System, method, and program for providing video distribution service

Abstract

To promote the strengthening of the relationship between a distributor and a viewer.SOLUTION: A video distribution server 10 is communicably connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20 and provides a video distribution service for distributing and viewing a video to a user via the user terminal 30. The server 10 determines the grade of a viewer for a distributor on the basis of the satisfaction status of the grade condition and gives a reward to the distributor on the basis of the grade of each of a plurality of viewers. Therefore, for example, the upgrade of the viewer is a direct benefit to the distributor, and the distributor is motivated to strengthen the relationship with the viewer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, a method, and a program for providing a video distribution service.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, various video distribution services for distributing videos have been provided (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). In such services, various mechanisms for strengthening the relationship between the distributor and the viewer (which can also be referred to as "connection" or "bond", etc.) have been introduced. For example, parameters such as a rank that increases as the video of the corresponding distributor is viewed are set for each combination of the distributor and the viewer, and the strength of the relationship between the distributor and the viewer is visualized using the value of the parameter.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, although the above-described mechanism visualizes the strength of the relationship between the distributor and the viewer, it is not a mechanism that directly benefits the distributor in strengthening the relationship with the viewer. In other words, in the conventional mechanism, it cannot be said that sufficient motivation for strengthening the relationship with the viewer has been given to the distributor.

[0005] One object of an embodiment of the present invention is to promote the strengthening of the relationship between the distributor and the viewer. Other objects of the embodiments of the present invention will become apparent by referring to the entire specification.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes one or more computer processors and is a system for providing a video distribution service. The one or more computer processors execute, in response to the execution of readable instructions, steps of determining a viewer grade for a video distributor based at least on the satisfaction status by the viewer of grade conditions corresponding to each of a plurality of grades, and steps of awarding a reward to the distributor based at least on the grade of each of a plurality of viewers for the distributor.

[0007] A method according to an embodiment of the present invention is executed by one or more computers and is a method for providing a video distribution service. The method includes steps of determining a viewer grade for a video distributor based at least on the satisfaction status by the viewer of grade conditions corresponding to each of a plurality of grades, and steps of awarding a reward to the distributor based at least on the grade of each of a plurality of viewers for the distributor.

[0008] A program according to an embodiment of the present invention is a program for providing a video distribution service. The program causes one or more computers to execute steps of determining a viewer grade for a video distributor based at least on the satisfaction status by the viewer of grade conditions corresponding to each of a plurality of grades, and steps of awarding a reward to the distributor based at least on the grade of each of a plurality of viewers for the distributor.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] Various embodiments of the present invention can promote the strengthening of the relationship between the distributor and the viewer.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or similar components may be assigned the same reference numerals.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing the configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the video distribution server 10 is communicably connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet. In FIG. 1, only one user terminal 30 is shown, but the server 10 is communicably connected to a plurality of user terminals 30. The server 10 provides a user with a video distribution service for distributing and viewing videos via the user terminal 30. In the present embodiment, a user operating the user terminal 30 can distribute a video as a distributor and can also view videos of other users as a viewer. The video distribution server 10 is an example of an apparatus that implements part or all of the system of the present invention.

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

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

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

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

[0017] The storage 15 is constituted by, for example, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, or the like. The storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system and various data and the like.

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

[0019] The video distribution server 10 configured as described above can be configured to have functions as a web server and an application server. In this case, in response to requests from a web browser and other applications (e.g., an application for a video distribution service) installed in the user terminal 30, various processes are executed, and screen data (e.g., HTML data) and control data corresponding to the results of the processes are transmitted to the user terminal 30. On the user terminal 30, a web page or other screen based on the received data can be displayed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0026] A user who operates the user terminal 30 configured as described above can utilize the video distribution service provided by the server 10 by executing communication with the video distribution server 10 via a web browser or other application installed in the storage 35 or the like.

[0027] Next, the functions of the video distribution server 10 configured as described above will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the functions of the video distribution server 10. As shown in the figure, the server 10 includes an information storage management unit 41 that stores and manages various information, a management function control unit 43 that controls the management function of the video distribution service, and a video distribution service control unit 45 that controls the video distribution service. These functions are realized by the cooperation of hardware such as the computer processor 11 and the main memory 12, and various programs and data stored in the storage 15 or the like. For example, these functions are realized by the computer processor 11 executing instructions included in the program read into the main memory 12. Further, some or all of the functions of the server 10 shown in FIG. 2 can be realized by the cooperation of the server 10 and the user terminal 30, or can be realized by the user terminal 30.

[0028] The information storage management unit 41 is configured to store and manage various information in the storage 15 or the like. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the information storage management unit 41 includes a user information table 411 that manages information about users of the video distribution service, a distribution management table 412 that manages information about individual video distributions, and a grade management table 413 that manages the grades of viewers for each distributor.

[0029] The management function control unit 43 is configured to execute various processes related to the control of the management functions of the video distribution service. For example, the management function control unit 43 transmits screen data, control data, etc. of various screens related to the management functions to the user terminal 30, executes various processes in response to the operation input by the user via the screen displayed on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data, control data, etc. corresponding to the result of the process to the user terminal 30. The management functions controlled by the management function control unit 43 include, for example, login processing (user authentication), billing control, and user management (e.g., updating of the user information table 411, etc.).

[0030] The video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to execute various processes related to the control of the video distribution service. For example, the video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to distribute videos provided by the distributor to a plurality of viewers. For example, in the case of performing real-time distribution (live distribution) of a video, the video distribution service control unit 45 receives the real-time video transmitted from the user terminal 30 of the distributor (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "distributor terminal 30"), and transmits the video to each of the user terminals 30 of the plurality of viewers (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "viewer terminals 30"). On the viewer terminal 30, the video is displayed (played back) on the viewer screen for viewing the video. The real-time video is composed of, for example, an image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30 and audio input via the microphone. Also, the real-time video is composed of, for example, an image and audio output via an application (e.g., a game application, etc.) running on the distributor terminal 30. Such live distribution of the video can be performed, for example, in a streaming method using a protocol such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS). Also, the video distribution service control unit 45 can be configured to record the video provided by the distributor in the information storage management unit 41 (such as the storage 15) and distribute the video in response to an individual request from the viewer.

