Information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

This can reduce the burden of calculating the billing amount for devices to be charged to users. [Solution] The information processing device according to the present invention provides a first benefit in which, in exchange for returning the terminal, payment of at least a portion of the terminal price, which is the price of the terminal as its intrinsic value and is originally to be paid in installments, is waived, and an application for the use of the first benefit requires a fee for using the first benefit. Information Along with this, an application to purchase a new device. Information indicating the presence or absence of The reception desk receives applications from terminal users, and the reception desk accepts applications for the use of the first benefit. Information Along with this, an application to purchase a new device. Information indicating the presence or absence of If accepted, Based on information indicating whether or not an application for the purchase of a new device has been submitted, and the device information of the device to be returned, It includes a calculation unit that calculates the amount billed to the user for the terminal.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] There are various fee plans for purchasing terminals such as smartphones, and customers can purchase terminals at a favorable price through campaigns and discount systems. For example, based on the terminal price which is the original value of the terminal, and the discount upper limit which is the upper limit amount by which the terminal price is discounted, an exemption period is set which is a period during which at least a part of the payment of the terminal price, which is the payment for the terminal, is waived in a predetermined period during which the terminal price is paid in installments. There is a technology that provides an installment plan which is a plan in which at least a part of the payment of the terminal price is waived during the set exemption period.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] An information processing apparatus according to the present application is a first privilege in which at least a part of the payment of the terminal price that is originally divided and paid, which is the original value of the terminal, is waived in exchange for the return of the terminal, and an application for the use of the first privilege that requires a first privilege usage fee Information together with an application for the purchase of a new terminal Information indicating the presence or absence of a reception unit that receives from a user of the terminal, and when the reception unit receives the application for the use of the first privilege Information together with the application for the purchase of the new terminal Information indicating the presence or absence of is received, Based on the information indicating whether or not an application for the purchase of the new terminal has been submitted, and the terminal information of the terminal to be returned, a calculation unit that calculates a claim amount regarding the terminal to be claimed against the user, and is provided with. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0005] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the overview of the payment methods for terminal costs related to the comparative technology. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a payment method for the terminal price related to the comparative technology. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the outline of the payment method for the terminal according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a payment method for the terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of an information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of data stored in the user information storage unit according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of data stored in the benefit usage fee storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of information processing by the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of a hardware configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0006] The following describes in detail, with reference to the drawings, the embodiments for implementing the information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments"). Note that these embodiments do not limit the information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application. Furthermore, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in each of the following embodiments, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0007] (Embodiment) [1. Introduction] Traditionally, there have been various pricing plans for purchasing devices such as smartphones, and campaigns and discount programs have made it possible for customers to purchase devices at a lower price. The following explanation assumes the device is a smartphone, but the device is not limited to smartphones. For example, the device may be a smart device such as a tablet or a mobile phone.

[0008] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the overview of the payment method for terminal costs related to the comparative technology. In Figure 1, the user pays for the terminal in 48 installments over 48 months. Furthermore, the user returns the terminal to the telecommunications carrier after, for example, the 25th month, and applies for a benefit that exempts the user from paying at least a portion of the terminal price, which is the terminal's intrinsic value, from the installment payments. In this case, the user is not required to pay the terminal price from the 25th month onward. In other words, by applying for the benefit and returning the terminal, the user is not required to pay the terminal price from the 25th month onward, thus purchasing the terminal at a discount. For example, if the user does not use the benefit, the user is required to pay the full terminal price in 48 installments over 48 months. On the other hand, if the user uses the benefit and returns the terminal after, for example, the user is not required to pay the terminal price from the 25th month onward, so the effective price, which is the amount the user actually pays as the purchase price of the terminal, is the sum of the terminal prices from the 1st to the 24th installment. Furthermore, the benefit of being exempted from paying at least a portion of the device price, which is the price of the device as its true value, when returning the device to the telecommunications carrier, can also be rephrased as a program in which, when returning the device to the telecommunications carrier, you are exempted from paying at least a portion of the device price, which is the price of the device as its true value, which is the price of the device as it is, when returning the device to the telecommunications carrier.

[0009] Furthermore, under the Telecommunications Business Act, telecommunications carriers can offer discounts of up to 40,000 yen (44,000 yen including tax; hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "discount amount") for each terminal purchased by a user. Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a payment method (plan) for terminal costs related to the comparative technology. In Figure 2, telecommunications carriers offer discounts within the discount amount for each new terminal purchase and terminal replacement by the user, allowing users to purchase terminals at an even more advantageous price.

[0010] For example, the leftmost part of Figure 2 illustrates a scenario where a user purchases a new device A with a price of 90,000 yen and utilizes the benefits. In the leftmost part of Figure 2, the user pays a predetermined amount each month as the device price for device A. In the example on the leftmost part of Figure 2, the user pays 20,000 yen as the device price for device A in 24 installments, from the 1st to the 24th installment. The user also returns device A, for example, 25 months or more after purchasing device A, along with applying to utilize the benefits. In the example in Figure 2, the telecommunications carrier discounts 40,000 yen from the price of device A, which is within the range of the discountable amount. The telecommunications carrier also determines a provisional buyback price for device A returned by the user, based on the device buyback price data provided by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. In the example in Figure 2, the telecommunications carrier determines the provisional buyback price for device A to be 30,000 yen, which is 33% of the device price of device A. In addition, under the plan in Figure 2, the user is exempt from paying the amount consisting of the discount amount and the provisional buyback price of the device. In the following, the amount consisting of the discount amount and the provisional buyback price of the device may be referred to as the payment exemption amount. In the leftmost example of Figure 2, the user is exempted from paying 70,000 yen, which is the sum of the discount amount of 40,000 yen and the provisional buyback price of device A at the time of return of 30,000 yen. In this case, subtracting the 20,000 yen that the user will pay for device A in installments from the device price of device A, which is 90,000 yen, gives 70,000 yen. Subtracting the payment exemption amount (70,000 yen), which consists of the discount amount of 40,000 yen and the provisional buyback price of device A at the time of return of 30,000 yen, from this 70,000 yen, the remaining amount of the device price of device A after subtracting the user's payment and the payment exemption amount is 0 yen. In other words, the user can return device A without paying any additional fees when returning it. In the example on the far left of Figure 2, the device price (90,000 yen) consists of the user's payment amount (20,000 yen) and the payment exemption amount (70,000 yen).

