Information processing device and program

Abstract

To provide display according to attributes on participants in on-line service.SOLUTION: A processor changes a mode of display provided in on-line service, according to attributes of participants in the on-line service in which the plurality of participants participate.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Techniques for providing online services such as online conferences are known.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a system for providing closed captions to a teleconference group.

[0004] Patent Document 2 describes an apparatus that reserves a personal display and a camera for a participant, thereby making the sitting arrangement of the participants in the conference similar to that of a normal conference.

[0005] Patent Document 3 describes a system that separates office workers from telecommuters using video.

[0006] US Patent No. 5,399,633 describes a method for detecting voice input from a currently speaking participant, identifying that participant, and providing personal information related to the determined identity for display at the telephone / video conference endpoint. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 11-502387 [Patent Document 2] Special Publication No. 2001-503221 [Patent Document 3] JP 2004-206363 A [Patent Document 4] JP 2010-98731 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a display according to the attributes of participants in an online service. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The invention of claim 1 is an information processing device having a processor that changes the manner of display provided in an online service in which multiple participants participate depending on the attributes of the participants, links images of multiple participants to each other and displays them on a display based on the attributes of each participant, changes the linking depending on the attributes of each participant, treats multiple participants with related attributes as participants belonging to the same group, and positions the images of the group closer to each other the more related the attributes of the groups are.

[0010] The invention according to claim 2 is the information processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the processor displays images of multiple participants belonging to the same group in the same display area.

[0011] The invention of claim 3 is an information processing device as described in claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the processor changes the manner in which images of each participant are displayed depending on the relationship between the attributes of each participant belonging to the same group.

[0012] The invention of claim 4 is an information processing device described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the processor displays on the display images of multiple participants belonging to the same group, distinguishing between images of participants who are transmitting information and images of participants who are not transmitting information.

[0013] The invention of claim 5 is an information processing device as described in claim 4, characterized in that the processor displays on the display images of participants who are transmitting information in a manner that makes them more noticeable than images of participants who are not transmitting information.

[0014] The invention of claim 6 is an information processing device described in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the processor distinguishes between images of non-participants who have registered with the online service but are not participating and images of participants in the online service and displays them on the display.

[0015] The invention of claim 7 is an information processing device described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the processor places the images of participants closer to each other the more related their attributes are.

[0016] The invention of claim 8 is an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the processor further changes the sound provided to the participants depending on the attributes of the participants.

[0017] The invention of claim 9 is a program for causing a computer to change the manner of display provided in an online service in which multiple participants participate, depending on the attributes of the participants, linking images of multiple participants to each other and displaying them on a display based on the attributes of each participant, changing the linking depending on the attributes of each participant, treating multiple participants with related attributes as participants belonging to the same group, and positioning the images of the group closer to each other the more related the attributes of the groups are. Effect of the Invention

[0018] According to the invention as set forth in claims 1 and 9, it is possible to provide a display according to the attributes of participants in an online service.

[0019] According to the invention as set forth in claim 2, images of a plurality of participants having attributes related to each other can be displayed as a single group.

[0020] According to the invention as defined in claim 3, the relationships between multiple participants belonging to the same group can be shown.

[0021] According to the invention as set forth in claims 4 and 5, it is possible to distinguish between participants who are transmitting information and participants who are not transmitting information.

[0022] According to the invention as defined in claim 6, participants and non-participants can be distinguished.

[0023] According to the invention as defined in claim 7, the relationships between a plurality of participants can be shown.

[0024] According to the invention as defined in claim 8, it is possible to provide sounds according to the attributes of the participants. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a server according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a terminal device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a stadium. [Figure 12] FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. [Figure 20] FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. [Diagram 25] FIG. [Figure 26] FIG. [Figure 27] FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] An information processing system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 shows an example of the configuration of the information processing system according to this embodiment.

[0027] The information processing system according to the present embodiment includes, as an example, a server 10 and N terminal devices (N is an integer equal to or greater than 1). In the example shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system according to the present embodiment includes terminal devices 12A, 12B, 12C, . . . , 12N. The number of terminal devices shown in FIG. 1 is merely an example, and one or more terminal devices may be included in the information processing system according to the present embodiment. Hereinafter, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the terminal devices 12A, 12B, 12C, . . . , 12N, these will be referred to as "terminal devices 12". The information processing system according to the present embodiment may include devices other than the server 10 and the terminal devices 12.

[0028] The server 10 and each terminal device 12 have a function of communicating with other devices. The communication may be wired communication using a cable, or wireless communication. That is, each device may be physically connected to other devices via a cable to transmit and receive information, or may transmit and receive information wirelessly. Examples of wireless communication include short-range wireless communication and Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Examples of short-range wireless communication include Bluetooth (registered trademark), RFID (Radio Frequency Identifier), and NFC. For example, each device may communicate with other devices via a communication path N such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or the Internet.

[0029] The server 10 provides an online service. A user can participate in the online service and use the online service by operating the terminal device 12. The user can also use each service provided by the online service. Hereinafter, a user participating in the online service will be referred to as a "participant."

[0030] A participant is a user who is logged in to the online service and is using the online service. A user who has logged in to the online service but then logged out is not a participant of the online service, but a non-participant who is not participating in the online service. In addition, a function may be provided for temporarily stopping use of the online service even while logged in to the online service. A user who is logged in to the online service but is temporarily not using the online service is not a participant of the online service, but a non-participant who is not participating in the online service.

[0031] For example, the server 10 defines a user who has registered his / her account information (e.g., a user ID and a password) in the online service as a participant and provides the online service to the user. The server 10 may define a user who has requested to use the online service without registering his / her account information in the online service as a participant (e.g., a guest user) and provide the online service to the user.

[0032] Examples of online services include online conferences, services that provide content online, online games, online shopping, social network services (SNS), or a combination of these. Online conferences may be referred to as web conferences, remote conferences, video conferences, or the like. Participants can exchange information with other participants by using online conferences. Examples of content include entertainment (e.g., concerts, plays, movies, videos, music, etc.), sports, e-sports, etc. For example, video distribution services and music distribution services are examples of services that provide content online. Participants can watch entertainment online, or watch sports or e-sports.

[0033] The online service may be a service that uses a virtual space, or may be a service that does not use a virtual space. A virtual space is a concept that contrasts with a real space, and is, for example, a virtual space realized by a computer, a virtual space formed on a network such as the Internet, a virtual space realized by virtual reality (VR) technology, or cyberspace. For example, a virtual three-dimensional space or a two-dimensional space corresponds to an example of a virtual space.

[0034] The information exchanged or provided through online services may include, for example, image data (e.g., still image data or moving image data), data representing character strings such as messages or comments (e.g., document data or text data), audio data such as music data, control data for controlling equipment, or a combination of these.

[0035] The server 10 also stores and manages account information of users who use online services. The account information is information for logging in to an online service to use the online service, and includes, for example, a user ID and a password. For example, by transmitting the account information to the server 10 and logging in to the online service, a user associated with the account information is permitted to participate in the online service and use the online service. Of course, a user may use an online service without registering his / her account information with the online service.

[0036] The server 10 also stores and manages information indicating attributes of users who use online services. Hereinafter, information indicating user attributes will be referred to as "attribute information." The user attribute information is stored in the server 10, for example, as part of the user's account information.

[0037] The user attributes include, for example, the user's gender, age, occupation, company, department, job type, hobbies, preferences, height, weight, blood type, hometown, address, qualifications, contact information (for example, telephone number, email address, SNS account, etc.), etc. Of course, attributes other than these may also be the user attributes.

[0038] In order to use the online service, the user's attributes may be registered in the server 10, or the user's attributes may not be registered in the server 10. In other words, the user may register his / her attributes in the server 10 and use the online service, or may use the online service without registering his / her attributes in the server 10. Note that some or all of the above multiple attributes may be registered in the server 10.

[0039] The terminal device 12 is, for example, a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a "PC"), a tablet PC, a smartphone, a wearable device (for example, AR glasses, VR glasses, hearable devices, etc.), a mobile phone, etc. The terminal device 12 is used when a user uses an online service. For example, when account information is input to the terminal device 12, the account information is transmitted to the server 10. When the user is successfully authenticated, the user can log in to the online service.

[0040] In this embodiment, N people (N is an integer equal to or greater than 1) use the online service. For example, each user uses the online service by operating their own terminal device 12. For example, user A uses terminal device 12A, user B uses terminal device 12B, and user C uses terminal device 12C. The same applies to other users.

[0041] For example, user A is permitted to log in to the online service and use the online service by operating terminal device 12A. The same applies to other users. Note that multiple users may operate the same terminal device 12 to separately log in to the online service and use the online service. For example, users A and B may operate the same terminal device 12A to separately log in to the online service and use the online service.

[0042] The hardware configuration of the server 10 will be described below with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the server 10.

[0043] The server 10 includes, for example, a communication device 14, a UI 16, a memory 18, and a processor 20.

[0044] The communication device 14 is a communication interface having a communication chip, a communication circuit, etc., and has a function of transmitting information to other devices and a function of receiving information from other devices. The communication device 14 may have a wireless communication function or a wired communication function. The communication device 14 may communicate with other devices by using, for example, short-range wireless communication, or may communicate with other devices via a communication path N.

[0045] The UI 16 is a user interface and includes at least one of a display and an operation device. The display is a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an EL display. The operation device is a keyboard, input keys, an operation panel, or the like. The UI 16 may be a UI such as a touch panel that combines a display and an operation device.

[0046] The memory 18 is a device constituting one or more storage areas for storing various types of information. The memory 18 is, for example, a hard disk drive, various types of memory (e.g., RAM, DRAM, ROM, etc.), other storage devices (e.g., optical disks, etc.), or a combination thereof. One or more memories 18 are included in the server 10.

[0047] For example, the memory 18 stores account information of users who are permitted to use the online service. Note that the account information of users who are permitted to use the online service may be stored in a device (e.g., an authentication server, etc.) other than the server 10. A device such as the authentication server authenticates a user who attempts to log in to the online service, and the server 10 provides the online service to users who have been successfully authenticated.

[0048] The processor 20 is configured to control the operation of each part of the server 10. The processor 20 may include a memory.

[0049] In this embodiment, the processor 20 provides an online service to a user. For example, when multiple participants participate in the online service, the processor 20 changes the manner of display provided in the online service according to the attributes of the participants of the online service. The processor 20 may link the images of the multiple participants to each other and display them on the display based on the attributes of each participant, and change the linking according to the attributes of each participant. The processor 20 may display the images of each participant on the display as participants belonging to the same group when multiple participants have attributes related to each other. The processor 20 may display the images of multiple participants belonging to the same group in the same display area.

[0050] In addition, an automatic response partner such as a chatbot may participate in the online service as a participant. A user may exchange information with the automatic response partner. For example, the automatic response partner may function as a response assistant that responds to a user's inquiry, receive a user's statement, analyze the content of the statement, create a response to the statement, and notify the user. The automatic response partner is realized, for example, by executing a program. The program is stored, for example, in the server 10 or another device (for example, another server or the terminal device 12, etc.). The automatic response partner may be realized by artificial intelligence (AI). Any algorithm may be used for the artificial intelligence.

