Program and information processing device

Abstract

To provide a program allowing users to gift at appropriate timing in response to an action (performance) of a performer object.SOLUTION: A program causes a computer to function as: setting means 52 for setting a gifting condition for a user to automatically make a gifting request; determination means 54 for determining whether or not an action by a performer object appearing in a video satisfies the gifting condition; and display means 56 for displaying a gift in the video assuming that the gifting request has been made by the user, when the determination is affirmative.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a video distribution system that distributes videos to a plurality of users has been known.

[0003] In this regard, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that enables a user (player) watching a video to throw (gift) a purchased item toward a stage area where a performer object is located. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-092332 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In such technology, a user watching a video may miss the timing to gift a gift in response to the movement (performance) of a performer object.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of such problems, and its purpose is to provide a program and an information processing device that enable a user to gift at the appropriate time in response to the actions (performance) of a performer object. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, a program according to a first aspect of the present invention is a program for each user watching a video being streamed to perform gifting by displaying a gift on the video, and causes a computer to function as a setting means for setting gifting conditions so that a user can automatically request the gifting of a gift, a judgment means for judging whether the actions of a performer object appearing in the video satisfy the gifting conditions, and, if the judgment is positive, a display means for displaying the gift on the video, assuming that a gifting request has been made by the user.

[0008] In a second aspect of the present invention, the gifting condition includes that the action by the performer object has started or ended.

[0009] In a third aspect of the present invention, the gifting condition includes a specific statement being made by the performer object.

[0010] In addition, in a fourth aspect of the present invention, the display means displays the gift on the video regardless of whether the user is currently watching the video or not.

[0011] In addition, in a fifth aspect of the present invention, the user is a user who has paid a predetermined fee.

[0012] In addition, in a sixth aspect of the present invention, the gifting request is free of charge.

[0013] In addition, in a seventh aspect of the present invention, the gifting request is for a fee.

[0014] In addition, in an eighth aspect of the present invention, the performer object is a broadcast user who can earn a reward based on the gifting request.

[0015] In addition, an information processing device according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is an information processing device for each user watching a video being distributed to perform gifting by displaying a gift on the video, and is equipped with a setting means for setting gifting conditions so that the user can automatically request the gifting of a gift, a judgment means for judging whether the actions of a performer object appearing in the video satisfy the gifting conditions, and a display means for displaying the gift on the video if the judgment is positive, assuming that a gifting request has been made by the user. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016]

[0017]

[0018] According to the present invention, a user can gift an object at an appropriate timing in response to the movement (performance) of the performer object. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a video distribution system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a server device. [Figure 3] 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a smartphone as the terminal device illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of functional means of a server device. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a process for setting automatic gifting information in the video distribution system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a normal live screen in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen including a setting area in the first embodiment. [Figure 8]10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an automatic gifting process in the video distribution system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen including a selection area in which a gift to be gifted can be selected in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen including gifted gifts and automatically gifted gifts in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen including only gifted gifts in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a process for setting automatic gifting information in a video distribution system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen including a setting area in the second embodiment. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an automatic gifting process in the video distribution system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen including an automatically gifted gift in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Hereinafter, several embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. To facilitate understanding of the description, the same components and steps in each drawing will be designated by the same reference numerals as much as possible, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0021] ---First embodiment--- First, the first embodiment will be described.

[0022] <Overall structure> FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a video distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0023] 1, the video distribution system 1 includes a server device 10 and one or more terminal devices 12. The server device 10 and the terminal devices 12 are communicatively connected via a communication network NT such as an intranet, the Internet, or a telephone line.

[0024] The server device 10 is an information processing device that provides, via a communication network NT, videos obtained by executing the video distribution program 14, or the video distribution program 14 itself, to users who own the terminal devices 12. For example, the video distribution program 14 is used by users to perform gifting, in which gifts are displayed on the videos.

[0025] Each terminal device 12 is an information processing device owned by each user, and provides videos for viewing by each user by installing and executing the video distribution program 14 received from the server device 10. Note that a user can also distribute videos to other users as a video distribution user. These terminal devices 12 include various devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, and personal computers.

[0026] <Hardware configuration> FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the server device 10. As shown in FIG.

[0027] 2, the server device 10 includes a control device 20, a communication device 26, and a storage device 28. The control device 20 is mainly configured to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 22 and a memory 24.

[0028] In the control device 20, the CPU 22 executes predetermined programs stored in the memory 24 or the storage device 28, thereby functioning as various functional means. Details of these functional means will be described later.

[0029] The communication device 26 is configured with a communication interface for communicating with an external device, etc. The communication device 26 transmits and receives various information to and from the terminal device 12, for example.

[0030] The storage device 28 is configured with a hard disk, etc. The storage device 28 stores various programs and information necessary for executing processes in the control device 20, including the video distribution program 14, and information on the results of the processes.

[0031] The server device 10 can be realized using an information processing device such as a dedicated or general-purpose server computer. The server device 10 may be configured with a single information processing device or multiple information processing devices distributed over a communication network NT. FIG. 2 shows only a portion of the main hardware configuration of the server device 10, and the server device 10 may also have other components that are generally included in a server. The hardware configuration of the multiple terminal devices 12 may also have the same configuration as the server device 10, except for including, for example, an operating means, a display device, and a sound output device.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a smartphone as the terminal device 12 shown in FIG.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal device 12 includes a main control unit 30, a touch panel (touch screen) 32, a camera 34, a mobile communication unit 36, a wireless LAN communication unit 38, a storage unit 40, and a speaker 42.