[0011] Furthermore, the center of Figure 2 illustrates a scenario where a user returns device A and then purchases device B, priced at 90,000 yen, to utilize the benefits. In the center of Figure 2, the user pays a predetermined amount each month as the device price for device B. In the example in the center of Figure 2, the user pays 30,000 yen for device B in 24 installments, from the 1st to the 24th installment. The user also returns device B, for example, 25 months or more after purchasing device B, along with applying to use the benefits. In the example in Figure 2, the telecommunications carrier deducts 30,000 yen from the price of device B as a discount, which is within the range of the discountable amount. For example, the telecommunications carrier may offer a smaller discount than in the case of a new purchase. The telecommunications carrier also determines a provisional buyback price for device B, which has been returned by the user, based on the device buyback price data provided by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. In the example in Figure 2, the telecommunications carrier determines the provisional buyback price for device B to be 30,000 yen, which is 33% of the device price of device B. Furthermore, in the center of Figure 2, the user is exempt from paying 60,000 yen, which is the sum of the discount amount of 30,000 yen and the provisional buyback price of terminal B at the time of return, 30,000 yen. In this case, subtracting the 30,000 yen that the user will pay for terminal B in installments from the terminal price of terminal B, 90,000 yen, gives 60,000 yen. Subtracting the exemption amount (60,000 yen), which consists of the discount amount of 30,000 yen and the provisional buyback price of terminal B at the time of return, 30,000 yen, from this 60,000 yen results in a remaining amount of 0 yen from the terminal price of terminal B, after subtracting the amount paid by the user and the exemption amount. In other words, the user can return terminal B without paying any additional fees. In the example in the center of Figure 2, the terminal price (90,000 yen) consists of the amount paid by the user (30,000 yen) and the exemption amount (60,000 yen).

[0012] Furthermore, the right side of Figure 2 explains the case where a user returns device B and then purchases device C, which costs 90,000 yen, to utilize the benefits. In the right side of Figure 2, the user pays a predetermined amount each month as the device price for device C. In the example on the right side of Figure 2, the user pays 30,000 yen as the device price for device C in 24 installments, from the 1st to the 24th installment. The user also returns device C, for example, 25 months or more after purchasing device C, along with applying to use the benefits. In the example of Figure 2, the telecommunications carrier deducts 30,000 yen from the device price of device C as a discount, which is within the range of the discountable amount. The telecommunications carrier also determines a provisional buyback price for device C returned by the user based on the device buyback price data provided by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. In the example of Figure 2, the telecommunications carrier determines the provisional buyback price for device C to be 30,000 yen, which is 33% of the device price of device C. Furthermore, on the right side of Figure 2, the user is exempt from paying 60,000 yen, which is the sum of the discount amount of 30,000 yen and the provisional buyback price of terminal C at the time of return, 30,000 yen. In this case, subtracting the 30,000 yen that the user will pay for terminal C in installments from the terminal price of terminal C, 90,000 yen, gives 60,000 yen. Subtracting the exemption amount (60,000 yen), which consists of the discount amount of 30,000 yen and the provisional buyback price of terminal C at the time of return, 30,000 yen, from this 60,000 yen results in a remaining amount of 0 yen from the terminal price of terminal C, after subtracting the user's payment and the exemption amount. In other words, the user can return terminal C without paying any additional fees. In the example on the right side of Figure 2, the terminal price (90,000 yen) consists of the user's payment amount (30,000 yen) and the exemption amount (60,000 yen).

[0013] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the outline of the payment method for the terminal according to the embodiment. Figure 3 differs from Figure 1 in that if the user does not apply for the use of the first benefit and also apply for the purchase of a new terminal (for example, an application for replacement), the user is required to pay the first benefit usage fee, which is the fee for using the first benefit. On the other hand, in Figure 3, if the user applies for the use of the first benefit and also applies for the purchase of a new terminal, the first benefit usage fee is waived. For example, in Figure 3, as in Figure 1, the user pays for the terminal in 48 installments over 48 months. Alternatively, the user may apply for the use of the first benefit after 25 months from the date of purchase, and return the terminal without applying for the purchase of a new terminal. In this case, the user is not required to pay the terminal price from 25 months onward, but is required to pay the first benefit usage fee. On the other hand, a user can, for example, apply for the first benefit after 25 months from the date of purchase, apply for the purchase of a new device, and return the old device. In this case, the user will not be required to pay the device price from 25 months onward, and the fee for using the first benefit will be waived. The fee for using the first benefit is a predetermined amount set by the telecommunications carrier (for example, 20,000 yen).

[0014] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a payment method for terminal costs according to the embodiment. In Figure 4, as with Figure 2, the telecommunications carrier provides a discount within the limits of the discount amount each time a user purchases a new terminal or replaces a terminal, allowing users to purchase terminals at an even better price. On the other hand, Figure 4 differs from Figure 2 in that, for example, from the 25th month onward, when a user applies for the use of the first benefit and also applies for the purchase of a new terminal (replacement application), a portion of the discount amount, which is the amount that can be discounted from the terminal price of the new terminal (replacement terminal), is applied to the fee for using the first benefit.

