Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To facilitate identification of the correspondence between comments and a plurality of distribution users in coaction, which are displayed with a coaction moving image.SOLUTION: An information processing device comprises a display control unit to display on a terminal of a viewing user a distribution moving image including a first moving image of a first distribution user and a second moving image of a second distribution user coacting with the first distribution user. The display control unit causes a distribution moving image to be displayed, the distribution moving image including a first display area for displaying therein a message to the first distribution user and a second display area for displaying therein a message to the second distribution user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] There is a service for live-distributing moving images and game videos (hereinafter referred to as "content") on a network. The basic form of distribution is one-to-many. That is, the basic form is that one distribution user distributes content to a plurality of viewing users. By the way, the content distribution service has a function (hereinafter referred to as "co-starring function") that enables co-starring of a plurality of distribution users. When using the co-starring function, one screen is assigned to a plurality of distribution users. For example, the content of distribution user A is arranged in the left half of the co-starring video, and the content of distribution user B is arranged in the right half of the co-starring video.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] [[ID=at=36]] Currently, the method of posting comments for a plurality of distribution users during co-starring is the same as when there is one distribution user. That is, even in the co-starring video, there is one comment input field and one comment display field, and the comments input by each viewing user are displayed in the comment display field in the order of reception. Note that it is not externally clear which distribution user the comment is addressed to, and it is necessary to infer from the text of the comment.

[0005] One of the objects of the present invention is to facilitate identification of the correspondence between comments displayed together with the co-starring video and a plurality of distribution users during co-starring.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One embodiment of the present invention is an information processing device that displays a distributed video on a viewer's terminal, the distributed video including a first video of a first distribution user and a second video of a second distribution user performing with the first distribution user, the display control unit including a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to easily identify the correspondence between comments displayed with a collaborative video and the multiple streaming users who are collaborating. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This diagram illustrates an example of the functional configuration of a distribution server. [Figure 3] This is a diagram illustrating an example of a video streaming display screen. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating an example of how the tipping screen looks. [Figure 5] This diagram illustrates an example of how a live stream video is displayed when a donation is submitted. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates an example of the display screen for a collaborative video featuring two streamers, A and B. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates an example of a display screen for a live-streamed video featuring live streamers A, B, and C. [Figure 8] This diagram illustrates an example of controlling the priority of display items based on the user viewing the collaborative video. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates another example of controlling the priority of display items based on the viewer's preference for watching collaborative videos. [Figure 10]It is a diagram for explaining another example of controlling the priority of a display column according to a viewing user who views a co-starring video. [Figure 11] It is a diagram for explaining another example of controlling the priority of a display column according to a viewing user who views a co-starring video. [Figure 12] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a display screen including a common input field for a message and a common donation button common to co-starring users. [Figure 13] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a display screen including a common display column dedicated to a message addressed to both co-starring users. [Figure 14] It is a diagram for explaining a change in the display screen when a donation post addressed to the distribution user A, who is one of the co-starring users, is received. [Figure 15] It is a diagram for explaining an example of the display of a common donation screen displayed when the common donation button is operated. [Figure 16] It is a diagram for explaining an example of the display of a display screen after the decision button is operated. [Figure 17] It is a diagram for explaining a change in the display screen accompanying the end of co-starring. [Figure 18] It is a flowchart for explaining a control operation executed by the transition control unit at the end of co-starring. [Figure 19] It is a diagram for explaining an example of the transition of a display screen by the transition control unit. [Figure 20] It is a diagram for explaining an example of an inquiry screen for a transition destination displayed by the transition control unit on the user terminal of the viewing user. [Figure 21] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a management screen displayed by the information providing unit on the user terminal of the distribution user A. [Figure 22] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a display screen of a co-starring video on a user terminal having a vertically long display.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are merely examples of the forms for implementing the present invention, and the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the examples described below. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the embodiments below. For example, those obtained by making various changes or improvements to the content described in the embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Note that the various functional units described below are realized through the execution of programs by, for example, a CPU (= Central Processing Unit), MPU (= Micro Processing Unit), GPU (= Graphics Processing Unit), DSP (= Digital Signal Processor), or other processors.

[0010] <Terms> First, the terms used in the embodiments will be described. "Program" is used as a general term for an OS (= Operating System) and application programs. "Distribution video" is a moving image to be distributed. In the embodiments, live distribution is assumed as the distribution video, but accumulated distribution may also be used. Examples of "moving images" include images of a person playing a musical instrument, images of a person singing, images of magic tricks or other performances, images of a game play screen, relay images of a competition, images of a person cooking or eating food, images of daily situations around a person, and images of a person speaking about a specific knowledge or topic.

[0011] "Distribution user" refers to a user who distributes a distribution video. The user may be an individual or a group. A group means that there are multiple members. "Co-sponsorship" refers to a state where multiple streaming videos share a single screen. When co-sponsorship begins, one screen is shared by multiple streaming users. In this case, the multiple streaming videos corresponding to the multiple streaming users are individually allocated to multiple areas that divide the single screen. For example, the streaming video of streaming user A is placed on the left half of the screen, and the streaming video of streaming user B is placed on the right half of the screen. In addition, in the streaming videos, it is possible that the avatar (object) of streaming user A or the avatar (object) corresponding to streaming user A and the avatar (object) of streaming user B or the avatar (object) corresponding to streaming user B may be displayed in a common display area.

[0012] "Viewing users" refers to users who watch streamed videos. A "message" refers to a post or its content uploaded by a viewer user to a broadcaster user. A message here consists of text, stamps, icons, etc. Messages are sometimes also referred to as "comments" or "chat." "Predetermined value" refers to information that can be exchanged on a network, such as electronic money, cryptocurrency, or points. Hereafter, posts that consume predetermined value will be referred to as "tips," distinguishing them from posts that do not consume predetermined value. Posts that do not consume predetermined value are those containing only a message.

[0013] "Virtual space" refers to a virtual world or space constructed using computer technology. The virtual space described in this embodiment may include not only VR (Virtual Reality) space, but also AR (Augmented Reality) space, which extends the real world, and MR (Mixed Reality) space, which merges with the real world. The data for the virtual space assumed in this embodiment is provided via network communication. A virtual space refers to a space or service that can be used by users operating network-connected terminals. However, this does not exclude virtual spaces provided on terminals that operate offline. For example, a virtual space provided to a user through an application running on an offline terminal is also a form of virtual space as described in the embodiments.

[0014] Specific examples of virtual spaces include virtual spaces designed for games, virtual spaces that faithfully reproduce the real world, and virtual spaces where social activities similar to those in the real world are possible. Examples of virtual spaces that faithfully reproduce the real world include cityscapes, commercial facilities, showrooms, offices, event venues, and schools. Examples of social activities similar to those in the real world include the aforementioned examples of videos. Virtual spaces can be constructed as two-dimensional spaces or as three-dimensional spaces.

[0015] An "object" refers to a physical object that exists in a virtual space. However, natural objects do not exist in a virtual space. In the following, the avatar, which represents the user in the virtual space, will also be referred to as an "avatar object." In addition, unlike in real-world collaborations, virtual collaborations allow for the simultaneous existence of avatar objects of the streaming users at the same location within the virtual space. In this case, it is not necessary to divide the area where the streaming video is displayed for each streaming user. However, just as in real-world collaborations, the avatar objects of the streaming users may exist in different locations within the virtual space. In that case, the streaming video will be divided into multiple regions, and a moving image of the avatar object corresponding to the streaming user will be displayed in each region.

