System, method, and program for distributing live video

Abstract

To assist responses by a distributor to comments from viewers.SOLUTION: A video distribution system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a video distribution server 10 and a user terminal 30. The server 10 provides a user with a live video distribution service allowing live video to be distributed and viewed via the user terminal 30. The system 1 is configured such that a distribution screen presented to a distributor of the live video has a comment display area for displaying at least part of a comment group including comments from viewers, and such that the display mode is based on at least the number of hidden subsequent comments which is later in order of posting than the displayed portion of the comment group displayed in that area. Therefore, in responding to a displayed comment, the distributor can obtain information based on the number of hidden subsequent comments which is later in order of posting than the comment.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, services have been provided for distributing live video provided by a broadcaster to multiple viewers (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). These live video distribution services are typically configured to allow viewers (listeners) to input (post) comments. Viewers can then enjoy the broadcaster's responses to the comments posted by the viewers themselves (for example, by reading out the comments during the broadcast of the live video, answering questions, expressing gratitude, etc.), and such enjoyment can motivate viewers to continue using the live video distribution service. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-022219 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in conventional live video streaming services, for example, popular streamers tend to attract many viewers and post many comments, which can result in insufficient responses from the streamers to the comments. For example, if the speed at which comments are responded to is slow compared to the speed at which the comments are posted, a situation known as "comment congestion" can occur. If viewers do not receive sufficient responses from the streamers to their posted comments, their satisfaction levels will decrease.

[0005] One of the objects of the embodiment of the present invention is to support responses by broadcasters to comments from viewers. Other objects of the embodiment of the present invention will become apparent by reading the entire specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for distributing live video, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors, in response to execution of readable instructions, perform the following processes: presenting a distribution screen to a distributor of the live video; presenting a viewing screen to viewers of the live video; and displaying comments entered by viewers of a specific live video on the distribution screen of the distributor of the specific live video and on the viewing screens of each of multiple viewers of the specific live video. The distribution screen has a comment display area that displays at least a portion of a group of comments in chronological order, including at least comments entered by viewers, and is configured to display comments in a manner based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments among the multiple comments included in the group of comments that are later in chronological order than the displayed portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area.

[0007] A method according to one embodiment of the present invention is executed by one or more computers and is a method for broadcasting live video, comprising the steps of: presenting a broadcast screen to a broadcaster of the live video; presenting a viewing screen to viewers of the live video; and displaying comments entered by viewers of a specific live video on the broadcast screen of the broadcaster of the specific live video and on the viewing screen of each of multiple viewers of the specific live video, wherein the broadcast screen has a comment display area in which at least a portion of a group of comments, including at least comments entered by viewers, are arranged in chronological order, and the display mode is configured to be based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments among the multiple comments included in the group of comments, which are later in chronological order than the displayed portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area.

[0008] A first program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for distributing live video, which, when executed on one or more computers, causes the one or more computers to execute the following processes: presenting a distribution screen to a distributor of the live video; presenting a viewing screen to viewers of the live video; and displaying comments entered by viewers of a specific live video on the distribution screen of the distributor of the specific live video and on the viewing screens of each of the multiple viewers of the specific live video. The distribution screen has a comment display area that displays at least a portion of a group of comments in which multiple comments, including at least comments entered by viewers, are arranged in chronological order, and is configured to display a display mode based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments among the multiple comments included in the group of comments that are later in chronological order than the display portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area.

[0009] A second program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for distributing live video, which, when executed on a user terminal, causes the user terminal to execute a process for displaying a distribution screen for distributing live video, and the distribution screen has a comment display area in which at least a portion of a group of comments, including at least comments entered by viewers, are displayed in order of their occurrence, and is configured to display a display mode based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments, among the multiple comments included in the group of comments, that are later in order of occurrence than the displayed portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] Various embodiments of the present invention facilitate broadcaster responses to viewer comments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network of a video distribution system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing the functions of a video distribution system 1. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a user information table 411. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining ranks. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a distribution management table 412. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a distribution screen 70. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a viewing screen 80. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an item selection screen 100. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the distribution screen 70 when the latest comment object 731 is not displayed in the comment display area 73. [Figure 11]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of a remaining comment number display object 78. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining remaining comments. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed by the distributor terminal 30 in response to the occurrence of a new comment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining how automatic scrolling is performed in the comment display area 73 in response to the occurrence of a new comment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining how the display content of the remaining comment number display object 78 is updated in response to the creation of a new comment. [Figure 16] 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when updating a rank. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an update rule for a rank meter value. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between update contents of rank and required rank meter value. [Figure 19] 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a distribution screen 70 in another example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a network of a video distribution system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the system 1 includes a video distribution server 10 and a user terminal 30 communicatively connected to the video distribution server 10 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet. While only one user terminal 30 is illustrated in FIG. 1, the video distribution system 1 includes multiple user terminals 30. The video distribution server 10 provides users with a live video distribution service for distributing and viewing live videos via the user terminal 30. In this embodiment, a user operating the user terminal 30 can distribute live videos as a distributor and can also view live videos provided by other users as a viewer.

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

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

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

[0017] The communication I / F 14 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to be able to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

[0018] The storage 15 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system, various types of data, etc.

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

[0020] The video distribution server 10 configured in this manner can be configured to function as a web server and an application server, in which case it executes various processes in response to requests from a web browser and other applications installed on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data (e.g., HTML data) and control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The user terminal 30 can display a web page or other screen based on the received data.

