit 44. These functional units are realized by cooperation between the hardware devices of the server 10 and software (programs) installed in the server 10.

[0082] The operation reception unit 41 receives operations performed by each of the distribution user and the viewing user regarding the use of the video content by communicating with the user terminals 12 of the distribution user and the viewing user. Specifically, it receives operation information data transmitted from the operation data transmission unit 25 and the operation data transmission unit 33, thereby receiving the operations of each user. The operations received by the operation reception unit 41 include various operations regarding the use of the video content, specifically including selection, designation, instruction, request, command, permission or refusal, registration, reservation, and other input operations.

[0083] For example, the operation receiving unit 41 receives from the broadcasting user a broadcasting operation for broadcasting video content, an attachment operation for selecting whether or not to attach a wearable object (including a gift given by a viewing user) that the broadcasting user possesses to his / her avatar, and a preference setting operation for indicating one's own preference information by specifically specifying a wearable object that the broadcasting user desires to receive as a gift from among the wearable objects that the broadcasting user does not possess, or by inputting information regarding one's own preferences into a profile. In addition, the operation receiving unit 41 receives from the viewing user a granting operation for granting a selected gift to the broadcasting user (including a first operation performed by a first viewing user to select a first gift to grant to the broadcasting user), and a second operation for specifying a specific gift from among the gifts attached to the broadcasting user's avatar.

[0084] The distribution unit 42 receives video content transmitted from the user terminal 12 of the distribution user (more specifically, the content transmission unit 24) by communicating with the user terminal 12 of the distribution user. Then, the distribution unit 42 identifies a user (viewing user) who requests viewing of the received video content, and distributes the video content to the identified viewing user by communicating with the user terminal 12 of the identified viewing user.

[0085] The display control unit 43 controls the user terminals 12 of the broadcasting user and the viewing user, and displays the video content of the broadcasting user, i.e., the video content including the avatar, on the screens of the user terminals 12 of the broadcasting user (the person himself) and the identified viewing user. Specifically, the display control unit 43 generates display data for displaying the results of information processing by the broadcasting unit 42 etc., and transmits the generated display data to the user terminal 12 via the network 14.

[0086] Furthermore, the display control unit 43 controls the user terminal 12 of the viewing user to which the list is to be displayed, and displays a list including one or more gifts that can be given to the distributing user on the screen of the user terminal 12 of the viewing user, in a state in which the viewing user can select a gift included in the list. In this embodiment, the viewing user to which the list is to be displayed is a user who is viewing video content of an avatar distributed by the distributing user, and is a viewing user who performed a giving operation while viewing the video content, that is, a viewing user who touched the gift button Bt to activate the gift giving function of the app.

[0087] Furthermore, when displaying the list on the user terminal 12, the display control unit 43 appropriately updates and displays the contents of the gifts displayed in the list (including the display mode of the gifts). For example, the information on the list is updated according to the gifts possessed by the broadcasting user, and gifts that the broadcasting user already possesses are displayed in a manner that makes them distinguishable from gifts that the broadcasting user does not yet possess, for example, by not displaying them in the list or by displaying them in a grayed-out state, regardless of whether the avatar is wearing the gift. At this time, gifts that are displayed in a grayed-out state may be controlled so that they cannot be selected by the viewing user.

