Game apparatus, electronic apparatus, information processing method and program

Abstract

To provide a game apparatus that uses radio communication for providing enjoyment of an apparatus used by a user by using a relation to another apparatus existing around, an electronic apparatus, an information processing method and a program.SOLUTION: A game apparatus (an electronic apparatus 100) is provided with a control part 120 for holding reception strengths of radio waves outputted from a plurality of apparatuses existing around in a storage part in each apparatus, and executing processing about a game on the basis of patterns of plurality of reception strengths in the case of combining the plurality of reception strengths of each apparatus held by the storage part at prescribed timing and the existence / nonexistence of a reception strength of a specific apparatus. The control part 120 holds reception strengths of radio waves outputted from the plurality of apparatuses existing around in the storage part in each apparatus, and determines content to be provided to a user on the basis of the patterns of the plurality of reception strengths in the case of combining the plurality of reception strengths of each apparatus held by the storage part at prescribed timing and the existence / nonexistence of the reception strength of the specific apparatus.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a game device, an electronic device, an information processing method, and a program. In particular, it relates to a game device, an electronic device, an information processing method, and a program that utilize wireless communication.

Background Art

[0002] Around the world, various electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, and tablet terminals are being used. These electronic devices can output contents such as images, videos, and music. In addition, these electronic devices can perform various communications using wireless communication. Also, it is possible to exchange contents such as images, videos, and music. For example, there is a technology for exchanging contents using wireless communication between a plurality of devices (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the prior art, content can be exchanged between a plurality of devices using wireless communication. Here, in recent years, there are many portable communication devices (for example, smartphones and tablet terminals) and fixed communication devices (for example, smart home appliances and AI (Artificial Intelligence) speakers). Therefore, it is assumed that there are many other devices around the device (for example, a smartphone) used by the user. In such an environment (an environment where there are a plurality of other devices around the device used by the user), the device used by the user can perform each process (for example, content exchange) with the communication partner device by using the radio wave output from the communication partner device. Also, in such an environment, the device used by the user is receiving radio waves from devices other than the communication partner device. Therefore, in such an environment, if it is possible to perform processes other than the processes based on communication with the communication partner device by using the radio waves from the communication partner device and other devices, it is considered that the enjoyment of the device used by the user will increase.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide enjoyment of a device used by a user by utilizing the relationship with other devices existing around.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is an information processing apparatus including a control unit that acquires position information regarding a plurality of devices including a portable device possessed by another user, which are other devices existing around a portable target device possessed by a user, causes the storage unit to hold the position information regarding the plurality of devices for each device, specifies a shape formed by a straight line connecting each position where the plurality of devices exist based on the position information held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing, and causes the target device to execute processing related to a game that can be displayed on the target device based on the shape, an information processing method including each of those processes, and a program for causing a computer to realize each of those functions. One aspect of the present invention is a game device, an electronic device, an information processing method including a process of causing a storage unit to hold, for each device, a reception intensity of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device, which are output from a plurality of devices including portable devices existing in the surroundings, and a process of executing processing related to a game based on a pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when combining the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing, and a program for causing a computer to realize a function of causing the storage unit to hold and a function of executing processing related to the game. Another aspect of the present invention is an electronic device including a control unit that determines content to be provided to a user based on a pattern of a plurality of reception intensities when combining the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in a storage unit at a predetermined timing, the plurality of reception intensities being of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device, which are output from a plurality of devices including portable devices existing in the surroundings, and an information processing method including a process of causing the storage unit to hold and a process of determining the content, and a program for causing a computer to realize a function of causing the storage unit to hold and a function of determining the content. Another aspect of the present invention is an electronic device including a control unit that determines content to be provided to a user based on a pattern of information about each of the devices when arranging the plurality of pieces of information about the devices held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing in accordance with the reception intensity associated with the information about each of the devices, the plurality of pieces of information about the devices being held in the storage unit by associating the reception intensity of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device, which are output from a plurality of devices including portable devices existing in the surroundings, with the information about each of the devices that can be specified based on the radio waves output from each of the devices, and an information processing method including a process of causing the storage unit to hold and a process of determining the content, and a program for causing a computer to realize a function of causing the storage unit to hold and a function of determining the content. A first aspect of the present invention is an electronic device including a control unit that causes a storage unit to hold, for each device, a reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings, including portable devices, and determines content to be provided to a user based on a pattern of each reception intensity when arranging, in the order of reception intensity, each reception intensity held in the storage unit for each device at a predetermined timing, an information processing method including a process of causing the storage unit to hold and a process of determining the content, and a program for causing a computer to realize a function of causing the storage unit to hold and a function of determining the content. In this first aspect, the pattern may be a pattern including a combination of each reception intensity and the number of each reception intensity when arranging, in the order of reception intensity, each reception intensity for each device. A second aspect of the present invention is an electronic device including a control unit that associates, for each device, a reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings, including portable devices, with information about each device that can be specified based on the radio waves output from each device, causes the storage unit to hold the information, and determines content to be provided to a user based on a pattern of the information about the device when arranging, in the order of reception intensity of the reception intensity associated with the information about the device, the information about the device held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing, an information processing method including a process of causing the storage unit to hold and a process of determining the content, and a program for causing a computer to realize a function of causing the storage unit to hold and a function of determining the content. In this second aspect, the information about the device may be at least one of a type of the device, a manufacturer of the device, a model number of the device, unique information of the device, and a name given to the device. Also, in this first or second form, the predetermined timing may be any one of a timing when a predetermined time has elapsed, a timing when a desired content has been determined to be a provision target, a timing when a predetermined user operation has been performed, and a timing when a change in the posture of the electronic device has been detected. In this case, the timing when the predetermined time has elapsed may be any one of a timing when the elapsed time since the power of the electronic device was turned on has become the predetermined time, a timing when the elapsed time since the previous content provision since the power of the electronic device was turned on has become the predetermined time, and a timing when the elapsed time since the electronic device received radio waves from a specific device has become the predetermined time. Also, in this first or second form, the electronic device further includes a position information acquisition unit that acquires position information regarding the position where the electronic device is present, and the control unit determines whether the position of the electronic device specified by the position information is included in a specific area. When the position of the electronic device is included in the specific area, the content may be determined based on the pattern from among the contents associated with the specific area. Also, in this first or second form, the control unit may cause the storage unit to hold the determined content, and execute processing related to a game using the content held in the storage unit within a predetermined period. Also, in this first or second form, the control unit may execute at least one of an output process for outputting voice from a voice output unit based on the determined content and a display process for displaying an image on a display unit based on the determined content. Furthermore, a third aspect of the present invention is an information processing apparatus including a control unit that acquires position information regarding a portable target device and position information regarding a plurality of devices including the portable device and existing around the target device, causes the storage unit to hold for each device the position information regarding the target device and the position information regarding the plurality of devices, calculates for each device the respective distances from the target device to the plurality of devices based on the position information held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing, and determines the content to be provided to the target device based on the pattern of the plurality of devices when the plurality of devices are arranged in ascending order of the lengths of the respective distances. The present invention also relates to an information processing method including a process of causing the storage unit to hold the information, a process of calculating the information, and a process of determining the content, and a program for causing a computer to realize functions of causing the storage unit to hold the information, calculating the information, and determining the content. In this third aspect, the pattern may be a pattern consisting of a combination of identification information of the plurality of devices when the plurality of devices are arranged in ascending order of the lengths of the respective distances. Also, one aspect of the present invention is an electronic device and an information processing apparatus that determine at least one content to be provided to a user from among a plurality of contents based on one or more radio waves including radio waves output from devices existing around and not addressed to the own device. Also, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing method of determining at least one content to be provided to the electronic device from among a plurality of contents based on one or more radio waves including radio waves output from devices existing around the electronic device and not addressed to the electronic device, and a program for causing a computer to execute the method.

[0007] Also, one aspect of the present invention is an electronic device and an information processing apparatus that select and execute at least one process from a plurality of processes different from the process related to wireless communication based on one or more radio waves including radio waves output from devices existing in the surroundings and not addressed to the own device. Also, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing method for selecting and causing the electronic device to execute at least one process from a plurality of processes different from the process related to wireless communication based on one or more radio waves including radio waves output from devices existing in the surroundings of the electronic device and not addressed to the electronic device, and a program for causing a computer to execute the method.

[0008] Also, in these cases, the electronic device may determine the content based on the reception intensity of the one or more radio waves. Further, the electronic device may determine the content based on the relationship between the number of the radio waves received by the electronic device and the reception intensity of the radio waves.

[0009] Also, in these cases, the electronic device may determine the content based on information about the devices existing in the surroundings that can be specified based on the one or more radio waves. Note that the information about the device can be at least one of the type of the device, the manufacturer of the device, the model number of the device, the unique information of the device, and the name given to the device. Further, the electronic device may determine the content based on the relationship between the number of the radio waves received by the electronic device and the information about the device that output the radio waves.

[0010] Further, one embodiment of the present invention is an electronic device and an information processing apparatus that determine at least one content to be provided to a user from a plurality of contents based on the relative relationship with a plurality of other devices. Also, one embodiment of the present invention is an information processing method for determining at least one content to be provided to the electronic device from a plurality of contents based on the relative relationship between the electronic device and a plurality of other devices, and a program for causing a computer to execute the method.

[0011] Further, one embodiment of the present invention is an electronic device and an information processing apparatus that select and execute at least one process from a plurality of processes different from the process related to wireless communication with the other device and the process using the wireless communication with the other device based on the relative relationship with a plurality of other devices. Also, one embodiment of the present invention is an information processing method for selecting and causing the electronic device to execute at least one process from a plurality of processes different from the process related to wireless communication between the electronic device and the other device and the process using the wireless communication between the electronic device and the other device based on the relative relationship between the electronic device and a plurality of other devices, and a program for causing a computer to execute the method.

[0012] Further, one embodiment of the present invention is an electronic device and an information processing apparatus that select and cause the target device to execute at least one process from a plurality of processes different from the process related to wireless communication between the target device and the other device and the process using the wireless communication between the target device and the other device based on the relative relationship between the target device and a plurality of other devices. Also, one embodiment of the present invention is an information processing method for selecting and causing the target device to execute at least one process from a plurality of processes different from the process related to wireless communication between the target device and the other device and the process using the wireless communication between the target device and the other device based on the relative relationship between the target device and a plurality of other devices, and a program for causing a computer to execute the method.

[0013] Incidentally, the relative relationship between the target device and a plurality of other devices (for example, the estimated distance between the target device and other devices) can be grasped based on, for example, radio waves output from each device. For example, based on the reception intensity of the one or more radio waves, the relative relationship between the target device and other devices can be grasped. Also, based on the relationship between the number of radio waves received by the target device and the reception intensity of the radio waves, the relative relationship between the target device and other devices can be grasped.

[0014] Also, for example, based on information regarding a device that can be specified based on one or more radio waves, the relative relationship between the target device and other devices can be grasped. Note that the information regarding the device can be at least one of the type of the device, the manufacturer of the device, the model number of the device, the unique information of the device, and the name given to the device. Also, based on the relationship between the number of radio waves received by the target device and the information regarding the device that output the radio waves, the relative relationship between the target device and other devices can be grasped.

[0015] Also, the relative relationship between the target device and other devices (for example, the distance between an electronic device and a plurality of other devices) can be grasped based on, for example, position information regarding each device.

Advantages of the Invention

[0016] According to the present invention, there is an effect that it is possible to provide enjoyment of the device used by the user by utilizing the relationship with other devices existing in the surroundings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0019] [First Embodiment: Example of Determining Provided Information Based on the Relative Positional Relationship with Other Devices] [Configuration Example of Communication System] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of a communication system 1 in a first embodiment. FIG. 1 shows an example in which each of electronic devices 100 to 106 has a wireless communication function and can perform wireless communication between the electronic devices 100 to 106. Further, an example is shown in which the electronic devices 100 to 104 and 106 are possessed by users P0 to P6, and the electronic device 105 is fixed.

[0020] In the communication system 1, the electronic device 100 can receive radio waves output from each of other devices (electronic devices 101 to 106). For example, it is assumed that the intensity of the radio wave output from the electronic device 103 existing near the electronic device 100 (the reception intensity at the electronic device 100) is stronger than the intensities of the radio waves output from other devices (electronic devices 101, 102, 104 to 106). On the other hand, it is assumed that the intensity of the radio wave output from the electronic device 106 where the obstacle 2 exists between the electronic device 106 and the electronic device 100 is relatively weak.

[0021] Here, each of the electronic devices 100 to 106 can perform at least one of wireless communications of various wireless communication standards such as wireless LAN (Local Area Network) (for example, Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity)), Bluetooth (registered trademark) (IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.15.1), ZigBee (IEEE802.15.4), WiMax, and infrared communication as wireless communication. Further, each of the electronic devices 100 to 106 may use a public network (for example, 3G (3rd Generation), 4G (4th Generation), 5G (5th Generation), LTE (Long Term Evolution)) as wireless communication. Note that these are examples of wireless communication, and each embodiment may be applied to wireless communication of other wireless communication standards.

[0022] In the first embodiment, for the sake of easy explanation, an example is shown in which each of the electronic devices 100 to 106 performs wireless communication by wireless LAN (for example, Wi-Fi) as the wireless communication. Also, in the first embodiment, each of the devices other than the electronic device 100 (electronic devices 101 to 106) is assumed to be a device that can be a parent device of the wireless LAN. A device that can be a parent device of the wireless LAN is, for example, a wireless LAN router, a public access point, a mobile router, a wireless device having a tethering function (for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable device). Also, a device that can be a parent device of the wireless LAN has an SSID (Service Set Identifier). Note that the SSID is an identifier of an access point defined in the IEEE802.11 standard. Also, the SSID is an identifier such as, for example, a device name, a name set by a user, or another character string, and can be displayed on other devices. For example, the SSID is displayed by a device name, a name set by a user, or another character string. Therefore, the electronic device 100 can cause the display unit 150 (shown in FIG. 2) to display the SSID (for example, a device name, a name set by a user, or another character string) of each of the other devices (electronic devices 101 to 106). Thereby, the user P0 of the electronic device 100 can visually recognize the SSID (for example, a device name, a name set by a user, or another character string) of each of the other devices (electronic devices 101 to 106). Also, the control unit 120 (shown in FIG. 2) of the electronic device 100 can recognize the SSID (for example, a device name, a name set by a user, or another character string) of each of the other devices (electronic devices 101 to 106). Therefore, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 can recognize the device name, the name set by the user, and other character strings of each of the other devices (electronic devices 101 to 106).

[0023] In addition, in the first embodiment, an example of using the radio wave intensity in the electronic device 100 (the reception intensity of the radio waves output from each of the other devices (electronic devices 101 to 106)) is shown. Note that, as for the method of measuring the radio wave intensity (received radio wave intensity), a known measurement method can be used. For example, devices equipped with a wireless communication function of a wireless LAN (for example, Wi-Fi) (for example, a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable device) have a function of measuring the intensity of radio waves output from other devices and displaying the measurement results and the SSID for each device (for example, displaying the radio wave intensity level in five levels together with the SSID). With this function, the status of the wireless LAN environment can be easily confirmed. Using such a function, the radio wave intensity of other devices can be obtained. Note that, for a device capable of performing wireless communication of a plurality of standards, the measurement of each radio wave received by each wireless communication function may be performed, or the measurement of the radio wave received by at least one wireless communication function (for example, the wireless communication function of Wi-Fi) may be performed. In this case, the wireless communication function (for example, the wireless communication function of Wi-Fi) for receiving the radio wave used for determining the provided information is used. In addition, in the first embodiment, an example of using a five-level radio wave intensity level is shown, but a radio wave intensity level of four levels or less or six levels or more may be used.

[0024] [Functional Configuration Example of Electronic Device] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the electronic device 100 in the first embodiment. The electronic device 100 is, for example, an electronic device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal, or an information processing apparatus.

[0025] The electronic device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a control unit 120, a storage unit 130, an operation unit 140, a display unit 150, and an audio output unit 160. Note that the electronic device 100 may incorporate or be equipped with a battery and use the battery as a power source, or may use an external power source without incorporating a battery.

[0026] The communication unit 110 exchanges various types of information with other devices via a wired or wireless connection based on the control of the control unit 120. For example, when exchanging various types of information using wireless communication, the communication unit 110 transmits and receives radio waves via an antenna (not shown). For example, the communication unit 110 can perform at least one of the wireless communications conforming to the various wireless communication standards described above. Note that the communication unit 110 can perform wireless communication with communication devices existing within a predetermined range and can also perform wireless communication by connecting to a predetermined network (e.g., the Internet) via a base station installed by a communication carrier such as a mobile phone company. Also, the communication unit 110 is realized, for example, by a communication module including an antenna and having a wireless communication function or a communication module having a wired communication function.

[0027] The control unit 120 controls each part of the electronic device 100 based on the control program stored in the storage unit 130. The control unit 120 is realized, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Note that the CPU is a central processing unit (electronic device) composed of a control device (control circuit) and an arithmetic device (arithmetic circuit).

[0028] The storage unit 130 is a memory that stores various types of information. For example, the storage unit 130 stores various types of information (e.g., control programs, information for determining information to be provided (e.g., determination information shown in FIGS. 3, 9, 14, and 19)) necessary for the electronic device 100 to perform various processes. Also, the storage unit 130 stores information to be provided (provided information) (e.g., provided information shown in FIGS. 4, 15, 20, 24, 27, 30, 32, and 35) based on that information (e.g., determination information shown in FIGS. 3, 9, 14, and 19). Note that the storage unit 130 may be a removable storage unit or may be a storage unit built into the electronic device 100. Also, the electronic device 100 may be provided with both a removable storage unit and a built-in storage unit.

[0029] The operation unit 140 receives operation inputs for operating the electronic device 100. For example, the operation unit 140 can be a user interface such as various operation members (e.g., switches, buttons) or a touch panel.

[0030] The display unit 150 is a display unit that outputs various information based on the control of the control unit 120. As the display unit 150, for example, a display panel such as an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) panel or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panel can be used. Note that the operation unit 140 and the display unit 150 can be integrally configured using a touch panel that enables operation input when the user touches or brings their finger close to the display surface. However, the operation unit 140 and the display unit 150 may be configured separately, and the operation unit 140 may receive operations through operation members. Also, an operation member separate from the user interface such as a touch panel may be provided, and operations may be received through this operation member. Further, it may be a user interface that projects an image corresponding to the operation unit onto a wall or the like and uses the image (e.g., the user points) to perform operations.

[0031] The audio output unit 160 is an audio output unit (e.g., a speaker) that outputs various audio based on the control of the control unit 120.

[0032] [Example of determination information for determining provided information using the intensity of radio waves output from other devices] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of determination information (table) used when determining provided information based on the radio wave situation in the electronic device 100 in the first embodiment. The determination information shown in FIG. 3 is information indicating the correspondence between the radio wave situation in the electronic device 100 and the provided information OI. This determination information is stored in the storage unit 130. Also, the radio wave intensity shown in each embodiment means the radio wave intensity (the intensity of the radio wave received on the receiving device side) in the device that receives the radio wave (on the receiving device side).