[0016] <Embodiment> <System Configuration> Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment. The information processing system 1 shown in Figure 1 consists of a distribution server 10 that provides distribution services in a virtual space, multiple user terminals 20, and a network N that connects them in a way that enables communication. Network N can be, for example, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), or a mobile communication system such as 4G or 5G. Network N can be a wired network, a wireless network, or a hybrid of both.

[0017] The distribution server 10 is a server that streams videos uploaded by distribution users to viewing users. In this embodiment, the videos are distributed as activities in the virtual space of the distribution user's avatar object. The distribution server 10 consists of one or more computers. The distribution server 10 may be an on-premises server or a cloud server. Examples of cloud servers include IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service), and SaaS (Software as a Service). The distribution server 10 is an example of an information processing device.

[0018] User terminal 20 is a terminal operated by a user who uses the distribution service provided by distribution server 10. User terminals 20 include, for example, smartphones, tablet devices, notebook and desktop computers, game consoles, as well as head-mounted devices (so-called headsets) and glasses-type devices (so-called smart glasses). User terminals 20 are equipped with communication capabilities with network N.

[0019] In Figure 1, there are three users: broadcasters A and B, and viewer X. However, there could be only one broadcaster and one viewer. Also, there could be two or more viewer users. Streaming user A and streaming user B may each stream their videos independently, but in Figure 1, streaming user A and streaming user B are collaborating. Therefore, in Figure 1, streaming user A and streaming user B are enclosed in a dashed line. Note that there may be three or more streaming users collaborating.

[0020] <Hardware Configuration> The distribution server 10 consists of a processor 11 that controls the operation of the entire terminal, memory 12, auxiliary storage device 13, and communication interface 14. The processor 11 and each device are connected via buses and other signal lines. Processor 11 is, for example, a CPU. Memory 12 consists of ROM (Read Only Memory) which stores the BIOS (Basic Input Output System), etc., and RAM (Random Access Memory) which is used as the work area for the processor 11.

[0021] The auxiliary storage device 13 is, for example, a hard disk drive or semiconductor storage. The auxiliary storage device 13 contains a program that implements functions related to the distribution of the video, as well as information for managing the distribution of the video. The program that implements functions related to the distribution of the video is an example of an application program. The communication interface 14 is a device that enables communication with external terminals such as the user terminal 20. The communication interface 14 is required to have functions that enable communication according to the network N used for communication.

[0022] The user terminal 20, like the distribution server 10, has a processor, memory, auxiliary storage device, and communication interface, and also has a touch sensor, operation buttons, display, camera, microphone, speaker, etc. A device that integrates a touch sensor and a display is called a touch panel. Furthermore, the touch sensor, control buttons, camera, and microphone constitute an input device, while the display and speaker constitute an output device. In this embodiment, the user terminal 20 is used as an input / output device for the distribution server 10.

[0023] <Functional Configuration> The following describes the functional configuration of the distribution server 10. Figure 2 illustrates an example of the functional configuration of the distribution server 10. Note that the functional configuration shown in Figure 2 is an example of a functional unit realized through the execution of an application program. The distribution server 10 includes a reception unit 101, a display control unit 102, a transition control unit 103, an information provision unit 104, and a storage unit 110. Of these, the storage unit 110 is realized by memory 12 (see Figure 1) and auxiliary storage device 13 (see Figure 1), while the other functional units are realized through the cooperation of programs executed by the processor 11 and each device that constitutes the distribution server 10.

[0024] <Information stored in the memory unit> In this embodiment, the storage unit 110 stores distribution user information 111, viewing user information 112, co-starring user information 113, posting information 114, and tipping information 115. The streaming user information 111 is information about the streaming user who is streaming the video. In the case of Figure 1, this information corresponds to streaming user A and streaming user B. The streaming user information 111 includes, for example, a user ID that identifies the streaming user, the IP address of the user terminal 20, a record of transactions on the network, location information of the avatar object in the virtual space, and settings for receiving tips. The transaction records here include records of payments of a predetermined value and records of receipts of a predetermined value. The record of receipts of a predetermined value includes information on the face value specified in the tip, the user ID that identifies the viewer who posted the tip, and the IP address of the corresponding user terminal 20.

[0025] Viewer user information 112 is information about the viewer user who is watching the streamed video. Viewer user information 112 includes, for example, a user ID that identifies viewer user X, the IP address of the user terminal 20, records of transactions on the network, location information of the avatar object in the virtual space, records of tipping posts, and records of streamed videos that have been watched. The transaction records here include records of payments of a predetermined value and records of receipts of a predetermined value. The records of payments of a predetermined value include information on the face value specified in the tip, the user ID that identifies the recipient of the tip, and the IP address of the corresponding user terminal 20. Furthermore, each user in the virtual space may be both a broadcaster and a viewer.

[0026] Co-hosting user information 113 is information about the streaming users who are streaming together. In the case of Figure 1, streaming user A and streaming user B are recorded as "co-hosting users". Collaboration is achieved, for example, through an invitation or offer from streaming user A to streaming user B, and acceptance from streaming user B. The collaborative user information 113 includes, for example, user IDs that identify streaming users A and B who are collaborating, and the IP addresses of the corresponding user terminals 20. When the collaboration ends, the end of the collaboration is recorded in the collaborative user information 113. However, the collaborative user information recorded in the collaborative user information 113 may be deleted when the collaboration ends.

[0027] Post information 114 is information about a message posted by viewer user X. Post information 114 includes, for example, the recipient of the message and the content of the message. The tipping information 115 is information about a tip posted by viewer user X. The tipping information 115 includes, for example, the recipient of the message included in the tip, the content of the message, the amount specified in the tip, and the user ID that identifies the streaming user to whom the tip was sent. The streaming user to whom the tip was sent may be streaming user A only, streaming user B only, or both streaming user A and streaming user B.

[0028] <Functions of the reception desk> The reception unit 101 is a functional unit that receives input from the user terminal 20 (see Figure 1). User X's input includes instructions for the movement of their virtual avatar object, instructions for the tipping management screen, and so on. The input from viewer user X includes moving their avatar object within the virtual space, posting messages about the streamed video they are watching, and responding to inquiries from the streaming server 10.

[0029] <Functions of the display control unit> The display control unit 102 is equipped with several sub-functions. The sub-functions of the display control unit 102 will be described in order below. <Sub-function 1> The display control unit 102 has a sub-function to stream a video of the streaming user's avatar object to the user terminal 20 of the viewing user X. The video shown here is an example of a "streamed video."

[0030] Figure 3 illustrates an example of a video streaming display screen. The display screen shown in Figure 3 is shown on the display of user terminal 20 of viewer user X. The display screen includes a section 201 for displaying the streamed video, a section 202 for displaying messages, and a section 203 for entering messages. The message display section 202 is also called the "chat section."

[0031] In Figure 3, the video display area 201 shows a video of the avatar object A of streaming user A. In other words, the display screen shown in Figure 3 assumes that streaming user A is streaming video on their own. Furthermore, the message display area 202 shows the content of the messages entered in the message input area 203 (shown as a white rectangular pattern in Figure 3) in chronological order, along with the icon of the viewer who posted the message (shown as a circle symbol in Figure 3).

[0032] Newly received messages are displayed on the bottom line of display area 202. Therefore, each time a new message is received, the currently displayed message moves up one line. Therefore, the message displayed in the top row of message display area 202 means that it is the oldest message among those displayed, based on the time it was received. If a new message is received while messages are displayed in all rows of display area 202, the message currently displayed in the top row of display area 202 will disappear from display area 202. However, the message is not deleted, so it can still be viewed in display area 202 by scrolling the scroll bar.

