System, method, and program for providing video distribution service

Abstract

To promote the strengthening of the relationship between a distributor and a viewer.SOLUTION: A video distribution server 10 is communicably connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20 and provides a video distribution service for distributing and viewing a video to a user via the user terminal 30. The server 10 determines the grade of a viewer for a distributor on the basis of the satisfaction status of the grade condition and gives a reward to the distributor on the basis of the grade of each of a plurality of viewers. Therefore, for example, the upgrade of the viewer is a direct benefit to the distributor, and the distributor is motivated to strengthen the relationship with the viewer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, a method, and a program for providing a video distribution service. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, various video distribution services for distributing videos have been provided (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). In these services, various mechanisms have been introduced for strengthening the relationship (which can also be called a "connection" or "bond") between a distributor and a viewer, and for example, a parameter such as a rank that increases the more videos of the corresponding distributor are viewed is set for each combination of distributor and viewer, and the strength of the relationship between the distributor and the viewer is visualized using the value of the parameter. [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, although the above-mentioned system visualizes the strength of the relationship between the distributor and the viewer, it is not a system in which strengthening the relationship with the viewer is a direct benefit to the distributor. In other words, the conventional system does not provide sufficient motivation for distributors to strengthen their relationships with viewers.

[0005] One of the objects of the embodiments of the present invention is to promote the strengthening of the relationship between the broadcaster and the viewer. 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 providing a video distribution service, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors, in response to execution of readable instructions, execute the steps of: determining a grade of a viewer for a video distributor based at least on the viewer's satisfaction of grade conditions corresponding to each of a plurality of grades; and granting a reward to the distributor based at least on the grades of each of the plurality of viewers for the distributor.

[0007] A method according to one embodiment of the present invention is executed by one or more computers and is a method for providing a video distribution service, comprising the steps of: determining a grade of a viewer for a video distributor based at least on the viewer's satisfaction of grade conditions corresponding to each of a plurality of grades; and granting a reward to the distributor based at least on each of the grades of the plurality of viewers for the distributor.

[0008] A program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for providing a video distribution service, which causes one or more computers to execute the steps of determining a grade of a viewer for a video distributor based at least on the degree to which the viewer satisfies grade conditions corresponding to each of a plurality of grades, and granting a reward to the distributor based at least on the grades of each of the plurality of viewers for the distributor. Effect of the Invention

[0009] Various embodiments of the present invention may facilitate enhanced relationships between broadcasters and viewers. [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 grade management table 413. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the display content of an individual display area 641. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60 when "Topic" is selected in a selection area 62. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the display content of an individual display area 642. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a distribution preparation screen 100. [Figure 12] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a distributor screen 70. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a viewer screen 80. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an item selection screen 200. [Figure 15] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining each condition of a plurality of fan levels. [Figure 16] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a viewer information display screen 300. [Figure 17] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a condition satisfaction level details screen 400. [Figure 18] 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when updating a rank. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the correspondence between the number of special fans and a distribution point bonus (multiplier). [Figure 20] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an update rule for a rank meter value. [Figure 21] 11 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between update contents of rank and required rank meter value. [Figure 22]FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same reference numerals may be used to denote the same or similar components.

[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 server 10 provides a video distribution service for distributing and viewing videos to a user via the user terminal 30. In this embodiment, a user who operates the user terminal 30 can distribute videos as a distributor, and can also view videos of 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] First, we will explain the hardware configuration of the video distribution server 10. 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 (storage device) 15, and these components are electrically connected via a bus (not shown) or the like.

[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 an operator, 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 thus configured 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., applications for video distribution services) 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] Next, a description will be given of the hardware configuration of the user terminal 30. The user terminal 30 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in Fig. 1, includes a computer processor 31, a main memory 32, an input / output I / F 33, a communication I / F 34, and a storage (storage device) 35, and these components are electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

[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 an operator, etc. The input / output I / F 33 includes, for example, an information input device such as a keyboard or 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 video distribution service provided by the 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 thus configured 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 management function control unit 43 that controls the management function of the video distribution service, and a video distribution service control unit 45 that controls the video distribution service. 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 is configured to store and manage various information in the storage 15 etc. For example, as shown in Fig. 2, the information storage management unit 41 has a user information table 411 that manages information on users of a video distribution service, a distribution management table 412 that manages information on individual video distributions, and a grade management table 413 that manages the grades of viewers for each distributor (by distributor).

[0029] The management function control unit 43 is configured to execute various processes related to the control of the management function of the video distribution service. For example, the management function control unit 43 transmits screen data and control data of various screens related to the management function 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 and control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The management functions controlled by the management 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 service control unit 45 is configured to execute various processes related to the control of the video distribution service. For example, the video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to distribute a video provided by a distributor to a plurality of viewers. For example, in the case of real-time distribution (live distribution) of a video, the video distribution service control unit 45 receives a real-time video transmitted from a user terminal 30 of the distributor (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "distributor terminal 30") and transmits the video to each user terminal 30 of a plurality of viewers (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "viewer terminal 30"). In the viewer terminal 30, the video is displayed (played) on a viewer screen for viewing the video. The real-time video is, for example, composed of an image input via a camera of the distributor terminal 30 and an audio input via a microphone. The real-time video is, for example, composed of an image and an audio output via an application (for example, a game application, etc.) running on the distributor terminal 30. Such live distribution of the video may be performed by a streaming method using a protocol such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS). Furthermore, the video distribution service control unit 45 can be configured to record videos provided by distributors in the information storage management unit 41 (storage 15, etc.), and distribute the videos in response to individual requests from viewers.