[0031] In this embodiment, the video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to determine the grade of viewers for a video distributor. The grade is determined based at least on the satisfaction status of the viewers with respect to the grade conditions corresponding to each of a plurality of predetermined grades. For example, the video distribution service control unit 45 determines in real time during the viewing of a particular video the grade of the viewers who are viewing the video of a particular distributor with respect to that particular distributor. Also, for example, the video distribution service control unit 45 determines the grades of each user as a viewer in a batch. The grade may be expressed by other names such as rank and level.

[0032] Also, the video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to give a reward to the distributor based at least on the grade of each of a plurality of viewers for the distributor. For example, the reward for the distributor increases in value for the distributor as the grade of the viewers for the distributor increases. The reward includes, for example, various electronic and virtual rewards that can be beneficial to the distributor.

[0033] As described above, since the video distribution server 10 in this embodiment determines the grade of viewers for a distributor based on the satisfaction status of the grade conditions and gives a reward to the distributor based on the grade of each of the plurality of viewers, for example, the grade-up of the viewers becomes a direct benefit to the distributor, and motivation is given to the distributor to strengthen the relationship with the viewers. That is, the video distribution server 10 can promote the strengthening of the relationship between the distributor and the viewers.

[0034] In this embodiment, the grade conditions may include conditions that are satisfied in response to the execution of an action by the viewer for the video of the distributor. Actions for the video include, but are not limited to, for example, viewing the video, inputting a comment, inputting an item, and inputting a like. Such a configuration can promote the execution of actions by the viewer.

[0035] Also, the grade condition may include a condition that is satisfied according to the application of regular billing by the viewer to the distributor. Regular billing (subscription) to the distributor is applied, for example but not limited to, to enable a predetermined action (such as input of an item, etc.) involving billing for the videos of the distributor for a certain period. For example, the video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to control the execution of an action by the viewer on the video of the distributor, and the action is executed based on individual billing or regular billing. For example, when the viewer is not subject to regular billing, the video distribution service control unit 45 causes the viewer to consume a corresponding quantity of paid items in response to the execution of the action, while when the viewer is subject to regular billing, the video distribution service control unit 45 does not cause the viewer to consume paid items in response to the execution of the action. Such a configuration can promote the application of regular billing by the viewer.

[0036] Also, the grade condition may be configured to vary based on at least one of distributor information regarding the distributor, viewer information regarding the viewer, and combination information regarding the combination of the distributor and the viewer. For example, the grade condition varies based on the distribution history, level, residential area, etc. of the distributor. For example, the easier it is for the condition to be satisfied as the distributor is a beginner, and the easier it is for the grade to increase. Also, for example, the grade condition varies based on the viewing history, level, residential area, etc. of the viewer. For example, the easier it is for the condition to be satisfied as the viewer is from a specific residential area, and the easier it is for the grade to increase. Also, for example, the grade condition varies based on the viewing history of the viewer on the video of the corresponding distributor, the relationship between the distributor and the viewer (such as the presence or absence of following), etc. For example, the easier it is for the condition to be satisfied as the number of views of the video of the corresponding distributor by the viewer is small, and the easier it is for the grade to increase. Such a configuration can realize grade conditions according to individual circumstances.

[0037] In this embodiment, in the viewer screen for viewing a video, the fulfillment status of the grade conditions of the viewer may be displayed. For example, the viewer screen is configured to display the fulfillment status of the grade conditions of at least some of a plurality of viewers of the video (for example, a plurality of viewers who are viewing the video, etc.). For example, the viewer screen is configured to display the current grade of at least some of the viewers and the fulfillment status of the grade conditions corresponding to the next (one higher) grade. Such a configuration enables the viewer to know the fulfillment status of the grade conditions.

[0038] In this case, the viewer screen may be configured to display the fulfillment status of the grade conditions of the viewer for whom the viewer screen is presented in more detail than that of other viewers other than the viewer. That is, the viewer screen displays the fulfillment status of the grade conditions of other viewers other than the viewer for whom the viewer screen is presented among the plurality of viewers of the video with a first level of detail, while displaying the fulfillment status of the grade conditions of the viewer for whom the viewer screen is presented with a second level of detail that is more detailed than the first level of detail. The "level of detail" mentioned here is the degree to which information about the fulfillment status of the grade conditions is given to the viewer. In one example, the higher the level of detail, the more types or amounts of information are displayed to the viewer on the viewer screen. Such a configuration enables the viewer to know the details of the fulfillment status of their own grade conditions and an overview of the fulfillment status of the grade conditions of other viewers.

[0039] In this embodiment, the grade of each viewer may be managed at regular intervals. For example, the video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to determine the grade of the viewer in a predetermined period (for example, monthly) based at least on the fulfillment status of the grade conditions by the viewer in the predetermined period. In this case, for example, at the timing when the period switches (for example, the start point of the predetermined period), the grade (fulfillment status of the grade conditions) in the previous period is cleared. Such a configuration enables the promotion of strengthening the relationship between the distributor and the viewer at regular intervals.

[0040] In this embodiment, the granting of rewards based on the grades of each of a plurality of viewers can be realized in various ways. For example, the video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to grant rewards at least based on the number of viewers with a predetermined grade or higher. In this case, for example, the higher the number of viewers with a predetermined grade or higher, the higher the value of the rewards granted to the distributor. Such a configuration can, for example, give the distributor an incentive to build a certain strength of relationship with a large number of viewers.

[0041] Also, the video distribution service control unit 45 can be configured to update the value of a predetermined parameter for each distributor associated with a viewer, the predetermined parameter being one that increases in response to the execution of an action by the viewer on the video of the corresponding distributor. In this case, in addition to the grades of each of the plurality of viewers, rewards can be granted to the distributor at least based on the value of the predetermined parameter corresponding to each of these plurality of viewers for the distributor. For example, the reward for the distributor increases in value as the total value of the predetermined parameters of the plurality of viewers increases. Such a configuration can promote the execution of actions by the viewers.