[0033] In Figure 3, the message input field 203 displays the words "Comment" in grayscale, indicating that viewers can enter messages. Additionally, a tipping button 204 is displayed in the message input field 203. In Figure 3, a yen symbol is displayed. When the tipping button 204 is pressed, a tipping screen pops up. Figure 4 illustrates an example of how the tipping screen 211 is displayed. The tipping screen 211 is displayed as a pop-up on the display screen shown in Figure 3, for example. In Figure 4, only the tipping screen 211 is shown for the sake of visibility.

[0034] The tipping screen 211 shown in Figure 4 consists of a display image 212, an amount input field 213, and a confirmation button 214. Display image 212 shows the image that appears in the message display area 202 (see Figure 3) when a tip is posted. In Figure 4, the display image 212 includes the icon 212A of the viewer user who posts the tip (hereinafter referred to as the "poster"), the poster's display name 212B, a field for displaying the amount 212C, and a message input field 212D. The amount displayed in the amount display field 212C is linked to the amount entered in the amount input field 213. Additionally, a warning is displayed in the message input field 212D before any input is made. In the example in Figure 4, the warning reads, "The amount and message will be made public." A message can be entered in the message input field 212D.

[0035] In Figure 4, the amount input field 213 consists of a slider bar 213A and an amount display field 213B. The slider bar 213A consists of a slide axis and a slider, which can move left and right along the slide axis. The amount at the scale where the slider is located is displayed in the amount display field 213B. In this example, it is 500 yen. When the confirmation button 214 is pressed, the entered message and amount are confirmed, and a tip is posted addressed to the streamer of the video being watched. In Figure 4, the confirmation button 214 is labeled with the explanation "Purchase and Send." This is to warn users to avoid making unintended posts.

[0036] Figure 5 illustrates an example of the display screen for a live stream video when a tip is posted. Figure 5 is denoted with corresponding symbols for parts that correspond to those in Figure 3. When a tip is submitted, in addition to the message being displayed in the message display area 202, an icon and amount will be displayed in the dedicated tip display area 205 located above the display area 202. However, the display in the dedicated tip display area 205 is limited to a predetermined amount (for example, 500 yen). Multiple lines are allocated to display tips in the message display area 202. In other words, tips are displayed in a more prominent manner than other messages. However, the position of the tip display within display area 202 moves from bottom to top in the order they are received, just like other messages.

[0037] <Sub-function 2> The display control unit 102 has a sub-function for distributing videos of co-performing users. For example, if distributing user A is designated as the "first distributing user," the video of distributing user A's avatar object is an example of the "first video." Similarly, distributing user B, who is co-performing with distributing user A, is an example of the "second distributing user," and the video of distributing user B's avatar object is an example of the "second video." When distributing user A and distributing user B are co-performing, the distributed video, including the video of each distributing user's avatar object, is displayed on the viewer's user terminal 20.

[0038] Figure 6 illustrates an example of the display screen for a collaborative video featuring streaming user A and streaming user B. Figure 6 includes corresponding reference numerals for parts that correspond to those in Figure 3. As mentioned earlier, the collaboration of multiple avatar objects in a virtual space may take place at the same location in the virtual space, or at different locations. In Figure 6, display area 201 shows avatar object A of streaming user A and avatar object B of streaming user B side by side. In Figure 6, display area 201 is divided into two areas 201A and 201B. Therefore, a boundary line between the two streaming videos is displayed between avatar object A and avatar object B. However, the boundary line is unnecessary when they are performing together at the same location in the virtual space.

[0039] The display screen in Figure 6 shows two message display fields 202. Display field 202A displays messages received by the reception unit 101 (see Figure 2) that are addressed to delivery user A. Display field 202A here is an example of the "first display area". Display field 202B displays messages received by the reception unit 101 that are addressed to delivery user B. Display field 202B here is an example of the "second display area". Thus, when multiple streaming users appear together, the display screen will have message display fields 202A and 202B equal to the number of participating streaming users. In other words, the display screen for a streaming video featuring multiple streaming users will have more message display fields 202 than the display screen for a streaming video streamed by a single user. Note that the dimensions of message display area 202A and display area 202B on the display screen are both smaller than the dimensions of message display area 202 (see Figure 3).

[0040] Display area 202A includes a message input field 203A addressed to broadcast user A and a tipping button 204A. When viewer user X enters a message in input field 203A, the entered message is displayed only in display area 202A. In other words, messages entered in input field 203A are not displayed in display area 202B. Input field 203A here is an example of a "first input area". Furthermore, the display area 202B includes an input field 203B for messages addressed to broadcaster B, and a tipping button 204B. When viewer X enters a message in input field 203B, the entered message is displayed only in the display area 202B. In other words, messages entered in input field 203B are not displayed in the display area 202A. Input field 203B here is an example of a "second input area".

[0041] When viewer user X posts a tip by operating the tip button 204A, the receiving unit 101 (see Figure 2) accepts it as a tip addressed to broadcast user A. In this case, broadcast user A is displayed in the same way as in Figure 5. That is, a message corresponding to the tip is displayed in the display field 202A, and at the same time, a display corresponding to the tip is added to the display field 205 dedicated to tips for broadcast user A. Of course, when viewer user X uses the tip button 204B to post a tip, a message corresponding to the tip is displayed in the display area 202B corresponding to broadcaster user B, and at the same time, a display corresponding to the tip is added to the display area 205 dedicated to tips for broadcaster user B.

[0042] Figure 7 illustrates an example of a display screen for a streaming video featuring streaming users A, B, and C. Figure 7 includes corresponding reference numerals for parts that correspond to those in Figure 6. In the display screen shown in Figure 7, there are three streaming users participating: Streaming User A, Streaming User B, and Streaming User C. Therefore, in the display area 201 of the streamed video in Figure 7, the avatar object A of streamer A, the avatar object B of streamer B, and the avatar object C of streamer C are displayed side by side. In the case of Figure 7, the display area 201 is divided into three areas 201A, 201B, and 201C.

[0043] Furthermore, the display screen in Figure 7 shows message display fields equal to the number of participating streaming users. Specifically, display fields 202A, 202B, and 202C are displayed. Each display field contains corresponding message input fields 203A, 203B, and 203C, as well as tipping buttons 204A, 204B, and 204C. When a tip is submitted, three dedicated tip display fields 205 (see Figure 5) will appear around the outer edge of the display fields 202A, 202B, and 202C corresponding to each streaming user.

[0044] <Sub-function 3> The display control unit 102 has a sub-function that controls the display priority of display field 202A corresponding to distribution user A and display field 202B corresponding to distribution user B in the display image of the collaborative video, according to the posts of the viewing users. In this context, "controlling priority" refers to controlling the display priority of display field 202. More specifically, it refers to controlling the display priority. Display fields 202 with higher priority are displayed in a more prominent position and manner than other display fields 202. Furthermore, display fields 202 with higher priority contribute to reducing errors in message recipients and improving the efficiency of input work. In other words, it supports message input work through priority control.

[0045] High-priority display options for displaying the display fields 202 include, for example, highlighting the display field 202 of the field where the viewer is most likely to enter a message (i.e., the recipient), displaying the field where the viewer is most likely to enter a message (i.e., the recipient) in a specific, easily noticeable location (e.g., the top), and increasing the display size of the field where the viewer is most likely to enter a message (i.e., the recipient). It is also possible to display the lower-priority display area 202 in a position or manner that is relatively less conspicuous than the higher-priority display area 202. Thus, controlling the priority in sub-function 3 involves changing the relative relationship between the displays in display area 202A and display area 202B.