[0031] In this embodiment, the video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to determine the grade of the viewer with respect to the distributor of the video. The grade is determined based at least on the degree of satisfaction by the viewer of grade conditions corresponding to each of a plurality of predetermined grades. For example, the video distribution service control unit 45 determines the grade of a viewer who is watching a video of a specific distributor with respect to the specific distributor in real time while the viewer is watching the video. Also, for example, the video distribution service control unit 45 collectively determines the grade of each user as a viewer. The grade may be expressed by other names such as rank and level.

[0032] The video distribution service control unit 45 is also configured to provide a reward to a distributor based at least on the grades of each of a plurality of viewers for the distributor. For example, the reward for the distributor is more valuable to the distributor as the grades of the viewers for the distributor increase. The reward includes, for example, various electronic and virtual rewards that may be beneficial to the distributor.

[0033] In this way, the video distribution server 10 in this embodiment determines the grade of the viewer with respect to the distributor based on the satisfaction of the grade conditions, and provides a reward to the distributor based on the grade of each of the multiple viewers, so that, for example, an improvement in the viewer's grade is a direct benefit to the distributor, and the distributor is motivated to strengthen the relationship with the viewer. In other words, the video distribution server 10 can promote the strengthening of the relationship between the distributor and the viewer.

[0034] In this embodiment, the grade conditions may include conditions that are satisfied in response to an action taken by a viewer on a video of a distributor. Actions taken on a video include, but are not limited to, watching a video, inputting a comment, inputting an item, inputting a like, and the like. Such a configuration may encourage the viewer to take an action.

[0035] The grade condition may include a condition that is satisfied depending on the application of a periodic charge by the viewer to the distributor. Periodic charges (subscriptions) to the distributor are applied, for example, but not limited to, to enable a predetermined action (e.g., input of an item, etc.) involving a charge to a video of the distributor for a certain period of time. For example, the video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to control the execution of an action by a viewer to a video of the distributor, and the action is executed based on an individual charge or a periodic charge. For example, if the viewer is not subject to periodic charges, the video distribution service control unit 45 causes the viewer to consume a corresponding amount of paid items in response to the execution of an action, whereas if the viewer is subject to periodic charges, the video distribution service control unit 45 does not cause the viewer to consume paid items in response to the execution of an action. Such a configuration may encourage the application of periodic charges by the viewer.

[0036] The grade condition may be configured to vary based on at least one of the distributor information on the distributor, the viewer information on the viewer, and the combination information on the combination of the distributor and the viewer. For example, the grade condition varies based on the distributor's distribution history, level, residential area, etc., and for example, the more beginner the distributor is, the easier it is to satisfy the condition and the easier it is to increase the grade. For example, the grade condition varies based on the viewer's viewing history, level, residential area, etc., and for example, the more a viewer is in a specific residential area, the easier it is to satisfy the condition and the easier it is to increase the grade. For example, the grade condition varies based on the viewer's viewing history of the corresponding distributor's videos, the relationship between the distributor and the viewer (whether or not the viewer follows the viewer, etc.), and for example, the less the number of times a viewer has viewed the corresponding distributor's videos, the easier it is to satisfy the condition and the easier it is to increase the grade. Such a configuration may realize grade conditions according to individual circumstances.

[0037] In this embodiment, the viewer screen for viewing a video may display the satisfaction status of the grade conditions of the viewer. For example, the viewer screen is configured to display the satisfaction status of at least some of the grade conditions of multiple viewers of the video (e.g., multiple viewers currently viewing the video). For example, the viewer screen is configured to display the current grades of at least some of the viewers, and also to display the satisfaction status of the grade conditions corresponding to the next (one higher) grade. This configuration enables the viewer to know the satisfaction status of the grade conditions.

[0038] In this case, the viewer screen may be configured to display the satisfaction status of the grade conditions of the viewer to whom the viewer screen is presented in more detail than the other viewers other than the viewer. In other words, the viewer screen may be configured to display the satisfaction status of the grade conditions of the other viewers other than the viewer to whom the viewer screen is presented among the multiple viewers of the video in a first level of detail, while displaying the satisfaction status of the grade conditions of the viewer to whom the viewer screen is presented in a second level of detail that is more detailed than the first level of detail. The "level of detail" referred to here is the degree of information given to the viewer about the satisfaction status of the grade conditions, and in one example, the more types or amount of information is displayed to the viewer on the viewer screen, the higher the level of detail. This configuration enables the viewer to know the details of the satisfaction status of the viewer's own grade conditions and to know an overview of the satisfaction status of the grade conditions of other viewers.

[0039] In this embodiment, the grade of each viewer may be managed at regular intervals. For example, the video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to determine the grade of a viewer for a certain period (e.g., every month) based at least on the degree to which the viewer satisfies the grade conditions during the period. In this case, for example, at the timing when the period switches (e.g., at the start of the certain period), the grade (degree of satisfaction of the grade conditions) for the previous period is cleared. This configuration makes it possible to promote the strengthening of the relationship between the distributor and the viewer at regular intervals.

