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

Abstract

Display tabs more appropriately. [Solution] The information processing device according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires information on the content distributed in tabs for each category; an estimation unit that estimates a score indicating the level of popularity of the tab based on the information on the content; and a display control unit that changes the display mode of the tab according to the estimated score and displays the tab with the display mode reflected.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique for displaying a list of contents according to the tendencies of each user has been disclosed (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, there is room for improvement in the above conventional technology. For example, in the above conventional technology, the display form of the tab indicating the category of the content is the same for any tab, and there is room for improvement in the display form of the tab. Therefore, it is required to display the tab more appropriately.

[0005] The present application has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to display a tab more appropriately.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing apparatus according to the present application includes an acquisition unit that acquires posting information of content distributed in a tab for each category, an estimation unit that estimates a score indicating the degree of excitement of the tab based on the posting information, and a display control unit that changes the display mode of the tab according to the estimated score and displays the tab in which the display mode is reflected.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to one embodiment, tabs can be displayed more appropriately. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of a terminal device according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of a server device according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of a hardware configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes in detail, with reference to the drawings, the embodiments for implementing the information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments"). Note that these embodiments do not limit the information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application. Furthermore, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in the following embodiments, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0010] [1. Overview of the Information Processing System] First, with reference to Figure 1, an overview of the information processing system according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of the information processing system according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment includes a terminal device 10 and a server device 100. These various devices are connected to each other via a network N, either by wire or wireless means, enabling communication. As a result, the terminal device 10 can cooperate with the server device 100. The network N is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) such as the Internet.

[0011] Terminal device 10 is an information processing device used by user U. For example, terminal device 10 may be a smart device such as a smartphone or tablet, a mobile phone such as a feature phone, a PC (Personal Computer), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a game console or AV equipment with communication functions, an information appliance or digital appliance, a car navigation system, a wearable device such as a smartwatch, head-mounted display, or smart glasses. Alternatively, terminal device 10 may be a house or building compatible with the Internet of Things (IoT), a car, a home appliance, or an electronic device.

[0012] In this embodiment, the terminal device 10 is a smart device such as a smartphone or tablet used by user U, and is a mobile terminal device capable of communicating with any server device via a wireless communication network such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th Generation), or 5G (5th Generation). The terminal device 10 also has a screen such as a liquid crystal display with touch panel functionality, and accepts various operations on displayed data such as content from user U using a finger or stylus, such as tapping, sliding, and scrolling. Operations performed on the area of ​​the screen where content is displayed may also be considered as operations on the content. Furthermore, the terminal device 10 may be an information processing device such as a desktop PC (Personal Computer) or a notebook PC, not just a smart device.

[0013] Furthermore, the terminal device 10 can connect to the network N via wireless communication networks such as LTE, 4G, 5G, Bluetooth®, or wireless LAN (Local Area Network), and communicate with the server device 100.

[0014] The server device 100 is, for example, a computer such as a PC or blade server, or a mainframe or workstation. The server device 100 may also be implemented through cloud computing.

[0015] In this embodiment, the server device 100 is an information processing device that works in conjunction with each user U's terminal device 10 and provides each user U's terminal device 10 with API (Application Programming Interface) services for various applications (hereinafter referred to as "apps") and various data, and is implemented by a computer or cloud system.

[0016] Furthermore, the server device 100 may be an information processing device that provides some kind of Web service online to each user U's terminal device 10. For example, the server device 100 may provide services such as internet connection, search services, SNS (Social Networking Service), e-commerce (EC), electronic payment, online games, online banking, online trading, accommodation / ticket reservations, video / music distribution, news, maps, route search, route guidance, route information, service information, and weather forecasts as Web services. In practice, the server device 100 may cooperate with various servers that provide the above-mentioned Web services and act as an intermediary for Web services, or it may be responsible for processing Web services.

[0017] Furthermore, the server device 100 can acquire user information about user U. For example, the server device 100 acquires information about user U's attributes, such as gender, age, and residential area. The server device 100 then stores and manages information about user U's attributes along with identification information (such as user ID) that identifies user U.

[0018] In addition, the server device 100 acquires various types of history information (log data) indicating the actions of the user U from the terminal device 10 of the user U or from various servers etc. based on the user ID etc. For example, the server device 100 acquires a location history, which is a history of the location and time of the user U, from the terminal device 10. Also, the server device 100 acquires a search history, which is a history of the search queries input by the user U, from a search server (search engine). Also, the server device 100 acquires a browsing history, which is a history of the content browsed by the user U, from a content server. Also, the server device 100 acquires a purchase history (settlement history), which is a history of the user U's product purchases and settlement processing, from an e-commerce server or a settlement processing server. Also, the server device 100 may acquire a listing history and a sales history, which are histories of the user U's listings on the marketplace, from an e-commerce server or a settlement processing server. Also, the server device 100 acquires a posting history, which is a history of the user U's posts, from a posting server or an SNS server that provides a word-of-mouth posting service. Note that each of the above-mentioned various servers etc. may be the server device 100 itself. That is, the server device 100 may function as each of the above-mentioned various servers etc.