[0034] The main control unit 30 is configured to include a CPU, memory, etc. The main control unit 30 is connected to a touch panel 32 as a display input device, a camera 34, a mobile communication unit 36, a wireless LAN communication unit 38, a storage unit 40, and a speaker 42. The main control unit 30 has a function to control these connection destinations.

[0035] The touch panel 32 has both a display function and an input function, and is composed of a display 32A that performs the display function and a touch sensor 32B that performs the input function. In the first embodiment, the display 32A can display images (videos) and operation input images such as button images. The touch sensor 32B can detect the position of a user's input on the display 32A.

[0036] The camera 34 has a function of taking still images and / or moving images and storing them in the storage unit 40.

[0037] The mobile communication unit 36 ​​has a function of connecting to a mobile communication network via an antenna 36A and communicating with other communication devices connected to the mobile communication network.

[0038] The wireless LAN communication unit 38 has a function of connecting to the communication network NT via an antenna 38A and communicating with other devices such as the server device 10 connected to the communication network NT.

[0039] The storage unit 40 stores various programs and data such as the video distribution program 14 and user information. The user information may be stored in the server device 10.

[0040] The speaker 42 has a function of outputting the sound of the video being distributed, background music, and the like.

[0041] <Summary> In the first embodiment, for example, a user can view one video (live) selected from a plurality of currently streaming videos, each featuring a different performer object. Each of these videos is associated with a different video ID (e.g., channel ID). For example, the video ID is information including the video streaming start date and time and a performer object ID. Note that a video may feature a plurality of performer objects (units). Also, there may be only one video currently being streamed.

[0042] Examples of such videos include archived videos that have already been recorded or generated, and real-time videos that are distributed in real time. For example, viewing real-time videos may require more costs (e.g., virtual currency or viewing tickets) than viewing archived videos. Note that the cost required to view archived videos or real-time videos may be free of charge. In the first embodiment, a case where the moving image is a real-time moving image will be mainly described.

[0043] For example, each user watching a video can gift (give) a gift to a performer object displayed on the video. Examples of such performer objects include characters (e.g., characters whose actions are not controlled by the broadcasting user) and the broadcasting user's avatar. For example, the character or avatar may perform movements generated in real time by the broadcasting user (e.g., movements generated by motion capture, etc.) or movements generated in advance. The performer object may be the broadcasting user himself / herself. Also, the broadcasting user may not be present in the video.

[0044] Furthermore, for example, if a user watching a video gifts a gift to a performer object, the gift is displayed on the video. This gifted gift can be viewed by other users watching the same video, the performer object (broadcast user), etc. For example, if a user issues an instruction to select a gift from multiple gifts, that is, an instruction to pay the price associated with the gift (gifting request), the gift can be displayed on the video.

[0045] The consideration may be virtual currency or money (direct billing) that can be used in the video distribution system 1. In the first embodiment, a user can purchase a gift with the virtual currency that the user owns and gift the purchased gift. This virtual currency includes free currency and paid currency. An example of this free currency is free crystals (free stones). This free currency is granted, for example, when a user logs in to the video distribution system 1 or when the user continues watching a video for a specified period of time or more. An example of paid currency is paid crystals (paid stones). This paid currency is granted, for example, when a user purchases something with money. For example, a user can purchase 100 paid crystals by paying 100 yen using a credit card, prepaid card, or the like.

[0046] In the first embodiment, free crystals and paid crystals can be used without distinction, and in the first embodiment, crystals are more valuable than coins. It should be noted that certain gifts (e.g., special gifts) may be giftable (purchasable) only with paid crystals. In other words, paid crystals may be more valuable than free crystals.

[0047] <Functional means> FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an example of functional means of the server device 10. As shown in FIG.

[0048] 4, the server device 10 has, as functional components, a storage unit 50, a setting unit 52, a determination unit 54, a display unit 56, and a control unit 58. The storage unit 50 is realized by one or more storage units 28. The functional units other than the storage unit 50 are realized by the control device 20 executing a video distribution program 14 stored in the storage unit 28 or the like. Note that all or part of these functional components may be provided in the terminal device 12.

[0049] The storage means 50 has a function of storing user information 50A, gift information 50B, video information 50C, and the like.

[0050] User information 50A is stored for each user in association with the user ID of the user. This user information 50A includes, for example, the user's name, age, membership information, history information, owned currency information, friend information, automatic gifting information, etc.

[0051] The member information includes, for example, information (e.g., a flag) indicating whether the user is a special member or a regular member. A special member is, for example, a member who pays a predetermined fee to the video distribution system 1. Examples of such special members include users (e.g., monthly membership users) who pay a predetermined amount (e.g., 500 yen) every predetermined period (e.g., one month), users whose cumulative purchase amount of paid currency is equal to or exceeds a predetermined amount (e.g., 5,000 yen), and users who have consumed a predetermined number of paid currencies for gifting (e.g., 5,000 units). On the other hand, a regular member is a member other than a special member who has not paid the prescribed fee.

