System, method, and program for distributing live moving image

Abstract

To provide a system, a method, and a program for promoting viewing of a live moving image.SOLUTION: In a network configuration, a moving image distribution server 10 provides a user with a live moving image distribution service for distributing and viewing a live moving image, via a user terminal 30. The moving image distribution server 10 associates a tag input by a user viewing the live moving image with the live moving image and provides information on the live moving image being distributed, on the basis of the associated tag. This enables the user to get to know the present content (topic) of the live moving image being distributed, on the basis of the information based on the tag input by an actual viewer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, method, and program for distributing live video. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, various services for distributing live videos have been provided (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). Typically, these services allow users, including ordinary people, to distribute live videos as distributors, and provide viewers with live videos on a variety of topics. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-022219 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with conventional live video streaming services, users cannot know the current content (topic) of a live video until they start watching it. While this is not a major problem for regular viewers, it can make it difficult for new users to start casually watching live videos. Furthermore, if it is difficult to acquire new viewers, motivation for live video streaming decreases, hindering the vitality of the service.

[0005] One of the objects of the embodiments of the present invention is to promote the viewing of live video. Other objects of the embodiments of the present invention will become apparent by reading the entire specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for streaming live video, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors, in response to execution of readable instructions, perform a process of presenting information about the live video being streamed to a user and a process of managing tag associations with the live video, wherein the process of managing associations includes associating a first tag entered by a first user watching a first live video with the first live video, and the process of presenting includes presenting information about the live video being streamed based at least on the associated tag.

[0007] A method according to one embodiment of the present invention is executed by one or more computers and is a method for streaming live video, comprising the steps of presenting information about the live video being streamed to a user and managing tag associations for the live video, wherein the step of managing associations includes associating a first tag entered by a first user watching a first live video with the first live video, and the step of presenting includes presenting information about the live video being streamed based at least on the associated tag.

[0008] A program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for streaming live videos, which, when executed on one or more computers, causes the one or more computers to perform a process of presenting information about the live video being streamed to a user and a process of managing tag associations with the live video, wherein the process of managing associations includes associating a first tag entered by a first user watching a first live video with the first live video, and the process of presenting includes presenting information about the live video being streamed based at least on the associated tag. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] Various embodiments of the present invention facilitate live video viewing. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functions of the video distribution server 10. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a user information table 411. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining ranks. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a distribution management table 412. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a tag management table 413. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a distribution screen 70. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a viewing screen 80. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an item selection screen 200. [Figure 11] 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 in response to a tag input. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display content of an individual display area 641. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60 when "Topic" is selected in a selection area 62. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display content of an individual display area 642. [Figure 15] 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 in response to a user starting to watch a live video (entering the broadcast). [Figure 16] 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when updating a rank. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an update rule for a rank meter value. [Figure 18]FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between update contents of rank and required rank meter value. [Figure 19] 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60A in another example. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a tag-specific video list screen 90. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of content that is automatically posted to an external SNS. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the video distribution server 10 is communicatively connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet. While only one user terminal 30 is illustrated in FIG. 1, the server 10 is communicatively connected to multiple user terminals 30. The video distribution server 10 provides users with a live video distribution service for distributing and viewing live videos via the user terminal 30. In this embodiment, a user operating the user terminal 30 can distribute live videos as a distributor and can also view live videos provided by other users as a viewer. The video distribution server 10 is an example of a device that implements part or all of the system of the present invention.

[0013] The video distribution server 10 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes a computer processor 11, a main memory 12, an input / output I / F 13, a communication I / F 14, and a storage (memory device) 15, and each of these components is electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

[0014] The computer processor 11 is configured as a CPU, a GPU, or the like, and loads various programs stored in a storage 15 or the like into a main memory 12 and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 12 is configured, for example, by a DRAM or the like.

[0015] The input / output I / F 13 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with a user, etc. The input / output I / F 13 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), an audio input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. The input / output I / F 13 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0016] The communication I / F 14 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to be able to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

[0017] The storage 15 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system, various types of data, etc.

[0018] In this embodiment, the video distribution server 10 may be configured using a plurality of computers each having the above-described hardware configuration. For example, the video distribution server 10 may be configured by one or more server devices.

[0019] The video distribution server 10 configured in this manner can be configured to function as a web server and an application server, in which case it executes various processes in response to requests from a web browser and other applications (e.g., applications for live video distribution services) installed on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data (e.g., HTML data) and control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The user terminal 30 can display a web page or other screen based on the received data.

[0020] The user terminal 30 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes a computer processor 31, a main memory 32, an input / output I / F 33, a communication I / F 34, and a storage (storage device) 35, with each of these components being electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

[0021] The computer processor 31 is configured as a CPU, a GPU, or the like, and loads various programs stored in a storage 35 or the like into the main memory 32 and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 32 is configured, for example, by a DRAM or the like.

[0022] The input / output I / F 33 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with a user, etc. The input / output I / F 33 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), audio input devices such as a microphone, and image input devices such as a camera. The input / output I / F 33 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0023] The communication I / F 34 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to be able to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

[0024] The storage 35 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk or a flash memory, etc. The storage 35 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, etc. The programs stored in the storage 35 can be downloaded from an application market or the like and installed.

[0025] In this embodiment, the user terminal 30 may be configured as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, a wearable device, or the like.

[0026] A user operating a user terminal 30 configured in this manner can use the live video distribution service provided by the video distribution server 10 by communicating with the video distribution server 10 via a web browser or other application installed on storage 35, etc.

[0027] Next, the functions of the video distribution server 10 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the functions of the video distribution server 10. As illustrated, the server 10 includes an information storage management unit 41 that stores and manages various information, a basic function control unit 43 that controls the basic functions of the live video distribution service, and a video distribution control unit 45 that controls the distribution of live videos. These functions are realized by the cooperative operation of hardware such as the computer processor 11 and main memory 12, as well as various programs and data stored in the storage 15, for example, by the computer processor 11 executing instructions included in a program loaded into the main memory 12. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the server 10 illustrated in FIG. 2 may be realized by the cooperation of the server 10 and the user terminal 30, or may be realized by the user terminal 30.

