Program, information processing method, and information processing device

Abstract

Improve the interest and convenience of live streaming. [Solution] A program executed by an information processing device that communicates with a terminal of a broadcaster who broadcasts live videos includes the following: a control unit of the information processing device controls the awarding of points to the broadcaster based on the broadcaster's performance in broadcasting the live videos; a control unit controls the raising of the broadcaster's level based on an increase in the points awarded to the broadcaster; a control unit controls the decreasing of the points awarded to the broadcaster when a predetermined condition is met; and a control unit controls the decreasing of the broadcaster's level based on a decrease in the points awarded to the broadcaster.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a program, an information processing method, an information processing device, and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] There are services that enable users to distribute videos using live streaming or the like (for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-21464 [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2021-120900 Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a program executed by an information processing device that communicates with a terminal of a broadcaster who broadcasts live video includes: a control unit of the information processing device controlling the awarding of points to the broadcaster based on the broadcast performance of the live video; a control unit controlling the raising of the broadcaster's level based on an increase in the points awarded to the broadcaster; a control unit controlling the decreasing of the points awarded to the broadcaster when a predetermined condition is met; and a control unit controlling the decreasing of the points awarded to the broadcaster. According to a second aspect of the present invention, an information processing method of an information processing device that communicates with a terminal of a broadcaster who broadcasts live video includes: controlling, by a control unit of the information processing device, to award points to the broadcaster based on the broadcast performance of the live video; controlling, by the control unit, to increase the level of the broadcaster based on an increase in the points awarded to the broadcaster; controlling, by the control unit, to decrease the points awarded to the broadcaster when a predetermined period of time has elapsed; and controlling, by the control unit, to decrease the level of the broadcaster based on the decrease in the points awarded to the broadcaster. According to a third aspect of the present invention, an information processing device that communicates with a terminal of a broadcaster who broadcasts live video includes a control unit that performs the following controls: granting points to the broadcaster based on the broadcasting performance of the live video; improving the broadcaster's level based on an increase in the points granted to the broadcaster; reducing the points granted to the broadcaster after a predetermined period of time has elapsed; and lowering the broadcaster's level based on a decrease in the points granted to the broadcaster. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, an information processing device that communicates with a terminal of a broadcaster who broadcasts live video includes a processor that reads a program stored in a memory and executes processing based on the program, and the processor performs the following controls: controlling the awarding of points to the broadcaster based on the broadcaster's performance in broadcasting the live video; controlling the upgrading of the broadcaster's level based on an increase in the points awarded to the broadcaster; controlling the reduction of the points awarded to the broadcaster when a predetermined condition is met; and controlling the lowering of the broadcaster's level based on the reduction in the points awarded to the broadcaster. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1-1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration of a communication system according to an embodiment. [Figure 1-2] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of functions realized by a control unit of the server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of information stored in a storage unit of the server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-4] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of account registration data according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-5] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of an account management database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of functions realized by a control unit of the terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-7] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of information stored in a storage unit of the terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-8] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of the terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-9] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of the terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-10] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of the terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-11] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of the terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-12] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing executed by each device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-13] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a live viewing process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-14] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a table for explaining user levels and a method for determining whether a user level has been raised according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-15] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a live distribution process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1-16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a table for explaining a live streamer level and a method for determining whether a live streamer level has increased according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2-1] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of a terminal according to a second embodiment. [Figure 2-2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of a terminal according to a second embodiment. [Figure 2-3] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing executed by each device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 2-4]A figure showing an example of a table for explaining a method for determining season level rewards and the liver level for the next season in the second embodiment. [Figure 2-5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a table for explaining a method for determining a season ranking reward from among season results according to the second embodiment. [Figure 2-6] A figure showing an example of a table for explaining a method for determining season level rewards and liver levels for the next season in accordance with the second modified example. [Figure 3-1] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of a terminal according to a third embodiment. [Figure 3-2] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of a terminal according to a third embodiment. [Figure 3-3] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing executed by each device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 3-4] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a table for explaining a method for calculating a livery bonus according to the third embodiment. [Figure 4-1] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a table for explaining a display mode of an icon related to a user according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] <Compliance with legal matters> It should be noted that the disclosures set forth herein are subject to compliance with the laws of the country of implementation, such as communications privacy, as required for the implementation of the disclosures.

[0007] <Embodiment> In this specification, for ease of understanding, there are places where the phrase "by way of example and not limitation" is used, but please note that not only those places but also the entire embodiment described below are not limited to the contents of that description.

[0008] An embodiment for implementing a program etc. according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0009] A system may be, by way of example and not limitation, comprised of multiple devices. The plurality of devices may be a combination of devices of the same type, a combination of devices of different types, or a combination of devices of the same type and devices of different types. Note that a system can be thought of as, for example and not as a limitation, a plurality of devices working together to perform some kind of processing.

[0010] Furthermore, a system relating to a client (client device) and a server can be considered to be, by way of example and not limitation, at least one of the following: (1) Terminals and servers (2) Server (3) Terminal

[0011] (1) is, by way of example and not limitation, a system that includes at least one terminal and at least one server. One example of this is a client-server system.

[0012] The server is configured by the following devices, by way of example and not limitation, and may be a single device or a combination of multiple devices.

[0013] Specifically, the server is configured to have at least one processor (for example, but not limited to, CPU: Central Processing Unit, GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, APU: Accelerated Processing Unit, DSP: Digital Signal Processor (for example, but not limited to, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array), etc.), computer device (processor + memory), control device, arithmetic device, processing device, etc., and may be configured to have multiple of the same type of any one device (for example, but not limited to, CPU + CPU, homogeneous multi-core processor, etc.), or multiple of different types of any one device (for example, but not limited to, CPU + DSP, heterogeneous multi-core processor, etc.), or may be a combination of multiple devices (for example, but not limited to, processor + computer device, processor + arithmetic device, multiple devices made heterogeneous, etc.). The processor may be a virtual processor.

[0014] Furthermore, when a server performs some processing, if the server is configured with a single device, the processing described in the embodiments is performed by the single device. Furthermore, if the server is configured with multiple devices, some processing may be performed by one device, and other processing may be performed by another device. For example, and not by way of limitation, if the server is configured with a processor and an arithmetic device, the processor may perform a first processing, and the arithmetic device may perform a second processing. Furthermore, when a plurality of devices are used, the devices may be located at positions physically separated from one another.

[0015] Furthermore, the functions of the server may be provided in the form of PaaS, IaaS, or SaaS in cloud computing, for example and without limitation.

[0016] The control unit of the system can be at least one of the control unit of the terminal and the control unit of the server, i.e., by way of example and not limitation, the control unit of the system can be either (1A) only the control unit of the terminal, (1B) only the control unit of the server, or (1C) both the control unit of the terminal and the control unit of the server.

[0017] Furthermore, the control and processing (hereinafter collectively referred to as "control, etc.") performed by the control unit of the system may be performed by (1A) only the control unit of the terminal, (1B) only the control unit of the server, or (1C) both the control unit of the terminal and the control unit of the server. In addition, in (1C), as an example and not a limitation, some of the controls performed by the system's control unit may be performed by the terminal's control unit, and the remaining controls may be performed by the server's control unit. In this case, the allocation of controls may be equal or may be allocated in different proportions.

[0018] Furthermore, when referring to the communication unit of a server, if the server is configured with a single device, it may refer to the communication unit itself that the single device has, or if the server is configured with multiple devices, it may be configured to include each communication unit that each device has. As an example and not by way of limitation, if a server comprises a first device and a second device, and the first device has a first communication unit and the second device has a second communication unit, the communication unit of the server may be conceptualized as including the first communication unit and the second communication unit.

[0019] (2) is not limited to, but may be, for example, a system consisting of multiple servers (hereinafter referred to as a "server system"). In this case, the configuration of each server can be similarly applied to the configuration described above.

[0020] The control etc. performed by the server system may be performed by only one of the multiple servers (2A), by only the other servers (2B), or by both the one server and the other servers (2C). In addition, in (2C), as an example and not a limitation, one server may perform some of the control, etc., performed by the server system, and another server may perform the remaining control, etc. In this case, the allocation (allocation) of the control, etc. may be equal or may be allocated in different proportions.

[0021] (3) By way of example and not limitation, the system may be comprised of multiple terminals. The system may be, by way of example and not limitation, a system such as the following: A system that gives server functions to terminals (distributed system). This can be realized using blockchain technology, for example and not by way of limitation. A system in which terminals communicate wirelessly with each other. This can be realized by, for example and without limitation, communicating using a P2P (peer-to-peer) method using short-range wireless communication technology such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0022] The above is not limited to the control unit, but also applies to each functional unit such as an input / output unit, a communication unit, a storage unit, and a clock unit that may be components of the system.

[0023] In the following embodiment, a system including a terminal and a server (a client-server system) is illustrated as an example and not as a limitation. It is also possible to apply the server system described in (2) above as the server.

[0024] Furthermore, instead of a system including a terminal and a server, a system not including a server, such as the system in (3) above, can also be applied, but is not limited to this. In this case, the embodiment can be configured based on the above-mentioned blockchain technology, etc. Specifically, by way of example and not limitation, data stored and managed in a server described in the following embodiment is stored on the blockchain. Then, a terminal can generate a transaction to the blockchain, and when the transaction is approved on the blockchain, the data stored on the blockchain can be updated.

[0025] It should be noted that even when the term "terminal" is used, this is not limited to the meaning of a terminal as a client device in a client server. That is, a terminal may include the concept of a device that is not in a client-server context.

[0026] Furthermore, in this specification, the expression "through a communication I / F" is used as appropriate. This is not intended to be limiting, but may also mean, for example, that a device transmits and receives various information and data through a communication I / F (through a communication unit) based on the control of a control unit (such as a processor).

[0027] Furthermore, in this specification, when the terms "related to" or "related to" are used, "B related to A" or "B related to A" may mean, by way of example and not limitation, that "B" has some relationship with "A." Specific examples of this will be described later.

[0028] Furthermore, in this specification, when a device performs processing on two or more objects, such as "sending A and B" or "receiving A and B," this may include performing "A" and "B" at the same time (hereinafter referred to as "simultaneous"), and performing "A" and "B" at different times (hereinafter referred to as "non-simultaneous"). As an example and not a limitation, when referring to transmitting first information and second information, this may include both concepts of transmitting the first information and the second information at the same time, and transmitting the first information and the second information at different times. In addition, taking into account the lag (time lag), "simultaneous" may include "almost simultaneously."

[0029] Note that even though "A" and "B" are performed at different times, this only needs to be done with "A" and "B" as the processing targets, and the purposes do not necessarily have to be the same. By way of example and not limitation, when the first information and the second information are transmitted as described above, it is sufficient to transmit the first information and the second information, and this may include cases where the first information and the second information are transmitted for the same purpose, as well as cases where the first information and the second information are transmitted for different purposes.

[0030] An example of a service that allows users to chat (hereinafter referred to as a "chat service") is a messaging service. Furthermore, an application for realizing a chat service is called a "chat application," and an application for realizing a messaging service is called a "messaging application." By way of example and not limitation, a chat application may allow users to chat in chat rooms. Also, by way of example and not limitation, a chat application may or may not allow users to make calls (such as voice calls or video calls) to each other.

[0031] Note that messaging services (MS) (including instant messaging services (IMS)) can also be considered one form of social networking services (SNS). Therefore, messaging services and social networking services may or may not be distinguished. In other words, messaging services may be included in social networking services.

[0032] In addition, in the following embodiments, as an example of a messaging service, an instant messaging service (IMS) that sends and receives content in the form of simple messages between multiple devices (terminals, for example and not limitation) via a server is exemplified. By way of example and not limitation, an instant messaging application may allow users to talk in talk rooms. Also, by way of example and not limitation, an instant messaging application may or may not allow users to make calls (such as voice calls or video calls) to each other.

[0033] A chat room (for example, but not limited to, a talk room) can be a UI (User Interface) or GUI (Graphical User Interface) that allows each user to view content sent and received between the terminals of multiple users.

[0034] In addition, chat rooms can include one-on-one user chat rooms (hereinafter referred to as "one-on-one chat rooms"), group chat rooms including multiple users (hereinafter referred to as "group chat rooms"), and chat rooms with official account users (hereinafter referred to as "OA chat rooms").

[0035] In terms of data management, a one-to-one chat room may be managed as a one-to-one user or one-to-one account chat room, or as a group chat room consisting of two users or two accounts.

[0036] An official account is an account of a business operator (an account of a business operator's user), not of a general user, and users of this official account can, for example and without limitation, use a terminal similar to that of a general user to send and receive content (messages) with other devices via the server.

[0037] In this specification, content may be information transmitted from a source to a destination, and may be one or more pieces of content.

[0038] The content may include, by way of example and not limitation, text content in text format, image content in image format (including at least one of still images and moving images), and sound content in sound format (including voice). In addition, it may also include operational content such as buttons and icons for user operation, and link content such as link information (including, but not limited to, URIs (Uniform Resource Identifiers)).

[0039] The text may include, by way of example and not limitation, at least one of national characters, extended characters, platform-dependent characters, numbers, symbols, graphics, and symbols, as represented by character codes. The text does not have to include at least one of the above characters, extended characters, machine-dependent characters, numbers, symbols, figures, and signs, and may include other text.

[0040] The image may include at least one of various types of image information, such as, for example and without limitation, an icon, a button, a stamp, an emoji, and a banner image.

[0041] In the following embodiments, a live streaming service is exemplified as an example of a service that allows users to live stream live content such as video and audio, or to view live streamed content. An application for realizing the live streaming service is referred to as a "live streaming application." The name of the live streaming application is referred to as a "Live Streaming App" in the drawings.

[0042] As a form for realizing a live streaming service, any of the following forms can be applied, by way of example and not limitation. (A) A form in which a live streaming application is configured as a standalone application (B) A form in which a live streaming service function is provided as one of the functions of a messaging application. (C) A form that configures an application (integrated application) that has the functions of a live streaming service and a messaging service. (D) A messaging application configured as a separate application from the live streaming application

[0043] In forms (B) and (C), by way of example and not limitation, the live streaming service provider may be the same provider as the messaging service provider. In this case, one method is to use a common account for the user's account in the messaging application and the user's account in the live distribution application. In this case, as another method, the user's account in the messaging application and the user's account in the live distribution application can be automatically associated (linked).

[0044] In form (D), by way of example and not limitation, the live streaming service provider may be a different entity from the messaging service provider. In addition, in the form (D), a process of associating a user's account in the messaging application with a user's account in the live distribution application (a linking process) can be performed.

[0045] Alternatively, it is possible to provide a messaging service function as one of the functions of the live distribution application.

[0046] Furthermore, in this embodiment, expressions such as "information is transmitted and received between users" and "information is transmitted and received between terminals" may be used, but these may be considered to be essentially synonymous. Furthermore, when a client-server system is applied, it is possible to configure the system so that information is transmitted and received between terminals via a server, but this may also be expressed as transmission and reception of information between users or terminals. Also, as mentioned above, information may be transmitted and received between terminals without applying a client-server system.

[0047] In the following embodiments, a live distribution is exemplified in which a distributor (liver) user distributes live video and a viewer user watches the live video. The live distribution of live content may be simply referred to as "live distribution." A user who live distributes live content may be referred to as a "liver," and a user who watches the live-distributed live content may be referred to as a "viewer." In the following embodiments, live content may be simply referred to as "live."

[0048] Furthermore, any of the above-mentioned forms (A) to (D) may be applied as a form for realizing a live streaming service, but the following embodiment will mainly illustrate, as an example and not a limitation, the application of form (A) in which a live streaming application is configured as a standalone application.

[0049] <First Example> The first embodiment relates to granting experience points to live streamers and viewers, and leveling up the live streamers and viewers. In this embodiment, by way of example and not limitation, the granting of experience points and leveling up are performed in real time during live streaming.

[0050] The contents described in the first embodiment can be applied to any of the other embodiments and other modified examples. Furthermore, the same components as those already mentioned are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0051] <System configuration> FIG. 1-1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of a communication system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the communication system 1, for example and not by way of limitation, a server 10 and a plurality of terminals 20 (terminal 20A, terminal 20B, terminal 20C, . . . ) are connected via a network 30.

[0052] The server 10 has a function of providing predetermined services (for example, but not limited to, a live streaming service, a messaging service, etc.) to the terminal 20 owned by the user via the network 30. For example, but not limited to, the server 10 can also be expressed as a live streaming server, a messaging server, etc. In this embodiment, a live streaming service provider (operator) and a messaging service provider (operator) are assumed to be users of the server 10.

[0053] The number of servers 10 and the number of terminals 20 connected to the network 30 are not limited.

[0054] The terminal 20 (terminal 20A, terminal 20B, terminal 20C, etc.) may be any information processing terminal capable of implementing the functions described in each embodiment. Examples of the terminal 20 include, but are not limited to, smartphones, mobile phones (feature phones), computers (such as, but not limited to, desktops, laptops, and tablets), media computer platforms (such as, but not limited to, cable and satellite set-top boxes and digital video recorders), handheld computer devices (such as, but not limited to, personal digital assistants (PDAs), email clients, etc.), wearable devices (such as glasses and watch devices), virtual reality (VR) terminals, smart speakers (voice recognition devices), or other types of computers or communication platforms. The terminal 20 may also be referred to as an information processing terminal.