[0088] In addition, the display control unit 43 updates the information in the list when the broadcasting user acquires (takes possession of) a gift, such as when a first gift is selected by a granting operation (first operation) of another viewing user (first viewing user) and a gift has already been granted to the broadcasting user, as exemplified in (a)-(e) below. (a) At the time the first gift is granted to the distribution user, the list information is updated in the list (the second list displayed to a second viewing user other than the first viewing user or the first list displayed to the first viewing user) by deleting the first gift from the list or by displaying the first gift in a grayed-out state, thereby displaying in a manner that is identifiable to the viewing user that the first gift has been granted to the distribution user. (b) The information in the list (second list or first list) is updated depending on whether the avatar is wearing the first gift or not. For example, when the avatar is wearing the first gift, the list will display "wearing" or the like for the first gift, so that the viewing user can easily identify that the first gift is worn by the avatar. On the other hand, when the avatar is not wearing the first gift, the list will display "in possession" or the like for the first gift, so that the viewing user can easily identify that the first gift is not worn by the avatar but is already in the possession of the broadcasting user. (c) When the first gift is equipped to the avatar, the information of the gifts included in the list (second list or first list) that are equipped with the same attachment part as the first gift before the avatar equipped the first gift, but cannot be equipped at the same time as the first gift, i.e., the information of the gifts corresponding to the attachment objects (gifts) that have been changed by wearing the first gift, is updated. When updating, the relevant gift is displayed in a state that can be identified by the viewing user by deleting it from the list, displaying it as grayed out, or displaying it as "equipped" or "in possession", as described above. (d) When a first gift is worn on an avatar, a first related gift associated with the first gift is added to the list (second list or first list) and updated for display. At this time, the first related gift may be displayed larger or at the top of the list so that it stands out as an added gift and can be easily identified by the viewing user. Furthermore, among the first related gifts, gifts that can be worn on a body part other than the body part on which the first gift is worn, i.e. gifts that can be worn simultaneously with the first gift, may be preferentially added to the list and displayed. (e) Among the gifts attached to the avatar, a second related gift associated with a specific gift designated by a second operation of the second viewing user is added to the second list, and the list is updated and displayed. Also, among the gifts attached to the avatar, a second related gift associated with a gift designated by a second operation of the first viewing user is added to the first list, and the list is updated and displayed. At this time, if the gifts designated by the first viewing user and the second viewing user are different, different second related gifts are added to the first list and the second list, respectively.

[0089] Furthermore, when the display control unit 43 receives preference information from the broadcast user regarding his / her preferences, it updates and displays the information of gifts that correspond to the preference information, that is, gifts designated by the broadcast user or automatically selected based on the broadcast user's profile, among the gifts displayed in the first list, second list, and other lists. For example, the relevant gift desired by the broadcast user is displayed large or at the top of the list, thereby displaying the gift in a state that is identifiable by the viewing user so that it stands out as a gift that corresponds to the preference information.

[0090] When a viewing user performs a gifting operation, the gift control unit 44 grants a gift to the broadcasting user in accordance with the content of the operation. The gift granted to the broadcasting user by the viewing user is set to a usable state by the broadcasting user. In addition, for the broadcasting user to whom a gift has been granted, the broadcasting user information is updated based on the granted gift.

[0091] Furthermore, the gift control unit 44 allows the broadcasting user to whom the gift has been given to select whether or not to use the gift to equip the avatar. When the broadcasting user selects to use the gift, i.e., to equip the avatar, the gift is attached to the corresponding attachment location on the avatar, and from that point on, video content of the avatar with the gift attached is distributed. Note that, when multiple gifts are given to the same attachment location on the avatar, the display of each gift may be set (reserved) based on the order in which they were given, and the gift given first is displayed, and after the display time has elapsed, the gift given later is displayed.

[0092] <Information processing method according to one embodiment of the present invention> Next, an information processing flow relating to the use of video content will be described with reference to Figures 17 and 18. The information processing flow according to this embodiment employs the information processing method of the present invention, and is realized by using a video distribution system S that functions as a computer system. In other words, each step in the information processing flow (specifically, each step shown in Figures 17 and 18) corresponds to a component of the information processing method of the present invention. Note that the information processing flow described below is merely an example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the order of steps may be changed, without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0093] (Information processing flow) This information processing flow is information processing for video distribution, which is the basis of the present invention and includes list update processing, and progresses, for example, according to the flow shown in FIG.

[0094] As shown in Fig. 17, in the information processing flow, the processors 10a, 12a of the server 10, the user terminal 12 of the broadcasting user, and the user terminal 12 of the viewing user execute corresponding processes, and data communication is performed between the devices. To explain in more detail, when the broadcasting user performs a broadcasting operation on the user terminal 12, the user terminal 12 of the broadcasting user creates video content for the broadcasting user and transmits it to the server 10 (S101). Specifically, video content of the broadcasting user's avatar is created and transmitted to the server 10.