[0051] Hereinafter, the hardware configuration of the terminal device 12 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the terminal device 12.

[0052] The terminal device 12 includes, for example, a communication device 22, a UI 24, a memory 26, and a processor 28.

[0053] The communication device 22 is a communication interface having a communication chip, a communication circuit, etc., and has a function of transmitting information to other devices and a function of receiving information transmitted from other devices. The communication device 22 may have a wireless communication function or a wired communication function. The communication device 22 may communicate with other devices by using, for example, short-range wireless communication, or may communicate with other devices via a communication path N.

[0054] The UI 24 is a user interface and includes at least one of a display and an operation device. The display is a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an EL display. The operation device is a keyboard, input keys, an operation panel, or the like. The UI 24 may be a UI such as a touch panel that combines a display and an operation device. The UI 24 may include a microphone and a speaker.

[0055] The memory 26 is a device constituting one or more storage areas for storing various types of information. The memory 26 is, for example, a hard disk drive, various types of memory (e.g., RAM, DRAM, ROM, etc.), other storage devices (e.g., optical disks, etc.), or a combination thereof. One or more memories 26 are included in the terminal device 12.

[0056] The processor 28 is configured to control the operation of each part of the terminal device 12. The processor 28 may include a memory.

[0057] For example, the processor 28 causes images, text, etc. provided by the online service to be displayed on the display of the terminal device 12, and causes sounds, music, etc. provided by the online service to be generated from the speaker.

[0058] Each example of the present embodiment will be described below. The processor 20 of the server 10 or the processor 28 of the terminal device 12 may execute the process according to each example, or the processor 20 and the processor 28 may cooperate to execute the process according to each example. A part of a process may be executed by the processor 20, and another part of the process may be executed by the processor 28. The server 10, the terminal device 12, or a combination of these corresponds to an example of an information processing device according to the present embodiment.

[0059] Example 1 A first embodiment will be described below. The online service according to the first embodiment is an online conference, in which a plurality of participants participate. Each participant operates his / her own terminal device 12 to log in to the online conference and participate in the online conference. Images of each participant participating in the online conference are displayed on the display of each participant's terminal device 12. An authorized participant or an administrator may permit or disallow each user to participate in the online conference. In this case, a user who is permitted to participate can participate in the online conference. In addition, when a participant invites another user to the online conference and the other user indicates an intention to participate, the other user may be able to participate in the online conference.

[0060] 4 shows a screen 30A. The screen 30A is a screen displayed on the display of the terminal device 12A of a user A who is participating in the online conference. A screen similar to the screen 30A is also displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of the participant other than the user A.

[0061] A plurality of participants participate in the online conference, and images representing each participant participating in the online conference are displayed on the screen 30A. Hereinafter, the images representing the participants are referred to as "participant images." The participant images of all participants may be displayed, or only some of the participant images may be displayed. The participant images to be displayed may be specified by user A, or the participant may specify whether to display or hide his / her own participant image. The participant image may be an image generated by photographing the participant with a camera, or may be a schematic image (e.g., an icon or an avatar) representing the participant. The participant image may be a still image or a moving image. The camera may or may not be provided in the terminal device 12. Data of the participant image generated by photographing with the camera is transmitted from the terminal device 12 of the participant to the terminal device 12 of the other participant via the server 10, and the participant image is displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of each participant. Furthermore, the voice of the participant is collected by a microphone, and the voice data is transmitted from the terminal device 12 of the participant to the terminal devices 12 of the other participants via the server 10, and the voice of the participant is emitted from a speaker of the terminal device 12 of each participant or a speaker not provided in the terminal device 12. Furthermore, the remarks of the participant may be displayed as a character string. Each participant can exchange information such as voice, image, character string, etc. with the other participants through the online conference.

[0062] The processor 20 of the server 10 causes the participant images to be linked to each other and displayed on the display of each terminal device 12 based on the attributes of each participant. Displaying the participant images linked to each other means, for example, displaying the images of multiple participants who have attributes related to each other as participants belonging to the same group on the display. Specifically, participant images of multiple participants belonging to the same group are displayed in the same display area. The processor 28 of each terminal device 12 may receive information indicating the attributes of each participant from the server 10 and cause the participant images to be linked to each other and displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 based on the attributes of each participant, or may receive an instruction to display each participant image from the processor 20 of the server 10 and cause the participant images to be linked to each other and displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 in accordance with the display instruction.

[0063] 4, participant image 32A representing user A is displayed in display area 34A. Participant image 32B representing user B is displayed in display area 34B. Participant image 32C representing user C is displayed in display area 34C. Participant image 32D representing user D, participant image 32E representing user E, and participant image 32F representing user F are displayed in display area 34.

[0064] Users A, B, C, D, E, and F have a common attribute. For example, users A, B, C, D, E, and F belong to the same company A. That is, users A, B, C, D, E, and F have attributes related to each other. In this case, the processor 20 associates the participant images 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 32E, and 32F with each other and displays them on the screen 30A, regarding users A, B, C, D, E, and F as participants belonging to the same group. For example, the processor 20 displays the participant images 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 32E, and 32F in a display area surrounded by the same frame 36A. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the processor 20 arranges the display areas 34A, 34B, 34C, and 34D on the screen 30A in a state where they are adjacent to each other, and surrounds the display areas 34A, 34B, 34C, and 34D with the same frame 36A. As a result, the participant images 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 32E, and 32F are displayed within the same display area surrounded by the frame 36A.

[0065] Furthermore, users D, E, and F belong to the same department α in company A. In this case, the processor 20 associates the participant images 32D, 32E, and 32F with each other and displays them on the screen 30A, regarding users D, E, and F as participants belonging to the same group. For example, the processor 20 displays the participant images 32D, 32E, and 32F in the display area 34D surrounded by the same frame 36B. In this manner, each participant image may be displayed hierarchically. For example, a large frame, a medium frame smaller than the large frame, and a small frame smaller than the medium frame are formed, a medium frame is displayed within the large frame, and a small frame is displayed within the medium frame, and each participant image is displayed within each frame according to the attributes. Of course, even finer frames may be formed according to the attributes.

[0066] In addition, the users G, H, I, J, K, L, M, and the user group N have a common attribute. For example, the users G, H, I, J, K, L, M, and the user group N belong to the same company B. In this case, the processor 20 regards the users G, H, I, J, K, L, M, and the user group N as participants belonging to the same group, and displays the participant image 32G representing the user G, the participant image 32H representing the user H, the participant image 32I representing the user I, the participant image 32J representing the user J, the participant image 32K representing the user K, the participant image 32L representing the user L, the participant image 32M representing the user M, and the participant image 32N representing the user group N on the screen 30A in association with each other. For example, the processor 20 displays the participant images 32G, 32H, 32I, 32J, 32K, 32L, 32M, and 32N in the same display area surrounded by the frame 36C. 4, the processor 20 surrounds the display areas 34G, 34H, 34I, and 34L with the same frame 36C. As a result, the participant images 32G, 32H, 32I, 32J, 32K, 32L, 32M, and 32N are displayed within the display area surrounded by the same frame 36C.

[0067] Furthermore, users I, J, and K belong to the same department in company B. In this case, the processor 20 displays participant images 32I, 32J, and 32K of users I, J, and K as participants belonging to the same group in the same display area 34I. Note that a frame surrounding the display area 34I may be displayed.

[0068] Furthermore, the users L, M and the user group N belong to the same department in the company B. In this case, the processor 20 treats the users L, M and the user group N as participants belonging to the same group, and displays the participant images 32L, 32M, and 32N in the same display area 34L. Note that a frame surrounding the display area 34L may be displayed.

[0069] Furthermore, since users P and Q belong to the same group, participant image 32P representing user P and participant image 32Q representing user Q are displayed in the same display area. Similarly, since users R, S, and T belong to the same group, participant image 32R representing user R, participant image 32S representing user S, and participant image 32T representing user T are displayed in the same display area.

[0070] The participant image of a participant who does not form a group with other participants is displayed alone in the display area. For example, since the user U does not form a group with other participants, the participant image 32U representing the user U is displayed alone in the display area 34U.

[0071] Moreover, the participant image of a participant whose attribute is not registered in the server 10 is displayed alone in the display area.

[0072] In the example shown in FIG. 4, as an example, participant images of participants belonging to the same company are displayed in the same frame. As another example, participant images of multiple participants having a specific attribute relationship may be displayed in the same frame. For example, a participant image of a superior and a participant image of a subordinate may be displayed in the same frame, or they may be displayed in separate frames.

[0073] A screen identical to the screen 30A is displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of another participant (for example, the terminal device 12B of user B). This allows a plurality of participants to share the same situation.

[0074] Each participant may set conditions for what attributes each participant image of a plurality of participants should have when displayed in the same frame. When different conditions are set for each participant, the plurality of participant images are displayed with different layout relationships on the display of the terminal device 12 of each participant. When the conditions set by user A and the conditions set by user B are different, each participant image is displayed on the display of the terminal device 12B of user B, but each participant image is displayed with a layout relationship different from the layout relationship of each participant image displayed on the screen 30A.

[0075] The processor 20 may change the manner of displaying the participant image of each participant according to the relationship of the attributes of each participant belonging to the same group. For example, a main participant and a sub-participant may be determined based on the attributes of each participant. The processor 20 may display each participant image on the display in a manner in which the participant image of the main participant stands out more than the participant image of the sub-participant. For example, the processor 20 may change the size of the participant image of each participant according to the relationship of the attributes of each participant, may change the color of the participant image of each participant, may change the decoration of the participant image of each participant, or may display a character string associated with the participant image of each participant. To explain this by giving a specific example, when a superior is a main participant and a subordinate is a sub-participant, the processor 20 displays the participant image of the superior larger than the participant image of the subordinate. In addition, the processor 20 may display the participant image of the group leader or representative larger than the other participant images.

[0076] The processor 20 may display on the display, for each of a plurality of participants belonging to the same group, a participant image of a participant who is transmitting information and a participant image of a participant who is not transmitting information. The distinction is made, for example, by the size of the participant image, the color of the participant image, the decoration of the participant image, or a character string associated with the participant image. The participant who is transmitting information may be defined as a main participant, and the participant who is not transmitting information may be defined as a sub participant. For example, the processor 20 displays each participant image on the display in a manner in which the participant image of the participant who is transmitting information is more prominent than the participant image of the participant who is not transmitting information.

[0077] The information here is voice data, image data, character string data, or a combination of these. Transmitting information means sending voice data, image data, character string data, or a combination of these. For example, when a participant in an online conference speaks, the voice data is sent to the terminal device 12 of the other participant participating in the online conference, and the voice is output from the speaker of the terminal device 12 of the other participant or from another speaker. In this case, the participant who is making the voice is the user who is transmitting the information. A participant who is sending image data or character string data is also a user who is transmitting the information.