[0055] The configurations of terminal 20A, terminal 20B, and terminal 20C can be the same, for example and not by way of limitation. Furthermore, as necessary, the terminal used by user X may be expressed as terminal 20X, and user information in a predetermined service associated with user X or terminal 20X may or may not be expressed as user information X. The user information is information of a user associated with an account used by the user in a predetermined service. The user information includes, but is not limited to, information associated with a user, such as the user's name, an icon image of the user, the user's age, the user's gender, the user's address, the user's hobbies and interests, and a user identifier, which is input by the user or assigned by the predetermined service, and may be any one of these, or a combination thereof, or may not be the same.

[0056] The network 30 serves to connect one or more terminals 20 and one or more servers 10. In other words, the network 30 refers to a communication network that provides a connection path so that the above-mentioned various devices can connect and then send and receive data.

[0057] One or more portions of network 30 may or may not be a wired or wireless network. Network 30 may include, by way of example and not limitation, an ad hoc network, an intranet, an extranet, a virtual private network (VPN), a local area network (LAN), a wireless LAN (WLAN), a wide area network (WAN), a wireless WAN (WWAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a portion of the Internet, a portion of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a cellular network, integrated service digital networks (ISDN), wireless LAN, long term evolution (LTE), code division multiple access (CDMA), Bluetooth, satellite communications, etc., or a combination of two or more thereof. Network 30 may include one or more networks 30.

[0058] The server 10 (which is an example of a server, information processing device, or information management device, but is not limited thereto) has a function of providing a predetermined service to the terminal 20. The server 10 may be any device that is an information processing device that can realize the functions described in each embodiment. The server 10 includes, but is not limited to, a server device, a computer (such as a desktop, laptop, or tablet), a media computer platform (such as a cable or satellite set-top box or digital video recorder), a handheld computer device (such as a PDA or email client), or other types of computers or communication platforms. The server 10 may also be referred to as an information processing device. When there is no need to distinguish between the server 10 and the terminal 20, the server 10 and the terminal 20 may or may not each be referred to as an information processing device.

[0059] [Hardware (HW) configuration of each device] The hardware configuration of each device included in the communication system 1 will be described.

[0060] (1) Hardware configuration of the terminal FIG. 1-1 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the terminal 20. The terminal 20 includes a control unit 21 (CPU: central processing unit), a storage unit 28, a communication I / F 22 (interface), an input / output unit 23, a clock unit 29A, and a position calculation information detection unit 29B. The HW components of the terminal 20 are connected to each other via a bus B, for example and not as a limitation. It is not essential that the HW configuration of the terminal 20 includes all of the components. For example and not as a limitation, the terminal 20 may or may not be configured such that individual components or multiple components are detachable.

[0061] The communication I / F 22 transmits and receives various data via the network 30. The communication may be performed either wired or wirelessly, and any communication protocol may be used as long as mutual communication is possible. The communication I / F 22 has a function of communicating with various devices such as the server 10 via the network 30. The communication I / F 22 transmits various data to various devices such as the server 10 in accordance with instructions from the control unit 21. The communication I / F 22 also receives various data transmitted from various devices such as the server 10 and transmits it to the control unit 21. The communication I / F 22 may also be simply referred to as a communication unit. When the communication I / F 22 is configured as a physically structured circuit, it may also be referred to as a communication circuit.

[0062] The input / output unit 23 includes a device for inputting various operations to the terminal 20, a device for outputting processing results processed by the terminal 20, etc. The input / output unit 23 may be an integrated unit having an input unit and an output unit, or may be separate from the input unit and the output unit, or may not be so.

[0063] The input unit is realized by any one of or a combination of all types of devices that can accept input from a user and transmit information related to the input to the control unit 21. Examples of the input unit include, but are not limited to, a touch panel, a touch display, hardware keys such as a keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse, a camera (operation input via moving images), and a microphone (operation input by voice).

[0064] The output unit is realized by any one or a combination of all kinds of devices that can output the processing results processed by the control unit 21. Examples of the output unit include, but are not limited to, a touch panel, a touch display, a speaker (audio output), a lens (for example, but not limited to, 3D (three dimensions) output or hologram output), a printer, etc.

[0065] By way of example only, the input / output unit 23 includes, but is not limited to, a display unit 24, a sound input unit 25, a sound output unit 26, and an imaging unit 27.

[0066] The display unit 24 is realized by any one of all types of devices or a combination thereof that can display according to the display data written to the frame buffer. Examples of the display unit 24 include, but are not limited to, a touch panel, a touch display, a monitor (for example, but not limited to, a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence display (OLED)), a head mounted display (HDM), projection mapping, a hologram, and a device that can display images, text information, etc. in air (which may or may not be a vacuum). Note that these display units 24 may or may not be capable of displaying display data in 3D.

[0067] The sound input unit 25 is used to input sound data (including voice data; the same applies below.) The sound input unit 25 includes a microphone and the like. The sound output unit 26 is used to output sound data and includes a speaker and the like. The imaging unit 27 is used to acquire image data (including still image data and moving image data; the same applies below.) The imaging unit 27 includes a camera and the like.

[0068] When the input / output unit 23 is a touch panel, the input / output unit 23 and the display unit 24 may be disposed opposite each other and have approximately the same size and shape.

[0069] The clock unit 29A is a built-in clock of the terminal 20, and outputs time information (timekeeping information). The clock unit 29A is configured to include, for example and not by way of limitation, a clock that uses a crystal oscillator. The clock unit 29A can also be expressed as a timekeeping unit or a time information detection unit, for example and not by way of limitation.

[0070] The clock unit 29A may or may not have a clock that conforms to the NITZ (Network Identity and Time Zone) standard or the like.

[0071] The position calculation information detection unit 29B is a functional unit that detects (measures) information (hereinafter referred to as "position calculation information") necessary for the control unit 21 to calculate (measure) the position of its own terminal 20. The position calculation information detection unit 29B can also be expressed as a position calculation sensor unit, for example and not by way of limitation.

[0072] The position calculation information detection unit 29B includes, by way of example and not limitation, a satellite positioning sensor (satellite positioning unit) which is a sensor or unit for calculating the position of the terminal 20 using a satellite positioning system such as GPS (Global Positioning System), an inertial measurement sensor (inertial measurement unit (IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit))) which is a sensor or unit for calculating the position of the terminal 20 using an inertial navigation system, a UWB positioning sensor (UWB positioning unit) which is a sensor or unit for calculating the position of the terminal 20 using UWB (Ultra Wide Band), and the like.

[0073] The satellite positioning unit includes, by way of example and not limitation, an RF receiving circuit that converts RF (Radio Frequency) signals, including positioning satellite signals transmitted from positioning satellites and received by an antenna (not shown), into digital signals, and a baseband processing circuit that performs correlation calculation processing on the digital signals output from the RF receiving circuit to capture the positioning satellite signals, and outputs information such as satellite orbit data and time data extracted from the positioning satellite signals as information for position calculation.

[0074] The inertial measurement unit has an inertial sensor that is a sensor that detects information necessary for calculating the position of the terminal 20 by inertial navigation calculation. The inertial sensor includes, but is not limited to, a three-axis acceleration sensor and a three-axis gyro sensor, and outputs the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor and the angular velocity detected by the gyro sensor as information for position calculation.

[0075] The UWB positioning unit includes, for example and without limitation, an ultra-wideband RF (Radio Frequency) receiving circuit that converts an ultra-wideband RF signal, including an ultra-wideband pulse signal for positioning transmitted from a positioning beacon and received by an antenna (not shown), into a digital signal, and a relative position calculation processing circuit that calculates the relative position between the terminal 20 and the positioning beacon based on the digital signal output from the ultra-wideband RF receiving circuit. By way of example and not limitation, the UWB positioning unit may or may not cause terminal 20 to function as a positioning beacon by transmitting an ultra-wideband RF signal including an ultra-wideband pulse signal for positioning from an antenna not shown.

[0076] For example, and not by way of limitation, control unit 21 calculates the position of its own terminal 20 at regular intervals or specific intervals based on the position calculation information detected by position calculation information detection unit 29B. The terminal position is referred to as the "terminal position," and the calculated terminal position is referred to as the "calculated terminal position." Control unit 21 may, but need not, associate the calculated terminal position with the date and time when the calculated terminal position was calculated and store the calculated terminal position in storage unit 28 as calculated terminal position history data.

[0077] The control unit 21 has a circuit physically structured to execute the functions realized by the code or instructions contained in the program, and is realized by, for example and not by a data processing device built into hardware. Therefore, the control unit 21 may or may not be expressed as a control circuit.

[0078] The control unit 21 includes, by way of example and not limitation, a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a processor core, a multiprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0079] The storage unit 28 has a function of storing various programs and various data required for the operation of the terminal 20. The storage unit 28 includes, but is not limited to, various storage media such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a flash memory, a random access memory (RAM), and a read only memory (ROM). Furthermore, the storage unit 28 may or may not be expressed as a memory.

[0080] Terminal 20 stores program P in storage unit 28, and by executing this program P, control unit 21 executes the processing of each unit included in control unit 21. In other words, program P stored in storage unit 28 causes terminal 20 to realize each function executed by control unit 21. Furthermore, this program P may or may not be expressed as a program module.

[0081] (2) Server hardware configuration FIG. 1-1 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the server 10. In FIG. The server 10 includes a control unit 11 (CPU), a storage unit 15, a communication I / F 14 (interface), an input / output unit 12, and a clock unit 19. The components of the HW of the server 10 are connected to each other via a bus B, for example and not as a limitation. Note that the HW of the server 10 does not necessarily have to include all components as a configuration of the HW of the server 10. For example and not as a limitation, the HW of the server 10 may or may not be configured such that individual components or multiple components are removable.

[0082] The control unit 11 has circuits physically structured to execute the functions realized by the codes or instructions contained in the program, and is realized by, for example and not by way of limitation, a data processing device built into hardware.

[0083] The control unit 11 is typically a central processing unit (CPU), but may also be a microprocessor, a processor core, a multiprocessor, an ASIC, or an FPGA. In the present disclosure, the control unit 11 is not limited to these.

[0084] The storage unit 15 has a function of storing various programs and various data required for the operation of the server 10. The storage unit 15 is realized by various storage media such as an HDD, an SSD, and a flash memory. However, in the present disclosure, the storage unit 15 is not limited to these. Furthermore, the storage unit 15 may or may not be expressed as a memory.

[0085] The communication I / F 14 transmits and receives various data via the network 30. The communication may be performed either wired or wirelessly, and any communication protocol may be used as long as mutual communication is possible. The communication I / F 14 has a function of communicating with various devices such as the terminal 20 via the network 30. The communication I / F 14 transmits various data to various devices such as the terminal 20 in accordance with instructions from the control unit 11. The communication I / F 14 also receives various data transmitted from various devices such as the terminal 20 and transmits it to the control unit 11. The communication I / F 14 may also be simply referred to as a communication unit. When the communication I / F 14 is configured as a physically structured circuit, it may also be referred to as a communication circuit.

[0086] The input / output unit 12 includes a device for inputting various operations to the server 10, a device for outputting processing results processed by the server 10, etc. The input / output unit 12 may be an integrated input unit and an output unit, or may be separate input unit and output unit, or may not be the same.

[0087] The input unit is realized by any one of or a combination of all types of devices that can accept input from a user and transmit information related to the input to the control unit 11. The input unit is typically realized by hardware keys such as a keyboard or a pointing device such as a mouse. Note that the input unit may or may not include, for example and without limitation, a touch panel, a camera (for operation input via moving images), or a microphone (for operation input by voice).

[0088] The output unit is realized by any one or a combination of all kinds of devices that can output the processing results processed by the control unit 11. Examples of the output unit include, but are not limited to, a touch panel, a touch display, a speaker (sound output), a lens (for example, but not limited to, 3D (three dimensions) output or hologram output), a printer, etc.

[0089] By way of example only, the input / output unit 12 includes a display unit 13, by way of example and not limitation.

[0090] The display unit 13 is realized by a display or the like. The display is typically realized by a monitor (for example, but not limited to, a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence display (OLED)). The display may or may not be a head-mounted display (HDM) or the like. These displays may or may not be capable of displaying display data in 3D. In the present disclosure, the display is not limited to these.

[0091] The clock unit 19 is a built-in clock of the server 10, and outputs time information (timekeeping information). The clock unit 19 is configured to include, for example and without limitation, an RTC (Real Time Clock) as a hardware clock, a system clock, etc. The clock unit 19 can also be expressed as, for example and without limitation, a timekeeping unit or a time information detection unit. (3) Other Server 10 stores program P in storage unit 15, and by executing this program P, control unit 11 executes the processes of each unit included in control unit 11. In other words, program P stored in storage unit 15 causes server 10 to realize each function executed by control unit 11. This program P may or may not be expressed as a program module. The same applies to other devices.

[0092] In each embodiment of the present disclosure, the description will be given assuming that the CPU of the terminal 20 and / or the server 10 executes the program P to realize the present invention.

[0093] The control unit 21 of the terminal 20 and / or the control unit 11 of the server 10 may or may not realize each process not only by a CPU having a control circuit but also by a logic circuit (hardware) formed in an integrated circuit (IC (Integrated Circuit) chip, LSI (Large Scale Integration)), or a dedicated circuit. These circuits may be realized by one or more integrated circuits, and multiple processes shown in each embodiment may or may not be realized by a single integrated circuit. LSIs may also be called VLSIs, super LSIs, ultra LSIs, etc. depending on the degree of integration. Therefore, the control unit 21 may or may not be expressed as a control circuit.

[0094] Furthermore, the program P (for example, but not limited to, a software program, a computer program, or a program module) of each embodiment of the present disclosure may or may not be provided in a state stored in a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can store the program P in a "non-transitory tangible medium." The program P may or may not be intended to realize part of the functions of each embodiment of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the program P may or may not be a so-called difference file (difference program) that can realize the functions of each embodiment of the present disclosure in combination with a program P already recorded on a storage medium.

[0095] Furthermore, when referring to a system program (a program executed by a system), the system is as described above. The aforementioned system program is a program that can be executed by the entire system, and this program may be composed of individual programs for the devices that make up the system, for example and without limitation, and the programs stored in the individual devices that make up the system may be different from one another. In other words, it is not necessary for the individual devices that make up the system to share a common program. As a non-limiting example, if a system is composed of a terminal and a server, and the system program is P1, then the system program P1 may be composed of a program P2 stored on the terminal and a program P3 stored on the server, and P2 and P3 are for executing the system program and may be different programs. As a non-limiting example, the program P2 stored on the terminal may be a program that performs a first process and sends the results of the first process to the server, and the program P3 stored on the server may be a program that performs a second process on the received results of the first process and sends the results of the second process to the terminal.

[0096] The storage medium may include one or more semiconductor-based or other integrated circuits (ICs) (such as, by way of example and not limitation, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or application-specific ICs (ASICs)), hard disk drives (HDDs), hybrid hard drives (HHDs), optical disks, optical disk drives (ODDs), magneto-optical disks, magneto-optical drives, floppy diskettes, floppy disk drives (FDDs), magnetic tapes, solid-state drives (SSDs), RAM drives, secure digital cards, or drives, any other suitable storage media, or any suitable combination of two or more of these. The storage medium may be volatile, non-volatile, or a combination of volatile and non-volatile, where appropriate. The storage medium is not limited to these examples and may be any device or medium capable of storing the program P. Furthermore, the storage medium may or may not be referred to as memory.

[0097] The server 10 and / or the terminal 20 can implement the functions of the multiple functional units shown in each embodiment by reading out the program P stored in the storage medium and executing the read out program P.

[0098] Furthermore, the program P of the present disclosure may or may not be provided to the server 10 and / or the terminal 20 via any transmission medium capable of transmitting a program (such as a communication network or broadcast waves). The server 10 and / or the terminal 20, by way of example and not limitation, executes the program P downloaded via the Internet or the like to realize the functions of the multiple functional units shown in each embodiment.

[0099] In addition, each embodiment of the present disclosure may also be realized in the form of a data signal in which the program P is embodied by electronic transmission. At least a part of the processing in the server 10 and / or the terminal 20 may or may not be realized by cloud computing configured by one or more computers. At least a part or all of the processing in the terminal 20 may or may not be performed by the server 10. In this case, at least a part or all of the processing of each functional unit of the control unit 21 of the terminal 20 may or may not be performed by the server 10. At least a part or all of the processing in the server 10 may or may not be performed by the terminal 20. In this case, at least a part or all of the processing of each functional unit of the control unit 11 of the server 10 may or may not be performed by the terminal 20.

[0100] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the judgment configuration in the embodiments of the present disclosure is not essential, and a predetermined process may or may not be performed when the judgment condition is met, or when the judgment condition is not met.

[0101] The programs of the present disclosure are implemented using, for example and without limitation, scripting languages ​​such as ActionScript and JavaScript (registered trademark), compiler languages ​​such as Objective-C and Java (registered trademark), and markup languages ​​such as HTML Living Standard.