[0095] After receiving the video content, the server 10 identifies a user (viewing user) who requests viewing of the video content, and distributes the video content to the identified viewing user (S102). At this time, the server 10 creates a list (which may be a list according to the taste information of the broadcasting user) including gifts set according to the wearable objects owned by the broadcasting user, i.e., gifts not owned by the broadcasting user, and distributes the list to the viewing user together with the video content. Meanwhile, on the viewing user side, the distributed video content (including the list) is received by the user terminal 12, and the content is displayed on the display of the user terminal 12 (S103). That is, the video content of the avatar is displayed on the screen of the user terminal 12 of the viewing user. Note that the list may be always displayed on the screen of the user terminal 12 together with the video content of the avatar, or may be displayed on the screen of the user terminal 12 only when the viewing user performs a gift giving operation.

[0096] The viewing user views the above video content through the user terminal 12, and while viewing the video content, can also grant (give) a gift to the distributor user of the video content. Specifically, when the viewing user performs a granting operation to grant a gift to the distributor user, that is, when the viewing user performs an operation to select a gift to be granted from the gifts included in the list and grant it to the distributor user (S104: YES), the server 10 accepts the granting operation from the viewing user, and grants the gift to the distributor user by setting the gift selected as the grant target to a state usable by the distributor user (S105). On the other hand, when the viewing user does not perform an operation to select a gift and grant it to the distributor user (S104: NO), the video content of the distributor user's avatar is continuously distributed. At this time, the gift granted to the distributor user corresponds to the first gift, the operation to select the first gift corresponds to the first operation, and the viewing user who performed the first operation to grant the first gift to the distributor user corresponds to the first viewing user.

[0097] The broadcast user to whom the gift has been granted can use the gift, i.e., wear it on an avatar. When the broadcast user uses the granted gift (S106: YES), the broadcast user's user terminal 12 creates video content in which the gift is displayed, more specifically, video content of an avatar with the gift attached to the corresponding attachment part, and transmits it to the server 10 (S107). When the server 10 receives the video content including the avatar wearing the gift transmitted in step S107, it distributes the video content to the same viewing user as the viewing user identified as the distribution destination in step S102 (S108). Note that when the broadcast user has not used the granted gift (S106: NO), the process proceeds directly to the list update process described below.

[0098] On the viewing user side, the video content distributed in step S108 is received by user terminal 12, and the content is displayed on the display of user terminal 12. In detail, the video content showing the gift given by the viewing user (i.e., the video content of the avatar with the gift attached to the attachment part) is displayed on the screen of user terminal 12 of the viewing user (S109).

[0099] Furthermore, when a gift is given to the delivery user, the server 10 executes a list update process for updating the information of the list to be delivered to the viewing user together with the video content, specifically, the contents of the gift included in the list (S110). Details of the list update process will be described later. Then, on the viewing user side, the updated list is received by the user terminal 12, and the updated list is displayed on the display of the user terminal 12 (S111). That is, the updated list is displayed on the screen of the user terminal 12 together with the video content of the avatar, or when the viewing user performs a gift giving operation. At this time, the updated and displayed list corresponds to the second list, and viewing users other than the first viewing user to whom the second list is delivered correspond to the second viewing user. However, the first list displayed to the first viewing user may also be updated and displayed in the same manner as the second list.

[0100] The series of steps described above are repeatedly executed until the distributor user finishes distributing the video content (S112: NO). In other words, the viewing user can continue to view the video content until the distribution of the video content ends, and can also give a new gift to the distributor user of the video content. Then, when the distributor user finishes distributing the video content (S112: YES), the information processing flow ends. The above is an example of the information processing flow of the present invention.

[0101] (List update process) Next, an example of the list update process will be described with reference to FIG. The list update process is a procedure executed by the server 10 (mainly the display control unit 43), and is the process executed in step S110 of the above information processing flow. Specifically, it is a process for updating information in a second list (which may include the first list displayed to the first viewing user) displayed to a second viewing user when a first operation for selecting a first gift to be granted to the broadcast user is received from a first viewing user. Note that, below, a case will be described in which the broadcast user's avatar already has a gift attached to it, and the first gift is granted in that state.