[0015] For example, at the left end of FIG. 4, the case where the user newly purchases terminal A with a terminal price of 90,000 yen and uses the first privilege will be described. At the left end of FIG. 4, the user pays a predetermined amount every month as the terminal price of terminal A. In the example at the left end of FIG. 4, the difference from FIG. 2 is that the user pays 24 yen in 24 installments from the 1st to the 24th as the terminal price of terminal A. At the left end of FIG. 4, the amount the user pays monthly by installment is 1 yen. Note that although the case where the amount the user pays monthly by installment is 1 yen is described at the left end of FIG. 4, the amount the user pays monthly by installment is not limited to 1 yen. Also, for example, after the 25th month since the user purchased terminal A, the user applies for the purchase of a new terminal B (replacement application) together with the application for using the first privilege and returns terminal A. Also, in the example of FIG. 4, the communication carrier discounts 40,000 yen, which is within the range of the discountable amount, from the terminal price of terminal A as the discount amount. Also, based on the terminal purchase price data presented by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the communication carrier determines the provisional purchase price of terminal A returned by the user. In the example of FIG. 4, the communication carrier determines the provisional purchase price of terminal A to be 30,000 yen, which is 33% of the terminal price of terminal A. Also, in the plan of FIG. 4, similar to the plan of FIG. 2, the user is exempted from paying the amount consisting of the discount amount and the provisional purchase price of the terminal. Hereinafter, the amount consisting of the discount amount and the provisional purchase price of the terminal may be referred to as the payment exemption amount. At the left end of FIG. 4, the user is exempted from paying a total amount of 70,000 yen, which is the sum of the discount amount of 40,000 yen and the provisional purchase price of terminal A at the time of return of 30,000 yen. In the example at the left end of FIG. 4, the terminal price (90,000 yen) is composed of the amount the user pays (24 yen), the payment exemption amount (70,000 yen), and the first privilege usage fee the user pays (20,000 yen). However, when the user applies for the purchase of a new terminal B (replacement application) together with the application for using the first privilege, a part (20,000 yen in FIG. 4) of the discountable amount, which is the amount that can be discounted from the terminal price of the new terminal B (replaced terminal B), is allocated to the first privilege usage fee. As a result, it becomes substantially unnecessary for the user to pay the first privilege usage fee. That is, the communication carrier does not bill the user for the first privilege usage fee.

[0016] In addition, if the user returns terminal A without applying for the purchase of a new terminal B (replacement application) together with the application for using the first privilege after the 25th month since purchasing terminal A, for example, the user shall pay the first privilege usage fee. That is, the telecommunications carrier shall bill the user for the first privilege usage fee.

[0017] Also, in the center of FIG. 4, the case where the user replaces terminal A with terminal B priced at 90,000 yen and uses the first privilege after returning terminal A will be described. In the center of FIG. 4, the user pays a predetermined amount monthly as the terminal price of terminal B. In the example in the center of FIG. 4, the user pays 30,000 yen divided into 24 installments from the 1st to the 24th as the terminal price of terminal B. Also, for example, after the 25th month since purchasing terminal B, the user applies for the purchase of a new terminal C (replacement application) together with the application for using the first privilege and returns terminal B. Also, in the example of FIG. 4, it is different from FIG. 2 in that the telecommunications carrier discounts 10,000 yen, which is within the range of the discountable amount, as the discount amount from the terminal price of terminal B. Terminal B can be discounted up to 40,000 yen at most, but since a part of the 20,000 yen frame has already been used for the privilege usage fee when using the privilege for terminal A, it can be discounted within the remaining 20,000 yen range. Here, the discount amount for terminal B is set at 10,000 yen, which is within the 20,000 yen range of the discountable amount.

[0018] Furthermore, the telecommunications carrier determines a provisional buyback price for terminal B, which has been returned by the user, based on terminal buyback price data provided by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. In the example in Figure 4, the telecommunications carrier determines the provisional buyback price for terminal B to be 30,000 yen, which is 33% of the terminal price of terminal B. Also, in the center of Figure 4, the user is exempted from paying 40,000 yen, which is the sum of the discount amount of 10,000 yen and the provisional buyback price of terminal B at the time of return of 30,000 yen. In the example in the center of Figure 4, the terminal price (90,000 yen) consists of the amount paid by the user (30,000 yen), the amount exempted from payment (40,000 yen), and the first benefit usage fee paid by the user (20,000 yen). However, if the user applies for the first benefit and also applies to purchase a new terminal C (replacement application), a portion of the discountable amount (20,000 yen in Figure 4), which is the amount that can be discounted from the terminal price of the new terminal C (replacement terminal C), is applied to the first benefit usage fee. As a result, the user is effectively not required to pay the first benefit usage fee. In other words, the telecommunications carrier does not charge the user the first benefit usage fee.

[0019] Furthermore, if a user returns device B 25 months or more after purchasing it, without applying for the use of the first benefit or applying for the purchase of a new device C (a trade-in application), the user will pay the fee for using the first benefit. In other words, the telecommunications carrier will bill the user for the fee for using the first benefit.

[0020] Furthermore, the right side of Figure 4 explains the case where the user returns terminal C and then purchases terminal D, which costs 90,000 yen, to utilize the first benefit. In the right side of Figure 4, the user pays a predetermined amount each month as the terminal price for terminal C. In the example on the right side of Figure 4, the user pays 30,000 yen as the terminal price for terminal C in 24 installments, from the 1st to the 24th installment. Also, for example, 25 months or more after purchasing terminal C, the user applies to use the first benefit and also applies to purchase a new terminal D (replacement application), and returns terminal C. In the example of Figure 4, the difference from Figure 2 is that the telecommunications carrier discounts 10,000 yen from the terminal price of terminal C, which is within the range of the discountable amount. Terminal C can be discounted up to a maximum of 40,000 yen, but 20,000 yen of that limit has already been applied to the benefit usage fee when using the benefit for terminal B, so the discount is possible within the remaining 20,000 yen. Here, the discount amount for terminal C is set to 10,000 yen, which is within the 20,000 yen discountable amount.

