Information processing apparatus, video distribution method, and video distribution program

Abstract

To encourage users to view a video while communicating with each other.SOLUTION: Video progress changing processing changes the progress of a video displayed on portable terminals 3 registered in a group according to input from the portable terminals 3 registered in the group. This may change the progress of the video played on the portable terminal 3 carried by one user according to input from the portable terminal 3 carried by another user registered in the group. The users are thus expected to view the video while actively communicating with each other. In this manner, the video progress changing processing can encourage the users to view the video while communicating with each other. The video contains objects that the users can choose. The video progress changing processing changes the progress of the video upon selection of an object by the users.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] In recent years, the number of users watching videos such as movies, dramas, and animations using portable information processing terminals such as smartphones and tablet terminals has been increasing. For this reason, technological developments are being made to enable users to enjoy watching videos more.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a video playback control method that aims to share video in a community consisting of multiple users who are far apart, and to realize a sense of unity as if all the users were gathered in one place and watching the same video together. The video playback control method described in Patent Document 1 preferentially executes playback control commands sent by users with high favorability in the community, based on comment evaluation information given by other users to comments entered by the user. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2003-163911 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The video playback control method described in Patent Document 1 is intended for a community consisting of multiple users who are far apart, and is not intended for a community in which all the users gather in close proximity to watch the same video together.

[0006] In other words, there is a need for technological development that allows users to enjoy watching videos more even when all users are gathered in close proximity to watch the same video together. As one concept of this technological development, there is a new need for users who are gathered in close proximity to be able to watch videos while communicating with each other.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide an information processing device, a video distribution method, and a video distribution program that can encourage users to watch videos while communicating with each other. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problems, an information processing device, a video distribution method, and a video distribution program according to the present invention employ the following means.

[0009] In order to solve the above problems, an "information processing device" which is one aspect of the present invention is an information processing device which distributes video data to a plurality of information processing terminals, and which comprises: a group registration means which accepts registration of a group consisting of a plurality of information processing terminals located in close proximity; a video data distribution means which distributes the video data to the plurality of information processing terminals registered as the group; and a progress change means which changes the progress of the video displayed on the information processing terminal in response to input from the information processing terminal.

[0010] In order to solve the above problems, a "video distribution method" according to one embodiment of the present invention is a video distribution method for distributing video data to a plurality of information processing terminals, the method comprising: a first step of accepting registration of a group consisting of a plurality of information processing terminals located in close proximity; a second step of distributing the video data to the plurality of information processing terminals registered as the group; and a third step of changing the progress of the video displayed on the information processing terminal in response to an input from the information processing terminal.

[0011] In order to solve the above problems, a "video distribution program" which is one aspect of the present invention causes a computer to function as a group registration means for accepting registration of a group consisting of multiple information processing terminals located in close proximity, a video data distribution means for distributing video data to the multiple information processing terminals registered as the group, and a progress change means for changing the progress of the video displayed on the information processing terminal in response to input from the information processing terminal.

[0012] The above-mentioned "information processing device" may be subject to various technical limitations, as exemplified below. In addition, technical limitations of the same purport may be applied to the processing steps executed by the "video distribution method" or the functions of the "video distribution program."

[0013] The moving image includes an object selectable by a user, and the progress changing means changes the progress of the moving image in response to the user's selection of the object.

[0014] The progress change means causes the information processing terminal to repeatedly display a predetermined period of the video until the object is selected by a user.

[0015] The progress change means causes the information processing terminal to display, as the moving image to be repeatedly displayed, a moving image that prompts the user to select the object.

[0016] The progress change means causes some of the information processing terminals registered as the group to display the moving image that prompts the user to select the object.

[0017] The progress change means increases the number of the information processing terminals that display the animation that prompts the user to select the object each time the number of repetitions of the animation increases.

[0018] When the object is selected in at least one of the information processing terminals registered as the group, the progress changing means changes the progress of the video in response to the selection of the object.

[0019] When the object is selected in all of the information processing terminals registered as the group, the progress changing means changes the progress of the video in response to the selection of the object.

[0020] When a plurality of the objects are displayed, the progress changing means changes the progress of the video in accordance with the object selected by the most or least number of users in the group.

[0021] A plurality of options selectable by a user are displayed on the information processing terminal, and the progress changing means changes the progress of the video in accordance with the option selected by the user.

[0022] The progress changing means changes the progress of the video in accordance with the option selected by the largest or smallest number of users in the group.

[0023] A plurality of options indicating correct and incorrect answers are displayed on some of the information processing terminals registered as the group, and hints for deriving the correct answer are displayed on the other information processing terminals registered as the group, and the progress changing means changes the progress of the video according to the option selected by the user.

[0024] The hint differs for each of the information processing terminals on which it is displayed.

[0025] The information processing device includes a detection means for detecting a communication state of a user via the information processing terminal, and a state processing means for performing processing in accordance with the communication state detected by the detection means.

[0026] The communication state is the sound of the audio-visual environment of the information processing terminal.

[0027] The state processing means changes the number of progressions selectable by the user according to the communication state.

[0028] The progress changing means changes the progress of the video in response to information other than an input operation by a user on the information processing terminal.

[0029] The information other than the input operation is information that indicates the environment in which the user watches the video on the information processing terminal.

[0030] The information processing terminal displays a game image for a user to play a game, and the progress changing means changes the progress of the video image according to the result of the game played by the user.

[0031] The progress changing means changes the progress of the video in the same manner in all of the information processing terminals registered as the group.

[0032] The progress changing means changes the moving image so that the progress differs among some of the information processing terminals registered as the group.

[0033] The progress changing means makes the ending of the video the same for all of the information processing terminals even if the progress of the video differs midway in some of the information processing terminals.