[0078] For example, the processor 20 makes the participant image of a participant who is speaking (e.g., a participant image of a participant who is making a sound) larger than the participant image of a participant who is not speaking. When multiple participants belonging to the same group speak, the processor 20 makes the participant image of each of the multiple participants larger than the participant image of a participant who is not speaking and belongs to the same group. To explain by taking a specific example, when a user A belonging to a company A speaks and users B, C, D, E, and F do not speak, the processor 20 displays the participant image 32A of the user A larger than the participant images 32B, 32C, 32D, 32E, and 32F. In addition, when a user D belonging to a department α of the company A speaks and users E and F do not speak, the processor 20 makes the participant image 32D of the user D larger than the participant images 32E and 32F. At this time, the processor 20 may display the participant image 32D larger than the participant images of participants who belong to company A but not to department α (e.g., participant images 32A, 32B, 32C), or may display the participant image 32D larger than the participant images 32E, 32F without considering the sizes of the participant images 32A, 32B, 32C. Of course, the processor 20 may distinguish between the participant images of participants who are speaking and the participant images of participants who are not speaking by a method other than changing the size of the participant images.

[0079] The processor 20 may switch between the main display and the sub-display depending on whether the participant is transmitting information or not. For example, the processor 20 may determine a participant who is transmitting information as a main participant and a participant who is not transmitting information as a sub-participant, and switch the display of the participant image of each participant.

[0080] Even if the participant image is of a participant who is not actually participating in the online conference, if there is a specific relationship between the attributes of the participant and the attributes of other participants participating in the online conference, the processor 20 may display the participant image of the participant who is not actually participating in the online conference on the screen.

[0081] For example, the processor 20 distinguishes between participant images of non-participants, who are users who have registered in an online conference but are not participating, and participant images of participants in the online conference, and displays each participant image on the display. A non-participant here may be, for example, a user who is not logged in to the online conference but whose account information is registered in the server 10, or a user who is logged in to the online conference but has temporarily left the conference (for example, a user who has temporarily stopped using the online conference).

[0082] In the example shown in FIG. 4, user F is a non-participant. For example, if user F temporarily stops using the login conference after logging in to the online conference, the processor 20 determines user F as a non-participant. In this case, the processor 20 displays the participant images 32F of user F by distinguishing between the participant images of non-participants and the participant images of participants so that the participant image 32F of user F can be identified as a participant image of a non-participant. For example, the processor 20 displays the participant image 32F in gray, surrounds the participant image 32F with a frame having a specific color, or displays a character string indicating that the participant is a non-participant near the participant image 32F.

[0083] As another example, if user F is not logged in to the online conference, but there is a specific relationship between the attributes of user F and the attributes of the participants, the processor 20 determines user F as a non-participant and displays a participant image of user F in the same manner as described above. As described above, since user F belongs to company A and further to department α, the processor 20 displays the participant image 32F of user F within the frame 36B.

[0084] Furthermore, the processor 20 may display participant images of a predetermined number or more of participants together as one. For example, the user group N is composed of three participants, and the participant image 32N is an image that represents the three participants together.

[0085] The processor 20 may also arrange the participant images of participants closer to each other on the display, so that the more related the attributes are between the participants, the closer the participants' images are to each other. For example, the processor 20 arranges the participant images of participants who belong to the same company closer to each other than the participant images of participants who do not belong to the same company, arranges the participant images of participants who belong to the same industry closer to each other than the participant images of participants who do not belong to the same industry, arranges the participant images of participants who have the same hobby closer to each other than the participant images of participants who do not have the same hobby, and arranges the participant images of participants who live in the same area closer to each other than the participant images of participants who do not live in the same area. The processor 20 may change the arrangement of the participant images according to the user's preferences, age, sex, or the like as attributes other than those mentioned above.

[0086] In addition, the processor 20 may arrange the participant images of participants closer to each other as the number of common attributes between participants increases. For example, if user A and user B have the same hobbies, preferences, and living area, and user A and user C have the same hobbies and preferences, the processor 20 arranges and displays the participant image of user B closer to the participant image of user A than the participant image of user C.

[0087] Furthermore, the processor 20 may display the images of the groups (that is, the participant images of the participants belonging to the group) closer to each other on the display as the relevance of the attributes between the groups becomes higher.

[0088] For example, if participants are grouped by the company they belong to, processor 20 may display images of companies that belong to the same industry (i.e., participant images of each participant that belongs to each company) closer to each other than images of companies that belong to different industries.

[0089] Also, when participants are grouped by the industry to which they belong, the processor 20 displays participant images of participants belonging to the same industry closer to each other than participant images of participants belonging to different industries. Figure 5 shows a screen 30A for explaining an example of this process. Screen 30A shows participant images of each participant participating in the online conference, similar to the example shown in Figure 4.

[0090] For example, each participant image surrounded by a frame 36F is an image representing each participant belonging to the precision equipment industry. Each participant image surrounded by a frame 36G is an image representing each participant belonging to the IT industry. Each participant image surrounded by a frame 36H is an image representing each participant belonging to the food industry. Each participant belonging to the same industry may be a participant belonging to the same company, or may be a participant belonging to different companies.

[0091] For example, because the IT industry is more closely related to the precision machinery industry than the food industry, processor 20 displays each participant image on screen 30A by positioning the participant image of each participant belonging to the IT industry (i.e., each participant image surrounded by frame 36G) closer to the participant image of each participant belonging to the precision machinery industry (i.e., each participant image surrounded by frame 36F) than to the participant image of each participant belonging to the food industry (i.e., each participant image surrounded by frame 36H).

[0092] In addition, when a user has multiple attributes, the user may change the attributes for each online conference and participate in the online conference. The user may specify the attributes before participating in the online conference, or may change the attributes while participating. For example, when the user has a second job, that is, when the user has multiple types of occupations, the user may specify one or more of the multiple occupations as attributes and participate in the online conference. In this case, the processor 20 defines the specified one or more occupations as the attributes of the user, and executes the process according to the above-mentioned first embodiment.

[0093] For example, a user is engaged in a job related to the food industry and a job in the legal industry. When the user participates in an online conference in the food industry, the processor 20 may display attribute information to be displayed in the food industry, or may display only the name of the company to which the user belongs. When the user participates in an online conference in the legal industry, the processor 20 displays attribute information to be displayed in the legal industry, and changes the name of the company to which the user belongs. Of course, the processor 20 may display all attribute information in both online conferences, may display some common information, or may allow the user to switch between the displayed information. In addition, in a specific industry, a specific attribute may have an important meaning. For example, the attribute is a qualification. To explain with a specific example, when a user participates in an online conference in the legal industry, it is important whether or not the user has a legal qualification.

[0094] Furthermore, a user may log in to the same online service using multiple user accounts using the same terminal device 12. When multiple user accounts use the same terminal device 12 to participate in the same online conference, attribute information may be automatically assigned to each user account as each user account belongs to the same group. Of course, the processor 20 may assign attribute information to each user account individually. For example, the processor 20 may provide an option for performing such assignment at the time of login, and change the display of attributes according to the rules for assigning attributes determined by each user.

[0095] A modification of the first embodiment will now be described.

[0096] The processor 20 may change the shape of the frame surrounding the participant images according to the number of participants in the online conference. The shape of the frame may be, for example, a square, a circle, an ellipse, a triangle, etc. Of course, the shape of the frame may be a shape other than these, or may be a shape set by the user.

[0097] FIG. 6 shows an example of each frame. FIG. 6 shows a screen 30A. For example, a rectangular frame 36I, a triangular frame 36J, and a circular frame 36K are displayed on the screen 30A. Three participant images are displayed in the frame 36I, and each participant image is displayed in a rectangular display area. Six participant images are displayed in the frame 36J, and each participant image is displayed in a rectangular display area. Four participant images are displayed in the frame 36K, and each participant image is displayed in a circular display area. The processor 20 changes the position of each participant image and changes the shape of the frame surrounding the participant image according to the number of participant images displayed in the frame. The processor 20 may also change the shape of the display area of ​​each participant image. For example, the processor 20 changes the position of each participant image and changes the shape of the frame so that the size of the area within the frame is minimized. Taking frame 36J as an example, if the area occupied by frame 36J is smaller when the shape of frame 36J is triangular compared to when the shape of frame 36J is rectangular, processor 20 determines the shape of frame 36J to be triangular.

[0098] The processor 20 may also display participant images of participants participating in the online conference as guest users at the edge of the screen 30A, as indicated by reference numeral 36L. A guest user is, for example, a user whose account information is not registered in the server 10 and who is permitted to temporarily participate in the online conference. The permission is given by the host of the online conference, a participant of the online conference, an administrator, or the like.

[0099] Furthermore, if the use of the online conference requires a fee, the processor 20 may display the participant images of participants who have paid a larger amount for the use in a larger size. For example, a plurality of usage fees may be set, and each user may select a usage fee from the plurality of usage fees and pay the usage fee to participate in the online conference. Also, a usage fee for each predetermined period (e.g., a monthly fee, etc.) may be set, and a user may participate in the online conference by paying the usage fee.

[0100] Additionally, a participant's rank (e.g., regular member, supporting member, etc.) may be determined for each usage amount. The processor 20 may display the participant image of a participant with a higher rank larger than the participant image of a participant with a lower rank. For example, the processor 20 displays the participant image of a regular member larger than the participant image of a supporting member who is lower in rank than the regular member.

[0101] The processor 20 may also change the placement position of the participant images depending on the rank. For example, the processor 20 displays the participant images of participants with higher ranks in a more prominent position than the participant images of participants with lower ranks. Specifically, the processor 20 displays the participant images of participants with higher ranks in the center of the screen 30A, and displays the participant images of participants with lower ranks at the edge of the screen 30A.

[0102] Example 2 A second embodiment will be described below. The online service according to the second embodiment is a service that provides content. The attributes of the participants of the online service, that is, the attributes of the users of the content, are the positions of virtual seats for viewing the content. The processor 20 changes the display mode of the content provided to the participants according to the positions of the virtual seats. Here, as an example, the content is a concert or a live performance.

[0103] Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a screen 38. For example, when a user who is a concert audience operates the terminal device 12 to participate in an online service that provides a concert or live performance, the processor 20 causes the display of the terminal device 12 to display the screen 38. The screen 38 includes display areas 40A and 40B. The screen 38 displays the state of the inside of a concert venue that exists in a real space or the state of the inside of a concert venue that exists in a virtual space. For example, a moving image is displayed on the screen 38.

[0104] Images 42A, 42B, and 42C representing concert performers (e.g., singers) are displayed in the display area 40A. The concert may take place in a real space or a virtual space. The performers, such as singers, may be real people or virtual people (e.g., characters, etc.). The display area 40A is, for example, an area corresponding to a stage. The sound of the concert is emitted from the speakers of the terminal devices 12 of the participants (i.e., spectators) of the online service or from other speakers. The images displayed in the display area 40A may be moving images or still images.

[0105] In the display area 40B, participant images representing participants (i.e., spectators) of the online service are displayed. The display area 40B is, for example, an area corresponding to an audience seat. Virtual seats are defined in the display area 40B, and participant images representing spectators using the virtual seats are displayed. Here, as an example, participant images 44A to 44L are displayed in the display area 40B. For example, a usage fee is defined for each seat, and spectators can purchase a virtual seat by paying the usage fee and enjoy the concert via the screen 38.

[0106] For example, areas 46A, 46B, and 46C are defined as virtual seating areas, and a usage fee is defined for each area. Area 46A is an area set on the left side of the stage. Area 46B is an area set in the center of the stage. Area 46C is an area set on the right side of the stage.

