Information processing apparatus and information processing method

Abstract

To provide a technology for enabling a user to easily view desired content.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes a circuit configured to acquire, on the basis of an utterance of a user, content selection information corresponding to the user who has uttered, and to determine display content and content selection candidate information on the basis of the acquired content selection information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing device and an information processing method. [Background technology]

[0002] Currently, there are various types of broadcasting, such as terrestrial broadcasting, satellite broadcasting, cable television, and internet broadcasting, and the number of channels is extremely large, amounting to several hundred. In areas where such a large number of channels are available, i.e., multi-channel areas, users frequently switch channels or select the channel they want to watch from an electronic program guide (EPG) in order to select the content they want to watch on television or other devices.

[0003] However, the above-described operations tend to be cumbersome, and in areas with a large number of channels, it is difficult for users to select the channel they want to watch. To facilitate this channel selection, a technique has been proposed in which, when the television is turned on, the most frequently viewed channel is selected from among the channels selected in the past during the time period corresponding to the time the television was turned on (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-263510 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, with the above-mentioned conventional technology, the channel that the user wants to view, i.e., the content that the user desires, is not necessarily displayed. If the content that the user wants to view is not displayed, the user must perform a complicated operation to select the content that the user wants to view, making it difficult for the user to easily view the content that the user desires.

[0006] Therefore, the present disclosure proposes an information processing device and an information processing method that allow a user to easily view desired content. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an information processing device is provided that includes a circuit configured to acquire content selection information corresponding to the user who made the utterance based on the user's utterance, and determine display content and content selection candidate information based on the acquired content selection information.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an information processing method executed by a computer, the information processing method including: acquiring content selection information corresponding to a user who made an utterance based on the user's utterance; and determining display content and content selection candidate information based on the acquired content selection information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of an information processing device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an information processing device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of logical functions of an information processing device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a first display screen when a regular filter is selected according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a second display screen (usual program guide) when a usual filter is selected according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a first diagram for explaining the priority when a regular filter is selected according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 10 is a second diagram for explaining the priority when selecting a regular filter according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a first display process when a regular filter is selected according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a second display process when a regular filter is selected according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a first diagram for explaining a setting screen for a regular filter according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a second diagram for explaining the usual filter setting screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a first display screen when a genre filter is selected according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a first diagram for explaining a second display screen (favorite program guide) when a genre filter is selected according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a first diagram for explaining the priority when selecting a genre filter according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a second diagram for explaining the priority when selecting a genre filter according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a first display process when a genre filter is selected according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a second diagram for explaining a second display screen (favorite program guide) when a genre filter is selected according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a selectable display of a regular filter according to another embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a first diagram for explaining customization of a regular program guide according to another embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a second diagram for explaining customization of a regular program guide according to another embodiment. [Figure 21]FIG. 10 is a third diagram for explaining customization of a regular program guide according to another embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a first diagram illustrating highlighting of a television menu according to another embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a second diagram illustrating highlighting of a television menu according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The drawings are merely examples. In the following embodiments, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0011] The explanation will be given in the following order: 1. First embodiment 1-1. Basic configuration example 1-2. Example of functional configuration 1-3. Display screen when selecting usual filter (TV menu, usual program guide) 1-4. Usual filter selection priority 1-5. First display process when selecting the usual filter (TV menu) 1-6. Second display process when selecting the usual filter (usual program guide) 1-7. Third display process when selecting a regular filter (voice input operation) 1-8. Usual filter settings screen 1-9. Summary of the First Embodiment 2. Second embodiment 2-1. Display screen when selecting genre filter (TV menu, favorite program guide) 2-2. Priority when selecting genre filters 2-3. First display process when genre filter is selected (TV menu) 2-4. Second display process when genre filter is selected (Favorite program guide) 2-5. Displaying recommendations for your favorite programs 2-6. Summary of the Second Embodiment 3. Other Embodiments 3-1.Various settings via the control panel 3-2. Displaying the usual filter options 3-3. Customizing your usual program guide 3-4. Highlighting the TV Menu 4. Notes

[0012] <1. First embodiment> <1-1. Basic configuration example> The basic configuration of an information processing device according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Fig. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of the information processing device according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the information processing device according to the first embodiment.

[0013] As shown in Fig. 1, information processing device 100 functions as a receiving device that receives broadcast signals broadcast from broadcasting stations from radio towers 200 and content data distributed from the Internet 220 (specifically, a content distribution server connected for communication via the Internet). This information processing device 100 is a television device equipped with a display screen (display). On the display screen, for example, as shown in Fig. 1, an image G1 of display content is displayed over the entire screen (entire area of ​​the screen), and a television menu (mini program guide) G2, which is a user interface image (UI image), is displayed in the lower area of ​​the screen.

[0014] The information processing device 100 is not limited to a television device, and may be a smartphone, a projector, a car navigation system, a computer, or an external device (external equipment) such as a set-top box (STB), a recorder with recording and playback functions, or a player with playback functions. For example, the set-top box, recorder, or player is connected to the television device for use.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 2, the information processing device 100 includes a camera 101, a microphone 102, an input device 103, a communication I / F (interface) 104, a memory 105, a tuner 106, a decoder 107, a display 108, a speaker 109, a remote control I / F 110, a bus 111, and a processor 112.

[0016] The camera 101 has an imaging element such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) and captures an image. The images captured by the camera 101 (for example, each frame constituting a moving image) are treated as input images for processing by the information processing device 100.

[0017] The microphone 102 collects a voice uttered by a user and generates a voice signal. The voice signal generated by the microphone 102 is treated as an input voice for voice recognition by the information processing device 100.

[0018] The input device 103 is a device used by the user to directly operate the information processing device 100. For example, the input device 103 includes a button, a switch, a dial, etc., arranged on the housing of the information processing device 100. When the input device 103 detects an input operation (user input) by the user, it generates an input signal corresponding to the detected user input operation.

[0019] The communication I / F 104 mediates communication between the information processing device 100 and other devices (external devices). For example, the communication I / F 104 supports any wireless communication protocol or wired communication protocol and establishes a communication connection with other devices. The communication I / F 104 also receives a content signal from an external device (e.g., an Internet distribution server) and extracts content data from the content signal.

[0020] The communication I / F 104 is configured with a communication device for connecting to a network, etc. The network connected to the communication I / F 104 is a wired or wireless network, such as the Internet or a home LAN (Local Area Network).

[0021] For example, the communication I / F 104 is a communication card for wired or wireless LAN, Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or WUSB (Wireless USB). The communication I / F 104 may also be a connection port such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal, an optical audio terminal, or an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) terminal. The communication I / F 104 may also be, for example, a router for optical communication, a router for ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), or a modem for various types of communication. The communication I / F 104 transmits and receives signals, for example, between the Internet and other communication devices using a predetermined protocol such as TCP / IP.

[0022] The memory 105 is configured with a storage medium such as a semiconductor memory or a hard disk, and stores programs and data for processing by the information processing device 100, as well as content data. The data stored in the memory 105 includes, for example, data required for various processes described later. Note that some or all of the programs and data may be acquired from an external data source (for example, a data server, network storage, or external memory) without being stored in the memory 105.

[0023] The tuner 106 extracts and demodulates a content signal of a desired channel from a broadcast signal received via an antenna (not shown), and outputs the demodulated content signal to the decoder 107.

[0024] The decoder 107 decodes content data from a content signal input from the tuner 106. The decoder 107 may also decode content data from a content signal received via the communication I / F 104. A content image is generated based on the content data decoded by the decoder 107.

[0025] The display 108 has a screen (display screen) configured by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode), a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), etc. The display 108 displays an image generated by the information processing device 100 on the screen.

[0026] The speaker 109 has circuit elements such as a diaphragm and an amplifier, and outputs sound based on an output audio signal generated by the information processing device 100. The volume of the speaker 109 can be changed in response to a user's input operation on the input device 103 or a user's input operation on a local terminal such as a remote controller.

[0027] The remote control I / F 110 receives a remote control signal (for example, an infrared signal or other wireless signal) transmitted from a local terminal such as a remote controller used by a user. When the remote control I / F 110 detects the remote control signal, it generates an input signal corresponding to the detected remote control signal. Note that, in addition to a remote controller, the local terminal may also be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer (PC), or the like.

[0028] The bus 111 interconnects the camera 101, microphone 102, input device 103, communication I / F 104, memory 105, tuner 106, decoder 107, display 108, speaker 109, remote control I / F 110, and processor 112.

[0029] The processor 112 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), etc. The processor 112 executes programs stored in the memory 105 or other storage media to realize various functions of the information processing device 100, which will be described later.

[0030] The basic configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the first embodiment has been described above. However, the hardware configuration shown in Fig. 2 is an example and is not limited to this. For example, the information processing device 100 may not have the camera 101, and the microphone 102 may be provided in an external device (for example, an audio terminal such as a smart speaker or a mobile terminal such as a smartphone) connected to the information processing device 100, or in an input terminal such as a remote controller.

[0031] The information processing device 100 is a device that can receive video and audio data from external devices such as a recorder, a game console, a PC, a digital camera, and a smartphone connected via a communication I / F 104, and output and play the data from a display 108 and a speaker 109. A plurality of external devices can be connected to the information processing device 100 (or a plurality of external devices can be connected via a distributor). When one or more external devices are connected to the information processing device 100, the user can select or switch between the external devices by performing an input operation by the user.

[0032] <1-2. Example of functional configuration> Next, the functional configuration of the information processing device according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the logical functional configuration of the information processing device according to the first embodiment.

[0033] 3, the information processing device 100 includes a voice acquisition unit 120, a feature DB (database) 140, a control unit 160, a history DB 172, and a preference DB 174. The control unit 160 includes a voice recognition unit 130, an application unit 150, a search control unit 162, a selection control unit 164, and a display control unit 166.

[0034] 3 may be implemented in an external device (e.g., a device in a cloud computing environment) of the information processing device 100. Also, for example, instead of executing the process (control process) described below by itself, the control unit 160 may have an external control function execute the process.

[0035] The voice acquisition unit 120 acquires, as input voice, a voice signal generated by the microphone 102. Then, the voice acquisition unit 120 outputs the acquired input voice to the voice recognition unit .

[0036] The voice recognition unit 130 recognizes the user's voice based on the input voice input from the voice acquisition unit 120. For example, the voice recognition unit 130 converts the input voice into text indicating the content of the voice and outputs the text to the control unit 160 or the application unit 150. Note that the voice reception and voice recognition start process may be started automatically, or may be started using a button or icon arranged on a local terminal such as a remote controller.

[0037] For example, the speech recognition unit 130 may identify a speaker (user) by using speech feature data stored in the feature DB 140 in recognizing the input speech input from the speech acquisition unit 120. The speech recognition unit 130 outputs the speaker identification result to the control unit 160 and the application unit 150.

[0038] In the first embodiment, the voice recognition process is performed by the information processing device 100, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the voice recognition process may be performed by an external device connected to the information processing device 100. Examples of the external device that can be used include a local terminal such as a smart speaker, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a PC, or a server on the Internet.

[0039] The feature DB 140 stores in advance voice feature data to be used for voice recognition by the voice recognition unit 130. The voice feature data includes, for example, voice feature amounts indicating the characteristics of the speech of each user.