[0021] Furthermore, the telecommunications carrier determines a provisional buyback price for terminal C, which has been returned by the user, based on the terminal buyback price data provided by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. In the example in Figure 4, the telecommunications carrier determines the provisional buyback price for terminal C to be 30,000 yen, which is 33% of the terminal price of terminal C. Also, on the right side of Figure 4, the user is exempted from paying 40,000 yen, which is the sum of the discount amount of 10,000 yen and the provisional buyback price of terminal C at the time of return of 30,000 yen. At this time, subtracting the 30,000 yen that the user will pay for terminal C in installments from the terminal price of terminal C, which is 90,000 yen, leaves 60,000 yen. Subtracting the payment exemption amount (40,000 yen), which consists of the discount amount of 10,000 yen and the provisional buyback price of terminal C at the time of return of 30,000 yen, the remaining amount of terminal C's terminal price after subtracting the user's payment and the payment exemption amount is 20,000 yen. In the example on the far right of Figure 4, the terminal price (90,000 yen) consists of the user's payment amount (30,000 yen), the payment exemption amount (40,000 yen), and the user's first benefit usage fee (20,000 yen). However, when the user applies for the first benefit and also applies to purchase a new terminal D (a replacement application), a portion of the discountable amount (20,000 yen in Figure 4), which is the amount that can be discounted from the terminal price of the new terminal D (the replaced terminal D), is applied to the first benefit usage fee. As a result, the user is effectively not required to pay the first benefit usage fee. In other words, the telecommunications carrier does not charge the user the first benefit usage fee.

[0022] Furthermore, if a user returns device C 25 months or more after purchasing it, without applying for the use of the first benefit or applying for the purchase of a new device D (a trade-in application), the user will pay the fee for using the first benefit. In other words, the telecommunications carrier will bill the user for the fee for using the first benefit.

[0023] As described above, the payment method for terminal costs according to the embodiment explained in Figure 4 differs from the payment method for terminal costs related to the comparative technology explained in Figure 2 in that the effective price, which is the amount that the user actually pays as the purchase price of the terminal when purchasing a new terminal, is approximately 0 yen (24 yen in the example in Figure 4), allowing the user to purchase the terminal at a discount.

[0024] [2. Configuration of the Information Processing System] An example configuration of the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example configuration of the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the information processing system 1 includes a user terminal 10 and an information processing device 100. The user terminal 10 and the information processing device 100 are connected via a predetermined communication network (network N) and are able to communicate by wired or wireless means.

[0025] The user terminal 10 is an information processing device used by a user. The user may be the owner of the terminal or an employee of the store that sells the terminal. The user terminal 10 may also be an information processing device installed in the store that sells the terminal. For example, the user terminal 10 may be an information processing device such as a desktop PC (Personal Computer) or a notebook PC. Alternatively, the user terminal 10 may be a smart device such as a smartphone or tablet. The user terminal 10 also has a screen such as an LCD display and accepts various operations from the user on the displayed content (e.g., documents or images) on the screen. Operations performed on the area of ​​the screen where the content is displayed may also be considered as operations on the content.

[0026] The information processing device 100 is an information processing device that executes an information processing program according to the embodiment. The information processing device 100 is, for example, a cloud server. For example, the information processing device 100 performs information processing according to the embodiment in accordance with the information processing method implemented by the information processing program according to the embodiment. Specifically, the information processing device 100 accepts applications from terminal users for the purchase of a new terminal, along with an application for the use of a first benefit, which requires a first benefit usage fee, and which exempts the user from paying at least a portion of the terminal price, which is the price of the terminal as its intrinsic value, that would normally be paid in installments, in exchange for returning the terminal. Furthermore, when the information processing device 100 accepts an application for the purchase of a new terminal along with an application for the use of the first benefit, it calculates the amount billed to the user for the terminal by applying a portion of the discountable amount, which is the amount that can be discounted from the terminal price of the new terminal, to the first benefit usage fee.

[0027] [3. Configuration of the Information Processing Device] An example of the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. The information processing device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0028] (Communications Department 110) The communication unit 110 is implemented by a NIC (Network Interface Card) or the like. The communication unit 110 is connected to various networks by wired or wireless means, and performs information transmission and reception, for example, with the user terminal 10.

[0029] (Storage unit 120) The storage unit 120 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and flash memory, or storage devices such as hard disks and optical discs. Specifically, the storage unit 120 stores an information processing program according to the embodiment. For example, the storage unit 120 stores information indicating the terminal price according to the type of terminal, the discount amount for purchasing a new terminal as determined by the telecommunications carrier, and the discount amount for purchasing a replacement terminal as determined by the telecommunications carrier. The storage unit 120 also has a user information storage unit 121 and a benefit usage fee storage unit 122.

[0030] (User information storage unit 121) The user information storage unit 121 stores information about the user. Figure 7 shows an example of data stored in the user information storage unit 121 according to this embodiment. In Figure 7, the data stored in the user information storage unit 121 includes items such as "User ID," "Terminal ID," "Terminal Type," "Application for Use of First Benefit," "Replacement Application," "Payment Amount," "Payment Exemption Amount," and "Return Date." "User ID" is identification information that identifies the user. "Terminal ID" is identification information that identifies the terminal of the user identified by the User ID (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "Terminal Identification Information"). "Terminal Type" is identification information that identifies the type (also called model) of the terminal identified by the Terminal ID (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "Model Identification Information").

[0031] Furthermore, "Application for Use of First Benefit" indicates whether or not an application for use of the first benefit has been received from the user identified by the user ID. For example, the string "Yes" stored in the "Application for Use of First Benefit" field indicates that an application for use of the first benefit has been received from the user. Conversely, the string "No" stored in the "Application for Use of First Benefit" field indicates that an application for use of the first benefit has not been received from the user. "Trade-in Application" indicates whether or not an application for the purchase of a new device (trade-in application) has been received from the user along with an application for use of the benefits. For example, the string "Yes" stored in the "Trade-in Application" field indicates that an application for the purchase of a new device (trade-in application) has been received from the user along with an application for use of the first benefit. Conversely, the string "No" stored in the "Trade-in Application" field indicates that an application for the purchase of a new device (trade-in application) has not been received from the user along with an application for use of the first benefit.