[0021] The user terminal 30 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes a computer processor 31, a main memory 32, an input / output I / F 33, a communication I / F 34, and a storage (storage device) 35, with each of these components being electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

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

[0023] The input / output I / F 33 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with a user, etc. The input / output I / F 33 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), audio input devices such as a microphone, and image input devices such as a camera. The input / output I / F 33 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0024] The communication I / F 34 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to be able to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

[0025] The storage 35 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk or a flash memory, etc. The storage 35 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, etc. The programs stored in the storage 35 can be downloaded from an application market or the like and installed.

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

[0027] A user operating a user terminal 30 configured in this manner can use the live video distribution service provided by the video distribution server 10 by communicating with the video distribution server 10 via a web browser or other application installed on storage 35, etc.

[0028] Next, the functions of the video distribution system 1 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the functions of the video distribution server 10 and the user terminal 30. As illustrated, the server 10 includes an information storage management unit 41 that stores and manages various information, a basic function control unit 43 that controls the basic functions of the live video distribution service, and a video distribution control unit 45 that controls the distribution of live videos. These functions are realized by the cooperative operation of hardware such as the computer processor 11 and main memory 12, as well as various programs and data (e.g., server-side programs for providing the live video distribution service) stored in the storage 15, for example, by the computer processor 11 executing instructions included in a program loaded into the main memory 12. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the server 10 illustrated in FIG. 2 may be realized by the cooperation of the server 10 and the user terminal 30, or may be realized by the user terminal 30.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, the user terminal 30 includes an information storage management unit 51 that stores and manages various information, a distribution function control unit 53 that controls the terminal-side distribution function of the live video distribution service, and a viewing function control unit 55 that controls the terminal-side viewing function of the live video distribution service. These functions are realized by the cooperative operation of hardware such as the computer processor 31 and main memory 32, as well as various programs and data stored in the storage 35 or the like (e.g., a terminal-side program for using the live video distribution service that is stored in advance in the storage 35 or the like as an application or is provided by the server 10 in a format executable by the application or a web browser, etc.), for example, by the computer processor 31 executing instructions included in a program loaded into the main memory 32. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the user terminal 30 shown in FIG. 2 may be realized by the cooperation between the server 10 and the user terminal 30, or may be realized by the server 10.

[0030] The information storage management unit 41 of the video distribution server 10 stores and manages various information in the storage 15 etc. For example, as shown in Fig. 2, the information storage management unit 41 is configured to have a user information table 411 that manages information about users of the live video distribution service, and a distribution management table 412 that manages information about distribution of individual live videos.

[0031] The basic function control unit 43 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to the control of the basic functions of the live video distribution service. For example, the basic function control unit 43 transmits screen data or control data of various screens related to the basic functions to the user terminal 30, executes various processes in response to user operation inputs via the screens displayed on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data or control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The basic functions controlled by the basic function control unit 43 include, for example, login processing (user authentication), billing control, and user management (e.g., updating the user information table 411).

[0032] The video distribution control unit 45 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to the control of live video distribution. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to distribute live video provided by each of multiple distributors to multiple viewers. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to receive live video transmitted from a user terminal 30 of the distributor (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "distributor terminal 30") and transmit the live video to each user terminal 30 of multiple viewers (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "viewer terminal 30"). The live video is composed of, for example, images input via a camera of the distributor terminal 30 and audio input via a microphone. Such live video distribution can be performed, for example, by a streaming method using a protocol such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS).

[0033] The information storage management unit 51 of the user terminal 30 stores and manages various information in the storage 35, etc. The distribution function control unit 53 of the user terminal 30 executes various processes related to controlling the terminal-side distribution function of the live video distribution service. The distribution function is a function for the user of the user terminal 30 to distribute live video as a distributor. For example, the distribution function control unit 53 is configured to generate video data in real time of video composed of images input via the camera of the user terminal 30 and audio input via the microphone, and transmit the generated video data to the server 10. Furthermore, for example, the distribution function control unit 53 is configured to display a distribution screen for distributing live video on the user terminal 30 based at least on screen data or control data received from the server 10.

[0034] The viewing function control unit 55 of the user terminal 30 executes various processes related to controlling the terminal-side viewing function of the live video distribution service. The viewing function is a function that enables the user of the user terminal 30 to view videos distributed by other users as a viewer. For example, the viewing function control unit 55 is configured to receive video data of the live video transmitted from the server 10 and play (display) the live video based on the received video data. Furthermore, for example, the viewing function control unit 55 is configured to display a viewing screen for viewing the live video on the user terminal 30 based at least on the screen data or control data received from the server 10.

[0035] In this embodiment, the video distribution control unit 45 of the server 10 is configured to display comments entered by viewers of a live video on the distribution screen of the broadcaster of the live video and on the viewing screens of each of the multiple viewers of the live video. For example, when the video distribution control unit 45 receives a comment entered by a viewer of a specific live video via the viewing screen from the viewer terminal 30 of the viewer, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to transmit data including the comment to the broadcaster terminal 30 of the broadcaster of the specific live video and to each of the viewer terminals 30 of the multiple viewers of the specific live video. The broadcaster terminal 30 and viewer terminal 30 that receive the data display the comment included in the data on the distribution screen and viewing screen.

[0036] In this embodiment, the distribution screen displayed on the distributor terminal 30 is configured to have a comment display area in which at least a portion of a group of comments, including at least comments entered by viewers, is displayed in chronological order. The distribution screen is also configured to display a mode based at least on the number of non-displayed subsequent comments, among the multiple comments included in the group of comments, that are later in chronological order than the display portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area.

[0037] As described above, the video distribution system 1 according to the present embodiment is configured such that the distribution screen presented to the broadcaster of a live video stream has a comment display area for displaying at least a portion of the group of comments including comments from viewers, and the display mode is based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments that occurred later than the displayed portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area. Therefore, when responding to a comment displayed in the comment display area, the broadcaster can obtain information based on the number of hidden subsequent comments that occurred later than the comment in question, and can adjust the speed of the response depending on the number of hidden subsequent comments, for example. In this way, the video distribution system 1 supports the broadcaster's response to comments from viewers.