[0040] The feature DB 140 may store image feature data used for image recognition. The image feature data may include, for example, known image feature amounts of a predetermined part of a user's hand or face. This image feature data may include facial image data for each user. The feature DB 140 may be built within the information processing device 100, or may be built on an external device such as an external server.

[0041] The history DB 172 stores history information related to the viewing history and reservation history of content (broadcast programs, recorded programs, internet distribution programs, applications, etc.). The viewing history includes the viewing time and viewing duration of content, the number of times and duration of application use (application selection information), user information, the user's search history and selection history for search results, etc. The reservation history includes the reservation time and reserved viewing duration of content, etc. History information is generated for each user (e.g., father, mother, son, etc.) and stored in the history DB 172 in association with each user. Such history information is included in content selection information (content selection record information) used for searching for and determining content to be viewed by the user.

[0042] Note that, although the history information is generated for each user, it is not limited to this and may not be generated for each user. Also, the history information is obtained by detecting the user's viewing history and reservation history in the information processing device 100, but it is not limited to this. For example, the history information may be acquired from various external devices and set in the history DB 172. Also, the history DB 172 may be built within the information processing device 100 or may be built on an external device such as an external server.

[0043] The preference DB 174 stores user preference information. The preference information includes, for example, information about a user's favorite sports, sports teams, entertainers, singers, writers, drama authors, characters, etc. The preference information, like the history information, is generated for each user (e.g., father, mother, son, etc.) and stored in the history DB 172 in association with each user. Such history information is included in content selection information used for searching for and determining content to be viewed by the user.

[0044] Note that the preference information is generated for each user, but is not limited to this and may not be generated for each user. Also, the preference information is obtained by detecting the user's preferences (for example, which content the user frequently watches) based on history information or the like, but is not limited to this. For example, the preference information may be set in the preference DB 174 in advance by a user's input operation or the like. Also, the preference DB 174 may be built within the information processing device 100 or may be built on an external device such as an external server.

[0045] The application unit 150 executes various application functions of the information processing device 100. For example, the application unit 150 executes a program playback function, an electronic program guide display function, a recording setting function, an external input switching function, a photo playback function, a video playback function, a music playback function, an Internet browsing function, an image recognition function, and the like. The application unit 150 outputs application images (including content images) and audio generated through the application functions to the control unit 160. Note that at least some of the application functions cooperate with the audio recognition unit 130 and accept audio input from the user.

[0046] For example, the program playback function sets or changes the channel, volume, etc. of a television program or an internet distribution program, plays back a recorded program, etc., in accordance with the user's input operation on the input device 103 or the local terminal, or the user's voice input operation recognized by the voice recognition unit 130 (hereinafter simply referred to as user's input operation, but when necessary to distinguish, referred to as voice input operation).The electronic program guide display function displays the electronic program guide and changes the channel, time period, etc., in accordance with the user's input operation.

[0047] In addition, the recording setting function sets the recording date and time and channel in response to user input operations. Data of recorded programs is stored in the memory 105 of the information processing device 100. The external input switching function switches external inputs in response to user input operations. The photo playback function plays back photos taken on a specified date in response to user input operations. The internet browsing function performs internet searches using input keywords in response to user input operations.

[0048] The image recognition function also recognizes an input image captured by the camera 101 and input to the application unit 150. In image recognition, for example, image features extracted from the input image are compared with image features of a predetermined part of the user's body (e.g., face, hand, etc.) stored in advance in the feature DB 140, thereby recognizing the predetermined part. For example, the image recognition function identifies the user by facial recognition, and also accepts gesture input from the user and recognizes the predetermined gesture from hand movements.

[0049] Here, when the history information and preference information are stored for multiple users, such as family members, it becomes necessary to identify the user in order to read out the history information and preference information appropriate for the user. For this reason, a user identification function (profile function) for identifying the user is executed by the application unit 150. The profile function identifies the user, for example, based on the user's input operation or human biometric information (for example, voice, face, etc.). As an example, one GUI (graphic user interface) is selected by the user's input operation on a GUI displayed for each user, and the user corresponding to the selected GUI is identified. Also, for example, as described above, voice recognition by the voice recognition unit 130 or image recognition by the image recognition function is executed to identify the user.

[0050] For example, if dad says, "Show me your usual programs," it is identified that the user is dad through voice recognition (e.g., voiceprint matching) or image recognition (e.g., face matching), and the history information and preference information of the identified dad are read from history DB 172 and preference DB 174. It is also possible to identify a user using a voice keyword. For example, if dad says, "Show me your usual programs," dad is identified using the keyword "dad," and the history information and preference information of the identified dad are read from history DB 172 and preference DB 174.

[0051] The search control unit 162 performs a process of searching for content desired by the user based on content selection information including history information and preference information in response to a user's input operation. For example, the search control unit 162 searches for channels (channel numbers or channel names) and program names currently being broadcast or distributed over the Internet, as well as channels and program names of recorded programs, based on content selection information including history information and preference information in response to a user's input operation. The search control unit 162 then determines the content obtained by the search as selection candidate content and generates selection candidate information for content related to the determined selection candidate content. Note that the recorded programs may be stored in memory 105 or in an external device such as a recorder connected via communication I / F 104.

[0052] The selection control unit 164 performs a process of selecting one content (display content) to be displayed on the entire screen of the display 108 from the selection candidate content (content selection candidate information) that is the search result of the search control unit 162. When there is one selection candidate content, the selection control unit 164 only needs to select that one content, but when there are multiple selection candidate contents, the selection control unit 164 selects one display content according to predetermined criteria in order to select the content that is most likely to be requested by the user.

[0053] The predetermined criterion is, for example, a priority based on content selection information including history information and preference information. The selection control unit 164 determines the priority of each of the multiple selection candidate contents according to either or both of the history information and preference information in the content selection information. As described above, the user is identified by the user's input operation, voice recognition, image recognition (face recognition), etc., and the history information and preference information corresponding to the identified user are obtained from the history DB 172 and preference DB 174.

[0054] For example, based on either or both of the history information and preference information of the identified user (viewing user), the selection control unit 164 increases the priority of channels, programs, genres, etc. that the viewing user frequently watches, or increases the priority of channels, programs, genres, etc. that the viewing user frequently records. Genres are classifications according to content details, and examples of genres include news, variety shows, music, dramas, movies, and documentaries. As an example, the selection control unit 164 increases the priority of channels / programs / genres for each time period or day of the week in descending order of viewing time or recording time in the most recent predetermined period (e.g., one month). The selection control unit 164 determines the program with the highest priority as the content to be displayed.

[0055] The selection control unit 164 may calculate the priority according to the combination and number of users. For example, based on the viewing history, it is possible to identify channels / programs / genres that are often viewed when the family is together, channels / programs / genres that are often viewed when only parents are present, channels / programs / genres that are often viewed when only children are present, and the like, and appropriately calculate the priority for each case. Even if the selection control unit 164 cannot acquire user identification information, it may increase the priority of, for example, channels / programs / genres that are often viewed in the current time slot, programs / genres that are often recorded, and the like. The selection control unit 164 may also increase the priority of, for example, the most recently selected channel, program, or genre based solely on the viewing history, regardless of the person or time. When recorded programs are included in the search result of selection candidate content, the selection control unit 164 may increase the priority of unviewed programs and decrease the priority of viewed programs.

[0056] The display control unit 166 controls the display of images via the display 108. For example, the display control unit 166 generates an image according to the search result by the search control unit 162 and the selection result by the selection control unit 164, and outputs and displays the image on the display 108. The display control unit 166 also displays an application image input from the application unit 150 on the display 108.

[0057] For example, the display control unit 166 performs a process of displaying an image G1 of the selected display content on the entire screen of the display 108 in accordance with the selection result by the selection control unit 164 (see FIG. 1). Furthermore, the display control unit 166 performs a process of generating a television menu G2 corresponding to the selection candidate content in accordance with the selection candidate content (content selection candidate information) that is the search result by the search control unit 162, and displaying the television menu G2 on the screen of the display 108 (see FIG. 1). At this time, the television menu G2 is superimposed on the image G1 of the display content displayed on the entire screen of the display 108, and is displayed in a predetermined region of the screen of the display 108 (for example, the lower region of the screen) (see FIG. 1). For example, this television menu G2 is automatically erased if there is no user input operation for a certain period of time after it is displayed. The display time of the television menu G2 is set in advance, but may be changed based on user setting information, preference information, etc.

[0058] In the TV menu G2, the display content varies depending on the filter selected in response to the user's input operation, and details of the display screen when the usual filter is selected and the display image when the genre filter is selected will be described later. A filter is a filter that allows the user to select channels and programs that they want to watch, and various filters exist in the TV menu G2.

[0059] The control unit 160 controls (processes) the entire information processing device 100, in addition to controlling the search control unit 162, the selection control unit 164, and the display control unit 166. For example, the control unit 160 performs processing to turn on the power of the entire information processing device 100, including the display 108, in response to a user's input operation (return from standby state). The control unit 160 also performs processing to start a program playback application using the application unit 150, and display an image G1 of the display content selected by the selection control unit 164 on the display 108. At this time, the control unit 160 also performs processing to superimpose a television menu G2 on the image G1 of the display content.

[0060] The functional configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the first embodiment has been specifically described above. Note that the functional configuration of the information processing device 100 shown in Fig. 3 is an example and is not limited to this. For example, at least a part of the functional configuration of the information processing device 100 shown in Fig. 3 may be in an external device (for example, a local terminal or a server on the cloud) that is communicatively connected to the information processing device 100.

[0061] <1-3. Display screen when selecting usual filter: TV menu, usual program guide> Next, the first display screen (TV menu: first display image) when the usual filter is selected according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4, and the second display screen (usual program guide: third display image) when the usual filter is selected will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining the first display screen when the usual filter is selected according to the first embodiment. Fig. 5 is a diagram for explaining the second display screen when the usual filter is selected according to the first embodiment.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 4, for example, an image G1 of the display content is displayed on the entire screen of the display 108, and a television menu G2 is displayed in the lower region of the screen of the display 108. The television menu G2 is a user interface image (UI image) having an image G2a indicating a first selection column and an image G2b indicating a second selection column. The image G2a indicating the first selection column is an image that selectably arranges item images corresponding to selection candidate content for each channel in the horizontal direction of the screen of the display 108. The image G2b indicating the second selection column is an image that selectably arranges filter names (category information) by type in the horizontal direction of the screen of the display 108. In FIG. 4, for example, "Soccer," "Regular Programs," "BS," "CS," "Advanced BS," "Advanced CS," etc. are shown as filter names.

[0063] The filters include, but are not limited to, filters for terrestrial broadcasting, BS broadcasting, etc., filters for sports, movies, etc. (genre filters), filters for sports types such as soccer, baseball, etc., and may also include categories such as team filters, actor filters, original author filters, etc. Also, there may be categories such as filters for external devices such as STBs and recorders, external input filters such as HDMI (registered trademark), and application filters such as VOD (Video on Demand) applications and streaming applications.

[0064] Here, for example, when any item image is selected by a user's input operation in the aforementioned TV menu G2, the image G1 of the displayed content may be switched to a content image of a channel based on the selected item image. Also, when any filter is selected, the image G1 of the displayed content may be switched to a content image corresponding to the selected filter, and the TV menu G2 corresponding to the selected filter may be displayed.

