Program and information processing device

Abstract

By curbing the illegal uploading of ebooks, we aim to protect the dignity of authors while guaranteeing their interests. [Solution] A program that allows one user to view one ebook selected by one user's account from among one or more ebooks stored in the server device 102, and causes the computer to function as a permission means 22 (or permission means 82) that allows other users' accounts to view the ebook, a display means (second display means 41) that enables the display of the ebook for viewing by other users' accounts when permitted by permission means 22 (or permission means 82), and a reward means 114 that grants a reward to one user's account when the display means displays the ebook.

Description

Technical Field

[0003]

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

Background Art

[0002] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1 below, conventionally, a function of browsing and subscribing to e-books using a communication terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet has been known.

Prior Art Document

Patent Document

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When a user views an e-book, there is a desire to suppress the purchase cost. However, the conventional technology as disclosed in Patent Document 1 above cannot meet such a desire. As a result, illegal uploads of e-books are rampant on the Internet, and problems such as the dignity and interests of the author being damaged have occurred.

[0005] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a program and an information processing apparatus that protect the dignity of the author while suppressing illegal uploads of e-books and ensuring the interests of the author.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] Furthermore, in a second aspect of the present invention, the computer is further made to function as a restricting means that imposes predetermined restrictions when allowing the viewing of the first e-book under the account of the other user.

[0008] Furthermore, in a third aspect of the present invention, the server stores other ebooks related to the first ebook, and the granting means grants the reward to the first user's account by purchasing the other ebooks in the other user's account after the display means has displayed the first ebook.

[0009] Furthermore, in a fourth aspect of the present invention, one or more ebooks stored on the server can be purchased by consuming in-app currency, and the reward is a right that can reduce the amount of in-app currency consumed when purchasing a new ebook during a predetermined period.

[0010] Furthermore, in the fifth aspect of the present invention, the new e-book subject to the rights is one other than the latest issue.

[0011] Furthermore, in a sixth aspect of the present invention, the computer is further made to function as a level management means for managing the level associated with the account of the first user, the reward being points that contribute to the increase of the level, and the higher the level, the more advantageous it is for the first user's account when purchasing the new ebook.

[0012] An information processing device according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is an information processing device that allows one user's account to view one e-book selected from one or more e-books stored on a server, and comprises: permission means that permits other users' accounts to view the e-book; display means that, when permitted by the permission means, makes the e-book viewable in the other user's account; and grant means that, when the display means makes the e-book viewable, grants a reward to the user's account. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to this invention, it is possible to protect the dignity of authors and guarantee their interests by suppressing the illegal uploading of ebooks. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an e-book system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the server device shown. [Figure 3] Figure 1 shows an example of the hardware configuration of a smartphone, which is a communication terminal device. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the functional means of the server device. [Figure 5] Figure 1 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the functional means of the communication terminal device. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of the process when one user and another user view an ebook together in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a list screen for an ebook that recruits friend users to view together with one user, according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of a state in which electronic books are being viewed together in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a block diagram schematically showing an example of functional means of a server device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] In the second embodiment of the present invention, it is a flowchart showing an example of a process of lending an electronic book from one user to another user. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of a list screen of friend users of another user in the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing an example of a list of electronic books that can be lent to friend users in the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] It is a block diagram schematically showing an example of functional means of a server device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing an example of a my page screen displaying a user's in - app currency, points, and title level in the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] In the third embodiment of the present invention, it is a flowchart showing an example of a process of granting rewards.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, a plurality of embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the ease of understanding the description, the same reference numerals are given to the same components and steps in each drawing as much as possible, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0016] ===First Embodiment=== First, the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0017] ≪Overall Configuration≫ FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an electronic book system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] As shown in Figure 1, the e-book system 1 comprises a server device 2, a first communication terminal device 3, and a second communication terminal device 4. In the first embodiment of the present invention, the communication terminal devices are described as two devices, the first communication terminal device 3 and the second communication terminal device 4, but there may be any number of communication terminal devices.

[0019] The server device 2, the first communication terminal device 3, and the second communication terminal device 4 in Figure 1 are interconnected and able to communicate with each other via a communication network NT such as an intranet, the internet, or a telephone line.

[0020] Server device 2 is an information processing device that provides the results obtained by executing the ebook program 2A, or a part of the ebook program 2A, to the users of each communication terminal device 3, 4 via the communication network NT.

[0021] Each communication terminal device 3, 4 is an information processing device owned by each user. After a portion of the e-book program 2A received from the server device 2 is installed, it executes this program to provide each user with e-books and related information. Examples of these communication terminal devices 3, 4 include mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, and personal computers.

[0022] The e-book program 2A allows a user to view one or more e-books stored on the server device 2, selected by the user, under their account (hereinafter referred to as the "user account").

[0023] Hardware Configuration Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of server device 2.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2, the server device 2 comprises a control device 5, a communication device 6, and a storage device 7. The control device 5 is mainly composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 5A and memory 5B.

[0025] In the control device 5, the CPU 5A executes a predetermined program stored in the memory 5B or storage device 7, etc., thereby functioning as various functional means. Details of these functional means will be described later.

[0026] The communication device 6 consists of a communication interface and the like for communicating with external devices. For example, the communication device 6 sends and receives various types of information with the communication terminal devices 3 and 4.

[0027] The storage device 7 consists of a hard disk or the like. This storage device 7 stores various programs and information necessary for executing processing in the control device 5, including the e-book program 2A, as well as information on processing results.

[0028] Furthermore, server device 2 can be implemented using information processing equipment such as a dedicated or general-purpose server computer. Server device 2 may consist of a single information processing equipment or multiple information processing equipment distributed across the communication network NT. Also, Figure 2 only shows a portion of the main hardware configuration of server device 2; server device 2 may have other configurations that are generally found in servers.

[0029] Figure 3 shows an example of the hardware configuration of a smartphone, as shown in Figure 1 as communication terminal devices 3 and 4.

[0030] As shown in Figure 3, the communication terminal devices 3 and 4 include a main control unit 8, a touch panel (touchscreen) 9, a camera 10A, a microphone 10B, a mobile communication unit 11, a wireless LAN communication unit 12, a storage unit 13, and a speaker 14.

[0031] The main control unit 8 is composed of a CPU and memory (neither of which are shown in the diagram), etc. The main control unit 8 is connected to a touch panel 9 as a display input device, a camera 10A, a microphone 10B, a mobile communication unit 11, a wireless LAN communication unit 12, a storage unit 13, and a speaker 14. The main control unit 8 also has the function of controlling these connected devices.

[0032] The touch panel 9 has both display and input functions, and is composed of a display 9A that performs the display function and a touch sensor 9B that performs the input function. In the first embodiment of the present invention, the display 9A can display various images. The touch sensor 9B can detect the user's input position for these various images.

[0033] Camera 10A has the function of capturing still images and / or videos and saving them to the memory unit 13. Microphone 10B has the function of inputting audio and saving it to the memory unit 13.

[0034] The mobile communication unit 11 has the function of connecting to a mobile communication network via the antenna 11A and communicating with other communication terminal devices connected to the mobile communication network.

[0035] The wireless LAN communication unit 12 connects to the communication network NT via the antenna 12A and has the function of communicating with other devices such as the server device 2 that are connected to the communication network NT.

[0036] The memory unit 13 stores various programs, including a portion of the e-book program 2A, as well as various data.

[0037] Speaker 14 has the function of outputting various sounds.

