STARTUP PROGRAM, STARTUP SYSTEM, MOBILE TERMINAL, AND APPLICATION STARTUP METHOD

Abstract

To provide a startup program, startup system, portable terminal and application start method.SOLUTION: An application start method includes enabling a disabled signal receiving function of a portable terminal 20 when it is detected using a satellite positioning system that the portable terminal 20 is approaching a store, and automatically starting an application installed in the portable terminal 20 when a signal transmitted in the store is received by the signal receiving function.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a startup program, a startup system, a mobile terminal, and a method for starting an application. [Background technology]

[0002] There are several methods for cashless payment. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a Near Field Communication (NFC) service application that uses an NFC applet for short-distance wireless communication. The NFC applet is a program that runs on a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) attached to a mobile terminal.

[0003] The NFC applet provides a card emulation function that emulates a payment card such as a credit card or electronic money card. By registering credit card information in the NFC service application, users can use their mobile device in place of a credit card to make cashless payments.

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a method for managing the enabled / disabled state of an NFC applet so that an NFC service application can be used only when preset usage conditions are met, without user operation. By adopting this method, the user does not need to manually enable or disable the NFC applet, simplifying user operation.

[0005] Another cashless payment method is code payment. There are multiple businesses that provide code payment services, and each of these businesses provides a code payment application. After purchasing a mobile device, a user installs one or more payment applications on their mobile device. For example, when making a code payment using the store scan method, the user manually launches the payment application to be used for payment and then displays the payment screen. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-211379 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Even within the same payment application, the operation methods differ between NFC service applications and code payment applications. Furthermore, operation methods for all applications, not just payment applications, vary depending on the type. Therefore, technologies to simplify manual user operations are required for each application.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a launch program, a launch system, a mobile terminal, and an application launch method that can simplify the manual operation of applications installed on a mobile terminal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A startup program according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a startup program for launching an application installed on a mobile device, the mobile device comprising a location information processing unit configured to acquire the current location of the mobile device, and a signal receiving unit configured to receive signals, the signal receiving unit being switchable between enabled and disabled, the startup program including instructions to acquire the current location of the mobile device, acquire store information relating to a store, the store information including the store location, enable the disabled signal receiving unit when it is detected that the mobile device is approaching the store based on the store location and the current location, and automatically launch the application when the signal receiving unit receives the signal transmitted within the store.

[0010] An activation system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a signal emitting device configured to emit a signal within a store; a mobile terminal having an application installed thereon, the mobile terminal including a location information processing unit configured to acquire a current location of the mobile terminal and a signal receiving unit configured to receive the signal; and a server configured to transmit store information relating to the store to the mobile terminal, the store information including the store location, wherein the mobile terminal is configured to acquire the current location using the location information processing unit, acquire the store information by communicating with the server, enable the disabled signal receiving unit when it detects that the mobile terminal is approaching the store based on the store location and the current location, and automatically activate the application when the signal receiving unit receives the signal within the store.

[0011] A mobile terminal according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes one or more processors, one or more memories storing an application and a startup program for launching the application, a location information processing unit configured to acquire the current location of the mobile terminal, and a signal receiving unit configured to receive signals, the signal receiving unit being switchable between enabled and disabled, wherein the startup program is configured to be executed by the one or more processors, and the startup program includes instructions to acquire the current location of the mobile terminal, acquire store information relating to a store, the store information including the store location, enable the disabled signal receiving unit when it detects that the mobile terminal is approaching the store based on the store location and the current location, and automatically launch the application when the signal receiving unit receives the signal transmitted within the store.

[0012] A method for launching an application according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes enabling a disabled signal reception function of a mobile device when it is detected using a satellite positioning system that the mobile device is approaching a store, and automatically launching an application installed on the mobile device when a signal transmitted within the store is received by the signal reception function. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a starting system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the electrical configuration of a computer. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the mobile terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a switchable display screen of the pay application. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining the configuration of a store visit detection system. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a list screen of the check-in application. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram for explaining a method for starting an application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Below, examples of a launch program and a launch system for launching an application installed on a mobile terminal, as well as examples of a launch method for a mobile terminal and an application, are described with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to these examples, but is defined by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0015] [Overall configuration] As shown in FIG. 1, activation system 11 may include one or more servers. The one or more servers may include at least one of payment server 12, point management server 13, geographic information server 14, check-in server 15, and data server 16. Data server 16 may include database 17. Two or more of servers 12 to 16 may be integrated into a single computer or server. Database 17 may be held in part or in whole by at least one of servers 12 to 15, instead of or in addition to data server 16.

[0016] The servers 12 to 16, one or more mobile terminals 20, and one or more store terminals 18 may be able to communicate with each other via a network 19. The mobile terminal 20 is a user terminal used by a user. The mobile terminal 20 may be, but is not limited to, a tablet, a smartphone, or a smartwatch. The store terminal 18 is located in a store. At least one of the one or more mobile terminals 20 and the one or more store terminals 18 may be included in the activation system 11.

[0017] The network 19 includes, for example, the Internet, a WAN (Wide Area Network), a LAN (Local Area Network), a provider terminal, a wireless communication network, a wireless base station, a dedicated line, etc. However, it is not necessary for all combinations of the servers 12 to 16, the mobile terminal 20, and the store terminal 18 shown in FIG. 1 to be able to communicate with each other.

[0018] 2 shows the basic configuration of a computer 30, which is an example of the servers 12 to 16. The computer 30 includes, for example, one or more processors 31, one or more memories 32, and a communication interface (IF) 33. The communication interface 33 enables communication with other devices via the network 19. The configurations of the servers 12 to 16 may be different from each other.

