System, method, and program for distributing live video

Abstract

To provide a system, a method, and a program for promoting viewing of live moving images.SOLUTION: A moving image distribution server 10 provides a user with a live moving image distribution service for distributing and viewing live moving images via a user terminal 30. The moving image distribution server 10 associates a tag, which is entered by the user while viewing the live moving image, with the live moving image and presents information about the live moving image being distributed on the basis of the associated tag. This allows the user to know the current content (topic) of the live moving image being distributed by means of information based on the tags entered by the actual viewer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, method, and program for distributing live video. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, various services for distributing live videos have been provided (for example, see Patent Document 1 below). Typically, such services allow users, including ordinary people, to distribute live videos as distributors, and provide viewers with live videos on various topics. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-022219 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in conventional live video distribution services, the current content (topic) cannot be known until viewing of the live video is started. This is not a big problem for regular viewers, but it can make it difficult for new users to start casually viewing live videos. If it is difficult to acquire new viewers, the motivation for distributing live videos decreases, and the activation of the service is hindered.

[0005] One of the objects of the embodiments of the present invention is to promote the viewing of live videos. Other objects of the embodiments of the present invention will become apparent by referring to the entire specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for streaming live video, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors execute, in response to execution of readable instructions, a process of presenting information regarding the live video being streamed to a user and a process of managing an association of tags with the live video, wherein the process of managing the association includes associating a first tag entered by a first user watching a first live video with the first live video, and the process of presenting includes presenting information regarding the live video being streamed based at least on the associated tag.

[0007] A method according to one embodiment of the present invention is executed by one or more computers and is a method for streaming live video, comprising the steps of presenting information about the live video being streamed to a user and managing an association of tags with the live video, wherein the managing association step includes associating a first tag entered by a first user watching a first live video with the first live video, and the presenting step includes presenting information about the live video being streamed based at least on the associated tag.

[0008] A program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for streaming live video, which, when executed on one or more computers, causes the one or more computers to execute a process of presenting information regarding the live video being streamed to a user and a process of managing an association of tags with the live video, wherein the process of managing the association includes associating a first tag entered by a first user watching a first live video with the first live video, and the process of presenting includes presenting information regarding the live video being streamed based at least on the associated tag. Effect of the Invention

[0009] Various embodiments of the present invention facilitate live video viewing. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram showing the functions of a video distribution server 10. [Diagram 3] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a user information table 411. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining ranks. [Diagram 5] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a distribution management table 412. [Figure 6] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a tag management table 413. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a distribution screen 70. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a viewing screen 80. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an item selection screen 200. [Figure 11] 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 in response to a tag input. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the display content of an individual display area 641. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60 when "Topic" is selected in a selection area 62. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the display content of an individual display area 642. [Figure 15] 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 in response to a user starting to watch a live video (entering the broadcast). [Figure 16] 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when updating a rank. [Figure 17] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an update rule for a rank meter value. [Figure 18]11 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between update contents of rank and required rank meter value. [Figure 19] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60A in another example. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a tag-based video list screen 90. [Figure 22] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of content that is automatically posted to an external SNS. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the video distribution server 10 is communicably connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet. Although only one user terminal 30 is shown in FIG. 1, the server 10 is communicably connected to a plurality of user terminals 30. The video distribution server 10 provides a live video distribution service for distributing and viewing live videos to a user via the user terminal 30. In this embodiment, a user who operates the user terminal 30 can distribute live videos as a distributor, and can also view live videos provided by other users as a viewer. The video distribution server 10 is an example of a device that implements a part or all of the system of the present invention.

[0013] The video distribution server 10 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes a computer processor 11, a main memory 12, an input / output I / F 13, a communication I / F 14, and a storage (memory device) 15, with each of these components being electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

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

[0015] The input / output I / F 13 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with a user, etc. The input / output I / F 13 includes, for example, an information input device such as a keyboard, a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), an audio 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 an audio output device such as a speaker.

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

[0017] The storage 15 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, and the like.

[0018] In this embodiment, the video distribution server 10 may be configured using a plurality of computers each having the above-described hardware configuration. For example, the video distribution server 10 may be configured by one or a plurality of server devices.

[0019] The video distribution server 10 configured in this manner can be configured to have the functions of a web server and an application server, in which case it executes various processes in response to requests from a web browser and other applications (e.g., an application for a live video distribution service) installed in the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data (e.g., HTML data) and control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The user terminal 30 can display a web page or other screen based on the received data.

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

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

[0022] The input / output I / F 33 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with a user, etc. The input / output I / F 33 includes, for example, an information input device such as a keyboard, a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), an audio input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. The input / output I / F 33 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0023] The communication I / F 34 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination of these, and is configured to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

[0024] The storage 35 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk or a flash memory, etc. The storage 35 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, etc. The programs stored in the storage 35 can be downloaded from an application market, etc., and installed.

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

[0026] A user operating a user terminal 30 configured in this manner can use the live video distribution service provided by the video distribution server 10 by communicating with the video distribution server 10 via a web browser or other application installed in storage 35, etc.

[0027] Next, the functions of the video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functions of the video distribution server 10. As shown in the figure, the server 10 has an information storage management unit 41 that stores and manages various information, a basic function control unit 43 that controls the basic functions of the live video distribution service, and a video distribution control unit 45 that controls the distribution of live videos. These functions are realized by the cooperation of hardware such as the computer processor 11 and the main memory 12, and various programs and data stored in the storage 15, etc., and are realized, for example, by the computer processor 11 executing instructions included in a program loaded into the main memory 12. In addition, some or all of the functions of the server 10 shown in FIG. 2 can be realized by the cooperation of the server 10 and the user terminal 30, or by the user terminal 30.