[0038] In this embodiment, the group of comments, some of which are displayed in the comment display area, may consist only of comments entered by viewers, or may additionally include other comments, such as system comments automatically entered by system 1.

[0039] In this embodiment, the distribution screen may be configured so that the displayed portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area is changed in response to a predetermined operation by the distributor. For example, the comment display area is configured so that the displayed comment (the comment displayed in the comment display area among the multiple comments making up the group of comments) is changed (switched) in response to an operation on the comment display area itself or an operation on another area / object other than the comment display area. This configuration makes it possible to notify the distributor of information based on the number of hidden subsequent comments when the displayed comment is changed in response to an operation by the distributor.

[0040] The broadcast screen may also be configured to display a predetermined object based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments. This configuration makes it possible to notify the broadcaster of information based on the number of hidden subsequent comments via the predetermined object.

[0041] In this embodiment, a predetermined object may be displayed according to the number of hidden subsequent comments. That is, for example, the distribution screen may be configured so that the predetermined object is not displayed when the number of hidden subsequent comments is less than a predetermined value (e.g., 0), but is displayed when the number of hidden subsequent comments is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (e.g., 1 or greater). This configuration prevents a decrease in visibility of the distribution screen when the number of hidden subsequent comments is small, and helps the broadcaster easily recognize the number of hidden subsequent comments based on whether or not the predetermined object is displayed.

[0042] Furthermore, the predetermined object may be configured to have an appearance based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments. For example, the predetermined object may be configured to have a size, color, pattern, or shape based on the number of hidden subsequent comments. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined object may be configured to display the number of hidden subsequent comments itself. Such a configuration allows the broadcaster to know the number of hidden subsequent comments by the appearance of the predetermined object.

[0043] The broadcast screen may also be configured to display a number of predetermined objects based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments. For example, the broadcast screen may be configured to display one predetermined object when the number of hidden subsequent comments is within a first range, and to display two predetermined objects when the number of hidden subsequent comments is within a second range greater than the first range. This configuration allows the broadcaster to know the number of hidden subsequent comments by the number of predetermined objects.

[0044] The predetermined object may also be used to control the content displayed in the comment display area. For example, the distribution screen may be configured so that, in response to the broadcaster's selection of the predetermined object, the display portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area is changed so that the last comment in the group of comments (the most recent comment) is displayed. This configuration allows the broadcaster to display the most recent comment with a simple operation.

[0045] The distribution screen may also be configured to control automatic changes (e.g., automatic scrolling) of comments displayed in the comment display area depending on the number of hidden subsequent comments. For example, the distribution screen may be configured such that, in response to the addition of a newly generated comment to a group of comments, if the number of hidden subsequent comments is less than a predetermined value (e.g., 0), the display portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area is changed so that the newly generated comment is displayed, whereas if the number of hidden subsequent comments is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (e.g., 1 or greater), the display portion of the group of comments is not changed. This configuration allows the broadcaster to easily maintain a state in which the latest newly generated comment is displayed.

[0046] The distribution screen may also be configured so that the appearance of the comment display area changes based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments. For example, the comment display area may be configured to have a shape, size, or color (background color, text color, etc.) based on the number of hidden subsequent comments. For example, the comment display area may be configured to display the number of hidden subsequent comments itself. This configuration allows the broadcaster to know the number of hidden subsequent comments from the appearance of the comment display area. Furthermore, the distribution screen may also be configured so that the appearance of areas / objects other than the comment display area changes based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments.

[0047] The distribution screen may be configured to change to a display mode based at least on the duration of the state in which the number of hidden subsequent comments remains within a predetermined range. For example, the distribution screen may be configured to change to a first display mode when the duration of the state in which the number of hidden subsequent comments remains within the predetermined range is equal to or longer than a first time, and to a second display mode when the duration is equal to or longer than a second time greater than the first time. For example, the distribution screen may be configured to change to the first display mode when the duration of the state in which the number of hidden subsequent comments remains within the first range is equal to or longer than the first time, and to change to the second display mode when the duration of the state in which the number of hidden subsequent comments remains within a second range greater than the first range is equal to or longer than the second time. This configuration allows the broadcaster to obtain information based on the duration of the state in which the number of hidden subsequent comments remains within the predetermined range.

[0048] In this embodiment, the viewing screen may also be configured to have a configuration similar to the various aspects of the distribution screen described above. For example, the viewing screen may have a comment display area similar to the distribution screen and be configured to have a display mode based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments. This configuration allows a viewer, when checking a comment displayed in the comment display area, to obtain information based on the number of hidden subsequent comments that occurred after the comment in question.

[0049] Next, a specific example of the video distribution system 1 according to the present embodiment, which has such functions, will be described. Fig. 3 illustrates information managed in a user information table 411 in this example. The user information table 411 manages information about users of the live video distribution service, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as "basic information" including account name, age, gender, etc., "distribution history information" which is information about the distribution history of live videos, "viewing history information" which is information about the viewing history of live videos distributed by other users, "following user information" which is information about other users followed by the user, "follower information" which is information about other users (followers) who follow the user, "family information" which is information about families to which the user belongs as a family member, a "rank" which indicates the rank of the user as a distributor, a "rank meter value" which is a parameter value for determining whether the user's rank has been increased or decreased, a "coin holding number" which indicates the number of virtual coins held in the live video distribution service, and a "diamond holding number" which indicates the number of virtual diamonds held, all in association with a "user account" which identifies each individual user.