[0019] The processor 31 is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a microprocessor unit (MPU), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other arithmetic device. The processor 31 is, for example, a processing circuit configured to execute various software processes. The processing circuit may include a dedicated hardware circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that processes at least a part of the software processes. In other words, the software processes may be executed by a processing circuitry that includes at least one or more software processing circuits and one or more dedicated hardware circuits.

[0020] The memory 32 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The memory 32 may include, for example, a random access memory (RAM) or other volatile memory. The memory 32 may be configured to temporarily store programs and data. The memory 32 may also include storage for permanently storing data including programs. Programs permanently stored in the memory 32 may include an operating system (OS) for controlling the overall operation of the computer and applications for executing specific operations.

[0021] The storage may be, for example, a read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk drive, a flash memory, or other non-volatile storage device. The storage may be a removable storage device such as a memory card. The communication interface 33 may be, for example, a LAN or other wired communication IF.

[0022] [Mobile device] 3 illustrates an example of the electronic configuration of mobile terminal 20. Mobile terminal 20 includes one or more processors 21, one or more memories 22, and a communication interface 23. The configurations of processor 21, memory 22, and communication interface 23 may be similar to the configurations of processor 31, memory 32, and communication interface 33, respectively.

[0023] Various programs are stored in memory 22. The programs include an OS for controlling the overall operation of mobile terminal 20 and applications for executing specific operations. Hereinafter, the applications stored in memory 22 may be abbreviated as "apps."

[0024] The mobile terminal 20 may include a display 24, an operation unit 25, a signal receiving unit 26, a demodulation processing unit 27, and a position information processing unit 28. The processor 21, memory 22, communication interface 23, display 24, operation unit 25, signal receiving unit 26, demodulation processing unit 27, and position information processing unit 28 are communicatively connected to one another via a communication bus 29. The operation unit 25 is an input device. If the display 24 is a touch panel, the operation unit 25 may include a touch sensor.

[0025] The signal receiving unit 26 may be switchable between enabled and disabled. The signal receiving unit 26 is configured to receive signals including at least one of audio signals, ultrasonic signals, and short-range wireless signals. The signal receiving unit 26 may be a microphone that is standardly installed in the mobile terminal 20 for voice calls or voice control. The microphone is used as an input device for inputting audio. The signal receiving unit 26 may be configured to receive sound waves including ultrasonic waves in addition to or instead of audio in the audible range. The sound waves received by the signal receiving unit 26 are converted into electrical signals and then demodulated by the demodulation processing unit 27.

[0026] The signal receiving unit 26 may be configured to receive a signal for short-range wireless communication. The short-range wireless communication method may be, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) or UWB (Ultra-Wide Band), but is not limited to these.

[0027] The position information processing unit 28 is configured to acquire the current position of the mobile terminal 20. The position information processing unit 28 may be a position sensor that detects the position of the mobile terminal 20 using a satellite positioning system. The position information processing unit 28 may include, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) module. The GPS module is a receiver for receiving signals from satellites. The position information processing unit 28 is configured to receive signals from, for example, three to four satellites and detect the current position of the mobile terminal 20 based on the received signals.

[0028] The location information processing unit 28 may be another satellite positioning sensor such as a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) instead of or in addition to a GPS module. Alternatively, the location information processing unit 28 may include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) or a sensor or unit using UWB.

[0029] [Electronic payment services and point programs] The payment server 12 is configured to provide electronic payment services such as code payment. The point management server 13 is configured to provide various services related to the common point program. For example, the point management server 13 is configured to perform various processes for managing and awarding points and exchanging points for benefits.

[0030] At least some of the multiple stores are electronic payment-accepting stores that provide electronic payment services. At least some of the multiple stores are point program affiliated stores that are members of a common point program. At least some of the multiple electronic payment-accepting stores are point program affiliated stores. When a user makes a payment at a point program affiliated store, the user is generally awarded points according to the payment amount.

[0031] In this example, for convenience, the loyalty program for providing rewards to users is referred to as a "points program." The amount of accumulated points is expressed as the number of points. However, the unit of exchange for rewards is not limited to "points," and can be replaced with any other name, such as "miles," "money," "coins," "dollars," "stamps," or "cash."

[0032] A business providing an electronic payment service manages one or more store terminals 18 used in each store. These store terminals 18 are configured to communicate with the payment server 12 via a network 19. The store terminal 18 may be, but is not limited to, a computer, a POS terminal, or a mobile device such as a tablet.

[0033] The multiple users include one or more users who use only one of the electronic payment service and the point program, and one or more users who use both the electronic payment service and the point program. A point management application (hereinafter referred to as a "point app") for managing points may be installed on the mobile terminal 20 of a user who participates in the point program.

[0034] A payment application (hereinafter referred to as "Pay App") is installed on the mobile terminal 20 of a user who uses an electronic payment service. The Pay App may have a point management function for processing points. In this case, the user can manage points using the Pay App without installing the point app on the mobile terminal 20.

[0035] 4, the Pay App may be capable of switching between a payment screen 41 for performing payment processing and a point management screen 42 for performing point processing on the display 24. Switching between the payment screen 41 and the point management screen 42 may be achieved by operating a payment tab 43 and a point tab 44, respectively. The payment screen 41 may be a code display screen 41 used for code payment.

[0036] The point management screen 42 may be a code display screen 42 for user authentication. The point management screen 42 may be displayed for awarding points in connection with payment. The point management screen 42 may be displayed for payment using points (hereinafter referred to as "point payment"). The number of points held by the user may be displayed on the point management screen 42. When the point app is launched by the user, it also displays a point management screen (code display screen) 42 similar to the pay app.

[0037] The code display screens 41, 42 each include one or more identification codes 45, 46. The identification codes 45, 46 may be multi-digit character strings including at least one of numbers, letters, and symbols. The identification codes 45, 46 may be two-dimensional codes obtained by encoding the character strings. The two-dimensional codes may be, but are not limited to, barcodes or QR codes (registered trademarks). The code display screens 41, 42 may also include a reload button 47.