[0033] In FIG. 3, the radio wave intensity rankings #1, …, #6 are values indicating the rankings of devices with strong radio wave intensities among the radio waves (radio waves output from other devices) received by the electronic device 100. Further, the determination information (table) shown in FIG. 3 is information in which a plurality of patterns when arranging the radio wave intensities of each device in the order of radio wave intensity are associated with the provided information OI (OI1 to OIM (where M is a positive integer)). For example, when the electronic device 100 does not receive any radio waves from other devices, since the intensities of all the radio waves received by the electronic device 100 are “0”, OI1 is determined as the provided information OI. Also, for example, when the electronic device 100 receives radio waves from only one device and the intensity of the received radio wave is “1”, OI2 is determined as the provided information OI. Also, for example, when the electronic device 100 receives radio waves from six or more devices and the radio waves from at least six devices are “5”, OIM (where M is a positive integer) is determined as the provided information OI. Note that the combinations of letters and numbers attached to the provided information OI shown in each embodiment (for example, OIX1 to OIX3 shown in FIG. 3, OIY1 and OIY2 shown in FIG. 4) are information attached to identify the provided information OI, and do not define the order, etc. of the provided information OI by these letters and numbers. Thus, all combinations (patterns) of the radio wave intensity rankings #1 to #6 and the radio wave intensities 0 to 5 of each device (where 0 means the case of not receiving) are defined in the determination information shown in FIG. 3. For example, in the provided information OI1, the pattern “0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0” where all are “0” is defined. Also, in the provided information OI2, the pattern “1, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0” where one is “1” and the others are all “0” is defined. Also, in the provided information OI3, the pattern “1, 1, 0, 0, 0, 0” where two are “1” and the others are all “0” is defined. It is defined similarly thereafter, and in the provided information OIM, the pattern “5, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5” where all are “5” is defined.

[0034] In the first embodiment, an example is shown in which the ranks up to the 6th rank (#1 to #6) are used as the radio wave intensity ranks. However, ranks of 5th or higher, or ranks of 7th or lower may be used. Also, the number of radio wave intensity ranks may be set in advance, or the user may set a preferred value by user operation.

[0035] Also, the value of M is determined based on the number of radio wave intensity ranks and the values representing the radio wave intensity (1 to 5 in the first embodiment). For example, when the number of radio wave intensity ranks is 3 and the values representing the radio wave intensity are 1 and 2 (0 when there is no device), it is determined to be 10. Also, for example, when the number of radio wave intensity ranks is 3 and the values representing the radio wave intensity are 1 to 3 (0 when there is no device), it is determined to be 20. Also, when the number of radio wave intensity ranks is 6 and the values representing the radio wave intensity are 1 to 5 (0 when there is no device), it is determined to be 463. However, depending on the number of radio wave intensity ranks and the values representing the radio wave intensity, it is also assumed that the value of M becomes too large and the provided information (for example, the voice information 11 and the image information 12 shown in FIG. 4) cannot be prepared. Therefore, when the value of M is larger than the number of pieces of provided information (for example, the voice information 11 and the image information 12 shown in FIG. 4), the same information (voice information 11 and image information 12) may be assigned to different information (provided information OI).

[0036] [Example of provided information] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of information (provided information) provided by the electronic device 100 in the first embodiment. Specifically, an example of the correspondence between the provided information OI determined using the determination information shown in FIG. 3 and the provided information (voice information 11 and image information 12) is shown. This provided information is stored in the storage unit 130.

[0037] For example, when OI1 is determined as the provided information OI, information about Santa (voice information 11, image information 12) becomes the target of provision. Information about Santa is, for example, information (voice information 11) for outputting a voice such as "Let's dream of the Santa we admire" or information (image information 12) for displaying a photo of Santa or a visualized image. In FIG. 4, for the sake of easy explanation, the characters that are the target of voice output and the images that are the display targets are simply shown. Note that these provision examples will be described with reference to FIG. 7. Also, in FIG. 4, voice information 11 and image information 12 are used as examples of the provided information for explanation, but either one of the voice information 11 and the image information 12 may be used as the provided information. Further, information other than voice information and image information (for example, smell information, taste information, tactile information) may be used as the provided information. Also, information that gives some preferential treatment to the user (for example, coupons, privileges, points) may be used as the provided information.

[0038] [Example of determining provided information using the intensity of radio waves output from other devices] FIGS. 5 and 6 are diagrams showing examples when the electronic device 100 in the first embodiment determines the provided information using the intensity of radio waves output from other devices. In FIGS. 5 and 6, examples of determining the provided information using the intensity of radio waves output from the electronic devices 101 to 106 shown in FIG. 1 are shown.

[0039] FIG. 5(1) shows the intensities of the radio waves received by the electronic device 100 from the electronic devices 101 to 106 arranged in the order of the electronic devices 101 to 106. In the first embodiment, the radio wave intensity is shown by a bar graph corresponding to five levels of numerical values (among the five bars, the black bar indicates the intensity (5 is the strongest and 1 is the weakest)). In FIG. 5(1), the names of the electronic devices 101 to 106 are shown in the upper row, the radio wave intensity of each device is shown by a bar graph in the middle row, and the ranking of the radio wave intensity of each device is shown in the lower row.

[0040] For example, the intensity of the radio wave received by the electronic device 100 from the electronic device 101 is "2", the intensity of the radio wave received by the electronic device 100 from the electronic device 102 is "4", the intensity of the radio wave received by the electronic device 100 from the electronic device 103 is "5", the intensity of the radio wave received by the electronic device 100 from the electronic device 104 is "3", the intensity of the radio wave received by the electronic device 100 from the electronic device 105 is "2", and the intensity of the radio wave received by the electronic device 100 from the electronic device 106 is "1". In this case, the electronic device 103 with the radio wave intensity of "5" ranks 1st (#1) in the radio wave intensity ranking, the electronic device 102 with the radio wave intensity of "4" ranks 2nd (#2) in the radio wave intensity ranking, the electronic device 104 with the radio wave intensity of "3" ranks 3rd (#3) in the radio wave intensity ranking, the electronic devices 101 and 105 with the radio wave intensity of "2" rank 4th and 5th (#4, 5) in the radio wave intensity ranking, and the electronic device 106 with the radio wave intensity of "1" ranks 6th (#6) in the radio wave intensity ranking.

[0041] FIG. 5(2) shows the radio wave intensities of the electronic devices 101 to 106 when arranged in the order of the radio wave intensity ranking shown in the lower part of FIG. 5(1). Hereinafter, since the information for identifying the electronic devices 101 to 106 is not used, the reference numerals and the like for identifying the electronic devices 101 to 106 are omitted.

[0042] FIG. 5(3) shows an extraction example when extracting the radio wave intensities that match the radio wave intensities (5, 4, 3, 2, 2, 1) shown in FIG. 5(2) from the determination information shown in FIG. 3. The determination information shown in FIG. 5(3) is the same as the determination information shown in FIG. 3, and in FIG. 5(3), a part of the determination information shown in FIG. 3 is omitted. Also, in FIG. 5(3), the radio wave intensities that match the radio wave intensities (5, 4, 3, 2, 2, 1) shown in FIG. 5(2) are shown within the dashed rectangle 13.

[0043] FIG. 6 shows an extraction example when extracting the audio information 11 and the image information 12 associated with OIX1 determined as the provided information OI using the determination information shown in FIG. 5(3). The provided information shown in FIG. 6 is the same as the provided information shown in FIG. 4. Also, in FIG. 6, the audio information 11 and the image information 12 associated with OIX1 are shown within the dashed rectangle 14.

[0044] Here, each process until the electronic device 100 determines the audio information 11 and the image information 12 (within the dashed rectangle 14) shown in FIG. 6 will be described. First, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 measures the intensity of radio waves (radio wave intensity) from other devices received by the communication unit 110. In this case, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 measures the radio wave intensity of both the radio waves addressed to the own device (addressed to the electronic device 100) and the radio waves not addressed to the own device (not addressed to the electronic device 100). For example, as shown in FIG. 5(1), the measurement results (radio wave intensity levels) of the radio wave intensity from other devices can be grasped in five levels. Then, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 holds the radio wave intensity level (five levels) for each device. Next, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines the ranking of the radio wave intensity levels (five levels) for a plurality of devices at a predetermined timing (for example, the timing that satisfies the provision condition of step S203 shown in FIG. 8). For example, as shown in the lower part of FIG. 5(1), the ranking of each radio wave intensity is determined. In the first embodiment, an example is shown in which the provided information OI is determined using at least the radio waves not addressed to the own device (not addressed to the electronic device 100) among a plurality of radio waves (the radio waves addressed to the own device (addressed to the electronic device 100), the radio waves not addressed to the own device (not addressed to the electronic device 100)). For example, when the electronic device 100 is performing wireless communication with the electronic device 105, the provided information OI can be determined using the radio waves output from the electronic device 105 (radio waves addressed to the own device) and other radio waves (radio waves not addressed to the own device). Also, for example, when the electronic device 100 is not performing wireless communication with other devices (for example, when the electronic device 100 is in a standby state), the provided information OI can be determined using one or a plurality of receivable radio waves (radio waves not addressed to the own device). Also, the provided information OI may be determined using only the radio waves (one or a plurality) addressed to the own device (addressed to the electronic device 100).

[0045] Next, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines the provided information OI based on the relationship between each radio wave intensity and the rank of each radio wave intensity. For example, when the radio wave intensities of the electronic devices 101 to 106 are the radio wave intensity levels shown in FIGS. 5(1) and 5(2), the radio wave intensity (within the dashed rectangle 13 shown in FIG. 5(3)) that matches the radio wave intensities (5, 4, 3, 2, 2, 1) is extracted from the determination information shown in FIG. 5(3), and the provided information OI is determined as OIX1. Then, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 outputs the voice information 11 and the image information 12 (within the dashed rectangle 14 shown in FIG. 6) associated with OIX1 determined as the provided information OI.

[0046] For example, based on the voice information 11 stored in the storage unit 130 in association with OIX1 determined as the provided information OI, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the voice output unit 160 to output voice. Also, based on the image information 12 stored in the storage unit 130 in association with OIX1 determined as the provided information OI, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display it. This output process of the voice information and the image information (content output process) is based on radio waves output from devices existing around the electronic device 100 (one or more radio waves including radio waves not directed to the own device), and is different from processes related to wireless communication based on the radio waves and processes using wireless communication based on the radio waves (for example, processes for exchanging content with a counterpart device, processes for performing various operations based on control information from a counterpart device, processes for transmitting control information to a counterpart device and causing the counterpart device to execute various operations based on the control information). It is a process of selecting and executing at least one process (content output process corresponding to OIX1) from a plurality of different processes (output processes of a plurality of contents (processes unrelated to wireless communication with a counterpart device)). Note that this provided example is shown in FIG. 7.

[0047] [Example of Outputting Content from an Electronic Device] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a simplified example of the case where the electronic device 100 in the first embodiment outputs provided information (content). Note that the example shown in FIG. 7 shows an example of outputting the provided information (content) determined by the examples shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0048] As described above, based on the voice information 11 (within the dashed rectangle 14 shown in FIG. 6) associated with OIX1, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the voice output unit 160 to output the voice "Let's wait patiently like a snowman." Also, based on the image information 12 (within the dashed rectangle 14 shown in FIG. 6) associated with OIX1, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display an image of a snowman.

[0049] As a result, the user P0 who possesses the electronic device 100 can enjoy the output of the content determined based on the relationship between the electronic device 100 and other devices existing around it. Also, for example, when the user P0 moves or a user who possesses another device moves, the content to be provided may change, and the user can enjoy the output of unexpected content. Also, since only the intensity of the radio wave received from another device is used and information for identifying another device or its user is not used, there is no need to use personal information of the user who possesses another device. For this reason, it is possible to make it easier to use the service shown in the first embodiment.

[0050] [Operation example of providing information] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of information providing output processing by the electronic device 100 in the first embodiment. In FIG. 8, an operation example of providing information when the power of the electronic device 100 is turned on by an operation of the operation unit 140 and the provided conditions are satisfied is shown.

[0051] First, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 measures the radio waves received by the communication unit 110 and acquires each radio wave information (for example, radio wave intensity) (step S201). Then, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the storage unit 130 to hold the acquired radio wave information for each device (step S202). This radio wave information acquisition process may be performed periodically or may be performed irregularly.

[0052] Next, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines whether the provision conditions are satisfied (step S203). If the provision conditions are not satisfied, the process returns to step S201. If the provision conditions are satisfied, the process proceeds to step S204.

[0053] Here, as criteria for determining whether the provision conditions are satisfied, for example, it is possible to use whether a predetermined time has elapsed, whether desired provision information (for example, desired content) can be determined as a provision target, and whether a predetermined user operation (for example, pressing an operation button for content output) has been performed. Note that the predetermined time can be determined based on, for example, the elapsed time since the power of the electronic device 100 was turned on, or the elapsed time since the previous information (provision information) was provided after the power of the electronic device 100 was turned on. Also, the predetermined time may be a preset time, or may be set to a time according to the user's preference by a user operation.

[0054] When the provision conditions are satisfied (step S203), the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines information to be provided based on the radio wave information held in the storage unit 130 (step S204). For example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines the content to be provided based on the radio wave intensity of each device held in the storage unit 130 (step S204). Specifically, for example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines the provision information OI based on the relationship between each radio wave intensity and the rank of each radio wave intensity. For example, when the radio wave intensities of the electronic devices 101 to 106 are the radio wave intensity levels shown in FIGS. 5(1) and 5(2), the radio wave intensity (within the broken-line rectangle 13 shown in FIG. 5(3)) that matches the radio wave intensities (5, 4, 3, 2, 2, 1) is extracted from the information shown in FIG. 5(3), and the provision information OI is determined as OIX1.

[0055] Next, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 provides the information determined to be the provision target (step S205). For example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the content determined to be the provision target to be output (step S205). For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 outputs the voice information 11 and the image information 12 (inside the dashed rectangle 14 shown in FIG. 6) associated with OIX1 determined as the provision information OI.

[0056] In this way, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can determine at least one content to be provided to the user from among a plurality of contents based on radio waves (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device) output from devices existing in the surroundings (for example, electronic devices 101 to 106). Specifically, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can determine at least one content to be provided to the user from among a plurality of contents based on the reception intensity of radio waves (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device) output from devices existing in the surroundings (for example, electronic devices 101 to 106). Further specifically, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can determine at least one content to be provided to the user from among a plurality of contents based on the relationship between the number of radio waves received by the electronic device 100 and the reception intensity of the radio waves (for example, a plurality of patterns when arranging the radio wave intensities of each device in order of radio wave intensity (for example, the pattern of the radio wave intensity ranking of the determination information shown in FIG. 3)).

[0057] Further, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can select and execute at least one process (e.g., the output process of the content corresponding to the provided information OIX1) from a plurality of processes (e.g., the output processes of the content corresponding to the provided information OI1 to OIM) that are different from the process related to the wireless communication based on the radio waves and the process using the wireless communication based on the radio waves, based on the radio waves (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device) output from the devices existing in the surroundings (e.g., the electronic devices 101 to 106). Specifically, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can select and execute at least one process from a plurality of processes that are different from the process related to the wireless communication based on the radio waves and the process using the wireless communication based on the radio waves, based on the reception intensity of the radio waves (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device) output from the devices existing in the surroundings (e.g., the electronic devices 101 to 106). Further specifically, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can select and execute at least one process from a plurality of processes that are different from the process related to the wireless communication based on the radio waves and the process using the wireless communication based on the radio waves, based on the relationship between the number of radio waves received by the electronic device 100 and the reception intensity of the radio waves (e.g., a plurality of patterns when arranging the radio wave intensities of each device in the order of radio wave intensity (e.g., the pattern of the radio wave intensity ranking of the determination information shown in FIG. 3)).

[0058] Also, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can determine at least one content to be provided to the user from among a plurality of contents, based on the relative relationship (e.g., the distance from each device estimated by the received radio wave intensity) with a plurality of other devices (e.g., the electronic devices 101 to 106). When estimating the distance from each device based on the received radio wave intensity, a table showing the relationship between the received radio wave intensity and the distance can be stored in advance, and this table can be used to estimate the distance from each device.

[0059] In this way, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can determine information to be provided from among a plurality of pieces of information based on radio waves output from a plurality of devices (for example, electronic devices 101 to 106) existing in the surroundings. Further, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can select and execute at least one process from among a plurality of processes based on radio waves output from a plurality of devices (for example, electronic devices 101 to 106) existing in the surroundings. That is, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can determine information to be provided from among a plurality of pieces of information based on the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices (for example, electronic devices 101 to 106) existing in the surroundings. Further, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can select and execute at least one process from among a plurality of processes based on the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices (for example, electronic devices 101 to 106) existing in the surroundings.

[0060] Further, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can select and execute at least one process (for example, the output process of the content corresponding to the provided information OIX1) from among a plurality of processes (for example, the output process of the content corresponding to the provided information OI1 to OIM) based on at least the reception intensities of a plurality of radio waves (radio waves addressed to the own device and radio waves not addressed to the own device) output from a plurality of devices (for example, electronic devices 101 to 106) existing in the surroundings.

[0061] Further, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can perform a process (for example, the output process of the content corresponding to the provided information OI1 to OIM) that is unrelated to the information exchanged by wireless communication based on the radio waves, based on the reception intensity of the radio waves output from a plurality of devices (for example, electronic devices 101 to 106) existing in the surroundings.

[0062] Also, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can select and execute at least one process (for example, the output process of the content corresponding to the provided information OIX1) from a plurality of processes (for example, the output processes of the contents corresponding to the provided information OI1 to OIM) based on the relative relationship with a plurality of devices (for example, electronic devices 101 to 106) identified based on the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings when the electronic device 100 is used as a reference (for example, the distance from each device estimated based on the received radio wave intensity).

[0063] [Second Embodiment: Example of Providing Information Using the Type of Other Devices] In the first embodiment, an example of determining the provided information using the radio wave intensity of other devices is shown, but it is also possible to use other information other than the radio wave intensity. Therefore, in the second embodiment, an example of determining the provided information using the type of other devices is shown. Note that the second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment, and a part of the description of the common part with the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0064] [Example of Determination Information for Determining Provided Information Using the Type of Other Devices] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of determination information used when the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment determines the provided information. This determination information is stored in the storage unit 130.

[0065] FIG. 9 shows an example of determination information (table) used when determining the provided information based on the radio wave situation in the electronic device 100 and the type of other devices. Also, the determination information shown in FIG. 9 is information indicating the correspondence relationship between the radio wave situation in the electronic device 100, the type of other devices, and the provided information OI from the electronic device 100.

[0066] In the determination information shown in FIG. 9, instead of the numerical value representing the radio wave intensity, the types of other devices are used. Among the determination information shown in FIG. 9, the radio wave intensity rankings #1, …, #6 and the provided information OI are common to the example shown in FIG. 3. That is, the determination information (table) shown in FIG. 9 is information in which a plurality of patterns when arranging the types of each device in the order of radio wave intensity and the provided information OI (OI1 to OIM (where M is a positive integer)) are associated.