[0102] As shown in Fig. 18, first, the server 10 judges whether the first gift given to the broadcast user by the first viewing user has been used by the broadcast user, i.e., whether it has been worn by the broadcast user's avatar in step S106 of the above-mentioned information processing flow (S201), and if it is judged that the first gift has been worn by the avatar (S201: YES), for example, the server 10 displays "Wearing" or the like on the first gift, and sets it so that the viewing user can identify that the first gift is worn on the avatar in the list (S202). Then, the server 10 displays, for example, "In possession" or the like on the gift that was worn by the avatar before wearing the first gift, i.e., the gift corresponding to the gift worn before changing into the first gift, so that the viewing user can identify it in the list (S203).

[0103] Furthermore, the server 10 selects a first related gift associated with the first gift and adds it to the gifts displayed in the second list (S204). In addition, when a plurality of gifts are attached to the avatar, and the second viewing user designates a specific gift among the plurality of gifts by the second operation (S205: YES), the server 10 adds a second related gift associated with the designated specific gift to the gifts displayed in the second list (S206). Note that, if a specific gift is not designated by the second operation of the second viewing user (S205: NO), the process proceeds directly to the next process. In addition, at this time, when two or more different gifts are selected by the second operations of the plurality of viewing users, different second related gifts are added as gifts displayed in the lists of the respective viewing users. For example, when the first viewing user also performs the second operation and designates a gift different from that of the second viewing user as a specific gift, a second related gift different from the second related gift added to the second list is added to the first list.

[0104] On the other hand, if the server 10 determines that the first gift is not attached to the avatar (S201: NO), it displays, for example, "in possession" on the first gift, and sets it so that although the first gift cannot be confirmed on the avatar because it is not attached to the avatar, it is displayed in a manner that allows the viewing user to identify it as a gift that has already been given to the distribution user in the list (S207).

[0105] Then, the server 10 updates the information in the second list to reflect the above-mentioned changes or additional settings, and transmits the updated information in the second list to the second user (S208), and ends the processing. The above is an example of the list update process.

[0106] <Other embodiments> Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the above embodiments are merely examples given to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. In other words, the present invention may be modified or improved from the above embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention includes equivalents thereof.

[0107] In addition, the screen examples shown in the drawings referenced in the description of the above embodiments are merely examples, and the screen configuration examples, the content of the information displayed, and the GUI (Graphical User Interface), etc., can be freely designed according to the system design specifications and user preferences, and can be changed as appropriate.

[0108] In addition, the means of notifying, contacting, and presenting various information in the above embodiment is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, notifying, contacting, and presenting by email, or may display a message or play a sound / audio on the user terminal 12. In addition, when notifying, contacting, and presenting information to a user who has an account for a social networking service (SNS), posting or exchanging messages on the SNS may be utilized. In addition, the screen on which messages and the like are displayed may be a screen displayed during viewing of video content (content viewing screen), or may be the initial screen of the user terminal 12 (specifically, the standby screen).

[0109] In the above embodiment, the manner of displaying on the user terminal 12 includes a manner of displaying on a display device (display) provided on the terminal itself, and a manner of displaying on a display device connected to the terminal in a wired or wireless manner. Note that the display device connected to the user terminal 12 may include a general stationary display, as well as an HMD (Head Mounted Display) such as VR goggles.

[0110] In addition, with regard to the present invention, a number of other embodiments (variations) different from the above embodiment are possible. Each of the variations will be described below. Note that the following mainly describes the differences from the above embodiment, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted.

[0111] (Modifications regarding the configuration of the information processing device) The information processing device of the present invention is not limited to being configured by the server 10, and some of the functions of the information processing device of the present invention may be provided in the user terminal 12. In that case, the information processing device of the present invention is configured by the cooperation of the server 10 and the user terminal 12.