[0052] The history information includes history information of gifts gifted by the user, such as the date and time when the user gifted a gift, the gift ID of the gift gifted by the user, the video ID of the video gifted by the user, and the performer object ID of the performer object to whom the user gifted (sent a gift).

[0053] The owned currency information includes, for example, the amount of free currency (coins, free crystals) and paid currency (paid crystals) owned by the user.

[0054] The friend information includes the user IDs of users (friend users) who have a friend relationship (predetermined relationship) with the user. For example, the user can chat with the friend users and access the profile pages of the friend users.

[0055] The automatic gifting information includes a gift ID of a gift (e.g., a first gift) that will be automatically gifted by a user (e.g., a first user), and a condition ID that specifies the gifting conditions. These gifting conditions include, for example, various conditions that serve as triggers for automatic gifting. This automatic gifting information is set by the setting means 52, for example, based on a user's operational input in the setting area. Note that if the user has not set the automatic gifting information, the automatic gifting information includes "NULL."

[0056] In the first embodiment, the gifting conditions are registered in advance by, for example, the operator of the video distribution system 1, and the user selects (for example, selects from a pull-down menu) from among the registered gifting conditions in the setting area.

[0057] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the gifting conditions include a gift related to the gift to be automatically gifted (e.g., the first gift) being requested for gifting by another user (e.g., the second user). Examples of related gifts include gifts that are identical to the gift to be automatically gifted (e.g., the first gift), gifts with the same consideration, gifts with a low consideration, gifts with a high consideration, gifts in the same category (e.g., cheering goods, food, flowers, clothes, accessories, etc.), gifts that are previously associated with each other (e.g., crackers and fans, ramen and dumplings, roses and baby's breath, T-shirts, jeans and shoes, rings, earrings and glasses, etc.), etc.

[0058] Furthermore, for example, the gifting conditions include a gifting request from a user (e.g., a first user) previously specified by the user (e.g., a second user). This previously specified user may be, for example, a user selected from a user list that includes all users who are watching the same video as the user (e.g., the first user).

[0059] Furthermore, for example, the gifting condition includes that the gifting is requested by a user who has a friend relationship (predetermined relationship) with the user (for example, the first user).

[0060] Gift information 50B includes information about gifts.

[0061] For example, gift information 50B is stored for each gift in association with the gift ID of the gift. Gift information 50B includes, for example, the name, image, price, display time, category, and the like.

[0062] The consideration includes the amount (quantity) of virtual currency (free currency or paid currency) required to gift the gift. For example, the consideration for a first gift is 100 coins. For example, the consideration for a second gift is 100 crystals (free crystals or paid crystals).

[0063] The display time includes the time for which the gift is displayed in the video when the gift is gifted. For example, the display time is longer as the value of the gift increases.

[0064] The category includes the type of gift, such as miscellaneous goods, food, flowers, clothes, accessories, etc.

[0065] Video information 50C includes information related to videos.

[0066] Video information 50C is stored for each video (channel) in association with the video ID of the video. Video information 50C includes, for example, the performer object IDs of performer objects appearing in the video, the distribution start date and time, viewing user information, etc. In the first embodiment, the viewing user information includes the user IDs of users who are viewing the video and users who have finished viewing the video.

[0067] The setting means 52 is a functional means for setting various information in the automatic gifting information of the user information 50 A. In the first embodiment, the setting means 52 sets, in the automatic gifting information of the user information 50 A, the gift ID of a gift (e.g., a first gift) that is automatically gifted by a user (e.g., a first user) and the gifting conditions for gifting the gift.

[0068] For example, the setting means 52 sets the gift ID of a gift selected by the user from a list of gifts that can be automatically gifted in the setting area as the automatic gifting information of the user information 50A.

[0069] Also, for example, the setting means 52 sets the gifting conditions selected by the user in the setting area to the automatic gifting information of the user information 50A.

[0070] The determination means 54 is a functional means for making various determinations. In the first embodiment, the determination means 54 determines whether or not a gifting request for a gift (e.g., a second gift) from a user (e.g., a second user) different from the user who set the automatic gifting information (e.g., a first user) satisfies the gifting conditions (automatic gifting determination). For example, the determination means 54 refers to the user information 50A and the video information 50C to acquire automatic gifting information for users who are watching the same video as the second user or who have finished watching the video, but are different from the second user. Next, the determination means 54 determines whether or not the second user or the gift requested by the second user satisfies the gifting conditions included in the acquired automatic gifting information (automatic gifting determination). Specifically, the determination means 54 makes a positive determination (automatic gifting determination) when the gifting condition for a first user who is in a friend relationship with the second user is "a gifting request from a user who is in a friend relationship with the first user."

[0071] Here, the first user may be a user who has paid a predetermined fee. For example, the determination means 54 may refer to the membership information in the user information 50A and, if the first user is a special member, make a positive determination (automatic gifting determination). Similarly, the second user may be a user who has paid a predetermined fee. For example, the determination means 54 may refer to the membership information in the user information 50A and, if the second user is a special member, make a positive determination (automatic gifting determination).

