Information processing method and display device

Abstract

To provide an information processing method and a display device that can reduce the effort required for a user to set account information on a display device on which content is viewed.SOLUTION: In a content viewing system including a first display device 1a and a second display device 1b capable of communicating via a home network 5, and a plurality of mobile terminals 2 capable of communicating with each of the first display device and the second display device, an information processing method includes a first step in which the first display device acquires account information held in the mobile terminals from the mobile terminals, and a second step in which the first display device shares the acquired account information with the second display device connected to the home network. In the second step, the first display device can be set so as not to share the account information with the second display device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0004]

[0001] The present invention relates to information processing and display technologies related to content viewing in content delivery services.

Background Art

[0002] There are various content delivery services that deliver content such as videos over a communication network. In content delivery services, control such as permissions and licenses is required regarding a user viewing content using the service. In other words, control is required regarding a user's device receiving and playing back content. Conventionally, for such control, account information associated with a user using a content delivery service has been used. The content delivery server performs authentication using the account information, and if the authentication result is successful, permits the receiving and playing back of content on the user's device.

[0003] On the other hand, in recent years, the number of cases where a plurality of devices including a television receiver (hereinafter, may be described as a "display device" etc.) are connected to a user's home network to form a home system has been increasing.

[0004] As a prior art example regarding restrictions on content viewing, Japanese Patent No. 5248180 (Patent Document 1) can be cited. Patent Document 1 describes that as an "operation target device", "for an operator whose execution of a predetermined operation is restricted, by a person with permission giving permission with a simple operation, the above operator can execute the restricted operation."

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] According to prior art such as that described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to restrict content viewing. However, prior art does not take into account various usage environments and situations, such as the user's home network. Therefore, when adapting it to such environments, it is not user-friendly and presents challenges in terms of convenience.

[0007] Users can access and view content using content distribution services by using devices such as television sets connected to their home network as content playback devices. In order to enable content viewing on such devices, users need to configure their account information for the content distribution service on those devices. For example, a user might configure the account information associated with their mobile device on that device on their home network.

[0008] However, when multiple devices are connected to a home network, setting up account information for each device is required, which is time-consuming for the user. Furthermore, if there are multiple accounts to register, the user's workload increases even more.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a technology that includes a display device for viewing content, which ensures control over content viewing permissions using account information, reduces the effort required for users to set up account information on the device, and is user-friendly and convenient in various environments and situations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] One embodiment of the present invention may be configured, for example, as described in the claims. A display device comprising: a tuner that receives broadcast waves of a digital broadcast program; a communication unit that communicates with a mobile terminal via a home network and communicates with an external server that provides content distribution services via an external network; a display unit that displays video of the content of the broadcast program received by the tuner, or the content received from the external server via the external network; and a control unit, wherein the control unit communicates with the mobile terminal of user 2 via the home network of user 1, and when the display device of user 1 is connected to the mobile terminal of user 2, it obtains account-related information that user 2's mobile terminal has that allows it to log in to the content distribution service by the external server, communicates with the external server, logs in to the content distribution service using the obtained account-related information, and if it detects that communication between user 2's mobile terminal and user 1's home network is not possible and that it is not connected to the display device of user 1, it controls the device to invalidate the obtained account-related information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to a representative embodiment of the present invention, regarding a technology including a display device for viewing content, it is possible to ensure control over content viewing permissions using account information, reduce the effort required for users to set account information on the device, and improve usability and convenience in various environments and situations. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This figure shows the configuration of a system including a display device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the configuration of the content distribution server in Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] This figure shows the hardware configuration of the display device in Embodiment 1. [Figure 4]This is a diagram showing the software configuration of the display device in Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing an example of the operation sequence at the time of initial setting in Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] This is a diagram showing the processing flow of the display device in Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing an example of the operation sequence at the time of initial setting in the first modification example of Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] This is a diagram showing a system including the display device in Embodiment 2 of the present invention and an example of the operation sequence at the time of initial setting. [Figure 9] This is a diagram showing the processing flow of the display device in Embodiment 2. [Figure 10] This is a diagram showing a system including the display device in Embodiment 3 of the present invention and an example of the operation sequence at the time of initial setting. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing the processing flow of the display device in Embodiment 3. [Figure 12] This is a diagram showing the processing flow of the display device in the first modification example of Embodiment 3. [Figure 13] This is a diagram showing a system including the display device in Embodiment 4 of the present invention and an example of the operation sequence at the time of initial setting. [Figure 14] This is a diagram showing an example of the account registration screen in Embodiment 4. [Figure 15] This is a diagram showing an example of the setting screen in Embodiment 4. [Figure 16] This is a diagram showing an example of the table of setting information in Embodiment 4.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0014] (Embodiment 1) Using FIGS. 1 to 7, an information processing method and a display device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described. The information processing method according to Embodiment 1 is a method including steps executed in a content viewing system including the display device according to Embodiment 1.

