Systems, methods, programs, and devices for delivering content

Abstract

To help users easily find content. [Solution] A content distribution server 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention is connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20, and provides a content distribution service for distributing and viewing content to the user via the user terminal 30. When the content viewing mode is the second mode, the server 10 does not make a predetermined notification to inform the distribution user that viewing of the content has started, and the viewing screen presented to the viewing user displays other content while maintaining the second mode in response to predetermined operation inputs by the viewing user. As a result, the viewing user can view multiple contents consecutively without the distribution user knowing that viewing has started.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] ,

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology for delivering content.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, various services for delivering content composed of images and / or sounds have been provided. In order to promote the use of such services, it is preferable to assist the search for content preferred by viewing users (or distributing users). In this regard, for example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a technique for searching for a video using a generated image generated by a machine learning model based on information (search keywords, etc.) input by a user in a video distribution platform.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the conventional technology as described above, in order to search for a video, it is necessary to input information such as search keywords, but it is not easy to reflect one's own preferences in the search keywords, etc., and it is not always possible to obtain good search results. Therefore, it is desirable to realize a mechanism that allows users to easily search for preferred content.

[0005] One of the objectives of the embodiments of the present invention is to assist users in easily searching for content. Other objectives of the embodiments of the present invention will become clear by referring to the entire specification.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for distributing content, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors perform the steps of: presenting a viewing screen to a viewing user that displays first content provided by a distribution user; and, when the viewing mode is the first mode, making a predetermined notification to inform the distribution user that the viewing user has started viewing the first content; wherein, when the viewing mode is the second mode, the predetermined notification is not made, and when the viewing mode is the second mode, the viewing screen displays the second content in place of the first content while maintaining the second mode in response to a first operation input by the viewing user.

[0007] A method according to one embodiment of the present invention is a method for distributing content, which is executed by one or more computers, and comprises the steps of: presenting a viewing screen to a viewing user that displays first content provided by a distribution user; and, when the viewing mode is a first mode, giving a predetermined notification to the distribution user to inform the viewing user that the viewing user has started viewing the first content, wherein the step of giving the predetermined notification is omitted when the viewing mode is a second mode, and when the viewing mode is a second mode, the viewing screen displays the second content in place of the first content while maintaining the second mode in response to a first operation input by the viewing user.

[0008] A program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for distributing content, which causes one or more computers to perform the steps of: presenting a viewing screen to a viewing user that displays first content provided by a distribution user; and, when the viewing mode is the first mode, making a predetermined notification to inform the distribution user that the viewing user has started viewing the first content, wherein the step of making the predetermined notification is omitted when the viewing mode is the second mode, and when the viewing mode is the second mode, the viewing screen displays the second content in place of the first content while maintaining the second mode in response to a first operation input by the viewing user.

[0009] An apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus for distributing content, comprising means for presenting a viewing screen to a viewing user that displays first content provided by a distribution user, and means for making a predetermined notification to inform the distribution user that the viewing user has started viewing the first content when the viewing mode is the first mode, wherein the means for making the predetermined notification does not make the predetermined notification when the viewing mode is the second mode, and the viewing screen, when the viewing mode is the second mode, displays the second content in place of the first content while maintaining the second mode in response to a first operation input by the viewing user. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] Various embodiments of the present invention help users easily find content. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram showing the configuration of a network including a content distribution server 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] A diagram illustrating the information managed by user information table 1511. [Figure 3] A diagram illustrating the ranking of streaming users. [Figure 4] Figure illustrating the information managed by the distribution management table 1512. [Figure 5] Figure illustrating the information managed by the viewing user management table 1513 for each distribution user. [Figure 6] Figure illustrating the action conditions for each of a plurality of fan levels. [Figure 7] Figure illustrating the top screen 50. <0oo0066> [Figure 8] Figure illustrating the display content of the individual display area 541. [Figure 9] Figure illustrating the distribution preparation screen 60. [Figure 10] Figure illustrating the distribution screen 70. [Figure 11] Figure illustrating the viewing screen 80. [Figure 12] Figure illustrating the viewing screen 80 on which the gift selection screen 90 is superimposed and displayed. [Figure 13] Figure illustrating the gift selection screen 90. [Figure 14] Figure illustrating the production objects 761 and 861. [Figure 15] Figure illustrating the viewing screen 80A corresponding to the trial mode. [Figure 16] Flowchart illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when updating the rank of each user. [Figure 17] Figure illustrating the update rule for the number of rank points. [Figure 18] Flowchart illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds to each user.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or similar components may be assigned the same reference numerals.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing the configuration of a network including a content distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the server 10 is communicably connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet. In FIG. 1, only one user terminal 30 is shown, but the server 10 is communicably connected to a plurality of user terminals 30. The server 10 provides a content distribution service for distributing and viewing content to users via the user terminal 30. The content distribution server 10 is an example of a device that implements part or all of the system (or device) of the present invention.

[0014] First, the hardware configuration of the content distribution server 10 will be described. The content distribution server 10 is configured as a general computer and includes, as shown in FIG. 1, a computer processor 11, a main memory 12, an input / output I / F 13, a communication I / F 14, and a storage (storage device) 15, and these components are electrically connected via a bus or the like not shown in the figure.

[0015] The computer processor 11 is configured as a CPU, GPU, or the like, reads various programs stored in the storage 15 or the like into the main memory 12, and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 12 is configured by, for example, DRAM or the like.

[0016] The input / output I / F 13 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with an operator or the like. The input / output I / F 13 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), a voice input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. The input / output I / F 13 also includes an image output device such as a display and a voice output device such as a speaker.

[0017] The communication interface 14 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, and a combination thereof, and is configured to enable wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20, etc.

[0018] The storage 15 is composed of, for example, a magnetic disk, flash memory, etc. The storage 15 stores various programs, including an operating system, and various data. For example, the storage 15 has various tables 151 that store various information for providing content distribution services. Also, for example, the storage 15 stores a server-side program 40 according to one embodiment of the present invention. This program 40 is a program that causes the server 10 to function as all or part of a system for providing content distribution services. At least a part of the server-side program 40 may be configured to be executed on the user terminal 30 side via a terminal-side program 42, which will be described later.

[0019] In this embodiment, the content distribution server 10 may be configured using multiple computers, each having the hardware configuration described above. For example, the content distribution server 10 may be configured by one or more server devices.

[0020] The content distribution server 10 configured in this way can be configured to function as both a web server and an application server. In this case, it performs various processes in response to requests from terminal-side programs 42 installed on the user terminal 30, and sends screen data (e.g., HTML data) and control data, etc., to the user terminal 30 according to the results of those processes. The user terminal 30 may then output a web page or other screen based on the received data.

[0021] Next, the hardware configuration of the user terminal 30 will be described. The user terminal 30 is configured as a general-purpose computer and, as shown in Figure 1, includes a computer processor 31, main memory 32, input / output interface 33, communication interface 34, and storage (memory device) 35. These components are electrically connected via buses and the like (not shown).