[0072] The display means 56 is a functional means for displaying a video (live screen), various information areas, and the like on the touch panel 32 of the terminal device 12 owned by each user. For example, the display means 56 displays (distributes) a common video (live screen) on the touch panel 32 of the terminal device 12 owned by each user watching a single video. In the first embodiment, when the determination by the determination means 54 (automatic gifting determination) is affirmative, the display means 56 displays, in the video, a gift (e.g., a second gift) from a user (e.g., a second user) different from the user (e.g., a first user) who set the automatic gifting information, as well as a gift (e.g., a first gift) included in the automatic gifting information, assuming that a gifting request has been made from the user (e.g., the first user) who set the automatic gifting information. Note that the display means 56 may simultaneously display the first gift and the second gift in the video, or may display one gift (e.g., the first gift) and then the other gift (e.g., the second gift) after a predetermined time (e.g., 0.5 seconds) has elapsed since the display of the other gift (e.g., the first gift).

[0073] Furthermore, for example, when there are three or more gifted gifts or automatically gifted gifts in total, the display means 56 may display all of the gifts simultaneously, or may display each gift in turn at equal intervals.

[0074] Furthermore, display means 56 displays the gift (e.g., first gift) included in the automatic gifting information on the video, regardless of whether the user who set the automatic gifting information (e.g., first user) is currently watching the video. For example, even after the user who set the automatic gifting information (e.g., first user) has finished watching the video, if the determination by determination means 54 (automatic gifting determination) is positive, display means 56 displays the gift (e.g., first gift) included in the automatic gifting information on the video.

[0075] The control means 58 is a functional means for controlling the entire video distribution system 1.

[0076] For example, when a user selects a gift in the gift selection area, control means 58 consumes the consideration associated with the gift (the consideration required to purchase the gift) from the user's owned currency information. Also, in the first embodiment, when determination means 54 determines that the gifting conditions included in the automatic gifting information set by a user (e.g., a first user) are satisfied, control means 58 consumes the consideration associated with the gift (the consideration required to purchase the gift) from the user's (e.g., the first user's) owned currency information.

[0077] <Setting process flow> 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the process flow for setting automatic gifting information in the video distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment. The process of the following steps is initiated, for example, when a user (e.g., a first user) selects one video (live) from multiple videos being distributed. The order and content of the following steps can be changed as appropriate.

[0078] (Step SP10) The display means 54 displays a live screen of one moving image (live) on the touch panel 32 of the terminal device 12 owned by the user.

[0079] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a normal live screen 60 in the first embodiment.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 6, the live screen 60 is provided with a performer object P, a stage ST, a notification information area 62, a message button 64, a gift button 66, a setting button 67, an exit button 68, and the like. The notification information area 62 displays text information indicating the latest information including the actions of each user watching a video and the performer object P. This latest information includes the start of watching a video (entry), the end of watching a video (exit), sent messages, gifting, etc. The various information displayed in the notification information area 62 is displayed in the same form on the touch panel 32 of the terminal device 12 owned by each user watching a video. The message button 64 is an input area for inputting a message and a button (instruction area) for issuing an instruction to display a send button for transmitting the input message. The gift button 66 is a button (instruction area) for issuing an instruction to display a gift selection area for selecting a gift to be gifted. The setting button 67 is a button (instruction area) for issuing an instruction to display a setting area for setting automatic gifting information. The exit button 68 is a button (instruction area) for issuing an instruction to end viewing of one video.

[0081] Returning to FIG. 5, the process proceeds to step SP12.

[0082] (Step SP12) The determining means 54 determines whether or not the setting button has been pressed on the normal live screen. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step SP14, whereas if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP18.

[0083] (Step SP14) The display means 56 displays a live screen including a setting area for the user to set automatic gifting information.

[0084] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 including a setting area in the first embodiment.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 7, the live screen 60 is provided with a setting area 72, a cancel button 74, a setting completion button 76, and the like. The setting area 72 displays an image indicating the amount of virtual currency (coins and crystals) owned by the user, a gift image 72a, a slide bar SB, a condition selection menu 72b, and the like. For example, the user can select a gift to be automatically gifted (given) to the performer object P by selecting (instructing) the gift image 72a. For example, the gift image 72a selected by the user is displayed with an emphasized outer frame (for example, a thicker frame). Note that the gift image 72a is displayed in a manner that makes it impossible to select (for example, grayed out) if, for example, the amount of virtual currency owned by the user is less than the value of the gift. The slide bar SB is an instruction area for instructing to scroll the gift image 72a left and right. Furthermore, for example, the user can select gifting conditions from a pull-down menu in the condition selection menu 72b. Examples of gifting conditions include when the same gift is gifted, when a gift with the same value is gifted, when a gift with a lower value than the selected gift is gifted, when a gift with a higher value than the selected gift is gifted, when a gift of the same category is gifted, when one or more pre-associated gifts are gifted, when two or more pre-associated gifts are gifted, when a gift is requested by a user with whom the user is a friend, etc. The cancel button 74 is a button (instruction area) for issuing an instruction to cancel the selection (setting) of gifts to be automatically gifted and the selection (setting) of gifting conditions, and to return to the normal live screen. The setting completion button 76 is a button (instruction area) for issuing an instruction to set the selected gift image 72a and gifting conditions in the automatic gifting information.

[0086] Returning to FIG. 5, the process proceeds to step SP16.

[0087] (Step SP16) The determining means 54 determines whether or not the setting completion button has been designated by the user on the live screen including the setting area. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step SP 18. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the process ends the series of steps shown in FIG.