[0112] (Modification of the creator of video content) In the above embodiment, the video content is created by the user terminal 12 of the broadcasting user, and the server 10 acquires the video content transmitted from the user terminal 12 and distributes the acquired video content to the viewing user. However, this is not limited to the above, and the video content may be created by the server 10 instead of the user terminal 12 of the broadcasting user. In this case, the server 10 may receive the broadcasting user's broadcasting operations, including shooting operations and sound collection operations, through the user terminal 12 of the broadcasting user, and create the video content based on the received operations.

[0113] (Gift Variations) In the above embodiment, the gift is paid and can be given by paying a value such as currency or electronic money, but the present invention is not limited to this and may be configured to give the gift free of charge. In this case, it is preferable to limit the number of times that the gift can be given within a certain period of time to a specified number of times.

[0114] (Giving rewards to users who give gifts) In the above embodiment, in order to promote the giving of gifts, a reward may be given to a viewing user who has given a gift when that user satisfies a certain condition (hereinafter, a reward condition). The reward condition may be, for example, that within a certain time period after a viewing user has given a gift to the same broadcasting user, another viewing user gives a new gift to the same broadcasting user. In addition, when multiple viewing users give gifts to the same broadcasting user, the reward condition may be that the combination of gifts satisfies a predetermined relationship. The reward to be given may be determined according to the number of consecutive gift giving within a certain time period, or the number of viewing users (gift givers) who have given gifts within a certain time period. In this case, it is preferable that the value of the reward given increases or the number of rewards given increases as the number of consecutive gift giving or the number of gift givers increases. In addition, when multiple viewing users give gifts within a certain time period, a reward of higher value may be given to a viewing user who gave a gift earlier than a viewing user who gave a gift later.

[0115] (Return gift from the broadcaster) In the above embodiment, when a viewing user gives a gift to a broadcasting user, the broadcasting user may give a gift in return to the viewing user. The content of the gift in return may be a message from the broadcasting user, or may be a commercial product, etc. The commercial product may be electronic data that can be displayed within the video content that the viewing user is viewing, such as a gift.

[0116] (Changes in the number of gifts attached to one part) In the above embodiment, the number of gifts that can be worn on each part of the avatar is one, but this is not limited to the above. When multiple gifts are given to the same part, if the combination of the multiple gifts satisfies a predetermined condition, the multiple gifts may be worn on the same wearing part at the same time. For example, when a T-shirt and a jacket are given as gifts that can be worn on the torso (upper body) of an avatar, these gifts may be displayed at the same time by wearing (layering) the jacket on top of the T-shirt. When multiple gifts that can be worn on the same part are layered and worn, which gift is placed on the front side (higher layer) may be determined based on the type of each gift, the order in which they were given, etc.

[0117] The elements and features of the multiple embodiments (including the modified examples of each embodiment) described above may be appropriately combined. In other words, the configuration of any of the multiple embodiments described above may be applied to the other embodiments, and the effects brought about by the configuration may be similarly achieved.

[0118] <Summary> [General-purpose subject] One object of the present invention is to support a viewing user so that, when the viewing user wishes to give a gift that can be displayed in video content to a distributor user, the viewing user can select an appropriate gift.

[0119] Issues regarding [Appendix 1] One object of the present invention is to make it easier for a viewing user to select a gift that the broadcaster user does not possess, when the viewing user wishes to give a gift to the broadcaster user. [Appendix 1] The information processing device of this embodiment has a distribution unit that distributes content of the broadcasting user to the terminal of the viewing user, and a display control unit that displays a list including one or more gifts on the terminal of the viewing user, and the display control unit displays gifts that can be given to the broadcasting user in a list selectable by the viewing user, and when a first operation for selecting a first gift to be given to the broadcasting user is received from the first viewing user, the display control unit updates and displays the information of the second list displayed to the second viewing user. According to the above information processing device, gifts that can be given to the broadcasting user are displayed in a list in a selectable state for the viewing user, and information in the second list displayed to the second viewing user is updated according to the first gift selected by the first viewing user through the first operation. Therefore, it is possible to provide the viewing user (second viewing user) with information that is effective for the viewing user to select a gift for the broadcasting user, i.e., information regarding gifts that the broadcasting user does not possess, and the second viewing user can select a gift to give to the broadcasting user while avoiding the first gift previously selected by the first viewing user. In this way, when the viewing user gives a gift to the broadcasting user, it is possible to make it easier for the viewing user to select a gift that the broadcasting user does not possess.