[0028] The information storage management unit 41 of the video distribution server 10 stores and manages various information in the storage 15 etc. For example, as shown in Fig. 2, the information storage management unit 41 is configured to have a user information table 411 that manages information about users of the live video distribution service, a distribution management table 412 that manages information about distribution of individual live videos, and a tag management table 413 that manages information about tags associated with the live videos.

[0029] The basic function control unit 43 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to the control of the basic functions of the live video distribution service. For example, the basic function control unit 43 transmits screen data or control data of various screens related to the basic functions to the user terminal 30, executes various processes in response to user operation inputs via the screens displayed on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data or control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The basic functions controlled by the basic function control unit 43 include, for example, login processing (user authentication), billing control, and user management (e.g., updating the user information table 411).

[0030] The video distribution control unit 45 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to the control of distribution of live video. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to distribute live video provided by a distributor to multiple viewers. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to receive live video transmitted from the distributor's user terminal 30 (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the "distributor terminal 30") and transmit the live video to each of the multiple viewers' user terminals 30 (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the "viewer terminal 30"). The live video is composed of, for example, images input via a camera of the distributor terminal 30 and audio input via a microphone. Such live video may be distributed by a streaming method using a protocol such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS).

[0031] In this embodiment, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to present information about the live video being distributed to the user. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to transmit screen data or control data of a screen including information about the live video being distributed to the user terminal 30. The information about the live video being distributed is acquired, for example, by referring to the distribution management table 412, etc.

[0032] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to perform various processes related to managing the association of tags with live videos. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to associate tags entered by users (viewers) watching live videos with the live videos. In this embodiment, tags are typically configured as information including character strings and are useful for categorizing live videos. The correspondence between live videos and tags associated with the live videos is managed, for example, in a tag management table 413.

[0033] In this embodiment, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to present information about the live video being distributed based at least on the associated tag. For example, the information about the live video being distributed may be configured to include information about the tag associated with the live video, or information processed based on the tag. For example, the information about the live video being distributed may be extracted based on the associated tag, or may be configured as a list of live videos sorted based on the tag.

[0034] In this way, the video distribution server 10 in this embodiment associates tags entered by users viewing live videos with the live videos and presents information about the live videos being distributed based on the associated tags, allowing users to learn the current content (topics) of the live videos being distributed based on information based on tags entered by actual viewers. As a result, for example, it becomes easier for new users to start watching live videos, and viewing of live videos is promoted.

[0035] In this embodiment, the status of tags associated with live videos may be managed. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to manage tags that have been associated with a live video for a predetermined period of time (e.g., five minutes) or less as tags in a predetermined state, and present information about the live video being distributed based at least on the tags in the predetermined state (e.g., excluding tags that have been associated with a live video for more than the predetermined period of time). A tag in a predetermined state may be referred to as a tag that has been input relatively recently and is currently valid (valid at that time), and the predetermined period of time may be referred to as the validity period of the tag. With this configuration, when presenting information about the live video being distributed, tags that have been input a long time ago are excluded, thereby preventing the presentation of information based on tags that are no longer appropriate for the current content of the live video.

[0036] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to limit the number of tags in the predetermined state associated with one live video. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to disable (reject) the association of a new tag while the number of tags in the predetermined state associated with a specific live video is at the upper limit. This configuration may prevent the number of tags from becoming excessively large, thereby preventing the loss of the function of tags as a classification for live videos.

[0037] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to limit the number of tags that can be associated with one live video within a predetermined time period. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to disable (reject) the association of a new tag while the number of tags associated with a specific live video from the present until a predetermined time ago is at an upper limit. This configuration may prevent the number of tags from becoming excessively large, thereby preventing the loss of the function of tags as a classification for live videos.

[0038] The video distribution control unit 45 may also be configured to limit the number of tags that can be associated with one live video by one user within a predetermined time period. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to disable (reject) the association of a new tag while the number of tags associated with a specific live video by a specific user from the present until a predetermined time period ago is at an upper limit. For example, if the number of tags that can be associated within a predetermined time period is limited to "1," it can also be said that consecutive tag input by one user is limited (a predetermined time interval is required). This configuration prevents tags associated with live videos from being biased toward tags input by a specific user.

[0039] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the users who can input tags may be limited. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to limit the users who can input tags based at least on a predetermined attribute of the user. For example, the users who can input tags may be limited to users whose level is equal to or higher than a predetermined value. Furthermore, for example, the users who can input tags may be limited to users who have a predetermined relationship with the user who distributes the live video (the distributor) (for example, members of a group that supports the distributor). The predetermined attribute is managed, for example, in the user information table 411. Such a configuration suppresses deterioration in tag quality by limiting the users who can input tags.

[0040] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to accept comments entered via a viewing screen for viewing the live video, as well as tags entered via the viewing screen. The entered comments are typically displayed on each viewer's viewing screen. In this case, the viewing screen may be configured to have a predetermined area into which a character string can be entered, where a character string entered in a first state is recognized as a comment, and a character string entered in a second state is recognized as a tag. Switching between the first and second states may be performed in response to a user's operational input, or may be performed without a user's operational input. This configuration enables tags to be entered using the same operation as that for entering comments, thereby achieving excellent operability for tag input.

[0041] In this embodiment, the information about live videos being streamed that is presented to the user includes various types of information. For example, the video streaming control unit 45 may be configured to present a list of tags associated with each of multiple live videos being streamed. In this case, the tag list may be configured so that tags associated with a larger number of live videos are prioritized (e.g., placed at the top of the list). This configuration makes it possible to easily inform the user of the content (topics) of live videos across the entire live video streaming service.

[0042] Furthermore, the information about live videos being streamed that is presented to the user includes a list of live videos. For example, the video streaming control unit 45 may be configured to present a list of live videos being streamed that is based at least on tags associated with each of the live videos being streamed. For example, the list may be configured as a list in which tags associated with each of the live videos being streamed are arranged in chronological order along with the corresponding live videos (associated live videos). The list may also be referred to as a tag timeline. For example, each time a new tag is associated with any live video, the new tag is added to the list along with the corresponding live video. This configuration makes it possible to notify the user of tags and corresponding live videos in chronological order.