[0034] The group registration means acquires location information of the information processing terminal via the information processing terminal, and registers, as a group, a plurality of the information processing terminals that are within a range that is predetermined as the close distance. Effect of the Invention

[0035] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an effect of encouraging users to watch videos while communicating with each other. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0036] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram of a video distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a server according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 1A to 1C are schematic diagrams showing examples of progress changes of a video according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 2 is a functional block diagram relating to a video distribution function of the server according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a video including a hint object according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram showing a video including an object suggestion image according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a moving image progress change process according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a touch panel display of a mobile terminal on which a selection form is displayed according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of a moving image progress change process according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a touch panel display of a mobile terminal on which a selection form or a hint form is displayed according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram relating to a video distribution function of a server according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing a flow of a communication status process according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram relating to a video distribution function of a server according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of a moving image progress change process according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0037] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An information processing device, a video distribution method, and a video distribution program according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0038] [1. First embodiment] A first embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0039] [1-1. Video distribution system configuration] 1 is a schematic diagram of a video distribution system 1 according to this embodiment. The video distribution system 1 includes a communication line 2, a plurality of mobile terminals 3, and a server 4.

[0040] The communication line 2 forms a computer network, and is, for example, a wide area communication line provided by an electric utility company.

[0041] The mobile terminal 3 is, for example, an information processing terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a notebook computer. The mobile terminal 3 includes a touch panel display 3a for displaying images, a speaker 3b for outputting sound, a microphone 3c for inputting sound, and a camera 3d for capturing an image of a subject. In order to play back video data distributed from the server 4, for example, dedicated application software is installed on the mobile terminal 3.

[0042] The server 4 is an information processing device that distributes video data to a plurality of mobile terminals 3 via the communication line 2. The video data indicates video that has a story, such as an anime or a drama, and the story progresses along the story. The server 4 distributes the video data to the mobile terminals 3, for example, by non-live distribution rather than live distribution. The mobile terminal 3 that receives the video data plays the video data and displays it on the touch panel display 3a, and outputs sound from the speaker 3b.

[0043] The multiple mobile terminals 3 to which the video data is delivered are located in close proximity to each other and are registered in the server 4 as a group 5 (hereinafter referred to as "group registration"). That is, the multiple mobile terminals 3 registered as a group display videos based on the video data delivered from the server 4 at the same time, in other words, synchronously, on their touch panel displays 3a. Then, each user of the mobile terminals 3 registered as a group will watch the videos at the same time.

[0044] 1, group 5 is made up of four mobile terminals 3, but this is just an example, and there is no limit to the number of mobile terminals 3 in group 5 as long as group 5 is made up of a plurality of mobile terminals 3. In addition, there is no limit to the type of mobile terminals 3 that make up group 5, and a mixture of smartphones, tablet terminals, notebook computers, etc. may be used.

[0045] [1-2. Server configuration] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the server 4 according to the present embodiment.

[0046] The server 4 according to this embodiment includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 20 which is a main control unit that controls the operation of the entire server 4, a ROM in which various programs and various data are stored in advance, The computer includes a Read Only Memory (RAM) 22, a Random Access Memory (RAM) 24 used as a work area when the CPU 20 executes various programs, and a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) 26 as storage means for storing various programs and various data.

[0047] The HDD 26 stores information about the registered group 5 and video data to be distributed to the mobile terminal 3. Note that the storage means is not limited to the HDD 26, and may be, for example, another storage medium such as a semiconductor memory, such as a flash memory.

[0048] Furthermore, the server 4 is equipped with an operation input unit 28 composed of a keyboard, a mouse, etc. and which accepts input of various operations, a monitor 30 such as a liquid crystal display device for displaying various images, and an external interface 32 which is connected to other information processing devices such as a mobile terminal 3 via the communication line 2 and which transmits and receives various data to and from the other information processing devices.

[0049] The CPU 20, ROM 22, RAM 24, HDD 26, operation input unit 28, monitor 30, and external interface 32 are electrically connected to one another via a system bus 34. Therefore, the CPU 20 can access the ROM 22, RAM 24, and HDD 26, grasp the operation state of the operation input unit 28, display images on the monitor 30, and transmit and receive various data to and from other information processing devices, etc. via the external interface 32.

[0050] [1-3. Changes in video progression] The server 4 according to this embodiment distributes video data to a plurality of mobile terminals 3 registered as a group, and performs a video progress change process that changes the progress of the video displayed on the mobile terminal 3 in response to input from the mobile terminal 3.

[0051] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a progression change of a video.

[0052] In the example of Fig. 3, there are multiple branches (branching phases α, β1, β2, β3, γ) at which the progress of the video changes. In the example of Fig. 3, progress A branches to progress B through branching phase α, progress B branches to progress C through branching phases β1, β2, β3, and progress C branches to progress D through branching phase γ.

[0053] The number (type) of progress changes due to one branch is not limited. For example, when progress A branches to progress B, it branches into four types (progressions B1 to B4), and when progress B1 changes to progress C, it branches into three types (progressions C1 to C3). In addition, while other progresses have branching phases, there may be a progress that does not have a branching phase, such as progress B3 to progress C5. Furthermore, even if the progresses in between are different, the subsequent progresses may be the same, such as when progress B1 and progress B2 become progress C3, or when progress C1 and progress C2 become progress D1.

[0054] It should be noted that the video progress change process according to this embodiment changes the progress of the video in the same manner in all of the mobile terminals 3 registered in the group.

[0055] [1-4. Server video distribution function] FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram relating to the video distribution function of the server 4 according to this embodiment.

[0056] The CPU 20 of the server 4 includes a group registration unit 40, a video data delivery unit 42, and a video progress change unit 44. Each function of the CPU 20 is realized by a program stored in the HDD .

[0057] The group registration unit 40 accepts registration of a group 5 made up of a plurality of mobile terminals 3 located in close proximity.

[0058] The group registration unit 40, for example, acquires location information of the mobile terminal 3 via the mobile terminal 3, and registers a plurality of mobile terminals 3 that are within a predetermined range as a close distance (for example, within 10 m, hereinafter referred to as the "close distance range") as a group 5. Note that a user ID (identification) is also acquired together with the location information of the mobile terminal 3. The user ID is used as an ID to be entered into a login screen when the user receives a video distribution service.