[0102] <Functional configuration> (1) Server functional configuration FIG. 1-2 is a diagram showing an example of functions realized by the control unit 11 of the server 10 in this embodiment. The control unit 11 includes, as a functional unit, an application management processing unit 111 for executing application management processing in accordance with an application management processing program 151 stored in the storage unit 15, for example and not by way of limitation.

[0103] FIG. 1-3 is a diagram showing an example of information stored in the storage unit 15 of the server 10 in this embodiment. The storage unit 15 stores, by way of example and not limitation, an application management processing program 151 executed by the control unit 11 as application management processing, account registration data 153, and an account management database 155.

[0104] The account registration data 153 is registration data related to an account of an application (for example, but not limited to, a live distribution application), and an example of the data configuration is shown in FIG. 1-4. In the account registration data 153, for example and without limitation, a user name, an application ID, and other registration information are stored in association with each other.

[0105] The user name is the name of the account of the terminal 20 that uses this application, and as a non-limiting example, the name that the user of the terminal 20 registers when using the application is stored.

[0106] The application ID is information used to identify an application account, or the account itself. This application ID is preferably a value that is unique for each account, and as a non-limiting example, a unique value (proper value) is set and stored by the server 10 for each account. The application ID is information associated with the terminal 20 or the user of the terminal 20, and is an example of information about the terminal or information about the user of the terminal.

[0107] Other registration information may include, but is not limited to, various types of information such as identification information for identifying terminal 20, the telephone number of terminal 20 (terminal telephone number), email address (terminal email address), and authentication information such as passwords (login password, authentication password, etc.) used for various authentications in applications.

[0108] The identification information for identifying the terminal 20 may be, for example and not by way of limitation, a terminal ID (for example and not by way of limitation, an IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity)). Furthermore, the identification information for identifying the user of the terminal 20 can be, for example and without limitation, an application ID for a general user or an application ID for an official user.

[0109] Note that the application ID may or may not be replaced by a "user ID." Furthermore, for an application in which only one account can be registered per terminal 20, as an example and not a limitation, the following can be used: "identification information for identifying terminal 20 = identification information for identifying the user of terminal 20 = application ID."

[0110] Also, by way of example and not limitation, it may or may not be possible to assign multiple terminal IDs to one application ID. In this case, it may or may not be possible to run applications in parallel (in parallel) on multiple terminals 20 using one application ID as an identification (login) target.

[0111] Furthermore, instead of various IDs such as application IDs, it is also possible to apply a method of managing accounts using information such as terminal phone numbers. In this case, instead of storing information on IDs such as application IDs in account registration data 153, information on terminal telephone numbers and the like can be stored in account registration data 153. It is also possible to have one-to-one correspondence between information on IDs such as application IDs and information on terminal telephone numbers and the like, without replacing information on IDs such as application IDs with information on terminal telephone numbers and the like, but this is not required.

[0112] In the following various embodiments, for the sake of simplicity, it is assumed that one account is registered for one terminal 20. Furthermore, in this case, since, as described above, "identification information for identifying terminal 20 = identification information for identifying the user of terminal 20 = application ID," the term "user of the account" may be considered to be essentially synonymous with "terminal of the account."

[0113] Users who can register an account can be, by way of example and not limitation, general users (general users), and can exclude users (official users) who are expected to act as professional live streamers using so-called official accounts (official accounts), such as celebrities. Official users may also be allowed to register accounts, but as a non-limiting example, the rules described in the following embodiment may not be applied to official users.

[0114] The account management database 155 is a database for managing information about the accounts stored in the account registration data 153, and an example of the data configuration is shown in FIG. 1-5. Account management database 155 stores account management data as data for each account.

[0115] Each account management data stores, by way of example and not limitation, an application ID, a user experience value, a user level, a live streamer experience value, and a live streamer level.

[0116] In the application ID, the application ID stored and registered in the account registration data 153 is stored.

[0117] The user experience value can be a user experience value given to the user of this application ID by the server 10. Details will be described later.

[0118] The user level is a level based on the user experience value of the user of this application ID, and can be stored and updated by the server 10 based on the user experience value, for example and not by way of limitation. Details will be described later.

[0119] The live streamer experience points may be, for example and without limitation, live streamer experience points granted to the user of this application ID by the server 10. Details will be described later.

[0120] The liver level is a level based on the liver experience value of the user of this application ID, and can be, for example and without limitation, a comprehensive value that includes the liver rank, which is the rank as a liver, and the level within that liver rank (level within rank). The liver level can be, for example and without limitation, stored and updated by the server 10 based on the liver experience value. Details will be described later.

[0121] The user experience value and the user level can be examples of information about the user. The liver experience value and liver level can be an example of information about the liver.

[0122] By way of example and not limitation, a user who wishes to act as a live streamer in a live streaming application may register with the server 10. For an unregistered user, the live streamer experience value and live streamer level in the account management data may be set to N / A (Not Applicable).

[0123] As described above, in this embodiment, information about the user and information about the live streamer are stored in association with one account (common account). In addition, activities as both a viewer and a live streamer are carried out using a common account.

[0124] (2) Functional configuration of the terminal FIG. 1-6 is a diagram showing an example of functions realized by the control unit 21 of the terminal 20 in this embodiment. The control unit 21 includes, as a functional unit, an application processing unit 211 for executing application processing in accordance with an application processing program 281 stored in the storage unit 28, for example and not by way of limitation.

[0125] FIG. 1-7 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in the storage unit 28 of the terminal 20 in this embodiment. The storage unit 28 stores, by way of example and not limitation, an application processing program 281 executed as application processing by the control unit 21, and an application ID 283 corresponding to the terminal 20 or the account of the user of the terminal 20.

[0126] <Display screen> In the following, as an example and not a limitation, a case will be illustrated in which the terminal 20 is a smartphone equipped with a display unit 24 having a portrait display.

[0127] For example, but not by way of limitation, a smartphone has a touch panel that functions as an input unit and is disposed opposite the display, thereby constituting a touch screen. When an element such as an icon, button, item, or input area is displayed on the display, and a part of the touch panel that faces the area where the element is displayed is operated by a user, a program associated with the element or a subroutine of the program is executed.

[0128] In the following, a tap operation (sometimes simply referred to as "tap") can be, by way of example and not limitation, an action in which a user lightly taps the display unit 24 (touch screen) that is integrally configured with a touch panel with a finger or the tip of a pen, and then releases the touch. Furthermore, the scrolling operation may be, for example and without limitation, an operation (motion) for scrolling displayed information. For example and without limitation, the scrolling operation may be a "swipe operation" when input is made with a finger, a touch pen, or the like, and a "wheel operation" when input is made with a mouse, or the like.

[0129] The transition of the display screens described below is merely an example of the transition of the display screens for realizing the technique of the present disclosure. In the transition of the display screens exemplified below, some of the display screens may be omitted, or other display screens may be added.

[0130] 1-8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a live distribution application displayed on the display unit 24 of the terminal 20 in this embodiment. Here, the screen displayed on the display unit 24 of the terminal 20A of user AA is shown as an example.

[0131] The left side of Figure 1-8 shows the My Page screen of the live streaming application, with the name of the live streaming application displayed at the top of the screen. Below that is an area showing the page currently being displayed within the live streaming application (hereinafter referred to as the "in-app position display area"). Since this screen is the My Page screen, it displays "My Page."

[0132] Below that is an area where various information about the live streaming application is displayed.

[0133] At the top of this area is a profile area related to user AA's profile, and by way of example and not limitation, the base image (hereinafter referred to as the "base image") set by user AA when registering an account or at some point thereafter is displayed in the profile area as user AA's profile icon PI1. Also set in the profile area is a My Page background BG1, which is also set by user AA as a background image.

[0134] The base image can be used as a profile icon or as an image to represent the user in various situations. For example, but not limited to, the base image can be displayed in association with a comment to identify the user when the comment is posted, or can be used to display when the user level or the live streamer level is increased.

[0135] The base image and the background of the My Page may be changed by the user later. Also, as a non-limiting example, the background of the My Page may be set only after registering as a live streamer.

[0136] As a non-limiting example, an icon image of user AA, the total number of users that user AA follows (hereinafter referred to as "following"), and the total number of users that follow user AA (hereinafter referred to as "followers") are displayed.

[0137] In addition, a ranking icon IC1, which is an icon image for displaying ranking information, is displayed in the upper right corner of this area. Ranking will be explained in the following examples.

[0138] Below that, a user level information display area ULR that displays the user level information of user AA, and a live streamer level information display area LLR that displays the live streamer level information of user AA are each formed by a frame. In the following, the liver level is, by way of example and not limitation, assumed to include a liver rank and an in-rank level indicating the level within that liver rank.

[0139] In this example, the user level information display area ULR displays "User Lv59" as the user level of user AA, along with an icon image of a badge (five stars) indicating that the user level is in the 50s. In this example, the liver level information display area LLR displays the liver level of user AA as "Legend Lv10" along with an icon image of a character (rabbit character) corresponding to the liver rank "Legend."

[0140] Also, below these areas, information for watching the live broadcast is displayed. Specifically, along with the video camera image and the words "Watch the broadcast," for example and without limitation, the icon image of the user currently broadcasting the live show and the name of the live show being broadcast are displayed in a list in the left-right direction as live broadcast information about the live show being broadcast. For example and without limitation, the user can scroll left and right to display live broadcast information that is not displayed on the screen.

[0141] Below that are buttons for displaying information for various functions, such as a "Stream" button for broadcasting yourself, a "Streaming History" button for checking your live streaming history, a "Streaming Schedule" button for checking your upcoming live streaming schedule, and a "Viewing History" button for checking the history of live broadcasts you have watched.

[0142] For example, but not by way of limitation, when the live level information display area LLR is tapped on the screen on the left side of Figure 1-8, the screen in the center of Figure 1-8 is displayed. This screen is a live status screen showing the live status of user AA, and the words "live status" are displayed in the in-app position display area.

[0143] Below that is an area where information about the live status is displayed. Specifically, a display switching tab for switching between the user level and the live streamer rank (live streamer level) display is displayed at the top, and in this example, the live streamer rank is shown selected. With the live streamer rank selected, the word "live streamer rank" on the display switching tab is highlighted (in this example, it is displayed in bold and underlined).

[0144] Based on the selection of the liver rank, a liver level detailed information display area LLDR is configured below it to display detailed information about the liver level of user AA. The liver level detailed information display area LLDR displays, by way of example and not limitation, an icon image of a character that changes depending on the liver rank (or liver rank & level within the rank), the liver level (liver rank & level within the rank), and the liver experience points (liver EXP) required to level up to the next level within the rank.

[0145] In this example, the liver level of user AA is displayed as liver rank "Legend" and level within rank "Lv10", and the icon image of the character corresponding to this liver level is displayed as an icon image of a rabbit character.

[0146] Additionally, below the display of the Liver Rank and Level within the Rank, the Liver Experience required to level up to the next Level within the Rank is displayed in a gauge (Liver Experience Gauge LG1) and in text. In this example, it is displayed that 2,987 Liver EXP is required to level up to the next Level within the Rank. In this example, and not as a limitation, every time a Liver's experience points increase by "14,000", the Liver's level within the "Legend" rank will increase.

[0147] Below the liver level detailed information display area LLDR, the liver rank is displayed in a carousel format running left and right. In this example, the current liver rank is displayed in a bubble directly below the center of the liver level detailed information display area LLDR, and the liver rank one rank below this liver rank and the liver rank one rank above this liver rank are displayed to the left and right of the current liver rank bubble, respectively.

[0148] In this example, since user AA's liver rank is "Legend," a rabbit character icon image and a speech bubble containing the words "Legend Driver" are displayed below the liver level detailed information display area LLDR. To the left of this, the next lower liver rank, "Superstar," is displayed, and to the right of this, the next higher liver rank, "God Liver," is displayed. In addition, the icon for the next higher liver rank, "God Liver," has a lock icon attached to it, indicating that this liver rank has not yet been unlocked, and the icon is displayed in reverse.

[0149] Below that is a live streamer experience point acquisition information display area LER, which shows how live streamer experience points are acquired, etc. In this example, the methods of acquiring live streamer experience points include, but are not limited to, "streaming time" related to the length of the live stream, "number of views" related to the number of views of the live stream, "support points" related to the support points acquired from viewers during the live stream, and "number of pokes" related to the number of times the live streamer poked viewers using the poke function during the live stream.

[0150] The "poke function" can be, by way of example and not limitation, a function that allows a live streamer to communicate with viewers by poking them during a live broadcast, for the purpose of increasing their fan base, etc.

[0151] Specifically, in this example, it is possible to obtain "1 Liver Experience Point (Liver EXP)" for each "1 minute" of streaming time, "1 Liver EXP" for the number of views (viewing time x number of views x 0.01), "1 Liver EXP" for support points (1 PT), and "1 Liver EXP" for each "1 poke."

[0152] Below that, information about the benefits granted according to user AA's current live streamer rank is displayed. In this example, three benefits associated with the "Legend" live streamer rank are shown, but are not limited to these: a rank badge (RB), a frame (FM), and a personal page background (BG). These can also be called "objects (items)" that are benefits granted based on the live streamer level.

[0153] The rank badge RB is an example of an object, and can be used to highlight one's own rank, for example but not limited to, by displaying it in association with the profile icon in the profile area of ​​the My Page screen.

[0154] Frame FM is an example of an object, and by way of example and not limitation, it can be set as a frame surrounding a profile icon in the profile area of ​​the My Page screen, thereby making the profile icon stand out.

[0155] The My Page background BG is an example of an object, and by way of example and not limitation, it can be set as the background image for the profile area on the My Page screen, thereby making the profile area stand out.

[0156] When the user level information display area ULR is tapped on the screen on the left side of Figure 1-8, or when the "User Level" display switching tab is tapped on the screen in the center of Figure 1-8, the screen on the right side of Figure 1-8 will be displayed, as an example and not a limitation. This screen, like the screen in the center of Figure 1-8, is a live status screen showing the live status of user AA. The words "Live Status" are displayed in the in-app location display area, and because user level has been selected, "User Level" is highlighted in the display switching tab (in this example, it is displayed in bold and underlined).

[0157] Based on the user level selection, a user level detailed information display area ULDR is configured below the user level for displaying detailed information about the user AA's user level. The user level detailed information display area ULDR displays, by way of example and not limitation, an icon image of a badge (different from the aforementioned "rank badge") as a user title corresponding to the user level (achieved user experience points) shown in the table of FIG. 1-14, described below, as well as the user level and the user experience points (user EXP) required to level up to the next user level. The badge as a user title can also be considered as a privilege object, similar to the rank badge described above.

[0158] In this example, "Lv59" is displayed as the user level of user AA, and a badge icon image with the number of stars "5" (five stars) is displayed as the badge icon image corresponding to this user level. By way of example and not limitation, a badge icon image with a number of stars corresponding to the tens digit of the user level can be configured. In addition, when a level of "100 or more" is allowed, the number of stars can be set to the same number as the first two digits, for example, but not as a limitation.

[0159] Below the user level, the user experience points required to level up to the next user level are displayed using a gauge (user experience point gauge UG1) and text. In this example, it is displayed that "67 user EXP" is required to level up to the next user level.

[0160] Below the user level detailed information display area ULDR, the user levels are displayed in a carousel format from left to right, and in this example, the level band to which the current user level belongs (in this example, "Lv50~") is displayed in a balloon directly below the center of the user level detailed information display area ULDR. Also, in this example, a level band 20 levels below this level band (in this example, "Lv30~") and a level band 20 levels above this level band (in this example, "Lv70~") are displayed to the left and right of the balloon of the level band to which the current user level belongs. In addition, the icon for the next higher level band is displayed in an unlocked state, similar to the display mode of the liver rank, as an example and not a limitation.

[0161] Below that, a user experience value acquisition information display area UER is configured, which shows how user experience points are acquired. In this example, the methods of acquiring user experience points are displayed, but are not limited to, as examples of "viewing time" related to the time spent watching the live stream, "number of comments" related to the comments sent by the user during the live stream, "support points" related to the support points sent by the user to the live stream, "hearts" related to the hearts sent by the user to the live stream, "sign in" related to the user's sign-in (or login) to the live streaming application, and "channel subscription" related to the channels to which the user is subscribed.

[0162] Specifically, in this example, it is shown that it is possible to acquire "1 user experience point (user EXP)" for "10 minutes" of viewing time, "1 user experience point" for "1 comment" (limited to 100 comments per day), and "2 user experience points" for "1 support point." It is also shown that it is possible to acquire "1 user experience point" for "10 hearts," "50 user experience points" for "1 sign-in" (limited to once per day), and "1 user experience point" for "1 subscription" (limited to once per day).

[0163] Although the conditions for granting user experience points are illustrated here mainly based on the viewer's behavior (viewer behavior), as will be described in detail later, user experience points can also be granted based on the broadcaster's behavior (broadcaster behavior). Therefore, these conditions may also be displayed in the user experience point acquisition information display area UER.

