Information processing terminal

Abstract

To provide a technique for enabling a user to continuously view high-quality content for a desired period of time without placing an unnecessary burden on the user.SOLUTION: An information processing terminal that uses a contracted communication line to view a content stored in an external server includes a communication data volume management unit that manages the volume of data communicated using the high-speed line of the communication line, and a display control unit that controls the display, and when the volume of data required to view the content is likely to exceed the remaining data volume, which is the remaining volume of the contracted data volume, the communication data volume management unit calculates the purchase amount required to purchase additional data of a specified amount of a high-speed line under a predetermined condition as the purchase amount, and the display control unit displays the calculated purchase amount.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a communication capacity management technique, and more particularly to a communication capacity management technique for content viewing. [Background technology]

[0002] In mobile communication terminals such as smartphones, a contract is made with a communication carrier that sets a limit on the amount of data communication on a high-speed line for each contract unit period (for example, one month) and the communication services provided are used. In such a contract, when the data volume reaches the limit, the user will be required to use a low-speed line until the end of the contract unit period.

[0003] If the data limit is reached while viewing high-definition content, viewing will switch to a slower connection, and the content being viewed will be unavailable or switched to lower quality. At this point, in order to purchase additional data for a high-speed connection, it is necessary to apply for an additional purchase from the carrier. Generally, the content provider that provides the content is different from the carrier, so it is necessary to switch to a separate carrier app / web page, which reduces user convenience.

[0004] There is a communication capacity management device that can resolve a data volume or balance shortage without a user's conscious operation when communicating via a wireless communication line with a data volume limit. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a communication capacity management device in which "in a communication capacity management device that manages communication capacity for a wireless communication line with a communication volume limit, an additional purchase processing unit performs processing for additional purchase of communication capacity with a usage limit. A remaining data volume management unit manages the remaining communication capacity including additional purchase communication capacity, which is additionally purchased communication capacity with a usage limit. A purchase content specification unit specifies the additional purchase communication capacity. A purchase condition determination unit determines whether or not the condition for purchasing the additional purchase communication capacity is satisfied. Then, when it is determined that the condition for purchasing the additional purchase communication capacity is satisfied, the additional purchase processing unit performs purchase processing for the additional purchase communication capacity (abstract excerpt)." [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-40673 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 only takes into account the remaining amount of contracted data. In other words, it does not take into account the data amount or playback state of the content. For example, even if most of the content has been played back and the amount of data required to play the remaining content is small, if the remaining amount of contracted data meets a predetermined purchase condition, additional data will be purchased, which may place an unnecessary burden on the user.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a technique that enables a user to continuously view high-quality content for a desired period of time without placing an unnecessary burden on the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present invention uses a contracted communication line to communicate with an external server will be broadcast live from an information processing terminal for viewing content, the information processing terminal comprising: a communication data amount management unit for managing an amount of data communicated using a high-speed line of the communication line; a content management unit that acquires and plays the content; a display control unit that controls the display, When the remaining data amount, which is the remaining data amount of the contracted data amount, is equal to or less than a predetermined remaining amount threshold, Necessary information, which is information required when purchasing additional data volume for the high-speed line For each of the plurality of predetermined conditions The display control unit Displaying the elapsed time of viewing the content, The necessary information, Corresponding to each of the plurality of predetermined conditions, The present invention is characterized by controlling the display to display the same. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a technique that allows a user to continuously view high-quality content for a desired period of time without increasing the burden on the user. Problems, configurations, and effects other than those described above will become apparent from the following description of the embodiments. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an overview of a communication system according to a first embodiment; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of the information processing terminal according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1A and 1B are external views of an information processing terminal according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1A is a functional block diagram of an information processing terminal according to a first embodiment, FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a content attribute information database according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 1C is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a communication contract database according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] 11 is a flowchart of a communication data volume management process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 5A and 5B are explanatory diagrams for explaining examples of displays on a display according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 13 is a flowchart of a communication data volume management process according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 13 is a flowchart of a communication data volume management process according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] 13A and 13B are explanatory diagrams for explaining examples of displays on a display according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] 13 is a flowchart of a communication data volume management process according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] 13A to 13C are explanatory diagrams for explaining display examples on a display according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the same reference numerals in the drawings indicate the same functions or processes.

[0012] <<First embodiment>> In this embodiment, depending on the amount of data required to view the content to be viewed, it is determined whether the amount of data that can be transmitted through the contracted high-speed line is insufficient due to limitations on the communication line. If it is insufficient, additional data is purchased. Hereinafter, the amount of data transmitted (communicated) using the high-speed communication line is simply referred to as the data amount of the high-speed line.

[0013] For example, a user of an information processing terminal enters into a line contract with a communication service provider (carrier) that provides communication services, which has a monthly data limit on the amount of data on the high-speed line, and uses the communication service. In this embodiment, the total data amount of high-quality content provided by a content provider (hereinafter referred to as a "content provider") is compared with the remaining amount of data (remaining data amount) of the contracted high-speed line at that time, and if the remaining data amount of the high-speed line is less than the required data amount of the content, the difference between the two, that is, the shortfall in the high-speed line data amount, and information required to obtain the shortfall, such as the purchase amount, are calculated, and the calculated required information is presented. In the following, this embodiment will be described by taking the case where the purchase amount is calculated as the required information as an example.

[0014] First, an overview of the overall configuration of a communication system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1, which is an explanatory diagram of the overview of a communication system 900 according to the present embodiment.

[0015] The communication system 900 of this embodiment includes an information processing terminal 100, a carrier side device 300, a content server 400, and a base station 510. The base station 510, the carrier side device 300, and the content server 400 are connected to a network 500, and can transmit and receive data to and from each other via the network 500. Note that, although a case in which there is one each of the information processing terminal 100, the carrier side device 300, the content server 400, and the base station 510 is illustrated here, the number of each is not limited.