[0042] Next, a specific example of one aspect of the video distribution server 10 of this embodiment having such a function will be described. The video distribution service in this example is configured as a live distribution service of a video composed of an image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30 and audio input via the microphone, and the live distribution service can be viewed.

[0043] Figure 3 illustrates the information managed in the user information table 411 in this example. The user information table 411 manages information related to users of the live distribution service. As shown in the figure, it associates with a "user account" that identifies an individual user and includes "basic information" such as an account name, age, gender, residential area, and profile information, "distribution history information" which is information related to the distribution history as a distributor, "viewing history information" which is information related to the viewing history as a viewer, "followed user information" which is information related to other users followed by this user, "follower information" which is information related to other users (followers) who follow this user, "family information" which is information related to the family that this user joins as a family member, "rank" which indicates the rank of the user as a distributor, "rank meter value" which is a parameter value for determining rank up / down, "coin holding amount" which indicates the holding amount of virtual coins available in the live distribution service, "diamond holding amount" which also indicates the holding amount of virtual diamonds, and manages information such as "classification text" which is the classification as a distributor set by the user himself / herself.

[0044] In this example, a family is a community of fans who support a distributor and can join in response to an invitation from the distributor or family administrator, or can join in response to approval by the distributor or family administrator for the user's joining application.

[0045] Also, in this example, coins are given to users free of charge and for a fee on various occasions. For example, a user can obtain coins free of charge as a reward such as a login bonus. Also, for example, a user can purchase coins for a fee (in real currency).

[0046] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the "rank" of the distributor in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, there are six rank bands of "S", "A", "B", "C", "D", and "E", and each of the five rank bands of "S", "A", "B", "C", and "D" is composed of three ranks (for example, ranks obtained by adding "+" to the alphabet indicating the rank band like "S+", "S", "S-", the rank of only the alphabet, and the rank obtained by adding "-" to the alphabet). Also, the rank band of "E" is composed of one rank "E". That is, in this example, there are 16 levels (3×5 + 1 = 16) of ranks.

[0047] Also, the rank bands are such that the "S" side is the highest rank and the "E" side is the lowest rank. Also, within the same rank band, the ranks are such that the "+" side is the highest rank and the "-" side is the lowest rank. In this example, the user's rank is set to "D-" as the initial value.

[0048] FIG. 5 exemplifies the information managed in the distribution management table 412 in this example. The distribution management table 412 manages information regarding individual live distributions (videos), and as shown in the figure, in association with the "distribution ID" that identifies an individual live distribution, it manages information such as the "distributor user account" that identifies the distributor, the "distribution start date and time", the "distribution time" indicating the duration of the distribution, the "number of viewers (current value and maximum value)", the "number of comments" which is the number of comments input by viewers, the "number of likes" which is the number of "likes" input by viewers, the "item point number" that increases in response to the input of items by viewers, the "distribution point number" which is the points given to this distribution, and the "tag information" which is information regarding the tags given to this distribution.

[0049] FIG. 6 illustrates the information managed in the grade management table 413 in this example. The grade management table 413 manages information regarding the fan level (grade) of viewers for a distributor in the target year and month (by distributor), and as illustrated, associates with a combination of "distributor user account" that identifies the distributor, "viewer user account" that identifies the viewer, and "target year and month", and manages "fan level" of the corresponding viewer for the corresponding distributor in the target year and month, "number of coins consumed" by the viewer for the corresponding live distribution, "viewing time", "number of viewing days", "number of input comments", "recurring charge application flag" indicating whether recurring charge is applied by the viewer to the distributor, "number of email points" obtained by the viewer in the corresponding live distribution, and other information. Thus, in this example, the fan level of viewers for a distributor is managed on a monthly basis.

[0050] The number of email points is calculated using a calculation formula based on the number of coins consumed, viewing time, number of viewing days, and number of input comments. The larger the values of these parameters, the larger the value of the number of email points.

[0051] FIG. 7 illustrates the top screen 60 of the live distribution service displayed on the user terminal 30. The screen 60 is the starting screen for users who use the live distribution service, and as illustrated, has a selection area 62 displayed as "Follow", "Popular", "Topic", and "All", a list display area 64 located below the area 62, and a circular distribution button 66 located in the upper right corner of the screen.

[0052] The selection area 62 is an area for selecting the display content in the list display area 64. Specifically, when "Follow" is selected in the selection area 62, live broadcasts (videos being broadcast) of other users followed by the user are listed in the list display area 64. Similarly, when "Popular" is selected in the selection area 62, live broadcasts extracted according to a predetermined extraction condition for extracting popular live broadcasts (for example, broadcasts where the number of viewers (current value) is equal to or greater than a threshold value, etc.) are listed in the list display area 64. Also, when "Topic" is selected in the selection area 62, the tags assigned to the live broadcasts are listed in chronological order (in the order of assignment time) together with the corresponding broadcasts in the list display area 64. Further, when "All" is selected in the selection area 62, all live broadcasts become the targets of list display in the list display area 64.

[0053] The top screen 60 in FIG. 7 corresponds to the case where "Popular" is selected in the selection area 62. In the list display area 64 in this case, as shown in the figure, a plurality of individual display areas 641 each displaying information regarding an individual live broadcast are arranged in two columns. The individual display area 641 is configured to be able to start viewing the corresponding broadcast (start playing the corresponding video) in response to a selection by the user. The list display area 64 is configured such that the displayed individual display areas 641 are switched by a flick operation or a slide operation in the vertical direction, etc. The configuration of the list display area 64 when "Follow" or "All" is selected in the selection area 62 is the same as the above-described configuration when "Popular" is selected.

[0054] FIG. 8 illustrates the display content of the individual display area 641. The individual display area 641 displays an image preset by the distributor of the live distribution, the account name of the distributor, the number of viewers (current value), etc. As shown in the figure, at the lower end thereof, a first tag object 6411 and a second tag object 6412 are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction. The first tag object 6411 displays a classification text (managed in the user information table 411), which is the classification set by the distributor himself / herself, in the form of a hash tag (a form in which "#" is added at the beginning of the character string). (In the example of FIG. 8, it is displayed as "#Big Eater Live"). Also, the second tag object 6412 displays the latest tag given by the viewer to the corresponding live distribution in the same form of hash tag. (In the example of FIG. 8, it is displayed as "#Curry").