[0019] Also, the number of each device included in the information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is not limited to that shown. For example, in FIG. 1, for simplicity of illustration, only one terminal device 10 is shown, but this is merely an example and not limited, and two or more may be used.

[0020] [2. Change in the display mode of tabs based on the posting information of content] In the present embodiment, the server device 100 changes the display mode of the tab based on the posting information of the content distributed in the tab for each category, and causes the terminal device 10 of the user U, who is one of the viewers, to display the tab reflecting the display mode.

[0021] In this embodiment, although an article on a news site / news app will be described as an example of content, it is not actually limited to articles on news sites / news apps. For example, the content may be information that can be ranked according to the number of viewers, such as individual web pages, SNS posts, product information on online malls, or advertisements. In this embodiment, the posting information of the content (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as "posting information") includes, for example, the number of comments on the content of the same topic within a category, the number of contents related to the same topic within a category, the number of occurrences of new topics within a category, and the like. Note that the posting information is not limited to these.

[0022] For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the server device 100 acquires the posting information of the content within the tab for each category (step S1). For example, the server device 100 acquires the number of comments on the content of the same topic within a category. The server device 100 may acquire the number of comments on a plurality of contents of the same topic within a category. Also, for example, the server device 100 acquires the number of contents (article numbers) related to the same topic. Also, for example, the server device 100 acquires the number of occurrences of new topics within a category.

[0023] Also, for example, the server device 100 acquires information from other server devices. Specifically, the server device 100 acquires topic coverage information from other news sites. The server device 100 acquires information (coverage information) as to whether the same topic is being taken up from the server devices of major news sites. Also, for example, the server device 100 acquires engagement information on posts related to the same topic on the SNS from the SNS server device. The engagement information includes, for example, the number of shares, the number of likes, comment information (the number of comments, the content of the comments), and the like.

[0024] Subsequently, the server device 100 estimates a score indicating the degree of excitement for each tab based on the acquired posting information (step S2).

[0025] In this embodiment, the server device 100 has a preset threshold, and if the estimated score of a tab is above the threshold, it is estimated that the score of that tab is high (that tab is prominent). Preferably, the threshold is set in stages, such as a first threshold (lowest threshold) that serves as a reference, a second threshold higher than the first threshold, a third threshold (highest threshold) higher than the second threshold, and so on. The threshold is not limited to three stages; only a reference threshold may be set, or there may be three or more stages (for example, five stages). In this embodiment, an example in which the threshold is set to three stages will be described.

[0026] For example, the server device 100 estimates the score of each piece of content for each tab and estimates the cumulative score of each piece of content as the tab's score. The server device 100 estimates that a tab has a high score if there are many comments on the content. Also, the server device 100 estimates that a tab has a high score if there are many pieces of content in that tab. For example, the server device 100 also estimates that a tab has a high score if there are many new topics appearing.

[0027] Furthermore, in this embodiment, "excitement" refers to being a hot topic. For example, if a tab has a high level of excitement (score), it includes the presence or absence of content that is trending or has high freshness. Freshness can be calculated based on, for example, the novelty of related content (related articles) on the same topic, additional information on the topic, coverage, engagement, involvement of a specific person, etc.

[0028] For example, server device 100 estimates that a tab has a high score if there is a lot of content related to the same topic. Server device 100 also evaluates the novelty of related topics (articles). In this case, when server device 100 evaluates based on related content (related articles) on the same topic, it evaluates the novelty of other articles related to the topic, and the newer the related articles, the higher the freshness rating. Also, for example, server device 100 evaluates additional information on the same topic. In this case, server device 100 evaluates whether the same topic contains new information or perspectives. For example, server device 100 evaluates whether new facts or evidence have been added to the same topic. Server device 100 evaluates the same topic as having high freshness if it contains new additional information.

[0029] Server device 100 analyzes coverage information obtained from other news sites. Server device 100 analyzes coverage on major news sites. Server device 100 evaluates a topic as having high freshness if the same topic is covered extensively on multiple major news sites at the same time.

[0030] The server device 100 analyzes the acquired engagement information. If the engagement with the post in question on social media is high and there is active discussion, the server device 100 evaluates it as having high freshness.

[0031] The server device 100 analyzes the involvement of experts and influential figures (e.g., influencers) with respect to a topic (content) and estimates the tab's score. The server device 100 evaluates a topic as having high freshness if experts or influential figures are involved. The server device 100 also evaluates a topic as having high freshness if new experts or influential figures become involved with a topic that already has experts or influential figures involved.