[0028] The information storage management unit 41 of the video distribution server 10 stores and manages various information in the storage 15 etc. For example, as shown in Fig. 2, the information storage management unit 41 is configured to have a user information table 411 that manages information about users of the live video distribution service, a distribution management table 412 that manages information about distribution of individual live videos, and a tag management table 413 that manages information about tags associated with the live videos.

[0029] The basic function control unit 43 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to the control of the basic functions of the live video distribution service. For example, the basic function control unit 43 transmits screen data or control data of various screens related to the basic functions to the user terminal 30, executes various processes in response to an operation input by a user via the screen displayed on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data or control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The basic functions controlled by the basic function control unit 43 include, for example, login processing (user authentication), billing control, and user management (for example, updating the user information table 411, etc.).

[0030] The video distribution control unit 45 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to the control of distribution of live videos. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to distribute live videos provided by a distributor to multiple viewers. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to receive live videos transmitted from a user terminal 30 of the distributor (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "distributor terminal 30") and transmit the live videos to each user terminal 30 of multiple viewers (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "viewer terminal 30"). The live videos are composed of, for example, images input via a camera of the distributor terminal 30 and audio input via a microphone. Such live video distribution can be performed by a streaming method using a protocol such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS).

[0031] In this embodiment, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to present information about the live video being distributed to the user. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to transmit screen data or control data of a screen including information about the live video being distributed to the user terminal 30. The information about the live video being distributed is acquired, for example, by referring to the distribution management table 412 or the like.

[0032] In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to execute various processes related to managing the association of tags with live videos. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to associate a tag input by a user (viewer) who is watching a live video with the live video. The tag in this embodiment is typically configured as information including a character string, and contributes to categorizing the live videos. The correspondence between the live video and the tag associated with the live video is managed, for example, in the tag management table 413.

[0033] In the present embodiment, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to present information about the live video being distributed based on at least the associated tag. For example, the information about the live video being distributed may be configured to include information about the tag associated with the live video, or information processed based on the tag. For example, the information about the live video being distributed may be extracted based on the associated tag, or may be configured as a list of live videos sorted based on the tag.

[0034] In this way, the video distribution server 10 in this embodiment associates tags entered by users watching live videos with the live videos and presents information about the live videos being distributed based on the associated tags, so that users can know the current content (topic) of the live videos being distributed based on information based on tags entered by actual viewers. As a result, for example, it becomes easier for new users to start watching live videos, and viewing of live videos is promoted.

[0035] In this embodiment, the state of the tag associated with the live video may be managed. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to manage tags that have been associated with the live video for a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes) or less as tags in a predetermined state, and present information about the live video being distributed based on at least the tags in the predetermined state (for example, excluding tags that have been associated with the live video for a predetermined time or more). The tags in the predetermined state may be referred to as currently valid (valid at that time) tags that have been input for a relatively short time, and the predetermined time may be referred to as the valid time of the tag. In this configuration, when presenting information about the live video being distributed, tags that have been input for a long time are excluded, so that, for example, presentation of information based on tags that are no longer suitable for the current content of the live video is suppressed.

[0036] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to limit the number of tags in the above-mentioned predetermined state associated with one live video. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to disable (reject) the association of a new tag while the number of tags in the predetermined state associated with a specific live video is at the upper limit. This configuration may prevent the number of tags from becoming excessively large, and as a result, may suppress the impairment of the function of tags as a classification of live videos.

[0037] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to limit the number of tags that can be associated with one live video within a predetermined time. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to disable (reject) the association of a new tag while the number of tags associated with a specific live video from the present until a predetermined time ago is at the upper limit. This configuration may prevent the number of tags from becoming excessively large, and as a result, may suppress the impairment of the function of tags as a classification of live videos.

[0038] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to limit the number of tags that can be associated with one live video by one user within a predetermined time. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to make it impossible (reject) to associate a new tag while the number of tags associated with a specific live video by a specific user from now until a predetermined time ago is the upper limit value. For example, if the number of tags that can be associated within a predetermined time is limited to "1", it can also be said that continuous input of tags by one user is limited (a predetermined time interval is required). Such a configuration prevents tags associated with live videos from being biased toward tags input by a specific user.

[0039] In addition, in this embodiment, users who can input tags may be restricted. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to restrict users who can input tags based at least on a predetermined attribute of the user. For example, users who can input tags are restricted to users whose level is equal to or higher than a predetermined value. Also, for example, users who can input tags may be restricted to users who have a predetermined relationship with a user (distributor) who distributes live videos (for example, members of a group that supports the distributor). The predetermined attribute is managed, for example, in the user information table 411. Such a configuration suppresses deterioration of the quality of tags by restricting users who can input tags.

[0040] The video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to accept comments input via a viewing screen for viewing live videos and to accept tags input via the viewing screen. The input comments are typically displayed on the viewing screen of each viewer. In this case, the viewing screen may be configured to have a predetermined area in which a character string can be input, where a character string input in the first state is recognized as a comment, and a character string input in the second state is recognized as a tag. The first and second states may be switched in response to an operation input by a user, or may be switched without an operation input by a user. This configuration makes it possible to input tags by an operation similar to that for inputting a comment, thereby achieving good operability for inputting tags.

[0041] In this embodiment, the information on the live videos being distributed that is presented to the user includes information in various formats. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to present a list of tags associated with each of the multiple live videos being distributed. In this case, the tag list may be configured so that tags associated with a larger number of live videos are prioritized (e.g., placed at the top of the list). This configuration makes it possible to easily inform the user of the contents (topics) of the live videos in the entire live video distribution service.

[0042] Furthermore, the information on the live videos being distributed presented to the user includes a list of the live videos. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to present a list of the live videos being distributed based at least on tags associated with each of the live videos being distributed. For example, the list may be configured as a list in which tags associated with each of the live videos being distributed are arranged in chronological order together with the corresponding live videos (associated live videos). The list may also be called a timeline of tags, and for example, each time a new tag is associated with any live video, the new tag is added to the list together with the corresponding live video. Such a configuration makes it possible to inform the user of the tags and the corresponding live videos in chronological order.

