Distribution system, distribution program, and distribution method

Abstract

To give a distributor, who is a player receiving backup from a viewer, a reward based on the backup in content distribution.SOLUTION: A distribution system for performing content distribution is configured to receive backup action to a distributor from a viewer viewing live distribution during the live distribution and give a reward to a distributor depending on the backup action.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 33

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a distribution system, a distribution program, and a distribution method. [Background technology]

[0002] There are various ways to enjoy streaming, such as broadcasting images of content such as electronic games while the content is being played, such as broadcasters (live streamers) broadcasting their live play of the electronic game while viewers (listeners) play the electronic game.

[0003] A technology has been disclosed that allows viewers to cheer on players playing video games. After the game is over, the cheering is evaluated and a special reward is awarded to the viewer (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 7208552 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the distribution of electronic games, players who receive support from viewers have not been able to receive rewards in response to the support. Therefore, it is desirable to realize a distribution system, distribution program, and distribution method that provide rewards to players who receive support. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is a distribution system for distributing content, which is characterized by accepting supportive actions toward the distributor from viewers watching the live broadcast during the live broadcast, and awarding a reward to the distributor in accordance with the supportive actions.

[0007] Here, it is preferable that the live distribution be performed while a plurality of the distributors are playing the common electronic game simultaneously.

[0008] Preferably, the cheering action is accepted before the electronic game is started.

[0009] It is also preferable that cheering points are awarded to the broadcaster in response to the cheering action, and the reward is determined based on the cheering points.

[0010] It is also preferable that the rarity of the reward or the number of the rewards is determined based on the support points.

[0011] In addition, it is preferable that the cheering action is posting a comment on the live broadcast or using a cheering item on the live broadcast.

[0012] It is also preferable that the comment allows advice about the electronic game to be given to the distributor.

[0013] In addition to the cheering action, it is preferable to give a reward to the distributor depending on the result of the electronic game.

[0014] It is also preferable that the reward be given to the distributor after the electronic game has ended.

[0015] Another aspect of the present invention is a distribution program for distributing content, characterized in that the distribution program causes a computer to function as a means for accepting supportive actions toward the distributor from viewers watching the live distribution during the live distribution, and a means for granting a reward to the distributor in accordance with the supportive actions.

[0016] Another aspect of the present invention is a distribution method for distributing content, characterized in that a computer executes the steps of accepting supportive actions toward the distributor from viewers watching the live broadcast during the live broadcast, and granting a reward to the distributor in accordance with the supportive actions. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the present invention, in the distribution of an electronic game, a distributor who is a player who receives support from viewers can receive a reward based on the support. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a server according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a distributor terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a viewer terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of a server according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user database according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a distributor ranking database according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a viewer ranking database according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a timeline database according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a distribution information database according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a distribution history database according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a support item database according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a timeline screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a user profile display screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a ranking menu display screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a ranking details display screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a distribution setting screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a filter selection screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a distribution screen according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a distributor information display screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a viewer information display screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a box information screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a box information screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a box information screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a support processing screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a support rank according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a method for determining a support rank in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a rank meter according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 29] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a family database according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of setting a timetable in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 31] 1 is a diagram illustrating an aspect of electronic game distribution according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 32] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an event database according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 33] 10 is a flowchart showing a distribution process for an electronic game event according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] As shown in Fig. 1, a distribution system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a server 102, a distributor terminal 104, and a viewer terminal 106. There may be one or more distributor terminals 104 and viewer terminals 106. The server 102, distributor terminal 104, and viewer terminal 106 are connected to each other via an information and communications network 108 such as the Internet so that they can exchange information with each other.

[0020] The information and communication network 108 is not limited to the Internet, but may be any network that can connect the server 102, the distributor terminal 104, and the viewer terminal 106 to each other so that they can communicate with each other. For example, it may be a dedicated line, a public line (telephone line, mobile communication line, etc.), a wired LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless LAN, etc., or it may be a combination of the Internet and any of these.

[0021] The server 102 receives information including the content to be distributed from the distributor terminal 104 and transmits the information including the content to the viewer terminal 106, thereby realizing the distribution of the content in the distribution system 100.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 2, the server 102 includes a processing unit 10, a memory unit 12, an input unit 14, an output unit 16, and a communication unit 18. The processing unit 10 includes a means for performing arithmetic processing, such as a CPU. The processing unit 10 executes a server program stored in the memory unit 12 to interconnect the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106 in the distribution system 100 of this embodiment, thereby realizing distribution. The memory unit 12 includes storage means, such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or a memory card. The memory unit 12 is accessible from the processing unit 10 and stores the server program and information necessary for its processing. The input unit 14 includes a means for inputting information. The input unit 14 includes, for example, a keyboard, a touch panel, buttons, etc., for receiving input from an administrator. The output unit 16 includes a means for outputting the processing results of the server 102, such as a user interface screen (UI) for receiving input information from the administrator. The output unit 16 includes, for example, a display for presenting images to the administrator. The communication unit 18 is configured to include an interface for communicating information with the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106 via the information communication network 108. The communication by the communication unit 18 may be wired or wireless.

[0023] The broadcaster terminal 104 is a terminal used by a broadcaster (liver) who broadcasts. As shown in FIG. 3, the broadcaster terminal 104 includes a processing unit 20, a memory unit 22, an input unit 24, an output unit 26, and a communication unit 28. The processing unit 20 includes a means for performing arithmetic processing, such as a CPU. The processing unit 20 realizes the function of the broadcaster terminal in the broadcasting system 100 of this embodiment by executing a broadcaster terminal program included in a broadcasting application stored in the memory unit 22. The memory unit 22 includes storage means, such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or a memory card. The memory unit 22 is connected to the processing unit 20 so as to be accessible, and stores the broadcaster terminal program and information necessary for its processing. The input unit 24 includes a means for inputting information. The input unit 24 includes, for example, a keyboard, a touch panel, buttons, a camera, a microphone, a motion capture, or the like, for receiving input from the broadcaster. The output unit 26 includes means for outputting information necessary for processing on the distributor terminal 104, such as a screen for receiving input information from the distributor, a display for displaying image information such as a user interface screen (UI), a speaker, a VR monitor, etc. The communication unit 28 is configured to include an interface for communicating information with the server 102 via the information and communication network 108. Communication by the communication unit 28 may be wired or wireless.

[0024] The viewer terminal 106 is a terminal used by a viewer who watches a broadcast. As shown in FIG. 4, the viewer terminal 106 includes a processing unit 30, a memory unit 32, an input unit 34, an output unit 36, and a communication unit 38. The processing unit 30 includes a means for performing arithmetic processing, such as a CPU. The processing unit 30 executes a viewer terminal program included in a broadcast application stored in the memory unit 32, thereby realizing the function of the viewer terminal in the broadcast system 100 of this embodiment. The memory unit 32 includes storage means, such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or a memory card. The memory unit 32 is accessible and connected to the processing unit 30 and stores the viewer terminal program and information necessary for its processing. The input unit 34 includes a means for inputting information. The input unit 34 includes, for example, a keyboard, a touch panel, buttons, a camera, a motion capture device, or the like, for receiving input from a viewer. The output unit 36 ​​includes a means for outputting information necessary for processing on the viewer terminal 106, such as a screen for receiving input information from a user, a display for displaying image information such as a user interface screen (UI), a speaker, a VR monitor, or the like. The communication unit 38 is configured to include an interface for communicating information with the server 102 via the information communication network 108. The communication by the communication unit 38 may be wired or wireless.

[0025] The distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106 can be various information processing devices that can execute programs for providing the services of the distribution system 100. For example, the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106 can be a fixed or portable dedicated device, a personal computer (PC), a tablet computer, a smartphone, a mobile phone terminal, a PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a multi-function television receiver with information processing capabilities (so-called smart TV), etc.

[0026] The distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106 can be realized by installing an application (for the distributor or for the viewer) provided by the server 102 or the like in advance on an information processing device. The distributor operates the distributor terminal 104 to start the application and performs distribution via the server 102. The viewer operates the viewer terminal 106 to start the application and view the distribution via the server 102.

[0027] In the distribution system 100, the same information processing device can be used as both the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106. That is, by starting and executing a distribution application on the information processing device, the information processing device can function as both the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106.

[0028] Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between distributors and viewers, they will simply be referred to as users. Also, a user who is a distributor may be referred to as a distributor, and a user who is a viewer may be referred to as a viewer. Also, a user who is neither broadcasting nor viewing, but is using the viewer terminal 106, may be referred to as a user.

[0029] [Distribution Overview] In the distribution system 100, content is distributed by transmitting the content from a distributor using a distributor terminal 104 to a viewer using a viewer terminal 106 via a server 102.

[0030] The content to be distributed in the distribution system 100 can be information including audio, images, or both. Audio is not limited to human voices, but may be any audio information such as music, sound effects in games, sounds in nature, background sounds in sports, etc. Images are not limited to videos, but may also be still images. Examples of images include images of people captured by a camera, images in which a person captured by a camera is converted into a virtual character, a game screen when playing a game, and images of sports, etc., captured by a camera.

[0031] For example, a broadcaster who is a player can play an electronic game and broadcast the situation of playing the electronic game live. In this case, too, the broadcaster may be converted into a virtual character or the like and broadcasted as a video.

[0032] 31 is a diagram showing an example of an electronic game distribution mode. An event is held in which multiple distributors simultaneously play a common electronic game and live-stream it. In the event, for example, multiple distributors take turns playing different types of electronic games as players and live-stream them.

[0033] In the example of FIG. 31, a player using broadcaster terminal 104a (104a-1, 104a-2, . . . ) is the broadcaster of the live broadcast, and multiple viewers watching the live broadcast are cheering for the broadcaster using viewer terminal 106a, respectively. Similarly, a player using broadcaster terminal 104b (104b-1, 104b-2, . . . ) is the broadcaster of the live broadcast, and multiple viewers watching the live broadcast are cheering for the broadcaster using viewer terminal 106b, respectively. Also, a player using broadcaster terminal 104c is the broadcaster of the live broadcast, and multiple viewers watching the live broadcast are cheering for the broadcaster using viewer terminal 106c (104c-1, 104c-2, . . . ).

[0034] For ease of explanation, the information processing terminals used by viewers watching live streaming will be referred to as viewer terminals 106 and assigned the same reference numeral. However, the same processing can be performed on any viewer terminal 106 (104a-1, 104a-2, 104b-1, 104b-2, 104c-1, 104c-2, ...) used by any viewer.

[0035] [Basic configuration of distribution system] The basic configuration of the distribution system 100 will be described below. Fig. 5 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the server 102. The server 102 functions as a timeline display means 40, a distribution setting means 42, a distribution means 44, a box processing means 46, a cheer processing means 48, a rank determination means 50, an cheer processing means 52, a family means 54, a distribution ending means 56, a reward granting means 58, and a matching means 60 by executing the processes described below in cooperation with the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106.

[0036] In the following description, some of the processes described as processes executed by the server 102 may be executed by the distributor terminal 104 or the viewer terminal 106. Also, some of the processes described as processes executed by the distributor terminal 104 may be executed by the server 102 or the viewer terminal 106. Also, some of the processes described as processes executed by the viewer terminal 106 may be executed by the server 102 or the distributor terminal 104.

[0037] In this embodiment, the various databases will be described as being stored in the memory unit 12 of the server 102. However, the various databases may be stored in any of the memory unit 12 of the server 102, the memory unit 22 of the distributor terminal 104, or the memory unit 32 of the viewer terminal 106, or in any other external storage device. The information stored as the various databases can be accessed as needed from any of the server 102, the distributor terminal 104, and the viewer terminal 106 via the information and communications network 108.

[0038] 6, the user database 110 stores information related to users who have been pre-registered in the distribution system 100 in an associated manner. The user database 110 stores information such as a user ID, a username, a password, a gender, an image of the user (e.g., an icon photo, a profile photo, etc.), a local area name, a self-introduction text, keywords, owned items, owned coins, owned diamonds, followed broadcasters, the user's followers, core fans, other users included in the family, information related to past broadcasts (past broadcast dates and times, etc.), a current level, a rank meter, a support rank, support points, the number of cheers, a deadline, and account information in an associated manner.

[0039] The user ID is an ID that is uniquely assigned to each user. The user ID is automatically assigned when the user first registers with the distribution system 100. The username is the name that the user uses in the distribution system 100. The username may be the user's real name or a pseudonym.

[0040] The password is authentication information used when a user logs in to the distribution system 100. When logging in to the distribution system 100, the user inputs a user ID and password from an information processing device and transmits them to the server 102. Upon receiving the user ID and password, the server 102 refers to the user database 110, and if the received password exists in association with the received user ID, the server 102 permits the user to log in as the user assigned with that user ID.

[0041] Gender is information about the gender of the user. Gender is selected from, for example, male, female, other, etc. and registered in advance. User photos are photo data displayed on the user's icon or timeline. User photos are stored in the user database 110 by uploading them to the server 102 by the user. The distribution system 100 can apply a filter function that applies an image processing filter to the user's photos. The filter function will be described later.

[0042] The area name is the name of an area that the user considers to be closely related to the user. The area name is entered in advance by the user and stored in the user database 110. The area name is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, the area where the user lives or the area where the user is from. The self-introduction text is text information that the user uses to introduce themselves. The self-introduction text is entered in advance by the user and stored in the user database 110. The self-introduction text may be a URL for accessing a web page that contains information related to the self-introduction.

[0043] Keywords are text information that are displayed on the timeline or in images being streamed. Keywords are stored in the user database 110 by users inputting keywords related to the topic of a stream or the stream in advance. Multiple keywords may be registered. It is preferable to set an upper limit on the number of characters in a keyword. For example, the number of characters in a keyword should be 15 characters or less. Using keywords makes it easier to search for streams based on the topic of a stream or keywords related to a stream.

[0044] The owned items are information indicating the type and number of items owned by the user and used in the distribution system 100. The items may be, for example, cheer items used to cheer on other users. However, the purpose of use of the items is not limited to this, and items may be anything that can be used in the distribution system 100. The owned items are stored in the user database 110 as item IDs that are uniquely assigned to each item. Note that support items cannot be owned, and may be used by consuming coins each time.

[0045] Furthermore, for example, a streamer can acquire an item as a reward for receiving support from viewers. For example, a viewer can acquire an item as a reward for supporting a streamer. An item may be a reward given according to the amount of support from a viewer. Furthermore, an item may be converted into cash at a predetermined rate, exchanged for other prizes, or used as a participation fee for an event.

[0046] Furthermore, a rarity may be set for each item. The higher the rarity of an item, the lower the probability of it being granted. It is also preferable to set an item with a higher rarity so that its utility value is higher. For example, it is preferable to set an item with a higher rarity so that it can be converted into cash at a higher rate, or can be exchanged for prizes or the like with higher value, or the rarer the item, the cheaper the participation fee for an event.

[0047] The owned coins is information indicating the number of coins that the user owns that can be used in the distribution system 100. The coins can be used to purchase items in the distribution system 100. For example, the coins can be granted by the system in the distribution system 100 or can be acquired by the user by paying a fee.