[0016] The carrier-side device 300 is an information processing device managed by the carrier. As a configuration related to the processing of this embodiment, for example, the carrier-side device 300 includes a communication path billing management device 310, a communication path data volume management device 320, a communication path control device 330, and a contract information management device 340.

[0017] The contract information management device 340 manages information on users who have contracted for communication services. The managed information includes, for example, information for identifying a user (user ID), line identification information (line number), contract details, etc.

[0018] The communication path control device 330 controls the communication path. Data transmitted from the information processing terminal 100 to the base station 510 is transferred from the base station 510 to the communication path control device 330 of the carrier side device 300. If the data is within the range of the contract, the communication path control device 330 outputs the data to the network 500 at a specified speed (high-speed line). Also, if the data input from the network 500 is within the range of the contract, the data is transferred to the information processing terminal 100 via the base station 510 over a high-speed line. If the data is beyond the range of the contract, the communication speed is reduced and the data is transferred.

[0019] The communication path data volume management device 320 manages the remaining capacity of the high-speed line for each user. The communication path control device 330 acquires the transfer volume of data to be transferred, and refers to the contract information management device 340 to manage the remaining data volume for each user.

[0020] The communication path billing management device 310 manages the billing for each user. Communication path accounting management device 310 This management is realized by referring to the contract information management device 340 based on information from the communication path data amount management device 320 and the communication path control device 330.

[0021] The content server 400 is a server managed by a content provider, and manages the content to be provided to users. The configuration according to this embodiment includes a content library 410, a content billing management device 420, and a content transmission management device 430.

[0022] The content library 410 stores available content. Each content is managed in association with its attribute data. The attribute data includes, for example, the total data volume, viewing fees, etc. The content billing management device 420 manages billing for each user. The content transmission management device 430 provides the managed content to the user in response to a request from the user.

[0023] When the content server 400 receives a purchase request from the information processing terminal 100 described later, the content server 400 transmits the content attribute information 271 stored in the content library 410 in association with the content specified by the purchase request to the information processing terminal 100 that is the request source. The content attribute information 271 includes the total data amount of the content. Then, the transmission of the content is started.

[0024] The network 500 is, for example, a Wide Area Network (WAN) or the Internet.

[0025] [Hardware configuration of information processing terminal] First, a hardware configuration of the information processing terminal 100 of the present embodiment will be described. The information processing terminal 100 of the present embodiment is an information processing device capable of viewing content provided by a content provider using a communication line provided by a carrier, and is, for example, a smartphone, a PC (Personal Computer), a tablet, an HMD (Head Mount Display), or the like.

[0026] 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment. As shown in this diagram, the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment includes a main processor 101, a system bus 102, a storage device 110, an operation reception device 120, an image processing device 130, a sound processing device 140, a sensor 150, a communication device 160, an extension interface (I / F) unit 170, and a timer 180.

[0027] The main processor 101 is a main control unit that controls the entire information processing terminal 100 according to a predetermined program. The main processor 101 is realized by a CPU (Central Processor Unit) or a microprocessor unit (MPU). The main processor 101 performs processing according to a clock signal that is measured and output by a timer 180.

[0028] The system bus 102 is a data communication path for transmitting and receiving data between the main processor 101 and each unit within the information processing terminal 100 .

[0029] The memory device 110 includes a RAM 103 and a storage device 104 .

[0030] The RAM 103 is a program area for executing basic operation programs and other application programs. The RAM 103 is also a temporary storage area for temporarily storing data as necessary when various application programs are executed. The RAM 103 may be integrated with the main processor 101.

[0031] The storage device 104 stores various operation setting values ​​of the information processing terminal 100, information on the user of the information processing terminal 100, etc. The storage device 104 may store still image data, moving image data, etc. captured by the information processing terminal 100. The information processing terminal 100 is also capable of expanding its functions by downloading new application programs from an application server via the Internet. At this time, the downloaded new application programs are stored in the storage device 104. The main processor 101 loads the new application programs stored in the storage device 104 into the RAM 103 and executes them, thereby enabling the information processing terminal 100 to realize various functions.

[0032] The storage device 104 needs to hold the stored information even when power is not being supplied to the information processing terminal 100. Therefore, the storage device 104 may be, for example, a flash ROM, a solid state drive (SSD), or a hard disk drive (HDD).

[0033] The operation reception device 120 receives input of operation instructions to the information processing terminal 100. In this embodiment, the information processing terminal 100 is provided with operation keys 121 such as a power key, a volume key, a home key, etc. Furthermore, when the information processing terminal 100 is the information processing terminal 100, the information processing terminal 100 is provided with a touch sensor 122 that receives operation instructions via a touch pad. Furthermore, when the information processing terminal 100 is a smartphone 100S (see below), the information processing terminal 100 is provided with a touch panel 123 that is placed over the display 131. Note that the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment does not necessarily need to be provided with all of these operation reception devices 120.

[0034] In the case of the smartphone 100S, the input of instructions may be accepted via a keyboard or the like connected to the extended interface unit 170 described later. Also, the operation of the information processing terminal 100 may be accepted via a separate information processing terminal device connected by wired communication or wireless communication.

[0035] The image processing device 130 is an image (video) processor, and includes a display 131, an image signal processing unit 132, a first image acquisition unit 133, and a second image acquisition unit 134.

[0036] The display 131 is a display device (display) such as a liquid crystal panel, and presents image data processed by an image signal processing unit 132 (described later) to a user of the information processing terminal 100. When the information processing terminal 100 is an information processing terminal 100, the display 131 may be a transmissive display.

[0037] The image signal processing unit 132 is an image (video) signal processor that processes images input from the first image acquisition unit 133 and the second image acquisition unit 134. The image signal processing unit 132 also superimposes an object created by the main processor 101 or the like on the input image and outputs it to the display 131.