[0088] (Step SP18) Setting means 52 sets the gift ID and gifting conditions corresponding to the gift image selected by the user on the live screen including the setting area in the automatic gifting information. For example, setting means 52 stores the gift ID corresponding to the selected gift and the selected gifting conditions in the automatic gifting information of user information 50A corresponding to the user. Then, the series of processes shown in FIG. 5 ends.

[0089] <Automatic gifting process flow> 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the automatic gifting process in the video distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment. The processing of the following steps is initiated, for example, when the second user selects one video (live) from multiple videos being distributed. The order and content of the following steps can be changed as appropriate.

[0090] (Step SP20) The processing in step SP20 is the same as the processing in step SP10 described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Then, the process proceeds to step SP22.

[0091] (Step SP22) The determining means 54 determines whether or not the gift button is pressed on the normal live screen. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step SP24, whereas if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP34.

[0092] (Step SP24) The display means 56 displays a live screen including a gift selection area for the second user to select a gift to gift.

[0093] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 including a selection area in which a gift to be gifted can be selected in the first embodiment.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 9, the live screen 60 is provided with a gift selection area 82, a cancel button 84, a gifting button 86, and the like. The gift selection area 82 displays an image indicating the amount of virtual currency (coins and crystals) owned by the second user, a gift image 82a for selecting a gift to gift to the performer object P, a slide bar SB, and the like. For example, the second user can select a gift to gift (give) to the performer object P in real time by selecting (indicating) the gift image 82a. For example, the gift image 82a selected by the user is displayed with an emphasized outer frame (for example, the frame line becomes thicker). Note that the gift image 82a is displayed in a manner that makes it impossible to select (for example, grayed out) if the virtual currency owned by the second user is less than the value of the gift. The slide bar SB is an instruction area for instructing to scroll the gift image 82a left and right. The cancel button 84 is a button (instruction area) for canceling the selection of the gift to be gifted and issuing an instruction to return to the normal live screen. The gifting button 86 is a button (instruction area) for issuing an instruction to gift the selected gift image 82a in real time.

[0095] Returning to FIG. 8, the process proceeds to step SP26.

[0096] (Step SP26) The determination means 54 determines whether or not a gifting request has been made. For example, the determination means 54 makes an affirmative determination when the gifting button is pressed with a gift (gift image) selected on a live screen including a selection area. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step SP28, whereas if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP34.

[0097] (Step SP28) The determination means 54 determines whether or not the set gifting conditions are met (automatic gifting determination). For example, the determination means 54 refers to the automatic gifting information in the user information 50A corresponding to each user who is watching a video or who has finished watching the video, excluding the second user, and determines whether or not there is a user who has set the gift requested for gifting in step SP26 or the fact that the second user has requested gifting as a gifting condition. Specifically, the determination means 54 makes a positive determination when there is one or more users (e.g., the first user) who have set a gift that is pre-associated with the gift requested for gifting in the gifting conditions of the automatic gifting information. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step SP30, whereas if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP32.

[0098] (Step SP30) The display means 56 displays on the live screen the gift for which gifting was requested in step SP26 and the gift set in the automatic gifting information including the gifting condition for which a positive determination was made in step SP28.

[0099] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 including gifted gifts and automatically gifted gifts in the first embodiment.

[0100] 10, the live screen 60 displays a gift G1 (e.g., a cracker) gifted by the second user in step SP26 and a gift G2 (e.g., a fan) set in the automatic gifting information including the gifting condition determined to be positive in step SP28. This gift G2 is, for example, a gift set in the automatic gifting information by the first user. The gifted gift G1 and the automatically gifted gift G2 are, for example, displayed simultaneously near the performer object P. Here, the notification information area 62 displays text information indicating that the second user has gifted (given) the gift G1 to the performer object P, and text information indicating that the first user has subsequently gifted (given) the gift G2 to the performer object P. Note that the notification information area 62 may also display text information indicating that the gift G2 has been gifted automatically.

[0101] Returning to FIG. 8, the process proceeds to step SP34.

[0102] (Step SP32) The display means 56 displays the gift requested for gifting in step SP26 on the live screen.

[0103] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 including only gifted gifts in the first embodiment.

[0104] 11, the gift G1 (e.g., a cracker) gifted by the second user in step SP26 is displayed on the live screen 60. Here, the notification information area 62 displays text information indicating that the second user has gifted (given) the gift G1 to the performer object P.

[0105] Returning to FIG. 8, the process proceeds to step SP34.

[0106] (Step SP34) The determination means 54 determines whether or not the second user has finished watching the live broadcast. For example, the determination means 54 makes a positive determination when the second user has pressed the exit button. If the determination is affirmative, the process ends the series of steps shown in Fig. 8. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP20.

[0107] <Effects> As described above, in the first embodiment, the program is for each user watching a video being streamed to perform gifting by displaying a gift on the video, and causes a computer to function as: setting means 52 for setting gifting conditions for a first user to automatically gift a first gift; judgment means 54 for judging whether a gifting request for a second gift from a second user satisfies the gifting conditions; and, if the judgment is positive, display means 56 for displaying the first gift on the video together with the second gift, as if a gifting request had been made by the first user.

[0108] According to this configuration, when a gifting request for a second gift by a second user satisfies the gifting conditions, the first gift can be displayed in the video together with the second gift, as if a gifting request had been made by the first user. This makes it possible to standardize the timing at which multiple gifts are displayed, thereby livening up the video (gifting screen).