[0043] Also, for example, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to present a list of live videos composed of multiple live videos associated with a specific tag (for example, a tag designated by a user or a tag automatically identified, etc.). Such a configuration, for example, improves the searchability of live videos associated with a specific tag (for example, a tag in which a user is interested, etc.).

[0044] In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to perform a predetermined notification regarding a tag corresponding to a specific live video in the list of live videos on a viewing screen for viewing the specific live video in response to a start of viewing by any user of the specific live video via the list of live videos based on the above-mentioned tag. For example, the predetermined notification includes a notification regarding the start of viewing by the user via the corresponding tag. Also, for example, the predetermined notification includes a notification regarding a user who has associated the corresponding tag with the specific live video. Such a configuration enables a notification in response to the start of viewing of the live video via the tag, and as a result, may encourage viewers to input tags.

[0045] In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to increase the value of a predetermined parameter of a user who has associated a tag corresponding to a specific live video in the list of live videos with the specific live video in response to the start of viewing by any user of the specific live video via the list of live videos based on the above-mentioned tag. The predetermined parameter may be configured as, for example, the number of other users who have started viewing the live video via the tag associated by the user. For example, the basic function control unit 43 may be configured to set a ranking based on the value of such a predetermined parameter. Such a configuration may improve the game nature of tag association, and as a result, may encourage viewers to input tags.

[0046] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to automatically post content for posting that introduces the live video to a predetermined SNS in association with the tag (for example, before / after the association). The content for posting includes the tag associated with the live video. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to automatically post content for posting that includes the tag as a hashtag and has a link to the live video to be introduced to an SNS such as Twitter (registered trademark) or Instagram (registered trademark). The automatic posting is performed via a confirmation operation by the user or without the confirmation operation. Such a configuration supports the spread of the live video via SNS.

[0047] Furthermore, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to associate tags input by a user watching a live video with the live video as well as with the user (distributor) who distributes the live video. The tags associated with the distributor may be managed, for example, in the user information table 411 and displayed on a predetermined screen (for example, a screen displaying the distributor's profile). This configuration makes it possible to utilize the tags input by the viewer as part of the distributor's attributes (profile).

[0048] Next, a specific example of the video distribution server 10 of this embodiment having such functions will be described. Fig. 3 illustrates information managed in the user information table 411 in this example. The user information table 411 manages information about users of the live video distribution service, and as shown in the figure, associates the information with a "user account" that identifies an individual user, and manages information such as "basic information" including account name, age, gender, etc., "distribution history information" which is information about the distribution history of live videos, "viewing history information" which is information about the viewing history of live videos distributed by other users, "following user information" which is information about other users followed by the user, "follower information" which is information about other users (followers) following the user, "family information" which is information about families to which the user belongs as a family member, a "rank" indicating the user's rank as a distributor, a "rank meter value" which is a parameter value for determining whether the user has been ranked up or down, "number of coins held" which indicates the number of virtual coins held in the live video distribution service, "number of diamonds held" which indicates the number of virtual diamonds held, "tag point information" which is information about tag points (predetermined parameters) that increase in response to tags input by viewers, "tag information" which is information about tags input by viewers while the user is distributing live videos as a distributor, and "classification text" which is a classification as a distributor set by the user himself.

[0049] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the "rank" of a distributor in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, there are six rank bands, "S", "A", "B", "C", "D" and "E", and each of the five rank bands, "S", "A", "B", "C", and "D", is composed of three ranks (for example, ranks with "+" added to the alphabet indicating the rank band, ranks with only the alphabet, and ranks with "-" added to the alphabet, such as "S+", "S", and "S-"). In addition, the rank band "E" is composed of one rank "E". In other words, in this example, there are 16 ranks (3×5+1=16).

[0050] In addition, the rank band is the highest on the "S" side and the lowest on the "E" side. In addition, within the same rank band, the rank is the highest on the "+" side and the lowest on the "-" side. In this example, the user's rank is set to "D-" as the initial value.

[0051] 5 illustrates information managed in the distribution management table 412 in this example. The distribution management table 412 manages information related to distribution of individual live videos, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as a "distributor user account" that identifies the distributor of this distribution, a "distribution date and time", a "distribution duration" that indicates the duration of the distribution, a "number of viewers (current value and maximum value)", a "number of comments" that is the number of comments entered by the viewers, a "number of likes" that is the number of "likes" entered by the viewers, "item points" that increase according to the input of items by the viewers, and "distribution points" that are points granted for this distribution, in association with a "distribution ID" that identifies an individual distribution (live video).

[0052] 6 illustrates information managed in tag management table 413 in this example. Tag management table 413 manages information related to tags associated with live videos, and as illustrated, manages information such as a "user account of the tag inputter" which is the user account of the viewer who input the tag (tag inputter), "tag content" which is the content (character string) of the tag, and "date and time of tagging (year, month, day, hour, minute, second)" which is the date and time when the tag was added, in association with a combination of a "broadcast ID" which identifies an individual broadcast and a "tag ID" which identifies an individual tag in the broadcast (live video).

[0053] 7 illustrates an example of a top screen 60 of the live video streaming service displayed on the user terminal 30. The screen 60 is a starting point for users who use the live video streaming service, and as shown in the figure, has a selection area 62 displaying "Follow," "Popular," "Trending," and "All," a list display area 64 located below the area 62, and a circular streaming start button 66 located in the upper right corner of the screen.

