Information processing system and information processing method

Abstract

To improve the motivation of broadcasters to broadcast, the motivation of viewers to watch, and / or the motivation of users to interact with each other. [Solution] The system comprises a distribution unit that displays a video on a user's terminal, a reception unit that receives a request to display a predetermined gift and / or comment from the user's terminal, and a display unit that displays a predetermined gift object and / or comment on the video in response to the display request received by the reception unit. The display unit displays a specific display on the video that corresponds to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the operation of the distribution user, and displays a specific gift object and / or comment on the video in response to the user's selection of a specific display.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system and an information processing method.

Background Art

[0002] There is known an information processing system that generates an animation of a character object based on the movement of an actor and distributes a video including the animation of the character object (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In this technical field, how to improve the distribution motivation of distribution users, the viewing motivation of viewing users, and / or the communication motivation between users is an important issue.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a technical improvement that solves or alleviates at least a part of the problems of the above-described conventional technologies. One more specific object of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing system, an information processing method, and a computer program that can improve the distribution motivation of distribution users, the viewing motivation of viewing users, and / or the communication motivation between users.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing system in this disclosure is an information processing system comprising one or more computer processors, the one or more computer processors comprising: a distribution unit that transmits information about a video including a distribution user's character object to a viewing user terminal to display the video on the viewing user terminal; a reception unit that receives a request from the viewing user terminal to display a predetermined gift and / or comment; and a display unit that displays a predetermined gift object and / or comment corresponding to a predetermined gift on the video in response to a display request received by the reception unit, wherein the display unit displays a specific display on the video corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the operation of the distribution user, and displays a specific gift object or comment on the video in response to a specific display being selected by the viewing user.

[0007] One or more computer processors further include a setting reception unit for setting specific gifts, and the setting reception unit can set one or more gifts selected by the distribution user from a list of gifts as specific gifts.

[0008] The reception unit receives a request to display a predetermined gift from the viewing user terminal via a gift list screen. One or more computer processors further include a determination unit that determines whether the predetermined gift related to the display request received by the reception unit is a specific gift. If the determination unit determines that the predetermined gift is a specific gift, the display unit can display the specific gift object in the video.

[0009] The display unit, in response to a specific display being selected by the viewing user, displays a list of gifts on the viewing user's terminal, displaying specific gifts corresponding to that display in a way that makes them distinguishable from other gifts. The reception unit can then receive requests from the viewing user's terminal to display specific gifts via the gift list screen.

[0010] The reception unit can receive requests from the viewer's terminal to display a specific gift in response to the viewer's selection of a specific display.

[0011] One or more computer processors further include a setting reception unit for setting specific comments, and the setting reception unit can set text specified by the distribution user as a specific comment.

[0012] The display unit displays a specific comment corresponding to a specific display in the comment input field when a specific display is selected by the viewing user, and the reception unit can receive a request from the viewing user's terminal to display a specific comment when the send button associated with the comment input field is selected.

[0013] The reception unit receives a request to display a predetermined comment from a viewing user terminal via a comment input field. One or more computer processors further include a determination unit that determines whether the predetermined comment related to the display request received by the reception unit is a specific comment. If the determination unit determines that the predetermined comment is a specific comment, the display unit can display the specific comment in the video.

[0014] The display unit can show specific information only to specific viewing user terminals, and these specific viewing user terminals can be determined based on the viewing user's action history with the video.

[0015] The action history may be a record of the viewing time of a video by a viewer, and / or the number of requests for gifts and / or comments to be displayed by that viewer.

[0016] One or more computer processors may further include an effect generating unit that generates specific effects in relation to a specific gift object and / or comment when the display unit displays a specific gift object and / or comment in a video.

[0017] The setting reception unit can further set a value for the number of times it will receive a display request to generate a predetermined event, and one or more computer processors may further include an event generation unit that generates a predetermined event in the video when the number of display requests received reaches the value.

[0018] The setting reception unit can also set an upper limit on the number of times it will accept display requests. If the reception unit reaches the upper limit on the number of display requests it has accepted, it can be configured not to accept subsequent display requests.

[0019] Viewers are ranked based on the number of gift display requests and / or points corresponding to the value of the requested gifts. Display requests for a particular gift can be set to award higher points than for the same gift if it were not designated as such.

[0020] If the video contains character objects from another user, the display unit can show specific displays on the screen corresponding to specific gifts and / or comments set according to the actions of the broadcasting user and / or other users, and can also display specific gift objects or comments in the video when a specific display is selected by the viewing user.

[0021] The information processing method in this disclosure is characterized by causing one or more computer processors to perform a distribution step of displaying a video on a viewing user terminal by transmitting information about the video, including the distribution user's character object, to the viewing user terminal; a reception step of receiving a request from the viewing user terminal to display a predetermined gift and / or comment; and a display step of displaying a predetermined gift object and / or comment corresponding to a predetermined gift on the video in response to the display request received in the reception step, wherein the display step displays a specific display on the video corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the operation of the distribution user, and displays a specific gift object or comment on the video in response to the viewing user selecting a specific display.

[0022] The information processing method in this disclosure is characterized by causing one or more computer processors to perform a transmission step of transmitting information about a video including the distribution user's character object and information about the distribution user's operations regarding the setting of specific gifts and / or comments to a server device; a reception step of receiving a request to display a specific gift and / or comment from the server device in response to a viewing user terminal selecting a specific display corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set in accordance with the distribution user's operations; and a display step of displaying a specific gift object or comment in the video based on the display request received in the reception step.

[0023] The computer program in the present disclosure causes one or more computer processors to have a transmission function of transmitting to a server device information about a video including a character object of a distribution user and information about an operation of the distribution user regarding settings of specific gifts and / or comments, a reception function of receiving, from the server device, a display request for specific gifts and / or comments in response to a selection of a specific display corresponding to the specific gifts and / or comments set according to an operation of the distribution user by a viewing user terminal, and a display function of causing a specific gift object or comment to be displayed in the video based on the display request received by the reception function.

[0024] The information processing method in the present disclosure causes one or more computer processors to execute a reception step of receiving from a server device information about a video including a character object of a distribution user and information about an operation of the distribution user regarding settings of specific gifts and / or comments, a transmission step of transmitting a display request for specific gifts and / or comments to the server device by selecting a specific display corresponding to the specific gifts and / or comments set according to an operation of the distribution user, and a display step of causing a specific gift object or comment to be displayed in the video based on the display request.

[0025] The computer program in the present disclosure causes one or more computer processors to have a reception function of receiving from a server device information about a video including a character object of a distribution user and information about an operation of the distribution user regarding settings of specific gifts and / or comments, a transmission function of transmitting a display request for specific gifts and / or comments to the server device by selecting a specific display corresponding to the specific gifts and / or comments set according to an operation of the distribution user, and a display function of causing a specific gift object or comment to be displayed in the video based on the display request.

Advantages of the Invention

[0026] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a technical improvement that solves or alleviates at least part of the problems of the prior art described above. Specifically, according to the present disclosure, it is possible to improve the distribution motivation of distribution users, the viewing motivation of viewing users, and / or the communication motivation between users.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027] [Figure 1] It is a system configuration diagram showing an example of an information processing system in the present disclosure. [Figure 2] It is a system configuration diagram showing an example of an information processing system in the present disclosure. [Figure 3] It is a system configuration diagram showing an example of an information processing system in the present disclosure. [Figure 4] It is a configuration diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a server device, a distribution user terminal, and a viewing user terminal in the present disclosure. [Figure 5] It is a conceptual diagram showing an image of a screen displayed on a user terminal. [Figure 6] It is a conceptual diagram showing an image of a screen displayed on a user terminal. [Figure 7] It is a conceptual diagram showing an image of a screen displayed on a user terminal. [Figure 8] It is a conceptual diagram showing an image of a screen displayed on a user terminal. [Figure 9] It is a conceptual diagram showing an image of a screen displayed on a user terminal. [Figure 10] It is a conceptual diagram showing an image of a screen displayed on a user terminal. [Figure 11] It is a conceptual diagram showing an image of a screen displayed on a user terminal. [Figure 12] It is a conceptual diagram showing an image of a screen displayed on a user terminal. [Figure 13] It is a conceptual diagram showing an image of a screen displayed on a user terminal. [Figure 14] It is a conceptual diagram showing an image of a screen displayed on a user terminal. [Figure 15] This is a conceptual diagram showing an image of the screen displayed on the user's terminal. [Figure 16] This is a conceptual diagram showing an image of the screen displayed on the user's terminal. [Figure 17] This is a conceptual diagram showing an image of the screen displayed on the user's terminal. [Figure 18] This diagram shows an example of the functional configuration of a server device in the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 19] This is a conceptual diagram showing an image of the screen displayed on the user's terminal. [Figure 20] This is a conceptual diagram showing an image of the screen displayed on the user's terminal. [Figure 21] This is a conceptual diagram showing an image of the screen displayed on the user's terminal. [Figure 22] This diagram shows another example of the functional configuration of the server device in the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 23] This is a conceptual diagram showing an image of the screen displayed on the user's terminal. [Figure 24] This is a conceptual diagram showing an image of the screen displayed on the user's terminal. [Figure 25] This diagram shows another example of the functional configuration of the server device in the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 26] This flowchart shows an example of the information processing method described in this disclosure. [Figure 27] This is a circuit diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration for implementing the computer program described in this disclosure. [Figure 28] This diagram shows an example of the functional configuration of the distribution user terminal in this disclosure. [Figure 29] This flowchart shows an example of the information processing method at the user terminal in this disclosure. [Figure 30] This is a circuit diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration for realizing a computer program executed on a distribution user terminal in this disclosure. [Figure 31] This diagram shows an example of the functional configuration of a user terminal used for viewing in this disclosure. [Figure 32] This flowchart shows an example of the information processing method at the user's viewing terminal in this disclosure. [Figure 33] This is a circuit diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration for implementing a computer program executed on a user terminal in this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] First, an overview of the information processing system according to the embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0029] The information processing system in this disclosure is an information processing system comprising one or more information processing devices and server devices, and comprising one or more computer processors.

[0030] The videos displayed on each device are described as including animations of character objects generated based on the movements of the streaming user, but are not limited to this. They may also include animations of character objects generated in response to the streaming user's actions, or they may include images of the streaming user themselves. Furthermore, these character objects and the streaming user may not be displayed at all, and only the streaming user's voice may be included.