[0055] FIG. 9 illustrates the top screen 60 when "Topic" is selected in the selection area 62. In this case, as shown in the figure, in the list display area 64 of the top screen 60, the tags given to an arbitrary live distribution are listed in chronological order together with the distribution. That is, in the list display area 64 when "Topic" is selected in the selection area 62, the tags arranged in descending order of the assignment time and the corresponding live distribution (the distribution to which the tag is given) are listed.

[0056] In the list display area 64 in this case, a plurality of individual display areas 642, each of which displays information regarding an individual tag and the corresponding live distribution, are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. When a new tag is given to an arbitrary live distribution, the corresponding individual display area 642 is added to the top of the list display area 64.

[0057] Figure 10 illustrates the display content of the individual display area 642. As shown in the figure, a tag object 6421 is arranged at the upper left corner of the area 642, and the profile image and account name, etc. of the corresponding (tagged) live streamer are displayed. A link to the corresponding live stream is set in the individual display area 642. By selecting any one of the multiple individual display areas 642 displayed in the list display area 64, the user can start watching the corresponding live stream.

[0058] The live stream button 66 on the top screen 60 is an object for the user to perform a live stream of a video as a live streamer. When the live stream button 66 is selected by the user, the live stream preparation screen 100 illustrated in Figure 11 is displayed overlaid on the top screen 60. As shown in the figure, the screen 100 has a live stream title input area 102 for inputting a live stream title, a pull-to-live stream setting switch 104 for setting the pull-to-live stream mode, a tweet setting button 106 for setting the tweet (posting of a message to an SNS) automatically performed during the live stream, and a live stream start button 108 displayed as "Start!". The pull-to-live stream is a live stream distribution mode in which only new viewers (specifically, viewers whose total viewing time within a predetermined period for the corresponding live streamer is less than a predetermined value) can watch.

[0059] When the live stream start button 108 is selected, the live stream is started. Specifically, the transmission of the video composed of the image input via the camera of the user terminal 30 and the audio input via the microphone of the user terminal 30 to the server 10 is started. Also, in response to the start of the live stream, a new record is created in the live stream management table 412.

[0060] FIG. 12 illustrates a distributor screen 70 displayed on the distributor terminal 30 in response to the selection of the distribution start button 108 (i.e., the start of live distribution). As shown in the figure, the screen 70 includes a video display area 71 corresponding to the entire screen, a basic information display area 72 located in the upper left corner of the screen, a comment display area 73 located in the lower left of the screen, a tag display area 74 located above the area 73, a viewer information display area 75 located in the upper right corner of the screen, and a circular distribution stop button 76 located at the center of the lower end of the screen.

[0061] The video display area 71 displays the video being live-distributed, that is, the image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30. Usually, the distributor uses himself / herself as the subject via the in-camera of the distributor terminal 30, so the video being distributed includes the image of the distributor himself / herself.

[0062] The basic information display area 72 displays the basic information of this distribution. Specifically, it displays distributor information (profile image, etc.), the number of viewers of this distribution (current value), and the number of "likes" input by viewers for this distribution, etc.

[0063] The comment display area 73 is an area for displaying user comments input by viewers or system comments automatically input by the server 10. Specifically, a plurality of comment objects 731 each corresponding to an individual comment are arranged vertically in the area 73. When a new comment is input, the comment display area 73 is configured such that the corresponding comment object 731 is added to the lower side and the existing comment objects 731 move upward in order. The comment display area 73 is configured such that the displayed comment objects 731 can be switched by a flick operation or a slide operation in the vertical direction.

[0064] The tag display area 74 displays information regarding the tags assigned to this distribution. Specifically, a plurality of tag objects 741 each corresponding to an individual tag are arranged horizontally in the area 74.

[0065] The viewer information display area 75 displays information about a plurality of viewers who are watching the corresponding live distribution. Specifically, in this area 75, a plurality of icon objects 751 each corresponding to a viewer are arranged side by side in the left - right direction. The object 751 has a circular shape and displays the profile image of the corresponding viewer. The plurality of icon objects 751 are arranged in an order according to a predetermined rule. For example, they are arranged such that the viewers with a larger number of the above - mentioned e - points are on the left side.

[0066] The distribution stop button 76 is an object for the distributor to stop the live distribution. When the distribution stop button 76 is selected by the distributor, the live distribution (transmission of video from the distributor terminal 30 to the server 10) is stopped.

[0067] FIG. 13 illustrates a viewer screen 80 displayed on the viewer terminal 30. For example, when an arbitrary live distribution is selected by a viewer via the list display area 64 of the top screen 60 or the like, a viewer screen 80 for watching the selected distribution is displayed on the viewer terminal 30. As shown in the figure, similar to the above - mentioned distributor screen 70, the screen 80 has a video display area 81, a basic information display area 82, a comment display area 83, a tag display area 84, and a viewer information display area 85. Also, at the lower end of the viewer screen 80, there are an input mode switching button 86, a comment input area 87, a "like" button 88 with a heart mark displayed thereon, and an item input button 89 with a present symbol displayed thereon.

[0068] The comment input area 87 is an area for viewers to input comments or tags. While the input mode switching button 86 is in the unselected state, the comment input area 87 is in the normal comment input mode. In the comment input mode, when the transmission object 871 arranged at the right end of the comment input area 87 is selected, the character string input in the area 87 is transmitted as a user comment, and in the corresponding distributor terminal 30 (the user terminal 30 of the distributor of the live distribution being viewed) and each viewer terminal 30 (each user terminal 30 of the plurality of viewers of the live distribution being viewed), in the comment display areas 73 and 83 of the distributor screen 70 and the viewer screen 80, comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the user comment are added. In the comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the user comment, the content (character string) of the comment is displayed together with the account name of the viewer who input the comment. Also, when the user comment is transmitted, the server 10 updates (increments by 1) the number of comments in the corresponding record of the distribution management table 412. Also, when the user comment is transmitted, the server 10 updates (increments by 1) the number of input comments in the corresponding record of the grade management table 413.