[0015] [Content delivery service, user authentication, account information] First, content delivery services, user authentication, account information, etc., which are the premises and application targets of the following embodiments, will be described. As content delivery services, there are IPTV services and the like. The IPTV service is a service that distributes content such as movies and video distribution programs including video, audio, character information, etc. on the Internet to a user's device. The user's device is a content playback device, and there are display devices such as mobile terminals and television receivers.

[0016] Has account information for enabling content viewing using a content delivery service. A user registers as a legitimate user with a content delivery server of a service provider by registering account information and the like. The content delivery server performs authentication using the account information for control of services and content permissions. When using the service and viewing content, the user and the device need to receive authentication using the account information. By controlling permissions using authentication, illegal acts such as unauthorized copying, moving, and modifying of content are prevented. Authentication may be required when logging in to the content delivery service, or may be required when playing each content.

[0017] For example, the content delivery server performs user authentication. The content delivery server performs user authentication by comparing and collating the registered account information with the account information received from the user's device. In addition to user authentication, device authentication may be performed as authentication. Device authentication is authentication regarding the device that the user uses for content viewing. In device authentication, it is confirmed whether the device is a permitted device or a recommended device.

[0018] Account information is information associated with an account set up for each user for each content distribution service. Account information may include, for example, a combination of user ID and password, but is not limited to this. User authentication may include biometric authentication. In that case, account information may include biometric authentication information.

[0019] Account information and distributed content may be protected by certain means, such as encryption. For example, the content may be encrypted in advance using a predetermined method, and key information for decryption may be exchanged separately. The key information may be managed together with the content playback conditions.

[0020] In content distribution services, service providers often charge usage fees. Billing is carried out according to a predetermined method, and billing information is recorded. For example, fees may be calculated based on data storage on the user's device or counts of content viewing.

[0021] Content distribution services generally operate on a single user and device basis, but some services allow content playback on multiple users and devices under certain conditions. Content distribution methods include streaming, download, and progressive download. Content may also include application software or other programs. These programs run on the user's device when the content is played.

[0022] [Mobile devices, display devices, account setup] Account information may be associated with a user's device, such as a mobile terminal. That is, the account information may be stored in the storage means within the mobile terminal. For example, the user enters the account information into the mobile terminal. Alternatively, a service provider or a device on the network enters the account information into the mobile terminal. The user can then use the content distribution service, i.e., view content, on the mobile terminal using that account information. This embodiment considers a case where the content distribution service can also be used on a display device on the home network by using the account information associated with the mobile terminal.

[0023] The embodiment assumes that the mobile device has account information. From that state, the user can use the content distribution service on a display device on their home network using that account information. The account information stored on the mobile device is used for user authentication for viewing content on the display device.

[0024] To achieve this, users traditionally had to configure the account information on their mobile devices on each display device connected to their home network. To enable content viewing on all display devices, account information had to be configured individually on each device. This configuration process was time-consuming for the user.

[0025] Therefore, the embodiment provides a mechanism for automating the registration of account information held on a mobile device to multiple display devices within the home, and a mechanism for sharing the account information of a mobile device among multiple display devices on the home network. This mechanism improves the convenience of making the account information of a mobile device available on multiple display devices within the home. The embodiment provides an account sharing function that corresponds to this mechanism.

[0026] [Content viewing system] Figure 1 shows the configuration of a content viewing system, which includes a display device according to Embodiment 1. The content viewing system includes a display device 1, a mobile terminal 2, a home network 5, an external network 6, a content distribution server 7, a broadcasting station 8, etc.