[0031] Furthermore, the space displayed in the video may be a virtual space, a real space, or an augmented reality space that combines these two. Also, the video may be something like a karaoke video or a game commentary video that plays at least predetermined video and the voice of the streaming user, or it may be a video in which character objects or the actual image of the streaming user are superimposed on these.

[0032] Furthermore, if the streaming user is present in the real world, a character object generated based on the streaming user's movements may be superimposed onto the actual image of the streaming user. Additionally, animations such as gift objects may be superimposed onto the captured image of the real world.

[0033] <System Configuration> As shown in Figure 1 as an example, the information processing system 1000 relating to this disclosure may include one or more viewing user terminals 1100, and an information processing device (support computer) 1300 located in a video distribution studio or the like, which is connected to these viewing user terminals 1100 via a network 1200.

[0034] Furthermore, the information processing device 1300 may be connected to a predetermined server device via the Internet, and some or all of the processing that would normally be performed by the information processing device 1300 may be performed by the server device. This server device may be the information processing device 2400 shown in Figure 2.

[0035] In this specification, the distribution by such information processing system 1000 shall be referred to as studio distribution.

[0036] In studio broadcasts, the full-body movements of the broadcasting user (actor) will be captured by cameras installed in the studio using markers attached to the broadcasting user, and reflected in the character in real time using known motion capture technology.

[0037] Furthermore, the information processing system 1000 of the present invention can be linked with another information processing system 2000, which is shown as an example in Figure 2. The information processing system 2000 shown in Figure 2 may include a distribution user terminal 2100, one or more viewing user terminals 2200, and an information processing device (server device) 2400 connected to these distribution user terminals 2100 and viewing user terminals 2200 via a network 2300.

[0038] In the above example, the distribution user terminal 2100 can be an information processing terminal such as a smartphone. In this specification, distribution by such information processing system 2000 will be referred to as mobile distribution.

[0039] In mobile streaming, the facial movements of the streaming user will be captured by the camera on the streaming user terminal 2100, and reflected in the character's face in real time using known face tracking technology.

[0040] Furthermore, there is no particular distinction between broadcasters and viewers in mobile streaming; viewers can broadcast from their mobile devices at any time, and broadcasters can become viewers when watching videos from other broadcasters.

[0041] The videos generated by the above-mentioned information processing systems 1000 and 2000 can, for example, be distributed to viewers from a video distribution platform.

[0042] Furthermore, in any distribution, the processes of reflecting motion onto the character to generate animation and the processes of displaying gifts (described later) may be shared among the distribution user terminal, the viewing user terminal, the information processing device, and other devices.

[0043] In other words, "distribution" as used here refers to transmitting information that enables viewing of a video on the viewing user's terminal, and video rendering may be performed on the information processing devices 1300 and 2400, or on the distribution user terminal 2100 and viewing user terminals 1100 and 2200.

[0044] Specifically, the terminal or device that generates (renders) the character object's animation receives face motion data and voice data from the distribution user's terminal or information processing device. In addition to face motion, body motion may also be transmitted.

[0045] In this disclosure, the process of generating animations is described as being performed on both the distribution user terminal and the viewing user terminal, but it is not limited to this.

[0046] Furthermore, the information processing system in this disclosure is applicable to either of the examples shown in Figures 1 and 2. Therefore, the information processing system 3000 in the embodiment of this disclosure will be described as comprising a distribution user terminal 100, a viewing user terminal 200, and a server device 400 that can be connected to these distribution user terminals 100 and viewing user terminals 200 via a network 300, as shown in Figure 3.

[0047] The distribution user terminal 100 functions as at least the information processing device 1300 or distribution user terminal 2100 described above, the viewing user terminal 200 functions as at least one or more viewing user terminals 1100, 2200 described above, and the server device 400 functions as at least the predetermined server device or information processing device 2400 described above.

[0048] In this disclosure, the distribution user terminal 100 and the viewing user terminal 200 can be smartphones (multifunction telephone terminals), tablet terminals, personal computers, console game machines, head-mounted displays (HMDs), wearable computers such as glasses-type wearable terminals (AR glasses, etc.), and other information processing devices capable of playing videos. Furthermore, these terminals may be standalone devices that operate independently, or they may consist of multiple devices connected to each other in a manner that enables them to send and receive various types of data.

[0049] <Hardware Configuration> Here, the hardware configuration of the distribution user terminal 100 will be described using Figure 4. The distribution user terminal 100 includes a processor 101, memory 102, storage 103, input / output interface (I / F) 104, and communication interface (communication I / F) 105. Each component is interconnected via bus B.

[0050] The distribution user terminal 100 can realize the functions and methods described in this embodiment through the cooperation of the processor 101, memory 102, storage 103, input / output I / F 104, and communication I / F 105.

[0051] The processor 101 executes functions and / or methods realized by code or instructions contained in a program stored in the storage 103. The processor 101 may include, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a processor core, a multiprocessor, an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), etc., and may realize each process disclosed in each embodiment by logic circuits (hardware) or dedicated circuits formed on an integrated circuit (IC (Integrated Circuit) chip, LSI (Large Scale Integration)), etc. Furthermore, these circuits may be realized by one or more integrated circuits, and the multiple processes shown in each embodiment may be realized by a single integrated circuit. In addition, LSIs may be referred to as VLSI, Super LSI, Ultra LSI, etc., depending on the degree of integration.

[0052] Memory 102 temporarily stores the program loaded from storage 103 and provides a workspace for the processor 101. Various data generated while the processor 101 is executing the program are also temporarily stored in memory 102. Memory 102 includes, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0053] Storage 103 stores programs. Storage 103 includes, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), flash memory, etc.

[0054] The communication interface 105 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, communication software, or a combination thereof, and transmits and receives various types of data via the network 300. This communication may be performed via wired or wireless connection, and any communication protocol may be used as long as communication between the devices is possible. The communication interface 105 communicates with other information processing devices via the network 300. The communication interface 105 transmits various types of data to other information processing devices according to instructions from the processor 101. The communication interface 105 also receives various types of data transmitted from other information processing devices and transmits them to the processor 101.

[0055] The input / output interface 104 includes an input device for inputting various operations to the distribution user terminal 100, and an output device for outputting processing results processed by the distribution user terminal 100. The input / output interface 104 may have the input device and output device integrated, or they may be separated into an input device and an output device.

[0056] The input device is implemented by any or a combination of any type of device capable of receiving input from a user and transmitting the information related to said input to the processor 101. The input device includes, for example, hardware keys such as touch panels, touch displays, and keyboards, pointing devices such as mice, cameras (for image-based operation input), and microphones (for voice-based operation input).

[0057] The input device may include a sensor unit. The sensor unit is one or more sensors that detect face motion, which indicates changes in the user's facial expression, and body motion, which indicates changes in the relative position of the user's body to the sensor unit. Face motion includes movements such as blinking and opening and closing the mouth. Known sensor units can be used. An example of a sensor unit includes a ToF sensor that measures and detects the time of flight (Tof) for light directed towards the user to reflect back from the user's face, a camera that photographs the user's face, and an image processing unit that processes the data captured by the camera. The sensor unit may also include an RGB camera that captures visible light and a near-infrared camera that captures near-infrared light. The RGB camera and near-infrared camera can be, for example, the True Depth sensor in "iPhone X" or the Lider sensor in "iPad Pro" or other ToF sensors installed in smartphones. Specifically, this camera projects tens of thousands of invisible dots onto the user's face using a dot projector. Then, by detecting and analyzing the reflected light of the dot pattern to form a depth map of the face and capturing infrared images of the face, accurate facial data is captured. The processing unit of the sensor unit generates various information based on the depth map and infrared images, and compares this information with registered reference data to calculate the depth of each point on the face (the distance between each point and the near-infrared camera) and positional deviations other than depth.

[0058] Furthermore, the sensor unit may have a function to track not only the user's face but also their hands (hand tracking). The sensor unit may also include sensors other than those mentioned above, such as an accelerometer or a gyroscope. The sensor unit may have a spatial mapping function that recognizes objects in the real space where the user is located based on the detection results of the ToF sensor and other known sensors, and maps the recognized objects onto a spatial map. Hereinafter, when face motion detection data and body motion detection data are not specifically distinguished, they will simply be referred to as "tracking data". The image processing unit of the sensor unit may be provided by a control unit that can be equipped with the information processing system of the present invention.

[0059] The control unit, as an input device, can be one that is appropriate for the type of user terminal. Examples of control units include a touch panel integrated with a display, operation buttons provided on the user terminal's casing, a keyboard, a mouse, or a controller operated by the user's hand. The controller may incorporate various known sensors, such as acceleration sensors and inertial measurement units (IMUs) like gyroscopes. Another example of a control unit is a tracking device that identifies the user's hand movements, eye movements, head movements, and gaze direction. In this embodiment, for example, the system can determine the user's instructions based on the user's hand movements and perform various operations such as starting or ending video streaming, evaluating messages and videos, and requesting the display of a predetermined object (e.g., a gift, as described later). If the sensor unit also has input interface functions such as hand tracking, the control unit can be omitted.

[0060] The output device outputs the processing results processed by the processor 101. The output device includes, for example, a touch panel, a speaker, etc.

[0061] Furthermore, the viewing user terminal 200 and server device 400 in this disclosure can also be configured with the same hardware configuration as in Figure 4, unless otherwise noted.

[0062] Next, various functions that can be executed on a user terminal that has launched an application realized by the information processing system in the embodiment of this disclosure, as well as the transitions of the displayed screens, will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0063] Figure 5 shows the top screen T10 that appears on the user's terminal (it is not yet determined whether the user will actually watch or stream) when a video streaming / viewing application is launched.

[0064] As shown in Figure 5, on the top screen T10, a user can watch a video played on a particular streaming channel by selecting one streaming channel (also called a streaming slot, streaming program, or streaming video) from the thumbnail images of one or more recommended streaming channels T12 displayed in the recommended tab T11.

[0065] Alternatively, users can view videos played on a specific streaming channel by accessing a permalink to that channel. Such permalinks can be obtained through notifications from streaming users they follow, or through shared notifications sent by other users.

[0066] Thus, a user who watches a video becomes a viewing user, and the device used to watch the video becomes viewing user device 200.

[0067] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the top screen T10 may also display a notification area T13 for campaigns, events, and other announcements. This notification area T13 can be switched to display other announcements by sliding it.

[0068] From the top screen T10, the following tabs T14, the game tab T15 for displaying game categories, the collaboration waiting tab T16 for displaying streaming channels awaiting collaboration, and the beginner tab T17 for displaying beginner streaming channels are displayed. By selecting one of these (switching tabs), you will transition from the top screen T10 to a different screen.