[0107] For example, the usage fee for the virtual seats in the area 46B is the highest, and the usage fees for the virtual seats in the areas 46A and 46C are the same, which is the second highest.

[0108] In area 46A, a participant image (e.g., participant images 44A-44E) of each spectator who has purchased a virtual seat in area 46A is displayed. In area 46B, a participant image (e.g., participant images 44F-44H) of each spectator who has purchased a virtual seat in area 46B is displayed. In area 46C, a participant image (e.g., participant images 44I-44L) of each spectator who has purchased a virtual seat in area 46C is displayed.

[0109] The processor 20 provides an image representing the concert stage as seen from the central area 46B to the audience members who have purchased virtual seats in the central area 46B. That is, the processor 20 causes an image representing the concert stage as seen from the area 46B to be displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of the audience member who has purchased a virtual seat in the area 46B.

[0110] The processor 20 also causes an image representing the concert stage as viewed from the area 46A to be displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of a spectator who has purchased a virtual seat in the left area 46A. Similarly, the processor 20 causes an image representing the concert stage as viewed from the area 46C to be displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of a spectator who has purchased a virtual seat in the right area 46C.

[0111] The processor 20 may also change the sound of the concert provided to the audience depending on the location of the virtual seat. For example, the processor 20 provides the audience who has purchased a virtual seat in the center area 46B with the sound heard in the center seat. Specifically, the processor 20 generates the sound heard in the center seat from the speaker used by the audience who has purchased the virtual seat in the center area 46B.

[0112] Processor 20 also generates the concert sounds heard in the left seats from speakers used by spectators who have purchased virtual seats in left area 46A. Similarly, processor 20 generates the concert sounds heard in the right seats from speakers used by spectators who have purchased virtual seats in right area 46C.

[0113] For example, when a concert is held in real space, the state of the stage is photographed from each of the center, the left side, and the right side. Image data generated by photographing from the center is transmitted to the terminal device 12 of the participant who has purchased a virtual seat in the center area 46B, and the image is displayed on the display of the terminal device 12. Image data generated by photographing from the left side is transmitted to the terminal device 12 of the participant who has purchased a virtual seat in the left area 46A, and the image is displayed on the display of the terminal device 12. Image data generated by photographing from the right side is transmitted to the terminal device 12 of the participant who has purchased a virtual seat in the right area 46C, and the image is displayed on the display of the terminal device 12. In this way, the central audience is provided with an image showing the concert as seen from the center seat, the left audience is provided with an image showing the concert as seen from the left seat, and the right audience is provided with an image showing the concert as seen from the right seat. In other words, the manner of display of the provided content changes for each seat.

[0114] Also, the sounds of the stage are collected at the center, the left side, and the right side. The sound data collected from the center is transmitted to the terminal device 12 of the audience member who has purchased the virtual seat in the center area 46B, and is emitted from the speaker used by that audience member. The sound data collected from the left side is transmitted to the terminal device 12 of the audience member who has purchased the virtual seat in the left area 46A, and is emitted from the speaker used by that audience member. The sound data collected from the right side is transmitted to the terminal device 12 of the audience member who has purchased the virtual seat in the right area 46C, and is emitted from the speaker used by that audience member. In this way, the audience member in the center is provided with the sound of the center of the concert, the audience member on the left side is provided with the sound of the left side of the concert, and the audience member on the right side is provided with the sound of the right side of the concert. In other words, the sound provided varies for each seat.

[0115] The same is true when a concert is held in a virtual space. Images showing the stage as viewed virtually from the center, left, and right are displayed on the display of each audience member's terminal device 12. Sounds that are virtually heard at the center, left, and right positions are emitted from the speakers used by each audience member.

[0116] When a spectator, who is a participant, changes the position of the virtual seat during the provision of content (e.g., a concert or live performance), the processor 20 may change the manner in which the content provided to the spectator is displayed according to the new seat position. For example, when a spectator changes his / her seat, an image showing the stage as seen from the new seat and audio heard at the new seat are provided to the spectator. Seat changes can be made for a fee or free of charge.

[0117] Also, the audience may be able to post comments on the content by operating their own terminal device 12. The processor 20 links the posted comment to information for identifying the audience member who posted the comment (for example, the participant's account, ID, nickname, name, or the like), and displays the comment in the display area 40A or 40B.

[0118] The processor 20 may change the priority of the spectator's comments on the content according to the usage fee for the online service, and display the spectator's comments on the display. For example, the processor 20 displays the comments in the display area 40A or 40B with a higher priority for comments posted by spectators who have paid a higher usage fee. In addition, if posting a comment itself requires a fee, the higher the fee paid for posting the comment, the higher the priority. The processor 20 displays the comment with a higher priority so that it stands out more. For example, the processor 20 displays the comment with a higher priority in the center of the display area 40A or applies special decorations to it.

[0119] Example 3 A third embodiment will be described below. The online service according to the third embodiment is an online game. The online game is sometimes called e-sports. Participants in the online service are players of the online game or spectators of the online game. When the participant means a player, the attribute of the participant is the attribute of the player. When the participant means a spectator, the attribute of the participant is the attribute of the spectator.

[0120] Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a screen 48. The processor 20 causes the screen 48 to be displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of each player of the online game and on the display of the terminal device 12 of each spectator of the online game.

[0121] A user can participate in an online game as a player, either for a fee or free of charge, by operating the terminal device 12. Similarly, a user can participate in an online game as a spectator, either for a fee or free of charge, by operating the terminal device 12.

[0122] The type of the online game according to the third embodiment is not particularly limited. Examples of the online game include puzzle games, fighting games, racing games, combat games, sports games, simulation games, and role-playing games. Of course, games of other genres may be the online game according to the third embodiment.

[0123] In the example shown in FIG. 8, three players (e.g., players A, B, and C) participate in an online game. An operation area (e.g., operation areas 50A, 50B, and 50C) of each player is displayed on the screen 48. In the operation area, a play image (e.g., a moving image) of the online game is displayed. The play image is an image representing an object (e.g., a character or other object) or a scene that the player operates. For example, if the online game is a fighting game, a character appearing in the fighting game is displayed in the operation area as an object to be operated. If the online game is a racing game, a car, a motorcycle, or the like appearing in the racing game is displayed in the operation area as an object to be operated. Specifically, in the operation area 50A, a character operated by player A and other objects are displayed. In the operation area 50B, a character operated by player B and other objects are displayed. In the operation area 50C, a character operated by player C and other objects are displayed. Each player advances through the online game while operating a character or other object displayed in his or her own operation area.

[0124] Also, a participant image representing each player is displayed on the screen 48. In the example shown in FIG. 8, a participant image 52A representing player A, a participant image 52B representing player B, and a participant image 52C representing player C are displayed on the screen 48. The participant image 52A is displayed in association with the operation area 50A, the participant image 52B is displayed in association with the operation area 50B, and the participant image 52C is displayed in association with the operation area 50C. For example, the participant image 52A is displayed near the operation area 50A, the participant image 52B is displayed in association with the operation area 50B, and the participant image 52C is displayed in association with the operation area 50C.

[0125] Further, a comment field 54 is displayed on the screen 48. The comment field 54 displays comments posted by spectators to the online game. Spectators can post comments to the online game by operating the terminal device 12. The posted comments are displayed in the comment field 54. In the example shown in FIG. 8, a comment 56A posted by spectator A, a comment 56B posted by spectator B, and a comment 56C posted by spectator C are displayed in the comment field 54. For example, each comment is displayed in chronological order according to the time when the comment was posted. Further, a participant image representing the spectator who posted the comment is linked to the comment. For example, a participant image representing spectator A is linked to comment 56A and displayed in the comment field 54. The same applies to participant images representing other spectators.

[0126] For example, the processor 20 changes the size, position, shape, etc. of the operation area of ​​the player according to the attributes of the player. The processor 20 may also change the size, position, shape, etc. of the operation area of ​​each player according to the relationship between the attributes of each player. Specifically, the processor 20 displays the operation area of ​​a player with a higher score in the online game larger than the operation area of ​​a player with a lower score, or displays it in a more prominent position (for example, the center of the screen 48) than the operation area of ​​a player with a lower score. The processor 20 may apply a special decoration to the operation area of ​​the player with a higher score to express that the score is higher, or may apply a special decoration to the operation area of ​​the player with a lower score to express that the score is lower. Note that the score of a player in the online game corresponds to the attribute of the player.

[0127] The processor 20 may display the operation area of ​​a player in a dominant position in an online game larger than that of a player in a subordinate position, or may display the operation area of ​​the player in a more prominent position than that of the player in a subordinate position. The processor 20 may provide the operation area of ​​the player in a dominant position with a special decoration that expresses the dominant position, or the operation area of ​​the player in a subordinate position with a special decoration that expresses the inferior position. Note that the position of a player in an online game (e.g., a dominant position or a subordinate position) corresponds to the attribute of the player.

[0128] Processor 20 may display the operation area of ​​a player who satisfies certain conditions in an online game (e.g., a player who has acquired a certain item or a player who has achieved a certain score in an online game) larger than the operation areas of players who do not satisfy the certain conditions, or may display them in a more prominent position.

[0129] For example, if player A's performance is higher than player B's performance, processor 20 places player A's operation area 50A in the center of screen 48 and player B's operation area 50B at the edge (e.g., the left edge) of screen 48. The same applies to the players' positions and the achievement of specific conditions. In addition, the placement position of the operation area may be determined for each performance, or the placement position of the operation area may be determined for each player's position.

[0130] As with the operation area, the processor 20 may change the size, position, shape, and expression of the participant image of a player according to the attributes of the player. For example, the processor 20 may display the participant image of a player with a higher score larger than the participant image of a player with a lower score. The processor 20 may apply special decoration to the participant image of the player with a higher score to express that the player has a higher score, and may apply special decoration to the participant image of the player with a lower score to express that the player has a lower score. The same applies to the player's position and the fulfillment of a specific condition.

[0131] Also, a spectator may be able to post a comment to a specific player. For example, as indicated by the reference symbol 58, when a spectator uses the terminal device 12 to move a comment that he or she posted from the comment field 54 into the operation area of ​​the specific player (e.g., the operation area 50B), the processor 20 displays the comment in a specific area (e.g., an area predetermined for displaying comments) in the operation area 50B. Note that the operation of posting a comment to a specific player may be free or may be charged. The fee paid by the spectator may vary depending on the length of the comment and the number of posts.

[0132] Furthermore, the processor 20 may manage a spectator who posted a comment to a specific player by linking it with the specific player. The processor 20 may define the spectator as a fan of the specific player. The processor 20 may determine the spectator who posted a comment as a specific fan (e.g., an ardent fan) based on the number of times the spectator posted a comment to the specific player or the fee paid to post a comment to the specific player. For example, the processor 20 determines a spectator who posted a comment to a specific player more times than the number of posts by other spectators, a spectator who posted the most comments, a spectator who paid more fees than the fees paid by other spectators, or a spectator who paid the most fees as a specific fan. The processor 20 may display a participant image of a spectator determined as a specific fan in a large size or decorate the participant image of the spectator. The processor 20 may create a ranking of each spectator based on the number of times the spectator posted a comment or the fee paid to post a comment. The ranking may be displayed on the screen 48 or the like.