[0038] The first image acquisition unit 133 acquires an image of the surroundings of the information processing terminal 100. In the case of the information processing terminal 100, it is an external camera. In the case of the smartphone 100S, it is a rear camera (out camera).

[0039] The second image acquisition unit 134 acquires an image of a region different from that of the first image acquisition unit 133. For example, it captures an image of the user's eyes. In the case of the information processing terminal 100, it is an internal camera (a camera for detecting gaze), and in the case of the smartphone 100S, it is a front camera (in-camera). In this embodiment, the second image acquisition unit 134 functions as a gaze detection sensor together with a gaze identification unit described later.

[0040] The audio processing device 140 is an audio processor that processes audio. It includes an audio output unit 141, an audio signal processing unit 142, and an audio input unit 143. The audio output unit 141 is a speaker, and outputs an audio signal processed by the audio signal processing unit 142 to the outside. The audio signal processing unit 142 is an audio signal processor. The audio input unit 143 is a microphone, and converts the user's voice, etc. into audio data and inputs it.

[0041] The sensor 150 is a group of sensors for detecting the state of the information processing terminal 100. In this embodiment, the sensor 150 includes a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver 151, a gyro sensor 152, a geomagnetic sensor 153, an acceleration sensor 154, and a distance sensor 155. These sensors detect the position, movement, inclination, direction, and the like of the information processing terminal 100. The distance sensor 155 is a depth sensor, and acquires distance information from the information processing terminal 100 to an object. Note that other sensors may also be included.

[0042] The communication device 160 is a communication processor that performs communication processing. It includes a LAN (Local Area Network) communication unit 161, a telephone network communication unit 162, and a BT (Bluetooth (registered trademark)) communication unit 163. The LAN communication unit 161 connects to an Internet wireless communication access point via wireless communication to transmit and receive data. The telephone network communication unit 162 performs telephone communication (calls) and data transmission and reception via wireless communication with a base station of a mobile telephone communication network. The BT communication unit 163 is an interface for communicating with an external device according to the Bluetooth standard. The LAN communication unit 161, the telephone network communication unit 162, and the BT communication unit 163 each include an encoding circuit, a decoding circuit, an antenna, and the like. The communication device 160 may further include an infrared communication unit, and the like.

[0043] The expansion interface unit 170 is a group of interfaces for expanding the functions of the information processing terminal 100, and in this embodiment includes a charging terminal, a video / audio interface, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, a memory interface, etc. The video / audio interface inputs video signals / audio signals from an external video / audio output device, outputs video signals / audio signals to an external video / audio input device, etc. The USB interface connects a keyboard and other USB devices. The memory interface connects a memory card or other memory medium to send and receive data.

[0044] The configuration example of the information processing terminal 100 shown in FIG. 2 includes many components that are not essential to this embodiment, but the effect of this embodiment is not impaired even if these components are not provided.

[0045] [Exterior view] The external appearance of the information processing terminal 100 will be described when it is a smartphone 100S. Fig. 3(a) is a front view of the smartphone 100S, and Fig. 3(b) is a rear view. The layout of the configuration described in the above hardware configuration diagram will be described.

[0046] The smartphone 100S includes a case 109S that houses the various components of the smartphone 100S. In the following description, the top-bottom and left-right directions are as shown in the drawings.

[0047] Display 131 is disposed at the center of the front surface of case 109S. In the case of smartphone 100S, touch screen 127 serving as both display 131 and touch panel 123 is disposed.

[0048] The first image acquisition unit 133 (rear camera / outer camera) is disposed on the rear surface of the case 109S. The second image acquisition unit 134 (front camera / inner camera) is disposed on the front surface of the case 109S. The second image acquisition unit 134 is disposed above the display 131 on the front surface.

[0049] Furthermore, audio output unit 141 is disposed, for example, on the front surface of case 109S, above the center of display 131 and at the bottom of the back surface. Audio output unit 141M disposed at the top of the front surface of case 109S is a monaural speaker and is used during voice calls. Audio output unit 141S disposed at the bottom of the back surface of case 109S is a stereo speaker and is used during video playback, etc. Furthermore, audio input unit 143 is disposed, for example, on the bottom surface of case 109S.

[0050] Further, the distance sensor 155 is disposed on the rear surface of the case 109S, for example, next to the first image acquisition unit 133.

[0051] In addition, for example, a power switch 121P is disposed on the upper surface of the case 109S as the operation key 121. Also, a USB terminal 170U is disposed on the lower surface of the case 109S as the expansion interface unit 170. Furthermore, a fingerprint sensor 124 disposed on the rear surface of the case 109S, an LED 125 disposed on the front surface of the case 109S, above the display 131, and the like may be provided.

[0052] [Functional configuration of information processing terminal] Next, a description will be given of the functional configuration of the information processing terminal 100 according to this embodiment. Here, only the configuration related to this embodiment will be extracted and described.

[0053] 4(a), the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment includes a content management unit 210, a communication data amount management unit 220, and a display control unit 230. In addition, the information processing terminal 100 includes a content attribute information database (DB) 270, and a communication contract database (DB) 280.

[0054] The content attribute information database 270 stores content attribute information 271 associated with the content viewed by the user. The content attribute information 271 is transmitted from the content server 400 prior to transmission of the content. As shown in Fig. 4(b), the content attribute information 271 includes, for example, a content ID 272 that is information for identifying the content, a total data amount 273 that indicates the total data amount of the content, and a required transmission speed (required bandwidth) 274 for the content. In addition, the content title 275, a content type (moving image, still image) 276, etc. may be included.

[0055] The content management unit 210 manages content. For example, it manages the purchase and playback of content. When purchasing content, a purchase request, which is a request to purchase content, is sent to the content provider according to instructions from the user. In response to the purchase request, the total data volume of the content is obtained from the content attribute information 271 received prior to the content. Then, the communication data volume management unit 220 is notified of this as the required data volume.