[0032] Next, the server device 100 changes the tab display mode according to the score and displays the tabs that reflect the changed display mode (step S3). Examples of changes to the display mode include changing the size (height) of the tabs, changing the background, changing the order in which the tabs are displayed, displaying the recommendation level to the user and the reason for the recommendation, etc. Note that these display modes are merely examples and are not limited to these examples in practice.

[0033] The server device 100 changes the display mode of the tabs according to the estimated score. If the score of a tab is below a threshold, the server device 100 displays the tab normally. If the score of a tab is above the threshold, the server device 100 changes the display mode of the tab according to the score. Specifically, the server device 100 displays the tabs larger (higher) according to the estimated score. The server device 100 displays the tab with the highest estimated score the largest (highest), and displays the tabs smaller (lower) as the score decreases. For example, the server device 100 displays the tab with an estimated score above the third threshold (hereinafter referred to as the "third tab") the largest (highest). The server device 100 displays the tab with an estimated score above the second threshold (hereinafter referred to as the "second tab") smaller (lower) than the third tab. The server device 100 displays tabs whose estimated scores are above the first threshold but below the second threshold (hereinafter referred to as "first tabs" as appropriate) at a lower level than the second tab. In the example shown in Figure 1, the server device 100 displays the third tab ("Entertainment" tab) at the highest level, the second tab ("Economy" tab) at a lower level than the "Entertainment" tab, and the first tab ("Domestic" tab) at a lower level than the second tab, according to the score.

[0034] Furthermore, the server device 100 changes the background of the tabs according to the estimated score. For example, the server device 100 changes the background of tabs whose estimated score is above a first threshold. It is preferable that the server device 100 changes the background of the tabs so that they stand out in order of increasing score. The server device 100 may, for example, display a pattern on the background of the tabs, change the background color of the tabs, or do both.

[0035] Furthermore, the server device 100 changes the order in which the tabs are displayed according to the estimated score. For example, the server device 100 moves the tabs on the terminal device 10's screen to the left from the user's perspective, in descending order of estimated score. In the example shown in Figure 1, the server device 100 displays the tabs with the highest scores to the right of the "Main" tab, in descending order of score.

[0036] Furthermore, the server device 100 displays a recommendation level to the user according to the estimated score. For example, the server device 100 displays stars as a recommendation level to the user according to the estimated score. The server device 100 displays more stars the higher the recommendation level (higher the estimated score) according to the estimated score. For example, the server device 100 displays more recommendations (number of stars) on the third tab and fewer recommendations on the first tab. In the example shown in Figure 1, the "Entertainment" tab has the highest score, so it displays more stars than the "Economy" tab and the "Domestic" tab. Note that the server device 100 is not limited to displaying recommendations with stars, and may display them in other display formats as well.

[0037] The server device 100 displays the reason why a tab has a higher score (is more popular) than a tab that is normally displayed. The reason may be something like indicating a trending topic within the category or that there are new articles in the category. In the example shown in Figure 1, the server device 100 displays reasons such as "** is trending," "△△ is being discussed actively," and "There are new articles." Note that the reason may be anything.

[0038] Furthermore, the server device 100 assigns a label such as "Trending Article" to articles that are generating buzz, indicating that their popularity and attention are rapidly increasing.

[0039] Furthermore, the server device 100 automatically updates the display mode of the tabs in accordance with changes in the tab scores. In this case, the server device 100 estimates the score for each tab at predetermined intervals (e.g., every 3 minutes). Also, for example, the server device 100 estimates the score for each tab when a user performs a refresh operation. For example, if the scores change and a tab with a high score falls below a first threshold, the server device 100 returns that tab to its normal display.

[0040] The tab display configuration may be fixed, or it may be selectable and configurable by user U. The server device 100 changes the tab display configuration according to user U's settings. For example, if user U performs an operation that does not change the order in which the tabs are displayed or the background of the tabs, the server device 100 does not need to change these.

[0041] In the above embodiment, the score of each tab may be estimated based on the user U's browsing history, and the display mode of the tabs may be changed. The server device 100 may estimate the score of each tab, and based on the user U's browsing history, estimate a higher score for tabs that have been viewed more frequently, and change the display mode of the tabs.

[0042] [3. Example of terminal device configuration] Next, the configuration of the terminal device 10 will be described using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the terminal device 10 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the terminal device 10 includes a communication unit 11, a display unit 12, an input unit 13, a positioning unit 14, a sensor unit 20, a control unit 30 (controller), and a storage unit 40.

[0043] (Communications Section 11) The communication unit 11 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information to and from the server device 100 via the network N. For example, the communication unit 11 can be implemented using a NIC (Network Interface Card) or an antenna.