[0038] The identification codes 45, 46 are user codes that include user identification information for identifying a user. The identification codes 45, 46 may further include payment identification information for identifying a payment process. The identification codes 45, 46 may be newly generated each time the code display screens 41, 42 are displayed. The identification codes 45, 46 may be regenerated by operating the reload button 47, and may have a fixed validity period (e.g., five minutes).

[0039] The user may wish to use a method other than code payment using the code display screen 41, such as cash payment, credit card payment, or point payment. In this case, the user does not use the code display screen 41, but presents the point management screen 42 before payment. This allows the user to make point payment and earn points according to the payment amount.

[0040] Users can manage points using the point management function of the pay app or point app. Point management includes, for example, checking the number of points they have, checking the history of points they have earned, redeeming points for rewards, and checking the history of points redemption.

[0041] The database 17 may include a store database and a user database. The store database stores various information related to point program member stores, electronic payment-accepting stores, and store terminals 18. Store information related to a store includes information on whether the store is a point program member store and information on whether the store is an electronic payment-accepting store. Store information includes, for example, the store name, store ID, address, account, email address, authentication information, payment receiving account, store terminal 18 ID, electronic payment history, and point allocation history, but is not limited to these.

[0042] The user database stores various information about users who use electronic payments. User information about users includes, but is not limited to, names, user IDs, addresses, accounts, email addresses, electronic payment history, point acquisition history, and point usage history. Examples of payment information include credit card numbers, debit card numbers, or withdrawal account numbers. The user database may also include each user's purchase history and payment history. Payment history and purchase history include, but are not limited to, the name of the store where the payment was made, the date and time of the payment, the items purchased in connection with the payment, and the purchase amount.

[0043] [Store visit detection system and check-in service] As shown in FIG. 5, the store visit detection system 50 may include a check-in server 15 (see FIG. 1) and one or more signal transmission devices 51. The store visit detection system 50 may be included in the activation system 11. The store visit detection system 50 is used to detect a user's visit to a pre-registered store via a mobile terminal 20. Registered stores that can use the store visit detection system 50 may be registered in a store database.

[0044] The signal emitting device 51 is configured to emit a signal within the store. The signal emitting device 51 may be, for example, a beacon, an ultrasonic emitting device that emits ultrasonic waves, or a device that emits a signal of short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth or UWB. Such a signal can be received by the signal receiving unit 26 of the mobile terminal 20. The signal emitting device 51 may be installed in one or more locations within the store, such as the store entrance, the ceiling, or near the cash register.

[0045] A check-in application (hereinafter referred to as a "check-in app") may be installed on the mobile terminal 20. The check-in app is provided to users who use the check-in service.

[0046] The check-in service is generally provided to encourage users to visit a store. In the check-in service, the user notifies the check-in server 15 that he or she has visited a specified registered store, and thereby the user can receive benefits such as points.

[0047] When using the check-in service, the user first launches the check-in app. When the check-in app is launched, the location information processing unit 28 acquires location information of the mobile terminal 20. The check-in app also acquires information on one or more registered stores located around the current location of the mobile terminal 20 from the check-in server 15.

[0048] FIG. 6 illustrates a list screen 53 displayed by the check-in app. The list screen 53 displays one or more registered stores that are near the mobile terminal 20. At this time, for some or all of the registered stores, the target range, which indicates how close a store must be to be displayed on the list screen 53 as "nearby," may be registered in the database 17 as store information. The target range may be set, for example, according to the commercial area of ​​the registered store. For example, the target range of a convenience store may be smaller than that of a large-scale commercial facility. The target range may be specified by distance, for example, several kilometers (2 to 5 km).

[0049] The list screen 53 may include a list tab 54 and a map tab 55. When the user operates the list tab 54, the list screen 53 shown in FIG. 6 is displayed. When the user operates the map tab 55, a map screen (not shown) is displayed on which the location information of the mobile terminal 20 and nearby registered stores is plotted. When the user selects one of the registered stores displayed on the list screen 53 or the map screen, a detection button is displayed along with detailed information about the registered store.

[0050] The user looks at the list screen 53 or the map screen and moves to one of the registered stores. Then, when the user operates the detection button, the check-in app displays a detection screen (not shown) for detecting a signal. In addition, the check-in app starts the signal receiving unit 26 of the mobile terminal 20 in response to the operation of the detection button.

[0051] The signal transmitted from the signal transmitting device 51 can usually only be received within a registered store. When the activated signal receiving unit 26 detects a signal within a registered store, the check-in app displays a check-in button on the display 24. When the user operates the check-in button, the check-in app transmits user information to the check-in server 15. As a result, the check-in server 15 records the user's visit to the store in the database 17. In this way, the act of a user visiting a store leaving a record of their visit is called "checking in." The check-in in this example is performed by such a manual operation by the user.

[0052] Instead of the user manually performing the check-in operation, when the check-in app receives a signal, the check-in app may transmit user information to the check-in server 15. Such automatic transmission of user information may be achieved by the user setting the check-in app to permit the use of location information or automatic check-in operation.

[0053] [Startup program and startup method] In the mobile terminal 20, if the signal receiving unit 26 is constantly operating, the battery capacity will decrease quickly, so the signal receiving unit 26 can be switched between an on (enabled) and an off (disabled) operating state. In order to reduce power consumption of the mobile terminal 20, users often turn off the signal receiving unit 26 when the mobile terminal 20 is not being used for its intended purpose. When the user wants to receive a signal, the user manually activates the signal receiving unit 26, thereby activating the signal receiving unit 26. Alternatively, when the user manually activates an app that uses the signal receiving unit 26, the app activates the signal receiving unit 26.