[0067] For example, when the electronic device 100 does not receive any radio waves from other devices, since the intensities of all the radio waves received by the electronic device 100 are all "0", OI1 is determined as the provided information OI. Also, for example, when the electronic device 100 receives radio waves from only one device and the device that transmitted the radio waves is a "smartphone", OI2 is determined as the provided information OI. Also, for example, when the electronic device 100 receives radio waves from 6 or more devices and the top 6 devices with strong radio wave intensity are "mobile phones", OIM is determined as the provided information OI. In this way, in the determination information shown in FIG. 9, all combinations (patterns) of the radio wave intensity rankings #1 to #6 and the type of each device (where 0 means that there are no receivable devices) are defined. For example, in the provided information OI1, the pattern "0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0" where all are "0" is defined. Also, in the provided information OI2, the pattern "smartphone, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0" where one is "smartphone" and the others are all "0" is defined. Also, in the provided information OI3, the pattern "smartphone, smartphone, 0, 0, 0, 0" where two are "smartphones" and the others are all "0" is defined. It is defined similarly hereafter, and in the provided information OIM, the pattern "mobile phone, mobile phone, mobile phone, mobile phone, mobile phone, mobile phone" where all are "mobile phones" is defined.

[0068] Note that in the second embodiment, an example using rankings up to the 6th place (#1 to #6) as the radio wave intensity rankings is shown, but rankings of 5th place or higher or rankings of 7th place or lower may be used. Also, the number of radio wave intensity rankings may be set in advance, or a value preferred by the user may be set by a user operation.

[0069] Here, as for the method of acquiring the type of the model, a known acquisition method can be used. As described above, for example, among devices having a wireless communication function of a wireless LAN (e.g., Wi-Fi) (e.g., personal computers, smartphones, tablet terminals, wearable devices), there are those having a function of measuring the intensity of radio waves output from other devices and displaying the measurement result and the SSID for each device (e.g., displaying the radio wave intensity level in five levels together with the SSID). Based on the SSID for each device thus obtained, the model (or name, manufacturer name, model number) of each device can be acquired. For example, information (e.g., information associating the device name and the model) capable of specifying the model of each device based on the SSID (e.g., device name, name set by the user) is stored in the storage unit 130. Then, the control unit 120 can specify the model of the device corresponding to the acquired SSID (e.g., device name, name set by the user) based on the SSID.

[0070] Also, for example, information (e.g., MAC (Media Access Control) frame) exchanged by a wireless LAN (e.g., Wi-Fi) includes a source address (e.g., source MAC address) and a destination address (e.g., destination MAC address). Note that the MAC address is composed of a manufacturer code, a product number, and a value unique to the device. Therefore, for example, information regarding the manufacturer and model of the source device can be acquired based on the source MAC address.

[0071] In addition, regarding the models of the devices, in addition to the "smartphone", "mobile phone (cellular phone)", "tablet terminal", "AI (Artificial Intelligence) speaker", and "PC (personal computer)" shown in FIG. 9, for example, a wireless LAN router, a terminal adapter, a game device, various home appliances, various AV devices, a femtocell, etc. can be used. Regarding the types of devices, all the types of devices as described above may be used, or they may be classified and used based on some rules. For example, they can be classified into portable devices (e.g., smartphones, tablet terminals, game devices) and stationary devices (e.g., terminal adapters, AI speakers, personal computers, various home appliances, various AV devices, femtocells). And as the models of the devices, "portable devices" and "stationary devices" can be used.

[0072] In addition, regarding the models of the devices, it is only necessary to identify the devices that can be specified from the received radio waves, and for the devices whose types cannot be specified, they can be classified and used in a category such as "others".

[0073] Note that in the second embodiment, an example is shown in which the provided information is determined using the types of devices that can be specified based on the received radio waves, but the provided information may also be determined using other information that can be specified based on the received radio waves. For example, when the name of another device, the manufacturer name (e.g., manufacturing company, sales company), model number, etc. can be specified based on the received radio waves, each of this information can be used. Also, for example, when a plurality of pieces of information (e.g., two or more of the name, manufacturer name (e.g., manufacturing company, sales company), model number, etc.) regarding another device can be specified based on the received radio waves, a combination of each of this information can be used.

[0074] Also, the value of M is determined based on the number of radio wave intensity rankings and the number of device models. For example, when the number of radio wave intensity rankings is 3 and the number of device models is 2 (for example, a portable device, or 0 if there are no other devices), it is determined to be 13. However, depending on the number of radio wave intensity rankings and the number of device models, it is also assumed that the value of M may become too large and the provided information (for example, the audio information 11 and image information 12 shown in FIG. 4) cannot be prepared. Therefore, when the value of M is greater than the number of pieces of provided information (for example, the audio information 11 and image information 12 shown in FIG. 4), the same information (audio information 11 and image information 12) may be assigned to different information (provided information OI).

[0075] [Example of determining provided information using the types of other devices] FIGS. 10 and 11 are diagrams showing examples of cases where the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment determines provided information using the types of other devices that have received radio waves. In the examples shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, it is assumed that the intensities of the radio waves output from the electronic devices 101 to 106 are the same as those in the examples shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0076] FIG. 10(1) shows the intensities of the radio waves received by the electronic device 100 from the electronic devices 101 to 106 and the models of the respective devices arranged in the order of the electronic devices 101 to 106. Among the pieces of information shown in FIG. 10(1), the information other than the "model" at the bottommost row is the same as that in the example shown in FIG. 5(1). Also, for the "model" at the bottommost row representing the model of the device, for the sake of easy explanation, it is simply indicated by the characters representing each device.

[0077] For example, the models of the electronic devices 101 to 103 are "smartphones", the model of the electronic device 104 is "tablet terminal", the model of the electronic device 105 is "AI speaker", and the model of the electronic device 106 is "PC (personal computer)". Note that the radio wave intensities of the electronic devices 101 to 106 are the same as those in the example shown in FIG. 5(1).

[0078] FIG. 10(2) shows the radio wave intensities and the models of electronic devices 101 to 106 when arranged in the order of "radio wave intensity ranking" shown in FIG. 10(1). Among the information shown in FIG. 10(2), the information other than "model" at the bottommost row is the same as the example shown in FIG. 5(2). Also, hereinafter, since the information for identifying the electronic devices 101 to 106 is not used, the reference numerals or the like for identifying the electronic devices 101 to 106 are omitted. When there are a plurality of devices with the same radio wave intensity, the ranking of each device can be determined based on a predetermined rule (for example, in the order of earlier reception timing of radio waves or in the order of less change in radio wave intensity). In the example shown in FIG. 10, since the radio wave intensities of the electronic devices 101 and 105 are the same, the electronic device 101 is ranked 4th and the electronic device 105 is ranked 5th.

[0079] FIG. 10(3) shows an extraction example when extracting models that match the models of the respective devices (smartphone, smartphone, tablet terminal, smartphone, AI speaker, PC) when arranged in the order of "radio wave intensity ranking" shown in FIG. 10(2) from the determination information shown in FIG. 9. The determination information shown in FIG. 10(3) is the same as the determination information shown in FIG. 9, and in FIG. 10(3), a part of the determination information shown in FIG. 9 is omitted. Also, in FIG. 10(3), among the determination information shown in FIG. 9, the arrangement of each device that matches the models of the respective devices (smartphone, smartphone, tablet terminal, smartphone, AI speaker, PC) when arranged in the order of "radio wave intensity ranking" shown in FIG. 10(2) is shown within the dashed rectangle 15.

[0080] Here, each process until the electronic device 100 determines the audio information 11 and the image information 12 (within the dashed rectangle 14) shown in FIG. 6 will be described. First, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 measures the intensity of the radio wave (radio wave intensity) from another device received by the communication unit 110. For example, as shown in FIG. 10(1), the measurement result of the radio wave intensity (radio wave intensity level) from another device can be grasped in five levels. Also, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 acquires the type of the device that transmitted the radio wave based on the information contained in the received radio wave. Then, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 holds the radio wave intensity level (five levels) and the type of the device for each device. Next, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines the ranking of the radio wave intensity levels (five levels) for a plurality of devices.

[0081] Next, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines the provided information OI based on the relationship between the type of each device and the ranking of each radio wave intensity. For example, when the radio wave intensities and types of the electronic devices 101 to 106 are the radio wave intensity levels and types shown in FIGS. 10(1) and (2), the type of the device that matches the types of the models arranged in the order of the radio wave intensity levels (smartphone, smartphone, tablet terminal, smartphone, AI speaker, PC) (within the dashed rectangle 15 shown in FIG. 10(3)) is extracted from the determination information shown in FIG. 10(3), and the provided information OI is determined as OIY1. Then, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 outputs the audio information 11 and the image information 12 (within the dashed rectangle 16 shown in FIG. 11) associated with OIY1 determined as the provided information OI.

[0082] For example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the audio output unit 160 to output audio based on the audio information 11 stored in the storage unit 130 in association with OIY1 determined as the provided information OI. Also, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display based on the image information 12 stored in the storage unit 130 in association with OIY1 determined as the provided information OI. This provided example is shown in FIG. 12.

[0083] [Example of outputting content from an electronic device] FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically showing an example of outputting provided information (content) from the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment. Note that the example shown in FIG. 12 shows an example of outputting the provided information (content) determined by the examples shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0084] As described above, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the voice output unit 160 to output a voice of "a sense of openness like a summer watermelon" based on the voice information 11 associated with OIY1 (inside the dashed rectangle 16 shown in FIG. 11). Further, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display an image of a watermelon based on the image information 12 associated with OIY1 (inside the dashed rectangle 16 shown in FIG. 11).

[0085] In this way, the provided information can be determined using the type of device that can be specified based on the received radio wave. Thereby, the user P0 who has the electronic device 100 can enjoy the output of the content determined based on the relationship between the electronic device 100 and other devices existing around it. Also, since the type of devices existing around is used for content determination, even if the positional relationship of the devices around the electronic device 100 is the same environment, different content may be output, so that the user can enjoy the output of content according to the models of the surrounding devices. For example, when the user P0 moves to a place where an unexpected device exists, or when a user having an unexpected device approaches, unexpected content may be output, and the user can enjoy the output of unexpected content. Further, since only the intensity of the radio wave received from other devices and the model of the device are used, and information for identifying other devices or their users is not used, it is not necessary to use personal information of users having other devices. Therefore, the service shown in the second embodiment can be made easier to use.

[0086] [Operation example of providing information using the type of device] The information provision output process by the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment corresponds to the information provision output process shown in FIG. 8. Therefore, here, with reference to FIG. 8, an example of the information provision output process by the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment will be described.

[0087] First, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 measures the radio waves received by the communication unit 110 and acquires each radio wave information (for example, radio wave intensity, device type) (step S201). Then, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the storage unit 130 to hold the acquired radio wave information for each device (step S202). This radio wave information acquisition process may be performed periodically or irregularly.

[0088] Next, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines whether the provision conditions are satisfied (step S203). If the provision conditions are not satisfied, the process returns to step S201, and if the provision conditions are satisfied, the process proceeds to step S204. Note that the criterion for determining whether the provision conditions are satisfied can be the same as the example shown in FIG. 8.

[0089] When the provision conditions are satisfied (step S203), the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines the information to be provided based on the radio wave information held in the storage unit 130 (step S204). For example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines the content to be provided based on the radio wave intensity and type of each device held in the storage unit 130 (step S204). Specifically, for example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines the provision information OI based on the relationship between the ranking of each radio wave intensity and the type of each device. For example, when the radio wave intensities of the electronic devices 101 to 106 are the radio wave intensity levels shown in FIGS. 10(1) and 10(2), and the models of the electronic devices 101 to 106 are the models shown in FIGS. 10(1) and 10(2), the model group (within the dashed rectangle 15 shown in FIG. 10(3)) that matches the models arranged in the order of radio wave intensity (smartphone, smartphone, tablet terminal, smartphone, AI speaker, PC) is extracted from the information shown in FIG. 10(3), and the provision information OI is determined as OIY1.

[0090] Next, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 provides the information determined as the provision target (step S205). For example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 outputs the content determined as the provision target (step S205). For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 outputs the voice information 11 and the image information 12 (inside the broken-line rectangle 16 shown in FIG. 11) associated with OIY1 determined as the provision information OI.

[0091] [Example of installing a specific device at a specific location and providing information related to that location] Applying the above-described technology, for example, it is conceivable to provide information (e.g., content, privileges) related to a location such as a tourist destination or a store at that location. Therefore, below, an example of providing information related to a specific location at that location is shown.

[0092] [Example of installing a specific device on a mountain and providing information related to that mountain] FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically showing a case where the electronic devices 301 to 305 in the second embodiment are installed on a mountain. The electronic device (Device on Mountain A) 301 is an electronic device installed on Mountain A, the electronic device (Device on Mountain B) 302 is an electronic device installed on Mountain B, the electronic device (Device on Mountain C) 303 is an electronic device installed on Mountain C, the electronic device (Device on Mountain D) 304 is an electronic device installed on Mountain D, and the electronic device (Device on Mountain E) 305 is an electronic device installed on Mountain E.

[0093] The electronic devices 301 to 305 are devices (specific devices) that transmit a predetermined radio wave (e.g., beacon). For example, since the electronic devices 301 to 305 may be devices capable of supplying radio waves only near the mountaintop, they can be electronic devices with low power consumption (e.g., BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy)).

[0094] [Examples of determination information and provision information for providing information related to a mountain using radio waves output from a device installed on the mountain] FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 are diagrams showing examples of various types of information used when the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment determines the information to be provided. Each of these pieces of information is stored in the storage unit 130. Also, each of these pieces of information may be obtained by manual operation by a user who has mountaineering as a hobby.

[0095] FIG. 14 shows an example of determination information (table) used when determining the information to be provided based on the radio wave situation in the electronic device 100 and the type of other devices. The determination information shown in FIG. 14 is obtained by adding the types of the electronic devices 301 to 305 shown in FIG. 13 to the determination information shown in FIG. 9, and the other parts are the same as the determination information shown in FIG. 9. Also, in FIG. 14, only a part related to the type of the electronic device (Device for Mountain A) 301 among the types of the electronic devices 301 to 305 is shown in a simplified manner, and the illustration of the other types is omitted.

[0096] For example, when the user P0 is climbing Mountain A alone, it is assumed that the electronic device 100 receives only the radio wave from the electronic device (Device for Mountain A) 301. In this case, since the electronic device 100 is receiving only the radio wave from the electronic device (Device for Mountain A) 301, OIA1 is determined as the information to be provided OI. Also, for example, when the user P0 is climbing Mountain A alone but there is already another person near the summit of Mountain A, it is assumed that the electronic device 100 receives the radio wave from the electronic device (Device for Mountain A) 301 and the radio wave from the device held by the person near the summit of Mountain A. In this case, for example, when the intensity of the radio wave from the device held by the person near the summit of Mountain A is stronger than the intensity of the radio wave from the electronic device (Device for Mountain A) 301, OIAB1 is determined as the information to be provided OI. This example is shown in FIG. 16.

[0097] FIG. 15 shows an example of the correspondence between the provided information OI determined using the determination information shown in FIG. 14 and the provided information (voice information 11 and image information 12). For example, when OIA1, OIAB1, OIAC1, OIAD1, etc. are determined as the provided information OI, the information (voice information 11, image information 12) regarding Mount A becomes the provision target. The information regarding Mount A is, for example, information (voice information 11) for outputting voices such as "Thank you for your hard work. This is the summit of Mount A." or information (image information 12) for displaying images regarding Mount A (for example, a character personifying Mount A, local specialties in the area where Mount A exists, a photo including Mount A). In FIG. 15, for ease of explanation, a part of the characters that are the target of voice output and the images to be displayed are simply shown. For example, as shown in FIG. 17, information for continuously outputting a plurality of display screens and a plurality of voice information may be used as the provided information. Also, in FIG. 15, although the voice information 11 and the image information 12 are used as examples of the provided information for explanation, either one of the voice information 11 and the image information 12 may be used as the provided information. Also, information other than voice information and image information (for example, smell information, taste information, tactile information) may be used as the provided information. Also, information for giving some preferential treatment to the user (for example, coupons, privileges, points) may be used as the provided information. These provision examples will be described with reference to FIG. 17.

[0098] [Example of determining provided information using the type of equipment installed on the mountain] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example when the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment determines the provided information using the type of other devices that have received radio waves. The determination information shown in FIG. 16(2) corresponds to the determination information shown in FIG. 14, and the provided information shown in FIG. 16(3) corresponds to the provided information shown in FIG. 15.

[0099] FIG. 16(1) shows a state where user P0 is climbing Mount A alone when user P7 exists near the summit of Mount A. In FIG. 16(1), for ease of explanation, it shows a state where users P0 and P7 are holding the electronic devices 100 and 309, but it is desirable to carry each electronic device in consideration of safety on the mountain.

[0100] In Fig. 16(1), an example is shown where user P7 exists near the peak of mountain A, and the electronic device 309 possessed by user P7 is located closer to the electronic device 100 than the electronic device (mountain A device) 301. It is assumed that the electronic device 309 is a smartphone. In such a case, it is assumed that the electronic device 100 receives the radio wave from the electronic device 309 possessed by user P7 near the peak of mountain A, together with the radio wave from the electronic device (mountain A device) 301. Also, since the electronic device 309 is located closer to the electronic device 100 than the electronic device (mountain A device) 301, it is assumed that the intensity of the radio wave from the electronic device 309 is stronger than the intensity of the radio wave from the electronic device (mountain A device) 301. In this case, as shown in Fig. 16(2), OIAB1 (inside the dashed rectangle 17) is determined as the provided information OI. Then, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 provides the voice information 11 and the image information 12 (inside the dashed rectangle 18 shown in Fig. 16(3)) associated with OIAB1 determined as the provided information OI. This example of the provision is shown in Fig. 17.

[0101] [Example of Providing Information in an Electronic Device] Fig. 17 is a diagram showing a simplified example of the case where the electronic device 100 outputs content in the second embodiment. Note that the example shown in Fig. 17 is an example of outputting the content determined by the example shown in Fig. 16.

[0102] Here, when climbing a mountain, considering safety, it is considered that climbers rarely constantly look at the electronic devices (e.g., smartphones) they possess. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 17, the content may be provided in multiple stages.

[0103] Fig. 17(1) shows an example of the content (display screen and voice information) output at the timing when the electronic device 100 satisfies the provision condition after receiving the radio wave from the electronic device (mountain A device) 301.

[0104] Here, as criteria for determining whether the provision conditions are met, for example, it is possible to use whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the electronic device 100 received radio waves from the electronic device (A mountain device) 301, whether the desired content has been determined as the provision target, whether a predetermined user operation (for example, a screen display operation) has been performed, and whether a change in posture has been detected (for example, detection of vibration or acceleration when the user takes out the electronic device). Note that the predetermined time may be a time set in advance, or a time according to the user's preference may be set by a user operation.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 17(1), the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the voice output unit 160 to output a voice of "I found a treasure for the summit commemoration of Mount A. Should I pick it up?" based on the voice information 11 (not shown) associated with OIAB1. Further, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display the characters of "I found a treasure for the summit commemoration of Mount A. Should I pick it up?", the "Pick up" button 51, and the "Return" button 52 based on the image information 12 (not shown) associated with OIAB1.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 17(1), it is possible to notify the user P0 that content can be output by voice information and image information. When the user P0 grasps this notification and presses the "Pick up" button 51, the display screen shown in FIG. 17(2) is displayed. When the "Return" button 52 is pressed, the screen returns to the original screen. For example, it is possible to return to the standby screen or a screen for performing the content determination process again.