[0040] In this embodiment, the provision of rewards based on the grades of each of the multiple viewers can be realized in various ways. For example, the video distribution service control unit 45 is configured to provide rewards based at least on the number of viewers with a predetermined grade or higher. In this case, for example, the greater the number of viewers with a predetermined grade or higher, the higher the value of the reward provided to the distributor. This configuration can, for example, provide the distributor with motivation to build a certain level of relationship with a large number of viewers.

[0041] The video distribution service control unit 45 can be configured to update the value of a predetermined parameter associated with a viewer, the predetermined parameter being increased in response to an action taken by the viewer on a video of the corresponding distributor. In this case, the video distribution service control unit 45 can be configured to provide a reward to the distributor based at least on the value of the predetermined parameter corresponding to the distributor for each of the multiple viewers in addition to the grade of each of the multiple viewers. For example, the greater the total value of the predetermined parameter values ​​of the multiple viewers, the more valuable the reward for the distributor is to the distributor. Such a configuration can encourage viewers to take actions.

[0042] Next, a specific example of one aspect of the video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment having such functions will be described. The video distribution service in this example is configured as a live distribution service that allows live distribution of videos composed of images input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30 and audio input via the microphone, and allows the live distribution service to be viewed.

[0043] 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 streaming service, and as illustrated, in association with a "user account" that identifies an individual user, manages information such as "basic information" including account name, age, sex, residential area, and profile information, "distribution history information" that is information about a distribution history as a distributor, "viewing history information" that is information about a viewing history as a viewer, "following user information" that is information about other users followed by this user, "follower information" that is information about other users (followers) following this user, "family information" that is information about a family to which this user belongs as a family member, "rank" that indicates the rank of the user as a distributor, "rank meter value" that is a parameter value for determining rank up / down, "coin holding number" that indicates the number of virtual coins that can be used in the live streaming service, "diamond holding number" that indicates the number of virtual diamonds, and "classification text" that is a classification as a distributor set by the user himself.

[0044] In this example, a family is a community of fans who support a broadcaster, and a user can join in response to an invitation from the broadcaster or a family manager, or in response to a user's request to join being approved by the broadcaster or a family manager.

[0045] In this example, coins are given to users for free or for a fee in response to various triggers. For example, a user can obtain coins for free as a reward such as a login bonus. Also, for example, a user can purchase coins for a fee (with real currency).

[0046] 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).

[0047] 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.

[0048] 5 illustrates information managed in the distribution management table 412 in this example. The distribution management table 412 manages information related to individual live distributions (videos) and, as illustrated, manages information such as a "distributor user account" identifying the distributor, a "distribution start date and time", a "distribution duration" indicating the duration of the distribution, the number of viewers (current value and maximum value), a "comment count" which is the number of comments entered by the viewers, a "like count" which is the number of "likes" entered by the viewers, a "number of item points" which increases according to the input of items by the viewers, a "distribution point count" which is the points granted for this distribution, and "tag information" which is information related to tags granted for this distribution, in association with a "distribution ID" which identifies each live distribution.

[0049] FIG. 6 illustrates information managed in the grade management table 413 in this example. The grade management table 413 manages information on the fan level (grade) of the viewer (by distributor) for the distributor in the target year and month, and as shown in the figure, in association with a combination of a "distributor user account" that identifies the distributor, a "viewer user account" that identifies the viewer, and a "target year and month", manages information such as the "fan level" of the viewer for the corresponding distributor in the target year and month, the "number of coins consumed", "viewing time", "number of days viewed", and "number of comments entered" of the viewer for the corresponding live distribution, a "periodic charge application flag" that indicates whether or not the viewer applies periodic charge to the distributor, and the "number of cheer points" acquired by the viewer in the corresponding live distribution. Thus, in this example, the fan level of the viewer for the distributor is managed on a monthly basis.

[0050] The number of cheer points is calculated using a formula based on the number of coins consumed, viewing time, number of days viewed, and number of comments entered; the greater the value of each of these parameters, the greater the value of the cheer points.

[0051] 7 illustrates an example of a top screen 60 of a live streaming service displayed on the user terminal 30. The screen 60 is a starting point for users who use the live 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 button 66 located in the upper right corner of the screen.

[0052] 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 broadcasts (videos currently being broadcast) of other users whom 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 broadcasts (for example, broadcasts with a number of viewers (current value) equal to or greater than a threshold value) extracted according to a predetermined extraction condition for extracting popular live broadcasts are displayed in a list in the list display area 64. Furthermore, when "Trending" is selected in the selection area 62, tags attached to live broadcasts are displayed in a chronological order (in the order of attachment time) together with the corresponding broadcasts in the list display area 64. Furthermore, when "All" is selected in the selection area 62, all live broadcasts are subject to list display in the list display area 64.

[0053] 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, the list display area 64 has two columns of multiple individual display areas 641, each of which displays information about an individual live broadcast. The individual display areas 641 are configured so that viewing of the corresponding broadcast can be started (playback of the corresponding video starts) in response to a selection by the user. The list display area 64 is configured so that the displayed individual display areas 641 can be switched by a flick operation or a slide operation in an up or down direction, etc. The configuration of the list display area 64 when "Follow" or "All" is selected in the selection area 62 is the same as the above-mentioned configuration when "Popular" is selected.

[0054] 8 illustrates an example of the display contents of the individual display area 641. The individual display area 641 displays an image preset by the distributor of the live distribution, the distributor's account name, the number of viewers (current value), and the like, 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. 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. 8, "#big-eating distribution" is displayed). In addition, the second tag object 6412 displays the latest tag given by the viewers to the corresponding live distribution, also in the form of a hashtag (in the example of FIG. 8, "#curry" is displayed).

