Information processing device, information processing system, information processing method, and program

Abstract

We provide information processing devices, information processing systems, information processing methods, and programs. [Solution] The payment server comprises a memory for storing instructions and at least one processor, the at least one processor being configured to execute instructions and display a code screen 59 on the display of a terminal device, the code screen 59 including a first area 100 and a second area 200 for displaying a first code and a second code containing different information from each other, the first code and the second code being identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen 59, the first code being displayed in a readable normal display in the first area 100 and the second code being displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area 200.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, electronic payment services such as code-based payments have been widely provided. In general, a user who uses an electronic payment service installs a payment application (hereinafter simply referred to as an "app") provided by the provider of the electronic payment service on their own terminal device. The payment app is generally configured to display a one-time code for payment on the display of the terminal device.

[0003] Electronic payment services may be linked to a point program. The point program is a loyalty program that awards points to users according to the transaction amount and provides benefits to users according to the number of points. A user who uses the point program may install a point app for managing points on their own terminal device.

[0004] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a payment app and a point app may be separately installed on one terminal device. Instead of this, the payment app may have a point management function. The point management function of the payment app and the point app are generally configured to display an identification code for identifying the user on the display of the terminal device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Payment apps are provided by multiple different service providers. Similarly, point apps are also provided by multiple different service providers. Therefore, a user who uses multiple payment services will have multiple payment apps installed on their device. In the same way, a user who uses multiple point services will have multiple point apps installed on their device. In this case, the user will have to sequentially launch the desired point app and the desired payment app each time they make a payment and then perform the operation to display the corresponding code.

[0007] For example, a user might launch a points app before making a payment, and after the points app's code is scanned, they would launch the payment app to complete the code payment. This process of sequentially selecting and displaying the desired app from among multiple apps presents a challenge because it places a burden on the user.

[0008] This issue can arise not only with electronic payments that use both a payment app and a points app, but also with any situation where multiple codes are presented sequentially. Therefore, improvements in usability when presenting multiple codes sequentially are desirable.

[0009] This disclosure aims to provide an information processing device, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program that can improve operability when sequentially presenting multiple codes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] An information processing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a memory for storing instructions and at least one processor, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions and cause a code screen to be displayed on the display of a terminal device, the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code containing different information, the first code and the second code are identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, the first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area.

[0011] An information processing system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a terminal device having a display and one or more servers configured to communicate with the terminal device, wherein one or more of the one or more servers and the terminal device have part or all of at least one processor configured to display a code screen on the display, the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code containing different information, the first code and the second code are identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, the first code is displayed in a readable normal display in the first area and the second code is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area.

[0012] An information processing method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes at least one processor causing a code screen to be displayed on the display of a terminal device, the code screen including a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code containing different information, the first code and the second code being identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, the first code being displayed in a readable normal display in the first area and the second code being displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area.

[0013] A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing at least one processor to display a code screen on the display of a terminal device, wherein the code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code containing different information, the first code and the second code being identification codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen, the first code being displayed in a readable normal display in the first area, and the second code being displayed in an unreadable non-normal display in the second area. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the first code screen displayed on the terminal device's display. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the change in the orientation of the terminal device. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the second code screen, which is accessed after transitioning from the first code screen in Figure 2. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating how the first code screen is displayed. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the transition method from the first code screen to the second code screen. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the first code screen related to the modified example. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the second code screen, which is accessed from the first code screen in Figure 7. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the second code screen, which represents a further modification example, transitioning from the first code screen in Figure 7. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0015] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 9, examples of an information processing apparatus, an information processing system 11, an information processing method, and a program will be described. The present invention is not limited to these examples, but is indicated by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims. Further, numerals such as "first" and "second" used in the following description are used to distinguish the components to which these numerals are attached, and do not rank these components.

[0016] [Overview of Information Processing System] The information processing system 11 shown in FIG. 1 includes one or more information processing apparatuses. The information processing apparatus may be, for example, a server. Hereinafter, a case where the information processing system 11 includes a settlement server 20 that is one information processing apparatus will be described. However, the information processing system 11 may include a plurality of settlement servers 20 respectively managed by a plurality of different operators. The settlement server 20 provides an electronic payment service for a user to make a payment at a store.

[0017] The information processing system 11 may include a plurality of point servers 30 respectively managed by a plurality of different operators. Each point server 30 is configured to provide a point service. The point program may be available only at a single store or a chain store, or may be a multi-point program joined by a plurality of stores. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the information processing system 11 will be described as including one point server 30.

[0018] The information processing system 11 may include a plurality of service servers 40 respectively managed by a plurality of different operators. The service server 40 may be configured to issue, for example, a coupon available at the time of settlement. However, the service server 40 is not limited to issuing discount coupons, and may be, for example, a coupon used as a reservation ticket, an admission ticket, or an order ticket. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the information processing system 11 will be described as including one service server 40.

[0019] The information processing system 11 may include one or more terminal devices 50. Each terminal device 50 is operated by a user. Each of the settlement server 20, the point server 30, and the service server 40 is configured to communicate with one or more terminal devices 50 through a network. Hereinafter, a mode in which one terminal device 50 communicates with one settlement server 20 will be used for explanation. The electronic settlement in this example is code settlement.

[0020] The settlement server 20 is configured to issue a settlement code 301 used for electronic settlement to the terminal device 50. The point server 30 is configured to issue a point code 201 used for the use of the point service to the terminal device 50. The service server 40 is configured to issue a coupon code 101 for identifying a coupon to the terminal device 50.

[0021] The information processing system 11 may include a plurality of store terminals 60 respectively installed in a plurality of stores. Each of the settlement server 20, the point server 30, and the service server 40 is configured to communicate with one or more store terminals 60 through a network. Hereinafter, a mode in which one store terminal 60 communicates with one settlement server 20 will be used for explanation.

[0022] The settlement server 20 may be realized as a computer including, for example, at least one processor 21, at least one memory 22, and a communication IF 23. Hereinafter, a case where the settlement server 20 includes one processor 21 and one memory 22 will be described. The communication IF 23 enables communication with other devices via a network.

[0023] Memory 22 stores a program 24 executed by the processor 21 and a database 25. Database 25 stores store information for each of the multiple stores participating in the payment service, and user information for each of the multiple users registered with the payment service. Program 24 includes an application and an operating system. The processor 21 implements various functions by executing processing based on Program 24. For example, the processor 21 performs user authentication based on user information and generates a payment code 301 for the authenticated user.

[0024] The point server 30, like the payment server 20, may be implemented as a computer comprising at least one processor 31, at least one memory 32, and a communication interface 33. Below, we will describe an example in which the point server 30 comprises one processor 31 and one memory 32.

[0025] Memory 32 stores a program 34 executed by the processor 31 and a database 35. Database 35 stores store information for each of the multiple stores participating in the points program, and user information for each of the multiple users registered in the points program. For example, the processor 31 performs user authentication based on the user information and generates a point code 201 for the authenticated user.

[0026] The service server 40, like the payment server 20, may be implemented as a computer comprising at least one processor 41, at least one memory 42, and a communication interface 43. Below, we will describe an example in which the service server 40 comprises one processor 41 and one memory 42.

[0027] Memory 42 stores a program 44 executed by the processor 41 and a database 45. Database 45 stores store information for each of several stores that provide the corresponding service, and user information for each of several users who have registered to use the service. For example, the processor 41 performs user authentication based on the user information and generates a coupon code 101 for the authenticated user.

[0028] [Overview of store terminals] The store terminal 60 may be installed in a store, or it may be mounted on a mobile vehicle such as a taxi or a mobile sales vehicle. Each store terminal 60 may be a POS (Point of Sales) register, or it may be a portable device such as a PC or tablet with payment software installed.

[0029] The store terminal 60 may be implemented as a computer, for example, comprising at least one processor 61, at least one memory 62, and a communication IF 63. Below, an example is described in which the store terminal 60 comprises one processor 61 and one memory 62. The communication IF 63 enables communication with other devices via a network.

[0030] The store terminal 60 may be connected to a code scanner 68 capable of reading various codes. Alternatively, the store terminal 60 may be equipped with a code scanner 68. The store terminal 60 may be assigned a store code 69 for identifying the store terminal 60 or the corresponding store. The store code 69 may be, but is not limited to, a barcode or a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark).