[0048] The owned diamonds are information indicating the number of diamonds that a user owns and uses in the distribution system 100. Diamonds are rewards given to a user according to the amount of support given by other users when the user distributes. Diamonds can be converted into cash at a predetermined rate, exchanged for other prizes, or used as participation fees for events.

[0049] Information about followed broadcasters is a user ID that identifies other broadcasters that the user is following. The user can register the broadcasters they are following themselves. Information about the user's followers is a user ID that identifies other viewers who are following the user. Other users who have watched the user's broadcast can register as followers of the user.

[0050] The information about core fans is a user ID that identifies other users who have become core fans of the user. A user can become a core fan by accumulating cheers sent to the user who is broadcasting. The process related to cheers will be described later.

[0051] Information about other users in a family is the user ID that identifies the user and other users who are set as family members. A family is a group of users who support a streamer, promote their streams, and work together to achieve the streamer's goals. Information about a family also stores the user IDs of users who are family members and users who are assistants. How to set up a family and join a family will be described later.

[0052] The information about past distributions includes information about distribution dates and times of past distributions made by the user, distribution times, etc. The user database 110 stores a distribution ID assigned to each piece of past distribution information stored in a distribution history database described later.

[0053] The current level is the user's current level in the distribution system 100. The level is determined based on experience gained when broadcasting or viewing in the distribution system 100. The level can be determined based on factors such as receiving support items from other users, receiving comments from other users, receiving "likes" from other users, and having other users watch the broadcast when the user broadcasts. The level can also be determined based on factors such as using support items for other users, commenting on other users, giving "likes" to other users, and watching other users when watching the broadcasts of other users. It is preferable to determine the user's level based on at least one of these factors or a combination of multiple factors.

[0054] The rank meter is an index used to determine the support rank, which is a unique ranking system in the distribution system 100. The support rank is a user's rank that is set according to the amount of support. The higher the support rank, the greater the reward for the distributor. In the distribution system 100, the support rank is divided into, for example, S rank, A rank, B rank, C rank, D rank, and E rank bands from highest to lowest. The S rank band is set to six ranks from S6 to S1, the A rank band is set to three ranks from A3 to A1, the B rank band is set to three ranks from B3 to B1, the C rank band is set to three ranks from C3 to C1, the D rank band is set to three ranks from D3 to D1, and the E rank band is set to only E1. A method for setting the support rank using the rank meter will be described later.

[0055] Support points are points determined by supporting activities for broadcasts by other broadcasters. Support points are calculated based on the number of coins used as support items, the number of comments, the viewing time, the number of likes, etc. Support points are used to determine various rankings and support ranks. Support points are preferably reset to 0 every predetermined period, for example, every day. The method for calculating support points will be described later.

[0056] The number of cheers is an indicator of the total amount of support provided by viewers. Cheers are accumulated through supportive actions such as the number of coins used for support items for other streamers a user supports as a viewer, the amount of time spent watching the streams of those streamers, the number of comments, and the number of days watched. By accumulating cheers for other users, a user can become a core fan of those users according to the number of cheers. Furthermore, the level of a core fan may increase, for example, with cheers between 1,000 and 4,999 being a Petit Fan (0.1K), between 5,000 and 10,000 being a Petit Fan (0.5K), between 10,000 and 49,999 being a Core Fan (1K), between 50,000 and 99,999 being a Core Fan (5K), between 100,000 and 149,999 being a Core Fan (10K), and between 150,000 and 199,999 being a Core Fan (15K). The cheer count is counted for each predetermined period, for example, cheering actions from 00:00:00 on the first day of each month to 23:59:59 on the last day of each month. The cheer count is also reset after the predetermined period has elapsed. For example, the cheer count is reset every month. The cheer count is stored in the user database 110 in association with the user IDs of other users.

[0057] The cut-off time is a standard time for processing in the distribution system 100. The cut-off time is set to a predetermined time of day. The cut-off time may be, for example, one of 1:00 PM, 10:00 PM, or midnight. Multiple cut-off times may be set. Each user may be able to set or change the cut-off time on a monthly basis.

[0058] The account information is information about an account used to charge the user or convert the amount into cash in the distribution system 100. The account information may be, for example, the account number of a bank account used by the user, a credit card number, an electronic money account, or the like.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 7, the broadcaster ranking database 112 is a database that stores information about various rankings related to broadcasts. Broadcaster rankings are determined by the support points each user has received from other users in each period of one day (daily), one week (weekly), and one month (monthly). In other words, the rankings are determined in descending order of the number of support points each user has received from other users in each period. The broadcaster ranking database 112 stores user IDs associated with rankings for various indicators. The indicators can be, for example, support points, gender, tag content, etc. Rankings may also be displayed based on event scores, the number of specific rewards (gifts), etc.

[0060] The information in the broadcaster ranking database 112 is updated as needed. That is, since the support points that determine the rankings change from moment to moment, the server 102 performs processing to change the rankings accordingly.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 8, the viewer ranking database 114 is a database that stores information about various rankings related to viewing. The viewer ranking is determined by the cheer points acquired by each user through cheers given to other users in each period of one day (daily), one week (weekly), and one month (monthly). In other words, the ranking is determined in descending order of the number of cheer points acquired by each user through cheers given to other users in each period. The viewer ranking database 114 stores the rankings in association with user IDs.

[0062] The information in the viewer ranking database 114 is updated as needed. That is, since the support points that determine the rankings change from moment to moment, the server 102 performs processing to change the rankings accordingly.

[0063] The timeline database 116 is a database used for displaying a timeline, as shown in Fig. 9. The timeline database 116 stores information identifying a currently occurring broadcast for each item in association with the broadcast. The information identifying a broadcast may be, for example, the user ID of the user performing the broadcast. The information stored in the timeline database 116 may store all currently occurring broadcasts that correspond to each item, or may store a predetermined number of broadcasts that correspond to each item in order of the most recently started broadcast.

[0064] Timeline items can be, for example, Popular, Region, Featured, Debut, Rookie, Hope, Ranker, Return, Trending, Male, Female, Event Name, New 1 day, New 7 day, New 30 day, All, etc. Each item is associated with and stored with the user ID of a currently broadcasting broadcaster who meets the following conditions:

[0065] The Popularity section stores the user IDs of users in descending order of the live scores. The Region section stores the user IDs of users for each region name stored in the user database 110. The Featured section stores the user IDs of a predetermined number of users that are individually customized for each user. The Featured section stores the user IDs of users who are broadcasting secretly or welcoming new users, as described below, at the top of the list.

[0066] The Debut section stores the user IDs of users (broadcasters) with a support rank of E1 to D3. The Rookie section stores the user IDs of streamers with a support rank of C1 to C3. The Hope section stores the user IDs of streamers with a support rank of B1 to A2. The Ranker section stores the user IDs of streamers with a support rank of A3 or higher.

[0067] The "return" field stores the user ID of a streamer who resumed streaming after a predetermined period of time has passed since the last stream. The "return" field may also store the user ID of a streamer who resumed streaming after taking advantage of a leave system, such as a leave system for childbirth. The "trending" field stores the user IDs of streamers whose streams have been tagged recently, in reverse chronological order. Only streams in which the streamer's face appears may be stored in the "trending" field.

[0068] The male field stores the user IDs of broadcasters whose gender is registered as male. The female field stores the user IDs of broadcasters whose gender is registered as female. The event name field stores the user IDs of broadcasters participating in an event held in the distribution system 100. If multiple events are held, the user IDs of broadcasters for each event are stored.

[0069] The New 1 day field stores the user IDs of broadcasters whose support ranks are E1 to D3 and who are on the first day since their first broadcast via the distribution system 100. The New 7 day field stores the user IDs of broadcasters whose support ranks are E1 to D3 and who are on the second to seventh day since their first broadcast via the distribution system 100. The New 30 day field stores the user IDs of broadcasters whose support ranks are E1 to D3 and who are on the eighth to 30th day since their first broadcast via the distribution system 100. If the support rank is upgraded to a higher rank, the condition is also considered to be met if the support rank becomes E1 to D3 again within the respective period.

[0070] All items are stored with the user IDs of all users currently broadcasting. However, the items stored in the timeline database 116 are not limited to these, and other items may be added or items may be deleted.

[0071] The information in the timeline database 116 is updated as needed. That is, the users who meet the conditions for each item in the timeline database 116 change from moment to moment, so in response to this, new user IDs of users who now meet the conditions for each item are registered, and user IDs of users who no longer meet the conditions for each item are deleted.

[0072] As shown in Fig. 10, distribution information database 118 is a database that stores information about content currently being distributed. Distribution information database 118 stores the user ID of the distributor currently distributing content, a distribution ID uniquely assigned to each distribution, the distribution start date and time, and distribution data of the sound and image being distributed, all in association with each other. By referencing distribution information database 118, information about content currently being distributed can be extracted based on the user ID or distribution ID.

[0073] The information in distribution information database 118 is updated as appropriate. That is, when a new distribution starts, a unique distribution ID is assigned to the distribution, and information related to the distribution is newly stored in distribution information database 118. Furthermore, when a distribution ends, the information related to the distribution is deleted from distribution information database 118. Note that the information related to the deleted distribution is stored in distribution history database 120.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 11, the distribution history database 120 is a database that stores information about distributions that have been made in the past. The distribution history database 120 stores, in association with each other, the user ID of the distributor of the past distribution, a distribution ID uniquely assigned to each distribution, the distribution start date and time, the distribution end date and time, and the distribution data of the distributed sound and image. By referring to the distribution history database 120, it is possible to extract information about content that has been distributed in the past based on the user ID or distribution ID.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 12 , the support item database 122 is a database that stores information about support items used to support the distribution system 100. The support item database 122 stores an item ID unique to each item, item attributes, the number of coins consumed when using the item, image data of the item, and the validity period of the item, in association with each other. The item attributes indicate the users who can use the item, the events in which the item can be used, and the period during which the item can be used. The item attributes may be, for example, general, beginner-only, event-only, or time-limited. The general attribute indicates that the item can be used permanently by any user. The beginner-only attribute indicates that the item can only be used by a user for a predetermined period after registering with the distribution system 100. The predetermined period may be set to, for example, one week or one month. The predetermined period may be set for each item. The event-limited attribute indicates that the item can only be used when participating in an event held in the distribution system 100. The event-limited item is stored in association with the validity period of the event. The time-limited attribute indicates that the item can only be used for a predetermined period. The predetermined period is set to, for example, one week, one month, etc. The predetermined period may be set for each item.

[0076] The various databases described above may be integrated with each other or may be divided into multiple databases. Furthermore, the information used in distribution system 100 is not limited to the information stored in the various databases described above, and other information may be added as necessary.

[0077] [Login process to distribution system] When using an information processing device as a distributor terminal 104 or a viewer terminal 106 in the distribution system 100, the user inputs authentication information such as a pre-set user ID and password. The input authentication information such as a user ID and password is transmitted to the server 102 via the information communication network 108.

[0078] When the server 102 receives the user ID and password, it refers to the user database 110, and if the received password exists in association with the received user ID, it permits login as the user assigned that user ID.

[0079] By logging in, the information processing device is permitted to access the server 102 as the distributor terminal 104 or the viewer terminal 106 , and the server 102 , distributor terminal 104 and viewer terminal 106 function as the distribution system 100 .

[0080] [Timeline display processing] When a distribution application is launched on the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106, a timeline screen is displayed.

[0081] 13 shows an example of a timeline screen 200 displayed on the broadcaster terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106. The timeline screen 200 includes a user profile icon 202, a ranking icon 204, an event live selection area 206, a favorite broadcaster display area 208, a category selection area 210, a timeline display area 212, and a function selection area 214. The server 102 transmits information necessary to display the timeline screen 200 to the broadcaster terminal 104 or the viewer terminal 106. In this way, the server 102 functions as a timeline display means 40.

[0082] The user profile icon 202 is an icon for displaying information about the user using the broadcaster terminal 104 or the viewer terminal 106. It is preferable that the user profile icon 202 display a photo or image of the user that the user has registered. When the user selects the user profile icon 202 (for example, by tapping or clicking; hereinafter, when the term "select" is used, it means tapping, clicking, etc. unless otherwise specified), information about the user can be displayed. The user profile display process will be described later.

[0083] The ranking icon 204 is an icon for displaying information about the rankings of distributors and viewers. By selecting the ranking icon 204, the user can display information such as rankings about distributors and viewers. The ranking display process will be described later.

[0084] The event live selection area 206 is an area for selecting the content to be displayed on the timeline screen 200. In the event live selection area 206, either an event or a live performance can be exclusively selected. If the user selects an event, information about the event provided by the distribution system 100 is displayed. If the user selects a live performance, the timeline screen 200 is displayed. FIG. 13 shows the timeline screen 200 when a live performance is selected.

[0085] For example, if an electronic game competition event is taking place, the event live selection area 206 displays information indicating the event.

[0086] The favorite broadcaster display area 208 displays information about other broadcasters that the user has registered as favorites and is following. The favorite broadcaster display area 208 displays the user icons and usernames of other broadcasters that the user has registered as favorites. The server 102 references the user database 110 to extract the user IDs of other users who are stored as broadcasters being followed and associated with the user ID of the user. The server 102 references the broadcast information database 118 to select the user ID of a user who is currently broadcasting from the extracted user IDs. The server 102 further references the user database 110 to extract user information, such as a username and user photo data, associated with the selected user ID. The server 102 transmits the extracted user ID and user information to the viewer terminal 106 via the information and communications network 108. The viewer terminal 106 displays the user information in the favorite broadcaster display area 208. For example, a user icon may be displayed based on the user's photo data, and the username may be displayed in association with the user icon. When the user selects a user icon displayed in the favorite broadcaster display area 208, the viewer terminal 106 proceeds to display processing of broadcasts of other users corresponding to the selected user icon. The broadcast display processing will be described later.

[0087] The category selection area 210 is an area for selecting items related to broadcasts to be displayed in the timeline display area 212. As described above, timeline items can be, for example, Popular, Region, Featured, Debut, Rookie, Hope, Ranker, Return, Trending, Male, Female, Event Name, New 1 Day, New 7 Day, New 30 Day, All, etc. The timeline items may further include items such as Recommended and Profile. Recommended items indicate broadcasters who are broadcasting related to the broadcast viewed by the user. Profile items indicate broadcasters who have been individually customized by the user.

[0088] In the category selection area 210, the user can select information about a distributor that corresponds to the item they wish to display in the timeline display area 212. The viewer terminal 106 used by the user transmits the item selected in the category selection area 210 to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108. Upon receiving the item, the server 102 references the timeline database 116 to extract the user ID of the distributor associated with the selected item. Furthermore, the server 102 references the user database 110 to extract information associated with the extracted user ID. The server 102 returns the extracted information to the viewer terminal 106 via the information and communications network 108. The viewer terminal 106 uses the extracted information to display the timeline display area 212.