[0056] The communication data volume management unit 220 manages the volume of data communicated using a high-speed line of a communication line under contract with a carrier. In this embodiment, it manages the current remaining volume of data. In addition, when the required volume of data is obtained from the content management unit 210, it is compared with the remaining volume of data. If the remaining volume of data is less than the required volume of data and the remaining volume of data is insufficient, the purchase price for the shortfall is calculated.

[0057] In this embodiment, the communication data volume management unit 220 manages the line contract information 281 that the user contracts with the carrier. The communication contract database 280 manages the line contract information 281 that the user contracts with the carrier. For example, as shown in FIG. 4(c), the managed line contract information 281 includes a terminal ID 282 that identifies the information processing terminal 100 used by the user and a contract data volume 283. A low-speed band 284 and an additional purchase amount 285 may be further managed. The low-speed band 284 is the transmission speed of a low-speed line to which the user shifts when the contract data volume 283 is exceeded within a contract unit period. The additional purchase amount 285 is the amount per unit data volume when a high-speed line is additionally purchased, that is, the additional purchase unit price. Furthermore, when a contract in which the amount per unit data volume differs depending on the amount of data to be additionally purchased is provided by the carrier, a plurality of additional purchase amounts 285 may be managed.

[0058] Regarding the remaining data volume, the communication data volume management unit 220 monitors the usage status (data transmission volume) of the high-speed line, and updates the remaining data volume each time it is used. Regarding the purchase price, if the additional purchase price 285 is not managed in the line contract information 281, the purchase price is acquired by making an inquiry to the communication path billing management device 310 of the carrier side device 300.

[0059] The display control unit 230 controls the display on the display 131 of the information processing terminal 100. In this embodiment, the display control unit 230 displays information such as content, menus, a screen for accepting input of a content purchase request, a screen for accepting instructions for additional purchase, and the like, and accepts instructions as necessary.

[0060] [Data volume management process] Next, a description will be given of the flow of communication data volume management processing by the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment. Fig. 5 shows a processing flow of communication data volume management processing of this embodiment. This processing is started when an instruction to purchase content is received from a user.

[0061] The content management unit 210 purchases content (step S1101). Here, the content management unit 210 transmits a purchase request to the content server 400, and receives the content attribute information 271 in return.

[0062] 6(a) shows an example of a display displayed on the display 131 by the display control unit 230. The display area of ​​the display 131 includes a content display area 610, a playback amount display area 620, and a miscellaneous display area 630.

[0063] At this point, at least a start instruction display 611 for accepting an instruction to start display from the user is displayed in the content display area 610, and a playback position slide bar 621 is displayed in the playback amount display area 620.

[0064] The content management unit 210 acquires the total data amount 273 of the content in the content attribute information 271 (step S1102), and notifies the communication data amount management unit 220 of this as the required data amount.

[0065] Next, when the communication data volume management unit 220 obtains information on the required data volume of the content from the content management unit 210, it obtains the current remaining data volume of the high-speed line (step S1103).

[0066] Then, the communication data amount management unit 220 compares the required data amount with the remaining data amount, and determines whether or not the required data amount is greater than the remaining data amount (step S1104).

[0067] If the required data amount is equal to or less than the remaining data amount (S1104; No), the process ends.

[0068] On the other hand, if the required data amount is greater than the remaining data amount (S1104; Yes), the communication data amount management unit 220 calculates the purchase amount for the shortfall data amount (step S1105). Here, the communication data amount management unit 220 first calculates the shortfall data amount. The shortfall data amount is the difference between the required data amount and the remaining data amount. Then, the communication data amount management unit 220 inquires of the communication path billing management device 310 of the carrier side device 300 about the purchase amount for the shortfall data amount. When the communication data amount management unit 220 receives information on the purchase amount in response to the inquiry, it notifies the display control unit 230.

[0069] If the additional purchase unit for the high-speed line is predetermined, the minimum unit of data volume that exceeds the shortage data volume is set as the purchased data volume, and the purchase price is calculated. For example, if the shortage data volume is 180MB and the minimum purchase unit is 100MB, the purchased data volume is set to 200MB.

[0070] The display control unit 230 displays the purchase amount for the shortage data amount (step S1106). The display control unit 230 creates a message using the purchase amount information and data previously stored in the storage device 110, and displays the message.

[0071] At this time, a display example displayed on the display 131 is shown in FIG. 6(b). As shown in this figure, the created message is displayed in the other display area 630. The message includes information indicating the purchase amount. At this time, the display control unit 230 also displays buttons for accepting an intention to purchase or not, and waits for the user's selection (step S1107). Note that this figure illustrates an example in which a "Yes" button 631 is displayed as a button for accepting an intention to purchase, and a "No" button 632 is displayed as a button for accepting an intention not to purchase. Note that the message may further include a playback time corresponding to the amount of data that is lacking. Also, the message does not necessarily have to include the purchase amount. Also, even if the purchase amount for the amount of data that is lacking is calculated, information regarding the amount does not have to be displayed.

[0072] When the communication data amount management unit 220 receives the intention to purchase from the user (S1107; Yes), it performs additional purchase processing (step S1108) and ends the processing.

[0073] In the additional purchase process, the communication data volume management unit 220 transmits an additional purchase request to the carrier side device 300. On the carrier side device 300 side, the communication path data volume management device 320 enables the newly purchased high-speed circuit to be used for the communication line used by the source information processing terminal 100, and the communication path control device 330 controls the communication path. In addition, the communication path billing management device 310 additionally records the billing for the newly purchased amount for the registered user of the communication line.

[0074] On the other hand, when the display control unit 230 receives an intention not to purchase from the user (S1107; No), the display control unit 230 displays a warning (step S1111). The warning is a display that notifies the user that the remaining data amount of the high-speed line is low, and that after the limit is used, viewing will be performed on a low-speed line. For example, data such as a message used for the warning display is stored in the storage device 110 in advance.