[0069] Also, when the input mode switching button 86 is in the selected state, the comment input area 87 is in the tag input mode. In the tag input mode, when the transmission object 871 is selected, the character string input in the comment input area 87 is transmitted as a tag, and the tag is assigned (associated) to the live distribution. In this example, viewers who can input tags are limited to family members of the corresponding distributor. Specifically, the input mode switching button 86 on the viewer screen 80 can be selected (enabled) when the viewer is a family member of the distributor, while it cannot be selected (disabled) when the viewer is not a family member of the distributor. Also, in this example, the number of tags that can be assigned to one live distribution within a predetermined period is limited. Specifically, the number of tags that can be assigned within 5 minutes is up to 3.

[0070] When a tag is assigned, corresponding tag objects 741 and 841 are added to the tag display areas 74 and 84 of the corresponding distributor screen 70 and viewer screen 80. In the tag display areas 74 and 84, the tag objects 741 and 841 are arranged side by side in the left - right direction so that the left side is newer (the assignment time is later). Therefore, the tag objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the newly assigned tag are added to the left end in the tag display areas 74 and 84. Note that the tag objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the tag for which 5 minutes have elapsed since assignment are deleted (for example, they disappear with an animation effect of moving to the right).

[0071] In this example, the tag objects 741 and 841 display the content of the tag in the form of a hashtag with "#" added to the beginning of the character string. For example, when the content of the tag is "Tokyo tourism", it is displayed as "#Tokyo tourism" in the tag objects 741 and 841. The left - right length of the tag objects 741 and 841 is automatically adjusted according to the length of the character string to be displayed.

[0072] Also, when a tag is assigned, comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to system comments notifying the assignment of the tag are added to the comment display areas 73 and 83 of the corresponding distributor screen 70 and viewer screen 80. In the comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the system comments, the content of the assigned tag is displayed together with the account name of the viewer who assigned (input) the tag. For example, a comment such as "xx has tagged the live broadcast with '#Tokyo tourism'." is displayed. Also, when a tag is assigned, the tag information in the corresponding record of the distribution management table 412 is updated.

[0073] The like button 88 is an object for viewers to input "like" for the broadcaster (live streaming). When the button 88 is selected by a viewer, the "like" is input, and in the comment display areas 73 and 83 of the corresponding broadcaster screen 70 and viewer screen 80, comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the system comment notifying the input of "like" are added. In the comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the system comment, text indicating the input of "like" is displayed together with the account name of the viewer who input "like". Also, when "like" is input, in the video display areas 71 and 81 of the broadcaster screen 70 and viewer screen 80, a predetermined visual effect (for example, an animation effect where a heart-shaped object is displayed flowing from the lower side to the upper side of the screen, etc.) is added. Also, when "like" is input, the server 10 updates (increments by 1) the "like count" in the corresponding record of the distribution management table 412.

[0074] The item input button 89 is an object for viewers to input an item. When the button 89 is selected by a viewer, the item selection screen 200 illustrated in FIG. 14 is overlaid and displayed on the viewer screen 80. As shown in the figure, the screen 200 displays a list of a plurality of individual display areas 202 each of which displays information regarding an item. The individual display area 202 displays an image corresponding to the item and the number of coins required for the input of the item.

[0075] In this example, a plurality of items that can be input by viewers are predetermined, and for each item, the number of coins as its price (which can also be referred to as value or consideration) is preset. The item selection screen 200 displays a list of these plurality of items that can be input. When any item is selected by a viewer via the item selection screen 200, the input of the selected item is performed.

[0076] When an item is input, comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to system comments notifying the input of the item are added in the comment display areas 73 and 83 of the corresponding distributor screen 70 and viewer screen 80. In the comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the system comments, the name of the item input is displayed together with the account name of the viewer who input the item. Also, when an item is input, a visual effect corresponding to the input item is added in the video display areas 71 and 81 of the corresponding distributor screen 70 and viewer screen 80. Further, when an item is input, the server 10 grants a quantity of item points corresponding to the number of coins of the input item (for example, the more the number of coins, the more the number of points) for this distribution. Specifically, in the distribution management table 412, the number of points corresponding to the number of coins is added to the item point number of the corresponding record. Also, when an item is input, the server 10 subtracts the number of coins of the input item from the coin balance of the corresponding record (the record of the viewer who input the item) in the user information table 411. Further, when an item is input, the server 10 adds the number of coins of the input item to the consumed coin number of the corresponding record in the grade management table 413.

[0077] In this example, viewers to whom periodic billing is applied for the corresponding distributor (the distributor of the live distribution being viewed) can input some items any number of times without consuming individual coins. For such items, for example, in the individual display area 202 of the item selection screen 200, it is displayed that individual coin consumption is not required due to periodic billing. Also, in this example, when periodic billing is applied, in the corresponding record of the grade management table 413, the number of coins corresponding to the amount of periodic billing is added to the consumed coin number in a lump sum every month.

[0078] Also, when a new viewer starts watching (enters the live broadcast room), in the comment display areas 73 and 83 of the corresponding broadcaster screen 70 and viewer screen 80, comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to system comments notifying the entry of the viewer are added. The comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the system comments display the account name, etc. of the user who started watching (entered). Also, if this viewing is the first viewing of the day of the corresponding broadcaster's live broadcast, the server 10 updates (adds 1) the number of viewing days of the corresponding record in the grade management table 413.

[0079] Here, the operation regarding the management of the fan level of viewers for a broadcaster will be described. FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining the conditions (grade conditions) for each of a plurality of fan levels in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, two or three conditions are set for each fan level, and a user who satisfies any one of these two to three conditions becomes the corresponding fan level (the level goes up). For example, for the fan level "1", two conditions are set: condition 1, "consume 10 coins or more, watch for 1.5 hours or more, and input 4 comments or more", and condition 2, "consume 100 coins or more". A user who satisfies any one of these two conditions becomes a viewer at the fan level "1". Also, for example, for the fan level "4", three conditions are set: condition 1, "consume 1000 coins or more, watch for 5 hours or more, watch for 4 days or more, and input 35 comments or more", condition 2, "consume 3000 coins or more, watch for 2 hours or more, and input 5 comments or more", and condition 3, "consume 5500 coins or more". A user who satisfies any one of these three conditions becomes a viewer at the fan level "4".