[0164] FIG. 1-9 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen when user AA of terminal 20A shown on the screen of FIG. 1-8 becomes a viewer and watches a live broadcast. The screen on the left side of Figure 1-9 corresponds to the My Page screen on the left side of Figure 1-8, and shows the state in which "BB's Kitchen" broadcast by user BB has been selected as the live broadcast to watch from among the live broadcast information. In this case, the live broadcast screen in the center of Figure 1-9 is displayed as an example and not a limitation.

[0165] On this live streaming screen, the live video being streamed by user BB is displayed in the area below the area at the top of the screen where the name of the live streaming application is displayed. Specifically, the video shows user BB, who is the live streamer.

[0166] In the upper left corner of the area where the live video is displayed, information such as the name of user BB, who is the live streamer, the time elapsed since the start of the live broadcast, and the number of viewers watching the live broadcast is displayed. Also, below that is an area showing user BB's current live streamer level (live streamer rank and level within the rank), and this area is configured to display live streamer experience points using a gauge (live streamer experience point gauge LG2). In this example, it is shown that user BB's live streamer rank is "Star" and his level within the rank is "Lv8."

[0167] In addition, in the lower left corner of the area where the live video is displayed, a comment display area CDR is configured to display comments posted by viewer users and live streamer users. This comment display area CDR is configured so that posted comments are displayed in association with the icon image and username of the user, for example and not by way of limitation.

[0168] The comment may be the content described above. Also, the comment may be one aspect of the content.

[0169] The comment display area CDR can be configured as an area in which a set number of lines of comments are displayed (for example, but not limited to, about 4 to 5 lines). In this case, for example, but not limited to, each time a comment is posted, the comment is displayed from the bottom, with the oldest comment being pushed up, and the comment displayed in the top line is hidden.

[0170] Additionally, at the bottom of the area where the live video is displayed, a comment input area CIR is provided for inputting a comment to be posted by the user. By way of example and not limitation, tapping the comment input area CIR causes a keyboard (not shown) to appear at the bottom of the screen, allowing the user to input a comment. Then, by confirming the input comment and tapping a comment send button (not shown), the input comment can be transmitted via the server 10 to the live streamer's terminal 20 and each viewer's terminal 20.

[0171] In addition, the terminal 20 from which the comment was sent may control the display of the comment so that the comment of the user of the terminal 20 is positioned below the most recent comment in the comment display area CDR based on the tapping of the comment send button. The server 10 also transmits the comment entered at the terminal 20 to the terminal 20 that sent the comment. Then, based on receiving the comment from the server 10, the terminal 20 that sent the comment may perform control to display the comment so that the comment of the user of its own terminal 20 is positioned below the most recent comment in the comment display area CDR.

[0172] In the screen in the center of Figure 1-9, a comment posted by user AA on his / her own terminal 20A, "You'll soon be at star level 9," is displayed in the comment display area CDR. As a non-limiting example, let's assume that user AA gains user experience points upon posting this comment, and as a result, user AA's user level increases. In this case, as a non-limiting example, the screen on the right side of Figure 1-9 is displayed.

[0173] On this screen, the comment display area CDR displays a comment CM1 originating from user AA, including the text "Your level has increased! Congratulations!" associated with the icon image and username of user AA and an icon of the user's level after the level increase, "User Lv60." The comment CM1 is different from a normal comment based on user input, and can be, for example and without limitation, a comment generated by the server 10 that determines that the user's level has increased and transmitted to each terminal 20. In other words, this comment can be treated as a system message, so to speak.

[0174] Furthermore, comment CM1 is displayed in a different display mode from other comments. In this example, the entire comment, including the icon image of user AA and the user name, is displayed in a frame. By displaying it in this manner, users of each terminal 20 can recognize that this comment is different from ordinary comments based on user input.

[0175] In the comment display area CDR, below the comment CM1, a comment "Congratulations, AA-san!" is displayed, which was sent by the viewer user EE who saw this comment and congratulates the user AA on leveling up.

[0176] Also, above the comment display area CDR, user level up information UUI indicating that the user level has been increased is displayed. Specifically, in this example, the words "User Level Up!" and information indicating that the user level has increased from "Level 59" to "Level 60" are displayed. The user level upgrade information UUI may be displayed only on the terminal 20 of the user whose user level has been upgraded (terminal 20A in this case), or may be displayed on other terminals 20 as well.

[0177] FIG. 1-10 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen when user AA of terminal 20A shown on the screen of FIG. 1-8 becomes a live streamer and broadcasts a live stream. The screen on the left side of Figure 1-10 corresponds to the My Page screen on the left side of Figure 1-8, and shows the state when the "Stream" button at the bottom of the screen has been tapped. In this case, as an example and not a limitation, the live streaming screen in the center of Figure 1-10 is displayed.

[0178] On this live streaming screen, the live video streamed by user AA is displayed in the area below the area at the top of the screen where the name of the live streaming application is displayed. Specifically, the video of user AA, who is a live streamer, is displayed. User AA's live streamer level is displayed as "Legend" and his level within the rank is "Lv10." In addition, in the upper left corner of the area where the live video is displayed, in addition to information such as the name of the live streamer, user AA, live icon information is displayed with the word "Live" inside a camera icon, indicating that the device is currently broadcasting live. Other configurations are the same as those shown in the center of Figure 1-9 and the right side of Figure 1-10.

[0179] As a result of user AA's live streaming, user AA gains experience points, which increases user AA's level within the rank, and as user AA's level within the rank reaches the maximum level, the live streamer rank is increased. In this case, the screen on the right side of Figure 1-10 is displayed as an example and not a limitation.

[0180] In this screen, the comment display area CDR displays a comment CM2 originating from user AA, which includes the text "Your rank has increased! Congratulations!" associated with the icon image and username of user AA, and an icon indicating the liver rank "God" and in-rank level "Lv1" after the rank increase. Similar to the above-mentioned comment CM1, the comment CM2 is a comment that differs from ordinary comments based on user input, and, by way of example and not limitation, can be a comment generated by the server 10 that has determined that the liver rank or in-rank level has increased and transmitted to each terminal 20.

[0181] Furthermore, comment CM2 is displayed in a different display mode from other comments. In this example, the entire comment, including the icon image of user AA and the user name, is displayed in a frame. By displaying it in this manner, users of each terminal 20 can recognize that this comment is different from ordinary comments based on user input.

[0182] In the comment display area CDR, below comment CM2, comments such as "God has descended!!!!!" and "AA-san is amazing~~~" are displayed, which were sent by viewer user FF and viewer user EE who saw this comment, to congratulate user AA on his rank up. Also, below that, there is a comment of thanks "Thank you everyone for your support," which was entered and sent by the live streamer user AA in the comment input area CIR.

[0183] Also, above the comment display area CDR, liver level up information LUI indicating that the liver level has increased is displayed. Specifically, in this example, the text "Liver Rank Up!" and information including a character icon image and text indicating that the liver rank has increased from "Legend (Lv10)" to "God (Lv1)" are displayed. This information can also be said to be information indicating that the liver rank has increased, and therefore may be referred to as liver rank up information.

[0184] Furthermore, the liver level-up information LUI is displayed in a more flashy manner than the user level-up information UUI shown on the screen on the right side of Figure 1-9, by way of example and not limitation. The liver level-up information LUI may be displayed only on the terminal 20 of the user whose liver rank has been increased (in this case, the terminal 20A), or may be displayed on other terminals 20 as well.

[0185] Figure 1-11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a live distribution application displayed on the display unit 24 of the terminal 20A in this embodiment, and is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed when the live distribution of Figure 1-10 has ended. On the left and center of Figure 1-11, upon the end of the live broadcast, information is displayed regarding the live broadcast experience points acquired by user AA during the live broadcast (in this example, the message "Thank you for your hard work on the broadcast!"), along with messages of congratulations on the live broadcast.

[0186] Also, below that, information including the Liver Experience Gauge LG1 is displayed. From the left side of Figure 1-11 to the center of Figure 1-11, the Liver Experience Gauge LG1 increases by the amount of Liver Experience Points acquired, indicating that User AA's Liver Level has leveled up from "Legend (Lv10)" to "God (Lv1)." Also, on the screen in the center of Figure 1-11, below the information including the Liver Experience Gauge LG1, the details of the benefits User AA has acquired based on their increased Liver Level are displayed; in this example, "Acquired Item: Rank Badge RB1 as a benefit (object) for reaching the level "Lv1" within the rank of Liver Rank "God."

[0187] Also, below that, information regarding the results of this live broadcast (broadcast results) is displayed, by way of example and not limitation, including the live broadcast time ("Broadcast time"), the number of live viewers ("Viewers"), and the number of new followers ("New followers").

[0188] Further below that, there are displayed a "Thank you message" button for sending a thank you message to the live viewer users, and a "Broadcast again" button for broadcasting the live again.

[0189] The right side of Figure 1-11 is the My Page screen of the live distribution application, and shows an example of the screen that is displayed when returning to My Page after the screen in the center of Figure 1-11 is displayed. The layout of this screen is the same as the screen on the left side of Figure 1-8, but some of the displayed content is different.

[0190] Specifically, as shown in the center screen of Figure 1-11, based on the acquisition of rank badge RB1, rank badge RB1 is displayed in association with the profile icon in the profile area. Also, as shown in the center screen of Figure 1-11, the number of new followers increased by 102 as a result of the live broadcast, so 102 was added to the number of followers of 2,831 on the left screen of Figure 1-8, resulting in a total of 2,933.

[0191] In addition, as the user level has increased to "Lv60" through the live broadcast, the user level information display area ULR displays "User Lv60" as the user level for user AA, along with an icon image of a badge (6 stars) indicating that the level is in the 60s. In addition, as the liver level has been raised to "God Lv1" through live streaming, the liver level information display area LLR displays "God Lv1" as user AA's liver level, along with an icon image of the character (bear character) corresponding to the liver rank "God."

[0192] <Processing> 1-12 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing executed by each device in this embodiment. In this processing, the processing executed by the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A of user AA, who is one of the viewers watching the distributed live broadcast, is shown on the left, and the processing executed by the control unit 11 of the server 10 is shown on the right.

[0193] Here, a case where user BB becomes a live streamer and performs live distribution will be illustrated. The process executed by the control unit 21 of the terminal 20 of the viewer other than user AA is the same as that of the terminal 20A, and therefore is not shown in the figure.

[0194] Note that the processes described below are merely examples of processes for realizing the method of the present disclosure, and are not limited to these. Other steps may be added to the processing described below, or some steps may be omitted (deleted) from the processing described below. The same applies to the various processes described in this specification.

[0195] First, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A determines whether or not to watch the live broadcast based on whether or not a request to watch the live broadcast has been made by the user AA via the input / output unit 23 (A110). If it is determined that the user AA will not watch the live broadcast (A110: NO), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A proceeds to A140.

[0196] On the other hand, if it is determined that the live broadcast will be viewed (A110: YES), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A sends live broadcast viewing request information including, for example but not limited to, the application ID 283 of the terminal 20A to the server 10 via the communication I / F 22 (A120).

[0197] The control unit 11 of the server 10 determines whether or not live viewing request information has been received from the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 (S110), and if it is determined that it has not been received (S110: NO), the process proceeds to S130.

[0198] On the other hand, if it is determined that live viewing request information has been received (S110: YES), the control unit 11 of the server 10 executes live viewing processing with the terminal 20A (A130, S120).

[0199] Figure 1-13 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of live viewing processing. The diagram should be read in the same way as Figure 1-12. Upon receiving live streaming information from the terminal 20B of the user BB, who is a live streamer, via the communication I / F 14, the control unit 11 of the server 10 transmits live information based on the live streaming information to the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 (S1210).

[0200] When the live information is received from the server 10 via the communication I / F 22, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A causes the display unit 24 to display the received live information (A1310).

[0201] After S1210, the control unit 11 of the server 10 performs a user experience value calculation process (S1220). Specifically, by way of example and not limitation, the user experience value of user AA can be calculated based on at least one of the following conditions (viewer behavior, viewing record) and the assigned value (unit assigned value) of the user experience value set for each of the conditions shown in the example screen on the right side of FIG. 1-8. (A1) Live viewing: Your live viewing time (A2) Live viewing: Number of comments you posted (A3) While watching a live stream: Sending support points (support items) to the streamer (A4) While watching a live stream: Sending a heart to the live streamer (A5) While watching a live stream: Follow the live streamer (subscribe to the channel) (A6) When not watching live: Sign in (or log in) to the live streaming application (A7) When not watching live: Number of subscribers to your channel However, the conditions are not limited to these, and other conditions may be included.

[0202] By way of example and not limitation, at least one of the support points and hearts can be a “paid item.” Furthermore, by way of example and not limitation, a live streaming service provider can impose a financial burden on a user, and the user can send support points or hearts to a live streamer by making a payment to the live streaming service provider.

[0203] By way of example and not limitation, sending cheering points, sending hearts, subscribing to a channel, etc. may be considered as evaluations of the live video.

[0204] Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 updates the user experience value of the account management data in the account management database 155 that corresponds to the application ID of the user AA.

[0205] Next, the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines whether or not to increase the user level of the user AA (hereinafter referred to as "user level increase determination") (S1230).

[0206] FIG. 1-14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a table for explaining user levels and a method for determining whether a user level has been raised. In this table, for example and not by way of limitation, user levels, achieved user experience points, and user titles are stored in association with one another.

[0207] User levels are subdivided into multiple levels, such as "LV1," "LV2," "LV3," etc., in ascending order, and the user experience points required to level up to each user level are associated with each user level and are set as "achieved user experience points."

[0208] In this example, a title corresponding to a certain user level (hereinafter referred to as a "user title") is set for some of the user levels. Specifically, by way of example and not limitation, the user level "LV3" is set with the user title "Bronze Listener Badge," the user level "LV7" is set with the user title "Bronze Listener Frame," and the user level "LV10" is set with the user title "Silver Listener Badge."

[0209] In S1230, the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines whether or not to raise the user level of the user AA from the current user level based on the latest user experience value of the user AA and the achieved user experience value in the table of Fig. 1-14 (S1230). That is, in this embodiment, during live distribution, the viewers of the live broadcast may be given user experience points, and their user level may be raised.

[0210] If it is determined that the level should not be increased (S1230: NO), the control unit 11 of the server 10 advances the process to S1250. On the other hand, if it is determined that the level should be increased (S1230: YES), the control unit 11 of the server 10 updates the user level of the account management data corresponding to the application ID of user AA in the account management database 155. Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 transmits information relating to the increase in the user level (for example, but not limited to, information that the user level has been increased, the user level, the user title, etc.) as user level increase information to the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 (S1240).

[0211] The control unit 11 of the server 10 may or may not transmit user level-up information to the terminal 20 of each viewer. In addition, as user level up information, user level up comment information to be displayed within the comments being distributed may be sent to each viewer / distributor terminal 20, and the user level up information may be sent only to terminal 20A.

[0212] After A1310, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A determines whether or not user level-up information has been received from the server 10 via the communication I / F 22 (A1320), and if it determines that it has not been received (A1320: NO), the process proceeds to A1340.

[0213] On the other hand, if it is determined that the user level upgrade information has been received (A1320: YES), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A causes the display unit 24 to display the received user level upgrade information (A1330).

[0214] After S1240, the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines whether or not live streaming end request information has been received from the terminal 20B via the communication I / F 14 (S1250), and if it is determined that the information has not been received (S1250: NO), the process returns to S1210. On the other hand, if it is determined that the live distribution end information has been received (S1250: YES), the control unit 11 of the server 10 transmits the live distribution end information to the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 (S1260). Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 ends the live viewing process.

[0215] After A1330, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A determines whether or not live distribution end information has been received from the server 10 via the communication I / F 22 (A1340), and if it is determined that it has not been received (S1340: NO), the process returns to A1310. On the other hand, if it is determined that the live distribution end information has been received (A1340: YES), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A causes the display unit 24 to display the received live distribution end information (A1350). Then, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A ends the live viewing process.

[0216] In A1350, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A may, for example and not by way of limitation, display information about the user experience value and user level acquired by the user AA in relation to the viewed live broadcast. Also, for example and not by way of limitation, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A may display information about the user experience value and user level acquired by the user AA through viewing the live broadcast, following the live broadcast end information displayed on the display unit 24 of the terminal 20 of the live broadcaster shown in FIG. 1-11.

[0217] 1-12, after performing the live viewing process (A130), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A determines whether to perform live streaming (A140) based on whether an input for performing live streaming has been made by the user AA via the input / output unit 23. If it is determined that live streaming will not be performed (A140: NO), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A proceeds to the process at A170.

[0218] On the other hand, if it is determined that live distribution is to be performed (A140: YES), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A transmits live distribution request information to the server 10 via the communication I / F 22 (A150).

[0219] After performing the live viewing process (S120), the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines whether or not live streaming request information has been received from the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 (S130), and if it determines that it has not been received (S130: NO), the process proceeds to S150.

[0220] On the other hand, if it is determined that live distribution request information has been received (S130: YES), the control unit 11 of the server 10 performs live distribution processing with the terminal 20A (A160, S140).

[0221] Figure 1-15 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of live distribution processing. The diagram should be read in the same way as Figure 1-12. The control unit 21 of the terminal 20A transmits the live distribution information to the server 10 via the communication I / F 22 (A1610).