[0038] Furthermore, Figure 3 only shows a portion of the main hardware configurations of the communication terminal devices 3 and 4, and the communication terminal devices 3 and 4 may have other configurations that are generally found in communication terminal devices such as smartphones.

[0039] For convenience, in the following, we will assume that one user operates the first communication terminal device 3 under one user account, and another user operates the second communication terminal device 4 under another user account.

[0040] System Overview The first embodiment of the present invention, the e-book system 1, is a system that provides e-books to a user in response to an execution request (instruction) from the user. These e-books include books and magazines that are stored as electronic data and displayed on the displays 9A of the communication terminal devices 3 and 4.

[0041] Furthermore, this e-book system 1 may be operated based on the user's consumption of in-app currency usable within application software (hereinafter simply referred to as "app"). This in-app currency includes, for example, paid currency and free currency.

[0042] Paid currency (also called paid coins) is a charge granted to a user account based on payments made with money, prepaid cards, credit cards, electronic money, crypto assets, etc.

[0043] On the other hand, free currency (also called free coins) is a non-chargeable asset granted to a user account, for example, by running the application software of the e-book system 1 (hereinafter referred to as "app"). An example of running an app is user login. Furthermore, free currency can be consumed without distinction from paid currency. Alternatively, free currency may be used separately from paid currency. Moreover, a process may be provided that allows only paid currency to be used.

[0044] <<Means of Server Device Functionality>> Figure 4 is a schematic block diagram showing an example of the functional means of the server device 2.

[0045] As shown in Figure 4, the server device 2 has the following functional configuration: server storage means 20, control means 21, permission means 22, restriction means 23, determination means 24, recruitment means 25, and server communication means 26.

[0046] The server storage means 20 is implemented by one or more storage devices 7. Functional means other than the server storage means 20 are implemented by the control device 5 executing the ebook program 2A stored in the storage device 7, etc. All or part of these functional configurations may be provided in the communication terminal devices 3, 4.

[0047] The server storage means 20 has the function of storing book information 20A, user account information 20B, etc.

[0048] Book information 20A refers to information about one or more ebooks. These one or more ebooks include books of entertainment content, and / or books where the primary visual information for the user is images or / or illustrations. Specifically, this includes comics, magazines, hobby-related content (games, music, etc.), etc. These one or more ebooks may also include books of other content.

[0049] User account information 20B consists of information associated with each user's user account ID. This includes, for example, the user's name, age, user book information, owned currency information, browsing information, friend information, etc.

[0050] User book information refers to information about ebooks that are viewable within each user account. This includes, for example, books that a user purchases using in-app currency from the book information 20A and thus owns within their user account. Furthermore, books may also be owned within a user account without being purchased by the user, under certain conditions. The "viewable" state refers to the state in which ebook information is linked to the user account ID.

[0051] Furthermore, the term "ownership" as used above may also refer to a state in which each user can view the e-book included in the book information 20A, for example, by downloading it to the communication terminal devices 3 and 4. Additionally, the term "ownership" may also refer to a rental arrangement with a set ownership period.

[0052] Furthermore, the ebooks included in the book information 20A may be made viewable without being owned by the user account. This may be done, for example, by online viewing via communication with the server device 2, or by saving the ebooks included in the book information 20A to a cloud (not shown) and viewing them online via communication with the cloud.

[0053] The owned currency information includes information on in-app currencies owned by the user in their user account, i.e., paid and free currencies.

[0054] The browsing information includes the browsing status for each ebook included in the user's book information for each user account, i.e., whether or not it has been viewed, the progress of the browsing, whether or not the browsing has been completed, or whether or not it is currently being viewed. This browsing status may also be the display status of the display means 31 and 41 described later.

[0055] Friend information includes the user accounts of users who have established a friendship relationship with the user (hereinafter referred to as "friend users"), as well as the maximum number of such users. This maximum number refers to the maximum number of friend users that can be set per user.

[0056] The control means 21 is a functional means that controls the entire system. For example, the control means 21 generates various screens such as a screen that displays a list of book information 20A, accepts user operations to purchase and download ebooks, manages the information contained in each user account information 20B, and performs other controls.

[0057] Furthermore, regarding the management of each piece of information contained in the aforementioned user account information 20B, this includes, for example, managing which ebooks each user is permitted to view, and changing and managing information about friend users.

[0058] The permission means 22 is a functional means that allows one or more other user accounts to view an ebook while the first display means 31, described later, is displaying that ebook. Note that "allowing viewing" refers to processes such as associating the ebook information with a user account ID.

[0059] Furthermore, the server communication means 26, described later, receives information from the first communication terminal device 3 that the first display means 31 is displaying an e-book. In addition, other user accounts authorized by the authorization means 22 can view the e-book together with the first user account.

[0060] Furthermore, the "one e-book" mentioned above refers to a user's books that can be viewed by one user account. The "other user accounts" mentioned above include, for example, a friend of one user.

[0061] Furthermore, regarding the "permission" mentioned above, it is preferable that it grants permission for other user accounts to view the same page or image that the first display means 31 is currently displaying, among the multiple pages or images contained in a single e-book.

[0062] The restricting means 23 is a functional means that imposes a first predetermined restriction when the permitting means 22 grants permission as described above.

[0063] This first predetermined restriction may limit the number of times or the duration of access permitted to other user accounts per first predetermined period interval (e.g., "up to five times per day," "up to two hours per day," etc.). Alternatively, the permission means 22 may limit the number of other user accounts permitted per first predetermined period interval or per ebook (e.g., "up to ten people per day," "up to five people per ebook," etc.).

[0064] The determination means 24 is a functional means that determines, based on the viewing status stored in the server storage means 20, whether or not a user has viewed up to the last page of an e-book (whether or not the first display means 31, described later, has displayed up to the last page of an e-book).

[0065] The recruitment means 25 is a functional means that recruits other user accounts to be permitted by the permission means 22 to view a particular e-book while the first display means 31, described later, is displaying that e-book. For example, this recruitment may involve notifying all of the user's friends that a particular user is viewing a particular e-book, that is, that it is possible to view the same e-book together with that user.

[0066] The server communication means 26 is a functional means for sending and receiving information with each communication terminal device 3, 4.

[0067] ≪Functional means of communication terminal equipment≫ Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram showing an example of the functional means of communication terminal devices 3 and 4. As previously explained, one user operates the first communication terminal device 3 under one user account, and another user operates the second communication terminal device 4 under another user account.

[0068] As shown in Figure 5, the first communication terminal device 3 has a functional configuration comprising a first terminal storage means 30, a first display means 31, a first operating means 32, and a first terminal communication means 33. The second communication terminal device 4 has a functional configuration comprising a second terminal storage means 40, a second display means 41, a second operating means 42, and a second terminal communication means 43.

[0069] The terminal storage means 30 and 40 are implemented in the storage unit 13. Functional means other than the terminal storage means 30 and 40 are implemented by the main control unit 8 executing a portion of the e-book program 2A stored in the storage unit 13, etc. This portion of the e-book program 2A is downloaded and installed from the server device 2.

[0070] The first terminal storage means 30 has the function of storing first user account information 30A, etc. The first user account information 30A is information associated with a single user account ID. This includes, for example, a user's name, age, user book information, owned currency information, browsing information, friend information, etc.

[0071] User book information refers to the user book information for a single user account, that is, the information on ebooks that can be viewed under a single user account.

[0072] The owned currency information refers to the in-app currency owned by a single user account.

[0073] The browsing information includes information about a user's browsing history for each ebook included in the user's book information for a given user account.