[0080] Such fan level determination is performed in real time during the live broadcast. Specifically, during the live broadcast, the server 10 updates the number of consumed coins, viewing time, number of viewing days, and number of input comments in the grade management table 413 for each viewer in real time, and determines whether to upgrade the fan level based on this information. When the fan level increases, the value of the fan level in the corresponding record of the grade management table 413 is updated.

[0081] In this example, for the periodic billing to the distributor, a monthly billing of an amount equivalent to 6000 coins is performed. Therefore, viewers to whom the periodic billing is applied will immediately meet the condition 3 (consume 5500 coins or more) of the fan level "4" illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0082] In this example, the comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the actions of the viewer (specifically, entering the room (starting viewing), commenting, tagging, liking, and item input) are decorated according to the fan level of the viewer. For example, such comment objects 731 and 831 are added with an icon corresponding to the fan level of the viewer and the character color corresponding to the fan level is applied.

[0083] Also, in this example, the fulfillment status of the conditions of the fan level of each viewer is displayed via the viewer information display areas 75 and 85 of the distributor screen 70 and the viewer screen 80. FIG. 16 illustrates a viewer information display screen 300 that is displayed superimposed on the distributor screen 70 and the viewer screen 80 in response to the selection of the icon objects 751 and 851 in the viewer information display areas 75 and 85. As shown in the figure, the screen 300 displays the profile image, account name, and profile, etc. of the corresponding viewer, and has a fan level information display area 302 that displays information regarding the fan level below it.

[0084] As shown in the figure, the fan level information display area 302 displays an icon image corresponding to the current level, the number of e-points, etc., and on its right side, condition satisfaction degree objects 3021 for displaying the satisfaction status of each of two to three conditions for rising to the next (one level higher) fan level are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction. In the viewer information display screen 300 of FIG. 16, three condition satisfaction degree objects 3021 corresponding to the three conditions of conditions 1 to 3 are arranged. However, when there are two conditions corresponding to the next fan level, two condition satisfaction degree objects 3021 are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction.

[0085] The condition satisfaction degree object 3021 displays the satisfaction degree of the condition in the annular part. Specifically, the satisfaction degree is displayed in the form of a circular progress bar that extends clockwise from the 12 o'clock position as the satisfaction degree of the condition increases. The satisfaction degree of the condition is set as the ratio of the current value to the condition value (maximum value) of the parameter (number of consumed coins, viewing time, number of viewing days, or number of input comments) corresponding to the condition. The user can know the current fan level of each viewer including other users and the overview of the satisfaction status of the conditions for rising to the next fan level through the viewer information display screen 300 (fan level information display area 302).

[0086] Also, in this example, when the viewer information display screen 300 that displays the information of the corresponding user himself / herself with the icon object 851 of the corresponding user himself / herself selected in the viewer information display area 85 of the viewer screen 80 is displayed, when the fan level information display area 302 is selected, the condition satisfaction degree detail screen 400 illustrated in FIG. 17 is displayed. As shown in the figure, the screen 400 has sub-condition indicators 402 for displaying the satisfaction degree of the corresponding sub-conditions for each condition corresponding to the next fan level.

[0087] The sub-condition indicator 402 displays the fulfillment degree in the form of a bar-shaped progress bar that extends to the right as the fulfillment degree of the condition increases. Also, on the lower right side of the sub-condition indicator 402, text regarding the fulfillment degree of the corresponding sub-condition is displayed. Specifically, text regarding the quantity required to fulfill the sub-condition (e.g., "1,256 more coins") is displayed, or when the sub-condition has already been fulfilled, the text "CLEAR!" is displayed.

[0088] "Condition 1" in the example of FIG. 17 has four sub-conditions: a sub-condition regarding the number of coins, a sub-condition regarding the viewing time, a sub-condition regarding the number of comments, and a sub-condition regarding the number of viewing days. Four sub-condition indicators 402 corresponding to the four sub-conditions are arranged vertically side by side. The condition fulfillment degree details screen 400 is configured such that the displayed condition is switched by a flick operation or a slide operation in the left-right direction or the like. The user can know the details of the fulfillment status of the conditions for the user to advance to the next fan level via the condition fulfillment degree details screen 400.

[0089] As described above, the operations regarding the management of the viewer's fan level for the distributor have been explained. Next, the operations when the distributor ends the live broadcast will be explained. As described above, when the distributor selects the broadcast stop button 76 on the distributor screen 70, the live broadcast ends. When the live broadcast ends, the server 10 calculates and sets the number of distribution points for the broadcast. In this example, the number of distribution points is calculated based on the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the number of item points. The number of distribution points increases as the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the number of item points increases. The calculated number of distribution points is set in the corresponding record of the distribution management table 412.

[0090] The above described the operations when the broadcaster ends the live broadcast. Next, the operations when determining the broadcaster's rank will be described. In this example, the rank for the current day is determined (updated) based on the number of distribution points the user obtained the previous day. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating the processing executed by the server 10 when updating the rank of each user. These processes are executed every day at midnight (for example, 3:00 am every day).

[0091] First, as shown in the figure, the server 10 calculates the number of distribution points each user obtained the previous day (step S300). The number of distribution points a specific user obtained the previous day is calculated by referring to the broadcaster user account, the distribution start date and time, and the number of distribution points in the distribution management table 412. Note that when a user conducts multiple distributions in one day, the number of distribution points obtained in each of the multiple distributions is totaled.

[0092] After calculating the number of distribution points for each broadcaster the previous day in this way, subsequently, the server 10 adds a bonus to the number of distribution points (step S310). Specifically, in this example, a bonus is added to the number of distribution points according to the number of "special fans" whose fan level is "4" or higher. FIG. 19 illustrates the correspondence between the number of special fans and the distribution point bonus (multiplier). In this example, as shown in the figure, when the number of special fans is 2 to 4, the distribution point bonus is such that the number of distribution points becomes 101% (multiplied by 1.01). In other words, when the number of special fans is 2 to 4, 1% of the calculated number of distribution points is added as a bonus. Similarly, when the number of special fans is 5 to 9, the distribution point bonus (multiplier) is 102%, and thereafter, as the number of special fans increases, the distribution point bonus (multiplier) becomes larger, which is advantageous for the broadcaster.