[0054] The selection area 62 is an area for selecting the display contents in the list display area 64. Specifically, when "Follow" is selected in the selection area 62, live videos being distributed by other users who the user is following are displayed in a list in the list display area 64. Similarly, when "Popular" is selected in the selection area 62, live videos (for example, live videos with a number of viewers (current value) equal to or greater than a threshold) extracted according to a predetermined extraction condition for extracting popular videos are displayed in a list in the list display area 64. Furthermore, when "Trending" is selected in the selection area 62, tags assigned (associated) to the live videos are displayed in a chronological order together with the corresponding live videos in the list display area 64, as will be described in detail later. Furthermore, when "All" is selected in the selection area 62, all live videos being distributed are displayed in a list in the list display area 64.

[0055] The top screen 60 in FIG. 7 corresponds to the case where "popular" is selected in the selection area 62. In this case, as shown in the figure, a plurality of individual display areas 641, each of which displays information about an individual live video, are arranged in two columns in the list display area 64. The individual display areas 641 are configured so that viewing of the corresponding live video can be started according to a selection made by the user. The list display area 64 is configured so that the individual display areas 641 displayed are switched by a flick operation / slide operation in the up and down direction, etc. The configuration of the list display area 64 when "following" and "all" are selected in the selection area 62 is the same as the above-mentioned configuration when "popular" is selected. The configuration of the list display area 64 when "topic" is selected in the selection area 62 will be described later.

[0056] The distribution start button 66 is an object for the user to start distribution of a live video as a distributor. When the distribution start button 66 is selected by the user, distribution of the live video is started, and specifically, transmission of a video composed of an image input via the camera of the user terminal 30 and an audio input via the microphone of the user terminal 30 to the server 10 is started. In addition, in response to the start of distribution of the live video, a new record is created in the distribution management table 412.

[0057] 8 illustrates a distribution screen 70 displayed on the distributor terminal 30 in response to selection of the distribution start button 66 (i.e., start of distribution of a live video). As shown in the figure, the screen 70 has a video display area 71 corresponding to the entire screen, a basic information display area 72 located in the upper left corner of the screen, a comment display area 73 located in the lower left corner of the screen, a tag display area 74 located above the area 73, and a circular distribution stop button 76 located in the center of the bottom edge of the screen.

[0058] The video display area 71 displays the live video being distributed, that is, the image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30. Since the distributor usually shoots himself / herself via the in-camera of the distributor terminal 30, the live video being distributed includes the distributor himself / herself.

[0059] The basic information display area 72 displays basic information about this broadcast, specifically, broadcaster information (profile image, etc.), the number of viewers of this broadcast (current value), and the number of “likes” entered by viewers in response to this broadcast, etc.

[0060] The comment display area 73 displays user comments input by the viewer or system comments automatically input by the server 10, and specifically, a plurality of comment objects 731, each corresponding to an individual comment, are arranged vertically in the comment display area 73. The comment display area 73 is configured such that when a new comment is input, a corresponding comment object 731 is added to the bottom, and the existing comment objects 731 move in order upward. The comment display area 73 is configured such that the comment objects 731 displayed are switched by a flick operation / slide operation in the vertical direction, etc.

[0061] The tag display area 74 displays information about tags assigned to this distribution (live video), and specifically, the area 74 is configured so that a plurality of tag objects 741, each of which corresponds to an individual tag, are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. The tag display area 74 will be described in detail later.

[0062] The distribution stop button 76 is an object for the distributor to stop distribution of the live video. When the distributor selects the distribution stop button 76, distribution of the live video (transmission of the live video from the distributor terminal 30 to the server 10) is stopped.

[0063] 9 illustrates a viewing screen 80 displayed on the viewer terminal 30. For example, when a viewer selects an arbitrary live video via the list display area 64 of the top screen 60, a viewing screen 80 for viewing the selected live video is displayed on the viewer terminal 30. As shown in the figure, the screen 80 has a video display area 81, a basic information display area 82, a comment display area 83, and a tag display area 84, similar to the above-mentioned distribution screen 70. In addition, the viewing screen 80 has, at the bottom end of the screen, an input mode switching button 85, a comment input area 86, a "Like" button 87 with a heart mark displayed, and an item input button 88 with a gift design displayed.

[0064] The comment input area 86 is an area for a viewer to input a comment. A transmission object 861 is disposed at the right end of the area 86. When the object 861 is selected, the character string input in the comment input area 86 is transmitted as a user comment, and comment objects 731, 831 corresponding to the comment are added to the comment display areas 73, 83 of the distribution screen 70 of the distributor terminal 30 and the viewing screen 80 of each viewer terminal 30, respectively. The comment objects 731, 831 corresponding to the user comment display the comment itself (character string) together with the account name of the viewer who input the comment. In addition, when a comment is input, the number of comments in the distribution management table 412 is updated (1 is added).

[0065] The like button 87 is an object for a viewer to input a "like" to a distributor. When the button 87 is selected by a viewer, a "like" is input and a system comment regarding the input of the "like" is input, and a corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. In the comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding the input of the "like", a text indicating that the "like" has been made is displayed together with the account name of the viewer who input the "like". In addition, when a "like" is input, a predetermined visual effect (for example, an animation effect in which a heart-shaped object is displayed flowing from the bottom to the top of the screen) is added to the video display area 71, 81. In addition, when a "like" is input, the "number of likes" in the distribution management table 412 is updated (1 is added).

[0066] The item input button 88 is an object that allows the viewer to input an item. When the button 88 is selected by the viewer, an item selection screen 200, as shown in Fig. 10, is displayed superimposed on the viewing screen 80. As shown in the figure, the screen 200 displays a list of a plurality of individual display areas 202, each of which displays information related to an item. The individual display areas 202 display an image corresponding to the item and the number of coins required to input the item.

[0067] In this example, a plurality of items that can be input by the viewer are determined in advance, and a number of coins is set in advance as the price (value) of each item. The item selection screen 200 displays a list of the plurality of items that can be input. When the viewer selects any one of the items via the item selection screen 200, the selected item is input.