[0054] Typically, a user must manually launch a check-in app when entering a store to perform a check-in operation. Similarly, a user must manually launch a point app or a pay app to display the code display screens 41 and 42. If a user finds launching such apps troublesome, the frequency of app use may decrease. To avoid the need to manually launch an app, the launch program includes instructions for automatically launching the app.

[0055] More specifically, the programs stored in memory 22 of mobile terminal 20 include applications installed on mobile terminal 20 and startup programs for automatically starting the applications. The startup programs are configured to be executed by one or more processors 21.

[0056] An application that is automatically launched by the launch program is also called a launch target application. A launch target application is an application that typically requires a user to manually launch the application and then display a specific screen (e.g., code display screens 41 and 42). Examples of launch target applications include, but are not limited to, a check-in application, a point application, or a pay application.

[0057] The startup program may be included in the target application, or may be realized as a startup application separate from the target application. The startup application may be capable of selectively setting one or more target applications to be automatically started from among multiple target applications (e.g., a check-in application, a point application, or a pay application).

[0058] The user may be able to set whether or not to execute such automatic startup of an app in the app. If the automatic startup setting of the app is enabled, the processor 21 executes the automatic startup process described below. On the other hand, if the automatic startup setting of the app is disabled, the processor 21 does not execute the automatic startup process.

[0059] A store where the activation program can be operated is called a target store. A target store is, for example, a store where a signal emitting device 51 is installed. The geographic information server 14 may be configured to manage store information related to one or more target stores together with map data. The one or more target stores may include stores registered for a check-in service. Furthermore, the one or more target stores may include stores affiliated with a point program and stores that accept electronic payments. The geographic information server 14 may obtain store information from the database 17.

[0060] A series of processes executed by the processor 21 when the automatic startup setting is enabled will be described with reference to Fig. 7. The startup program includes instructions for executing steps S11 to S21.

[0061] First, in step S11, processor 21 acquires the current location of mobile terminal 20 based on the detection result of location information processing unit 28, for example, at a first specified interval. In step S12, processor 21 acquires store information of target stores located in the vicinity of the current location from geographic information server 14. The store information includes the target store location, which is location information of the target store.

[0062] The store information may include a detection range of the target store. The detection range is set to determine whether or not the target store is near the mobile terminal 20. The detection range is narrower than the target range. The detection range may be defined by a detection distance. The detection distance depends on the detection accuracy of the position information processing unit 28, but may be, for example, several meters (2 to 5 m). The detection distance is the distance from the current location of the mobile terminal 20 to the target store, which triggers activation of the signal receiving unit 26.

[0063] In step S13, processor 21 determines whether or not there is a target store near mobile terminal 20 based on the detection range of the target store. More specifically, processor 21 determines whether or not the current location of mobile terminal 20 is within the detection range of the nearest target store. If the determination in step S13 is negative, i.e., if the current location is outside the detection range, the process returns to step S11. If the determination in step S13 is positive, i.e., if the current location is within the detection range, the process proceeds to step S14.

[0064] In step S14, the processor 21 enables the signal receiving unit 26. That is, because it has been detected that the mobile terminal 20 has approached the target store based on the current location of the mobile terminal 20 and the target store location, the processor 21 enables the disabled signal receiving unit 26. This starts up the signal receiving unit 26 and makes it ready to receive signals.

[0065] In step S15, the processor 21 determines whether the signal receiving unit 26 has received a signal, for example, at a second specified interval. The second specified interval may be the same as or different from the first specified interval.

[0066] The signal received in step S15 may be a signal transmitted from the signal transmission device 51, or may be a characteristic sound emitted within the registered store and received by the microphone of the mobile terminal 20. Examples of sounds emitted within the store include, but are not limited to, the sound of entering the store, music broadcast within the store, or the sound of a cash register.

[0067] The cash register sound may be, for example, a "beep" sound when a product code is read, or a "ding" sound when a tray is opened. In this case, the cash register is used as the signal transmitting device 51. The sound may also be emitted from the store terminal 18, in which case the store terminal 18 is used as the signal transmitting device 51.

[0068] Depending on the location of the signal transmitting device 51, it is possible to detect where in the store the user is. For example, when the mobile terminal 20 receives a signal transmitted near the cash register, it can detect that the user is near the cash register. When the microphone of the mobile terminal 20 detects the sound of the cash register, it can also detect that the user is near the cash register. Furthermore, when the mobile terminal 20 receives a signal transmitted near the entrance, it can detect that the user has entered the store.

[0069] The location of the signal emitting device 51 may vary depending on the application to be launched. For example, for a pay application or a point application, the signal may be emitted near the cash register. For a check-in application, the signal may be emitted near the entrance.

[0070] If the determination in step S15 is affirmative, the processor 21 proceeds to step S16 and determines whether or not the mobile terminal 20 is running. For example, the processor 21 may determine that the mobile terminal 20 is running when the display 24 is on. In another example, the processor 21 may determine that the mobile terminal 20 is running when the display 24 is on and unlocked.

[0071] If the determination in step S16 is affirmative, i.e., if the mobile terminal 20 is running, the processor 21 proceeds to step S17 and starts the application to be started. That is, if the signal receiving unit 26 receives a signal transmitted within the target store, the processor 21 automatically starts the application.

[0072] If the app is a pay app, processor 21 may determine the screen to be opened first according to the store information of the target store when the application is automatically launched in step S17. For example, if the target store is a point program member store, point management screen 42 may be displayed, and if the target store is an electronic payment compatible store, payment screen 41 may be displayed. If the store is a point program member store and an electronic payment compatible store, processor 21 may display point management screen 42 when the application is automatically launched. This is because point management screen 42 usually needs to be presented before payment.

[0073] If the application is a points application, when the application is automatically started, the processor 21 may display a points management screen (code display screen) 42. If the application is a check-in application, when the application is automatically started, the processor 21 may display a detection screen.