[0031] Code payment can be performed using a store scan method in which the store terminal 60 scans various codes displayed on the display 57 of the terminal device 50, or using a user scan method in which the terminal device 50 scans the store code 69. In a store, a cashier who is a store staff member may scan the code, or the user may operate the store terminal 60 provided at a self-checkout counter and scan the code displayed on the terminal device 50 that the user possesses. In the store scan method, the payment server 20 processes the payment in response to the payment request sent from the store terminal 60. In the user scan method, the payment server 20 processes the payment in response to the payment request sent from the terminal device 50.

[0032] [Overview of terminal equipment] The terminal device 50 may be implemented as a computer comprising, for example, at least one processor 51, at least one memory 52, and a communication interface 53. The following describes an example where the terminal device 50 comprises one processor 51 and one memory 52. ​​The communication interface 53 enables communication with other devices via a network. The memory 52 stores a program 54 executed by the processor 51. The program 54 includes applications and an operating system. The processor 51 implements various functions by executing processing based on the program 54.

[0033] The terminal device 50 may be a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, or a wearable device such as a smartwatch. The terminal device 50 is equipped with a display 57, which is an output device. The display 57 may be equipped with a touch panel 58, which is an input device.

[0034] Program 54 includes one or more applications (hereinafter referred to as "apps"). One or more apps may include at least one of the following: a pre-installed app, a native app, or a web app. Pre-installed apps are pre-installed when the terminal device 50 is purchased. Native apps are installed on the terminal device 50 from an app store by the user. Web apps run on a browser when launched on the terminal device 50. Users utilize the services provided through these apps by operating them.

[0035] For example, the terminal device 50 may have a payment application installed by the user for using electronic payment services. The payment application includes multiple program codes (instructions) contained in program 54. When the payment application is installed on the terminal device 50, an icon (not shown) for launching the payment application is displayed on the display 57.

[0036] When a user interacts with an icon (for example, by tapping it), the payment app is launched. The app may be launched not only by interacting with the icon, but also by any other action such as voice input, button press, or shaking (operating the device 50), or it may be launched automatically under certain conditions (for example, when approaching a cash register).

[0037] [Multi-code display function] The function of displaying the code screen 59 on the display 57 is called the screen display function, and the program instructions for realizing the screen display function are called screen display program code. The function of displaying multiple codes on the code screen 59 is called the code display function, and the program instructions for realizing the code display function are called code display program code. In addition, the function of transitioning the display state of the codes is called the display transition function, and the program instructions for realizing the display transition function are called display transition program code.

[0038] The screen display function, code display function, and display transition function are collectively referred to as the multi-code display function. The multiple program instructions required to implement the multi-code display function are collectively referred to as the multi-code display program.

[0039] The multi-code display program is included in either the program 24 of the server (a payment server 20 in this example), which is an information processing device, or in the payment application of the terminal device 50, or it is distributed and included in multiple of these. Which program code is stored in which memory 22, 52 can be arbitrarily changed depending on the type of application (e.g., native application or web application) or design. In other words, one or more of the one or more servers and terminal devices 50, which are information processing devices, have part or all of at least one processor configured to display a code screen 59 on the display 57. In this case, at least part of the processing to be executed may be performed by a circuit such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) rather than based on program code.

[0040] For example, the program 24 of the payment server 20 and the payment application of the terminal device 50 are executed by processors 21 and 51, respectively, and cooperate to display the code screen 59 and change the display state of the code screen 59. In one example, the screen display program code may be mainly executed by processor 51, and the code display program code and display transition program code may be mainly executed by processor 21, but this is not limited to this. For convenience, the multi-code display function will be described below assuming that the payment application executes the multi-code display program.

[0041] The code screen 59 includes multiple display areas for displaying multiple (two or more) codes containing different information. In this example, the code screen 59 includes three display areas (first area 100, second area 200, and third area 300), but the number of display areas may be two or four or more.

[0042] The multiple codes may be, for example, barcodes or two-dimensional codes, but are not limited to these. The multiple codes include coupon code 101, point code 201, and payment code 301 displayed in the first area 100, second area 200, and third area 300, respectively, but the number and types of codes displayed can be changed arbitrarily.

[0043] If three codes are displayed on the code screen 59, they may be two point codes 201 and one payment code 301 (see example in Figure 7). The two point codes 201 may be, for example, the point code of the store where the payment is made (referred to as the "first point code") and the point code of the multi-point program (referred to as the "second point code").

[0044] If two codes are displayed on the code screen 59, they may be a points code 201 and a payment code 301, or two payment codes 301 provided by different businesses, or two points codes 201 provided by different businesses.

[0045] Display area 1 (for example, third area 300) may display different types of codes (for example, a barcode and a two-dimensional code) that contain the same information. The barcode and two-dimensional code containing the same information are generated, for example, by encoding a multi-digit number in different ways. The third area 300 may display the two codes along with the number before it was encoded.

[0046] The first area 100, the second area 200, and the third area 300 may each display a string indicating the name or description of the code to be displayed. In this example, the string 102 in the first area 100 is "Coupon Code," the string 202 in the second area 200 is "Point Card," and the string 302 in the third area 300 is "Code / QR Payment" or "Code Payment." Note that in Figure 6 and subsequent figures, the illustration of the QR code in the third area 300 is omitted, and the string 302 is replaced with "Code Payment."

[0047] The multiple codes are identification codes that should be read sequentially in conjunction with the electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen 59. The identification code is an encoded information for identifying at least one of the following: the electronic processing, the user, or the store, and is issued by the corresponding server, for example, as a one-time code. The identification code is not limited to a one-time code; it may also be a permanent code for identifying the user, for example.

[0048] For example, when a user uses a coupon when making an electronic payment at a store, the coupon code 101 containing the coupon information is read by the code scanner 68. Also, if the store offers a points service, the points code 201 issued by the points server 30 is read by the code scanner 68. Finally, the payment code 301 issued by the payment server 20 is read by the code scanner 68, and the electronic payment is completed.

[0049] The order in which these multiple codes are read may be predetermined according to the specifications of the corresponding process or server (e.g., payment server 20), or it may be set on a store-by-store basis. Therefore, if multiple codes are displayed on a single code screen 59, the store's cashier may read the codes in the wrong order, resulting in improper processing.

[0050] Therefore, the payment app displays the code to be read first among multiple codes in a readable normal display, according to the set reading order, while displaying the code to be read later (last) in an unreadable non-normal display. Hereinafter, the code displayed in normal display will be referred to as the first code, and the code displayed in non-normal display will be referred to as the second code. The first code and the second code are two of two or more identification codes that are to be read sequentially in conjunction with the electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen 59. The code screen 59 may contain multiple first codes or multiple second codes.

[0051] In the example code screen 59 shown in Figure 2, the first code, coupon code 101, is displayed in the first area 100, the second code, point code 201, is displayed in the second area 200, and another second code, payment code 301, is displayed in the third area 300. The display area in which each code is displayed can be arbitrarily configured. The arrangement of multiple display areas is not limited to vertical; they can be horizontal, or a combination of vertical and horizontal.

[0052] An unconventional display may be a display in which at least a portion of the second code (point code 201 and payment code 301 in Figure 2) has been modified, for example, by the methods listed below, but the method of modification is not limited to these. The modification is a so-called masking process for the sake of masking. An unconventional display can also be said to be a masked display in which at least a portion of the code has been masked.

[0053] 1) Displaying at least a portion of the second code in a blurred manner. 2) Display with at least a portion of the second code grayed out. 3) Display with at least a portion of the second code hidden. 4) Display with the size of at least a portion of the second code changed. 5) Display in which the second code is replaced with a different image or different characters. The processing methods described in 1) to 5) above may be used in combination for a single second code, or different processing methods may be used for multiple second codes. Furthermore, the processing may be applied to the entire second code, or both the barcode and the two-dimensional code within a single display area may be processed together, as shown in the payment code 301 in Figure 2. If the entire second code is hidden, the code itself will not be displayed in the corresponding display area, but the strings 202 and 302 can be used to identify what the hidden second code is.

[0054] [Display transition function] The payment application may transition the display state of the codes on the code screen 59 using a display transition function. For example, if the code screen 59 in Figure 2 is the first code screen, then the code screen 59 in Figure 1 is the initial code screen. On the initial code screen, all codes may be displayed in the normal display, as shown in Figure 1, or all codes may be displayed in an abnormal display.