[0055] 9 illustrates an example of the top screen 60 when "Topics" is selected in the selection area 62. In this case, as shown in the figure, the top screen 60 displays tags assigned to any live broadcast in chronological order along with the broadcast in the list display area 64. In other words, when "Topics" is selected in the selection area 62, the list display area 64 displays a list of tags arranged in descending order of the time of assignment and the corresponding live broadcasts (broadcasts to which the tags are assigned).

[0056] In this case, a plurality of individual display areas 642, each of which displays an individual tag and information about the corresponding live broadcast, are arranged vertically in the list display area 64. When a new tag is added to any live broadcast, the corresponding individual display area 642 is added to the top of the list display area 64.

[0057] 10 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 the profile image and account name of the broadcaster of the corresponding live broadcast (to which the tag is attached), etc. A link to the corresponding live broadcast is set in the individual display area 642, and the user can start viewing the corresponding broadcast by selecting any one of the multiple individual display areas 642 displayed in the list display area 64.

[0058] The broadcast button 66 on the top screen 60 is an object for a user to live broadcast a video as a broadcaster. When the broadcast button 66 is selected by a user, a broadcast preparation screen 100 illustrated in FIG. 11 is displayed superimposed on the top screen 60. As illustrated, the screen 100 has a broadcast title input area 102 for inputting a broadcast title, a secret broadcast setting switch 104 for setting a secret broadcast mode, a tweet setting button 106 for setting tweets (posting messages to SNS) that are automatically made during broadcasting, and a broadcast start button 108 that displays "START!". The secret broadcast is a broadcast mode of live broadcasting that can be viewed only by new viewers (specifically, viewers whose total viewing time in a predetermined period for the corresponding broadcaster is less than a predetermined value).

[0059] When the distribution start button 108 is selected, live distribution 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 live distribution, a new record is created in the distribution management table 412.

[0060] 12 illustrates a distributor screen 70 displayed on the distributor terminal 30 in response to selection of the distribution start button 108 (i.e., start of live distribution). As illustrated, 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, a viewer information display area 75 located in the upper right corner of the screen, and a circular distribution stop button 76 located in the center of the bottom edge of the screen.

[0061] The video display area 71 displays a live-streamed video, that is, an image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30. The distributor usually captures himself / herself as a subject via the in-camera of the distributor terminal 30, and so the distributed video includes an image of the distributor himself / herself.

[0062] 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.

[0063] The comment display area 73 is an area for displaying user comments input by a viewer or system comments automatically input by the server 10. Specifically, in this area 73, a plurality of comment objects 731, each corresponding to an individual comment, are arranged vertically. 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 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 an upward or downward flick operation, slide operation, or the like.

[0064] The tag display area 74 displays information related to the tags assigned to this broadcast, and specifically, in this area 74, a plurality of tag objects 741, each of which corresponds to an individual tag, are arranged in the left-right direction.

[0065] The viewer information display area 75 displays information about a plurality of viewers who are viewing the corresponding live broadcast, and specifically, a plurality of icon objects 751, each corresponding to a viewer, are arranged side by side in the left-right direction in the viewer information display area 75. The object 751 has a circular shape and displays a profile image of the corresponding viewer. The plurality of icon objects 751 are arranged in an order that follows a predetermined rule, for example, such that a viewer with a large number of cheer points as described above is arranged on the left side.

[0066] The distribution stop button 76 is an object for the distributor to stop live distribution. When the distributor selects the distribution stop button 76, the live distribution (transmission of the video from the distributor terminal 30 to the server 10) is stopped.

[0067] 13 illustrates a viewer screen 80 displayed on the viewer terminal 30. For example, when a viewer selects a live broadcast via the list display area 64 of the top screen 60, the viewer screen 80 for viewing the selected broadcast 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, a tag display area 84, and a viewer information display area 85, similar to the above-mentioned distributor screen 70. In addition, the viewer screen 80 has, at the bottom of the screen, an input mode switching button 86, a comment input area 87, a "Like" button 88 with a heart mark displayed, and an item input button 89 with a gift design displayed.

[0068] The comment input area 87 is an area for a viewer to input a comment or a tag. While the input mode switching button 86 is not selected, the comment input area 87 is in a normal comment input mode. In the comment input mode, when a transmission object 871 arranged at the right end of the comment input area 87 is selected, the character string input in the area 87 is transmitted as a user comment, and in the corresponding broadcaster terminal 30 (the user terminal 30 of the broadcaster of the live broadcast being viewed) and each viewer terminal 30 (the user terminal 30 of each of the multiple viewers of the live broadcast being viewed), a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the user comment is added in the comment display area 73, 83 of the broadcaster screen 70 and the viewer screen 80. In the comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the user comment, the content of the comment (character string) is displayed together with the account name of the viewer who input the comment. In addition, when the user comment is transmitted, the server 10 updates (adds 1 to) the number of comments in the corresponding record in the broadcast management table 412. Furthermore, when a user comment is sent, the server 10 updates the number of input comments in the corresponding record in the grade management table 413 (by adding 1).