[0065] For example, when a usual filter (filter name in FIG. 4: "usual program") is selected, the display content and selection candidate content (content selection candidate information) are determined based on the history information included in the content selection information. Then, as shown in FIG. 4, an image G1 of the determined display content is displayed on the entire screen of the display 108, and further, a television menu G2 having item images corresponding to the determined selection candidate content and the names of each filter is displayed in the lower region of the screen of the display 108. The item images are arranged horizontally on the screen of the display 108 in order of priority in the television menu G2. For example, the item images are arranged in order of priority from left to right. Furthermore, when the usual filter is selected, only the item images in the television menu G2 may be changed, and the image G1 of the display content may not be changed. Furthermore, for example, when the selection frame or cursor is positioned on each filter in the television menu G2, only the item image in the television menu G2 may be changed, and the filter may be selected by pressing the enter button on the remote controller, thereby changing the display content corresponding to the usual filter or the display content of the content source corresponding to the filter.

[0066] The item images may be arranged in the horizontal direction of the screen in order of priority in the upper region of the screen of display 108, or may be arranged in the vertical direction of the screen in order of priority in the left or right region of the screen of display 108. Alternatively, the item images may be displayed randomly across the entire screen of display 108 so that the priority can be seen, and the display style is not particularly limited.

[0067] Furthermore, when a predetermined input operation (for example, pressing the down button on the remote controller) is received while the usual filter (filter name in FIG. 4: "usual programs") is selected, a usual program guide G3 is displayed on the entire screen of the display 108, as shown in FIG. 5. The usual program guide G3 is a user interface image having a program guide image G3a and an image G3b indicating a selection column. The program guide image G3a is an image showing item images corresponding to the selection candidate contents determined as described above, arranged by time period. The item images are arranged in the vertical direction of the screen of the display 108 in order of priority within the program guide image G3a. For example, the item images are arranged in order of priority from highest to lowest. The image G3b indicating the selection column is an image showing filter names (category information) arranged by type in the horizontal direction of the screen of the display 108 so that they can be selected. The image G3b indicating the selection column is displayed in the upper region of the screen of the display 108. 5, as in FIG. 4, filter names such as "Soccer," "Regular Programs," "BS," "CS," "Advanced BS," and "Advanced CS" are shown. Here, an image indicating an operation corresponding to a process of switching between the TV menu G2 and the regular program guide G3 may be displayed. Specifically, for example, an image indicating a remote controller operation (e.g., pressing the down button on the remote controller) or a voice utterance (e.g., "Open the program guide") for switching to a screen including the regular program guide G3 may be displayed on the screen including the TV menu G2 shown in FIG. 4.

[0068] Here, the TV menu G2 and the usual program guide G3 have a usual filter (filter name in FIG. 4: "usual program") at positions corresponding to each other. In the TV menu G2 and the usual program guide G3, a corresponding position means, for example, the same positional relationship in the column direction in which the filter names are arranged. Also, a corresponding position means, for example, a positional relationship in which, when the TV menu G2 is displayed in the lower region of the screen of the display 108, the image G3b of the usual program guide G3 is displayed in the upper region of the screen of the display 108 (the display region on the opposite side of the screen of the display 108 from the display region of the TV menu G2). Filters other than the usual filter (for example, "soccer" and "BS" in the images Gb2 and G3b) may be displayed at corresponding positions, or all filters may be displayed at corresponding positions in the TV menu G2 and the usual program guide G3. Furthermore, during the process of switching between the TV menu G2 and the regular program guide G3, the image G2b indicating the second selection column of the TV menu G2 and the image G3b indicating the selection column of the regular program guide G3 may be seamlessly switched. For example, the image display may be performed so that the image G2b indicating the second selection column of the TV menu G2 moves to a position corresponding to the image G3b indicating the selection column of the regular program guide G3.

[0069] In the TV menu G2 or regular program guide G3, the item images may include not only currently broadcast programs on the channels obtained by the search, but also recorded programs, and currently broadcast programs and recorded programs may be displayed simultaneously. In other words, the search control unit 162 outputs the search results including the recorded programs on the searched channels. Here, it is also possible to include only recorded programs as search targets, excluding currently broadcast programs. Furthermore, the recorded programs to be searched may be limited to unwatched programs.

[0070] Furthermore, in the TV menu G2 or usual program guide G3, the item image may display the channel name in a predetermined display format, and may also display the title of the program currently being broadcast on that channel, the channel number, a channel or broadcast station mark, etc. In other words, information related to the channel, program, etc. is displayed. Furthermore, to clearly indicate the item image indicating the currently selected channel, the selected item image may be highlighted differently from other item images, and an icon such as "selected" may be added to the selected item image. Furthermore, each item image may display information indicating the viewing status of each content, such as a bar indicating the last playback position (viewed position), and unviewed content may be displayed with a "NEW" mark or the like.

[0071] Furthermore, in the TV menu G2 or the usual program guide G3, the item image may display channel information, the name of the content (e.g., program title), a content summary, information indicating whether the content is a currently broadcast program, a recorded program, a VOD item, or an Internet-distributed program, or may display a still image or a video thumbnail. Information about the channel and content, as well as the still image and video thumbnail, may be obtained from the distribution source of each content, or from a different source such as a program information transmission server. Furthermore, the video thumbnail of the content displayed in the item image may be obtained and played from a video distribution server, memory, etc., before the user selects the content. For example, the video thumbnail of a broadcast program may be obtained from a VOD server, or a recorded video of the broadcast program may be played in the item image as the video thumbnail of the broadcast program. The still image and video thumbnail may use the beginning of the content, any position within the content, or a video image dedicated to the thumbnail. As described above, various information such as still images and videos may be obtained from various external devices such as a server or a recorder.

[0072] <1-4. Usual filter selection priority> Next, the priority when selecting a regular filter based on content selection information (history information) according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. Fig. 6 is a first diagram for explaining the priority when selecting a regular filter according to the first embodiment. Fig. 7 is a second diagram for explaining the priority when selecting a regular filter according to the first embodiment.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 6 (top row), in user history information J1 for a certain time period on a certain day of the week, the user's "channels being used" are A to J. The user's "channels and programs habitually watched at that time" are "A" and "aaa," and "D" and "ddd." The user's "genres habitually watched at that time" are "news" and "variety." Uppercase letters indicate channel names, and lowercase letters indicate program names. In FIG. 6, the "channels being used" and "channels and programs habitually watched at that time" are arranged in descending order of priority from the top of FIG. 6. The "genres habitually watched at that time" are arranged in descending order of priority from the left of FIG. 6. The "channels being used," "genres habitually watched at that time," and "channels and programs habitually watched at that time" have increasing priority in this order. The history information J1 as shown in FIG. 6 (top row) is stored in the history DB 172 for each day of the week and each time period. Therefore, history information is obtained for each day of the week and each time period, and one week's worth of history information is stored in the history DB 172.

[0074] Based on this history information J1, the priority of channels and programs (contents) is determined by the selection control unit 164. For example, when information J2 relating to channels and programs as shown in Fig. 6 (middle row) is obtained from a program guide on the Internet or an electronic program guide from each broadcasting station, the channels and programs are sorted in order of priority as shown in Fig. 6 (lower row) based on the history information J1, for example, sorted in order of highest priority from the top in Fig. 6. Here, if the channel name is "C" and the program name is "ccc," the priority is raised because these are "channel and program that are habitually watched at that time."

[0075] On the other hand, when information J3 relating to channels and programs as shown in Fig. 7 (top row) is obtained from a program guide on the Internet or an electronic program guide from each broadcasting station, the channels and programs are sorted in order of priority based on the history information J1 as shown in Fig. 7 (bottom row), for example, sorted in order of priority from highest to lowest in Fig. 7. Here, if the channel name is "C" and the program name is "xxx", it is channel "C" that is habitually watched, but the program name is different and it is not "the channel and program habitually watched at that time", so the priority is lowered.

[0076] In this way, since the priority determination for the usual filter selection checks for both channel and program matches, it is possible to prevent the user from being provided with a program that the user is not interested in, i.e., does not want. In other words, if only channel matches are checked, even if the program is changed to a program that the user does not want, the program that the user does not want may still be provided to the user. However, as described above, by checking for channel and program matches, even if the program is changed to a program that the user does not want, the program will not match even if the channel matches, so it is possible to prevent the user from being provided with a program that the user does not want.

[0077] Examples of program genres include news, variety shows, sports, documentaries, dramas, movies, and music. By setting a preferred genre in advance, a user may be able to search for more specific genres, for example, content with multiple genre attributes, such as documentaries related to music. Although program genres are used as an example here, content genres are not limited to this example and may include, for example, videos, music, images, applications, and the like, or content genres other than video content, such as jazz, rock, and ballads.

[0078] Note that the priority of the selection candidate content may be determined based on preference information in addition to the user's history information J1. Furthermore, the priority may be determined taking into consideration the settings made by the user for channels and content (user setting information). For example, the user may be able to specify the priority of channels and content themselves, or may perform processing such as giving higher priority to programs included in a viewing schedule, content added to favorites, or programs scheduled for recording. Furthermore, the priority may be determined by combining the user's preference information or history information with the preference information or history information of other people, such as the user's family and friends, or may be determined solely from the preference information or history information of other people, such as the user's family and friends.

[0079] <1-5. First display process when selecting the usual filter: TV menu> Next, the first display process when the usual filter is selected according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of the first display process when the usual filter is selected according to the first embodiment.

[0080] 8, when the control unit 160 of the information processing device 100 detects a user's input operation to turn on the power of the information processing device 100 (step S1), the control unit 160 turns on the power of the information processing device 100 (step S2), which causes the display 108 to light up.

[0081] The control unit 160 determines whether the power was turned on after an interval of at least a predetermined time (step S3). If the power was not turned on after an interval of at least the predetermined time (NO in step S3), the display control unit 166 performs processing to display the display content of the channel that was selected when the power was turned off on the display 108 (step S4), and ends the processing.

[0082] On the other hand, when the power is turned on after an interval of at least a predetermined time (YES in step S3), the search control unit 162 searches for and determines candidate content for selection from multiple contents corresponding to the current time slot based on the content selection information (step S5).The selection control unit 164 selects and determines one display content (content to be displayed on the entire screen of display 108) from the candidate content obtained by the search by the search control unit 162 based on the content selection information (step S6).

[0083] The display control unit 166 performs a process of displaying an image G1 (video) of the display content determined by the selection control unit 164 on the display 108 (channel selection), and a process of generating a television menu G2 corresponding to one or more selection candidate contents and displaying it on the display 108 (step S7). For example, the selection control unit 164 increases the priority of content that is frequently viewed during the current time period and day of the week based on the content selection information, and sets the content with the highest priority as the display content. The display control unit 166 also generates the television menu G2 by arranging item images corresponding to each selection candidate content in order of priority.

[0084] Next, the selection control unit 164 determines whether another channel has been selected by the user's input operation (step S8). If another channel has been selected by the user's input operation (YES in step S8), the selection control unit 164 determines the selected other channel as the display channel, and the display control unit 166 performs processing to display an image (video) G1 of the display content of the determined display channel on the display 108 (step S9). Thereafter, if a certain amount of time (for example, several seconds to several tens of seconds) has elapsed since the display of the TV menu G2 or the selection of another channel and a timeout has occurred (YES in step S10), the display control unit 166 performs processing to end the display of the TV menu G2 (step S11).

