Systems, methods, and programs for delivering content

Abstract

To enhance the sense of community that content viewers experience with other viewers. [Solution] A content distribution server 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention is connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20, and provides a content distribution service to the user via the user terminal 30. The server 10 starts a predetermined mode when one viewer viewing specific content satisfies predetermined conditions, and upon the start of the predetermined mode, predetermined input becomes possible via a viewing screen presented to other viewer viewing users viewing the same content, so that each viewer can enjoy this predetermined mode together with other users.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a system, method, and program for delivering content.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in a system for delivering content composed of images and / or sounds, etc., various mechanisms have been introduced to facilitate communication among viewing users who view the content. For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses that in a content delivery system, when a viewing user transmits text or an image during viewing of the content and transmissions related to the transmitted content by different viewing users are continuously chained, privilege control is executed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the above-described system, although privileges can be granted in response to chained transmissions by a plurality of viewing users, the user experience of transmitting text or the like while viewing the content itself can be said to be monotonous. As a result, for example, the sense of unity with other viewing users obtained by the viewing user was not sufficient.

[0005] One of the objects of an embodiment of the present invention is to enhance the sense of unity of a viewing user of content with other viewing users. Other objects of the embodiments of the present invention will become apparent by referring to the entire specification.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for distributing content, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors perform the steps of: presenting a viewing screen for viewing the content to each of a plurality of viewing users; and starting a predetermined mode in which each of the plurality of viewing users can make predetermined inputs when one of the plurality of viewing users satisfies predetermined conditions, and the viewing screen is configured to enable the predetermined inputs in response to the start of the predetermined mode.

[0007] A method according to one embodiment of the present invention is a method for distributing content, which is executed by one or more computers, and comprises the steps of: presenting a viewing screen for viewing the content to each of a plurality of viewing users; and starting a predetermined mode in which each of the plurality of viewing users can make predetermined inputs when one of the plurality of viewing users satisfies predetermined conditions, wherein the viewing screen is configured to enable the predetermined inputs in response to the start of the predetermined mode.

[0008] A program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for distributing content, which causes one or more computers to perform the steps of: presenting a viewing screen for viewing the content to each of a plurality of viewing users; and starting a predetermined mode in which each of the plurality of viewing users can make predetermined inputs when one of the plurality of viewing users satisfies predetermined conditions, wherein the viewing screen is configured to enable the predetermined inputs in response to the start of the predetermined mode. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] Various embodiments of the present invention enhance the sense of unity that content viewers experience with other viewers. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1]A schematic diagram showing the configuration of a network including a content distribution server 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] A diagram illustrating the information managed in user information table 151. [Figure 3] A diagram illustrating the information managed in the distribution management table 153. [Figure 4] A diagram illustrating the top screen 50. [Figure 5] A diagram illustrating the 60th screen of the live streaming system. [Figure 6] A diagram illustrating viewing screen 70. [Figure 7] A diagram illustrating the item selection screen 200. [Figure 8] A flowchart illustrating the processes that Server 10 executes in response to the input of a special item for starting the "Ainori" mode. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates the viewing screen 70 after the Ainori mode has been activated. [Figure 10] This diagram illustrates the viewing screen 70 after the Ainori Gift Input button 83 has been selected. [Figure 11] A diagram illustrating a viewing screen 70 with added visual effects corresponding to the input of Ainori Gifts. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or similar components may be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing the configuration of a network including a content distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the server 10 is communicably connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet. In FIG. 1, only one user terminal 30 is shown, but the server 10 is communicably connected to a plurality of user terminals 30. The server 10 provides a content distribution service for distributing content to users via the user terminal 30. The content distribution server 10 is an example of a device that implements part or all of the system of the present invention.

[0013] First, the hardware configuration of the content distribution server 10 will be described. The content distribution server 10 is configured as a general computer and includes, as shown in FIG. 1, a computer processor 11, a main memory 12, an input / output I / F 13, a communication I / F 14, and a storage (storage device) 15, and these components are electrically connected via a bus or the like not shown in the figure.

[0014] The computer processor 11 is configured as a CPU or a GPU, etc., reads various programs stored in the storage 15, etc. into the main memory 12, and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 12 is constituted by, for example, DRAM or the like.

[0015] The input / output I / F 13 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with an operator or the like. The input / output I / F 13 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard, a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), a voice input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. The input / output I / F 13 also includes an image output device such as a display and a voice output device such as a speaker.

[0016] The communication I / F 14 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, and combinations thereof, and is configured to enable wired or wireless communication via a communication network 20 or the like.

