Information processing device, control program, and information processing method

Abstract

To encourage users to view videos for long hours.SOLUTION: An information processing device includes a video transmission unit and a prediction information disclosure unit. The video transmission unit transmits a video about a competition to a user terminal that reproduces the video. The prediction information disclosure unit discloses, to the user terminal, prediction information including information about predictions for a result of the competition associated with the video according to a reproduction time during which the user terminal has reproduced the video.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] In recent years, information processing devices that share information about publicly managed races have been developed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an information processing device that can judge the reliability of a forecaster's forecast based on an image of an item corresponding to the accuracy of the forecast. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2010-160612 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Meanwhile, those who transmit videos related to publicly managed races to user terminals have a need to increase users' interest in the videos and encourage them to watch for long periods of time, but it has been difficult for users to obtain incentives for watching the videos.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, a control program, and an information processing method that allow a user to watch moving images for long periods of time. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to the present invention, there is provided an information processing device comprising a video transmission unit and a prediction information disclosure unit, wherein the video transmission unit transmits a video relating to a competition to a user terminal that plays the video, and the prediction information disclosure unit discloses prediction information to the user terminal, the prediction information including information about a prediction for the outcome of a competition associated with the video, according to the playback time of the video on the user terminal.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, the prediction information is provided to the user terminal according to the playback time of the video on the user terminal. The user of the user terminal watches the video for a longer period of time in order to obtain the prediction information. This allows the information processing device to allow the user to watch the video for a longer period of time. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of a forecast information management system 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the user terminal 10. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the server 20. [Figure 4] 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control unit 21 according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 5] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing examples of predicted information. [Figure 6] 1 is a flow chart showing the processing flow of the prediction information management system 1. FIG. [Figure 7] Fig. 7A is a diagram showing the operation of the forecast information management system 1 on a time axis, and Fig. 7B is a diagram showing the operation of the forecast information management system 1 on a time axis. [Figure 8] 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a touch panel display 14. FIG. [Figure 9] 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a touch panel display 14. FIG. [Figure 10] 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a touch panel display 14. FIG. [Figure 11] 1 is a flow chart showing the processing flow of the prediction information management system 1. FIG. [Figure 12] 1 is a diagram showing the operation of the forecast information management system 1 on a time axis. [Figure 13] 1 is a flow chart showing the processing flow of the prediction information management system 1. FIG. [Figure 14]4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a touch panel display 14. FIG. [Figure 15] 1 is a flow chart showing the processing flow of the prediction information management system 1. FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control unit 21 according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 17] 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a touch panel display 14. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, several embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Various features shown in the following embodiments can be combined with each other. Also, each feature can be an invention independently.

[0010] <1. First embodiment> (1-1. Overview of Forecast Information Management System 1) A prediction information management system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes one or more user terminals 10 and a server 20. The user terminal 10 is an example of an information processing device. The server 20 is an example of an information processing device.

[0011] The user terminal 10 plays the video and outputs the disclosed prediction information. The prediction information will be described later. The user terminal 10 is configured to be able to communicate with the server 20 via the communication line 5. The server 20 manages the prediction information and discloses it to the user terminal 10.

[0012] The server 20 transmits videos related to the competition to the user terminal 10. Here, the competition means a competition in which spectators predict and vote for the results of a race in which competitors, race vehicles including bicycles, boats, and motorcycles, race horses, or competition teams participate, but is not limited to this. The competition may be, for example, bicycle racing, auto racing, horse racing, boat racing, soccer, tennis, or electronic sports. A user of the user terminal 10 can predict the results of the competition and operate the user terminal 10 to cast a vote in the public competition on the server 20. In the following, the "video related to the competition" may be abbreviated to "video". Examples of the video include a video in which a person who predicts the results of the competition appears and shows the prediction, and a video that distributes the race video of the competition.

[0013] The user U can watch the video by operating the user terminal 10 to play the video. The server 20 discloses prediction information to the user terminal 10 according to the playback time of the video played on the user terminal 10. Hereinafter, the "playback time of the video played on the user terminal 10" may be abbreviated to "playback time". The prediction information is information that includes a prediction for the outcome of a competition associated with the video. A detailed aspect of the prediction information will be described later.

[0014] The server 20 discloses the predicted information to the user terminal 10 according to the playback time. The user terminal 10 outputs the disclosed predicted information. The user U can recognize the predicted information output to the user terminal 10. The user U will watch the video for a long time in order to obtain the predicted information.

[0015] (1-2. Hardware configuration of forecast information management system 1) The hardware configuration of the forecast information management system 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0016] (1-2-1. Hardware configuration of user terminal 10) 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a user terminal 10 according to this embodiment. The user terminal 10 is an information processing terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal, and includes a touch panel display 14 capable of displaying images and receiving operations, a speaker 15 for outputting sound, a microphone 16 for inputting sound, and a camera 17 for capturing an image of a subject, as well as a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a communication unit 13, and an operation button 18.

[0017] The control unit 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and controls the overall operation of the user terminal 10.

[0018] A part of the storage unit 12 is composed of, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), and is used as a work area when the control unit 11 executes processes based on various programs. In addition, a part of the storage unit 12 is, for example, a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and stores various data such as images and programs used in the processing of the control unit 11.

[0019] The programs stored in the memory unit 12 include, for example, an OS (Operating System) for realizing the basic functions of the user terminal 10, drivers for controlling various hardware, programs for realizing e-mail, web browsing, video playback, and various other functions, and include the computer program related to this embodiment.

[0020] The communication unit 13 is, for example, a network interface controller (NIC), and has a function of connecting to the communication line 5. Note that the communication unit 13 may have, instead of or together with the NIC, a function of connecting to a wireless local area network (LAN), a function of connecting to a wireless wide area network (WAN), and a function of enabling short-distance wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), infrared communication, and the like.

[0021] The operation buttons 18 are provided on the side of the user terminal 10, and include a power button for starting and stopping the user terminal 10, a volume adjustment button for the sound output by the speaker 15, and the like.

[0022] The control unit 11, memory unit 12, communication unit 13, touch panel display 14, speaker 15, microphone 16, camera 17, and operation buttons 18 are electrically connected to one another via a system bus 19. Therefore, the control unit 11 can access the memory unit 12, display images on the touch panel display 14, grasp the operation state of the touch panel display 14 and the operation buttons 18 by the user, input sound to the microphone 16, output sound from the speaker 15, control the camera 17, and access various communication networks and other information processing devices via the communication unit 13.

[0023] (1-2-2. Hardware configuration of server 20) 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the server 20 according to this embodiment. The server 20 includes a control unit 21 that controls the overall operation of the server 20, and a storage unit 22 that is used as a work area when the control unit 21 executes various programs and in which various programs and various data are stored in advance. The following description will focus on the differences from the user terminal 10.

[0024] The server 20 is connected to other information processing devices such as the user terminal 10 via the communication line 5 and includes a communication unit 24 for transmitting and receiving various data to and from the other information processing devices. The server 20 may also include an operation input unit 25 configured with a keyboard, mouse, etc., for receiving input for various operations, and a monitor 26 such as a liquid crystal display device for displaying various images.

[0025] The control unit 21 , the storage unit 22 , the communication unit 24 , the operation input unit 25 , and the monitor 26 are electrically connected to one another via a system bus 27 .