[0044] (Display section 12) The display unit 12 is a display device that displays various information such as location information. For example, the display unit 12 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic electro-luminescent display (OLED). The display unit 12 may also be a touch panel display, but is not limited to this.

[0045] (Input section 13) The input unit 13 is an input device that receives various operations from the user U. For example, the input unit 13 has buttons for inputting characters, numbers, etc. The input unit 13 may also be an input / output port (I / O port) or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port. If the display unit 12 is a touch panel display, a part of the display unit 12 functions as the input unit 13. The input unit 13 may also be a microphone that receives voice input from the user U. The microphone may be wireless.

[0046] (Positioning unit 14) The positioning unit 14 receives signals (radio waves) transmitted from GPS (Global Positioning System) satellites and, based on the received signals, acquires position information (e.g., latitude and longitude) indicating the current position of the terminal device 10. In other words, the positioning unit 14 determines the position of the terminal device 10. Note that GPS is just one example of a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System).

[0047] Furthermore, the positioning unit 14 can determine its position using various methods other than GPS. For example, the positioning unit 14 may use various communication functions of the terminal device 10 to determine its position as an auxiliary positioning means for position correction, etc., as described below.

[0048] (Wi-Fi positioning) For example, the positioning unit 14 determines the location of the terminal device 10 by utilizing the Wi-Fi® communication function of the terminal device 10 and the communication network provided by each telecommunications company. Specifically, the positioning unit 14 determines the location of the terminal device 10 by performing Wi-Fi communication, etc., and determining the distance to nearby base stations and access points.

[0049] (Beacon positioning) Furthermore, the positioning unit 14 may determine the location using the Bluetooth® function of the terminal device 10. For example, the positioning unit 14 determines the location of the terminal device 10 by connecting to a beacon transmitter connected via the Bluetooth® function.

[0050] (Geomagnetic positioning) Furthermore, the positioning unit 14 determines the position of the terminal device 10 based on the geomagnetic pattern of the structure, which has been measured in advance, and the geomagnetic sensor provided by the terminal device 10.

[0051] (RFID positioning) Furthermore, if, for example, the terminal device 10 is equipped with an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag function equivalent to that of a contactless IC card used at a train station ticket gate or in a store, or if it is equipped with a function to read RFID tags, the location where it was used will be recorded along with the information on the payment or other transactions made by the terminal device 10. The positioning unit 14 may determine the location of the terminal device 10 by acquiring such information. Alternatively, the location may be determined by an optical sensor or infrared sensor equipped in the terminal device 10.

[0052] The positioning unit 14 may, if necessary, determine the position of the terminal device 10 using one or a combination of the positioning means described above.

[0053] (Sensor unit 20) The sensor unit 20 includes various sensors mounted on or connected to the terminal device 10. The connection can be wired or wireless. For example, the sensors may be detection devices other than the terminal device 10, such as wearable devices or wireless devices. In the example shown in Figure 2, the sensor unit 20 includes an acceleration sensor 21, a gyro sensor 22, a barometric pressure sensor 23, a temperature sensor 24, a sound sensor 25, a light sensor 26, a magnetic sensor 27, and an image sensor (camera) 28.

[0054] The sensors 21-28 described above are merely examples and not limiting. In other words, the sensor unit 20 may be configured to include some of the sensors 21-28, or it may include other sensors such as humidity sensors in addition to or instead of the sensors 21-28.

[0055] The acceleration sensor 21 is, for example, a 3-axis acceleration sensor and detects the physical movement of the terminal device 10, such as its direction of movement, velocity, and acceleration. The gyro sensor 22 detects the physical movement of the terminal device 10, such as its tilt in the three axes, based on its angular velocity. The barometric pressure sensor 23 detects the atmospheric pressure around the terminal device 10, for example.

[0056] Since the terminal device 10 is equipped with the acceleration sensor 21, gyroscope 22, barometric pressure sensor 23, etc., it becomes possible to determine the position of the terminal device 10 using technologies such as pedestrian dead-reckoning (PDR) that utilize these sensors 21 to 23. This makes it possible to obtain indoor location information that is difficult to obtain with positioning systems such as GPS.

[0057] For example, a pedometer using an accelerometer 21 can calculate the number of steps, walking speed, and distance walked. Additionally, a gyroscope 22 can be used to determine the user U's direction of movement, gaze direction, and body tilt. Furthermore, the barometric pressure detected by the barometric pressure sensor 23 can be used to determine the altitude and floor number of the user U's terminal device 10.