[0074] If the determination in step S16 is negative, the processor 21 proceeds to step S18 to perform startup settings for the app. Setting up startup for the app means setting up automatic startup for the app so that the app will start up automatically when the user starts up the mobile terminal 20. As a result, when the user manually starts up the mobile terminal 20 after the startup settings have been performed, the app will start up automatically. The app screen that opens at this time is the same as the screen that opens in step S17.

[0075] After step S17 or step S18, the process proceeds to step S19, where the processor 21 disables the signal receiving unit 26. That is, after the purpose of automatically starting the app has been achieved, the processor 21 turns off the signal receiving unit 26 in order to reduce power consumption of the mobile terminal 20.

[0076] In step S20, the processor 21 determines whether the automatic startup setting of the application is enabled. If the determination in step S20 is negative, that is, if the automatic startup setting of the application is disabled, the processor 21 ends the processing. If the determination in step S20 is positive, the processor 21 returns to step S11.

[0077] After returning from step S20 in step S11, if the target store detected in step S13 is the same as the target store detected in the previous step S13, activation of the signal receiving unit 26 may be avoided until the user leaves the detection range of the target store. This is because the user may feel annoyed if the app is repeatedly launched after using the app until leaving the target store.

[0078] If the determination in step S15 is negative, i.e., if the signal receiving unit 26 does not receive a signal inside the store, the process may proceed to step S21, where the processor 21 determines whether a stop condition is satisfied. The stop condition is set to determine whether to stop the determination in step S15.

[0079] The stop condition may include, for example, the number of times step S15 is executed exceeding a count threshold. The stop condition may include the time elapsed since the signal receiving unit 26 was enabled exceeding a time threshold, or the distance between the mobile terminal 20 and the store exceeding a distance threshold. The distance threshold may be the same as the detection distance that triggers activation of the signal receiving unit 26 as the mobile terminal 20 approaches the target store. For example, if the user approaches the store but leaves without entering the store, the number of times step S15 is executed will exceed the distance threshold.

[0080] The thresholds related to the stopping conditions, such as the number threshold, time threshold, or distance threshold, may be common to all stores, may be different for each target store, or may be different for each app. The thresholds may be set individually depending on the type or site area of ​​the target store. The thresholds for each target store may be stored in database 17 as part of the store information.

[0081] In one example, the threshold (particularly, the number threshold or the time threshold) for a store (e.g., a bookstore or a restaurant) where customers generally stay for a long time is set to be larger than the threshold for a store (e.g., a convenience store) where customers generally stay for a short time. (high) Alternatively, the threshold for a store with a large floor area (e.g., a large trademark facility) may be set higher than the threshold for a store with a small floor area (e.g., a convenience store). (high) That's fine.

[0082] In another example, the thresholds (particularly, the number threshold or the time threshold) of the point application and the pay application may be larger than the threshold of the check-in application. (high) This is because with a check-in app, the check-in operation is often performed soon after arriving at a store, while a point app and a pay app are often used before leaving the store.

[0083] If the determination in step S21 is negative, the processor 21 may return to step S15. On the other hand, if the determination in step S21 is positive, the processor 21 may proceed to step S19, where the processor 21 may disable the signal receiving unit 26. That is, if the signal receiving unit 26 does not receive a signal until the stop condition is satisfied after the signal receiving unit 26 is enabled, the signal receiving unit 26 may be disabled. This is because if the signal receiving unit 26 continues to operate without receiving a signal, the mobile terminal 20 will consume additional power.

[0084] [Effects of the present disclosure] Generally, commercially available mobile terminals are equipped with several functions as standard. Examples of the functions that are equipped as standard are a mobile communication function, a Bluetooth signal receiving function, a GPS function, and a microphone. The GPS function is realized by the location information processing unit 28, and the signal receiving function is realized by the signal receiving unit 26.

[0085] After a user purchases a mobile terminal 20, applications that the user installs can use these built-in functions. For example, a pay application for code payment uses the mobile communication function to communicate with the payment server 12. Also, a check application uses the GPS function to acquire the current location of the mobile terminal 20 and displays the list screen 53.

[0086] In the application activation method of the present disclosure, when it is detected using a satellite positioning system that mobile terminal 20 is approaching a store, the activation program activates the disabled signal reception function of mobile terminal 20. Thereafter, when a signal transmitted within the store is received by the signal reception function, the application installed on mobile terminal 20 is automatically activated.

[0087] Generally, the detection accuracy of a GPS function using a satellite positioning system is lower than that of a signal reception function. Therefore, in the startup method disclosed herein, the GPS function first detects that the mobile terminal 20 is approaching a store, and this detection triggers the activation of the signal reception function. The signal reception function then receives a signal, thereby detecting the user's precise location within the store, such as in front of a cash register. Then, upon receiving the signal, a startup program automatically launches an application installed on the mobile terminal 20.

[0088] In this way, the launch program can use the standard functions installed in the mobile terminal 20 to automatically launch one or more applications when the user uses the app. This simplifies the manual operation of applications installed on the mobile terminal 20. It also has the effect of reminding the user to use the application and informing the user that the store is a participating store for the corresponding service. Furthermore, it can encourage businesses that provide applications to use their own services.

[0089] [Effects of this disclosure] According to the present disclosure, the following effects can be achieved. (1) When the mobile terminal 20 approaches a store, the signal reception function is activated. When a user carries the mobile terminal 20 and enters a target store, the mobile terminal 20 can receive a signal transmitted within the target store. When the mobile terminal 20 receives the signal, the startup program automatically starts the application. This eliminates the need for the user to manually start the application, simplifying the manual operation by the user.

[0090] (2) When the mobile terminal 20 receives a signal while the mobile terminal 20 is not running, the application is set to start. In this case, when the user starts the mobile terminal 20, the application starts automatically. Therefore, the user does not need to manually start the application.