[0120] Issues regarding [Appendix 2] One object of the present invention is to make it easier for a viewing user to select a gift that the broadcaster user does not possess, when the viewing user wishes to give a gift to the broadcaster user. [Appendix 2] The information processing device described in [Appendix 1], wherein the display control unit, after receiving a first operation from the first viewing user, visibly displays in the second list that the first gift has been granted to the broadcasting user. This allows the second viewing user to identify in the second list that the first gift has already been granted to the broadcast user. Therefore, the second viewing user can select a gift to grant to the broadcast user while avoiding the first gift previously selected by the first viewing user, making it easier for the viewing user to select a gift that the broadcast user does not possess when granting a gift to the broadcast user.

[0121] Issues regarding [Appendix 3] One object of the present invention is to allow a broadcasting user to select, during broadcasting, whether or not to equip his / her avatar with a gift received from a viewing user. [Appendix 3] The content includes an avatar of the broadcasting user, and when a first operation is received from a first viewing user, a gift control unit allows the broadcasting user to choose whether or not to equip the avatar with a first gift, and the display control unit changes and displays the information of the second list depending on whether the avatar is wearing the first gift or not.An information processing device as described in [Appendix 1]. This allows the broadcast user to select whether or not to equip the gift received from the viewing user to the avatar during the broadcast. Furthermore, the second viewing user can identify in the second list that the first gift has been given to the broadcast user even if the broadcast user's avatar is not wearing the first gift.

[0122] Issues regarding [Appendix 4] One object of the present invention is to make it easier for a viewing user, when giving a gift to a broadcasting user, to recognize the gifts that the broadcasting user possesses and the gifts that are attached to the avatar. [Appendix 4] An information processing device as described in [Appendix 3], wherein when the display control unit receives a selection from the broadcasting user to equip the first gift to the avatar, it visibly displays in the second list that the first gift is equipped to the avatar, and when the display control unit receives a selection from the broadcasting user not to equip the first gift to the avatar, it visibly displays in the second list that the first gift has already been granted to the broadcasting user. This allows the second viewing user to identify in the second list that the first gift has been given to the broadcast user even if the broadcast user's avatar is not wearing the first gift. Therefore, when the viewing user gives a gift to the broadcast user, it is possible to easily allow the broadcast user to recognize the gifts that the broadcast user possesses and the gifts that are worn by the avatar.

[0123] Issues regarding [Appendix 5] One object of the present invention is to allow a viewing user, when giving a gift to a broadcaster user, to recognize that the gift attached to the broadcaster user's avatar has been changed. [Appendix 5] The display control unit is an information processing device described in [Appendix 3] that, when a first gift is equipped to an avatar, updates and displays information about gifts included in the second list that correspond to gifts that were equipped to the avatar before the first gift was equipped. As a result, even if a gift has been detached from the broadcasting user's avatar and is no longer visible when the broadcasting user's avatar puts on the first gift, the second viewing user can identify in the second list that the broadcasting user already owns the gift, and when the viewing user gives a gift to the broadcasting user, the viewing user can recognize that the gift attached to the broadcasting user's avatar has been changed.

[0124] Issues regarding [Appendix 6] One object of the present invention is to make it easier for a viewing user to select a gift that the broadcasting user desires when the viewing user gives a gift to the broadcasting user. [Appendix 6] The content includes an avatar of the broadcasting user, and when a first operation is received from a first viewing user, a gift control unit allows the broadcasting user to choose whether or not to equip the avatar with a first gift, and a display control unit adds and displays a first related gift associated with the first gift to a second list when the first gift is equipped to the avatar.An information processing device as described in [Appendix 1]. This allows the second viewing user to identify the first related gift associated with the first gift attached to the broadcast user's avatar in the second list. Therefore, the second viewing user can select the first related gift as a gift to give to the broadcast user, so when the viewing user gives a gift to the broadcast user, it is easy for the viewing user to select the gift that the broadcast user wants.