[0032] Furthermore, "Payment Amount" indicates a portion of the device price that the user has paid in installments so far. For example, "24 yen" stored in the "Payment Amount" field indicates that the user identified by user ID "User #1" has paid 24 yen in installments so far. Similarly, "30,000 yen" stored in the "Payment Amount" field indicates that the user identified by user ID "User #2" has paid 30,000 yen in installments so far. Additionally, "Payment Exemption Amount" indicates the amount that the user is exempted from paying by utilizing the first benefit. The "Payment Exemption Amount" is an amount consisting of the discount amount and the provisional buyback price of the device. For example, "70,000 yen" stored in the "Payment Exemption Amount" field indicates that the payment exemption amount for the user identified by user ID "User #1" is 70,000 yen. Similarly, "30,000 yen" stored in the "Payment Exemption Amount" field indicates that the payment exemption amount for the user identified by user ID "User #2" is 30,000 yen.

[0033] Furthermore, "Return Date" indicates when the device is returned. For example, "13th month" stored in the "Return Date" field indicates that the user identified by user ID "User #1" returned device #1 13 months after the purchase of device #1. Similarly, "25th month" stored in the "Return Date" field indicates that the user identified by user ID "User #2" returned device #2 25 months after the purchase of device #2.

[0034] The reception unit 131 may store the number "1" instead of the string "yes" for each item of data stored in the user information storage unit 121. Alternatively, the reception unit 131 may store the number "0" instead of the string "no" for each item of data stored in the user information storage unit 121.

[0035] (Benefit usage fee storage unit 122) The benefit usage fee storage unit 122 stores information regarding benefit usage fees. Figure 8 shows an example of data stored in the benefit usage fee storage unit 122 according to this embodiment. In Figure 8, the data stored in the benefit usage fee storage unit 122 includes items such as "terminal type," "benefit usage fee," and "terminal price." "Terminal type" is identification information that identifies the type of terminal (also called the model) (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "model identification information"). "Second benefit usage fee" is information indicating the second benefit usage fee according to the type of terminal (also called the model) identified by "terminal type." Here, the second benefit is a benefit that allows the user to use the first benefit, which is normally applied from the 25th month onwards, from the 13th month if the terminal is returned 13 months or later after purchase. Specifically, by using the second benefit, if the target model is purchased in 48 installments, the user can avoid paying up to 36 installments of the model price by returning the terminal after the 13th month. The second benefit usage fee is an amount according to the type of terminal. For example, if a device is returned 13 months or more after purchase for a model eligible for the second benefit fee, the second benefit fee corresponding to the model will be charged. "Device price" is information indicating the device price, which is the price of the device itself, according to the type of device (also called the model) identified by "device type". Although not shown in the diagram, the benefit fee storage unit 122 may store the first benefit fee (an amount predetermined by the telecommunications carrier).

[0036] (Control unit 130) The control unit 130 is a controller, and is realized, for example, by executing various programs stored in the memory device inside the information processing device 100 using RAM as the working area, using a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit), etc. Alternatively, the control unit 130 is a controller and can be realized, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0037] The control unit 130 has a reception unit 131, a calculation unit 132, and a billing unit 133 as functional units, and may realize or execute the information processing operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 6, and other configurations are also acceptable as long as they perform the information processing described later. Furthermore, each functional unit represents the function of the control unit 130 and does not necessarily have to be physically separated.

[0038] (Reception desk 131) The reception unit 131 receives various applications from terminal users. For example, the reception unit 131 receives information from the user terminal 10 that associates information indicating various applications with identification information that identifies the terminal user (e.g., user ID), identification information that identifies the user's terminal (e.g., terminal ID), and information that indicates the type of the user's terminal (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "model information"). For example, when the reception unit 131 receives information that associates information indicating various applications with the user ID, terminal ID, and model information, it stores the information indicating various applications with the user ID, terminal ID, and model information in the user information storage unit 121. Note that the user terminal 10 may be the user's terminal, or it may be a terminal of a store that sells the user's terminal.

[0039] Specifically, the reception unit 131 receives applications from users for the use of the first benefit (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "the first benefit"), which is a benefit that exempts the user from paying at least a portion of the terminal price, which is the price of the terminal as its intrinsic value and is normally paid in installments, in exchange for returning the terminal, and which requires a first benefit usage fee. More specifically, the reception unit 131 receives an application for the use of the first benefit from the user by receiving information indicating an application for the use of the first benefit from the user terminal 10. Furthermore, when the reception unit 131 receives information indicating an application for the use of the first benefit, it stores the information indicating an application for the use of the first benefit in the user information storage unit 121. For example, when the reception unit 131 receives information that associates the user identification information "User #1" with the information indicating an application for the use of the first benefit, it stores the string "Yes" in the "Application for use of the first benefit" item of the user identified by "User #1" in the user information storage unit 121.

[0040] Furthermore, the reception unit 131 accepts applications from terminal users for the use of a first benefit, which requires a first benefit usage fee, along with applications for the purchase of a new terminal. The first benefit is a first benefit that exempts the user from paying at least a portion of the terminal price, which is the price of the terminal as its original value, and which is originally paid in installments, in exchange for returning the terminal. More specifically, the reception unit 131 accepts applications from terminal users for the use of a first benefit, along with information indicating an application for the purchase of a new terminal, from the user terminal 10. When the reception unit 131 receives information indicating an application for the use of a first benefit, along with information indicating an application for the purchase of a new terminal, it stores the information indicating the application for the use of a first benefit and the information indicating the application for the purchase of a new terminal in association with each other in the user information storage unit 121. For example, the reception unit 131 receives information that associates user identification information, such as "User #1," with information indicating an application for the use of the first benefit and information indicating an application for the purchase of a new terminal. The reception unit 131 also stores the string "Yes" in the "Application for use of the first benefit" field and the string "Yes" in the "Replacement application" field for the user identified by "User #1" in the user information storage unit 121. Furthermore, if the reception unit 131 receives a return of terminal #1 13 months after purchase by user #1, it associates user identification information, such as "User #1," with information indicating the terminal return date, such as "13th month," and stores it in the user information storage unit 121.