[0074] Friend information includes the user accounts of a user's friends. In the first embodiment of the present invention, the friends include other users.

[0075] Point information includes points associated with a single user account. Title level information includes title levels associated with a single user account.

[0076] The first display means 31 is a functional means for displaying various screens. For example, it can display an ebook included in user book information so that it can be viewed under one user account, or it can display a screen that lists book information 20A (i.e., a screen related to purchasing ebooks), a screen that lists user book information for one user account, and various screens that contain other information included in user account information 30A.

[0077] The first operating means 32 is a functional means for performing various operations on each screen displayed on the first display means 31.

[0078] The first operating means 32 enables, for example, when the first display means 31 is displaying an ebook, operations such as turning pages (advancing to the next image), turning back pages (returning to the previous image), and zooming in on the displayed image (page). Furthermore, the first operating means 32 also enables operations such as turning pages, turning back pages, and zooming in on an ebook when the first display means 31 and the second display means 41 are displaying the same ebook together.

[0079] Furthermore, the first operating means 32 enables the user to purchase an ebook and add it to their user book information on a screen that displays a list of book information 20A shown on the first display means 31, or, under certain conditions, to add an ebook to their user book information without purchasing it. In addition, the first operating means 32 enables the user to select an ebook to view from the screen that displays a list of user book information shown on the first display means 31.

[0080] The first terminal communication means 33 (communication means) is a functional means for performing various communications with the server device 2 and the second communication terminal device 4.

[0081] The first terminal communication means 33 can, for example, download an ebook from the book information 20A of the server device 2, or communicate with the server device 2 or the cloud to view an ebook online without downloading it. Also, when the first terminal communication means 33 displays an ebook on the first display means 31, it transmits a message to the server device 2 to that effect.

[0082] Furthermore, the first terminal communication means 33 enables communication with a second communication terminal device 4, which displays an e-book on the second display means 41, when the first display means 31 and the second display means 41 are displaying an e-book. This communication allows for the transmission and reception of text information and / or audio information.

[0083] Furthermore, the second terminal storage means 40, the second display means 41, the second operation means 42, and the second terminal communication means 43 differ in some respects from the first terminal storage means 30, the first display means 31, the first operation means 32, and the first terminal communication means 33 due to the different user accounts. The following will focus on explaining the differences.

[0084] The second terminal storage means 40 has the function of storing second user account information 40A, etc. The second user account information 40A is information associated with other user account IDs. This includes, for example, the other user's name, age, user book information, owned currency information, browsing information, friend information, etc.

[0085] The second display means 41 can display a screen that publicizes the recruitment by the recruitment means 25 through the operation of the second operation means 42. This screen will be described later. The second display means 41 is also a functional means that, when the permission means 22 allows another user account to view the same ebook together with one user account, makes that ebook viewable by the other user account.

[0086] The second operating means 42 is a functional means for performing various operations on each screen displayed on the second display means 41. For example, when the second display means 41 displays a screen announcing the above-mentioned recruitment, the second operating means 42 can perform an application to view one ebook together with one user account.

[0087] However, the second operating means 42 shall not be able to perform page-turning and page-reversing operations on the e-book when the first display means 31 and the second display means 41 are displaying the same e-book as a result of the above application being permitted by the permission means 22 (however, zooming operations may be permitted).

[0088] The second terminal communication means 43 (communication means) is a functional means that enables communication between the first communication terminal device 3, on which the first display means 31 displays an e-book, and the second display means 41, when the first display means 31 and the second display means 41 are both displaying an e-book.

[0089] <<Processing Flow>> Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process when one user and another user view an ebook together in the ebook system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Note that in the flowchart of Figure 6, there is assumed to be one second communication terminal device 4, but there may be multiple second communication terminal devices 4. Furthermore, the order and content of the following steps can be changed as appropriate.

[0090] (Step SP1) A user purchases an ebook from the book information 20A stored in the server storage means 20 using the first operating means 32 of the first communication terminal device 3. After step SP1 is completed, the process moves on to step SP2.

[0091] (Step SP2) The display means 31 of the first communication terminal device 3 displays an e-book, and a user views it. This viewing status is transmitted from the first terminal communication means 33 to the server communication means 26 of the server device 2. This viewing status is maintained until the processing of step SP9, described later, is performed. After step SP2 is completed, the process moves on to step SP3.

[0092] (Step SP3) The recruitment means 25 of the server device 2 recruits other user accounts to view a single e-book together with one user account. This recruitment is carried out, for example, by displaying a list screen as shown in Figure 7 or by sending a pop-up notification in the second display means 41 of multiple second communication terminal devices 4.

[0093] Figure 7 shows an example of a list screen 51 for an e-book that recruits friend users to view together with one user. The list screen 51 may also be displayed on the second display means 41 when, for example, another user operates it using the second operating means 42 of the second communication terminal device 4.

[0094] The list screen 51 includes a first area 52 where a thumbnail image of the ebook is displayed, which is intended to find friends to view with the user; a second area 53 where basic information about the ebook (title and volume number) is displayed; a third area 54 showing the number of people currently viewing the ebook; and a button 55 for requesting to become friends (a button labeled "Join").

[0095] Furthermore, the third area 54 also displays the maximum number of friend users that can be viewed together with the host user. For example, if it displays "3 / 5 people" as in Figure 7, "3" indicates the number of friend users currently viewing together with the host user, and "5" indicates the maximum number of friend users that can be viewed together with the host user. Note that these numbers may also include the host user. After step SP3 is completed, the process moves on to step SP4.

[0096] (Step SP4) Another user can request to view an ebook by clicking button 55 on the list screen 51 shown in Figure 7 using the second operating means 42 of the second communication terminal device 4. However, if the number of friends viewing the ebook with the first user has already reached the maximum limit, such a request cannot be made. After step SP4 is completed, the process moves on to step SP5.

[0097] (Step SP5) The server communication means 26 of the server device 2 notifies the first communication terminal device 3 of some of the information (such as names) of other user accounts that were requested in step SP5. After step SP5 is completed, the process moves on to step SP6.

[0098] (Step SP6) One user decides, using the operating means 32 of the first communication terminal device 3, to view an e-book together with another user account that has applied. Information about this decision is also transmitted to the server device 2. After step SP6 is completed, the process moves on to step SP7.

[0099] (Step SP7) The authorization means 22 of the server device 2 grants other user accounts permission to view one ebook together with one user. However, this permission is only valid while the first display means 31 of the first communication terminal device 3 is displaying one ebook. After step SP7 is completed, the process moves on to step SP8.

[0100] (Step SP8) Other users share the same ebook with one other user. In other words, while the first display means 31 of the first communication terminal device 3 displays one e-book so that one user account can view it, the second display means 41 of the second communication terminal device 4 displays the same e-book so that other user accounts can view it.

[0101] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which the first communication terminal device 3 and the second communication terminal device 4 display the same e-book together (at the same time).

[0102] As shown in Figure 8, the first display means 31 of the first communication terminal device 3 and the second display means 41 of the second communication terminal device 4 are displaying the same image (page) 61 of the same ebook. This ebook is the one for which button 55 was clicked on the list screen 51 in Figure 6.

[0103] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, the first display means 31 of the first communication terminal device 3 and the second display means 41 of the second communication terminal device 4 display a chat field 62 below the image 61.

[0104] The chat field 62 displays the text information (so-called chat) that is sent and received between the first terminal communication means 33 of the first communication terminal device 3 and the second terminal communication means 43 of the second communication terminal device 4. The chat information sent and received between the two devices is displayed in the chat field 62 in real time.