[0022] The computer processor 31 is configured as a CPU or GPU, and loads various programs stored in storage 35, etc., into the main memory 32 and executes various instructions contained in those programs. The main memory 32 is configured as, for example, DRAM.

[0023] The input / output interface 33 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with the operator, etc. The input / output interface 33 includes, for example, information input devices such as keyboards and pointing devices (e.g., mice, touch panels, etc.), audio input devices such as microphones, and image input devices such as cameras. Furthermore, the input / output interface 33 includes image output devices such as displays and audio output devices such as speakers.

[0024] The communication interface 34 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, and a combination thereof, and is configured to enable wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20, etc.

[0025] The storage 35 is composed of, for example, a magnetic disk or flash memory. The storage 35 stores various programs, including the operating system, and various data. The programs stored in the storage 35 can be downloaded and installed from an application market or the like. The storage 35 also stores terminal-side programs 42. These programs 42 are configured as a web browser or other application (for example, a terminal-side application for a content distribution service) and, as described above, can be configured to execute at least a portion of the server-side program 40.

[0026] In this embodiment, the user terminal 30 may be configured as a smartphone, tablet device, personal computer, wearable device, etc.

[0027] A user operating the user terminal 30 configured in this way can use the content distribution service provided by the content distribution server 10 by communicating with the content distribution server 10 via the terminal-side program 42 installed on the storage 35, etc.

[0028] Next, the functions of the content distribution server 10 configured in this way will be described. As shown in Figure 1, the computer processor 11 of the server 10 is configured to function as a management function control unit 111 and a service provision control unit 112 by executing instructions contained in a program loaded into the main memory 12 (for example, at least a part of the server-side program 40).

[0029] The management function control unit 111 is configured to perform various processes related to the control of the management functions of the content distribution service. For example, the management function control unit 111 transmits screen data and control data for various screens related to the management functions to the user terminal 30, performs various processes in response to user input via the screens output on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data and control data corresponding to the results of those processes to the user terminal 30. The management functions controlled by the management function control unit 111 include, for example, login processing (user authentication), billing control, and user account management.

[0030] The service provision control unit 112 is configured to perform various processes for controlling the provision of content distribution services. For example, the service provision control unit 112 performs various processes for controlling the distribution of content. For example, the service provision control unit 112 distributes content provided by a distribution user to multiple viewing users. For example, the service provision control unit 112 presents a viewing screen displaying the content to each of the multiple viewing users, and transmits, for example, screen data and control data of the viewing screen to each of the multiple viewing users' user terminals 30 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as viewing terminal 30).

[0031] Here, viewing users include users who view content in the past, present, or future, and typically include all users of the content distribution service. Similarly, distributing users include users who distribute content in the past, present, or future, and typically include all users of the content distribution service. Users of the content distribution service can typically distribute content as distributing users and view content as viewing users.

[0032] In this embodiment, the service provision control unit 112 is configured to give a predetermined notification to the distribution user when the viewing mode of the content is the first mode, while not giving the predetermined notification when the viewing mode is the second mode. For example, when the user terminal 30 requests to view the content in the first mode, the service provision control unit 112 gives a predetermined notification to the content distribution user when viewing begins, while not giving the predetermined notification when the user requests to view the content in the second mode. The predetermined notification may be given to some or all of the other viewing users in addition to the distribution user. The predetermined notification is given, for example, via the distribution screen and the viewing screen presented to the distribution user (displayed on these screens). For example, the predetermined notification is displayed as a comment in the comment display area of ​​the distribution screen and the viewing screen, which displays user comments and / or system comments. Furthermore, other conditions may be added as conditions for issuing the prescribed notification (for example, the elapsed time since the start of viewing the content (viewing time) reaching a predetermined value, or the values ​​of the parameters held by the viewing user being within a predetermined range).

[0033] In this embodiment, when the viewing mode is the second mode, the viewing screen is configured to display other content in place of the currently displayed content while maintaining the second mode, in response to a predetermined operation input by the viewing user. The other content is automatically selected by the service provision control unit 112 from, for example, a plurality of content. In this embodiment, the automatic selection of content may be performed based on various rules or using a trained model generated through machine learning.

[0034] Thus, in this embodiment, when the content viewing mode is the second mode, the content distribution server 10 does not send a predetermined notification to the distribution user to inform them of the start of viewing the content. The viewing screen presented to the viewing user displays other content while maintaining the second mode in response to predetermined operation inputs by the viewing user. As a result, the viewing user can continuously view multiple pieces of content without the distribution user knowing that they have started viewing them. In other words, the content distribution server 10 helps users easily find content.

[0035] In this embodiment, the content distributed includes various types of digital content. For example, the content consists of images (video or still images) and audio, or one of these. The content is transmitted in real time (live distribution) from, for example, the user terminal 30 of the distribution user providing the content (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the distribution terminal 30), or it is provided in advance from the distribution terminal 30 and stored in a storage device such as the storage 15. Live distribution of content may be accompanied by a certain delay (time lag) depending on the settings of the distribution user or the network conditions. Live distribution of content is performed using a streaming method that uses a protocol such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS). The content distribution user includes businesses such as broadcasters.

[0036] Furthermore, the content transmitted from the distribution terminal 30 consists, for example, of video and audio of the distribution user input (captured) via the camera and microphone of the distribution terminal 30. This content also consists, for example, of video and audio corresponding to the screen output by the distribution terminal 30. Furthermore, this content also consists, for example, of video corresponding to the screen output by an application (e.g., a game) running on the distribution terminal 30, as well as audio output by the application and / or audio of the distribution user input via the microphone of the distribution terminal 30.

[0037] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content distributed is such that a portion of the data constituting the content is transmitted in real time from the distribution terminal 30, while a portion of the data constituting the content can be pre-stored in the server 10 or the viewing terminal 30. For example, the audio constituting the content is transmitted in real time from the distribution terminal 30, while the images constituting the content are pre-stored in the server 10 or the viewing terminal 30, and the content is generated in the server 10 or the viewing terminal 30 based on this data.

[0038] Furthermore, for example, in addition to the audio that constitutes the content, motion data (e.g., motion data) for operating objects such as characters may be transmitted in real time from the distribution terminal 30, while images constituting the content may be pre-stored in the server 10 or viewing terminal 30, and these images may include model data of the objects. In this case, the motion data is generated based on the actions of the distribution user (including head movements and changes in facial expressions, etc.) recognized via the camera of the distribution terminal 30. The content generated in the server 10 or viewing terminal 30 then includes objects such as characters that operate based on the model data and motion data.

[0039] In this embodiment, the service provision control unit 112 may be configured to change the viewing mode from the second mode to the first mode in response to a predetermined operation input by the viewing user, while maintaining the display of content on the viewing screen. In this case, the service provision control unit 112 provides the predetermined notification regarding the displayed content in response to the change in the viewing mode to the first mode, for example. The operation input for changing the viewing mode is typically a different type of operation input than the operation input for changing the content while maintaining the second mode. This configuration allows the viewing user to easily change the viewing mode of the content they are viewing.