[0107] FIG. 17(2) shows an example of the content (display screen and voice information) output after the "Pick up" button 51 is pressed on the display screen shown in FIG. 17(1).

[0108] As shown in FIG. 17(2), the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the voice output unit 160 to output a voice of "Thank you for your hard work. This is the summit of Mountain A. I'm the A Mountain Noodle Man for commemorating the summit." based on the voice information 11 associated with OIAB1 (inside the dashed rectangle 18 shown in FIG. 16(3)). Also, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display the characters of "Thank you for your hard work. This is the summit of Mountain A. I'm the A Mountain Noodle Man for commemorating the summit.", an image related to Mountain A (an image in which the anthropomorphic character A of Mountain A holds the local specialty "A Mountain Noodles" of the area where Mountain A exists), the "Get More" button 53, and the "End" button 54 based on the image information 12 associated with OIAB1 (inside the dashed rectangle 18 shown in FIG. 16(3)).

[0109] After the content shown in FIG. 17(2) is output, when the user P0 presses the "Get More" button 53, the display screen shown in FIG. 17(3) is displayed. When the "End" button 54 is pressed, the content output process ends and returns to the normal display screen.

[0110] FIG. 17(3) shows an example of the content (display screen and voice information) output after the "Get More" button 53 is pressed on the display screen shown in FIG. 17(2).

[0111] As shown in FIG. 17(3), the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the voice output unit 160 to output a voice of "This is a discount coupon for A mountain noodles, a specialty of A mountain." Further, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display the characters of "This is a discount coupon for A mountain noodles, a specialty of A mountain.", the "30% off at ○○ store" button 55, the "40% off at △△ store" button 56, the "Save" button 57, and the "End" button 58 based on the image information 12 (not shown) associated with OIAB1. Note that the "30% off at ○○ store" button 55 is a button for starting an operation to receive a preferential treatment (30% off) at the ○○ store that offers "A mountain noodles", a specialty of the area where A mountain is located. Also, the "40% off at △△ store" button 56 is a button for starting an operation to receive a preferential treatment (40% off) at the △△ store that offers "A mountain noodles", a specialty of the area where A mountain is located.

[0112] For example, when at least one of the "30% off at ○○ store" button 55 and the "40% off at △△ store" button 56 is pressed, the pressed button becomes in a selected state (for example, the color of the button changes). Then, in that selected state, when the "Save" button 57 is pressed, a process for receiving a preferential treatment at the store corresponding to the selected state button is started. For example, an image showing 30% off at the ○○ store or an image showing 40% off at the △△ store is saved. Then, after user P0 descends from A mountain and goes to a desired store and shows the saved image, each preferential treatment can be received. Also, for example, a notification to that effect may be sent to the store corresponding to the selected state button.

[0113] In this way, when user P0 climbs Mount A, he can receive the provision of content related to Mount A. In this case, when user P0 reaches the summit of Mount A, the information to be provided may change due to the device (for example, the electronic device 309 shown in FIG. 16(1)) existing near the summit. Therefore, he can enjoy the output of unexpected content. Also, other climbers can enjoy the output of different content. Further, even in the case of multiple people climbing a mountain, depending on the position of each person, it is highly likely that different content will be output for each person, so each person can enjoy their own content.

[0114] [Example of installing a specific device in a store and providing information related to that store] FIG. 18 is a diagram schematically showing the case where the electronic devices 311 to 315 in the second embodiment are installed in stores. The electronic device (Device of Store A) 311 is an electronic device installed in Store A, the electronic device (Device of Store B) 312 is an electronic device installed in Store B, the electronic device (Device of Store C) 313 is an electronic device installed in Store C, the electronic device (Device of Store D) 314 is an electronic device installed in Store D, and the electronic device (Device of Store E) 315 is an electronic device installed in Store E.

[0115] The electronic devices 311 to 315 are devices (specific devices) that transmit a predetermined radio wave (for example, a beacon). For example, since the electronic devices 311 to 315 only need to be able to supply radio waves only inside the store (or around the store), they can be electronic devices with low power consumption (for example, BLE).

[0116] [Examples of determination information and provision information for providing information related to a store using radio waves output from a device installed in the store] FIGS. 19 and 20 are diagrams showing an example of various information used when the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment determines the provision information. Each of these pieces of information is stored in the storage unit 130. Also, each of these pieces of information may be obtained by manual operation by a user who enjoys eating out.

[0117] FIG. 19 shows an example of determination information (table) used when determining provision information based on the radio wave situation in the electronic device 100 and the types of other devices. Note that the determination information shown in FIG. 19 is obtained by adding the types of the electronic devices 311 to 315 shown in FIG. 18 to the determination information shown in FIG. 9, and other parts are the same as the determination information shown in FIG. 9. Also, in FIG. 19, only a part related to the type of the electronic device (A store device) 311 among the types of the electronic devices 311 to 315 is shown in a simplified manner, and the illustration of other types is omitted.

[0118] For example, when it is assumed that the user P0 is alone in store A, it is assumed that the electronic device 100 receives only the radio wave from the electronic device (A store device) 311. In this case, since the electronic device 100 receives only the radio wave from the electronic device (A store device) 311, OIAA1 is determined as the provision information OI. Also, for example, when the user P0 and another person are in store A, it is assumed that the electronic device 100 receives the radio wave from the device held by the other person in store A together with the radio wave from the electronic device (A store device) 311. In this case, for example, when the intensity of the radio wave from the device held by the other person in store A is stronger than the intensity of the radio wave from the electronic device (A store device) 311, OIAAB1 is determined as the provision information OI.

[0119] FIG. 20 shows an example of the correspondence between the provision information OI determined using the determination information shown in FIG. 19 and the provision information (voice information 11 and image information 12). For example, when OIAA1, OIAAB1, OIAAC1, OIAAD1, etc. are determined as the provision information OI, the information related to store A (voice information 11, image information 12) becomes the provision target.

[0120] Here, assume that Store A is a restaurant. In this case, information about Store A includes, for example, information for outputting voices such as "Welcome" (voice information 11), and images related to Store A (for example, characters personifying Store A, information for displaying discounts (such as discounts, service items, points) on food and beverages provided by Store A) (image information 12). In FIG. 20, for ease of explanation, a part of the characters that are the targets of voice output and the images to be displayed are simply shown. For example, as shown in FIG. 22, information for continuously outputting a plurality of display screens and a plurality of voice information may be used as the provided information. Also, in FIG. 20, voice information 11 and image information 12 are used as examples for the provided information, but either one of voice information 11 and image information 12 may be used as the provided information. Further, information other than voice information and image information (for example, smell information, taste information, tactile information) may be used as the provided information. Also, information for giving some kind of preferential treatment to the user (for example, coupons, discounts, points) may be used as the provided information. Note that these examples of provision will be described with reference to FIG. 22.

[0121] [Example of determining provided information using the type of device installed in the store] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a case where the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment determines the provided information using the type of other device that has received radio waves. Note that the determination information shown in FIG. 21(2) corresponds to the determination information shown in FIG. 19, and the information shown in FIG. 21(3) corresponds to the provided information shown in FIG. 20.

[0122] FIG. 21(1) shows a state where users P0, P8, and P9 are present inside Store A. In FIG. 21(1), for ease of explanation, it shows a state where users P0, P8, and P9 are holding electronic devices 100, 321, and 322 in their hands, but it is desirable to possess each electronic device in consideration of eating and drinking in the restaurant.

[0123] In Fig. 21(1), users P0, P8, and P9 are present inside store A, and between the electronic device 100 held by user P0 and the electronic device (store A device) 311, there are the electronic device 321 held by user P8 and the electronic device 322 held by user P9. Note that it is assumed that the electronic devices 321 and 322 are smartphones. In such a case, it is assumed that the electronic device 100 receives radio waves from the electronic devices 321 and 322 held by users P8 and P9 inside store A, together with the radio waves from the electronic device (store A device) 311. Also, since there are the electronic devices 321 and 322 between the electronic device 100 and the electronic device (store A device) 311, it is assumed that the radio wave intensities from the electronic devices 321 and 322 are stronger than the radio wave intensity from the electronic device (store A device) 311. In this case, as shown in Fig. 21(2), OIAAC1 (inside the dashed rectangle 19) is determined as the provided information OI. Then, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 outputs the voice information 11 and the image information 12 (inside the dashed rectangle 20 shown in Fig. 21(3)) associated with OIAAC1 determined as the provided information OI. This example of provision is shown in Fig. 22.

[0124] [Example of outputting content from an electronic device] Fig. 22 is a diagram showing a simplified example of the case of outputting content from the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment. Note that the example shown in Fig. 22 shows an example of outputting the content determined by the example shown in Fig. 21.

[0125] Here, before entering a restaurant, one often decides whether to enter considering one's own preferences, budget, the restaurant's menu, etc. Also, similarly after entering the restaurant, one often decides which menu to order considering one's own preferences, budget, the restaurant's menu, etc. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 22, content may be provided in multiple stages so as to suit the preferences of each user.

[0126] FIG. 22(1) shows an example of contents (display screen and audio information) that are output when the electronic device 100 receives radio waves from the electronic device (store A device) 311 and the provision conditions are satisfied.

[0127] Here, as a criterion for judging whether the provision condition is satisfied, for example, it is possible to use whether a predetermined time has passed since the electronic device 100 received radio waves from the electronic device (A store device) 311, whether the desired content has been determined as a provision target, whether a predetermined user operation (for example, a screen display operation) has been performed, or whether a change in posture has been detected (for example, detection of vibration or acceleration when the user takes out the electronic device 100). Note that the predetermined time may be a time set in advance, or may be set by a user operation according to the user's preference.

[0128] 22(1), the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the voice output unit 160 to output the voice "Welcome. Today's special offer is ready," based on the voice information 11 (not shown) associated with OIAAC1. Also, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display the text "Welcome. Today's special offer is ready," a "Special offer output" button 61, and a "Back" button 62, based on the image information 12 (not shown) associated with OIAAC1.

[0129] As shown in Fig. 22(1), the user P0 can be notified that a special offer (content) can be output by audio information and image information. When the user P0 understands this notification and presses the "Special Offer Output" button 61, the display screen shown in Fig. 22(2) is displayed. When the "Back" button 62 is pressed, the original screen is returned to. For example, the user can return to a standby screen or a screen for performing the special offer determination process again.

[0130] FIG. 22(2) shows an example of the contents (display screen and audio information) that are output after the "preferential treatment output" button 61 is pressed on the display screen shown in FIG. 22(1).

[0131] As shown in Fig. 22(2), based on the voice information 11 (within the dashed rectangle 20 shown in Fig. 21(3)) associated with OIAAC1, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the voice output unit 160 to output the voice "Welcome. Today, the squid bowl is half price." Also, based on the image information 12 (within the dashed rectangle 20 shown in Fig. 21(3)) associated with OIAAC1, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display the characters "Welcome. Today, the squid bowl is half price.", an image related to store A and the menu of store A (an image showing squid), a "More Discount" button 63, and an "End" button 64.

[0132] After the content shown in Fig. 22(2) is output, if the user P0 presses the "More Discount" button 63, the display screen shown in Fig. 22(3) is displayed. When the "End" button 64 is pressed, the content output process ends and returns to the normal display screen.

[0133] Fig. 22(3) shows an example of the content (display screen and voice information) output after the "More Discount" button 63 is pressed on the display screen shown in Fig. 22(2).

[0134] As shown in FIG. 22(3), based on the voice information 11 (not shown) associated with OIAAC1, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the voice output unit 160 to output the voice "This is a discount coupon for famous products of Store A." Further, based on the image information 12 (not shown) associated with OIAAC1, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display the character "This is a discount coupon for famous products of Store A.", the "30% off Celery Pickles" button 65, the "30% off Shrimp Curry" button 66, the "Save" button 67, and the "End" button 68. Note that the "30% off Celery Pickles" button 65 is a button for starting an operation to receive a preferential treatment (30% off) for the food and drink "Celery Pickles" provided by Store A. Also, the "30% off Shrimp Curry" button 66 is a button for starting an operation to receive a preferential treatment (30% off) for the food and drink "Shrimp Curry" provided by Store A.

[0135] For example, when at least one of the "30% off Celery Pickles" button 65 and the "30% off Shrimp Curry" button 66 is pressed, the pressed button becomes in a selected state (for example, the color of the button changes). Then, when the "Save" button 67 is pressed in that selected state, a process for receiving a preferential treatment for the food and drink corresponding to the selected state button is started. For example, an image indicating 30% off Celery Pickles or an image indicating 30% off Shrimp Curry is saved. Then, the user P0 can receive each preferential treatment by going to Store A on a later day and showing the saved image. Also, each preferential treatment may be received on the spot. Note that the buttons (for example, the "30% off Celery Pickles" button 65, the "30% off Shrimp Curry" button 66) displayed after the "More Preferential Treatments" button 63 is pressed may be related to the content (for example, the content related to Shirasu Donburi) displayed together with the "More Preferential Treatments" button 63 (for example, the ingredients to be eaten with Shirasu Donburi), or may be unrelated to that content (for example, today's recommended products). Also, the information for displaying the buttons (for example, the "30% off Celery Pickles" button 65, the "30% off Shrimp Curry" button 66) displayed after the "More Preferential Treatments" button 63 is pressed is also stored as provided information.

[0136] In this way, when user P0 enters store A, he / she can receive the provision of content related to store A. In this case, since the information to be provided may change depending on the devices present in store A (for example, the electronic devices 321 and 322 shown in FIG. 21(1)) at the timing before (or immediately after) user P0 enters store A, it is possible to enjoy the output of unexpected content. Also, even when multiple people enter store A, depending on the position of each person, it is highly likely that different content will be output for each person, so each person can enjoy their respective content.

[0137] Note that in FIGS. 17 and 22, examples of outputting content in three stages are shown, but it may be output in one or two stages, or it may be output in four or more stages. Also, in FIGS. 17(3) and 22(3), the case where the number of buttons to be selected is two is described as an example, but the number of buttons to be selected is not limited to this, and it may be one, or three or more.

[0138] In this way, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can determine at least one content to be provided to the user from among a plurality of contents based on radio waves (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device) output from devices existing in the surroundings (for example, electronic devices 101 to 106, 301, 309, 311, 321, 322). Specifically, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can determine at least one content to be provided to the user from among a plurality of contents based on information about each device that can be specified based on radio waves (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device) output from devices existing in the surroundings (for example, electronic devices 101 to 106, 301, 309, 311, 321, 322) (information about devices existing in the surroundings (for example, at least one of the type of device, the manufacturer of the device, the model number of the device, the unique information of the device, the name given to the device)). Further specifically, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can determine at least one content to be provided to the user from among a plurality of contents based on the relationship between the number of radio waves received by the electronic device 100 and information about the device that output the radio wave (for example, at least one of the type of device, the manufacturer of the device, the model number of the device, the unique information of the device, the name given to the device) (for example, a plurality of patterns when arranging the types of each device in order of radio wave intensity (for example, the device type patterns of the determination information shown in FIGS. 9, 14, and 19)).

[0139] Also, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can select and execute at least one process (for example, the output process of the content corresponding to the provided information OIX1) from a plurality of processes (for example, the output processes of the contents corresponding to the provided information OI1 to OIM) that are different from the process related to the wireless communication based on the radio wave and the process using the wireless communication based on the radio wave, based on the radio waves (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device) output from the devices existing in the surroundings (for example, the electronic devices 101 to 106, 301, 309, 311, 321, 322). Specifically, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can select and execute at least one process from a plurality of processes that are different from the process related to the wireless communication based on the radio wave and the process using the wireless communication based on the radio wave, based on the information about each device that can be specified based on the radio waves (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device) output from the devices existing in the surroundings (for example, the electronic devices 101 to 106, 301, 309, 311, 321, 322), where the information about each device includes at least one of the type of the device, the manufacturer of the device, the model number of the device, the unique information of the device, and the name given to the device (information about the devices existing in the surroundings). Further specifically, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can select and execute at least one process from a plurality of processes that are different from the process related to the wireless communication based on the radio wave and the process using the wireless communication based on the radio wave, based on the relationship between the number of radio waves received by the electronic device 100 and the information about the device that output the radio wave (for example, at least one of the type of the device, the manufacturer of the device, the model number of the device, the unique information of the device, and the name given to the device), such as a plurality of patterns when arranging the types of each device in the order of radio wave intensity (for example, the device type patterns of the determination information shown in FIGS. 9, 14, and 19).

[0140] [Application Example to a Game] When applying the above-described technology, for example, when playing a game, it is conceivable to provide various types of information related to the game. Therefore, below, an example of providing various types of information related to the game when playing the game is shown.

[0141] [Example of providing information related to a character battle game displayed on a display device installed outdoors] FIG. 23 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the communication system 40 in the second embodiment. FIG. 23 shows an example of wireless communication among the electronic devices 100, 401 to 407, and the display device 410. Also shown is an example where the electronic devices 100, 401 to 404 are held by the users P0 to P4, and the electronic devices 405 to 407 and the display device 410 are fixedly installed.

[0142] The electronic devices 100, 401 to 404 are electronic devices capable of causing the display unit 411 of the display device 410 to display characters and controlling each character based on a user operation. The electronic devices 100, 401 to 404 are, for example, smartphones, tablet terminals, or game devices. Also, the functional configurations of the electronic devices 100, 401 to 404 are substantially the same as the functional configuration of the electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 2.

[0143] Also, assume that character A is a character controlled by the electronic device 100, character B is a character controlled by the electronic device 401, character C is a character controlled by the electronic device 402, and character D is a character controlled by the electronic device 403. Note that the character controlled by the electronic device 404 is not yet displayed on the display unit 411 of the display device 410.

[0144] The display device 410 is a display device (information processing device, electronic device) including a communication unit (not shown) capable of wireless communication, a control unit (not shown) that controls each unit, and a display unit 411. For example, the control unit (not shown) of the display device 410 performs display control of the display unit 411 based on information transmitted from the electronic devices 100, 401 to 404. Specifically, the control unit (not shown) of the display device 410 causes the display unit 411 to display character A based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 100, causes the display unit 411 to display character B based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 401, causes the display unit 411 to display character C based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 402, and causes the display unit 411 to display character D based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 403. Also, the control unit (not shown) of the display device 410 performs operation control of character A in the display unit 411 based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 100, performs operation control of character B in the display unit 411 based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 401, performs operation control of character C in the display unit 411 based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 402, and performs operation control of character D in the display unit 411 based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 403.

[0145] Also, the control unit (not shown) of the display device 410 adds various information to characters A to D in the display unit 411 and causes them to be displayed based on information transmitted from the electronic devices 100, 401 to 403. For example, the control unit (not shown) of the display device 410 causes the display unit 411 to display character A with item 71 added based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 100, causes the display unit 411 to display character B with item 72 added based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 401, causes the display unit 411 to display character C with item 73 added based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 402, and causes the display unit 411 to display character D with item 74 added based on the information transmitted from the electronic device 403.

[0146] The electronic devices 405 to 407 are devices that transmit various types of information. Note that the electronic devices 405 to 407 may transmit radio waves of different strengths or may have different types, so that the items (provision information 421 shown in FIG. 24) that can be acquired by the electronic devices 100, 401 to 404 change.