[0069] Furthermore, when the input mode switching button 86 is in a selected state, the comment input area 87 enters a tag input mode. In the tag input mode, when the transmission object 871 is selected, the character string input in the comment input area 87 is transmitted as a tag, and the tag is assigned (associated) to the live broadcast. In this example, viewers who can input tags are limited to family members of the corresponding broadcaster. Specifically, the input mode switching button 86 on the viewer screen 80 is selectable (enabled) when the viewer is a family member of the broadcaster, whereas it is not selectable (disabled) when the viewer is not a family member of the broadcaster. Also, in this example, the number of tags that can be assigned to one live broadcast in a predetermined period is limited, and specifically, the number of tags that can be assigned in a five-minute period is limited to three.

[0070] When a tag is assigned, a corresponding tag object 741, 841 is added in the tag display area 74, 84 of the corresponding distributor screen 70 and viewer screen 80. In the tag display area 74, 84, the tag objects 741, 841 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction so that the tag on the left is newer (added 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 the tag object 741, 841 corresponding to a tag that has been assigned for more than five minutes is deleted (for example, disappears with an animation effect moving to the right).

[0071] 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.

[0072] In addition, when a tag is added, a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to a system comment notifying the addition of the tag is added to the comment display area 73, 83 of the corresponding distributor screen 70 and viewer screen 80. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment displays the content of the added tag along with the account name of the viewer who added (input) the tag, for example, a comment saying "xx tagged the broadcast with "#TokyoSightseeing"." In addition, when a tag is added, the tag information of the corresponding record in the broadcast management table 412 is updated.

[0073] The like button 88 is an object for a viewer to input a "like" to a distributor (live distribution). When the button 88 is selected by a viewer, a "like" is input, and a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to a system comment notifying the input of the "like" is added in the comment display area 73, 83 of the corresponding distributor screen 70 and viewer screen 80. In the comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment, a text indicating the input of the "like" 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 in the video display area 71, 81 of the distributor screen 70 and the viewer screen 80. In addition, when a "like" is input, the server 10 updates (adds 1) the "number of likes" of the corresponding record in the distribution management table 412.

[0074] The item input button 89 is an object that allows the viewer to input an item. When the button 89 is selected by the viewer, an item selection screen 200, as shown in FIG. 14, is displayed superimposed on the viewer screen 80. As shown in the figure, the screen 200 displays a list of multiple 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.

[0075] In this example, a number 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 (which can also be called value or compensation) of each item. The item selection screen 200 displays a list of these multiple items that can be input. When a viewer selects one of the items via the item selection screen 200, the selected item is input.

[0076] When an item is input, a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to a system comment notifying the input of the item is added in the comment display area 73, 83 of the corresponding distributor screen 70 and viewer screen 80. The name of the input item is displayed in the comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment 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 in the video display area 71, 81 of the corresponding distributor screen 70 and viewer screen 80. When an item is input, the server 10 grants a quantity of item points (for example, the more coins, the more points.) according to the number of coins of the input item to this distribution, and specifically, in the distribution management table 412, the server 10 adds the number of points according to the number of coins to the number of item points of the corresponding record. When an item is input, the server 10 subtracts the number of coins of the input item from the number of coins held in the corresponding record (record of the viewer who input the item) in the user information table 411. Furthermore, when an item is input, the server 10 adds the number of coins for the input item to the number of coins consumed for the corresponding record in the grade management table 413.

[0077] In this example, a viewer who has applied for regular billing to the corresponding distributor (the distributor of the live broadcast being viewed) can input some items any number of times without consuming individual coins. For such items, for example, a message is displayed in the individual display area 202 of the item selection screen 200 indicating that regular billing does not require the consumption of individual coins. Also, in this example, when regular billing is applied, the number of coins corresponding to the amount of the regular billing is added in a lump sum to the number of consumed coins each month in the corresponding record of the grade management table 413.

[0078] In addition, when a new viewer starts viewing (enters a live streaming room), a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to a system comment notifying the viewer of his / her entry is added to the comment display area 73, 83 of the corresponding distributor screen 70 and viewer screen 80. The account name of the user who started viewing (entered the room) is displayed in the comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment. In addition, if this viewing is the first viewing of the day of the live streaming by the corresponding distributor, the server 10 updates the number of viewing days of the corresponding record in the grade management table 413 (adds 1).

[0079] Here, the operation regarding the management of the fan level of the viewer with respect to the distributor will be described. FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining the conditions (grade conditions) of each of a plurality of fan levels in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, two or three conditions are set for each fan level, and a user who satisfies any one of these two to three conditions will have the corresponding fan level (the level will increase). For example, for fan level "1", two conditions are set: 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", and a user who satisfies any one of these two conditions will become a viewer with fan level "1". For example, three conditions are set for fan level "4": condition 1, "spend 1,000 coins or more, watch for 5 hours or more, watch for 4 days or more, and enter 35 comments or more," condition 2, "spend 3,000 coins or more, watch for 2 hours or more, and enter 5 comments or more," and condition 3, "spend 5,500 coins or more." A user who meets any one of these three conditions becomes a viewer of fan level "4."

[0080] Such fan level determination is performed in real time during live distribution. Specifically, during live distribution, the server 10 updates the number of coins consumed, viewing time, number of days viewed, and number of comments entered in real time for each viewer in the grade management table 413, and determines whether the fan level has been increased based on this information. When the fan level is increased, the fan level value of the corresponding record in the grade management table 413 is updated.