[0105] Furthermore, the first terminal communication means 33 and the second terminal communication means 43 can transmit and receive voice information (so-called voice chat) input through their respective microphones 10B, in addition to text information. The voice information transmitted and received between them is output in real time through the speaker 14. Furthermore, the first terminal communication means 33 and the second terminal communication means 43 may be capable of sending and receiving video and audio information (so-called video chat) input by their respective cameras 10A and microphones 10B. The video and audio information sent and received between them is output in real time by the display 9A and speaker 14. Furthermore, the first terminal communication means 33 and the second terminal communication means 43 may be configured to transmit and receive still image information input by their respective cameras 10A. The still image information transmitted and received between them is output in real time on the display 9A. After step SP8 is completed, the process moves on to step SP9.

[0106] (Step SP9) The first display means 31 of the first communication terminal device 3 finishes displaying an e-book, and a user finishes viewing the said e-book. After step SP9 is completed, the process moves on to step SP10.

[0107] (Step SP10) When one user, who is the host user, finishes viewing, the authorization means 22 of the server device 2 denies the second display means 41 of the second communication terminal device 4 from displaying the first ebook. After step SP10 is completed, the process moves on to step SP11.

[0108] (Step SP11) The second communication terminal device 4 prohibits the second user from viewing the first e-book. Specifically, the second display means 41 of the second communication terminal device 4 stops displaying the ebook, and other users end their viewing. After step SP11 is completed, the process will terminate.

[0109] ≪Effects≫ As described above, the program according to the first embodiment of the present invention is a program that makes one ebook selected by one user's account from among one or more ebooks stored in a server device 2 viewable by that user's account, and the computer functions as a first display means 31 that enables the display of one ebook in viewable by one user's account, an authorization means 22 that permits one or more other users to view one ebook while the first display means 31 is displaying one ebook, a second display means 41 that enables the display of one ebook in viewable by other users' accounts when authorized by the authorization means 22, and a restriction means 23 that sets a predetermined restriction (first predetermined restriction) when the authorization means 22 grants authorization.

[0110] This configuration allows multiple users to view an ebook purchased by one user together, thus suppressing the demand for illegal uploads. This protects the dignity of ebook authors. Furthermore, by imposing certain restrictions on shared viewing, the authors' interests can be guaranteed.

[0111] Furthermore, in the program according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the ebook contains entertainment-related content.

[0112] This configuration makes it easier to create excitement when viewed by multiple users.

[0113] Furthermore, the program according to the first embodiment of the present invention further functions as a recruitment means 25 that recruits accounts of other users to be allowed to view an e-book by the permission means 22 while the first display means 31 is displaying an e-book.

[0114] This configuration makes it possible to widely disseminate the program according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Furthermore, the program according to the first embodiment of the present invention further functions the computer as a communication means (terminal communication means 33, 34) that enables communication for sending and receiving text information and / or audio information between a first communication terminal device 3 on which one ebook is displayed by the first display means 31 and a second communication terminal device 4 on which one ebook is displayed by the second display means 41, when the first display means 31 and the second display means 41 are both displaying one ebook.

[0116] This configuration allows users to discuss their impressions and thoughts about the ebooks they are reading with other users, leading to a more engaging and productive experience.

[0117] Furthermore, in the program according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the authorization means 22 allows multiple other user accounts to view an ebook while the first display means 31 is displaying one ebook.

[0118] This configuration allows for a more engaging experience when multiple users are viewing ebooks together.

[0119] Furthermore, the program according to the first embodiment of the present invention further functions the computer as a first operating means 32 that enables page-turning and page-reversing operations of a single e-book, but only for one user account, when the first display means 31 and the second display means 41 are displaying a single e-book.

[0120] This configuration allows only one user to perform page-turning and page-rewinding operations, thereby improving convenience for that user and increasing their motivation to purchase ebooks.

[0121] Furthermore, the program according to the first embodiment of the present invention further causes the computer to function as a storage means (server storage means 20) for storing the viewing status when the first display means 31 and the second display means 41 are displaying one ebook, a determination means 24 for determining whether or not the user has viewed up to the last page of the ebook based on the viewing status stored in the storage means, and a second operation means 42 for enabling page-turning and page-reversing operations of the ebook in another user's account if the determination means 24 makes a positive determination.

[0122] With this configuration, other users can also perform page-turning and page-rewinding operations for ebooks that have been read to the end, thus improving convenience for other users.

[0123] Furthermore, the information processing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is an information processing device that makes one ebook selected by one user's account from among one or more ebooks stored in a server device 2 viewable by one user's account, and comprises: a first display means 31 that enables the display of one ebook on a first communication terminal device 3 so that it can be viewed by one user's account; an authorization means 22 that allows one or more other users' accounts to view one ebook while the first display means 31 is displaying one ebook; a second display means 41 that enables the display of one ebook so that it can be viewed by other users' accounts when authorized by the authorization means 22; and a restriction means 23 that sets predetermined restrictions when the authorization means 22 grants authorization.

[0124] This configuration allows multiple users to view an ebook purchased by one user together, thus suppressing the demand for illegal uploads. This protects the dignity of ebook authors. Furthermore, by imposing certain restrictions on shared viewing, the authors' interests can be guaranteed.

[0125] ===Second Embodiment=== Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0126] The second embodiment of the present invention differs from the first embodiment in that, instead of one user and another user viewing the ebook together, one user lends the ebook to another user. In the following description, points that overlap with the configuration and functions of the ebook system 1 according to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0127] In the second embodiment of the present invention, one e-book that is purchased by a user account and becomes viewable by that user account from among one or more e-books stored in the server device 72 is referred to as a "purchased book".

[0128] <<Means of Server Device Functionality>> Figure 9 is a schematic block diagram showing an example of the functional means of the server device 72.

[0129] As shown in Figure 9, the server device 72 has a functional configuration comprising a server storage means 20, a control means 21, an authorization means 82, a restriction means 83, a recruitment means 85, and a server communication means 26. Of these, the control means 21 and the server communication means 26 are the same as in the first embodiment, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0130] The authorization means 82 is a functional means that allows other user accounts to view purchased books (from one user account), and prevents the one user account from viewing those purchased books during the permitted period. In other words, the authorization means 82 processes the lending of purchased books from one user account to another user account. This period will be referred to as the "lending period" below.

[0131] Furthermore, the term "lending" as used above may refer to, for example, the process of unlinking the information of a purchased book from one user account ID and simultaneously linking the information of the purchased book to another user account ID. Alternatively, it may refer to prohibiting the display of the purchased book by the first display means 31 without unlinking the information of the purchased book from one user account ID (by outputting a signal prohibiting this from the server device 72 to the first communication terminal device 3), or any other process.

[0132] Furthermore, the authorization means 82 prevents other user accounts from continuing to view the purchased book after the loan period for the purchased book has ended, while allowing one user account to view the purchased book.

[0133] Furthermore, if a user account has multiple purchased books, the authorization means 82 may allow other user accounts to view other purchased books during the loan period in which one of those purchased books is permitted to be viewed by another user account.

[0134] The restricting means 83 imposes a second predetermined restriction on the permitting means 82 to permit the viewing of other purchased books in the accounts of users other than the other user's account during a second predetermined period during which the permitting means 82 permits the viewing of one purchased book in the account of another user.