[0133] Furthermore, the processor 20 may display comments that satisfy a specific condition more prominently than comments that do not satisfy the specific condition. For example, the processor 20 may display comments that satisfy a specific condition larger than comments that do not satisfy the specific condition, apply special decorations to comments that satisfy the specific condition, or place comments that satisfy the specific condition in a higher position than comments that do not satisfy the specific condition. For example, comments that cheer on a player or comments that express cheering in a unique way are comments that satisfy a specific condition.

[0134] Furthermore, when a specific condition is satisfied in an online game, processor 20 may combine multiple operation areas to create one operation area, and display the one operation area on screen 48. The specific condition may be, for example, when characters operated by multiple players respectively approach each other in the online game, or when multiple players start a specific battle mode. Of course, conditions other than these may be determined as the specific condition. Furthermore, the specific condition may be set by an administrator or the like.

[0135] To explain this with a specific example, when a character A operated by a player A and a character B operated by a player B approach each other in an online game, the processor 20 creates one operation area 50AB by combining an operation area 50A of the player A and an operation area 50B of the player B as shown in FIG. 9, and displays the operation area 50AB on the screen 48. The characters A and B are displayed in the same operation area 50AB, and in the operation area 50AB, the player A operates the character A, and the player B operates the character B. For example, in a racing game, when a car operated by the player A (i.e., character A) and a car operated by the player B (i.e., character B) approach each other in distance, the operation areas 50A and 50B are switched to the operation area 50AB. Also, in a role-playing game, a fighting game, or the like, when the player A and the player B approach each other in distance, the operation areas 50A and 50B are switched to the operation area 50AB.

[0136] Example 4 A fourth embodiment will be described below. The online service according to the fourth embodiment is a service that provides content. The attributes of the participants of the online service, that is, the attributes of the users of the content, are the positions of virtual seats for viewing the content. The processor 20 changes the display mode of the content provided to the participants according to the positions of the virtual seats. Here, as an example, the content is a movie.

[0137] Hereinafter, the fourth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a screen 60. For example, when a user who is a movie audience operates the terminal device 12 to participate in an online service that provides movies, the processor 20 causes the display of the terminal device 12 to display the screen 60.

[0138] Screen 60 includes a display area 62 on which the movie image is projected, and a display area corresponding to the auditorium 64. Display area 62 may be an area representing a movie screen, or an area representing an image that mimics the screen.

[0139] Virtual seats are defined in the display area 64, and participant images representing spectators using the virtual seats are displayed. As in the second embodiment, for example, a usage fee is defined for each seat, and spectators can purchase a virtual seat by paying the usage fee and watch a movie through the screen 60.

[0140] As in the second embodiment, the processor 20 provides an image showing the movie screen as seen from the central area to the audience who has purchased a virtual seat in the central area. That is, the processor 20 causes the display of the terminal device 12 of the audience who has purchased a virtual seat in the central area to display an image showing the movie screen as seen from the central area.

[0141] The processor 20 also causes the display of the terminal device 12 of the audience member who has purchased a virtual seat in the left-hand region to display an image showing the movie screen as seen from the left-hand region. Similar processing is performed for the right-hand region.

[0142] The processor 20 may also change the sound of the movie provided to the audience depending on the location of the virtual seat. For example, the processor 20 provides the sound heard in the center seat to the audience who has purchased a virtual seat in the center area. Specifically, the processor 20 generates the sound heard in the center seat from a speaker used by the audience who has purchased the virtual seat in the center area. Similar processing is performed for the right and left seats.

[0143] If a spectator, who is a participant, changes the position of his / her virtual seat during the provision of content (e.g., a movie), the processor 20 may change the manner in which the content is displayed to the spectator according to the new seat position. For example, when a spectator changes his / her seat, an image showing the screen as seen from the new seat and audio heard at the new seat are provided to the spectator. Seat changes may be made for a fee or free of charge.

[0144] Example 5 A fifth embodiment will be described below. The online service according to the fifth embodiment is a service that provides content. The attributes of participants in the online service, that is, the attributes of users of the content, are the positions of virtual seats for viewing the content. The processor 20 changes the display mode of the content provided to the participants according to the positions of the virtual seats.

[0145] As an example, the content provided here is the provision of video and audio of a sport taking place in real space. The processor 20 provides the video and audio of the sport through an online service to participants of the online service (i.e., spectators of the sport). The spectators can use the terminal device 12 to watch the sport through the video and audio.

[0146] Hereinafter, the fifth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a sports stadium. Here, as an example, the sport is soccer. Fig. 11 shows a ground 66 where soccer is played, and spectator areas 68A, 68B, 68C, and 68D arranged to surround the ground 66.

[0147] In each viewing area, a virtual seat is set, and a participant image representing a spectator using the virtual seat is displayed. For example, a usage fee is set for each seat, and a spectator can purchase a virtual seat by paying the usage fee and receive video and audio of a sport through an online service. The schematic stadium and viewing area shown in FIG. 11 are displayed on the display of the terminal device 12, and a user may purchase a desired seat by referring to the displayed content.

[0148] As in the second embodiment, the processor 20 provides an image showing the ground 66 as viewed from a seat to a spectator who has purchased a virtual seat in the viewing area 68A. That is, the processor 20 causes an image showing the ground 66 as viewed from a seat to be displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of the spectator who has purchased a virtual seat in the viewing area 68A. The same applies to the viewing areas 68B, 68C, and 68D.

[0149] Also, similar to the second embodiment, the processor 20 provides the spectator who has purchased a virtual seat in the viewing area 68A with a sound that can be heard at that seat. Specifically, the processor 20 generates a sound that can be heard at the seat from a speaker used by the spectator who has purchased a virtual seat in the viewing area 68A. The same applies to the other viewing areas.

[0150] Furthermore, if a spectator, who is a participant, changes the position of his / her virtual seat while content (e.g., a sports broadcast) is being provided, the processor 20 may change the manner in which the content provided to the spectator is displayed according to the changed seat position. For example, if a spectator changes his / her seat while watching a game, the processor 20 causes an image corresponding to the changed seat to be displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of the spectator. For example, the spectator can change his / her seat by operating the terminal device 12 to move the participant image representing the spectator within the watching area.

[0151] For example, the participant image 70 shown in FIG. 11 is an image representing user A. When the participant image 70 is displayed on a seat 72A in the spectating area 68C, the processor 20 causes an image representing the ground 66 as viewed from the seat 72A to be displayed on the display of the terminal device 12A of the user A. An example of the image is shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 12 shows a screen 74 displayed on the display of the terminal device 12A. The screen 74 displays an image representing the ground 66 as viewed from the seat 72A (for example, an image representing the vicinity of the goal).

[0152] When user A operates his / her own participant image 70 to move the participant image 70 from the seat 72A to the seat 72B in the viewing area 68C (see the arrow in FIG. 11), the processor 20 displays an image showing the ground 66 as seen from the seat 72B on the display of the terminal device 12A. An example of the image is shown in FIG. 13. An image showing the ground 66 as seen from the seat 72B (for example, an image showing the vicinity of the center line) is displayed on the screen 74 shown in FIG. 13.

[0153] In this way, just as when a spectator moves in real space, when the participant image is moved, the image showing the ground 66 as seen from the moved destination changes. The same is true in the above-mentioned second and fourth embodiments, and when a participant changes his / her virtual seat, the participant is provided with images and sounds corresponding to the changed seat. In other words, the way the concert or movie is viewed changes.

[0154] The processor 20 may also charge an additional fee to a participant for changing seats, after which the participant may be able to change seats, or the additional fee may be incurred after the participant changes seats.

[0155] Also, the seats may be provisionally assigned. During the provisional assignment stage, the processor 20 may provide the participants with images and sounds only for a predetermined period of time.

[0156] Although soccer has been used as an example of a sport, sports other than soccer, such as baseball, tennis, golf, swimming, basketball, or volleyball, may also be provided.

[0157] In addition, in the second, fourth, and fifth embodiments, the processor 20 may guide the user to a virtual seat where the user's desired video and audio are provided. For example, when the user uses the terminal device 12 to specify a scene that the user desires, the processor 20 causes the display of the terminal device 12 of the user to display information indicating a seat where the scene can be obtained. The user can purchase the guided seat and use the online service.

[0158] Example 6 A sixth embodiment will be described below. The online service according to the sixth embodiment is a service that provides online shopping. In this service that provides online shopping, an introducer introduces a product (which is a concept that includes services), and images and sounds showing the introduction are provided to participants of the online service. In addition, a commentator appears in this online service and comments on the product. The comments are also provided to participants of the online service. Also, purchasers of the product and non-purchasers who are users who have not purchased the product can participate in this online service and post comments. The introducer, commentator, purchaser, and non-purchaser are examples of participants of this online service. Also, the position of introducer, the position of commentator, the position of purchaser, and the position of non-purchaser correspond to the attributes of each participant.

[0159] In the sixth embodiment, the processor 20 displays the comments of the participants on the product introduced in the online shopping on the display by grouping them based on the attributes of the participants. For example, the processor 20 displays the comments of the introducer, the comments of the commentator, the comments of the purchaser, and the comments of the non-purchaser on the display separately.

[0160] Example 6 will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 14 and 15. Figure 14 shows a screen 76 displayed on the display of a purchaser or non-purchaser's terminal device 12. When a purchaser or non-purchaser logs in to a service that provides online shopping using the terminal device 12, the screen 76 is displayed on the display of the terminal device 12.

[0161] The screen 76 includes a display area 78. In the display area 78, images (e.g., moving images or still images) representing the product 80 and the introducer 82 are displayed. In addition, the voice of the introducer 82 is emitted from a speaker used by the purchaser and non-purchaser. An image showing the introducer 82 introducing the product 80 is displayed in the display area 78, and the voice at that time is emitted from the speaker. It should be noted that the introducer 82 may be wearing or possessing the product.

[0162] Additionally, participant images representing commentators are displayed on screen 76. Participant image 84A is an image representing commentator A. Participant image 84B is an image representing commentator B. Participant image 84C is an image representing commentator C. Comments posted by the commentators are displayed, for example, within display area 78. Processor 20 may display the participant image of a commentator who is posting a comment larger than the participant image of a commentator who has not posted a comment.

[0163] Additionally, a user list 86 is displayed on the screen 76. The user list 86 displays account information of each of purchasers and non-purchasers who are participating in the online shopping service.

[0164] For example, when a purchaser or non-purchaser operates the terminal device 12 to specify a product 80 displayed in the display area 78 or a product worn by the introducer 82 (e.g., by clicking on the screen), the processor 20 causes a list of comments on the specified product to be displayed on the display of the terminal device 12.

[0165] 15 shows a screen 88 representing the comment field. As an example, comment fields 90, 92, and 94 are displayed on screen 88. Comment field 90 displays a list of comments posted by commentators. Comment field 92 displays a list of comments posted by purchasers of the specified product. Comment field 94 displays a list of comments posted by non-purchasers of the specified product. In this way, processor 20 groups and displays participants' comments on the product based on the attributes of the participants.