[0069] Furthermore, the service name display T18 and the search button T19 in the upper frame of the top screen T10 may remain fixed and displayed on the destination screen.

[0070] Similarly, the home button T20, message button T21, streaming preparation button T22, gacha button T23, and profile button T24 in the lower frame of the top screen T10 may remain fixed and displayed on the destination screen.

[0071] In the top screen T10 shown in Figure 5, a user who selects the displayed thumbnail image T12 becomes a viewer who watches the video, as described above, while a user who selects the distribution preparation button T22 may become a distribution user who distributes the video.

[0072] For example, selecting the distribution preparation button T22 on the top screen T10 shown in Figure 5 will transition to the avatar settings screen D10 shown in Figure 6. Then, selecting the distribution button D11 on the avatar settings screen D10 will transition to the distribution settings screen D20 shown in Figure 7. Finally, selecting the distribution start button D25 on the distribution settings screen D20 will transition to the avatar distribution screen D30 shown in Figure 8.

[0073] Next, we will explain the details of the process leading up to the start of video distribution.

[0074] One or more computer processors in this disclosure may include a distribution start request receiving unit, a distribution setting unit, and a distribution start unit.

[0075] The distribution start request receiving unit receives a request from the distribution user's distribution user terminal to start distribution of the first video, which includes the animation of character objects.

[0076] Here, the first video refers to a video that includes the animation of a character object. In this specification, a character object may sometimes be referred to as an "avatar."

[0077] Furthermore, the above distribution start request can be transmitted from the user terminal to the information processing device 400 by selecting the distribution button D11 located on the avatar settings screen D10, etc., which is accessed from the top screen displayed on the user terminal (which will later become the distribution user terminal) that has launched a dedicated application (video distribution / viewing application) for accessing the above video distribution platform.

[0078] Figure 6 shows an example of the avatar settings screen D10. The avatar settings screen D10 can display the character object CO, distribution button D11, gacha button D12, outfit change button D13, photo button D14, etc.

[0079] When the user selects the change of clothes button D13, a closet screen opens where the user can select various avatar parts for the character object CO, such as eyes, nose, mouth, hair, accessories, clothes, and background.

[0080] When the user selects the gacha button D12, a lottery screen for obtaining the above avatar parts will appear.

[0081] When the user selects the photo button D14, a shooting screen for taking a still image of the character object will appear.

[0082] Then, when the user selects the distribution button D11, a distribution start request is sent to the information processing device 400.

[0083] The distribution settings unit, in response to the distribution start request for the first video received by the distribution start request reception unit, sets the distribution settings for the first video based on the specifications from the distribution user terminal 100.

[0084] For example, when the above distribution button D11 is selected, the screen displayed on the distribution user terminal 100 transitions from the avatar settings screen D10 shown in Figure 6 to the distribution settings screen D20 shown in Figure 7.

[0085] The distribution settings may include at least one of the following: settings related to the title of the first video, settings related to whether other users can appear in the first video, settings related to the number of people who can appear in the first video, and settings related to the password.

[0086] These distribution settings can be configured in the title setting field D21, collaboration permission setting field D22, number of participants setting field D23, and password setting field D24 in Figure 7. Additionally, Figure 7 also displays the "Anyone Can Collaborate" setting field D26 and the "SNS Posting Permission" field D27.

[0087] The title of the first video can be freely determined by the broadcaster, within the allowed character limit. If no title is entered by the broadcaster, a pre-set title including the name of the character object (broadcaster), such as "This is a broadcast from XXX♪", may be automatically determined.

[0088] The broadcaster can freely decide whether or not other users can appear in the first video. If other users can appear, they can apply to appear in the broadcaster's video; if other users cannot appear, they cannot. In this specification, the state in which other users appear in the broadcaster's video may be referred to as a "collaboration." Details about collaborations will be described later.

[0089] The number of people who can appear in the first video can only be set if other users are allowed to appear in the first video as mentioned above, and the broadcaster can freely decide the number of people up to the maximum allowed limit.

[0090] The password can be set optionally only if other users are allowed to appear in the first video mentioned above, and the broadcaster can freely choose a number of digits. When other users apply to appear in the first video, they will be required to enter this password. Alternatively, the password setting field D24 may be configured to be active only when the "Anyone Can Collaborate" setting field D26 is OFF.

[0091] The distribution initiation unit distributes information about the first video to the viewer user's terminal 200 based on the conditions set by the distribution setting unit.

[0092] The instruction to start such distribution is sent by selecting the distribution start button D25 shown in Figure 7.

[0093] As an example, the distribution start unit distributes information about a video (the first video) that includes the animation of the distribution user's character object to the viewing user's viewing user terminal 200 (avatar distribution).

[0094] The information related to the first video includes, for example, motion information showing the movement of character objects, audio information of the broadcasting user, and gift object information showing gifts sent by other viewers. The gift object information includes at least gift object identification information that identifies the type of gift object, and location information that indicates where the gift object is displayed.

[0095] The distribution starter can then live stream the video via the aforementioned video distribution platform.

[0096] Figure 8 shows the avatar distribution screen D30 displayed on the distribution user terminal 100.

[0097] The avatar streaming screen D30 displays the character object CO, as well as a comment input button D31 for the streaming user to enter comments, a photo button D32 for saving a still image of the screen, a play start button D33 for playing the game described later, an external service link button D34 for watching videos provided by external services, and a gacha button D12 for obtaining avatar parts.

[0098] Additionally, the top of the avatar streaming screen D30 can display the total number of viewers D35, the total number of likes D36, the number of collaborators D37, a share button to external social media D38, a guest details button D39, a ranking display button D40, a settings button D41, and an audio toggle button D42 to switch the audio on / off. An end button D43 to end the stream can also be displayed.

[0099] While a detailed explanation of these displays and buttons is omitted, selecting the settings button D41 allows you to change the distribution settings configured on the distribution settings screen D20.

[0100] Figure 8 shows an example where, in the distribution settings screen D20, other users are allowed to appear in the first video, and the number of people who can appear in the first video is set to 3. Therefore, the character object CO is displayed shifted to the lower left. Up to 3 other users' character objects can appear in the empty space.

[0101] The above is an explanation of the screen transitions when distributing avatars according to the invention in this disclosure.

[0102] Next, we will explain the screen transitions that occur when a streamer plays a game during a live stream.

[0103] One or more computer processors in this disclosure may include a game request receiving unit, a game video distribution unit, and a game display processing unit.

[0104] During avatar streaming, as shown in Figure 8, the streaming user can request to start playing the game by selecting the "Start Play" button D33.

[0105] Furthermore, the game displayed by selecting the play start button D33 is a dedicated game implemented in the application realized by the information processing system in this disclosure, and may be different from a general-purpose game provided by an external service. Therefore, the game distribution in this disclosure may be distinguished from the distribution of gameplay videos of a general-purpose game provided by an external service, along with the commentary of the distribution user.

[0106] Alternatively, the request to start playing may be transmitted from the streaming user terminal 100 to the information processing device 400 by selecting a "start playing" button located on a predetermined screen displayed on the streaming user terminal 100.

[0107] Figure 9 shows an example of screen G10, which is the predetermined screen described above, with the play start button G11 located on it. Screen G10 shown in Figure 9 is the screen that has been accessed by selecting the game tab T15 from the top screen T10 (Figure 5) displayed on the user terminal that has launched the application realized by the information processing system in this disclosure.

[0108] Screen G10 displays at least a play start button G11 that can send a request to start playing a given game.

[0109] Then, when the game request reception unit receives a request to start playing a designated game, the game video distribution unit distributes information about the second video to the viewing user terminal 200.

[0110] Here, the second video is a gameplay video of a specified game. In this specification, the act of distributing such a video so that it is displayed on the screen of the viewing user terminal 200 is referred to as "game distribution".

[0111] Furthermore, after launching the application realized by the invention of this disclosure, the user can send a request to the information processing device 2400 to start distributing a second video, as a distributing user, by selecting a play start object placed on the game list screen and the game details screen.

[0112] These game list screens or game details screens are the first screens, which will be explained in detail below.

[0113] In other words, the game display processing unit performs display processing on a first screen that includes a distribution start object capable of sending a distribution start request, a play start object capable of sending a play start request for a predetermined game, and a thumbnail image of the video currently being streamed for the gameplay of the predetermined game.

[0114] Screen G10 shown in Figure 9 corresponds to the game list screen of the first screen. The first screen, which is the game list screen, is the screen accessed by selecting the game tab T15 from the top screen T10.

[0115] This first screen includes a streaming preparation button T22 as the streaming start object, a play start button G11 as the play start object, and a thumbnail image indicating the video streaming channel.

[0116] The first screen displays, for each of the multiple playable games, a play start button G11, a game icon G12, the game name G13, the total number of viewers for the game's streaming channel G14, and a streaming list G15 that includes thumbnail images of the streaming channels currently broadcasting the game.

[0117] The order of thumbnail images displayed in the streaming list G15 can be customized for each user. For example, the order is prioritized by the number of times the user follows the stream and the number of views by that user, followed by the total number of viewers, and then by the oldest streaming start date. The thumbnail images in this streaming list G15 can be scrolled horizontally to change the displayed area.

[0118] Furthermore, the games displayed on this game list screen will be the top 10 titles according to the following priority order. For example, priority is determined by: games released within the last 48 hours, games played by viewers within the last 30 days (newest first), games with the highest priority period ID, and games with the lowest priority period ID (descending order).

[0119] This distribution list G15 will be updated when you return from another tab's screen and when you perform a refresh operation (pull-to-refresh).

[0120] Figure 10 corresponds to the game details screen of the first screen. The first screen, the game details screen, is G20, which is the screen accessed by selecting the game icon G12 or game name G13 displayed on the game list screen shown in Figure 9.

[0121] This first screen includes a streaming start object, the streaming preparation button T22, a play start object, the play start button G21, and a thumbnail image indicating the video's streaming channel.

[0122] The first screen also displays the game icon G22, the game name G23, the total number of viewers for the game's streaming channel G24, and a streaming list G25 that includes thumbnail images of the streaming channels currently broadcasting the game.

[0123] The order of thumbnail images displayed in the streaming list G25 shown here can be customized for each user. For example, the order is prioritized by the number of times the user follows the stream and the number of views by that user, followed by the total number of viewers, and then by the oldest streaming start date. The thumbnail images in this streaming list G25 can be scrolled vertically to change the displayed area.