[0059] Whether or not there is a mobile terminal 3 in the close range can be determined by, for example, a single mobile terminal 3 designated as a host. This is determined based on whether or not a mobile terminal 3 located within a diameter of 10 m around the host terminal (hereinafter referred to as the "host terminal") is within the close distance range. More specifically, the registration of a group 5 is initiated when the host mobile terminal 3 first logs into the video distribution service, and the other mobile terminals 3 apply for permission to join the registered group 5. The permission application by the other mobile terminals 3 is approved or rejected by the host terminal, and the group registration unit 40 determines whether or not the distance between the host terminal and the other mobile terminals 3 is within the close distance range.

[0060] Only when the group registration unit 40 determines that the other portable terminal 3 is within the close distance range, does the group registration unit 40 permit the other portable terminal 3 to be registered in the group 5 in accordance with the permission of the host terminal. On the other hand, when the group registration unit 40 determines that the other portable terminal 3 is not within the close distance range, the group registration unit 40 does not permit the other portable terminal 3 to be registered in the group 5 even if the host terminal grants permission.

[0061] The group registration unit 40 may register the group 5 only by registering the user ID, without acquiring the position information of the portable terminal 3. In this case, whether or not permission is granted to the other portable terminals 3 is determined only by the host terminal.

[0062] The video data delivery unit 42 delivers video data to a plurality of mobile terminals 3 registered in a group. As an example, the video data delivery unit 42 delivers video data to all of the mobile terminals 3 registered in the group. Note that the delivery of the video data is performed by streaming playback, as an example.

[0063] The video progress changing unit 44 performs a video progress changing process that changes the progress of the video displayed on the mobile terminal 3 in response to an input from the mobile terminal 3. More specifically, when the server 4 receives information related to a progress change of the video (progress change information) transmitted from the mobile terminal 3, the video progress changing unit 44 reads out video data corresponding to the progress change information from the HDD 26. Then, the video progress changing unit 44 outputs a distribution instruction to the video data distribution unit 42 to distribute the read video data. Note that, as an example, the progress change information may be transmitted by each mobile terminal 3 to the server 4, or may be transmitted by each mobile terminal 3 registered in a group to the server 4 via a host terminal.

[0064] [1-5. Video Progress Change Processing According to the Present Embodiment] The video progress change process according to this embodiment changes the progress of the video displayed on the group-registered mobile terminal 3 in response to an input (progress change information) from the group-registered mobile terminal 3. As a result, the progress of the video played on the user's own mobile terminal 3 may change in response to an input from the mobile terminal 3 of another user registered in the group. Therefore, it can be expected that users will watch the video while actively communicating with each other. In this way, the video progress change process according to this embodiment can encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0065] Moreover, the video according to the present embodiment includes an object selectable by the user. In the video progress change process according to the present embodiment, the progress of the video is changed when the object is selected by the user. In other words, the object is a hint for changing the progress of the video, and will be referred to as a hint object in the following description.

[0066] The video progress change process may, for example, stop the progress of the video until the user selects a hint object, or may change the progress of the video depending on whether or not the user has selected a hint object.

[0067] 5 is a diagram showing a hint object 50 included in a video according to this embodiment. FIG. 5 shows a part of a video displayed on the touch panel display 3a of the mobile terminal 3, and a painting 50A and a person 50B correspond to the hint objects 50. The user selects the hint object 50 by operating (touching, swiping, etc.) the position on the touch panel display 3a that corresponds to the hint object 50. Then, the video progress change process according to this embodiment changes the progress of the video in response to the selection of the hint object 50 by the user. That is, the mobile terminal 3 transmits information indicating the hint object 50 selected by the user to the server 4 as progress change information.

[0068] In this way, the playback time period of the video including the hint object 50 corresponds to the branch phase described with reference to Fig. 2. In Fig. 5, the branch phase includes multiple hint objects 50, but the branch phase may include only one hint object 50.

[0069] As an example, the video progress change process according to the present embodiment pauses the video progress in a scene where the user can select the hint object 50 during the playback time period of the branching phase. The user searches for and selects the hint object 50 while the video is paused. However, the video progress change process is not limited to this, and does not need to pause the video when the hint object 50 is selected. If the video progress is not paused, the user searches for and selects the hint object 50 simultaneously with the video progress.

[0070] Moreover, the video data including the hint object 50 is, for example, a first layer for displaying a video and a second layer for displaying the hint object 50 superimposed on the first layer for displaying the video. In other words, if the video does not include a hint object 50 selectable by the user, the video data does not include a second layer.

[0071] In the video progression change process, when a plurality of hint objects 50 are included in the same scene, the video progression is changed according to the selected hint object 50. However, this is not limited to the above, and the video progression may be the same even if the user selects different hint objects 50. For example, when three hint objects 50 are included, the video progression is the same even if the user selects two different hint objects 50, and the video progression is different when the user selects another hint object 50. Furthermore, when a plurality of hint objects 50 are included in the same scene, the video progression may be changed when not only one but a plurality of predetermined hint objects 50 are selected.

[0072] Furthermore, the video progress change process may change the progress of the video in response to the selection of the hint object 50 when the hint object 50 is selected in at least one of the mobile terminals 3 registered in a group.

[0073] In this way, the video progress change process according to this embodiment changes the progress of the video in response to the user's selection of the hint object 50, thereby encouraging users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0074] [1-6. Loop playback] Although the hint object 50 is preset to be appropriate for the progress of the video, some users may not know which hint object 50 to select even when the video reaches a branching phase. As a result, the user may not select any hint object 50 until the end of the playback time period of the branching phase, and in the case of video playback in which the video does not progress unless the user selects a hint object 50, the progress of the video will stop.