[0222] When the live distribution information is received from the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14, the control unit 11 of the server 10 transmits live information based on the received live distribution information to the terminal 20A and each viewer's terminal 20 via the communication I / F 14 (S1410).

[0223] When the live information is received from the server 10 via the communication I / F 22, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A causes the display unit 24 to display the received live information (A1620). Although not shown in the figure, the terminal 20 of each viewer displays the received live information on the display unit 24.

[0224] After S1420, the control unit 11 of the server 10 performs a user experience value calculation process (S1420). Here, user AA is a live streamer and is performing live broadcasts, but as a non-limiting example, not only can user AA be given live streamer experience points, but user AA can also be given user experience points.

[0225] In this case, as an example and not a limitation, the user experience value of user AA can be calculated based on at least one of the following conditions (distribution history, broadcaster behavior) and the user experience value award value (unit award value) set for each. (B1) Live Streaming: The live streaming time you are streaming (B2) During live streaming: Number of support points received (B3) During live streaming: Number of hearts received (B4) Live streaming: Number of viewers of your live stream (B5) During live streaming: Number of comments on you However, the conditions are not limited to these, and other conditions may be included.

[0226] As just one example, the user experience value based on the above conditions (B1) to (B5) can be set to be relatively smaller than the user experience value based on the above conditions (A1) to (A7), for example and not by way of limitation. In other words, the user experience value (user level) can be increased more easily by a user performing viewer behavior than by performing broadcaster behavior (viewer behavior is stronger than broadcaster behavior).

[0227] As a non-limiting example, conditions not included in the above conditions may be applied among the conditions used in the liver experience value calculation process described later. Also, the same conditions as those used in the liver experience value calculation process described later may be applied.

[0228] Furthermore, as a non-limiting example, with respect to the relationship between (B1) the user experience value awarded based on the live streaming time and (A1) the user experience value awarded based on the live viewing time, the same value of user experience value may be awarded for the same time (length of time). Furthermore, a larger user experience value may be awarded for the live streaming time than for the live viewing time for the same time. In other words, as a non-limiting example, if a user of a terminal streams a live video for a predetermined time, the user may be awarded at least the same number of first points as if the user watched the live video for a predetermined time.

[0229] Alternatively, a larger user experience value may be awarded for a live viewing time than for a live distribution time for the same period of time.

[0230] Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 updates the user experience value of the account management data in the account management database 155 that corresponds to the application ID of the user AA.

[0231] Next, the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines whether to increase the user level of the user AA (S1430). Specifically, based on the latest user experience value of the user AA and the achieved user experience value in the table of FIG. 1-14, it is determined whether to increase the user level of the user AA from the current user level. That is, in this embodiment, during a live broadcast, the broadcaster of the live broadcast may be given user experience points, and the user level may be increased.

[0232] If it is determined that the level should not be increased (S1430: NO), the control unit 11 of the server 10 advances the process to S1450. On the other hand, if it is determined that the level should be increased (S1430: YES), the control unit 11 of the server 10 updates the user level of the account management data corresponding to the application ID of the user AA in the account management database 155. Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 transmits information relating to the increase in the user level as user level increase information to the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 (S1440).

[0233] After A1620, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A determines whether or not user level upgrade information has been received from the server 10 via the communication I / F 22 (A1630), and if it determines that it has been received (A1630: YES), it displays the received user level upgrade information on the display unit 24 (A1640).

[0234] After S1440, the control unit 11 of the server 10 performs a live streamer experience value calculation process (S1450). Specifically, by way of example and not limitation, the control unit 11 calculates the live streamer experience value of the user AA based on at least one of the following conditions (distribution record, broadcaster behavior) and the assigned value (unit assigned value) of the live streamer experience value set for each of the following conditions as shown in the screen example in the center of FIG. 1-8. (C1) Live Streaming: Your live streaming time (C2) Live streaming: Number of viewers of your live stream (C3) During live streaming: Number of support points received (C4) During live streaming: Number of times you poked

[0235] However, the conditions are not limited to these and may include other conditions. For example, but not by way of limitation, the following conditions may be included: (C5) During live streaming: Number of comments to yourself (C6) During live streaming: Number of hearts received

[0236] Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 updates the driver experience value of the account management data corresponding to the application ID of the user AA in the account management database 155. Next, the control unit 11 of the server 10 makes a determination as to whether or not to increase the liver rank or level within the rank (hereinafter collectively referred to as "liver level") of the user AA (hereinafter referred to as "liver level increase determination") (S1460).

[0237] FIG. 1-16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a table for explaining a live streamer level and a method for determining whether a live streamer level has increased. In this table, for example and not by way of limitation, liver rank, achieved liver experience points, and levels within the rank are stored in association with each other.

[0238] Liver ranks are subdivided into multiple ranks, such as, but not limited to, "Rookie," "Regular," "Star," "Superstar," "Legend," and "God," in ascending order, and a numerical range of liver experience points corresponding to each liver rank is set as "Achieved Liver Experience Points." The highest liver rank is "God."

[0239] The lower limit value of the numerical range of achieved liver experience points indicates the liver experience points required to achieve that liver rank, and the upper limit value of the numerical range of achieved liver experience points indicates the maximum liver experience points within that liver rank.

[0240] In this example, each liver rank is assigned a level within that liver rank. Specifically, by way of example and not limitation, for the liver ranks of "Rookie," "Regular," "Star," "Superstar," and "Legend," the lower limit of the rank level is set to "1," and the upper limit of the rank level is set to "10," so that the rank level is set to fall within a numerical range of "1 to 10." The system is configured to have one of the following values:

[0241] For liver ranks lower than the highest liver rank "God," as an example and not a limitation, the level within the rank can be increased for each liver experience value obtained by dividing the range value indicated by the numerical range in the corresponding achieved liver experience value column by "10." Also, for the highest liver rank "God," as an example and not a limitation, the level within the rank can be increased by "1" for each set value (as an example and not a limitation, "20,000" liver experience points).

[0242] In addition, the benefits to be granted to the aforementioned livers may be set in this table in association with the liver rank and level within the rank, and the control unit 11 of the server 10 may grant benefits to the livers based on this.

[0243] In S1460, the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines whether to increase the current live streamer rank and in-rank level of the user AA based on the latest live streamer experience value of the user AA and the achieved live streamer experience value in the table of FIG. 1-16 (S1460). That is, in this embodiment, during a live stream, the live streamer may be granted live streamer experience value, and the live streamer level may be improved.

[0244] If it is determined that the level should not be increased (S1460: NO), the control unit 11 of the server 10 advances the process to S1480. On the other hand, if it is determined that the level should be increased (S1460: YES), the control unit 11 of the server 10 updates the liver rank, etc. of the account management data corresponding to the application ID of the user AA in the account management database 155. Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 transmits information relating to the increase in the liver level (for example, but not limited to, that the liver rank has increased, that the level within the rank has increased, the liver rank, the level within the rank, etc.) as liver level increase information to the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 (S1470).

[0245] The control unit 11 of the server 10 may or may not transmit the live streamer level-up information to the terminals 20 of each viewer. In addition, as liver level-up information, liver level-up comment information to be displayed within comments during broadcast may be sent to each viewer / broadcaster terminal 20, and the liver level-up information may be sent only to terminal 20A.

[0246] After A1640, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A determines whether or not it has received live stream level-up information from the server 10 via the communication I / F 22 (A1650), and if it determines that it has not been received (A1650: NO), it proceeds to A1670.

[0247] On the other hand, if it is determined that the live streamer level-up information has been received (A1650: YES), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A causes the display unit 24 to display the received live streamer level-up information (A1660).

[0248] After A1660, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A determines whether to end the live streaming based on user input via the input / output unit 23 (A1670), and if it determines not to end it (A1670: NO), returns the processing to A1610. On the other hand, if it is determined that the live distribution should be ended (A1670: YES), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A transmits live distribution end request information to the server 10 via the communication I / F 22 (A1680).

[0249] After S1470, the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines whether or not live streaming end request information has been received from the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 (S1480), and if it is determined that the information has not been received (S1480: NO), the process returns to S1410. On the other hand, if it is determined that the live distribution end information has been received (S1480; YES), the control unit 11 of the server 10 transmits the live distribution end information to the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 (S1490). Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 ends the live distribution process.

[0250] After A1680, when live streaming end information is received from the server 10 via the communication I / F 22, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A causes the display unit 24 to display the received live streaming end information (A1690). Specifically, by way of example and not limitation, the display unit 24 displays a screen such as that shown in FIG. 1-11. Then, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A ends the live distribution process.

[0251] Returning to FIG. 1-12, after performing the live distribution process (A160), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A determines whether to end the process (A170), and if it determines not to end the process (A170: NO), the process returns to A110. On the other hand, if it is determined that the process should be ended (A170: YES), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A ends the process.

[0252] Similarly, after performing the live distribution process (S140), the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines whether or not to end the process (S150), and if it determines not to end the process (S150: NO), the process returns to S110. On the other hand, if it is determined that the process should be ended (S150: YES), the control unit 11 of the server 10 ends the process.

[0253] As shown in this process, while a user is live streaming, not only the live streamer experience value but also the user experience value is calculated. Not only the live streamer level may increase, but the user level may also increase.

[0254] <Effects of the First Embodiment> In this embodiment, a server 10 (not limited to this, but an example of an information processing device) that communicates with a terminal 20 of a distributor that distributes live video broadcasts controls, via a control unit 11, to grant a user experience value (not limited to this, but an example of a first point) to the user of the terminal 20 when a viewer behavior is performed on the terminal 20. Then, the server 10 shows a configuration in which, based on an increase in the user experience value, the control unit 11 controls to improve the user level (not limited to this, but an example of a first level) of the user of the terminal 20. As an example of an effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, when viewer behavior is performed at a terminal, first points can be awarded to the user of the terminal and the first level of the user of the terminal can be improved.

[0255] In this case, the control of granting user experience points can be performed by the control unit 11 while the live video is being viewed, and the control of improving the user level can be performed by the control unit 11 while the live video is being viewed. As an example of the effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, points can be awarded to the user of the terminal or the level can be increased while watching a live video, which means that points can be awarded and the level can be increased in real time, adding a new level of interest.

[0256] In this embodiment, a server 10 (not limited to this, an example of an information processing device) that communicates with a terminal 20 of a broadcaster who broadcasts live videos performs control to grant live stream experience points (not limited to this, an example of second points) to the broadcaster based on the broadcast performance of the live videos, using a control unit 11. The server 10 then performs control to improve the live streamer level (not limited to this, an example of the second level) of the broadcaster based on an increase in the live stream experience points granted to the broadcaster, using the control unit 11. As an example of an effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, second points can be awarded to the user of the terminal based on the distribution performance of the live video, and the second level of the user of the terminal can be improved.

[0257] In this case, the control of granting live streamer experience points can be performed by the control unit 11 while the live video is being distributed, and the control of improving the live streamer level can be performed by the control unit 11 while the live video is being distributed. As an example of the effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, points can be awarded to the broadcaster or the broadcaster's level can be improved while the live video is being broadcast, which means that points can be awarded and levels can be improved in real time.

[0258] <Second Example> The second embodiment is an embodiment that, by way of example and not limitation, makes it possible to reduce a user's live streamer experience points, grant benefits to live streamers, pay rewards, etc., when certain conditions are met.

[0259] The contents described in the second embodiment can be applied to any of the other embodiments and other modified examples. Furthermore, the same components as those already mentioned are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0260] The fulfillment of the predetermined condition may be, for example and not by way of limitation, the passage of a predetermined period (the end of the predetermined period). The predetermined condition may be, for example and not by way of limitation, set by the server 10, and the predetermined period may also be set by the server 10.

[0261] In this embodiment, the above-mentioned predetermined period is referred to as a "season period" or simply as a "season" as a period for one season. The season period may be set in any manner, but as a non-limiting example, it can be set to a one-month period (the period from the 1st to the last day of the month). In other words, the season period can be set continuously in units of one month. Other examples of the predetermined conditions will be described later.

[0262] As shown in Figure 1-16, there can be different live streamer ranks, from "Rookie" to "God." This is just one example, but from "Rookie" to "Legend," users can earn experience points and increase their live streamer rank, aiming for the "God" live streamer rank. In other words, it can be a game where users improve themselves by aiming for higher live streamer ranks.

[0263] On the other hand, for the highest liver rank "God," there is no upper limit on the level within the rank ("Lv1 - No Upper Limit" as shown in Figure 1-16), and the game can be a game in which users pursue how far they can increase their liver experience points and level within the rank. In addition, in this embodiment, by way of example and not limitation, users with a liver rank of "God" compete for rankings every predetermined period. Also, in this embodiment, users with a liver rank of "God" are paid a reward every predetermined period according to their performance during that predetermined period. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when every predetermined period ends, the liver experience points of users with a liver rank of "God" are reduced and their liver level is lowered, thereby slowing down the rate at which their liver level increases.

[0264] <Display screen> FIG. 2-1 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a live distribution application displayed on the display unit 24 of the terminal 20A in this embodiment. The left side of Figure 2-1 is the My Page screen of the live streaming application. Following on from Figure 1-11, this figure shows an example of the My Page screen when user AA has become a viewer or live streamer, watched live broadcasts, or streamed live broadcasts, and Season 2 has ended.

[0265] On this screen, the user level information display area ULR displays "Lv69" as the user level, and the liver level information display area LLR displays "God Lv12" as the liver level (liver rank "God", rank level "Lv12"). In the following, the level within the rank of the liver rank "God" may be referred to as the "God level" for convenience.

[0266] Furthermore, since User AA achieved the "God" liver rank, his level within the rank has improved through his continued liver activities (currently at "Lv12"), and User AA has acquired Rank Badge RB2, which is higher than Rank Badge RB1 shown in the center and right screen of Figure 1-11, as well as Frame FM2 and My Page Background BG2. Accordingly, the Rank Badge RB2 is displayed in association with the profile icon in the profile area, Frame FM2 is set to the profile icon, and My Page Background BG2 is set as the background image.

[0267] In addition, with the end of Season 2, information indicating that the season has ended is displayed in a speech bubble from the ranking icon IC1 at the top right of the area below the in-app location display area. In this example, a speech bubble containing the words "Season 2 has ended" is displayed based on the fact that "Season 2" has ended.

[0268] In this case, when the icon image showing the ranking is tapped, the screen shown in the center of Figure 2-1 is displayed, by way of example and not limitation. This screen is an example of a season ranking screen that shows the ranking of users for each season period, and the words "season ranking" are displayed in the in-app position display area.

[0269] Also, at the top of the area below, information indicating the most recent season period that has ended (in this example, "Season 2") is displayed (in this example, a box containing the words "Season 2 Ended"), and to the left of that is a button for displaying rankings for past season periods.

[0270] In this example, the rankings of users in "Season 2" are shown as follows: 1st place is "User DD," 2nd place is "User AA," 3rd place is "User CC," and 4th place is "User BB." In addition, for each ranking, the icon image and username of the user in that rank are displayed, and in association with these, the number of trophies that the user has earned as a season ranking reward and the user's current liver level are displayed.

[0271] In addition, user rankings can be determined based on, for example and not by way of limitation, the total amount of live streamer experience points each streamer has earned during the season, or the live streamer experience points each streamer has at the end of the season (the final live streamer experience points of the season).

[0272] By way of example, and not limitation, when the "Get" button BT1 is tapped on the screen in the center of Figure 2-1, the screen on the right side of Figure 2-1 is displayed, which displays information about the season rewards that user AA has earned in that season. For example, but not by way of limitation, the season reward may be a reward that is the sum of the season level reward and the season ranking reward (season level reward + season ranking reward).

[0273] Specifically, the top section displays information about the season level rewards granted based on User AA's god level of "Lv12." Specifically, the season level rewards corresponding to the god level are displayed in a pyramid divided into god level bands. Because User AA's god level is "Lv12," the god level band "Lv11 to Lv20" in the pyramid is displayed in color, indicating that the corresponding season level reward of "10,000" trophies has been granted.

[0274] Also, below that, information about the season ranking rewards awarded based on User AA's season ranking of "2nd place" is displayed. Specifically, it shows that User AA's season ranking of "2nd place" has resulted in the award of the corresponding season ranking reward of "50,000" trophies. Furthermore, in this example, it is shown that the season ranking title (earned title) "Eternal Second Place!" has been obtained based on the season ranking being "second place."

[0275] Additionally, information about user AA's season rewards is displayed below that. Specifically, it shows that the season reward for user AA is 60,000 trophies, which is the sum of the season level reward of 10,000 trophies and the season ranking reward of 50,000 trophies.

[0276] Here, the above trophy can be, by way of example and not limitation, a benefit (which may be considered a reward) given to a user who has achieved the highest rank of "God" among live streamer ranks.

[0277] One way to think about trophies is that they can be considered as objects that provide benefits similar to the aforementioned objects such as "rank badges," "frames," and "my page backgrounds."

[0278] Alternatively, the trophy may be a reward that can be converted into a valuable reward, such as, by way of example and not limitation, a predetermined number of points or cash. The activities of live streamers can enable live streaming service providers to earn revenue through the aforementioned paid items from viewers, and a portion of that revenue can be returned to the live streamers based on season rewards.