[0124] This distribution list G25 will be updated when you return from another tab's screen and when you perform a refresh operation (pull-to-refresh).

[0125] As described above, a user who selects a streaming start object (streaming preparation button T22) or a play start object (play start button G11, 24) becomes a streaming user who requests to start streaming or play.

[0126] Additionally, users who select a thumbnail image will become viewers who watch the second video.

[0127] Furthermore, the first screen includes a first area where scrolling is not possible and a second area where scrolling is possible.

[0128] The first screen referred to here is the first screen shown in Figure 10. The first screen includes a first region R1 and a second region R2. Specifically, the first region R1 displays the game title, and the second region R2 displays the aforementioned play start button G21, game icon G22, game name G23, number of viewers G24, and streaming list G25.

[0129] The first region, R1, is a fixed portion of the display screen that cannot be scrolled, while the second region, R2, is a portion that can be scrolled by the user. By scrolling the second region, R2, the user can view thumbnail images that are hidden off-screen.

[0130] However, because scrolling in the second area may cause the play start button G21 to be hidden off-screen, the display processing unit in this disclosure can display the play start object (play start button G21) in the first area R1 depending on the display state of the play start object (play start button G21) displayed in the second area R2.

[0131] For example, in Figure 10, the play start button G21 is displayed in the second area R2, but in Figure 11, it is displayed in the first area R1. In other words, when part or all of the play start button G21 is no longer displayed in the second area R2, the play start button G21 will reappear in the first area.

[0132] Furthermore, the game display processing unit may display the play start object in the first area R1 in stages according to the display status of the play start object displayed in the second area R2.

[0133] This effect can be achieved by changing the transparency of the play-start object in accordance with the scroll amount of the second region, R2.

[0134] As an example, the scroll amount (in pixels) from 0 to 50 can be associated with the button's transparency from 0.0 (completely transparent) to 1.0 (completely opaque). In this case, the object is completely transparent and invisible in the initial display state, and becomes fully visible when scrolled 50 pixels or more. It is preferable to change the object's transparency linearly during that period (0 to 50). Note that the unit of the scroll amount is logical pixels and may differ from the actual pixels on the display.

[0135] Furthermore, the game request reception unit will be able to receive a request from the distribution user terminal 100 to end the game after the distribution of information regarding the second video by the game video distribution unit.

[0136] A request to end the game can be sent by selecting the end button located on the game screen.

[0137] Then, when the game request reception unit receives a request to end the play of a specified game, the distribution start unit can terminate the distribution of information regarding the second video and begin distributing information regarding the first video.

[0138] In other words, what is being streamed here is not just a part of the information from the first video, but all of the information from the first video.

[0139] Furthermore, when the distribution start unit finishes distributing information about the second video and begins distributing information about the first video, the first video will be displayed on the viewing user terminal 200.

[0140] Next, we will explain the steps to begin watching the video.

[0141] One or more processors in this disclosure may further include a viewing reception unit.

[0142] The viewing reception department receives video viewing requests from users.

[0143] The above-mentioned distribution initiation unit distributes video and audio information as video information to the user's information processing terminal in response to a viewing request.

[0144] Figure 12 shows an example of the viewing screen V10 of an avatar video displayed on the viewing user terminal 200.

[0145] Viewers can post comments by entering text in the comment input field V11 and pressing the submit button V12.

[0146] Additionally, by pressing the gift button V13, the viewer will see a list of gifts (screen V30 in Figure 13), and can send a request to display the selected gift.

[0147] In this case, one or more processors in this disclosure may include a determination unit. The determination unit determines whether or not a gift display request has been received from the viewing user terminal 200.

[0148] A display request may include gift object information. The gift object information includes at least gift object identification information that identifies the type of gift object, and location information that indicates where the gift object will be displayed.

[0149] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, gifts can be displayed separately by category (free (paid) gifts, accessories, cheering goods, appeal items, variety items, etc.).

[0150] Here, paid gifts are gifts that can be purchased by viewers using their purchased My Coins (coin gifts), while free gifts are gifts that viewers can obtain by using or without using My Points that they have acquired for free (point gifts).

[0151] Furthermore, the term "gift" as used in this application has the same meaning as the term "token." Therefore, it is possible to understand the technology described in this application by replacing the term "gift" with the term "token."

[0152] Additionally, viewers can post positive ratings by pressing the Like button V14. It is also possible to display buttons for posting negative ratings or other emotions in addition to / besides the Like button V14.

[0153] Additionally, if a streamer has enabled the option to allow other users to appear in their stream settings, they can submit a request to appear in the video by selecting the collaboration request button V15.

[0154] Additionally, when a viewer watches a video streamed by a broadcaster they do not yet follow, a follow button (V16) will appear on the screen allowing the viewer to follow the broadcaster. This follow button functions as an unfollow button when the viewer watches a video streamed by a broadcaster they already follow.

[0155] Furthermore, this "following" may occur from one viewer to another, from one broadcaster to another, or from one broadcaster to another. However, following will be managed as a one-way association only, and the reverse association will be managed separately as "followers."

[0156] Additionally, a photo button V25 for saving still images of the screen can also be displayed.

[0157] Additionally, the viewing screen V10 also displays the support ranking display button V17, the share button V18, and the ranking display button V19.

[0158] The support ranking displays the ranking of viewers who are supporting a particular streamer, and the ranking can be calculated based on the amount of gifts (points / coins), etc.

[0159] Furthermore, regarding video sharing, viewers can press the share button V18 to see a list of shareable SNS (Social Networking Services), and by selecting one, they can send a permalink to a specified location on the specified SNS.

[0160] Additionally, by pressing the collaboration request button V15, you can request a collaborative stream from the streaming user. A collaborative stream means that the viewer's character object will appear in the streaming user's video.

[0161] The top of the viewing screen V10 can display the streamer's icon V21, the streamer's name (character object name) V22, the total number of viewers V23, and the total number of likes V24.

[0162] Additionally, selecting the "End Viewing" button V20 will display a screen for ending viewing, allowing you to send a request to end viewing.

[0163] The screen used to end such viewing will be explained in detail. This screen is called "mini-window audio streaming" and is for viewing in a manner that plays only the audio without displaying the video.

[0164] The selection of the above-mentioned End Viewing button V20 is received by the viewing reception unit as a request to end video viewing.

[0165] At this time, the distribution start unit terminates the distribution of video information in response to a request to end viewing, but does not terminate the distribution of audio information.

[0166] Furthermore, when video and audio information is being distributed to the user's terminal, the video is displayed on the main screen of the user's terminal. When only audio information is being distributed, the video is not displayed on the user's terminal, and a secondary screen indicating that video is being watched is displayed.

[0167] Figure 14 shows an image of screen V50 with the sub-screen V51 displayed.

[0168] When this secondary screen V51 is displayed, the main screen shown in the background will revert to the screen before watching the video. For example, if you move from the Recommended tab to the viewing area, it will return to the Recommended tab display, and if you move from the Follow tab to the viewing area, it will revert to the Follow tab.

[0169] When this secondary screen V51 is displayed, you can operate the main screen and navigate to other screens.

[0170] The secondary screen V51 displays the profile picture, name, title, and an audio icon that visually indicates that audio is playing.

[0171] Then, by selecting the end icon V52 displayed on the secondary screen V51, you can completely end the viewing experience.

[0172] Regarding the termination of video display, the server device may continue to transmit information but not display it on the terminal side, or the server device may stop transmitting information altogether.

[0173] With this configuration, users can search for other streams or enjoy chatting with other users while listening to audio only.

[0174] Next, we will explain "collaboration," where other users appear in a video created by a streaming user.

[0175] As described above, viewers can submit a request to participate in the above video by pressing the collaboration request button V15 shown in Figure 12, which will display a confirmation screen for the collaboration streaming participation request.

[0176] The collaborative avatar display unit of one or more computer processors in this disclosure displays a character object in the video that is generated based on the movements of the viewer who made the participation request, in response to the participation request that was received.

[0177] Figure 15 shows, as an example, a viewing or streaming screen when a guest user's character object, Avatar A2, participates in a video displaying Avatar A1, the first avatar representing the host user. Note that other objects besides avatars are omitted from the display in Figure 15.

[0178] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 16, a third avatar A3, which is a character object generated based on the movements of another viewer, may also participate in the video. In Figure 16, the third avatar A3 is positioned behind the first avatar A1 and the second avatar A2, but they may be positioned so that the three are lined up in a row. The distribution user may also be able to specify the position of the avatars.

[0179] Figure 17 shows the list screen T30 of users with a mutual following relationship, which is displayed by selecting the Follow tab on the top screen shown in Figure 5. Mutual following refers to a relationship where each user is a follower of the other.

[0180] This list screen T30 displays the profile pictures and names of users who have a mutual following relationship.

[0181] As shown in Figure 17, the list screen T30 displays a first object T31 for each user with a mutual following relationship. Alternatively, a chat object T32 may be displayed along with the first object T31. Selecting this chat object allows the user to transition to a separate chat screen with the second user.

[0182] The first object T31 sends a predetermined notification to the terminal of the user associated with the first object T31.

[0183] The prescribed notification may, for example, be a summons.

[0184] <First Embodiment> Next, various functions that can be performed in the distribution user terminal 100, viewing user terminal 200, and / or server device 400 of the information processing system 3000 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0185] The information processing system 3000 according to the embodiment of this disclosure comprises one or more computer processors, as shown in Figure 18, a distribution unit 411, a reception unit 412, and a display unit 413.

[0186] The distribution unit 411 displays the video on the viewing user terminal 200 by transmitting information about the video, including the distribution user's character object, to the viewing user terminal 200.

[0187] The distribution unit 411 functions as the distribution initiation unit described above. Further details are as described above.

[0188] The reception unit 412 receives requests from the viewing user terminal 200 to display specified gifts and / or comments.

[0189] As described above, on the viewing screen V10 shown in Figure 12, the viewing user can press the gift button V13 to display a list of gifts (screen V30 in Figure 13), and can send a request to display the selected gift. The request to display a gift includes at least identification information that identifies the type of gift.

[0190] Furthermore, viewers can send a request to display a comment by entering text in the comment input field V11 on the viewing screen V10 as shown in Figure 12 and pressing the send button V12. The request to display a comment includes at least text information.

[0191] The display unit 413 displays a predetermined gift object and / or comment corresponding to a predetermined gift in the video in response to a display request received by the reception unit 412.