[0147] [Example of Information to be Provided to a Character in a Battle Game] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence between the provision information OI determined using determination information by the electronic devices 100, 401 to 404 in the second embodiment and the provision information 421. Note that as the determination information (table) used when determining the provision information, each of the above-described determination information (FIGS. 3, 9, 14, and 19) can be used. Each of these pieces of information is stored in the storage unit 130.

[0148] Note that FIG. 24 shows an example of determining the items used by each character as the provision information, but other information (for example, experience points, attributes, etc. given to each character) may be determined. Also, a plurality of pieces of information may be provided.

[0149] For example, when OIXY1 is determined as the provision information OI, item 71 (held by character A shown in FIG. 23) becomes the provision target. Also, when OIYY2 is determined as the provision information OI, item 74 (held by character D shown in FIG. 23) becomes the provision target. Also, when OIYZ1 is determined as the provision information OI, item 72 (held by character B shown in FIG. 23) becomes the provision target. Also, when OIZZ7 is determined as the provision information OI, item 73 (held by character C shown in FIG. 23) becomes the provision target.

[0150] [Example of Operations When a Character Displayed on a Display Device Acquires an Item] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of operations for additionally displaying item 75 on character A displayed on the display unit 411 of the display device 410 using the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment.

[0151] FIG. 25(1) shows an output example when outputting notification information for notifying the user that it is possible to acquire a new item. On the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100, it is displayed that it is possible to acquire a new item, and from the audio output unit 160, it is audibly output that it is possible to acquire a new item. Also, on the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100, an operation button group 81 and an "acquire" button 82 are displayed.

[0152] The operation button group 81 is buttons (indicated by ○ and △) for operating the character A displayed on the display unit 411 of the display device 410. For example, when the user P0 performs a pressing operation or the like on a desired button among the operation button group 81, a predetermined operation (for example, move forward, move down, attack, defend) can be performed on the character A displayed on the display unit 411 of the display device 410.

[0153] The "acquire" button 82 is a button that is displayed at a timing when a new item can be acquired. When the "acquire" button 82 is pressed by the user P0, the display screen shown in FIG. 25(2) is displayed on the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100.

[0154] FIG. 25(2) shows an output example when outputting notification information for notifying the user that a new item has been acquired. On the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100, it is displayed that a new item has been acquired and an image indicating the newly acquired item, and from the audio output unit 160, it is audibly output that a new item has been acquired. Also, on the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100, an operation button group 81 and a "use" button 83 are displayed.

[0155] The "use" button 83 is a button that is displayed when a new item is acquired by pressing the "acquire" button 82. Note that the newly acquired item may be used immediately, or may be used at a desired timing (for example, during actual use in the game).

[0156] When the "Use" button 83 is pressed by user P0, as shown in FIG. 25(3), the item 75 is additionally displayed on the character A in the display unit 411 of the display device 410. That is, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 transmits information regarding the acquired provided information (item 75) (information for displaying the item 75 on the display unit 411 of the display device 410 and making it available for the character A to use) to the display device 410 based on the pressing operation of the "Use" button 83. Then, the control unit of the display device 410 additionally displays the item 75 on the character A in the display unit 411 based on the information received from the electronic device 100.

[0157] As shown in FIG. 25(3), when the item 75 is additionally displayed on the character A in the display unit 411 of the display device 410, the character A can possess the items 71 and 75 and can advantageously engage in battles with other characters. In this example, an example where the character is displayed on an external device (display device 410) is shown, but the same can be applied to games performed by the users of each electronic device with the character displayed on the display unit of each electronic device.

[0158] [Example of providing information related to a story game] FIG. 26 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a story game displayed on the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment. FIG. 26 shows an example where the user causes the story game to be displayed on the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100 and plays the story game.

[0159] Here, a story game is a game played using predetermined signs to achieve a predetermined goal. For example, in a story game, characters (predetermined signs) playing each role carry out various experiences (such as adventures, explorations, battles) while progressing towards a destination. In FIG. 26, a game is illustrated as an example where character X (shown in the lower part) progresses towards ○○ Castle (shown in the upper part) as the destination while performing various experiences (such as battles with other characters, progress along each path). Note that in FIG. 26, for ease of explanation, an example is shown where the entire story game is displayed on the display screen of the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100. However, the area of the story game may be set to be larger than the display screen of the display unit 150, or the story game may be played using a plurality of screens (for example, screens with a hierarchical structure). Thus, a story game can be referred to as a goal achievement game, a character progression game, an adventure game, an exploration game, etc.

[0160] The control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display a story game based on a program (for example, an application for a story game) stored in the storage unit 130. Also, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 controls various actions of character X based on a user operation (for example, a user operation at the operation unit 140, a user operation based on the user's voice input, an operation based on a change in the posture of the electronic device 100).

[0161] Further, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 adds various information to character X on the display unit 150 and causes it to be displayed based on radio waves output from other devices. For example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 adds items 433 and 434 (shown in FIG. 28) to character X on the display unit 150 and causes it to be displayed based on radio waves output from a plurality of other devices.

[0162] [Examples of Information Provided to Characters in Story Games] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence between the provided information OI determined using the determination information by the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment, and the provided information 441, 442, and 443. Note that as the determination information (table) used when determining the provided information, each of the above-described determination information (FIGS. 3, 9, 14, and 19) can be used. Each of these pieces of information is stored in the storage unit 130 of the electronic device 100.

[0163] Note that in FIG. 27, an example of providing three or more pieces of information as the provided information is shown, but one or two pieces of information may be provided.

[0164] For example, when OIJK1 is determined as the provided information OI, "tool (rectangular tool)", "house 108", and "money 99" are the provided targets. Also, when OIGT3 is determined as the provided information OI, "experience value 89", "tool (T-shaped tool)", and "money 67" are the provided targets. Also, when OIMU9 is determined as the provided information OI, "tool (sword-shaped tool)", "money 678", and "experience value 2" are the provided targets. Also, when OIPO6 is determined as the provided information OI, "tank 7", "money 100", and "tool (rod-shaped tool)" are the provided targets.

[0165] For example, when the provided information is a tool, the tool is provided to character X, and character X can use the tool. Also, for example, when the provided information is an experience value, operations (for example, addition) of the numerical value of the experience value are sequentially performed, and character X can perform various operations based on the experience value based on the operation result. Also, for example, when the provided information is money, operations (for example, addition) of the numerical value of the money are sequentially performed, and character X can perform various shopping and the like based on the total amount based on the operation result. Also, for example, when the provided information is a car, a house, a tank, or an airplane, operations (for example, addition) of the numerical value of the item are sequentially performed, and character X can use various vehicles, properties, and the like based on the total value of each item based on the operation result.

[0166] [Display Example of Provided Information] FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a display example when providing information is displayed on the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment. In FIG. 28, an example is shown in which the providing information acquired during a predetermined period is displayed on the screen of the story game on the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100.

[0167] The control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 can output (for example, voice output, image display, transmission to another device) the providing information acquired during a predetermined period (for example, the period since the previous display of the providing information) at a predetermined output timing (for example, when the story game is started, when instructed by a user operation, when a predetermined time has elapsed). For example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 sequentially stores the providing information acquired during a predetermined period in the storage unit 130. Then, when the predetermined output timing is reached, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 can display a list of the providing information acquired during the predetermined period in the providing information display area 432. For example, for experience points, money, houses, vehicles, etc., each calculation result (for example, the total value) is displayed together with each item. Also, for items, an image representing the item is displayed.

[0168] [Example of providing information related to a raising game] FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a simplified transition example of the raising game displayed on the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment. In FIG. 29, in the game of raising a fish displayed on the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100, the transition of the growth of the fish is shown in time series.

[0169] Here, the raising game is a game for raising animals, plants, etc. For example, the raising game is a game in which characters (predetermined signs) of animals, plants, etc. play various roles and grow while performing various experiences (for example, adventures, explorations, battles). FIG. 29 shows a game in which a fish grows.

[0170] FIG. 29(1) shows an example in which a newly born fish (fry) is displayed in the raising game. FIG. 29(2) shows an example in which a somewhat grown fish is displayed in the raising game. FIG. 29(3) shows an example in which a greatly grown fish is displayed in the raising game. In FIG. 29, for ease of explanation, an example is shown in which the entire raising game is displayed on the display screen of the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100. However, the field of the raising game may be set to a region wider than the display screen of the display unit 150, or the raising game may be played using a plurality of screens (for example, screens having a hierarchical structure). Also, in FIG. 29, an example of a game for raising one fish is shown, but a plurality of fish may be raised, or a plurality of types of fish, different types of animals, plants, etc. may be raised. Also, displacement (for example, displacement from a fish to a cow) may occur during the raising process. Thus, the raising game can be referred to as a breeding game, a watching game, a breeding game, a pet game, etc.

[0171] The control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display the raising game based on a program (for example, an application of the raising game) stored in the storage unit 130. Also, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 controls various operations for raising fish based on a user operation (for example, a user operation at the operation unit, a user operation based on the user's voice input, an operation based on a change in the posture of the electronic device 100).

[0172] Also, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 adds various information to the fish on the display unit 150 and causes it to be displayed based on radio waves output from other devices. For example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 adds food and enemies to the fish on the display unit 150 and causes it to be displayed based on radio waves output from a plurality of other devices.

[0173] [Examples of Information Provided to the Characters in the Raising Game] FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence relationship between the provided information OI determined using the determination information by the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment and the provided information 461, 462, and 463. Note that as the determination information (table) used when determining the provided information, each of the above-described determination information (FIGS. 3, 9, 14, and 19) can be used. Each of these pieces of information is stored in the storage unit 130 of the electronic device 100.

[0174] Note that in FIG. 30, an example of providing three or more pieces of information as the provided information is shown, but one or two pieces of information may be provided.

[0175] For example, when OIHH1 is determined as the provided information OI, "being attacked by a shark", "being caught", and "becoming grilled fish" are the provided targets. In this case, one or two pieces of the provided information may be selected by a user operation from among the three pieces of provided information, or all three pieces of provided information (for example, in the first to third order) may be experienced by the fish. For example, when the provided information of "being attacked by a shark" is to be experienced by the fish, a shark is displayed on the display unit 150 together with the fish to be raised, and the state of the fish to be raised escaping from the shark is sequentially displayed. Also, for example, when the provided information of "being caught" is to be experienced by the fish, the state of the fish to be raised being caught by a person is displayed on the display unit 150, and the state of the fish to be raised escaping from the fishing rod is sequentially displayed. Also, for example, when the provided information of "becoming grilled fish" is to be experienced by the fish, the state of the fish to be raised becoming grilled fish is displayed on the display unit 150, and the state of the fish to be raised waking up from the dream of being grilled fish is sequentially displayed.

[0176] In this way, in the game of raising fish, images related to the provided information are displayed simultaneously or sequentially. Alternatively, in the game of raising fish, voice information related to the provided information may be output simultaneously or sequentially.

[0177] For example, in the raising game, when a user operation to start the game is performed, the eggs or fry of the fish to be raised are displayed on the display unit 150. After that, it can be automatically raised until the fish grows. For example, when the user walks around with the electronic device 100, the provided information is sequentially acquired according to the environment around the electronic device 100. Then, when the user performs a display instruction operation for the raising game, the fish that has grown based on the acquired provided information is displayed on the display unit 150. Or, after the user performs a display instruction operation for the raising game, the transitions of the growth of the fish based on the acquired provided information may be sequentially displayed on the display unit 150. Also, the fish may be grown based on a user operation.

[0178] The control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 can perform processing (for example, growing in height, making friends) based on the provided information acquired during a predetermined period (for example, the period since the previous display of the raising game) at a predetermined timing (for example, when a display instruction operation for the raising game is performed, when a predetermined time has elapsed). For example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 sequentially stores the provided information acquired during the predetermined period in the storage unit 130. Then, when the predetermined output timing arrives, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 performs processing based on the provided information acquired during the predetermined period.

[0179] [Example of providing information related to the wandering game] FIG. 31 is a diagram schematically showing a transition example of the wandering game displayed on the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment. In FIG. 31, in the wandering game displayed on the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100, the transition of the main character sheep traveling around the world is shown in chronological order.

[0180] Here, the wandering game is a game in which the user enjoys the state of raising or moving animals, plants, etc. For example, in the wandering game, characters (predetermined signs) such as animals and plants play various roles (for example, travelers) and have various experiences (for example, taking commemorative photos at tourist spots, sightseeing at tourist spots) while traveling around the world. FIG. 31 shows a game in which a sheep travels.

[0181] FIG. 31(1) shows an example in which the protagonist's sheep is displayed in the wandering game. FIGS. 31(2) and (3) show examples in which the sheep after traveling to a predetermined location is displayed in the wandering game. In FIG. 31, for ease of explanation, an example is shown in which the entire wandering game is displayed on the display screen of the display unit 150 of the electronic device 100. However, the field of the wandering game may be set to a region wider than the display screen of the display unit 150, or the wandering game may be played using a plurality of screens (for example, a hierarchical screen). Also, in FIG. 31, an example of a game in which one sheep is allowed to wander is shown, but a plurality of sheep may be allowed to wander, or a plurality of types of animals, different species of animals, plants, etc. may be raised. Also, displacement (for example, displacement from a sheep to a cow) may occur during the wandering. In this way, the wandering game can be referred to as a placement game or the like.

[0182] The control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the display unit 150 to display the wandering game based on a program (for example, an application for the wandering game) stored in the storage unit 130. Also, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 controls various operations for allowing the sheep to wander based on a user operation (for example, a user operation on the operation unit, a user operation based on the user's voice input, an operation based on a change in the posture of the electronic device 100).

[0183] Further, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 adds various information to the sheep on the display unit 150 and causes it to be displayed based on radio waves output from other devices. For example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 adds food, travel supplies, food, souvenirs at the wandering location, and photos at the wandering location to the sheep on the display unit 150 and causes it to be displayed based on radio waves output from a plurality of other devices.

[0184] [Examples of Information Provided to the Characters in the Wandering Game] FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence between the provided information OI determined using the determination information by the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment and the provided information 471, 472, and 473. Note that as the determination information (table) used when determining the provided information, each of the above-described determination information (FIGS. 3, 9, 14, and 19) can be used. Each of these pieces of information is stored in the storage unit 130 of the electronic device 100.

[0185] Note that in FIG. 32, an example in which three or more pieces of information are provided as the provided information is shown, but one or two pieces of information may be provided.

[0186] For example, when OIHK9 is determined as the provided information OI, “acquire a camera”, “acquire 10 kg of grass”, and “a part of the hair is cut” are provided targets. In this case, one or two pieces of the provided information may be selected by a user operation from among the three pieces of provided information, or all three pieces of provided information (for example, in the order of the first to the third) may be experienced by the sheep based on a predetermined rule (for example, the first provided information → the second provided information → the third provided information). For example, when the provided information of “acquire a camera” is experienced by the sheep, a sheep with the acquired camera hung around its neck is displayed on the display unit 150. And when the sheep goes on a journey thereafter, it can be set to acquire a photograph taken by the camera and return. Further, for example, when the provided information of “acquire 10 kg of grass” is experienced by the sheep, a state in which the acquired grass is eaten by the sheep at home is displayed on the display unit 150. And the user may be allowed to select to use the remaining grass as a travel lunch. Further, for example, when the provided information of “a part of the hair is cut” is experienced by the sheep, a state in which the sheep's hair is cut by someone is displayed on the display unit 150, and thereafter, a state of the sheep without a part of its hair is sequentially displayed until a predetermined time elapses.

[0187] In this way, in the wandering game, images related to the provided information are displayed simultaneously or sequentially. Alternatively, in the wandering game, voice information related to the provided information may be output simultaneously or sequentially.

[0188] For example, in the wandering game, when a user operation to start the game is performed, the main character sheep is displayed on the display unit 150. After that, based on various information added to the sheep, the sheep can automatically embark on a wandering journey around the world. For example, when the user walks around with the electronic device 100, the provided information is sequentially acquired according to the environment around the electronic device 100. Then, when the user performs a display instruction operation for the wandering game, the sheep in the area where it is wandering or the sheep that has returned home is displayed on the display unit 150 based on the acquired provided information. Or, after the user performs a display instruction operation for the wandering game, the history information of each place where the sheep has moved in the past (for example, commemorative photo taken at a tourist destination) based on the acquired provided information may be sequentially displayed on the display unit 150. For example, when the pressing operation of the "Travel History" button 481 shown in FIGS. 31(2)(3) is performed, the history information of the places where the sheep has traveled in the past (for example, the places where it has traveled (for example, tourist destination name, place name, country name), the date and time of travel) is displayed on the display unit 150. Also, for example, when the pressing operation of the "Travel Photo" button 482 shown in FIGS. 31(2)(3) is performed, the photo information at the places where the sheep has traveled in the past (for example, commemorative photo taken at the place where it has traveled) is displayed on the display unit 150. Also, for example, when the pressing operation of the "Souvenir" button 483 shown in FIGS. 31(2)(3) is performed, the souvenir information at the places where the sheep has traveled in the past (for example, images of local specialties, famous products, etc. at the place where it has traveled, description of the souvenir) is displayed on the display unit 150. Also, based on the user operation, the sheep may be made to travel.

[0189] The control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 can perform processing (for example, traveling to Gunma, traveling to Okinawa) based on the provided information acquired during a predetermined period (for example, the period since the previous display of the wandering game) at a predetermined timing (for example, when a display instruction operation for the wandering game is performed, when a predetermined time has arrived). For example, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 sequentially stores the provided information acquired during the predetermined period in the storage unit 130. Then, when the predetermined output timing arrives, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 performs processing based on the provided information acquired during the predetermined period.

[0190] [Operation Example of the Game] FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing an example of the provided information determination process by the electronic device 100 in the second embodiment. Note that FIG. 33 is a modification of FIG. 8, and steps S223 to S226 correspond to steps S201 to S204 shown in FIG. 8. Therefore, in FIG. 33, the description will focus on the differences from FIG. 8.

[0191] First, the control unit 120 (shown in FIG. 2) of the electronic device 100 determines whether a user operation has been performed (step S221). For example, when there is a pressing operation of any of the operation buttons 81 shown in FIG. 25(1), it is determined that a user operation has been performed. If no user operation is performed, the process proceeds to step S223.

[0192] When a user operation has been performed (step S221), the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 performs processing based on the user operation (step S222). For example, when there is a pressing operation of any of the operation buttons 81 shown in FIG. 25(1), the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 transmits information for causing character A to perform an operation corresponding to the pressed button to the display device 410.

[0193] Next, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 measures the radio waves received by the communication unit 110 and acquires each radio wave information (for example, radio wave intensity, device type) (step S223). Then, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 causes the storage unit 130 to hold the acquired radio wave information for each device (step S224). This radio wave information acquisition process may be performed periodically or irregularly.

[0194] Next, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines whether the provided conditions are satisfied (step S225). If the provided conditions are not satisfied, the operation ends, and if the provided conditions are satisfied, the process proceeds to step S226.

[0195] Here, as criteria for determining whether the provision conditions are met, for example, it is possible to use whether a predetermined time has elapsed, whether desired provision information (for example, a desired tool, a desired experience) can be determined as a provision target, whether a predetermined user operation (for example, a pressing operation of the "acquire" button 82 shown in FIG. 25(1)) has been performed, and whether new provision information (for example, a desired tool, a desired experience) can be acquired. Note that the predetermined time can be determined based on, for example, the elapsed time since the power of the electronic device 100 was turned on, or the elapsed time since the immediately preceding information (provision information) was provided after the power of the electronic device 100 was turned on. Also, the predetermined time may be a preset time, or may be set to a time according to the user's preference by a user operation.