[0125] Issues regarding [Appendix 7] One object of the present invention is to make it easier for a viewing user, when giving a gift to a broadcasting user, to select the gift that the broadcasting user desires for each body part that can be worn on an avatar. [Appendix 7] An information processing device as described in [Appendix 6], in which the gifts include body part information indicating the body part on the avatar to which they are attached, and the display control unit adds to a second list and displays gifts among the first related gifts that can be attached to a body part other than the body part on which the first gift is attached. This allows the second viewing user to identify in the second list a first related gift associated with the first gift worn on the avatar of the broadcasting user, which is a gift that can be worn on a body part different from the body part on which the first gift is worn, i.e., a gift that can be worn simultaneously with the first gift. Therefore, the second viewing user can select a first related gift that can be worn on a body part different from the first gift as a gift to be given to the broadcasting user, so that when the viewing user gives a gift to the broadcasting user, it is possible to make it easier for the viewing user to select a gift that the broadcasting user desires for each body part that can be worn on the avatar.

[0126] Issues regarding [Appendix 8] One object of the present invention is to make it easier for a viewing user to select a gift that the viewing user desires and that reflects the viewing user's intentions when the viewing user gives a gift to a distributor user. [Appendix 8] The information processing device described in [Appendix 6], wherein when the display control unit receives a second operation from the viewing user to specify a specific gift among the gifts attached to the avatar, the display control unit adds and displays a second related gift associated with the specified gift to a second list. As a result, from among the multiple gifts attached to the avatar of the broadcasting user, the second related gift associated with the specific gift designated by the second viewing user through the second operation is added to the second list. Therefore, the second viewing user can select a second related gift associated with the gift designated by the second viewing user as a gift to be given to the broadcasting user, so that when the viewing user gives a gift to the broadcasting user, it is possible to make it easier for the viewing user to select a gift that the broadcasting user desires that reflects the viewing user's intentions.

[0127] Issues regarding [Appendix 9] One object of the present invention is to make it easier for a viewing user to select a gift that the viewing user desires and that reflects the viewing user's intentions when the viewing user gives a gift to a distributor user. [Appendix 9] An information processing device as described in [Appendix 8], wherein when a first operation is received from a first viewing user, the display control unit updates and displays the information of the first list displayed to the first viewing user, and when a gift specified by a second operation by the first viewing user differs from a gift specified by a second operation by the second viewing user, the display control unit adds and displays a second related gift that differs between the first list and the second list to the first list and the second list. As a result, from among the multiple gifts attached to the avatar of the broadcasting user, the second related gift associated with the specific gift designated by the first viewing user through the second operation is added to the first list, and the second related gift associated with the specific gift designated by the second viewing user through the second operation is added to the second list. Therefore, different second related gifts may be added between the first list corresponding to the first viewing user and the second list corresponding to the second viewing user, and different second related gifts may be selected between the first viewing user and the second viewing user. Therefore, when the viewing user gives a gift to the broadcasting user, it is possible to easily select a gift desired by the broadcasting user that reflects the viewing user's intentions.

[0128] Issues regarding [Appendix 10] One object of the present invention is to make it easier for a viewing user to select a gift that the broadcaster user does not possess, when the viewing user wishes to give a gift to the broadcaster user. [Appendix 10] The display control unit is an information processing device described in [Appendix 1] that updates and displays the list information according to the gifts owned by the broadcast user. This allows the viewing user to identify gifts that the broadcasting user already owns, regardless of whether the broadcasting user's avatar is wearing them or not. Therefore, the viewing user can select gifts to give to the broadcasting user while avoiding gifts that the broadcasting user already owns, making it easier for the viewing user to select gifts that the broadcasting user does not own when giving a gift to the broadcasting user.

[0129] Issues regarding [Appendix 11] One of the objects of the present invention is to make it easier for a broadcasting user to receive a gift that he or she desires from a viewing user. [Appendix 11] The information processing device described in [Appendix 1], wherein when the display control unit receives preference information regarding a broadcast user's preferences from the broadcast user, the information of gifts displayed in the list that correspond to the preference information is updated and displayed. This allows the viewing user to identify gifts that correspond to the broadcast user's preference information, making it easier for the broadcast user to receive gifts that they desire from the viewing user.