[0026] (1-3. Functional configuration of the control unit 21) The functions of the control unit 21 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. As shown in Fig. 4, the control unit 21 of the server 20 has functions as a moving image transmitting unit 21a, a predicted information disclosing unit 21b, and a receiving unit 21c.

[0027] The video transmission unit 21a transmits the video to the user terminal 10. Examples of the manner in which the video transmission unit 21a transmits the video to the user terminal 10 include a method of transmitting a video that has been recorded in advance and stored in the storage unit 22 (hereinafter, this may be referred to as non-live distribution) and a method of transmitting a video in real time (hereinafter, this may be referred to as live distribution). When the video transmission unit 21a transmits a video by live distribution, the user U can experience a higher sense of realism. Examples of the method in which the video transmission unit 21a transmits a video to the user terminal 10 include streaming and downloading.

[0028] The predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses predicted information to the user terminal 10 according to the playback time. Specifically, when the playback time is equal to or longer than a first predetermined time, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses first predicted information to the user terminal 10 as predicted information. An example of the first predetermined time is a time set in advance by an administrator of the server 20. The same first predetermined time may be set for all users U or user terminals 10, or different first predetermined times may be set for each attribute of the user U or each attribute of the user terminal 10.

[0029] The predicted information is information including a prediction for the outcome of a competition associated with a video. Examples of predicted information include information that combines information indicating competing bodies such as people (such as athletes) or objects (such as bicycles, boats, motorcycles, or race horses) participating in the competition. Information including a prediction for the outcome of a competition is, for example, information including a prediction for the finishing order in a race in which the finishing order is competed for, or information including a prediction for the outcome and / or the score in a match in which the points are competed for. The first predicted information refers to one piece of predicted information or a collection of multiple pieces of predicted information.

[0030] The "playback time" may be measured by various methods, but may be, for example, measured at the user terminal 10 based on playback at the user terminal 10 and appropriately transmitted to the server 20. Alternatively, it may be measured and recorded based on a history of the server 20 transmitting videos (particularly, streaming distribution) in response to a request from the user terminal 10.

[0031] With reference to FIG. 5, as an example, prediction information as information including predictions regarding the finishing order in a race in which the finishing order is competed will be described. FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B show an example of prediction information displayed on the user terminal 10. The racer N shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B is information indicating a person or thing participating in the race. For example, if the race is a bicycle race, the racer N is information indicating an athlete participating in the race. In this case, the racer N1 indicates the athlete number "1" who participated in the race. Also, the racer N2 indicates the athlete number "5" who participated in the race. Also, the racer N3 indicates the athlete number "9" who participated in the race. For example, if the race is a horse race, the racer N is information indicating a racehorse participating in the race. In this case, the racer N4 indicates the racehorse number "2" who participated in the race. The racer N5 indicates the racehorse number "4" who participated in the race. Note that the information indicating a person or thing participating in the race is not limited to numbers, and may be letters or a combination of letters and numbers.

[0032] Method S and method T shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B indicate combination methods. Method S in FIG. 5A indicates a combination related to the order of finish. For example, method S1 indicates that the order of finish is from competitor N1 to competitor N2. Method S2 indicates that the order of finish is from competitor N2 to competitor N3. Method T in FIG. 5B indicates a combination indicating arrival within a certain rank. For example, method T indicates arrival within the third place of competitor N4 and competitor N5.

[0033] The prediction information may include the probability that the prediction matches the result of the competition. The prediction information may include the ratio between the amount of the user's bet and the amount the user can win if the prediction matches the result of the competition. The prediction information may include odds (payout rate). The payout rate refers to the ratio of the payout to the user U if the prediction matches the result of the competition. The prediction information may include the amount of the bet made by the person who made the prediction for each finishing order.

[0034] A collection of multiple pieces of forecast information is referred to as “one set of forecast information.” A specific example of one set of forecast information will be described below.

[0035] An example of one set of predicted information is a plurality of pieces of predicted information that the predicted information disclosure unit 21b can disclose to the user terminal 10 at most for each date and time of the race and each location of the race. For example, assume that the maximum number of pieces of predicted information that the predicted information disclosure unit 21b can disclose to the user terminal 10 for a race to be held at 11:00 on March 1, 2021 at Velodrome A is three. In this case, a collection of three pieces of predicted information constitutes one set of predicted information.

[0036] An example of one set of predicted information is a maximum of multiple pieces of predicted information that the predicted information disclosure unit 21b can disclose to the user terminal 10 for each date and time of the race, the place where the race is held, and the dodger. For example, for a single race to be held at 13:00 on April 1, 2021 at Velodrome B, the number of pieces of predicted information predicted by dodger A that the predicted information disclosure unit 21b can disclose to the user terminal 10 is two. In this case, a collection of two pieces of predicted information constitutes one set of predicted information.

[0037] In addition, one set of prediction information may be a plurality of pieces of prediction information that the prediction information disclosure unit 21b can maximally disclose to the user terminal 10 for each date and time when the competition is held, the place where the competition is held, and the video. In addition, one set of prediction information may be a plurality of pieces of prediction information that the prediction information disclosure unit 21b can maximally disclose to the user terminal 10 for each period when the competition is held and the place where the competition is held. In addition, one set of prediction information may be a plurality of pieces of prediction information that the prediction information disclosure unit 21b can maximally disclose to the user terminal 10 for each period when the competition is held, the place where the competition is held, and the person who makes the prediction. In addition, one set of prediction information may be a plurality of pieces of prediction information that the prediction information disclosure unit 21b can maximally disclose to the user terminal 10 for each period when the competition is held, the place where the competition is held, and the video.

[0038] An example of a mode in which the predicted information disclosing unit 21b discloses the predicted information is to transmit the predicted information to the user terminal 10, etc.

[0039] The user terminal 10 to which the predicted information has been disclosed outputs the predicted information. Examples of the manner in which the user terminal 10 outputs the predicted information include displaying the predicted information on the touch panel display 14 and emitting a sound corresponding to the predicted information from the speaker 15.

[0040] As described above, when the playback time is equal to or longer than the first predetermined time, the predicted information disclosing unit 21b gives an incentive (first predicted information) to the user terminal 10. In order to obtain the first predicted information, the user U will watch the video for equal to or longer than the first predetermined time.

[0041] Furthermore, when the playback time is equal to or longer than the second predetermined time, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the second predicted information to the user terminal 10 as predicted information. The second predetermined time is longer than the first predetermined time. An example of the second predetermined time is a time set in advance by an administrator of the server 20. The same second predetermined time may be set for all users U or user terminals 10, or different second predetermined times may be set for each attribute of the user U or each attribute of the user terminal 10. The second predicted information refers to one piece of predicted information or a collection of multiple pieces of predicted information.

[0042] When the playback time is equal to or longer than the second predetermined time, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b provides a further incentive (second predicted information) to the user terminal 10. The user U is motivated to watch the video for the second predetermined time or longer in order to obtain the second predicted information, even after watching for the first predetermined time or longer. Here, the second predicted information is predicted information that includes new information that was not included in the first predicted information.