[0192] As an example, comments corresponding to a comment for which a display request has been made are displayed in the comment display field V26, as shown in Figure 19. The latest comment is displayed at the bottom, and when the next comment is displayed, it moves up one row, and after moving to the top row of the comment display field V26, the display ends. Note that Figure 19 is the viewing screen V10 displayed on the viewing user terminal 200, similar to Figure 12, and some of the same reference numerals as in Figure 12 have been omitted.

[0193] As an example, the gift object G1 corresponding to the requested gift will appear as if it is falling from the top of the video, as shown in Figure 19, and will stop at a designated stopping point (such as the floor). After a certain period of time has elapsed, the display will end.

[0194] Furthermore, the display unit 413 is characterized by displaying specific displays on the video that correspond to specific gifts and / or comments set according to the operation of the streaming user.

[0195] Streaming users can set specific gifts and / or comments before and / or during the video stream.

[0196] Figure 20 shows the screen for setting specific gifts and / or comments. Note that Figure 20, like Figure 7, is the distribution settings screen D20 displayed on the distribution user terminal 100, and some of the same reference numerals as in Figure 7 have been omitted. In other words, these settings can be made on the distribution settings screen D20.

[0197] In Figure 20, the "Wishlist" is displayed as an item for setting specific gifts and / or comments. Then, the comment setting field D28 for setting a specific comment and the gift setting field D29 for setting a specific gift are displayed.

[0198] In the invention disclosed herein, the specific gifts and / or comments set in the wishlist are gifts and / or comments that the broadcaster wants viewers to send to them while the video is being broadcast.

[0199] The broadcasting user can specify a particular comment by entering the required text in the comment settings field D28.

[0200] Similarly, the sending user can select one or more gifts from the list of gifts (Figure 21) that expands by selecting the gift settings field D29, and set them as specific gifts. Specifically, information indicating that the selected gifts have been set as specific gifts is associated with the gift object identification information of the selected gifts and stored in a predetermined storage unit.

[0201] Note that Figure 21 shows an example where the gift tab (accessories tab) that consumes paid coins is selected, but the gift selected here can be either a paid gift (coin gift) or a free gift (point gift).

[0202] Then, as shown in Figure 19, the video (viewing screen V10) displays a specific display V27 corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set by the streaming user.

[0203] For example, a specific display V27 may be an icon that indicates the content of a specific gift and / or comment, but is not limited to this; it may also be an icon that indicates that a specific gift and / or comment has been set.

[0204] Figure 19 shows an example where the icon for a banana gift is displayed as a specific display V27, indicating that a banana gift has been selected as a specific gift.

[0205] The display unit 413 then displays a specific gift object and / or comment in the video in response to a specific display V27 being selected by the viewer.

[0206] Figure 19 shows an example where a specific gift object G2 (banana object) is displayed when a banana gift is set and a specific display V27 is selected.

[0207] The above configuration provides a technical improvement that solves or mitigates at least some of the problems of the conventional technology described above. Specifically, this disclosure can improve the willingness of broadcasting users to broadcast, the willingness of viewing users to watch, and / or the willingness of users to interact with each other.

[0208] Typically, viewers can freely choose which gifts they want to display (send) in the streamed videos. However, sometimes there are rankings for the gifts received in the video, or the streamer may have a theme for the video, meaning they may have preferences for the gifts they want.

[0209] In such cases, traditionally, the only way to request a desired gift was for the streamer to do so during the broadcast through chat or comments.

[0210] Similarly, viewers are usually free to enter comments that they request to be displayed (post) on the streamed video. Streamers may have preferences regarding the types of comments they want to see posted, such as their catchphrase or opening phrase.

[0211] In such cases, traditionally, the only way to request desired comments was for the broadcaster to do so during the broadcast via talk or comments.

[0212] However, according to the configuration of this disclosure described above, the broadcasting user will be able to set gifts (and / or comments) that they particularly want viewers to send them in their videos.

[0213] This increases the likelihood of receiving desired gifts for streamers, boosting their motivation to stream. It also makes it easier for streamers to interact with viewers who send them gifts, such as by thanking them.

[0214] Furthermore, viewers can send gifts that the streamer desires, making it easier to appeal to the streamer and fostering interaction such as receiving thanks from the streamer. This, in turn, increases viewers' motivation to watch.

[0215] Furthermore, while requests made during a live stream may be missed depending on when viewers join the stream, displaying a specific message on the screen at all times has the advantage of allowing viewers to always see the gifts / comments the streamer has requested.

[0216] One or more computer processors in this disclosure may further include a setting reception unit 414, as shown in Figure 22.

[0217] The setting reception unit 414 is for setting a specific gift.

[0218] The settings reception unit 414 can set one or more gifts selected by the sending user from the gift list screen as a specific gift.

[0219] As described above, by selecting the gift setting field D29 in the wish list items displayed on the distribution settings screen D20 shown in Figure 20, the distribution user can select one or more gifts from the gift list screen (Figure 21) that is opened, and the setting reception unit 414 can accept such selections.

[0220] Next, we will explain an example of the flow when a viewer requests the display of a specific gift.

[0221] The reception unit 412 can receive requests from the viewing user terminal 200 to display a predetermined gift via the gift list screen.

[0222] As described above, the gift list screen can be the gift list screen V30 (Figure 13) which is expanded by pressing the gift button V13 on the viewing screen V10 as shown in Figure 12.

[0223] In this case, one or more computer processors in this disclosure may further include a determination unit 415, as shown in Figure 22.

[0224] The determination unit 415 determines whether the predetermined gift related to the display request received by the reception unit 412 is a specific gift.

[0225] Specifically, it determines whether the gift object identification information of a given gift matches the gift object identification information of a particular gift.

[0226] Then, if the determination unit 415 determines that a predetermined gift is a specific gift, the display unit 413 displays the specific gift object in the video.

[0227] With the above configuration, even if a viewing user requests to display a gift from the gift list screen V30, it is possible to display a specific gift object as if the request had been made from a specific display V27.

[0228] Furthermore, the display unit 413 can display a list of gifts on the viewer terminal 200, in which a specific gift corresponding to a specific display V27 is displayed in a way that allows it to be distinguished from other gifts, depending on whether a specific display V27 is selected by the viewer user.

[0229] Specifically, the gift list screen V30 is displayed in response to the selection of a particular display V27. As shown in Figure 23, on this gift list screen V30, a specific gift corresponding to a particular display (a gift set as a specific gift) is displayed in a way that allows it to be distinguished from other gifts.

[0230] To distinguish a gift from others means, for example, as shown in Figure 23, surrounding it with a thicker border or a different border from other gifts, displaying it in the center of the gift list screen, displaying it larger than other gifts, or displaying a specific gift with movement (such as shaking). Alternatively, a tab may be created that displays only the specific gift set in the wish list to distinguish it from other gifts.

[0231] The reception unit 412 then receives requests from the viewing user terminal 200 to display specific gifts via the gift list screen V30.

[0232] As described above, an example has been explained in which a display request for a specific gift is made by selecting a specific gift from the gift list screen V30. The reception unit 412 can receive a display request for a specific gift from the viewing user terminal 200 in response to the viewing user selecting a specific display V27.

[0233] In an example where the gift list screen unfolds after selecting a specific display V27, the viewer needs to perform at least two selection operations before sending a request to display a specific gift, thus preventing unintended gift display requests.

[0234] On the other hand, in examples where a display request is sent simply by selecting a specific display V27, there is the advantage that it is easier to send a specific gift because the user does not need to perform multiple selection operations. Furthermore, it eliminates the effort of choosing the desired gift / text from a vast number of displayed gifts and texts, and also reduces the amount of communication required to send and receive information about the vast number of gifts and texts, and / or the selected gifts and texts.

[0235] In this regard, if a specific gift set by the distribution user is a paid gift, the gift list screen may be displayed by selecting a specific display option. If a specific gift set by the distribution user is a free gift, the display request may be sent directly without going through the gift list screen V30.

[0236] Furthermore, the setting reception unit 414 described above may also be used to set a specific comment.

[0237] Specifically, the setting reception unit 414 can set text specified by the distribution user as a specific comment.

[0238] As described above, by entering a predetermined text into the comment setting field D28 of the wish list item displayed on the distribution setting screen D20 shown in Figure 20, the setting reception unit 414 can accept such input.

[0239] Next, we will explain an example of the flow when a viewer requests the display of a specific comment.

[0240] The display unit 413 displays a specific comment corresponding to a specific display in the comment input field V11 when a specific display V27 is selected by the viewing user. In Figure 19, the icon shown is for when a banana gift is set as the specific display V27, but in this example, it could be an icon displaying a specific comment or an icon that indicates that a specific comment has been set (for example, an icon with a catchy phrase such as "This is the password").

[0241] The reception unit 412 can then receive a request from the viewing user terminal 200 to display a specific comment when the send button V12 associated with the comment input field V11 is selected.

[0242] Furthermore, the reception unit 412 can receive a request to display a predetermined comment from the viewing user terminal 200 via the comment input field V11.

[0243] As described above, the comment input field is the comment input field V11 on the viewing screen V10, as shown in Figures 12 and 24. Viewers can request the display of their comments by entering text into the comment input field V11 and pressing the send button V12.

[0244] The determination unit 415 can determine whether the predetermined comment related to the display request received by the reception unit 412 is a specific comment.

[0245] Specifically, it determines whether the text information of a given comment matches the text information of a specific comment. In this case, only comments showing a 100% match rate are considered a match, but comments showing a match rate above a predetermined value (e.g., 90% or more) may also be considered a match.

[0246] If the determination unit 415 determines that a given comment is a specific comment, the display unit 413 displays the specific comment on the video.

[0247] With the above configuration, even if a viewer requests to display a comment from the comment input field, it is possible to display a specific comment as if the request was made from a specific display.

[0248] As described above, we have explained an example in which a display request for a specific comment is made by selecting the send button V12. The reception unit 412 can receive a display request for a specific comment from the viewing user terminal 200 in response to the viewing user selecting a specific display V27.

[0249] In the example where a comment is entered into the comment input field V11 after selecting a specific display V27, the viewer needs to perform at least two selection operations before sending a request to display a specific gift, thus preventing unintended gift display requests. On the other hand, in the example where a display request is sent by selecting only a specific display V27, the user does not need to perform multiple selection operations, which has the advantage of making it easier to post specific comments.

[0250] The display unit 413 can display a specific display V27 only on a specific viewing user terminal 200.

[0251] A specific viewing user terminal 200 shall be determined based on the user's action history regarding the video.