[0166] The processor 20 may display the comment section 90 of the commentator to be more prominent than the comment sections 92 and 94. For example, the processor 20 may display the comment section 90 larger than the comment sections 92 and 94, may place the comment section 90 in the center position of the screen 88, or may apply special decorations to the comment section 90.

[0167] The processor 20 may also display the comment section 94 for non-purchasers in a manner that makes it least noticeable. For example, the processor 20 may display the comment section 94 smaller than the comment sections 90 and 92, or may display the comment section 94 at the edge of the screen 88.

[0168] Non-purchasers can refer to each comment to decide whether or not to purchase the product.

[0169] Example 7 A seventh embodiment will be described below. An online service according to the seventh embodiment is an online game. Participants in the online game are players of the online game. Participant attributes are a group, team, party, etc. to which the player belongs. The processor 20 links multiple players who belong to the same group, team, or party to each other.

[0170] Hereinafter, the seventh embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 16. Fig. 16 shows a screen 96. The processor 20 causes the screen 96 to be displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of each player of the online game.

[0171] The screen 96 includes a main display area 98 and two display areas 100. The main display area 98 is an operation area for the player himself. In the main display area 98, a play image of the player himself is displayed in real time. For example, in the main display area 98, an object or a scene operated by the player according to the contents of the online game is displayed. For example, when a user A is participating in an online game as a player, a play image of the user A himself is displayed in the main display area 98 displayed on the display of the terminal device 12A of the user A. Similarly, when a user B is participating in an online game as a player, a play image of the user B himself is displayed in the main display area 98 displayed on the display of the terminal device 12B of the user B.

[0172] Display area 100 is an area where play images of other players are displayed in real time. For example, display area 100 includes sub-display areas 101 to 130. In each sub-display area, play images of other players who are simultaneously participating in the online game are displayed in real time. Each sub-display area corresponds to one player.

[0173] For example, a play image of a user A is displayed in real time in the main display area 98, and a play image of a user B is displayed in real time in the sub-display area 101. The same is true for the other sub-display areas. The processor 20 displays the main display area 98 larger than each of the sub-display areas.

[0174] Furthermore, when a player loses a game, the processor 20 displays an image representing that the player has lost the game. For example, when user B loses a game, the processor 20 displays an image representing that user B has lost the game in the sub-display area 101. The same applies to the other players.

[0175] In the above online game, the processor 20 links a plurality of sub-display areas to each other and displays them on the display of the terminal device 12 based on the attributes of a plurality of other players. For example, the processor 20 arranges the sub-display areas of players belonging to the same team together. When the players of the sub-display areas 107, 108, and 109 belong to the same team, the processor 20 arranges the sub-display areas 107, 108, and 109 as one group and in positions close to each other. For example, when the sub-display areas 107, 108, and 109 are not displayed together, the processor 20 arranges the sub-display areas 107, 108, and 109 together. In the example shown in FIG. 16, the sub-display areas 107, 108, and 109 are arranged together in a line, but the arrangement is merely an example and may be another shape. The processor 20 may also display a frame 140 surrounding the sub-display areas 107, 108, and 109. In this example, the team to which the player belongs is the attribute of the player. In this manner, the processor 20 changes the layout position of the sub-display area of ​​each player according to the team to which the player belongs. The processor 20 may also display a character string indicating the team name.

[0176] Furthermore, the processor 20 may reflect the result (e.g., ranking) of the previous online game in the display area 100. For example, the position surrounded by the frame 142 is the position where the sub-display area of ​​the player who was ranked first last time is arranged, the position surrounded by the frame 144 is the position where the sub-display area of ​​the player who was ranked second last time is arranged, the position surrounded by the frame 146 is the position where the sub-display area of ​​the player who was ranked third last time is arranged, and the position surrounded by the frame 148 is the position where the sub-display area of ​​the player who was ranked fourth last time is arranged. In this example, the previous ranking is an attribute of the player, and the processor 20 changes the arrangement position of the sub-display area of ​​each player according to the ranking. Furthermore, the processor 20 may display a character string indicating the ranking.

[0177] Furthermore, when the ranking in the current online game is determined, the processor 20 may place the sub-display area at a position corresponding to the ranking. In the example shown in Fig. 17, the position surrounded by frame 150 is the position where the sub-display area of ​​the player currently ranked 20th will be placed. The processor 20 places the sub-display area of ​​the player currently ranked 20th in the current online game at the position surrounded by frame 150. The same applies to the other rankings.

[0178] Furthermore, the processor 20 may change the position of the sub-display area of ​​each player depending on the number of times the player has participated in the online game. For example, the position according to the number of times the player has participated is determined in advance, and the processor 20 places the sub-display area of ​​the player at the position corresponding to the number of times the player has participated.

[0179] Furthermore, the processor 20 may display the play image displayed in the sub-display area in the main display area 98 according to an operation on the sub-display area. This process will be described with reference to FIG. 18. FIG. 18 shows a screen 96. For example, when a player whose play image is displayed in the main display area 98 moves the sub-display area into the main display area 98 by operating his / her own terminal device 12 (for example, when the sub-display area is dragged and dropped into the main display area 98), the processor 20 displays the play image of the other player displayed in the sub-display area in the main display area 98. For example, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 18, when the sub-display area 106 is moved into the main display area 98, the processor 20 displays the play image displayed in the sub-display area 106 in the main display area 98. As a result, the play image of the other player that was displayed in the sub-display area 106 is displayed large. As a result, the player can enlarge the play image of the other player and check the play of the other player itself. The play image originally displayed in the main display area 98 is displayed, for example, in the sub-display area 106. As another example, the processor 20 may divide the main display area 98 into a plurality of display areas, and display, in each of the divided display areas, the play image originally displayed in the main display area 98 and the play image of another player displayed in the sub-display area 106. When the sub-display area 106 is specified (for example, when the sub-display area 106 is clicked), the play image displayed in the sub-display area 106 may be displayed in the main display area 98.

[0180] Furthermore, the processor 20 may display the screen 96 on the display of the terminal device 12 of a spectator other than the player of the online game. In this case, when the spectator moves the sub-display area to the main display area 98 or clicks on the sub-display area, the processor 20 displays the play image displayed in the sub-display area in the main display area 98. This allows the spectator to enlarge the play image of the player in which he or she is interested and watch the game.

[0181] Furthermore, the processor 20 may enlarge a sub-display area designated by a player in the main display area 98 and display it on the screen 96. For example, as shown in FIG. 19, when the sub-display areas 108 and 120 are designated, the processor 20 enlarges and displays the sub-display areas 108 and 120, respectively. For example, when a player whose play image is displayed in the main display area 98 designates the sub-display areas 108 and 120 by operating his / her terminal device 12, the processor 20 enlarges and displays the sub-display areas 108 and 120, respectively. FIG. 20 shows the sub-display areas after enlargement. The sub-display area 152 is an area obtained by enlarging the sub-display area 108, and the sub-display area 154 is an area obtained by enlarging the sub-display area 120. This allows a player whose play image is displayed in the main display area 98 to check the play status of a specific player in detail. Of course, an administrator or the like may designate the sub-display area to be enlarged.

[0182] The processor 20 may further reduce other non-enlarged sub-display areas and reposition them within the display area 100.

[0183] If the player in main display area 98 does not perform any operation on the enlarged sub-display area for a predetermined period of time or longer, processor 20 may return the size of the enlarged sub-display area to its original size and place each sub-display area in its original position. If the player in main display area 98 instructs to reduce a sub-display area, processor 20 may return the size of the sub-display area instructed to be reduced to its original size.

[0184] Furthermore, when the sub-display area is expanded, processor 20 may control the exchange of information between each player so that the player in main display area 98 and the player in the expanded sub-display area can exchange messages, telephone calls, and the like. Processor 20 may also permit the player to execute actions other than the exchange of information.

[0185] Furthermore, processor 20 may gradually change the display position of an image of a player attacking another player in an online game, or may gradually change the display position of an image of a player being attacked. Processor 20 may also change the amount of change in the display position of the image of the player being attacked according to the amount of damage caused by the attack, or may change the direction of change in the display position of the image of the player being attacked according to the direction of the attack.

[0186] Example 8 An eighth embodiment will be described below. The online service according to the eighth embodiment is an online conference in which a plurality of participants participate. Each participant operates his / her own terminal device 12 to log in to the online conference and participate in the online conference. An image or the like of each participant participating in the online conference is displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of each participant.

[0187] In the eighth embodiment, a presentation is given in an online conference. In the following, a participant in the online conference who gives a presentation is referred to as a "speaker." Participants other than the speaker are referred to as "listeners."

[0188] A participant who will give a presentation may be registered as a speaker in advance in the online conference, or may be registered as a speaker each time a presentation is made. Also, during the presentation, a listener other than the speaker of the presentation may give the presentation as a speaker.

[0189] Hereinafter, an embodiment in which one speaker gives a presentation will be described with reference to Fig. 21. Fig. 21 shows a screen 30A. The screen 30A is a screen displayed on the display of the terminal device 12A of a user A who is participating in an online conference. A plurality of participants are participating in the online conference, and a participant image representing each participant is displayed on the screen 30A, similar to the example shown in Fig. 4.

[0190] 21, participant images 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, and 32E are displayed on a screen 30A. The participant images of all the participants may be displayed on the screen 30A, or the participant images of some of the participants may be displayed.

[0191] The screen 30A includes a display area 160. The display area 160 is an area where materials (for example, images, character strings, etc.) used in a presentation are displayed.

[0192] A screen similar to the screen 30A is displayed on the displays of the terminal devices 12 of the participants other than user A. The display area 160 is shared by multiple participants, and each participant can receive the same presentation.

[0193] For example, the participant images of the listeners are displayed in an area outside the display area 160, and the participant image of the speaker is displayed within the display area 160. The participant image of the speaker may be displayed both within the display area 160 and outside the display area 160. In the example shown in FIG. 21, since there is one speaker, the participant image 162 of the speaker is displayed within the display area 160.

[0194] The size of the display area 160 and the size of the area in which the listener participant images are displayed may be changed by the participants, may be changed by an administrator who has the authority to make changes, or may be predetermined.

[0195] A speaker posts data of materials for presentation (e.g., image data, character string data, audio data, etc.) to an online conference by operating his / her own terminal device 12. The data of the materials is transmitted from the terminal device 12 of the speaker to the server 10. The processor 20 of the server 10 transmits the data of the materials to the terminal devices 12 of each participant of the online conference, and displays the materials in the display area 160 displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of each participant. The data of the materials may be linked to the account information of the speaker and stored in the server 10 in advance. The voice of the speaker is collected by a microphone used by the speaker, and the voice data is emitted from the speakers used by the other participants via the server 10. In this way, the materials for presentation and the content of the speaker's remarks are shared among multiple participants.

[0196] In this embodiment, the speaker's position and the listener's position correspond to the attributes of the participants. For example, the processor 20 displays a participant image of a participant as a speaker within the display area 160, and displays a participant image of a participant as a listener outside the display area 160. In this way, the processor 20 changes the display mode (e.g., display position) of the participant image according to the attributes of the participants.

[0197] An embodiment in which a plurality of speakers give presentations will be described below with reference to Fig. 22. Fig. 22 shows a screen 30A.