[0046] Furthermore, "according to user posts" means that priority control depends on posts made by users watching the streamed video. Therefore, even when watching the same collaborative video, the result of priority control will differ depending on the user. In this embodiment, priority is controlled, for example, by the history of where messages are posted to (i.e., recipients of) the collaborative video. With this criterion, there is no difference in priority among collaborative users at the time when no messages have been posted. With this criterion, the user with the most posts to (i.e., recipients) is given higher priority. However, when the number of posts is small, estimating the next posting destination based on the number of posts may not match the intentions of the viewing users. Therefore, priority control may be applied only after a certain number of posts (e.g., 3) has been exceeded.

[0047] Furthermore, if there are 3 posts addressed to user A and 2 posts addressed to user B, the difference in the number of posts is 1. Even in this case, estimating the next posting destination based on the number of posts does not necessarily match the intentions of the viewing users. Therefore, priority control may be applied only after the difference in the number of posts exceeds a threshold (e.g., 2). Furthermore, priority control may be determined based on the history of past posts to the currently viewed co-starring user. For example, priority may be controlled based on the history of posts to each co-starring streamer within a predetermined period (e.g., within the past month). For example, if co-starring users are streamer A and streamer B, and the history of posts to streamer A is 10 times and the history of posts to streamer B is 2 times, it can be estimated that there is a high probability that the next post will also be to streamer A.

[0048] The number of posts here may include the number of posts made in relation to the currently viewed video, or it may exclude posts made in relation to the currently viewed video. Additionally, the number of posts can be weighted along a timeline. For example, posts from the last three days could be given a heavier weight, posts from seven to four days ago could be given a smaller weight than those from the last three days, and posts from more than seven days ago could be given an even smaller weight. Furthermore, the number of views here may not be based on a time period, but rather on a predetermined number of times each streaming user has viewed a particular video in the past. Furthermore, if a message display field 202 addressed to all co-hosting users (described later) is placed on the display screen, its priority may be controlled in the same way as the display fields 202 corresponding to each individual user.

[0049] Furthermore, priority control may also be based on, for example, the history of tipping. Posting a tip demonstrates a high level of empathy or interest in the broadcasting user to whom it is sent (i.e., the recipient). Therefore, it can be determined that there is a high probability of posting a message to the same broadcasting user in the next post, and priority will be set high for that post. Furthermore, if you have a history of tipping both of the co-starring users in the video you are currently watching, you may use not only your most recent tipping history, but also the tipping history for each individual streamer appearing in the video you are currently watching.

[0050] Figure 8 illustrates an example of controlling the priority of the display area 202 according to the viewer who is watching the collaborative video. In Figure 8, parts corresponding to those in Figure 6 are indicated with corresponding reference numerals. In the control example explained in Figure 8, the display field 202, which has a higher priority, is highlighted. In the case of viewer user X (see diagram above), the priority of display field 202B, which corresponds to broadcaster user B, is higher than that of display field 202A, which corresponds to broadcaster user A. Therefore, on the display screen viewed by user X, the border of display area 202B is highlighted.

[0051] Highlighting techniques include using thicker borders, increasing border brightness, and changing border color to blue or red. Note that the border thickness, brightness, and color during highlighting can be set to the viewer's preference. On the other hand, in the case of viewer user Y (see diagram below), the priority of display area 202A, which corresponds to broadcaster user A, is higher than that of display area 202B, which corresponds to broadcaster user B. Therefore, on the display screen viewed by viewer user Y, the border of display area 202A is highlighted.

[0052] Figure 9 illustrates another example of controlling the priority of the display area 202 according to the viewer watching the collaborative video. In Figure 9, parts corresponding to those in Figure 6 are indicated with corresponding reference numerals. In the control example shown in Figure 9, the higher-priority display field 202 is positioned at the top. In the case of viewer user X (see diagram above), the priority of display field 202B, which corresponds to broadcaster user B, is higher than that of display field 202A, which corresponds to broadcaster user A. Therefore, display field 202B, which corresponds to broadcaster user B, is displayed above display field 202A, which corresponds to broadcaster user A. On the other hand, in the case of viewer user Y (see diagram below), the priority of display field 202A, which corresponds to broadcasting user A, is higher than that of display field 202B, which corresponds to broadcasting user B. Therefore, display field 202A, which corresponds to broadcasting user A, is displayed above display field 202B, which corresponds to broadcasting user B.

[0053] Figure 10 illustrates another example of controlling the priority of the display area 202 according to the viewer watching the collaborative video. Figure 10 is denoted with corresponding reference numerals for parts corresponding to those in Figure 6. In the control example explained in Figure 10, the display size of the high-priority display field 202 is displayed larger. In the case of viewer user X (see diagram above), the priority of display area 202B, which corresponds to broadcaster user B, is higher than that of display area 202A, which corresponds to broadcaster user A. Therefore, the display size of display area 202B, which corresponds to broadcaster user B, is displayed larger than the display size of display area 202A, which corresponds to broadcaster user A. On the other hand, in the case of viewer user Y (see diagram below), the priority of display area 202A, which corresponds to broadcast user A, is higher than that of display area 202B, which corresponds to broadcast user B. Therefore, the display size of display area 202A, which corresponds to broadcast user A, is displayed larger than the display size of display area 202B, which corresponds to broadcast user B.

[0054] Figure 11 illustrates another example of controlling the priority of the display area 202 according to the viewer watching the collaborative video. In Figure 11, corresponding parts with reference numerals are shown. In the control example explained in Figure 11, the display size of the high-priority display area 202 is also displayed larger. However, in the case of Figure 11, the display area 202 that is controlled with high priority is the display area 202 corresponding to the broadcasting user who posted a tip in the previous session. In Figure 11, the viewing user is "X" in both the upper and lower diagrams. In the diagram above, viewer user X has a history of sending a tip to broadcaster user A. Therefore, in the diagram above, the display size of display field 202A, which corresponds to broadcaster user A, is displayed larger. Conversely, the display size of display field 202B, which corresponds to broadcaster user B, is smaller. In the diagram below, viewer user X has a history of sending a tip to broadcaster user B. Therefore, in the diagram below, the display size of display field 202B, which corresponds to broadcaster user B, is displayed larger. Conversely, the display size of display field 202A, which corresponds to broadcaster user A, is smaller.

[0055] <Sub-function 4> The display control unit 102 has a sub-function that displays an input field 203, used for entering messages common to all co-starring users, on the display image of the co-starring video. The input field shown here is an example of a "third input area." The display control unit 102 displays the message entered in the input field 203 here in each of the display fields 202 corresponding to the multiple streaming users who are co-hosting users. Figure 12 illustrates an example of a display screen that includes a common message input field 203CM and a common tipping button 204CM for co-users. In Figure 12, corresponding parts with reference numerals are shown to correspond to those in Figure 6.

[0056] The display screen shown in Figure 12 has a common input field 203CM added compared to the display screen shown in Figure 6. Furthermore, a common tipping button 204CM is provided within the common input field 203CM. In the upper part of Figure 12, the message "aaaa" is entered in the common input field 203CM. In this case, as shown in the lower diagram of Figure 12, the message "aaaa" entered in the common input field 203CM is displayed in both display field 202A, which corresponds to delivery user A, and display field 202B, which corresponds to delivery user B. In this way, by providing a common input field 203CM, even if a viewer user X wants to enter the same message for both (i.e., all) co-starring users, they can post the same message to both (i.e., all) co-starring users with just one input.