[0075] In such a case, the video progress change process performs loop playback in which a predetermined period of the video is repeatedly displayed on the mobile terminal 3 until the hint object 50 is selected by the user. Note that the predetermined period is a playback time period of the video corresponding to the branching phase in this embodiment. That is, the branching phase is loop-played until the hint object 50 is selected via the mobile terminal 3.

[0076] In addition, the video progression change process displays, as a video to be played in a loop, a video (video including images 52A and 52B) that prompts the user to select a hint object 50, as shown in Fig. 6(A), on the mobile terminal 3. The images 52A and 52B are object suggestion images 52 that suggest an operation technique for the hint object 50 that can be selected by the user.

[0077] As the number of times of loop playback increases, the object suggestion image 52 may change. For example, as shown in Fig. 6(B), the content of the user's operation on the touch panel display 3a (as an example, the direction of swipe) is displayed. For example, in the first loop playback, video data including the object suggestion image 52 shown in Fig. 6(A) is delivered from the server 4 to the mobile terminal 3, and in the second loop playback, video data including the object suggestion image 52 shown in Fig. 6(B) is delivered from the server 4 to the mobile terminal 3.

[0078] In this way, when the hint object 50 is not selected by the user and the progress of the video stops, the loop playback allows the user to reliably select the hint object 50. Note that Figs. 6(A) and (B) are merely examples, and the object suggestion image 52 does not have to be an arrow or a character, etc., and does not have to be direct as long as it suggests the hint object 50. Furthermore, the video progress change process may cause the mobile terminal 3 to play a sound (audio or sound effect) suggesting the hint object 50 together with the video corresponding to the branching phase, instead of or together with the object suggestion image 52.

[0079] Furthermore, the video progress change process may perform loop playback on some of the mobile terminals 3 registered in a group. In this case, the video progress change process may increase the number of mobile terminals 3 performing loop playback each time the number of times the video is repeated increases. For example, in the first loop playback, the video shown in FIG. 6(A) is displayed on one mobile terminal 3. Then, in the second loop playback, the video shown in FIG. 6(A) or FIG. 6(B) is displayed on two mobile terminals 3.

[0080] On the other hand, for a mobile terminal 3 where loop playback is not being performed, since the progress of the video is stopped, for example, a message is displayed encouraging the user to watch a mobile terminal 3 of another user where loop playback is being performed. In this way, the video progress change process can more strongly encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0081] [1-7. Flow of video progress change processing according to this embodiment] 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of a video progress change process according to this embodiment executed by the CPU 20 included in the server 4. A program for executing the video progress change process is pre-stored in a predetermined area of ​​the HDD 26. The video progress change process is executed, for example, when the video reaches a branching phase.

[0082] First, in step 100, the video progress changing unit 44 determines whether or not the playback of the video has reached a branching phase, and if the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 102. Whether or not the video has reached a branching phase is determined based on whether or not the video data delivering unit 42 has transmitted video data corresponding to the branching phase to the mobile terminal 3.

[0083] In step 102, the video progress change unit 44 judges whether or not the hint object 50 has been selected within the time of the branching phase, and if the judgment is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 106, whereas if the judgment is negative, the process proceeds to step 104. Whether or not the hint object 50 has been selected is judged depending on whether or not the server 4 has received progress change information from the mobile terminal 3.

[0084] In step 104, the video progress changing unit 44 outputs a video data delivery instruction to the video data delivery unit 42 so that the branching phase is loop-played on the mobile terminal 3, and the process returns to step 102. The video data delivery unit 42 transmits video data to the mobile terminal 3 according to the number of times of loop playback.

[0085] In step 106, the video progress changing unit 44 outputs to the video data delivery unit 42 an instruction to deliver video data in accordance with the hint object 50 selected by the user.

[0086] As described above, in the video progress change process according to this embodiment, a group 5 consisting of a plurality of mobile terminals 3 located in close proximity is registered, and video data is distributed to the plurality of mobile terminals 3 registered as the group 5. Then, the video progress change process changes the progress of the video displayed on the mobile terminal 3 in response to an input from the mobile terminal 3. In this way, the video progress change process according to this embodiment can encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0087] Moreover, in the video progression change process according to the present embodiment, a hint object 50 selectable by the user is included in the video, and the progress of the video is changed according to the user's selection of the hint object 50. Therefore, the video progression change process according to the present embodiment can encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other in order to inform the user of the hint object 50 that he or she selected, or to learn the hint object 50 that other users selected.

[0088] In addition, the video progress change process according to the present embodiment may change the progress of the video in response to the selection of the hint object 50 when the hint object 50 is selected in all of the mobile terminals 3 among the mobile terminals 3 registered in a group. This makes it necessary for other users who have already selected the hint object 50 to prompt users who have not selected the hint object 50 to make a selection. Therefore, the video progress change process can encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0089] In addition, in the video progress change process according to the present embodiment, when a plurality of hint objects 50 are displayed in a branch phase, the video progress is changed according to, for example, the earliest selected hint object 50. However, the present embodiment is not limited to this, and the video progress may be changed according to the hint object 50 selected by the most or least number of users in the group 5. That is, the video progress may be changed by majority or minority vote on the selection of the hint object 50. This requires the user to pay attention to the selection of other users when deciding on the hint object 50 that is thought to correspond to the branch that the user wants to watch. Therefore, the video progress change process can encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0090] Furthermore, in the case where there are multiple hint objects 50 selected by the user, for example, the hint object 50 decided by the users through discussion may be transmitted to the server 4 via the host terminal, and the video progress change process may change the progress of the video in accordance with the hint object 50 transmitted from the host terminal.

[0091] In addition, in the case where there are multiple hint objects 50 selected by the user, the video progress change process may randomly determine one hint object 50 from the multiple selected hint objects 50 and change the video progress according to the determined hint object 50.

[0092] In addition, the video progression change process may progress the video through a predetermined branch without looping the branch phase even if the user does not select the hint object 50 before the branch phase ends, or may progress the video by randomly determining a branch.