[0075] Thereafter, the communication data volume management unit 220 continues to monitor the usage status of the high-speed line, and when it detects that the line has been fully used (step S1112), it notifies the display control unit 230. For example, it outputs a full usage signal indicating that the line has been fully used to the display control unit 230.

[0076] When the display control unit 230 receives the full capacity use signal, it displays a lowered image quality (step S1113) and ends the process. The lowered image quality display is a display indicating that the image will be displayed at a lower image quality from now on. Data, messages, etc. required for this display are stored in the storage device 110 in advance.

[0077] As described above, the information processing terminal 100 of the present embodiment is an information processing terminal 100 that uses a contracted communication line to view content stored in the content server 400, which is an external server, and includes a communication data amount management unit 220 that manages the amount of data communicated using a high-speed line of the communication line, and a display control unit 230 that controls display. When there is a possibility that the amount of data required for viewing the content will exceed the remaining data amount, which is the remaining data amount of the contracted data amount, the communication data amount management unit 220 calculates the amount of purchase for a predetermined amount of data for the shortfall of the high-speed line as the purchase amount under a predetermined condition, and the display control unit 230 displays the calculated purchase amount.

[0078] Moreover, the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment further includes a content management unit 210 that acquires and plays back content. When requesting content from the content server 400, which is an external server, the content management unit 210 acquires content attribute information 271 including data amount data indicating the total data amount of the content prior to the start of distribution of the content, and extracts total data amount 273 therein as the required data amount. Furthermore, when the remaining data amount of the high-speed line is less than the required data amount, the communication data amount management unit 220 calculates the difference between the required data amount and the remaining data amount as the data shortage amount, and calculates the amount of money required to purchase the calculated shortage amount as the purchase amount.

[0079] In this way, according to the information processing terminal 100 of the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the contracted line is insufficient according to the amount of data required for the content, and if so, the user is prompted to purchase additional lines. In addition, the additional purchase can be made on the information processing terminal 100 that the user operates to view the content, before the viewing of the content begins. Therefore, the additional purchase of the data amount of the high-speed line is kept to a minimum according to the content to be viewed. Also, there is no need to take the trouble of starting up an application for line purchase. Therefore, high-quality content can be viewed continuously for a desired period of time without increasing the burden on the user.

[0080] <Variation 1> In the above embodiment, when acquiring the purchase amount for the shortfall in the amount of data on the high-speed line, an inquiry is made to the carrier-side device 300. However, the method is not limited to this.

[0081] For example, if the line contract information 281 includes the additional purchase amount 285, the communication data amount management unit 220 uses this additional purchase amount 285 to calculate the purchase amount for the data amount that is insufficient.

[0082] This allows processing to be performed without using a communication line for inquiries.

[0083] <Variation 2> In the above embodiment, the communication data volume management unit 220 monitors the usage volume of the high-speed line and calculates the remaining data volume by comparing it with the limit volume of the high-speed line stored in advance. However, the method of obtaining the remaining data volume is not limited to this.

[0084] For example, the remaining data volume may be obtained by inquiring the carrier side device 300. That is, the remaining data volume of the contracted line at that time point is obtained from the communication path data volume management device 320. This method makes it possible to obtain the remaining data volume more accurately. For example, this method is used when a contract is made to share the contracted data volume among multiple people such as a family member.

[0085] <Modification 3> In addition, when it is determined that the data volume of the high-speed line contracted is insufficient, the processing may be changed according to the required transmission speed of the content to be viewed. In other words, if the required transmission speed is lower than the transmission speed of the low-speed line, it is not necessary to recommend a new purchase of data volume for the high-speed line.

[0086] The flow of communication data volume management processing in this case is shown in Fig. 7. The flow of processing in this modified example is basically the same as the flow of communication data volume management processing in the first embodiment. Here, the different processing will be mainly described.

[0087] In this case, when it is determined in step S1104 that the required amount of data is greater than the remaining amount of data (S1104; Yes), the required transmission speed of the content to be viewed is compared with the transmission speed of the low-speed line before calculating the purchase amount for the shortfall in data amount (S1105).

[0088] Specifically, first, the content management unit 210 refers to the content attribute information 271 and acquires the required bandwidth for the content (step S1201).

[0089] Next, the communication data volume management unit 220 acquires the transmission speed (low-speed band) of the low-speed line (step S1202). If the low-speed band is managed in the line contract information 281, it is acquired from the line contract information 281. If it is not managed, it is acquired by inquiring to the carrier side device 300.

[0090] Then, the communication data amount management unit 220 compares the required transmission speed of the content with the transmission speed of the low-speed line, and determines whether or not the required transmission speed is higher than the transmission speed of the low-speed line (step S1203).

[0091] If the required bandwidth is equal to or smaller than the low-speed bandwidth (S1203; Yes), the process ends.

[0092] On the other hand, if the required bandwidth is greater than the low-speed bandwidth (S1203; No), the process proceeds to step S1105. The subsequent processes are the same as those in the above embodiment.

[0093] Thus, according to this modification, even if the high-speed line is insufficient, if the required bandwidth is equal to or less than the bandwidth of the contracted low-speed line, the communication data volume management unit 220 does not calculate the purchase price for the shortfall. This makes it possible to avoid having the user purchase additional data for the high-speed line unnecessarily when playing back content that is sufficient even with a low-speed line. In other words, it is possible to propose to the user that they purchase additional data for the high-speed line only when necessary, thereby providing a more user-friendly communication capacity management technique.

[0094] <<Second embodiment>> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In this embodiment, consideration is given to a reduction in the amount of data on the communication line caused by other application programs using the communication line while content is being viewed.

[0095] The configuration of the communication system 900 of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. The configurations of the carrier side device 300 and the content server 400 are also the same as those of the first embodiment. The hardware configuration and functional blocks of the information processing terminal 100 are also basically the same as those of the first embodiment. However, the functions of the content management unit 210 and the communication data volume management unit 220 are partially different.