[0057] <Sub-function 5> The display control unit 102 has a sub-function that displays on the display image, which includes a common input field for messages common to all co-users and a common display field corresponding to the common input field. The common display area shown here is an example of a "third display area." The display control unit 102 displays the message entered in the common input field 203CM (see Figure 12) in the common display area. Figure 13 illustrates an example of a display screen that includes a common display field 202CM dedicated to messages addressed to both co-users. Figure 13 is denoted with corresponding reference numerals for parts corresponding to Figure 12.

[0058] The display screen shown in Figure 13 has a common display field 202CM added compared to the display screen shown in Figure 12. In the upper diagram of Figure 13, the message "aaaa" is entered in the common input field 203CM. However, in this case, the entered message "aaaa" will only be displayed in the common display field 202CM, as shown in the figure below. In other words, the message "aaaa" entered in the common input field 203CM will not be displayed in either the display field 202A for sender A or the display field 202B for sender B. Therefore, the display screen shown in Figure 13 makes it easy to distinguish between messages addressed to both (or all) of the co-hosting users and messages posted only to a specific broadcasting user.

[0059] <Sub-function 6> The display control unit 102 has a sub-function that, when it receives a tipping post addressed to at least one of the co-users, displays the tipping information received by each co-user in a comparable manner. Figure 14 illustrates the changes in the display screen when a tip is received addressed to one of the co-hosting users, streaming user A. In Figure 14, corresponding parts with those in Figure 6 are indicated with corresponding symbols. The upper part of Figure 14 shows the display screen before accepting donations from viewer user X to broadcaster user A. The lower part of Figure 14 shows the screen displayed immediately after viewer user X posts a 500 yen tip to broadcaster user A.

[0060] In this case, tipping is implemented through operation on the tipping button 204A in the display field 202A corresponding to streaming user A. In Figure 14, the information about the received tips is displayed in display field 202A corresponding to streaming user A, as well as in a dedicated tip display field 205A. Simultaneously, the display control unit 102 displays an explanatory text 206 indicating the total amount of tips received to date, and columns 207A and 207B showing the amounts of tips received by each streaming user. Note that column 207A is displayed in association with area 201A corresponding to streaming user A, and column 207B is displayed in association with area 201B corresponding to streaming user B.

[0061] In Figure 14, it can be seen that the total amount of donations received by streamer A to date is 500 yen, while the total amount of donations received by streamer B to date is 0 yen. As shown in Figure 14, the amount of donations each streaming user has received from the start of the collaboration to the present is displayed, allowing viewers watching the collaboration video to easily compare the total amount of donations each streaming user has received. Furthermore, by allowing viewers to compare the total amount of donations received by the participating streamers, it becomes easier for them to decide whether or not to post a donation.

[0062] <Sub-function 7> The display control unit 102 has a sub-function that, when the common tipping button 204CM is operated on the display screen shown in Figure 12 or the display screen shown in Figure 13 (when tipping is instructed to be done for a co-performing user), allows the user to specify the amount of tipping to each streaming user. Figure 15 illustrates an example of the display of the common tipping screen 211CM, which appears when the common tipping button 204CM is operated. Figure 15 is denoted with reference numerals corresponding to the parts that correspond to those in Figures 4 and 12. The common tipping screen 211CM shown in Figure 15 differs from the tipping screen 211 shown in Figure 4 in that a recipient selection field 215 is added.

[0063] In Figure 15, the recipient selection field 215 displays three recipient options: "Both," "Distributing User A," and "Distributing User B." Note that if there are three co-distributing users, the recipient selection field 215 will display options such as "All," "Distributing User A," "Distributing User B," and "Distributing User C." If "Both" is selected, the display of the common tipping screen 211CM will be determined by the amount input field 213, and a screen 216 will be displayed that accepts the distribution of the amount displayed in the amount display field 213B. In the case of Figure 15, screen 216 is arranged with a fixed assignment button 216A, an individual assignment button 216B, an amount input field 216C used for individual assignment, and a confirm button 216D.

[0064] When the fixed assignment button 216A is selected and the confirm button 216D is operated, half of the amount specified in the amount input field 213 is allocated to each of broadcaster A and broadcaster B. In the example in Figure 15, 250 yen is allocated to each of broadcaster A and broadcaster B. Viewers may also pre-set the proportion of tips they want to give to broadcasters A and B, who are co-broadcasting with them, and by selecting the fixed assignment button 216A, the viewer's tips may be allocated to each broadcaster according to the pre-set proportion. On the other hand, selecting the individual assignment button 216B allows you to enter an amount in the amount input field 216C. In Figure 15, 300 yen is assigned to distribution user A and 200 yen to distribution user B.

[0065] In the case of Figure 15, the 500 yen is distributed between distribution user A and distribution user B. Therefore, when an amount is entered for one distribution user, the amount for the other distribution user is automatically entered. For example, if 300 yen is entered for distribution user A, 200 yen will automatically be displayed in the input field for distribution user B. Note that the amount for each distribution user can be changed any number of times until the OK button 216D is pressed.

[0066] Figure 16 illustrates an example of the display screen after the confirmation button 216D (see Figure 15) is pressed. Figure 16 is denoted with corresponding reference numerals for parts that correspond to those in Figure 14. In Figure 16, the message display area 202A corresponding to broadcasting user A displays a new message indicating a payment of 300 yen. However, the dedicated tipping display area 205A does not display the icon and amount indicating a 300 yen tip from viewer user X. In this embodiment, the icon and amount are displayed in the dedicated tipping display area 205 only when a tip of 500 yen or more is received. Similarly, in message display field 202B corresponding to broadcaster B, a new message indicating a payment of 200 yen is displayed. However, the dedicated tipping display field corresponding to broadcaster B does not show the icon and amount indicating a tip from viewer X. This is because 200 yen does not meet the display criteria.

[0067] Furthermore, the content of the message from viewer user X displayed in display field 202A and the content of the message from viewer user X displayed in display field 202B will be the same, as explained in Figure 12. This is because messages entered through the common input field 203CM or the message input field 212D are reflected in both the broadcasting user A and the broadcasting user B. In addition, the amount displayed in the tipping amount field 207A corresponding to streaming user A is 800 yen, which is an increase of 300 yen compared to the case in Figure 14. Furthermore, the amount displayed in the tipping amount field 207B, corresponding to streaming user B, is 200 yen, an increase of 200 yen compared to the case in Figure 14. As described above, viewer user X can enter a message common to both co-performing users and simultaneously specify the amount of money to tip each streaming user.

[0068] <Sub-function 8> The display control unit 102 has a sub-function that, when the collaborative performance by the collaborating users ends, displays the messages received during the collaboration in the display section 202 (see Figure 3) of the display section 201 (see Figure 3) of the streaming video corresponding to each streaming user. Figure 17 illustrates the changes in the display screen that occur when a performance ends. Figure 17 is denoted with reference numerals corresponding to the parts that correspond to those in Figures 5 and 16. The upper part of Figure 17 is an example of a display screen including a collaborative video, and is the same as Figure 16. The lower part of Figure 17 shows examples of the display screen when a viewer watches a video streamed by user A after the co-starring session has ended, and examples of the display screen when a viewer watches a video streamed by user B.

[0069] The messages and other information displayed in display area 202A (upper diagram in Figure 17) of streaming user A are carried over to the display screen showing display area 201 of streaming user A's video after they resumed streaming independently. Therefore, viewers can continue to see the messages they posted within the streaming video of the streaming user who was a co-streamer, even after they have finished watching the co-streamed video. In the case of Figure 17, the display of donations is also carried over from the collaborative video display screen to the individual streaming video display screen. Therefore, viewers can post donations without worrying about the end of the collaborative video. However, if a solo video stream does not begin after the joint performance ends, any remaining display time corresponding to the amount of donations received during the joint video stream will be discarded.