[0068] When an item is input, a system comment regarding the input of the item is input, and a corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding the input of the item displays the name of the input item together with the account name of the viewer who input the item. When an item is input, a visual effect corresponding to the input item is added to the video display area 71, 81. When an item is input, item points according to the number of coins of the input item (for example, the more coins, the more points.) are granted to this distribution, and are added to the item points of the corresponding distribution in the distribution management table 412. When an item is input, the number of coins of the input item is subtracted from the number of coins owned by the corresponding user (the viewer who input the item) in the user information table 411.

[0069] Here, an operation regarding the assignment of tags to live videos in this example will be described. The input mode switching button 85 of the viewing screen 80 is an object for inputting tags via the comment input area 86. While the input mode switching button 85 is in a non-selected state, the comment input area 86 is in a normal comment input mode, and as described above, the character string input in the comment input area 86 is transmitted as a comment in response to the selection of the transmission object 861. On the other hand, when the input mode switching button 85 is in a selected state, the comment input area 86 is in a tag input mode, and the character string input in the comment input area 86 is transmitted as a tag in response to the selection of the transmission object 861.

[0070] In this example, tag input is limited to family members (users with a predetermined relationship) of the broadcaster of the live video to which the tag is being added (i.e., the live video being viewed). Specifically, the input mode switching button 85 on the viewing screen 80 is selectable (enabled) when the viewer is a family member of the broadcaster, but is not selectable (disabled) when the viewer is not a family member of the broadcaster.

[0071] 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 in response to input (transmission) of a tag by any viewer. When a tag is input, the server 10 first checks that the number of tags currently valid (valid at that time) in the target live video (broadcast) is less than 3 (i.e., 2 or less) as shown in the figure (step S100). In this example, a tag assigned to a live video is managed as currently valid until 5 minutes have passed since it was assigned. In other words, in this example, the "number of currently valid tags" is the number of tags assigned up to 5 minutes ago from the present. The currently valid tags are identified by referring to the assignment date and time in the tag management table 413.

[0072] If the number of currently valid tags is less than 3 (YES in step S100), the server 10 then checks that one minute or more has passed since the same user last tagged the target live video (step S110). The time when the same user last tagged the target live video is identified by referring to the input user account and tagging date and time in the tag management table 413.

[0073] If one minute or more has passed since the previous tag was applied by the same user (YES in step S110), then server 10 checks whether the tag content (character string) is not the same as a tag applied to the target live video within 10 minutes (step S120). The content of a tag applied within 10 minutes is identified by referring to the tag content and the date and time of application in tag management table 413. As described above, in this example, a tag that has been applied for 5 minutes will no longer be in a currently valid state, so "tags applied within 10 minutes" can also be said to be "currently valid tags and tags that have ceased to be in a currently valid state within 5 minutes."

[0074] Then, if the tag content does not overlap with a tag input within 10 minutes (YES in step S120), the server 10 then registers the input tag (attaches it to the live video) (step S130). Specifically, a new record is registered in the tag management table 413. Also, the tag information in the user information table 411 of the corresponding distributor is updated (the current tag is added).

[0075] On the other hand, if the number of currently valid tags is 3 or more (NO in step S100), if one minute or more has not passed since the previous tag was added by the same user (NO in step S110), or if the content of the tag overlaps with a tag added within 10 minutes (NO in step S120), the server 10 notifies the user who input the tag of an error (step S140). In this case, the input tag is not registered (added to the live video), and the tag is discarded. Thus, in this example, the number of currently valid tags that can be added to one live video is limited to three, the number of tags that can be added to one live video by one user within one minute is limited to one, and the number of identical tags that can be added to one live video within 10 minutes is limited to one. In this example, restrictions on the content of the tag (for example, restrictions on the number of characters and restrictions on NG words, etc.) may be set.

[0076] When a tag is assigned, a tag object 741, 841 corresponding to the assigned tag is added to the tag display area 74, 84 of the distribution screen 70 of the distributor terminal 30 and the viewing screen 80 of each viewer terminal 30. In the tag display area 74, 84, the tag objects 741, 841 corresponding to currently valid tags are arranged side by side in the left-right direction so that the tag on the left side is newer (has been assigned later). Therefore, the tag object 741, 841 corresponding to the newly assigned tag is added to the left end of the tag display area 74, 84. Note that if five minutes have passed since the tag was assigned and the tag is no longer currently valid, the corresponding tag object 741, 841 is deleted (for example, it disappears with an animation effect moving to the right).

[0077] In this example, tag objects 741, 841 display the tag content in the form of a hashtag with "#" added to the beginning of the string. For example, if the tag content is "Tokyo sightseeing", then "#Tokyo sightseeing" is displayed in tag objects 741, 841. The horizontal length of tag objects 741, 841 is automatically adjusted according to the length of the string to be displayed.

[0078] Furthermore, when a tag is added, a system comment regarding the tagging is input, and a corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding the tagging displays the content of the added tag along with the account name of the viewer who added (input) the tag, for example, a comment such as "xx tagged the broadcast with "#TokyoSightseeing"."

[0079] In this example, the tag assigned to the live video is used to display information related to the live video being distributed on the top screen 60. For example, the tag assigned to the live video is displayed as part of the information related to the live video in the individual display area 641 of the list display area 64.

[0080] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of the display contents of the individual display area 641. The individual display area 641 displays a still image, the account name of the distributor, and the number of viewers (current value) that are preset by the distributor of the live video, and, as illustrated, a first tag object 6411 and a second tag object 6412 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction at the bottom end of the area. The first tag object 6411 displays classification text (managed in the user information table 411) that is the classification of the distributor set by the distributor himself / herself in the form of a hashtag (a format in which "#" is added to the beginning of the character string) (in the example of FIG. 12, "#big-eating distribution" is displayed). In addition, the second tag object 6412 displays a currently valid tag that is assigned to the corresponding live video, also in the form of a hashtag (in the example of FIG. 12, "#curry" is displayed). In addition, when multiple currently valid tags are assigned to the corresponding live video, one tag selected according to a predetermined rule (for example, a randomly selected tag or the latest tag, etc.) is displayed. In this way, by displaying both the classification text set by the distributor himself and the tags entered by the viewer in the individual display area 641, information regarding the content of the live video can be more appropriately provided to the user.