[0040] Furthermore, the viewing screen may be configured to display other content in place of the currently displayed content while maintaining the first mode, in response to a predetermined operation input by the viewing user when the viewing mode is the first mode. The other content is automatically selected by the service provision control unit 112 from, for example, multiple contents being distributed. In this case, the service provision control unit 112 provides, for example, the predetermined notification regarding the other content in response to the display of the other content. The operation input for changing the content while maintaining the first mode may be the same type of operation input as the operation input for changing the content while maintaining the second mode, or it may be a different type of operation input. This configuration allows the viewing user to easily change the content they are viewing while maintaining the first mode.

[0041] In this embodiment, the first and second modes described above can be set as viewing modes having various characteristics. For example, the first mode may be a viewing mode in which the viewing user can perform a predetermined action, while the second mode may be a viewing mode in which the viewing user is restricted from performing the predetermined action. For example, in the second mode, some or all of the one or more actions that can be performed in the first mode are prohibited and / or the manner in which they are performed is restricted (for example, an upper limit is set on the number of times they can be performed). The predetermined action includes, but is not limited to, various actions that can be performed by the viewing user when viewing the content, but includes, for example, the input of input elements (comments, items, or likes, etc.). For example, when the viewing mode is the first mode, the viewing screen accepts instructions to perform a predetermined action (for example, it displays an object for performing the instruction), while when the viewing mode is the second mode, it does not accept instructions to perform the predetermined action (for example, it does not display an object for performing the instruction, or even if the instruction is accepted, it is rejected by the service provision control unit 112). This configuration makes it possible to restrict certain actions that can be performed by viewers who are not notified when viewing begins.

[0042] Furthermore, for example, the first mode may be a viewing mode in which the viewing user can view predetermined information, while the second mode may be a viewing mode in which the viewing user is restricted from viewing said predetermined information. For example, in the second mode, viewing of some or all of the one or more information items that can be viewed in the first mode is prohibited. The predetermined information includes, but is not limited to, various types of information that can be viewed by the viewing user who is viewing the content, such as comments (including user comments and / or system comments), tags, displays of items entered by other viewing users, various other visual displays, information about the viewing user, and information about the distribution user. For example, the viewing screen may display the predetermined information when the viewing mode is the first mode, but not when the viewing mode is the second mode. Such a configuration makes it possible to restrict viewing of specific information by viewing users who are not notified of the start of viewing.

[0043] Furthermore, for example, the first mode may be a viewing mode in which the viewer can view content for a predetermined time or longer, while the second mode may be a viewing mode in which the viewer is restricted from viewing content for a predetermined time or longer (i.e., a viewing time limit may be set for the second mode). For example, when the viewing mode is the first mode, the viewing screen may continue to display the content even if the viewing time reaches a predetermined value, while when the viewing mode is the second mode, the display of the content may be stopped when the viewing time reaches the predetermined value (including changing to the display of other content). Such a configuration makes it possible to restrict prolonged viewing of content by viewers who are not notified when viewing begins.

[0044] Furthermore, for example, the first mode may be a viewing mode in which audio output is enabled, while the second mode may be a viewing mode in which audio output is restricted. For example, when the viewing mode is the second mode, the viewing screen may initially have audio output disabled, and audio output may be enabled in response to a predetermined operation input by the viewing user. Such a configuration promotes casual viewing of content by the viewing user.

[0045] In this embodiment, viewing of content in second mode may be restricted if the distribution user has not permitted viewing in second mode. Such permission is set in association with the distribution user, or in association with the individual content provided by the distribution user (for each piece of content). For example, the viewing mode of content is set to first mode if the distribution user of that content has not permitted viewing in second mode. Also, for example, when the viewing mode is second mode, the viewing screen excludes content that is not permitted to be viewed in second mode from the content to be displayed. For example, when the viewing mode is second mode, the service provision control unit 112 excludes content that is not permitted to be viewed in second mode when selecting content to display on the viewing screen from among multiple pieces of content. This configuration makes it possible to restrict viewing of content by viewing users who are not notified of the start of viewing if the distribution user has not given permission.

[0046] Furthermore, the service provision control unit 112 may be configured to automatically select content from among multiple content items in response to a predetermined operation input by the viewing user, and to present a viewing screen displaying that content to the viewing user in second mode (by setting the viewing mode to second mode). This configuration makes it possible for the viewing user to easily view the automatically selected content.

[0047] In this case, the above-mentioned operation input for automatically selecting and displaying content may be an operation input for selecting a predetermined object placed on a predetermined screen having a list display area for displaying a list of content. Furthermore, in this case, the service provision control unit 112 may be configured to present a viewing screen displaying the selected content to the viewing user in first mode (by setting the viewing mode to first mode) in response to the viewing user's operation input for selecting content displayed in the list display area. In other words, the viewing user can view the automatically selected content in second mode by selecting the predetermined object placed on the predetermined screen, and can also view the selected content in first mode by individually selecting the content displayed in the list. This configuration makes it possible for the viewing user to easily choose between viewing regular content and viewing casual content.

[0048] Next, a specific example of one aspect of the content distribution server 10 of this embodiment, which has such functions, will be described. In this example, the content distribution service provided by the server 10 is configured as a service for live streaming of content consisting of video and audio of the distribution user input (captured) via the camera and microphone of the distribution terminal 30. First, in this example, the information managed by each table included in the various tables 151 will be described.

[0049] Figure 2 illustrates the information managed by the user information table 1511 in this example. The user information table 1511 manages information about users of the content distribution service and, as shown in the figure, associates with a "user account" that identifies individual users, and manages information such as "basic information" including the account name and date of birth, "distribution history information" which is information about the distribution history as a distribution user, "viewing history information" which is information about the viewing history as a viewing user, "followed user information" which is information about other users that this user follows, "family information" which is information about families that this user belongs to as a family member, "rank" which indicates the rank as a distribution user, "rank points" which is the number of rank points held which is a parameter for determining rank up and down, "coin holdings" which indicates the number of virtual coins that can be used in the content distribution service, "diamond holdings" which similarly indicates the number of virtual diamonds held, and "classification text" which is the classification as a distribution user set by the user themselves.

[0050] In this example, a family is a community of fans who support a streaming user, and can be joined by invitation from the streaming user or family administrator (e.g., designated by the streaming user), or by approval of a user's application to join by the streaming user or family administrator. Family information includes information that identifies the streaming user corresponding to each family (e.g., user account). In this example, there is an upper limit on the number of members in a family (e.g., 100). In this example, a user can join (belong to) multiple families.

[0051] In this example, coins are awarded to users both for free and for a fee under various circumstances. For example, users can acquire coins for free as a reward such as a login bonus. Also, for example, users can purchase coins for a fee (with real currency). Diamonds, as will be explained in more detail later, are awarded as one of the rewards for streaming users.