[0027] Display device 1 is a television receiver and a content playback device capable of receiving and playing content. Display device 1 is a device that has a display function to display broadcast programs and content on a screen as a function to receive and play such content. Display device 1 has multiple display devices 1 connected to the user's home network 5. In Figure 1, there are multiple (n) display devices 1, namely display device 1a, display device 1b, ..., display device 1n. The names assigned to each display device 1 are indicated as "TV1" to "TVn".

[0028] Display device 1 can be various devices such as liquid crystal displays, projection-type video displays (projectors), PCs, monitors, tablet devices, recorders, set-top boxes, and video game consoles. In the case of recorders and set-top boxes, although they do not have a display function, they can be used in conjunction with other devices that do have a display function.

[0029] A home network 5 is configured within the user's premises, such as a home or store. Multiple display devices 1, which are television receivers, are connected to the home network 5. The home network 5 is under the management of a specific user (let's call it U1) and is generally not accessible to other users. The home network 5 consists of equipment such as routers and switches, as well as cables. The user has purchased or leased these devices.

[0030] The home network 5 is a communication network that supports a wireless LAN communication interface such as Wi-Fi. The home network 5 and the display device 1 are connected via this communication interface. Wi-Fi is a wireless LAN standard defined by the IEEE standard "IEEE 802.11a / IEEE 802.11b". The home network 5 may also be a communication network that supports a wired LAN communication interface. The home network 5 can connect to an external network 6 such as the Internet. The home network 5 has a communication interface with the external network 6, such as an optical communication interface.

[0031] The content distribution server 7 is connected to the external network 6. The content distribution server 7 is a server device managed by the service provider and provides a predetermined content distribution service. The content distribution server 7 holds and manages the content. The content distribution server 7 distributes content in response to requests from the display device 1 connected via the external network 6.

[0032] Content includes movies, video streaming programs, and other media containing video, audio, and text information. Content also includes content data and content information. Content data is data such as video. Content information is information used for managing and controlling content, metadata, etc.

[0033] Broadcasting station 8 provides broadcast programs and the like via broadcast waves. Display device 1, a television receiver, has the function of receiving broadcast waves, playing back broadcast programs and the like, and displaying them on the screen.

[0034] Each device in the multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5 can exchange information with external servers, including the content distribution server 7, via the home network 5 and the external network 6. Each device can use the content distribution service of the content distribution server 7 and receive and play content after undergoing authentication using account information. The display device 1 communicates with the content distribution server 7 via the home network 5 and the external network 6 based on user operation. The display device 1 sends content playback requests and user authentication information, including account information for user authentication, to the content distribution server 7. After successful user authentication, the display device 1 receives and plays content from the content distribution server 7. As a result, the user can view content on the display device 1.

[0035] The configurations of the multiple display devices 1 in Figure 1 are the same and they have the same functions. However, the multiple display devices 1 may differ in aspects other than essential elements, such as display methods and auxiliary functions, and different types of devices may be mixed together. In Figure 1, in the initial state, multiple (n) display devices 1 are installed and connected to the home network 5. However, the home network 5 may be modified as needed, with additions, removals, or replacements of display devices 1 occurring.

[0036] The user's mobile terminal 2 can be a smartphone, tablet, or any other type of device. The mobile terminal 2 has a known configuration, including wireless communication functionality. The mobile terminal 2 and the display device 1 have a communication interface for connecting and communicating with each other within the home. This communication interface may be wireless, wired, or a short-range communication interface.

[0037] The mobile terminal 2 has account information 101. The account information 101 is stored, at least temporarily, in the storage means within the mobile terminal 2. In the example in Figure 1, the mobile terminal 2 has account information (indicated by A1) 101 of user U1 associated with the content distribution service (indicated by X1) of the content distribution server 7. This account information 101 is the target to be set in the display device 1.

[0038] Mobile terminal 2 may be equipped with a program for coordinating with display device 1. This program may be an application for using the account sharing function of display device 1. This application may display screens provided by the account sharing function on mobile terminal 2.