[0135] The second set of restrictions may include limiting the number of times a purchased book can be lent to other user accounts or limiting the number of user accounts to which it can be lent, per second set of period intervals (for example, "up to 15 times per month," "up to 10 people per month," etc.).

[0136] Furthermore, the restriction measure 83 modifies the second predetermined restriction according to the release date of the purchased book. For example, a newly released book (i.e., a new publication) may be subject to a stricter second predetermined restriction than other purchased books (for example, up to five people for the first month after release).

[0137] The recruitment means 85 is a functional means for recruiting other user accounts that wish to borrow books purchased by one user account. For example, this recruitment may involve notifying all of the user's friends that a purchased book is currently on loan. Alternatively, it may be possible to switch whether or not to conduct a recruitment for each purchased book in response to an operation of the first operation means 32, which will be described later.

[0138] ≪Functional means of communication terminal equipment≫ In a second embodiment of the present invention, the first operating means 32 (see Figure 5) enables the determination of the above-mentioned loan period for a single user account.

[0139] Furthermore, the second display means 41 (see Figure 5) of the second communication terminal device 4, which is operated by another user account, enables the purchased books to be displayed for viewing by the other user's account when permission is granted by the permission means 82.

[0140] <<Processing Flow>> Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which one user lends a purchased book to another user in an e-book system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Note that while the flowchart in Figure 10 assumes there is only one second communication terminal device 4, there may be multiple second communication terminal devices 4. Furthermore, the order and content of the following steps can be changed as appropriate.

[0141] (Step SP21) A user purchases an ebook from the book information 20A stored in the server device 2 using the first operating means 32 of the first communication terminal device 3. This ebook becomes a purchased book. After step SP21 is completed, the process moves on to step SP22.

[0142] (Step SP22) The recruitment means 25 of the server device 2 recruits other user accounts that wish to borrow purchased books. This recruitment is carried out, for example, by displaying a list screen as shown in Figures 11 and 12, or by sending a pop-up notification, on the second display means 41 of multiple second communication terminal devices 4.

[0143] Figure 11 shows an example of a list screen 91 of other users' friend users (including one user). The list screen 91 may be displayed on the second display means 41 when, for example, another user operates the second operating means 42 of the second communication terminal device 4.

[0144] Within the list screen 91, there is a button 92 to move to the list screen 96 described later, a fourth area 93 on the button 92 where a thumbnail image of a user is displayed, a fifth area 94 where information such as the name of a user is displayed, and a sixth area 95 which indicates that a user has purchased books that are available for lending, each of which is provided for each friend user (including the first user).

[0145] Figure 12 shows an example of a user's list screen 96 of purchased books. At the top of the list screen 96 are the fourth area 93 and the fifth area 94. Below these is the seventh area 97, which displays a list of books purchased by a single user. The seventh area 97 displays images 98, 100 of the covers of the purchased books, and the user can scroll to view the covers of multiple purchased books.

[0146] Images 98 of the covers of purchased books that one user has already lent to another user indicate that they are currently on loan. Additionally, below each image 98 in the seventh area 97, there is an eighth area 99 that displays the loan period for each image.

[0147] The image 100 of the cover of a purchased book that a user has not lent to any other user, i.e., is available for loan, has the function of a button, and another user clicking on the image 100 corresponds to requesting to borrow that purchased book. In addition, below the image 100 in the seventh area 97, there is a ninth area 101 that indicates whether the book is available for loan. After step SP22 is completed, the process moves on to step SP23.

[0148] (Step SP23) Another user can apply to borrow a purchased book by clicking on the image 100 shown in Figure 12 using the second operating means 42 of the second communication terminal device 4. After step SP23 is completed, the process moves on to step SP24.

[0149] (Step SP24) The server communication means 26 of the server device 72 notifies the first communication terminal device 3 of the information (name, etc.) of the other user account that was requested in step SP5. After step SP24 is completed, the process moves on to step SP25.

[0150] (Step SP25) One user, using the operating means 32 of the first communication terminal device 3, determines that another user account that has applied will be the recipient of the purchased books. Information regarding this decision is also transmitted to the server device 72.

[0151] However, the first communication terminal device 3 may further be equipped with a determination means (not shown) as a functional means for automatically determining other user accounts that have applied to be borrowed as recipients of purchased books. Furthermore, this determination means does not need to set any conditions when determining other user accounts that have applied to be borrowed as recipients; in that case, for each purchased book, the user account that applied earliest will be determined as the recipient. After step SP25 is completed, the process moves on to step SP26.

[0152] Steps SP26 and SP27 below describe the process of lending purchased books from one user account to another user account.

[0153] (Step SP26) The authorization means 82 of the server device 72 prevents a single user account from viewing the purchased book. After step SP26 is completed, the process proceeds to step SP27.

[0154] (Step SP27) The authorization means 82 of the server device 72 allows other user accounts to view purchased books. Steps SP26 and SP27 may be performed simultaneously, or they may be performed in reverse order. After step SP27 is completed, the process moves on to step SP28.

[0155] (Step SP28) The display means 41 of the second communication terminal device 4 displays the borrowed purchased book, which other users can then view. Other users can freely view and stop viewing the book as many times as they like during the loan period, starting from the completion of step SP26 or step SP27. After step SP28 is completed, the process moves on to step SP29.

[0156] Steps SP29 and SP30 below are the process of returning purchased books from one user account to another user account.

[0157] (Step SP29) The authorization means 82 of the server device 72 denies the second display means 41 of the second communication terminal device 4 from displaying purchased books. After step SP29 is completed, the process moves on to step SP30.

[0158] (Step SP30) The authorization means 82 of the server device 72 grants permission for a user account to view purchased books. Steps SP29 and SP30 may be performed simultaneously, or in the reverse order. After step SP30 is completed, the process moves on to step SP31.

[0159] (Step SP31) The display means 31 of the first communication terminal device 3 displays the purchased books, and a user views them. After step SP31 is completed, the process will terminate.

[0160] ≪Effects≫ The program according to the second embodiment of the present invention is a program that allows a purchased book, which is an e-book purchased under one user's account from among one or more e-books stored in the server device 72, to be viewed under that user's account. The program functions as a permission means 82 that allows the computer to view the purchased book under another user's account, and prevents the first user from viewing the purchased book under that user's account during the permitted period, and a display means (second display means 41) that, when permitted by the permission means 82, makes the purchased book viewable under another user's account.

[0161] This configuration allows users to lend and borrow ebooks from each other, thereby suppressing the demand for illegal uploads. This protects the dignity of ebook authors. Furthermore, just like lending and borrowing physical books, the lender cannot view the ebook while it is lent to someone else, which prevents a decline in users' motivation to purchase ebooks and guarantees the authors' interests.

[0162] In the program according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the authorization means 82 prevents the viewing of purchased books borrowed under another user's account after the above period has ended, while allowing the viewing of said purchased books under one user's account.

[0163] This configuration minimizes the disadvantages incurred by users who lend out ebooks, thereby ensuring their motivation to lend out ebooks.

[0164] The program according to the second embodiment of the present invention further functions as an operating means (first operating means 32) that enables the determination of the above period under the account of one user.

[0165] This configuration improves the convenience of lending out ebooks.

[0166] In the program according to the second embodiment of the present invention, if there are multiple purchased books in one user's account, the permission means 82 can, during the period in which it is permitted to view one of the purchased books in another user's account, allow other purchased books to be viewed in accounts of users other than the other user's account, and the computer further functions as a restriction means 83 that imposes a predetermined restriction (a second predetermined restriction) on the permission means 82 to allow other purchased books to be viewed in accounts of users other than the other user's account during the period in which the permission means 82 is permitted to view one of the purchased books in another user's account.