[0070] The same applies to the messages displayed in display area 202 (upper diagram in Figure 17) of broadcaster B. In other words, if broadcaster B starts broadcasting alone after the joint broadcast ends, the messages addressed to broadcaster B that were posted during the joint broadcast will be carried over to the display screen of display area 201 of the broadcast video. Furthermore, if the common display field 202CM (see Figure 13) is displayed on the screen of the collaborative video, the messages displayed in the common display field 202CM may be transferred to the videos of the collaborating users A and B at the same time the collaborative video ends. When transferring the messages, the display position of the messages in the display field 202 corresponding to each streaming user is determined according to the time the messages were received in the common input field 203CM.

[0071] <Functions of the Transition Control Unit> <Sub-function 1> The transition control unit 103 (see Figure 2) has a sub-function that, when a collaborative performance ends, determines which streaming user will continue to watch based on the viewing user's posting history while watching the collaborative video, and automatically transitions to the streaming video of the determined streaming user. For example, if the co-hosts are streaming user A and streaming user B, and a viewer has made more posts to streaming user A than to streaming user B during the co-hosting session, the transition control unit 103 will automatically transition to a video streamed by streaming user A alone.

[0072] Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating the control operations performed by the transition control unit 103 at the end of a performance. In Figure 18, the symbol S represents a step. First, the transition control unit 103 determines whether the collaboration has ended or not (Step 1). This determination is performed for each collaborative video being streamed. If the end of the co-starring is not detected, the transition control unit 103 obtains a negative result in step 1. In this case, the transition control unit 103 repeats the determination in step 1 for the co-starring video to be judged. On the other hand, if the end of the collaboration is detected, the transition control unit 103 obtains a positive result in step 1. In this case, the transition control unit 103 obtains the number of posts currently being made in the collaboration for each user who is watching the collaboration video, separated by the broadcasting user (step 2).

[0073] Next, the transition control unit 103 automatically transitions the streamed video displayed on the screen to the streamed video streamed by the streamer with the most posts, for each viewing user (Step 3). Figure 19 illustrates an example of a display screen transition by the transition control unit 103. In Figure 19, parts corresponding to those in Figure 17 are indicated by corresponding reference numerals. In the case of Figure 19, the transition of the display on the streaming screen is automatically executed by the transition control unit 103, rather than by user interaction. This sub-function allows users to continue watching their favorite streaming videos without having to search for them. Please note that viewers who do not post anything while watching the collaborative video will not be automatically redirected to the streaming screen.

[0074] The same applies when the number of posts to streaming user A and streaming user B are the same. However, if the number of posts is the same, the destination may be controlled based on whether or not a tip has been posted. For example, if there is a record of a tip being posted to streaming user A, but no record of a tip being posted to streaming user B, the transition control unit 103 may transition the display to the streaming video streamed by streaming user A at the same time as the co-appearance ends. Interest in the streaming user to whom a tip has been posted is often higher than that of the streaming user to whom no tip has been posted. In other words, viewers are more likely to want to continue watching. This sub-function allows viewers to continue watching streaming videos from their favorite streaming users without having to search for streaming videos from other streaming users.

[0075] Furthermore, if the number of posts is the same and there is a record of sending tips to both streaming user A and streaming user B, the destination may be controlled based on the amount of the tip. For example, the display may be redirected to the streaming video of the streaming user with the larger total tip amount, because there is a higher probability that the user has a greater interest in that streaming user. Alternatively, you could prioritize the streamer whose donation corresponds to the highest amount specified in a single donation. For example, even if the total amount is 1000 yen, you would prioritize the streamer who donated 1000 yen in a single donation. This is because larger donations often attract more attention than smaller donations.

[0076] Alternatively, priority could be given to the streamer who gives a higher amount of donation per transaction. Under this rule, for example, if two streamers give 1000 yen and one give 200 yen, the streamer who gives 1000 yen would be given priority. This is because larger donations tend to attract more attention than smaller donations. It is also possible to prioritize streamers who have received more donations. This is because a higher number of donations can be interpreted as a greater number of times viewers have shown interest in the stream.

[0077] Furthermore, if only one of the co-hosting users continues to stream their video and the other users do not, the user may be automatically redirected to the video streamed by the user who is continuing to stream. In this case, it is desirable to display a message on the screen indicating that the user has been redirected to the video streamed by the user who is continuing to stream.

[0078] <Sub-function 2> The transition control unit 103 may determine the transition destination based on the total number of characters in the posted messages, rather than the number of posts. In this case, the number of posts in step 2 (see Figure 18) and step 3 (see Figure 18) should be read as the total number of characters in the messages. A large total number of characters in a message often indicates a high level of interest from the viewer.

[0079] <Sub-function 3> The transition control unit 103 may switch to a video streamed by a streaming user that was being watched before the co-starring video started. Here, the streaming user is assumed to be one of the co-starring users. Users who were watching the collaborative video before it began are more likely to have a greater interest than other collaborative users. Therefore, after the collaborative video ends, the display screen will transition to the video streamed by the user who was watching before the collaborative video began.

[0080] <Sub-function 4> The transition control unit 103 may, if there are multiple broadcasting users who posted messages during the collaboration, inquire with the viewer at the end of the collaboration about which broadcasting video to transition to, and control the transition of the broadcasting screen according to the result of the response to the inquiry. Furthermore, this inquiry function may be used when there are three or more co-users and two or more possible destinations. This inquiry function can also be adopted in each of the aforementioned rules.

[0081] Figure 20 illustrates an example of a destination inquiry screen 208 that the transition control unit 103 displays on the user terminal 20 of the viewing user. The inquiry screen 208 consists of an inquiry text 208A, a selection field 208B, and a confirmation button 208C.

[0082] Inquiry letter 208A includes confirmation that both co-starring users are continuing their individual broadcasts even after the joint performance has ended, and also asks for confirmation of the user's desire to continue watching. In the case of Figure 20, inquiry letter 208A states, "The joint performance has ended, but broadcaster A and broadcaster B are continuing their broadcasts," and "Would you like to continue watching either broadcast?" Selection field 208B displays three options. One of the options is to instruct the user not to continue watching the live stream of a user who was a co-host. In Figure 20, this option is labeled "No, I will stop watching."

[0083] One of the options is to instruct the user to continue watching the video streamed by user A. In Figure 20, it says, "I will watch user A's stream." Also in Figure 20, this option is selected. One of the options is to instruct the user to continue watching the video streamed by user B. In Figure 20, this option is labeled "I will watch user B's stream." The display of this inquiry screen 208 allows the transition control unit 103 to reliably transition to the streaming video of a streaming user that is of high interest to the viewing user.

[0084] <Functions of the Information Provision Department> The information provision unit 104 (see Figure 2) has a sub-function that provides identifiable transition information of one or more streamed videos viewed by a viewer who posted a message to a streaming user who was a co-streaming user. This sub-function is a mechanism that supports streaming users in devising responses to viewer users. Figure 21 illustrates an example of a management screen 209 that the information provision unit 104 displays on the user terminal 20 of user A.

[0085] The management screen 209 shown in Figure 21 is displayed when the tipping button is selected in the tools section 209A. The tipping information section 209B displays a chronological list of viewers who posted tips during the performance. The tipping information section 209B shown in Figure 21 consists of a date / time / amount field 209B1, a viewer username / message content field 209B2, and a viewing history field 209B3. Note that in Figure 21, only the date is shown, and the time is omitted. For example, the first line shows that on "2022 / 07 / 10", "X" sent a tip of "300 yen", and the message was "Good job!". It also records that "X" transitioned from watching a video streamed by streamer A to watching a video featuring a collaboration with streamer B.