[0041] Furthermore, the reception unit 131 accepts applications from users for the use of the first benefit without accepting applications for the purchase of a new terminal. More specifically, the reception unit 131 accepts applications from users for the use of the first benefit without accepting applications for the purchase of a new terminal by accepting information from the user terminal 10 indicating an application for the use of the first benefit without accepting applications for the purchase of a new terminal. Also, if the reception unit 131 accepts information indicating an application for the use of the first benefit without accepting information indicating an application for the purchase of a new terminal, it associates the information indicating an application for the use of the first benefit with the information indicating that the application for the purchase of a new terminal was not accepted and stores it in the user information storage unit 121. For example, the reception unit 131 accepts information indicating an application for the purchase of a new terminal, but accepts "User #2", which is identification information that identifies the user, and information indicating an application for the use of the first benefit. Furthermore, the reception unit 131 stores the string "Yes" in the "Application for Use of Benefits" field and the string "No" in the "Application for Replacement" field for the user identified by "User #2" in the user information storage unit 121. Also, if the reception unit 131 receives a return of terminal #2 by user #2 25 months after purchase, it associates the user identification information "User #2" and the information indicating the terminal return date "25th month" and stores them in the user information storage unit 121.

[0042] (Calculation unit 132) The calculation unit 132 determines whether or not it has received an application from the user for the use of the first benefit. For example, the calculation unit 132 refers to the user information storage unit 121 and determines whether or not the string "yes" is stored in the "Application for use of the first benefit" field of the data stored in the user information storage unit 121. If the calculation unit 132 determines that the string "yes" is stored in the "Application for use of the first benefit" field of the data stored in the user information storage unit 121, it determines that it has received an application from the user for the use of the first benefit. On the other hand, if the calculation unit 132 determines that the string "no" is stored in the "Application for use of the first benefit" field of the data stored in the user information storage unit 121, it determines that it has not received an application from the user for the use of the first benefit.

[0043] Furthermore, if the calculation unit 132 determines that it has accepted an application to use the first benefit, it also determines whether or not it has accepted an application to purchase a new terminal along with the application to use the first benefit. For example, if the calculation unit 132 determines that it has accepted an application to use the first benefit, it determines whether or not the string "yes" is stored in the "replacement application" field of the data stored in the user information storage unit 121. If the calculation unit 132 determines that the string "yes" is stored in the "replacement application" field of the data stored in the user information storage unit 121, it determines that it has accepted an application to purchase a new terminal along with the application to use the first benefit. On the other hand, if the calculation unit 132 determines that the string "no" is stored in the "replacement application" field of the data stored in the user information storage unit 121, it determines that it did not accept an application to purchase a new terminal along with the application to use the first benefit.

[0044] If the calculation unit 132 determines that it did not accept the application for the first benefit, it calculates the amount to be charged to the user for the terminal. For example, if the calculation unit 132 determines that it did not accept the application for the first benefit, it calculates the terminal price, which is the intrinsic value of the terminal, as the amount to be charged. For example, if the calculation unit 132 determines that it did not accept the application for the first benefit, it refers to the user information storage unit 121 and identifies data containing the user ID of the target user from the data stored in the user information storage unit 121. The calculation unit 132 also obtains information indicating the type of terminal of the target user from the data containing the user ID of the target user. The calculation unit 132 also identifies the type of terminal corresponding to the information indicating the type of terminal of the target user from the types of terminals stored in the benefit usage fee storage unit 122 and obtains the terminal price corresponding to the identified type of terminal. The calculation unit 132 determines the obtained terminal price as the amount to be charged.

[0045] Furthermore, if the calculation unit 132 determines that it has received an application for the use of the first benefit along with an application for the purchase of a new terminal, it calculates the amount to be billed to the user for the terminal by applying a portion of the discount amount, which is the amount that can be discounted from the price of the new terminal, to the fee for using the first benefit.

[0046] Specifically, the calculation unit 132 calculates the billing amount by adding the first benefit usage fee, which is a portion of the discountable amount that can be deducted from the price of the new terminal, and an amount corresponding to the terminal's assessment result. For example, in the example on the far left of Figure 4, the calculation unit 132 determines that it has received an application to use the first benefit and an application to purchase a new terminal B. The calculation unit 132 then calculates the billing amount by setting the first benefit usage fee to 0 yen by applying "20,000 yen," which is a portion of the discountable amount for the new terminal B, to the first benefit usage fee.

[0047] Furthermore, the telecommunications carrier will charge the user an amount corresponding to the assessment result of the returned terminal A. For example, if the assessment of the returned terminal A determines that terminal A is faulty, the carrier will charge the user an additional fee (e.g., 20,000 yen). On the other hand, if the assessment of the returned terminal A determines that terminal A is in good condition, the carrier will not charge the user an additional fee. The calculation unit 132 then obtains an amount corresponding to the assessment result of terminal A. For example, the calculation unit 132 obtains an amount corresponding to the assessment result of terminal A from the terminal device of the assessor who performed the assessment of terminal A.

[0048] Next, the calculation unit 132 calculates the actual billing amount by adding the first benefit usage fee (0 yen) and the amount corresponding to the assessment result of terminal A. In this way, the calculation unit 132 calculates the billing amount by adding the first benefit usage fee and the amount corresponding to the assessment result of the terminal.