[0055] The payment application may display an initial code screen on the display 57 in conjunction with the activation operation or automatic activation of the payment application on the terminal device 50, or with a payment operation. After displaying the initial code screen, if at least one of one or more initial transition conditions is met, the initial code screen may transition to the first code screen. The payment operation may be, but is not limited to, an operation immediately preceding the payment, such as tapping the payment button or payment code display button of the payment application.

[0056] One or more initial transition conditions may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following conditions: 1) Initial waiting time (e.g., 1-10 seconds) elapses 2) User execution 3) Changes in the orientation of the terminal device 50 The user operation in initial transition condition 2 may, for example, be tapping the code to which the display should be transitioned or the display area containing that code. In one example, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, operation buttons 103, 203, and 303 for transitioning the display may be placed in the first area 100, the second area 200, and the third area 300, respectively. In this case, the display state may be changed by operation button 103 indicating the first code in the normal display and operation buttons 203 and 303 indicating the second code in the abnormal display.

[0057] Initial transition conditions 1 to 3 may be applied in combination. For example, the payment application may transition the initial code screen to the first code screen if there is no operation of operation buttons 103, 203, or 303 during the initial waiting time, or if no change in the orientation of the terminal device 50 is detected.

[0058] As shown in Figure 3, the change in the attitude of the terminal device 50 in the initial transition condition 3 can be detected, for example, by a sensor 56 (e.g., a gyroscope) built into the terminal device 50. The change in attitude may be caused by the terminal device 50 being shaken in any direction.

[0059] A change in posture may, for example, be defined as a change of more than a specified angle from the reference posture when the initial code screen is displayed. Alternatively, the initial transition condition 3 may be defined as a change of more than a specified angle from the reference posture when the planar portion (for example, the display 57) is horizontal or vertical.

[0060] Alternatively, the initial transition condition 3 may be met when the display 57 changes from a position facing the user to a tilted position as shown in Figure 3, where the display 57 is tilted upwards and facing the person the user is facing. The tilt angle θ of the tilted position can be measured as the inclination of the display 57 with respect to the horizontal. In the case of a person-operated checkout, the tilt angle θ may be, for example, 0 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less, but in the case of a self-checkout, such as when the code scanner 68 has a vertical reading surface (light emission window), the tilt angle θ may be 90 degrees or more.

[0061] The tilted posture is the posture used when showing a code to a cashier at a store for code scanning. In this case, after the user visually views the initial code screen, when the user turns the display 57 towards the cashier or the code scanner 68 of the self-checkout machine, the initial code screen automatically transitions to the first code screen. Therefore, on the first code screen, the code scanner 68 reads the first code out of multiple codes.

[0062] The payment application may transition the first code screen to the second code screen after displaying the first code screen, if at least one of the one or more display transition conditions is met. The one or more display transition conditions may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following conditions.

[0063] 1) Elapsed time 2) User execution 3) Changes in the orientation of the terminal device 50 4) Reading the first code Display transition conditions 1-3 are the same as initial transition conditions 1-3. Furthermore, display transition conditions 1-3 may be applied in combination, similar to initial transition conditions 1-3.

[0064] As shown in Figure 4, the second code screen may include a first area 100 where the first code (coupon code 101) transitions from normal display to abnormal display, and a second area 200 where the second code (point code 201) transitions from abnormal display to normal display. In other words, on the second code screen, the first code, which was normally displayed on the first code screen, transitions to an abnormal display, and at the same time, the second code, which was abnormally displayed on the first code screen, transitions to a normal display.

[0065] If the first code screen contains multiple second codes (point code 201 and payment code 301 in Figure 2), the payment app may, as shown in Figure 4, transition one of the multiple second codes on the first code screen (point code 201) to the normal display on the second code screen, while leaving the remaining second code (payment code 301) in the abnormal display.

[0066] In this case, after displaying the second code screen, if at least one of the above one or more display transition conditions is met, the second code screen may be transitioned to the third code screen (not shown). On this third code screen, the remaining second code (payment code 301) on the second code screen transitions from an abnormal display to a normal display, and at the same time, the first code (point code 201), which was normally displayed on the second code screen, transitions to a second code.

[0067] Thus, the payment app may transition through the code screen multiple times, initially displaying one of several codes normally on the first code screen while displaying the remaining codes abnormally, and then sequentially displaying the remaining codes one by one in the normal view. After the first code on the final code screen is read, the payment app may transition the code screen to another screen (for example, the screen showing the completion of the corresponding electronic transaction).

[0068] In cases where display transition condition 4 is met, for example, when the reading of coupon code 101, which is the first code on the first code screen, is performed or completed, the payment app transitions the read coupon code 101 to an unreadable, non-normal display on the second code screen, while transitioning the point code 201, which was in an unnormal display, to a readable, normal display.

[0069] Regarding "execution of reading the first code," for example, display transition condition 4 is met when terminal device 50 detects the light emitted by code scanner 68. Regarding "completion of reading the first code," for example, display transition condition 4 is met when terminal device 50 receives a completion notification from payment server 20 indicating that the reading is complete. The completion notification is not limited to payment server 20; it may also be sent to terminal device 50 from a server that performs the corresponding processing (for example, point server 30 or service server 40).

[0070] For example, if the user does not use the coupon code 101 normally displayed on the first code screen, the user may operate the operation button 103 on the first code screen to transition the coupon code 101 to an abnormal display. Subsequently, the user may change the orientation of the terminal device 50 so that the display 57 faces the cashier, thereby fulfilling the display transition condition 3. As a result, the cashier is presented with the second code screen, which has transitioned to a normal display in which the point code 201 can be read.

[0071] As a result, the cashier will scan the point code 201, which is the only one that can be read on the second code screen. If a reading order is set for the point code 201 and the payment code 301, the payment code 301, which was displayed abnormally on the first code screen, may remain displayed abnormally on the second code screen even if the operation button 303 is not pressed.

[0072] This allows store cashiers to scan multiple codes without confusion, for example, scanning coupon code 101 on the first code screen, then point code 201 on the second code screen, and finally payment code 301 on the third code screen. Alternatively, after scanning coupon code 101 and point code 201, if the user wishes to use a different payment method, such as credit card or cash, the user can end the presentation of the code screen 59.

[0073] In the first code screen, the first area may be positioned above the second area, and in the second code screen, the second area may be positioned above the first area. That is, when the code screen 59 transitions from the first code screen to the second code screen, not only the display state of the codes but also the order of the display areas of the codes may be changed (see Figures 7 and 8 and the example of changes described later). In this case, in each code screen, the readable first code is positioned above the unreadable second code. This improves usability as the cashier only needs to read the topmost code at all times.

[0074] If the first area 100, the second area 200, and the third area 300 included in the code screen 59 are arranged in order from top to bottom on the code screen 59, then which of the multiple codes to assign to them can be determined based on information such as the following:

[0075] Example 1) Information regarding codes available at stores Case 2) User information relating to a user using terminal device 50 Case 3) Store information related to stores (excluding information from Case 1) In Example 1, the payment app retrieves store information related to a store stored in the database 25 of the payment server 20. This store information includes information about codes available at the store. The payment app then sets the codes available at the store as the first code or the second code, according to the store information. In this case, the first and second codes are two of two or more codes that should be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at the store. The "available codes" may be set for each type of code (for example, a coupon code, a points code, or a payment code).

[0076] For example, a payment app can display a first payment code provided by a first service provider (Company A) and a second payment code provided by a second service provider (Company B, different from Company A). However, the first payment code is usable at the first store, but the second payment code is not. In this case, the store information includes information indicating the "first payment code" as information about the available payment codes.

[0077] Similarly, the payment app can display a first point code provided by a third-party provider (Company C) and a second point code provided by a fourth-party provider (Company D, different from Company C). However, the first point code is usable at the first store, but the second point code is not. In this case, the store information includes information indicating the "first point code" as information about the available point codes.

[0078] The payment application may, for example, identify the store where the payment is to be made as the first store based on the location information of the terminal device 50 detected by the terminal device 50, and obtain the store information of the first store from the database 25 of the payment server 20.