[0252] Action history can include, for example, the viewing time of a video by a user, and / or the number of requests for gifts and / or comments on the video by that user.

[0253] The viewing time may be the viewing time for a single video by a single streaming user, or the total viewing time for all videos by a single streaming user. Alternatively, the viewing time may be the viewing time for a single video by any of the streaming users, or the total viewing time for all videos by all streaming users.

[0254] If a specific viewing user terminal 200 is determined based on viewing time history, for example, a specific viewing user terminal may be defined as a viewing user terminal whose viewing time exceeds a predetermined time.

[0255] The specific display V27 shown at this time may be set to prioritize the display of information related to paid gifts.

[0256] If a specific viewing user terminal 200 is determined based on viewing time history, for example, the specific viewing user terminal may be a viewing user terminal 200 whose viewing time is less than a predetermined amount of time. Alternatively, if a specific viewing user terminal is determined based on viewing time history, for example, the specific viewing user terminal may be a viewing user terminal of a user who is watching a video from a particular distributor for the first time.

[0257] The specific display V27 shown at this time may be prioritized to show only those related to free gifts (point gifts).

[0258] The number of display requests may be the number of display requests for a single video by one streaming user, or the total number of display requests for all videos by one streaming user. Alternatively, the number of display requests may be the number of display requests for a single video by any streaming user, or the total number of display requests for all videos by all streaming users.

[0259] If a specific viewing user terminal 200 is determined based on the history of the number of display requests, as an example, the specific viewing user terminal is a (VIP) viewing user terminal whose number of display requests exceeds a predetermined number.

[0260] Furthermore, the specific display V27 shown at this time may be set to prioritize the display of information related to paid gifts.

[0261] If a specific viewing user terminal is determined based on the history of the number of display requests, one example of such a terminal is one in which the number of display requests is less than a predetermined number.

[0262] Furthermore, the specific display V27 shown at this time may be prioritized to show only those related to free gifts.

[0263] Thus, while the video information includes information for displaying a specific display V27, it is not necessary to uniformly transmit such information to the viewing user terminal 200. Alternatively, the viewing user terminal 200, upon receiving the information for displaying a specific display, may decide whether or not to display the specific display on the video based on that information.

[0264] One or more computer processors in this disclosure may further include an effect generating unit 416, as shown in Figure 22.

[0265] The effect generating unit 416 generates a specific effect in relation to a specific gift object and / or comment when the display unit 413 displays a specific gift object and / or comment in the video.

[0266] An example of generating specific effects in relation to a particular gift object is adding visual effects to that gift object. These visual effects could include, for example, displaying a cracker object, adding a sparkling effect to a layer above the gift, or adding a sound effect when the gift appears, but are not limited to these examples.

[0267] As an example of generating a specific effect in relation to a specific comment, there is an example of displaying the specific comment so as to be distinguishable from other comments. Displaying so as to be distinguishable means, for example, surrounding it with a thicker frame than other comments or a frame of a different color from other comments, displaying it in a different color or size from other comments, or displaying it moving (such as shaking), but is not limited to these exemplified examples. Also, it may be configured such that only a specific comment is read out.

[0268] Also, as an example of generating a specific effect in relation to a specific gift object and / or a specific comment, an example is to make the display time longer as compared to when it is normally displayed (displayed without being designated as a specific gift). Particularly, in the case of a specific comment, it may be fixedly displayed (pinned, etc.) in the comment field for a certain period of time.

[0269] One or more computer processors in the present disclosure can further include an event generation unit 417, as shown in FIG. 22.

[0270] The event generation unit 417 generates a predetermined event in the video when the number of times a display request is received reaches a predetermined value.

[0271] At this time, the setting reception unit 414 can set the value of the number of times (the above-mentioned predetermined value) of receiving a display request for generating a predetermined event.

[0272] The predetermined event can be to generate an effect or a screen notifying that the number of times a display request is received has reached the predetermined value. Also, the predetermined event can be to display a system comment indicating that the number of times a display request is received has reached the predetermined value in the comment field.

[0273] Examples of the effect include confetti scattering in the video, and examples of the screen include a notification screen V28 as shown in FIG. 24.

[0274] In response to this notification, the streaming user can then carry out their own event (such as singing a song or drawing from a gacha).

[0275] Alternatively, a given event can trigger an effect (emote) that causes a character object to perform a predetermined action. An example of an emote is an action where the character object focuses on the notification screen V28.

[0276] The distribution user may also set the above-mentioned predetermined value on the distribution settings screen D20.

[0277] The setting reception unit 414 can also be configured to allow setting an upper limit on the number of times it accepts display requests.

[0278] The user can also set such upper limits on the distribution settings screen D20. Alternatively, the upper limit may be set automatically based on the number of followers of the user. Furthermore, while the upper limit based on the number of followers of the user is set as the initial value, the user may be able to change the upper limit from the initial value through their own actions.

[0279] Furthermore, when the number of display requests received by the reception unit 412 reaches the upper limit, it will not accept the next display request.

[0280] This prevents the screen or comment section from being cluttered with specific gift objects and / or comments. Note that such limits may only apply when certain comments and specific free gifts are set.

[0281] Viewers may be ranked based on the number of gift display requests and / or points corresponding to the value of the gifts for which display requests have been made.

[0282] Such rankings are called "support rankings."

[0283] Furthermore, a request to display a specific gift can be configured to award more points than the same gift if it were not designated as a specific gift.

[0284] Specifically, if a banana gift is not set as a specific gift, and a viewer requests to display the banana gift, the number of requests will be counted as 1. However, if a banana gift is set as a specific gift, and a viewer requests to display the banana gift, the number of requests will be counted as 2.

[0285] Furthermore, if a banana gift is not set as a specific gift and a viewer requests to display it, the points will be counted as 100. However, if a banana gift is set as a specific gift and a viewer requests to display it, the points may be counted as 150.

[0286] In addition to the above ranking, a separate ranking may be set for viewing users based on the number of requests to display a specific gift and points corresponding to the value of the specific gift for which a request has been made.

[0287] This section will explain the application of this feature in cases where a video contains character objects from another user, i.e., in collaborative live streams.

[0288] The display unit 413 can display specific displays V27 on the screen that correspond to specific gifts and / or comments set according to the actions of the distribution user and / or another user.

[0289] Specifically, either or both of the streaming user and other users who have applied to collaborate on the streaming user's video can set specific gifts and / or comments.

[0290] At this time, a specific display V27 can be displayed by the number of users who have set specific gifts and / or comments. In this case, it is preferable that which user a specific user corresponds to is displayed in an identifiable manner.

[0291] Then, in response to a specific display being selected by the viewing user, the display unit 413 causes a specific gift object and / or comment to be displayed in the video.

[0292] <Second Embodiment> Subsequently, various functions executable in the distribution user terminal 100, the viewing user terminal 200, and / or the server device 400 included in the information processing system 3000 according to the second embodiment in the present disclosure will be described while referring to the drawings.

[0293] One or more computer processors included in the information processing system 3000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure include, as shown in FIG. 25, a distribution unit 411, a reception unit 412, a display unit 413, a measurement unit 418, and an effect generation unit 416.

[0294] The distribution unit 411 causes a video including a character object of the distribution user to be displayed on the viewing user terminal 200 by transmitting information regarding the video to the viewing user terminal 200.

[0295] Details of such a distribution unit 411 are as described above.

[0296] The reception unit 412 receives a display request for a predetermined gift and / or comment from the viewing user terminal 200.

[0297] Details of such a reception unit 412 are as described above.

[0298] The display unit 413 displays a predetermined gift object and / or comment corresponding to a predetermined gift in the video in response to a display request received by the reception unit 412.

[0299] Details of the display unit 413 are as described above.

[0300] The measurement unit 418 measures the number of display requests for specific gifts and / or comments that are set according to the operation of the distribution user, among the predetermined gifts and / or comments related to the display requests received by the reception unit 412.

[0301] Specifically, it is determined whether a predetermined gift and / or comment related to a display request sent from the viewing user terminal 200 via the gift list screen V30 is a specific gift and / or comment. This determination can be performed by the determination unit 415 described above.

[0302] Then, each time a predetermined gift and / or comment is determined to be a specific gift and / or comment, the measurement unit 418 increments the display request number by 1.

[0303] The effect generation unit 416 then generates a predetermined effect in the video when the number of times measured by the measurement unit 418 reaches a specific number.

[0304] The predetermined effects produced by the effect generating unit 416 are as described above.

[0305] In another embodiment, a system comment may be fixed in the comment field as a specific display V27, or in place of a specific display V27. A fixed display is a so-called comment pinning, and it is preferable that it is fixed in a position that is easy for the viewer to see, such as the top or bottom of the comment display field V26.

[0306] Furthermore, system comments in this disclosure may be displayed in a way that makes them identifiable from other comments.

[0307] In the specific examples shown in the first and second embodiments described above, examples were shown where one specific gift and / or comment were set, but multiple instances of each may be set. In this case, multiple instances of the specific display V27 may be displayed, or one specific display V27 may function as a button to expand a list of multiple specific gifts and / or comments.

[0308] Furthermore, if both a specific gift and a comment are set, multiple instances of the specific display V27 may be displayed, or one specific display V27 may function as a button to expand the list of the specific gift and comment.

[0309] The above configuration provides a technical improvement that solves or mitigates at least some of the problems of the conventional technology described above. Specifically, this disclosure can improve the willingness of broadcasting users to broadcast, the willingness of viewing users to watch, and / or the willingness of users to interact with each other.

[0310] Next, an example of an information processing method in an embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0311] The information processing method in the embodiment of this disclosure is the information processing method in the information processing system 3000 shown in Figure 3. The information processing system 3000 comprises one or more distribution user terminals 100, viewing user terminals 200, and a server device 400.

[0312] The information processing method in this disclosure is characterized by causing one or more computer processors in the information processing system 3000 to execute the distribution step S411, the reception step S414, and the display steps S417, 418, as shown as an example in Figure 26.

[0313] In the distribution step S411, information about the video, including the distribution user's character object, is sent to the viewing user terminal 200, thereby causing the video to be displayed on the viewing user terminal 200. This distribution step S411 can be performed by the distribution unit 411 described above.

[0314] The distribution step S411 may be executed on the server side (server device 400) or on the client side (distribution user terminal 100).