[0089] For example, if debut is selected in the category selection area 210, the user ID of the user associated with the debut item in the timeline database 116 is extracted. Furthermore, information associated with the extracted user ID is extracted in the user database 110. The same process is performed for other items.

[0090] The timeline display area 212 is an area that displays information about users who are currently broadcasting and who correspond to the item selected in the category selection area 210. The timeline display area 212 displays photos of users extracted from the user database 110. The timeline display area 212 is displayed for each user who corresponds to the item selected in the category selection area 210 and who is currently broadcasting. It is also preferable to scroll the timeline screen 200 to display the timeline display areas 212 of different broadcasters.

[0091] By selecting one of the timeline display areas 212 on the timeline screen 200, the user can view the broadcast of the broadcaster displayed in the selected timeline display area 212. The viewer terminal 106 proceeds to display processing of the broadcast corresponding to the selected timeline display area 212. The display processing of the broadcast will be described later.

[0092] The timeline display area 212 includes a live score display section 212a, a box display section 212b, a keyword display section 212c, a tag display section 212d, a level display section 212e, a broadcaster name display section 212f, and a region name display section 212g.

[0093] The live score display section 212a is an area where the live score, which is an indicator of the popularity of a broadcast, is displayed. The live score is calculated based on the number of viewers, the number of likes, the number of comments, and the usage of support items. The specific formula for calculating the live score is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to calculate the live score so that the greater the number of viewers, the greater the number of likes, the greater the number of comments, and the greater the number of coins consumed for support items. By checking the live score displayed on the live score display section 212a, users can check how popular a broadcast is before actually watching it.

[0094] The box display area 212b is an area that displays the number of boxes in stock that will be given to viewers during a broadcast. A box is an object that contains coins that viewers can earn by watching a broadcast. Processing related to boxes will be described later.

[0095] The keyword display section 212c is an area where keywords registered by the broadcaster in their profile are displayed. Keywords associated with the broadcaster's user ID in the user database 110 are displayed in the keyword display section 212c. If multiple keywords are registered, one of them can be randomly selected and displayed, or the broadcaster can select one and display it. By checking the keywords displayed in the keyword display section 212c, the user can check the content of the broadcast before actually watching the broadcast.

[0096] The tag display section 212d displays tags that have been added to the current broadcast. It is preferable that tags be added only by special users. For example, tags can be added in real time by the broadcaster or viewers who are family members of the broadcaster during the broadcast. By checking the tags displayed in the tag display section 212d, users can confirm the content of the broadcast from the tags added during the broadcast before actually viewing the broadcast.

[0097] For example, if an electronic game competition event is being held, tag information indicating the event may be displayed in the tag display unit 212d for the live broadcast of a broadcaster participating in the event. This allows the user to confirm that the broadcast is a live broadcast of an electronic game at the event by checking the tag information indicating the event displayed in the tag display unit 212d.

[0098] The level display section 212e is an area where information indicating the current level of the broadcaster is displayed. The level display section 212e displays a level value associated with the broadcaster's user ID in the user database 110. By checking the level value displayed in the level display section 212e, the user can confirm the level of the broadcaster broadcasting the content before actually viewing the content.

[0099] The distributor name display area 212f is an area where the name of the distributor is displayed. The distributor name display area 212f displays the username associated with the distributor's user ID in the user database 110. By checking the username displayed in the distributor name display area 212f, the user can confirm the username of the distributor before actually viewing the broadcast.

[0100] Furthermore, by selecting (e.g., long pressing) a broadcaster displayed in the broadcaster name display area 212f, options such as displaying the broadcaster's profile, following the broadcaster, or blocking the broadcaster may be displayed. When "Display broadcaster's profile" is selected, the user database 110 is referenced to read out the broadcaster's information and display it as detailed information. When "Follow broadcaster" is selected, the user ID of the selected broadcaster is registered as a broadcaster being followed in association with the user ID of the user who performed the selection operation in the user database 110. When "Block broadcaster" is selected, the broadcaster is processed so that it is not displayed on the timeline screen 200.

[0101] The area name display section 212g is an area where information about the area name registered by the user is displayed. The area name display section 212g displays the area name associated with the user ID of the broadcaster in the user database 110. By checking the area name displayed in the area name display section 212g, the user can check whether the broadcaster is likely to be broadcasting in the area of ​​interest before actually watching the broadcast.

[0102] The function selection area 214 is an area that displays functions that can be used on the timeline screen 200. In the function selection area 214, for example, icons that indicate functions that can be used on the timeline screen 200 are displayed. By selecting one of the icons displayed on the timeline screen 200, the user can use the function associated with the selected icon.

[0103] In the example of the timeline screen 200 shown in FIG. 13, the function selection area 214 includes a timeline display icon 214a, a search icon 214b, a distribution icon 214c, a family icon 214d, and a notice display icon 214e.

[0104] The timeline display icon 214a is an icon that the user can select to display the timeline screen 200. When the user selects the timeline display icon 214a, the timeline screen 200 is displayed.

[0105] The search icon 214b is an icon that allows the user to execute a process for searching for a stream. When the user selects the search icon 214b, a process for searching for a stream or a user by keyword is executed. Conventional processes can be applied to the keyword search. For example, an area for entering a keyword is displayed, and information about a stream or a user associated with the keyword entered by the user in the area is extracted and displayed from the user database 110, the timeline database 116, the stream information database 118, etc. Preferably, the user can further select information about the displayed stream or user to display the stream or detailed information about the user.

[0106] The broadcast icon 214c is an icon that allows the user to start broadcasting. When the user selects the broadcast icon 214c, the process of broadcasting with the user as the broadcaster begins. The broadcast display process will be described later.

[0107] The family icon 214d is an icon that allows a user to set a family and display information about users who are in a family relationship with the user. When a user selects the family icon 214d, information about users who are associated as the user's family in the user database 110 is displayed. It is preferable that by further selecting information about a displayed user or a broadcast of the user, the broadcast or detailed information about the user can be displayed.

[0108] The notice display icon 214e is an icon for displaying information to notify the user about the distribution system 100. When the user selects the display icon 214e, a notice about the distribution system 100 is displayed. Examples of the notice include maintenance information for the distribution system 100, information about events held in the distribution system 100, etc. However, the notice is not limited to these, and may be any information about the distribution system 100.

[0109] As described above, the information displayed on the timeline screen 200 changes depending on the distribution status, the information stored in the user database 110, the information stored in the timeline database 116, etc. Therefore, it is preferable to update the display on the timeline screen 200 at predetermined intervals. The predetermined interval may be set as appropriate, but is preferably set to, for example, 1 to 10 minutes.

[0110] Furthermore, the information displayed on the timeline screen 200 may be changed depending on the type of broadcast. For example, a broadcast set as a secret broadcast (described later) is displayed only on the timeline screen 200 of a user who is the target of the broadcast. The server 102 refers to the user database 110 and transmits information about a broadcast set as a secret broadcast only to users who are the target of the broadcast. Furthermore, a broadcast by a broadcaster who has a high retention rate among new viewers may be displayed at the top of a ranking individually customized for each user on the timeline screen 200 corresponding to a featured item. Furthermore, a broadcast set as a newcomer welcome broadcast (described later) is displayed only on the timeline screen 200 of a user who is the target of the newcomer welcome broadcast. The server 102 refers to the user database 110 and transmits information about a broadcast set as a newcomer welcome broadcast only to users who are the target of the newcomer welcome broadcast. Furthermore, a broadcast by a broadcaster who has a high retention rate among new viewers may be displayed at the top of a ranking individually customized for each user on the timeline screen 200 corresponding to a featured item. At this time, it is preferable to display the ranking of new customer welcome broadcasts higher than the ranking of secret broadcasts.

[0111] [User profile display process] The user profile display process is performed as part of the function of the timeline display means 40 of the server 102.

[0112] 14 shows an example of a user profile display screen 220. The user profile display screen 220 is displayed by selecting the user profile icon 202 on the timeline screen 200, for example.

[0113] The information about the user may be, for example, the user name, the user's current level, the user's photo, items owned by the user, coins owned by the user, broadcasters the user follows, the user's followers, users in the user's family, etc. This information can be extracted from the user database 110. In other words, information associated with the user ID of the user using the viewer terminal 106 in the user database 110 is extracted.

[0114] The user profile display screen 220 includes a username display area 222, a user icon display area 224, a level display area 226, a keyword display area 228, a region display area 230, and a detailed information display area 232. The username display area 222 displays the username registered by the user. The user icon display area 224 displays a user icon. The user icon display area 224 preferably displays an icon including a photo representing the user registered by the user. The level display area 226 displays the user's current level. The keyword display area 228 displays keywords set by the user. The region display area 230 displays the name of the region set by the user. The detailed information display area 232 displays detailed information about the user. The detailed information display area 232 displays, for example, information about items owned by the user (diamonds in this example), coins owned by the user, and the user's ranking. Furthermore, information such as a rank meter, support points, broadcast time, other users the user follows, and other users who follow the user may also be displayed.

[0115] It should be noted that by selecting various information displayed in the detailed information display area 232, more detailed information about the selected information may be displayed.

[0116] [Ranking display processing] The ranking display process is performed as part of the function of the timeline display means 40 of the server 102.

[0117] 15 shows an example of a ranking menu display screen 240. The ranking menu display screen 240 is displayed, for example, by selecting the ranking icon 204 on the timeline screen 200, or by selecting the ranking icon 312 on the distribution screen 290, which will be described later.

[0118] The ranking menu display screen 240 includes a distributor / viewer selection area 242, a period selection area 244, and a ranking display area 246 (246a to 246c).

[0119] The distributor / viewer selection area 242 is an area for selecting whether to display rankings related to distributors or rankings related to viewers. When the user wants to check the rankings related to distributors, the user selects a distributor in the distributor / viewer selection area 242. When the user wants to check the rankings related to viewers, the user selects a viewer in the distributor / viewer selection area 242.

[0120] The period selection area 244 is an area for selecting a period to be ranked. In this embodiment, the period is set to daily, weekly, or monthly. However, the period is not limited to these, and any period that is eligible for ranking may be used. The user selects one of the periods displayed in the period selection area 244.

[0121] The information on the broadcaster or viewer options selected in the broadcaster / viewer selection area 242 and the period selected in the period selection area 244 is transmitted to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108. Upon receiving this information, the server 102 refers to the broadcaster ranking database 112 or the viewer ranking database 114 and extracts ranking information corresponding to the information. The server 102 transmits the extracted ranking information to the viewer terminal 106 via the information and communications network 108.

[0122] Ranking information acquired from the server 102 is displayed in the ranking display area 246. In this embodiment, rankings are displayed by index in the ranking display area 246. For example, cheering points, gender, tag content, etc. are used as indexes, and rankings are displayed for each of these indexes.

[0123] 15, the ranking display area 246 includes ranking display areas 246a to 246c that display rankings for the various indicators of support points, male, and female. The ranking display areas 246a to 246c display icon images 246d of broadcasters ranked highly for each indicator. Users can see which broadcasters are ranked by checking the icon images 246d displayed in the ranking display area 246.

[0124] 16 shows an example of a ranking detail display screen 250. In addition, detailed information on the ranking of each index may be displayed by selecting one of the ranking display areas 246 (246a to 246c).

[0125] The ranking details display screen 250 includes a period selection area 252 and a ranking user display area 254 (254a to 254c). The period selection area 252 is an area for selecting a period that is the subject of ranking. In this embodiment, the period is set to daily, weekly, or monthly. However, the period is not limited to these, and any period that is the subject of ranking may be used. The user selects one of the periods displayed in the period selection area 254.

[0126] The selected ranking index and information about the period selected in the period selection area 252 are transmitted to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108. Upon receiving this information, the server 102 refers to the distributor ranking database 112 or the viewer ranking database 114 and extracts ranking information corresponding to the information. The server 102 transmits the extracted ranking information to the viewer terminal 106 via the information and communications network 108.

[0127] The ranking user display area 254 displays the position of each user in the ranking obtained from the server 102. The ranking user display area 254 is divided into multiple areas (ranking user display areas 254a...), and information about the broadcasters for each ranking is displayed in each area. The ranking detail display screen 250 in FIG. 16 is an example in which information about the broadcasters ranked 1st to 3rd in terms of the support point index is displayed in order in the ranking user display areas 254a to 254c. Broadcasters ranked 4th and below may also be displayed in a similar manner.

[0128] The ranking user display area 254a displays information about the first-ranked broadcaster. Specifically, the ranking user display area 254a displays the ranking position "1," an arrow symbol "↑" indicating whether the ranking has risen or fallen, the user's icon, the user name "aaaaaa," support points "1,649,160," level "20," and a follow button 254d for following the user. The second-ranked broadcaster is similarly displayed in the ranking user display area 254b, and the third-ranked broadcaster is similarly displayed in the ranking user display area 254c. The fourth-ranked broadcaster and beyond may be displayed in a similar manner.

[0129] By selecting one of the broadcasters displayed in the ranking user display area 254, further information about that broadcaster may be displayed. In this case, the viewer terminal 106 transmits the user ID of the selected broadcaster to the server 102 via the information and communication network 108. Upon receiving the broadcaster's user ID, the server 102 references the user database 110 and reads out information stored in association with the user ID. The server 102 transmits the read information to the viewer terminal 106 via the information and communication network 108. Upon receiving the information, the viewer terminal 106 displays the information on the output unit 36. The information to be displayed and the display format may be set as appropriate.

[0130] A follow button 254d is displayed in each ranking user display area 254. If a user wishes to follow the user, the user can do so by selecting the follow button 254d. When the follow button 254d is selected, the viewer terminal 106 transmits follow registration information to the server 102, including the user's user ID and the user ID of the broadcaster corresponding to the selected follow button 254d. Upon receiving the follow registration information, the server 102 registers the broadcaster's user ID in association with the user's user ID in the "Following Broadcasters" field of the user database 110. The server 102 also registers the user's user ID in association with the broadcaster's user ID in the "User's Followers" field of the user database 110.

[0131] [Initial setup process for distribution] In the distribution system 100, an initial distribution setup process is performed before distribution is performed. The server 102 functions as a distribution setup means 42.

[0132] A distributor who intends to distribute starts an application of the distribution system 100 on the distributor terminal 104. The distributor logs in to the distribution system 100 by inputting authentication information such as a user ID and password that have been set in advance.

[0133] After logging in, the broadcaster starts the initial setup process for broadcasting by selecting the broadcast icon 214c on the timeline screen 200. This causes the information processing device used by the broadcaster to function as the broadcaster terminal 104.

[0134] When the initial setting process for distribution starts, the server 102 reads out information associated with the user ID of the distributor from the user database 110. The server 102 transmits the read information about the distributor to the distributor terminal 104 via the information communication network 108.

[0135] 17, a distribution setting screen 260 is displayed on the distributor terminal 104. The distributor makes settings related to distribution on the distribution setting screen 260. The distribution setting screen 260 includes a user image display area 262, a distribution title input area 264, a distribution setting area 266, a share setting area 268, a distribution start button 270, a filter selection button 272, an in-camera / out-camera selection button 274, and a live radio selection area 276.