[0196] When the provision conditions are satisfied (step S225), the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 determines information to be provided as a provision target based on the radio wave information held in the storage unit 130 (step S226).

[0197] Next, the control unit 120 of the electronic device 100 stores the information determined as the provision target in the storage unit 130 (step S227). In this way, the provision information stored in the storage unit 130 can be used, for example, based on a user operation. For example, by performing a pressing operation of the "use" button 83 shown in FIG. 25(2), the acquired tool can be used.

[0198] In this way, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can determine at least one content to be provided to the user from among a plurality of contents (for example, a plurality of information given to a character in a battle game, a plurality of information given to a character in a story game, a plurality of information given to a character in a raising game, a plurality of information given to a character in a wandering game) based on radio waves (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device) output from devices existing in the surroundings.

[0199] Further, the electronic device 100 (control unit 120) can select and execute at least one process from a plurality of processes (for example, a process of advancing a game, a process of imparting information to a game character) different from the process related to wireless communication based on the radio wave and the process using wireless communication based on the radio wave output from the devices existing around (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device). Note that each of these games is an example, and the same applies to other games as well.

[0200] [Third Embodiment: Example of Providing Information Using Location Information] In the first and second embodiments, examples of providing various information using radio waves output from other devices were shown. However, various information may be provided using location information together with radio waves output from other devices. Thereby, for example, various information for each region can be provided. Note that the third embodiment is a modification of the first and second embodiments, and a part of the description thereof will be omitted for parts common to the first and second embodiments.

[0201] [Functional Configuration Example of Electronic Device] FIG. 34 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the electronic device 500 in the third embodiment.

[0202] The electronic device 500 includes a communication unit 501, a location information acquisition unit 502, a control unit 503, a storage unit 504, an operation unit 505, a display unit 506, and an audio output unit 507. Note that the electronic device 500 is obtained by adding the location information acquisition unit 502 to the electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 2, and other parts are common to the electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 2. Therefore, here, the description will focus on the points different from the electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 2.

[0203] The location information acquisition unit 502 acquires location information regarding the location where the electronic device 500 exists, and outputs the acquired location information to the control unit 503. The location information acquisition unit 502 can be realized, for example, by a GPS receiver that receives a GPS (Global Positioning System) signal and calculates location information based on the GPS signal. Further, the calculated location information includes each data regarding the location such as latitude, longitude, altitude, etc. at the time of receiving the GPS signal. Also, a location information acquisition device that acquires location information by another location information acquisition method may be used. For example, a location information acquisition device that derives location information using access point information by a surrounding wireless LAN and acquires this location information may be used. Also, for example, a location information acquisition device that derives location information using the location information of a base station used for calls or communications and acquires this location information may be used. Also, for example, a location information acquisition device that derives location information using a location estimation technique by a navigation device (for example, a car navigation device) and acquires this location information may be used. For example, the position of the own device can be estimated based on sensor information by various sensors (for example, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor) and map information.

[0204] [Example of provided information for each specific area] FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence relationship between a specific area 511, provided information OI (512), and provided information (voice information 513 and image information 514) used when determining the provided information by the electronic device 500 in the third embodiment.

[0205] The specific area 511 is an area that provides specific content. For example, it can be in units of countries, prefectures, municipalities, public facilities (such as schools, parks), commercial facilities (such as shopping centers, amusement parks, theme parks), etc. For example, when the current position of the electronic device 500 identified based on the position information acquired by the position information acquisition unit 502 of the electronic device 500 is included in the area (such as area A, area B) registered in the specific area 511, the information to be provided is determined from the provided information associated with the area (such as area A, area B) where the current position of the electronic device 500 is included.

[0206] For example, when the current position of the electronic device 500 is not included in the area registered in the specific area 511, the information to be provided is determined from the normal provided information (the provided information associated with the specific area 511 "―" shown in FIG. 35). Also, for example, when the current position of the electronic device 500 is included in area A registered in the specific area 511, the information to be provided is determined from the provided information associated with the specific area 511 "Area A" shown in FIG. 35. Also, for example, when the current position of the electronic device 500 is included in area B registered in the specific area 511, the information to be provided is determined from the provided information associated with the specific area 511 "Area B" shown in FIG. 35.

[0207] For example, when the specific area is a municipality rich in nature, as the provided information (content group) associated with the specific area, content introducing the municipality, special products related to the municipality, discount coupons and privilege coupons for each facility existing in the municipality, etc. can be considered. Also, for example, when the specific area is a shopping center, as the provided information (content group) associated with the specific area, content introducing special sale items in the shopping center, various types of information (such as points, coupons, discount coupons, privilege coupons) that can be used in the shopping center, etc. can be considered.

[0208] [Operation example of determining provided information using position information] FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing an example of content output processing by the electronic device 500 in the third embodiment. Note that FIG. 36 is a modified example of FIG. 8, and steps S241 to S243 and S247 correspond to steps S201 to S203 and S205 shown in FIG. 8. Therefore, in FIG. 36, the description will focus on the differences from FIG. 8.

[0209] When the provided conditions are satisfied (step S243), the control unit 503 of the electronic device 500 grasps the current position of the electronic device 500 based on the position information acquired by the position information acquisition unit 502, and determines whether the current position is included in a specific area (step S244).

[0210] For example, area information (for example, information for specifying area A by latitude and longitude) for specifying each area (for example, area A shown in FIG. 35) registered in the specific area 511 is stored in the storage unit 504. Then, the control unit 503 of the electronic device 500 determines whether the current position (latitude and longitude of the position where the electronic device 500 exists) specified based on the position information acquired by the position information acquisition unit 502 is included in the area information, thereby determining whether the current position is included in the specific area. Also, map information may be used to determine whether the current position is included in the specific area.

[0211] When the current position of the electronic device 500 is not included in the specific area (step S244), the control unit 503 of the electronic device 500 determines the information to be provided based on the radio wave information of each device held in the storage unit 504 from among the normal provided information groups (step S245).

[0212] Also, when the current position of the electronic device 500 is included in the specific area (step S244), the control unit 503 of the electronic device 500 determines the information to be provided based on the radio wave information of each device held in the storage unit 504 from among the provided information groups associated with the specific area in which the current position of the electronic device 500 is included (step S246).

[0213] For example, when the current position of the electronic device 500 is included in Region A (shown in FIG. 35) (step S244), the control unit 503 of the electronic device 500 determines the information to be provided based on the radio wave information of each device held in the storage unit 504 from among the group of provided information associated with that Region A (each information group related to Region A shown in FIG. 35) (step S246).

[0214] [Fourth Embodiment: Example of Providing Information Using Radio Wave Information Acquired by an External Device] In the first to third embodiments, examples of providing various types of information using radio waves output from other devices existing around the own device were shown. However, radio wave information may be acquired using an external device other than the own device, and various types of information may be provided using that radio wave information. For example, a wearable device having a communication function (for example, a smartwatch, smart glasses) acquires radio wave information output from other devices existing around it, and passes that radio wave information to a smartphone (for example, transmits, transfers), and the smartphone can provide various types of information using that radio wave information. Thereby, for example, radio wave information can be acquired using a device that the user can easily wear (for example, a wearable device), and various types of information can be provided using that radio wave information on a device having a rich user interface (for example, a smartphone). Note that the fourth embodiment is a modification of the first to third embodiments, and a part of the description of the parts common to the first to third embodiments is omitted.

[0215] [Functional Configuration Example of Electronic Device] FIG. 37 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the electronic devices 550 and 560 in the fourth embodiment.

[0216] The electronic device 550 includes a communication unit 551, a control unit 552, and a storage unit 553. Note that the electronic device 550 is obtained by omitting the operation unit 140, the display unit 150, and the audio output unit 160 from the electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 2, and other parts are common to the electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 2. Therefore, here, the description will focus on the points different from the electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 2. Also, the electronic device 550 can be a portable and simple device (for example, a wearable device (for example, a wristwatch-type device, a glasses-type device)). Further, the electronic device 550 can be a portable information processing device such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, or the like. Also, the electronic device 550 can be a stationary device, for example, an AI speaker equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), a speaker having a wireless communication function, or the like.

[0217] The communication unit 551 receives radio waves output from other devices based on the control of the control unit 552. Then, the communication unit 551 outputs various information regarding the received radio waves to the control unit 552. Note that the communication unit 551 may be a simple device having only a receiving function, or a device having a transmitting and receiving function. When the communication unit 551 has a transmitting and receiving function, the control unit 552 can wirelessly transmit various information from the communication unit 551 to other devices (electronic device 560).

[0218] The storage unit 553 is a memory that stores various information. For example, the storage unit 553 stores various information (for example, a control program) necessary for the electronic device 550 to perform various processes. Note that the storage unit 553 may be a removable storage unit, an internal storage unit, or both.

[0219] The electronic device 560 includes a communication unit 561, a control unit 562, a storage unit 563, an operation unit 564, a display unit 565, and an audio output unit 566. Note that the electronic device 560 is common to the electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 2. Therefore, here, the description will focus on the points different from the electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 2.

[0220] [Communication example when providing information using radio wave information acquired by other devices] FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of communication processing by the electronic device 550 and the electronic device 560 in the fourth embodiment. Note that steps S251, S252, S256, and S257 shown in FIG. 38 correspond to steps S201, S202, S204, and S205 shown in FIG. 8. For this reason, here, the description will focus on the points different from the example shown in FIG. 8. Also, it is assumed that applications (programs) for realizing each process shown in FIG. 38 are preset in the electronic devices 550 and 560.

[0221] First, the control unit 552 of the electronic device 550 measures the radio waves received by the communication unit 551 to acquire each radio wave information (for example, radio wave intensity, device type) (step S251). Then, the control unit 552 of the electronic device 550 stores the acquired radio wave information in the storage unit 553 for each device (step S252). This radio wave information acquisition process may be performed periodically or irregularly.

[0222] Next, the control unit 552 of the electronic device 550 determines whether or not the radio wave information transmission condition is satisfied (step S253). If the radio wave information transmission condition is not satisfied, the process returns to step S251, and if the radio wave information transmission condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S254.

[0223] Here, as a criterion for determining whether or not the radio wave information transmission condition is satisfied, for example, whether or not communication (wireless communication, wired communication) with the electronic device 560 has become possible, or whether or not a predetermined user operation (for example, a transmission instruction operation) has been performed can be used.

[0224] When the radio wave information transmission conditions are met (step S253), the control unit 552 of the electronic device 550 transmits the radio wave information held in the storage unit 553 to the electronic device 560 (step S254). If the electronic device 550 does not have a wireless transmission function, the radio wave information can be moved by other means (for example, wired communication, movement using a recording medium, movement via a predetermined network). Also, the radio wave information transmitted to the electronic device 560 may be erased from the storage unit 553.

[0225] When receiving the radio wave information from the electronic device 550, the control unit 562 of the electronic device 560 causes the received radio wave information to be held in the storage unit 563 (step S255). Next, the control unit 562 of the electronic device 560 determines the information to be provided based on the received radio wave information (step S256).

[0226] Next, the control unit 562 of the electronic device 560 provides the determined information (step S257).

[0227] In the above, an example was shown in which the determination information (for example, the determination information shown in FIGS. 3, 9, 14, and 19) and the provided information (for example, the provided information shown in FIGS. 4, 15, 20, 24, 27, 30, 32, and 35) are stored in advance in the storage units 130, 504, and 563 of the electronic devices 100, 500, and 560. However, each of these pieces of information may be acquired from the outside and used. For example, a communication unit (communication units 110, 501, 561) capable of communicating with other devices via a wired or wireless line may be connected to an external device (or a predetermined network (for example, the Internet)), and all or part of each piece of information may be acquired from the external device. In this case, each piece of information may be acquired and used every time the provided information is determined in the electronic device, or each piece of information may be acquired and used periodically or irregularly.

[0228] Further, for example, it may be possible to cooperate with a specific operator (for example, a company that provides specific content or discount coupons) to determine the information to be provided. For example, it may be possible to receive the provision of determination information from a specific operator and output information (for example, discount coupons, specific content) provided by the specific operator from the electronic device based on this determination information.

[0229] Also, the user may register the information to be provided, and the information to be provided may be determined by a determination process from among the registered information to be provided.

[0230] In this way, the electronic device 560 (control unit 562) can determine at least one content to be provided to the user from among a plurality of contents based on radio waves (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the electronic device 550) output from devices existing around the electronic device 550.

[0231] Further, the electronic device 560 (control unit 562) can select and execute at least one process from among a plurality of processes different from the process related to wireless communication based on the radio waves and the process using wireless communication based on the radio waves based on radio waves (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the electronic device 550) output from devices existing around the electronic device 550.

[0232] [Fifth Embodiment: Example of Causing Another Device to Process a Part of the Processing Performed by the Electronic Device] In the first to fourth embodiments, an example was shown in which radio wave information is acquired by an electronic device possessed by a user, and provision information is determined using the radio wave information. Here, it is also assumed that it is difficult to secure the capacity of the storage unit when there is a large amount of provision information. It is also assumed that among the electronic devices possessed by the user, there are devices with low processing capabilities. Therefore, for example, it is conceivable that the electronic device possessed by the user is made to hold only relatively little information and perform only relatively simple processing, and other devices with a large storage capacity and high processing capabilities are made to perform the retention of other information and other processing. Therefore, in the fifth embodiment, an example in which a part of the processing performed by the electronic device possessed by the user is processed by another device is shown.

[0233] [Configuration Example of Communication System] FIG. 39 is a diagram showing a system functional configuration example of a communication system 600 according to the fifth embodiment.

[0234] The communication system 600 includes a server 610, a network 620, and an electronic device 630. Note that, as devices constituting the communication system 600, a base station, an access point, etc. for performing wireless communication are also assumed, but the illustration and description thereof are omitted here.

[0235] The server 610 is a server (information processing device) that provides various information (provision information) to the electronic device 630 based on the radio wave information output from the electronic device 630.

[0236] The network 620 is a network such as a public line network or the Internet.

[0237] The electronic device 630 is an electronic device possessed by the user P0, and performs wireless communication with other devices (not shown) existing around it.

[0238] In addition, the electronic device 630 has a communication unit 631 (shown in FIG. 40) and can connect to the network 620 using wireless communication (for example, connect via a base station or access point managed by a communication carrier) to exchange various information. Note that the electronic device 630 may also connect to the network 620 via another device (for example, a wireless LAN router) using wireless communication to exchange various information.

[0239] [Functional Configuration Examples of Server and Electronic Device] FIG. 40 is a block diagram showing functional configuration examples of the server 610 and the electronic device 630 in the fifth embodiment. Note that the functional configuration of the electronic device 630 is substantially the same as that of the electronic device 100 shown in FIG. 2, and thus the description thereof is omitted here.

[0240] The server 610 includes a communication unit 611, a control unit 612, and a storage unit 613.

[0241] The communication unit 611 exchanges various information with other devices via a wired or wireless line under the control of the control unit 612. For example, the communication unit 611 exchanges various information with the electronic device 630 via the network 620.

[0242] The control unit 612 controls each part of the server 610 based on a control program stored in the storage unit 613. The control unit 612 is realized by, for example, a CPU.

[0243] The storage unit 613 is a memory that stores various types of information. For example, the storage unit 613 stores various types of information (such as control programs) necessary for the server 610 to perform various processes. Also, the storage unit 613 stores determination information (such as the determination information shown in FIGS. 3, 9, 14, and 19) for determining information to be provided based on each piece of information (radio wave information output from the electronic device 630) acquired by the communication unit 611 via the network 620. Further, the storage unit 613 stores provision information (such as the provision information shown in FIGS. 4, 15, 20, 24, 27, 30, 32, and 35) to be provided to each electronic device (electronic device 630) connected via the network 620.

[0244] The electronic device 630 includes a communication unit 631, a control unit 632, a storage unit 633, an operation unit 634, a display unit 635, and an audio output unit 636. Note that the communication unit 631 in the electronic device 630 performs wireless communication with electronic devices existing within a predetermined range and can communicate by connecting to a predetermined network (such as the Internet) via a base station installed by a communication carrier such as a mobile phone company.

[0245] [Communication example when the server 610 provides information] FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing an example of communication processing by the server 610 and the electronic device 630 in the fifth embodiment. Note that steps S261, S262, and S266 shown in FIG. 41 correspond to steps S201, S202, and S204 shown in FIG. 8. Therefore, here, the description will focus on the points different from the example shown in FIG. 8. Also, it is assumed that applications (programs) for realizing each process shown in FIG. 41 are preset in the server 610 and the electronic device 630.

[0246] First, the control unit 632 of the electronic device 630 measures the radio waves received by the communication unit 631 to obtain various radio wave information (for example, radio wave intensity, type of device) (step S261). Then, the control unit 632 of the electronic device 630 stores the obtained radio wave information in the storage unit 633 for each device (step S262). This acquisition process of radio wave information may be performed periodically or irregularly.

[0247] Next, the control unit 632 of the electronic device 630 determines whether the provided conditions are satisfied (step S263). If the provided conditions are not satisfied, it returns to step S261. If the provided conditions are satisfied, it proceeds to step S264.

[0248] Note that the criteria for determining whether the provided conditions are satisfied can be the same as, for example, the example shown in FIG. 8. Also, it may be used whether communication (wireless communication, wired communication) with the server 610 has become possible or whether a predetermined user operation (for example, a transmission instruction operation) has been performed.

[0249] If the provided conditions are satisfied (step S263), the control unit 632 of the electronic device 630 transmits the radio wave information held in the storage unit 633 to the server 610 (step S264).

[0250] When receiving the radio wave information from the electronic device 630, the control unit 612 of the server 610 causes the received radio wave information to be held in the storage unit 613 (step S265). Next, the control unit 612 of the server 610 determines the information to be provided based on the received radio wave information (step S266).

[0251] Next, the control unit 612 of the server 610 transmits the information (provided information) determined based on the received radio wave information to the electronic device 630 that transmitted the received radio wave information (step S267).

[0252] When the control unit 632 of the electronic device 630 receives information from the server 610, it causes the storage unit 633 to hold the received provided information (step S268). Next, the control unit 632 of the electronic device 630 performs processing using the received information (step S269). For example, the control unit 632 of the electronic device 630 performs output processing of content based on the received information (step S269).

[0253] In this way, the server 610 (control unit 612) can determine at least one content to be provided to the electronic device 630 from among a plurality of contents based on radio waves output from devices existing around the electronic device 630 (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the electronic device 630).

[0254] Further, the server 610 (control unit 612) can select at least one process from among a plurality of processes different from the process related to wireless communication based on the radio waves and the process using wireless communication based on the radio waves, and cause the electronic device 630 to execute it, based on radio waves output from devices existing around the electronic device 630 (one or more radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the electronic device 630). In the fifth embodiment, an example in which the server 610 is configured by one device is shown, but each process for realizing the functions of the server 610 may be performed by a plurality of devices (information processing systems). That is, each process (each process for determining provided information) performed by the electronic devices shown in the first to fourth embodiments may be performed by a plurality of devices (information processing systems).