[0081] In this example, the distributor is charged a monthly subscription fee of 6,000 coins. Therefore, a viewer who is subject to subscription fees will immediately meet condition 3 (consuming 5,500 coins or more) for fan level "4" shown in FIG.

[0082] In this example, comment objects 731, 831 corresponding to the viewer's actions (specifically, entering a room (starting viewing), commenting, tagging, liking, and inputting an item) are decorated according to the viewer's fan level. For example, an icon corresponding to the viewer's fan level is added to such comment objects 731, 831, and a text color corresponding to the fan level is applied.

[0083] In this example, the satisfaction status of the fan level conditions of each viewer is displayed via the viewer information display areas 75, 85 of the distributor screen 70 and the viewer screen 80. Fig. 16 illustrates a viewer information display screen 300 that is displayed superimposed on the distributor screen 70 and the viewer screen 80 in response to selection of an icon object 751, 851 in the viewer information display area 75, 85. As shown in the figure, the screen 300 displays the profile image, account name, profile, etc. of the corresponding viewer, and below that has a fan level information display area 302 that displays information related to the fan level.

[0084] As shown in the figure, the fan level information display area 302 displays an icon image corresponding to the current level, the number of cheer points, etc., and on the right side thereof, condition fulfillment objects 3021 are arranged in a row in the left-right direction, each of which indicates the fulfillment state of two to three conditions for moving up to the next (one higher) fan level. In the viewer information display screen 300 of Fig. 16, three condition fulfillment objects 3021 corresponding respectively to the three conditions 1 to 3 are arranged, but when there are two conditions corresponding to the next fan level, two condition fulfillment objects 3021 are arranged in a row in the left-right direction.

[0085] The condition fulfillment object 3021 displays the degree of fulfillment of the condition in the circular portion, specifically, in the form of a circular progress bar extending clockwise from the 12 o'clock position as the degree of fulfillment of the condition increases. The degree of fulfillment of the condition is set as a ratio of the current value to the condition value (maximum value) of the parameter corresponding to the condition (number of coins consumed, viewing time, number of days viewed, or number of comments entered). Through the viewer information display screen 300 (fan level information display area 302), the user can know an overview of the current fan level of each viewer, including other users, and the fulfillment status of the conditions for moving up to the next fan level.

[0086] In this example, when the icon object 851 of the corresponding user himself / herself is selected in the viewer information display area 85 of the viewer screen 80 to display the viewer information display screen 300 displaying the user's own information, when the fan level information display area 302 is selected, a condition satisfaction level details screen 400 as exemplified in Fig. 17 is displayed. As shown in the figure, the screen 400 has a sub-condition indicator 402 that displays the satisfaction level of the corresponding sub-condition for each condition corresponding to the next fan level.

[0087] The sub-condition indicator 402 displays the degree of fulfillment of the condition in the form of a progress bar extending to the right as the degree of fulfillment of the condition increases. Also, on the lower right side of the sub-condition indicator 402, text related to the degree of fulfillment of the corresponding sub-condition is displayed, specifically, text related to the amount required to fulfill the sub-condition (for example, "1,256 coins remaining") is displayed, or if the sub-condition is already fulfilled, the text "CLEAR!" is displayed.

[0088] In the example of FIG. 17, "Condition 1" has four sub-conditions, a sub-condition related to the number of coins, a sub-condition related to viewing time, a sub-condition related to the number of comments, and a sub-condition related to the number of viewing days, and four sub-condition indicators 402 corresponding to the four sub-conditions are arranged vertically. The condition satisfaction level details screen 400 is configured so that the displayed conditions are switched by a flick operation or a slide operation in the left and right directions. Through the condition satisfaction level details screen 400, the user can know the details of the satisfaction status of the conditions for the user to rise to the next fan level.

[0089] The above describes the operation related to managing the fan level of viewers for a broadcaster. Next, the operation when a broadcaster ends a live broadcast will be described. As described above, when a broadcaster selects the stop broadcast button 76 on the broadcaster screen 70, the live broadcast ends. When the live broadcast ends, the server 10 calculates and sets the number of broadcast points for that broadcast. In this example, the number of broadcast points is calculated based on the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the number of item points. The number of broadcast points increases as the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the number of item points increase. The calculated number of broadcast points is set in the corresponding record in the broadcast management table 412.

[0090] The above describes the operation performed when a broadcaster ends live broadcasting. Next, the operation performed when determining the rank of a broadcaster will be described. In this example, the rank for the day is determined (updated) based on the number of broadcast points acquired by the user on the previous day. FIG. 18 is a flow diagram illustrating the processing executed by the server 10 when updating the rank of each user. These processing operations are executed every night (for example, at 3:00 a.m. every day).

[0091] As shown in the figure, the server 10 first calculates the number of distribution points acquired by each user on the previous day (step S300). The number of distribution points acquired by a specific user on the previous day is calculated by referring to the distributor user account, distribution start date and time, and number of distribution points in the distribution management table 412. Note that if a user makes multiple distributions in one day, the number of distribution points acquired for each of the multiple distributions is added together.