[0043] It is assumed that one set of prediction information is disclosed by the prediction information disclosure unit 21b disclosing the second prediction information to the user terminal 10. Also, one set of prediction information is a plurality of pieces of prediction information that can be disclosed at most to the user terminal 10 for each date and time of the competition, the place where the competition will be held, and each dodger. By disclosing one set of prediction information, the user U who uses the user terminal 10 can know the whole picture of the dodger's predictions, and can refer to it when casting a vote.

[0044] The reception unit 21c receives, from the user terminal 10, votes for possible competition results in a competition in which multiple athletes participate. Examples of vote reception by the reception unit 21c include reception of information indicating the amount of a vote for a competition, and reception of information specifying the finishing order (rank) of athletes participating in a competition. The user U operates the user terminal 10 to input the amount of a vote for a competition. The user terminal 10, which receives the inputted amount of a vote, transmits information indicating the amount of the vote to the server 20. The reception unit 21c receives the transmitted information indicating the amount of the vote.

[0045] The above-mentioned functions may be realized by software or hardware that is appropriately installed in the server 20. When realized by software, the various functions can be realized by the control unit 41 executing a program that constitutes the software.

[0046] When the function is realized by executing a program, the program may be stored in the storage unit 22 built into the server 20, or may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. The function may also be realized by reading out a program stored in an external storage device, so-called cloud computing. When the function is realized by hardware, it may be realized by various circuits such as ASIC, SOC, FPGA, or DRP. The above-mentioned functional configuration may be partially processed by the server 20 using software or hardware.

[0047] All or some of the above-described functions may be realized by the user terminal 10. The processing mode of the above-described functions may be either batch processing or real-time processing.

[0048] (1-4. Processing flow of forecast information management system 1) With reference to Fig. 6, the flow of the process (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "disclosure process") in which the prediction information management system 1 discloses prediction information will be described. The disclosure process is started when the user U operates the user terminal 10 to start playing a video. For example, assume that the user U operates the user terminal 10 to start playing a video. The user terminal 10 requests the server 20 to transmit the video. The video transmission unit 21a transmits the video to the user terminal 10. The disclosure process is also started.

[0049] In step S101, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b determines whether the playback time of the video is equal to or longer than a first predetermined time. If the playback time is equal to or longer than the first predetermined time (S101: YES), the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the first predicted information to the user terminal 10 (step S102).

[0050] On the other hand, if the playback time is not equal to or longer than the first predetermined time (S101: NO), the predicted information disclosure unit 21b judges whether playback of the video has ended on the user terminal 10. The predicted information disclosure unit 21b also judges whether the current time is after the deadline for accepting votes (S103). In the following, the deadline for accepting votes may be abbreviated to "deadline". An example of the deadline is the time at which the acceptance unit 21c does not accept votes from the user terminal 10. The deadline is set in advance by an administrator of the server 20, etc.

[0051] In S103, if the prediction information disclosure unit 21b determines that the playback of the video has ended, or if the prediction information disclosure unit 21b determines that the current time is after the deadline (S103: YES), the process of disclosing the prediction information ends.

[0052] On the other hand, in S103, if the predicted information disclosure unit 21b determines that the playback of the video has not finished and also determines that the current time is not after the deadline time (S103: NO), the predicted information disclosure unit 21b again determines whether the playback time is equal to or longer than the first predetermined time (S101).

[0053] After the first predicted information is disclosed by the predicted information disclosure unit 21b (S102), the predicted information disclosure unit 21b judges whether the playback time is equal to or longer than the second predetermined time (S104). If it is judged that the playback time is equal to or longer than the second predetermined time (S104: YES), the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the second predicted information to the user terminal 10 (S105).

[0054] On the other hand, if the playback time is not equal to or longer than the second predetermined time (S104: NO), the expected information disclosure unit 21b determines whether or not playback of the video has ended in the user terminal 10. In addition, the expected information disclosure unit 21b determines whether or not the current time is after the deadline time (S106).

[0055] In S106, if the predicted information disclosure unit 21b determines that the playback of the video has ended, or if the predicted information disclosure unit 21b determines that the current time is after the deadline (S106: YES), the process of disclosing the predicted information ends.

[0056] On the other hand, in S106, if the predicted information disclosure unit 21b determines that the playback of the video has not finished and also determines that the current time is not after the deadline time (S106: NO), the predicted information disclosure unit 21b again determines whether the playback time is equal to or longer than the second predetermined time (S104).

[0057] The judgment of the forecast information disclosure unit 21b in S101, S103, S104, and S106 may be either real-time processing or batch processing. When the forecast information disclosure unit 21b operates by real-time processing, the forecast information can be promptly disclosed to the user terminal 10. Furthermore, when the forecast information disclosure unit 21b operates by batch processing, the processing load of the server 20 can be reduced compared to when the forecast information disclosure unit 21b operates by real-time processing.

[0058] In addition, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b may not judge whether the current time is after the deadline in the operation of S103 or S106. In this case, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b judges whether the playback of the operation has ended in the user terminal 10 in the operation of S103 or S106. In addition, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b may judge whether the current time is after a predetermined time in the operation of S103 or S106. An example of the predetermined time is a time obtained by calculating a predetermined time at the deadline.

[0059] (1-5. Use Cases) Use cases of the forecast information management system 1 will be described below with reference to Figs. 6 to 10. Figs. 7A and 7B are diagrams showing the operation of the forecast information management system 1 on a time axis. In the following, the use case of Fig. 7A will be referred to as "use case 1". In the following, the use case of Fig. 7B will be referred to as "use case 2".

[0060] (1-5-1. Use case 1) Use case 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 7A. Assume that the user terminal 10 plays a video from time t1 to time t3. The playback time of the video as a result is time h1. Assume that the user terminal 10 does not play a video from time t3 to time t4. Assume that the user terminal 10 further plays a video from time t4 to time t6. As a result, the playback time of the video becomes the sum of time h1, time h2, and time h3.

[0061] At time t1, playback of the video starts. As a result, the video is displayed in a predetermined area D of touch panel display 14, as shown in Fig. 8. Also, a disclosure process starts.

[0062] The predicted information disclosing unit 21b judges whether the playback time is equal to or longer than the first predetermined time (S101). If the first predetermined time is equal to the time from time t1 to time t2, the playback time is not equal to or longer than the first predetermined time until time t2 is reached, so the predicted information disclosing unit 21b repeats the operations of S101 and S103. Prediction information such as the first predicted information is not disclosed on the screen displayed by the touch panel display 14 (at least, it is not displayed so that the contents of the prediction can be confirmed).

[0063] In the case where a video is continuously played from time t1 to time t3 in the user terminal 10, the playback time from time t1 to time t2 becomes equal to or longer than the first predetermined time when time t2 has passed. After time t2, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b can determine that the playback time is equal to or longer than the first predetermined time (S101: YES). As a result, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the first predicted information to the user terminal 10 (S102).

[0064] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed by the touch panel display 14. As shown in FIG. 9, the first predicted information is displayed in an area P1 below the predetermined area D. The area P2 is an area where the user U can input the amount of the vote. When the user U inputs the amount of the vote in the area P2, the user terminal 10 accepts the amount of the vote. The user terminal 10 transmits to the server 20 information indicating the amount of the vote and information associating the predicted information with the person who predicted the predicted information. The reception unit 21c accepts the transmitted information indicating the amount of the vote and information associating the predicted information with the person who predicted the predicted information. In this way, the reception unit 21c accepts votes from the user U based on the first predicted information.