[0079] The store information may include the reading order between different code types at the first store, and the reading order within each code type. For example, the reading order between different code types at the store terminal 60 of the first store may be set as "1. Coupon code, 2. Point code, 3. Payment code". If the first store can award points from multiple businesses (for example, both the third and fourth businesses) in a single transaction, a reading order may be set between multiple point codes (for example, the first point code and the second point code).

[0080] If multiple identical codes, such as a first point code and a second point code, can be displayed on the code screen 59, the first point code and the second point code may be displayed in separate display areas (for example, a second area and a third area). In this case, if a reading order is set between identical codes, one of the multiple identical codes may be set as the first code and two or more other codes as second codes on both the first and second code screens. Alternatively, if no reading order is set between identical codes, multiple identical codes may be set as first codes on the first code screen. In this case, multiple readable first codes will be displayed on the first code screen, but no error will occur as long as there are no processing problems regardless of which one is read first.

[0081] If multiple coupon codes 101, multiple point codes 201, or multiple payment codes 301 are available at the first store, instead of displaying all codes simultaneously on the code screen 59, multiple display areas (for example, three display areas: first area 100, second area 200, and third area 300) may be assigned as separate display areas for each type (a coupon code area, a point code area, and a payment code area). In this case, the corresponding type of code will be displayed sequentially in each display area according to the set reading order.

[0082] For example, if the first point code is normally displayed as the first code in the second area 200 of the first code screen, the second point code will normally be displayed as the first code in the second area 200 of the second code screen. Note that the areas assigned to each type of code can be changed as needed. For example, if there is no coupon code 101, the first area 100 may be assigned as the area for the point code, and at the same time, the second area 200 may be assigned as the area for the payment code.

[0083] If none of the point codes can be used at the first store, point code 201 may be set as an unreadable second code on the first code screen and subsequent code screens (for example, the second and third code screens), or the display of the code itself may be omitted. In this case, the point code will not be assigned to the display area.

[0084] In the above example 2, "user information" may include, for example, the usage history of multiple point services for the corresponding user. The payment application may retrieve user information stored in the database 25 of the payment server 20.

[0085] In this case, the payment app may determine, based on the usage history, whether the usage record of each of the multiple point services satisfies the first default condition. The "first default condition" may be, for example, a condition based on a threshold related to the usage record of a certain point service, and "satisfying the first default condition" may mean, for example, that a user's usage record value for that point service is equal to or greater than the threshold. Conversely, "not satisfying the first default condition" may mean that a user's usage record value for that point service is less than the threshold. The usage record value may be an absolute value or a relative value in comparison to other services or other users.

[0086] Absolute usage performance may include, but is not limited to, the number of points earned, points used, number of times points were earned, or number of times points were used during a specified period (e.g., the most recent January, March, six months, or one year), or the frequency of point acquisition or point usage. Relative usage performance may include, but is not limited to, the ratio of the number of points earned, points used, number of times points were earned, or number of times points were used for one point service to other point services during a specified period, or the ratio of the frequency of point acquisition or point usage.

[0087] Usage history may include point acquisition or usage history for specific stores or campaigns. For example, if the first default condition is based on a threshold for the number of times points have been acquired at a store (including affiliated stores) in the past six months, then if a user has acquired points at that store in the past six months less than the threshold, that user does not meet the first default condition.

[0088] If a payment app has a point service for which a user does not meet the first default condition, it may set the point code for that service as either the first or second code for that user. Setting the point code for a service that does not meet the first default condition as the first code displayed by default can encourage the user to use point services that they have used less frequently.

[0089] When setting a point code that does not meet the first default condition as the second code (which is not normally displayed), the first code may be set as the first code if it does meet the first default condition, or as the first code if it does not meet the first default condition but has a relatively high usage history, i.e., is a point code that the user frequently uses. In another example, regardless of whether there are any point codes that do not meet the first default condition, the first code may be set as the point code that meets the first default condition, or the point code with the highest usage history. Setting a point code with a relatively high usage history as the first code in this way provides greater convenience to the user.

[0090] In Example 2, "user information" may include, for example, the electronic payment history of a corresponding user across multiple electronic payment services. In this case, the payment app may determine, based on the electronic payment history, whether the payment history for each of the multiple electronic payment services satisfies the second default condition. The "second default condition" may be, for example, a condition based on a threshold related to the payment history of a certain electronic payment service. "Satisfying the second default condition" may mean, for example, that a user's payment history value for that electronic payment service is equal to or greater than the threshold. Conversely, "not satisfying the second default condition" may mean that a user's payment history value for that electronic payment service is less than the threshold. The payment history may be an absolute value or a relative value compared to other electronic payment services or other users.

[0091] Absolute settlement performance may be, for example, the settlement amount or number of transactions during a specified period (e.g., the most recent January, March, six months, or one year). Relative settlement performance may be, for example, the ratio of the settlement amount or number of transactions of one electronic payment service to other electronic payment services during a specified period.

[0092] Payment history may include payment history for specific stores or campaigns. For example, if the second default condition is based on a threshold for the amount spent at a store (which may include affiliated stores) over the past six months, a user will not meet the second default condition if their total payment amount at that store over the past six months is below the threshold.

[0093] If a payment app has an electronic payment service that does not meet the second default condition, it may set the payment code of that electronic payment service as either the first or second code. Setting the payment code that does not meet the second default condition as the first code (normally displayed) can encourage users to use electronic payment services with low usage history. Setting the payment code that does not meet the second default condition as the second code (non-normally displayed) allows the app to set another payment code that has relatively high usage history, i.e., one that the user frequently uses, as the first code (normally displayed). This provides greater user convenience.

[0094] The payment application may set the code or code type to be displayed in each of the first area 100, second area 200, and third area 300 in response to user operations. In addition to or instead of this, the payment application may set, in response to user operations, a code (or code type) to be displayed normally as the first code and a code (or code type) to be displayed abnormally as the second code in at least one of the first code screen and the second code screen.

[0095] Such user settings (hereinafter simply referred to as "user settings") may be included in user information. User settings may include at least one of the following: the number of display areas included in the code screen 59, whether or not there is an initial code screen, the display state of the code on the initial code screen (normal display or abnormal display), initial transition conditions, or display transition conditions. User settings may also include the priority order for which codes to display preferentially between similar services (for example, the first point service and the second point service).

[0096] If two or more codes that can be displayed on the code screen 59 correspond to multiple similar services, the payment app may pre-determine the priority order among similar services (e.g., point services). The types of services may be registered in the database 25 under categories such as "coupon service," "point service," and "payment service."

[0097] The payment app can determine, based on information about available codes included in the store information, whether two or more codes to be sequentially read during an electronic payment at a corresponding store include multiple similar codes available at the store (for example, multiple point codes for using multiple point services). If there are multiple similar codes available at the store, the payment app may determine the priority among similar services based on at least one of other store information or user information.

[0098] Priority, unlike the aforementioned "set reading order," sets the display order among multiple codes where a change in reading order does not result in an error, or among multiple codes that are selected alternatively, taking into account store information or user information. The payment app may set the first and second codes on the first code screen, and the first and second codes on the second code screen, according to priority.

[0099] "Other store information" may include, for example, a priority order set in advance for each store, or information used to determine that priority order. The priority order for each store may be determined, for example, by the person in charge at that store, or by the operator of the payment server 20, but is not limited to these. The information used to determine the priority order may include, for example, the relationship between the store and the business operator that operates the corresponding service (for example, a points service or an electronic payment service). This relationship may be a contractual relationship between the store and the business operator (including its affiliates or group companies).

[0100] Furthermore, if one type of service (e.g., a points service) is provided by the same or related business operator as another type of service (e.g., an electronic payment service), or if they have a partnership with each other, the priority may be determined based on the relationship between the two types of services. For example, if the first payment code and the first points code are provided by the same business operator, and the first payment code has a higher priority at a particular store, the first points code may be given a higher priority as the priority for the points service. Specifically, if a store is partnered with company A, the coupon codes, points codes, and payment codes provided by company A may be given the highest priority.

[0101] A payment app may determine priorities based on both store information and user information. For example, if user information includes user-defined display priorities, the payment app may prioritize user-defined priorities over store-based priorities when determining priorities.

[0102] The priority order for each user may be predetermined by the payment server 20 and registered in the database 25 as part of the user information. In this case, when the payment application is launched, the payment server 20 may send user information, including the priority order registered in the database 25, to the terminal device 50. This allows the payment application to determine the first and second codes on the first and second code screens based on the priority order received from the payment server 20. For example, if the priority order for multiple point services is determined based on at least one of user information and store information, one of the multiple point codes can be set as the first or second code according to that priority order.