[0085] The final channel selection result, together with time information and user identification information, is stored in history DB 172 as the user's viewing history, and is used when selection control unit 164 calculates priorities the next time a channel is selected. By repeating this process, information about the user's viewing history is accumulated, and selection candidate content is determined based on the increased amount of history information. This increases the likelihood that the selection candidate content will be the content the user desires, allowing the user to more reliably view the content they desire.

[0086] According to the first display process described above, when determining content selection candidate information, content is searched for based on the user's content selection information (e.g., history information), and the content obtained by the search is determined as the selection candidate content. Furthermore, when determining the display content, the priority of each selection candidate content is determined based on the user's content selection information, and the channel with the highest priority is determined as the display content. Furthermore, the selection candidate contents are arranged in order of priority, and a television menu G2 is created that includes item images and filter names corresponding to each of the selection candidate content arranged in that order of priority, and the television menu G2 is displayed together with the display content image G1.

[0087] In this way, content that is likely to be desired by the user is automatically presented to the user, allowing the user to view the desired content without having to perform the cumbersome operation of selecting a channel. This allows the user to easily view the desired content. However, if the displayed content is not what the user desired, the user will immediately have to select a different channel. Even in this case, the TV menu G2 corresponding to the selection candidate content is displayed, so the user can change the content (change the channel) by visually checking the TV menu G2. This allows the user to easily select and view the desired content.

[0088] Although the usual filter is used preferentially at startup, this is not limiting, and the usual filter may not be used preferentially, or the usual filter may be used preferentially according to a user selection (user setting information). For example, the control unit 160 determines whether the usual filter of the television menu G2 has been used a predetermined number of times (e.g., 10 times) or more, and whether the usual filter function introduction has never been displayed. If the usual filter of the television menu G2 has been used a predetermined number of times (e.g., 10 times) or more, or if the usual filter function introduction has never been displayed, the control unit 160 presents the user with a user interface image that allows the user to select whether to preferentially use the usual filter. Then, if the user selects to preferentially use the usual filter according to the user selection on the user interface image, the control unit 160 performs processing to preferentially use the usual filter.

[0089] Furthermore, if the searched content is a series of dramas or movies, etc., and the searched content is a plurality of sequentially ordered contents (when multiple contents with the same title are searched), the control unit 160 may, for example, list the contents in ascending order of number (episode number, series number, etc.), and select the content with the lowest number (an example of priority), excluding content that can be determined to have been viewed or has been viewed almost to the end, such as up to the credits, and play it on the display 108. By including not only unviewed content but also content that has been interrupted midway as the content to be selected for execution, it is possible to resume playback or start from the beginning of content that has been viewed halfway, without excluding content that has been viewed halfway. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may prioritize the selection of content that has been viewed halfway. In this case, in step S5, it is possible to search for and determine candidate content for selection from content other than the content corresponding to the current time slot.

[0090] Furthermore, if there are multiple drama series, the content with the highest priority may be selected, and each drama series may be displayed as an item image. In this case, if the user specifies another drama series, the content with the highest priority within that drama series may be selected and played, and other episodes in the series may be displayed as item images. Furthermore, if the information processing device 100 can identify a viewing user by voice recognition or the like, it may refer to the viewing history of the viewing user and refer to the viewing state of the viewing user with respect to the searched content, thereby enabling personalized playback control.

[0091] As described above, the information processing device 100 searches for content, and if multiple contents are found, it automatically selects and displays on the display screen, according to predetermined criteria, the image G1 of the display content that is most likely to be requested by the user, and also displays a television menu G2 corresponding to the selection candidate content that is the search result. By automatically selecting and displaying content even when there are multiple selection candidates, this saves the user time and effort, allowing the user to easily view the desired content. Furthermore, by displaying the television menu G2 corresponding to the selection candidate content, it is possible to assist the user in selecting other content, allowing the user to easily select and view the desired content.

[0092] <1-6. Second display process when usual filter is selected: usual program guide> Next, the second display process when the usual filter is selected according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the flow of the second display process when the usual filter is selected according to the first embodiment.

[0093] 9, the control unit 160 of the information processing device 100 determines whether or not the TV menu G2 for when the usual filter is selected is displayed (step S21). When the TV menu G2 for when the usual filter is selected is displayed on the display 108 (YES in step S21), the control unit 160 determines whether or not a first input operation has been performed (step S22). An example of the first input operation is pressing a down button provided on a remote controller.

[0094] If the first input operation is not performed (NO in step S22) and a certain time (for example, several to several tens of seconds) has elapsed since the TV menu was displayed when the usual filter was selected, causing a timeout (YES in step S23), the display control unit 166 performs control to end the display of the TV menu G2 (step S24).On the other hand, if the first input operation is performed (YES in step S22), the display control unit 166 performs control to end the display of the TV menu G2 and output and display the usual program guide G3 on the display 108 (step S25).

[0095] Next, the control unit 160 determines whether or not another channel has been selected by the user's input operation (step S26). If another channel has been selected by the user's input operation (YES in step S26), the selection control unit 164 selects the selected other channel as the display channel, and the display control unit 166 performs control to display an image (video) G1 of the display content of the selected display channel on the display 108 (step S27), and ends the display of the usual program guide G3 (step S28).

[0096] On the other hand, if another channel is not selected by the user's input operation (NO in step S26), the control unit 160 determines whether or not a second input operation has been performed (step S29). If a second input operation has been performed (YES in step S29), the display control unit 166 ends the display of the regular program guide G3 and performs processing to display the original TV menu G2 on the display 108 (step S30). Thereafter, the processing returns to step S21. An example of the second input operation is pressing the up button on the remote controller.

[0097] According to this second display process, the usual program guide G3 can present the user with candidate content that is likely to be desired by the user, thereby enabling the user to avoid the cumbersome operation of selecting a channel and easily select and view the desired content. Furthermore, smooth switching between the usual program guide G3 and the TV menu G2 when the usual filter is selected can be performed, improving user convenience. Furthermore, in steps S21 to S30 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 9, the switching process between the usual program guide G3 and the TV menu G2 when the usual filter is selected has been described. However, even if a filter other than the usual filter is selected in the TV menu G2, when the first input operation is performed, the display may be switched to a full-screen program guide corresponding to the filter other than the usual filter selected in the TV menu G2.

[0098] <1-7. Third display process when selecting a regular filter: Voice input operation> Next, the third display process (voice input operation) when the usual filter is selected according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of the first display process when the usual filter is selected according to the first embodiment.

[0099] In step S1 shown in Fig. 8, the input operation is a voice input operation (voice input operation). In this voice input operation, when the information processing device 100 detects the user's spoken voice (for example, "a predetermined call" + "show me your usual program") using the microphone 102, the information processing device 100 recognizes the voice input using the voice recognition unit 130. At this time, the power state of the information processing device 100 is a standby state in which voice detection by the microphone 102 is possible (i.e., a state in which power is being supplied to the processor 112 and the microphone 102) and the display 108 is OFF (i.e., a state in which power is not being supplied to the display 108). After the voice input recognition in step S1, step S2 in which the power is turned ON is performed, and subsequent processes are the same as those in Fig. 8.

[0100] For example, if the user utters "predetermined call" + "Show me your usual program" in step S1, the power is turned on in step S2, and after steps S3 to S6, an image G1 of the display content and a TV menu G2 corresponding to the selection candidate content are displayed in step S7 (see FIG. 4). The user can start the device from standby mode by voice input, and an image G1 of the desired display content and a TV menu G2 corresponding to the selection candidate content are automatically displayed on the screen. This allows the user to start the information processing device 100 more easily by voice input operation, avoid the cumbersome operation of selecting channels, and more easily watch the desired content. Note that if the user utters "predetermined call" + "Show me your usual program" in step S1 to request a program that is regularly viewed, the process may proceed to the content determination process in step S4 after the power is turned on in step S2 without determining whether the power was turned on after an interval of at least the predetermined time in step S3. In this case, if the user utters an utterance to turn on the television, such as "predetermined call" + "Turn on the television" in step S1, the determination process of step S3 may be performed.

[0101] Note that the user's speech may be accepted without a predetermined call by the user operating buttons or the like on a remote controller or operating a mobile terminal such as a smartphone. Furthermore, speech acceptance may be performed on the remote controller or smartphone side, rather than on the information processing device 100 side. Furthermore, speech input may also be accepted by an audio device (e.g., a smart speaker) connected to the information processing device 100. The audio device may transmit detected user speech to a speech recognition server on the cloud. In this case, the information processing device 100 is automatically powered on by a control signal transmitted from the audio device or the server on the cloud, and displays the content requested by the user.

[0102] Furthermore, after activation by a user's speech (or input operation), if an STB is connected to the information processing device 100, the control unit 160 may determine whether or not settings for STB viewing have been completed, and if settings for STB viewing have been completed, execute viewing processing on the STB, and if settings for STB viewing have not been completed, execute viewing processing on the information processing device 100 side (built-in tuner). In other words, it is also possible to change the processing depending on the setting status of the connected device.

[0103] As described above, even in a standby state, the information processing device 100 can accept voice input from the user, and when voice input requesting content playback (content output instruction) is detected, the information processing device 100 can be turned on and display the content requested by the user. Therefore, the user can more easily start up the information processing device 100 by voice input operation, avoid the cumbersome operation of selecting a channel, and more easily watch the desired content.

[0104] <1-8. Usual filter setting screen> Next, a setting screen (setting image) for a regular filter according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10 and Fig. 11. Fig. 10 is a first diagram for explaining the setting screen for a regular filter according to the first embodiment. Fig. 11 is a second diagram for explaining the setting screen for a regular filter according to the first embodiment.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 10 , the display control unit 166 performs processing to display a setting image G4 in a partial area of ​​the display 108, prompting the user to select whether or not to prioritize the regular program. The control unit 160 sets whether or not to prioritize the regular program in response to a user's input operation. When the user performs an input operation to select "Yes," the user's setting information includes information indicating that the regular program is to be prioritized. When the user performs an input operation to select "No," the user's setting information includes information indicating that the regular program is not to be prioritized. When the user's setting information includes information indicating that the regular program is to be prioritized, the control unit 160 performs processing to prioritize the regular program. In this way, the user can set whether or not to prioritize the regular program, which increases the user's freedom of choice and improves user convenience.

[0106] 11, the display control unit 166 performs processing to display a setting image G5 related to a usual channel list (usual filter) on the display 108. The setting image G5 is a user interface image (UI image), and the user can input data into the setting image G5 to set whether to prioritize usual programs, broadcasting, a favorite channel list, genres, user-defined keywords and genres, etc. The user can perform input data to select a desired element for each item and set each item, which increases the user's freedom of selection and improves user convenience.

[0107] However, in the case of continuous TV viewing (display within a predetermined time from the last startup), the display control unit 166 may preferentially select the channel of the usual program, i.e., may limit the use of the usual filter. For example, this can prevent the channel from changing when the user turns off the TV temporarily, such as when going to the bathroom for a short time, and then returns, thereby improving user convenience. In this case, for example, the setting image G5 may include an item that allows the user to set a predetermined time period during which channel selection based on the usual filter is restricted.