[0167] This configuration allows for the protection of authors' interests by imposing restrictions on lending multiple ebooks to multiple users.

[0168] The program according to the second embodiment of the present invention further functions as a restriction means 83 that sets predetermined restrictions when the authorization means 82 allows another user's account to view purchased books, and changes the predetermined restrictions according to the release date of the purchased books.

[0169] According to this structure, the author's interests can be protected by modifying the restrictions, such as making the restrictions stricter for newly released ebooks than for other ebooks.

[0170] The information processing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention is an information processing device that allows a user to view purchased books, which are ebooks purchased under one user's account, from among one or more ebooks stored in a server device 72, under the account of that user, and includes a permission means 82 that allows other users to view the purchased books under their accounts, and prevents the user from viewing the purchased books under their account during the period during which permission is granted, and a display means (second display means 41) that, when permitted by the permission means 82, makes the purchased books viewable under the account of other users.

[0171] This configuration allows users to lend and borrow ebooks from each other, thereby suppressing the demand for illegal uploads. This protects the dignity of ebook authors. Furthermore, just like lending and borrowing physical books, the lender cannot view the ebook while it is lent to someone else, which prevents a decline in users' motivation to purchase ebooks and guarantees the authors' interests.

[0172] ===Third Embodiment=== Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0173] The third embodiment of the present invention differs from the first and second embodiments in that it provides a reward to a user when they allow another user to view a particular e-book. In the following description, points that overlap with the configuration and functions of the e-book system 1 according to the first or second embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0174] In a third embodiment of the present invention, one e-book selected by a user account from among one or more e-books stored in the server device 102 is made viewable by that user account.

[0175] <<Means of Server Device Functionality>> Figure 13 is a schematic block diagram showing an example of the functional means of the server device 102.

[0176] As shown in Figure 13, the server device 102 has a functional configuration comprising a server storage means 20, a control means 21, an authorization means 22, a restriction means 23, an granting means 114, a level management means 116, and a server communication means 26. Of these, the control means 21 and the server communication means 26 are the same as in the first and second embodiments, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0177] Furthermore, the permitting means 22 and the restricting means 23 may be replaced with the permitting means 82 and the restricting means 83. Since these are the same as those in the first or second embodiment, their explanation will be omitted.

[0178] Furthermore, the book information 20A stored in the server storage means 20 includes other ebooks related to one ebook. Here, "related" refers to, for example, a relationship where one work has multiple volumes and each volume contains the others, or a relationship where one is a spin-off (derived work) of the other.

[0179] Furthermore, the user account information 20B stored in the server storage means 20 includes, in addition to the information described in the first embodiment, title level information and point information.

[0180] Point information includes information that includes the points associated with each user account. Title level information includes information that includes the title level associated with each user account. The title level changes according to the points, and preferably, points contribute to an increase in the title level. For example, the title level may increase by one each time the points reach a predetermined value.

[0181] The higher the title level, the more advantages you may receive when purchasing ebooks (discounts or higher discount rates), the more free currency you receive, and the more ebook exchange vouchers you get. Title levels can be expressed as words, such as beginner, intermediate, and advanced, or as numbers, such as 1, 2, and 3. Alternatively, a combination of numbers and words, such as first dan, second dan, and third dan, is also acceptable.

[0182] The rewarding means 114 grants a reward to a user account when the second display means 41 of the second communication terminal device 4 makes an ebook selected by one user account available for viewing by another user account.

[0183] For example, the rewarding means 114 grants a reward to a user account when the second display means 41 of the second communication terminal device 4 displays an e-book while the first display means 31 is displaying it, as in the first embodiment.

[0184] Alternatively, the rewarding means 114 may grant a reward to a user account when the second display means 41 of the second communication terminal device 4 displays an ebook, i.e., a purchased book, for a user account, as in the second embodiment.

[0185] Furthermore, the rewarding means 114 may grant a reward to a user account if, after the second display means 41 of the second communication terminal device 4 displays as described above, another user account purchases another ebook related to one ebook.

[0186] The above rewards may be free currency, paid currency, points, or vouchers that can be exchanged for ebooks free of charge.

[0187] Alternatively, if the ebooks included in book information 20A are available for purchase using in-app currency, the above reward may be a right to reduce the amount of in-app currency consumed when purchasing new ebooks during the third specified period. In this case, the ebooks subject to the right may not be the latest publications.

[0188] The level management means 116 manages the title level associated with each user account (for example, one user account). Furthermore, as already described, the level management means 116 changes the title level according to the points awarded by the awarding means 114. The level management means 116 may, for example, increase the title level by one each time the points reach a predetermined value.

[0189] Figure 14 shows an example of the My Page screen 120. The My Page screen 120 may be displayed on the first display means 31 when, for example, a user operates it using the first operating means 32 of the first communication terminal device 3 (see Figure 5 for the first display means 31 and the first operating means 32).

[0190] The My Page screen 120 displays a portion of the user account information 30A. Specifically, as shown in Figure 14, the My Page screen 120 includes the fourth area 93 and fifth area 94 that have already been described. Furthermore, the My Page screen 120 includes the tenth area 121 which shows points etc. associated with a user account, the eleventh area 122 which shows exchange tickets etc., and the twelfth area 123 which shows title levels etc. Although not shown in the figure, there may also be an area that shows in-app currency etc.

[0191] ≪Functional means of communication terminal equipment≫ In the third embodiment of the present invention, the communication terminal devices 3 and 4, similar to the first embodiment, have a second display means 41 that, when permitted by the authorization means 22, enables the display of one e-book in viewable format under another user's account.

[0192] Furthermore, user account information 30A and 40A shall include the title level information and point information mentioned above.

[0193] <<Processing Flow>> Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which one user lends a purchased book to another user in an e-book system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Note that while the flowchart in Figure 15 assumes there is only one second communication terminal device 4, there may be multiple second communication terminal devices 4. Furthermore, the order and content of the following steps can be changed as appropriate.

[0194] Furthermore, the flowchart in Figure 15 is almost identical to the flowchart in Figure 6 up to step SP11. The differences are that in step SP8, the users are viewing the data together, and in step SP11, the server device 102 is notified that the viewing has ended. The explanation of the other steps up to step SP11 is omitted.

[0195] (Step SP32) Another user purchases an ebook related to an ebook purchased by one user from the book information 20A stored in the server storage means 20 using the second operating means 42 of the second communication terminal device 4. The purchased information is transmitted from the terminal communication means 43 of the second communication terminal device 4 to the server communication means 26 of the server device 102. After step SP32 is completed, the process moves on to step SP33.

[0196] (Step SP33) The reward granting means 114 grants a reward to a user account. For example, if the reward is points, this may involve overwriting the points associated with a user account contained in the user account information 20B and transmitting that information from the server communication means 26 to the first terminal communication means 33. After step SP42 is completed, the process ends.

[0197] ≪Effects≫ The program according to the third embodiment of the present invention is a program that allows one user to view one ebook selected by one user's account from among one or more ebooks stored in a server device 102, and causes the computer to function as an authorization means 22 (or authorization means 82) that allows other users to view the ebook, a display means (second display means 41) that enables the display of the ebook so that it can be viewed by other users' accounts when authorized by the authorization means 22 (or authorization means 82), and a reward means 114 that grants a reward to one user's account when the display means displays the ebook.