[0049] Furthermore, if the calculation unit 132 determines that it has accepted an application to use the first benefit but has not accepted an application to purchase a new terminal, it calculates the billing amount without applying a portion of the discountable amount to the first benefit usage fee. Specifically, the calculation unit 132 calculates the billing amount as the sum of the first benefit usage fee and an amount corresponding to the terminal assessment result. In other words, the first benefit usage fee is billed to the user as is. For example, in the example on the far left of Figure 4, if it determines that it has accepted an application to use the first benefit but has not accepted an application to purchase a new terminal, the calculation unit 132 calculates the first benefit usage fee (20,000 yen) as the billing amount. The calculation unit 132 also obtains an amount corresponding to the assessment result of terminal A. For example, the calculation unit 132 obtains an amount corresponding to the assessment result of terminal A from the terminal device of the assessor who assessed terminal A. Next, the calculation unit 132 calculates the actual billing amount by adding the first benefit usage fee (20,000 yen) and the amount corresponding to the assessment result of terminal A. In this way, the calculation unit 132 calculates the billing amount by adding the first benefit usage fee and the amount corresponding to the assessment result of the terminal.

[0050] Furthermore, the calculation unit 132 calculates the billing amount by adding a second benefit usage fee, which is determined according to the type of device, to the return date of the device. For example, the calculation unit 132 obtains information indicating the return date of the device by referring to the "return date" item in the user information storage unit 121. Also, if the calculation unit 132 obtains information indicating that it is the 13th month since purchase as information indicating the return date of the device, it obtains the second benefit usage fee, which is determined according to the type of device, and calculates the billing amount. For example, the calculation unit 132 obtains information indicating the second benefit usage fee from the benefit usage fee storage unit 122, which stores information indicating the type of device and information indicating the second benefit usage fee according to the type of device in association, and calculates the billing amount. For example, the calculation unit 132 calculates the actual billing amount by adding the amount corresponding to the second benefit usage fee to the amount obtained by adding the first benefit usage fee and the amount according to the device assessment result.

[0051] (Billing Department 133) The billing unit 133 performs billing processing based on the actual billing amount calculated by the calculation unit 132. For example, the billing unit 133 transmits information regarding the actual billing amount calculated by the calculation unit 132 to the user terminal 10. Alternatively, for example, the billing unit 133 debits the billing amount based on the actual billing amount calculated by the calculation unit 132 from the account specified by the user.

[0052] [4. Information Processing Procedures] The flow of information processing by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be explained using Figure 9. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of information processing by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. In Figure 9, the calculation unit 132 determines whether or not it has received an application from the user for the use of the first benefit (step S11). If the calculation unit 132 determines that it has not received an application for the use of the first benefit (step S11; No), it calculates the amount to be billed to the user for the terminal (step S12). The billing unit 133 then performs billing processing based on the billed amount (step S16).

[0053] On the other hand, if the calculation unit 132 determines that it has accepted an application to use the first benefit (step S11; Yes), it determines whether it has accepted an application to purchase a new terminal along with the application to use the first benefit (step S13). If the calculation unit 132 determines that it has not accepted an application to purchase a new terminal along with the application to use the first benefit (step S13; No), it calculates the amount to be billed to the user for the terminal without applying a portion of the discount amount for the new terminal to the fee for using the first benefit (step S14). The billing unit 133 then performs billing processing based on the billed amount (step S16).

[0054] On the other hand, if the calculation unit 132 determines that it has received an application for the use of the first benefit along with an application for the purchase of a new terminal (step S13; Yes), it calculates the amount to be billed to the user for the terminal by applying a portion of the discount amount for the new terminal to the fee for the use of the first benefit (step S15). The billing unit 133 then performs billing processing based on the billed amount (step S16).

[0055] [5. Effects] As described above, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment has a reception unit 131 and a calculation unit 132. The reception unit 131 receives applications from terminal users for the use of a first benefit, which requires a first benefit usage fee, along with an application for the purchase of a new terminal. The first benefit is a first benefit that exempts the user from paying at least a portion of the terminal price, which is the price of the terminal as its intrinsic value, in exchange for returning the terminal. When the reception unit 131 receives an application for the use of the first benefit along with an application for the purchase of a new terminal, the calculation unit 132 calculates the amount to be charged to the user for the terminal by applying a portion of the discountable amount, which is the amount that can be discounted from the terminal price of the new terminal, to the first benefit usage fee.

[0056] This reduces the burden on the information processing device 100 in calculating the amount billed to users for terminals. For example, the information processing device 100 can reduce the burden of calculating the amount billed when it receives an application from a terminal user for the use of the first benefit, along with an application for the purchase of a new terminal. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 can lower the effective price, which is the amount that a user actually pays as the purchase price of a terminal when purchasing a new terminal. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can make it easier for customers to purchase expensive terminals. In addition, since the information processing device 100 can reduce the burden on users in calculating the amount billed to users for terminals, it can contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9, "Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation."

[0057] Furthermore, the reception unit 131 accepts applications for the use of the first benefit without accepting applications for the purchase of a new terminal. If the reception unit 131 accepts an application for the use of the first benefit without accepting an application for the purchase of a new terminal, the calculation unit 132 calculates the billing amount without applying a portion of the discount amount to the fee for using the first benefit.

[0058] This allows the information processing device 100 to appropriately calculate the billing amount when it accepts an application for the use of a benefit without accepting an application for the purchase of a new terminal.

[0059] Furthermore, the calculation unit 132 calculates the total amount to be billed by adding an amount corresponding to the assessment result of the terminal.

[0060] This allows the information processing device 100 to appropriately calculate the billing amount according to the assessment results of the terminal.

[0061] Furthermore, the calculation unit 132 calculates the billing amount by adding a second benefit usage fee, which is determined according to the type of terminal and the timing of the terminal's return.

[0062] This allows the information processing device 100 to appropriately calculate the billing amount according to the return date of the terminal.

[0063] Furthermore, the calculation unit 132 obtains information indicating the second benefit usage fee from the benefit usage fee storage unit, which stores information indicating the type of terminal and information indicating the second benefit usage fee corresponding to the type of terminal in association, and calculates the billing amount.

[0064] As a result, the information processing device 100 can appropriately calculate the billing amount based on a second benefit usage fee corresponding to the type of terminal.