[0017] The storage 15 is composed of, for example, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, or the like. The storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, and the like. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the storage 15 has a user information table 151 that manages information about users of the content delivery service, and a delivery management table 153 that manages information about individual deliveries. Further, for example, the storage 15 stores a server-side program 40 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The program 40 is a program for causing the server 10 to function as all or part of a system for providing a content delivery service. At least a part of the server-side program 40 can be configured to be executed on the user terminal 30 side via a terminal-side program 42 described later.

[0018] In the present embodiment, the content delivery server 10 can be configured using a plurality of computers each having the hardware configuration described above. For example, the content delivery server 10 can be configured by one or more server devices.

[0019] The content delivery server 10 configured as described above can be configured to have functions as a web server and an application server. In this case, in response to requests from the terminal-side program 42 installed on the user terminal 30, the content delivery server 10 executes various processes, and transmits screen data (e.g., HTML data) and control data corresponding to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. On the user terminal 30, a web page or other screen based on the received data can be output.

[0020] Next, the hardware configuration of the user terminal 30 will be described. The user terminal 30 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes a computer processor 31, a main memory 32, an input / output I / F 33, a communication I / F 34, and a storage (storage device) 35, and these components are electrically connected via a bus or the like not shown in the figure.

[0021] The computer processor 31 is configured as a CPU or GPU, and loads various programs stored in storage 35, etc., into the main memory 32 and executes various instructions contained in those programs. The main memory 32 is configured as, for example, DRAM.

[0022] The input / output interface 33 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with the operator, etc. The input / output interface 33 includes, for example, information input devices such as keyboards and pointing devices (e.g., mice, touch panels, etc.), audio input devices such as microphones, and image input devices such as cameras. Furthermore, the input / output interface 33 includes image output devices such as displays and audio output devices such as speakers.

[0023] The communication interface 34 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, and a combination thereof, and is configured to enable wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20, etc.

[0024] The storage 35 is composed of, for example, a magnetic disk or flash memory. The storage 35 stores various programs, including the operating system, and various data. The programs stored in the storage 35 can be downloaded and installed from an application market or the like. The storage 35 also stores terminal-side programs 42. These programs 42 are configured as a web browser or other application (for example, a terminal-side application for a content distribution service) and, as described above, can be configured to execute at least a portion of the server-side program 40.

[0025] In this embodiment, the user terminal 30 may be configured as a smartphone, tablet device, personal computer, wearable device, etc.

[0026] A user operating the user terminal 30 configured in this way can use the content distribution service provided by the content distribution server 10 by communicating with the content distribution server 10 via the terminal-side program 42 installed on the storage 35, etc.

[0027] Next, the functions of the content distribution server 10 configured in this way will be described. As shown in Figure 1, the computer processor 11 of the server 10 is configured to function as a management function control unit 111 and a content distribution control unit 112 by executing instructions contained in a program loaded into the main memory 12 (for example, at least a part of the server-side program 40).

[0028] The management function control unit 111 is configured to perform various processes related to the control of the management functions of the content distribution service. For example, the management function control unit 111 transmits screen data and control data for various screens related to the management functions to the user terminal 30, performs various processes in response to user input via the screens output by the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data and control data corresponding to the results of those processes to the user terminal 30. The management functions controlled by the management function control unit 111 include, for example, login processing (user authentication), billing control, and user account management.

[0029] The content distribution control unit 112 is configured to perform various processes related to the control of content distribution. For example, the content distribution control unit 112 is configured to distribute content to each of the user terminals 30 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as viewing terminals 30) of multiple viewing users who are viewing the content. For example, the content distribution control unit 112 presents a viewing screen for viewing the content to each of the multiple viewing users and transmits, for example, screen data and control data of the viewing screen to each viewing terminal 30.

[0030] In this embodiment, the content distribution control unit 112 is configured to start a predetermined mode in which each viewer can make predetermined inputs to the content when one viewer among a group of viewer users viewing a particular content satisfies predetermined conditions. The predetermined inputs include inputs of objects such as items, images, and text, as well as inputs of ratings such as "likes," and typically, when such predetermined inputs are made, a corresponding display is shown on the viewing screen of each viewing terminal 30.

[0031] In this embodiment, the viewing screen presented to each viewing user is configured to enable predetermined inputs in accordance with the start of a predetermined mode.

[0032] Thus, in this embodiment, the content distribution server 10 starts a predetermined mode when one viewer viewing specific content satisfies predetermined conditions, and upon the start of the predetermined mode, predetermined inputs become possible via the viewing screen presented to other viewer viewing users viewing the same content. As a result, each viewer can enjoy this predetermined mode together with other users. In other words, the server 10 enhances the sense of unity that content viewers can experience with other viewers.