[0093] [2. Second embodiment] A second embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0094] The configurations of the moving image distribution system 1 and the server 4 according to this embodiment are similar to those of the moving image distribution system 1 and the server 4 according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0095] [2-1. Video Progress Change Processing According to the Present Embodiment] 8, in the group-registered mobile terminal 3 according to the present embodiment, a selection form 62A including a plurality of options 60 selectable by the user is displayed on the touch panel display 3a. The video progress changing unit 44 included in the server 4 changes the progress of the video according to the option 60 selected by the user via the selection form 62A.

[0096] In the video progress change process according to the present embodiment, when the progress of the video reaches a branching phase, as an example, the video is stopped and the selection form 62A is displayed on all mobile terminals 3 registered in the group. Then, the user selects one of the options 60 included in the selection form 62A. The mobile terminal 3 transmits information indicating the selected option 60 to the server 4 as progress change information.

[0097] When the server 4 receives progress change information indicating the option 60 selected by the user from all the mobile terminals 3, the video progress change unit 44 according to this embodiment changes the progress of the video according to the option 60 selected by the most users in the group 5. That is, the users bet on the option 60 they want to watch, and the progress of the video is determined by majority vote. This requires the users to pay attention to the selections of other users when deciding the option 60 they want to watch. Therefore, the video progress change process according to this embodiment can encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0098] The video progress changing unit 44 may change the progress of the video in accordance with the option 60 selected by the fewest users in the group 5. That is, the users decide the progress of the video by minority vote.

[0099] The time during which the selection form 62A is displayed in the branching phase (hereinafter referred to as the "form display time") may be preset, for example, to three minutes. The mobile terminal 3 of a user who has not selected an option 60 within the form display time may transmit progress change information indicating a randomly selected option 60 to the server 4. However, this is not limited to the above, and the form display time may not be set and the selection form 62A may be displayed until all users of the mobile terminals 3 have selected an option 60.

[0100] Also, the option 60 selected by the user may be changeable within the form display time or until the last user selects an option 60.

[0101] The user's selection process for the selection form 62A may be displayed on the other users' mobile terminals 3. For example, if a user selects option 60 "1", the number of the selected option 60 is displayed on the other users' mobile terminals 3 together with the user ID. Also, if a user selects option 60 "1" and then changes the selection to "2", the other users' mobile terminals 3 display the user ID and the change in the selection of option 60 from "1" to "2".

[0102] The selection form may be displayed multiple times while the video is playing. When the selection form is displayed multiple times, for example, the content of the options 60 will be different each time the selection form is displayed.

[0103] Furthermore, the server 4 may tally up the options 60 selected by users for each group 5. The tallying results may then be made viewable by users via the mobile terminal 3. For example, the server 4 may distribute statistics on the selection results (popularity of the options 60) of group 5 who have already finished watching the same video, and other users of group 5 may view the selection results to understand which options 60 are popular or less popular, and reflect this in their own selections.

[0104] Furthermore, the video progress change process may have a comment function for the options 60, allowing the user to input comments for the options 60. This allows other users in group 5 to refer to the comments and reflect them in their own selections.

[0105] [2-2. Flow of video progress change processing according to this embodiment] 9 is a flowchart showing the flow of a video progress change process according to this embodiment executed by the CPU 20 of the server 4. A program for executing the video progress change process is pre-stored in a predetermined area of ​​the HDD 26. The video progress change process is executed, for example, when the video reaches a branching phase.

[0106] First, in step 200 , the moving image progress changing unit 44 judges whether or not the playback of the moving image has reached a branching phase, and if the judgment is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 202 .

[0107] In step 202, the video progress changing unit 44 stops the progress of the video and causes the mobile terminal 3 to display the selection form 62A.

[0108] In step 204, the video progress change unit 44 determines whether or not progress change information indicating the option 60 selected by the user has been received from all mobile terminals 3, and if the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step 206, whereas if the determination is negative, the process enters a waiting state until progress change information has been received from all mobile terminals 3.

[0109] In step 206, the moving image progress changing unit 44 outputs a moving image data delivery instruction to the moving image data delivery unit 42 in order to progress the moving image corresponding to the option 60 selected most frequently.

[0110] As described above, the video progress change process according to this embodiment causes the mobile terminal 3 to display a selection form 62A including a plurality of options 60, and changes the progress of the video according to the option 60 selected by the user. This requires the user to pay attention to the selections of other users when deciding on the option 60 that the user wants to watch. This makes it possible for the video progress change process according to this embodiment to encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0111] [2-3. Other selection forms] Other configurations of the selection form 62A will be described below.

[0112] As shown in FIG. 10, when the playback of the video reaches a branching phase, the progress of the video stops, and a selection form 62B having a plurality of options 62 indicating correct and incorrect answers is displayed on some of the mobile terminals 3 registered in the group (FIG. 10(A)). On the other hand, on the other mobile terminals 3 (FIG. 10(B)), In (B) to (D)), a hint form 66 showing a hint 64 for deriving the correct answer is displayed. That is, the user selects an option 62 while referring to the hint 64 displayed on the mobile terminal 3 of another user, like a quiz. In this way, the video progress change process according to this embodiment can encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0113] Then, the video progress changing unit 44 changes the progress of the video in accordance with the option 62 selected by the user via the selection form 62B.

[0114] As an example, the hint 64 displayed on the other mobile terminals 3 is different for each mobile terminal 3. In other words, the users of the mobile terminals 3 registered in a group need to select the correct option 62 while showing each other the options 62 and hints 64 displayed on their mobile terminals 3.

[0115] Incidentally, having a different hint 64 for each mobile terminal 3 does not necessarily mean that the hint 64 is different for all mobile terminals 3, and the hint 64 may be the same for some mobile terminals 3. For example, when three hints 64 are prepared and there are five mobile terminals 3 registered in a group, one mobile terminal 3 displays the selection form 62B, and four mobile terminals 3 display the hint form 66, and two of these four display the same hint 64. Also, when three hints 64 are prepared and there are three mobile terminals 3 registered in a group, one of the two mobile terminals 3 displaying the hint form 66 displays two hints 64.