[0108] Furthermore, if the favorite filter (filter name: "Favorite") was last selected in the television menu G2, for example, if it was selected when the power was turned off, the display control unit 166 may preferentially select the channel of a regular program, i.e., may limit the use of the regular filter. This makes it possible to preferentially display favorite content, thereby improving user convenience.

[0109] <1-9. Summary of the First Embodiment> As described above, according to the first embodiment, the information processing device 100 acquires content selection information of a user (for example, history information such as the user's viewing history and recording reservations, and user preference information), and acquires a content output instruction related to the content selection information (for example, an instruction by a user's input operation or voice input operation). Upon acquiring the content output instruction, the information processing device 100 determines display content and content selection candidate information (selection candidate content) based on the content selection information, and outputs an image G1 of the display content and a television menu G2, which is an example of a first display image corresponding to the content selection candidate information, to the display 108. This makes it possible to automatically present to the user content that is likely to be desired by the user, allowing the user to easily view the desired content. Furthermore, it is possible to present to the user selection candidate content that is likely to be desired by the user, allowing the user to easily select and view the desired content.

[0110] Furthermore, the TV menu G2 when the usual filter is selected is created based on either or both of the services (channels) and content used by the user within a predetermined period (e.g., one month). This makes it possible to reliably provide content that the user is likely to desire based on either or both of the services and content used by the user within the predetermined period, allowing the user to easily select the content they desire. As a result, the user can easily view the content they desire.

[0111] Furthermore, when the usual filter is selected, the TV menu G2 changes depending on either the time of day or the day of the week, or both. This makes it possible to provide content that the user is likely to want depending on either the time of day or the day of the week, or both, so the user can easily select the content they want. As a result, the user can easily watch the content they want.

[0112] Furthermore, when the usual filter is selected, the TV menu G2 has a plurality of selectable category information (e.g., various filters) corresponding to either or both of the content acquisition means (e.g., terrestrial broadcasting, satellite broadcasting, set-top box (STB), HDMI (registered trademark), etc.) and the type of content (e.g., sports, drama, etc.). This allows the user to select each category information, so that processing corresponding to the category information selected by the user can be performed, and the user's freedom of selection can be increased, improving user convenience.

[0113] Furthermore, when the usual filter is selected, the TV menu G2 has subcategory information (e.g., sport name, drama name, etc.) related to the type of content (e.g., sports, drama, etc.). Furthermore, when the usual filter is selected, the TV menu G2 has subcategory information (e.g., team name, actor name) related to the elements (e.g., team, actor) included in the content. This provides the user with subcategory information related to the type or element of content, allowing the user to grasp the subcategory information related to the type or element of content and easily select the content they desire. As a result, the user can easily view the content they desire.

[0114] Furthermore, in the television menu G2 when the usual filter is selected, content selection candidates (selection candidate content) are arranged in an order based on the content selection information. This allows the content selection candidates to be presented to the user in an order that is convenient for the user, allowing the user to easily select the content they desire. As a result, the user can easily view the content they desire.

[0115] Furthermore, based on a user's input operation on the television menu G2 when the usual filter is selected, the control unit 160 performs processing to switch the output of the television menu G2 when the usual filter is selected from the display content and the usual filter to an output for displaying the usual program guide G3, which is an example of a third display image corresponding to the content information interface, on the entire screen. This makes it possible to provide the user with suitable content selection candidates using the usual program guide G3, allowing the user to easily select the content they want. As a result, the user can easily watch the content they want.

[0116] Furthermore, the TV menu G2 and the usual program guide G3 when the usual filter is selected have selectable category information (for example, the usual filter "usual programs") in corresponding positions. This makes it easy to view the category information when switching between the TV menu G2 and the usual program guide G3 when the usual filter is selected, and the switching can be performed without any sense of incongruity, thereby improving user convenience.

[0117] In addition, in the usual program guide G3, content selection candidates (selection candidate content) are arranged in an order based on the content selection information. This allows the content selection candidates to be arranged in an order that is convenient for the user and provided to the user, allowing the user to easily select the content they want. As a result, the user can easily view the content they want.

[0118] Furthermore, the control unit 160 performs a process of outputting setting images G4 and G5, which are examples of setting information for selecting to display image G1 of display content selected based on the content selection information at startup, and a process of displaying image G1 of display content selected based on the content selection information at startup based on a user selection of setting images G4 and G5. This allows the user to select whether or not image G1 of display content selected based on the content selection information is displayed at startup, thereby increasing the user's freedom of choice and improving user convenience.

[0119] The content output instruction may also be an utterance from the user, which allows the user to more easily output the image G1 of the displayed content and the TV menu G2 to the display 108 by a voice input operation, thereby making it easier for the user to view the desired content.

[0120] Furthermore, the control unit 160 performs a process of identifying the user based on the user's utterance, and in a process of determining the content to be displayed and content selection candidate information (selection candidate content), determines the content to be displayed and content selection candidate information based on the content selection information of the identified user. This allows content selection information suited to the user to be used, making it possible to more reliably present to the user selection candidate content that the user is likely to desire. As a result, the user can easily select and view the content they desire.

[0121] 2. Second embodiment The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the display screen when a genre filter is selected and the processing related to that display screen. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0122] <2-1. Display screen when genre filter is selected: TV menu, favorite program guide> A first display screen (television menu: second display image) when a genre filter according to the second embodiment is selected will be described with reference to Fig. 12, and a second display screen (favorite program guide: third display image) when a genre filter is selected will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 12 is a diagram for explaining the first display screen when a genre filter according to the second embodiment is selected. Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining the second display screen when a genre filter according to the second embodiment is selected.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 12, for example, an image G1 of the display content is displayed on the entire screen of the display 108, and a television menu G2 is displayed in the lower region of the screen of the display 108. The television menu G2 is a user interface image (UI image) having an image G2a indicating a first selection column and an image G2b indicating a second selection column. The image G2a indicating the first selection column is an image that selectably arranges item images corresponding to selection candidate content for each channel in the horizontal direction of the screen of the display 108. This image G2a also includes, for example, an emblem image of the team corresponding to the selection candidate content. The image G2b indicating the second selection column is an image that selectably arranges filter names (category information) by type in the horizontal direction of the screen of the display 108. In FIG. 12, for example, filter names such as "Soccer," "Digital Terrestrial," "Sports," "CS," "Advanced BS," and "Advanced CS" are shown.

[0124] Here, as in the first embodiment, when any item image is selected by a user's input operation in the aforementioned TV menu G2, the image G1 of the displayed content is switched to a content image of a channel based on the selected item image. Also, when any filter is selected, the image G1 of the displayed content is switched to a content image corresponding to the selected filter, and the TV menu G2 corresponding to the selected filter is displayed.

[0125] For example, when a sports filter (filter name in FIG. 12: "Sports"), which is a genre filter, is selected, the display content and selection candidate content (content selection candidate information) are determined based on the preference information included in the content selection information. Then, as shown in FIG. 12, an image G1 of the determined display content is displayed on the entire screen of display 108, and further, a television menu G2 having item images corresponding to the determined selection candidate content and the names of each filter is displayed in the lower region of the screen of display 108. The item images are arranged horizontally on the screen of display 108 in order of priority within television menu G2. For example, the item images are arranged in order of priority from left to right. Furthermore, team emblem images are also displayed at positions corresponding to the selection candidate content. For example, in addition to illustrations corresponding to selection candidate information such as team emblem images, related information such as images and descriptions corresponding to selection candidate information, such as photos of players belonging to the team and team descriptions, may be displayed. Furthermore, the related information may be displayed to indicate that it is commonly related to multiple selection candidate information.

[0126] Furthermore, when a predetermined input operation (for example, pressing the down button on the remote controller) is received while the sports filter (filter name in FIG. 12: "Sports") is selected, a preference program guide G6 is displayed on the entire screen of the display 108, as shown in FIG. 13. The preference program guide G6 is a user interface image having a program guide image G6a and an image G6b indicating a selection column. The program guide image G6a is an image showing an arrangement of item images corresponding to the selection candidate contents determined as described above. The item images are arranged in the vertical direction of the screen of the display 108 in order of priority within the program guide image G6a. For example, the item images are arranged in order of priority from highest to lowest. The image G6b indicating the selection column is an image showing a selection of filter names (category information) arranged in the horizontal direction of the screen of the display 108. The image G6b indicating the selection column is displayed in the upper region of the screen of the display 108. In FIG. 13, similarly to FIG. 12, filter names such as "Soccer", "Digital Terrestrial Broadcasting", "Sports", "CS", "Advanced BS", and "Advanced CS" are shown.

[0127] Here, the television menu G2 and the preference program guide G6 have sports filters (filter name in FIG. 12: "Sports") at positions corresponding to each other. In the television menu G2 and the preference program guide G6, the corresponding positions mean, for example, the same positional relationship in the column direction in which the filter names are arranged. Furthermore, the corresponding positions mean, for example, a positional relationship in which, when the television menu G2 is displayed in the lower region of the screen of the display 108, the image G6b of the preference program guide G6 is displayed in the upper region of the screen of the display 108 (the display region on the opposite side of the screen of the display 108 from the display region of the television menu G2).

[0128] It should be noted that with respect to each item image of the preference program guide G6, it is possible to apply a display format similar to that of each item image of the TV menu G2 or regular program guide G3, i.e., the display format according to the first embodiment, and for example, channel information, the name of the content (program title, etc.), an outline of the content, information indicating whether the content is a currently broadcast program, a recorded program, a VOD item, or an internet-distributed program, etc. may be displayed, or a still image or video thumbnail may be displayed.

[0129] Furthermore, the genre filter (see FIGS. 12 and 13) may be included in a selection column that includes the usual filter (see FIGS. 4 and 5) in the TV menu G2 or the usual program guide G3. That is, the TV menu G2 or the usual program guide G3 may include the genre filter in addition to the usual filter in a selection column. For example, at startup, a TV menu G2 determined based on content selection information (TV menu G2 with the usual filter selected) is displayed, and the genre filter is also included in the TV menu G2.

[0130] <2-2. Priority when selecting genre filters> Next, the priority when selecting a genre filter according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 14 and Fig. 15. Fig. 14 is a first diagram for explaining the priority when selecting a genre filter according to the second embodiment. Fig. 15 is a second diagram for explaining the priority when selecting a genre filter according to the second embodiment.

[0131] The selection control unit 164 changes the priority for determining the display order of item images in the television menu G2, as shown in FIG. 14, depending on the amount of information in the content selection information. When preference information is obtained from history information included in the content selection information, the longer the viewing time of a piece of content, the more likely it is that the user likes that piece of content, and information about that content is added to the preference information, updating the preference information. In other words, the user's preferences are learned and acquired from the history information, and the acquired information is reflected in the user's preference information. Therefore, as the amount of information in the history information increases, the amount of information in the preference information also increases. Note that the preference information may not only be obtained from the history information, but may also be set by a user's input operation.