[0065] [6. Hardware Configuration] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 according to the above-described embodiment is realized by a computer 1000 having a configuration such as that shown in Figure 10. The following explanation will use the information processing device 100 as an example. Figure 10 shows an example of the hardware configuration. The computer 1000 is connected to an output device 1010 and an input device 1020, and has a configuration in which an arithmetic unit 1030, a primary storage device 1040, a secondary storage device 1050, an output interface 1060, an input interface 1070, and a network interface 1080 are connected by a bus 1090.

[0066] The arithmetic unit 1030 operates based on programs stored in the primary storage device 1040 and the secondary storage device 1050, as well as programs read from the input device 1020, and executes various processes. The arithmetic unit 1030 can be implemented using, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0067] The primary storage device 1040 is a memory device, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), that temporarily stores data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations. The secondary storage device 1050 is a storage device where data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations and various databases are registered, and can be implemented using ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), flash memory, etc. The secondary storage device 1050 may be internal storage or external storage. The secondary storage device 1050 may also be a removable storage medium such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory or SD (Secure Digital) memory card. The secondary storage device 1050 may also be cloud storage (online storage), NAS (Network Attached Storage), file server, etc.

[0068] The output I / F 1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to output devices 1010, such as displays, projectors, and printers, and is implemented using connectors of standards such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), and HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface). The input I / F 1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as mice, keyboards, keypads, buttons, and scanners, and is implemented using, for example, USB.

[0069] Furthermore, the output interface 1060 and input interface 1070 may be wirelessly connected to the output device 1010 and input device 1020, respectively. In other words, the output device 1010 and input device 1020 may be wireless devices.

[0070] Furthermore, the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 may be integrated as a touch panel. In this case, the output I / F 1060 and the input I / F 1070 may also be integrated as an input / output I / F.

[0071] The input device 1020 may also be a device that reads information from, for example, an optical recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), or PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory.

[0072] The network interface 1080 receives data from other devices via network N and sends it to the computing unit 1030, and also transmits data generated by the computing unit 1030 to other devices via network N.

[0073] The arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output interface 1060 and the input interface 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or the secondary storage device 1050 onto the primary storage device 1040 and executes the loaded program.

[0074] For example, when computer 1000 functions as an information processing device 100, the arithmetic unit 1030 of computer 1000 realizes the functions of the control unit 130 by executing a program loaded onto the primary storage device 1040. Alternatively, the arithmetic unit 1030 of computer 1000 may load a program obtained from another device via the network interface 1080 onto the primary storage device 1040 and execute the loaded program. Furthermore, the arithmetic unit 1030 of computer 1000 may cooperate with other devices via the network interface 1080 and call and use program functions, data, etc., from other programs on other devices.

[0075] [7. Other] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited by the content of these embodiments. Furthermore, the aforementioned components include those that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art, those that are substantially the same, and those that fall within the so-called equivalent range. Moreover, the aforementioned components can be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, or modifications of the components can be made without departing from the gist of the embodiments described above.

[0076] Furthermore, among the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically by known methods. In addition, the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above document and drawings can be arbitrarily changed unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each figure is not limited to the information shown.

[0077] Furthermore, the components of each illustrated device are functionally conceptual and do not necessarily need to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific forms of distribution and integration of each device are not limited to those shown, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads and usage conditions.

[0078] For example, the information processing device 100 described above may be implemented using multiple server computers, and depending on the function, it may be implemented by calling external platforms, etc., via APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) or network computing, allowing for flexible configuration changes.

[0079] Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not inconsistent. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0080] 100 Information Processing Devices 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 User information storage unit 122 Special Offer Fee Storage Section 130 Control Unit 131 Reception Department 132 Calculation Section 133 Billing Department

Claims

1. A first benefit is provided in exchange for the return of the device, which exempts the user from paying at least a portion of the device price, which is the intrinsic value of the device and is originally to be paid in installments, and a reception unit receives information from the user of the device, along with information from the user of the device, regarding the application for use of the first benefit, which requires a fee for using the first benefit, and information regarding the application for the purchase of a new device. When the reception unit receives information regarding an application for the use of the first benefit along with information regarding an application for the purchase of a new terminal, the calculation unit calculates the amount to be billed to the user for the terminal by adding the fee for using the first benefit and an amount corresponding to the assessment result of the terminal to be returned, which corresponds to the condition of the terminal to be returned. An information processing device equipped with the following features.

2. The calculation unit described above, Depending on the return date of the aforementioned terminal, the amount calculated by adding a second benefit usage fee, which is determined according to the type of terminal, shall be the billing amount. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The calculation unit described above, The system retrieves the information indicating the second benefit usage fee from a benefit usage fee storage unit that stores information indicating the type of terminal and information indicating the second benefit usage fee corresponding to the type of terminal, and calculates the billing amount. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. An information processing method performed by an information processing device, A first benefit is provided in exchange for the return of the device, which exempts the user from paying at least a portion of the device price, which is the intrinsic value of the device and is originally to be paid in installments, and the first benefit is provided in exchange for the return of the device, and the first benefit is provided in exchange for information on the application for use of the first benefit, which requires a first benefit usage fee, along with information on the application for the purchase of a new device, When the reception process receives information regarding an application for the use of the first benefit along with information regarding an application for the purchase of a new terminal, the calculation process calculates the amount to be billed to the user for the terminal by adding the fee for the use of the first benefit and an amount corresponding to the assessment result of the terminal to be returned, which corresponds to the condition of the terminal to be returned. Information processing methods including

5. A first benefit is provided in exchange for the return of the device, which exempts the user from paying at least a portion of the device price, which is the intrinsic value of the device and is originally to be paid in installments, and the application procedure for receiving information from the user of the device, along with information for applying to use the first benefit, which requires a fee for using the first benefit, and information for applying to purchase a new device. When the aforementioned reception procedure receives information regarding the application for the use of the first benefit along with information regarding the application for the purchase of the new terminal, the calculation procedure calculates the amount to be billed to the user for the terminal by adding the fee for the use of the first benefit and an amount corresponding to the assessment result of the terminal to be returned, which corresponds to the condition of the terminal to be returned. An information processing program that causes a computer to execute something.

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