[0092] After calculating the number of distribution points for each distributor on the previous day in this way, the server 10 then adds a bonus to the number of distribution points (step S310). Specifically, in this example, a bonus is added to the number of distribution points according to the number of "special fans" whose fan level is "4" or higher. FIG. 19 illustrates the correspondence between the number of special fans and the distribution point bonus (multiplication factor). In this example, as shown in the figure, when the number of special fans is 2 to 4, the number of distribution points is 101% (multiplied by 1.01) as the distribution point bonus. In other words, when the number of special fans is 2 to 4, 1% of the calculated number of distribution points is added as a bonus. Similarly, when the number of special fans is 5 to 9, the distribution point bonus (multiplication factor) is 102%, and thereafter, as the number of special fans increases, the distribution point bonus (multiplication factor) becomes larger, which is advantageous for the distributor.

[0093] Also, as mentioned above, in this example, viewers to whom regular subscription fees apply automatically become special fans with a fan level of "4" or higher, so it is advantageous for the distributor to acquire a large number of viewers to whom regular subscription fees apply.

[0094] In this example, a bonus is added to the distribution points according to the total number of cheer points of each of the multiple viewers. For example, when the total number of cheer points is 5000 points or more, a bonus of 500 points is added to the distribution points, and when the total number of cheer points is 10000 points or more, a bonus of 1000 points is added to the distribution points. The bonus becomes larger as the number of cheer points increases, which is advantageous for the distributor. Note that in another example of this embodiment, a bonus to the distribution points based on the number of cheer points is not applied, and only a bonus to the distribution points based on the number of special fans may be applied.

[0095] After the bonus for the number of distribution points is thus added, the server 10 then updates the rank meter value of each user (step S320). Figure 20 is a diagram for explaining the update rule for the rank meter value. As shown in the figure, in this example, the rank meter value changes based on the ranking of each user's number of distribution points on the previous day within the rank band to which the user belongs.

[0096] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 20, the update rule for the rank meter value is that first, if the ranking in terms of the number of distribution points within the rank band is in the top 10%, the change in the rank meter value is "+2" (an increase of 2 points). Similarly, if the ranking is in the top 11-30% (the remaining 20% ​​after excluding the top 10% from the top 30%), the change is "+1", if the ranking is in the middle 30% (top 31-60%), the change is "±0" (no increase or decrease), and if the ranking is 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.

[0097] In step S320, the rank meter value of each user is updated according to the update rule illustrated in FIG.

[0098] Returning to the flow diagram of FIG. 18, after updating the rank meter value of each user, the server 10 then updates the rank based on the updated rank meter value (step S330). FIG. 21 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.

[0099] Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 21, 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.

[0100] In step S330, the rank is updated based on the rank meter value according to the correspondence relationship illustrated in Fig. 21. Note that the rank meter value of a user whose rank has been updated (a user whose rank has been upgraded / downgraded) is cleared to 0.

[0101] The above describes the operation when determining the rank of a distributor. Next, the operation when granting diamonds to a user will be described. In this example, diamonds are granted as a reward to a user as a distributor based on the distribution time of the previous day and the rank (rank on the previous day). FIG. 22 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when granting 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. 18.

[0102] 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, delivery start date and time, and delivery 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.

[0103] 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 the rank of each user on the previous day is applied. When diamonds are granted to a user, the number of diamonds held in the corresponding record of the user information table 411 is updated. In this example, diamonds can be exchanged for coins or real currency.

[0104] In the above example, the condition corresponding to the fan level may vary based on distributor information about the distributor, viewer information about the viewer, or combination information about the combination of the distributor and the viewer. For example, the condition corresponding to the fan level is easier to satisfy (e.g., the condition value is lower) the lower the rank of the distributor. Also, for example, the condition corresponding to the fan level varies depending on the residential area of ​​the viewer (e.g., the condition is easier to satisfy for viewers in a specific residential area). Also, for example, the condition corresponding to the fan level is easier to satisfy in the target year and month when the corresponding distributor's live broadcast was viewed for the first time.

[0105] In the above example, a certain higher fan level may be invalidated for a certain period from the start of each month, and may be valid from a specific timing in the middle. In this case, for example, a viewer who meets the conditions corresponding to a fan level that is valid at a specific timing (e.g., the 15th) of each month before the fan level is valid will not be promoted to that fan level until the fan level is valid (until the specific timing). In this way, it is possible to prevent an excessive number of viewers with higher fan levels from appearing early in each month, which may discourage other general viewers.

[0106] In the above example, a bonus is added to the number of distribution points according to the number of "special fans" whose fan level is "4" or higher, but the reward according to the number of special fans is an example of a reward based on the fan level of each of a plurality of viewers, and other rules are applied in other examples of this embodiment. For example, a bonus may be added to the number of distribution points according to the total value of the fan levels.

[0107] In addition, the addition of a bonus to the number of distribution points is one example of a reward for the distributor, and in another example of this embodiment, various rewards may be given to the distributor based on the fan level of each of the multiple viewers. For example, as a reward for the distributor, a bonus may be added to the reference number of diamonds, or the right to participate in a special event may be given.

[0108] In the above example, a live streaming service is provided that allows live streaming of videos composed of images input through the camera of the distributor terminal 30 and audio input through the microphone, and allows the live streaming service to be viewed, but in another example of this embodiment, an on-demand video streaming service is provided in which videos provided by distributors are stored in advance and the videos are individually distributed in response to requests from viewers. Even in this case, the fan level of viewers for the distributor (provider of the video) is managed, and a reward can be given to the distributor based at least on the fan level of each of multiple viewers.