[0043] Furthermore, for example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to present a list of live videos consisting of multiple live videos associated with a specific tag (for example, a tag designated by a user or an automatically identified tag, etc.). Such a configuration improves the searchability of live videos associated with a specific tag (for example, a tag in which a user is interested, etc.), for example.

[0044] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to provide a predetermined notification regarding a tag corresponding to a specific live video in the list of live videos on a viewing screen for viewing the specific live video in response to a user's start of viewing the specific live video via the list of live videos based on the above-described tag. For example, the predetermined notification may include a notification regarding the user's start of viewing via the corresponding tag. Also, for example, the predetermined notification may include a notification regarding a user who associated the corresponding tag with the specific live video. Such a configuration enables a notification in response to the start of viewing the live video via a tag, which may encourage viewers to input tags.

[0045] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to increase the value of a predetermined parameter of a user who has associated a tag corresponding to a specific live video in the list of live videos with the specific live video in response to the user starting to watch the specific live video via the tag-based live video list described above. The predetermined parameter may be configured, for example, as the number of other users who have started watching the live video via the tag associated by the user. For example, the basic function control unit 43 may be configured to set a ranking based on the value of the predetermined parameter. This configuration may improve the gamification aspect of tag association, thereby encouraging viewers to input tags.

[0046] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to automatically post content for posting that introduces the live video to a predetermined SNS in association with the tag (for example, before or after the association). The content for posting includes the tag associated with the live video. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to automatically post content for posting that includes the tag as a hashtag and has a link to the live video to be introduced to an SNS such as Twitter (registered trademark) or Instagram (registered trademark). The automatic posting is performed with or without a user confirmation operation. This configuration helps spread the live video via SNS.

[0047] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 can be configured to associate tags entered by a user watching a live video with the live video as well as with the user (distributor) who distributes the live video. Tags associated with a distributor can be managed, for example, in the user information table 411 and displayed on a predetermined screen (for example, a screen displaying the distributor's profile). This configuration makes it possible to utilize tags entered by a viewer as part of the distributor's attributes (profile).

[0048] Next, a specific example of the video distribution server 10 of this embodiment having such functions will be described. Fig. 3 illustrates information managed in the user information table 411 in this example. User information table 411 manages information about users of the live video streaming service, and as shown in the figure, associates the information with a "user account" that identifies an individual user, and manages information such as "basic information" including account name, age, gender, etc., "streaming history information" that is information about the streaming history of live videos, "viewing history information" that is information about the viewing history of live videos streamed by other users, "following user information" that is information about other users followed by the user, "follower information" that is information about other users (followers) who follow the user, "family information" that is information about families to which the user belongs as a family member, a "rank" that indicates the user's rank as a streamer, a "rank meter value" that is a parameter value for determining whether the user's rank has been increased or decreased, "number of coins held" that indicates the number of virtual coins held in the live video streaming service, "number of diamonds held" that is also the number of virtual diamonds held, "tag point information" that is information about tag points (a predetermined parameter) that increase in response to tags entered by viewers, "tag information" that is information about tags entered by viewers while the user is streaming live videos as a streamer, and "classification text" that is the classification of the streamer set by the user himself.

[0049] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the "rank" of a broadcaster in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, there are six rank bands: "S," "A," "B," "C," "D," and "E." Each of the five rank bands, "S," "A," "B," "C," and "D," is composed of three ranks (for example, "S+," "S," and "S-"; a rank with a "+" added to the alphabet indicating the rank band, a rank with only the alphabet, and a rank with a "-" added to the alphabet). Furthermore, the "E" rank band is composed of a single rank, "E." In other words, in this example, there are 16 ranks (3 x 5 + 1 = 16).

[0050] Furthermore, the rank range is from the "S" side to the "E" side, with the highest being the "S" side, to the "E" side, with the lowest being the "E" side. Furthermore, within the same rank range, the "+" side is the highest being the "-" side, with the lowest being the "-" side. In this example, the user's rank is set to "D-" as the initial value.

[0051] 5 illustrates information managed in distribution management table 412 in this example. Distribution management table 412 manages information related to distribution of individual live video images, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as a "distributor user account" that identifies the distributor of this distribution, "distribution date and time," "distribution duration" that indicates the duration of the distribution, "number of viewers (current value and maximum value)," "number of comments" that is the number of comments entered by viewers, "number of likes" that is the number of "likes" entered by viewers, "item points" that increase according to the entry of items by viewers, and "distribution points" that are points awarded for this distribution, in association with a "distribution ID" that identifies an individual distribution (live video).

[0052] 6 illustrates information managed in tag management table 413 in this example. Tag management table 413 manages information related to tags associated with live videos, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as the "enter user account" which is the user account of the viewer (tag inputter) who entered the tag, "tag content" which is the content (character string) of the tag, and "date and time of assignment (year, month, day, hour, minute, second)" which is the date and time when the tag was assigned, in association with a combination of a "broadcast ID" which identifies an individual broadcast and a "tag ID" which identifies an individual tag in the broadcast (live video).

[0053] 7 illustrates an example of a top screen 60 of the live video streaming service displayed on the user terminal 30. The screen 60 is the starting point for users who use the live video streaming service, and as shown in the figure, has a selection area 62 displaying "Follow," "Popular," "Trending," and "All," a list display area 64 located below the selection area 62, and a circular streaming start button 66 located in the upper right corner of the screen.

[0054] The selection area 62 is an area for selecting the content to be displayed in the list display area 64. Specifically, when "Following" is selected in the selection area 62, live videos currently being distributed by other users the user is following are displayed in the list display area 64. Similarly, when "Popular" is selected in the selection area 62, live videos (e.g., live videos with a current viewer count equal to or greater than a threshold) extracted according to predetermined extraction conditions for extracting popular videos are displayed in the list display area 64. Furthermore, when "Trending" is selected in the selection area 62, tags assigned to (associated with) live videos are displayed in chronological order together with the corresponding live videos in the list display area 64, as will be described in detail later. Furthermore, when "All" is selected in the selection area 62, all live videos currently being distributed are displayed in the list display area 64.