[0065] After disclosing the first predicted information (S102), the predicted information disclosing unit 21b determines whether the playback time is equal to or longer than a second predetermined time (S104).

[0066] Since playback continues on the user terminal 10 even after time t2 has passed, the playback time is added up until time t3, and at time t3 the playback time is time h1 (=t3-t1). From time t3 to time t4, since playback is interrupted at time t3, no addition is made to the playback time, which remains at time h1.

[0067] When the playback of the video resumes from time t4, the addition of the playback time also resumes. If the playback of the video continues from time t4 to time t5, the playback time is the time h1 plus the time h2 (=t5-t4). If the playback time obtained by adding the time h1 and the time h2 is the same value as the second predetermined time, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b can determine that the playback time is equal to or longer than the second predetermined time h2a after time t5 (S104: YES). As a result, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the second predicted information to the user terminal 10 (S105). Since the playback time is not equal to or longer than the second predetermined time until time t5 is reached, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b repeats the operations of S104 and S106.

[0068] 7A, the playback of the video continues even after time t5, and continues until time t6. As a result, at time t6, the playback time is h1+h2+h3, which includes the time h3 (=t6-t5).

[0069] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed by the touch panel display 14. As shown in FIG. 10, the second prediction information is displayed in an area P3 below the predetermined area D. The area P4 is an area where the user U can input the amount of the vote. When the user U inputs the amount of the vote in the area P3, the user terminal 10 transmits to the server 20 information indicating the amount of the vote and information associating the prediction information with the person who predicted the prediction information. The reception unit 21c receives the transmitted information indicating the amount of the vote and information associating the prediction information with the person who predicted the prediction information. In this way, the reception unit 21c receives a vote from the user U based on the second prediction information.

[0070] (1-5-2. Use case 2) Use case 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 7B. Assume that the user terminal 10 plays a video continuously from time t7 to time t12. As a result, the playback time of the video is the sum of time h4, time h5, and time h6. Also, assume that time t10 is the deadline for voting. Use case 2 differs from use case 1 in that there is a deadline.

[0071] At time t7, playback of the video starts. As a result, the video is displayed in a predetermined area D of touch panel display 14, as shown in Fig. 8. Also, a disclosure process starts.

[0072] The predicted information disclosure unit 21b judges whether the playback time is equal to or longer than the first predetermined time (S101). If the first predetermined time is equal to the time from time t7 to time t8, the playback time is not equal to or longer than the first predetermined time until time t8 is reached, so the predicted information disclosure unit 21b repeats the operations of S101 and S103.

[0073] In the case where the video is continuously played from time t7 to time t9 in the user terminal 10, the playback time from time t7 to time t8 becomes equal to or longer than the first predetermined time when time t8 has passed. After time t8, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b can determine that the playback time is equal to or longer than the first predetermined time (S101: YES). As a result, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the first predicted information to the user terminal 10 (S102). As shown in FIG. 9, the first predicted information is displayed in an area P1 below the predetermined area D.

[0074] After disclosing the first predicted information (S102), the predicted information disclosing unit 21b determines whether the playback time is equal to or longer than a second predetermined time (S104).

[0075] If the video continues to be played after time t9 and is played to time t11, the playback time is the sum of time h4 and time h5 (=t11-t9). If the playback time obtained by adding time h4 and time h5 is equal to the second predetermined time, the playback time will not be equal to or longer than the second predetermined time until time t11 is reached, so that the predicted information disclosure unit 21b repeats the operations of S104 and S106.

[0076] However, the deadline t10 is reached before the time t11 is reached. Therefore, the forecast information disclosure unit 21b ends the disclosure process after the time t10 without disclosing the second forecast information (S106: YES).

[0077] As described above, in use case 1, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the first predicted information and the second predicted information to the user terminal 10. However, in use case 2, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the first predicted information but does not disclose the second predicted information. This is because the deadline time t10 is reached before the second predetermined time is reached.

[0078] (1-6. Modifications) The prediction information disclosure unit 21b may divide one set of prediction information into a plurality of stages and disclose it to the user terminal 10. For example, the prediction information disclosure unit 21b divides one set of prediction information into five stages and discloses it to the user terminal 10. One set of prediction information is a collection of five pieces of prediction information. The respective stages correspond to a predetermined time T1, a predetermined time T2, a predetermined time T3, a predetermined time T4, and a predetermined time T5. Here, it is assumed that the time increases from the predetermined time T1 to the predetermined time T5.

[0079] In this case, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses one piece of predicted information to the user terminal 10 when the playback time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time T1. Moreover, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses another piece of predicted information to the user terminal 10 when the playback time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time T2. Moreover, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses another piece of predicted information to the user terminal 10 when the playback time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time T3. The predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses another piece of predicted information to the user terminal 10 when the playback time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time T4. The predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses another piece of predicted information to the user terminal 10 when the playback time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time T5. That is, when the playback time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time T5, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses one set of predicted information to the user terminal 10.

[0080] <2. Second embodiment> The following describes the prediction information management system 1 according to the second embodiment. The prediction information management system 1 according to the second embodiment discloses prediction information according to the playback time, like the prediction information management system 1 according to the first embodiment, but differs in that it changes the judgment based on the remaining time until the deadline. The following mainly describes the differences.

[0081] In the second embodiment, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the first predicted information to the user terminal 10 when the remaining time until the deadline satisfies the first predetermined condition and when the playback time is equal to or longer than a third predetermined time. Hereinafter, the remaining time until the deadline may be abbreviated to "remaining time." An example of the first predetermined condition is that the remaining time is equal to or shorter than a preset time.

[0082] An example of the first predetermined condition is that the time remaining from the current time until the voting deadline is equal to or less than a preset time.

[0083] The third predetermined time is a time set shorter than the first predetermined time. Examples of the third predetermined time include a time set according to the remaining time and a time set to be constant regardless of the remaining time. Examples of the time set according to the remaining time include a time set to be proportional to the remaining time. Note that the time set according to the remaining time may be a time calculated by calculating the remaining time as a variable.

[0084] If the playback time is equal to or longer than the third predetermined time, the server 20 gives an incentive (first predicted information) to the user terminal 10. If the remaining time satisfies the first predetermined condition, the user U using the user terminal 10 can obtain the first predicted information by watching the video for the third predetermined time without watching the video for the first predetermined time or longer. In order to obtain the incentive, the user U using the user terminal 10 will watch the video for the third predetermined time or longer.

[0085] The above-mentioned functions may be realized by the user terminal 10. The processing mode of the above-mentioned functions may be either batch processing or real-time processing.

[0086] (2-1. Processing flow of forecast information management system 1) The flow of the disclosure process will be described with reference to FIG. 11. Operations of S101, S102, S103, S104, S105, and S106 of the disclosure process according to the second embodiment are similar to the operations of S101, S102, S103, S104, S105, and S106 of the disclosure process according to the first embodiment. The disclosure process according to the second embodiment performs operations of S201, S202, and S203 in addition to the operations of the disclosure process according to the first embodiment. The operations of S201, S202, and S203 will be described in detail below.

[0087] When the disclosure process is started, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b determines whether the remaining time satisfies a first predetermined condition (S201). If it is determined that the remaining time does not satisfy the first predetermined condition (S201: NO), the predicted information disclosure unit 21b performs the operation of S101.