[0315] In the reception step S414, a request to display a predetermined gift and / or comment is received from the viewing user terminal 200. Specifically, in the reception step S414, operation information is received from the viewing user terminal 200, and it is determined whether the received operation information is a request to display a specific gift and / or comment (S415). If the received operation information is not a request to display a specific gift and / or comment, it is further determined whether the received operation information is a request to display a predetermined gift and / or comment (S416). This reception step S412 can be performed by the reception unit 412 described above.

[0316] The reception step S414 may be executed on the server side (server device 400) or on the client side (distribution user terminal 100).

[0317] In the display step S417, in response to the display request received in the reception step S414, a predetermined gift object and / or comment corresponding to a predetermined gift and / or comment are displayed on the video. Specifically, in the display step S417, if the received operation information is a request to display a predetermined gift and / or comment, a predetermined gift object and / or comment corresponding to the predetermined gift and / or comment are displayed on the video. Such a display step S417 can be performed by the display unit 413 described above.

[0318] The display step S417 may be executed on the server side (server device 400) or on the client side (distribution user terminal 100).

[0319] Furthermore, in the display step S418, a specific display V27 corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the operation of the distribution user is displayed on the video, and a specific gift object and / or comment is displayed on the video when a specific display V27 is selected by the viewing user. Specifically, in the display step S418, if the received operation information is a request to display a specific gift and / or comment, a specific gift object and / or comment corresponding to the specific gift and / or comment is displayed on the video. Such a display step S418 can be executed by the display unit 413 described above.

[0320] The display step S418 may be executed on the server side (server device 400) or on the client side (distribution user terminal 100).

[0321] Furthermore, as shown as an example in Figure 26, the information processing method in this disclosure allows one or more computer processors in the information processing system 3000 to perform the steps S412 of determining whether a specific gift and / or comment setting (wishlist setting) has been made, and the step S413 of displaying a specific display V27.

[0322] The above configuration provides a technical improvement that solves or mitigates at least some of the problems of the conventional technology described above. Specifically, this disclosure can improve the willingness of broadcasting users to broadcast, the willingness of viewing users to watch, and / or the willingness of users to interact with each other.

[0323] Next, a computer program in an embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0324] The computer program in the embodiment of this disclosure is a computer program executed in an information processing system 3000 that distributes video, as shown in Figure 3. The information processing system 3000 comprises one or more distribution user terminals 100, viewing user terminals 200, and a server device 400.

[0325] The computer program in this disclosure is characterized by enabling one or more computer processors of the information processing system 3000 to implement distribution, reception, and display functions.

[0326] The distribution function displays the video on the viewing user terminal 200 by sending information about the video, including the distribution user's character object, to the viewing user terminal 200.

[0327] The reception function accepts requests from the viewing user terminal 200 to display specified gifts and / or comments.

[0328] The display function, in response to a display request received by the reception function, displays a predetermined gift object and / or comment corresponding to the predetermined gift and / or comment in the video.

[0329] Furthermore, the display function is characterized by displaying a specific display V27 on the video that corresponds to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the actions of the broadcasting user, and displaying a specific gift object and / or comment on the video when a specific display V27 is selected by the viewing user.

[0330] The above functions can be realized by the distribution circuit 1411, reception circuit 1412, and display circuit 1413 shown in Figure 27. The distribution circuit 1411, reception circuit 1412, and display circuit 1413 are realized by the distribution unit 411, reception unit 412, and display unit 413 described above, respectively. Details of each unit are as described above.

[0331] The above configuration provides a technical improvement that solves or mitigates at least some of the problems of the conventional technology described above. Specifically, this disclosure can improve the willingness of broadcasting users to broadcast, the willingness of viewing users to watch, and / or the willingness of users to interact with each other.

[0332] Next, the information processing device in the embodiment of this disclosure will be described. The information processing device corresponds to the distribution user terminal 100 in the information processing system 3000 described above.

[0333] As shown in Figure 28, the information processing device comprises a transmitting unit 111, a receiving unit 112, and a display unit 113.

[0334] The transmission unit 111 transmits to the server device 400 information regarding the video, including the distribution user's character object, and information regarding the distribution user's actions regarding the setting of specific gifts and / or comments. Details regarding the setting of specific gifts and / or comments are as described above.

[0335] The receiving unit 112 receives a request from the server device 400 to display a specific gift and / or comment when the viewing user terminal 200 selects a specific display V27 corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the operation of the distribution user. Details of the specific display V27 are as described above.

[0336] The display unit 113 displays a specific gift object and / or comment in the video based on the display request received by the receiving unit 112.

[0337] The above configuration provides a technical improvement that solves or mitigates at least some of the problems of the conventional technology described above. Specifically, this disclosure can improve the willingness of broadcasting users to broadcast, the willingness of viewing users to watch, and / or the willingness of users to interact with each other.

[0338] Next, an example of an information processing method in an embodiment of this disclosure will be described. This information processing method is an information processing method that is executed in the information processing device (distribution user terminal 100) described above.

[0339] The information processing method in this disclosure is characterized by causing one or more computer processors in the information processing device to execute a transmission step S111, a reception step S112, and a display step S113, as shown as an example in Figure 29.

[0340] In transmission step S111, information about the video, including the character object of the distribution user, and information about the distribution user's actions regarding the setting of specific gifts and / or comments are sent to the server device. Such transmission step S111 can be performed by the transmission unit 111 described above.

[0341] In the receiving step S112, the viewing user terminal 200 receives a request from the server device 400 to display a specific gift and / or comment, in response to the selection of a specific display V27 corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the operation of the distribution user. This receiving step S112 can be performed by the receiving unit 112 described above.

[0342] In the display step S113, a specific gift object and / or comment is displayed in the video based on the display request received in the receiving step. This display step S113 can be performed by the display unit 113 described above.

[0343] The above configuration provides a technical improvement that solves or mitigates at least some of the problems of the conventional technology described above. Specifically, this disclosure can improve the willingness of broadcasting users to broadcast, the willingness of viewing users to watch, and / or the willingness of users to interact with each other.

[0344] Next, a computer program in the embodiment of this disclosure will be described. This computer program is executed in the information processing device (distribution user terminal 100) described above.

[0345] The computer program in this disclosure is characterized by enabling one or more processors in an information processing device to implement a transmission function, a reception function, and a display function.

[0346] The transmission function sends information about the video, including the character object of the broadcasting user, and information about the broadcasting user's actions regarding the setting of specific gifts and / or comments, to the server device 400.

[0347] The receiving function receives requests from the server device 400 to display specific gifts and / or comments when a specific display corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment, which has been set according to the actions of the broadcasting user, is selected by the viewing user's terminal.

[0348] The display function displays specific gift objects and / or comments in the video based on display requests received by the receiving function.

[0349] The above functions can be realized by the transmitting circuit 1111, receiving circuit 1112, and display circuit 1113 shown in Figure 30. The transmitting circuit 1111, receiving circuit 1112, and display circuit 1113 are realized by the transmitting unit 111, receiving unit 112, and display unit 113 described above, respectively. Details of each unit are as described above.

[0350] The above configuration provides a technical improvement that solves or mitigates at least some of the problems of the conventional technology described above. Specifically, this disclosure can improve the willingness of broadcasting users to broadcast, the willingness of viewing users to watch, and / or the willingness of users to interact with each other.

[0351] Next, the information processing device in the embodiment of this disclosure will be described. The information processing device corresponds to the viewing user terminal 200 in the information processing system 3000 described above.

[0352] As shown in Figure 31, the information processing device includes a receiving unit 211, a transmitting unit 212, and a display unit 213.

[0353] The receiving unit 211 receives information from the server device regarding the video, including the character object of the streaming user, and information regarding the streaming user's actions regarding the settings of specific gifts and / or comments. Details regarding the settings of specific gifts and / or comments are as described above.

[0354] The transmission unit 212 sends a request to display a specific gift and / or comment to the server device by selecting a specific display V27 corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the operation of the distribution user. Details of the specific display V27 are as described above.

[0355] The display unit 213 displays a specific gift object and / or comment in the video based on the display request.

[0356] The above configuration provides a technical improvement that solves or mitigates at least some of the problems of the conventional technology described above. Specifically, this disclosure can improve the willingness of broadcasting users to broadcast, the willingness of viewing users to watch, and / or the willingness of users to interact with each other.

[0357] Next, an example of an information processing method in an embodiment of this disclosure will be described. This information processing method is an information processing method that is executed in the information processing device (viewing user terminal 200) described above.

[0358] The information processing method in this disclosure is characterized by causing one or more computer processors in the information processing device to execute a receiving step S211, a transmitting step S212, and a display step S213, as shown as an example in Figure 32.

[0359] The receiving step S211 receives information from the server device 400 regarding the video, including the character object of the distribution user, and information regarding the distribution user's actions regarding the setting of specific gifts and / or comments. This receiving step S211 can be performed by the receiving unit 211 described above.

[0360] The transmission step S212 sends a request to display a specific gift and / or comment to the server device 400 by selecting a specific display V27 corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the operation of the distribution user. Such a transmission step S212 can be performed by the transmission unit 212 described above.

[0361] The display step S213 displays a specific gift object and / or comment in the video based on the display request. This display step S213 can be performed by the display unit 213 described above.

[0362] The above configuration provides a technical improvement that solves or mitigates at least some of the problems of the conventional technology described above. Specifically, this disclosure can improve the willingness of broadcasting users to broadcast, the willingness of viewing users to watch, and / or the willingness of users to interact with each other.

[0363] Finally, the computer program in the embodiment of this disclosure will be described. This computer program is executed in the information processing device (viewing user terminal 200) described above.

[0364] The computer program in this disclosure is characterized by enabling one or more processors in an information processing device to implement receiving, transmitting, and displaying functions.

[0365] The receiving function receives information from the server device 400 regarding videos containing the broadcasting user's character object, and information regarding the broadcasting user's actions regarding the setting of specific gifts and / or comments.

[0366] The sending function sends a request to display a specific gift and / or comment to the server device by selecting a specific display V27 corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set in response to the actions of the sending user.

[0367] The display function displays specific gift objects and / or comments in the video based on a display request.

[0368] The above functions can be realized by the receiving circuit 1211, transmitting circuit 1212, and display circuit 1213 shown in Figure 33. The receiving circuit 1211, transmitting circuit 1212, and display circuit 1213 are realized by the receiving unit 211, transmitting unit 212, and display unit 213 described above, respectively. Details of each unit are as described above.

[0369] The above configuration provides a technical improvement that solves or mitigates at least some of the problems of the conventional technology described above. Specifically, this disclosure can improve the willingness of broadcasting users to broadcast, the willingness of viewing users to watch, and / or the willingness of users to interact with each other.