[0136] The user image display area 262 is an area where an image of the distributor is displayed. In the user image display area 262, an image of the distributor is displayed based on image data of the distributor read from the user database 110. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the entire screen is used as the user image display area 262 and an image (photo) of the distributor is displayed.

[0137] The distribution title input area 264 is an area for inputting the title of the distribution. The distributor inputs the title of the distribution in the distribution title input area 264 using the input unit 24 of the distributor terminal 104. An upper limit may be set on the number of characters that can be used in the distribution title. For example, the upper limit on the number of characters in the distribution title is set to 22 characters or less in Japanese.

[0138] The distribution setting area 266 is an area for setting the type of distribution. The type of distribution can be, for example, a normal distribution, a secret distribution, or a new customer welcome distribution.

[0139] Normal distribution is distribution with no restrictions on viewers. When normal distribution is selected, the distribution is made public without any restrictions on viewers.

[0140] A secret broadcast is a broadcast that can only be viewed by users who meet certain viewing conditions. In a secret broadcast, viewers are limited to users whose total viewing time for the broadcaster's broadcasts last month and this month is less than a certain standard time, or, if invited by a viewer, to family assistants. The certain standard time may be set as appropriate, for example, between one and ten hours. When set as a secret broadcast, the broadcast is only made available to viewers who are authorized to view it. A secret broadcast may be valid only for a certain period of time from the start of broadcasting, and may switch to a regular broadcast after the certain period has elapsed. The certain period may be set as appropriate, for example, a secret broadcast may be valid for 60 minutes from the start of broadcasting, and may switch to a regular broadcast after the certain period has elapsed. A badge or tag may also be attached to a secret broadcast.

[0141] By broadcasting secretly, broadcasters can promote interaction not only with heavy viewers who watch their broadcasts frequently, but also with casual viewers who do not watch their broadcasts frequently.

[0142] A newcomer welcome broadcast is a broadcast that can only be viewed by new users who have just started using the distribution system 100. In a newcomer welcome broadcast, the broadcast is only made available to users whose level is below a predetermined standard value, and to users who have been registered with the distribution system 100 for a predetermined period of time. The predetermined standard value can be set as appropriate, for example, to level 7. The predetermined period can also be set as appropriate, for example, to users who have not yet reached the first day of the month after the month in which they registered with the distribution system 100. By conducting a newcomer welcome broadcast, it becomes easier to acquire new viewers. Furthermore, by sending notifications only to viewers who have just started watching the broadcast, it becomes easier to interact with new viewers.

[0143] The share setting area 268 is an area for setting whether or not to post the distribution to other social network systems (SNS). The distributor uses the input unit 24 of the distributor terminal 104 to select either "Post to SNS" or "Do not post to SNS" in the share setting area 268. If "Post to SNS" is selected, a message to that effect will be posted to the specified SNS once distribution has started. On the other hand, if "Do not post to SNS" is selected, a message to the SNS will not be posted to the SNS even if distribution has started.

[0144] The filter selection button 272 is a button for selecting the type of filter to apply to the screen being distributed. The distributor can select the filter selection button 272 using the input unit 24 of the distributor terminal 104. When the filter selection button 272 is selected, a filter selection screen 280 is displayed on the output unit 26 of the distributor terminal 104, as shown in FIG.

[0145] The filter selection screen 280 includes a gauge display area 282, a filter setting area 284, and a filter type selection area 286. The gauge display area 282, the filter setting area 284, and the filter type selection area 286 are preferably displayed superimposed on the user image display area 262 that was displayed on the distribution setting screen 260.

[0146] The gauge display area 282 is an area that displays the setting value for the filter item being set. The gauge display area 282 displays a numerical value indicating the setting value and a bar gauge 282a that visually indicates the numerical value. The bar gauge 282a displays the percentage of the maximum value that can be set for the filter using a bar. The distributor can set the value of the filter selected in the filter setting area 284 by sliding the bar gauge 282a.

[0147] It is also preferable to display standard marks 282b on the bar gauge, which indicate recommended settings. The standard marks 282b indicate the recommended settings that the distribution system 100 recommends for the filter item being set when using the filter. The recommended settings may be set in advance for each filter item. By checking the standard marks 282b, the distributor can refer to them when setting each filter, making the setting easier.

[0148] The filter setting area 284 is an area for selecting a filter item for each type of filter set in the filter type selection area 286. In the filter setting area 284, a reset button 284a and a filter item setting button 284b are displayed.

[0149] The reset button 284a is a button for returning the setting value of the currently selected filter item to the recommended setting value. When the distributor selects the reset button 284a, a process is performed to return the setting value of the currently selected filter item to the recommended setting value. It is preferable that the setting value of each filter be set to the recommended setting value in the initial state.

[0150] The filter item setting button 284b is a button for selecting a filter item. There are multiple types of filters, and each type of filter has multiple items. The types of filters can be set as appropriate, and may be, for example, face, makeup, filter, energy saving, etc. Face includes a filter item that applies image processing to the broadcaster's face during broadcast, such as brightness, contour emphasis, and eye size. Makeup includes a filter item that applies image processing to the broadcaster's face during broadcast, such as cheek, lip, and eye makeup. Filter includes a filter item that applies image processing to the overall brightness of the broadcast image, etc. Energy saving includes an item that applies image processing that is preset in the broadcasting system 100.

[0151] Filter setting area 284 displays filter item setting buttons 284b indicating filter items belonging to the filter type selected in filter type selection area 286. By selecting a filter item setting button 284b displayed in filter setting area 284, the distributor can select a filter item corresponding to that filter item setting button 284b.

[0152] The filter type selection area 286 is an area for selecting the type of filter. The types of filters can be set as appropriate, and can be, for example, face, makeup, filter, energy saving, etc. as described above. The broadcaster can select the type of filter in the filter type selection area 286.

[0153] It is preferable that the setting values ​​of each filter set on the filter selection screen 280 be automatically used for subsequent distributions. In this case, the setting values ​​of each filter can be stored in the memory unit 22 of the distributor terminal 104.

[0154] The in-camera / out-camera selection button 274 is a button for selecting the camera to be used for distribution when an in-camera and an out-camera are installed on the distributor terminal 104. By selecting the in-camera / out-camera selection button 274, the distributor can exclusively switch between the in-camera and the out-camera.

[0155] The live / radio selection area 276 is an area for selecting whether the distribution method is live distribution or radio distribution. Live distribution is distribution that uses the camera of the distributor terminal 104 to shoot video with the camera and capture audio with a microphone. Radio distribution is distribution that does not involve live video shooting, but instead displays the distributor's icon image on the distribution screen and captures only audio with a microphone. The distributor can select the distribution method by selecting either live distribution or radio distribution in the live / radio selection area 276.

[0156] The distribution start button 270 is a button for instructing the start of distribution. When the distributor selects the distribution start button 270 using the input unit 24 of the distributor terminal 104, the distribution process begins. The distributor terminal 104 transmits the distribution title set in the distribution title input area 264 and the distribution setting area 266, information on the type of distribution, setting values ​​of each filter, and information on the selection result of live distribution or radio distribution to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108. Then, the process proceeds to the distribution process.

[0157] [Matching process] A plurality of broadcasters participating in an electronic game event are matched together through the matching process in the broadcasting system 100. In this way, the server 102 functions as a matching means 40.

[0158] For example, a user who is a broadcaster can display information about an event by selecting the notification display icon 214e on the timeline screen 200 on the broadcaster terminal 104, and can then apply to participate in the event by further selecting an electronic game event. The broadcaster terminal 104 transmits an event ID indicating the selected event together with the broadcaster's user ID to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108. Note that a unique event ID is assigned in advance to each event.

[0159] Upon receiving this information, the server 102 matches the broadcasters who selected the same event with each other. The server 102 also assigns a new unique matching ID, the order of matches in the event, and the electronic games to be played in the event to the matched broadcasters. As shown in FIG. 32 , the server 102 stores the user IDs of the matched broadcasters, the order of matches, and information about the electronic games to be played in the event in the event database 126, in association with the event ID and matching ID.

[0160] 32, the user IDs of three streamers, "U05," "U02," and "U95," the order of the match, "first match," and the electronic games to be played at the event, "electronic game A," "electronic game E," and "electronic game Z," are stored in association with the event with event ID "EV01" and matching ID "M01." Also, the user IDs of three streamers, "U01," "U32," and "U03," the order of the match, "second match," and the electronic games to be played at the event, "electronic game B," "electronic game M," and "electronic game F," are stored in association with the event with event ID "EV01" and matching ID "M02."

[0161] The method of matching broadcasters may be, for example, randomly pairing broadcasters who have applied to participate in the same event. Alternatively, for example, broadcasters who have applied to participate in the same event may be paired on a first-come, first-served basis. Alternatively, for example, a level for the electronic game may be set for each broadcaster, and broadcasters who have applied to participate in the same event may be paired according to that level. However, the method of matching broadcasters is not particularly limited, and other matching methods may also be applied.

[0162] Furthermore, the method of allocating electronic games may involve, for example, associating an electronic game with each event in advance and allocating the electronic game to the matched broadcaster. If multiple electronic games are associated with one event, one or more electronic games may be randomly selected from the multiple electronic games and allocated. However, the method of allocating electronic games is not particularly limited, and other allocation methods may also be applied.

[0163] The server 102 further references the user database 110 to retrieve information about the user associated with the user ID of the matched broadcaster. The server 102 transmits the event ID, the match order associated with the matching ID, information about the electronic games to be played in the event, and the retrieved information about the user to the broadcaster terminal 104 used by the matched broadcaster via the information and communications network 108.

[0164] As described above, the matching process is performed in the distribution system 100. When the matching process is completed, the process shifts to live distribution process while playing the electronic game.

[0165] [Distribution processing] By executing the following distribution process, the server 102 functions as the distribution means 44. Distribution is performed by transmitting content to be distributed from the distributor terminal 104 to the server 102.

[0166] When the server 102 receives information from the broadcaster terminal 104, such as the broadcast title set in the initial setting process, information on the type of broadcast, the setting values ​​of each filter, and the selection result of live broadcasting or radio broadcasting, it starts broadcasting based on that information.

[0167] When distribution starts, the distribution information database 118 is updated. The server 102 assigns a new distribution ID and registers the distribution ID and distribution start date and time in the distribution information database 118 in association with the user ID of the distributor.

[0168] Furthermore, when a broadcast starts, the server 102 performs a timeline display process to display information about the broadcast on the timeline screen 200. For example, the server 102 references the user database 110 to read the user IDs of followers of the user associated with the broadcaster's user ID, and performs a process to transmit information so that information about the broadcaster is displayed in the favorite broadcaster display area 208 when a user corresponding to the user ID displays the timeline screen 200. Furthermore, when the timeline screen 200 is displayed on the viewer terminal 106, if the broadcast corresponds to an item selected in the category selection area 210, the server 102 performs a process to transmit information necessary for displaying the broadcast in the timeline display area 212 of the timeline screen 200.

[0169] When live streaming is selected as the distribution method, the distributor's distributor terminal 104 captures live video with the camera of the input unit 24 and acquires live audio with the microphone. The distributor terminal 104 transmits the live video and live audio as content to be distributed to the server 102 via the information and communication network 108. The camera to be used is either the in-camera or the out-camera, whichever is selected. When radio streaming is selected as the distribution method, the distributor's distributor terminal 104 captures live audio with the microphone of the input unit 24. The distributor terminal 104 transmits the live audio as information on the content to be distributed to the server 102 via the information and communication network 108.

[0170] When live streaming of electronic game play is performed, video and audio of the broadcaster are broadcast before the broadcast of the electronic game play. When the broadcast of the electronic game play begins, the status of the electronic game being played on the broadcaster terminal 104 of the broadcaster is also broadcast. In this case, the broadcaster terminal 104 transmits video data of the display screen of the electronic game to the server 102.

[0171] The server 102 transmits the content to be distributed and information necessary for the distribution to the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106. Here, the viewer terminal 106 to which the content is to be distributed is the viewer terminal 106 used by a viewer who has selected the distributor who is distributing the content as the viewing target in the favorite distributor display area 208 or the timeline display area 212 of the timeline screen 200 displayed in the timeline display process.

[0172] That is, when the server 102 receives information about content to be distributed from the distributor terminal 104, it distributes the information to the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106. The server 102 also refers to the user database 110, reads information associated with the user ID of the distributor, and transmits the information to the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106. The server 102 also refers to the user database 110, reads information associated with the user ID of the viewer, and transmits the information to the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106.

[0173] A distribution display process for outputting the distributed content is performed on the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106. A distribution screen 290 is displayed on the distributor terminal 104 used by the distributor and the viewer terminal 106 used by the viewer, as shown in FIG.

[0174] The distribution screen 290 includes a distribution screen display area 292, a distributor information display area 294, a live record display area 296, a favorite viewer display area 298, a tag display area 300, a comment display area 302, a comment input area 304, an event icon 306, a box icon 308, a share icon 310, a ranking icon 312, a like icon 314, and a support item icon 316.

[0175] The distribution screen display area 292 is an area where video included in the information on the content to be distributed is displayed. In the case of live distribution, the distribution screen display area 292 displays live video transmitted from the distributor terminal 104 to the server 102. In the case of radio distribution, the distribution screen display area 292 displays an icon image of the distributor read from the user database 110. In addition, the output unit 26 of the distributor terminal 104 and the output unit 36 ​​of the viewer terminal 106 output audio included in the content to be distributed. This allows both the distributor and the viewer to view the video and audio of the content to be distributed.

[0176] At this time, various filters are applied to the image displayed in the distribution screen display area 292 according to the setting values ​​of the various filters set during the initial distribution process. For example, for a face-related filter, the distributor applies image processing to the brightness of the face, emphasis of the contours, size of the eyes, etc., during distribution. For example, for a makeup-related filter, image processing is applied to the distributor's face to adjust the cheek, lip, eye makeup, etc. during distribution. For example, for a filter, image processing is applied to the overall brightness of the distribution image, etc. For an energy-saving filter, image processing that has been set in advance for distribution is applied.

[0177] The distribution screen display area 292 may be displayed, for example, on the entire screen of the information processing device, which is the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106. In this case, the distributor information display area 294, live record display area 296, favorite viewer display area 298, tag display area 300, comment display area 302, comment input area 304, event icon 306, box icon 308, share icon 310, ranking icon 312, like icon 314, and support item icon 316 included in the distribution screen 290 may be displayed superimposed on the distribution screen display area 292.

[0178] The broadcaster information display area 294 is an area that displays information about the broadcaster. The broadcaster information display area 294 displays the broadcaster's icon image and the broadcaster's username read from the user database 110. The broadcaster information display area 294 may also display other information about the broadcaster or broadcast. For example, the broadcaster information display area 294 may display the broadcaster's level, support rank, support points, number of followers, current number of viewers, etc. read from the user database 110. The live record display area 296 is an area that displays details of the broadcast being viewed.