[0279] By way of example and not limitation, the points can be used as valuable value in various services provided by businesses affiliated with the live streaming service provider, or in various services provided by the live streaming service provider itself.

[0280] The point here is that, by way of example and not limitation, it can be thought of as a type of corporate currency that is different from legal tender. Electronic money may also be considered a type of corporate currency, and electronic money may be awarded instead of points.

[0281] For example, but not by way of limitation, points can be used to make payments in a payment application (a wallet application may be configured as a comprehensive application including the payment application) for making payments (settlements) using electronic money, to purchase stamps or dress-up items in a messaging application, to purchase music or to exchange for coupons in a music distribution application, etc. In addition, points may also be used to exchange for goods or services at stores (affiliated stores) affiliated with the operators of the above services.

[0282] By way of example and not limitation, points may be awarded by the server 10 to the user of the terminal 20 in a payment application or wallet application that is downloaded to and executed on the terminal 20.

[0283] Furthermore, for example, and not by way of limitation, cash payments can be made by the server 10 communicating with the server of a financial institution and transferring the money to an account at the financial institution with which the user is registered. Payments can also be made in the form of electronic money using a payment application or wallet application that is downloaded to and executed on the terminal 20.

[0284] Furthermore, the above-mentioned various applications may be configured as an integrated application, and may be completed within this integrated application. Also, by way of example and not limitation, a messaging application may have the functionality of the various applications described above, and the functionality may be completed within this messaging application. In this case, the server 10 may have all the functions, or the servers may be separated according to the functions.

[0285] By way of example and not limitation, a user who registers an account on a live streaming application as a general user and then registers as a live streamer can be broadly categorized into the following two types of users: (a) Independent users (users who are not affiliated with any agency) (b) Users who belong to a live broadcasting agency

[0286] Furthermore, the users of (b) can be broadly divided into the following two groups, by way of example and not limitation. (b1) Users who belong to a live broadcasting agency operated by a live streaming service provider (b2) Users who belong to an external live streaming agency other than the live streaming service provider

[0287] For example, and not by way of limitation, the server 10 can vary the type of reward paid to a user and the rate of reward paid (payment rate) based on the above user classification.

[0288] For example, and not by way of limitation, users of (a) may be rewarded with points, and users of (b) may be rewarded with cash.

[0289] For example, and not by way of limitation, the server 10 may set the payment rate for the user (a) to "20%" and pay "20%" of the season reward as points as reward.

[0290] Additionally, the server 10 may, for example and not by way of limitation, impose different payment rates on users of (b1) and users of (b2). By way of example and not limitation, user (b1) may have a payout rate of "40%" and be paid in cash an amount equivalent to "40%" of the season reward, while user (b2) may have a payout rate of "50%" and be paid in cash an amount equivalent to "50%" of the season reward, etc. This example is by way of example and not limitation, where user (b2) has a higher payout rate than user (b1). However, the relationship between the payment rates may be reversed.

[0291] It is also possible to provide both users (a) and users (b) with points or corporate currency such as electronic money, or to pay cash to both users without distinguishing between them. Also, the payment rate may be the same for both users (b1) and users (b2) without any distinction being made between them. Also, the payout rates may differ from the above example.

[0292] The left side of FIG. 2-2 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that is displayed when the "OK" button BT2 is tapped on the screen on the right side of FIG. 2-1. This screen is an example of a season ranking screen, and in this example, information indicating that user AA's god level has dropped with the end of season 2 is displayed.

[0293] Specifically, it is shown that the Liver Experience Points of User AA at the beginning of Season 3 will decrease from "443,297" at the end of Season 2 to "321,649". The calculation method will be explained in detail later. In addition, due to the decrease in liver experience points, it has been shown that the god level of user AAs at the beginning of Season 3 will be reduced from "Lv12" at the end of Season 2 to "Lv7".

[0294] When the "OK" button BT3 is tapped on the screen on the left side of Figure 2-2, the screen on the right side of Figure 2-2 is displayed, by way of example and not limitation. This screen is the My Page screen mentioned above, and in the profile area, in addition to the rank badge RB2, frame FM2, and My Page background BG2 mentioned above, as an example and not a limitation, the season ranking title AT2 (which can also be considered the object mentioned above) for "Eternal Second Place!" shown on the screen on the right side of Figure 2-1 is displayed in association with the season period (in this example, "Season 2").

[0295] In addition, the liver level information display area LLR displays an icon image of the character (bear character) corresponding to the liver rank "God," along with "God Lv7," in accordance with the fact that the God level has dropped from "LV12" to "LV7" as described above.

[0296] <Processing> Figure 2-3 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing executed by each device in this embodiment. The diagram should be read in the same way as Figure 1-12.

[0297] After S140, or if it is determined in S130 that live streaming request information has not been received from the terminal 20A (S130: NO), the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines whether the season has ended (S210). The end of the season can be determined based on the timekeeping information of the clock unit 19, for example and not by way of limitation. If it is determined that the season has not ended (S210: NO), the control unit 11 of the server 10 returns the process to S110.

[0298] On the other hand, if it is determined that the season has ended (S210: YES), the control unit 11 of the server 10 performs a season result calculation process (S220).

[0299] FIG. 2-4 is a diagram showing an example of a table for explaining a method for determining the season level reward and the liver level for the next season from the season results calculated in the season result calculation process. This table associates, by way of example and not limitation, god levels, season level rewards, and season reset experience loss rates.

[0300] In this table, the God level is the level within the rank of a user with a liver rank of "God" at the end of this season, and in this example, a certain range of God level bands is defined.

[0301] In this table, the season level reward may be, by way of example and not limitation, a reward given to a user according to the god level band to which the user's god level belongs at the end of the season. An example of a season level reward may be the trophy mentioned above.

[0302] In this table, the season reset experience point loss rate is a value used to calculate the initial liver experience points for the next season (hereinafter referred to as "initial liver experience points for the next season").

[0303] The initial liver experience value for the next season can be calculated, for example and not by way of limitation, according to the following formula (1): Next season's initial liver experience points = this season's final liver experience points - (this season's final liver experience points - achieved liver experience points corresponding to God Level Lv1) x season reset experience point loss rate ··· (1)

[0304] The final liver experience points of the season may be, by way of example and not limitation, the liver experience points at the end of the current season. The achieved liver experience points corresponding to God level Lv1 can be, by way of example and not limitation, the lower limit of achieved liver experience points associated with the liver rank "God" in the table shown in Figure 1-16 ("200,000" in the example of Figure 1-16).

[0305] According to formula (1), the initial liver experience points for the next season will not fall below the achieved liver experience points corresponding to God level Lv1, so the liver rank will not fall from "God". This is because it may be cruel to users if the liver rank falls from "God". Unlike this embodiment, formula (1) may be modified so that the liver rank may fall from "God" in some cases.

[0306] Also, as a non-limiting example, the season reset experience point loss rate in the case where a liver's god level has increased this season may be lower than the rate set in the table above.

[0307] The season level reward is set so that the higher the god level (god level range), the larger the value of the season level reward. In other words, the higher the user's god level at the end of this season, the more season level rewards will be awarded.

[0308] In this example, the season reset experience loss rate is set to a value that decreases as the god level (god level band) increases. In other words, the higher the user's god level at the end of this season, the smaller the loss rate of the live streamer experience (the lower the loss rate). However, in the example of Figure 2-4, the same value may be set even for different god level bands.

[0309] As a non-limiting example, in the example shown on the left screen of Figure 2-2, user AA's god level in Season 2 is "Lv12" and his final liver experience points for this season are "443,297". Also, in Figure 2-4, the season reset experience loss rate corresponding to the god level "Lv12" is "50%." Also, in Figure 1-16, the experience points of a liver who has achieved God level are "200,000". In this case, if the initial liver experience value of user AA for the next season is calculated according to formula (1), Next season's initial liver experience = 443,297 - (443,297 - 200,000) x 50% = 321,649 The corresponding God level is calculated as "Lv7".

[0310] Furthermore, if the liver's experience points after the reduction are within the range of the god level before the reduction, the god level will not change.

[0311] FIG. 2-5 is a diagram showing an example of a table for explaining a method for determining a season ranking reward from among the season results calculated in the season result calculation process. This table shows, by way of example and not limitation, the association between God rankings and season ranking rewards.

[0312] The God Ranking is, by way of example and not limitation, a ranking of users for this season, and is tallied as the ranking (position) of users whose liver rank is "God."

[0313] The seasonal ranking reward may be, by way of example and not limitation, a reward awarded to a user based on the user's god ranking for the current season. The seasonal ranking reward may also be, by way of example and not limitation, the aforementioned trophy.

[0314] The higher the God Ranking (season ranking), the larger the Season Ranking Reward. In other words, the higher the ranking, the more Season Ranking Reward will be awarded.

[0315] Also, in this example, for a certain degree of high God ranking (for example, "1st to 3rd place" and not limited to this), the season ranking reward is set to a relatively larger value compared to the average season level reward set in Figure 2-4. In other words, in this example, aiming for a high season ranking makes it easier to obtain more rewards than aiming to increase your God level. This increases users' motivation to obtain the season ranking rewards. While the God level at the end of the season is determined by a streamer's long-term performance regardless of the season period, the season ranking is determined by a streamer's short-term performance within the season period. Therefore, for new streamers, the season ranking rewards are easier to obtain than the season level rewards. Setting the season ranking rewards higher is expected to result in increased activity within the live streaming community, leading to an increase in the number of live streams and the quality of live streams within the live streaming service.

[0316] In addition, for a certain level of god (for example, "Lv51~", not limited to this), the season level reward may be set to a relatively larger value compared to the average season ranking reward set in Figure 2-5.

[0317] In addition, the aforementioned season ranking titles may be set in this table in association with the God rankings, and the control unit 11 of the server 10 may assign season ranking titles to the live streamers based on this.

[0318] In this embodiment, as described above, seasonal ranking rewards are provided, and additional rewards are given according to the rankings in the season. By doing so, users who have reached the highest live streamer rank can be motivated to strive for higher rankings.

[0319] When the liver level of user AA is "God," the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines the season level reward corresponding to this God level based on the God level of user AA at the end of the season, with reference to the table in Figure 2-4. In addition, the control unit 11 of the server 10 calculates the initial liver experience points of user AA for the next season based on the season reset experience point loss rate corresponding to that God level, for example but not by way of limitation, according to Equation (1).

[0320] Furthermore, the control unit 11 of the server 10 identifies the season ranking of user AA based on the god level of the user of each terminal 20. Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 refers to the table of FIG. 2-5 and determines the ranking reward for user AA according to the identified season ranking. Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines the season reward to be given to user AA as "season level reward + season ranking reward."

[0321] After S220, the control unit 11 of the server 10 transmits the season result information to the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 (S230). The season result information may include, but is not limited to, the current season's liver level (if the liver rank is "God") calculated in S220 as described above, the season ranking (if the liver rank is "God"), the season reward (if the liver rank is "God"), the next season's God level (if the liver rank is "God"), etc. Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 ends the process.

[0322] If it is determined in A210 that the season has ended (A210: YES), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A causes the display unit 24 to display the season result information received from the server 10 via the communication I / F 22 (A220). Then, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A ends the process.

[0323] After the season ends, the control unit 11 of the server 10 performs a payment process to pay the user points or cash according to the season rewards based on the various methods described above. For example, and not by way of limitation, if the closing date for tallying is the end of the month, the payment process is performed on the following day (the first day of the month), and the season rewards are reset. In this way, the user is prevented from continuing to hold the season rewards (trophies).

[0324] 2-5, the table may be configured so that the season ranking reward is only given to live streamers whose god ranking is higher than a predetermined rank, and the season ranking reward may be only given to the top five users in the season ranking, and the table may be configured so that the season ranking reward is only given to live streamers whose god ranking is higher than a predetermined rank, and the table may be configured so that the season ranking reward is only given to the top five users in the season ranking ....

[0325] Additionally, the aforementioned season level rewards and season ranking rewards may be considered as perks, as mentioned above. Also, as mentioned above, the rewards (points, cash, etc.) associated with the above benefits may differ depending on the live streamer.

[0326] <Effects of the second embodiment> In this embodiment, a server 10 (not limited to this, an example of an information processing device) that communicates with a terminal 20 of a broadcaster who broadcasts live videos uses a control unit 11 to control granting live streamer experience points (not limited to this, an example of points) to the broadcaster based on the broadcasting performance of the live videos. The server 10 also uses a control unit 11 to control an improvement in the broadcaster's live streamer level (not limited to this, an example of a level) based on an increase in the live streamer experience points granted to the broadcaster. The server 10 also uses a control unit 11 to control an improvement in the live streamer experience points granted to the broadcaster when a predetermined condition is met. The server 10 also uses a control unit 11 to control an improvement in the live streamer level of the broadcaster based on a decrease in the live streamer experience points. As an example of the effect of this configuration, the level of a broadcaster can be improved based on an increase in points awarded to the broadcaster, while the points awarded to the broadcaster can be reduced when a predetermined condition is met, and the broadcaster's level can be lowered based on the reduction in points. This can make the broadcaster aware of the risk of a level drop and motivate the broadcaster to make an effort to continue live broadcasting. It can also slow down the rate at which the broadcaster's level improves. Furthermore, it can provide a new interest.

[0327] In this case, the control of granting live streamer experience points can be performed by the control unit 11 while the live video is being distributed, and the control of improving the live streamer level can be performed by the control unit 11 while the live video is being distributed. As an example of the effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, points can be awarded to the broadcaster or the broadcaster's level can be improved while the live video is being broadcast, which means that points can be awarded and the level can be improved in real time, adding a new level of interest.

[0328] In addition, in this case, when the broadcaster's live stream level exceeds a set level (not limited to this, but an example of a predetermined level), the server 10 can reduce the amount of decrease in live stream experience points granted to the broadcaster less than when the live stream level does not exceed the set level. As an example of the effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, when a broadcaster's level exceeds a predetermined level, the amount of reduction in points awarded to the broadcaster is smaller than when the level does not exceed the predetermined level, making it less likely that high-level broadcasters will lose motivation.

[0329] In this case, the fulfillment of the predetermined condition may include the passage of a season period (not a limitation, but an example of a predetermined period). As an example of the effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, when a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the points awarded to the distributor can be reduced based on the establishment of conditions that are easy for the distributor to understand.

[0330] In this case, the server 10 can control the control unit 11 to grant a seasonal ranking reward (not a limitation, but an example of a benefit) to a broadcaster if the seasonal ranking (not a limitation, but an example of a ranking based on points granted to a broadcaster within a specified period) based on the live streamer experience points granted to the broadcaster within the season period is higher than a specified ranking. As an example of the effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, if the ranking based on the points awarded to the broadcaster within a specified period is higher than a specified ranking, the broadcaster's motivation can be improved by being awarded a bonus.

[0331] In this case, the server 10 can control the control unit 21 to award a season level reward to the broadcaster based on the total live streamer experience value (or god level) (not limited to, but an example of the total of points awarded to the broadcaster within a specified period and points awarded to the broadcaster outside the specified period), whether the season ranking is higher than a specified rank or not. As an example of the effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, regardless of whether the above ranking is higher than a predetermined ranking, a bonus may be awarded to the broadcaster based on the sum of the points awarded to the broadcaster within a predetermined period and the points awarded to the broadcaster outside the predetermined period, thereby improving the broadcaster's motivation.

[0332] In this case, the season ranking reward awarded when the season ranking is higher than a predetermined rank can be set to be greater than the season level reward awarded to the broadcaster based on the sum of the points awarded to the broadcaster within the season period and the points awarded to the broadcaster outside the predetermined period. As an example, but not by way of limitation, of an effect of this configuration, the higher the ranking of a broadcaster, the more rewards the broadcaster can receive than the rewards that would be given to the broadcaster based on the sum of points awarded to the broadcaster within a predetermined period and points awarded to the broadcaster outside the predetermined period. As a result, even if the total is low, this can motivate the broadcaster to strive to achieve a higher ranking.

[0333] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a plurality of liver ranks (not limited to, but an example of, a rank) of a broadcaster are provided, including at least a rank lower than God rank (not limited to, but an example of the first rank) and God rank (not limited to, but an example of the second rank higher than the first rank), and a plurality of intra-rank levels are provided corresponding to the plurality of liver ranks, and the broadcaster's liver rank is improved to God rank based on the liver experience points granted to the broadcaster exceeding the achieved liver experience points corresponding to the highest intra-rank level in a rank lower than God rank. And, when the broadcaster's liver rank is God rank, the god level in the god rank is improved based on the liver experience points granted to the broadcaster. As an example of the effect of this embodiment obtained by such a configuration, it is possible to easily set a target for reaching from the first rank to the second rank.