[0096] The present embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0097] The communication data volume management unit 220 of this embodiment determines whether the content can be viewed in its entirety, as in the first embodiment, after the remaining data volume of the contracted high-speed line falls below a predetermined value.

[0098] Specifically, the communication data amount management unit 220 of this embodiment acquires the remaining data amount of the contracted high-speed line at a predetermined time interval. Then, each time it is acquired, it is compared with a predetermined threshold value of the remaining data amount (remaining amount threshold Trc). Then, when the remaining data amount falls below the remaining amount threshold Trc, it is compared with the data amount of the content that has not been played back (unplayed data amount). When the remaining data amount falls below the remaining amount threshold Trc, the communication data amount management unit 220 outputs an unplayed data amount confirmation signal to the content management unit 210 to request that the content management unit 210 confirm the unplayed data amount.

[0099] When the content management section 210 receives the unplayed data amount confirmation signal from the communication data amount management section 220, it acquires the unplayed data amount of the content at that time as a required data amount and notifies the communication data amount management section 220 of it.

[0100] Specifically, the content management unit 210 monitors the playback of the content, and acquires the amount of played data at a predetermined interval. Then, each time the amount of played data is acquired, the amount of unplayed data is calculated by subtracting the amount of played data from the total data amount 273 of the content attribute information 271 acquired initially. Note that the predetermined interval is not limited to time. It may be the amount of received data, etc.

[0101] The flow of the communication data volume management process by the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment will be described below. Fig. 8 shows a process flow of the communication data volume management process of this embodiment. This process is also started when an instruction to purchase content is received from the user.

[0102] The content management unit 210 purchases the content (step S2101). As in the first embodiment, the content management unit 210 transmits a purchase request to the content server 400, and receives the content attribute information 271 in return. Then, in this embodiment, the information processing terminal 100 starts playing the content. Note that the content attribute information 271 may be transmitted simultaneously with the content transmission, or may be transmitted during the content transmission.

[0103] 9(a) shows an example of a display displayed on the display 131 by the display control unit 230. In this embodiment, since playback of the content has started at this point, the content is displayed in the content display area 610.

[0104] The communication data volume management unit 220 acquires the remaining data volume of the high-speed line at a predetermined time interval (step S2102). Then, the acquired remaining data volume is compared with a predetermined remaining volume threshold Trc to determine whether the remaining data volume is equal to or less than the remaining volume threshold Trc (step S2103).

[0105] If the remaining data amount is greater than the remaining amount threshold Trc (S2103; No), the process returns to step S2102 and repeats the process.

[0106] On the other hand, if the remaining data amount is equal to or less than the remaining amount threshold Trc (S2103; Yes), an unplayed data amount acquisition signal is output to notify the content management unit 210 to acquire the unplayed data amount of the content. In response, the content management unit 210 acquires the unplayed data amount at that time as the required data amount (step S2104).

[0107] The subsequent processes are the same as S1104 to S1108 and S1111 to S1113 in the first embodiment.

[0108] However, in this embodiment, if the required data amount is equal to or less than the remaining data amount in S1104 (S1104; No), the process returns to step S2102. As described above, in this embodiment, the operation of other application programs that use the communication line during content viewing is also taken into consideration. Therefore, the remaining data amount changes due to other applications using the data amount of the high-speed line until the next check timing. Furthermore, as the playback of the content progresses, the required data amount also changes. In consideration of these, at the next check timing, these latest values ​​are used for comparison.

[0109] Even after an additional purchase (S1108), unless viewing ends (step S2105), the process returns to step S2102 and repeats. This is because even if a new additional purchase is made, the amount of data on the high-speed line may be used by other applications, resulting in a need for more data than the amount of data shortage calculated in step S1105.

[0110] In this embodiment, while the display control unit 230 is displaying the purchase amount for the shortage data amount in step S1106, the content management unit 210 may suspend the playback of the content. Then, when the purchase is accepted, or after an instruction not to purchase is accepted and a warning is displayed, the content playback may be automatically resumed.

[0111] 9B shows an example of the display displayed on the display 131 in step S1106. The created message is displayed in the other display area 630, and a button for accepting an intention of whether or not to purchase is also displayed, and a selection by the user is awaited, as in the first embodiment.

[0112] However, in this embodiment, the displayed message is different from that in the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the message includes information indicating the purchase price as well as information on the playback time corresponding to the amount of unplayed data.

[0113] In this embodiment, since playback of the content has already started, the content is displayed in the content display area 610. Also, the playback position slide bar 621 is displayed in a manner that allows the amount of playback to be ascertained.

[0114] As described above, in the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment, the communication data amount management unit 220 acquires the remaining data amount of the contracted high-speed line at a predetermined time interval, and when the remaining data amount is equal to or less than a predetermined remaining amount threshold Trc, outputs an unplayed data amount acquisition signal for acquiring the unplayed data amount of the content to the content management unit 210. In response to the signal, the content management unit 210 calculates the unplayed data amount of the content being viewed as the required data amount. Then, when the latest remaining data amount of the high-speed line is less than the required data amount, the communication data amount management unit 220 calculates the shortfall data amount of the high-speed line, and calculates the amount of purchase amount for purchasing the shortfall data amount as the purchase amount.

[0115] In this manner, according to the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, whether or not the contracted line is insufficient is determined according to the amount of unplayed data of the content, and if it is insufficient, the user is prompted to purchase an additional line. At this time, the use of the communication line by other application programs is also taken into consideration.

[0116] Therefore, according to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the amount of data shortage in a high-speed line can be calculated with even greater accuracy, thereby further reducing the burden on the user while allowing the user to continue watching high-quality content.

[0117] This embodiment may be combined with Modifications 1 to 3.