[0103] [How to display the code screen] Referring to Figure 5, an example of how the first code screen is displayed will be explained, using the code screen 59 for electronic payment processing at a store as an electronic processing method. In this example store, no coupon code 101 is issued, the point code 201 is displayed in the first area, and the payment code is displayed in the second area. Furthermore, the reading order is set so that the point code 201 is read first, and then the payment code 301 is read during electronic payment processing.

[0104] First, in step S51, the user operates the terminal device 50 to activate the payment application. This causes the payment application to send a code request containing user data to the payment server 20. The transmission of the code request to the payment server 20 may be a payment operation rather than an activation operation of the payment application. The payment application may obtain the current location of the terminal device 50 in response to the activation operation or payment operation. The code request may also include location information indicating the current location of the terminal device 50. When the payment server 20 receives the code request, in step S11, it performs user authentication by comparing the user data included in the code request with the registered information in the database 45.

[0105] In step S12, the payment server 20 retrieves the user information of the authenticated user from the database 25. If the code request includes location information indicating the current location, the payment server 20 searches for a store in the database 25 based on the location information and retrieves the store information of the corresponding store in step S13. Steps S12 and S13 may be performed simultaneously or in any order.

[0106] In step S14, the payment server 20 configures the display settings for the code screen 59 based on user information and store information. The display settings include whether or not to display the initial code screen and the settings for the first and second codes on the first code screen. In this example, the initial code screen is not displayed, and the first code screen is displayed first. The first code on the first code screen is the point code 201, and the second code is the payment code 301. Also in this example, the first code on the second code screen is the payment code 301, and the second code is the point code 201. The display settings include configuration information on which code should be displayed in which display area of ​​each code screen.

[0107] In step S15, the payment server 20 generates a payment code 301 for the corresponding user. At this time, the payment server 20 may mask the payment code 301 to generate a second code for non-normal display.

[0108] In step S16, the payment server 20 sends a code request containing user data to the point server 30. Upon receiving the code request, the point server 30 performs user authentication in step S31 by comparing the user data included in the code request with the registered information in the database 35. Once user authentication is complete, the point server 30 generates a point code 201 for the corresponding user in step S32.

[0109] In step S33, the point server 30 sends the point code 201 to the payment server 20. Upon receiving the point code 201, the payment server 20 may mask the point code 201 to generate a second code for non-normal display. The point server 30 may perform the masking of the point code 201.

[0110] In step S17, the payment server 20 transmits code screen display data to the terminal device 50. The code screen display data includes, for example, a point code 201, a masked point code 201, a payment code 301, a masked payment code 301, and code screen display settings.

[0111] When the terminal device 50 receives the code screen display data, the payment application displays the first code screen on the display 57 in step S52. Note that the code masking process may be performed by the terminal device 50, which received the code screen display data including the point code 201 and the payment code 301, prior to step S52.

[0112] Next, referring to Figure 6, we will explain how to transition from the first code screen to the second code screen. In step S52, the first code screen is displayed on the display 57 of the terminal device 50. Then, in step S61, the store terminal 60 reads the point code 201 on the first code screen. In the following step S62, the store terminal 60 sends a point processing request to the payment server 20. Also, in step S18, the payment server 20 sends the received point processing request to the point server 30. When the point server 30 receives the point processing request sent in step S18, in step S34, the point server 30 accepts the point processing request.

[0113] In step S18, triggered by the transmission of the point processing request, the settlement server 20 sends an instruction to the terminal device 50 in step S19 to transition from the first code screen to the second code screen. When the terminal device 50 receives the transition instruction from the settlement server 20, in step S53, the settlement application displays the second code screen on the display 57 based on the display settings. As a result, the first code screen transitions to the second code screen. That is, the first code, the point code 201, transitions from normal display to abnormal display, and the second code, the settlement code 301, transitions from abnormal display to normal display.

[0114] In step S63, the store terminal 60 reads the payment code 301 on the second code screen. In the following step S64, the store terminal 60 sends a payment processing request to the payment server 20. When the payment server 20 receives the payment processing request, in step S20, the payment server 20 performs the payment processing. After that, in step S21, the payment server 20 sends the payment information to the points server 30.

[0115] When the points server 30 receives payment information, in step S35 it performs point processing based on the payment information. In step S36, the points server 30 sends the point processing result to the payment server 20. The point processing result may include, for example, the number of points awarded according to the payment amount, or the number of points used for payment.

[0116] When the payment server 20 receives the point processing result, in step S22 it sends the processing result, including payment information, to the terminal device 50. When the terminal device 50 receives the processing result, in step S54 the payment application displays a payment completion screen (not shown) on the display 57 of the terminal device 50.

[0117] [Effects of this disclosure] When users make electronic payments, they may use electronically issued coupons or present point codes from loyalty programs. For example, with discount coupons, the payment amount changes depending on the coupon's use, so users need to present the coupon before payment. Also, since points from loyalty programs may be used for payment or points may be awarded before payment, point codes often need to be presented before payment.

[0118] Generally, service apps for displaying coupon codes and point apps for displaying point codes are often separate apps from payment apps for displaying payment codes. Furthermore, both point apps and payment apps are provided by multiple providers. As a result, when making a payment at a store, users need to launch multiple apps in a specific order and present the corresponding codes. Performing these operations at the checkout counter is hectic, and since the order of presentation varies from store to store, it becomes a burden for the user.

[0119] Some payment apps can display point codes in addition to payment codes, but even in these apps, the payment code and point code are often displayed on separate screens that can be switched using tabs. Therefore, when making a payment, users need to present multiple different code screens in an order determined by each store.

[0120] To reduce this burden on users, it is possible to display all of the multiple codes that should be read sequentially in step 1 in a readable state, as shown in the initial code screen in Figure 1. However, in this case, the cashier has to read the multiple codes in the correct order, which places a heavy burden on them, and an error will occur if the reading order is incorrect.

[0121] In this respect, the first code screen of this disclosure displays the code to be read first among two or more codes in a readable normal display according to the set reading order, while the other codes are displayed in an unreadable abnormal state. Therefore, the user can confirm multiple codes that can be presented by the electronic processing on the first code screen, and the cashier can scan multiple codes sequentially without making a mistake in the reading order.

[0122] For example, when a user launches a payment app for electronic payment at a store, a first code screen is displayed, which includes a first code (point code 201) in its normal display and a second code (payment code 301) in its irregular display. Once the point code 201 has been read, the first code screen transitions to the second code screen, and the payment code 301, which was previously in its irregular display, transitions to a readable normal display, while the point code 201, which was previously in its normal display, transitions to an irregular display.

[0123] This allows the point code 201 and payment code 301 to be presented sequentially without any special action by the user. As a result, the cashier can scan the point code 201 and payment code 301 sequentially without making a mistake in the reading order. Similarly, when the user scans the codes themselves at a self-checkout, the user can scan the codes without making a mistake in the reading order.

[0124] [Effects of this disclosure] According to this disclosure, the following effects can be achieved. (1) Since the first and second codes, which should be read sequentially during electronic processing, are displayed on the first code screen, the user is saved the trouble of displaying multiple code screens. On the first code screen, the first code is displayed in a readable normal format, and the second code is displayed in an unreadable abnormal format. Therefore, the first code screen can prompt the user to read the first code in its normal format while also making them aware that there is a second code to be read later. Consequently, even if multiple codes are displayed on a single code screen, misreading of codes is suppressed. This improves usability when presenting multiple codes sequentially.

[0125] (2) When there is one or more payment codes 301 that can be displayed on the code screen in connection with electronic payment, and one or more point codes 201 for using the point service, at least two of these codes can be displayed on the first code screen. On the first code screen, one of the point codes 201 and payment codes 301 is displayed in a readable normal display, and the other is displayed in an unreadable non-normal display. This allows the cashier to read the multiple codes on the first code screen in order, starting with the normally displayed codes.

[0126] (3) On the first code screen, the code to be read first among two or more codes is displayed in a normal display format as the first code, according to the set reading order. Therefore, by displaying the second code screen and subsequent code screens that are accessed from the first code screen, two or more codes can be displayed in a normal display format according to the set reading order.