[0093] Also, as described above, in this example, viewers to whom regular billing is applied automatically become special fans whose fan level is "4" or higher. Therefore, acquiring a large number of viewers to whom regular billing is applied is advantageous for the broadcaster.

[0094] Also, in this example, a bonus is added to the distribution points according to the total value of the email points of each of the multiple viewers. For example, when the total value of the email points reaches 5000 points or more, a bonus of 500 points is added to the distribution points, and when the total value of the email points reaches 10000 points or more, a bonus of 1000 points is added to the distribution points. The bonus increases as the number of email points increases, which is advantageous for the distributor. In other examples of this embodiment, the bonus for the distribution points based on the number of email points is not applied, and only the bonus for the distribution points based on the number of special fans may be applied.

[0095] When a bonus is added to the distribution point number in this way, next, the server 10 updates the rank meter value of each user (step S320). FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the update rule of the rank meter value. As shown in the figure, in this example, the rank meter value fluctuates based on the rank within the rank band of the distribution point number of each user on the previous day.

[0096] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 20, the update rule of the rank meter value is as follows. First, when the rank of the distribution point number within the rank band is included in the top 10%, the fluctuation of the rank meter value is "+2" (an increase of 2 points). Similarly, when the rank is included in the top 11 - 30% (the remaining 20% excluding the top 10% from the top 30%), the fluctuation is "+1", when the rank is included in the middle 30% (the 31st - 60th), the fluctuation is "±0" (no increase or decrease), and when the rank is included in the bottom 40%, the fluctuation is "-1" (a decrease of 1 point). If no distribution was performed on the previous day, regardless of the rank within the rank band, the fluctuation of the rank meter value is "-1".

[0097] In step S320, the rank meter value of each user is updated according to the update rule illustrated in FIG. 20.

[0098] Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 18, when updating the rank meter value of each user, next, the server 10 updates the rank based on the updated rank meter value (step S330). FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the updated content of the rank and the required rank meter value. As shown in the figure, first, when ranking up across rank bands (in other words, when ranking up from the top rank within each rank band), the required rank meter value is +4. That is, a user belonging to the top rank within each rank band (for example, A+) will rank up to the bottom rank within the immediately higher rank band (for example, S-) when the rank meter value reaches +4. Also, when ranking up within the same rank band (in other words, when ranking up from the middle or bottom rank within each rank band), the required rank meter value is +2. That is, a user belonging to the middle or bottom rank within each rank band (for example, B or B-) will rank up to the rank immediately above within the same rank band (for example, B+ or B) when the rank meter value reaches +2.

[0099] Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 21, when ranking down within the same rank band (in other words, when ranking down from the top or middle rank within each rank band), the required rank meter value is -2. That is, a user belonging to the top or middle rank within each rank band (for example, B+ or B) will rank down to the rank immediately below within the same rank band (for example, B or B-) when the rank meter value reaches -2. Also, when ranking down across rank bands, the required rank meter value is -6. That is, a user belonging to the bottom rank within each rank band (for example, A-) will rank down to the top rank within the immediately lower rank band (for example, B+) when the rank meter value reaches -6. Thus, in this example, ranking up / down across rank bands has a larger absolute value of the required rank meter value compared to ranking up / down within the same rank band. As a result, rapid ranking up / down in a short period is suppressed.

[0100] In step S330, the rank is updated based on the rank meter value according to the correspondence relationship illustrated in FIG. 21. Note that the rank meter value of the user for whom the rank has been updated (the user for whom rank up / down has occurred) is cleared to 0.

[0101] The operations for determining the rank of the distributor have been described above. Next, the operations for awarding diamonds to the user will be described. In this example, diamonds, which are the rewards for the user as a distributor, are awarded based on the previous day's distribution time and rank (the rank on the previous day). FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating the processing executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds to each distributor. These processes are executed at midnight every day, for example, at a time earlier than the time when the ranks of each user illustrated in FIG. 18 are updated (for example, 0:00 am every day).

[0102] First, as illustrated, the server 10 calculates the previous day's distribution time for each user (step S400). Specifically, the previous day's distribution time of a specific user is calculated by referring to the distributor user account, distribution start date and time, and distribution time in the distribution management table 412. When a user has made multiple distributions in a day, the distribution times of each of the multiple distributions are added together.

[0103] Subsequently, the server 10 awards a number of diamonds to each user based on the calculated distribution time and the number of diamonds based on the reference (step S410). Specifically, the number of diamonds obtained by multiplying the calculated distribution time by the reference number of diamonds is awarded to each user. The reference number of diamonds is preset for each rank so that the higher the rank, the larger the number, and the reference number of diamonds corresponding to the previous day's rank of each user is applied. When diamonds are awarded to a user, the number of diamonds held in the corresponding record in the user information table 411 is updated. In this example, diamonds can be exchanged for coins or real currency.

[0104] In the above example, the conditions corresponding to the fan level may vary based on the distributor information regarding the distributor, the viewer information regarding the viewer, or the combined information regarding the combination of the distributor and the viewer, etc. For example, the lower the rank of the distributor, the easier it is to satisfy the conditions corresponding to the fan level (for example, the condition value becomes lower). Also, for example, the conditions corresponding to the fan level vary according to the viewer's residential area (for example, the conditions for viewers in a specific residential area are easier to satisfy). Also, for example, the conditions corresponding to the fan level are easier to satisfy in the target year and month when the viewer watches the live distribution of the corresponding distributor for the first time.

[0105] In the above example, for a predetermined upper fan level, it may be made invalid for a certain period from the start of each month and become valid from a specific timing in the middle. In this case, for example, for the conditions corresponding to the fan level that become valid at a specific timing (for example, the 15th day) of each month, viewers who satisfied the conditions before the fan level becomes valid will not be promoted to the fan level until the fan level becomes valid (until the specific timing). By doing so, it is possible to suppress the excessive occurrence of viewers at the upper fan level at an early stage of each month and the shrinkage of other general viewers.