[0033] The content distributed in this embodiment includes various types of digital content. For example, the content consists of images (video or still images) and audio, or either one of these. The content is transmitted in real time (live streaming) from, for example, the user terminal 30 of the distribution user who distributes the content (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the distribution terminal 30), or it is pre-stored in a storage device such as the storage 15. Live streaming of content may be accompanied by a certain delay (time lag) depending on the settings of the distribution user or the network conditions. Live streaming of content is performed using a streaming method that uses a protocol such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS).

[0034] Furthermore, the content transmitted from the distribution terminal 30 consists, for example, of video and audio of the distribution user input (captured) via the camera and microphone of the distribution terminal 30. In addition, such content consists, for example, of video corresponding to the screen output by an application (e.g., a game) running on the distribution terminal 30, as well as audio output by the said application and / or audio of the distribution user input via the microphone of the distribution terminal 30.

[0035] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content distributed is such that a portion of the data constituting the content is transmitted in real time from the distribution terminal 30, while a portion of the data constituting the content can be pre-stored in the server 10 or the viewing terminal 30. For example, the audio constituting the content is transmitted in real time from the distribution terminal 30, while the images constituting the content are pre-stored in the server 10 or the viewing terminal 30, and the content is generated in the server 10 or the viewing terminal 30 based on this data.

[0036] Furthermore, for example, in addition to the audio that constitutes the content, motion data for operating objects such as characters is transmitted in real time from the distribution terminal 30, while images that constitute the content are pre-stored in the server 10 or the viewing terminal 30, and these images include model data of the objects. In this case, the motion data is generated, for example, based on the actions of the distribution user (including changes in facial expressions, etc.) recognized via the camera of the distribution terminal 30. The content generated in the server 10 or the viewing terminal 30 includes objects that operate based on the model data and motion data.

[0037] In this embodiment, the viewing screen can be configured to allow predetermined input in various ways. For example, the viewing screen may be configured to display an object for performing the predetermined input in response to the start of a predetermined mode. For example, the viewing screen accepts predetermined input in response to the user's selection of the object. The object may be configured as a transparent or semi-transparent object. Such a configuration enables predetermined input via an object placed on the viewing screen.

[0038] In this embodiment, the predetermined input can be the input of a predetermined item that cannot be input outside of the predetermined mode period. In this case, the viewing screen can be configured to allow the selection of the predetermined item from among multiple items in response to the start of the predetermined mode. This configuration enables the input of the predetermined item during the period of the predetermined mode.

[0039] Furthermore, the viewing screen may be configured to allow predetermined input via confirmation input by the viewing user. For example, the viewing screen may be configured to display an object for confirmation input when a predetermined mode is started, and when this object is selected by the viewing user, predetermined input becomes possible via the viewing screen. Such a configuration prevents the viewing user from unintentionally performing predetermined input.

[0040] In this embodiment, the predetermined conditions for starting a predetermined mode include a variety of conditions. For example, the predetermined conditions include conditions that are satisfied when a parameter associated with the viewing user reaches a predetermined value. The predetermined conditions also include conditions that are satisfied when a predetermined item is entered. The predetermined item may be configured as a time-limited item that can be entered when the current date and time is within a predetermined period. Such a configuration facilitates the input of the predetermined item by the viewing user.

[0041] Furthermore, information about viewers who have met certain conditions (for example, the viewer's account name and / or profile picture) may be displayed on the viewing screen upon the start of a predetermined mode. Such a configuration facilitates viewers meeting the predetermined conditions.

[0042] In this embodiment, the predetermined mode may be terminated when the elapsed time since the start of the predetermined mode reaches a predetermined value. In this case, the predetermined value may be increased in response to a predetermined input (i.e., the duration of the predetermined mode is extended when a predetermined input is made). Such a configuration promotes the making of many predetermined inputs during the duration of the predetermined mode.

[0043] In this embodiment, the viewing screen may display a performance based on a predetermined input during a predetermined mode. This performance is performed, for example, based on the value of a parameter that increases in response to the predetermined input. For example, a first performance is performed when the parameter value reaches a first threshold, and a second performance, different from the first performance, is performed when the parameter value reaches a second threshold. The parameter that increases in response to the predetermined input includes, for example, the number of predetermined inputs, the number of viewing users who have made the predetermined input, the maximum combo count of predetermined inputs (a combo continues, for example, as long as predetermined inputs are made consecutively at intervals of less than a predetermined time), and the amount of value consumed with the predetermined input (e.g., points and coins). This configuration promotes the performance of predetermined inputs during a predetermined mode.

[0044] Next, a specific example of a content distribution server 10 of this embodiment having such functions will be described. In this example, the content distribution service is configured as a service for live distribution and viewing of content consisting of videos including characters provided by the distribution user, and the voice of the distribution user. The model data of the character is uploaded to the server 10 (storage 15) in advance by the distribution user, and as will be described in detail later, it is downloaded by the viewing user's viewing terminal 30 when viewing the content of the distribution user. First, the information managed by each table in this example will be described.