[0091] (3) The voice signal, ultrasonic signal, and short-distance wireless signal cannot be received by the mobile terminal 20 outside the target store, but can be received by the mobile terminal 20 when it is within the signal detection range inside the target store. Therefore, if the signal emitting device 51 is placed near the cash register, the application can be automatically started when the user approaches the cash register.

[0092] (4) If the audio signal is the sound generated by a cash register, the application can be automatically started when the user approaches the cash register. Also, since the cash register can replace the signal transmitting device 51, there is no need to install a separate device for transmitting signals. Furthermore, since the mobile terminal 20 receives the signal using a built-in microphone, there is no need to install a separate program to receive the signal.

[0093] (5) If the store is a member of the point program, the point management screen 42 will be displayed when the application is automatically launched, saving the user the trouble of manually opening the point management screen 42. The user also saves the trouble of carrying a point card. Furthermore, if the store accepts electronic payments, the payment screen 41 will be displayed when the application is automatically launched, saving the user the trouble of manually opening the payment screen 41. Furthermore, the user does not need to check whether the store is a member of the point program or accepts electronic payments when making a payment.

[0094] (6) If the store is a member of the point program and accepts electronic payments, the point management screen 42 will be displayed when the application is automatically launched. This saves the user the trouble of carrying a point card. If the user wishes to pay electronically, they can switch to the payment screen 41 by operating the tab 43.

[0095] (7) The mobile terminal 20 acquires store information of the target store from the geographic information server 14. The store information includes information on whether the target store is a member of the point program and information on whether the target store accepts electronic payments. Therefore, when the application is automatically launched, it is possible to open an appropriate screen, either the point management screen 42 or the payment screen 41, depending on the target store.

[0096] (8) When the application is automatically started, the code display screens 41 and 42 are displayed, so that the user can avoid having to open the code display screens 41 and 42 when using a service that involves reading a code.

[0097] (9) If the mobile terminal 20 does not receive a signal until the stop condition is satisfied, the mobile terminal 20 automatically disables the signal receiving unit 26. This makes it possible to reduce power consumption due to the continued operation of the signal receiving unit 26.

[0098] (10) When the time elapsed since the signal receiving unit 26 was enabled exceeds a time threshold, the mobile terminal 20 automatically disables the signal receiving unit 26. This makes it possible to reduce power consumption due to the continued operation of the signal receiving unit 26.

[0099] (11) When the distance between the current location of the mobile terminal 20 and the store exceeds the distance threshold without receiving a signal, the mobile terminal 20 automatically disables the signal receiving unit 26. Therefore, it is possible to reduce power consumption due to the continued operation of the signal receiving unit 26 when, for example, the user does not enter the store.

[0100] [Example of change] This embodiment can be modified as follows: This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined and implemented within the scope of technical compatibility.

[0101] [Change Example 1] The application to be launched may be a member-only application provided by a business operator or a store. The member-only application may be configured to display, for example, access information for the store, user identification information, business hours, advertisements, or discount coupons.

[0102] [Change Example 2] The target store is not limited to a store registered with the check-in service, but may also include an individual store that performs its own store visit detection. The purpose of check-in is not limited to providing benefits, but may also be, for example, to provide a service based on the usage history to each of multiple users.

[0103] [Change Example 3] The server that transmits the store information to the mobile terminal 20 in step S11 is not limited to the geographic information server 14. For example, if the startup program is included in a check-in app, the check-in server 15 may transmit the store information to the mobile terminal 20; if the startup program is included in a pay app, the payment server 12 may transmit the store information to the mobile terminal 20; or if the startup program is included in a point app, the point management server 13 may transmit the store information to the mobile terminal 20. Alternatively, the data server 16 may transmit the store information to the mobile terminal 20. Also, in step S13, any of the servers 12 to 16 may acquire the current location of the mobile terminal 20 to determine whether or not there is a store in the immediate vicinity of the mobile terminal 20, and transmit the determination result to the mobile terminal 20.

[0104] [Change Example 4] The signal transmitting device 51 may be a signal transmitting device 51 installed for a check-in service or other service, or may be a newly installed device for the activation system 11 of the present disclosure.

[0105] [Change Example 5] When a sound such as the sound of a cash register is received by a microphone, the activation system 11 does not need to include the signal transmitting device 51.

[0106] [Change Example 6] When an application is installed, information about one or more stores may be stored in the memory 22 of the mobile terminal 20. In this case, the mobile terminal 20 can acquire the store information from the memory 22 instead of acquiring the store information from the servers 12 to 16. In this case, the activation system 11 does not need to include the servers 12 to 16 that transmit the store information to the mobile terminal 20.

[0107] [Change Example 7] The application to be launched may be any application that displays a code display screen. For example, the identification code included in the code display screen may be an identification code used to distribute coupons. The identification code does not have to be a user code for identifying a user. The identification code may be an identification code used for admission management as an electronic ticket. For example, if the identification code is used for admission management, the signal emitting device 51 may be placed at a location such as the entrance to a building or the gate of a plaza where the user enters. In this case, the term "store" in this disclosure may be read as "facility."

[0108] [Change Example 8] Even if the determination in step S13 is affirmative, the activation of the signal receiving unit 26 in step S14 may be canceled based on a specified cancellation condition. The cancellation condition may include, for example, the battery capacity of the mobile terminal 20 being below a specified value, or the signal receiving unit 26 being in use. The situation in which the signal receiving unit 26 is in use includes a situation in which a voice call is being made using the microphone.