[0050] A family is a community (group) for supporting a specific broadcaster, and a user can join (become a family member) after receiving approval from the family's administrator, etc. Family information includes information that can identify each of the one or more families to which the user belongs.

[0051] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the "rank" of a broadcaster in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, there are six rank bands: "S," "A," "B," "C," "D," and "E." Each of the five rank bands, "S," "A," "B," "C," and "D," is composed of three ranks (for example, "S+," "S," and "S-"; a rank with a "+" added to the alphabet indicating the rank band, a rank with only the alphabet, and a rank with a "-" added to the alphabet). Furthermore, the "E" rank band is composed of a single rank, "E." In other words, in this example, there are 16 ranks (3 x 5 + 1 = 16).

[0052] Furthermore, the rank range is from the "S" side to the "E" side, with the highest being the "S" side, to the "E" side, with the lowest being the "E" side. Furthermore, within the same rank range, the "+" side is the highest being the "-" side, with the lowest being the "-" side. In this example, the user's rank is set to "D-" as the initial value.

[0053] 5 illustrates information managed in distribution management table 412 in this example. Distribution management table 412 manages information related to distribution of individual live video images, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as a "distributor user account" that identifies the distributor of this distribution, "distribution date and time," "distribution duration" that indicates the duration of the distribution, "number of viewers (current value and maximum value)," "number of comments" that is the number of comments entered by viewers, "number of likes" that is the number of "likes" entered by viewers, "item points" that increase according to the entry of items by viewers, and "distribution points" that are points awarded for this distribution, in association with a "distribution ID" that identifies an individual distribution (live video).

[0054] 6 illustrates an example of a top screen 60 of the live video streaming service displayed on the user terminal 30. The screen 60 is the starting point for users who use the live video streaming service, and as shown in the figure, has a selection area 62 displaying "Follow," "Popular," and "All," a list display area 64 located below the area 62 and displaying a list of live videos currently being streamed, and a circular streaming start button 66 located in the upper right corner of the screen.

[0055] The selection area 62 is an area for selecting the content to be displayed in the list display area 64. Specifically, when "Follow" is selected in the selection area 62, live videos currently being distributed by other users the user is following are displayed in the list display area 64. Similarly, when "Popular" is selected in the selection area 62, live videos extracted according to predetermined extraction conditions for extracting popular videos (for example, live videos with a viewer count (current value) equal to or greater than a threshold) are displayed in the list display area 64. Furthermore, when "All" is selected in the selection area 62, all live videos currently being distributed are displayed in the list display area 64.

[0056] 6, the list display area 64 has two columns of individual display areas 641, each displaying information about an individual live video. The individual display areas 641 are configured to display a still image preset by the broadcaster of the live video, the broadcaster's account name, the number of viewers (current value), and the like, and to start viewing the corresponding live video in response to a user selection. The list display area 64 is configured so that the displayed individual display areas 641 can be switched by a flick operation / slide operation in an up or down direction, etc.

[0057] The distribution start button 66 is an object for the user to start distributing live video as a distributor. When the distribution start button 66 is selected by the user, distribution of the live video starts, and specifically, transmission of a video composed of images input via the camera of the user terminal 30 and audio input via the microphone of the user terminal 30 to the server 10 starts. In addition, in response to the start of distribution of the live video, a new record is created in the distribution management table 412.

[0058] 7 illustrates a distribution screen 70 that is displayed on the distributor terminal 30 in response to selection of the distribution start button 66 (i.e., the start of distribution of a live video). As shown in the figure, the screen 70 has a video display area 71 that covers the entire screen, a basic information display area 72 located in the upper left corner of the screen, a comment display area 73 located in the lower left corner of the screen, and a circular distribution stop button 76 located in the center of the bottom edge of the screen.

[0059] The video display area 71 displays the live video being distributed, that is, the image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30. Since the distributor usually takes a picture of himself / herself via the internal camera of the distributor terminal 30, the live video being distributed includes an image of the distributor himself / herself.

[0060] The basic information display area 72 displays basic information about this broadcast, specifically broadcaster information (profile image, etc.), the number of viewers of this broadcast (current value), and the number of "likes" entered by viewers for this broadcast.

[0061] The comment display area 73 is an area for displaying user comments entered by viewers or system comments entered automatically. Specifically, a plurality of comment objects 731, each corresponding to an individual comment, are arranged vertically in this area 73. The comment display area 73 is configured as a transparent area, and the comment objects 731 are configured as semi-transparent objects.

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

[0063] 8 illustrates a viewing screen 80 displayed on the viewer terminal 30. For example, when a viewer selects a live video via the list display area 64 of the top screen 60, a viewing screen 80 for viewing the selected live video is displayed on the viewer terminal 30. As shown in the figure, the screen 80 has a video display area 81, a basic information display area 82, and a comment display area 83, similar to the distribution screen 70 described above. In addition, the viewing screen 80 has, at the bottom of the screen, a comment input area 86, a "Like" button 87 with a heart mark displayed, and an item input button 88 with a gift design displayed.

[0064] The comment input area 86 is an area where a viewer can input a comment. A transmission object 861 is located at the right end of the area 86. When the object 861 is selected, the character string entered in the comment input area 86 is entered as a user comment, and the comment input data is transmitted from the viewer terminal 30 to the server 10. The comment input data includes the content of the comment and the user account of the viewer who input the comment. Upon receiving the comment input data, the server 10 transmits the comment input data to the corresponding broadcaster terminal 30 (the broadcaster terminal 30 of the broadcaster of the corresponding live video) and each viewer terminal 30 (the viewer terminal 30 of each of the multiple viewers of the corresponding live video). Furthermore, upon receiving the comment input data, the server 10 updates the number of comments in the distribution management table 412 (by adding 1).