[0039] Furthermore, the program for coordinating with the display device 1 may also be an application that allows the mobile terminal 2 to give instructions to the display device 1 and utilize its functions. In other words, the application may also be an application that uses the mobile terminal 2 as a remote control for the display device 1. In this case, the mobile terminal 2 can be used as an input means for the display device 1.

[0040] While maintaining a communication connection with the display device 1, the mobile terminal 2 transmits instructions for a predetermined control operation to the display device 1 based on user input. The display device 1 receives these instructions from the mobile terminal 2 and, in accordance with these instructions, executes the operation corresponding to the predetermined control operation.

[0041] The display device 1 includes a content playback unit 42, a user authentication unit 44, and an account information sharing unit 45 as its constituent processing units. The content playback unit 42 receives and plays content on the display device 1 and displays it on the screen. The user authentication unit 44 performs user authentication processing from the content distribution server 7 on the display device 1 using account information. The account information sharing unit 45 is an element that realizes the account sharing function. The account information sharing unit 45 works in cooperation with the user authentication unit 44 to perform processing that allows multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5 to share the account information of the mobile terminal 2. Details of each unit will be described later.

[0042] [Content distribution server] Figure 2 shows the hardware and software functional block configuration of the content distribution server 7. The content distribution server 7 includes a communication interface unit 50, a control unit 51, memory 52, storage 53, etc., which are connected via a bus 57.

[0043] Storage 53 stores various data, application programs and other programs, various information generated by application programs, content 54, user management information 55, device information 56, and the like.

[0044] The control unit 51 controls the content distribution server 7. The control unit 51 deploys programs from the storage 53 to the memory 52 and executes them, thereby configuring various program function units in the memory 52. ​​Various functions of the content distribution server 7 are realized by these various program function units. These various program function units include the user management unit 31, the content management unit 32, and the content distribution unit 33.

[0045] The communication interface unit 50 has a communication interface to the external network 6 and connects to the external network 6 to perform communication processing. The communication interface unit 50 sends and receives information to and from the display device 1 via the external network 6 and the home network 5.

[0046] The user management unit 31 includes functions for user authentication and device authentication, and manages authentication information in user management information 55 and device information 56 within the storage 53. The user management unit 31 distinguishes users of the display device 1 through user authentication using account information.

[0047] User management information 55 is user authentication information, including the user's account information. Device information 56 is device authentication information. User management information 55 manages information including account information and basic user information, for example, in a table format. Basic user information includes information such as name, address, and contact information. User management information 55 may also manage key information, resume information, billing information, etc. Resume information is information such as the content playback stop position on the user's device.

[0048] The content management unit 32 stores and manages the content to be distributed as content 54 in the storage 53. Content 54 includes content data and content information. Content 54 may also be stored on an external device of the content distribution server 7, such as a DB server on an external network 6. Content 54 may also include applications, accompanying information, etc. This application is, for example, a program that is transmitted together with the content data and used when the content is played back on the display device 1.

[0049] Examples of content information include content ID, format, description, size, target devices, pricing information, and viewing period. Description information includes genre, title, etc. Target devices indicate devices suitable for displaying the content or running applications. Pricing information is used to manage the usage fees for content distribution services.

[0050] The content distribution unit 33 processes the distribution of content based on the content 54 to the user's device, such as the display device 1 or mobile terminal 2, via the communication interface unit 50. The content distribution unit 33 also performs control to distribute content according to the performance of the user's device, for example, by distributing content data with an appropriate resolution.

[0051] The content distribution server 7 performs user authentication via the user management unit 31 when a user logs in to the content distribution service from their device or when a content playback request is received. At this time, the user management unit 31 receives user authentication information, including account information, from the user's device. If device authentication is performed, the user management unit 31 also receives device information, such as the device ID of the display device 1, from the user's device. The user management unit 31 refers to the account information in the user management information 55, compares it with the account information from the user's device, and determines the result of user authentication. If the two pieces of information match, the user management unit 31 determines the result as success; otherwise, the result as failure. The user management unit 31 also determines the result as failure if the predetermined conditions corresponding to the content distribution service are not met. The user management unit 31 sends a response indicating the authentication result to the user's device. If the user authentication result is successful, the content distribution server 7 permits the reception and playback of content on the user's device. The content distribution unit 33 then distributes the specified content 54 to the user's device.