[0198] This configuration allows for the suppression of illegal uploads of ebooks and the protection of the dignity of ebook authors by rewarding a user when they allow other users to view an ebook they own.

[0199] The program according to the third embodiment of the present invention further functions as a restriction means 23 (or restriction means 83) that imposes predetermined restrictions when the authorization means 22 (or authorization means 82) allows another user's account to view an ebook (or purchased book).

[0200] This configuration allows a user to protect the author's interests by imposing certain restrictions on granting other users permission to view their e-books.

[0201] In the third embodiment of the present invention, the program stores other ebooks related to one ebook in the server device, and the granting means 114 grants a reward to one user's account by purchasing other ebooks in other users' accounts after the display means (second display means 41) has displayed one ebook.

[0202] Under this configuration, if an ebook that one user has granted access to is viewed by another user, and then that user purchases the ebook, the first user is rewarded. This encourages the first user to prioritize granting access to ebooks of high interest. As a result, highly interesting ebooks become more widely known and their purchase opportunities increase. Therefore, it is possible to protect the dignity of authors while guaranteeing their profits.

[0203] In the third embodiment of the present invention, a program allows an ebook to be purchased by consuming in-app currency, and the reward is the right to reduce the amount of in-app currency consumed when purchasing a new ebook during a predetermined period (third predetermined period).

[0204] Under this configuration, one user can purchase new ebooks at a low cost by allowing other users to view ebooks that they have authorized. Therefore, one user will be more likely to actively allow other users to view their ebooks. Consequently, illegal uploading of ebooks can be more effectively suppressed.

[0205] The program according to the third embodiment of the present invention assumes that the new e-book subject to the rights is not the latest issue.

[0206] This structure ensures that authors' profits are protected by making it impossible to purchase the latest edition at a low price.

[0207] The program according to the third embodiment of the present invention further functions as a level management means 116 that manages levels associated with a user's account, where the reward is points that contribute to level increases, and the higher the level, the more advantageous it is for a user's account when purchasing new ebooks.

[0208] According to this configuration, the more often a user grants other users permission to view their ebooks, the more likely that user is to purchase new ebooks, thus increasing the user's motivation to grant such permission.

[0209] An information processing device according to a third embodiment of the present invention is an information processing device that allows one user to view one ebook selected by one user's account from among one or more ebooks stored in a server device 102, and comprises: permission means 22 (or permission means 82) that permits other users to view the ebook; display means (second display means 41) that enables the display of the ebook so that it can be viewed by other users' accounts when permitted by permission means 22 (or permission means 82); and grant means 114 that grants a reward to one user's account when the display means displays the ebook.

[0210] This configuration allows for the suppression of illegal uploads of ebooks and the protection of the dignity of ebook authors by rewarding a user when they allow other users to view an ebook they own.

[0211] ===Literal translation=== It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described examples. That is, designs modified by those skilled in the art to the above-described examples are also included within the scope of the present invention, as long as they retain the features of the present invention. Furthermore, the elements of the embodiments described above and the modifications described later can be combined to the extent that it is technically possible, and combinations thereof are also included within the scope of the present invention, as long as they retain the features of the present invention.

[0212] For example, in the first embodiment of the present invention, the permission means 22 was described as allowing another user to view an ebook that one user is currently viewing together with that user. However, instead, permission may be granted for another user to view an ebook after the first user has finished viewing it.

[0213] Furthermore, while the second embodiment of the present invention described the processing of purchased books purchased by a single user account, the books may also be owned without being purchased under certain conditions, or they may be rented.

[0214] Furthermore, in the third embodiment of the present invention, the rewarding means 114 was described as granting a reward to one user account, but in addition to one user account, the reward may also be granted to the author of the ebook that the one user account allows to view.

[0215] Furthermore, in the third embodiment of the present invention, the rewarding means 114 was described as granting a reward to one user when another user purchases an ebook that one user has viewed. However, the rewarding means 114 may grant a reward to one user only if the period between the end of viewing and the purchase is within a certain time frame.

[0216] Furthermore, in a third embodiment of the present invention, the second display means 41 displays one e-book or purchased book, as in the first or second embodiment, and then when another user purchases another e-book related to that e-book or purchased book in another user account, the granting means 114 grants a reward to that user account. However, instead of purchasing another e-book related to one e-book in another user account, the granting means 114 may grant a reward to the user account when another e-book is displayed while the first display means 31 is displaying, or when another purchased book in one user account is borrowed, as in the second embodiment.

[0217] Furthermore, although the second embodiment of the present invention was described assuming that there is one user account for each purchased book, it is also possible to set up multiple lenders for each purchased book.

[0218] Furthermore, in the flowchart-based explanations for each embodiment, it is assumed that when another user account applies for the recruitment, the processes of "notifying the applicant user" (step SP5 in Figures 6 and 15 and SP24 in Figure 10) and "determining the user" (SP6 in Figures 6 and 15 and SP25 in Figure 10) are performed. However, these processes may be omitted. If omitted, the permission means 22,82 will make a judgment on whether to grant (or deny) permission to view the application to the applicant user account.

[0219] Furthermore, in each embodiment, for convenience, multiple user accounts were distinguished as one user account and other user accounts, and multiple communication terminal devices were distinguished as a first communication terminal device 3 and a second communication terminal device 4. However, these do not distinguish between specific user accounts or specific communication terminal devices. Therefore, a user account described as "other user accounts" could be one user account, and a communication terminal device described as the second communication terminal device 4 could be one communication terminal device 3. Moreover, the relationship between one user account and other user accounts may be reversed for each e-book, and the relationship between the first communication terminal device 3 and the second communication terminal device 4 may also be reversed.

[0220] Furthermore, in addition to the configurations described in each embodiment, the present invention may also include control means for generating a screen containing one or more questions related to the display of an e-book (for example, an e-book included in book information 20A) in the server device 2 and / or the communication terminal devices 3 and 4. Moreover, the screen may be displayed on the display means 31 and 41, respectively, upon each user's first access (first login by each user account). In this case, each user can answer the question using the operating means 32, 42. The data for the question may also be stored in the server storage means 20 and / or the terminal storage means 30. Furthermore, the server device 2 and / or the communication terminal devices 3 and 4 may be equipped with setting means for configuring the screens that display means 31 and 41 will then display, respectively, according to the answers each user provides to the questions. The various components of this screen include, for example, the direction of scrolling (vertical scrolling, horizontal scrolling), and the genre and direction of the recommended ebooks (prioritizing those viewable without consuming paid currency, prioritizing specific works, etc.). Furthermore, the above questions may be skipped by each user using the operation means 32, 42, and the configuration of the screen set by each user during their first access may be reset for subsequent accesses. The above configuration allows for the display of screens tailored to the user's preferences, improving convenience and thus increasing the service retention rate.

[0221] Furthermore, in addition to the configurations described in each embodiment, the present invention may also include control means for generating screens with game elements such as quizzes and / or voting related to the content of ebooks, provided that are provided in the server device 2 and / or communication terminal devices 3 and 4. Moreover, these screens may be displayed on the display means 31 and 41, respectively. The quiz and / or poll may take the form of questions such as, "What is a popular manga series where the protagonist does XX?" or "What line did the protagonist say to the enemy after fighting XX?" In this case, each user may answer the quiz and / or the vote using the operating means 32, 42. Furthermore, the data for the quiz and / or the vote may be stored in the server storage means 20 and / or the terminal storage means 30. Furthermore, in this case, the rewarding means 114 in the third embodiment may also be used to reward the user account of the user who answered the quiz and the vote. Furthermore, such rewards may be in the form of free currency, artwork related to ebooks, badges, or virtual trading cards, etc. The above configuration allows users to deepen their understanding of the ebook's content and to become interested in it.