[0065] In the distributor terminal 30 and each viewer terminal 30 that have received the comment input data from the server 10, comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the user comments can be displayed in the comment display areas 73 and 83 of the distribution screen 70 and viewing screen 80. The comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the user comments display the content of the comment (character string) together with the account name of the viewer who input the comment.

[0066] The like button 87 is an object that allows a viewer to input a "like" for a broadcaster. When the viewer selects the button 87, a "like" is input, and the like input data is sent from the viewer terminal 30 to the server 10. The like input data includes the user account of the viewer who input the "like." Upon receiving the like input data, the server 10 transmits the like input data to the corresponding broadcaster terminal 30 and each viewer terminal 30. Furthermore, upon receiving the like input data, the server 10 updates the "number of likes" in the broadcast management table 412 (adding 1).

[0067] In the broadcaster terminal 30 and each viewer terminal 30 that have received the like input data from the server 10, a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment notifying the user of the "like" input can be displayed in the comment display area 73, 83 of the broadcast screen 70 and the viewing screen 80. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment displays text indicating the "like" input along with the account name of the viewer who input the "like." In addition, in the broadcaster terminal 30 and each viewer terminal 30 that have received the like input data, a predetermined visual effect (for example, an animation effect in which a heart-shaped object is displayed flowing from the bottom to the top of the screen) is added to the video display area 71, 81 of the broadcast screen 70 and the viewing screen 80.

[0068] The item input button 88 is an object that allows the viewer to input an item. When the button 88 is selected by the viewer, an item selection screen 100, as shown in FIG. 9, is displayed superimposed on the viewing screen 80. As shown in the figure, the screen 100 displays a list of multiple individual display areas 102, each of which displays information about an item. The individual display areas 102 display an image corresponding to the item and the number of coins required to input the item.

[0069] In this example, a plurality of items that can be input by a viewer are determined in advance, and a number of coins is set in advance as the price (value, compensation) of each item. The item selection screen 100 displays a list of the plurality of items that can be input. When a viewer selects one of the items via the item selection screen 100, the selected item is input.

[0070] When an item is input, item input data is transmitted from the viewer terminal 30 to the server 10. The item input data includes information that can identify the user account of the viewer who input the item and the input item. The server 10, having received the item input data, transmits the item input data to the corresponding broadcaster terminal 30 and each viewer terminal 30. The server 10, having received the item input data, also assigns item points to the broadcast according to the number of coins of the input item (for example, the more coins, the more points). Specifically, the server 10 adds the points according to the number of coins to the item points of the corresponding broadcast in the broadcast management table 412. The server 10, having received the item input data, also subtracts the number of coins of the input item from the number of coins owned by the corresponding user (the viewer who input the item) in the user information table 411.

[0071] In the broadcaster terminal 30 and each viewer terminal 30 that have received the item input data from the server 10, comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the system comment notifying the user of the input of the item can be displayed in the comment display areas 73 and 83 of the broadcast screen 70 and viewing screen 80. The comment objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the system comment display the name of the input item along with the account name of the viewer who input the item. In addition, in the broadcaster terminal 30 and each viewer terminal 30 that have received the item input data, a visual effect corresponding to the input item is added to the video display areas 71 and 81 of the broadcast screen 70 and viewing screen 80.

[0072] Here, we will explain the details of the comment display area 73 on the distribution screen 70. In this example, the comment display area 73 is set as a rectangular range in which multiple comment objects 731 arranged in the vertical direction can be displayed, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 7.

[0073] The comment objects 731 displayed in the comment display area 73 correspond to at least a part of a group of comments consisting of multiple comments (user comments or system comments). The group of comments is arranged in order of the multiple comments that have been posted since the broadcaster started this broadcast on the broadcaster terminal 30 up to the present time. Furthermore, of the comment objects 731 displayed in the comment display area 73, older comment objects 731 (earlier in order of posting) are positioned higher, and newer comment objects 731 (later in order of posting) are positioned lower.

[0074] The comment display area 73 is configured so that the display portion of the comment group (the portion displayed in the area 73) can be slid up or down by a flick operation / slide operation in an up or down direction. When the display portion is changed by such an operation, the comment object 731 moves outside (up or down) the comment display area 73 and becomes hidden (temporarily disappears).

[0075] In addition, in this example of the distribution screen 70, when the latest comment in the current group of comments (the comment that is last in order of appearance) is not displayed in the comment display area 73, the remaining comment count display object 78 is placed at the bottom right end of the comment display area 73, as illustrated in Figure 10.

[0076] 11 illustrates an example of the appearance of the remaining comment number display object 78. As shown in the figure, the remaining comment number display object 78 has a rounded rectangular shape, and displays the number of remaining comments ("88" in the example of FIG. 11).

[0077] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the remaining comments in this example. The group of comments, some of which are displayed in the comment display area 73, are arranged in the order in which the comments were created, with older comments positioned at the top and newer comments positioned at the bottom. As shown in the figure, among the multiple comments included in the comment group, comments (non-displayed subsequent comments) that were created later in the order in which they were created than the display portion of the comment group displayed in the comment display area 73 are defined as remaining comments. In other words, "the latest comment in the current comment group is not displayed in the comment display area 73" can also be rephrased as "the number of remaining comments that were created later in the order in which they were created than the display portion of the comment group displayed in the comment display area 73 is one or more among the multiple comments included in the current comment group."

[0078] In this example, as described above, the display portion of the comment group in the comment display area 73 is configured to slide up and down by flicking / sliding up and down, etc. As a result, when the number of remaining comments changes, the display content in the remaining comment number display object 78 is updated to show the changed number of remaining comments.