[0086] The second line indicates that on "2022 / 07 / 10", "Y-san" sent a tip of "200 yen", and the message was "Nice!". It also records that "Y-san" transitioned from watching a live stream by streamer B, with whom they had collaborated, to watching a video of them collaborating with streamer B. The third line indicates that on "2022 / 07 / 10", "Mr. Z" donated "500 yen", and the message contained "888888". It also records that "Mr. Z" transitioned from watching a video streamed by user A to watching a video featuring user B, and then transitioned back to watching a video streamed by user A. The fourth line indicates that on "2022 / 07 / 10", "P-san" donated "300 yen", and the message was "Keep up the good work". It also records that "P-san" transitioned from watching a video streamed by streamer B to watching a video featuring streamer B, and then transitioned to watching a video streamed by streamer A.

[0087] The management screen 209 shown in Figure 21 includes records of viewing the streamed video as information about the viewer who posted the tip. Upon reviewing this record, user A can determine that X and Z are viewers who have been following them for some time. Therefore, they can respond with messages such as, "Thank you for your continued support." Furthermore, streaming user A can determine that Y and P are likely viewers who became interested in them through their collaboration with streaming user B. This allows for responses such as, "Thank you for watching. Please continue to support me in the future."

[0088] <Other Embodiments> The embodiments of the invention are not limited to those described above. For example, elements of each embodiment can be combined as appropriate. (1) For example, in the above embodiment, the description assumed that the display of the user terminal 20 is horizontal, but the display of the user terminal 20 may also be vertical. Figure 22 illustrates an example of a display screen for collaborative videos on a user terminal 20 having a vertically oriented display. In Figure 22, parts corresponding to those in Figure 6 are indicated with corresponding reference numerals. In Figure 22, the display area 201 where the streamed video is displayed is shown at the top of the display, the second row from the top shows a message display area 202A, a message input area 203A, and a tipping button 204A corresponding to streamer A, and the bottom row shows a message display area 202B, a message input area 203B, and a tipping button 204B corresponding to streamer B. This example display is suitable, for example, when user terminal 20 is a smartphone.

[0089] (2) In the above-described embodiment, the case of distributing video images of a avatar object in a virtual space was explained, but it can also be applied to the case of distributing video images of the distributing user themselves captured in real space.

[0090] <Summary> The main features of the information processing device, information processing method, and program described in the embodiments are shown below. [General tasks] One of the objectives of this invention is to improve the convenience of viewing streaming videos. One of the objectives of the present invention is to facilitate the identification of the correspondence between comments displayed with a streamed video containing multiple users (or videos) and each user (or video).

[0091] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 1] One of the objectives of the present invention is to facilitate the identification of the correspondence between comments displayed alongside a collaborative video and the multiple streaming users involved in the collaboration. [Note 1] The information processing device has a display control unit that displays a streamed video on the viewer's terminal, which includes the first video of the first streaming user and the second video of the second streaming user who is performing with the first streaming user. The display control unit displays a streamed video which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first streaming user is displayed and a second display area where a message addressed to the second streaming user is displayed. This information processing device makes it easier to identify the correspondence between comments displayed alongside collaborative videos and the multiple streaming users involved in the collaboration.

[0092] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 2] One of the objectives of the present invention is to make it easy to identify which of the co-starring streaming users a message sent by a viewer is addressed to within the streamed video. [Note 2] The information processing device described in Note 1, which has a reception unit that receives messages from viewing users, and a display control unit that displays messages addressed to a first distribution user in a first display area and messages addressed to a second distribution user in a second display area. This makes it easy to identify which of the co-starring streamers a message sent by a viewer is intended for within the streamed video.

[0093] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 3] One of the objectives of the present invention is to enable the provision of streaming videos to each viewer that are adjusted according to the viewing user's posting tendencies. [Note 3] The display control unit controls the display priority of the first display area and the second display area in the streamed video displayed on the viewer's terminal, in accordance with the viewer's posts, as described in Note 1. This allows us to provide each viewer with streaming videos that are tailored to their posting trends.

[0094] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 4] One of the objectives of this invention is to facilitate the confirmation of the message display area corresponding to the broadcasting user with the most viewer posts. [Note 4] The information processing device described in Note 3, wherein the display control unit prioritizes the display of the first display area over the display of the second display area when the number of messages posted by viewing users to the first broadcasting user is greater than the number of messages posted by viewing users to the second broadcasting user. This makes it easier to check the message display area corresponding to the broadcaster who receives the most comments from viewers.

[0095] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 5] One of the objectives of the present invention is to facilitate the confirmation of the display area of ​​a message corresponding to the broadcasting user who posted the message after the viewer consumed a predetermined value. [Note 5] The display control unit is an information processing device as described in Note 3, which prioritizes the display of the first display area over the display of the second display area when a viewer user posts a message to the first distribution user that consumes a predetermined value. This makes it easier for viewers to check the display area of ​​messages corresponding to the broadcaster who posted a message after consuming a predetermined value.

[0096] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 6] One of the objectives of the present invention is to facilitate the posting of messages addressed to a desired recipient user. [Note 6] The information processing apparatus described in Note 2, wherein the display control unit displays a streamed video including a first input area corresponding to a first display area and a second input area corresponding to a second display area, and the display control unit displays a message entered in the first input area in the first display area and a message entered in the second input area in the second display area. This makes it easier to post messages addressed to the desired recipient.

[0097] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 7] One of the objectives of the present invention is to facilitate the operation of posting a message that is common to multiple distribution users. [Note 7] The information processing apparatus according to Note 2, wherein the display control unit displays the distributed video including the third input area, and the display control unit displays the message input to the third input area in both the first display area and the second display area. This makes it easier to post messages that are common to multiple users.

[0098] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 8] One of the objectives of the present invention is to facilitate the operation of posting a message that is common to multiple distribution users. [Note 8] The information processing apparatus described in Note 2, wherein the display control unit displays a streamed video including a third input area and a third display area corresponding to the third input area, and the display control unit displays a message entered in the third input area in the third display area. This makes it easier to post messages that are common to multiple users.

[0099] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 9] One of the objectives of this invention is to make it easy to grasp a predetermined value received by multiple streaming users who are co-hosting. [Note 9] When the display control unit receives a message that involves the consumption of a predetermined value and is addressed to at least one of the first and second distributing users, the display control unit displays the information of the predetermined value received by the first and second distributing users in a comparable manner, as described in Note 1. This makes it easy to understand the predetermined value received by multiple streaming users who are co-hosting.

[0100] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 10] One of the objectives of the present invention is to facilitate the distribution of a predetermined value to each of the multiple streaming users who are collaborating. [Note 10] The information processing device according to Note 1, wherein the display control unit displays the amount of predetermined value to be given to the first delivery user and the amount of predetermined value to be given to the second delivery user when the destination of a message that consumes predetermined value includes both the first delivery user and the second delivery user. This makes it easy to distribute a predetermined value to each of the multiple streaming users who are collaborating.

[0101] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 11] One of the objectives of this invention is to maintain the relationship between viewers and broadcasters even after the collaboration has ended. [Note 11] The display control unit, when the collaboration between the first and second streaming users ends, displays the message that was associated with the first display area during the collaboration on the streaming video streamed by the first streaming user who has finished the collaboration, as described in Note 1. This allows the relationship between viewers and streamers to be maintained even after the collaboration has ended.