[0109] [Change Example 9] Even if step S15 is determined to be positive, execution of step S17 or step S18 may be canceled based on a specified cancellation condition. The cancellation condition may include, for example, the battery capacity of the mobile terminal 20 being below a specified value. Furthermore, the cancellation condition for step S17 may include the user being in use of another app. This is because if the user does not intend to use the app to be started for payment, the user may feel annoyed if the app to be started is unintentionally started while using another app. Alternatively, the cancellation condition for step S17 may include the target store being a specific facility (for example, a quiet place such as a hospital or art museum).

[0110] [Change Example 10] In the system, method, or program disclosed herein, instead of automatically launching an application, a notification of the launch of the application may be executed. The notification may be, for example, a displayed message, or a vibration or sound notification. In this case, the launch system, launch method, and launch program may be read as a notification system, a notification method, and a notification program, respectively.

[0111] [Note] Below, aspects that can be understood from the above embodiment and modified examples are listed. [Aspect 1] A startup program for starting an application installed on a mobile terminal, The mobile terminal a location information processing unit configured to acquire a current location of the mobile terminal; a signal receiving unit configured to receive a signal, the signal receiving unit being switchable between enabled and disabled; wherein the startup program Obtaining a current location of the mobile device; obtaining store information relating to a store, the store information including a store location; activating the disabled signal receiving unit when detecting that the mobile terminal has approached the store based on the store location and the current location; automatically starting the application when the signal receiving unit receives the signal transmitted within the store; A startup program containing instructions.

[0112] [Aspect 2] Automatically starting the application includes setting the application to be started when the mobile device is not running, and automatically starting the application when the mobile device is started after the setting. A startup program according to aspect 1.

[0113] [Aspect 3] the signal includes at least one of an audio signal, an ultrasonic signal, and a short-range radio signal; 3. The boot program according to claim 1 or 2.

[0114] [Aspect 4] the signal receiving unit is a microphone that is standardly installed in the mobile terminal, The audio signal includes a cash register sound. A startup program according to aspect 3.

[0115] [Aspect 5] The application is a payment application that can switch between a point management screen for performing point processing of a point program and a payment screen for performing payment processing, If the store is a member of a point program, the point management screen is displayed when the application is automatically launched, If the store accepts electronic payments, the payment screen is displayed when the application is automatically launched. The boot program according to any one of the first to fourth aspects.

[0116] [Aspect 6] If the store is a member of the point program and accepts electronic payment, the point management screen is displayed when the application is automatically launched. A startup program according to embodiment 5.

[0117] [Aspect 7] The store information includes information on whether the store is a member store of the point program and information on whether the store is an electronic payment-accepting store. A boot program according to aspect 5 or 6.

[0118] [Aspect 8] the application is configured to display a code display screen including an identification code; The code display screen is displayed when the application is automatically launched. The boot program according to any one of aspects 1 to 7.

[0119] [Aspect 9] The startup program further and disabling the signal receiving unit if the signal receiving unit does not receive the signal until a stop condition is satisfied after the signal receiving unit is enabled. The boot program according to any one of aspects 1 to 8.

[0120] [Aspect 10] the stopping condition includes an elapsed time since the signal receiving unit was enabled exceeding a time threshold. A startup program according to embodiment 9.

[0121] [Aspect 11] the stopping condition includes a distance between the current location and the store exceeding a distance threshold; The distance threshold is a distance at which the mobile terminal approaches the store and triggers activation of the signal receiving unit. A startup program according to aspect 9 or 10.

[0122] [Aspect 12] a signal emitting device configured to emit a signal within the store; a mobile terminal having an application installed thereon, the mobile terminal including: a location information processing unit configured to acquire a current location of the mobile terminal; and a signal receiving unit configured to receive the signal; a server configured to transmit store information related to the store to the mobile device, the store information including a store location; Equipped with The mobile terminal acquiring a current location by the location information processing unit; acquiring the store information through communication with the server; activating the disabled signal receiving unit when detecting that the mobile terminal has approached the store based on the store location and the current location; When the signal receiving unit receives the signal within the store, automatically starting the application; A startup system configured to run

[0123] [Aspect 13] A mobile terminal, one or more processors; one or more memories that store an application and a startup program for starting the application; a location information processing unit configured to acquire a current location of the mobile terminal; a signal receiving unit configured to receive a signal, the signal receiving unit being switchable between enabled and disabled; Equipped with the boot program is configured to be executed by the one or more processors; The startup program Obtaining a current location of the mobile device; obtaining store information relating to a store, the store information including a store location; activating the disabled signal receiving unit when detecting that the mobile terminal has approached the store based on the store location and the current location; automatically starting the application when the signal receiving unit receives the signal transmitted within the store; A mobile device including instructions for:

[0124] [Aspect 14] When detecting that the mobile terminal approaches a store using a satellite positioning system, enabling a disabled signal receiving function of the mobile terminal; When a signal transmitted within the store is received by the signal receiving function, an application installed on the mobile terminal is automatically started; How the application is launched, including [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 11...activation system, 12...payment server, 13...point management server, 14...geographic information server, 15...check-in server, 16...data server, 17...database, 18...store terminal, 19...network, 20...mobile terminal, 21...processor, 22...memory, 23...communication interface, 24...display, 25...operation unit, 26...signal receiving unit, 27...demodulation processing unit, 28...location information processing unit, 29...communication bus, 30...computer, 31...processor, 32...memory, 33...communication interface, 41...payment screen (code display screen), 42...point management screen (code display screen), 43...payment tab, 44...point tab, 45, 46...identification code, 47...reload button, 50...store visit detection system, 51...signal transmitting device, 53...list screen, 54...list tab, 55...map tab.