[0109] Also, in the first embodiment, the gifting condition includes that a gift related to the first gift has been requested for gifting.

[0110] According to this configuration, a plurality of related gifts are displayed, making it possible to provide a video (gifting screen) with a unified look.

[0111] Also, in the first embodiment, the related gift is the same gift as the first gift.

[0112] According to this configuration, a plurality of identical gifts are displayed, making it possible to provide a video (gifting screen) with a unified look.

[0113] Also, in the first embodiment, the related gift is a gift with the same value as the first gift.

[0114] According to this configuration, since a plurality of gifts with the same value are displayed, it is possible to provide a video (gifting screen) with a unified look.

[0115] Also, in the first embodiment, the related gift is a gift with a lower value than the first gift.

[0116] According to this configuration, the second gift has a lower value than the first gift, so the first gift that is automatically gifted can be made to stand out.

[0117] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the display means 56 displays the first gift on the video regardless of whether the first user is currently watching the video.

[0118] According to this configuration, the first user can make the video (gifting screen) more exciting even when he or she is not watching the video.

[0119] In addition, in the first embodiment, the gifting conditions include a gifting request being made by a user specified in advance by the first user.

[0120] According to this configuration, the first user can cooperate with a pre-specified user to liven up the video (gifting screen).

[0121] In addition, in the first embodiment, the gifting conditions include a gifting request made by a user who has a predetermined relationship with the first user.

[0122] According to this configuration, the first user can cooperate with users with whom he has a predetermined relationship to enhance the video (gifting screen).

[0123] In the first embodiment, the first user is a user who pays a predetermined fee.

[0124] According to this configuration, a first user who has paid a predetermined fee can automatically gift the first gift along with the second gift, thereby giving the first user a sense of satisfaction.

[0125] In the first embodiment, the second user is a user who pays a predetermined fee.

[0126] According to this configuration, a second user who has paid a predetermined fee can have the first gift automatically displayed along with the second gift, thereby giving the second user a sense of satisfaction.

[0127] ---Second embodiment--- Next, a second embodiment will be described.

[0128] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the determination means 54 determines whether or not the actions of a performer object appearing in a video satisfy the gifting conditions. Note that the configuration and functions of the video distribution system 1 according to the second embodiment, which will not be described below, are the same as those of the video distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0129] In the second embodiment, the automatic gifting information of the user information 50A includes a gift ID of a gift that is automatically gifted to the user, and a condition ID that specifies a gifting condition.

[0130] For example, the gifting conditions include actions by the performer object, such as playing a song, singing, reciting, dancing, gestures, and the like.

[0131] Furthermore, for example, the gifting condition includes the start or end of an action by the performer object. Specifically, the gifting condition includes an action by the performer object and information (for example, a flag) indicating the start or end of the action.

[0132] Furthermore, for example, the gifting condition includes a specific statement made by the performer object, such as "thank you," "fun," "happy," "good job," "kind," "sad," "cute," "touching," etc.

[0133] In the second embodiment, the determination means 54 determines whether or not a movement made by a performer object appearing in a video satisfies a gifting condition (gifting determination). For example, the determination means 54 analyzes the movement made by the performer object (e.g., playing a song, singing, reciting, dancing, gestures, etc.) from the video. Examples of this analysis include image analysis and audio analysis. Next, the determination means 54 refers to the video information 50C to identify a user who is watching a video in which the performer object appears or a user who has finished watching the video. Next, the determination means 54 refers to the user information 50A related to the identified user to determine whether or not the analyzed movement is included in the gifting conditions of the automatic gifting information. Note that, if the gifting conditions include information indicating the start of a movement, the determination means 54 makes a positive determination (gifting determination) at the timing when the movement starts. Also, if the gifting conditions include information indicating the end of a movement, the determination means 54 makes a positive determination (gifting determination) at the timing when the movement ends.

[0134] Furthermore, for example, the determination means 54 analyzes from the video that a specific statement has been made by the performer object (for example, the statement "Thank you" has been made). Next, the determination means 54 refers to video information 50C to identify users who are watching the video in which the performer object appears or users who have finished watching the video. Next, the determination means 54 refers to user information 50A related to the identified users to determine whether or not the analyzed specific statement is included in the gifting conditions of the automatic gifting information.

[0135] Here, the identified user may be a user who has paid a predetermined fee. For example, the determination means 54 refers to the user information 50A and the video information 50C to identify a user whose membership information is a special membership and who is watching a video in which a performer object appears or a user who has finished watching the video.

[0136] In the second embodiment, when the determination by the determination means 54 (automatic gifting determination) is affirmative, the display means 56 displays a gift on the video, assuming that a gifting request has been made by the user who set the automatic gifting information. This gift is, for example, a gift included in the automatic gifting information.

[0137] Furthermore, for example, display means 56 displays the gifts included in the automatic gifting information on the video regardless of whether the user who set the automatic gifting information is currently watching the video. For example, even after the user who set the automatic gifting information has finished watching the video, display means 56 displays the gifts included in the automatic gifting information on the video if the determination by determination means 54 (automatic gifting determination) is affirmative.