[0055] The top screen 60 in FIG. 7 corresponds to the case where "Popular" is selected in the selection area 62. In this case, as shown in the figure, the list display area 64 has two columns of individual display areas 641, each displaying information about an individual live video. The individual display areas 641 are configured so that viewing of the corresponding live video can be started in accordance with a user's selection. The list display area 64 is configured so that the individual display areas 641 displayed can be switched by a flick operation / slide operation in an up or down direction, etc. The configuration of the list display area 64 when "Follow" and "All" are selected in the selection area 62 is the same as the configuration described above when "Popular" is selected. The configuration of the list display area 64 when "Trending" is selected in the selection area 62 will be described later.

[0056] The distribution start button 66 is an object for the user to start distributing live video as a distributor. When the distribution start button 66 is selected by the user, distribution of the live video starts, and specifically, transmission of a video composed of images input via the camera of the user terminal 30 and audio input via the microphone of the user terminal 30 to the server 10 starts. In addition, in response to the start of distribution of the live video, a new record is created in the distribution management table 412.

[0057] 8 illustrates a distribution screen 70 that is displayed on the distributor terminal 30 in response to selection of the distribution start button 66 (i.e., the start of distribution of a live video). As shown in the figure, the screen 70 has a video display area 71 that covers the entire screen, a basic information display area 72 located in the upper left corner of the screen, a comment display area 73 located in the lower left corner of the screen, a tag display area 74 located above the video display area 71, and a circular distribution stop button 76 located in the center of the bottom edge of the screen.

[0058] The video display area 71 displays the live video being distributed, that is, the image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30. Since the distributor usually takes a picture of himself / herself via the internal camera of the distributor terminal 30, the live video being distributed includes the distributor himself / herself.

[0059] The basic information display area 72 displays basic information about this broadcast, specifically broadcaster information (profile image, etc.), the number of viewers of this broadcast (current value), and the number of "likes" entered by viewers for this broadcast.

[0060] The comment display area 73 displays user comments input by viewers or system comments automatically input by the server 10. Specifically, a plurality of comment objects 731, each corresponding to an individual comment, are arranged vertically in this area 73. The comment display area 73 is configured so that when a new comment is input, a corresponding comment object 731 is added to the bottom, and the existing comment objects 731 move sequentially upward. The comment display area 73 is configured so that the comment objects 731 displayed can be switched by a flick operation / slide operation in the vertical direction, etc.

[0061] The tag display area 74 displays information about tags assigned to this broadcast (live video), and specifically, the area 74 is configured so that a plurality of tag objects 741, each corresponding to an individual tag, are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction. The tag display area 74 will be described in detail later.

[0062] The distribution stop button 76 is an object that allows the distributor to stop distribution of the live video. When the distributor selects the distribution stop button 76, distribution of the live video (transmission of the live video from the distributor terminal 30 to the server 10) is stopped.

[0063] 9 illustrates a viewing screen 80 displayed on the viewer terminal 30. For example, when a viewer selects a live video via the list display area 64 of the top screen 60, a viewing screen 80 for viewing the selected live video is displayed on the viewer terminal 30. As shown in the figure, the screen 80 has a video display area 81, a basic information display area 82, a comment display area 83, and a tag display area 84, similar to the distribution screen 70 described above. In addition, the viewing screen 80 has, at the bottom of the screen, an input mode switching button 85, a comment input area 86, a "Like" button 87 with a heart mark displayed, and an item input button 88 with a gift design displayed.

[0064] The comment input area 86 is an area where viewers can input comments. A transmission object 861 is located at the right end of the area 86. When the object 861 is selected, the character string entered in the comment input area 86 is sent as a user comment, and comment objects 731, 831 corresponding to the comment are added to the comment display areas 73, 83 on the distribution screen 70 of the distributor terminal 30 and the viewing screen 80 of each viewer terminal 30, respectively. The comment objects 731, 831 corresponding to the user comment display the comment itself (character string) along with the account name of the viewer who entered the comment. Furthermore, when a comment is entered, the number of comments in the distribution management table 412 is updated (incremented by 1).

[0065] The like button 87 is an object that allows a viewer to input a "like" to a broadcaster. When the viewer selects the button 87, the "like" is input and a system comment regarding the "like" is input, and the corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding the "like" displays text indicating that the "like" has been made, along with the account name of the viewer who input the "like." Furthermore, when a "like" is input, a predetermined visual effect (for example, an animation effect in which a heart-shaped object is displayed flowing from the bottom to the top of the screen) is added to the video display area 71, 81. Furthermore, when a "like" is input, the "number of likes" in the broadcast management table 412 is updated (increased by 1).

[0066] The item input button 88 is an object that allows the viewer to input an item. When the button 88 is selected by the viewer, an item selection screen 200, as shown in FIG. 10, is displayed superimposed on the viewing screen 80. As shown in the figure, the screen 200 displays a list of multiple individual display areas 202, each of which displays information about an item. Each individual display area 202 displays an image corresponding to the item and the number of coins required to input the item.

[0067] In this example, a plurality of items that can be input by the viewer are determined in advance, and a number of coins is set in advance as the price (value) of each item. The item selection screen 200 displays a list of the plurality of items that can be input. When a viewer selects one of the items via the item selection screen 200, the selected item is input.

[0068] When an item is input, a system comment regarding the item input is entered, and a corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding the item input displays the name of the input item together with the account name of the viewer who input the item. Furthermore, when an item is input, a visual effect corresponding to the input item is added to the video display area 71, 81. Furthermore, when an item is input, item points according to the number of coins of the input item (for example, the more coins, the more points) are awarded to this broadcast, and are added to the item points of the corresponding broadcast in the broadcast management table 412. Furthermore, when an item is input, the number of coins of the input item is subtracted from the number of coins owned by the corresponding user (the viewer who input the item) in the user information table 411.