[0088] On the other hand, if it is determined that the remaining time satisfies the first predetermined condition (S201: YES), the predicted information disclosing unit 21b determines whether the playback time is equal to or longer than a third predetermined time (S202).

[0089] If it is determined that the playback time is equal to or longer than the third predetermined time (S202: YES), the predicted information disclosing unit 21b discloses the first predicted information (S102). On the other hand, if it is determined that the playback time is not equal to or longer than the third predetermined time (S202: NO), the predicted information disclosing unit 21b performs the operation of S203. The operation of S203 is the same as the operation of S103.

[0090] (2-2. Use Cases) Use cases will be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12. The use case in Figure 12 is referred to as "use case 3." Figure 12 is a diagram showing the operation of the forecast information management system 1 on a time axis.

[0091] Time h1b represents a first predetermined time. Time h2b represents a second predetermined time. Time h3b represents a third predetermined time. Assume that the user terminal 10 plays a video from time t13 to time t16. The playback time at time t16 is the sum of time h7, time h8, and time h9. The deadline is time t15.

[0092] When the playback time when played from time t13 to time t16 is shorter than the first predetermined time h1b, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b does not disclose the first predicted information based on the fact that the playback time is equal to or longer than the first predetermined time.

[0093] On the other hand, if the first predetermined condition is satisfied (S201: YES), the predicted information disclosure unit 21b judges whether the playback time is equal to or longer than the third predetermined time h3b (S202). The first predetermined condition is that the remaining time at the current time is equal to or shorter than the time h8. After time t14, the remaining time from the current time becomes equal to or shorter than the time h8, satisfying the first predetermined condition. Therefore, after time t14, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b judges whether the playback time is equal to or longer than the third predetermined time h3b (S202).

[0094] At time t14, the playback time is equal to or longer than the third predetermined time h3b. Therefore, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b determines that the playback time is equal to or longer than the third predetermined time h3b (S202: YES). The predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the first predicted information to the user terminal 10 (S102).

[0095] The playback time until the deadline is shorter than the second predetermined time h2b. Therefore, the forecast information disclosure unit 21b repeats the operations of S104 and S106 until the deadline. After the deadline, the disclosure process is terminated.

[0096] <3. Third embodiment> The following describes the prediction information management system 1 according to the third embodiment. The prediction information management system 1 according to the third embodiment discloses prediction information when the third predetermined time period is reached or longer, similar to the prediction information management system 1 according to the second embodiment, but discloses a smaller amount of prediction information than the prediction information management system 1 according to the second embodiment. The following describes mainly the differences.

[0097] When the remaining time satisfies the first predetermined condition, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the third predicted information to the user terminal 10 when the playback time is equal to or longer than a third predetermined time. The amount of the third predicted information is less than the amount of the first predicted information. Examples of the unit of the "amount" include the unit by which the user U can vote and the unit by which the user U can purchase a service provided by the server 20. The unit of the "amount" may be the amount of information of the predicted information. When the "amount" is the amount of information of the predicted information, examples of the unit of the "amount" include the unit of the capacity of the information, and the unit of counting the letters or numbers included in the information.

[0098] An example of the third predicted information will be described below. It is assumed that the first predicted information is a collection of multiple (e.g., three) pieces of predicted information, and is also one set of predicted information. The amount of the third predicted information is less than the amount of one set of predicted information. In this case, an example of the third predicted information is information that does not include any of the predicted information in one set of predicted information (e.g., one or two pieces of predicted information). That is, when the playback time is equal to or longer than the third predetermined time, a part of the information in one set of predicted information is disclosed to the user terminal 10.

[0099] In addition, it is assumed that the first prediction information includes the amount of betting on each prediction of the finishing order by the prognosticator. In this case, an example of the third prediction information is information that does not include the amount of betting on each prediction of the finishing order by the prognosticator. In addition, it is assumed that the first prediction information includes odds. In this case, an example of the third prediction information is information that does not include odds.

[0100] By configuring in this way, even if the condition of the first predetermined time or more cannot be satisfied, there is an incentive to at least satisfy the condition of the third predetermined time or more, while there is also an incentive to satisfy the condition of the first predetermined time or more, which requires a longer playback time.

[0101] (3-1. Processing flow of forecast information management system 1) The flow of the disclosure process will be described with reference to FIG. 13. Operations of S101, S102, S103, S104, S105, S106, S201, S202, and S203 of the disclosure process according to the third embodiment are similar to the operations of S101, S102, S103, S104, S105, S106, S201, S202, and S203 of the disclosure process according to the second embodiment. The disclosure process according to the third embodiment performs the operation of S301 in addition to the operation of the disclosure process according to the second embodiment. The operation related to S301 will be described in detail below.

[0102] When the predicted information disclosing unit 21b determines that the playback time is equal to or longer than the third predetermined time (S202: YES), the predicted information disclosing unit 21b discloses the third predicted information (S301). After that, the predicted information disclosing unit 21b performs the operation of S104.

[0103] (3-2. Use Cases) The use cases will be described with reference to Figs. 9, 12, 13, and 14. The use case described below is referred to as "use case 4". The operation of the forecast information management system 1 in use case 4 is the operation shown in Fig. 12A, similar to use case 3. Note that the relationship between the remaining time and the third specified time in use case 4 is also the same as that shown in Fig. 12B, similar to use case 3.

[0104] The amount of the first prediction information in use case 4 is the same as that in use case 1. For example, the touch panel display 14 on which the first prediction information is displayed is as shown in FIG. 9. On the other hand, an example of the touch panel display 14 on which the third prediction information is displayed is shown in FIG. 14. The third prediction information is displayed in an area P5 below the predetermined area D. Also, an area P6 is an area where the user U can input the amount of the vote. As shown in FIG. 14, the amount of the third prediction information is less than the amount of the first prediction information shown in FIG. 9.

[0105] <4. Fourth embodiment> The prediction information management system 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be described below. The prediction information management system 1 according to the fourth embodiment is different from the prediction information management system 1 according to the first embodiment in that it discloses prediction information even when the user U satisfies the conditions. The following description will focus on the differences.

[0106] The function of the predicted information disclosure unit 21b according to the fourth embodiment includes the following function in addition to the function of the predicted information disclosure unit 21b according to the first embodiment: When the playback time is equal to or longer than a fourth predetermined time, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the predicted information to the user terminal 10, and when the playback time is less than the fourth predetermined time and the user U satisfies a second predetermined condition, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the predicted information to the user terminal 10 used by the user U.

[0107] An example of the second predetermined condition will be described. In the following description, the predetermined service is a service provided by the administrator of the server 20, a service provided by a person involved in the competition, etc. Examples of the second predetermined condition include that the amount of votes based on prediction information associated with a video being played on the user terminal 10 within a predetermined time is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, and that the amount of votes received from the user terminal 10 within a predetermined period is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. In addition, the second predetermined condition may be a condition determined by various parameters related to votes (number of types of voting tickets, cumulative number of votes, cumulative amount of votes), various parameters related to the user U, etc.