[0045] Figure 2 illustrates the information managed in the user information table 151 in this example. The user information table 151 manages information about users of the content distribution service, and as shown in the figure, it associates "user accounts" that identify individual users with "basic information" including account name and date of birth, "rank" indicating the rank as a distribution user, "coin holdings" indicating the number of virtual coins usable in the content distribution service, and "diamond holdings" indicating the number of virtual diamonds held.

[0046] In this example, coins are awarded to users both for free and for a fee under various circumstances. For example, users can acquire coins for free as rewards such as login bonuses. Alternatively, users can purchase coins for a fee (using real currency).

[0047] In this example, diamonds are awarded to users as a reward for their content distribution. Specifically, for each predetermined period (e.g., one day), users are awarded a number of diamonds equal to the total content distribution time during that period multiplied by a base quantity (number of diamonds per hour). The base quantity increases as the user's rank increases. Diamonds can be exchanged for coins or real currency.

[0048] Figure 3 illustrates the information managed in the distribution management table 153 in this example. The distribution management table 153 manages information related to individual distributions and, as shown in the figure, associates the "distribution ID" that identifies an individual distribution (content) with the "distribution user account" that identifies the distribution user, the "distribution start date and time" which is the date and time the distribution started, the "distribution duration" which is the duration (elapsed time) since the distribution started, the "number of viewing users (current value and maximum value)", the "number of comments" which is the number of comments entered by viewing users during the distribution of the content, the "number of likes" which is the number of "likes" entered by viewing users during the distribution of the content, the "number of item points" which is the total value of item points awarded in response to item input by viewing users during the distribution of the content, the "number of distribution points" which is the total value of distribution points awarded for this distribution, the "Ainori mode flag" which indicates whether or not it is Ainori mode, the "Ainori mode remaining time" which is the remaining time in Ainori mode, and the "number of combos" which indicates the number of combos of "Ainori gifts" input during the Ainori mode period.

[0049] In this example, the longer the broadcast duration, the more viewers, the more comments, the more likes, and the more item points are awarded, the more broadcast points are given. The rank of the broadcaster is then determined and updated based on the ranking of broadcasters based on the number of broadcast points earned within a predetermined period (for example, one day).

[0050] The above explains the information managed by each table. Next, we will explain the processes executed by the content distribution server 10 in this example, and the screens displayed on the user terminal 30.

[0051] Figure 4 illustrates the top screen 50 of the content distribution service displayed on the user terminal 30. This screen 50 is the starting point when using the content distribution service, and as shown in the figure, it has a selection area 52 that displays the text "Follow," "Popular," "Featured," and "All," a list display area 54 located below the area 52, and a circular distribution button 56 located in the upper right corner of the screen.

[0052] Selection area 52 is an area for selecting the content to be displayed in the list display area 54. Specifically, if "Follow" is selected in selection area 52, the list display area 54 will display a list of broadcasts (content currently being broadcast) from other users that the user is following. Similarly, if "Popular" is selected in selection area 52, the list display area 54 will display a list of broadcasts with a large number of viewers. Also, if "Featured" is selected in selection area 52, the list display area 54 will display a list of broadcasts that are generating a lot of buzz (for example, broadcasts with a large number of comments and likes). Furthermore, if "All" is selected in selection area 52, all broadcasts will be included in the list display area 54.

[0053] As shown in the diagram, the list display area 54 has multiple individual display areas 541 arranged vertically in two columns, each displaying information about an individual distribution. The individual display areas 541 are configured so that the user can start watching the corresponding distribution (playback of the corresponding content begins) according to their selection. The list display area 54 is configured so that the displayed individual display areas 541 can be switched by flicking or sliding up or down. The individual display areas 541 display an image pre-set by the distribution user, the distribution user's account name, and the number of viewers (current value), etc.

[0054] The distribution button 56 on the top screen 50 is an object that allows the user to distribute content as a distribution user. When the distribution button 56 is selected by the user, a distribution preparation screen (not shown) is displayed, and the user can set the distribution title, etc., through this screen. The user can also initiate distribution through this distribution preparation screen.

[0055] When content distribution begins, motion data indicating changes in the facial expressions of the distribution user recognized via the camera of the distribution terminal 30 (specifically, the movements of both eyes and mouth), and audio data (speech data from the distribution user) input via the microphone of the distribution terminal 30 are sent to the server 10. In addition, a new record is inserted into the distribution management table 153 in response to the start of content distribution.

[0056] Figure 5 illustrates a distribution screen 60 that is output on the distribution terminal 30 in response to the start of content distribution. As shown in the figure, the screen 60 has a video display area 61 that covers the entire screen, a basic information display area 62 located in the upper left corner of the screen, a comment display area 63 located in the lower left corner of the screen, a viewer user information display area 64 located in the upper right corner of the screen, and a circular distribution stop button 65 located in the center of the bottom edge of the screen.