[0069] Here, the operation of assigning tags to live video in this example will be described. The input mode switching button 85 on the viewing screen 80 is an object for inputting tags via the comment input area 86. While the input mode switching button 85 is in a non-selected state, the comment input area 86 is in the normal comment input mode, and as described above, the character string input in the comment input area 86 is transmitted as a comment in response to the selection of the transmission object 861. On the other hand, when the input mode switching button 85 is in a selected state, the comment input area 86 is in the tag input mode, and the character string input in the comment input area 86 is transmitted as a tag in response to the selection of the transmission object 861.

[0070] In this example, tag input is limited to family members (users with a predetermined relationship) of the broadcaster of the live video to which the tag is being added (i.e., the live video being viewed). Specifically, the input mode switching button 85 on the viewing screen 80 is selectable (enabled) if the viewer is a family member of the broadcaster, but is not selectable (disabled) if the viewer is not a family member of the broadcaster.

[0071] 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 in response to the input (transmission) of a tag by any viewer. When a tag is input, the server 10 first confirms that the number of tags currently valid (valid at that time) for the target live video (broadcast) is less than three (i.e., two or less) (step S100), as shown in the figure. In this example, tags assigned to a live video are managed as currently valid until five minutes have passed since they were assigned. In other words, in this example, the "number of currently valid tags" can be said to be the number of tags assigned up to five minutes ago. Currently valid tags are identified by referring to the assignment date and time in the tag management table 413.

[0072] If the number of currently valid tags is less than three (YES in step S100), the server 10 then checks whether one minute or more has passed since the same user last tagged the target live video (step S110). The time when the same user last tagged the target live video is identified by referring to the user account of the user who input the tag and the tagging date and time in the tag management table 413.

[0073] If one minute or more has passed since the previous tag was added by the same user (YES in step S110), the server 10 then checks whether the tag content (character string) is the same as any tag added to the target live video within the last 10 minutes (step S120). The content of tags added within the last 10 minutes is identified by referring to the tag content and the date and time of addition in the tag management table 413. As described above, in this example, tags added five minutes after they were added will no longer be in a currently valid state, so "tags added within the last 10 minutes" can also be said to be "currently valid tags and tags that have been in a currently valid state for the last five minutes."

[0074] If the tag content does not overlap with a tag input within the last 10 minutes (YES in step S120), the server 10 then registers the input tag (attaches it to the live video) (step S130). Specifically, a new record is registered in the tag management table 413. Also, the tag information in the user information table 411 of the corresponding distributor is updated (the current tag is added).

[0075] On the other hand, if the number of currently valid tags is three or more (NO in step S100), if one minute or more has not passed since the previous tag was added by the same user (NO in step S110), or if the content of the tag overlaps with a tag added within ten minutes (NO in step S120), the server 10 notifies the user who input the tag of an error (step S140). In this case, the input tag is not registered (added to the live video), and the tag is discarded. Thus, in this example, the number of currently valid tags that can be added to one live video is limited to three, the number of tags that can be added to one live video by one user within one minute is limited to one, and the number of identical tags that can be added to one live video within ten minutes is limited to one. Note that in this example, restrictions on the content of tags (e.g., character limit, restriction on prohibited words, etc.) may be imposed.

[0076] When a tag is assigned, a tag object 741, 841 corresponding to the assigned tag is added to the tag display area 74, 84 of the distribution screen 70 of the distributor terminal 30 and the viewing screen 80 of each viewer terminal 30. In the tag display areas 74, 84, the tag objects 741, 841 corresponding to currently valid tags are arranged horizontally so that the tag on the left is newer (has been assigned later). Therefore, the tag object 741, 841 corresponding to the newly assigned tag is added to the left end of the tag display area 74, 84. Note that if five minutes have passed since the tag was assigned and the tag is no longer currently valid, the corresponding tag object 741, 841 is deleted (for example, it disappears with an animation effect moving to the right).

[0077] In this example, tag objects 741 and 841 display the tag content in the form of a hashtag with a "#" added to the beginning of the string. For example, if the tag content is "Tokyo sightseeing," tag objects 741 and 841 display "#Tokyo sightseeing." The horizontal length of tag objects 741 and 841 is automatically adjusted according to the length of the string to be displayed.

[0078] Furthermore, when a tag is assigned, a system comment regarding the tag assignment is entered, and a corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding the tag assignment displays the content of the assigned tag along with the account name of the viewer who assigned (input) the tag, for example, a comment such as "xx tagged the broadcast with "#TokyoSightseeing"."

[0079] In this example, the tag assigned to the live video is used to display information about the live video being distributed on the top screen 60. For example, the tag assigned to the live video is displayed as part of the information about the live video in the individual display area 641 of the list display area 64.

[0080] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of the display content of the individual display area 641. The individual display area 641 displays a still image preset by the broadcaster of the live video, the broadcaster's account name, and the current number of viewers. As illustrated, a first tag object 6411 and a second tag object 6412 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction at the bottom of the individual display area 641. The first tag object 6411 displays classification text (managed in the user information table 411) that is the broadcaster's classification set by the broadcaster himself / herself in the form of a hashtag (a string with a "#" added to the beginning of the character string) (in the example of FIG. 12, "#bigeaterbroadcast" is displayed). The second tag object 6412 displays a currently valid tag assigned to the corresponding live video, also in the form of a hashtag (in the example of FIG. 12, "#curry" is displayed). If multiple currently valid tags are assigned to the corresponding live video, one tag selected according to a predetermined rule (for example, a randomly selected tag or the most recent tag) is displayed. In this way, by displaying both the classification text set by the broadcaster himself / herself and the tags entered by the viewer in the individual display area 641, information about the content of the live video can be more appropriately provided to the user.

[0081] Furthermore, for example, tags assigned to live videos are used to extract and select live videos to be displayed in a list on the top screen 60. Fig. 13 shows an example of the top screen 60 when "Topics" is selected in the selection area 62. In this case, the top screen 60 displays, in the list display area 64, a list of tags assigned to any live video, along with the live video, in chronological order. In other words, when "Topics" is selected in the selection area 62, the list display area 64 displays a list of tags and corresponding live videos, sorted in descending order of the date and time of assignment.