[0108] The second predetermined condition may be that the amount paid by the user U for a predetermined service within a predetermined period is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. The second predetermined condition may also be that an attribute value of the user U is a predetermined value. Examples of the attribute value include a period during which the user U used a predetermined service, and a playback time of the user U within a predetermined period. The second predetermined condition may also be that the user U is a user within a predetermined period since starting to use the predetermined service.

[0109] Examples of the fourth predetermined time include a first predetermined time, a second predetermined time, a third predetermined time, and a time set by an administrator of the server 20. Examples of the predicted information that the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses to the user terminal include the first predicted information, the second predicted information, the third predicted information, and predicted information set by an administrator of the server 20.

[0110] If the playback time is equal to or longer than the fourth predetermined time, the server 20 gives an incentive (prediction information) to the user terminal 10. In addition, even if the playback time is shorter than the fourth predetermined time, if the user U satisfies a second predetermined condition, the server 20 gives an incentive to the user terminal 10. The user U who uses the user terminal 10 satisfies the second predetermined condition in order to receive the incentive.

[0111] The case where the second predetermined condition is satisfied is the case where the amount of votes based on the prediction information associated with the video being played on the user terminal 10 within a predetermined period of time is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. An example of the predetermined period is a period set in advance by an administrator of the server 20. An example of the predetermined amount is an amount set in advance by an administrator of the server 20. The same predetermined period or predetermined amount may be set for all users U or user terminals 10. A different predetermined period or predetermined amount may be set for each attribute of the user U or each attribute of the user terminal 10.

[0112] Hereinafter, a video being played on the user terminal 10 within a predetermined period of time may be referred to as a "played video." Examples of predicted information associated with a played video include predicted information notified by the played video, predicted information previously associated with the played video, predicted information previously associated with a predictor displayed on the played video, and the like.

[0113] Examples of the predictor include a person or a fictional character that is recognized by the user U through the video displayed on the user terminal 10. Examples of the manner in which the predictor is notified through the played video include a manner in which the predictor is displayed through the played video, a manner in which the predictor is notified through the sound of the played video, and the like.

[0114] An embodiment of "voting based on predicted information associated with a played video" will be described. Let us assume that "predicted information associated with a played video" is "predicted information notified by a played video". Let us assume that the predicted information notified by a played video is predicted information indicating a prediction for a race to be held on a specific day and at a specific location. Let us assume that the specific day is March 23, 2021. Let us assume that the specific location is Velodrome A. In other words, the predicted information associated with a played video is predicted information indicating a prediction for a race to be held at Velodrome A on March 23, 2021.

[0115] In this case, the "vote based on prediction information associated with the played video" is a vote associated with prediction information for a race to be held at Velodrome A on March 23, 2021. For example, the "vote based on prediction information associated with the played video" is a vote associated with prediction information for a race to be held at Velodrome A at 10:00 on March 23, 2021. The "vote based on prediction information associated with the played video" may also be a vote associated with prediction information for a race to be held at Velodrome A at 13:00 on March 23, 2021.

[0116] Another aspect of "voting based on predicted information associated with a video played" will be described. Let us assume that "prediction information associated with a video played" is "prediction information notified by a video played". Let us assume that the predicted information notified by a video played is prediction information indicating a prediction of a competition to be held at a specific date and time and a specific location. The specific date and time is 11:00 on March 23, 2021. The specific location is Velodrome B. That is, the predicted information associated with a video played is prediction information indicating a prediction of a competition to be held at Velodrome B at 11:00 on March 23, 2021. In this case, "voting based on predicted information associated with a video played" is a vote associated with the predicted information of a competition to be held at Velodrome B at 11:00 on March 23, 2021.

[0117] If the playback time is equal to or longer than the fourth predetermined time, the server 20 provides an incentive (prediction information) to the user terminal 10. Furthermore, even if the playback time is less than the fourth predetermined time, if the amount of votes associated with the video is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the server 20 provides an incentive to the user terminal 10. In order to obtain the incentive, a user U who uses the user terminal 10 will cast votes associated with the video equal to or greater than the predetermined amount.

[0118] The case where the second predetermined condition is satisfied may be the case where the amount of votes received from the user terminals 10 within a predetermined period is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.

[0119] In this case, the server 20 gives an incentive (prediction information) to the user terminal 10 if the playback time is equal to or longer than the fourth predetermined time. Also, even if the playback time is less than the fourth predetermined time, the server 20 gives an incentive to the user terminal 10 if the amount of the vote is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. A user U using the user terminal 10 will vote equal to or greater than the predetermined amount in order to receive the incentive.

[0120] (4-1. Processing flow of forecast information management system 1) The flow of the disclosure process will be described with reference to Fig. 15. When the disclosure process is started, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b judges whether the playback time is equal to or longer than a fourth predetermined time (S401). If it is judged that the playback time is equal to or longer than the fourth predetermined time (S410: YES), the predicted information disclosure unit 21b discloses the predicted information to the user terminal 10 (S402).

[0121] On the other hand, if it is determined that the playback time is not equal to or longer than the fourth predetermined time (S410: NO), the predicted information disclosure unit 21b determines whether or not the bet amount based on the predicted information associated with the playback video is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount within a predetermined period (S403). First, the input information will be described below, and then the determination by the predicted information disclosure unit 21b in S403 will be described.

[0122] Assume that user U inputs a betting amount into user terminal 10. User terminal 10 transmits information (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "input information") that associates the date and time when the input was received, the betting amount, the forecast information, and the person who forecast the forecast information to server 20. Reception unit 21c receives the input information. Reception unit 21c records the received input information in memory unit 22. Memory unit 22 stores the input information.

[0123] The predicted information disclosure unit 21b specifies the predetermined period related to S403. Then, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b specifies input information that is within the specified predetermined period from among the input information stored in the storage unit 22. The predicted information disclosure unit 21b compares the predicted information in the specified input information with the predicted information associated with the played video. If there is no predicted information similar to the predicted information associated with the played video from among the specified input information, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b determines that the bet amount based on the predicted information associated with the played video is not equal to or greater than a predetermined amount (S403: NO).

[0124] On the other hand, if there is prediction information similar to the prediction information associated with the played video among the identified input information, the prediction information disclosure unit 21b judges whether the amount of votes associated with the prediction information similar to the prediction information associated with the played video among the identified input information is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. If it is not equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the prediction information disclosure unit 21b judges that the amount of votes based on the prediction information associated with the played video is not equal to or greater than a predetermined amount (S403: NO). On the other hand, if it is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the prediction information disclosure unit 21b judges that the amount of votes based on the prediction information associated with the played video is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount (S403: YES).

[0125] If it is determined that the voting amount based on the prediction information associated with the played video is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount (S403: YES), the prediction information disclosure unit 21b discloses the prediction information (S402). On the other hand, if it is determined that the voting amount based on the prediction information associated with the played video is not equal to or greater than the predetermined amount (S403: NO), the prediction information disclosure unit 21b determines whether or not the playback of the video has ended on the user terminal 10. In addition, the prediction information disclosure unit 21b determines whether or not the current time is after the deadline for accepting votes (S404).

[0126] In S404, if the prediction information disclosure unit 21b determines that the playback of the video has ended, or if the prediction information disclosure unit 21b determines that the current time is after the deadline (S404: YES), the process of disclosing the prediction information ends.