[0127] (4) By obtaining information on the codes available at each store, the first and second codes can be set in an appropriate order for each store. (5) By determining the priority of multiple point services based on at least one of user information and store information, one of the multiple point services can be set as the first code or the second code according to the priority.

[0128] (6) By obtaining the usage history of multiple point services of a user, one of the multiple point codes can be set as the first or second code based on the usage history. For example, based on usage history, it is possible to determine whether the usage history of each of the multiple point services satisfies the first default condition. Then, by setting the point code of a point service that does not satisfy the first default condition as the first code, the use of that point service can be promoted. On the other hand, by setting the point code of a point service that satisfies the first default condition as the first code, the point codes that the user frequently uses will be displayed first in readable format. Therefore, the user is saved the trouble of selecting a point code themselves.

[0129] (7) By obtaining the user's electronic payment history, the payment code can be set as the first or second code based on the electronic payment history. For example, based on the electronic payment history, it can be determined whether the user's electronic payment usage history meets the second default condition. Then, by setting the payment code of a payment service that does not meet the second default condition as the first code, the use of that payment service can be promoted. On the other hand, by setting the payment code of a payment service that meets the second default condition as the first code, the payment code that the user frequently uses will be displayed as the first readable code. Therefore, the user is saved the trouble of selecting the payment code themselves.

[0130] (8) An unreadable second code can be generated by masking at least a portion of the readable code. If multiple types of masking are available, different masking methods can be used for multiple codes depending on the application or to distinguish between codes (see Figure 8 and the modification examples described later).

[0131] (9) When transitioning from the first code screen to the second code screen, the first code transitions from normal display to abnormal display, and the second code transitions from abnormal display to normal display. Therefore, the second code can be made unreadable on the first code screen, and then made readable on the subsequent second code screen by transitioning to normal display.

[0132] (10) In the first code screen, the first area containing the readable first code is positioned above the second area containing the unreadable second code, and in the second code screen, the second area is positioned above the first area. In this case, the operator performing the code reading only needs to scan the code that is at the top in both the first and second code screens, making the reading process easier.

[0133] (11) If the display transition condition is the elapsed time or the reading of the first code, the first code screen will transition to the second code screen without any user operation, thus simplifying operation. Also, if the reading of the first code is the display transition condition, the code screen can be transitioned quickly and promptly without waiting for the elapsed time. If the display transition condition is an operation by the user or a change in the orientation of the terminal device 50, the user can transition from the first code screen to the second code screen at a desired timing. Also, if the display transition condition is a change in the orientation of the terminal device 50, the code screen will transition when the user points the display 57 towards the cashier or the code scanner 68, eliminating the need for any additional operation.

[0134] (12) If the code screen 59 can display multiple codes of the same type, such as a first point code and a second point code, the user and the code reader can recognize that they are the same type of code by sequentially displaying each of these codes one by one in the same display area (e.g., the first area) on both the first code screen and the second code screen. If the reading order of the first point code and the second point code is not set, it will not be a mistake to read them in either order, but by displaying them sequentially, the reader can perform the reading work without having to worry about the reading order.

[0135] (13) When displaying multiple identical codes, such as the first point code and the second point code, on the code screen 59, the first point code and the second point code can be displayed in separate display areas (for example, the second area and the third area). In this case, multiple codes are listed, allowing the operator to visually confirm how many codes need to be read.

[0136] (14) Before the first code screen, an initial code screen is displayed in the normal display format, which allows a list of multiple codes available for the electronic processing to be performed to be presented. In addition, if necessary, code reading can be performed on the initial code screen.

[0137] (15) By displaying an initial code screen before the first code screen, in which all codes are displayed in an unconventional manner and are unreadable, a list of multiple codes available for the electronic processing to be performed can be presented. Furthermore, since all codes are unreadable on the initial code screen, errors in reading codes can be suppressed.

[0138] (16) If the elapsed time is the initial transition condition, the initial code screen will transition to the first code screen without any user operation, thus simplifying the operation. If the initial transition condition is an operation by the user or a change in the orientation of the terminal device 50, the user can transition the initial code screen to the first code screen at a desired timing. Also, if the initial transition condition is a change in the orientation of the terminal device 50, the code screen will transition when the user points the display 57 towards the code scanner 68, eliminating the need for any additional operation.

[0139] This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically. [Example of coupon code display] In the example described with reference to Figures 5 and 6, if the coupon code 101 is also to be displayed on the code screen 59, the payment server 20 may send a code request to the service server 40 in the same manner as in step S16, and the payment server 20 may receive the coupon code 101 generated by the service server 40. In this case, in step S17, the payment server 20 sends code screen display data including the coupon code 101 and other codes to the terminal device 50.

[0140] [Example 1 of changing the code generation method] When the payment application is launched in step S51, the payment application may send a code request to each of the multiple information processing devices (for example, the payment server 20, the point server 30, and the service server 40). In other words, the terminal device 50 may send and receive data with multiple information processing devices without going through any one of the information processing devices (for example, the payment server 20). In this case, each information processing device generates a corresponding code after user authentication and sends the code screen display data to the terminal device 50. In this modified example, instead of steps S18 and S19, the point server 30 that received the point processing request may send an instruction to the terminal device 50 to transition from the first code screen to the second code screen. Also, in this modified example, the codes generated by each information processing device may be masked, or the payment application may mask all the codes.

[0141] [Example 2 of changing the code generation method] When the first code is read on the initial code screen, the first code screen, or the second code screen, the store terminal 60 may send a processing request directly to the server that generated the read code. The server that receives the processing request may then send a transition instruction directly to the terminal device 50. In this case, after reading the coupon code 101 or the point code 201, the processing corresponding to the read code can be executed without using the payment code 301.

[0142] [Example 3 of changing the code generation method] When the first server issues the first code for the first code screen and the second server issues the first code for the second code screen, the second server may generate the code that should become the first code for the second code screen when the first code for the first code screen is read.

[0143] [Example of changes to payment processing] For example, if at least part of the payment is set to be paid with points, the payment processing request in step S64 may be sent from the store terminal 60 to the points server 30. In this case, in step S35, the points server 30 may perform point usage processing and point granting processing. Then, in step S36, the points server 30 may send the payment processing request along with the processing result to the payment server 20, and the payment server 20 may perform the payment processing.

[0144] [Example of changing the display area layout] Figures 7 and 8 show an example of a modified code screen that includes two or more codes to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment, namely a first point code 111 and a second point code 211 for using two different point services, and a payment code 311. The first code screen in this modified example (see Figure 7) includes a first area 110 for displaying the first point code 111, a second area 210 for displaying the second point code 211, and a third area 310 for displaying the payment code 311.

[0145] As shown in Figure 7, in the first code screen (and the initial code screen, which is not shown), the first area 110 is positioned above the second area 210, and the second area 210 is positioned above the third area 310. This arrangement corresponds to the reading order of the codes displayed by each display area. In the first code screen, the first point code 111 is the first code displayed normally, and the second point code 211 and the payment code 311 are the second codes displayed irregularly. When the first point code 111 is read on the first code screen, the first code screen transitions to the second code screen shown in Figure 8.

[0146] As shown in Figure 8, in the second code screen, the second area 210, which displays the second point code 211 to be read next, is positioned above the first area 110, which has already been read. Also, the third area 310, which displays the payment code 311 to be read after the second point code 211, is positioned above the first area 110. In the second code screen, the second point code 211 is the first code displayed normally, and the first point code 111 and the payment code 311 are the second codes displayed irregularly. Thus, when the code screen transitions from the first code screen to the second code screen, not only the display state of the codes but also the order of the code display areas may be changed.

[0147] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, the masking method may be changed between second codes that have already been read and second codes that are yet to be read. For example, the words "Read" may be displayed in the processed portion or display area (first area 110) of the second code that has already been read.

[0148] Instead of the modification example in Figure 8, as shown in the further modification example in Figure 9, the first area 110, where the code has already been read, does not need to be displayed on the second code screen. That is, when the code screen 59 transitions from the first code screen to the second code screen, the read code and its display area do not need to be displayed. In this case, the cashier can visually confirm the remaining codes to be read, which improves work efficiency.

[0149] In the modified examples shown in Figures 7 to 9, the readable first code is positioned above the unreadable second code on both the first and second code screens. Therefore, the operator performing the code reading task can always scan the top code, resulting in improved usability.