[0082] A plurality of individual display areas 642, each displaying an individual tag and information about the corresponding live video, are arranged vertically in the list display area 64. When a new tag is assigned to a live video, the corresponding individual display area 642 is added to the top of the list display area 64.

[0083] 14 illustrates an example of the display content of the individual display area 642. As illustrated, the area 642 has a tag object 6421 arranged in the upper left corner and displays the profile picture and account name of the broadcaster of the corresponding live video (to which the tag is attached), etc. The individual display area 642 is set with a link to the corresponding live video, and the user can start viewing the corresponding live video by selecting one of the multiple individual display areas 642 displayed in the list display area 64. Note that in this example, for example, if multiple different tags are attached to one live video within a short period of time, multiple individual display areas 642 corresponding to the multiple tags are arranged, and these areas 642 are set with a link to the same live video.

[0084] The above describes the operation related to adding tags to live videos. Next, the operation when a user starts watching a live video will be described. FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of processing executed by the server 10 in response to a user starting to watch a live video (entering the broadcast). When a user starts watching a live video, as shown in the figure, if the user has not started watching the live video via a tag (NO in step S200), the server 10 first inputs a system comment regarding the user's normal entry (step S210). In this example, "starting to watch a live video via a tag" specifically means starting to watch a live video via the list display area 64 in which "Topic" is selected in the selection area 62 of the top screen 60 (by selecting one of the multiple individual display areas 642 listed in the area 64).

[0085] When a system comment regarding normal entry is input, a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment is added to the comment display area 73, 83. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding normal entry displays the account name, etc. of the user who started viewing (entered the room).

[0086] On the other hand, if the user who has started viewing has started viewing the live video via a tag (YES in step S200), the server 10 then inputs a system comment regarding entry via a tag (entry via tag) (step S220). When the system comment is input, the corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83, as described above.

[0087] In this example, comment objects 731, 831 corresponding to system comments regarding entry via a tag display the tag that was passed through in addition to the account name of the user who entered the room. The tag that was passed through is the tag that corresponds to the individual display area 642 selected in the list display area 64 of the top screen 60. For example, comment objects 731, 831 display a comment such as "Mr. A came to play from "#xxx"" ("Mr. A" is the user who entered the room, and "xxx" is the tag that was passed through).

[0088] When a system comment regarding entry via a tag is entered in this way, if the user who started viewing is a first-time user (a user viewing a live video of this broadcaster for the first time) (YES in step S230), the server 10 then awards tag points to the person who entered the tag via the tag (step S240). Specifically, the tag point information for the person who entered the tag is updated in the user information table 411. The person who entered the tag is identified by referring to the user account of the person who entered the tag in the tag management table 413.

[0089] In this example, the tag point information includes tag points for each family (i.e., each distributor) of which the corresponding user (enterer) is a family member, and in step S240, a predetermined number of points are added to the tag points of the corresponding family. Note that in this example, a ranking of tag points (e.g., a ranking within the same family) is periodically set and made public.

[0090] In this example, if the entry is via a tag and the user who entered is a first-time user, a corresponding system comment may also be input. The corresponding system comment includes, for example, the person who input the tag via the tag and the number of first-time users who entered via the tag. For example, the corresponding comment object 731, 831 may display a comment such as "yy first-time users came to visit using X's "#xxx". Furthermore, the corresponding system comment may include, for example, the number of first-time users who entered via all tags (this tag and other tags) input by the person who input the tag via the tag during a predetermined period (for example, the current month). For example, the corresponding comment object 731, 831 may display a comment such as "zzz first-time users came to visit this month using X's tag."

[0091] The above has described the operations when a user starts watching a live video. Next, the operations when a broadcaster ends the broadcast will be described. As described above, when the broadcaster selects the broadcast stop button 76 on the broadcast screen 70, the broadcast of the live video ends. When the broadcast of the live video ends, the server 10 sets broadcast points for that broadcast. In this example, the broadcast points are calculated based on the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the item points. The broadcast points are configured to increase as the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the item points increase. The calculated broadcast points are registered in the broadcast management table 412.

[0092] In this example, the rank of the day is determined (updated) based on the distribution points the user acquired on the previous day. Fig. 16 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when updating the rank of each user. This process is executed late at night every day (for example, at 3:00 AM every day).

[0093] First, the server 10 updates the rank meter value of each user as shown in the figure (step S300). FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the rules for updating the rank meter value. As shown in the figure, in this example, the rank meter value fluctuates based on the ranking of the distribution points earned by the user on the previous day within the rank band to which the user belongs. The distribution points earned by a specific user on the previous day are calculated by referring to the distributor user account, distribution date and time, and distribution points in the distribution management table 412. Note that if a user makes multiple distributions in one day, the distribution points earned for each of the multiple distributions are added together.

[0094] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, the update rule for the rank meter value is as follows: first, if the ranking of distribution points within a rank band is in the top 10%, the change in the rank meter value is "+2" (an increase of 2 points). Similarly, if the ranking is in the top 11-30% (the remaining 20% ​​after excluding the top 10% from the top 30%), the change is "+1", if the ranking is in the middle 30% (the top 31-60%), the change is "±0" (no increase or decrease), and if the ranking is in the bottom 40%, the change is "-1" (a decrease of 1 point). Note that if no distribution was performed on the previous day, the change in the rank meter value will be "-1" regardless of the ranking within the rank band.

[0095] In step S300, the rank meter value of each user is updated according to the update rule exemplified in Fig. 17. Note that, for a user whose rank meter value is negative and whose current change in rank meter value is an increase (specifically, +2 or +1), the rank meter value may be cleared to 0 and then incremented. That is, for example, if a user whose current rank meter value is "-1" has a current change of "+2", the rank meter value is cleared to 0 and then incremented by 2, so that the rank meter value after the change becomes "+2" (instead of "+1"). In this way, even for users whose rank meter value is negative (for example, users who infrequently stream), the rank meter value can be increased all at once, thereby promoting the streaming of live video.