[0058] The temperature sensor 24 detects, for example, the ambient temperature around the terminal device 10. The sound sensor 25 detects, for example, the ambient sound around the terminal device 10. The light sensor 26 detects the ambient illumination around the terminal device 10. The magnetic sensor 27 detects, for example, the Earth's magnetic field around the terminal device 10. The image sensor 28 captures an image of the area around the terminal device 10.

[0059] The aforementioned pressure sensor 23, temperature sensor 24, sound sensor 25, light sensor 26, and image sensor 28 can detect the surrounding environment and conditions of the terminal device 10 by detecting atmospheric pressure, temperature, sound, and illuminance, respectively, and by capturing images of the surroundings. Furthermore, it becomes possible to improve the accuracy of the location information of the terminal device 10 based on the surrounding environment and conditions.

[0060] (Control Unit 30) The control unit 30 includes, for example, a microcomputer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM, input / output ports, and various circuits. Alternatively, the control unit 30 may be composed of hardware such as an integrated circuit (ASIC) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 30 includes a transmission unit 31, a reception unit 32, and a processing unit 33.

[0061] (Transmitter 31) The transmission unit 31 can transmit various information, such as information input by the user U using the input unit 13, various information detected by sensors 21-28 mounted on or connected to the terminal device 10, and location information of the terminal device 10 determined by the positioning unit 14, to the server device 100 via the communication unit 11.

[0062] (Receiver 32) The receiving unit 32 can receive various information provided by the server device 100 and requests for various information from the server device 100 via the communication unit 11. For example, the receiving unit 32 receives information from the server device 100 via the communication unit 11 regarding access rankings of news and other content (display content, display layout, display rank, display style, etc.). In practice, the receiving unit 32 may also receive the number of users (viewers) viewing each article in real time from the server device 100 via the communication unit 11.

[0063] (Processing 33) The processing unit 33 controls the entire terminal device 10, including the display unit 12. For example, the processing unit 33 can output and display various information transmitted by the transmission unit 31 and various information received from the server device 100 by the reception unit 32 to the display unit 12. For example, when user U starts / operates an application that displays access rankings for content such as news, the processing unit 33 may output and display the access rankings to the display unit 12 based on the access ranking information received from the server device 100 by the reception unit 32.

[0064] In practice, the processing unit 33 may create an access ranking for each article based on the number of users (viewers) viewing each article in real time, as received by the receiving unit 32 from the server device 100, and output the access ranking to the display unit 12 along with a display showing the number of users viewing each article in real time. Similarly, the processing unit 33 may dynamically change the display order (ranking) in the access ranking in accordance with changes (increases or decreases) in the number of users viewing in real time.

[0065] (Storage unit 40) The memory unit 40 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and flash memory, or by storage devices such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), and optical discs. Various programs and various data are stored in such a memory unit 40. For example, the memory unit 40 may store information related to access rankings. The memory unit 40 may also store the number of users (viewers) viewing each article in real time.

[0066] [4. Example of Server Device Configuration] Next, the configuration of the server device 100 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the server device 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the server device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0067] (Communications Department 110) The communication unit 110 is implemented, for example, by a NIC (Network Interface Card). The communication unit 110 is also connected to the network N by wired or wireless connection.

[0068] (Storage unit 120) The storage unit 120 is implemented by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or a storage device such as an HDD, SSD, or optical disc. The storage unit 120 may store identification information (such as a user ID) indicating user U, as well as attribute information and history information (log data) of user U. The storage unit 120 may also store information related to content such as news. Furthermore, the storage unit 120 may store the number of users (viewers) currently viewing the measured content. In this case, the storage unit 120 may store the number of users (viewers) currently viewing the content for each content category, or for each user attribute or segment.

[0069] (Control unit 130) The control unit 130 is a controller, and is realized by executing various programs (corresponding to an example of an information processing program) stored in the internal memory of the server device 100 using a memory area such as RAM as a working area, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). In the example shown in Figure 3, the control unit 130 has an acquisition unit 131, an estimation unit 132, and a display control unit 133.

[0070] (Acquisition part 131) The acquisition unit 131 acquires the search query entered by the user U. For example, when the user U enters a search query into a search engine or the like and performs a keyword search, the acquisition unit 131 acquires the search query via the communication unit 110. In other words, the acquisition unit 131 acquires the keyword entered by the user U into the search box of a search engine, website, or application via the communication unit 110.

[0071] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 acquires user information about user U via the communication unit 110. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires identification information (such as user ID), location information, and attribute information of user U from user U's terminal device 10. The acquisition unit 131 may also acquire identification information and attribute information of user U when user U is registered. The acquisition unit 131 then stores the user information in the storage unit 120.

[0072] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 acquires various historical information (log data) indicating the user U's actions via the communication unit 110. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires various historical information indicating the user U's actions from the user U's terminal device 10, or from various servers based on the user ID, etc. The acquisition unit 131 then stores the various historical information in the storage unit 120.