[0118] <<Third embodiment>> Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The first embodiment is intended for viewing content whose total data volume is known. On the other hand, this embodiment is intended for viewing content whose total data volume is unknown. For example, this is content such as a live sports broadcast whose end time is not determined in advance.

[0119] The configuration of the communication system 900 of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. The configurations of the carrier side device 300 and the content server 400 are also the same as those of the first embodiment. The hardware configuration and functional blocks of the information processing terminal 100 are also basically the same as those of the first embodiment. However, the functions of the content management unit 210 and the communication data volume management unit 220 are partially different.

[0120] In this embodiment, as in the second embodiment, the communication data volume management unit 220 checks the remaining data volume of the high-speed line at a predetermined time interval. However, in this embodiment, when the remaining data volume becomes equal to or less than the remaining volume threshold Trc, it instructs the content management unit 210 to calculate the average transmission rate of the content.

[0121] In addition, the communication data amount management unit 220 of this embodiment uses the average transmission rate of the content to calculate the subsequent purchase price and presents it to the user. In this embodiment, at this time, the purchase price may be calculated and presented under multiple, different conditions. The multiple conditions may be, for example, different future viewing times, etc.

[0122] The content management unit 210 calculates the average transmission rate of the content up to that point in time. For example, it is obtained by dividing the viewing data volume up to that point in time by the viewing period. Then, the calculated average transmission rate is output to the communication data volume management unit 220.

[0123] The flow of the communication data volume management process by the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment will be described below. Fig. 10 shows a processing flow of the communication data volume management process of this embodiment. This process is also started when the user accepts an instruction to purchase content.

[0124] The flow of the communication data volume management process of this embodiment will be described below, focusing on the process that differs from the second embodiment.

[0125] The content management unit 210 purchases the content (step S2101).

[0126] The communication data volume management unit 220 acquires the remaining data volume of the high-speed line at a predetermined time interval (step S2102). Then, the acquired remaining data volume is compared with a predetermined remaining volume threshold Trc to determine whether the remaining data volume is equal to or less than the remaining volume threshold Trc (step S2103).

[0127] If the remaining data amount is greater than the remaining amount threshold Trc (S2103; No), the process returns to step S2102 and repeats the process.

[0128] On the other hand, if the remaining data amount is equal to or less than the remaining amount threshold Trc (S2103; Yes), a calculation instruction notice is sent to the content management unit 210 to calculate the average transmission rate of the content. Upon receiving the calculation instruction notice, the content management unit 210 calculates the average of the transmission rate up to that point, obtains the average transmission rate AA of the content (step S3101), and outputs it to the communication data amount management unit 220.

[0129] The communication data volume management unit 220 uses the average transmission rate AA to calculate the purchase price for each predetermined viewing condition (step S3102). In this embodiment, for example, the purchase price for each of a plurality of viewing times is calculated. For example, if the purchase price per unit time is BB, the purchase price for viewing for T1 time can be calculated as AA x T1 x BB.

[0130] The display control unit 230 displays the calculated purchase amount (step S3103). The subsequent processing is the same as in the second embodiment. Note that the additional purchase in step S1108 is a purchase under the conditions selected in step S1107.

[0131] 11 shows an example of a display displayed on display 131 in step S3103. The display is basically the same as in the second embodiment. However, in this embodiment, the message displayed in other display area 630 and the intention acceptance button are different. Also, since the total data amount of the content being viewed is unknown, display control unit 230 displays, in playback amount display area 620, information that enables the amount viewed up to that point to be ascertained, such as the viewing time.

[0132] Here, an example is shown in which the purchase price is calculated for three types of viewing conditions (viewing time), 10 minutes, 20 minutes, and 60 minutes. Each condition and intention not to purchase are displayed in a selectable manner. The button 633 for selecting each condition displays the condition (viewing time) and the corresponding purchase price.

[0133] In this embodiment, while the display control unit 230 is displaying the purchase price for each condition in step S3103, the content management unit 210 may temporarily suspend the playback of the content, as in the second embodiment. Then, when a purchase is accepted, or after an instruction not to purchase is accepted and a warning is displayed, the playback of the content may be automatically resumed.

[0134] As described above, in the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment, the communication data amount management unit 220 acquires the remaining data amount of the high-speed line at a predetermined time interval, and when the remaining data amount is equal to or less than a predetermined remaining amount threshold, outputs a calculation instruction notification to the content management unit 210, and the content management unit 210 receives it and calculates the average transmission rate of the content being viewed. Thereafter, the communication data amount management unit 220 uses the average transmission rate to calculate the amount of purchase for the required data amount of the high-speed line for each predetermined condition as the purchase amount, and the display control unit displays the purchase amount in association with each condition.

[0135] In this way, according to the information processing terminal 100 of this embodiment, even when viewing content whose total data volume is unknown, if the contracted line is about to run short, the user is prompted to purchase additional data. At this time, the user can select the additional purchase amount based on a number of conditions, for example, for each viewing time. Therefore, according to this embodiment, similar to the first and second embodiments, the additional purchase of data volume for a high-speed line can be kept to a minimum depending on the content to be viewed. In addition, there is no need to take the trouble of starting up an application for line purchase. Therefore, high-quality content can be viewed continuously for a desired period of time without increasing the user's burden.

[0136] This embodiment may be combined with Modifications 1 to 3.

[0137] <Variation 4> In each of the above embodiments, if the user decides not to purchase the content after asking whether or not to purchase the content, the process of steps S1111 to S1113 is performed, and a warning is issued. However, these processes do not have to be performed. Only a warning message or a message indicating degradation of image quality may be displayed.

[0138] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and includes various modifications. For example, the above-described embodiments and modifications have been described in detail to clearly explain the present invention, and are not necessarily limited to those having all of the configurations described. In addition, it is possible to replace a part of the configuration of a certain embodiment or modification with the configuration of another embodiment or modification. It is also possible to add the configuration of another embodiment or modification to the configuration of a certain embodiment or modification. Furthermore, it is possible to add, delete, or replace a part of the configuration of each embodiment or modification with another configuration.