[0079] Furthermore, in this example, the remaining comment number display object 78 becomes hidden during an up / down flick operation / slide operation, etc., on the comment display area 73, and then, when a change in the display portion of the comment group in accordance with the operation is confirmed, the object 78 is displayed again, and the changed number of remaining comments is displayed in the object 78. Furthermore, when the display portion of the comment group is changed so that the latest comment is displayed in the comment display area 73, the remaining comment number display object 78 becomes hidden (disappears temporarily).

[0080] Furthermore, in this example, when the distributor selects the remaining comment number display object 78, the display portion of the comments in the comment display area 73 is changed so that the most recent comment at the current time is displayed.

[0081] Here, we will explain how the display content in the comment display area 73 is controlled in response to the creation of a new comment. Fig. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the broadcaster terminal 30 in response to the creation of a new comment. Specifically, for example, when the broadcaster terminal 30 receives the above-mentioned comment input data, like input data, or item input data from the server 10, the broadcaster terminal 30 executes the process illustrated in Fig. 13.

[0082] First, as shown in the figure, the distributor terminal 30 updates the comment group (step S100). Specifically, the current comment is added to the end of the multiple comments included in the comment group. The comment group in the distributor terminal 30 is managed in, for example, storage 35.

[0083] Next, the broadcaster terminal 30 checks whether the comment display area 73 is in a latest comment display state, in which the latest comment at the current time (immediately before the current comment is added) is displayed (step S105). In this example, the latest comment display state can also be said to be a state in which the remaining comment count display object 78 is not displayed on the broadcast screen 70.

[0084] Then, when the comment display area 73 is in the latest comment display state (YES in step S105), the broadcaster terminal 30 performs automatic scrolling in the area 73 (step S110). FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining how automatic scrolling is performed in the comment display area 73 in response to the occurrence of a new comment. As shown in the figure, in the latest comment display state (FIG. 14(A)), in which the latest comment (corresponding comment object 731) at that time is displayed in the comment display area 73 (included in the display portion of the comments), when a new comment is generated, the display portion slides downward so that the new comment added to the end (bottom) of the comments is included in the display portion of the comments in the comment display area 73, and as a result, the comment (comment object 731) displayed in the area 73 slides upward (FIG. 14(B)).

[0085] Returning to the flow diagram of FIG. 13, on the other hand, if the comment display area 73 is not in the latest comment display state (NO in step S105), the broadcaster terminal 30 does not perform the automatic scrolling described above, but updates the number of remaining comments displayed in the remaining comment number display object 78 (step S120). FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining how the display content in the remaining comment number display object 78 is updated in response to the occurrence of a new comment. As shown in the figure, when the latest comment at that time (corresponding object 731) is not displayed in the comment display area 73 (not included in the display portion of the comments) (FIG. 15(A)), if a new comment is generated, the display portion of the comments in the comment display area 73 does not change, so the number of remaining comments increases (FIG. 15(B)). When the number of remaining comments increases, the display of the number of remaining comments in the remaining comment number display object 78 is updated (in the example of FIG. 15, the number of remaining comments is updated from "2" to "3").

[0086] In this way, for example, when a broadcaster is responding to a past comment while that past comment is displayed in the comment display area 73, the broadcaster can know the number of remaining comments at that time via the remaining comment number display object 78. In this case, when a new comment is posted, the number of remaining comments displayed in the object 78 is updated. Therefore, while responding to past comments in order, for example, by flicking / sliding upward on the comment display area 73 to change the display portion of the comments in the area 73, the broadcaster can adjust the response speed by increasing the response speed if the number of remaining comments increases (in other words, if new comments are posted faster than responses to past comments), or by maintaining or slowing the response speed if the number of remaining comments decreases (in other words, if new comments are posted slower than responses to past comments).

[0087] In this example, the comment display area 83 of the viewing screen 80 also has a configuration similar to the comment display area 73 of the distribution screen 70. Specifically, the comment display area 83 of the viewing screen 80 displays comment objects 831 corresponding to at least a portion of a comment group consisting of multiple comments (user comments or system comments), and the comment group is arranged in chronological order of multiple comments that have been made since the viewer started watching the current live video (distribution) on the viewer terminal 30. Also, similar to the distribution screen 70, the viewing screen 80 is configured such that when the latest comment in the current comment group is not displayed in the comment display area 83, a remaining comment number display object that displays the number of remaining comments is placed at the bottom right of the comment display area 83. Note that, in another example of this embodiment, unlike the distribution screen 70, the viewing screen 80 may not have a remaining comment number display object placed thereon.

[0088] When the broadcaster selects the stop broadcast button 76 on the broadcast screen 70, the broadcast of the live video ends. When the broadcast of the live video ends, the server 10 sets broadcast points for that broadcast. In this example, the broadcast points are calculated based on the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the item points. The broadcast points are configured to increase as the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the item points increase. The calculated broadcast points are registered in the broadcast management table 412.

[0089] In this example, the rank of the day is determined (updated) based on the distribution points the user acquired on the previous day. Fig. 16 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when updating the rank of each user. This process is executed late at night every day (for example, at 3:00 AM every day).

[0090] First, the server 10 updates the rank meter value of each user as shown in FIG. 16 (step S200). FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the rules for updating the rank meter value. As shown in the figure, in this example, the rank meter value fluctuates based on the ranking of the distribution points a user earned on the previous day within the rank band to which the user belongs. The distribution points earned by a specific user on the previous day are calculated by referring to the distributor user account, distribution date and time, and distribution points in the distribution management table 412. Note that if a user sends multiple distributions in one day, the distribution points earned for each of the multiple distributions are added together.