[0052] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the rank of the delivery user in this example. As shown in the diagram, in this example there are six rank tiers: "S", "A", "B", "C", "D", and "E". The "S" rank tier consists of six ranks from "S1" to "S6", and each of the four rank tiers, "A", "B", "C", and "D", consists of three ranks (for example, "A1" to "A3"). The "E" rank tier consists of one rank, "E1". In other words, in this example there are 19 ranks (6 + 3 × 4 + 1 = 19).

[0053] Furthermore, the rank tiers are such that "S" is higher and "E" is lower. Within the same rank tier, a higher number attached to the rank tier indicates a higher rank, and a lower number indicates a lower rank. In this example, the user's rank is initially set to "D1". As will be explained in more detail later, in this example, each user's rank is updated based on their daily content delivery performance.

[0054] Figure 4 illustrates the information managed by the distribution management table 1512 in this example. The distribution management table 1512 manages information related to individual distributions and, as shown in the figure, associates the "distribution ID" that identifies an individual distribution (content) with the "distribution user account" that identifies the distribution user, the "distribution start date and time" which is the date and time the distribution started, the "distribution duration" which is the duration (elapsed time) since the distribution started, the "number of viewing users (current value and maximum value)", the "number of comments" which is the number of comments entered by viewing users during the distribution of the content, the "number of likes" which is the number of "likes" entered by viewing users during the distribution of the content, the "number of coins consumed" which is the number of coins consumed in response to items entered by viewing users during the distribution of the content, the "number of support points" which is the total value of support points to be awarded for this distribution, the "distribution tag information" which is information related to the distribution tag assigned to this distribution, and the "trial viewing permission flag" which indicates that viewing in trial mode (second mode) is permitted for this distribution. Details of viewing in trial mode will be described later.

[0055] Figure 5 illustrates the information managed by the Viewer Management Table 1513 for each streaming user in this example. The Viewer Management Table 1513 manages information about viewers for each streaming user in the target month and year, and as shown in the figure, it associates the "Fan Level" of viewers for the streaming user in the target month and year with the combination of the "Streaming User Account" that identifies the streaming user, the "Viewer User Account" that identifies the viewers, and the "Target Month and Year," and manages information such as the "Number of Coins Consumed," "Viewing Time," "Number of Days Viewed," and "Number of Comments Entered" for viewers in the corresponding streaming.

[0056] In this example, a fan level for a content provider is determined based on the monthly viewing behavior of viewers of the content provided by that provider. Figure 6 illustrates the behavioral conditions for each of the multiple fan levels in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, two or three conditions are set as behavioral conditions for each fan level, and a user who satisfies any one of these conditions becomes the corresponding fan level (their level increases). For example, fan level "1" has two conditions: condition 1, "spend 10 coins or more, watch for 1.5 hours or more, and enter 4 comments or more," and condition 2, "spend 100 coins or more." A user who satisfies either of these two conditions becomes a viewer of fan level "1". Furthermore, for example, Fan Level "4" has three conditions: Condition 1, "Consume 1000 coins or more, watch for 5 hours or more, watch for 3 days or more, and enter 30 comments or more"; Condition 2, "Consume 3000 coins or more, watch for 2 hours or more, and enter 5 comments or more"; and Condition 3, "Consume 5500 coins or more". Users who satisfy any one of these three conditions become Fan Level "4" viewers. Note that these behavioral conditions are examples, and in other examples of this embodiment, various other conditions may be set as behavioral conditions. For example, instead of conditions related to the number of coins consumed, conditions related to the number of input items, or the degree of contribution to the support points awarded to the streaming user (stream), may be set.

[0057] This fan level determination is performed in real time during content distribution. Specifically, during content distribution, server 10 updates the number of coins consumed, viewing time, viewing days, and number of comments entered in real time for each viewing user in the viewing user management table 1513, and determines whether the fan level has increased based on this information. When the fan level increases, the fan level value of the corresponding record in the viewing user management table 1513 is updated. In this example, viewing in trial mode is not counted towards viewing time and viewing days.

[0058] In this example, viewers with a fan level of "4" or higher are recognized as special fans of the corresponding streaming user. When a viewer reaches a fan level of "4," the value of the special fan flag in the corresponding record in the streaming user-specific viewer management table 1513 is updated.

[0059] The above explains the information managed by each table. Next, we will explain the processes executed by the content distribution server 10 in this example, and the screens displayed on the user terminal 30.

[0060] Figure 7 illustrates the top screen 50 (predetermined screen) of the content distribution service output on the user terminal 30. This screen 50 is the starting screen when using the content distribution service, and as shown in the figure, it has a selection area 52 that displays the text "Follow," "Popular," "Featured," and "All," a list display area 54 located below the area 52, a circular trial viewing button 55 (predetermined object) located to the right of the selection area 52, and a circular distribution button 56 located to the right of the button 55.

[0061] Selection area 52 is an area for selecting the content to be displayed in the list display area 54. Specifically, if "Follow" is selected in selection area 52, the list display area 54 will display a list of broadcasts (content currently being broadcast) from other users that the user is following. Similarly, if "Popular" is selected in selection area 52, the list display area 54 will display a list of broadcasts with a large number of viewers. Also, if "Featured" is selected in selection area 52, the list display area 54 will display a list of broadcasts that are generating a lot of buzz (for example, broadcasts with a large number of comments, likes, and coins consumed). Furthermore, if "All" is selected in selection area 52, all broadcasts will be included in the list display area 54.

[0062] As shown in the diagram, the list display area 54 has multiple individual display areas 541 arranged vertically in two columns, each displaying information about an individual distribution. The individual display areas 541 are configured so that the user can start watching the corresponding distribution (playback of the corresponding content begins) according to their selection. The list display area 54 is configured so that the displayed individual display areas 541 can be switched by flicking or sliding up or down.

[0063] Figure 8 illustrates the display content of the individual display area 541. The individual display area 541 displays an image pre-set by the content distribution user, the distribution user's account name, and the number of viewers (current value), etc. As shown in the figure, the first tag object 5411 and the second tag object 5412 are arranged side by side at its lower end. The first tag object 5411 displays the classification text (managed in the user information table 1511), which is the distribution user's classification set by the distribution user themselves, in hashtag format (a format in which "#" is added to the beginning of the string) (in the example in Figure 8, it displays "#eatingchallenge"). The second tag object 5412 also displays the latest distribution tag assigned by viewers to the corresponding distribution in hashtag format (in the example in Figure 8, it displays "#curry").

[0064] Returning to the top screen 50 in Figure 7, the trial viewing button 55 is an object that allows the user to view content in trial mode. The process when this button 55 is selected will be described later.

[0065] The distribution button 56 is an object that allows a user to distribute content as a distribution user. When the distribution button 56 is selected by the user, the distribution preparation screen 60, as illustrated in Figure 9, is displayed. As shown in the figure, the distribution preparation screen 60 has a distribution title input area 62 for entering the distribution title, a secret distribution setting switch 64 for setting the secret distribution mode, a trial viewing permission switch 65 for allowing viewing in trial mode, a post setting button 66 for setting up posts (posting messages to SNS) that are automatically made during distribution, and a distribution start button 68 with the text "Start!" added to it. Secret distribution is a content distribution mode in which only new viewers (specifically, viewers whose total viewing time over a certain period for the corresponding distribution user is less than a predetermined value) can view the content.