[0150] [Example of changes to the information processing device 1] The information processing device and the information processing system 11 are configured to implement functions related to multi-code display. Therefore, one information processing device provided in the information processing system 11 may be a point server 30 for providing point services. Alternatively, the information processing system 11 may include a point server 30 which is a separate information processing device from the payment server 20. Furthermore, one information processing device may be a service server 40 for providing other services, or the information processing system 11 may include yet another service server 40 which is a separate information processing device. The service server 40 may be configured, for example, to issue coupons that can be used during payment, but the services provided by the service server 40 are not limited to issuing coupons.

[0151] [Example of changes to information processing equipment 2] The payment server 20, the points server 30, and the service server 40 may each be implemented as a single computer, or they may be distributed across multiple devices (e.g., computers) or subsystems that collaborate to execute programs. For example, the payment server 20 may have the functionality of at least one of the points server 30 and the service server 40.

[0152] [Example of code change 1] The multiple codes that can be displayed on the code screen 59 are not limited to one or more payment codes, one or more point codes, and one or more coupon codes, but may be any code used for electronic processing. The multiple codes may include, for example, an advertising code to prove that an advertisement has been seen, one or more admission codes used as an admission ticket, one or more queue codes used as a queue ticket distributed for admission or purchase, an exchange code related to the distribution of goods or the provision of services, or a ticket code. The ticket may be, for example, a taxi ticket, a train ticket, a multi-ride ticket, or a season ticket. These codes may be displayed on one code screen (e.g., initial code screen, first code screen, or second code screen) as multiple identical codes for, for example, a family or group, or they may be displayed on one code screen together with other types of codes (e.g., coupon codes or membership codes).

[0153] [Example of code changes 2] The multiple codes that can be displayed on the code screen 59 are not limited to one-time codes issued by the server each time the app is launched or the code screen is displayed, but may also be offline codes that can be displayed offline. In this case, even when the terminal device 50 is offline and not connected to a network, the offline code can be displayed on the code screen 59 as the first code or the second code.

[0154] [Examples of changes to flowcharts and configuration diagrams] The flowcharts and configuration diagrams of this disclosure illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of the apparatus, system, method, and program according to embodiments of this disclosure. Each step included in these flowcharts and each component included in the configuration diagrams may correspond to a part of a program containing one or more instructions for realizing a logical functional unit. In other embodiments, some of the illustrated steps may be omitted, other steps may be included, the order of the steps may be different, or some steps may be executed simultaneously. Furthermore, a flowchart described as a series of actions may be divided into several parts and executed, or multiple flowcharts may be executed sequentially or in relation to each other. Also in other embodiments, some of the illustrated components may be omitted, other components may be included, or the arrangement of components may be changed. Furthermore, the functions realized by these steps and components may be realized by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Also, each of the apparatus and components described in this disclosure may be one or more, unless otherwise specified.

[0155] [Example of memory modification] Memory is used to store data and instructions processed by a processor. Memory is a computer-readable storage medium, including non-transitory computer-readable medium. Memory may include both non-volatile and volatile memory. Memory may include, but is not limited to, ROM (Read-Only Memory), hard disks, storage, removable media, flash memory, memory sticks, optical media, magneto-optical media, and CD-ROMs. Memory may be implemented as a single storage device, or as a group of storage devices or storage systems, either located in the same location or distributed.

[0156] [Example of processor change] One or more processors may include, but are not limited to, a CPU (central processing unit), a GPU (graphics processing unit), an APU (accelerated processing unit), an NPU (Neural Network Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a DSP (digital signal processor), an FPGA (field programmable gate array), a CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a general-purpose processor, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein.

[0157] [Example of changing the communication interface] A communication interface (IF) enables one device to communicate with other devices via a communication network. The communication interface (IF) may be, but is not limited to, a LAN (Local Area Network), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), or other wireless communication interfaces.

[0158] [Example of network changes] Communication between multiple devices may be carried out via one or more communication networks in accordance with well-known communication protocols. The communication network may be, but is not limited to, an intranet, the internet, a local area network, a wide area network, a wireless network, a wired network, a virtual network, a software-defined network, or any other type of network, or a combination thereof.

[0159] The embodiments and modifications described above are listed below. [1] Memory for storing instructions, Equipped with at least one processor, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instruction and display a code screen on the terminal device's display, The code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code, which contain different information from each other. The first code and the second code are identification codes that should be read sequentially in conjunction with the electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen. The first area displays the first code in a normal, readable format, and the second area displays the second code in an unreadable, non-normal format. Information processing device.

[0160] [2] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in connection with electronic payment, The aforementioned two or more codes include one or more payment codes and one or more point codes for using point services. The information processing device described in [1] above.

[0161] [3] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at the store. The at least one processor is configured to set the code to be read first from among the two or more codes as the first code, according to the set reading order. The information processing device described in [1] or [2] above.

[0162] [4] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at the store, The aforementioned at least one processor, The acquisition of store information relating to the aforementioned store, wherein the store information includes information regarding codes usable at the aforementioned store. In accordance with the store information, the codes available at the store are set as the first code or the second code. An information processing device described in any of the above [1] to [3], configured to perform the following:

[0163] [5] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at the store, The aforementioned two or more codes include multiple point codes for using multiple point services available at the store, The aforementioned at least one processor, To acquire at least one of the user information relating to the user using the terminal device and the store information relating to the store, The priority of the multiple point services is determined based on at least one of the user information and the store information, In accordance with the aforementioned priority order, one of the plurality of point codes is set as the first code or the second code, An information processing device described in any of the above [1] to [4], configured to perform the following:

[0164] [6] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in conjunction with the electronic payment processing at the store, The aforementioned two or more codes include multiple point codes for using multiple point services available at the store, The aforementioned at least one processor, The acquisition of user information relating to a user using the terminal device, wherein the user information includes the user's usage history of the multiple point services. Based on the usage history, one of the multiple point codes is set as the first code or the second code. An information processing device described in any of the above [1] to [5], configured to perform the following:

[0165] [7] One of the first code and the second code is a payment code, The aforementioned at least one processor, The acquisition of user information relating to a user using the terminal device, wherein the user information includes the user's electronic payment history. Based on the aforementioned electronic payment history, the payment code is set as the first code or the second code, An information processing device described in any of the above [1] to [6], configured to perform the following:

[0166] [8] The non-standard indication is, A display in which at least a portion of the aforementioned second code is blurred, Display with at least a portion of the aforementioned second code grayed out, Display with at least a portion of the aforementioned second code hidden, A resized display of at least a portion of the aforementioned second code, A display in which the aforementioned second code is replaced with another image or another character, including at least one of the following: An information processing device as described in any of the above [1] to [7].

[0167] [9] The code screen is the first code screen, The at least one processor is configured to transition the first code screen to the second code screen when at least one of the one or more display transition conditions is met. The second code screen includes a first area where the first code transitions from the normal display to the abnormal display, and a second area where the second code transitions from the abnormal display to the normal display. An information processing device as described in any of the above [1] to [8].

[0168]

[10] In the first code screen, the first area is positioned above the second area, In the second code screen, the second region is positioned above the first region. An information processing device as described in any of the above [1] to [9].

[0169]

[11] The one or more display transition conditions are: After the prescribed time has elapsed, User operation, Changes in the orientation of the terminal device, Reading the first code, including at least one of the following: The information processing device described in [9] or

[10] above.

[0170]

[12] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in connection with electronic payment, The two or more codes mentioned above include a first point code and a second point code for using two different point services, respectively. The aforementioned code screen is the first code screen, The at least one processor is configured to transition the first code screen to the second code screen when at least one of the one or more display transition conditions is met. When the first point code is normally displayed as the first code in the first area on the first code screen, the second point code is normally displayed as the first code in the first area on the second code screen. An information processing device as described in any of the above [1] to

[11] .

[0171]

[13] The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in connection with electronic payment, The two or more codes mentioned above include a payment code and a first point code and a second point code for using two different point services, respectively. The code screen further includes a third area for displaying a first code different from the first code or a second code different from the second code. An information processing device as described in any of the above [1] to

[12] .