[0057] The video display area 61 displays the video being streamed. Specifically, it displays a video in which a character's eyes and mouth move, based on the aforementioned motion data based on changes in the streaming user's facial expression and the character's model data. This video is generated and output by the streaming terminal 30.

[0058] The basic information display area 62 displays the basic information of this broadcast, specifically the broadcast user information (profile picture, etc.), the number of users watching this broadcast (current value), and the number of "likes" entered by users watching this broadcast.

[0059] The comment display area 63 is an area for displaying user comments entered by each viewing user, or system comments automatically entered by the server 10. Specifically, multiple comment objects 631, each corresponding to an individual comment, are arranged vertically within the area 63. The comment display area 63 is configured such that when a new comment is entered, a corresponding comment object 631 is added to the bottom, and the existing comment objects 631 move upwards in sequence. The displayed comment objects 631 in the comment display area 63 can be switched by flicking or sliding up or down.

[0060] The viewer user information display area 64 displays information about multiple viewer users who are watching the content being streamed. Specifically, the area 64 contains multiple icon objects 641, each corresponding to a viewer user, arranged horizontally. Each object 641 has a circular shape and displays the profile image of the corresponding viewer user. The multiple icon objects 641 are arranged in an order that follows a predetermined rule.

[0061] The unsubscribe button 65 is an object used by the distribution user to stop the distribution of content. When the unsubscribe button 65 is selected by the distribution user, the distribution of content (transmission of operation data and audio data from the distribution terminal 30 to the server 10) is stopped.

[0062] Figure 6 illustrates a viewing screen 70 output on the viewing terminal 30. For example, when a viewer selects a streaming (content) via the list display area 54 of the top screen 50, a viewing screen 70 for viewing the selected streaming is output on the viewing terminal 30. As shown in the figure, the screen 70, like the streaming screen 60 described above, has a video display area 71, a basic information display area 72, a comment display area 73, and a viewer user information display area 74. The viewing screen 70 also has a comment input area 751, a "Like" button 752 with a heart mark, and an item input button 753 with a gift design at the bottom of the screen.

[0063] The video display area 71 displays a video including the streaming user's character, similar to the video display area 61 on the streaming screen 60. This video is generated and output by the viewing terminal 30 based on the operation data transmitted from the streaming terminal 30 via the server 10, and the character model data downloaded from the server 10.

[0064] The comment input area 751 is an area for viewers to enter comments. When a string is entered into area 751 and the confirmation operation is performed, the string is sent as a user comment, and on the corresponding distribution terminal 30 (the user terminal 30 of the distribution user of the content being viewed) and each viewing terminal 30 (each user terminal 30 of multiple viewers of the content being viewed), comment objects 631 and 731 corresponding to the user comment are added to the comment display areas 63 and 73 of the distribution screen 60 and viewing screen 70. The comment objects 631 and 731 corresponding to the user comment display the content of the comment (string) along with the account name of the viewing user who entered the comment. In addition, when a user comment is entered, the server 10 updates (adds 1) the number of comments for the corresponding distribution in the distribution management table 153.

[0065] The "Like" button 752 is an object for viewers to input a "Like" for a broadcaster (content). When the button 752 is selected by a viewer, a "Like" is input, and comment objects 631 and 731 corresponding to a system comment notifying the input of a "Like" are added to the comment display areas 63 and 73 of the corresponding broadcast screen 60 and viewing screen 70. The comment objects 631 and 731 corresponding to the system comment display the account name of the viewer who input the "Like," along with text indicating that a "Like" has been input. In addition, when a "Like" is input, a corresponding visual effect (for example, an animation effect in which heart-shaped objects are displayed flowing from the bottom to the top of the screen) is added to the video display areas 61 and 71 of the broadcast screen 60 and viewing screen 70. Furthermore, when a "Like" is input, the server 10 updates (adds 1) the "Like Count" of the corresponding broadcast in the broadcast management table 153.

[0066] The item input button 753 is an object for the viewer to input an item. When the button 753 is selected by the viewer, an item selection screen 200 for selecting the item to input, as illustrated in Figure 7, is superimposed on the lower area of ​​the viewing screen 70. As shown in the figure, the screen 200 has a list display area 202 for displaying a list of items, a category selection area 204 located below the area 202 for selecting the category of the item to display, and a purchase button 206 located in the lower right corner of the screen, which is an object for purchasing coins. In addition, the number of coins held by the corresponding user is displayed in the lower left corner of the item selection screen 200.