[0179] Also, a distributor information display screen including detailed information about the distributor may be displayed by selecting an icon image of the distributor displayed in the distributor information display area 294. The distributor information display process will be described later.

[0180] The viewer display area 298 is an area that displays information about the viewers currently watching the broadcast. In the viewer display area 298, for example, icon images of the viewers currently watching the broadcast are displayed side by side. Furthermore, among the viewers who have used support items, a crown mark 298a may be displayed along with the icon image of the top three viewers who have used the most coins on support items. For example, the crown mark 298a may be displayed on the icon images of the top three viewers who have used the most coins on support items.

[0181] Also, a viewer information display screen including detailed information about the viewer may be displayed by selecting an icon image of the viewer displayed in the viewer display area 298. The viewer information display process will be described later.

[0182] The tag display area 300 is an area that displays tags that have been added to a broadcast. Tags can be added during a broadcast, for example, by the broadcaster himself or some of the viewers (for example, family members or assistants). Family members and assistants will be described later. In this case, it may be possible to restrict viewers other than some of the viewers from adding tags. It is preferable that tags can be added in real time during a broadcast, rather than before the broadcast.

[0183] When a family member wants to add a tag, they post a comment with a "#" mark in the comment input area 304, which will be described later, and the tag is added to the broadcast. Alternatively, a tag can be added to a broadcast by displaying a "#" mark in the comment input area 304, selecting the "#" and then posting a comment. The tag information entered in the comment input area 304 is sent to the server 102. Upon receiving the tag information, the server 102 sends the tag information to the broadcaster terminal 104 used by the broadcaster and the viewer terminal 106 used by the viewer. As a result, the content of the tag with the "#" mark added is displayed in the tag display area 300.

[0184] Furthermore, the tags displayed in the tag display area 300 may be hidden after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of display. The predetermined time is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, five minutes. It is also preferable that the same tag cannot be added during the predetermined time.

[0185] The use of tags makes it easier to search for broadcasts based on the broadcast topic or keywords related to the broadcast. Furthermore, by using tags, when a trending item is selected in the category selection area 210 of the timeline screen 200 during the timeline display process, broadcast information is displayed in the timeline display area 212. This increases the likelihood that other users will watch the broadcast. Furthermore, when there are multiple broadcasts with the same tag, the broadcasts may be ranked.

[0186] The comment display area 302 is an area that displays comments posted by viewers in response to a broadcast. In the comment display area 302, the contents of comments posted by viewers are displayed in chronological order from the bottom up, with the most recent comments being displayed first. In other words, old comments that cannot be displayed in the comment display area 302 are deleted in order, and newly posted comments are displayed in chronological order from the bottom up in the comment display area 302. It is preferable that the comment include the username of the viewer who posted the comment and the content of the comment. The comment is displayed on the broadcaster terminal 104 used by the broadcaster and on all viewer terminals 106 used by the viewers.

[0187] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 19, it is preferable to provide a core fan display section 302a for comments displayed in the comment display area 302, which displays information about the core fan of the viewer who posted the comment. That is, it is preferable to also display information indicating the level of core fan the viewer who posted the comment is to the broadcaster. For example, if the number of cheers is between 1,000 and 4,999, it is displayed as "0.1K." Similarly, the number of cheers is displayed according to the level of core fan, as follows: "0.5K" for a casual fan with between 5,000 and 10,000, "1.0K" for a core fan with between 10,000 and 49,999, "5.0K" for a core fan with between 50,000 and 99,999, "10K" for a core fan with between 100,000 and 149,999, "10K" for a core fan with between 150,000 and 199,999, "15K" for a core fan with between 150,000 and 199,999, "15K"...

[0188] The manner in which comments are displayed may also be changed depending on the core fan level. For example, it is preferable to change the background color of the comment display field depending on the core fan level of the viewer who posted the comment. It is also preferable to change the color of the core fan display section 302a, which displays the core fan level, depending on the core fan level of the viewer who posted the comment.

[0189] Furthermore, a comment posted by a new viewer may be displayed with a newcomer mark 302b indicating that the viewer is a newcomer. In this case, the display mode of the newcomer mark 302b may be changed depending on the core fan level of the viewer. For example, it is preferable to change the color of the newcomer mark 302b depending on the core fan level of the viewer. It is preferable that the color be the same as the color of the core fan display section 302a.

[0190] Furthermore, a comment posted by a viewer who is a family member may be displayed with a family mark 302c indicating that the viewer is a family member. In this case, the display mode of the family mark 302c may be changed depending on the viewer's level as a core fan. For example, it is preferable to change the color of the family mark 302c depending on the viewer's level as a core fan. It is preferable that the color be the same as the color of the core fan display area 302a.

[0191] Additionally, a comment posted by a viewer who is acting as an assistant may be displayed with an assistant mark 302d indicating that the viewer is an assistant. In this case, the display mode of the assistant mark 302d may be changed depending on the viewer's level as a core fan. For example, it is preferable to change the color of the assistant mark 302d depending on the viewer's level as a core fan. It is preferable that the color be the same as the color of the core fan display section 302a.

[0192] In addition, a newcomer mark 302b, a family mark 302c, or an assistant mark 302d may also be displayed on the icon image of the viewer displayed in the viewer display area 298 according to the status of the viewer.

[0193] The comment input area 304 is an area where a comment to be posted is entered. When posting a comment, the broadcaster and the viewer enter the comment in the comment input area 304. The comment information entered in the comment input area 304 is sent to the server 102 together with the user ID of the viewer who posted the comment. Upon receiving the comment information and the user ID, the server 102 transmits the comment information and the username corresponding to the user ID to the broadcaster terminal 104 used by the broadcaster and the viewer terminal 106 used by the viewer. The server 102 also references the user database 110, reads out the number of cheers stored in association with the user ID of the viewer who posted the comment, and also transmits information indicating the core fan level of the viewer corresponding to the number of cheers. As a result, the content of the comment, the user name of the poster, and the core fan level are displayed in the comment display area 302.

[0194] When live streaming an electronic game, viewers cheer on the broadcaster (player) before the game begins. Viewers can send comments to the broadcaster in the comment input area 304. For example, they can send comments about strategies and tips for playing the electronic game.

[0195] The event icon 306 is an icon that indicates an event when the distribution is related to the event. In addition, by selecting the event icon 306, information about an event currently being held in the distribution system 100 may be displayed.

[0196] The box icon 308 is an icon for displaying information about a reward called a box to be given to a viewer. In the distribution system 100, when a viewer posts a comment on a distribution, a reward called a box is given to the viewer if the post meets certain conditions. By selecting the box icon 308, the viewer can display information about the reward called a box to be given to the viewer. Box processing will be described later.

[0197] Share icon 310 is an icon for posting information about a broadcast to other social networking systems (SNS). When a broadcaster or viewer selects share icon 310, information about the broadcast is posted to other social networking systems (SNS). The information about the broadcast is not particularly limited, but preferably includes, for example, the broadcaster's username, the title of the broadcast, posted tags, etc.

[0198] The ranking icon 312 is an icon for displaying information about the ranking of a distributor or a viewer. When a distributor or a viewer selects the ranking icon 312, information such as the ranking of the distributor or the viewer can be displayed, as in the ranking menu display screen 240.

[0199] The like icon 314 is an icon that allows a viewer to "like" a broadcast. When a viewer selects the icon 314, information indicating that the "like" button has been pressed is sent from the viewer terminal 106 to the server 102, along with the viewer's user ID. Upon receiving this information, the server 102 reads out the username associated with the viewer's user ID in the user database 110. The server 102 also sends information indicating that the "like" button has been pressed, along with the username, to the broadcaster terminal 104 used by the broadcaster and the viewer terminal 106 used by the viewer.

[0200] When the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106 receive the information, information indicating that the "Like" button has been pressed is displayed on the distribution screen 290. For example, an effect that displays a heart mark on the screen of the distribution screen 290 may be activated. Also, in the comment display area 302, a comment indicating that the "Like" button has been pressed may be displayed together with the username of the viewer who sent the "Like" button.

[0201] It should be noted that by selecting "Like," a viewer may influence the score that determines the streamer's rank. In this way, selecting "Like" will support the streamer. Also, by selecting "Like," a viewer may influence the number of cheers from the viewer to the streamer. In this way, selecting "Like" will change the core fan level, etc., according to the number of cheers from the viewer, thereby increasing the motivation for viewers to select "Like."

[0202] The support item icon 316 is an icon that viewers use when sending support to a broadcast using a support item. By selecting the support item icon 316, viewers can use a support item to send support to a broadcast. Support items can be used by consuming coins owned by the viewer. The support item processing for using support items will be described later.

[0203] In the distribution process, the content to be distributed, including video and audio information, is transmitted from the distributor terminal 104 to the server 102, and is updated in real time on the distribution screen 290 by transmitting the content to the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106 in real time. In addition, the distribution screen 290 is updated in real time based on various information transmitted from the distributor terminal 104 and the viewer terminal 106 to the server 102.

[0204] [Distributor information display processing] 20 shows an example of the display of the broadcaster information display screen 320. The broadcaster information display screen 320 is displayed when a broadcaster's icon image is selected in the broadcaster information display area 294 of the distribution screen 290. As shown in FIG. 20, the broadcaster information display screen 320 may be displayed superimposed on the distribution screen 290.

[0205] The broadcaster information display screen 320 includes a username display area 322, a user icon display area 324, a level display area 326, a keyword display area 328, a region display area 330, a core fan number display area 332, a cheer number display area 334, a rank display area 336, a comment display area 338, and a tag display area 340.

[0206] The user name display area 322 is an area that displays the user name registered by the broadcaster. The user icon display area 324 is an area that displays the user icon of the broadcaster. It is preferable that the user icon display area 324 displays an icon including a photo that indicates the user registered by the broadcaster. The level display area 326 is an area that displays the user's current level. The keyword display area 328 is an area that displays keywords set by the user. The region display area 330 is an area that displays the name of the region set by the user. The detailed information display area 332 is an area that displays detailed information about the user.

[0207] The core fan number display area 332 is an area that displays the number of core fans of the broadcaster. The core fan number display area 332 displays the current number of core fans based on the information of the core fans associated with the broadcaster in the user database 110. The cheer number display area 334 is an area that displays the total number of cheers sent to the broadcaster. The cheer number display area 334 displays the total number of cheers, which is the sum of the cheers associated with the broadcaster in the user database 110.

[0208] The rank display area 336 is an area that displays information indicating the broadcaster's current support rank. The broadcaster's support rank is an index set according to the amount of support for the broadcaster. The own rank is used to determine the compensation for the broadcaster. In the example of the broadcaster information display screen 320 in FIG. 20, the rank display area 336 displays the current support rank as C2, along with a guide to moving up to the next rank. The rank display area 336 may also display a rank meter used to determine the support rank. The method for setting the rank meter and support rank will be described later.

[0209] The comment display area 338 is an area where comments from the broadcaster are displayed. Comments from the broadcaster to the viewers are displayed in the comment display area 338. The comments displayed in the comment display area 338 may be obtained in advance from the broadcaster. The tag display area 340 is an area where tags attached to the broadcast are displayed.

[0210] By displaying the distributor information display screen 320, viewers of the broadcast can grasp information about the broadcaster.

[0211] [Viewer information display processing] 21 shows an example of the display of viewer information display screen 350. When an icon image of a viewer is selected in viewer display area 298 on distribution screen 290, viewer information display screen 350 including information about that viewer is displayed. As shown in FIG. 21, viewer information display screen 350 may be displayed superimposed on distribution screen 290.

[0212] The viewer information display screen 350 includes a user icon display area 352 , a user name display area 354 , a detailed information display area 356 , a cheer count display area 358 , and a follow button 360 .

[0213] The user icon display area 352 is an area for displaying the user icon of the viewer. It is preferable that an icon including a photo indicating the user registered by the viewer is displayed in the user icon display area 352. The user name display area 354 is an area for displaying the user name registered by the viewer.

[0214] The detailed information display area 356 is an area for displaying detailed information about the viewer. In the detailed information display area 356, it is preferable to display, for example, photos registered in advance by the viewer and comments on the photos.

[0215] The cheer count display area 358 is an area that displays the number of cheers that the viewer has sent to the broadcaster of the broadcast that the viewer is currently watching. The cheer count display section 385a of the cheer count display area 358 displays the number of cheers sent to the broadcaster. Furthermore, the achievement condition display section 385b displays information indicating to what extent the conditions for becoming a core fan have been achieved based on the number of cheers. For example, it is preferable that the achievement condition display section 385b display a meter that indicates to what extent the conditions for becoming a core fan have been achieved based on the number of cheers.

[0216] The follow button 360 is a button that is selected when a viewer wishes to follow the user. By selecting the follow button 360, the viewer can follow the viewer. When the follow button 360 is selected, the viewer terminal 106 transmits follow registration information including the viewer's user ID and the user ID of the viewer corresponding to the selected follow button 254d to the server 102. Upon receiving the follow registration information, the server 102 registers the user ID of the viewer to be followed in association with the "followed broadcasters" of the user ID of the viewer to be followed in the user database 110. The server 102 also registers the user ID of the viewer to be followed in association with the "user's followers" of the user ID of the viewer to be followed in the user database 110.

[0217] By displaying the viewer information display screen 350, viewers of the distribution can grasp information about other viewers.

[0218] [Box Processing] The following describes box processing in the distribution system 100. A box is a reward given to a viewer who watches a broadcast and posts a comment in the distribution system 100. When a viewer opens the box that has been given to them, the viewer can obtain various rewards (for example, coins, items, etc.) depending on the type of box.

[0219] Box processing is performed by the server 102 and the viewer terminal 106 cooperating with each other via the information communication network 108. That is, box processing is performed by transmitting and receiving necessary information between the server 102 and the viewer terminal 106. By performing box processing, the server 102 functions as box processing means 46.

[0220] When a viewer starts viewing a broadcast on viewer terminal 106, a countdown of the box allocation time until a box is allocated begins. The remaining time until a box is allocated is displayed together with box icon 308. Server 102 transmits the initial value of the box allocation time and the number of remaining boxes to viewer terminal 106 that has started viewing the broadcast via information and communications network 108. When viewer terminal 106 receives the initial value of the box allocation time and the number of remaining boxes from server 102, if the number of remaining boxes is not 0, viewer terminal 106 starts counting down from the initial value of the box allocation time.

[0221] The initial value of the box assignment time may be set as appropriate. The initial value of the box assignment time is not particularly limited, but is preferably set to, for example, 5 to 10 minutes. The initial value of the box assignment time may also be set randomly each time.

[0222] Furthermore, when the viewer selects box icon 308 on distribution screen 290, box information screen 370 is displayed as shown in Fig. 22. Box information screen 370 includes a remaining time display area 372, a remaining number of boxes display area 374, an acquired box information display area 376, and a box explanation area 378.