[0116] Furthermore, even if three hints 64 are provided, the number of hints 64 displayed on the mobile terminal 3 may increase each time an incorrect answer option 62 is selected, such that only two hints 64 are displayed the first time and three hints 64 are displayed the second time after an incorrect answer option 62 is selected.

[0117] Furthermore, when an incorrect answer option 62 is selected via the selection form 62B, the video progress changing unit 44 may change the progress of the video to a progress according to the selected option 62 even if it is an incorrect answer, and then progress the video to a branching phase that again displays the selection form 62B and the hint form 66. Note that this is not limited to this, and when an incorrect answer option 62 is selected, the video progress changing unit 44 may display in the selection form 62B that the answer is incorrect, and keep the progress of the video stopped until the user selects the correct answer option 62.

[0118] Furthermore, the video progress changing unit 44 according to the present embodiment may display the selection forms 62A, 62B and the hint form 66 on the mobile terminal 3 without stopping the video. In this case, the user selects the options 60, 62 while the video is progressing.

[0119] [3. Third embodiment] A third embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0120] The configurations of the video distribution system 1 and the server 4 according to this embodiment are similar to those of the video distribution system 1 and the server 4 according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and therefore will not be described.

[0121] [3-1. Server video distribution function] Fig. 11 is a functional block diagram relating to the video distribution function of the server 4 according to this embodiment. Note that the same components in Fig. 11 as those in Fig. 4 are given the same reference numerals as in Fig. 4, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0122] The CPU 20 of the server 4 according to this embodiment includes a group registration unit 40, a video data delivery unit 42, and a video progress change unit 44, as well as a communication state detection unit 46 and a communication state processing unit .

[0123] The communication state detection unit 46 detects the communication state of the user via the mobile terminal 3. The communication state is, for example, the sound of the audio-visual environment of the mobile terminal 3. That is, the mobile terminal 3 transmits sound information indicating the sound of the audio-visual environment input to the microphone 3c to the server 4. The mobile terminal 3 that detects the sound of the audio-visual environment is, for example, a host terminal. Then, the communication state detection unit 46 according to this embodiment detects the volume of the sound information as the communication state.

[0124] It should be noted that the microphone 3c may also receive the sound of the video being played. Therefore, the mobile terminal 3 may cancel the video sound from the sound information acquired by the microphone 3c by superimposing sound information that is in the opposite phase to the sound of the video on the sound information acquired by the microphone 3c. The mobile terminal 3 may also cancel not only the sound of the video but also noise around the mobile terminal 3. The noise may be, for example, the sound of a car running or the sound of a train.

[0125] The communication state processing unit 48 performs processing according to the communication state detected by the communication state detection unit 46 .

[0126] As an example, the communication state processing unit 48 according to the present embodiment changes the number of progresses selectable by the user (hereinafter referred to as the "selectable progress number") depending on the communication state. For example, the communication state processing unit 48 sets a threshold in advance and changes the selectable progress number depending on whether or not the value indicating the communication state is equal to or greater than this threshold. Specifically, when the volume detected by the communication state detection unit 46 is greater than a first threshold, the communication state processing unit 48 increases the selectable progress number, whereas when the volume is a second threshold that is less than the first threshold, the communication state processing unit 48 decreases the selectable progress number.

[0127] As an example, the selectable progress number is the above-mentioned hint object 50 or option 60. When this embodiment is applied to the first embodiment, the number of hint objects 50 displayed on the mobile terminal 3 increases or decreases. When this embodiment is applied to the second embodiment, the number of options 60 included in the selection form 62A increases or decreases. In addition, the quiz-style options 62 included in the selection form 62B may decrease when the volume is higher than a first threshold and increase when the volume is lower than a second threshold. In addition, the number of hints 64 displayed in the hint form 66 may increase or decrease.

[0128] The video data delivery unit 42 according to the present embodiment delivers to the mobile terminal 3 video data according to the change in the selectable progress number determined by the communication state processing unit 48.

[0129] [3-2. Communication status detection process flow] 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of the communication state detection process executed in the video progress change process. A program for executing the communication state detection process is stored in advance in a predetermined area of ​​the HDD 26. As an example, the communication state detection process is executed when the video reaches a branching phase.

[0130] First, in step 300 , the moving image progress changing unit 44 judges whether or not the playback of the moving image has reached a branching phase, and if the judgment is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 302 .

[0131] In step 302, the communication state detection unit 46 detects the volume of the audio-visual environment as the communication state. The communication state detection unit 46 detects the volume for a predetermined time (for example, one minute) after the branching phase is reached, for example.

[0132] In the next step 304, the communication state processing unit 48 determines whether or not the detected volume is equal to or greater than a first threshold value. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 306, and if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step 308.

[0133] In step 306, the communication state processing unit 48 increases or decreases the selectable progress number, and then ends the communication state detection process.

[0134] In step 308, the communication state processing unit 48 determines whether the detected volume is equal to or less than the second threshold value, and if the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 310, whereas if the determination is negative, the communication state detection process ends.

[0135] In step 310, the communication state processing unit 48 increases or decreases the selectable progress number, and then ends the communication state detection process. If the selectable progress number is increased in step 306, the selectable progress number is decreased in step 310. On the other hand, if the selectable progress number is decreased in step 306, the selectable progress number is increased in step 310.

[0136] If the determination is negative in step 304 and step 308, the detected volume exceeds the second threshold value and is less than the first threshold value, in which case the communication state detection process does not increase or decrease the selectable progress number.

[0137] As described above, the video progress change unit 44 in this embodiment detects the communication state of the user via the mobile terminal 3 and performs processing according to the detected communication state, thereby encouraging users to watch videos while communicating with each other.