[0106] In the above example, a bonus is added to the distribution point number according to the number of "special fans" whose fan level is "4" or higher. However, the reward according to the number of special fans is an example of the reward based on the fan level of each of a plurality of viewers. In other examples of this embodiment, other rules are applied. For example, a bonus may be added to the distribution point number according to the total value of the fan level values.

[0107] Also, the addition of a bonus to the distribution point number is an example of the reward for the distributor. In other examples of this embodiment, various rewards can be given to the distributor based on the fan level of each of a plurality of viewers. For example, as a reward for the distributor, a bonus may be added to the standard diamond number, or the right to participate in a special event may be given.

[0108] In the above example, a live distribution of a video composed of an image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30 and audio input via the microphone, and a live distribution service that enables viewing thereof were provided. However, in another example of the present embodiment, a video provided by the distributor is stored in advance, and an on-demand type video distribution service that individually distributes the video in response to a request from a viewer is provided. Even in this case, the fan level of the viewer with respect to the distributor (video provider) is managed, and a reward can be given to the distributor based at least on the fan levels of each of a plurality of viewers.

[0109] The video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment described above determines the grade (for example, fan level) of the viewer with respect to the distributor based on the satisfaction status of the grade conditions, and based on the grade of each of a plurality of viewers (for example, the number of special fans whose fan level is "4" or higher), a reward (for example, addition of a bonus to the number of distribution points) is given to the distributor. Therefore, for example, the upgrade of the viewer's grade becomes a direct benefit to the distributor, and motivation for strengthening the relationship with the viewer is given to the distributor. That is, the video distribution server 10 can promote the strengthening of the relationship between the distributor and the viewer.

[0110] The processes and procedures described in this specification can be realized by software, hardware, or any combination thereof, in addition to those explicitly described. For example, the processes and procedures described in this specification are realized by implementing logic corresponding to the processes and procedures in a medium such as an integrated circuit, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or magnetic disk. Also, the processes and procedures described in this specification can be implemented as a computer program corresponding to the processes and procedures and can be executed on various computers.

[0111] Even if it is described that the processes and procedures described in this specification are executed by a single device, software, component, or module, such processes or procedures may be executed by a plurality of devices, a plurality of software, a plurality of components, and / or a plurality of modules. Also, the software and hardware elements described in this specification can be realized by integrating them into fewer components or decomposing them into more components.

[0112] In this specification, when a component of the invention is described as either singular or plural, or is described without being limited to either singular or plural, unless the context requires otherwise, the component may be either singular or plural.

Explanation of Signs

[0113] 10 Video distribution server 11 Computer processor 15 Storage (memory device) 20 Communication network 30 User terminal 41 Information storage management unit 411 User information table 412 Distribution management table 413 Grade management table 43 Management function control unit 45 Video distribution service control unit 60 Top screen 70 Distributor screen 75 Viewer information display area 80 Viewer screen 85 Viewer information display area 100 Distribution preparation screen 200 Item selection screen 300 Viewer information display screen 302 Fan level information display area 3021 Condition satisfaction degree object 400 Condition satisfaction degree details screen 402 Sub-condition Indicator

Claims

1. A system comprising one or more computer processors for providing a video delivery service, wherein the one or more computer processors, in response to the execution of readable instructions, determine the grade of viewers for a video distributor based at least on the satisfaction status of the viewers with respect to grade conditions corresponding to each of a plurality of grades; and award a reward to the distributor based at least on the grade of each of a plurality of viewers for the distributor. The system.

2. The grade conditions include conditions that are satisfied in response to the execution of actions by the viewers on the videos of the distributor, The system according to Claim 1.

3. The grade conditions include conditions that are satisfied in response to the application of periodic billing by the viewers to the distributor, The system according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. The one or more computer processors further execute a step of controlling the execution of a predetermined action by the viewers on the videos of the distributor, wherein the predetermined action is executed based on individual billing or the periodic billing, The system according to Claim 3.

5. The grade conditions are configured to vary based on at least one of distributor information regarding the distributor, viewer information regarding the viewer, and combination information regarding the combination of the distributor and the viewer, The system according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

6. The one or more computer processors further execute a step of presenting a viewer screen for viewing the videos of the distributor to the viewer, wherein the viewer screen is configured to display the satisfaction status of at least some of a plurality of viewers of the videos of the distributor with respect to the grade conditions, The system according to any one of Claims 1 to 5.

7. The viewer screen is configured to display the satisfaction status of the grade conditions of other viewers other than the viewer to whom the viewer screen is presented among a plurality of viewers of the videos of the distributor at a first level of detail, while displaying the satisfaction status of the grade conditions of the viewer to whom the viewer screen is presented at a second level of detail that is more detailed than the first level of detail, The system according to Claim 6.

8. The determining step includes determining the grade of the viewer in the predetermined period based at least on the satisfaction status of the grade conditions by the viewer in the predetermined period. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The giving step includes giving the reward based at least on the number of viewers with a predetermined grade or higher. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The one or more computer processors further execute a step of updating a value of the predetermined parameter associated with the viewer for each distributor, the value of the predetermined parameter increasing in response to an action by the viewer on a video of the corresponding distributor. The giving step includes giving the reward to the distributor based at least on the value of the predetermined parameter corresponding to the distributor for each of the plurality of viewers, in addition to the grade of each of the plurality of viewers. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A method executed by one or more computers for providing a video distribution service, a step of determining a grade of a viewer for a distributor of a video based at least on a satisfaction status of grade conditions corresponding to each of a plurality of grades by the viewer, a step of giving a reward to the distributor based at least on the grade of each of the plurality of viewers for the distributor, Method.

12. A program for providing a video distribution service, which causes one or more computers to determine a grade of a viewer for a distributor of a video based at least on a satisfaction status of grade conditions corresponding to each of a plurality of grades by the viewer, execute a step of giving a reward to the distributor based at least on the grade of each of the plurality of viewers for the distributor. Program.

Images