[0081] Furthermore, for example, tags assigned to live videos are used to extract and select live videos to be displayed in a list on the top screen 60. Fig. 13 illustrates the top screen 60 when "Topics" is selected in the selection area 62. In this case, the top screen 60 displays, in the list display area 64, tags assigned to any live video together with the live video in chronological order. In other words, in the list display area 64 when "Topics" is selected in the selection area 62, tags and corresponding live videos are displayed in a list in descending order of the date and time of assignment.

[0082] A plurality of individual display areas 642, each of which displays an individual tag and information related to the corresponding live video, are arranged vertically in the list display area 64. When a new tag is added to any of the live videos, the corresponding individual display area 642 is added to the top of the list display area 64.

[0083] FIG. 14 illustrates an example of the display contents of the individual display area 642. As illustrated, the area 642 has a tag object 6421 arranged in the upper left corner, and displays a profile image and account name of the broadcaster of the corresponding live video (to which the tag is attached), etc. The individual display area 642 is set with a link to the corresponding live video, and the user can start watching the corresponding live video by selecting one of the multiple individual display areas 642 displayed in the list display area 64. Note that in this example, for example, when multiple different tags are attached to one live video within a short period of time, multiple individual display areas 642 corresponding to the multiple tags, respectively, are arranged, and links to the same live video are set in these areas 642.

[0084] The above describes the operation of tagging a live video. Next, the operation when a user starts watching a live video will be described. FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 in response to a user starting to watch a live video (entering the broadcast). When a user starts watching a live video, the server 10 first inputs a system comment regarding the user's normal entry (step S210) if the user has not started watching the live video via a tag (NO in step S200), as shown in the figure. In this example, "starting to watch a live video via a tag" specifically means starting to watch a live video via the list display area 64 in which "topic" is selected in the selection area 62 of the top screen 60 (by selecting one of the multiple individual display areas 642 displayed in the list in the area 64).

[0085] When a system comment regarding normal entry is input, a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment is added to the comment display area 73, 83. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding normal entry displays the account name, etc. of the user who started viewing (entered the room).

[0086] On the other hand, if the user who has started viewing has started viewing the live video via a tag (YES in step S200), the server 10 then inputs a system comment regarding entry via a tag (entry via tag) (step S220). When the system comment is input, the corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83 as described above.

[0087] In this example, the comment objects 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding entry via a tag display the tag that was passed through in addition to the account name of the user who entered. The tag that was passed through is the tag that corresponds to the individual display area 642 selected in the list display area 64 of the top screen 60. For example, the comment objects 731, 831 display a comment saying "Mr. A came to play from '#xxx'" ('Mr. A' is the user who entered, and 'xxx' is the tag that was passed through).

[0088] When a system comment regarding entry via a tag is thus input, if the user who started viewing is a first-time user (a user viewing a live video of this distributor for the first time) (YES in step S230), the server 10 gives tag points to the person who input the tag via (step S240). Specifically, the tag point information of the inputter in the user information table 411 is updated. The person who input the tag is identified by referring to the inputter's user account in the tag management table 413.

[0089] In this example, the tag point information includes tag points for each family (i.e., each distributor) of which the corresponding user (enter) is a family member, and in step S240, a predetermined number of points are added to the tag points of the corresponding family. Note that in this example, a ranking of tag points (e.g., ranking within the same family) is periodically set and made public.

[0090] In this example, when the entry is via a tag and the user who entered is a first-time user, a corresponding system comment may be further input. The corresponding system comment includes, for example, the person who input the tag via and the number of first-time users who entered via the tag, and for example, the corresponding comment object 731, 831 displays a comment saying "yy first-time users came to visit with X's "#xxx". In addition, the corresponding system comment includes, for example, the number of first-time users who entered via all tags (this tag and other tags) input by the person who input the tag via during a predetermined period (for example, this month), and for example, the corresponding comment object 731, 831 displays a comment saying "zzz first-time users came to visit with X's tag this month".

[0091] The above describes the operation when a user starts watching a live video. Next, the operation when a distributor ends a broadcast will be described. As described above, when a distributor selects the broadcast stop button 76 on the broadcast screen 70, the broadcast of the live video ends. When the broadcast of the live video ends, the server 10 sets a broadcast point for the broadcast. In this example, the broadcast point is calculated based on the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the item points. The broadcast point is configured to increase as the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the item points increase. The calculated broadcast point is registered in the broadcast management table 412.

[0092] In this example, the rank of the day is determined (updated) based on the distribution points acquired by the user on the previous day. Fig. 16 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when updating the rank of each user. These processes are executed every night (for example, at 3:00 a.m. every day).

[0093] First, the server 10 updates the rank meter value of each user as shown in the figure (step S300). FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the update rule of the rank meter value. As shown in the figure, in this example, the rank meter value fluctuates based on the ranking of the delivery points acquired by the user on the previous day within the rank band to which the user belongs. The delivery points acquired by a specific user on the previous day are calculated by referring to the distributor user account, delivery date and time, and delivery points in the delivery management table 412. Note that if a user makes multiple deliveries in one day, the delivery points acquired in each of the multiple deliveries are added together.