[0066] When the distribution start button 68 is selected, content distribution begins. Specifically, content data consisting of video and audio input (recorded) via the camera and microphone of the distribution terminal 30 is sent to the server 10. In addition, a new record is inserted into the distribution management table 1512 in response to the start of content distribution. The trial viewing permission flag in the distribution management table 1512 is registered with a value corresponding to the setting via the trial viewing permission switch 65.

[0067] Figure 10 illustrates a distribution screen 70 that is output on the distribution terminal 30 in response to the start of content distribution. As shown in the figure, the screen 70 has a video display area 71 that covers the entire screen, a basic information display area 72 located at the top of the screen, an operation area 73 located at the bottom of the screen, a comment display area 74 located to the upper left of the area 73, a tag display area 75 located above the area 74, and a performance display area 76 located to the upper left of the area 75.

[0068] The video display area 71 displays the content being streamed, that is, the image input via the camera of the streaming terminal 30. Typically, the streaming user uses the front camera of the streaming terminal 30, etc., to film themselves, and in this case, the streamed content includes the streaming user's own image.

[0069] The basic information display area 72 displays basic information about this distribution (specifically, distribution user information, the number of viewers of this distribution (current value), and the number of "likes" entered by viewers for this distribution, etc.) and has a viewer user information display area 721. The area 721 displays information about multiple viewers who are watching the content being distributed, and specifically, multiple icon objects 722, each corresponding to an individual viewer, are arranged side by side in a horizontal direction. The object 722 has a circular shape and displays the profile image of the corresponding viewer. The multiple icon objects 722 are arranged in an order that follows a predetermined rule (for example, in descending order of the number of coins consumed in the current month). In addition, the distribution user information displayed in the basic information display area 72 includes a circular icon object 724 that displays the profile image of the distribution user. When an icon object 722 or 724 is selected, a profile screen displaying the profile of the corresponding user is output.

[0070] The control area 73 includes a stop broadcast button 731, a microphone setting button 732, and a camera setting button 733.

[0071] The unsubscribe button 731 is an object used by the distribution user to stop the distribution of content. When the unsubscribe button 731 is selected by the distribution user, the distribution of content (transmission of content data from the distribution terminal 30 to the server 10) is stopped.

[0072] The microphone settings button 732 is an object used by the streaming user to mute the microphone. When the microphone settings button 732 is selected by the streaming user, the microphone's mute state is toggled.

[0073] The camera setting button 733 is an object used by the streaming user to set the active camera. When the camera setting button 733 is selected by the streaming user, the active camera (e.g., front camera or rear camera) is switched.

[0074] The comment display area 74 is an area for displaying user comments entered by each viewing user, as well as system comments automatically entered by the server 10. Specifically, multiple comment objects 741, each corresponding to an individual comment, are arranged vertically within the area 74. The comment display area 74 is configured such that when a new comment is entered, a corresponding comment object 741 is added to the bottom, and the existing comment objects 741 move upwards in sequence. The displayed comment objects 741 in the comment display area 74 can be switched by flicking or sliding up or down.

[0075] The tag display area 75 displays information about the distribution tags assigned to this distribution. Specifically, the area 75 contains multiple tag objects 751, each corresponding to an individual tag, arranged side by side in a horizontal direction.

[0076] The display area 76 is where visual effects are displayed in response to the input of gift items. Details of these visual effects will be described later.

[0077] Figure 11 illustrates a viewing screen 80 output on the viewing terminal 30. For example, when a user individually selects a distribution (content) via the list display area 54 of the top screen 50, a viewing screen 80 for viewing the selected distribution is output on the viewing terminal 30. As shown in the figure, the screen 80, like the distribution screen 70 described above, has a video display area 81, a basic information display area 82, an operation area 83, a comment display area 84, a tag display area 85, and a performance display area 86. The viewing screen 80 illustrated in Figure 11 corresponds to the case where the viewing mode is the normal mode (first mode) and not the trial mode.

[0078] The basic information display area 82, like the basic information display area 72, has a viewer user information display area 821, in which multiple icon objects 822 are arranged horizontally. The distribution user information displayed in the basic information display area 82 also includes a circular icon object 824 that displays the distribution user's profile image. When an icon object 822 or 824 is selected, a profile screen displaying the corresponding user's profile and other information is output.

[0079] The operation area 83 includes an input mode switching button 831, a comment input area 832, a "Like" button 833 with a heart mark, and a gift input button 834 with a gift image.

[0080] The comment input area 832 is an area for viewers to enter comments or distribution tags. While the input mode switching button 831 is not selected, the comment input area 832 is in normal comment input mode. In comment input mode, when a string is entered into the comment input area 832 and the confirmation operation is performed, the string is sent as a user comment, and on the corresponding distribution terminal 30 (the user terminal 30 of the distribution user distributing the content being viewed) and each viewing terminal 30 (each user terminal 30 of multiple viewing users viewing the same content), comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the user comment are added in the comment display areas 74 and 84 of the distribution screen 70 and viewing screen 80. The comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the user comment display the content of the comment (string) along with the account name of the viewing user who entered the comment. Also, when a user comment is entered, the server 10 updates (adds 1) the number of comments for the corresponding distribution in the distribution management table 1512.

[0081] Furthermore, when the input mode switching button 831 is selected, the comment input area 832 switches to tag input mode. In tag input mode, when a string is entered into the comment input area 832 and confirmed, that string is sent as a distribution tag, and that tag is attached to the distribution. In this example, only family members of the corresponding distribution user are allowed to enter tags. Specifically, the input mode switching button 831 on the viewing screen 80 becomes selectable (enabled) if the viewing user is a family member of the distribution user, while it becomes unavailable (disabled) if the viewing user is not a family member of the distribution user. In this example, the number of tags that can be attached to a single distribution over a certain period is limited; specifically, up to three tags can be attached every five minutes.

[0082] When a distribution tag is assigned, the corresponding tag objects 751 and 851 are added to the tag display areas 75 and 85 of the corresponding distribution screen 70 and viewing screen 80. In the tag display areas 75 and 85, the tag objects 751 and 851 are arranged horizontally so that the left side is newer (later assigned time). Therefore, the tag objects 751 and 851 corresponding to newly assigned tags are added to the leftmost part of the tag display areas 75 and 85. Tag objects 751 and 851 corresponding to tags that have been assigned for 5 minutes or more are deleted (for example, they disappear with an animation effect moving to the right).

[0083] In this example, tag objects 751 and 851 display the tag content in hashtag format, with a "#" prefix added to the beginning of the string. For example, if the tag content is "Tokyo sightseeing," tag objects 751 and 851 will display "#Tokyo sightseeing." The horizontal length of tag objects 751 and 851 is automatically adjusted according to the length of the string to be displayed.