[0334] In this case, the server 10 may not perform control to reduce the liver experience points granted to the broadcaster based on the fulfillment of a predetermined condition if the broadcaster's liver rank is lower than the God rank, and may perform control to reduce the liver experience points granted to the broadcaster based on the fulfillment of a predetermined condition if the broadcaster's liver rank is the God rank, and may also perform control to lower the broadcaster's God level based on the reduction in the liver experience points. As an example of the effect of this embodiment obtained by such a configuration, if the broadcaster's rank is the first rank, which is lower than the second rank, the points awarded are not reduced, thereby motivating the broadcaster to aim for the second rank. On the other hand, after the broadcaster's rank reaches the second rank, the points awarded are reduced and the broadcaster's level is lowered accordingly, thereby giving the broadcaster a sense of crisis.

[0335] In this case, when a predetermined condition is met, it is possible to prevent the broadcaster's live streamer rank from dropping from God rank to a rank lower than God rank. As an example of the effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, even if a predetermined condition is met, the rank of the distributor is prevented from dropping from the second rank to the first rank, thereby giving the distributor a sense of security.

[0336] In addition, in this embodiment, the server 10 controls the granting of a series to a distributor by the control unit 11. In this case, the reward associated with the benefit can be made different depending on the distributor. As an example of an effect of the embodiment obtained by such a configuration, it is possible to give a special benefit to a distributor, and to vary the reward associated with the special benefit depending on the distributor.

[0337] <Second Modification Example (1)> In the above example, the condition (not limited to, but an example of a predetermined condition) for reducing a user's liver experience points or liver level is the passage of a season period (not limited to, but an example of a predetermined period), but this is not limited to this.

[0338] As a non-limiting example, the fulfillment of a predetermined condition may be when a user who was ranked first in the previous season has acquired a set amount of live streamer experience since the start of this season (or more than a set amount), or when the live streamer experience of a user who was ranked first in the previous season has increased by a set percentage or more (or more than a set percentage) from the live streamer experience at the start of this season. This is a non-limiting example, such as when a specific user has been in the lead since the start of this season.

[0339] In addition, the fulfillment of the predetermined condition may be determined to be when the live streamer experience value of any user is equal to or greater than a set value (or exceeds the set value). This is, by way of example and not limitation, the case where a live streamer experience value that is the goal of the season is set in advance. The predetermined condition can be freely set on the server 10 side, for example, but is not limited to this.

[0340] <Second Modification Example (2)> In the above embodiment, a continuous season period is exemplified as the predetermined period, but the present invention is not limited to this. The predetermined period is not limited to the above, and may be set to a discrete period. In other words, a season period may be set at regular time intervals.

[0341] Additionally, the length of the period may be variable, whether it is a continuous period or a discrete period. As a non-limiting example, if the difference in next season live streamer experience value between the user with the highest next season live streamer experience value calculated according to formula (1) and the user with the second highest next season live streamer experience value is equal to or greater than a set value (or exceeds a set value), the period of the next season may be set to a period shorter than this season. In other words, if the live streamer experience value of the top-ranked user is outstanding, the period of the next season may be shortened to prevent an even greater difference. Conversely, if the difference is less than the set value (or equal to or less than the set value), a period longer than this season may be set as the period of the next season.

[0342] The predetermined period, like the predetermined condition, is not limited to any particular period, but can be freely set by the server 10, for example.

[0343] <Second Modification Example (3)> The method of reducing the driver experience points described in the above embodiment is merely an example, and is not limited to this.

[0344] FIG. 2-6 is a diagram showing another example of the table in FIG. 2-4. This table, like the table in Figure 2-4, associates god levels, season level rewards, and season reset experience loss rates by way of example and not limitation, but differs primarily in the season reset experience loss rate column.

[0345] The Season Reset Experience Loss Rate column is divided into cases where this season is not a new record and cases where this season is a new record, by way of example and not limitation. A case where this season is a new record may be, for example and without limitation, when the user's live stream experience points this season are the highest ever. Conversely, a case where this season is not a new record may be any other case.

[0346] Alternatively, the user's highest season ranking this season may be regarded as a new record.

[0347] In both cases where this season is not a new record and where this season is a new record, the value is generally set so that the higher the god level, the smaller the season reset experience loss rate. However, in the example in Figure 2-6, the same value may be set even for different god level ranges. On the other hand, when focusing on the same God level (God level range), the season reset EXP loss rate for a new record this season is set to be relatively smaller than the season reset EXP loss rate for a new record this season. In other words, for a live streamer who set a new record this season, the loss rate of live streamer EXP is reduced taking into account their achievements.

[0348] The above is merely an example and is not limiting. Regardless of the god level (god level range), the season reset experience loss rate in the event that this season is a new record may be set to a uniform value (for example, "30%" without any restrictions). Also, the season reset experience loss rate may be set to "0%" so that new records can be recorded as history.

[0349] This modified example shows a configuration in which, when the liver experience points granted to a broadcaster within a season period (a predetermined period, not a limited period) exceed a set value (an example of a predetermined point, not a limited value), the server 10 reduces the amount of decrease in the liver experience points granted to the broadcaster less than when the value does not exceed the set value. As an example of the effect of the modified example obtained by such a configuration, when the points awarded to a distributor within a specified period exceed a specified number of points, the amount of reduction in the points awarded to the distributor is smaller than when the specified number of points are not exceeded. This makes it possible to prevent the distributor's points from decreasing too much in cases where the distributor has acquired a large number of points within a specified period.

[0350] <Second Modification Example (4)> In the above embodiment, points or cash are paid to the user based on the season reward (season level reward + season ranking reward), but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0351] By way of example and not limitation, points or cash may be awarded to the user based on the season level rewards. In this case, the objects may be different, such as, by way of example and not limitation, the season level reward object may be a "trophy" and the "season ranking reward" object may be a "medal." This allows the user to recognize that the season level rewards can be converted into points or cash.

[0352] Conversely, points or cash may be paid to the user based on the season ranking reward.

[0353] <Third Example> The third embodiment is an example, not a limitation, in which a user who has been using a live streaming application as a viewer makes his / her debut as a streamer (liver). It is believed that there are dedicated viewers among live viewers, and that these viewers have the potential to become successful streamers as well. However, it can be more difficult to become a streamer than to become a viewer.

[0354] The contents described in the third embodiment can be applied to any of the other embodiments and other modified examples. Furthermore, the same components as those already mentioned are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0355] <Display screen> 3-1 is a diagram showing an example of a live distribution application screen displayed on the display unit 24 of the terminal 20 in this embodiment. Here, a case where a user FF, who is a different user from the above-mentioned user AA, debuts as a live streamer is illustrated. The screens described below are screens displayed on the display unit 24 of the terminal 20F of this user FF.

[0356] The left side of Figure 3-1 is the My Page screen of the live streaming application. In this example, the user FF is only using the live streaming application as a viewer and has not yet made their debut as a live streamer (not registered as a live streamer).

[0357] In the profile area, a base image set by the user FF is displayed as a profile icon PI3. Also, in this example, the My Page background BG3 is blank (unset) because the user FF has not set a background themselves, or is not registered as a live streamer and is therefore unable to set a background.

[0358] Furthermore, since user FF is not registered as a live streamer, the live streamer level information display area LLR, which is configured in the same way as the screen shown on the left side of Figure 1-8, displays the words "Become a live streamer" as information for live streamer registration. When the live streamer level information display area LLR is tapped, the screen in the center of Figure 3-1 is displayed, as an example and not a limitation.

[0359] This screen is a live status screen configured in the same way as the screen shown in the center of Figure 1-8, but is not limited to this screen as an example. In the liver level detailed information display area LLDR, since user FF has made his debut as a liver, the liver rank "Rookie" and the level within the rank "Lv1" are displayed, and an icon image of a frog character is displayed as the character icon image corresponding to this liver level.

[0360] Also, below the display of the live streamer rank and level within the rank, a live streamer experience gauge and text required to level up to the next level within the rank are displayed, similar to the screen shown in the center of Figure 1-8. However, in this example, information related to the present embodiment is displayed regarding the live streamer bonus acquired by the user FF upon the user FF's debut as a live streamer.

[0361] Details will be explained later, but the Liver EXP is awarded as a Liver Bonus based on at least one of the User EXP and User Level that the User FF acquired while acting as a viewer, and in this example, a speech bubble containing the words "LIVER EXP BONUS IN PROGRESS!" is displayed, along with the Liver EXP Gauge LG1 increasing by the amount of Liver EXP awarded as a Liver Bonus. In this example, the increase in this Liver EXP Gauge LG1 continues until the screen on the right side of Figure 3-1.

[0362] Finally, the screen on the right side of Figure 3-1 will be displayed. In this example, the Liver Bonus has resulted in the user FF's Liver Rank being upgraded to the second-lowest rank of "Regular," and their level within that rank being upgraded to "Lv2." In this way, in this embodiment, a livery bonus is awarded upon debut as a livery user, and at the time of debut, user AA can begin activities as a livery user with their livery level increased by the amount of the livery bonus.

[0363] Unlike FIG. 3-1, FIG. 3-2 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that is displayed when a user FF performs live streaming after making his / her debut as a live streamer. In this example, we will assume that the user FF does not receive a live streamer bonus when they debut as a live streamer, and starts with the lowest live streamer rank of "Rookie" and a level within that rank of "Lv1."

[0364] On the My Page screen on the left side of Figure 3-2, when the Liver Level Information Display Area LLR containing the words "Become a Liver" is tapped, and after the user is registered as a live streamer by the server 10, when live streaming is started by the user FF, the screen in the center of Figure 3-2 will be displayed, as an example and not a limitation.

[0365] This screen is a live streaming screen for user FF, and is configured almost identically to the screen for user AA's live streaming shown in Figure 1-10. However, in this example, a live streamer bonus based on at least one of the user experience points and user level that user FF acquired while acting as a viewer before his / her live stream debut is added to the live streamer experience points that user FF acquired during the live stream. To indicate this, a speech bubble containing the words "LIVE LIVE EXP 190% BONUS!" is displayed below the live streamer experience gauge LG2 (a gauge containing the words "Rookie Lv1").

[0366] When a user FF acquires Liver Experience Points, the Liver Experience Points will increase by the Liver Bonus. When the Liver Level of a user FF increases, the screen on the right side of Figure 3-2 will be displayed, as an example and not a limitation.

[0367] Based on the level increase from "Lv1" to "Lv2" based on the acquired experience points, the level "Lv2" is displayed next to the liver rank "Rookie" on the liver experience point gauge LG2. In addition, the gauge amount of the liver experience point gauge LG2 has increased to the position corresponding to the level "Lv2" on the rank.

[0368] In addition, based on the fact that the level within the rank has been raised to "Lv2", the liver level-up information LUI is displayed in a pop-up display in the center of the screen. This liver level-up information LUI is information indicating that the level within the rank has been raised, and therefore may also be referred to as liver level-up information within the rank.

[0369] Additionally, in the comment display area CDR, a comment CM3 is displayed as a comment originating from the user FF, which includes the text "Your rank level has increased!" associated with the icon image and username of the user FF and an icon of the liver level after the level increase, "Rookie Lv2." Like the above-mentioned comments CM1 and CM2, the comment CM3 is a comment that differs from ordinary comments based on user input, and, by way of example and not limitation, can be a comment generated by the server 10 that has determined that the liver rank or rank level has increased and transmitted to each terminal 20.

[0370] <Processing> 3-3 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing executed by each device in this embodiment. The diagram should be read as described above. In accordance with the flowchart described above, the process is illustrated and explained as being executed by the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A.

[0371] After A130, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A determines whether the user AA of the terminal 20A will debut as a live streamer (A310). If it is determined that the user AA will not debut as a live streamer (A310: NO), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A proceeds to A210.

[0372] On the other hand, if it is determined that the terminal 20A will make its debut as a live streamer (A310: YES), the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A transmits live streamer participation request information requesting participation as a live streamer to the server 10 via the communication I / F 22 (A320).

[0373] After S120, the control unit 11 of the server 10 determines whether or not live streamer participation request information has been received from the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 (S310), and if it is determined that it has not been received (S310: NO), the process proceeds to S130.

[0374] On the other hand, if it is determined that the live streamer participation request information has been received (S310: YES), the control unit 11 of the server 10 performs a live streamer bonus calculation process (S320).

[0375] Next, the control unit 11 of the server 10 transmits the live streamer bonus information to the terminal 20A via the communication I / F 14 based on the calculation result of the live streamer bonus calculation process (S330). Then, the control unit 11 of the server 10 advances the process to S130.

[0376] After A320, when the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A receives the live streamer bonus information from the server 10 via the communication I / F 22, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A causes the display unit 24 to display the received live streamer bonus information (A330). Then, the control unit 21 of the terminal 20A advances the process to A140.

[0377] FIG. 3-4 is a diagram showing an example of a table for explaining a method for calculating a livery bonus. In this table, as an example and not a limitation, bonus awarding opportunities (bonus awarding timing), live streamer bonuses, a first example, a second example, and a third example are associated with each other.

[0378] The bonus award opportunity is the opportunity (timing) at which the live streamer bonus is awarded, and in this example, it is defined as "at the time of live streamer registration" (before broadcasting a live stream) and "at the time of live broadcasting" (during or after broadcasting a live stream).

[0379] A live streamer bonus is a bonus awarded to a live streamer at the corresponding bonus award opportunity.

[0380] For the bonus grant opportunity "at the time of liver registration," as an example and not a limitation, the liver bonus is set to "initial value of [user level x 50] liver experience points." This indicates that when a viewer user wishes to become a liver and the server 10 registers the user, the initial value of the user's liver experience points is not set to "0," but rather the value obtained by multiplying the user's most recent user level by a set multiplier (50 times in this example) is set as the initial value of the liver experience points. This makes it possible for a user to debut as a liver with the amount of liver experience points corresponding to the user level.

[0381] For the bonus grant opportunity "during live streaming," the liver bonus is set as "(100 + [user level])% multiplied by [liver experience points based on streaming performance]" as a non-limiting example. This means that after a viewer registers as a liver, while they are live streaming, or after the live streaming ends, the liver bonus will be added to the liver experience points that the user has earned based on their live streaming performance, plus bonus experience points based on their user level.

[0382] The first to third examples show combinations (patterns) to which the above is applied. The first example is where the "Liver Bonus at the time of Live Broadcast" is applied, but the "Liver Bonus at the time of Live Broadcast" is not applied. The second example is one in which the "Liver Bonus at the time of Live Broadcast" is not applied, but the "Liver Bonus at the time of Live Broadcast" is applied. The third example is an example in which both the "Liver Bonus at the time of Live Registration" and the "Liver Bonus at the time of Live Streaming" are applied. The server 10 can freely set which combination to apply. It should be noted that the user (terminal 20) may be able to set which combination to apply by charging or the like.

[0383] When applying the "Liver Bonus at the time of Liver Registration," the control unit 11 of the server 10 can calculate the Liver Bonus based on the above calculation formula in the Liver Bonus calculation process of S320 in Figure 3-3, and set that value as the initial value of the Liver Experience Value of user AA. In addition, the control unit 11 of the server 10 can determine the liver level of user AA based on the initial value of the liver experience value of the user AA, for example and not by way of limitation, based on the table shown in Figure 1-16, and set it as the initial value of the liver level of user AA.

[0384] When applying the "live streaming live stream bonus," the control unit 11 of the server 10, by way of example and not limitation, can calculate the live stream bonus based on the above formula in step S1450 of the live streaming process (Figure 1-15) executed in step S140 of Figure 3-3, and update the live stream experience value of user AA with that value. In addition, when calculating the liver bonus after a live broadcast, the control unit 11 of the server 10, by way of example and not limitation, can calculate the liver bonus based on the above calculation formula after step S140 in Figure 3-3 and update the liver experience value of user AA with that value.

[0385] <Effects of the third embodiment> In this embodiment, a server 10 (not limited to this, an example of an information processing device) that communicates with a terminal 20 to which live video is distributed performs control by a control unit 11 to grant a user experience value (not limited to this, an example of a first point) to the user of the terminal 20 when a viewer behavior is performed on the terminal 20. The server 10 also performs control by a control unit 11 to improve the user level (not limited to this, an example of a first level) of the user of the terminal 20 based on an increase in the user experience value. The server 10 also shows a configuration in which, when the user of the terminal 20 becomes a distributor of live video, the server 10 performs control by a control unit 11 to determine a live streamer level (not limited to this, an example of a second level) of the user of the terminal 20 based on the user level. As an example of the effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, the second level at which the user of the terminal becomes a broadcaster of live video is determined based on the first level, which is based on an increase in first points awarded to the user of the terminal based on the viewer behavior, thereby effectively motivating the user of the terminal to convert from a viewer to a broadcaster.

[0386] In this case, when the user of the terminal 20 broadcasts a live video, the server 10 controls the control unit 11 to grant the user of the terminal 20 a live streamer experience point (not limited, an example of second points) different from the user experience point, based at least on the broadcasting record of the live video. Furthermore, the server 10 controls the control unit 11 to improve the live streamer level (not limited, an example of second level) of the user of the terminal 20 based on an increase in the live streamer experience point. In this case, the live streamer experience point can be based on the broadcasting record of the live video and the user level (not limited, first level). As an example of an effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, second points different from the first points can be awarded to a terminal user based on the distribution record of live video, and the second level of the terminal user can be improved based on an increase in the second points. Meanwhile, since the second points are based on the distribution record of live video and the first level, the second points are awarded taking into consideration not only the distribution record of live video but also the first level, so that it is possible to more effectively motivate the terminal user to convert from a viewer to a broadcaster.