[0096] After updating the rank meter value of each user, the server 10 then updates the rank based on the updated rank meter value (step S310). FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the update contents of the rank and the required rank meter value. As shown in the figure, first, when ranking up across rank bands (in other words, when ranking up from the highest rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is +4. That is, when a user belonging to the highest rank (e.g., A+) in each rank band has a rank meter value of +4, the user is ranked up to the lowest rank (e.g., S-) in the immediately upper rank band. Furthermore, when ranking up within the same rank band (in other words, when ranking up from the middle or lowest rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is +2. That is, when a user belonging to the middle or lowest rank (e.g., B or B-) in each rank band has a rank meter value of +2, the user is ranked up to the immediately upper rank (e.g., B+ or B) in the same rank band.

[0097] Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the rank meter value required for a rank down within the same rank band (in other words, for a rank down from the highest or middle rank within each rank band) is -2. That is, when a user belonging to the highest or middle rank within each rank band (e.g., B+ or B) has a rank meter value of -2, the user will be ranked down to the next lower rank (e.g., B or B-) within the same rank band. Furthermore, the rank meter value required for a rank down across rank bands is -6. That is, when a user belonging to the lowest rank within each rank band (e.g., A-) has a rank meter value of -6, the user will be ranked down to the highest rank (e.g., B+) of the next lower rank band. Thus, in this example, the absolute value of the rank meter value required for a rank up / down across rank bands is larger than that required for a rank up / down within the same rank band. As a result, a sudden rank up / down in a short period of time is suppressed.

[0098] In step S310, the rank is updated based on the rank meter value in accordance with the correspondence relationship illustrated in Fig. 18. Note that the rank meter value of the user whose rank has been updated (the user whose rank has been upgraded / downgraded) is cleared to 0.

[0099] In this example, diamonds are awarded as a reward to the user as a distributor based on the distribution time of the previous day and the rank (rank on the previous day). Figure 19 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds to each distributor. This process is executed late at night every day, for example, at a time (for example, at midnight every day) before the process executed when updating the rank of each user illustrated in Figure 16.

[0100] As shown in the figure, the server 10 first calculates the distribution time of each user on the previous day (step S400). Specifically, the distribution time of a specific user on the previous day is calculated by referring to the distributor user account and distribution date and time in the distribution management table 412. If a user makes multiple distributions in one day, the distribution times of each of the multiple distributions are added together.

[0101] Next, the server 10 grants each user a number of diamonds based on the calculated distribution time and the standard number of diamonds (step S410). Specifically, each user is granted a number of diamonds calculated by multiplying the calculated distribution time by the standard number of diamonds. The standard number of diamonds is preset for each rank so that the higher the rank, the greater the number, and the standard number of diamonds corresponding to each user's rank on the previous day is applied. When diamonds are granted to a user, the number of diamonds held in the user information table 411 is updated. In this example, diamonds can be exchanged for coins or real currency.

[0102] The top screen 60 in the above example is an example of a screen that displays information about live videos being distributed, and other screens may be applied in other examples of this embodiment. Fig. 20 illustrates a top screen 60A in another example of this embodiment, in which "Trending" is selected in the selection area 62. In this case, the top screen 60A has a tag search area 63 for searching for tags, a first list display area 64A that displays a list of live videos that have been assigned the most trending tag (the tag that has been assigned to the largest number of live videos as a currently active tag), and a second list display area 65 that displays a list of currently active tags that have been assigned to multiple live videos being distributed.

[0103] In the first list display area 64A, a plurality of individual display areas 641, each displaying information about an individual live video, are arranged in a left-right direction. When one of the plurality of individual display areas 641 is selected, viewing of the corresponding live video begins. The start of viewing in response to the selection of the individual display area 641 is determined as entry via a tag (start of viewing).

[0104] A plurality of tag objects 651, each corresponding to an individual tag, are arranged in the second list display area 65. In this area 65, tag objects 651 corresponding to tags with a large number of attached live videos are arranged at the top, and among tag objects 651 arranged at the same height, tag objects 651 corresponding to tags with a large number of attached live videos are arranged on the left.

[0105] When one of the tag objects 651 is selected, a tag-specific video list screen 90, as illustrated in FIG. 21, is displayed superimposed on the top screen 60A. The screen 90 is a screen for displaying a list of live videos to which a specific tag has been assigned as a currently valid tag. As shown in the figure, the screen 90 includes a tag display object 91 that displays the content of the tag designated as the specific tag (the content of the tag corresponding to the selected tag object 651), and a list display area 92 that displays a list of live videos to which the designated tag has been assigned as a currently valid tag. The area 92 includes a plurality of individual display areas 921 arranged vertically, each displaying information about an individual live video. The individual display area 921 displays the profile image and account name of the broadcaster. When one of the individual display areas 921 is selected, viewing of the corresponding live video begins. The start of viewing in response to the selection of the individual display area 921 is determined as entry via a tag (start of viewing). Note that even when a currently valid tag is searched for and selected via the tag search area 63, the tag-specific video list screen 90 corresponding to the selected tag is also displayed.

[0106] In the above example, when a tag is assigned to a live video, the video may be automatically posted to an external SNS. FIG. 22 illustrates an example of content that is automatically posted to an external SNS. The automatic posting is performed using the SNS account of the tag inputter (which can be managed, for example, in the user information table 411), and the content to be posted is generated according to the settings of the Open Graph protocol (OGP). For example, the content to be posted may include a message that includes, as hashtags, the account name of the broadcaster, the service name of the live video streaming service, currently active tags, and categorization text. For example, the content may include the text "#X is streaming on #ServiceY! #Curry #BigEaterStreaming" (where "X" is the broadcaster's account name, "ServiceY" is the service name, "Curry" is the currently active tag, and "BigEaterStreaming" is the categorization text).

[0107] In the above example, tags are assigned by viewers of the live video. However, in addition to this, tags may also be assigned by the broadcaster who is broadcasting the live video.