[0084] Furthermore, when a tag is assigned, comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the system comment notifying the assignment of the tag are added to the comment display areas 74 and 84 of the corresponding streaming screen 70 and viewing screen 80. The comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the system comment display the content of the assigned tag along with the account name of the viewing user who assigned (entered) the tag. For example, a comment such as "xx tagged the stream with "#TokyoTourism"" will be displayed. In addition, when a tag is assigned, the streaming tag information for the corresponding stream is updated in the streaming management table 1512.

[0085] The "Like" button 833 is an object for viewers to input a "Like" for the broadcasting user (or content). When the button 833 is selected by a viewer, a "Like" is input, and comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to a system comment notifying the input of a "Like" are added to the comment display areas 74 and 84 of the corresponding broadcasting screen 70 and viewing screen 80. The comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the system comment display the account name of the viewer who input the "Like," along with text indicating that a "Like" has been input. In addition, when a "Like" is input, a corresponding visual effect (for example, an animated video effect where heart-shaped objects flow from the bottom to the top of the screen) is displayed in the video display areas 71 and 81 of the broadcasting screen 70 and viewing screen 80. Furthermore, when a "Like" is input, the server 10 updates the "Like Count" of the corresponding broadcast in the broadcasting management table 1512 (incrementing by 1).

[0086] The gift input button 834 is an object for the viewer to input a gift item. When this button 834 is selected, a gift selection screen 90 for selecting the gift item to input is displayed overlaid on the lower area of ​​the viewing screen 80, as illustrated in Figure 12.

[0087] Figure 13 illustrates the gift selection screen 90. As shown in the figure, the screen 90 includes a selection area 91, a list display area 94 located below the area 91 that displays one or more gift items in a list, a price range selection area 96 located below the area 94 for selecting the price range of the gift items to display, and a purchase button 97 located in the lower right corner of the screen, which is an object for purchasing coins. The lower left corner of the gift selection screen 90 also displays the number of coins held by the corresponding user.

[0088] The selection area 91 is an area for selecting (filtering) the content to be displayed in the list display area 94, and displays text such as "All," "History," "Popular," and "Limited Time Offer." If "All" is selected in the selection area 91, all gift items will be included in the list display area 94. If "History" is selected in the selection area 91, the list display area 94 will display a list of gift items that the corresponding user has entered in the past. If "Popular" is selected, the list display area 94 will display a list of gift items that have been entered many times across the entire content distribution service. If "Limited Time Offer" is selected, the list will display gift items that are offered for a limited time and are available for entry at that time (for example, gift items that can be entered in limited-time events within the content distribution service).

[0089] The list display area 94 has multiple individual display areas 941 arranged vertically in four columns, each displaying information about an individual gift item. Each individual display area 941 displays an image corresponding to the gift item and the number of coins (price) required to enter that item. The list display area 94 is configured so that the displayed individual display areas 941 can be switched by flicking or sliding up or down. When a viewer selects any of the individual display areas 941, the corresponding gift item is entered.

[0090] The price range selection area 96 is an area for further selecting (filtering) the displayed content in the list display area 94 based on the price range of the gift items. When any price range is selected in the price range selection area 96, the gift items in the corresponding price range will be included in the list display area 94.

[0091] When a gift item is entered, comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to a system comment notifying the entry of a gift item are added to the comment display areas 74 and 84 of the corresponding streaming screen 70 and viewing screen 80. The comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the system comment display the name of the entered gift item along with the account name of the viewing user who entered the gift item. In addition, when a gift item is entered, a visual display corresponding to the entered gift item is performed in the visual display areas 76 and 86 of the corresponding streaming screen 70 and viewing screen 80. This visual display includes the display of a visual object corresponding to the entered gift item.

[0092] Figure 14 illustrates the performance objects 761 and 861 displayed in the performance display areas 76 and 86. As shown in the figure, these objects 761 and 861 display the profile picture and account name of the viewer user who entered the gift item, as well as the name and image of the gift item. The performance objects 761 and 861 disappear after a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) has elapsed since they were displayed. Up to a predetermined number (for example, 3) of performance objects 761 and 861 are arranged vertically in the performance display areas 76 and 86.

[0093] In this example, some gift items (for example, items whose price is above a threshold) will, in response to their input, display not only the visual effects in the visual effects display areas 76 and 86, but also larger visual effects in the video display areas 71 and 81 (for example, the display of corresponding video effects).

[0094] Furthermore, when a gift item is entered, the server 10 subtracts the number of coins for the entered gift item from the number of coins held by the corresponding user (the viewing user who entered the gift item) in the user information table 1511, and adds that number of coins to the number of coins consumed for the corresponding distribution in the distribution management table 1512.

[0095] In this example, when any viewer starts watching content (more precisely, when the viewing time exceeds a threshold (e.g., 3 seconds)), comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to a system comment notifying the start of viewing (providing a predetermined notification) are added to the comment display areas 74 and 84 of the corresponding distribution screen 70 and viewing screen 80. The comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the system comment display the account name of the viewer who started watching the content, along with text indicating the start of viewing. "Starting viewing" may also be expressed as "entering" a virtual distribution room (frame).

[0096] In this example, the video display area 81 is configured so that the displayed content switches based on vertical flick or slide operations. Specifically, vertical flick or slide operations cause the next content selected by the server 10 to be displayed in the video display area 81 (for example, the previous or next content in a list of multiple contents displayed in the list display area 54 of the top screen 50). Along with the change in displayed content, the displays in the basic information display area 82, comment display area 84, tag display area 85, and performance display area 86 are also updated. In addition, along with the change in content, comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to system comments notifying the start of viewing the changed content are added in the comment display areas 74 and 84 of the corresponding distribution screen 70 and viewing screen 80. In other words, the viewing screen 80 is configured to display the next content while maintaining normal mode when vertical flick or slide operations are performed on the video display area 81.

[0097] In this example, the number of support points in the distribution management table 1512 is updated in real time while the content is being distributed. In this example, the number of support points is calculated based on the number of likes, comments, and coins consumed, and the higher these values ​​are, the more support points are awarded. When the distribution user selects the stop distribution button 731 on the distribution screen 70, the distribution of the content ends.

[0098] Here, we will explain how to view content in trial mode. When the trial viewing button 55 on the top screen 50, as illustrated in Figure 7, is selected, the viewing screen 80A corresponding to the trial mode, as illustrated in Figure 15, is displayed. As shown in the figure, the viewing screen 80A in trial mode has a video display area 81A, a basic information display area 82A, and an operation area 83A. Note that the viewing screen 80A differs from the viewing screen 80 in normal mode in that it does not have a comment display area 84, a tag display area 85, and a performance display area 86. Also, unlike the video display area 81 in normal mode, the video display area 81A does not display performances. In other words, the viewing screen 80A in trial mode does not display user comments, system comments, or information related to distribution tags, and no performances are displayed.

[0099] In this example, on the trial mode viewing screen 80A, the recommended content selected by the server 10 from among multiple pieces of content being streamed is displayed in the video display area 81A. In this example, when selecting recommended content in trial mode, content that is not permitted to be viewed in trial mode by the streaming user (identified by referring to the trial viewing permission flag in the streaming management table 1512), and content from streaming users that the viewing user follows (identified by referring to the followed user information in the user information table 1511) are excluded.