[0198] As an example, four speakers are giving a presentation, and participant images of the four speakers (eg, participant images 162A, 162B, 162C, and 162D) are displayed in the display area 160.

[0199] Participant image 162A is an image representing speaker A. Participant image 162B is an image representing speaker B. Participant image 162C is an image representing speaker C. Participant image 162D is an image representing speaker D. Speakers A, B, C, and D are registered as speakers in the online conference. The presentation may be made in the form of a panel discussion.

[0200] Operations on the materials displayed in display area 160 may be performed by each speaker, by one of the four speakers who has operating authority, automatically, or by an administrator, etc.

[0201] Furthermore, the processor 20 may control the audio output of each participant so that only the speech of the speakers A, B, C, and D is emitted from the speaker of each participant.

[0202] Furthermore, when the order of speeches or presentations by speakers is determined, the processor 20 may change the display position of the participant image of the speaker according to the order, may hide the participant image of the speaker who has finished speaking or presenting, or may display the participant image of the speaker who has finished speaking or presenting in an area outside the display area 160. These processes will be described below with reference to Fig. 23. Fig. 23 shows a screen 30A.

[0203] In the example shown in FIG. 23, speakers A, B, C, and D are registered as speakers as shown in FIG. 22. It is also assumed that presentations will be made in the order of speakers A, B, C, and D. One presentation may be made by speakers A, B, C, and D, or each speaker may make their own presentation. The order may be registered in advance in the server 10. The order of presentations may also be determined by the current speaker designating the next speaker. The order may be changed by a speaker or an administrator while a presentation is being made. The order of presentations corresponds to the attributes of the participants.

[0204] Within the display area 160, a specific display area 164 smaller than the display area 160 is provided. The specific display area 164 is an area in which a participant image of the current speaker (i.e., a participant image of a speaker whose turn it is to speak) is displayed. In the example shown in Fig. 23, the current speaker is speaker A, and a participant image 162A of speaker A is displayed within the display area 164.

[0205] The processor 20 displays the participant image of the current speaker in the display area 164, and displays the participant images of the other speakers in the display area 160 in an area other than the display area 164. The processor 20 may arrange the participant images of each speaker in the display area 160 according to the order of the presentation. For example, the participant image 162A of the first speaker A is displayed in the display area 164, the participant image 162B of the second speaker B is displayed in a position corresponding to the second, the participant image 162C of the third speaker C is displayed in a position corresponding to the third, and the participant image 162D of the fourth speaker D is displayed in a position corresponding to the fourth. The positions corresponding to each order may be determined in advance, or may be set or changed by the speaker or the administrator. In the example shown in FIG. 23, the participant images 162 of the speakers are displayed in the four corners of the display area 160 according to the order of the presentation.

[0206] The processor 20 may change the display position of the participant image 162 of each speaker according to the order of presentation. For example, when the current speaker A finishes his / her presentation and instructs the end of his / her part using his / her terminal device 12, information indicating the instruction is transmitted from the terminal device 12 of the speaker A to the server 10. Upon receiving the instruction, the processor 20 of the server 10 moves up the ranks of each speaker other than the speaker A who has finished the presentation by one, and displays the participant images of each speaker other than the speaker A at positions corresponding to the moved up ranks. As another example, if the allotted time for each speaker's presentation is preset in the server 10, the processor 20 may display the participant images of each speaker other than the speaker A at positions corresponding to the moved up ranks when the allotted time of the speaker A runs out.

[0207] For example, the processor 20 displays the participant image 162B of the second speaker B in the display area 164 where the participant image of the current speaker is displayed, as indicated by the arrow A. The processor 20 also displays the participant image 162C of the third speaker C in a position corresponding to the second, as indicated by the arrow B. The processor 20 also displays the participant image 162D of the fourth speaker D in a position corresponding to the third, as indicated by the arrow C. The processor 20 also displays the participant image 162A of the speaker A who has finished the presentation in a position corresponding to the fourth (i.e., a position corresponding to the last rank), as indicated by the arrow D. As another example, the processor 20 may hide the participant image 162A. For example, the processor 20 moves the participant image 162A to the outside of the display area 160, as indicated by the arrow E, and then hides it.

[0208] When the presentation by the second speaker B has ended, the processor 20 also changes the display positions of the participant images of the speakers in the same manner as when the presentation by the participant A has ended.

[0209] Only the current speaker (i.e., the speaker whose participant image is displayed in the display area 164) may be permitted to speak. In this case, the processor 20 causes the sound collected by the microphone used by the current speaker to be emitted from the speaker used by each participant, and does not cause the sound collected by the microphone used by the other participants to be emitted from the speaker used by each participant. Of course, speakers other than the current speaker and participants other than the speaker may also be permitted to speak.

[0210] When a speaker or an administrator uses the terminal device 12 to instruct switching of the display position of the participant image of the speaker, the processor 20 may change the display position of the participant image of each speaker in accordance with the instruction.

[0211] Furthermore, when all the speakers have finished their presentations, the processor 20 may display the participant images of all of them in the display area 160. For example, when the presentation of the last speaker D is finished, the processor 20 causes the participant images 162A, 162B, 162C, and 162D to be displayed again in the display area 160. For example, after the presentation is finished, each speaker may make a final greeting or the like while the participant images of all the speakers are displayed. Note that the processor 20 may display all the participant images together in the display area 160 before the presentation starts, and then display each participant image at a position corresponding to the rank.

[0212] The processor 20 may link an image (e.g., a reduced image, a thumbnail image, an icon, or the like) linked to the content of the presentation (e.g., presentation materials) of the speaker to the participant image of the speaker and display it in the display area 160. An example of this display is shown in FIG. 24.

[0213] In FIG. 24, thumbnail image 166A is an image linked to the contents of the presentation by speaker A, and is displayed near participant image 162A of speaker A. Thumbnail image 166B is an image linked to the contents of the presentation by speaker B, and is displayed near participant image 162B of participant B. Thumbnail image 166C is an image linked to the contents of the presentation by speaker C, and is displayed near participant image 162C of participant C. Thumbnail image 166D is an image linked to the contents of the presentation by speaker D, and is displayed near participant image 162D of participant D. The thumbnail images are linked to data related to the contents of the presentation (for example, data used in the presentation, such as image data, text data, and graphic data). Data related to the contents of the presentation is stored in advance in server 10.

[0214] For example, when a participant instructs display of the contents of speaker B's presentation by clicking thumbnail image 166B using his / her own terminal device 12, processor 20 displays the contents of speaker B's presentation (e.g., images, documents, figures, etc.) in part or all of display area 160 on the display of the participant's terminal device 12. This allows the participant to check the contents of speaker B's presentation. The same applies to the contents of the presentations of other speakers. For example, processor 20 displays details of materials used in the presentation. It is also possible to download and save data of the materials in a storage destination specified by the participant. For example, processor 20 downloads the materials selected by the participant to the storage destination. Note that a thumbnail image for the current participant does not have to be displayed.

[0215] Also, as shown in FIG. 25, when a participant image of a participant other than the speaker (i.e., a listener) is moved into the display area 160, the processor 20 may control the display and audio output so that the participant can interact with the speaker. In the example shown in FIG. 25, speakers A and B are making a presentation, and participant images 162A and 162B are displayed in the display area 160. Also, a participant image 32D of participant D, who is a listener, is moved into the display area 160 as indicated by an arrow F. For example, the participant image 32D is placed in the display area 160 by drag and drop. This operation may be performed by the participant D using his / her own terminal device 12, or may be performed by an administrator or a speaker using his / her own terminal device 12.

[0216] For example, the processor 20 may cause the voice of the participant D to be generated from speakers used by each participant, including both the speaker and the listener, or may cause the voice of the participant D to be generated from speakers used by each of the speakers A and B. The processor 20 may also permit transmission and reception of image data and character string data only between the terminal device 12 of the speakers A and B and the terminal device 12 of the participant D.

[0217] Furthermore, when a participant image of a participant who will not give a presentation is moved within the display area 160, the processor 20 may determine that the participant represented by the moved participant image is a participant who will give a presentation (i.e., a speaker). In the example shown in FIG. 25, the processor 20 newly registers participant D as a speaker. That is, the processor 20 may change the attribute of participant D from "listener" to "speaker." This allows participant D to have the authority of a speaker. The change in attribute may be temporary.

[0218] In this way, participants as listeners can be allowed to converse with the speaker through intuitive operations.

[0219] Furthermore, when a participant image of a speaker is moved to an area other than the display area 160 (for example, an area where participant images of listeners are displayed), the processor 20 may remove the speaker from registration as a speaker and register the speaker as a new listener. In this case, the processor 20 changes the attribute of the speaker from "speaker" to "listener."

[0220] Example 9 A ninth embodiment will be described below. The online service according to the ninth embodiment is a distribution service for an online game. This distribution service is provided, for example, by a video distribution site or a video distribution platform. This distribution service provides play images of an online game to participants of the distribution service. For example, the play images are streamed and the online game is broadcast live. The participants of this distribution service may participate in the distribution service as players of the online game, or may participate in the distribution service not as players but as viewers who watch broadcasts of online play. The status as a player and the status as a viewer correspond to attributes of the online service.

[0221] 26 shows a screen 30 displayed on the display of the terminal device 12 of a participant of the distribution service. The screen 30 includes display areas 168 and 170.

[0222] The display area 168 is an area where play images of the online game are displayed. A player can participate in and play the online game by operating his / her own terminal device 12. Play images representing the play are distributed to the terminal devices 12 of each participant of the distribution service and are displayed in the display area 168 of the screen 30 of each terminal device 12.

[0223] The display area 170 is an area where a list of participants in the distribution service is displayed. In the display area 170, account information of the viewer is displayed. Participant images of the viewer may be displayed in the display area 170. Account information of the player may be displayed in the display area 170. In addition, in the display area 170, comments of each viewer may be displayed.

[0224] When the viewer's account information and participant image displayed in display area 170 are moved into display area 168, processor 20 causes the viewer to participate in the online game as a player. For example, if the online game to be distributed is a competitive online game, processor 20 causes the viewer to participate in the online game as a competitor in the online game.

[0225] For example, when viewer A operates his / her own terminal device 12 to move (e.g., drag and drop) the account information of viewer A, indicated by reference numeral 174, into the display area 168 as indicated by arrow G, the processor 20 registers viewer A as a player. Viewer A can participate in the online game as a player. Note that the operation of moving the account information may be performed by an administrator or the like. For example, when the account information is moved into the display area 168 while players are being recruited (e.g., while opponents are being recruited, or while players are being recruited to join a team, party, or the like), the viewer having that account information will participate in the online game as a player.

[0226] Also, a button 172 for instructing participation in an online game may be displayed on the screen 30. When a viewer presses the button 172, the processor 20 registers the viewer as a player. Note that, in the case of a screen 30 of a viewer who is not permitted to participate in an online game or in the case of an online game in which the viewer is not permitted to participate being distributed, the processor 20 may not display the button 172 or may display the button 172 in a grayed-out state.