[0073] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 acquires information about the content distributed in each category tab via the communication unit 110. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires the number of comments on content on the same topic within a category. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires the number of content items on the same topic within a category. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires the number of times a new topic appears within a category. The acquisition unit 131 then stores the acquired information in the storage unit 120.

[0074] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 acquires various information from other server devices. The acquisition unit 131 acquires coverage information on trending topics from other news sites. The acquisition unit 131 acquires coverage information from the server devices of major news sites. The acquisition unit 131 acquires engagement information on posts related to the same topic on social networking services (SNS) from the SNS server devices.

[0075] (Estimation part 132) The estimation unit 132 estimates a score indicating the level of popularity of a tab based on the posted information. For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates the popularity score of a tab based on the number of comments on content on the same topic within a category. Alternatively, the estimation unit 132 estimates the popularity score of a tab based on the number of content items on the same topic within a category. Alternatively, the estimation unit 132 estimates the popularity score of a tab based on the number of times a new topic appears within a category. In this embodiment, a threshold is set in advance, and if the estimated score of a tab is above the threshold, the estimation unit 132 estimates that the score of the tab is high (the tab is popular).

[0076] The estimation unit 132 estimates the popularity score of a tab based on the number of pieces of content related to the same topic within the category. For example, the estimation unit 132 evaluates the novelty of related topics (articles). In this case, the estimation unit 132 evaluates whether the articles related to the same topic are new or not. If the articles on the topic are new, the estimation unit 132 evaluates them as having a high degree of freshness. Alternatively, for example, the estimation unit 132 evaluates additional information on the same topic. In this case, the estimation unit 132 evaluates whether the same topic contains new information or perspectives. For example, the estimation unit 132 evaluates whether new facts or evidence have been added to the same topic. If the same topic contains new additional information, the estimation unit 132 evaluates it as having a high degree of freshness.

[0077] Furthermore, the estimation unit 132 analyzes coverage information from other news sites obtained from the data. The estimation unit 132 analyzes coverage on major news sites. The estimation unit 132 evaluates a topic as having high freshness if the same topic is covered by many sources at the same time.

[0078] Furthermore, the estimation unit 132 analyzes the acquired engagement information. If the engagement of the post in question on social media is high and there is active discussion, the estimation unit 132 estimates a high score for the tab containing the content.

[0079] Furthermore, the estimation unit 132 analyzes the involvement of influential individuals, including experts, with respect to the topic (content) and estimates the tab's score. The estimation unit 132 estimates a higher score for the tab containing the topic if experts or influential individuals are involved with that topic. The estimation unit 132 evaluates the topic as having a high degree of freshness if new experts or influential individuals become involved with a topic in which experts or influential individuals are already involved.

[0080] Furthermore, the estimation unit 132 estimates the score for each tab, for example, at predetermined intervals (e.g., every 3 minutes). Also, for example, the estimation unit 132 estimates the score for each tab when the user performs a refresh operation. The estimation unit 132 may also estimate the score for each tab based on the user U's browsing history. The estimation unit 132 estimates the score for each tab and may estimate a higher score for tabs that have been viewed more frequently, based on the user U's browsing history.

[0081] (Display control unit 133) The display control unit 133 changes the display mode of the tabs according to the estimated score and displays the tabs on the terminal device 10 of user U, who is the viewer. If the score of a tab is below a threshold, the display control unit 133 displays the tab normally, and if the score of a tab is above the threshold, it changes the display mode of the tab according to the score. For example, the display control unit 133 changes the size of the tabs according to the estimated score and displays the tabs with the changed display mode on the terminal device 10 of user U, who is the viewer. Specifically, the display control unit 133 displays the tabs larger (higher) according to the estimated score. The display control unit 133 displays the tab with the highest estimated score the largest (highest), and displays the tabs smaller (lower) as the score decreases.

[0082] For example, the display control unit 133 changes the background of the tabs according to the estimated score and displays the tabs reflecting the display mode on the user U's terminal device 10. For example, the server device 100 changes the background of tabs whose estimated score is above a first threshold. It is preferable that the display control unit 133 changes the background of the tabs so that they stand out in order of highest score. The display control unit 133 may, for example, display a pattern on the background of the tabs, change the background color of the tabs, or do both.

[0083] Furthermore, the display control unit 133 changes the order in which the tabs are displayed according to the estimated score, and displays the tabs that reflect the display mode on the user U's terminal device 10. The display control unit 133 moves the tabs on the screen of the terminal device 10 to the left from the user's perspective, in descending order of estimated score. In the example shown in Figure 1, the display control unit 133 displays the tabs with the highest scores to the right of the "Main" tab, in descending order of score.