[0222] Furthermore, in the third embodiment described above, a user's points and title level change when another user purchases an ebook. However, the awarding means 114 in the third embodiment may award points by category, and the level management means 116 may also manage multiple title levels for each category. For example, in addition to the points and title levels described in the third embodiment, points and title levels may be set up that change each time a user purchases an ebook. Furthermore, points and title levels may be set up that change each time a user presses the "like" button on another user's comment, etc. Furthermore, the awarding means 114 may also award a badge to a user each time that user answers or correctly answers a specific quiz, in addition to the points that contribute to the change in the title level.

[0223] Furthermore, in addition to the configurations described in each embodiment, the present invention may also include control means for setting various achievements in the server device 2 and / or the communication terminal devices 3 and 4. Moreover, the control means may generate a screen displaying each achievement and whether the achievement has been achieved or not. Furthermore, the display means 31 and 41 may display the screen, respectively. Furthermore, the rewarding means 114 of the third embodiment described above may also be configured to reward each user each time they achieve an achievement. Furthermore, various types of achievements may be provided, each offering different rewards. Furthermore, it is preferable that the types of achievements be related to each user's actions toward ebooks, such as the number of correct answers and correct answer rate in quizzes, the number of comments posted on ebooks, the amount of support given to ebook authors, and the length of subscription periods for specific ebooks.

[0224] Furthermore, in addition to the configurations described in each embodiment, the present invention may also include control means in the server device 2 and / or communication terminal devices 3, 4 that generate a screen that allows friend users to check each other's access status and the e-books they are currently viewing (displaying), and a screen that allows them to check whether friend users are currently viewing (displaying) each e-book. Furthermore, the control means may also generate a screen in which friend users can "like" ebooks and comments from friend users (comments entered by operating the operation means 42) are displayed in real time. Furthermore, the screen may be displayed on the display means 31 and 41, respectively. Furthermore, the control means may also provide an information field within the screen described above for each e-book, based on the viewing status (display status) of each e-book, indicating the popularity of the e-book, such as "Popular title" or "Number of viewers has exceeded XXX." Furthermore, "based on viewing status (display status)" may also mean, for example, when the cumulative number of views (views) reaches a predetermined number, when the cumulative number reaches a predetermined number within a certain period, or when the cumulative number reaches a predetermined number among the target user's friends. Furthermore, the control means described above may also enable each user to recommend specific ebooks to their friends. Furthermore, if a friend user who has been recommended an ebook by a user purchases that ebook, the user who made the recommendation may be able to receive a reward. The above configuration can enhance the enjoyment users feel when browsing ebooks with their friends.

[0225] Furthermore, in addition to the configurations described in each embodiment, the present invention may also allow users to move icons on the screen or mark on the screen by operating the operating means 32 and 42 while each user is viewing an e-book, that is, while each display means 31 and 41 is displaying an e-book. Moreover, as in the first embodiment described above, even when one user and another user are viewing the same page (image) of the same e-book together, the one user and the other user may perform similar operations using the operating means 32 and 42. The above configuration makes it possible to improve the convenience of viewing ebooks and enable real-time communication between friends.

[0226] Furthermore, the present invention may include control means that extracts the most popular page (image) for each ebook based on each user's browsing history, chat history, voice chat history, etc., and sets up a screen that displays a digest of this page for each ebook. The screen may then be displayed on the display means 31 and 41, respectively.

[0227] Furthermore, in addition to the configurations described in each embodiment, the present invention may also allow each user to enlarge a portion (i.e., a part of the e-book screen) specified by the operation means 32, 42 (by tapping, etc.) while viewing an e-book, that is, while the display means 31, 41 are displaying the e-book (provided the user is operating the operation means 32, 42). In this case, the displayed screen may be positioned so as not to be obstructed by the user's hands or fingers operating the operation means 32, 42. Furthermore, the screen may return to its original size when the operation of the operation means 32, 42 is stopped (when the hands or fingers are released). Furthermore, the magnification ratio may be set by the user. Furthermore, metadata such as panel layout and dialogue position may be stored in the server storage means 20 and / or terminal storage means 30 for each page of the ebook, dynamically analyzed by the control means, and the control means may adjust the area to be enlarged according to the metadata and the user's tap position. The above configuration allows for easy switching between viewing the whole and details, providing a comfortable browsing experience.

[0228] Furthermore, in addition to the configurations described in each embodiment, the present invention may also include control means for generating a screen that has text fields for the work description and synopsis of each ebook. The screen may then be displayed on the display means 31 and 41, respectively. Furthermore, the control means may dynamically generate the text in accordance with the user's reading progress or viewing status (display status). Alternatively, the text may be stored in the server storage means 20 and / or the terminal storage means 30, or the server storage means 20 and / or the terminal storage means 30 may store the sentences that form the basis of the text (for example, sentences associated with each chapter), and the control means may dynamically generate the text by combining these in accordance with the reading progress or viewing status (display status). For example, if the target user has never viewed a particular ebook, the above text may provide an overview of the entire work. If the user has already read up to episode 10, the above text may provide a summary of the story up to episode 10 and an introduction to episode 11 and beyond. By adopting the above-described structure, it is possible to provide users with text tailored to their level of understanding of ebooks, rather than uniform text, thereby promoting the viewing and purchase of ebooks. Furthermore, even if a user has not viewed an ebook for a long time, they can read a summary of what they read up to that point, which motivates them to resume reading, and thus an improvement in the return rate can be expected. [Explanation of symbols]

[0229] 22: Authorization means, 23: Restriction means, 41: Second display means, 82: Authorization means, 83: Restriction means, 102: Server device, 114: Granting means, 116: Level management means

Claims

1. A program that allows a user to view one ebook selected from one or more ebooks stored on a server, within that user's account. Computers, A means of granting permission to allow other users to view the aforementioned e-book in their accounts. Display means that, when permitted by the permission means, enables the display of the one e-book in viewable format in the other user's account, When the display means displays the above, the granting means grants a reward to the account of the one user. A program that makes it function as such.

2. The aforementioned computer, The permission means is further configured to function as a restriction means that imposes predetermined restrictions when granting permission for the other user's account to view the one ebook. The program according to claim 1.

3. The server stores other ebooks related to the first ebook. The granting means grants the reward to the first user's account by purchasing the other ebook in the other user's account after the display means has displayed the first ebook. The program according to claim 1 or 2.

4. One or more ebooks stored on the aforementioned server can be purchased by consuming in-app currency. The aforementioned reward is the right to reduce the amount of in-app currency consumed when purchasing a new e-book during a specified period. The program according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The new e-books covered by the aforementioned rights are those other than the latest publication. The program according to claim 4.

6. The aforementioned computer, Furthermore, it functions as a level management means for managing the level associated with the aforementioned user account, The aforementioned reward is a point that contributes to the increase in the aforementioned level, The higher the aforementioned level, the more advantageous it is for the user's account when purchasing new ebooks. The program according to claim 1 or 2.

7. An information processing device that allows a user to view one ebook selected by that user's account from among one or more ebooks stored on a server, A means of granting permission to allow other users to view the aforementioned e-book in their accounts, Display means that, when permitted by the permission means, enables the display of the one e-book in viewable format in the other user's account, When the display means displays the above, the granting means grants a reward to the account of the one user, An information processing device equipped with the following features.

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