[0067] As shown in the figure, the classification selection area 204 has multiple classification objects 2041 arranged horizontally, each corresponding to an individual classification. The area 204 is configured so that the displayed classification objects 2041 can be switched by flicking or sliding operations in the left or right direction. The classification selection area 204 is configured so that any one of the classification objects 2041 can be selected, and when any object 2041 is selected, the items displayed in the list display area 202 are narrowed down to items to which the corresponding classification is attached.

[0068] In this example, the multiple classifications include the classification "for events." Also, in this example, an event is held where "Ainori Mode" is enabled as a limited-time event. As will be explained in more detail later, Ainori Mode is started by inputting a special item, and during the corresponding event, it is possible to select (i.e., input) the special item via the item selection screen 200. The classification "for events" is attached to the special item.

[0069] The list display area 202 has four individual display areas 2021 arranged vertically in a vertical layout, each displaying information about an individual item. Each individual display area 2021 displays an image corresponding to the item and the number of coins (price) required to input that item. The list display area 202 is configured so that the displayed individual display areas 2021 switch depending on whether the user flicks or slides up or down. When a user selects any of the individual display areas 2021, input for the corresponding item is initiated.

[0070] When an item is entered, comment objects 631 and 731 corresponding to a system comment notifying the entry of the item are added to the comment display areas 63 and 73 of the corresponding distribution screen 60 and viewing screen 70. The comment objects 631 and 731 corresponding to the system comment display the name of the entered item along with the account name of the viewing user who entered the item. When an item is entered, a visual effect (video effect) corresponding to the entered item is added to the video display areas 61 and 71 of the corresponding distribution screen 60 and viewing screen 70. When an item is entered, the server 10 also assigns a quantity of item points to this distribution according to the number of coins (price) of the entered item (for example, the more coins, the more points are awarded). Specifically, in the distribution management table 153, the points corresponding to the number of coins are added to the item points of the corresponding distribution. When an item is entered, the server 10 also subtracts the number of coins of the entered item from the number of coins held by the corresponding user (the viewing user who entered the item) in the user information table 151.

[0071] Here, we will explain the aforementioned "Ainori Mode," which is active during the limited-time event. Ainori Mode is a mode in which each viewer can input "Ainori Gifts," and it is started when any viewer inputs the special item mentioned above to start the mode. Alternatively, Ainori Mode may be started after a confirmation (approval) operation by the broadcaster following the viewer's input of the special item.

[0072] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the process that Server 10 executes in response to the input of a special item for starting Ainori Mode. First, Server 10 starts Ainori Mode as shown in the figure (step S100). Specifically, the "Ainori Mode flag" for the corresponding distribution is updated in the distribution management table 153, and the "Ainori Mode remaining time" for the corresponding distribution is updated (countdown) and begins. In this example, the initial value of the duration of Ainori Mode is 3 minutes, and the countdown of the remaining time starts from 3 minutes. In addition, the display of Ainori Mode effects is started for the content being distributed, for example, the background image of the character included in the video is changed to an image for Ainori Mode.

[0073] Next, the server 10 begins accepting input for Ainori gifts (step S110). Figure 9 illustrates the viewing screen 70 for each viewing user after Ainori mode has started. As shown in the figure, the viewing screen 70 in this state has a combo count display area 81 located below the basic information display area 72 that displays the combo count of Ainori gift inputs, a remaining time indicator 82 located to the right of the area 81 that shows the remaining time for Ainori mode, and an Ainori gift input start button 83 located above the comment display area 73 with the text "Submit an Ainori gift" attached to it. In addition, information about the viewing user who has entered the special item (i.e., the viewing user who started Ainori mode) (for example, a profile picture, etc.) may be displayed in a predetermined position on the viewing screen 70 in this state. When the Ainori gift input start button 83 is selected by a viewing user, that viewing user can input an Ainori gift. Alternatively, it may be possible to allow viewers to enter Ainori gifts without having to go through the selection process of the gift entry start button 83 (confirmation input by the viewer).

[0074] Figure 10 illustrates the viewing screen 70 after the Ainori Gift Input Start button 83 has been selected. In this state, the Ainori Gift Input object 84 is placed in place of the Gift Input Start button 83 on the viewing screen 70, as shown in the figure. This object 84 is configured as a semi-transparent object and covers a strip-shaped area between the combo count display area 81 and the remaining time indicator 82 and the comment display area 73. The viewing user can input an Ainori Gift by selecting any position on this object 84 (for example, by tapping).

[0075] When an Ainori Gift is entered, corresponding visual effects (video effects) are added to the video display areas 61 and 71 of the corresponding streaming screen 60 and viewing screen 70. Figure 11 illustrates the viewing screen 70 with the visual effects corresponding to the Ainori Gift input added. In this state of the viewing screen 70, as shown in the figure, an icon object 711 corresponding to the viewing user who entered the Ainori Gift is placed in the video display area 71. The object 711 has a circular shape and displays the profile image of the corresponding viewing user. The icon object 711 is placed with a predetermined visual effect in response to the Ainori Gift input by the viewing user and disappears after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed. The position where the object 711 is placed corresponds to the position on the Ainori Gift input object 84 that was selected when the Ainori Gift was entered.