[0100] The basic information display area 82A displays only the distribution user information (icon object 824) as basic information for this distribution. Note that the basic information display area 82A differs from the basic information display area 82 in normal mode in that it does not have a viewing user information display area 821. In other words, the viewing screen 80A in trial mode does not display the number of viewing users (current value), the number of "likes", or information about viewing users.

[0101] The operation area 83A has an entry button 836 with the text "Enter Now" and a speaker setting button 837. Unlike the operation area 83 in normal mode, the operation area 83A does not have an input mode switching button 831, a comment input area 832, a "Like" button 833, or a gift input button 834. In other words, in the trial mode viewing screen 80A, objects for entering comments, tags, "Likes," and gift items are not displayed, and the execution of these actions is restricted.

[0102] The entry button 836 is an object for starting normal mode viewing of the content displayed in the video display area 81A (changing the viewing mode from trial mode to normal mode while maintaining the display of the content). When the button 836 is selected, the viewing screen 80 described above is output instead of the viewing screen 80A. When viewing of the content is started via the viewing screen 80, as described above, comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the system comment notifying the start of content viewing are added to the comment display areas 74 and 84 of the corresponding distribution screen 70 and viewing screen 80.

[0103] The speaker setting button 837 is an object used by the user to mute the speaker. When the speaker setting button 837 is selected by the user, the speaker's mute state is toggled. In this example, the speaker is muted (silenced) in the initial state when starting to watch in trial mode (i.e., immediately after the viewing screen 80A is displayed).

[0104] In this example, the video display area 81A in trial mode is configured so that the displayed content can be switched while maintaining trial mode by flicking or sliding in the same way as the video display area 81 in normal mode. Specifically, by flicking or sliding in the up or down direction, the next content selected by the server 10 (for example, the previous or next content in a list of pre-selected recommended content) is displayed in the video display area 81A. The display of the basic information display area 82A (icon object 824) is also updated in accordance with the change in displayed content. In other examples of this embodiment, the video display area 81A in trial mode is configured so that the displayed content can be switched by a different type of operation input than that of the video display area 81 in normal mode (for example, flicking or sliding in the left or right direction).

[0105] In this example, in trial mode, the viewing time for one piece of content is limited to a predetermined upper limit (e.g., 60 seconds). Specifically, when the viewing time reaches this upper limit, the next piece of content selected by the server 10 is displayed in the video display area 81A, similar to when a flick or slide operation is performed in the up or down direction. Alternatively, when the viewing time reaches the upper limit, the top screen 50 may be displayed instead of the viewing screen 80A (returning to the top screen 50).

[0106] Furthermore, in this example, even if viewing content in trial mode is started, comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the system comment notifying the start of viewing are not added to the comment display areas 74 and 84 of the corresponding distribution screen 70 and viewing screen 80. In other words, trial mode is a viewing mode in which the start of viewing content is not notified to the distribution user and other viewing users. Note that viewing users who view content in trial mode are not counted in the number of viewing users.

[0107] The above explains how to view content in trial mode. Next, we will explain the process for determining the rank of a streaming user. In this example, the user's rank for the day is determined (updated) based on the number of support points they earned as a streaming user the previous day. Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating the processes that server 10 executes when updating each user's rank. These processes are executed every night (for example, at 3 a.m.).

[0108] Server 10 first calculates the number of support points each user earned as a broadcasting user the previous day, as shown in the diagram (step S100). The number of support points each user earned the previous day is calculated by referring to the broadcasting user account, broadcast start date and time, and number of support points in the broadcasting management table 1512. If a user broadcasts multiple times in one day, the number of support points earned from each broadcast is added together.

[0109] After calculating the number of support points for each streaming user from the previous day, the server 10 then updates each user's rank points (step S110). Figure 17 illustrates the rules for updating rank points. As shown in the figure, in this example, the rank points change based on each user's rank within their rank (or rank within a rank tier) from the previous day's support points. The initial value of the rank points is "0".

[0110] The rules for updating rank points are as follows: First, if a user's support points rank within the top 10%, their rank points will increase by "+2" (2 points). In other words, if the support points of the lowest-ranked user among those in the top 10% of the rank are set as the first threshold, then the rank points of any user whose support points the previous day were equal to or higher than this first threshold will be increased by "+2".

[0111] Similarly, if a user's rank in terms of support points falls within the top 11-30% (the remaining 20% ​​after subtracting the top 10% from the top 30%), the change in rank points is "+1". In other words, if the support points of the lowest-ranked user among those whose rank falls within the top 11-30% are set as the second border, then the change in rank points for users whose support points the previous day were equal to or greater than the second border but less than the first border is determined to be "+1". Furthermore, if a user's rank in terms of support points falls within the middle 30% (top 31-60%), the change in rank points is "±0" (no increase or decrease). In other words, if the support points of the lowest-ranked user among those whose rank falls within the middle 30% are set as the third border, then the change in rank points for users whose support points the previous day were equal to or greater than the third border but less than the second border is determined to be "±0". Furthermore, if a user's rank in terms of support points falls within the bottom 40% of the rank, the change in rank points is "-1" (a decrease of 1 point). In other words, for streaming users whose support points from the previous day were below the third border mentioned above, the change in rank points is "-1". Note that if no streaming took place on the previous day, the change in rank points will be "-1" regardless of the user's rank. In step S110, the rank points of each user are updated in the user information table 1511 according to the update rules illustrated in Figure 17. Note that the ranks (percentages) corresponding to each of these borders are merely examples, and the specific values ​​are not limited to these.

[0112] Returning to the flowchart in Figure 16, after updating each user's rank points, the server 10 then updates the rank based on the updated rank points (step S120). In this example, the number of rank points required to rank up is +3, and the number of rank points required to rank down is -3. When the number of rank points reaches these values, the user ranks up or down. Specifically, the rank of the corresponding user is updated in the user information table 1511. The rank points of users whose rank has been updated (users who have been ranked up or down) are cleared to 0. In other examples of this embodiment, in order to suppress rapid rank ups and downs in a short period of time, for example, in the case of rank ups and downs across rank ranges, the absolute value of the number of rank points required may be made larger (for example, +6 or -6) compared to rank ups and downs within the same rank range.

[0113] The above explains the process for determining the rank of a streaming user. Next, we will explain the process for awarding diamonds to streaming users. In this example, diamonds, one of the rewards for streaming users, are awarded based on the streaming time and rank from the previous day. Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating the processes that server 10 executes when awarding diamonds to each user. These processes are executed every night, at an earlier time (for example, midnight) than the process executed when updating each user's rank as illustrated in Figure 16.

[0114] Server 10 first calculates the delivery time for each user the previous day, as shown in the diagram (step S200). Specifically, the delivery time for each user the previous day is calculated by referring to the delivery user account, delivery start date and time, and delivery duration in the delivery management table 1512. If a user has made multiple deliveries in one day, the delivery durations of each of the deliveries are added together.