[0127] On the other hand, in S404, if the predicted information disclosure unit 21b determines that the playback of the video has not finished and also determines that the current time is not after the deadline time (S404: NO), the predicted information disclosure unit 21b again determines whether the playback time is equal to or longer than the fourth predetermined time (S401).

[0128] <5. Fifth Embodiment> The prediction information management system 1 according to the fifth embodiment will be described below. The prediction information management system 1 according to the fifth embodiment differs from the prediction information management system 1 according to the first embodiment in that it discloses prediction information associated with each predetermined sport. The following description will focus on the differences.

[0129] The prediction information disclosure unit 21b discloses prediction information associated with each predetermined event to the user terminal 10 according to the playback time corresponding to the predetermined event. The predetermined event is a event set by the administrator of the server 20.

[0130] Examples of the predetermined competition include competitions specified by the time when they are held, competitions specified by the place where they are held, competitions specified by participants or things, competitions specified by the time and place where they are held, etc. Examples of the time when they are held include the day when they are held, the date and time when they are held, etc.

[0131] Examples of "playback time corresponding to a specified sport" include the playback time of a video showing predictions for the specified sport, the playback time of a session showing predictions for the specified sport, the playback time of a program showing predictions for the specified sport, the playback time of a channel showing predictions for the specified sport, etc. An example of a session is a video separated at regular intervals. An example of a program is a video separated by a displayed predictor or the content of a predicted sport. An example of a channel is a video separated by a displayed theme or content.

[0132] The aspect of "prediction information associated with each predetermined sport" will be described. It is assumed that the predetermined sport is a sport specified by the date on which it will be held. In this case, the prediction information associated with each predetermined sport is prediction information showing the prediction of the sport held on the same day. On the other hand, it is assumed that the predetermined sport is a sport specified by the place on which it will be held. In this case, the prediction information associated with each predetermined sport is prediction information showing the prediction of the sport held at the same place.

[0133] The server 20 gives an incentive (prediction information associated with each event) to the user terminal 10 according to the playback time corresponding to a predetermined event. The incentive (prediction information associated with each event) is highly likely to be prediction information required by the user using the user terminal. To obtain the incentive, the user U using the user terminal 10 will watch the video corresponding to the event for a longer period of time.

[0134] Furthermore, the prediction information disclosure unit 21b discloses the prediction information to the user terminal 10 based on a priority predetermined for the prediction information. The priority is determined in advance by the administrator of the server 20 in association with the prediction information. For example, when the priority is a number, the prediction information disclosure unit 21b discloses the prediction information to the user terminal 10 so that the priority associated with the prediction information is in descending or ascending order. Furthermore, the priority may be a letter or a combination of a letter and a number. Note that the priority may be set by the betting type designated by the user U, in order of odds, in order of the betting amount of the predictor, or by specific prediction information designated by the predictor.

[0135] The server 20 provides incentives (prediction information) based on the priority. The server 20 can adjust the degree of motivation for the user to watch videos based on the priority.

[0136] Furthermore, when the expected information disclosure unit 21b receives payment of a fee set according to the amount of undisclosed information, it discloses the undisclosed information to the user terminal 10. The undisclosed information is expected information that has not been disclosed to the user terminal 10. An example of the fee set according to the amount of undisclosed information is a fee set in proportion to the amount of the undisclosed information.

[0137] When the server 20 accepts payment of the fee set according to the amount of undisclosed information, the server 20 discloses the undisclosed information to the user terminal 10. This allows the user U who uses the user terminal 10 to pay the fee appropriate to the amount of undisclosed information.

[0138] The display control unit 21d controls the display of the touch panel display 14 of the user terminal 10. The display control unit 21d causes the user terminal 10 to display, in a manner recognizable by the user, the amount of predicted information disclosed to the user terminal 10 and the amount of predicted information not disclosed to the user terminal 10, among the predicted information associated with the competition.

[0139] FIG. 17 is an example in which the display control unit 21d displays, on the user terminal 10, the amount of predicted information disclosed to the user terminal 10 and the amount of predicted information not disclosed to the user terminal 10. In the area P7 in FIG. 18, "Disclosed 7 / 10, 3 remaining" is displayed. Here, "Disclosed 7" indicates the amount of predicted information disclosed to the user terminal 10. Furthermore, "3 remaining" indicates the amount of predicted information not disclosed to the user terminal 10. Furthermore, " / 10" indicates the amount obtained by adding the amount of predicted information disclosed to the user terminal 10 and the amount of predicted information not disclosed to the user terminal 10.

[0140] The server 20 displays the amount of the disclosed predicted information and the amount of the undisclosed predicted information on the user terminal 10. This allows the user U using the user terminal 10 to recognize the amount of the disclosed predicted information and the amount of the undisclosed predicted information, thereby providing the user with a motivation to obtain the undisclosed predicted information.

[0141] <6. Other embodiments> Although the embodiment and its modified examples of the present invention have been described above, the application of the present disclosure is not limited to the above. Other embodiments will be described below. The embodiments described below may be realized by replacing or adding any of the functions of the first to fifth embodiments described above.

[0142] The start time for counting the playback time may be set to a specific day, a specific date and time, or the start time of a specific competition. For example, the start time for counting the playback time may be set to midnight every day. For example, the start time for counting the playback time may be set every time a specific competition starts.

[0143] If there is undisclosed information, the display control unit 21d may display the conditions of the payment for disclosing the undisclosed information on the user terminal 10 so that the user U can recognize the conditions. For example, assume that the payment for disclosing the undisclosed information is "500 yen." In this case, the display control unit 21d displays the message "Disclosure for 500 yen" on the touch panel display 14.

[0144] If there is undisclosed information, the display control unit 21d may display the condition related to the playback time for disclosing the undisclosed information on the user terminal 10 so that the user U can recognize it. For example, the condition related to the playback time for disclosing the undisclosed information is "5 more minutes of viewing." In this case, the display control unit 21d displays the message "Disclosure in 5 more minutes" on the touch panel display 14.

[0145] The present invention can also be realized as a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium storing the above-mentioned program.

[0146] <7. Features of the embodiment> The features of the embodiments of the present invention are summarized below.

[0147] In one aspect of the present invention, an information processing device is provided which includes a video transmitting unit 21a and a prediction information disclosure unit 21b, in which the video transmitting unit 21a transmits a video relating to a competition to a user terminal 10 which plays the video, and the prediction information disclosure unit 21b discloses prediction information to the user terminal 10, including information about a prediction for the outcome of a competition associated with the video, according to the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10.

[0148] With this configuration, the information processing device gives an incentive (prediction information) to the user terminal 10 according to the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10. The user U who uses the user terminal 10 will watch the video for a longer period of time in order to receive the incentive.

[0149] The predicted information disclosing unit 21b may disclose the first predicted information to the user terminal 10 as predicted information when the playback time is equal to or longer than a first predetermined time.

[0150] With this configuration, when the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10 is equal to or longer than the first predetermined time, the information processing device gives an incentive (first predicted information) to the user terminal 10. A user U who uses the user terminal 10 watches the video for equal to or longer than the first predetermined time in order to receive the incentive.

[0151] When the playback time is equal to or longer than a second predetermined time that is longer than the first predetermined time, the predicted information disclosure unit 21b may disclose, to the user terminal 10, second predicted information as predicted information in addition to the first predicted information.