[0094] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, the update rule for the rank meter value is as follows: first, if the ranking of a distribution point within a rank band is included in the top 10%, the change in the rank meter value is "+2" (an increase of 2 points). Similarly, if the ranking is included in the top 11-30% (the remaining 20% ​​after removing the top 10% from the top 30%), the change is "+1", if the ranking is included in the middle 30% (top 31-60%), the change is "±0" (no increase or decrease), and if the ranking is included in the bottom 40%, the change is "-1" (a decrease of 1 point). Note that if no distribution was performed on the previous day, the change in the rank meter value will be "-1" regardless of the ranking within the rank band.

[0095] In step S300, the rank meter value of each user is updated according to the update rule exemplified in Fig. 17. Note that, for a user whose rank meter value is negative and whose current change in rank meter value is an increase (specifically, +2 or +1), the rank meter value may be cleared to 0 and then increased. That is, for example, if a user whose current rank meter value is "-1" and whose current change is "+2", the rank meter value is cleared to 0 and then incremented by 2, so that the rank meter value after the change becomes "+2" (instead of "+1"). In this way, even for a user whose rank meter value is negative (for example, a user who does not broadcast frequently), the rank meter value can be increased all at once, which promotes the broadcasting of live videos.

[0096] After updating the rank meter value of each user, the server 10 then updates the rank based on the updated rank meter value (step S310). FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the update contents of the rank and the required rank meter value. As shown in the figure, first, when ranking up across rank bands (in other words, when ranking up from the highest rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is +4. That is, when a user belonging to the highest rank (e.g., A+) in each rank band has a rank meter value of +4, the user is ranked up to the lowest rank (e.g., S-) in the immediately upper rank band. Also, when ranking up within the same rank band (in other words, when ranking up from the middle or lowest rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is +2. That is, when a user belonging to the middle or lowest rank (e.g., B or B-) in each rank band has a rank meter value of +2, the user is ranked up to the immediately upper rank (e.g., B+ or B) in the same rank band.

[0097] Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 18, when a user ranks down within the same rank band (in other words, when a user ranks down from the highest or middle rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is -2. That is, when a user who belongs to the highest or middle rank in each rank band (e.g., B+ or B) has a rank meter value of -2, the user ranks down to the next lower rank (e.g., B or B-) in the same rank band. When a user ranks down across rank bands, the rank meter value required is -6. That is, when a user who belongs to the lowest rank (e.g., A-) in each rank band has a rank meter value of -6, the user ranks down to the highest rank (e.g., B+) in the next lower rank band. Thus, in this example, the absolute value of the rank meter value required for rank up / down across rank bands is larger than that for rank up / down within the same rank band. As a result, a sudden rank up / down in a short period of time is suppressed.

[0098] In step S310, the rank is updated based on the rank meter value according to the correspondence relationship illustrated in Fig. 18. The rank meter value of the user whose rank has been updated (the user whose rank has been upgraded / downgraded) is cleared to 0.

[0099] In this example, diamonds are awarded as a reward to the user as a distributor based on the distribution time of the previous day and the rank (rank on the previous day). Fig. 19 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds to each distributor. These processes are executed late at night every day, for example, at a time (for example, at midnight every day) before the process executed when updating the rank of each user illustrated in Fig. 16.

[0100] As shown in the figure, the server 10 first calculates the delivery time of each user on the previous day (step S400). Specifically, the delivery time of a specific user on the previous day is calculated by referring to the distributor user account and delivery date and time in the delivery management table 412. If a user makes multiple deliveries in one day, the delivery times of each of the multiple deliveries are added together.

[0101] Next, the server 10 grants each user a number of diamonds based on the calculated distribution time and the reference number of diamonds (step S410). Specifically, each user is granted a number of diamonds calculated by multiplying the calculated distribution time by the reference number of diamonds. The reference number of diamonds is preset for each rank so that the higher the rank, the greater the number, and the reference number of diamonds corresponding to each user's rank on the previous day is applied. When diamonds are granted to a user, the number of diamonds held in the user information table 411 is updated. In this example, diamonds can be exchanged for coins or real currency.

[0102] The top screen 60 in the above example is an example of a screen that displays information about live videos being distributed, and other screens may be applied in other examples of this embodiment. Fig. 20 illustrates a top screen 60A in another example of this embodiment, in which "topic" is selected in the selection area 62. The top screen 60A in this case has a tag search area 63 for searching for tags, a first list display area 64A that displays a list of live videos to which the most trending tag (the tag to which the largest number of live videos are currently assigned as an active tag) is assigned, and a second list display area 65 that displays a list of currently active tags assigned to each of multiple live videos being distributed.

[0103] In the first list display area 64A, a plurality of individual display areas 641, each of which displays information about an individual live video, are arranged in the left-right direction. When any of the plurality of individual display areas 641 is selected, viewing of the corresponding live video begins. The start of viewing in response to the selection of the individual display area 641 is determined as entry via a tag (start of viewing).

[0104] A plurality of tag objects 651, each corresponding to an individual tag, are arranged in the second list display area 65. In this area 65, the tag object 651 corresponding to the tag with a large number of live videos attached is arranged at the top, and among the tag objects 651 arranged at the same height, the tag object 651 corresponding to the tag with a large number of live videos attached is arranged on the left side.

[0105] When any one of the tag objects 651 is selected, a tag-specific video list screen 90 illustrated in FIG. 21 is displayed superimposed on the top screen 60A. The screen 90 is a screen for displaying a list of live videos to which a specific tag is currently assigned as a valid tag, and has a tag display object 91 that displays the content of the tag designated as a specific tag (the content of the tag corresponding to the selected tag object 651) and a list display area 92 that displays a list of live videos to which the designated tag is currently assigned as a valid tag, as illustrated. The area 92 has a plurality of individual display areas 921 arranged vertically, each of which displays information about an individual live video. The individual display area 921 displays a profile image and account name of a distributor. When any one of the individual display areas 921 is selected, viewing of the corresponding live video begins. The start of viewing in response to the selection of the individual display area 921 is determined as entry via a tag (start of viewing). Note that, even when a currently valid tag is searched for and selected via the tag search area 63, the tag-specific video list screen 90 corresponding to the selected tag is also displayed.