[0076] Furthermore, when an Ainori Gift is entered, server 10 grants a quantity of item points to this broadcast corresponding to the number of coins (price) of the Ainori Gift. Specifically, in the broadcast management table 153, the number of points corresponding to the number of coins is added to the number of item points for the corresponding broadcast. Also, when an Ainori Gift is entered, server 10 deducts the number of coins of the Ainori Gift from the number of coins held by the corresponding user (the viewing user who entered the Ainori Gift) in the user information table 151.

[0077] Returning to the flowchart in Figure 8, Server 10 then waits for input of an Ainori gift until the remaining time in Ainori mode runs out (NO in step S120 and NO in step S190). When an Ainori gift is input (YES in step S120), Server 10 determines whether a combo has been formed (step S130). In this example, if the elapsed time since the previous (most recent) Ainori gift input (which may be from the same viewer who input the Ainori gift this time, or from a different viewer) is within a threshold (for example, within 5 seconds), it is determined that a combo has been formed. Conversely, if the elapsed time exceeds the threshold, it is determined that a combo has not been formed.

[0078] Then, if it is determined that a combo has been achieved (YES in step S130), the server 10 adds to the combo count (step S140). Specifically, 1 is added to the combo count of the corresponding distribution in the distribution management table 153. In accordance with the addition to the combo count, the display in the combo count display area 81 described above is also updated.

[0079] After adding the combo count in this way, server 10 then recovers the remaining time (step S150). Specifically, a predetermined value (for example, 5 seconds) is added to the remaining time in the shared mode of the corresponding distribution in the distribution management table 153. The amount of remaining time recovered may vary depending on the combo count, etc. (for example, the recovery amount may be larger or smaller the higher the combo count).

[0080] Then, if the combo count reaches a threshold (YES in step S160), the server 10 changes the visual display (step S170). In this example, each time the combo count reaches one of several progressively set thresholds, the visual display changes to the one corresponding to the threshold reached. The multiple visual displays corresponding to multiple thresholds differ from each other in that at least one of the background image, visual effects, and background music is different. Each viewer can enjoy the gradual changes in the visual display by continuously inputting Ainori gifts and increasing the combo count.

[0081] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S130 that a combo is not formed (NO in step S130), the server 10 clears the combo count (step S180). Specifically, in the distribution management table 153, the combo count for the corresponding distribution is set to 0. In accordance with the clearing of the combo count, the display in the combo count display area 81 described above is also updated.

[0082] In this way, during the Ainori mode, visual effects are displayed according to the Ainori gift input from each viewing user. When the remaining time for Ainori mode reaches 0 (YES in step S190), server 10 terminates Ainori mode (step S195).

[0083] In the example described above, the ride-sharing mode is initiated in response to the input of a special item, but the conditions for initiating the ride-sharing mode are not limited to the input of a special item. For example, in another example of this embodiment, the ride-sharing mode is initiated when any viewer satisfies predetermined conditions related to actions such as commenting, liking, or inputting an item.

[0084] In the example above, it was made possible to input "Ainori Gifts" during the Ainori mode period, but it is also possible to input other items, for example, to allow input of ratings other than "Likes".

[0085] In the example described above, input for Ainori gifts was accepted via the Ainori gift input object 84 placed on the viewing screen 70, but the method for enabling Ainori gift input is not limited to the placement of such objects. For example, input for Ainori gifts may be accepted via the item selection screen 200, in which case, when Ainori mode starts, the selection of Ainori gifts may be made possible on the screen 200.

[0086] In the example described above, the display in Ainori mode changes based on the combo count of Ainori Gift inputs. However, the combo count is just one example of a parameter that increases in response to Ainori Gift inputs. In other examples of this embodiment, the display is based on parameters other than the combo count (for example, the number of Ainori Gift inputs, the number of viewers who input Ainori Gifts, and the number of coins consumed by Ainori Gift inputs).

[0087] In the example described above, the content distribution service is configured to provide live streaming and viewing of content consisting of a video containing the character of the distribution user and the voice of the distribution user. However, in other examples of this embodiment, various other types of content may be distributed. For example, the content may consist of video and audio transmitted from the distribution terminal 30, or it may consist of a predetermined image and audio transmitted from the distribution terminal 30. Furthermore, content pre-stored in the server 10 (storage 15) may be made available for simultaneous viewing by multiple viewing users.