[0139] In addition, the above-mentioned configurations, functions, processing units, processing means, etc. may be realized in part or in whole by hardware, for example, by designing them as integrated circuits. In addition, the above-mentioned configurations, functions, etc. may be realized in software by a processor interpreting and executing a program that realizes each function. Information such as the program, table, file, etc. that realizes each function can be stored in a memory unit, a recording device such as a hard disk or SSD (Solid State Drive), or a recording medium such as an IC card, SD card, or DVD.

[0140] In addition, the control lines and information lines shown are those that are considered necessary for the explanation, and not all control lines and information lines in the product are necessarily shown. In reality, it can be considered that almost all components are connected to each other. [Explanation of symbols]

[0141] 100: information processing terminal, 100S: smartphone, 101: main processor, 102: system bus, 103: RAM, 104: storage device, 109S: case, 110: storage device, 120: operation reception device, 121: operation key, 121P: power switch, 122: touch sensor, 123: touch panel, 124: fingerprint sensor, 125: LED, 127: touch screen, 130: image processing device, 131: display, 132: image signal processing unit, 133: first image acquisition acquisition unit, 134: second image acquisition unit, 140: audio processing device, 141: audio output unit, 141M: audio output unit, 141S: audio output unit, 142: audio signal processing unit, 143: audio input unit, 150: sensor, 151: receiving unit, 152: gyro sensor, 153: geomagnetic sensor, 154: acceleration sensor, 155: distance sensor, 160: communication device, 161: LAN communication unit, 162: telephone network communication unit, 163: BT communication unit, 170: expansion interface unit, 170U: USB terminal, 180: timer, 210: content management unit, 220: communication data volume management unit, 230: display control unit, 270: content attribute information database, 271: content attribute information, 272: content ID, 273: total data volume, 274: required bandwidth, 275: title, 276: type, 280: communication contract database, 281: line contract information, 282: terminal ID, 283: contract data volume, 284: low-speed bandwidth, 285: additional purchase amount, 300: Carrier side device, 310: Communication path billing management device, 320: Communication path data amount management device, 330: Communication path control device, 340: Contract information management device, 400: content server, 410: content library, 420: content billing management device, 430: content transmission management device, 500: network, 510: base station, 610: Content display area, 611: Start instruction display, 620: Playback amount display area, 621: Playback position slide bar, 630: Other display area, 631: "Yes" button, 632: "No" button, 633: Selection button, 900: Communication systems, Trc: Remaining charge threshold

Claims

1. An information processing terminal for viewing content live-streamed from an external server using a contracted communication line, a communication data volume management unit for managing the volume of data communicated using the high-speed line of the communication line; a content management unit that acquires and plays the content; A display control unit that controls the display; Equipped with the communication data volume management unit, when a remaining data volume, which is a remaining data volume of a contracted data volume, is equal to or less than a predetermined remaining volume threshold, acquires necessary information, which is information required when additionally purchasing a required data volume of the high-speed line corresponding to a plurality of predetermined conditions, for each of the plurality of predetermined conditions; The display control unit controls to display a viewing time of the content, and to display the necessary information in association with each of the plurality of predetermined conditions. An information processing terminal characterized by:

2. 2. The information processing terminal according to claim 1, the predetermined condition is an additional viewing time, The content management unit calculates an average transmission rate of the content being viewed, The communication data volume management unit calculates, for the additional viewing time, a data volume of the high-speed line required for viewing the additional viewing time using the average transmission rate, and acquires information required for additionally purchasing the data volume as the required information. An information processing terminal characterized by:

3. 3. The information processing terminal according to claim 1, The information required for the additional purchase is the amount, and the necessary information is the purchase amount. An information processing terminal characterized by:

4. 4. The information processing terminal according to claim 3, The communication data volume management unit inquires of a device of a carrier that manages the communication line about an additional purchase price of the data volume of the high-speed line, and calculates the purchase amount based on the reply. An information processing terminal characterized by:

5. 4. The information processing terminal according to claim 3, The additional purchase price of the data volume of the high-speed line is stored in advance as a communication contract database, The communication data volume management unit refers to the communication contract database and calculates the purchase price. An information processing terminal characterized by:

6. 2. The information processing terminal according to claim 1, the display control unit controls to display an acceptance button for accepting an intention to purchase together with the display of the necessary information; When the communication data volume management unit receives an intention to purchase via the reception button, the communication data volume management unit transmits an additional purchase request to a business operator that manages the communication line. An information processing terminal characterized by:

7. 2. The information processing terminal according to claim 1, the display control unit controls to display an acceptance button for accepting an intention to purchase together with the display of the necessary information; The display control unit displays a warning when it receives an intention not to purchase via the reception button. An information processing terminal characterized by:

8. 8. An information processing terminal according to claim 7, the communication data volume management unit monitors the usage status of the data volume of the high-speed line after the warning display is given, and when the contracted data volume has been used up, outputs a full volume usage signal indicating that the data volume has been used up to the display control unit; The display control unit outputs a message indicating that the contracted data amount has been used up when the full amount usage signal is received. An information processing terminal characterized by:

9. 2. The information processing terminal according to claim 1, the content management unit, when requesting content from the external server, acquires a required bandwidth indicating a bandwidth required for playing the content prior to starting distribution of the content; Even if there is a possibility that the amount of data required for viewing the content will exceed the remaining data amount, if the required bandwidth is equal to or less than the bandwidth of the low-speed line after the contracted data amount is used up, the communication data amount management unit does not acquire the necessary information. An information processing terminal characterized by:

10. 2. The information processing terminal according to claim 1, The content management unit stops playback of the content while the display control unit is displaying the necessary information. An information processing terminal characterized by:

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