[0387] In this case, if the liver level determined when the user of terminal 20 becomes the broadcaster of a live video is a higher level, the user of terminal 20 can be notified that the liver level corresponding to the lower level has been met by, for example and not by way of limitation, displaying the liver experience gauge displayed on display unit 24 of terminal 20 to increase to the higher level. As an example of the effect of this embodiment, the user of the terminal can be made aware that he or she has already surpassed a lower level even before the user has started live video distribution after becoming a broadcaster. This can also improve the user's motivation as a broadcaster and support the activities of the user of the terminal.

[0388] In this embodiment, a server 10 (not limited to, an example of an information processing device) communicating with a terminal 20 to which a live video is distributed performs control by a control unit 11 to grant a user experience value (not limited to, an example of a first point) to a user of the terminal 20 when a viewer behavior is performed on the terminal 20. The server 10 also performs control by a control unit 11 to improve the user level (not limited to, an example of a first level) of the user of the terminal 20 based on an increase in the user experience value. The server 10 also performs control by a control unit 11 to grant a live streamer experience value (not limited to, an example of a second point) different from the user experience value to the user of the terminal 20 based at least on the distribution history of the live video when the user of the terminal 20 distributes a live video. The server 10 also performs control by a control unit 11 to improve the live streamer level (not limited to, an example of a second level) of the user of the terminal 20 based on an increase in the live streamer experience value. In this case, the live streamer experience value (not limited to, an example of a second point) can be based on the distribution history of the live video and the user level (not limited to, a first level). As an example of the effect of the embodiment obtained by such a configuration, it is possible to effectively motivate terminal users to convert from viewers to distributors.

[0389] In this case, when a user of the terminal 20 becomes a distributor of live video, the server 10 can control the control unit 11 to determine the live streamer level (not limited, an example of the second level) based on the user level (not limited, an example of the first level). As an example of an effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, when a user of a terminal becomes a broadcaster of live video, the second level of the user of the terminal can be appropriately determined based on the first level of the user of the terminal.

[0390] In this case, the viewer behavior may include viewing live video, and the user experience value awarded may vary depending on the viewing time of the live video. As an example of an effect of the embodiment obtained by such a configuration, but not limited to, it is possible to give more first points to a terminal user as the viewing time of a live video is longer.

[0391] Also in this case, viewer behavior may include ratings or comments on the live video. As an example of an effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, first points can be awarded to a user of a terminal based on the user's rating or comment on a live video as a viewer behavior.

[0392] In this case, viewer behavior may also include signing in or logging in to a live streaming application (an example of, but not limited to, authenticating a user to watch live video). As an example of an effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, first points can be awarded to a user of a terminal based on the fact that the user of the terminal has performed user authentication to watch live video.

[0393] In this case, the server 10 can also control the control unit 11 to grant user experience points to the user of the terminal when the user of the terminal 20 distributes live video. As an example of the effect of the embodiment obtained by such a configuration, even if the user of the terminal acts as a distributor of live video, the first points can be awarded to the user of the terminal.

[0394] In this case, the server 10 may also be configured to grant the user of the terminal 20 at least the same user experience value when the user of the terminal 20 broadcasts live video for a predetermined period of time as when the user watches live video for a predetermined period of time. As an example of an effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, when a user of a terminal broadcasts a live video for a predetermined period of time, the user of the terminal can be awarded first points that are equal to or greater than those awarded when the user watches the live video for the same predetermined period of time.

[0395] <Third Modification (1)> The table in Figure 3-4 shows an example in which a live streamer bonus is awarded based on the user level, but this is not limited to this.

[0396] Specifically, by way of example and not limitation, a live streamer bonus may be awarded based on user experience points. In this case, by way of example and not limitation, the "user level" in the table of FIG. 3-4 may be set as the "user experience point" and a multiplier or ratio may be appropriately set to award the live streamer bonus.

[0397] Alternatively, a live streamer bonus may be awarded based on both the user experience value and the user level. In this case, by way of example and not limitation, in the table of FIG. 3-4, the bonus awarding opportunity "at the time of live streamer registration" may be associated with a live streamer bonus "setting the live streamer experience value as [user level x C1 + user experience value x C2] as the initial value" (where C1 and C2 are non-dimensional parameters). Furthermore, the bonus awarding opportunity "during live streaming" may be associated with a live streamer bonus "multiplying the [live streamer experience value according to streaming performance] by (100 + [user level] + [user experience value] x C3)%" (where C3 is a parameter that adjusts the user experience value to the user level dimension). However, these are merely examples and the present invention is not limited to these calculation formulas.

[0398] Furthermore, for the bonus grant opportunity "at the time of liver registration," the liver level may be determined directly based on the user level. As a non-limiting example, if the user level is "Level 30," the initial value of the liver level may be set to "Level 10," which is the level within the liver rank "Rookie," and if the user level is "Level 60," the initial value of the liver level may be set to "Level 10," which is the level within the liver rank "Regular." In this case, the user may be given a live streamer experience value according to the determined live streamer level.

[0399] Similarly, for the bonus grant opportunity "during live streaming," the liver level may be determined directly based on the user level. As a non-limiting example, if the user level is "Level 100 or higher," the liver level may be increased by "1" when the liver level (level within the rank) increases during live streaming, and if the user level is "Level 200 or higher," the liver level may be increased by "2" when the liver level increases during live streaming. In this case, the user may be given a live streamer experience value according to the determined live streamer level.

[0400] According to the above embodiment and this modification, the server 10 (not limited to this, but an example of an information processing device) communicating with the terminal 20 to which the live video is distributed performs control by the control unit 11 to grant a user experience value (not limited to this, but an example of a first point) to the user of the terminal 20 when a viewer behavior is performed on the terminal 20. The server 10 also performs control by the control unit 11 to improve the user level (not limited to this, but an example of a first level) of the user of the terminal 20 based on an increase in the user experience value. Then, when the user of the terminal 20 becomes a broadcaster of the live video, the server 10 can perform control by the control unit 11 to determine the live streamer level (not limited to this, but an example of a second level) of the user of the terminal 20 based on at least one of the user experience value (not limited to this, but an example of a first point) and the user level (not limited to this, but an example of a first level). As an example of an effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, the second level at which a terminal user becomes a broadcaster of live video is determined based on at least one of the first points and the first level, thereby effectively motivating the terminal user to convert from a viewer to a broadcaster.

[0401] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment and this modification, when a user of the terminal 20 broadcasts a live video, the server 10, through the control unit 11, performs control to grant the user of the terminal 20 a live streamer experience value (not limited, an example of second points) different from the user experience value, based at least on the broadcasting performance of the live video. Furthermore, the server 10, through the control unit 11, performs control to improve the live streamer level (not limited, an example of second level) of the user of the terminal 20 based on an increase in the live streamer experience value. The live streamer experience value can be based on the broadcasting performance of the live video and at least one of the user experience value (not limited, an example of first points) and the user level (not limited, first level). As an example of an effect of an embodiment obtained by such a configuration, second points different from the first points can be awarded to a terminal user based on the distribution record of live video, and the second level of the terminal user can be improved based on an increase in the second points. Meanwhile, since the second points are based on the distribution record of live video and at least one of the first points and the first level, the second points are awarded taking into consideration not only the distribution record of live video, but also the first points and the first level, so that the terminal user can be more effectively motivated to convert from a viewer to a broadcaster.

[0402] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment and this modified example, the server 10 (not limited to this, an example of an information processing device) communicating with the terminal 20 to which the live video is distributed performs control by the control unit 11 to grant a user experience value (not limited to this, an example of a first point) to the user of the terminal 20 when a viewer behavior is performed on the terminal 20. The server 10 also performs control by the control unit 11 to improve the user level (not limited to this, an example of a first level) of the user of the terminal 20 based on an increase in the user experience value. The server 10 also performs control by the control unit 11 to grant a live streamer experience value (not limited to this, an example of a second point) different from the user experience value to the user of the terminal 20 based at least on the distribution performance of the live video when the user of the terminal 20 distributes a live video. The server 10 also performs control by the control unit 11 to improve the live streamer level (not limited to this, an example of a second level) of the user of the terminal 20 based on an increase in the live streamer experience value. In this case, the live streamer experience points can be based on the live video distribution record and at least one of the user experience points (not limited, an example of first points) and the user level (not limited, first level). As an example of the effect of the embodiment obtained by such a configuration, it is possible to effectively motivate terminal users to convert from viewers to distributors.

[0403] According to this embodiment and this modified example, the user experience value and user level, which are configured separately from the live streamer experience value and live streamer level, can be used to convert viewers to live streamers. In other words, by granting a live streamer bonus based on the user experience value and user level, it is possible to make it easier to improve the live streamer level of users who have converted to live streamers.

[0404] <Other Examples> (1) Information processing device In the above embodiment, the information processing device in the present disclosure has been described as the server 10, but is not limited to this.

[0405] Instead of using one server 10, the server 10 may be divided into a plurality of servers, each of which may be an information processing device according to the present disclosure.

[0406] Furthermore, instead of a server, a terminal such as a management computer or a management smartphone that communicates with a terminal that performs live streaming (a terminal of a user that performs live streaming) may also be used as the information processing device in the present disclosure.

[0407] Furthermore, a system including a plurality of information processing devices may be configured, and this system may perform the various processes of the server 10 described in the above embodiment.

[0408] (2) Benefits and Rewards Similar to the benefits given to users based on their live streamer experience points and live streamer levels, users may be given benefits and rewards based on their user experience points and user levels.

[0409] As a non-limiting example, in addition to the badge as the user title described above, objects such as a frame or a personal page background may also be similarly assigned.

[0410] In addition, for liver ranks below the highest liver rank "God," the aforementioned season rankings may be similarly constructed, and seasonal rewards may be awarded to users.

[0411] Similarly, a seasonal ranking or the like may be created for the user level, and seasonal rewards may be awarded to users.

[0412] In addition, the benefits and rewards given to users based on their user experience points and user levels may be relatively less than the benefits and rewards given to live streamers.

[0413] (3) Icon display mode FIG. 4-1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a table for explaining a display mode of an icon related to a user. The combinations shown here are only a few examples.

[0414] In this table, by way of example and not limitation, combinations, profile icons, user icons, and live streamer icons are associated with each other. In this example, nine combinations of "1" to "9" are included.

[0415] The profile icon is as described above.

[0416] The "user icon" in this table may be, by way of example and not limitation, an icon of the user displayed in conjunction with an activity related to the user experience points or user level, or an icon of the user displayed when the user level is increased. By way of example and not limitation, this may include at least one of the following: - Icons that are displayed in association with your comments when you post comments while watching a live stream as a viewer -Icon displayed on the user level up screen when user level up

[0417] The "liver icon" in this table can be, by way of example and not limitation, the icon of the user (liver) that is displayed in conjunction with their activities as a live streamer, or the icon of the user (liver) that is displayed when their live streamer level is increased. For example and not limitation, this can include at least one of the following: - Icons that are displayed in association with comments sent by users during live broadcasts - Your own icon will be displayed on the live screen while you are streaming as a live streamer. Icons displayed on the Liver Level Up screen when you level up a Liver

[0418] In this table, for each combination, a combination of a profile icon, a user icon, and each image to be displayed as a live streamer icon is set. The "base image" in the table is as described above.

[0419] The "Base Image (Liver Experience Below Standard)" set for the Liver Icon in Combination "1" means that if the Liver Experience is below standard, the Liver has little experience streaming as a Liver, and therefore the "Base Image" will be displayed as the Liver Icon.

[0420] In this example, an "object according to user experience value" is an object that is a benefit given to a user based on the user experience value (or user level), and can include, by way of example and not limitation, the aforementioned "badge as user title" (different from the aforementioned "rank badge"), etc.

[0421] Also, in this example, the "objects according to the liver experience points" are objects that are given to users as benefits based on their liver experience points (or liver level), and can include, but are not limited to, the aforementioned "rank badges," "frames," "my page backgrounds," "earned titles," "trophies," etc.

[0422] Note that the term "base image" for a user icon can refer to either a case where an object corresponding to the user experience value is not provided as a specification, or a case where an object corresponding to the user experience value is provided as a specification but the object is not added because the user experience value is below a standard.

[0423] As mentioned above, the user level may increase while the user is engaged in live streaming activities. In this case, the user icon shown in the "User Icon" column of the table in Figure 4-1 can be displayed.

[0424] Alternatively, none of the profile icon, user icon, or live streamer icon may be changed (all may remain as the base image).

[0425] (4) Experience points based on live streaming In the above embodiment, when the user of the terminal performs live distribution, the user experience points may not be awarded.

[0426] (5) User Rank In the above embodiment, a user rank may be provided similarly to the driver rank. Furthermore, within each user rank, a corresponding intra-rank level may be provided.

[0427] (6) Decrease in level In the above embodiment, the information processing device may be configured to control the level of the distributor to be lowered when a predetermined condition is met. The points of the distributor may then be reduced in accordance with the reduced level. That is, the points reduction and the level reduction may be performed first, or they may be performed simultaneously.

[0428] It should be noted that when the level of a distributor is lowered, the points of the distributor may not be decreased.

[0429] Also, at least one of decreasing the points of the distributor and lowering the level of the distributor may be performed.

[0430] (7) Points In the above embodiment, experience points are used as an example of points, but other units may be used. In other words, any value that is given to a terminal user based on distribution or viewing may be used, and the value does not necessarily have to be in the unit of experience points.

[0431] (8) Other As mentioned above, the contents explained in the above-mentioned embodiments, modifications, other embodiments, etc. can be applied in combination with each other. [Explanation of symbols]

[0432] 1. Communication Systems 10 Servers 20 terminals 30 Network

Claims

1. A program executed by an information processing device that communicates with a terminal of a broadcaster who broadcasts live video, During the live video distribution, the control unit of the information processing device performs control to award points to the distributor based on the live video distribution performance. During the live video distribution, the control unit performs control to improve the level of the streamer based on the increase in points awarded to the streamer. When a predetermined condition is met, the control unit performs control to reduce the points awarded to the distributor. Based on the decrease in points awarded to the aforementioned broadcaster, the control unit performs control to lower the broadcaster's level. If the distributor's rank is rank 1, the control unit does not perform the control to reduce the points based on the fulfillment of the predetermined conditions, and if the distributor's rank is rank 2, which is higher than rank 1, the control unit performs the control to reduce the points based on the fulfillment of the predetermined conditions. A program executed by the aforementioned information processing device.

2. The program according to Claim 1, A program in which the information processing device executes a control by the control unit to lower the level of the broadcaster based on the decrease in points, if the broadcaster's rank is the second rank.

3. A program according to claim 1 or claim 2, The aforementioned streaming performance includes at least one of the following: (1) the duration of the live video stream, (2) the number of views of the live video stream, and (3) the points received from viewers during the live video stream. program.

4. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 3, If the level of the aforementioned broadcaster exceeds a predetermined level, the reduction in points awarded to the broadcaster will be less than if the level does not exceed the predetermined level. program.

5. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The fulfillment of the aforementioned predetermined conditions includes the expiration of the predetermined period. program.

6. The program according to claim 5, If the points awarded to the distributor within the predetermined period exceed a predetermined number of points, the reduction in points awarded to the distributor will be less than if the points did not exceed the predetermined number of points. program.

7. A program according to claim 5 or claim 6, A program in which the information processing device executes the control unit to perform control to grant benefits to the distributor based on the ranking based on the points awarded to the distributor within the predetermined period.

8. The program according to claim 7, The control for granting the aforementioned benefit is performed by the control unit when the rank is higher than a predetermined rank. program.

9. The program according to claim 7, The control for granting the aforementioned benefit is performed by the control unit when the rank is not higher than a predetermined rank. program.

10. A program according to any one of claims 7 to 9, The control for granting the aforementioned benefits is performed by the control unit based on the total of the points granted to the distributor within the predetermined period and the points granted to the distributor outside the predetermined period. program.

11. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 10, If the aforementioned predetermined conditions are met, the rank of the distributor does not decrease from the second rank to the first rank. program.

12. An information processing method for an information processing device that communicates with a terminal of a broadcaster who broadcasts live video, During the live video distribution, the control unit of the information processing device performs control to award points to the distributor based on the live video distribution performance. During the live video distribution, the control unit performs control to improve the level of the streamer based on the increase in points awarded to the streamer. When a predetermined condition is met, the control unit performs control to reduce the points awarded to the distributor. Based on the decrease in points awarded to the aforementioned broadcaster, the control unit performs control to lower the broadcaster's level. If the distributor's rank is rank 1, the control unit does not perform the control to reduce the points based on the fulfillment of the predetermined conditions, and if the distributor's rank is rank 2, which is higher than rank 1, the control unit performs the control to reduce the points based on the fulfillment of the predetermined conditions. Information processing methods including

13. An information processing device that communicates with a terminal of a broadcaster who broadcasts live video, Information processing apparatus comprising a control unit that performs the following actions during the distribution of the live video: a control unit that performs the following actions: a control unit that performs the following actions during the distribution of the live video

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