[0223] The remaining time display area 372 is an area that displays the remaining time until a box is granted. The remaining box count display area 374 is an area that displays the remaining number of boxes that a viewer can acquire in the broadcast. The acquired box information display area 376 is an area that displays the history of boxes that have been granted to a viewer in the past. In the acquired box information display area 376, for example, an icon 376a indicating the type of box granted to the viewer is displayed. When multiple boxes are granted, icons 376a are displayed side by side to indicate acquisition in a combo. In addition, an icon 376b may also be displayed to indicate that this is an area where icons 376a will be displayed if more boxes are granted in the future. The box explanation area 378 is an area that displays information explaining the boxes.

[0224] In this embodiment, the countdown of the box allocation time is stopped according to the stop condition. For example, if a period of time continues during a broadcast where no viewer posts a comment, the countdown of the box allocation time is stopped. In other words, if a viewer watching a broadcast via viewer terminal 106 does not post a comment for a predetermined period of time, the countdown of the box allocation time is stopped. If the countdown is stopped, the countdown of the box allocation time is restarted when the viewer posts a comment regarding the broadcast.

[0225] The length of time for which the box assignment time is stopped if a viewer does not post a comment can be set as appropriate. The time for which the box assignment time is stopped is not particularly limited, but is preferably set to, for example, 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Furthermore, the time for which the box assignment time is stopped can also be set randomly each time, for example.

[0226] 23 shows an example of a box information screen 370 that is displayed when the countdown of the remaining box allocation time is stopped. When the countdown of the box allocation time is stopped, a comment recommendation display area 380 is displayed on the box information screen 370. The comment recommendation display area 380 displays information indicating that the countdown of the box allocation time has been stopped and that the countdown will resume by posting a comment, such as "The countdown has stopped. It will resume by posting a comment."

[0227] It is also preferable to display a comment button 380a in the comment recommendation display area 380. When a viewer selects the comment button 380a, processing is performed to transition to a comment input state in the comment input area 304 on the distribution screen 290. This allows the viewer to easily post a comment so that the countdown of the box allocation time resumes.

[0228] Note that the countdown of the box allocation time also resumes when a comment is posted directly from the comment input area 304 on the distribution screen 290 without using the comment button 380a.

[0229] When a comment is posted from a viewer terminal 106, the comment information is transmitted to the server 102 via the information communication network 108. The server 102 transmits instruction information to the viewer terminal 106 that sent the comment to restart the countdown of the box allotted time. Upon receiving the instruction information to restart the countdown, the viewer terminal 106 restarts the countdown of the box allotted time.

[0230] When the remaining time of the box allocation time reaches 0, a box is allocated to the viewer. When the remaining time of the box allocation time reaches 0, the viewer terminal 106 transmits information notifying this to the server 102 via the information communication network 108. When the server 102 receives the information that the remaining time of the box allocation time has reached 0, it transmits an instruction to the viewer terminal 106 that sent the information to allocate a box. When the viewer terminal 106 receives this instruction, it performs processing to allocate a box to the viewer.

[0231] The box given to the viewer may be one type or may be selected from multiple types. For example, one type may be selected from three types of boxes, such as a normal box, a super box, and a hyper box.

[0232] When selecting from multiple types of boxes, the selection may be made randomly or according to predetermined conditions. For example, the probability of receiving a better type of box for each type of box may be set lower, and one of the types of boxes may be received according to the probability. For example, the probability of receiving a normal box may be set to 70%, the probability of receiving a super box may be set to 20%, and the probability of receiving a hyper box may be set to 10%, and each box may be received according to the probability.

[0233] Furthermore, the probability of receiving a better box may be increased depending on the viewing time of the stream by the viewer to whom the box is to be awarded. For example, the probability of receiving a better box may be increased as the viewing time of the stream by the same viewer increases. For example, for every 30 minutes of viewing time of the stream, the probability of receiving a regular box may be decreased by 10% from 70%, the probability of receiving a super box may be increased by 7% from 20%, and the probability of receiving a hyper box may be increased by 3% from 10%. Note that the relationship between the viewing time of the stream and the probability of receiving various boxes is not limited to this and may be set as appropriate.

[0234] The probability may be changed according to the viewing time of the same viewer for a broadcast from the same broadcaster, or according to the total viewing time of the same viewer regardless of which broadcaster it is from.

[0235] The measurement of viewing time may be reset at predetermined intervals. For example, the past viewing time may be reset to 0 every 24 hours. Also, the past viewing time may be reset to 0 every midnight.

[0236] 24 shows an example of the display of the box information screen 370 with a box added. In this case, the box information screen 370 includes a box icon display area 382, ​​a count display area 384, and a description display area 386.

[0237] The box icon display area 382 is an area for displaying an icon image of the assigned type of box. When multiple types of boxes are used, different icon images are prepared in advance for each type of box, and the icon image of the type of box assigned to the viewer is displayed in the box icon display area 382.

[0238] The countdown display area 384 is an area that displays the countdown status of the time during which a viewer can open the assigned box. A box assigned to a viewer can only be opened within a specified box opening time from the time of assignment. The box opening time can be set as appropriate, and is preferably set to 20 seconds, for example. However, the box opening time is not limited to this, and may be set randomly, or may be set to a longer time as the viewing time of the broadcast by the same viewer increases.

[0239] The explanation display area 386 is an area for displaying an explanation regarding the process of opening a box. The explanation display area 386 displays an explanation encouraging the user to open the box, such as "Tap to open the box."

[0240] A viewer can open a box by selecting the icon image of the box displayed in the box icon display area 382. When the viewer selects the icon image of the box within the box opening time, the viewer terminal 106 transmits a message to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108 indicating that the box has been opened, along with the viewer's user ID. Upon receiving this information, the server 102 awards coins to the viewer who opened the box.

[0241] When a normal box is opened, the viewer who opened the box is randomly awarded 1 to 10 coins. When a super box is opened, the viewer who opened the box is randomly awarded 20 to 30 coins. When a hyper box is opened, the viewer who opened the box is randomly awarded 50 to 100 coins. The number of coins awarded to a viewer may vary depending on the number of boxes awarded to the viewer. The server 102 adds the number of coins awarded to the number of coins owned by the viewer who opened the box, which is stored in the user database 110 in association with the user ID of the viewer who opened the box. This allows the viewer to earn coins by opening a box.

[0242] The number of boxes given to a viewer may be set in advance. For example, it is preferable to set in advance the number of boxes given to one viewer for a broadcast by one broadcaster. The number of boxes to be set is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to set it to, for example, two boxes per day for one broadcaster.

[0243] The number of Super Boxes and Hyper Boxes given to a viewer in a given period may be set in advance. For example, it is preferable that a viewer can acquire up to five Super Boxes and three Hyper Boxes within one week. However, the number of Boxes a viewer can acquire may be varied according to certain conditions.

[0244] Note that silent distribution and unattended distribution, which are intended only to provide a box, may be considered invalid distribution. The server 102 may monitor the video and audio of the content being distributed, and if it is determined to be silent distribution or unattended distribution, a warning may be issued and the distribution may be forcibly stopped. The distributor's account may also be suspended.

[0245] Furthermore, for radio broadcasts, live broadcasts in which the broadcaster's face is not shown, or live broadcasts in which the broadcaster does not perform a video performance, the number of coins awarded for boxes and box openings may be reduced compared to normal cases. For example, if the video included in the broadcast content is darkness, a simple background video, a photo, a video in which a stuffed animal or the like is shown instead of the broadcaster, the number of coins awarded for boxes and box openings may be reduced compared to normal cases.

[0246] [Streaming support processing] In the distribution system 100, viewers can support a distributor by sending support items. The distribution support process will be described below. By executing the distribution support process, the server 102 functions as support processing means 48.

[0247] While viewing a broadcast, the viewer selects the support item icon 316 on the broadcast screen 290 to start the broadcast support process. When the support item icon 316 is selected, the viewer terminal 106 transmits the viewer's user ID and information indicating that the broadcast support process has started to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108. Upon receiving this information, the server 102 reads information about the support item from the support item database 122 and the number of owned coins associated with the viewer's user ID from the user database 110, and returns these to the viewer terminal 106.

[0248] When the viewer terminal 106 receives information about the support item, it displays a support processing screen 390, as shown in Fig. 25. The support processing screen 390 includes an item attribute selection area 392, an item selection area 394, a coin-specific filter area 396, a remaining coin count display area 398, and a purchase button 400.

[0249] The item attribute selection area 392 is an area for selecting the attributes of the support item displayed in the item selection area 394. The item attribute selection area 392 displays the names of the attributes assigned to each support item stored in the support item database 122. For example, attributes of support items include general, beginners only, event only, time limited, new, history, popular with families, etc. Also, an item for special items created in collaboration with a company may be provided.

[0250] However, the attributes of support items are not limited to these, and other attributes may be assigned to support items and displayed in the item attribute selection area 392. Furthermore, NEW is an attribute that indicates a newly released support item. That is, NEW is an attribute that indicates a support item that has been released for a predetermined period of time (e.g., one week). Furthermore, family popularity is an attribute that indicates a support item created by a user watching a broadcast and that is frequently used by users who are family members of the broadcaster of the broadcast. For example, the server 102 may count the number of support items used by users who are family members of the broadcaster of the broadcast, and rank the support items in descending order of the count, and display them in the item selection area 394 in descending order of ranking. The ranking may be determined based on the number of support items used in a predetermined period of time (e.g., the last 30 days). Furthermore, if a broadcaster has created multiple families, the ranking may be determined by adding up the number of uses for all families.

[0251] The viewer can select an attribute in the item attribute selection area 392. In the item selection area 394, support items having the attribute selected in the item attribute selection area 392 are displayed.

[0252] The item selection area 394 is an area where an icon image of a support item and the number of coins consumed when the item is used are displayed. The item selection area 394 displays an icon image 394a of the support item and the number of coins 394b consumed when the support item is used, based on image data of the support item that corresponds to the attribute selected in the item attribute selection area 392. Multiple support items may be displayed in the item selection area 394. When multiple support items are displayed in the item selection area 394, the viewer may be able to check all of the displayed support items by scrolling the item selection area 394.

[0253] The coin-specific filter area 396 is an area for filtering the support items displayed in the item selection area 394 according to the number of coins consumed by using the support item. The coin-specific filter area 396 displays a range of coin numbers. For example, the coin-specific filter area 396 displays the range of coin numbers, such as "All," "1-4," "5-10," "11-99," "100-199," "200-499," etc.

[0254] The viewer can select a range of coin numbers in the coin-specific filter area 396. When a range of coin numbers is selected in the coin-specific filter area 396, the support items displayed in the item selection area 394 are limited to support items that can be used by consuming the selected number of coins. For example, when "1 to 4" is selected in the coin-specific filter area 396, only support items with the attribute selected in the item attribute selection area 392 that can be used by consuming 1 to 4 coins are displayed in the item selection area 394. Furthermore, when "5 to 10" is selected in the coin-specific filter area 396, only support items with the attribute selected in the item attribute selection area 392 that can be used by consuming 5 to 10 coins are displayed in the item selection area 394. Note that when "All" is selected in the coin-specific filter area 396, all support items with the attribute selected in the item attribute selection area 392 are displayed in the item selection area 394, regardless of the number of coins consumed. If there is no corresponding support item, the item selection area 394 may display a message such as "There is no corresponding item."

[0255] The remaining coin count display area 398 is an area that displays the number of coins owned by the viewer. The remaining coin count display area 398 displays the number of coins currently owned by the viewer, received from the server 102. The viewer can use support items within the number of coins displayed in the remaining coin count display area 398.

[0256] The purchase button 400 is a button that the user selects when purchasing coins. When the user selects the purchase button 400, a process for purchasing additional coins is performed. When the user selects the purchase button 400, a coin purchase screen is displayed, and the user can purchase coins by paying a fee. The viewer terminal 106 transmits information on the number of coins to be purchased and the amount of the fee, along with the viewer's user ID, to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108. Upon receiving this information, the server 102 refers to the user database 110, charges the user based on the account information associated with the viewer's user ID, and adds the number of purchased coins to the number of owned coins associated with that user ID.

[0257] A viewer can use a support item in a broadcast by selecting one of the support item icon images in the item selection area 394 of the support processing screen 390. When a viewer selects one of the support items displayed in the item selection area 394, the viewer terminal 106 transmits the item ID of the selected support item along with the viewer's user ID to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108. Upon receiving the information, the server 102 references the support item database 122 and transmits image data of the support item associated with the received item ID to the broadcaster terminal 104 of the broadcaster and the viewer terminal 106 of the viewer. The broadcaster terminal 104 of the broadcaster and the viewer terminal 106 of the viewer display the image of the support item on the broadcast screen 290 based on the received image data of the support item. In addition, the server 102 may transmit information about the viewer who used the support item to the broadcaster terminal 104 of the broadcaster and the viewer terminal 106 of the viewer. Then, the broadcaster terminal 104 of the broadcaster and the viewer terminal 106 of the viewer may display information about the viewer who used the support item on the broadcast screen 290.

[0258] The server 102 also references the support item database 122 to read out the number of coins associated with the item ID of the support item that was used. The server 102 references the user database 110 to subtract the number of coins read out from the support item database 122 from the number of coins owned by the viewer that is associated with the user ID of the viewer that used the support item.

[0259] Furthermore, the server 102 increases the support points associated with the user ID of the broadcaster who is broadcasting in which the support item was used. The number of support points increased by using the support item may be set appropriately. It is preferable to set this increase in number according to the number of coins consumed by using the support item. In other words, it is preferable to increase the number of support points as the number of coins consumed by using the support item increases.

[0260] When live streaming an electronic game, a cheering time is set before the start of play of the electronic game. During the cheering time, viewers use cheering items for the streamer, who is also the player. Using the cheering items increases the streamer's cheering points, as described below.

[0261] As described above, in the distribution system 100, a broadcaster can be supported by using a support item. Furthermore, the broadcaster's use of the support item is displayed on the broadcaster's broadcaster terminal 104, allowing the broadcaster to express gratitude to the viewers who are supporting them during the broadcast. Furthermore, the use of the support item is also displayed on the viewer terminals 106 of other viewers, which motivates other viewers to post comments in response to the support, for example.

[0262] [Rank determination process] In the distribution system 100, the support rank of each user is determined according to the support points acquired by that user. The rank determination process will be described below. By executing the rank determination process, the server 102 functions as rank determination means 50.

[0263] The support points are determined based on the support activities performed by each user for a predetermined period of time for a broadcast. The support points are used to determine various rankings and support ranks.

[0264] Support points are added when a viewer uses a support item. As described above, the server 102 increases the support points associated with the user ID of the broadcaster who is broadcasting the content in which the support item was used.

[0265] In addition to the use of support items, support points may be increased based on other indicators such as comments posted by viewers on the broadcast, the number of viewers, viewing time, number of likes, etc. For these indicators, it is preferable to increase support points according to the total number, number of people, and number of people who performed each action.