[0108] In the above example, the broadcaster may be allowed to delete tags assigned to live videos. For example, the broadcaster may be allowed to delete the corresponding tag through an operation of selecting (e.g., long-pressing) tag object 741 arranged in tag display area 74 of broadcast screen 70. When a tag is deleted, the corresponding record is deleted from tag management table 413, and the tag is also deleted from tag information in user information table 411.

[0109] In the above example, it may be possible to input a tag with the consumption of coins. In this case, the more coins consumed, the longer the validity period of the tag may be.

[0110] In the above example, it may be possible to make it possible to view archives of live videos later. In this case, since all tags added to archived live videos during distribution are managed in tag management table 413, it may be possible to search for the archived live videos using the tags. For example, on a screen displaying the profile of the broadcaster, a list of tags (managed in the tag information in user information table 411) previously entered by viewers may be displayed, and when a tag is selected from the list, archived live videos to which the selected tag is added may be searched and displayed.

[0111] The video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment described above associates (assigns) tags entered by users viewing live videos with the live videos and presents information about the live videos being distributed based on the associated tags, allowing users to learn the current content (topics) of the live videos being distributed based on information based on tags entered by actual viewers. As a result, for example, it becomes easier for new users to start watching live videos, and viewing of live videos is promoted.

[0112] The processes and procedures described herein, other than those explicitly described, may be implemented by software, hardware, or any combination thereof. For example, the processes and procedures described herein may be implemented by implementing logic corresponding to the processes and procedures in media such as integrated circuits, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and magnetic disks. The processes and procedures described herein may also be implemented as computer programs corresponding to the processes and procedures and executed by various computers.

[0113] Although processes and procedures described herein are described as being performed by a single device, software, component, or module, such processes or procedures may be performed by multiple devices, software, components, and / or modules. Also, the software and hardware elements described herein may be implemented by combining them into fewer components or breaking them down into more components.

[0114] In this specification, even if a component of the invention is described as either singular or plural, or is described without limitation as either singular or plural, the component may be either singular or plural unless the context requires otherwise. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 10 Video distribution server 11. Computer Processor 15 Storage 20. Communication Networks 30 User terminals 41 Information Storage Management Department 43 Basic function control section 45 Video distribution control section 60, 60A top screen 70 Streaming Screen 80 viewing screen 85 Input mode switch button 86 Comment input area (prescribed area) 90 Video list by tag 200 Item selection screen

Claims

1. 1. A system for streaming live video, comprising one or more computer processors, comprising: The one or more computer processors, in response to execution of the readable instructions, A process of presenting information about a live video being distributed to a user; managing tag associations for live videos; The process of managing the association includes associating a first tag input by a first user watching a first live video with the first live video; The presenting step includes presenting information about the live video based at least on the associated tag. system.

2. The presenting process includes presenting information about the live video being streamed based at least on tags in a predetermined state that have been associated with the tag for a first period of time or less. The system of claim 1.

3. The process of managing the association includes limiting the number of tags in the predetermined state that can be associated with one live video. The system of claim 2.

4. The process of managing the association includes limiting the number of tags that can be associated with one live video within a second time period.

4. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The process of managing the associations includes limiting the number of tags that can be associated with one live video by one user within a third time period.

5. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The process of managing the association includes restricting users who can input tags based at least on a predetermined attribute possessed by the user.

6. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The process of managing the association includes limiting users who can input tags to be associated with the first live video to users who have a predetermined relationship with the user who distributes the first live video. The system of claim 6.

8. The one or more computer processors further execute a process of accepting comments input via a viewing screen for viewing the live video; The process of managing the association includes accepting a tag input via the viewing screen, the viewing screen has a predetermined area into which a character string can be input, the predetermined area being recognized as a comment when the character string is input in a first state, and as a tag when the character string is input in a second state; 8. A system according to any preceding claim.

9. The process of presenting includes presenting a list of tags associated with each of a plurality of live videos being distributed; The list of tags is configured to prioritize tags with a larger number of associated live videos.

9. A system according to any preceding claim.

10. The process of presenting includes presenting a list of live videos being streamed based at least on tags associated with each of the plurality of live videos being streamed.

10. A system according to any preceding claim.

11. The process of presenting includes presenting a list of multiple live videos being distributed in which tags associated with each of the live videos are arranged in chronological order together with the corresponding live videos. The system of claim 10.

12. The presenting step includes presenting a list of live videos that is composed of a plurality of live videos that are associated with a particular tag.

12. The system of claim 10 or 11.

13. The one or more computer processors further execute a process of, in response to a start of viewing of a second live video by a second user via the list of live videos, providing a predetermined notification regarding a second tag corresponding to the second live video in the list of live videos on a viewing screen for viewing the second live video.

13. A system according to any one of claims 10 to 12.

14. The predetermined notification includes a notification regarding the start of viewing by the second user via the second tag. The system of claim 13.

15. The predetermined notification includes a notification regarding a third user who associated the second tag with the second live video.

15. The system of claim 13 or 14.

16. The one or more computer processors further perform a process of increasing a value of a predetermined parameter of a third user who has associated a second tag corresponding to the second live video in the live video listing with the second live video in response to a second user starting to view the second live video via the live video listing.

13. A system according to any one of claims 10 to 12.

17. The process of managing the association includes automatically posting, in conjunction with the association of the first tag with the first live video, posting content introducing the first live video, the posting content including the first tag, to a specified SNS.

17. A system according to any preceding claim.

18. The process of managing the association includes associating the first tag with the first live video as well as with a user who broadcasts the first live video.

18. A system according to any preceding claim.

19. 1. A method for streaming live video, executed by one or more computers, comprising: Presenting information about the live video being distributed to a user; managing tag associations for live videos; The step of managing the association includes associating a first tag input by a first user watching a first live video with the first live video; the presenting step includes presenting information about the live video stream based at least on the associated tags. method.

20. A program for distributing live video, In response to execution on one or more computers, the one or more computers A process of presenting information about a live video being distributed to a user; managing tag associations for live videos; The process of managing the association includes associating a first tag input by a first user watching a first live video with the first live video; The presenting step includes presenting information about the live video based at least on the associated tag. program.

Images