[0172]

[14] The code screen is the first code screen, The aforementioned at least one processor, The initial code screen is displayed on the display in conjunction with a startup or payment operation on the terminal device, wherein the initial code screen includes multiple display areas for displaying multiple codes, and all codes are displayed in the normal display on the initial code screen. After displaying the initial code screen, if at least one of the one or more initial transition conditions is met, the initial code screen is transitioned to the first code screen. An information processing device described in any of the above [1] to

[13] , configured to perform the following:

[0173]

[15] The code screen is the first code screen, The aforementioned at least one processor, The initial code screen is displayed on the display in conjunction with a startup or payment operation on the terminal device, wherein the initial code screen includes multiple display areas for displaying multiple codes, and all codes are displayed in the non-normal display on the initial code screen. After displaying the initial code screen, if at least one of the one or more initial transition conditions is met, the initial code screen is transitioned to the first code screen. An information processing device described in any of the above [1] to

[14] , configured to perform the following:

[0174]

[16] The one or more initial transition conditions are: Elapsed initial waiting time, User operation, Changes in the orientation of the terminal device, including at least one of the following: The information processing device described in

[14] or

[15] above.

[0175]

[17] A terminal device having a display, One or more servers configured to communicate with the aforementioned terminal device, Equipped with, One or more of the one or more servers and terminal devices have part or all of at least one processor configured to display a code screen on the display, The code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code, which contain different information from each other. The first code and the second code are identification codes that should be read sequentially in conjunction with the electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen. The first area displays the first code in a normal, readable format, and the second area displays the second code in an unreadable, non-normal format. Information processing system.

[0176]

[18] The process includes at least one processor causing a code screen to be displayed on the terminal device's display, The code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code, which contain different information from each other. The first code and the second code are identification codes that should be read sequentially in conjunction with the electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen. An information processing method in which the first code is displayed in a normal, readable format in the first region, and the second code is displayed in a non-normal, unreadable format in the second region.

[0177]

[19] A program for causing at least one processor to display a code screen on the display of a terminal device, The code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code, which contain different information from each other. The first code and the second code are identification codes that should be read sequentially in conjunction with the electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen. The first area displays the first code in a normal, readable format, and the second area displays the second code in an unreadable, non-normal format. program. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0178] 11... Information processing system, 20... Payment server, 21, 31, 41, 51, 61... Processor, 22, 32, 42, 52, 62... Memory, 24, 34, 44, 54... Program, 25, 35, 45... Database, 30... Point server, 40... Service server, 50... Terminal device, 56... Sensor, 57... Display, 58... Touch panel, 59... Code screen, 60... Store terminal, 68... Code scanner, 69... Store code, 100, 110... First area, 101... Coupon code, 102, 202, 302... String, 103, 203, 303... Operation button, 111... First point code, 200, 210... Second area, 201... Point code, 211... Second point code, 300, 310... Third area, 301, 311... Payment code.

Claims

1. Memory for storing instructions, It comprises at least one processor, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instruction and display a code screen on the terminal device's display, The code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code, which contain different information from each other. The first code and the second code are identification codes that should be read sequentially in conjunction with the electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen. The first area displays the first code in a normal, readable format, and the second area displays the second code in an unnormal, unreadable format. Information processing device.

2. The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in connection with electronic payment. The aforementioned two or more codes include one or more payment codes and one or more point codes for using point services. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, including the following:

3. The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at the store. The at least one processor is configured to set the code to be read first from among the two or more codes as the first code, according to the set reading order. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at the store. The aforementioned at least one processor, The acquisition of store information relating to the aforementioned store, wherein the store information includes information regarding codes usable at the aforementioned store. In accordance with the store information, the codes available at the store are set as the first code or the second code. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, configured to perform the following:

5. The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment at the store. The two or more codes mentioned above include multiple point codes for using multiple point services available at the store, The aforementioned at least one processor, To acquire at least one of the user information relating to the user using the terminal device and the store information relating to the store, The priority of the multiple point services is determined based on at least one of the user information and the store information, In accordance with the aforementioned priority order, one of the multiple point codes is set as the first code or the second code, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, configured to perform the following:

6. The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in conjunction with electronic payment processing at the store. The two or more codes mentioned above include multiple point codes for using multiple point services available at the store, The aforementioned at least one processor, The acquisition of user information relating to a user using the terminal device, wherein the user information includes the user's usage history of the multiple point services. Based on the usage history, one of the multiple point codes is set as the first code or the second code. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, configured to perform the following:

7. One of the first code and the second code is a payment code. The aforementioned at least one processor, The acquisition of user information relating to a user using the terminal device, wherein the user information includes the user's electronic payment history. Based on the aforementioned electronic payment history, the payment code is set as the first code or the second code, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, configured to perform the following:

8. The aforementioned non-standard display is, A display in which at least a portion of the aforementioned second code is blurred, Display with at least a portion of the aforementioned second code grayed out, A display in which at least a portion of the aforementioned second code is hidden, Display of at least a portion of the above-mentioned second code with a changed size, A display in which the second code is replaced with another image or another character, Including at least one of the following: The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

9. The aforementioned code screen is the first code screen, The at least one processor is configured to transition the first code screen to the second code screen when at least one of the one or more display transition conditions is met. The second code screen includes a first area where the first code transitions from the normal display to the abnormal display, and a second area where the second code transitions from the abnormal display to the normal display. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. In the first code screen, the first region is positioned above the second region. In the second code screen, the second region is positioned above the first region. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9.

11. The one or more display transition conditions mentioned above are: After the prescribed time has elapsed, User operation, Changes in the orientation of the terminal device, Reading the first code, Including at least one of the following: The information processing apparatus according to claim 9.

12. The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in connection with electronic payment. The two or more codes mentioned above include a first point code and a second point code for using two different point services, respectively. The aforementioned code screen is the first code screen, The at least one processor is configured to transition the first code screen to the second code screen when at least one of the one or more display transition conditions is met. When the first point code is normally displayed as the first code in the first area on the first code screen, the second point code is normally displayed as the first code in the first area on the second code screen. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

13. The first code and the second code are two of two or more codes that are to be read sequentially in connection with electronic payment. The two or more codes mentioned above include a payment code and a first point code and a second point code for using two different point services, respectively. The code screen further includes a third area for displaying a first code different from the first code or a second code different from the second code. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

14. The aforementioned code screen is the first code screen, The aforementioned at least one processor, The initial code screen is displayed on the display in conjunction with a startup or payment operation on the terminal device, wherein the initial code screen includes multiple display areas for displaying multiple codes, and all codes are displayed in the normal display on the initial code screen. After displaying the initial code screen, if at least one of the one or more initial transition conditions is met, the initial code screen is transitioned to the first code screen. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, configured to perform the following:

15. The aforementioned code screen is the first code screen, The aforementioned at least one processor, The initial code screen is displayed on the display in conjunction with a startup or payment operation on the terminal device, wherein the initial code screen includes multiple display areas for displaying multiple codes, and all codes are displayed in the non-normal display on the initial code screen. After displaying the initial code screen, if at least one of the one or more initial transition conditions is met, the initial code screen is transitioned to the first code screen. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, configured to perform the following:

16. The one or more initial transition conditions mentioned above are: After the initial waiting time has elapsed, User operation, Changes in the orientation of the terminal device, Including at least one of the following: The information processing apparatus according to claim 14 or claim 15.

17. A terminal device having a display, One or more servers configured to communicate with the aforementioned terminal device, Equipped with, One or more of the one or more servers and terminal devices have part or all of at least one processor configured to display a code screen on the display, The code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code, which contain different information from each other. The first code and the second code are identification codes that should be read sequentially in conjunction with the electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen. The first area displays the first code in a normal, readable format, and the second area displays the second code in an unnormal, unreadable format. Information processing system.

18. This includes at least one processor causing a code screen to be displayed on the terminal device's display, The code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code, which contain different information from each other. The first code and the second code are identification codes that should be read sequentially in conjunction with the electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen. The first area displays the first code in a normal, readable format, and the second area displays the second code in an unnormal, unreadable format. Information processing methods.

19. A program for causing at least one processor to display a code screen on the display of a terminal device, The code screen includes a first area and a second area for displaying a first code and a second code, which contain different information from each other. The first code and the second code are identification codes that should be read sequentially in conjunction with the electronic processing performed by presenting the code screen. The first area displays the first code in a normal, readable format, and the second area displays the second code in an unnormal, unreadable format. program.

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