[0266] For example, support points are increased according to the total number of comments made by viewers on a stream. At this time, it is preferable to increase the number of support points by a larger amount as the total number of comments made by viewers on a stream increases. Also, for example, support points are increased according to the total number of viewers who posted comments on a stream. At this time, it is preferable to increase the number of support points by a larger amount as the total number of viewers who posted comments increases. Also, for example, support points are increased according to the total number of viewers who watched a stream. At this time, it is preferable to increase the number of support points by a larger amount as the total number of viewers who watched a stream increases. Also, support points are increased according to the viewing time spent by viewers on a stream. At this time, it is preferable to increase the number of support points by a larger amount as the viewing time spent watching a stream increases. It is preferable to count the viewing time as the total viewing time of all viewers. Also, for example, support points are increased according to the total number of "likes" sent by clicking the like icon 314 on the stream screen 290 during a stream. At this time, it is preferable to increase the number of support points by a larger amount as the total number of "likes" increases.

[0267] Additionally, a bonus may be added to the cheering points each time the total number of cheers and core fans, which will be described later, reaches a certain value throughout the entire broadcast.

[0268] For example, if the total number of cheers received by viewers during a broadcast exceeds 5,000, a bonus of 500 points can be added to the cheer points, and if the total number of cheers exceeds 10,000, a bonus of 1,000 points can be added to the cheer points.A bonus can be added to the cheer points each time a certain number of cheers is exceeded.

[0269] Furthermore, for example, the rate at which bonus points are awarded can be increased each time the number of core fans exceeds a predetermined number, such as increasing the support points by 1% if the number of core fans for a streamer exceeds 2, by 2% if the number exceeds 5, and by 3% if the number exceeds 10.

[0270] As described above, it is preferable that the support points be reset every predetermined period. The predetermined period is not particularly limited, but is preferably set to, for example, one day, that is, from midnight to midnight. It is also preferable that the calculation method of the support points is not made public to users of the distribution system 100.

[0271] In the distribution system 100, a user's support rank is determined according to the support points. The support rank changes daily according to the amount of support for each user's distribution, i.e., the support points. The support rank influences the determination of the reward for the user in the reward granting process described below.

[0272] In the distribution system 100, as shown in FIG. 26, multiple rank bands are set for the support rank, and multiple ranks are set within each rank band. The rank bands of the support ranks can be, for example, S rank, A rank, B rank, C rank, D rank, and E rank, from highest to lowest. Also, for example, the S rank band is divided into ranks S6 to S1, the A rank band is divided into ranks A3 to A1, the B rank band is divided into ranks B3 to B1, the C rank band is divided into ranks C3 to C1, the D rank band is divided into ranks D3 to D1, and the E rank band is only E1. However, the support ranks are not limited to these settings and may be set as appropriate.

[0273] FIG. 27 is a diagram explaining how to determine the support rank. Rank points are updated according to the support points earned by the user who has broadcast. When the rank points reach a predetermined value or more, the support rank increases by one. When the rank points reach a predetermined value or less, the support rank decreases by one. For example, when the rank points reach +3, the support rank increases by one, and when the rank points reach -3, the support rank decreases by one. However, the rank points that determine the increase and decrease in the support rank are not limited to this and may be set as appropriate. When the support rank changes, the rank points are reset to 0.

[0274] 28 shows a rank meter 410 used to determine a user's cheer rank. The rank meter 410 indicates the cheer points earned by the user relative to the cheer points earned by users with the same cheer rank and the same closing time.

[0275] The rank meter 410 is divided into four areas (-1, 0, +1, +2), and broadcasters gain or lose rank points depending on their area, which is determined by the cheering points at the cutoff time. That is, if they are in the -1 area, they lose one rank point; if they are in the 0 area, their rank points remain unchanged; if they are in the +1 area, they gain one rank point; and if they are in the +2 area, they gain two rank points. Every day, all broadcasters start in the -1 area and move through the areas 0 → +1 → +2 as they gain cheering points.

[0276] The rank meter 410 includes a support rank display area 412 , a required points display area 414 , a support points display area 416 , a rank display pointer 418 , a border display area 420 , and a cut-off time display area 422 .

[0277] The cheer rank display area 412 is an area showing the user's current cheer rank. In the example of the rank meter 410 in FIG. 28, C1 is displayed as the current cheer rank. The required points display area 414 is an area showing the rank points required to rank up to the next higher cheer rank. In the example of FIG. 28, it is displayed that the user can rank up to the next cheer rank, C2, by acquiring +3 more rank points. The cheer point display area 416 is an area showing the cheer points currently acquired by the user. The cheer point display area 416 may also show the user's ranking among users with the same cheer rank and the same closing time. In the example of FIG. 28, it is displayed that the cheer points are 248,556 and the current ranking is 12th.

[0278] Note that the support points of each broadcaster may be made invisible to other broadcasters. Also, the support points of each broadcaster may be made invisible to viewers. For example, when multiple broadcasters become players at an event and each broadcaster live-streams their play of an electronic game, it is preferable that the support points of each broadcaster be made invisible to other broadcasters. In this case, it is also preferable that the support points of each broadcaster be made invisible to viewers.

[0279] The rank display pointer 418 is a pointer that indicates the rank points that can be acquired in the current state. In the example of Fig. 28, it indicates that the rank points that can be acquired in the current situation are 0. Note that when the support rank is E1, there is no rank lower than that, so the rank display pointer 418 does not display a number.

[0280] The border display area 420 is an area that displays the cheering points required to increase rank points. In FIG. 28, it is displayed that the cheering points required for rank points of ±0 are 139,900 or more, the cheering points required for rank points of +1 are 218,900 or more, and the cheering points required for rank points of +2 are 327,700 or more. The cheering points (border) required for each rank point increase or decrease depending on the broadcasts of other broadcasters. In other words, the cheering points (border) required for each rank point are set relatively depending on the cheering points of other broadcasters who belong to the same cheering rank.

[0281] The cut-off time display area 422 is an area that displays the remaining time until the cut-off time. The cut-off time is set to a predetermined time of day. The cut-off time can be set for each month by the user, for example, by selecting one of 1:00 PM, 10:00 PM, or midnight. After a certain time has passed since the cut-off time, rank points are determined and reflected in the support rank.

[0282] If distribution is not completed by the deadline, the rank points will automatically be set to -1. If you want to stop the rank meter from fluctuating, you can use a sleep ticket to stop the rank meter at ±0. It is preferable that sleep tickets be distributed to users at a predetermined interval.

[0283] As described above, the rank points are determined based on the support points, and the support points increase or decrease depending on the rank points.

[0284] [Ale Processing] In the distribution system 100, the level of a viewer user is determined according to the number of cheers, which indicates the amount of support sent to the user who is the distributor. The cheer processing in the distribution system 100 will be described below. By executing the cheer processing, the server 102 functions as cheer processing means 52.

[0285] The number of cheers is an indicator of the total amount of support from viewers. The number of cheers can be accumulated through support actions such as the number of coins consumed when using a support item, the number of viewing hours, the number of comments, and the number of viewing days. For example, the server 102 increases the number of cheers of viewer users who used the support item for the user who is the broadcaster who is broadcasting the stream, the more coins consumed when using the support item for the stream. Also, for example, the server 102 increases the number of cheers of viewer users who used the support item for the user who is the broadcaster who is broadcasting the stream, the longer the viewing time of the stream. Also, for example, the server 102 increases the number of cheers of viewer users who posted comments for the user who is the broadcaster who is broadcasting the stream, the more comments posted for the stream. Also, for example, the server 102 increases the number of cheers of viewer users who posted comments for the user who is the broadcaster who is broadcasting the stream, the more comments posted for the stream. The increase in the number of cheers for each support action can be set as appropriate. The number of cheers may be calculated by combining multiple support actions, or may be calculated based on only one support action.

[0286] The number of cheers is counted over a predetermined period of time. The number of cheers is reset when the predetermined period has elapsed. For example, the number of cheers is counted for cheering actions from 00:00:00 on the first day of each month to 23:59:59 on the last day of each month, and is reset every month. The number of cheers is stored in the user database 110 in association with the user IDs of other users.

[0287] The level of a viewer user's core fan status relative to the broadcaster user is set according to the number of cheers. It is preferable to set multiple levels for a user's core fan. In this case, it is preferable to set the conditions for becoming a core fan so that the higher the core fan level, the stricter the conditions for becoming that core fan.

[0288] For example, the level of a core fan could increase as follows: if the number of cheers is between 1,000 and 4,999, the fan is a Petit Fan (0.1K); if it is between 5,000 and 10,000, the fan is a Petit Fan (0.5K); if it is between 10,000 and 49,999, the fan is a Core Fan (1K); if it is between 50,000 and 99,999, the fan is a Core Fan (5K); if it is between 100,000 and 149,999, the fan is a Core Fan (10K); if it is between 150,000 and 199,999, the fan is a Core Fan (15K); and so on.

[0289] The core fan level may be reset at predetermined intervals, for example, every month.

[0290] [Family Features] In the distribution system 100, each user who is a distributor can register specific viewers as family members. Family members fulfill roles such as supporting the distributor, promoting the distribution, and working together with the distributor to achieve their goals.

[0291] A user can create a family by selecting the family icon 214d on the distribution screen 290. The server 102 functions as the family means 54 by performing the following processes.

[0292] There may be multiple types of families. Families can be, for example, core fan families and open families. Core fan families are families that only core fans can join. Open families are families that have no membership requirements and that any user can join. Each user can create a predetermined number of families. The predetermined number can be set as appropriate, for example, to one.

[0293] When creating a family, the user inputs an icon image of the family, a family name, a family type (such as a core fan family or an open family), and an introductory text for the family using the input unit 24 of the distributor terminal 104. The distributor terminal 104 transmits the input information together with the user's user ID to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108.

[0294] When the server 102 receives the user ID and the information, it stores this information in a family database stored in the storage unit 12. FIG. 29 shows an example of the family database 124. Information about each family is stored in the family database 124. When a new family is created, the server 102 assigns a unique family ID to the family. The family database 124 stores, in association with the family ID, the user ID of the user who created the family, an icon image of the family, the family name, the family type (such as a core fan family or an open family), an introduction to the family, the user IDs of users who are family members, and the user ID of a user who is the family's assistant.

[0295] A method of joining a family is, for example, when a user invited by the user who opened the family or an assistant accepts the invitation, or when another user applies to join the family to the user who opened the family or an assistant, and the application is accepted.

[0296] An assistant is a user who is a member of a family and appointed by the user who is the commentator of the family. By becoming an assistant, certain effects (such as being displayed in a different color from other users) are applied to comments made on the stream of the user who created the family. In addition, an assistant can apply the comment prohibition and block functions on behalf of the user who created the family during the stream of the user who created the family. In addition, they can invite, approve, decline, and withdraw from the family on behalf of the user who created the family.

[0297] For example, a message inviting another user to become a new member is sent to server 102 from broadcaster terminal 104 used by the user who opened the family or from viewer terminal 106 used by an assistant user. Server 102 then sends information indicating that the other user has been invited to become a member to viewer terminal 106 used by that other user. If the other user accepts the invitation to become a member, the other user accepts the invitation on viewer terminal 106 used by that other user, and the viewer terminal 106 then transmits a message of acceptance of the invitation to become a member to server 102. When server 102 receives the message of acceptance of the invitation to become a member, it registers the user ID of the other user as a family member in family database 124 in association with the user ID of the user who opened the family.

[0298] In addition, a message inviting another user to be a new assistant is sent to server 102 from broadcaster terminal 104 used by the user who opened the family or from viewer terminal 106 used by the user who is an assistant. Server 102 then sends information indicating that an invitation to be an assistant has been received to viewer terminal 106 used by the other user. If the other user accepts the invitation to be an assistant, the other user accepts the invitation on viewer terminal 106 used by the other user, and the viewer terminal 106 then transmits a message of acceptance of the invitation to be an assistant to server 102. When server 102 receives the message of acceptance of the invitation to be an assistant, it registers the user ID of the other user as an assistant member in family database 124 in association with the user ID of the user who opened the family.

[0299] The number of users who can join a family is preferably set according to the level of the user who created the family. For example, a family created by a user at level 10 to 24 can have up to 100 users join, and five users can be designated as assistants. For example, a family created by a user at level 25 to 79 can have up to 200 users join, and 10 users can be designated as assistants. For example, a family created by a user at level 80 or higher can have up to 300 users join, and 15 users can be designated as assistants.

[0300] In addition, a user who joins a family may be automatically removed from the family according to a predetermined condition. For example, if a user who joined the family does not watch a broadcast from the user who created the family for a predetermined period of time, the user may be removed from the family.

[0301] [Distribution end process] The process for ending distribution will be described below. By executing this process, the server 102 functions as distribution ending means 56.

[0302] When the distributor ends the distribution, the distributor terminal 104 transmits the distribution ID of the distribution and information indicating the end of the distribution to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108. Upon receiving the information, the server 102 deletes the information associated with the received distribution ID from the distribution information database 118. At the same time, it registers information regarding the distribution history in the distribution history database 120. The distribution history database 120 stores the distributor's user ID, the start date and time of the distribution, the end date and time of the distribution, and information about the distributed content, associated with the distribution ID.

[0303] The server 102 also updates information in other databases as needed. For example, the server 102 adds a new broadcast ID to past broadcast information associated with the broadcaster's user ID in the user database 110. It also updates rankings in the broadcaster ranking database 112 according to support points for a broadcast. It also deletes broadcasts that have ended in the timeline database 116 from the rankings.

[0304] [Reward granting process] In the distribution system 100, a reward called diamonds is given to a distributor who has performed a distribution. The following describes the reward giving process in the distribution system 100. By executing the reward giving process, the server 102 functions as reward giving means 58.

[0305] The server 102 performs a calculation process of a schedule based on various parameters related to distribution. For example, by referring to the user database 110, the server 102 performs a calculation process of a schedule for each user when the deadline set by each user is reached. The schedule is calculated based on the time schedule and distribution time.

[0306] The time schedule indicates the number of diamonds given to a user who is a broadcaster per hour of broadcasting. The time schedule is set according to the user's support rank. Figure 30 shows an example of setting a time schedule according to the support rank. It is preferable to set the time schedule so that it increases as the support rank increases.

[0307] In addition, it is preferable to change the time schedule according to the ranking of each user in the same support rank. For example, as shown in Fig. 30, the time schedule for the first-place user in the same support rank is set to three times the normal time schedule, and the time schedule for the second-place or third-place user in the same support rank is set to twice the normal time schedule.

[0308] The server 102 grants the user a number of diamonds calculated by multiplying the time diamond set for each support rank by the user's broadcast time in a 24-hour period corresponding to the cutoff time. The server 102 references the user database 110 and adds the newly granted number of diamonds to the number of diamonds owned by each user associated with their user ID. This allows the user who has broadcast to earn diamonds as a reward for their broadcast.