[0152] With this configuration, when the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10 is equal to or longer than the second predetermined time, the information processing device gives a further incentive (second predicted information) to the user terminal 10. After watching the video for the first predetermined time or longer, the user U who uses the user terminal 10 watches the video for the second predetermined time or longer in order to obtain the further incentive.

[0153] The information processing device further includes a receiving unit 21c, which receives votes for the competition from the user terminal 10, and the prediction information disclosure unit 21b may disclose the first prediction information to the user terminal 10 as prediction information when the remaining time until the deadline for accepting votes satisfies a first predetermined condition and when the playback time is equal to or longer than a third predetermined time that is shorter than the first predetermined time.

[0154] With this configuration, the information processing device gives an incentive (first predicted information) to the user terminal 10 when the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10 is equal to or longer than a third predetermined time that is shorter than the first predetermined time. When the remaining time satisfies the first predetermined condition, the user U using the user terminal 10 can obtain the first predicted information by watching the video for the third predetermined time without watching the video for the first predetermined time or longer. In order to obtain the incentive, the user U using the user terminal 10 will watch the video for the third predetermined time or longer.

[0155] The information processing device further includes a receiving unit 21c, which receives votes for the competition from the user terminal 10, and the prediction information disclosure unit 21b discloses third prediction information to the user terminal 10 as prediction information when the remaining time until the deadline for accepting votes satisfies a first predetermined condition and when the playback time is equal to or longer than a third predetermined time that is shorter than the first predetermined time, and the amount of the third prediction information may be less than the amount of the first prediction information.

[0156] With this configuration, even if the condition of the first predetermined time or more cannot be satisfied, there is an incentive to at least satisfy the condition of the third predetermined time or more, while there is also an incentive to satisfy the condition of the first predetermined time or more, which requires a longer playback time.

[0157] The predicted information disclosure unit 21b may disclose the predicted information to the user terminal 10 if the playback time is equal to or longer than a fourth predetermined time, and may disclose the predicted information to the user terminal 10 used by the user U if the playback time is less than the fourth predetermined time and the user U satisfies a second predetermined condition.

[0158] With this configuration, the information processing device gives an incentive (prediction information) to the user terminal 10 when the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10 is equal to or longer than the fourth predetermined time. Furthermore, even if the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10 is less than the fourth predetermined time, the information processing device gives an incentive to the user terminal 10 when the user U satisfies a second predetermined condition. The user U who uses the user terminal 10 satisfies the second predetermined condition in order to receive the incentive.

[0159] The information processing device further includes a reception unit 21c, which receives votes for the competition from the user terminal 10, and the second predetermined condition is satisfied when the amount of votes received from the user terminal 10 within a predetermined period is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.

[0160] With this configuration, the information processing device gives an incentive (prediction information) to the user terminal 10 when the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10 is equal to or longer than the fourth predetermined time. Furthermore, even if the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10 is less than the fourth predetermined time, the information processing device gives an incentive to the user terminal 10 when the amount of the vote is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. A user U who uses the user terminal 10 will vote for an amount equal to or greater than the predetermined amount in order to receive the incentive.

[0161] The case where the second predetermined condition is satisfied may be the case where the amount of votes based on the prediction information associated with the video being played on the user terminal 10 within a predetermined period of time is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.

[0162] With this configuration, the information processing device gives an incentive (prediction information) to the user terminal 10 when the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10 is equal to or longer than a fourth predetermined time. Furthermore, even if the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10 is less than the fourth predetermined time, the information processing device gives an incentive to the user terminal 10 when the amount of votes associated with the video is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. In order to obtain the incentive, a user U who uses the user terminal 10 will cast votes associated with the video equal to or greater than the predetermined amount.

[0163] The prediction information disclosure unit 21b may disclose to the user terminal 10 prediction information associated with each predetermined event according to the playback time corresponding to the predetermined event out of the playback time of the video.

[0164] With this configuration, the information processing device provides an incentive (prediction information associated with each event) to the user terminal 10 according to the playback time corresponding to a predetermined event. The incentive is highly likely to be prediction information required by the user U who uses the user terminal 10. Therefore, the user U who uses the user terminal 10 will watch the video corresponding to the event for a longer period of time in order to obtain the incentive.

[0165] The predicted information disclosing unit 21b may disclose the predicted information to the user terminal 10 based on a predetermined priority of the predicted information.

[0166] With this configuration, the information processing device provides an incentive (prediction information) based on the priority. The information processing device can adjust the degree of motivation for the user U to watch videos based on the priority.

[0167] The predicted information disclosing unit 21b may disclose the undisclosed information to the user terminal 10 when payment of a fee set according to the amount of undisclosed information, which is predicted information that has not been disclosed to the user terminal 10, is accepted.

[0168] With this configuration, when the information processing device accepts payment of a fee set according to the amount of undisclosed information, it discloses the undisclosed information to the user terminal 10. This allows the user U who uses the user terminal 10 to pay a fee appropriate to the amount of undisclosed information.

[0169] The information processing device may further include a display control unit 21d, and the display control unit 21d may cause the user terminal 10 to display, in a manner recognizable to the user U, the amount of predicted information associated with the competition that has been disclosed to the user terminal 10 and the amount of predicted information that has not been disclosed to the user terminal 10.

[0170] With such a configuration, the information processing device displays the amount of disclosed predicted information and the amount of undisclosed predicted information on the user terminal 10. This allows the user U using the user terminal 10 to recognize the amount of disclosed predicted information and the amount of undisclosed predicted information, thereby providing the user U with a motivation to obtain undisclosed predicted information.

[0171] In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing method having a video transmission step and a prediction information disclosure step, in which, in the video transmission step, a computer transmits a video relating to a competition to a user terminal 10 that plays the video, and, in the prediction information disclosure step, the computer discloses prediction information to the user terminal 10, including information about a prediction for the outcome of a competition associated with the video, according to the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10.

[0172] In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control program for causing a computer to function as a video sending unit 21a and a prediction information disclosure unit 21b, in which the video sending unit 21a sends a video relating to a competition to a user terminal 10 which plays the video, and the prediction information disclosure unit 21b discloses prediction information to the user terminal 10, including information about a prediction for the outcome of a competition associated with the video, according to the playback time of the video on the user terminal 10.

[0173] Various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but these are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. The embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0174] 1: Forecast information management system, 5: Communication line, 10: User terminal, 11: Control unit, 12: Memory unit, 13: Communication unit, 14: Touch panel display, 15: Speaker, 16: Microphone, 17: Camera, 18: Operation button, 19: System bus, 20: Server, 21: Control unit, 21a: Video transmission unit, 21b: Forecast information disclosure unit, 21c: Reception unit, 21d: Display control unit, 22: Memory unit, 24: Communication unit, 25: Operation input unit, 26: Monitor, 27: System bus, N: Competitor, S: Method, T: Method, t: Time, h: Time, h1b: First predetermined time, h2b: Second predetermined time, h3b: Third predetermined time, P: Area, D: Predetermined area

Claims

[Claim 1] The system includes a video transmission unit and a forecast information disclosure unit, The video transmission unit transmits a video relating to a competition to a user terminal that plays back the video; The information processing device, wherein the prediction information disclosure unit discloses prediction information including information about a prediction for the outcome of the competition associated with the video to the user terminal in accordance with the playback time of the video on the user terminal.

Images