[0102] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 12] One of the objectives of this invention is to enable viewers to continue watching the streaming videos of popular streamers after the performance has ended. [Note 12] The information processing device according to Note 11, further comprising a transition control unit that, when the number of posts by viewing users to the first streaming user is greater than the number of posts to the second streaming user, transitions to a streaming video streamed by the first streaming user after the collaboration between the first and second streaming users has ended. This allows viewers to continue watching videos from popular streamers after their performance has ended.

[0103] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 13] One of the objectives of this invention is to enable viewers to continue watching videos from their preferred streaming users after the performance has ended. [Note 13] The information processing device according to Note 11, further comprising a transition control unit that, when a viewer posts a message to either the first display area or the second display area, queries which of the first and second streaming users' videos to transition to after the collaboration between the first and second streaming users has ended, and transitions the viewer's screen according to the result of the response to the query. This allows viewers to continue watching the live streams of their preferred streamers after the performance has ended.

[0104] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 14] One of the objectives of this invention is to facilitate responses from broadcasters to viewers that are tailored to their needs. [Appendix 14] The information processing apparatus according to Appendix 1, further comprising an information providing unit that provides the first distribution user with identifiable transition information of one or more distributed videos viewed by a viewer who posted a message to the first distribution user. This makes it easier for broadcasters to respond to viewers in a way that is tailored to their needs.

[0105] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 15] One of the objectives of the present invention is to facilitate the identification of the correspondence between comments displayed alongside a collaborative video and the multiple streaming users involved in the collaboration. [Note 15] An information processing method in which the processor performs the following steps: a process in which the processor displays a streamed video on the viewer's terminal that includes the first video of the first streaming user and the second video of the second streaming user who is performing with the first streaming user; and a process in which the processor displays a streamed video that includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first streaming user is displayed and a second display area where a message addressed to the second streaming user is displayed. This makes it easier to identify the correspondence between comments displayed alongside collaborative videos and the multiple streaming users involved in the collaboration.

[0106] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 16] One of the objectives of the present invention is to facilitate the identification of the correspondence between comments displayed alongside a collaborative video and the multiple streaming users involved in the collaboration. [Note 16] A program that causes the processor to display a streamed video on the viewer's terminal that includes the first video of the first streaming user and the second video of the second streaming user who is performing with the first streaming user, and to display a streamed video that includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first streaming user is displayed and a second display area where a message addressed to the second streaming user is displayed. This makes it easier to identify the correspondence between comments displayed alongside collaborative videos and the multiple streaming users involved in the collaboration. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 1... Information processing system, 10... Distribution server, 11... Processor, 12... Memory, 13... Auxiliary storage device, 14... Communication interface, 20... User terminal, 101... Reception unit, 102... Display control unit, 103... Transition control unit, 104... Information provision unit, 110... Storage unit, 111... Distribution user information, 112... Viewing user information, 113... Co-starring user information, 114... Posting information, 115... Tip information

Claims

1. A display control unit that displays a streamed video on a viewer's terminal, which includes a first video of a first streaming user and a second video of a second streaming user who is performing with the first streaming user, The display control unit displays the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. The display control unit controls the display priority of the first display area and the second display area in the streamed video displayed on the viewer's terminal, in response to the viewer's post. Information processing device.

2. A display control unit that displays a streamed video on a viewer's terminal, which includes a first video of a first streaming user and a second video of a second streaming user who is performing with the first streaming user, The display control unit displays the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. When the display control unit receives a message post that involves the consumption of a predetermined value addressed to at least one of the first and second distribution users, it displays the information of the predetermined value received by the first and second distribution users in a comparable manner. Information processing device.

3. A display control unit that displays a streamed video on a viewer's terminal, which includes a first video of a first streaming user and a second video of a second streaming user who is performing with the first streaming user, The display control unit displays the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. The display control unit, when the recipients of a message consuming a predetermined value include the first and second delivery users, displays the amount of predetermined value to be granted to the first delivery user and the amount of predetermined value to be granted to the second delivery user in a way that allows them to specify the amount. Information processing device.

4. A display control unit that displays a streamed video on a viewer's terminal, which includes a first video of a first streaming user and a second video of a second streaming user who is performing with the first streaming user, The display control unit displays the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. When the collaboration between the first and second streaming users ends, the display control unit displays the message that was associated with the first display area during the collaboration in the streaming video streamed by the first streaming user who has finished the collaboration. Information processing device.

5. The processor processes the display of the first video from the first streaming user and the second video from the second streaming user, who is performing with the first streaming user, on the viewer's terminal. The processor performs a process to display the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. The processor performs a process to control the display priority of the first display area and the second display area in the streamed video displayed on the viewer's terminal in response to the viewer's post, An information processing method that performs the following.

6. The processor processes the display of the first video from the first streaming user and the second video from the second streaming user, who is performing with the first streaming user, on the viewer's terminal. The processor performs a process to display the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. When the processor receives a message submission that involves the consumption of a predetermined value addressed to at least one of the first and second distribution users, it performs a process to display the information of the predetermined value received by each of the first and second distribution users in a comparable manner. An information processing method that performs the following.

7. The processor processes the display of the first video from the first streaming user and the second video from the second streaming user, who is performing with the first streaming user, on the viewer's terminal. The processor performs a process to display the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. The processor performs a process to display, in a way that allows the amount of predetermined value to be assigned to the first user and the amount of predetermined value to be assigned to the second user, when the destination of a message consuming predetermined value includes both the first and second users. An information processing method that performs the following.

8. The processor processes the display of the first video from the first streaming user and the second video from the second streaming user, who is performing with the first streaming user, on the viewer's terminal. The processor performs a process to display the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. When the collaboration between the first and second streaming users ends, the processor performs the process of displaying the message that was associated with the first display area during the collaboration in the streaming video streamed by the first streaming user who has finished the collaboration. An information processing method that performs the following.

9. The processor instructs the viewer's terminal to display the streamed video, which includes the first video of the first streaming user and the second video of the second streaming user who is performing with the first streaming user. The processor is instructed to display the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. The processor is instructed to control the display priority of the first display area and the second display area in the streamed video displayed on the viewer's terminal, in response to the viewer's post. A program that executes a process.

10. The processor instructs the viewer's terminal to display the streamed video, which includes the first video of the first streaming user and the second video of the second streaming user who is performing with the first streaming user. The processor is instructed to display the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. When the processor receives a message submission that involves the consumption of a predetermined value and is addressed to at least one of the first and second distribution users, it displays the information on the predetermined value received by each of the first and second distribution users in a comparable manner. A program that executes a process.

11. The processor instructs the viewer's terminal to display the streamed video, which includes the first video of the first streaming user and the second video of the second streaming user who is performing with the first streaming user. The processor is instructed to display the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. The processor is configured to display, in a way that allows the user to specify the amount of predetermined value to be assigned to the first user and the amount of predetermined value to be assigned to the second user, when the destination of a message consuming predetermined value includes both the first and second users. A program that executes a process.

12. The processor instructs the viewer's terminal to display the streamed video, which includes the first video of the first streaming user and the second video of the second streaming user who is performing with the first streaming user. The processor is instructed to display the distributed video, which includes a first display area where a message addressed to the first distribution user is displayed, and a second display area where a message addressed to the second distribution user is displayed. The processor instructs the first streaming user and the second streaming user to display the message that was associated with the first display area during the collaboration in the streaming video streamed by the first streaming user who has finished the collaboration, when the collaboration between the two users has ended. A program that executes a process.

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