[0309] Here, conditions may be set for the distribution time for which hourly diamonds can be acquired. For example, an upper limit may be set for the distribution time for which hourly diamonds can be acquired. Specifically, for example, the distribution time for which hourly diamonds can be acquired may be set to 4 hours or less per day, 19 hours or less per week, and 75 hours or less per month. In this case, the distribution time for which hourly diamonds can be acquired is reset at a predetermined timing according to the closing time. For example, if the closing time is 13:00, the respective distribution times are reset at 13:00 every day, 13:00 every Monday, and 13:00 on the first day of each month. Similarly, for example, if the closing time is 22:00, the respective distribution times are reset at 22:00 every day, 22:00 every Sunday, and 22:00 on the last day of each month. Similarly, for example, if the closing time is 24:00, the respective distribution times are reset at 24:00 every day, 24:00 every Sunday, and 24:00 on the last day of each month.

[0310] Furthermore, broadcasts with a broadcast time of less than five minutes may not be counted as broadcast time for which time diamonds can be earned. Broadcasts with an extremely low comment rate, for example, broadcasts with fewer than 10 comments, may not be counted as broadcast time for which time diamonds can be earned. Broadcasts that violate the membership rules of the broadcast system 100 may not be counted as broadcast time for which time diamonds can be earned. Broadcasts on days when the above-mentioned good night tickets are used may not be counted as broadcast time for which time diamonds can be earned. If radio broadcasts have been performed three or more times in the most recent broadcast, the broadcast time of the radio broadcast may not be counted as broadcast time for which time diamonds can be earned.

[0311] The time diagram may be converted into coins in the distribution system 100. The time diagram may also be usable in systems other than the distribution system 100. The time diagram may also be used to acquire other benefits. The time diagram may also be used to convert into electronic points or electronic money.

[0312] Additionally, items may be awarded to the streamer according to the support points. The items may be converted into cash at a predetermined rate, exchanged for other prizes, or used as participation fees for events.

[0313] For example, if an electronic game is played at an event and live-streamed, the rarity of the items may be determined according to the results of the electronic game, and the number of items may be determined according to the cheering points for the broadcaster at the event. That is, among multiple broadcasters participating in the electronic game, the higher the broadcaster's ranking in the electronic game, the rarer the item that is awarded. Furthermore, the higher the cheering points during the cheering time before the start of the electronic game, the more items that can be acquired.

[0314] For example, when an electronic game is played at an event and live-streamed, the number of items may be determined according to the results of the electronic game, and the rarity of the items may be determined according to the cheering points given to the broadcaster at the event. That is, for multiple broadcasters participating in the electronic game, the higher the broadcaster's ranking in the electronic game, the more items the broadcaster can acquire. Also, the higher the cheering points given during the cheering time before the electronic game starts, the higher the rarity of the items.

[0315] Furthermore, at least one of the rarity of the item and the number of items acquired may be determined according to a combination of the result of the electronic game and the cheering points. For example, a plurality of conditions may be set for the combination of the result of the electronic game and the cheering points, and at least one of the rarity of the item and the number of items acquired may be determined according to which condition the combination satisfies.

[0316] For example, an item given according to the result of an electronic game (e.g., a recovery item) and an item given according to support points (e.g., an equipment item) may be given as different items. Note that even in this case, the number and rarity of items obtained as a result of an electronic game and items obtained with support points may change according to the result.

[0317] Furthermore, the item awarded according to the result of the electronic game and the item awarded according to the cheering points may be the same item. Even if the same item is awarded, the rarity of the item awarded according to the result of the electronic game and the item awarded according to the cheering points may be different. For example, if the result of the electronic game is first place and the cheering points are the lowest, the recovery item obtained in the electronic game may be rare, but the recovery item obtained with the cheering points may be rarer.

[0318] Furthermore, other factors than the rarity of the item and the number of items acquired may be changed. For example, the value of an item may be changed according to the results of an electronic game. Specifically, the higher the ranking in the electronic game, the more items that can be exchanged for higher quality prizes may be given. Furthermore, for example, the value of an item may be changed according to cheering points. Specifically, the higher the cheering points, the more items that can be exchanged for higher quality prizes may be given.

[0319] Viewers may also be given items. Items may be given to viewers according to the support points they have earned for the broadcaster of the broadcast they have watched. Items may be converted into cash at a predetermined rate, exchanged for other prizes, or used as participation fees for events.

[0320] As with the broadcaster, for example, the rarity of an item may be determined according to the results of the electronic game, and the number of items may be determined according to the support points given to the broadcaster during the event. That is, the higher the broadcaster's ranking in the electronic game of the broadcast viewed by the viewer, the rarer the item will be. Also, the higher the support points during the support time before the start of the electronic game, the more items will be acquired.

[0321] [Distribution processing for electronic game events] The following describes the processing performed when an event related to an electronic game is held in distribution system 100. The distribution processing for an electronic game event is performed according to the flowchart in FIG.

[0322] In step S10, an event setting process is performed. The event administrator sets up the electronic game event in the server 102. In this setting process, information necessary for hosting the electronic game event is set in the server 102. For example, the type of electronic game to be played in the event, the rules of the event, the number of players to be matched in one match, the duration of the event, items to be awarded to broadcasters and viewers in the event, etc. are set.

[0323] When the event setting process is completed, the system starts inviting players to participate in the event. Specifically, information indicating that an electronic game battle event is taking place and information about the event, such as the details of the event, are displayed in the event live selection area 206 on the timeline screen 200. Furthermore, when the user selects the notice display icon 214e on the timeline screen 200, information about the electronic game event is displayed.

[0324] In step S12, participation in the event from a player is accepted. A user who is a broadcaster playing an electronic game applies to participate in the event by selecting the notification display icon 214e on the timeline screen 200 on the broadcaster terminal 104 and then selecting an event of the displayed electronic game. The broadcaster terminal 104 transmits an event ID indicating the selected event together with the broadcaster's user ID to the server 102 via the information and communications network 108.

[0325] In step S14, a matching process between players is performed. The server 102 matches the multiple broadcasters who applied to participate in step S12 as opponents. The process in this step may be performed according to the procedure of the matching process described above.

[0326] In step S16, a process for accepting the participation of viewers is carried out. When the matching process is completed, the broadcaster, who is the player, starts broadcasting. Accordingly, information about the broadcast is displayed on the timeline screen 200. Users who will become viewers can watch the broadcast by selecting the broadcast on the timeline screen 200 using the viewer terminal 106.

[0327] In step S18, cheering time begins. The cheering time is held between the broadcaster and the viewers before play of the electronic game begins. The duration of the cheering time may be set for each event. During the cheering time, viewers post cheering comments for the broadcaster (player), as well as comments about strategies, tactics, etc. for the electronic game. Viewers also use cheering items for the broadcaster (player). By posting comments and using cheering items, the broadcaster's cheering points increase.

[0328] When multiple electronic games are played in one match, it is preferable to set another cheering time after one electronic game ends and before the next electronic game starts. However, the timing of setting the cheering time is not limited to this, and the cheering time may be set only once in one match, or may be set during or after interrupting play in the middle of playing one electronic game.

[0329] In step S20, the electronic game is played (matched) and live-streamed. When the cheering time ends, the electronic game begins to be played. The matched broadcasters compete in the electronic game. The status of the electronic game play is streamed from the broadcaster terminal 104 used by each broadcaster via the server 102.

[0330] In step S22, a reward granting process is performed. When play of the electronic game ends, a process is performed to grant a reward to the broadcaster who participated in the event. A reward may also be granted to the viewer who participated in the event. The process in this step may be performed in accordance with the reward granting process described above.

[0331] In this embodiment, the process of granting a reward is executed when the play of one electronic game is completed, but the timing of granting the reward is not particularly limited. For example, if multiple electronic games are played in one match, the reward granting process may be executed after each electronic game play is completed, or after all electronic games in one match are completed. Furthermore, for example, at the end of an event, rewards for all electronic games played in the event may be granted all at once.

[0332] While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments, and includes the inventions set forth in the claims and their equivalents. Furthermore, the device configurations described in the above embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate as long as no technical contradiction occurs.

[0333] [Configuration of the invention] [Configuration 1] A content distribution system, accepting support actions for the distributor from viewers watching the live distribution during the live distribution; A distribution system characterized by providing a reward to the distributor in accordance with the supportive action. [Configuration 2] The distribution system according to configuration 1, A distribution system characterized in that a plurality of distributors perform the live distribution while simultaneously playing the common electronic game. [Configuration 3] The distribution system according to configuration 1 or 2, A distribution system characterized in that the cheering action is accepted before starting to play the electronic game. [Configuration 4] The distribution system according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, Support points are awarded to the broadcaster in response to the support action, A distribution system characterized in that the content of the reward is determined based on the support points. [Configuration 5] The distribution system according to configuration 4, A distribution system characterized in that the rarity of the reward or the number of the rewards is determined based on the support points. [Configuration 6] The distribution system according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, A distribution system characterized in that the support action is posting a comment on the live broadcast or using a support item on the live broadcast. [Configuration 7] 7. The distribution system according to configuration 6, A distribution system characterized in that the comments enable advice about the electronic game to be given to the distributor. [Configuration 8] The distribution system according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, A distribution system characterized in that, in addition to the cheering action, a reward is given to the distributor depending on the result of the electronic game. [Configuration 9] The electronic system according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, A distribution system characterized in that the reward is given to the distributor after the electronic game is completed. [Configuration 10] A distribution program for distributing content, Computer, means for accepting support actions for the broadcaster from viewers watching the live broadcast during the live broadcast; a means for giving a reward to the broadcaster in accordance with the supportive action; A distribution program characterized by functioning as follows. [Configuration 11] A content distribution method, comprising: By computer, accepting a support action for the broadcaster from viewers watching the live broadcast during the live broadcast; A step of giving a reward to the broadcaster in accordance with the supportive action; A distribution method characterized by executing the above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0334] 10 Processing unit, 12 Memory unit, 14 Input unit, 16 Output unit, 18 Communication unit, 20 Processing unit, 22 Memory unit, 24 Input unit, 26 Output unit, 28 Communication unit, 30 Processing unit, 32 Memory unit, 34 Input unit, 36 Output unit, 38 Communication unit, 40 Timeline display means, 42 Distribution setting means, 44 Distribution means, 46 Box processing means, 48 ​​Support processing means, 50 Rank determination means, 52 Cheer processing means, 54 Family means, 56 Distribution termination means, 58 Reward granting means, 60 Matching means, 100 Distribution system, 102 Server, 104 Distributor terminal, 106 Viewer terminal, 108 Information and communication network, 110 User database, 112 Distributor ranking database, 114 Viewer ranking database, 116 Timeline database, 118 Distribution information database, 120 Distribution history database, 122 Support item database, 124 Family database, 126 Event database, 200 Timeline screen, 202 User profile icon, 204 Ranking icon, 206 Event live selection area, 208 Favorite broadcaster display area, 210 Category selection area, 212 Timeline display area, 212a Live score display area, 212b Box display area, 212c Keyword display area, 212d Tag display area, 212e Level display area, 212f Broadcaster name display area, 212g Region name display area, 214 Function selection area, 214a Timeline display icon, 214b Search icon, 214c Broadcast icon, 214d Family icon, 214e Display icon, 220 User profile display screen, 222 User name display area, 224 User icon display area, 226 Level display area, 228 Keyword display area, 230 Region display area, 232 Detailed information display area, 240 Ranking menu display screen, 242 Streamer / viewer selection area, 244 Period selection area, 246 Ranking display area, 246 (246a to 246c) Ranking display area, 246d Icon image, 250 Ranking details display screen, 252 Period selection area, 254 Ranking user display area, 254 (254a to 254c) Ranking user display area, 254d Follow button, 260 Distribution setting screen, 262User image display area, 264 Streaming title input area, 266 Streaming setting area, 268 Tweet setting area, 268 Share setting area, 270 Streaming start button, 272 Filter selection button, 274 In-camera / out-camera selection button, 276 Live radio selection area, 280 Filter selection screen, 282 Gauge display area, 282a Bar gauge, 282b Standard mark, 284 Filter setting area, 284a Reset button, 284b Filter item setting button, 286 Filter type selection area, 290 Streaming screen, 292 Streaming screen display area, 294 Streamer information display area, 296 Live record display area, 298 Favorite viewer display area, 298 Viewer display area, 298a Crown mark, 300 Tag display area, 302 Comment display area, 302a Core fan display area, 302b New visitor mark, 302c Family mark, 302d assistant mark, 304 comment input area, 306 event icon, 308 box icon, 310 share icon, 312 ranking icon, 314 like icon, 316 support item icon, 320 broadcaster information display screen, 322 user name display area, 324 user icon display area, 326 level display area, 328 keyword display area, 330 region display area, 332 core fan number display area, 334 cheer number display area, 336 rank display area, 338 comment display area, 340 tag display area, 350 viewer information display screen, 352 user icon display area, 354 user name display area, 356 detailed information display area, 358 cheer number display area, 360 follow button, 370 box information screen, 372 remaining time display area, 374 remaining box number display area, 376 Acquired box information display area, 376a icon, 376b icon, 378 box description area, 380 comment recommendation display area, 380a comment button, 382 box icon display area, 384 count display area, 385a cheer number display area, 385b achievement condition display area, 386 description display area, 390 cheer processing screen, 392 item attribute selection area, 394 item selection area, 394a icon image, 394b coin number, 396 coin-specific filter area, 398Coin remaining number display area, 400 purchase button, 410 rank meter, 412 support rank display area, 414 required points display area, 416 support points display area, 418 rank display pointer, 420 border display area, 422 time display area.

Claims

1. A content distribution system, accepting support actions for the distributor from viewers watching the live distribution during the live distribution; A distribution system characterized by providing a reward to the distributor in accordance with the supportive action.

2. 2. The distribution system according to claim 1, A distribution system characterized in that a plurality of distributors perform the live distribution while simultaneously playing the common electronic game.

3. 3. The distribution system according to claim 2, A distribution system characterized in that the cheering action is accepted before starting to play the electronic game.

4. 2. The distribution system according to claim 1, Support points are awarded to the broadcaster in response to the support action, A distribution system characterized in that the content of the reward is determined based on the support points.

5. 5. The distribution system according to claim 4, A distribution system characterized in that the rarity of the reward or the number of the rewards is determined based on the support points.

6. 2. The distribution system according to claim 1, A distribution system characterized in that the support action is posting a comment on the live broadcast or using a support item on the live broadcast.

7. 7. The distribution system according to claim 6, A distribution system characterized in that the comments enable advice about the electronic game to be given to the distributor.

8. 2. The distribution system according to claim 1, A distribution system characterized in that, in addition to the cheering action, a reward is given to the distributor depending on the result of the electronic game.

9. 10. The electronic system of claim 1, A distribution system characterized in that the reward is given to the distributor after the electronic game is completed.

10. A distribution program for distributing content, Computer, means for accepting support actions for the broadcaster from viewers watching the live broadcast during the live broadcast; a means for giving a reward to the broadcaster in accordance with the supportive action; A distribution program characterized by functioning as follows.

11. A content distribution method, comprising: By computer, accepting a support action for the broadcaster from viewers watching the live broadcast during the live broadcast; A step of giving a reward to the broadcaster in accordance with the supportive action; A distribution method characterized by executing the above.

Images