[0091] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, the update rule for the rank meter value is as follows: first, if the ranking of distribution points within a rank band is in the top 10%, the change in the rank meter value is "+2" (an increase of 2 points). Similarly, if the ranking is in the top 11-30% (the remaining 20% ​​after excluding the top 10% from the top 30%), the change is "+1", if the ranking is in the middle 30% (the top 31-60%), the change is "±0" (no increase or decrease), and if the ranking is in the bottom 40%, the change is "-1" (a decrease of 1 point). Note that if no distribution was performed on the previous day, the change in the rank meter value will be "-1" regardless of the ranking within the rank band.

[0092] In step S200, the rank meter value of each user is updated according to the update rule exemplified in Fig. 17. Note that, for a user whose rank meter value is negative and whose current change in rank meter value is an increase (specifically, +2 or +1), the rank meter value may be cleared to 0 and then incremented. That is, for example, if a user whose current rank meter value is "-1" has a current change of "+2", the rank meter value is cleared to 0 and then incremented by 2, so that the rank meter value after the change becomes "+2" (instead of "+1"). In this way, even for users whose rank meter value is negative (for example, users who infrequently stream), the rank meter value can be increased all at once, thereby promoting the streaming of live video.

[0093] Returning to the flow diagram of FIG. 16, after updating the rank meter value of each user, the server 10 then updates the rank based on the updated rank meter value (step S210). FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the update contents of the rank and the required rank meter value. As shown in the figure, first, when ranking up across rank bands (in other words, when ranking up from the highest rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is +4. That is, when a user belonging to the highest rank (e.g., A+) in each rank band has a rank meter value of +4, the user is ranked up to the lowest rank (e.g., S-) in the immediately upper rank band. Also, when ranking up within the same rank band (in other words, when ranking up from the middle or lowest rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is +2. That is, when a user belonging to the middle or lowest rank (e.g., B or B-) in each rank band has a rank meter value of +2, the user is ranked up to the immediately upper rank (e.g., B+ or B) in the same rank band.

[0094] Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the rank meter value required for a rank down within the same rank band (in other words, for a rank down from the highest or middle rank within each rank band) is -2. That is, when a user belonging to the highest or middle rank within each rank band (e.g., B+ or B) has a rank meter value of -2, the user will be ranked down to the next lower rank (e.g., B or B-) within the same rank band. Furthermore, the rank meter value required for a rank down across rank bands is -6. That is, when a user belonging to the lowest rank within each rank band (e.g., A-) has a rank meter value of -6, the user will be ranked down to the highest rank (e.g., B+) of the next lower rank band. Thus, in this example, the absolute value of the rank meter value required for a rank up / down across rank bands is larger than that required for a rank up / down within the same rank band. As a result, a sudden rank up / down in a short period of time is suppressed.

[0095] Returning to the flow diagram of Fig. 16, in step S210, the rank is updated based on the rank meter value in accordance with the correspondence illustrated in Fig. 18. Note that the rank meter value of the user whose rank has been updated (the user whose rank has been upgraded / downgraded) is cleared to 0.

[0096] In this example, diamonds are awarded as a reward to the user as a distributor based on the distribution time of the previous day and the rank (rank on the previous day). Figure 19 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds to each distributor. This process is executed late at night every day, for example, at a time (for example, midnight every day) before the process executed when updating the rank of each user illustrated in Figure 16.

[0097] As shown in the figure, the server 10 first calculates the distribution time of each user on the previous day (step S300). Specifically, the distribution time of a specific user on the previous day is identified by referring to the distributor user account, distribution date and time, and distribution time in the distribution management table 412. If a user makes multiple distributions in one day, the distribution times of each of the multiple distributions are added together.

[0098] Next, the server 10 grants each user a number of diamonds based on the calculated distribution time and the standard number of diamonds (step S310). Specifically, each user is granted a number of diamonds calculated by multiplying the calculated distribution time by the standard number of diamonds. The standard number of diamonds is preset for each rank so that the higher the rank, the greater the number, and the standard number of diamonds corresponding to each user's rank on the previous day is applied. When diamonds are granted to a user, the number of diamonds held in the user information table 411 is updated. In this example, diamonds can be exchanged for coins or real currency.

[0099] In the above example, when the latest comment is not displayed in the comment display area 73, a remaining comment number display object 78 that displays the number of remaining comments is placed. However, this object 78 is an example of an object based on the number of remaining comments (hidden subsequent comments), and such objects in this embodiment are not limited to the remaining comment number display object 78 described above.

[0100] For example, instead of or in addition to displaying the number of remaining comments itself, the object 78 for displaying the number of remaining comments may be configured to have a shape, color, or size corresponding to the number of remaining comments. For example, the object 78 may be configured to have a first shape, color, or size while the number of remaining comments is within a first range (e.g., 1 to 19), and a second shape, color, or size while the number of remaining comments is within a second range (e.g., 20 or more). Furthermore, for example, the object 78 may be configured to have a first shape, color, or size when the number of remaining comments remains within the first range for a first time (e.g., 20 seconds), and to have a second shape, color, or size when the number of remaining comments remains within the second range for a second time (e.g., 10 seconds). Furthermore, for example, the remaining comment count display object 78 may be configured to assume a first shape, color, or size when the number of remaining comments remains within a predetermined range for a first time period (e.g., 10 seconds), and then assume a second shape, color, or size when this state is maintained for a second time period (e.g., 20 seconds).