[0138] In the second embodiment, when the determination means 54 determines that the gifting conditions included in the automatic gifting information set by the user are satisfied, the control means 58 consumes the consideration associated with the gift included in the automatic gifting information (the consideration required to purchase the gift) from the user's owned currency information. In other words, the automatic gifting request by the user is paid for. Note that, when the determination means 54 determines that the gifting conditions included in the automatic gifting information set by the user are satisfied, the control means 58 may not consume the consideration associated with the gift included in the automatic gifting information from the user's owned currency information. In other words, the automatic gifting request by the user may be free of charge.

[0139] Furthermore, for example, the control means 58 causes the broadcast user, who is a performer object, to acquire a reward based on a gifting request from a user. In other words, the performer object is a broadcast user who can acquire a reward based on a gifting request from a user. For example, the control means 58 causes the broadcast user to acquire a reward corresponding to the price required to purchase the gift for which the user has made a gifting request. Examples of this reward include money, points that can be exchanged for money, etc.

[0140] <Setting process flow> 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the process flow for setting automatic gifting information in the video distribution system 1 according to the second embodiment. The process of the following steps is initiated, for example, when a user selects one video (live) from multiple videos being distributed. The order and content of the following steps can be changed as appropriate.

[0141] (Step SP40 to Step SP42) The processing of steps SP40 to SP42 is the same as the processing of steps SP10 to SP12 described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. If the determination in step SP42 is affirmative, the processing proceeds to processing of step SP44. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the processing proceeds to processing of step SP48.

[0142] (Step SP44) The display means 56 displays a live screen including a setting area for the user to set automatic gifting information.

[0143] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 including a setting area in the second embodiment.

[0144] As shown in FIG. 13, the live screen 60 is provided with a setting area 72, a cancel button 74, a setting completion button 76, and the like. The setting area 72 displays an image showing the amount of virtual currency (coins and crystals) owned by the user, a gift image 72a, a slide bar SB, a condition selection menu 72b, and the like. For example, the user can select a gifting condition from a pull-down menu in the condition selection menu 72b. Examples of the gifting condition include when a song starts playing, when a song finishes playing, when someone says "thank you," when someone says "this is fun," and so on. For example, the user can select a gift that meets the gifting condition.

[0145] Returning to FIG. 12, the process proceeds to step SP46.

[0146] (Step SP46 to Step SP48) The processing in steps SP46 to SP48 is the same as the processing in steps SP16 to SP18 described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Then, the series of processes shown in FIG. 12 ends.

[0147] <Automatic gifting process flow> 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the automatic gifting process in the video distribution system 1 according to the second embodiment. The processing of the following steps is initiated, for example, when a performer object (e.g., a distribution user) starts distributing a video (live). The order and content of the following steps can be changed as appropriate.

[0148] (Step SP50) The display means 54 displays a live screen of one video (live) on the touch panel 32 of the terminal device 12 owned by each user who watches the video. This live screen is, for example, similar to that shown in FIG. 6. Then, the process proceeds to step SP52.

[0149] (Step SP52) The determination means 54 analyzes the movement of the performer object. For example, the determination means 54 analyzes the movement of the performer object from a video (for example, image analysis or audio analysis). Then, the process proceeds to step SP54.

[0150] (Step SP54) The determination means 54 determines whether or not the action analyzed in step SP52 satisfies the set gifting condition (automatic gifting determination). For example, the determination means 54 refers to the automatic gifting information in the user information 50A corresponding to each user who is watching a video or who has finished watching the video, and determines whether or not there is a user who has set the action analyzed in step SP52 (for example, the start of a song playing) as a gifting condition in the automatic gifting information. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step SP56, whereas if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP58.

[0151] (Step SP56) The display means 56 displays on the live screen the gifts set in the automatic gifting information including the gifting conditions determined to be affirmative in step SP54.

[0152] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 including an automatically gifted gift in the second embodiment.

[0153] 15, a gift G3 (e.g., a rocket) set in the automatic gifting information including the gifting condition determined to be affirmative in step SP54 is displayed on the live screen 60. This automatically gifted gift G2 is displayed, for example, near the performer object P. Here, notification information area 62 displays text information indicating that a certain user who set the automatic gifting information has gifted (given) gift G3 to performer object P. Note that notification information area 62 may also display text information indicating that gift G3 has been automatically gifted.

[0154] Returning to FIG. 14, the process proceeds to step SP58.

[0155] (Step SP58) The determination means 54 determines whether or not the live broadcast by the performer object (e.g., broadcast user) has ended. For example, the determination means 54 makes a positive determination when the performer object (e.g., broadcast user) has instructed to end the broadcast. If the determination is affirmative, the process ends the series of steps shown in Fig. 14. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP50.

[0156] <Effects> As described above, in the second embodiment, a program is provided for each user watching a video being streamed to perform gifting by displaying a gift on the video, and the computer functions as a setting means 52 for setting gifting conditions so that the user can automatically request the gifting of a gift, a determination means 54 for determining whether the actions of a performer object appearing in the video satisfy the gifting conditions, and, if the determination is positive, a display means 56 for displaying a gift on the video, assuming that a gifting request has been made by the user.

[0157] According to this configuration, when the movement of the performer object satisfies the gifting condition, a gift can be displayed in the video as a gifting request from the user, allowing the user to gift at an appropriate timing in response to the movement of the performer object.

[0158] In the second embodiment, the gifting conditions include the start or end of an action by the performer object.