[0370] Furthermore, a computer or mobile phone or other information processing device can be suitably used to function as a server or terminal device according to the above-described embodiment. Such an information processing device can be realized by storing a program describing the processing content that realizes each function of the server or terminal device according to the embodiment in the storage unit of the information processing device, and having the CPU of the information processing device read and execute the program.

[0371] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents.

[0372] Furthermore, the methods described in the embodiments can be distributed by storing the program, which can be executed by a computer, on recording media such as magnetic disks (floppy disks, hard disks, etc.), optical disks (CD-ROMs, DVDs, MOs, etc.), and semiconductor memory (ROMs, RAMs, flash memory, etc.), and by transmitting them via communication media. The program stored on the media also includes a configuration program that configures the software means (including not only the executable program but also tables and data structures) to be executed by the computer. The computer implementing this device reads the program recorded on the recording media and, if necessary, constructs the software means using the configuration program, and executes the above-described process by controlling its operation with this software means. The recording media referred to in this specification are not limited to those for distribution, but also include storage media such as magnetic disks and semiconductor memory provided inside the computer or in devices connected via a network. The storage unit may function as, for example, main memory, auxiliary memory, or cache memory. [Additional Notes] The original claims of the present application are included below. [1] An information processing system comprising one or more computer processors, The one or more computer processors mentioned above are: A distribution unit that transmits information about a video, including the character object of the distribution user, to the viewing user terminal, thereby displaying the video on the viewing user terminal, A reception unit that receives a request to display a predetermined gift and / or comment from the aforementioned viewing user terminal, The system includes a display unit that, in response to a display request received by the reception unit, displays a predetermined gift object and / or comment corresponding to the predetermined gift on the video, The display unit is an information processing system that displays specific displays on the video corresponding to specific gifts and / or comments set according to the operation of the distribution user, and displays the specific gift object and / or comment on the video when the viewing user selects the specific display. [2] The one or more computer processors further: The system includes a setting reception unit for setting the aforementioned specific gift, The information processing system according to [1], characterized in that the setting reception unit sets one or more gifts selected by the distribution user from the gift list screen as a specific gift. [3] The reception unit receives a request to display a predetermined gift from the viewing user terminal via the gift list screen. The one or more computer processors mentioned above further include: The receiving unit includes a determination unit that determines whether the predetermined gift related to the display request received by the receiving unit is the specific gift. If the determination unit determines that the predetermined gift is the specific gift, The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the display unit displays the specific gift object in the video. [4] In response to the user selecting the specific display, the display unit displays a list of gifts on the user's terminal, in which the specific gift corresponding to the specific display is displayed in a way that makes it distinguishable from other gifts. The information processing system according to [1], [2] or [3], characterized in that the reception unit receives a request from the viewing user terminal to display a specific gift via the gift list screen. [5] The information processing system according to [1], [2] or [3], characterized in that the reception unit receives a request from the viewing user terminal to display the specific gift in response to the viewing user selecting the specific display. [6] The one or more computer processors further: It includes a setting reception unit for setting the aforementioned specific comment, The information processing system according to any one of [1] to [5], characterized in that the setting reception unit sets the text specified by the distribution user as a specific comment. [7] The display unit, in response to the user selecting the specific display, displays a specific comment corresponding to the specific display in the comment input field. The information processing system according to [6], characterized in that the reception unit receives a request from the viewing user terminal to display a specific comment in response to the selection of the send button associated with the comment input field. [8] The reception unit receives a request to display a predetermined comment from the viewing user terminal via the comment input field. The one or more computer processors mentioned above further include: The receiving unit includes a determination unit that determines whether or not the predetermined comment related to the display request received by the receiving unit is the specific comment. If the determination unit determines that the predetermined comment is the specific comment, The information processing system according to [6], characterized in that the display unit displays the specific comment on the video. [9] The display unit displays the specific display only on a specific viewing user terminal. The information processing system according to any one of [1] to [8], characterized in that the specific viewing user terminal is determined based on the user's action history with respect to the video.

[10] The information processing system according to [9], characterized in that the action history is a history of the viewing time of the video by the viewing user and / or the number of requests to display gifts and / or comments on the video by the viewing user.

[11] The one or more computer processors further: The information processing system according to any one of [1] to

[10] , characterized in that when the display unit displays the specific gift object and / or comment in the video, it includes an effect generating unit that generates a specific effect in relation to the specific gift object and / or comment.

[12] The setting reception unit can further set a value for the number of times it receives the display request to generate a predetermined event, The one or more computer processors mentioned above further include: The information processing system according to [2] or [6], characterized in that it includes an event generation unit that generates a predetermined event in the video when the number of times the display request has been received reaches the value.

[13] The setting reception unit can further set an upper limit on the number of times it accepts the display request, The information processing system according to [2] or [6], characterized in that the receiving unit does not accept the next display request when the number of times it has received the display request reaches the upper limit.

[14] The aforementioned viewing users are ranked based on the number of gift display requests and / or points corresponding to the value of the gifts for which display requests have been made. The information processing system according to any one of [1] to

[13] , characterized in that the request to display the specific gift is set to have higher points than the same gift if it is not set as the specific gift.

[15] If the video contains character objects of another user, The information processing system according to any one of [1] to

[14] , characterized in that the display unit displays on the screen a specific display corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set in accordance with the operation of the distribution user and / or the other user, and displays the specific gift object and / or comment on the video when the viewing user selects the specific display.

[16] One or more computer processors, A distribution step that causes the video to be displayed on the viewing user's terminal by sending information about the video, including the character object of the distribution user, to the viewing user's terminal, A reception step that receives a request to display a predetermined gift and / or comment from the aforementioned viewing user terminal, In response to the display request received in the reception step, the system executes a display step which displays a predetermined gift object and / or comment corresponding to the predetermined gift in the video. The display step involves displaying a specific display on the video that corresponds to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the operation of the distribution user, and displaying the specific gift object and / or comment on the video when the viewing user selects the specific display.

[17] One or more computer processors, A transmission step of sending information about a video including the character object of the streaming user and information about the streaming user's actions regarding the setting of specific gifts and / or comments to a server device, A receiving step in which, in response to a viewing user terminal selecting a specific display corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set in accordance with the operation of the distribution user, a request to display the specific gift and / or comment is received from the server device, An information processing method that performs a display step of displaying the specific gift object and / or comment on the video based on the display request received in the receiving step.

[18] One or more computer processors, A transmission function that transmits to a server device information about the video, including the character object of the streaming user, and information about the streaming user's actions regarding the setting of specific gifts and / or comments. A receiving function that receives a request from the server device to display a specific gift and / or comment when a specific display corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set in response to the operation of the distribution user is selected by the viewing user's terminal, A computer program that implements a display function that displays the specific gift object and / or comment on the video based on the display request received by the receiving function.

[19] One or more computer processors, A receiving step of receiving from a server device information about a video including the character object of the streaming user and information about the streaming user's actions regarding the setting of specific gifts and / or comments, A transmission step of sending a request to display a specific gift and / or comment to the server device by selecting a specific display corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the operation of the distribution user, An information processing method that performs a display step of displaying the specific gift object and / or comment in the video based on the display request.

[20] One or more computer processors, A receiving function that receives information from a server device regarding videos containing the character object of the streaming user and information regarding the streaming user's actions regarding the setting of specific gifts and / or comments, A transmission function that sends a request to the server device to display a specific gift and / or comment by selecting a specific display corresponding to a specific gift and / or comment set according to the operation of the distribution user, A computer program that implements a display function that displays the specific gift object and / or comment in the video based on the display request. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0373] 100 distribution user terminals 200 Viewing User Terminals 300 Networks 400 Server Devices 411 Distribution Department 412 Reception Department 413 Display section

Claims

1. An information processing system comprising one or more computer processors, The one or more computer processors mentioned above are: A reception desk that accepts specific gift settings from the first user, A distribution unit that transmits information about a video containing at least the character object of the first user to the second user's second user terminal, thereby displaying the video on the second user's terminal, The system includes a display unit that, in response to the operation of the second user, displays a list screen of gifts, including the specific gift, on the second user's terminal. The reception unit receives a request to display the specific gift from the second user terminal via the gift list screen. The display unit is an information processing system that displays a specific gift object corresponding to the specific gift that received the display request in the video.

2. The aforementioned display unit is The information processing system according to claim 1, which, in response to an operation by the second user, displays a list screen of gifts on the second user terminal, in which the specific gift is displayed in a manner that allows it to be distinguished from other gifts.

3. The display unit displays the gift list screen, which includes the specific gift, only on a specific second user terminal. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the specific second user terminal is determined based on the second user's action history with respect to the video.

4. The information processing system according to claim 3, characterized in that the action history is a history of the time the second user spends watching the video, and / or the number of requests the second user makes to display gifts and / or comments on the video.

5. The one or more computer processors mentioned above further include: The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an effect generating unit that generates a specific effect in relation to the specific gift object when the display unit displays the specific gift object in the video.

6. If the aforementioned video contains character objects belonging to another user, The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the display unit displays a list screen of specific gifts set in response to an operation by either the first user or the other user on the screen of the second user terminal, and displays the specific gift object in the video when the second user selects the specific gift.

7. The one or more processors further cause the first user terminal used by the first user to display a screen on which one or more gifts are displayed, including a gift setting field. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the reception unit sets one or more gifts included in the gift setting field as the specific gift corresponding to the selection operation of the first user.

8. The information processing system according to claim 7, wherein the aforementioned gift setting field is included in a distribution settings screen for configuring distribution settings before or during video distribution.

9. The information processing system according to claim 2, wherein the display unit displays the specific gift in a list of gifts screen in a way that makes it distinguishable from other gifts by adding movement to the specific gift.

10. The display unit will include the specific gift in the gift list screen if the specific gift is a paid gift, and will not display the specific gift in the gift list screen if the specific gift is a free gift. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the reception unit, when the particular gift is a free gift, receives a request to display the free gift in response to the operation of the second user on the video screen, without going through the gift list screen.

11. One or more computer processors Steps to accept specific gift settings from the first user, The steps include: sending information about a video that includes at least the character object of the first user to the second user's second user terminal, thereby causing the video to be displayed on the second user's terminal; The steps include: displaying a list screen of gifts, including the specific gift, on the second user's terminal in response to the second user's operation; The steps include receiving a request to display the specific gift from the second user terminal via the gift list screen, An information processing method for displaying a specific gift object corresponding to the specific gift for which the display request has been received in the video.

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