[0132] When the amount of information in the preference information is insufficient, the priority of "channels that can be viewed" is set higher than "channels that cannot be viewed," as shown in FIG. 14(1). When the amount of information in the preference information exceeds a first predetermined value, a "favorite subgenre" is set within the "channels that can be viewed," as shown in FIG. 14(2), and the priority of the "favorite subgenre" is set to the highest among the "channels that can be viewed." When the amount of information in the preference information exceeds a second predetermined value (>first predetermined value), as shown in FIG. 14(3), a "favorite team" is set in addition to the "favorite subgenre" among the "channels that can be viewed," and the priority of the "favorite team" is set to the highest among the "channels that can be viewed." Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 14(4), only the "favorite team" is set within the "channels that can be viewed," and the priority of the "favorite team" is set to the highest among the "channels that can be viewed."

[0133] When the amount of information in the preference information exceeds a second predetermined value, for example, as shown in FIG. 15, the user's "favorite sports team" is set to "XX baseball team" and "XX soccer team," and the user's "favorite minor genre" is set to "soccer," "baseball," and "golf" as the user's preference information J4. The "favorite sports team" has a higher priority than the "favorite minor genre." Furthermore, the "favorite sports team" and the "favorite minor genre" are arranged in descending order of priority from the left in FIG. 15. In other words, the priority of "XX baseball team" is higher than that of "XX soccer team," the priority of "soccer" is higher than that of "baseball" and "golf," and the priority of "baseball" is higher than that of "golf." Such user preference information J4 is stored in the preference DB 174 for each user. Note that there is a category called "sports," and sub-categories of these are baseball, soccer, and golf, and sub-categories of these are teams.

[0134] Based on this preference information J4, the selection control unit 164 determines the priority of channels and programs (contents). For example, based on the preference information J4 shown in FIG. 15 (top row), channels and programs obtained from an online program guide or an electronic program guide from each broadcasting station are sorted in order of priority as shown in FIG. 15 (bottom row), for example, sorted from the left in FIG. 15 in descending order of priority. "Programs that can be viewed (e.g., programs on the channel you are using or free programs)" have a higher priority than "programs that cannot be viewed." Furthermore, among "programs that can be viewed," the priority decreases in the order of "programs about the XX baseball team," "programs about the XX soccer team," "soccer programs," "baseball programs," "golf programs," and "other." Each selection candidate content is sorted based on this priority, and a television menu G2 having item images corresponding to the sorted selection candidate content is generated.

[0135] As in the first embodiment, filters include not only sports but also dramas, variety shows, movies, music, etc. For example, for dramas, the name of the original author or the name of the actor may be set as the favorite original author, and Japanese dramas may be set as the favorite subgenre. For variety shows, the name of a celebrity may be set, and for music, the name of a singer may be set.

[0136] <2-3. First display process when genre filter is selected: TV menu> Next, the display process performed by the information processing device 100 according to the second embodiment, i.e., the first display process (television menu) when a genre filter is selected, will be described with reference to Fig. 16. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing the flow of the first display process when a genre filter is selected according to the second embodiment.

[0137] 16, the control unit 160 of the information processing device 100 determines whether a genre filter in the television menu G2 has been selected (step S31). When a genre filter in the television menu G2 has been selected (YES in step S31), the search control unit 162 searches for and determines selection candidate content from multiple contents corresponding to the current time slot based on the genre related to the selected genre filter, i.e., the selected genre and content selection information (e.g., preference information) (step S32). The selection control unit 164 selects and determines one display content (content to be displayed on the entire screen of the display 108) from the selection candidate content obtained by the search by the search control unit 162 based on the selected genre and content selection information (step S33).

[0138] The display control unit 166 performs a process of displaying an image G1 (video) of the display content selected by the selection control unit 164 on the display 108 (channel selection), and a process of generating a television menu G2 corresponding to one or more selection candidate contents and displaying it on the display 108 (step S34). For example, the selection control unit 164 increases the priority of a favorite sport, sports team, etc. based on the content selection information, and sets the content with the highest priority as the display content. The display control unit 166 also generates the television menu G2 by arranging item images corresponding to each selection candidate content in order of priority.

[0139] Next, the selection control unit 164 determines whether another channel has been selected by the user's input operation (step S35). If another channel has been selected by the user's input operation (YES in step S35), the selection control unit 164 determines the selected other channel as the display channel, and the display control unit 166 performs processing to display an image (video) G1 of the display content of the determined display channel on the display 108 (step S36). Thereafter, if a certain amount of time (for example, several seconds to several tens of seconds) has elapsed since the display of the television menu G2 or the selection of another channel, and a timeout has occurred (YES in step S37), the display control unit 166 performs processing to end the display of the television menu G2 (step S38).

[0140] The final channel selection result, together with time information and user identification information, is stored in history DB 172 as the user's viewing history, and is also stored in preference DB 174 as preference information, and is used when selection control unit 164 calculates priorities the next time a channel is selected. By repeating this process, information about the user's viewing history and preferences is accumulated, and selection candidate content is determined based on the increased amount of history information and preference information. This increases the likelihood that the selection candidate content will be the content the user desires, allowing the user to more reliably view the content they desire.

[0141] According to the first display process described above, when determining content selection candidate information, content is searched for based on the selected genre and the user's content selection information (e.g., preference information), and the content obtained by the search is determined as selection candidate content. When determining display content, the priority of each selection candidate content is determined based on the user's content selection information, and the channel with the highest priority is determined as the display content. The selection candidate content is arranged in order of priority, and a television menu G2 is created that includes item images and filter names corresponding to each selection candidate content arranged in that order of priority, and the television menu G2 is displayed together with the display content image G1.

[0142] In this way, content that is likely to be desired by the user is automatically presented to the user, allowing the user to view the desired content without having to perform the cumbersome operation of selecting a channel. This allows the user to easily view the desired content. However, if the displayed content is not what the user desired, the user will immediately have to select a different channel. Even in this case, the TV menu G2 corresponding to the selection candidate content is displayed, so the user can view the TV menu G2 and change the content (change the channel). This allows the user to easily select and view the desired content.

[0143] Note that, when a genre filter is selected, display content is automatically selected and an image of the selected content is displayed on display 108, but this is not limiting, and display content may not be selected and the image of the currently displayed content may be displayed as is. In other words, the processing of step S33 and the display content display processing of step S34 shown in Fig. 16 may not be performed. However, if a genre filter is set to be automatically selected at startup, display content may be automatically selected when a genre filter is selected and an image of the selected content may be displayed on display 108.

[0144] <2-4. Second display process when genre filter is selected: Preferred program guide> Next, the second display process when a genre filter is selected according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the flow of the second display process when a regular filter is selected according to the first embodiment.

[0145] In step S21 shown in Fig. 9, the control unit 160 of the information processing device 100 determines whether the TV menu G2 is displayed when the genre filter is selected. Since the processes other than the process in step S21 are the same as those in Fig. 9, their explanations will be omitted. However, the "usual program guide" in steps S25, S28, and S30 shown in Fig. 9 is changed to the "favorite program guide."

[0146] According to this second display process, the preference program table G6 can present the user with candidate content that is likely to be desired by the user, so the user can avoid the cumbersome operation of selecting channels and easily select and view the desired content. Furthermore, smooth switching between the preference program table G6 and the TV menu G2 when the usual filter is selected can be performed, improving user convenience.

[0147] <2-5. Displaying recommendations for your favorite program guide> Next, a recommendation display of a preference program guide according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a second diagram for explaining a second display screen (preference program guide) when a genre filter is selected according to the second embodiment.

[0148] The search control unit 162 searches for content (programs) that the user may be interested in, for example, based on the user's preference information and using big data (huge data groups) obtained from outside via a network. The display control unit 166 adds the content obtained by the search by the search control unit 162 to the preference program guide G6 and recommends it.

[0149] For example, if the preference information includes the name of a favorite author, other authors related to that author (e.g., authors unknown to the user) are recommended from big data. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, the preference program guide G6 displays "XXXX," the favorite author, and displays content related to "YYYY," an author similar to the original author "XXXX" (e.g., an author whose works are similar in content). This makes it possible to recommend authors that the user is likely to be interested in (like), and to provide content by other authors (authors) to a user who has only viewed content by a specific author. In this case, content that the user is likely to be interested in is presented, rather than content that the user is not interested in, thereby broadening the range of choices for the user to select desired content and improving user convenience. Note that similar processing can also be performed when the preference information includes the name of a celebrity as a favorite entertainer.

[0150] For example, if the preference information includes the name of an original author as a favorite author, keywords frequently included in descriptions of the author's dramas (e.g., reversal, adversity, etc.) may be obtained from big data, and content corresponding to other dramas described with the obtained keywords may be recommended. If the preference information includes the name of a movie as a favorite movie, keywords frequently included in descriptions of the movie (e.g., space, physics, etc.) may be obtained, and content corresponding to other movies described with the obtained keywords may be recommended. If the preference information includes the name of a celebrity as a favorite entertainer, a stored facial image of the celebrity may be analyzed and compared with facial images of other celebrities to identify celebrities similar to the stored celebrity, and content featuring the identified celebrity may be recommended. For example, related information including illustrations, photographs, or descriptions, such as a photo of the recommended entertainer or a biography of the author, may be displayed in the preference program guide G6 in association with multiple contents. Furthermore, the preference program guide G6 may display a GUI for presenting a screen displaying information about the recommended author or entertainer in association with multiple contents. Displaying a GUI to correspond to multiple contents may include displaying the GUI to correspond to a group of contents displayed in association with an author or entertainer on the preference program guide G6 (for example, a group of contents grouped by vertical bars as shown in Figure 17).

[0151] As described above, the content obtained by the search is recommended by being added to the preference program table G6, but this is not limiting, and for example, the content may be recommended by being added to the usual program table G3. Also, the television menu G2 may include recommended content corresponding to the preference program table G6 and the usual program table G3.

[0152] <2-6. Summary of the Second Embodiment> As described above, according to the second embodiment, the control unit 160 performs processing to output the television menu G2, which is an example of a second display image corresponding to selection candidate information (e.g., selection candidate content) of content according to category information, based on a user selection corresponding to category information (e.g., various filters). This makes it possible to present to the user selection candidate content according to category information that is likely to be desired by the user, allowing the user to easily select and view desired content.

[0153] Furthermore, in the television menu G2 when the genre filter is selected, content selection candidates (selection candidate content) are arranged in an order based on the content selection information. This allows the content selection candidates to be presented to the user in an order that is convenient for the user, allowing the user to easily select the content they desire. As a result, the user can easily view the content they desire.

[0154] Furthermore, based on a user's operation on the television menu G2 when the usual filter is selected, the control unit 160 performs processing to switch the output of the television menu G2 when the usual filter is selected from the displayed content and the usual filter to an output for displaying the preference program guide G6, which is an example of a third display image corresponding to the content information interface, on the entire screen. This makes it possible to provide the user with suitable content selection candidates using the preference program guide G6, allowing the user to easily select the content they want. As a result, the user can easily watch the content they want.

[0155] Furthermore, in the preference program guide G6, content selection candidates (e.g., selection candidate content) are arranged in an order based on the content selection information. This allows the content selection candidates to be arranged in an order that is most suitable for the user and presented to the user, allowing the user to easily select the content they desire. As a result, the user can easily view the content they desire.

[0156] In addition, the preference program guide G6 adds and recommends selection candidates based on the content selection information, which makes it possible to present content that the user is likely to be interested in, thereby widening the range of choices for the user to select desired content and improving user convenience.