[0130] Issues regarding [Appendix 12] One of the objects of the present invention is to make it easier for a broadcasting user to receive a gift that he or she desires from a viewing user. [Appendix 12] An information processing device as described in [Appendix 11], in which the preference information includes information indicating a gift specified by the broadcasting user, and the display control unit updates and displays information about gifts that correspond to the gift specified by the broadcasting user among the gifts displayed in the list. This allows the viewing user to identify the gift specified by the broadcaster user, making it easier for the broadcaster user to receive the gift they desire from the viewing user.

[0131] Issues regarding [Appendix 13] One object of the present invention is to make it easier for a viewing user to select a gift that the broadcaster user does not possess, when the viewing user wishes to give a gift to the broadcaster user. [Appendix 13] In an information processing method according to this embodiment, a processor distributes content of a distribution user to a terminal of a viewing user, the processor displays a list including one or more gifts on the terminal of the viewing user, the processor displays gifts that can be given to the distribution user in the list selectable by the viewing user, and when the processor receives a first operation from the first viewing user to select a first gift to be given to the distribution user, the processor updates and displays information in the second list displayed to the second viewing user. According to the above information processing method, when a viewing user gives a gift to a broadcaster user, it is possible to make it easier for the viewing user to select a gift that the broadcaster user does not possess.

[0132] Issues regarding [Appendix 14] One object of the present invention is to make it easier for a viewing user to select a gift that the broadcaster user does not possess, when the viewing user wishes to give a gift to the broadcaster user. [Appendix 14] The program of this embodiment causes a processor to distribute content of a distribution user to a terminal of a viewing user, causes the processor to display a list including one or more gifts on the terminal of the viewing user, causes the processor to display gifts that can be given to the distribution user in a list selectable by the viewing user, and when a first operation to select a first gift to be given to the distribution user is received from the first viewing user, causes the processor to update and display information in the second list displayed to the second viewing user. According to the above program, when a viewing user gives a gift to a broadcaster user, it is possible to make it easier for the viewing user to select a gift that the broadcaster user does not possess. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 10 Server (information processing device) 10a processor 10b Memory 10c Communication Interface 10d Storage 12 User terminal 12a Processor 12b Memory 12c communication interface 12d Input Device 12e output device 21 Input section 22 Content Creation Department 23 Content display section 24 Content Transmission Department 25 Operation data transmission unit 31 Content Output Section 32 Operation input section 33 Operation data transmission unit 41 Operation reception section 42 Distribution Department 43 Display control section 44 Gift Control Section A.Avatar Bt Gift Button LS1 List LS2 Update List LS3 Update List N Communication Network S video distribution system

Claims

1. A processor is provided, the processor: Distributing content including an avatar of the distribution user to a terminal of the viewing user; Displaying a list including one or more gifts on the terminal of the viewing user; Displaying the avatar with multiple gifts stacked on top of each other on the same wearing position; adding and displaying gifts associated with the stacked gift combinations to the list; Information processing device.

2. A processor distributes content including an avatar of a distribution user to a terminal of a viewing user, a processor causing a list including one or more gifts to be displayed on the viewing user's terminal; a processor displays the avatar with multiple gifts attached to the same attachment location; a processor adding and displaying gifts associated with the stacked gift combination to the list; Information processing methods.

3. A processor, receiving content including the avatar of the broadcasting user; receive a list containing one or more gifts; displaying the avatar with multiple gifts stacked and worn on the same wearing position of the avatar; receiving and displaying the list populated with gifts associated with the stacked gift combination; A program that executes a process.

4. A server and a user terminal are provided, The server: Distributing content including the avatar of the distribution user to the user's terminal; displaying a list including one or more gifts on the user's terminal; Displaying the avatar with multiple gifts stacked on top of each other on the same wearing position; adding a gift associated with the stacked gift combination to the list and displaying it on the user's terminal; Information processing system.

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