[0106] In the above example, when a tag is added to a live video, the video may be automatically posted to an external SNS. FIG. 22 illustrates the contents of the content automatically posted to an external SNS. The automatic posting is performed using the SNS account of the tag inputter (for example, it can be managed in the user information table 411), and the content to be posted is generated according to the settings of OGP (Open Graph protocol). For example, the content to be posted includes a message including the account name of the broadcaster, the service name of the live video distribution service, the currently active tag, and the classification text as hashtags. For example, the content includes the text "#X-san is broadcasting on #ServiceY! #Curry #BigEaterBroadcast" ("X-san" is the account name of the broadcaster, "ServiceY" is the service name, "Curry" is the currently active tag, and "BigEaterBroadcast" is the classification text).

[0107] In the above example, tags are added by viewers of the live video. However, in addition to this, tags may also be added by the broadcaster who is broadcasting the live video.

[0108] In the above example, the tag assigned to the live video may be deleted by the broadcaster. For example, the corresponding tag may be deleted through an operation of selecting (e.g., long press, etc.) the tag object 741 arranged in the tag display area 74 of the broadcast screen 70. When the tag is deleted, the corresponding record is deleted in the tag management table 413, and the tag is also deleted from the tag information in the user information table 411.

[0109] In the above example, it may be possible to input a tag by consuming coins. In this case, the more coins consumed, the longer the validity period of the tag may be.

[0110] In the above example, the archive of the live video may be made available for viewing later. In this case, since all tags added to the archived live video during distribution are managed in the tag management table 413, the tag may be searched for. For example, on a screen displaying the profile of the distributor, a list of tags (managed in the tag information of the user information table 411) previously input by the viewer may be displayed, and when a tag is selected via the list, the archived live video to which the selected tag is added may be searched and displayed.

[0111] The video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment described above associates (assigns) tags input by users viewing live videos to the live videos, and presents information about the live videos being distributed based on the associated tags, so that users can learn the current content (topic) of the live videos being distributed based on information based on tags input by actual viewers. As a result, for example, it becomes easier for new users to start viewing live videos, and viewing of live videos is promoted.

[0112] The processes and procedures described herein may be realized by software, hardware, or any combination thereof, other than those explicitly described. For example, the processes and procedures described herein may be realized by implementing logic corresponding to the processes and procedures in a medium such as an integrated circuit, a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, or a magnetic disk. In addition, the processes and procedures described herein may be implemented as a computer program corresponding to the processes and procedures, and executed by various computers.

[0113] Although processes and procedures described herein are described as being performed by a single device, software, component, or module, such processes or procedures may be performed by multiple devices, software, components, and / or modules. Also, the software and hardware elements described herein may be realized by combining them into fewer components or breaking them down into more components.

[0114] In this specification, even if a component of the invention is described as either singular or plural, or described without limitation to either singular or plural, the component may be either singular or plural unless the context requires otherwise. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 10 Video distribution server 11. Computer Processors 15 Storage 20. Communication Networks 30 User terminal 41 Information Storage Management Department 43 Basic function control section 45 Video distribution control section 60, 60A Top Screen 70 Streaming Screen 80 Viewing Screen 85 Input mode switching button 86 Comment input area (specified area) 90 Video list by tag 200 Item selection screen

Claims

1. A means for distributing video to a plurality of user terminals; a means for accepting a character string input via a viewing screen of the video output on each of the plurality of user terminals as a comment on the video or classification information for the video, the viewing screen displays an object for switching between a first state in which the character string is accepted as the comment and a second state in which the character string is accepted as the classification information. Device.

2. The viewing screen has an input area into which the character string can be input, the first state is a state in which the character string inputted into the input area is accepted as the comment, the second state is a state in which the character string input in the input area is accepted as the classification information; 2. The apparatus of claim 1.

3. The viewing screen is configured such that input of the character string as the classification information is limited to users who have a predetermined relationship with a distributor of the video.

2. The apparatus of claim 1.

4. The method further comprises means for notifying a user of an error when the same user inputs the classification information multiple times within a predetermined period of time.

2. The apparatus of claim 1.

5. The method further comprises: a means for notifying a user of an error when the classification information input by the user overlaps with the classification information input by another user within a predetermined period of time.

2. The apparatus of claim 1.

6. The viewing screen has a comment display area for displaying the comments, The method further includes a means for displaying, in response to reception of the classification information, the comment including the classification information and information of the user who inputted the classification information in the comment display area of ​​the viewing screen outputted on each of the plurality of user terminals.

2. The apparatus of claim 1.

7. The viewing screen has a classification information display area that displays the classification information, The method further includes a means for displaying the classification information in the classification information display area of ​​the viewing screen outputted on each of the plurality of user terminals in response to reception of the classification information.

7. The apparatus of claim 6.

8. A computer comprising: A means for distributing video to a plurality of user terminals; and A program for causing a user to function as a means for accepting a character string input via a viewing screen of the video output on each of the plurality of user terminals as a comment on the video or classification information for the video, the program comprising: the viewing screen displays an object for switching between a first state in which the character string is accepted as the comment and a second state in which the character string is accepted as the classification information. program.

9. A computer-implemented method comprising: Delivering video to a plurality of user terminals; accepting a character string input via a viewing screen of the video output on each of the plurality of user terminals as a comment on the video or classification information for the video; the viewing screen displays an object for switching between a first state in which the character string is accepted as the comment and a second state in which the character string is accepted as the classification information. method.

10. A means for displaying a video viewing screen; a means for switching between a first state and a second state in response to an operation on an object displayed on the viewing screen; means for transmitting a character string input via the viewing screen as a comment for the video when the first state is reached, and for transmitting the character string as classification information for the video when the second state is reached, User terminal.

Images