[0138] Note that, although the communication state detection unit 46 in this embodiment detects the volume of the viewing environment, the present invention is not limited to this. The communication state detection unit 46 may detect the number of people conversing by receiving sound input from the microphone 3c of each mobile terminal 3, and may regard the number of people conversing as the communication state.

[0139] Furthermore, when the volume is equal to or less than the second threshold, the communication state processing unit 48 may notify the user (for example, display a message) to encourage the user to actively communicate with other users. Furthermore, when the volume is equal to or less than the second threshold, the communication state processing unit 48 may display the selection results of other groups 5 on the user's mobile terminal 3.

[0140] [4. Fourth embodiment] The fourth embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0141] The video progress change process according to this embodiment changes the progress of the video in response to information (hereinafter referred to as "terminal detection information") other than an input operation by a user on the mobile terminal 3. That is, the video progress change process according to this embodiment does not change the progress of the video in response to a user's selection, but automatically changes the progress of the video in response to terminal detection information.

[0142] The configurations of the video distribution system 1 and the server 4 according to this embodiment are similar to those of the video distribution system 1 and the server 4 according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and therefore will not be described.

[0143] [4-1. Server video distribution function] Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram relating to the video distribution function of the server 4 according to this embodiment. Note that the same components in Fig. 13 as those in Fig. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals as in Fig. 4, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0144] The CPU 20 of the server 4 according to this embodiment includes a group registration unit 40, a video data delivery unit 42, and a video progress change unit 44, as well as a terminal detection information acquisition unit 49.

[0145] The terminal detection information acquisition unit 49 acquires the terminal detection information transmitted from the mobile terminal 3 via the external interface 32 .

[0146] The terminal detection information is information indicating the environment in which the user watches videos on the mobile terminal 3 (hereinafter referred to as the "viewing environment"), and is, for example, sensor information detected by various sensors equipped in the mobile terminal 3, time information indicating the time kept by the mobile terminal 3, etc. The terminal detection information is, for example, transmitted from the host terminal to the server 4.

[0147] The sensor information is, for example, location information acquired by a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor, in other words, location information indicating the location where the group 5 is located. The sensor information may also be brightness information acquired by the camera 3d, in other words, brightness information of the location where the group 5 is located. Furthermore, the sensor information may also be posture information of the mobile terminal 3 acquired by an acceleration sensor, sound information input to the microphone 3c, etc.

[0148] The terminal detection information acquisition unit 49 may also acquire other information based on the terminal detection information. For example, the terminal detection information acquisition unit 49 acquires the sunrise time and the sunset time at the position of the mobile terminal 3 from the position information, and acquires the weather at the location where the mobile terminal 3 is located.

[0149] The video progress changing unit 44 changes the progress of the video displayed on the mobile terminal 3 in accordance with the terminal detection information. As a specific example, when the progress of the video reaches a branching phase, the video progress changing unit 44 changes the progress of the video in accordance with location information or time (sunrise time or sunset time), or changes the progress of the video when brightness information is equal to or greater than a predetermined brightness or less than a predetermined brightness.

[0150] In this way, the video progress changing unit 44 according to the present embodiment changes the progress of the video in response to the terminal detection information. More specifically, when the terminal detection information is a predetermined value (predetermined range), the video progress changing unit 44 may change the progress of the video to one that is viewable only in this case.

[0151] [4-2. Flow of video progress change processing according to this embodiment] 14 is a flowchart showing the flow of a video progress change process according to this embodiment executed by the CPU 20 of the server 4. A program for executing the video progress change process is pre-stored in a predetermined area of ​​the HDD 26. The video progress change process is executed, for example, when the video reaches a branching phase.

[0152] First, in step 400 , the moving image progress changing unit 44 judges whether or not the playback of the moving image has reached a branching phase, and if the judgment is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 402 .

[0153] In step 402, the terminal detection information acquisition unit 49 acquires terminal detection information transmitted from the mobile terminal 3 via the external interface 32. The terminal detection information acquired in step 402 is determined in advance according to the branch phase.

[0154] In the next step 404, the video progress change unit 44 determines whether the terminal detection information acquired in step 402 is a predetermined value (predetermined range) or not, and if the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step 406, and if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step 408.

[0155] In step 406, in order to progress the video in accordance with the terminal detection information, the video progress changing unit 44 outputs a video data delivery instruction to the video data delivery unit 42, and the video progress changing process ends.

[0156] In step 408, in order to progress the predetermined video, the video progress change unit 44 outputs a video data delivery instruction to the video data delivery unit 42, and ends the video progress change process. Note that the predetermined video is a video that can be viewed regardless of the terminal detection information.

[0157] As described above, the video progress changing unit 44 according to the present embodiment changes the progress of the video in response to information other than the user's input operation on the mobile terminal 3. This allows the user to decide the video viewing environment in consultation with other users. Therefore, the video progress changing unit 44 according to the present embodiment can encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0158] In the above embodiment, a form in which the progress of the video is automatically changed in response to terminal detection information has been described, but this is not limited to the above, and the number of options 60, 62 included in selection forms 62A, 62B and the number of hints 64 included in hint form 66 may be increased or decreased in response to terminal detection information.

[0159] 5. Other embodiments The present invention has been described above using the above-mentioned embodiments, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above-mentioned embodiments. Various modifications or improvements can be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the gist of the invention, and the forms in which such modifications or improvements are made are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. In addition, the above-mentioned embodiments may be appropriately combined.

[0160] For example, when the progression of the video reaches a branching phase, a game image for the user to play a game may be displayed on the mobile terminal 3, and the video progression change unit 44 may change the progression of the video depending on the result of the game played by the user.