[0255] [Sixth Embodiment: Example of Providing Information Using Registration Information and Location Information of Devices] In the first to fifth embodiments, an example in which one or more devices exist relatively close to the electronic device used by the user (within a range where radio waves (e.g., radio waves of a wireless LAN) can reach) was shown. In such an environment, the device used by the user can perform each process (e.g., content exchange) using the radio waves output from the device of the communication partner with the device of the communication partner. Also, in such an environment, the device used by the user is receiving radio waves from devices other than the device of the communication partner. Therefore, in the first to fifth embodiments, in such an environment, an example of performing a process other than the process based on communication with the device of the communication partner using radio waves from the device of the communication partner or other devices and increasing the enjoyment of the device used by the user was shown.

[0256] Here, for example, it is also assumed that no other device exists relatively close to the electronic device used by the user (within a range where radio waves (e.g., radio waves of a wireless LAN) can reach). Even in such a case, if various information can be provided using the relationship between the own device and other devices, it is considered that the enjoyment of using the device can be provided in various environments around the world. That is, even in such an environment (an environment where no other device exists relatively close to the electronic device used by the user (within a range where radio waves (e.g., radio waves of a wireless LAN) can reach)), it is considered that a process other than the process based on communication with the device of the communication partner can be performed using the relationship between the own device and other devices, and the enjoyment of the device used by the user can be increased.

[0257] Therefore, in the sixth embodiment, the purpose is to provide enjoyment of the device used by the user by utilizing the relationship with other devices existing around. That is, in the sixth embodiment, an example of grasping the relationship between the own device and other devices using a predetermined network and providing various information using that relationship is shown. Note that the sixth embodiment is a modification of the first to fifth embodiments, and for parts common to the first to fifth embodiments, part of the description thereof is omitted.

[0258] [Configuration Example of Communication System] FIG. 42 is a diagram showing an example of the system functional configuration of the communication system 700 in the sixth embodiment.

[0259] The communication system 700 includes a server 710, a network 720, and electronic devices 730 and 741 to 745. Note that, as devices constituting the communication system 700, a base station or an access point for performing wireless communication, other electronic devices, etc. are also assumed, but illustration and description thereof are omitted here.

[0260] The server 710 is a server (information processing device) that manages information (registration information) regarding a plurality of devices (for example, electronic devices 730 and 741 to 745). Further, the server 710 acquires position information periodically or irregularly transmitted from a plurality of devices (for example, electronic devices 730 and 741 to 745), and manages the position information. Further, the server 710 provides various information (provision information) to each device (for example, electronic devices 730 and 741 to 745) based on the managed position information. Note that the registration information managed by the server 710 will be described with reference to FIG. 44.

[0261] The network 720 is a network such as a public line network or the Internet.

[0262] The electronic devices 730 and 741 to 745 are electronic devices that connect to the network 720 using wireless communication or wired communication (for example, connect via a base station or an access point managed by a communication carrier) to exchange various information. Note that the electronic devices 730 and 741 to 745 may connect to the network 720 via another device (for example, a wireless LAN router) using wireless communication or wired communication to exchange various information. Further, the electronic devices 730 and 741 to 745 may perform wireless communication with other devices existing around them.

[0263] [Example of Functional Configuration of Server and Electronic Devices] FIG. 43 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the server 710 and the electronic device 730 in the sixth embodiment. Note that since the functional configuration of the electronic device 730 is substantially the same as that of the electronic device 500 shown in FIG. 34, the description thereof will be omitted here. Also, since the functional configurations of the electronic devices 741 to 745 are substantially the same as those of the electronic device 500 shown in FIG. 34, the description thereof will be omitted here.

[0264] The server 710 includes a communication unit 711, a control unit 712, and a storage unit 713.

[0265] The communication unit 711 exchanges various types of information with other devices via a wired or wireless line under the control of the control unit 712. For example, the communication unit 711 exchanges various types of information with the electronic device 730 via the network 720.

[0266] The control unit 712 controls each part of the server 710 based on a control program stored in the storage unit 713. The control unit 712 is realized by, for example, a CPU.

[0267] The storage unit 713 is a memory that stores various types of information. For example, the storage unit 713 stores various types of information (such as control programs) necessary for the server 710 to perform various processes. Also, the storage unit 713 stores registration information of each device (such as the registration information shown in FIG. 44) acquired by the communication unit 711 via the network 720. Further, the storage unit 713 stores the location information of each device (such as the location information output from the electronic devices 730, 741 to 745) acquired by the communication unit 711 via the network 720. Additionally, the storage unit 713 stores determination information (such as the determination information shown in FIG. 45) for determining information to be provided based on the location information of each device (such as the location information output from the electronic devices 730, 741 to 745) acquired by the communication unit 711 via the network 720. Moreover, the storage unit 713 stores provision information (such as the provision information shown in FIGS. 4, 15, 20, 24, 27, 30, 32, 35) to be provided to each electronic device (such as the electronic devices 730, 741 to 745) connected via the network 720.

[0268] The electronic device 730 includes a communication unit 731, a location information acquisition unit 732, a control unit 733, a storage unit 734, an operation unit 735, a display unit 736, and an audio output unit 737. Note that the communication unit 731 in the electronic device 730 can communicate by connecting to a predetermined network (such as the Internet) via a base station installed by a communication carrier such as a mobile phone company, other devices (such as a wireless LAN router), an access point, and the like.

[0269] [Example of registration information managed by server 710] FIG. 44 is a diagram showing an example of registration information managed by the server 710 in the sixth embodiment. This registration information is stored in the storage unit 713. Also, this registration information is registered in the server 710 by a manual operation by the user of the electronic device.

[0270] As registration information managed by the server 710, for example, device identification information 751, location information 752, device type information 753, and identification information 754 are stored.

[0271] The device identification information 751 is information capable of identifying each device. For example, unique information of the device such as terminal identification information, MAC address, etc. can be registered. In FIG. 44, for ease of explanation, an example is shown in which the device type information 751 of the electronic device 730 is set as "OT0730", and the device type information 751 of the electronic devices 741 to 745 is set as "OT0741" to "OT0745".

[0272] The location information 752 is location information transmitted from each device periodically or irregularly. For example, information for specifying the location of each device (e.g., latitude and longitude, name of a feature on a map, region name) is stored.

[0273] The device type information 753 is information registered by manual operation by the user of the electronic device. The registration of this information is not mandatory and is optional.

[0274] The identification information 754 is information used when determining the information to be provided to each device. For example, A, B, C, ···, X, Y, Z are assigned to each device in the registration order. Note that A, B, C, ···, X, Y, Z are just an example, and other information (e.g., numerical values, symbols, other languages) may be used. Also, as the identification information 754, a registration number (1 to M (where M is a positive integer)) indicating the registration order may be used. In FIG. 44, for ease of explanation, an example is shown in which the identification information 754 of the electronic device 730 is set as "A", and the identification information 754 of the electronic devices 741 to 745 is set as "B" to "F".

[0275] [Example of determination information for determining provided information using location information of other devices] FIG. 45 is a diagram showing an example of determination information (table) used when determining provided information based on the positional relationship between the electronic device 730 and other devices in the sixth embodiment. The determination information shown in FIG. 45 is information indicating the correspondence relationship between the identification information (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44) of the devices arranged in the order from the closest to the electronic device 730 and the provided information OI. This determination information is stored in the storage unit 713.

[0276] In FIG. 45, the proximity rankings #1, #2, and #3 are values indicating the rankings of the devices existing at positions closer to the electronic device 730 among the devices other than the electronic device 730. Further, the determination information (table) shown in FIG. 45 is information in which a plurality of patterns when arranging the identification information (A to Z) of each device in the proximity ranking are associated with the provided information OI (OI1 to OIM (where M is a positive integer)). For example, when the identification information (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44) of the other device existing at the position closest to the electronic device 730 is "A", the identification information (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44) of the other device existing at the second closest position to the electronic device 730 is also "A", and the identification information (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44) of the other device existing at the third closest position to the electronic device 730 is also "A", OI1 is determined as the provided information OI. Also, for example, when the identification information (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44) of the other device existing at the position closest to the electronic device 730 is "A", the identification information (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44) of the other device existing at the second closest position to the electronic device 730 is also "A", and the identification information (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44) of the other device existing at the third closest position to the electronic device 730 is "D", OI4 is determined as the provided information OI. Also, for example, when the identification information (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44) of the other device existing at the position closest to the electronic device 730 is "Z", the identification information (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44) of the other device existing at the second closest position to the electronic device 730 is also "Z", and the identification information (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44) of the other device existing at the third closest position to the electronic device 730 is also "Z", OIM (where M is a positive integer) is determined as the provided information OI.

[0277] In the sixth embodiment, an example is shown in which ranks up to the third rank (#1 to #3) are used as the close ranks, but ranks of the second rank or higher, or ranks of the fourth rank or lower may be used. Also, the number of close ranks may be set in advance, or a value preferred by the user may be set by a user operation. Also, for the close ranks, non-consecutive values such as the second closest rank, the fourth closest rank, and the sixth closest rank may be used instead of consecutive values.

[0278] Also, the value of M is determined based on the number of close ranks and the identification information (A to Z in the sixth embodiment). For example, when the number of close ranks is 3 and the identification information is A to Z (26), it is determined to be 17576 (= 26 × 26 × 26). However, depending on the number of close ranks and the number of identification information, it is also assumed that the value of M becomes too large and the provided information (for example, the audio information 11 and the image information 12 shown in FIG. 4) cannot be prepared. For this reason, when the value of M is larger than the number of provided information (for example, the audio information 11 and the image information 12 shown in FIG. 4), the same information (audio information 11 and image information 12) may be assigned to different information (provided information OI).

[0279] [Example of determining provided information using the intensity of radio waves output from other devices] FIGS. 46 and 47 are diagrams showing an example in the case where the server 710 in the sixth embodiment determines provided information using the position information of the electronic device 730 and other devices (electronic devices 741 to 745).

[0280] FIG. 46 shows a simplified distance between the electronic device 730 and other devices (electronic devices 741 to 745) when based on the position where the electronic device 730 exists. The dashed circles 31 to 33 shown in FIG. 46 are circles centered on the position where the electronic device 730 exists.

[0281] As shown in FIG. 46, the distances (straight-line distances) between the electronic device 730 and the electronic devices 741 to 745 are indicated by the dashed straight lines 41 to 45. Also, in this example, the distance (straight line 42) between the electronic device 730 and the electronic device 742 is the shortest, the distance (straight line 43) between the electronic device 730 and the electronic device 743 is the second shortest, the distance (straight line 41) between the electronic device 730 and the electronic device 741 is the third shortest, the distance (straight line 45) between the electronic device 730 and the electronic device 745 is the fourth shortest, and the distance (straight line 44) between the electronic device 730 and the electronic device 744 is the fifth shortest (i.e., the longest).

[0282] FIG. 47(1) shows, in the order of the electronic devices 741 to 745, the ranking of the distances between the electronic device 730 and the electronic devices 741 to 745 and the identification information of the electronic devices 741 to 745. In FIG. 47(1), the names of the electronic devices 741 to 745 are shown in the upper row, the identification information of each device is shown in the middle row, and the ranking of the proximity of each device to the electronic device 730 is shown in the lower row.

[0283] Here, as the method for calculating the distance between each device, a known calculation method can be used. For example, based on the position information (e.g., latitude, longitude) of the two devices to be calculated, the distance between the two devices can be calculated. Specifically, based on the position information (e.g., latitude, longitude) of the two devices to be calculated, the straight-line distance on the ground between the two devices can be calculated.

[0284] In addition, the server 710 may calculate the distances between all the devices (e.g., electronic devices 741 to 745) registered in the registration information and a device (target device) (e.g., electronic device 730) serving as a reference for distance calculation. Further, the server 710 may calculate only the distances between a target device (e.g., electronic device 730) and some of the devices registered in the registration information. For example, when the target device is the electronic device 730 (for example), the server 710 can calculate only the distances between the target device and the devices existing within a predetermined range (for example, a range of 1 to 10 km in radius, the same area (for example, the same amusement park, the same shopping park), the same municipality, the same country). In the example shown in FIG. 46, when the target device is the electronic device 730 (for example), the server 710 can calculate only the distances between the target device and the devices (e.g., electronic devices 741 to 743, 745) existing within a predetermined range (for example, the range of circle 33). If there are not a predetermined number (for example, 3) of devices within the predetermined range from the target device, the range is sequentially expanded until the predetermined number of devices exists.

[0285] For example, as shown in FIG. 46, the electronic device 742 with the identification information “C” is ranked first (#1) in terms of proximity, the electronic device 743 with the identification information “D” is ranked second (#2) in terms of proximity, the electronic device 741 with the identification information “B” is ranked third (#3) in terms of proximity, the electronic device 745 with the identification information “F” is ranked fourth (#4) in terms of proximity, and the electronic device 744 with the identification information “E” is ranked fifth (#5) in terms of proximity.

[0286] FIG. 47(2) shows the identification information of the electronic devices 741 to 745 when arranged in the order of the proximity ranking shown in the lower part of FIG. 47(1). Hereinafter, since the information for identifying the electronic devices 741 to 745 is not used, the reference numerals for identifying the electronic devices 741 to 745 are omitted.

[0287] FIG. 47(3) shows an extraction example when extracting identification information that matches the identification information (C, D, B) of the top three devices from the determination information shown in FIG. 45 among the information shown in FIG. 47(2). Note that the determination information shown in FIG. 47(3) is the same as the determination information shown in FIG. 45, and in FIG. 47(3), a part of the determination information shown in FIG. 45 is omitted. Also, in FIG. 47(3), the identification information that matches the identification information (C, D, B) shown in FIG. 47(2) is shown within the dashed rectangle 21.

[0288] Here, each process until the server 710 determines the provided information OI (within the dashed rectangle 21) shown in FIG. 47 will be described.

[0289] Each device (electronic devices 730, 741 to 745) acquires the position information acquired by the position information acquisition unit and transmits the position information to the server 710. Note that this position information transmission process may be performed periodically or irregularly.

[0290] Also, the control unit 712 of the server 710 acquires the position information from each device received by the communication unit 711 and stores it in the storage unit 713 (the position information 752 of the registration information shown in FIG. 44). For example, as shown in FIG. 44, each position information is stored in the storage unit 713 for each device.

[0291] Also, each device (electronic devices 730, 741 to 745) transmits request information for requesting information provision from the server 710 to the server 710 when the provision conditions are satisfied.

[0292] When the control unit 712 of the server 710 receives request information from each device (electronic devices 730, 741 to 745), it determines the information to be provided (provision information OI) based on the position information of each device registered in the registration information (shown in FIG. 44). For example, the control unit 712 of the server 710 calculates the distances between the device that transmitted the request information (target device) and each device registered in the registration information (e.g., all devices, devices existing within a predetermined range). Then, the control unit 712 of the server 710 extracts the identification information that matches the identification information of the device whose distance is up to the top three among the calculated distances (the distances between the target device and other devices) from the determination information shown in FIG. 45, and determines the provision information OI.

[0293] Next, the control unit 712 of the server 710 transmits the information (provision information) determined based on the position information of the device (target device) that transmitted the received request information to the target device.

[0294] When the device (target device) that transmitted the request information receives information from the server 710, it causes the storage unit to hold the received provision information and performs processing using the received information. For example, the device (target device) that transmitted the request information performs output processing of content based on the information received from the server 710.

[0295] [Communication example when the server 710 provides information] FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing an example of communication processing by the server 710 and the electronic device 730 in the sixth embodiment. Note that steps S286, S290 to S292 shown in FIG. 48 correspond to steps S263, S267 to S269 shown in FIG. 41. Therefore, here, the description will focus on the differences from the example shown in FIG. 41. Also, it is assumed that applications (programs) for realizing each process shown in FIG. 48 are preset in the server 710 and the electronic device 730.

[0296] First, the control unit 733 of the electronic device 730 acquires the position information acquired by the position information acquisition unit 732 (step S281). Then, the control unit 733 of the electronic device 730 stores the acquired position information in the storage unit 734 (step S282). Next, the control unit 733 of the electronic device 730 transmits the position information to the server 710 (step S283). Note that this position information transmission process may be performed periodically or non-periodically.

[0297] When receiving the position information from the electronic device 730 (step S284), the control unit 712 of the server 710 stores the received position information in the storage unit 713 (step S285). For example, the control unit 712 of the server 710 stores the received position information in the position information 752 corresponding to the device type information 751 "OT0730" shown in FIG. 44.

[0298] Next, the control unit 733 of the electronic device 730 determines whether the provision conditions are satisfied (step S286). If the provision conditions are not satisfied, the process returns to step S281, and if the provision conditions are satisfied, the process proceeds to step S287.

[0299] Note that the criteria for determining whether the provision conditions are satisfied can be the same as the example shown in FIG. 41, for example.

[0300] If the provision conditions are satisfied (step S286), the control unit 733 of the electronic device 730 transmits request information for requesting information provision from the server 710 to the server 710 (step S287). Note that the latest position information may be transmitted together with the request information. In this case, the control unit 712 of the server 710 stores the position information received together with the request information in the storage unit 713, and determines the provision information based on the position information (step S289).

[0301] When the request information from the electronic device 730 is received (step S288), the control unit 712 of the server 710 determines the information to be provided based on the location information of each device registered in the registration information (step S289). For example, the control unit 712 of the server 710 calculates the distance between the device (electronic device 730) that sent the request information and each device (for example, all devices, devices existing within a predetermined range) registered in the registration information. Then, the control unit 712 of the server 710 extracts the identification information that matches the identification information of the devices whose distances are up to the top three among the calculated distances (the distances between the electronic device 730 and each device) from the determination information shown in FIG. 45, and determines the provided information OI (step S289).

[0302] Next, the control unit 712 of the server 710 transmits the information (provided information) determined based on the location information of the electronic device 730 to the electronic device 730 that sent the received request information (step S290).

[0303] When the information from the server 710 is received, the control unit 733 of the electronic device 730 causes the received provided information to be held in the storage unit 734 (step S291). Next, the control unit 733 of the electronic device 730 performs processing using the received information (step S292). For example, the control unit 733 of the electronic device 730 performs output processing of the content based on the received information (step S292).

[0304] In the sixth embodiment, an example is shown in which the distance between the target device (reference device) and other devices is calculated, and among those distances, the top predetermined number (for example, up to the third place) of devices are used to determine the provided information. However, the provided information may be determined by a different method for the distance between the target device and other devices. For example, the distance between the target device and other devices may be calculated, and the order of the distances of other devices existing within a predetermined range from the target device (however, when the number of other devices is large, up to a predetermined rank of devices) and the identification information of other devices (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44) may be used to determine the provided information.

[0305] Alternatively, the provided information may be determined using information other than the distance between the target device and other devices. For example, the provided information can be determined using the number of other devices present within a predetermined range from the target device. For example, determination information associating the provided information OI with the number of other devices (for example, setting "the number of other devices" instead of "proximity ranking" of the determination information shown in FIG. 45) is stored in the storage unit 713. Then, by calculating the number of other devices present within the range of a circle with a predetermined radius (for example, 1 to 10 km) centered on the target device and extracting the provided information OI corresponding to that number, the provided information can be determined.