[0052] While the service supports content distribution, it is possible to assign multiple accounts to a single display device or multiple display devices. Furthermore, it is possible to establish dependency relationships between multiple accounts.

[0053] [Hardware configuration of the display device] Figure 3 shows the hardware configuration of a television receiver, which is the display device 1 of Embodiment 1. The display device 1 is connected to the antenna 11 and includes a tuner demodulation unit 12, a channel selection control unit 13, a signal separation unit 14, an audio decoding unit 15, a speaker 16, an audio output unit 17, a video decoding unit 18, a superposition unit 19, a display unit 20, a video output unit 21, a communication interface unit 22, an input means 23, a control unit 24, a memory 25, a storage unit 26, a digital interface unit 27, etc. Each unit is connected via a bus 28.

[0054] Storage 26 stores various data, application programs and other programs, various information generated by application programs, content received via distribution, and the like.

[0055] The control unit 24 controls the display device 1. The control unit 24 loads a program from the storage 26 into the memory 25 and executes it. As a result, various program function units are configured in the memory 25. Various functions of the display device 1 are realized by the various program function units.

[0056] The input means 23 is an input device and input interface that accepts user input operations to the display device 1, and includes, for example, an operation panel, remote control, keyboard, mouse, touch panel, etc. The user can give instructions and settings to the display device 1 using the input means 23. The control unit 24 receives user input operations through the input means 23 and controls various parts such as the channel selection control unit 13, signal separation unit 14, superposition unit 19, various program function units, storage 26, and communication interface unit 22.

[0057] The tuner demodulation unit 12 is controlled by the channel selection control unit 13 to tune to the channel of the desired service. The tuner demodulation unit 12 selects and demodulates the digital broadcast signal from the broadcasting station 8 received via the antenna 11 to generate a transport stream. The channel selection control unit 13 receives a service selection instruction via the input means 23 and controls the tuner demodulation unit 12 to switch the channel to be selected. The channel selection control unit 13 controls the tuner demodulation unit 12 to switch to the channel number of the service broadcasting the currently airing program, etc., based on instructions from various program function units.

[0058] The communication interface unit 22 has a communication interface with the home network 5 and a communication interface with the mobile terminal 2, and performs communication processing for each. The communication interface unit 22 is connected to the home network 5 via a communication interface compatible with wireless LAN, etc. The communication interface unit 22 performs communication processing with devices on the external network 6 via the home network 5. The communication interface unit 22 can receive content streams, video and audio streams, or application programs as IPTV service content from the content distribution server 7. The communication interface unit 22 performs communication processing with the mobile terminal 2 directly or via the home network 5.

[0059] Data and information received through the communication interface unit 22 are stored in the storage 26 or the like. In addition to the function of communicating with the home network 5, the communication interface unit 22 may also have a function to communicate directly with external devices via a predetermined communication interface. The communication interface can be Wi-Fi or other wireless LAN, IrDA®, Bluetooth®, NFC (Near Field Communication), etc.

[0060] The signal separation unit 14 separates the transport stream obtained by the tuner demodulation unit 12 and the content stream obtained through the communication interface unit 22 into different types, such as video data, audio data, subtitle data, and program information. The signal separation unit 14 also has the function of acquiring program information and transmitting it to other processing units. When a data transmission request is received from another processing unit, the signal separation unit 14 transmits the specified data to the requester.

[0061] The audio decoding unit 15 decodes the audio data separated by the signal separation unit 14. The audio information decoded by the audio decoding unit 15 is output from the speaker 16. The audio information decoded by the audio decoding unit 15 may also be output to an external device from the audio output unit 17. The video decoding unit 18 decodes the video data separated by the signal separation unit 14. The video information decoded by the video decoding unit 18 is sent to the superposition unit 19.

[0062] The superposition unit 19 superimposes EPG images, OSD images, images generated from various information separated by the signal separation unit 14, etc., created by various program function units onto the decoded video information from the video decoding unit 18. The various information includes subtitle information, etc. The superposition unit 19 combines the browser display screen created by the browser engine (described later) with the video signal, or switches between them. The video information that has passed through the superposition unit 19 is sent to the display unit 20 and displayed on the display unit 20.