[0157] <3. Other embodiments> <3-1. Various settings via the control panel> Next, various settings made by a control panel according to another embodiment will be described.

[0158] The control panel may have a user interface image for setting to hide SD (Standard Definition) programs. By default, the setting is off. When the SD program hide setting is set to on, SD programs are hidden from the TV menu G2. This prevents programs with different resolutions (HD (High Definition) or SD) but the same program content from being displayed at the same time. In other words, one of the same programs with different resolutions may be deleted from the TV menu.

[0159] It is also possible to delete from the TV menu not only the same program with different resolutions, but also programs (content) that many people do not want. Also, programs that are not subscribed to, data broadcasting programs, programs with long advertisements, programs that cannot be viewed (programs without a signal), programs in languages ​​that users cannot enjoy or understand (especially in multilingual countries), and programs that cannot be viewed during a specific time slot (typical of the United States) may be deleted. Alternatively, multiple elements may be selectively displayed on the TV menu, such as whether to display subtitles or dubbed versions.

[0160] As described above, the user can configure various settings, and can customize the TV menu G2 when selecting the usual filter or the TV menu G2 when selecting the genre filter according to the user's preferences. This makes it easier for the user to select the content they want, allowing them to more reliably view the content they want, thereby improving user convenience.

[0161] <3-2. Selectable display of regular filters> Next, a selectable display of a regular filter will be described with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a diagram for explaining a selectable display of a regular filter according to another embodiment.

[0162] When the amount of information in the content selection information (for example, an operation log) is equal to or less than a predetermined amount, the display control unit 166 performs processing to not include "Regular Programs," which is the filter name of the regular filter, in the default TV menu G2 (the TV menu when the regular filter is not selected), as shown on screen A1 in Fig. 18. On the other hand, when the amount of information in the content selection information exceeds a predetermined amount, the display control unit 166 performs processing to automatically include "Regular Programs" in the default TV menu G2, as shown on screen A2 in Fig. 18.

[0163] Furthermore, when "Regular Programs" is selected for the first time on screen A2 in Fig. 18, an image introducing the function of the regular filter may be displayed, or a sound may be output to introduce the function of the regular filter, as shown on screen A3 in Fig. 18. Note that when the amount of content selection information is equal to or less than a predetermined amount, an image encouraging the user to save the content selection information may be displayed, or a sound encouraging the user to save the content selection information may be output.

[0164] As described above, when the amount of information in the content selection information is equal to or less than a predetermined amount, the default television menu G2 does not include selectable category information for selecting a regular filter (e.g., the regular filter "Regular Programs"); when the amount of information in the content selection information exceeds the predetermined amount, the default television menu G2 includes selectable category information for selecting a regular filter. This allows the user to select a regular filter when the amount of information in the content selection information exceeds the predetermined amount, resulting in processing based on content selection information with a sufficient amount of information. In other words, it is possible to determine whether or not to display an image of selectable category information corresponding to the regular filter based on the device's usage status. This makes it possible to more reliably provide the content desired by the user, allowing the user to easily view the desired content.

[0165] As mentioned above, the display / hide of selectable category information for selecting the usual filter selection (outputting the TV menu G2 when the usual filter is selected) is controlled, but this is not limited to this, and for example, the display / hide of selectable category information for selecting a genre filter (outputting the TV menu G2 when the genre filter is selected) may also be controlled in the same way.

[0166] <3-3. Customizing your usual program guide> Next, customization of a regular program guide according to another embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 19 to Fig. 21. Fig. 19 is a first diagram for explaining customization of a regular program guide according to another embodiment. Fig. 20 is a second diagram for explaining customization of a regular program guide according to another embodiment. Fig. 21 is a third diagram for explaining customization of a regular program guide according to another embodiment. Note that Figs. 19 to 21 show a part of the regular program guide.

[0167] There may be cases where the user is not satisfied with the usual program guide G3 (for example, a list of frequently watched channels and programs). In this case, it may be possible to customize the usual program guide G3 in response to an input operation by the user. For example, the display control unit 166 performs a process of customizing the usual program guide G3 in response to an input operation. Note that the display control unit 166 may also perform a process of customizing the preference program guide G6 in addition to the usual program guide G3. Furthermore, the results of customizing the usual program guide G3 and the preference program guide G6 may be reflected in the presentation of selection candidate content on the television menu G2.

[0168] Customization may involve, for example, the need to delete content. This deletion may be necessary when channels or programs that you do not want to display are displayed. Examples of channels or programs that you do not want your family to see include channels or programs that you tried watching but did not find interesting, and channels or programs that you have canceled your subscription for. There may also be cases where content needs to be rearranged. Rearrangement may be necessary when there are channels or programs that you do not watch often but like. For example, a user may find that a channel or program that they do not watch often but like is at the bottom of their usual program guide and difficult to find, so they want to move that content to the top. There may also be cases where content needs to be added. For example, content needs to be added when a channel or program that you have not watched for a while (or recently) has disappeared from your usual program guide.

[0169] 19, when a user displays the program guide customization screen in the usual program guide G3, a pin is displayed for each channel, and when the pin (pin image) of a dynamic channel is pressed, the dynamic channel whose pin was pressed becomes a new fixed channel. The next time the usual program guide G3 is opened, the priority of the new fixed channel will be higher than that of the dynamic channel, and it will move above the dynamic channel, for example, to the top of the usual program guide G3.

[0170] In addition, the usual program guide G3 has fixed channels (fixed CH) and dynamic channels (dynamic CH), and it is possible to switch between fixed channels and dynamic channels. Fixed channels are channels (content) that the user has added or set. Dynamic channels are channels (content) that change dynamically according to the logic of the "usual program." The usual program guide G3 displays a UI image (e.g., a UI image with a different color) that makes it possible to determine whether the channel is a fixed channel or a dynamic channel.

[0171] 20, when a pin of a fixed channel is pressed in the usual program guide G3, the pinned fixed channel becomes a new dynamic channel. The next time the usual program guide G3 is opened, the new dynamic channel will be lower than the fixed channel and will move below the fixed channel, for example, to the top of the dynamic channel group below the fixed channel.

[0172] 21 (top), when a dynamic channel is selected in the usual program guide G3 and a delete operation is performed using, for example, a remote controller, the selected dynamic channel is deleted from the usual program guide G3. Note that a fixed channel may also be deleted by a similar operation.

[0173] 21 (lower row), when a channel (content) is selected in a filter other than the usual filter and an add operation is performed using, for example, a remote controller, the selected channel is added to the usual program guide G3. At this time, the selected channel may also be added to favorites.

[0174] As described above, in the usual program guide G3 (or preference program guide G6), the order of selection candidate contents, which are examples of selection candidates, can be changed by user operation. Furthermore, selection candidate contents can be added or deleted by user operation. That is, the user can customize the usual program guide G3 (or preference program guide G6) by, for example, rearranging, deleting, or adding selection candidate contents in the usual program guide G3 (or preference program guide G6), and can create an usual program guide G3 (or preference program guide G6) that suits the user's preferences. This makes it easier for the user to select the content they want, allowing them to more reliably watch the content they want, thereby improving user convenience.

[0175] <3-4. Highlighting the TV menu> Next, highlighting of a TV menu according to another embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 22 and Fig. 23. Fig. 22 is a first diagram for explaining highlighting of a TV menu according to another embodiment. Fig. 23 is a second diagram for explaining highlighting of a TV menu according to another embodiment.

[0176] When multiple broadcasting standards coexist, the same content (program) may be broadcast by a new, high-quality service with more efficient use of radio wave bandwidth and an older service with reduced radio wave bandwidth allocation. Depending on the operational situation, some programs may be transmitted only by the new broadcasting standard, while others may be transmitted only by the older broadcasting standard. This makes it possible to distinguish between these standards by highlighting them and presenting them to users, making it easier for users to select the content they want and ensuring they can view the content they want. This improves user convenience.

[0177] For example, as shown in Fig. 22, an icon (e.g., "Standard 1") G7 indicating the broadcast standard is displayed on item images of the television menu G2 that correspond to content for which the broadcast standard needs to be clearly indicated. Content for which the broadcast standard needs to be clearly indicated is, for example, content that has the same content content but is broadcast using a different broadcast standard. In addition to icons, for example, as shown in Fig. 23, the edges of item images of the television menu G2 that correspond to content for which the broadcast standard needs to be clearly indicated may be changed to a conspicuous color (e.g., red) and highlighted.

[0178] As described above, in the television menu G2, item images corresponding to specific content are highlighted. For example, in response to differences in broadcast standards, item images corresponding to content broadcast in a specific broadcast standard are highlighted. In this way, it is possible to present content to the user by distinguishing the broadcast standard of the content. This makes it easier for the user to select the content they want and allows them to more reliably view the content they want, thereby improving user convenience.

[0179] If the same content is available in multiple broadcasting standards at the same time, content based on the newer broadcasting standard (transmitting higher quality content) may be selected preferentially. This may be performed whether selecting a channel using a regular filter or in the normal way. For example, high-quality content corresponds to high resolution (4K / 8K, etc.), high bit depth (high bit rate), high brightness (HDR, etc.), high frame rate (HFR, etc.), and wide color gamut. Furthermore, a filter name that allows selection between a first broadcasting standard and a second broadcasting standard that is older than the first broadcasting standard may be added to the filter names displayed on the TV menu G2.

[0180] Furthermore, if the same content can be acquired in multiple broadcast standards at the same time, the TV menu G2 (e.g., a mini program guide) or EPG may display a description or icon indicating that the program is transmitted in multiple standards, or the display method of the TV menu G2 or EPG may be changed depending on the standard. The above-mentioned description and icon display and change in display method may indicate only those related to standards different from the currently selected broadcast standard, or may indicate only those corresponding to newer standards (transmitting higher quality content).

[0181] Furthermore, whether the same content can be acquired simultaneously in multiple broadcast standards may be determined based on broadcast metadata transmitted in either or both of a broadcast wave (broadcast stream) of a first (newer or older) broadcast standard and a broadcast stream of a second (older or newer) broadcast standard. The broadcast metadata included in the broadcast stream of the first broadcast standard may include information (e.g., an identifier or flag) indicating whether the same content is being transmitted in a broadcast stream of the second broadcast standard (the first and second standards may be transmitted in reverse, or both). The broadcast metadata is information used for broadcast scanning, and the receiving device may create a list of receivable channel information based on this broadcast metadata. Furthermore, this list may be displayed on the screen, for example, as an EPG or TV menu.

[0182] Here, the broadcast metadata may be distributed via communication. In other words, the communication metadata may be completely or almost the same as the broadcast metadata. This communication metadata may be data that adds information about the broadcast content to descriptions of Internet content (communication content) and is distributed via communication. This may be completely different from the broadcast metadata. (Multiple) broadcast contents and (multiple) communication contents may be compared, and the highest quality content may be selected preferentially. This may be performed in both cases of tuning to a regular channel and normal tuning. Furthermore, broadcast content may be prioritized due to issues such as delay, or a frequently used source may be selected preferentially. High-quality content may be determined based on one or more criteria, such as resolution, bit depth (bit rate), brightness, frame rate, and color gamut. It may also be determined based on criteria such as delay, broadcast reception sensitivity, and communication line speed.