[0101] Furthermore, in another example of this embodiment, instead of or in addition to displaying the remaining comment number display object 78, the appearance of the comment display area 73 may be configured to change based on the number of remaining comments. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 20 , the distribution screen 70 in another example may be configured so that the background of the comment display area 73 changes depending on the number of remaining comments, for example, the background is a semi-transparent first color while the number of remaining comments is within a first range, and a semi-transparent second color while the number of remaining comments is within a second range. Furthermore, the appearance of the video display area 71 may also change based on the number of remaining comments.

[0102] In another example of this embodiment, the remaining comment number display object 78 may be configured to display only the number of user comments, excluding the number of system comments among the remaining comments.

[0103] The video distribution system 1 of the present embodiment described above is configured so that the distribution screen presented to the broadcaster of a live video has a comment display area for displaying at least a portion of a group of comments including comments from viewers, and the display mode is based at least on the number of hidden subsequent comments that were created later than the displayed portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area (for example, a remaining comment number display object 78 that displays the number of remaining comments is placed). Therefore, when responding to a comment displayed in the comment display area, the broadcaster can obtain information based on the number of hidden subsequent comments that were created later than the comment in question, and can adjust the speed of the response depending on, for example, the number of hidden subsequent comments. In this way, the video distribution system 1 supports the broadcaster's response to comments from viewers.

[0104] The processes and procedures described herein, other than those explicitly described, may be implemented by software, hardware, or any combination thereof. For example, the processes and procedures described herein may be implemented by implementing logic corresponding to the processes and procedures in media such as integrated circuits, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and magnetic disks. The processes and procedures described herein may also be implemented as computer programs corresponding to the processes and procedures and executed by various computers.

[0105] Although processes and procedures described herein are described as being performed by a single device, software, component, or module, such processes or procedures may be performed by multiple devices, software, components, and / or modules. Also, the software and hardware elements described herein may be implemented by combining them into fewer components or breaking them down into more components.

[0106] In this specification, even if a component of the invention is described as either singular or plural, or is described without limitation to either singular or plural, the component may be either singular or plural unless the context requires otherwise. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 1. Video distribution system 10 Video distribution server 11. Computer Processor 15 Storage 20. Communication Networks 30 User terminals 35 Storage 41 Information storage management department 43 Basic function control section 45 Video distribution control section 51 Information Storage Management Department 53 Distribution function control section 55 Viewing function control unit 60 Top screen 70 Streaming Screen 73 Comment display area 731 Comment Object 78 Remaining comment count display object 80 viewing screen 83 Comment display area 831 Comment Objects 100 Item selection screen

Claims

1. A program for viewing broadcasts, comprising: means for displaying a viewing screen of the distribution; a means for displaying at least a part of a group of comments including comments input by viewers of the distribution in a comment display area of ​​the viewing screen; means for changing a display portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area in response to a user operation on the comment display area; and a means for performing a predetermined process when a new comment is made in the distribution; The predetermined processing includes automatically changing the display portion of the comment group so that the new comment is displayed in the comment display area when a first portion including a latest comment in the comment group at that time is displayed as the display portion in the comment display area, and displaying a specific object on the viewing screen without changing the display portion of the comment group when the display portion of the comment group is changed in response to the user operation and a second portion different from the first portion including a past comment is displayed as the display portion. program.

2. The specific object is hidden when the latest comment in the comment group at that time is displayed in the comment display area in response to the user operation. The program of claim 1.

3. The means for changing the display portion changes the display portion in response to the user operation of selecting the specific object so that the latest comment in the group of comments at that time is displayed. The program of claim 1.

4. The specific object displays predetermined information related to the number of new comments, The predetermined information is updated in response to the occurrence of the new comment. The program of claim 1.

5. The comment display area displays user comments input by the viewer and system comments automatically input, The predetermined information is set excluding the number of system comments. The program of claim 4.

6. A system for viewing a broadcast, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors: displaying a viewing screen of the distribution; displaying at least a portion of a group of comments including comments entered by viewers of the distribution in a comment display area of ​​the viewing screen; changing a display portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area in response to a user operation on the comment display area; performing a predetermined process when a new comment is generated in the distribution; The predetermined processing includes automatically changing the display portion of the comment group so that the new comment is displayed in the comment display area when a first portion including a latest comment in the comment group at that time is displayed as the display portion in the comment display area, and displaying a specific object on the viewing screen without changing the display portion of the comment group when the display portion of the comment group is changed in response to the user operation and a second portion different from the first portion including a past comment is displayed as the display portion. system.

7. A device for viewing a broadcast, comprising: means for displaying a viewing screen of the distribution; a means for displaying at least a part of a group of comments including comments input by viewers of the distribution in a comment display area of ​​the viewing screen; a means for changing a display portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area in response to a user operation on the comment display area; means for performing a predetermined process when a new comment is generated in the distribution; The predetermined processing includes automatically changing the display portion of the comment group so that the new comment is displayed in the comment display area when a first portion including a latest comment in the comment group at that time is displayed as the display portion in the comment display area, and displaying a specific object on the viewing screen without changing the display portion of the comment group when a second portion different from the first portion and including a past comment is displayed as the display portion in the comment display area in response to the user operation. Device.

8. A method for viewing a broadcast, executed by one or more computers, comprising: displaying a viewing screen of the distribution; displaying at least a portion of a group of comments including comments entered by viewers of the distribution in a comment display area of ​​the viewing screen; changing a display portion of the group of comments displayed in the comment display area in response to a user operation on the comment display area; and performing a predetermined process when a new comment is generated in the distribution, The predetermined processing includes automatically changing the display portion of the comment group so that the new comment is displayed in the comment display area when a first portion including a latest comment in the comment group at that time is displayed as the display portion in the comment display area, and displaying a specific object on the viewing screen without changing the display portion of the comment group when a second portion different from the first portion and including a past comment is displayed as the display portion in the comment display area in response to the user operation. method.

Images