[0084] Furthermore, the display control unit 133 displays the recommendation level to the user on the tab according to the estimated score, and displays the tab reflecting the display mode on the terminal device 10 of the user U, who is viewing the content. The display control unit 133 displays stars as the recommendation level to the user according to the estimated score. The display control unit 133 displays more stars the higher the recommendation level to the user (the higher the estimated score). Note that the display control unit 133 is not limited to displaying the recommendation level with stars, and may also display it in other display formats.

[0085] The display control unit 133 displays the reason why tabs with higher scores than the normally displayed tabs have higher scores (are more popular), and displays the tabs with the displayed format reflected on the terminal device 10 of the viewer user U.

[0086] Furthermore, the display control unit 133 attaches a label such as "Trending Article" to the trending article, indicating that its popularity and attention are rapidly increasing, and displays it on the terminal device 10 of the user U, who is viewing the article.

[0087] Furthermore, the display control unit 133 dynamically updates the display mode of the tabs in accordance with changes in the tabs' scores. For example, if the scores change and a tab with a high score falls below a first threshold, the display control unit 133 returns that tab to its normal display.

[0088] The display control unit 133 may change the display configuration of the tabs according to the user U's settings. For example, if user U performs an operation that does not change the order in which the tabs are displayed or the background of the tabs, the display control unit 133 does not need to change these.

[0089] The display control unit 133 may change the display mode of the tabs according to a score estimated based on the user U's browsing history.

[0090] [5. Processing Procedure] Next, the processing procedure by the server device 100 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a flowchart of the processing procedure according to the embodiment. Note that the processing procedure shown below is repeatedly executed by the control unit 130 of the server device 100.

[0091] For example, as shown in Figure 4, the acquisition unit 131 of the server device 100 acquires content information for each tab (step S101).

[0092] Next, the estimation unit 132 of the server device 100 estimates the tab's popularity score (level of popularity) based on the posted information (step S102).

[0093] Next, the display control unit 134 of the server device 100 changes the display mode of the tabs according to the score and displays the tabs that reflect the changed display mode (step S103).

[0094] [6. Variant Example] The terminal device 10 and server device 100 described above may be implemented in various other forms besides those of the embodiment described above. Therefore, the following describes modifications of the embodiment.

[0095] In the above embodiment, some or all of the processing performed by the server device 100 may actually be performed by the terminal device 10. For example, the processing may be completed in a standalone manner (by the terminal device 10 alone). In this case, the terminal device 10 is assumed to have the functions of the server device 100 in the above embodiment. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, since the terminal device 10 is in cooperation with the server device 100, from the perspective of the user U, it appears as if the processing of the server device 100 is also being performed by the terminal device 10. In other words, from another perspective, it can be said that the terminal device 10 is equipped with the server device 100.

[0096] [7. Effects] As described above, the information processing device (terminal device 10 and server device 100) according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: an acquisition unit 131 that acquires information on the content distributed in tabs for each category; an estimation unit 132 that estimates a score indicating the level of popularity of the tab based on the information on the content; and a display control unit 133 that changes the display mode of the tab according to the estimated score and displays the tab with the display mode reflected.

[0097] The acquisition unit 131 acquires the number of comments on content of the same topic within the category. The estimation unit 132 estimates the tab's score based on the number of comments on content of the same topic within the category.

[0098] The acquisition unit 131 acquires the number of content items related to the same topic within a category. The estimation unit 132 estimates the tab score based on the number of content items related to the same topic within a category.

[0099] The acquisition unit 131 acquires the number of occurrences of new topics within a category. The estimation unit 132 estimates the tab's score based on the number of occurrences of new topics within a category.

[0100] The display control unit 133 changes the size of the tab according to the estimated score.

[0101] The display control unit 133 changes the background of the tab according to the estimated score.

[0102] The display control unit 133 changes the order in which the tabs are displayed according to the estimated score.

[0103] The display control unit 133 displays the recommendation level for the user on the tab according to the estimated score.

[0104] By any or a combination of the above-described processes, the information processing device according to the present invention can display tabs more appropriately.

[0105] [8. Hardware Configuration] Furthermore, the terminal device 10 and server device 100 according to the above-described embodiment are realized by a computer 1000 having a configuration such as that shown in Figure 5. The following explanation will use the server device 100 as an example. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration. The computer 1000 is connected to an output device 1010 and an input device 1020, and has a configuration in which an arithmetic unit 1030, a primary storage device 1040, a secondary storage device 1050, an output IF (Interface) 1060, an input IF 1070, and a network IF 1080 are connected by a bus 1090.