[0306] Also, for example, the provided information can be determined using the shape (for example, triangle, quadrilateral, ellipse, circle) formed by other devices present within a predetermined range from the target device (or a predetermined number (for example, up to the 10th) of devices among the devices close to the target device in terms of distance). For example, determination information associating the provided information OI with the shape (for example, straight line, multiple triangles, multiple quadrilaterals, multiple other polygons, multiple ellipses, circle) (for example, setting "shape" instead of "proximity ranking" of the determination information shown in FIG. 45) is stored in the storage unit 713. Then, based on the position information of other devices, the positions of other devices on the map are specified, and the shape formed by the straight lines connecting those positions (for example, when the positions of other devices are connected by straight lines, the shape specified by the closed two-dimensional space (for example, the closed space including the target device) formed by each straight line) is specified. Next, by extracting the provided information OI corresponding to that shape, the provided information can be determined. For example, when there are 3 other devices present within a predetermined range from the target device and the other devices are radially located around the target device, it is assumed that the shape formed by the other devices is a triangle (for example, a shape close to an equilateral triangle, a shape close to an isosceles triangle). In this case, the provided information can be determined by extracting the provided information OI of the shape (triangle) closest to that shape (triangle).

[0307] In the example shown in FIG. 46, the other devices existing within a predetermined range (dashed circle 32) from the target device (electronic device 730) are three, namely electronic devices 741 to 743. Also, the shape formed by the straight lines connecting the respective positions of electronic devices 741 to 743 is a triangle. In this case, the provision information OI corresponding to the triangle can be extracted to determine the provision information. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 46, the other devices existing within a predetermined range (dashed circle 33) from the target device (electronic device 730) are four, namely electronic devices 741 to 743 and 745. Also, the shape formed by the straight lines connecting the respective positions of electronic devices 741 to 743 and 745 is a quadrilateral (a shape like a parallelogram). In this case, the provision information OI corresponding to the quadrilateral can be extracted to determine the provision information.

[0308] Also, the provision information may be determined using these combinations (the distance between the target device and other devices, the number of other devices existing within a predetermined range from the target device, the shape formed by the other devices, and the identification information of each of these devices (identification information 754 shown in FIG. 44)).

[0309] Note that in the sixth embodiment, an example of outputting content is shown. However, the sixth embodiment can also be applied to cases where each process shown in the first to fifth embodiments is performed (for example, processes related to wireless communication based on radio waves and processes different from those using wireless communication based on radio waves (for example, processes related to game progress, processes of imparting some information to game characters)).

[0310] In this way, the electronic device 730 (control unit 733) can select and execute at least one process (for example, a process of displaying one piece of content, a process related to one game (for example, a battle game, a raising game, a wandering game)) from among a plurality of processes different from the processes related to wireless communication with the other devices and the processes using wireless communication with the other devices (for example, each process of outputting content, each process related to a game) based on the relative relationship (for example, the distance between the electronic device 730 and the other devices) with a plurality of other devices (for example, electronic devices 741 to 745).

[0311] Also, the server 710 (control unit 712) can select at least one process from a plurality of processes (processes related to wireless communication between the target device (for example, the electronic device 730) and a plurality of other devices (for example, the electronic devices 741 to 745), and processes different from the processes using the wireless communication between the target device and the other devices) based on the relative relationship between the target device and the plurality of other devices, and cause the target device to execute the selected one process. In the sixth embodiment, an example in which the server 710 is constituted by one device is shown, but each process for realizing the functions of the server 710 may be performed by a plurality of devices (information processing systems).

[0312] Note that each piece of provided information shown in the first to sixth embodiments is a representative example, and other information can be used. For example, the provided information can be content composed only of sound, content composed of sound and image, content composed of sound and video, smell, taste, content related to touch, etc. Also, the provided information can be each character (for example, characters A, B, C,..., XYZ) of an anime having a plurality of types of characters. In this case, in order to prevent the same character from being provided to different electronic devices, each character may not be provided repeatedly, or in order to provide the same character to some electronic devices, some characters may be provided repeatedly.

[0313] Further, information regarding at least one movie among a plurality of types of movie information (e.g., movie promotion videos, brochures) may be used as the provided information. Also, information regarding at least one piece of music among a plurality of pieces of music (e.g., singer videos, concert videos) may be used as the provided information. Further, information regarding at least one travel destination (e.g., Kusatsu Onsen, Yumoto Onsen) among a plurality of travel destination information (locations, famous places, transportation means, discount coupons, etc.) may be used as the provided information. Also, at least one of a plurality of discount coupons, vouchers, and discount coupons that can be used on the Internet may be used as the provided information. Further, at least one of the discount coupons, vouchers, and discount coupons of a plurality of stores may be used as the provided information regarding the store. Also, information regarding points that can be used at one or more stores may be used as the provided information. Further, information regarding fortune-telling (e.g., today's radio wave fortune-telling) may be used as the provided information. In this way, the provided information can be information regarding one or more of anime characters, animals (e.g., animals appearing in movies, amusement parks at travel destinations), people (e.g., characters appearing in movies, famous people at travel destinations), plants (e.g., local specialties at travel destinations, flowers worth seeing), landmarks (e.g., maps of travel destinations, buildings at travel destinations, tourist attractions at travel destinations), music, etc. Also, for example, AR (Augmented Reality) may be applied to provide the provided information. For example, each content can be superimposed and displayed on an image (photo) generated by a camera of an electronic device (e.g., a smartphone camera).

[0314] Also, artificial intelligence (AI (Artificial Intelligence)) may be used to determine the content to be provided and the process to be executed. For example, machine learning is used to determine information and provided information (or information on the process to be executed) regarding the pattern of radio waves received by an electronic device (e.g., the pattern of radio wave reception intensity, the model of the device) and the environment of the radio wave situation (e.g., determined based on searches and movement history of a smartphone, etc.), and each of the generated information is used to determine the content to be provided and the process to be executed.

[0315] In addition, since each control operation shown in the first to sixth embodiments is executed based on a program for causing a computer to execute each processing procedure, each control operation can be grasped as an invention of the program. That is, by storing a program related to each control operation shown in the first to sixth embodiments in a storage medium of an information processing apparatus such as an electronic device or a server, reading out the program from this storage medium, and causing the information processing apparatus to execute the read program, each control operation shown in the first to sixth embodiments can be realized. Further, the program may be stored in an external storage medium (for example, a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a memory card, etc.) of the information processing apparatus and used.

[0316] The first to sixth embodiments show an example for realizing the invention described in the claims, and are not limited thereto, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist thereof.

[0317] For example, the following configurations (Configuration Examples 1 to 21) can be adopted. For example, it can be configured as a game device, an electronic device, an information processing method, and a program. [Claim 1] A game device that causes a storage unit to hold, for each device, the reception intensity of radio waves including radio waves output from a plurality of devices including portable devices and not addressed to the own device, which exist in the surroundings, and includes a control unit that executes processing related to a game based on a pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the storage unit are combined at a predetermined timing. Game device. [Configuration Example 2] The pattern is a pattern composed of a combination of the plurality of reception intensities and the number of the plurality of reception intensities when the plurality of reception intensities for each device are arranged in the order of reception intensity. The game device according to Configuration Example 1. [Configuration Example 3] A device that exists in the surroundings, and stores in a storage unit for each device the reception intensity of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device, which are output from a plurality of devices including portable devices. It includes a control unit that executes processing related to a game based on the pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when combining the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing. An electronic device. [Configuration Example 4] A device that exists in the surroundings, and stores in a storage unit for each device the reception intensity of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device, which are output from a plurality of devices including portable devices. It includes a control unit that determines content to be provided to a user based on the pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when combining the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing. An electronic device. [Configuration Example 5] The pattern is a pattern consisting of a combination of the plurality of reception intensities and the number of the plurality of reception intensities when arranging the plurality of reception intensities for each device in order of reception intensity. The electronic device according to Configuration Example 3 or 4. [Configuration Example 6] When the reception intensity of a specific device is held in the storage unit at the predetermined timing, the control unit determines the content corresponding to the specific device. The electronic device according to Configuration Example 4. [Configuration Example 7] When the reception intensity of a specific device installed at a specific location is held in the storage unit at the predetermined timing, the control unit determines the content related to the specific location. The electronic device according to Configuration Example 4. [Configuration Example 8] It further includes a position information acquisition unit that acquires position information regarding the position where the electronic device exists. When the position of the electronic device specified by the position information is included in a specific area, the control unit determines the content related to the specific area. The electronic device according to Configuration Example 4. [Configuration Example 9] Receive the radio wave intensity of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device, output from a plurality of devices including portable devices existing in the surroundings, and information regarding each of the devices that can be specified based on the radio waves output from each of the devices, associate them for each device, and hold them in the storage unit. A control unit that determines content to be provided to the user based on the pattern of information regarding each of the devices when the information regarding the plurality of devices held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing is arranged according to the reception intensity associated with the information regarding each of the devices. An electronic device. [Configuration Example 10] The pattern is the pattern of information regarding each of the devices when the information regarding the plurality of devices is arranged in the order of reception intensity of the reception intensity associated with the information regarding each of the devices. The electronic device according to Configuration Example 9. [Configuration Example 11] The information regarding the device is at least one of the type of the device, the manufacturer of the device, the model number of the device, the unique information of the device, and the name given to the device. The electronic device according to Configuration Example 9 or 10. [Configuration Example 12] The predetermined timing is any one of the timing when a predetermined time has elapsed, the timing when desired content can be determined as a provision target, the timing when a predetermined user operation has been performed, and the timing when a change in the posture of the electronic device has been detected. The electronic device according to any one of Configuration Examples 3 to 11. [Configuration Example 13] The timing when the predetermined time has elapsed is any one of the timing when the elapsed time since the power of the electronic device was turned on has become the predetermined time, the timing when the elapsed time since the previous content provision since the power of the electronic device was turned on has become the predetermined time, and the timing when the elapsed time since the electronic device received radio waves from a specific device has become the predetermined time. The electronic device according to Configuration Example 12. [Configuration Example 14] The control unit causes the storage unit to hold the determined content, and executes processing related to a game using the content held in the storage unit within a predetermined period. An electronic device according to any one of Configuration Examples 4, 6 to 9. [Configuration Example 15] The control unit executes at least one of output processing for outputting voice from the voice output unit based on the determined content and display processing for displaying an image on the display unit based on the determined content. An electronic device according to any one of Configuration Examples 4, 6 to 9. [Configuration Example 16] A process of causing the storage unit to hold for each device the reception intensity of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device and output from a plurality of devices including portable devices existing in the surroundings, and a process of executing processing related to a game based on a pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when the plurality of reception intensities held in the storage unit for each device are combined at a predetermined timing. An information processing method including the above. [Configuration Example 17] A process of causing the storage unit to hold for each device the reception intensity of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device and output from a plurality of devices including portable devices existing in the surroundings, and a process of determining content to be provided to a user based on a pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when the plurality of reception intensities held in the storage unit for each device are combined at a predetermined timing. An information processing method including the above. [Configuration Example 18] A process of associating, for each device, the reception intensity of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device and output from a plurality of devices including portable devices existing in the surroundings with information about each device that can be specified based on the radio waves output from each device, and causing the storage unit to hold the association for each device, A process of determining content to be provided to a user based on a pattern of information about each device when information about a plurality of the devices held in the memory unit at a predetermined timing is arranged according to the reception intensity associated with the information about each device, and An information processing method including the above. [Configuration Example 19] A function of causing a memory unit to hold, for each device, the reception intensity of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device, which are output from a plurality of devices including portable devices, existing in the surroundings, and A function of executing processing related to a game based on a pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the memory unit are combined at a predetermined timing, and A program for causing a computer to realize the above. [Configuration Example 20] A function of causing a memory unit to hold, for each device, the reception intensity of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device, which are output from a plurality of devices including portable devices, existing in the surroundings, and A function of determining content to be provided to a user based on a pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the memory unit are combined at a predetermined timing, and A program for causing a computer to realize the above. [Configuration Example 21] A function of causing a memory unit to hold, for each device, in association with each other, the reception intensity of radio waves including radio waves not addressed to the own device, which are output from a plurality of devices including portable devices, existing in the surroundings, and information about each device that can be specified based on the radio waves output from each device, and A function of determining content to be provided to a user based on a pattern of information about each device when information about a plurality of the devices held in the memory unit at a predetermined timing is arranged according to the reception intensity associated with the information about each device, and A program for causing a computer to realize the above.

[0318] Also, for example, the following configurations (Configuration Examples 31 to 34) can be adopted. For example, it can be configured as an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program. [Configuration Example 31] An information processing apparatus that acquires position information regarding a plurality of devices existing around a portable target device held by a user, including portable devices held by other users, causes the storage unit to hold the position information regarding the plurality of devices for each device, specifies a shape formed by a straight line connecting each position where the plurality of devices exist based on the position information held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing, and includes a control unit that causes the target device to execute processing related to a game that can be displayed on the target device based on the shape. Information processing apparatus. [Configuration Example 32] The shape is any one of a triangle, a quadrilateral, another polygon, an ellipse, and a circle. The information processing apparatus according to Configuration Example 31. [Configuration Example 33] A process of acquiring position information regarding a plurality of devices existing around a portable target device held by a user, including portable devices held by other users, a process of causing the storage unit to hold the position information regarding the plurality of devices for each device, a process of specifying a shape formed by a straight line connecting each position where the plurality of devices exist based on the position information held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing, and a process of causing the target device to execute processing related to a game that can be displayed on the target device based on the shape. An information processing method including these processes. [Configuration Example 34] A function of acquiring position information regarding a plurality of devices existing around a portable target device held by a user, including portable devices held by other users, a function of causing the storage unit to hold the position information regarding the plurality of devices for each device, A function of specifying a shape formed by a straight line connecting each position where the plurality of devices exist, based on the position information held in the memory unit at a predetermined timing; A function of causing the target device to execute processing related to a game that can be displayed on the target device, based on the shape; A program for realizing the above on a computer.

Explanation of Signs

[0319] 100~106, 301~305, 309, 311~315, 321, 322, 401~407, 500, 550, 560, 730, 741~745 Electronic devices 110, 501, 551, 561, 611, 631, 711, 731 Communication unit 120, 503, 552, 562, 612, 632, 712, 733 Control unit 130, 504, 553, 563, 613, 633, 713, 734 Memory unit 140, 505, 564, 634, 735 Operation unit 150, 411, 506, 565, 635, 736 Display unit 160, 507, 566, 636, 737 Audio output unit 400 Display device 502, 732 Position information acquisition unit 400, 700 Communication system 610, 710 Server 620, 720 Network

Claims

1. Causing a storage unit to hold, for each device, the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings, A control unit that executes processing related to a game based on a pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when combining the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing and the presence or absence of the reception intensity of a specific device. A game device.

2. The pattern is a pattern consisting of a combination of the plurality of reception intensities and the number of the plurality of reception intensities when the plurality of reception intensities for each device are arranged in order of reception intensity. The game device according to claim 1.

3. Causing a storage unit to hold, for each device, the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings, A control unit that executes processing related to a game based on a pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when combining the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing and the presence or absence of the reception intensity of a specific device. An electronic device.

4. Causing a storage unit to hold, for each device, the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings, A control unit that determines content to be provided to a user based on a pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when combining the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing and the presence or absence of the reception intensity of a specific device. An electronic device.

5. The pattern is a pattern consisting of a combination of the plurality of reception intensities and the number of the plurality of reception intensities when the plurality of reception intensities for each device are arranged in order of reception intensity. The electronic device according to claim 3 or 4.

6. When the reception intensity of the specific device is held in the storage unit at the predetermined timing, the control unit determines the content corresponding to the specific device. The electronic device according to claim 4.

7. When the reception intensity of the specific device installed at a specific location is held in the storage unit at the predetermined timing, the control unit determines the content related to the specific location. The electronic device according to claim 4.

8. Further comprising a position information acquisition unit that acquires position information regarding the position where the electronic device exists, When the position of the electronic device specified by the position information is included in a specific area, the control unit determines the content related to the specific area. The electronic device according to claim 4.

9. The reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings is associated with information regarding each of the devices that can be specified based on the radio waves output from each of the devices, and is held in a storage unit for each device. An electronic device including a control unit that determines content to be provided to a user based on a pattern of information regarding each of the devices when the information regarding the plurality of devices held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing is arranged according to the reception intensity associated with the information regarding each of the devices, and the presence or absence of the reception intensity of a specific device.

10. The pattern is a pattern of information regarding each of the devices when the information regarding the plurality of devices is arranged in the order of reception intensity of the reception intensity associated with the information regarding each of the devices. The electronic device according to claim 9.

11. The information regarding the device is at least one of the type of the device, the manufacturer of the device, the model number of the device, the unique information of the device, and the name given to the device. The electronic device according to claim 9 or 10.

12. The predetermined timing is any one of a timing when a predetermined time has elapsed, a timing when desired content can be determined as a provision target, a timing when a predetermined user operation has been performed, and a timing when a change in the posture of the electronic device has been detected. The electronic device according to any one of claims 3 to 11.

13. The timing when the predetermined time has elapsed is any one of a timing when the elapsed time since the power of the electronic device was turned on is the predetermined time, a timing when the elapsed time since the previous content provision since the power of the electronic device was turned on is the predetermined time, and a timing when the elapsed time since the electronic device received radio waves from a specific device is the predetermined time. The electronic device according to claim 12.

14. The control unit causes the storage unit to hold the determined content. Executes processing related to a game using the content held in the storage unit within a predetermined period. The electronic device according to any one of claims 4, 6 to 11.

15. The control unit executes at least one of an output process of outputting voice from a voice output unit and a display process of displaying an image on a display unit based on the determined content. The electronic device according to any one of claims 4, 6 to 11.

16. A process of causing a storage unit to hold, for each device, the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings, A process of executing a process related to a game based on the pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when combining the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing, and the presence or absence of the reception intensity of a specific device An information processing method including the above.

17. A process of causing a storage unit to hold, for each device, the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings, A process of determining the content to be provided to the user based on the pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when combining the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing, and the presence or absence of the reception intensity of a specific device An information processing method including the above.

18. A process of associating the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings with information about each device that can be specified based on the radio waves output from each device, and causing the storage unit to hold the information for each device, A process of determining the content to be provided to the user based on the pattern of the information about each device when arranging the information about the plurality of devices held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing according to the reception intensity associated with the information about each device, and the presence or absence of the reception intensity of a specific device An information processing method including the above.

19. A function of causing a storage unit to hold, for each device, the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings, A function of executing a process related to a game based on the pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when combining the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing, and the presence or absence of the reception intensity of a specific device A program for causing a computer to realize the above.

20. A function of causing a storage unit to hold, for each device, the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings, A function of determining the content to be provided to the user based on the pattern of the plurality of reception intensities when combining the plurality of reception intensities for each device held in the storage unit at a predetermined timing, and the presence or absence of the reception intensity of a specific device A program for causing a computer to realize the above.

21. A function of associating the reception intensity of radio waves output from a plurality of devices existing in the surroundings with information about each device that can be specified based on the radio waves output from each device, and causing the storage unit to hold the information for each device, A function of determining content to be provided to a user based on a pattern of information about each device when information about a plurality of the devices held in the memory unit at a predetermined timing is arranged according to a reception intensity associated with the information about each device, and the presence or absence of the reception intensity of a specific device A program for causing a computer to implement the function

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