[0159] According to this configuration, the user can gift at the timing when the action of the performer object starts or ends.

[0160] In the second embodiment, the gifting condition includes a specific statement being made by the performer object.

[0161] According to this configuration, the user can give a gift at the timing when a specific statement is made by the performer object.

[0162] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the display means 56 displays the gift on the video regardless of whether the user is currently watching the video or not.

[0163] According to this configuration, even if the user is not watching the video, the user can gift the video at an appropriate time.

[0164] In the second embodiment, the user is a user who has paid a predetermined fee.

[0165] According to this configuration, a user who has paid a predetermined fee can gift at an appropriate time, thereby giving the user a sense of satisfaction.

[0166] In the second embodiment, the gifting request is free of charge.

[0167] With this configuration, automatic gifting is free of charge, which motivates users to set gifts for automatic gifting, allowing users and performer objects to enjoy communication within the video.

[0168] In the second embodiment, the gifting request is for a fee.

[0169] According to this configuration, automatic gifting is provided for a fee, so that the performer object can be made to actively perform actions that satisfy the gifting conditions, thereby making the video more exciting.

[0170] In addition, in the second embodiment, the performer object is a broadcast user who can earn a reward based on a gifting request.

[0171] According to this configuration, since rewards can be earned through gifting, the performer object (broadcast user) can be encouraged to actively perform actions that satisfy the gifting conditions, thereby livening up the video.

[0172] ---Variations--- The present invention is not limited to the above-described specific examples. In other words, designs that are appropriately modified by a person skilled in the art from the above-described specific examples are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention. Furthermore, the elements of the above-described embodiments and the modifications described below can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention.

[0173] For example, in the first embodiment and the like, a case has been described in which a performer object is displayed on the live screen, but an avatar of each user viewing the live screen may also be displayed.

[0174] In the first embodiment and the like, a case has been described in which a common gift can be selected in each video in the gift selection area, but different gifts may be selected depending on the performer object appearing in the video. Furthermore, when multiple performer objects appear, the user may be able to select which performer object to gift to.

[0175] Furthermore, in the first embodiment and the like, the gifting request is described as an instruction to pay a price associated with a gift, but it may also be an instruction to give a gift that the user has purchased in advance.

[0176] Furthermore, in the first embodiment and the like, a case has been described in which a user who has a predetermined relationship with a user is a friend user, but the friend user may also be a user who belongs to the same team (guild) as the user.

[0177] In addition, in the first embodiment, etc., the setting means 52 has been described as setting the gift and gifting conditions selected by the user to the automatic gifting information, but multiple gifts and gifting conditions may also be set to the automatic gifting information.

[0178] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the determination means 54 analyzes the movement of the performer object from a video, but the movement may be identified based on an input instruction from the performer object (distribution user) or a person related to the performer object, etc. For example, the determination means 54 may identify the movement based on an input instruction regarding the movement (for example, the start or end of a performance) being made to the terminal device 12 operated by the performer object (distribution user).

[0179] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the judgment means 54 has been described as making a gifting judgment when a specific statement is made by a performer object, but the gifting judgment may also be made when a message sent by the performer object to a user watching the video contains specific content.

[0180] Furthermore, in the first embodiment and the like, the gifting conditions are described as being registered in advance by the operator of the video distribution system 1, but they may also be registered in advance by either the performer object (distributor user) or the user. For example, if the operator or user of the video distribution system 1 registers gifting conditions (actions, specific statements, etc.) in advance, the gifting conditions may be set so that they are not known to the performer object (distributor user). This allows the performer object (distributor user) to perform various actions (performances) in order to find the gifting conditions set by the user.

[0181] In addition, in the first embodiment, etc., it has been explained that when the gifting judgment is affirmative by the judgment means 54, the control means 58 consumes the consideration associated with the gift from the owned currency information of the user who set the automatic gifting information, but the consideration may also be consumed when the automatic gifting information is set. [Explanation of symbols]

[0182] 10...Server device 12...Terminal device 50...Memory means 52...Setting method 54… Judgment methods 56…means of representation

Claims

1. A program for gifting in which each user who watches a video being distributed displays a gift on the video, Computer, a setting means for setting gifting conditions for a user to automatically request gifting; a determination means for determining whether or not a movement made by a performer object appearing in the video satisfies the gifting condition; a display means for displaying the gift on the video when the determination is affirmative, the gift being a gifting request from the user; To function as, program.

2. the gifting condition includes that the action by the performer object has started or ended; The program according to claim 1.

3. the gifting condition includes that a specific statement is made by the performer object; The program according to claim 1.

4. the display means displays the gift on the video regardless of whether the user is watching the video or not; The program according to claim 1.

5. The user is a user who pays a predetermined fee. The program according to claim 1.

6. The gifting request is gratuitous; The program according to claim 1.

7. The gifting request is for a fee. The program according to claim 1.

8. The performer object is a broadcast user who can earn a reward based on the gifting request. The program according to claim 1.

9. An information processing device for gifting a video that is being distributed to each user by displaying a gift on the video, the information processing device comprising: a setting means for setting gifting conditions for a user to automatically request a gift; a determining means for determining whether or not a movement made by a performer object appearing in the video satisfies the gifting condition; a display means for displaying the gift on the video when the determination is affirmative, the gift being a gifting request from the user; Equipped with Information processing device.

Images