Claims

1. A startup program for starting an application installed on a mobile terminal, The mobile terminal a location information processing unit configured to acquire a current location of the mobile terminal; a signal receiving unit configured to receive a signal transmitted from a signal transmitting device within the target store, the signal receiving unit being switchable between enabled and disabled; wherein the startup program Obtaining a current location of the mobile device; acquiring store information of the target stores in the vicinity of the current location by communicating with a server having a database storing information of a plurality of the target stores, the store information including the store location and a detection range of the target store; When it is detected that the mobile terminal is within the detection range based on the store location and the current location, enabling the disabled signal receiving unit; When the signal receiving unit receives the signal transmitted within the target store, automatically launching the application corresponding to the target store; A startup program containing instructions.

2. The application A payment application that can be used at the target store; a point management application for granting points that can be used at the target stores; A check-in application for detecting a signal from a store visit detection system available at the target store; or Membership application provided by the target store The boot program according to claim 1 , wherein the boot program is any one of the following:

3. the check-in application is configured to, when the signal receiving unit receives the signal, notify a check-in server of user information of the user holding the mobile terminal, thereby checking in to the target store. The startup program according to claim 2 .

4. The startup program further a command for displaying a screen corresponding to the application when the application is automatically started; The screen according to the application is a code display screen including an identification code or a detection screen for detecting a store visit detection signal. The boot program according to claim 1 .

5. The identification code is An identification code for payment processing that can be used at the target store; An identification code for points that can be used at the target store, or the identification code used to distribute the coupon; Identification code used for admission control Either of the following: The boot program according to claim 4 .

6. The target store is at least one of an electronic payment store and a point program member store, The startup program includes an instruction to display a code display screen corresponding to the target store when the application is automatically started, and the code display screen includes an identification code for a payment process that can be used at the target store, or an identification code for point awarding that can be used at the target store. The boot program according to claim 1 .

7. If the target store is a member store of the point program and an electronic payment-accepting store, the code display screen includes an identification code for awarding points that can be used at the target store. The boot program according to claim 6.

8. the application is a payment application configured to display an identification code for payment processing; The mobile terminal further has a check-in application installed thereon; the check-in application is configured to notify a check-in server that a user holding the mobile terminal has visited the target store; In the target store, a first signal is emitted from near the entrance and a second signal is emitted from near the cash register, When the signal receiving unit receives the first signal, the check-in application is automatically started, When the signal receiving unit receives the second signal, the payment application is automatically started. The boot program according to claim 1 .

9. The startup program and preventing automatic startup of the application when a specified cancellation condition is satisfied even if the signal receiving unit receives the signal, The termination condition is: The battery capacity of the mobile device is below a specified value; Another application is in use, or The target store is a specific facility that is predefined as a facility where automatic startup of the application is to be prevented. The boot program according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. Automatically starting the application includes: If the mobile terminal is running when the signal receiving unit receives the signal, starting the application; and if the mobile terminal is not running when the signal receiving unit receives the signal, setting up the application to start up, so that the application automatically starts up when the mobile terminal starts up after the setting up of the application to start up. The boot program according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

11. The startup program further and an instruction to disable the signal receiving unit if the signal receiving unit does not receive the signal until a stop condition is satisfied after the signal receiving unit is enabled. The boot program according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

12. The stopping condition is: The time elapsed since enabling the signal receiver exceeds a time threshold; or The distance between the current location and the target store exceeds a distance threshold, and the distance threshold is a distance that triggers activation of the signal receiving unit as the mobile terminal approaches the target store; including at least one of The boot program according to claim 11.

13. the stop condition includes at least one of: the time elapsed since the signal receiving unit was enabled exceeds a time threshold; or the number of times that attempts to receive the signal have failed since the signal receiving unit was enabled exceeds a count threshold; the application is a payment application configured to display an identification code for payment processing; The mobile terminal further has a check-in application installed thereon; With respect to one or both of the time threshold and the number threshold, the threshold for the payment application is higher than the threshold for the check-in application. The boot program according to claim 11.

14. A signal transmitting device configured to transmit a signal within a target store; a mobile terminal having an application installed thereon, the mobile terminal including: a location information processing unit configured to acquire a current location of the mobile terminal; and a signal receiving unit configured to receive the signal; a server including a database storing information on a plurality of target stores and configured to transmit store information of the target stores to the mobile terminal, the store information including a store location and a detection range of the target store; Equipped with The mobile terminal acquiring a current location by the location information processing unit; acquiring the store information of the target stores located in the vicinity of the current location through communication with the server; When it is detected that the mobile terminal is within the detection range based on the store location and the current location, enabling the disabled signal receiving unit; When the signal receiving unit receives the signal within the target store, automatically starting the application corresponding to the target store; A startup system configured to run

15. A mobile terminal, one or more processors; one or more memories storing an application and a startup program for starting the application; a location information processing unit configured to acquire a current location of the mobile terminal; a signal receiving unit configured to receive a signal transmitted from a signal transmitting device within the target store, the signal receiving unit being switchable between enabled and disabled; Equipped with the boot program is configured to be executed by the one or more processors; The startup program Obtaining a current location of the mobile device; acquiring store information of the target stores in the vicinity of the current location by communicating with a server having a database storing information of a plurality of the target stores, the store information including the store location and a detection range of the target store; When it is detected that the mobile terminal is within the detection range based on the store location and the current location, enabling the disabled signal receiving unit; When the signal receiving unit receives the signal transmitted within the target store, automatically launching the application corresponding to the target store; A mobile device including instructions for:

16. A mobile terminal having a signal receiving function that can be switched between enabled and disabled, Obtaining a current location of the mobile device; acquiring store information relating to the target stores in the vicinity of the current location by communicating with a server having a database storing information on a plurality of target stores, the store information including the store location and a detection range of the target store; When it is detected that the mobile terminal is within the detection range based on the store location and the current location, enabling the disabled signal receiving function; When a signal transmitted by a signal transmitting device in the target store is received by the signal receiving function, an application installed on the mobile terminal corresponding to the target store is automatically started. How the application is launched, including

Images