[0183] Each piece of communication content may be specified by an Internet content identifier. Each piece of communication content may include recorded broadcast content and downloaded content. The same content may be displayed together, and icons indicating the distribution source, the currently broadcast content, and the recorded content may be displayed to indicate the source from which the content can be obtained.

[0184] In the above embodiments, the content to be searched and executed has been described primarily based on video content such as broadcast programs. However, any type of content may be executed by the device or apparatus realized by the present disclosure. For example, the content to be played may be audio content (e.g., music), and the music may be played by an application executable on the information processing device 100. Furthermore, the target of a search based on priority may be audio content or an application that plays audio content. In such cases, one song or application is selected based on a procedure similar to any of the above embodiments or a combination thereof, and the unselected songs or applications are designated as candidates for selection, and a television menu corresponding to the candidate is displayed on the display 108. For example, the display 108 displays an album art image (jacket image) of the song or a user interface image of the application as the selected content. The channel described in the above embodiments may be a radio channel or a music distribution station that broadcasts audio content such as music. Similar procedures can also be used for other types of content, such as still image content or web pages.

[0185] Regarding the usual program guide G3 and the preference program guide G6 described in each of the above embodiments, the full-screen program guide may be displayed with the usual filter or each genre filter selected even when a program guide display request is made by pressing the program guide button on the remote controller or by voice input. Alternatively, the program guide may be displayed with the usual filter or each genre filter selected only when transitioning from the TV menu. When the full-screen program guide is displayed without going through the TV menu G2, the full-screen program guide may be displayed with the filter of the content source currently being viewed (e.g., terrestrial digital broadcasting) selected. The user may be able to select, on a setting screen such as that shown in FIG. 11, whether to prioritize displaying the usual program guide G3 or the preference program guide G6 when not going through the TV menu G2. To prioritize displaying the usual program guide G3 or the preference program guide G6, a dedicated button may be provided on the remote controller, or a predetermined request operation (e.g., repeated pressing of the program guide button or an utterance such as "Open the usual program guide") may be accepted using a remote controller input, voice input, gesture input, or the like.

[0186] Although each embodiment has been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present technology is not limited to such examples. Each embodiment may be implemented in combination with other embodiments. It is clear that a person skilled in the art of the present disclosure can conceive of various modified or altered examples within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0187] For example, a computer program can be created to cause hardware such as a CPU, ROM, and RAM built into the information processing device 100 to perform the functions of the information processing device 100. Also provided is a computer-readable storage medium storing the computer program.

[0188] It should be noted that the effects described in this specification are merely descriptive or exemplary and are not limiting. In other words, the technology according to the present disclosure may achieve other effects that will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the description of this specification, in addition to or in place of the above-described effects.

[0189] <4. Notes> The present technology can also be configured as follows. (1A) acquiring content selection information corresponding to the user who made the utterance based on the utterance of the user; An information processing device comprising: a circuit configured to determine a display content and content selection candidate information based on the acquired content selection information. (2A) The information processing device of (1A), wherein the circuit is further configured to identify the user through voice recognition of the utterance. (3A) The information processing device described in (1A), wherein the circuit is further configured to identify the user through voice recognition of speech, thereby enabling the information processing device to realize personalized playback control of the displayed content or determine the content selection candidate information based on the user's viewing history. (4A) The information processing device described in (1A), wherein the circuit is further configured to identify the user through voice recognition of the utterance and to refer to the user's viewing status regarding the previously searched content. (5A) The information processing device according to (1A), wherein the circuit is further configured to refer to the user's viewing status regarding the previously searched content. (6A) The information processing device according to (1A), wherein the circuit is further configured to output the display content and a first display image corresponding to the content selection candidate information. (7A) The information processing device according to (1A), wherein the content selection candidate information is information on a plurality of contents. (8A) The information processing device described in (2A), wherein the circuit is further configured to select one display content according to predetermined criteria to select content determined to be likely to be requested by the user. (9A) The information processing device of (1A), wherein the circuit is further configured to use a filter. (10A) The information processing device according to (9A), wherein the filter is related to a genre associated with a predetermined preference of the user. (11A) The information processing device according to (6A), wherein the first display image includes a plurality of selectable category information corresponding to content acquisition means or content type. (12A) The information processing device described in (11A), wherein the circuit is further configured to output a second display image corresponding to the content selection candidate information according to the selectable category information based on a user selection corresponding to the selectable category information. (13A) The information processing device according to (11A), wherein the circuit is further configured to use a filter. (14A) The information processing device of (13A), wherein the circuitry is further configured to provide a user interface for adjusting filter characteristics. (15A) The information processing device according to (6A), wherein the circuit is further configured to determine whether to display the display content or the first display image based on a usage status of the information processing device. (16A) The information processing device according to (6A), wherein the circuit is further configured to output setting information for selecting to display the display content selected based on the content selection information. (17A) The information processing device according to (16A), wherein the circuitry is further configured to display display content selected based on the content selection information based on a user selection for the setting information. (18A) 1. A computer-implemented information processing method, comprising: acquiring content selection information corresponding to the user who made the utterance based on the user's utterance; determining display content and content selection candidate information based on the acquired content selection information. (19A) The information processing method described in (18A) further includes identifying the user through voice recognition of the utterance. (20A) The information processing method described in (18A) further includes identifying the user through voice recognition of speech, thereby realizing personalized playback control of the displayed content based on the user's viewing history, or determining the content selection candidate information. (1) A process of obtaining user content selection information; A process of determining display content and content selection candidate information based on the content selection information; a process of outputting the display content and a first display image corresponding to the selection candidate information; A control unit that performs Information processing device. (2) The first display image is created based on either or both of the services and the content used by the user within a predetermined period of time. The information processing device according to (1) above. (3) the first display image changes depending on either one or both of a time period and a day of the week; The information processing device according to (1) or (2). (4) the first display image has a plurality of selectable category information corresponding to a content acquisition means or a content type; The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (3). (5) the control unit performs processing to output a second display image corresponding to selection candidate information of the content according to the category information, based on a user selection corresponding to the category information. The information processing device according to (4) above. (6) In the second display image, content selection candidates are arranged in an order based on the content selection information. The information processing device according to (5) above. (7) In the first display image, content selection candidates are arranged in an order based on the content selection information. The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (6). (8) the control unit performs a process of switching from output of the display content and the first display image to output of a third display image corresponding to a content information interface on the entire screen, based on a user operation on the first display image. The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (7). (9) the first display image and the third display image have selectable category information at corresponding positions; The information processing device according to (8). (10) In the third display image, content selection candidates are arranged in an order based on the content selection information. The information processing device according to (8) or (9). (11) the first display image or the third display image has lower category information regarding elements included in the content; The information processing device according to any one of (8) to (10) above. (12) The first display image or the third display image includes at least one of an illustration, a photograph, or an explanatory text related to an element included in the content; The information processing device according to (11) above. (13) In the first display image or the third display image, the selection candidates are added and recommended based on the content selection information. The information processing device according to any one of (10) to (12). (14) In the third display image, the order of the selection candidates is changed, or an addition or deletion is performed by a user operation. The information processing device according to any one of (10) to (13). (15) the control unit determines whether to display the display content or the first display image based on a usage status of the information processing device. The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (14). (16) the control unit determines whether to display the display content or the first display image based on an elapsed time since the information processing device was last started. The information processing device according to (15) above. (17) The control unit a process of outputting setting information for selecting to display the display content selected based on the content selection information at the time of startup; a process of displaying a display content selected based on the content selection information at startup based on a user selection of the setting information; To do The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (16). (18) The control unit obtaining a content output instruction associated with the content selection information; a process of determining the display content and the selection candidate information when the content output instruction is acquired; To do The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (17). (19) the content output instruction is an utterance from a user, The control unit A process of acquiring content selection information corresponding to the user who made the utterance based on the user's utterance; a process of determining the display content and the selection candidate information based on the acquired content selection information; To do The information processing device according to (18) above. (20) The computer A process of obtaining user content selection information; A process of determining display content and content selection candidate information based on the content selection information; a process of outputting the display content and a first display image corresponding to the selection candidate information; To do Information processing methods. [Explanation of symbols]

[0190] 100 Information processing device 102 microphones 103 Input Devices 104 Communication I / F (Interface) 105 memory 106 Tuner 107 Decoder 108 Display 112 processors 120 Audio acquisition unit 130 Voice Recognition Unit 140 Feature DB (Database) 150 Application Section 160 control section 162 Search control section 164 Selection control section 166 Display control unit 172 History DB (database) 174 Preference DB (Database) G1 Display Content Image G2 TV Menu G3 Usual program schedule G4 setting image G5 setting image G6 Favorite Program List

Claims

1. acquiring content selection information corresponding to the user who made the utterance based on the utterance of the user; An information processing device comprising: a circuit configured to determine a display content and content selection candidate information based on the acquired content selection information.

2. The information processing device of claim 1 , wherein the circuitry is further configured to identify the user through voice recognition of the utterance.

3. 2. The information processing device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is further configured to identify the user through speech recognition of utterances, thereby enabling the information processing device to realize personalized playback control of the displayed content or determine the content selection candidate information based on the user's viewing history.

4. The information processing device of claim 1 , wherein the circuitry is further configured to identify the user through voice recognition of the utterance and to refer to the user's viewing state regarding previously searched content.

5. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the circuit is further configured to refer to the user's viewing state regarding previously searched content.

6. The information processing device of claim 1 , wherein the circuitry is further configured to output a first display image corresponding to the display content and the content selection candidate information.

7. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the content selection candidate information is information on a plurality of contents.

8. The information processing device according to claim 2 , wherein the circuitry is further configured to select one of the display contents according to predetermined criteria to select the content determined to be likely to be requested by the user.

9. The information processing device of claim 1 , wherein the circuitry is further configured to employ a filter.

10. The information processing device according to claim 9 , wherein the filter is related to a genre associated with a predetermined preference of the user.

11. The information processing device according to claim 6 , wherein the first display image includes a plurality of selectable category information items corresponding to content acquisition means or content types.

12. The information processing device of claim 11 , wherein the circuitry is further configured to output, based on a user selection corresponding to the selectable category information, a second display image corresponding to the content selection candidate information according to the selectable category information.

13. The information processing device of claim 11 , wherein the circuitry is further configured to employ a filter.

14. The information processing apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the circuitry is further configured to provide a user interface for adjusting filter characteristics.

15. The information processing device of claim 6 , wherein the circuitry is further configured to determine whether to display the display content or the first display image based on a usage status of the information processing device.

16. The information processing device according to claim 6 , wherein the circuit is further configured to output setting information for selecting to display the display content selected based on the content selection information.

17. The information processing device of claim 16 , wherein the circuitry is further configured to display display content selected based on the content selection information based on a user selection of the setting information.

18. 1. A computer-implemented information processing method, comprising: acquiring content selection information corresponding to the user who made the utterance based on the utterance of the user; determining display content and content selection candidate information based on the acquired content selection information.

19. The information processing method of claim 18 , further comprising identifying the user through voice recognition of the utterance.

20. 20. The information processing method of claim 18, further comprising: identifying the user through speech recognition of an utterance, thereby realizing personalized playback control of the displayed content or determining the content selection candidate information based on the user's viewing history.

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