[0109] The video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment described above determines the grade (e.g., fan level) of the viewer with respect to the distributor based on the satisfaction of the grade conditions, and provides a reward (e.g., an addition of a bonus to the number of distribution points) to the distributor based on the grade of each of the multiple viewers (e.g., the number of special fans with a fan level of "4" or higher). Therefore, for example, an upgrade in the viewer's grade is a direct benefit to the distributor, and the distributor is motivated to strengthen the relationship with the viewer. In other words, the video distribution server 10 can promote the strengthening of the relationship between the distributor and the viewer.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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]

[0113] 10 Video distribution server 11. Computer Processors 15 Storage 20. Communication Networks 30 User terminals 41 Information Storage Management Department 411 User Information Table 412 Distribution Management Table 413 Grade Management Table 43 Management function control section 45 Video distribution service control section 60 Top screen 70 Streamer Screen 75 Viewer information display area 80 Viewer Screen 85 Viewer information display area 100 Delivery preparation screen 200 Item selection screen 300 Viewer information display screen 302 Fan level information display area 3021 Condition Satisfaction Object 400 Condition fulfillment details screen 402 Sub-Condition Indicator

Claims

1. A system for providing a video distribution service, comprising: A process of determining a grade of a user with respect to a distributor based at least on a satisfaction state of a grade condition; A process of assigning points to the video of the distributor or to the distributor; and adding a bonus to the points based on the number of users who satisfy a predetermined grade condition. the process of adding the bonus includes adding the bonus by multiplying the points by a predetermined factor; The larger the number of users who satisfy the predetermined grade condition, the larger the predetermined multiplier becomes, The video of the distributor includes a video provided by the distributor and stored in advance, and a video individually distributed in response to a request from a user, The grade conditions include conditions regarding viewing of the videos of the distributor by each user, system.

2. The grade conditions include conditions related to the number of coins consumed, the viewing time, the number of days viewed, or the number of comments input by each user in the video of the distributor, The system of claim 1.

3. The points are increased in response to at least an item input by a user to a video of the distributor. The system of claim 1.

4. and further performing a process of determining a rank of the distributor based on the points set for a predetermined period of time. The system of claim 1.

5. The process of determining the grade includes determining that a user who satisfies one of a plurality of grade conditions set for each grade is a user of the corresponding grade. The system of claim 1.

6. The grade is managed at regular intervals. The system of claim 1.

7. A system for providing a video distribution service, comprising: A process of assigning points to a video of a distributor or to the distributor; and adding a bonus to the points based on the number of users who are determined to be special users based on their actions on the video of the distributor. the process of adding the bonus includes adding the bonus by multiplying the points by a predetermined factor; The larger the number of the special users, the larger the predetermined multiplier becomes, The video of the distributor includes a video provided by the distributor and stored in advance, and a video individually distributed in response to a request from a user, The action includes watching a video of the distributor. system.

8. The action includes inputting an item into a video of the distributor by a user. The system of claim 7.

9. The special user is determined based at least on a parameter that increases in response to the input of the item reaching a predetermined value. The system of claim 8.

10. The special user is determined based at least on the number of days the user has watched the video of the distributor reaching a predetermined value. The system of claim 7.

11. A program for causing a computer to function as the system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A device for providing a video distribution service, comprising: A means for determining a grade of a user with respect to a distributor based at least on a satisfaction state of a grade condition; A means for assigning points to the video of the distributor or to the distributor; and a means for adding a bonus to the points based on the number of users who satisfy a predetermined grade condition; the means for adding the bonus adds the bonus by multiplying the points by a predetermined factor; The larger the number of users who satisfy the predetermined grade condition, the larger the predetermined multiplier becomes, The video of the distributor includes a video provided by the distributor and stored in advance, and a video individually distributed in response to a request from a user, The grade conditions include conditions regarding viewing of the videos of the distributor by each user, Device.

13. A device for providing a video distribution service, comprising: A means for assigning points to a video of a distributor or to the distributor; and adding a bonus to the points based on the number of users who are determined to be special users based on their actions on the video of the distributor; the means for adding the bonus adds the bonus by multiplying the points by a predetermined factor; The larger the number of the special users, the larger the predetermined multiplier becomes, The video of the distributor includes a video provided by the distributor and stored in advance, and a video individually distributed in response to a request from a user, The action includes watching a video of the distributor. Device.

14. 1. A method for providing a video streaming service, executed by one or more computers, comprising: determining a grade of the user with respect to the distributor based at least on a satisfaction status of the grade condition; A step of assigning points to the video of the distributor or the distributor; and adding a bonus to the points based on the number of users who satisfy a predetermined grade condition. the step of adding the bonus includes adding the bonus by multiplying the points by a predetermined factor; The larger the number of users who satisfy the predetermined grade condition, the larger the predetermined multiplier becomes, The video of the distributor includes a video provided by the distributor and stored in advance, and a video individually distributed in response to a request from a user, The grade conditions include conditions regarding viewing of the videos of the distributor by each user, method.

15. 1. A method for providing a video streaming service, executed by one or more computers, comprising: A step of assigning points to a video of a distributor or to the distributor; and adding a bonus to the points based on the number of users who are determined to be special users based on their actions on the video of the distributor; the step of adding the bonus includes adding the bonus by multiplying the points by a predetermined factor; The larger the number of the special users, the larger the predetermined multiplier becomes, The video of the distributor includes a video provided by the distributor and stored in advance, and a video individually distributed in response to a request from a user, The action includes watching a video of the distributor. method.

Images