[0106] The arithmetic unit 1030 operates based on programs stored in the primary storage device 1040 and the secondary storage device 1050, as well as programs read from the input device 1020, and executes various processes. The arithmetic unit 1030 can be implemented using, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0107] The primary storage device 1040 is a memory device, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), that temporarily stores data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations. The secondary storage device 1050 is a storage device where data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations and various databases are registered, and can be implemented using ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), flash memory, etc. The secondary storage device 1050 may be internal storage or external storage. The secondary storage device 1050 may also be a removable storage medium such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory or SD (Secure Digital) memory card. The secondary storage device 1050 may also be cloud storage (online storage), NAS (Network Attached Storage), file server, etc.

[0108] Output IF1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to output devices 1010, such as displays, projectors, and printers, and is implemented using connectors of standards such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), and HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface). Input IF1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as mice, keyboards, keypads, buttons, and scanners, and is implemented using, for example, USB.

[0109] Furthermore, output IF1060 and input IF1070 may be wirelessly connected to output device 1010 and input device 1020, respectively. In other words, output device 1010 and input device 1020 may be wireless devices.

[0110] Furthermore, the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 may be integrated as a touch panel. In this case, the output IF 1060 and the input IF 1070 may also be integrated as input / output IFs.

[0111] The input device 1020 may also be a device that reads information from, for example, an optical recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), or PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory.

[0112] Network IF1080 receives data from other devices via network N and sends it to the arithmetic unit 1030, and also transmits data generated by the arithmetic unit 1030 to other devices via network N.

[0113] The arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output IF 1060 and the input IF 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or the secondary storage device 1050 onto the primary storage device 1040 and executes the loaded program.

[0114] For example, when computer 1000 functions as a server device 100, the arithmetic unit 1030 of computer 1000 realizes the functions of the control unit 130 by executing a program loaded onto the primary storage device 1040. Alternatively, the arithmetic unit 1030 of computer 1000 may load a program obtained from another device via the network interface 1080 onto the primary storage device 1040 and execute the loaded program. Furthermore, the arithmetic unit 1030 of computer 1000 may cooperate with other devices via the network interface 1080 and call and use program functions, data, etc., from other programs on other devices.

[0115] [9. Other] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited by the content of these embodiments. Furthermore, the aforementioned components include those that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art, those that are substantially the same, and those that fall within the so-called equivalent range. Moreover, the aforementioned components can be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, or modifications of the components can be made without departing from the gist of the embodiments described above.

[0116] Furthermore, among the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically by known methods. In addition, the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above document and drawings can be arbitrarily changed unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each figure is not limited to the information shown.

[0117] Furthermore, the components of each illustrated device are functionally conceptual and do not necessarily need to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific forms of distribution and integration of each device are not limited to those shown, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads and usage conditions.

[0118] For example, the server device 100 described above may be implemented using multiple server computers, and the configuration can be flexibly changed, such as by calling external platforms via APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) or network computing depending on the function.

[0119] Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not inconsistent.

[0120] Furthermore, the terms "section, module, unit" mentioned above can be replaced with "means" or "circuit," etc. For example, the acquisition unit can be replaced with acquisition means or acquisition circuit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 1. Information Processing System 10 Terminal devices 100 Server Devices 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 130 Control Unit 131 Acquisition Department 132 Estimation Department 133 Display Control Unit

Claims

1. A data acquisition unit that acquires information on the content delivered in each category tab, Based on the information provided, an estimation unit estimates a score indicating the degree of excitement of the tab, A display control unit changes the display mode of the tab according to the estimated score and displays the tab reflecting the display mode. An information processing device characterized by comprising:

2. The acquisition unit acquires the number of comments on content of the same topic within the category, The estimation unit estimates the score of the tab based on the number of comments on content of the same topic within the category. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The acquisition unit acquires the number of content items related to the same topic within the category, The estimation unit estimates the score of the tab based on the number of pieces of content related to the same topic within the category. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

4. The acquisition unit acquires the number of occurrences of new topics within the category, The estimation unit estimates the score of the tab based on the number of times new topics appear within the category. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

5. The display control unit changes the size of the tab according to the estimated score. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The display control unit changes the background of the tab according to the estimated score. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The display control unit changes the order in which the tabs are displayed according to the estimated score. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

8. The display control unit displays the recommendation level to the user on the tab according to the estimated score. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

9. An information processing method performed by an information processing device, The process involves obtaining information about the content delivered in each category tab, An estimation process to estimate a score indicating the degree of excitement of the tab based on the information published above, A display control step which involves changing the display mode of the tab according to the estimated score and displaying the tab reflecting the display mode. An information processing method characterized by including

10. The procedure for obtaining information on the content delivered in each category tab, An estimation procedure for estimating a score indicating the degree of excitement of the tab based on the information provided above, A display control procedure that changes the display mode of the tab according to the estimated score and displays the tab reflecting the display mode. An information processing program characterized by causing a computer to execute it.

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