[0227] The distribution service according to the ninth embodiment may be provided not by a video distribution site or a video distribution platform, but by a site or application that provides online conferences. FIG. 27 shows a screen 30 provided in the online conference. On the screen 30, as in the above-mentioned first embodiment, participant images (e.g., participant images 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 32E, etc.) of the participants of the online conference are displayed. The screen 30 also includes a display area 168, and an image of an online game being played is displayed in the display area 168.

[0228] For example, when the participant image 32C of participant C is moved into the display area 168 by drag-and-drop or the like, the processor 20 causes participant C to participate in the online game as a player.

[0229] Furthermore, when participant images of multiple participants are simultaneously specified and moved to the display area 168, the processor 20 may allow the multiple participants to participate in the online game as players. In the example shown in FIG. 27, participant images 32C and 32D are simultaneously specified and moved into the display area 168 as indicated by the arrow H. In this case, the processor 20 allows participants C and D to participate in the online game as players. When the online game is a competitive game, the processor 20 may allow the multiple participants (e.g., participants C and D) to compete in the online game. Furthermore, the processor 20 may allow the multiple participants to participate in the online game as the same team. Furthermore, the processor 20 may allow multiple participants having the same attribute to participate in the online game as the same team.

[0230] In the example shown in FIG. 27, a button 172 for participating in an online game may also be displayed.

[0231] When account information is moved into display area 168 in the example shown in Fig. 26, when a participant image is moved into display area 168 in the example shown in Fig. 27, or when button 172 is pressed, a website for logging in to the online game may be displayed, or an application for logging in may be started. When the login operation is completed on the website or application, processor 20 allows the participant to participate in the online game as a player, and the participant can play in the online game.

[0232] Note that address information (e.g., URL) of the online game to be distributed, information on the application used to execute the online game, etc. may be set in advance by an administrator, etc. When a participant joins the online game as a player, a website for logging in to the online game is displayed or an application is executed according to the address information.

[0233] Furthermore, the processor 20 may change the display mode of the button 172 for each participant. For example, the processor 20 may display the button 172 on the display of the terminal device 12 of a participant who has the authority to use the online game or on the display of a terminal device 12 on which application installation has been completed, and may not display the button 172 or may display the button 172 in a grayed-out state on the display of the other terminal device 12. Note that the processor 20 may display a notification encouraging the purchase or contract for the online game on the display of the terminal device 12 of a participant who does not have the authority to use the online game.

[0234] When a number of participants equal to or greater than a predetermined capacity has applied to participate in the online game, a distributor providing a distribution service may designate the participants who will participate in the online game.

[0235] The processor 20 may determine participants who will participate in an online game, or may encourage the participants to participate in an online game, based on attributes of the participants of the distribution service. The attributes may be, for example, a match history in an online game, a team formation history, etc. For example, the processor 20 may determine players so that the same participant does not participate in an online game consecutively, determine players so that the participants do not play against the same opponent consecutively, or determine players so that the same players do not consecutively form a team.

[0236] The ninth embodiment may be applied to a distribution service other than the service that distributes play images of an online game. For example, content or the like in which a plurality of participants jointly perform operations or tasks may be distributed to the terminal device 12 of each participant by a distribution service, and the plurality of participants may jointly perform operations or tasks on the distribution service.

[0237] In each of the above embodiments, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.). Furthermore, the operation of the processor in each of the above embodiments may not only be performed by one processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located at physically separate locations working together. Furthermore, the order of each operation of the processor is not limited to the order described in each of the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0238] (Additional Note) (((1))) A processor is included. The processor, Changing the manner of display provided in an online service in which multiple participants participate, depending on attributes of the participants in the online service; Information processing device. (((2))) The processor, Based on the attributes of each participant, the images of the multiple participants are linked to each other and displayed on a display. Change the linking according to the attributes of each participant, 4. The information processing device according to claim 1, (((3))) The processor, displaying an image of each of a plurality of participants having mutually related attributes as participants belonging to the same group on a display; 2. The information processing device according to claim 1 , (((4))) The processor, Displaying images of multiple participants belonging to the same group in the same display area; 4. The information processing device according to claim 3, (((5))) The processor, Changing the manner in which the images of the participants are displayed according to the relationship between the attributes of the participants belonging to the same group; 4. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein the information processing device is a (((6))) The processor, For images of multiple participants belonging to the same group, images of participants who are transmitting information and images of participants who are not transmitting information are displayed on a display in a differentiated manner; 2. An information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the information processing device is a computer-readable medium. (((7))) The processor, Displaying the images of participants who are posting information on the display in a more prominent manner than the images of participants who are not posting information; 4. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein: (((8))) The processor, Displaying on a display a distinction between images of non-participants who have registered but not participated in the online service and images of participants of the online service; 2. An information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the information processing device is a computer-readable medium. (((9))) The processor, The more related the attributes of participants are, the closer their images are to each other. 2. An information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the information processing device is a computer-readable medium. (((10))) The processor, The more related the attributes are between groups, the closer the images in the group are to each other. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1 , (((11))) the online service is a service that provides content, The attribute of the participant is a virtual seat position for viewing the content; The processor, Changing the manner in which content provided to participants is displayed depending on the position of the virtual seat; 4. The information processing device according to claim 1, (((12))) The processor, changing the priority of the comments of the participants on the content in accordance with the fee charged by the participants for the online service, and displaying the comments of the participants on a display; 4. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein: (((13))) The processor, When a participant changes the position of the virtual seat during the provision of the content, the manner in which the content provided to the participant is displayed is changed according to the changed position of the seat. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1 , (((14))) the online service is a service that provides online shopping, The processor, Comments from participants regarding the products introduced in the online shopping are grouped based on attributes of the participants and displayed on a display. 4. The information processing device according to claim 3, (((15))) The processor further comprises: Change the sounds provided to participants depending on their attributes, 2. An information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the information processing device is a digital camera. (((16))) the online service is an online game; The processor, displaying on a display a main display area in which a play image of a player who is a participant of the online game is displayed, and a sub-display area in which a play image of another player who is a participant of the online game is displayed; Linking the plurality of sub-display areas to each other and displaying them on the display based on the attributes of the plurality of other participants; 4. The information processing device according to claim 1, (((17))) The processor further comprises: displaying the play image displayed in the sub-display area in the main display area according to an operation on the sub-display area; 4. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein: (((18))) The processor further comprises: Enlarge and display the specified sub-display area. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the information processing device is a (((19))) In the online service, multiple participants take turns giving presentations, The processor, Displaying an image of each participant giving the presentation on a display within a display area in which the image of the participant giving the presentation is displayed; changing the display positions of the images of the participants giving the presentations in accordance with the order; 4. The information processing device according to claim 1, (((20))) The processor, The image of the participant currently giving a presentation is displayed in a specific display area on the display. changing the images of the participants displayed in the particular display area in accordance with the order; 4. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein: (((twenty one))) The processor, When an image of a participant who is not giving a presentation is moved into a display area in which an image of the participant who is giving a presentation is displayed, the participant whose image has been moved is determined to be the participant who is giving a presentation. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the information processing device is a (((twenty two))) The processor, displaying thumbnail images of materials to be presented by the participant near the image of the participant giving the presentation; 4. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein: (((twenty three))) The processor, When the thumbnail image is selected, display details of the material or download the material; 22. The information processing device according to claim 11, (((twenty four))) The online service is an online game distribution service, The processor, when information of a viewer watching the online game is moved to an area on a display where a play image of the online game is displayed, the viewer is registered as a player of the online game; 4. The information processing device according to claim 1, (((twenty five))) The computer Changing the manner of display provided in an online service in which multiple participants participate, depending on attributes of the participants in the online service; A program to make it work like this.

[0239] According to the inventions relating to (((1))) and (((25))), it is possible to provide displays in online services that correspond to the attributes of participants. According to the invention related to (((2))), the image of each participant can be displayed in a display mode according to the attributes of each participant. According to the inventions pertaining to (((3))) and (((4))), images of a plurality of participants having attributes related to each other can be displayed as a single group. According to the invention related to (((5))), it is possible to show the relationship between multiple participants belonging to the same group. According to the inventions (((6))) and (((7))), it is possible to distinguish between participants who are transmitting information and participants who are not transmitting information. According to the invention in (((8))), it is possible to distinguish between participants and non-participants. According to the invention related to (((9))), it is possible to show the relationships between multiple participants. According to the invention (((10))), it is possible to show the relationships between multiple groups. According to the inventions relating to (((11))) and (((13))), it is possible to provide a display according to the position of a virtual seat. According to the invention pertaining to (((12))), comments of participants can be displayed according to a priority order based on the usage fee. According to the invention related to (((14))), the comments of the participants can be differentiated by group. According to the invention pertaining to (((15))), sounds can be provided according to the attributes of the participants. According to the invention pertaining to (((16))), relationships with other participants in an online game can be shown. According to the invention pertaining to (((17))), the gameplay image displayed in the sub-display area can be viewed in the main display area. According to the invention pertaining to (((18))), the play image displayed in the sub-display area can be confirmed in more detail than in the case where the size of the sub-display area is maintained. According to the invention of (((19))), it is possible to confirm the order of the participants giving presentations. According to the invention of (((20))), it is possible to confirm the participant who is currently giving a presentation. According to the invention of (((21))), by moving the image of a participant, that participant can be registered as a participant who will give a presentation. According to the inventions related to (((22))) and (((23))), participants can check the materials to be presented. According to the invention pertaining to (((24))), by performing an operation of transferring information about a viewer of an online game, the viewer can be registered as a player of the online game. [Explanation of symbols]

[0240] 10 servers, 12 terminal devices.

Claims

1. A processor is included. The processor, Changing the display mode provided in an online service in which a plurality of participants participate, according to attributes of the participants in the online service; Based on the attributes of each participant, the images of the multiple participants are linked to each other and displayed on a display. Depending on the attributes of each participant, the linking can be changed. A plurality of participants having mutually related attributes are regarded as participants belonging to the same group; The more related the attributes are between groups, the closer the images in the group are to each other. Information processing device.

2. The processor, Displaying images of multiple participants belonging to the same group in the same display area; 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,

3. The processor, Changing the manner in which the images of the participants are displayed according to the relationship between the attributes of the participants belonging to the same group; 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is a computer.

4. The processor, For images of multiple participants belonging to the same group, images of participants who are transmitting information and images of participants who are not transmitting information are displayed on a display in a differentiated manner; 4. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the first and second inputs are connected to the first and second inputs.

5. The processor, Displaying the images of participants who are posting information on the display in a more prominent manner than the images of participants who are not posting information; 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The processor, Displaying on a display a distinction between images of non-participants who have registered but not participated in the online service and images of participants of the online service; 6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is a computer.

7. The processor, The more related the attributes of participants are, the closer their images are to each other.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is a computer.

8. The processor further comprises: Change the sounds provided to participants depending on their attributes, 8. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the information processing device is a computer.

9. The computer Changing the display mode provided in an online service in which a plurality of participants participate, according to attributes of the participants in the online service; Based on the attributes of each participant, the images of the multiple participants are linked to each other and displayed on a display. Depending on the attributes of each participant, the linking can be changed. A plurality of participants having mutually related attributes are regarded as participants belonging to the same group; The more related the attributes are between groups, the closer the images in the group are to each other. A program to make it work like this.

Images