[0063] The display unit 20 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal panel or a projection optical system. The display unit 20 displays video information on the screen. The video information includes broadcast video via the tuner demodulation unit 12, distributed video via the communication interface unit 22, user interface information, browser display screen, images in storage 26, and information generated by application programs. The video information that has passed through the superposition unit 19 may be output to an external device from the video output unit 21. The digital interface unit 27 outputs the transport stream separated by the signal separation unit 14 to the outside as digital data without decoding the video or audio.

[0064] If the display device 1 is a device such as a recorder or set-top box, it has a configuration in which elements such as the display unit 20 and speaker 16 are omitted. Furthermore, it has externally connected devices such as a television receiver, monitor, and speaker. Video and audio are transferred from the recorder to the external device and output by the external device. If the display device 1 is a PC or monitor, it has a configuration in which the function of receiving broadcast waves, i.e., the antenna 11 and tuner demodulation unit 12, are omitted.

[0065] [Software configuration of the display device] Figure 4 shows the software configuration of the display device 1 in Figure 2, including the configuration of memory 25 and storage 26. Storage 26 stores various data 501, programs, content 502, user authentication information 503 including account information 504, setting information 505, etc. The programs include a browser program 401, a content playback program 402, various application programs 403, a user authentication program 404, and an account information sharing program 405. Each program is deployed in memory 25 to constitute the browser engine 41, content playback unit 42, various application units 43, user authentication unit 44, account information sharing unit 45, user setting unit 46, etc.

[0066] Account information 504 is user input information entered by the user through the input means 23 during user authentication, or shared account information as described later. Account information 504 is, for example, information of a combination of user ID and password. User authentication information 503 may be stored not only in storage 26, but also in non-volatile memory or external storage means (not shown). Device authentication information may be included in or in parallel with the user authentication information 503 if device authentication is performed. Device authentication information includes, for example, the device ID of the mobile terminal 2 or the display device 1. Examples of device IDs include MAC addresses and unique IDs at the time of manufacture. User authentication information 503, including account information 504, may be set to a variable value by the user, or it may be predetermined by the service provider, etc.

[0067] The browser engine 41 includes functional blocks such as an HTML parser, a database creation unit, a rendering unit, and an image processing unit. The HTML parser analyzes the logical structure of the HTML data acquired via the control unit 24. The HTML parser can interpret the HTML data and convert it into internal data for use in a television receiver. The database creation unit generates a database concerning the structure of the HTML data. The rendering unit generates a layout structure based on the database, including information on the representation format determined by each tag. Based on the layout structure, the rendering unit generates a browser display screen according to the data, including size, position, and images. The image processing unit converts the acquired image files into image data based on the image file information specified by the image tag in the HTML data.

[0068] The content playback unit 42 receives content from the content distribution server 7 via the communication interface unit 22 and stores it in the storage unit 26 as content 502. The content playback unit 42 performs the process of playing back content 502, that is, the process of displaying the video of content 502 on the screen of the display unit 20.

[0069] The user authentication unit 44 performs user authentication processing using user authentication information 503, including account information 504, when authenticating a user from the content distribution server 7. When authenticating a user, the user authentication unit 44 transmits the user authentication information 504 to the content distribution server 7 via the communication interface unit 22, through the home network 5 and the external network 6. The user authentication unit 44 receives the user authentication result from the content distribution server 7. When authenticating a user, the user authentication unit 44 may display user interface information such as user authentication information and messages on the screen of the display unit 20.

[0070] The applications in the various application units 43 represent applications downloaded by the user from the content distribution server 7 or the like according to their preferences. The various application units 43 execute processing according to the application.

[0071] The account information sharing unit 45 works in conjunction with the user authentication process of the user authentication unit 44. The account information sharing unit 45 performs processing to share account information among multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5. The account information sharing unit 45 obtains account information associated with the mobile terminal 2 either directly from the mobile terminal 2 or via the home network 5. The account information sharing unit 45 registers this account information as account information 504 within the user authentication information 503. The account information sharing unit 45 sets this account information as shared account information for multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5. The account information sharing unit 44 controls the multiple display devices 1 so that the account information can be shared and used for user authentication.