[0115] Next, server 10 grants each user a number of diamonds based on the calculated delivery time and the base number of diamonds (step S210). Specifically, each user is granted a number of diamonds equal to the calculated delivery time multiplied by the base number of diamonds. The base number of diamonds is pre-set for each rank, with higher ranks receiving more diamonds, and the base number of diamonds corresponding to each user's rank on the previous day is applied. When diamonds are granted to a user, the corresponding number of diamonds held by that user is updated in user information table 1511. In this example, diamonds can be exchanged for coins or real currency.

[0116] In the example described above, comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to the system comment notifying the start of viewing were added to the comment display areas 74 and 84 of the corresponding streaming screen 70 and viewing screen 80. However, the notification of the start of viewing may be made by other means (for example, display in the form of a ticker). Furthermore, the notification of the start of viewing may be made only to the streaming user.

[0117] As described above, the content distribution server 10 of this embodiment does not issue a predetermined notification to the distribution user to inform them of the start of viewing the content when the content viewing mode is the second mode (for example, trial mode) (for example, it does not add comment objects 741 and 841 corresponding to system comments that notify the start of viewing). The viewing screen presented to the viewing user displays other content while maintaining the second mode in response to predetermined operation inputs by the viewing user (for example, up and down flicking or sliding operations in the video display area 81A). Therefore, the viewing user can view multiple contents consecutively without the distribution user knowing that they have started viewing. In other words, the content distribution server 10 helps users easily find content.

[0118] In other embodiments of the present invention, some or all of the functions of the content distribution server 10 in the above-described embodiments may be realized by the cooperation of the server 10 and the user terminal 30, or by the user terminal 30 alone. In other words, the system (or apparatus) of the present invention may consist of the content distribution server 10, or it may consist of the content distribution server 10 and the user terminal 30, or it may consist of the user terminal 30 alone.

[0119] The processes and procedures described herein can be implemented by software, hardware, or any combination thereof, in addition to those explicitly described herein. For example, the processes and procedures described herein can be implemented by implementing the logic corresponding to those processes and procedures on a medium such as an integrated circuit, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or magnetic disk. Furthermore, the processes and procedures described herein can be implemented as computer programs corresponding to those processes and procedures and executed by various types of computers.

[0120] Even if a process or procedure described herein is described as being performed by a single device, software, component, or module, such process or procedure may be performed by multiple devices, multiple software programs, multiple components, and / or multiple modules. Furthermore, the software and hardware elements described herein can also be realized by integrating them into fewer components or by decomposing them into more components. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0121] 10. Content distribution server 11 Computer Processors 111 Management Function Control Unit 112 Service Provision Control Unit 15. Storage (mechanisms) 151 Various Tables 1511 User Information Table 1512 Distribution Management Table 1513 Viewer Management Table by Streaming User 20 Communication Networks 30 User terminals 40 Server-side programs 42 Terminal-side programs 50 Top screen 55. Trial viewing button 60. Streaming preparation screen 70 Streaming screen 80 Viewing screen 80A Viewing screen compatible with trial mode 90 Gift Selection Screen

Claims

1. A system for distributing content, comprising one or more computer processors, The steps include presenting the viewer with a viewing screen that displays the first content provided by the streaming user, If the viewing mode is the first mode, the system performs the step of making a predetermined notification to inform the distribution user that the viewing user has started viewing the first content, The step of giving the predetermined notification is omitted if the viewing mode is the second mode. When the viewing mode is the second mode, the viewing screen displays the second content in place of the first content, while maintaining the second mode, in response to the first operation input by the viewing user. system.

2. The one or more computer processors further change the viewing mode from the second mode to the first mode in response to a second operation input by the viewing user, while maintaining the display of the first content on the viewing screen. The system according to claim 1.

3. When the viewing mode is the first mode, the viewing screen displays the third content in place of the first content, while maintaining the first mode, in response to a third operation input by the viewing user. The system according to claim 1.

4. The third operation input is of the same type as the first operation input. The system according to claim 3.

5. The third operation input is a different type of operation input from the first operation input. The system according to claim 3.

6. The first mode allows the viewing user to perform a predetermined action, The second mode restricts the execution of the predetermined action by the viewing user. The system according to claim 1.

7. The first mode allows the viewing user to view predetermined information, In the second mode, the viewing user is restricted from viewing the predetermined information. The system according to claim 1.

8. The first mode allows the user to view the content for a predetermined period of time or longer. The second mode restricts the viewer from viewing for a predetermined period of time or longer. The system according to claim 1.

9. The first mode mentioned above allows for audio output, The second mode described above limits the output of sound. The system according to claim 1.

10. When the viewing mode is the second mode, the viewing screen initially has the audio output disabled, and the audio output is enabled in response to the fourth operation input by the viewing user. The system according to claim 9.

11. The step of presenting the viewing screen includes restricting viewing of the first content in the second mode if the distribution user has not permitted viewing in the second mode. The system according to claim 1.

12. The step of presenting the viewing screen involves, in response to a fifth operation input by the viewing user, automatically selecting the first content from among multiple contents, and presenting the viewing screen displaying the first content to the viewing user in the second mode. The system according to claim 1.

13. The fifth operation input is an operation input for selecting a predetermined object placed on a predetermined screen having a list display area for displaying the content in a list, The one or more computer processors further perform the step of presenting the viewing screen displaying the fourth content to the viewing user in the first mode, in response to a sixth operation input by the viewing user to select a fourth content displayed in the list display area. The system according to claim 12.

14. A method for delivering content, which is executed by one or more computers, The steps include presenting the viewer with a viewing screen that displays the first content provided by the streaming user, The system includes the step of providing a predetermined notification to the distribution user when the viewing mode is the first mode, informing the viewing user of the start of viewing the first content, The step of giving the predetermined notification is omitted if the viewing mode is the second mode. When the viewing mode is the second mode, the viewing screen displays the second content in place of the first content, while maintaining the second mode, in response to the first operation input by the viewing user. method.

15. A program for distributing content, which can be installed on one or more computers. The steps include presenting the viewer with a viewing screen that displays the first content provided by the streaming user, If the viewing mode is the first mode, the system performs the step of making a predetermined notification to inform the distribution user that the viewing user has started viewing the first content, The step of giving the predetermined notification is omitted if the viewing mode is the second mode. When the viewing mode is the second mode, the viewing screen displays the second content in place of the first content, while maintaining the second mode, in response to the first operation input by the viewing user. program.

16. A device for distributing content, A means of presenting a viewing screen to the viewing user that displays the first content provided by the distribution user, The system includes means for making a predetermined notification to inform the distribution user that the viewing user has started viewing the first content when the viewing mode is the first mode, The means for providing the predetermined notification shall not provide the predetermined notification if the viewing mode is the second mode. When the viewing mode is the second mode, the viewing screen displays the second content in place of the first content, while maintaining the second mode, in response to the first operation input by the viewing user. Device.

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