[0161] As a result, the progress of the video being played on the mobile terminals 3 registered in the group changes depending on the game results of the user or other users. Therefore, the video progress change process according to this embodiment can encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0162] The mobile terminal 3 on which the game image is displayed may be, for example, only the host terminal and only the user of the host terminal may play the game, or the game image may be displayed on all mobile terminals 3 and all users may play the game. When the game image is displayed on all mobile terminals 3, the video image progress change unit 44 may, for example, change the progress of the video when the result of the game on any one mobile terminal 3 satisfies a predetermined condition, may change the progress of the video when the result of the game on all mobile terminals 3 satisfies a predetermined condition, or may change the progress of the video when the average value of the game results on all mobile terminals 3 satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0163] Furthermore, the progression of the animation may change depending on the result of the game. For example, when all users play the game, the progression of the animation changes depending on the best result, the worst result, or the average result.

[0164] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the video progress changing unit 44 changes the progress of the video in the same manner on all of the group-registered mobile terminals 3, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the video progress changing unit 44 may change the video so that the progress differs on some of the group-registered mobile terminals 3.

[0165] This allows a user to watch the video played on his / her own mobile terminal 3 while comparing the progress of the video played on another user's mobile terminal 3. Therefore, the video progress change process according to this embodiment can encourage users to watch the video while communicating with each other.

[0166] Furthermore, the video progress changing unit 44 makes the ending of the video the same on all mobile terminals 3 even if the progress of the video differs midway on some of the mobile terminals 3.

[0167] This allows a user to watch a video with the same ending while comparing the progress of the video played on another user's mobile terminal 3. Therefore, the video progress change process according to this embodiment can encourage users to watch videos while communicating with each other.

[0168] Furthermore, a part of the processing performed by the server 4 in each of the above embodiments may be performed by the mobile terminal 3 to which the video is distributed.

[0169] In addition, the various processing flows described in each flow explained in each of the above embodiments are also examples, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be rearranged within the scope that does not deviate from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0170] 3. Mobile terminals (information processing terminals) 4 Server (information processing device) 5. Group 40 Group registration section (group registration means) 42 Video data distribution unit (video data distribution means) 44 Video progression change unit (progress change means) 46 Communication state detection unit (state detection means) 48 Communication state processing unit (state processing means) 50 Hint Object (Object)

Claims

1. An information processing device that distributes video data to a plurality of information processing terminals, A group registration means for accepting registration of a group consisting of a plurality of information processing terminals located in close proximity; a video data distribution means for distributing the video data to the plurality of information processing terminals registered as the group; and a progress changing means for changing the progress of the moving image displayed on the information processing terminal in response to an input from the information processing terminal.

2. the animation includes objects selectable by a user; 2 . The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the progress changing means changes the progress of the video in response to a user's selection of the object.

3. 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said progress change means causes said information processing terminal to repeatedly display a predetermined period of said video until said object is selected by a user.

4. 4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the progress change means causes the information processing terminal to display, as the repeatedly displayed moving image, a moving image that prompts the user to select the object.

5. 5 . The information processing apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the progress change means causes some of the information processing terminals registered as the group to display the moving image that prompts the user to select the object.

6. 6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the progress change means increases the number of the information processing terminals displaying the animation prompting the user to select the object each time the number of repetitions of the animation increases.

7. 7. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the progress change means changes the progress of the video in accordance with the selection of the object when the object is selected on at least one of the information processing terminals registered as the group.

8. 7. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the progress change means changes the progress of the video in response to the selection of the object when the object is selected on all of the information processing terminals registered as the group.

9. 9. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein, when a plurality of the objects are displayed, the progress change means changes the progress of the video depending on the object selected by the most or least number of users in the group.

10. A plurality of options that can be selected by the user are displayed on the information processing terminal, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the progress changing means changes the progress of the video in accordance with the option selected by the user.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10 , wherein the progress changing means changes the progress of the video in accordance with the option selected by the largest or smallest number of users in the group.

12. A plurality of options indicating correct and incorrect answers are displayed on some of the information processing terminals registered as the group, A hint for deriving the correct answer is displayed on the other information processing terminals registered as the group. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the progress changing means changes the progress of the video in accordance with the option selected by the user.

13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 12 , wherein the hint is different for each of the information processing terminals on which the hint is displayed.

14. A detection means for detecting a communication state of a user via the information processing terminal; 14. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a state processing unit that performs processing in accordance with the communication state detected by the detection unit.

15. The information processing device according to claim 14 , wherein the communication state is a sound in an audio-visual environment of the information processing terminal.

16. 16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the state processing means changes a number of steps selectable by the user according to the communication state.

17. 17. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the progress changing means changes the progress of the video in response to information other than an input operation by a user to the information processing terminal.

18. 18. The information processing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the information other than the input operation is information indicating an environment in which the user watches the video on the information processing terminal.

19. the information processing terminal displays a game image for a user to play a game; 19. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the progress changing means changes the progress of the video image in accordance with a result of the game played by the user.

20. 20. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the progress changing means changes the progress of the video in the same manner in all of the information processing terminals registered as the group.

21. 21. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the progress changing means changes the video so that the progress differs in some of the information processing terminals registered as the group.

22. 22. The information processing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein said progress changing means makes the ending of said video the same for all of said information processing terminals even if the progress of said video differs midway in some of said information processing terminals.

23. 23. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the group registration means acquires location information of the information processing terminal via the information processing terminal, and registers a plurality of the information processing terminals within a predetermined range as the close distance as a group.

24. A video distribution method for distributing video data to a plurality of information processing terminals, comprising the steps of: A first step of accepting registration of a group consisting of a plurality of information processing terminals located in close proximity; a second step of distributing the video data to a plurality of information processing terminals registered as the group; and a third step of changing the progress of the video displayed on the information processing terminal in response to an input from the information processing terminal.

25. Computer, A group registration means for accepting registration of a group consisting of a plurality of information processing terminals located in close proximity; a video data distribution means for distributing video data to the plurality of information processing terminals registered as the group; A program for causing the information processing terminal to function as a progress changing means for changing the progress of the moving image displayed on the information processing terminal in response to an input from the information processing terminal.

Images