[0088] As described above, the content distribution server 10 of this embodiment starts a predetermined mode (e.g., a shared ride mode) when one viewer viewing specific content satisfies predetermined conditions (e.g., inputs a special item), and upon the start of this predetermined mode, predetermined inputs become possible via the viewing screen presented to other viewer viewing users viewing the same content (e.g., a shared ride gift input object 84 is placed via the selection of the shared ride gift input start button 83), so that each viewer can enjoy this predetermined mode together with other users. In other words, the server 10 enhances the sense of unity that content viewers can experience with other viewers.

[0089] In another embodiment of the present invention, some or all of the functions of the content distribution server 10 in the above-described embodiment may be realized by the cooperation of the server 10 and the user terminal 30, or by the user terminal 30 alone.

[0090] The processes and procedures described herein can be implemented by software, hardware, or any combination thereof, in addition to those explicitly described herein. For example, the processes and procedures described herein can be implemented by implementing the logic corresponding to those processes and procedures on a medium such as an integrated circuit, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or magnetic disk. Furthermore, the processes and procedures described herein can be implemented as computer programs corresponding to those processes and procedures and executed by various types of computers.

[0091] Even if a process or procedure described herein is described as being performed by a single device, software, component, or module, such process or procedure may be performed by multiple devices, multiple software programs, multiple components, and / or multiple modules. Furthermore, the software and hardware elements described herein can also be realized by integrating them into fewer components or by decomposing them into more components.

[0092] In this specification, even when a component of the invention is described as either one or more, or without being limited to either one or more, such component may be either one or more, unless the context should be otherwise interpreted. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 10. Content distribution server 11 Computer Processors 111 Management Function Control Unit 112 Content Distribution Control Unit 15. Storage (mechanisms) 151 User Information Table 153 Distribution Management Table 20 Communication Networks 30 User terminals 40 Server-side programs 42 Terminal-side programs 50 Top screen 60 Streaming screen 70 Viewing screen 83. Start entering Ainori gift information button 84 Ainori Gift Input Object 200 Item Selection Screen

Claims

1. A system for distributing content, comprising one or more computer processors, The steps include presenting a viewing screen for viewing the aforementioned content to each of the multiple viewing users, The process involves: 1) In response to one of the multiple viewing users satisfying a predetermined condition, a predetermined mode is started that allows each of the multiple viewing users to make a predetermined input; and 2) The viewing screen is configured such that the predetermined input becomes available when the predetermined mode is started. system.

2. The viewing screen is configured such that, in response to the start of the predetermined mode, an object for performing the predetermined input is placed on it. The system according to claim 1.

3. The one or more computer processors further perform the step of receiving input for an item selected from among a plurality of items via the viewing screen, The predetermined input is the input of a first item that cannot be input outside of the period of the predetermined mode. The viewing screen is configured such that, in response to the start of the predetermined mode, it becomes possible to select the first item from among the multiple items. The system according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned viewing screen is configured to enable the predetermined input through confirmation input by the corresponding viewing user. The system according to claim 1.

5. The one or more computer processors further perform the step of receiving input for an item selected from among a plurality of items via the viewing screen, The predetermined conditions are satisfied in accordance with the input of a second item included in the plurality of items. The system according to claim 1.

6. The second item is an item that can be entered when the current date and time falls within a predetermined period. The system according to claim 5.

7. The viewing screen is configured to display information about the viewing user 1 in response to the start of the predetermined mode. The system according to claim 1.

8. The one or more computer processors further perform a step of terminating the predetermined mode when the elapsed time since the start of the predetermined mode reaches a predetermined value. The predetermined value increases in accordance with the predetermined input. The system according to claim 1.

9. The viewing screen is configured to display a visual effect based on the predetermined input during the period of the predetermined mode. The system according to claim 1.

10. The viewing screen is configured to display the effects based on the value of a parameter that increases in response to the predetermined input. The system according to claim 9.

11. The viewing screen displays a first visual effect when the value of the parameter reaches a first threshold, and displays a second visual effect different from the first visual effect when the value of the parameter reaches a second threshold. The system according to claim 10.

12. A method for delivering content, which is performed by one or more computers, The steps include presenting a viewing screen for viewing the aforementioned content to each of the multiple viewing users, The system includes the step of starting a predetermined mode in which each of the plurality of viewing users can make a predetermined input, in response to one of the plurality of viewing users satisfying a predetermined condition. The viewing screen is configured such that the predetermined input becomes available when the predetermined mode is started. method.

13. A program for distributing content, which can be installed on one or more computers. The steps include presenting a viewing screen for viewing the aforementioned content to each of the multiple viewing users, The procedure involves:

1. When one of the multiple viewing users satisfies a predetermined condition, start a predetermined mode in which each of the multiple viewing users can make a predetermined input; The viewing screen is configured such that the predetermined input becomes available when the predetermined mode is started. program.

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