[0072] The account information sharing unit 45 controls the account information to be used as one of the input means for user authentication information 503 to the user authentication unit 44. In other words, the account information sharing unit 44 provides an alternative means for inputting account information through the input means 23. Normally, when a user authenticates with the display device 1, the user inputs account information through the input means 23. In contrast, in this embodiment, the account sharing function of the account information sharing unit 45 is used to allow the user authentication unit 44 to use the account information 504 registered as shared account information for user authentication processing. This allows the user to omit the account information input operation. Further details of the account information sharing unit 45 will be described later.

[0073] The user setting unit 46 implements the user setting function of the display device 1. Based on user input operations, the user setting unit 46 displays a setting screen on the display unit 20. Based on user input operations, the user can make general settings for the display device 1 on the setting screen. The user setting unit 46 manages setting information 505 for managing the setting status in the storage 26 or non-volatile memory, etc. Other processing units operate according to the setting status of the setting information 505.

[0074] [User Authentication] The following describes the timing and communication procedures for user authentication in the content distribution service. When user authentication is performed when logging into the content distribution service, the following occurs: The user's display device 1 accesses the content distribution service to log in based on user operation. The content distribution server 7 sends a user authentication information request to the display device 1 for user authentication during login. Upon receiving the user authentication information request, the display device 1 sends user authentication information, including account information, to the content distribution server 7. Upon receiving the user authentication information, the content distribution server 7 performs user authentication by comparing and verifying it with registered user authentication information. If the user authentication is successful, it responds with a message indicating that login is permitted; if it fails, it responds with a message indicating that login is not permitted.

[0075] A content viewing portal screen may be provided to the device of a user who is an authenticated, legitimate user. Display device 1 displays the portal screen based on communication with content distribution server 7. The portal screen includes content list information, etc. Users can select and search for content to view on the portal screen. Users can view content without user authentication when logged in. Display device 1 sends a content playback request to content distribution server 7, including the content ID of the content selected by the user. When content distribution server 7 receives the content playback request, it distributes the specified content.

[0076] When user authentication is performed for each piece of content, the process is as follows: The user's display device 1 sends a content playback request to the content distribution server 7, including the content ID of the content selected by the user on the portal screen, etc. The content distribution server 7 sends a user authentication information request to the display device 1 for user authentication for each piece of content. Upon receiving the user authentication information request, the display device 1 sends user authentication information, including account information, to the content distribution server 7. The content distribution server 7 performs user authentication in the same manner. If the user authentication is successful, it responds with permission to play the content and distributes the specified content; if it fails, it responds with permission to play the content. In some cases, the content playback request and user authentication information may be sent together.

[0077] [Initial setup] Using Figure 5 and other figures, the operation and processing during the initial setup of account information in Embodiment 1 will be explained. Here, initial setup refers to the settings necessary to enable the user to view content on the display device 1 using the system shown in Figure 1.

[0078] [Operation Sequence] Figure 5 shows an example of the operation sequence between devices during the initial setup in Embodiment 1. In Figure 5, the multiple display devices 1 have the same function, including the account information sharing unit 45. In the example in Figure 5, the user U1's mobile terminal 2 is connected to a display device 1a in the home network 5, and its account information 101 is transferred and registered. Then, the multiple display devices 1a to 1n in the home network 5 share and make available the account information 101. The initial setup in Figure 5 includes the operation of registering the account information 101 held in the mobile terminal 2 as shared account information in the multiple display devices 1 in the home network 5. Figure 5 has steps S1 to S9. The steps will be explained below in order.

[0079] (S1) User U1's mobile terminal 2 is connected wirelessly or otherwise to one of the display devices 1 on the home network 5, for example, display device 1a. For explanatory purposes, the display device 1a to which the mobile terminal 2 is connected is also referred to as the "first device".

[0080] (S2) The account information sharing unit 45 of the first device, the display device 1a, communicates with the mobile terminal 2 and obtains the account information 101 contained in the mobile terminal 2 by transferring it to the display device 1a. During this transfer, the first device may request the transfer from the mobile terminal 2, or the mobile terminal 2 may instruct the first device to transfer the information. The user may also perform an input operation corresponding to the initial setup on the mobile terminal 2 or the display device 1. The mobile terminal 2 or the display device 1 may then perform the transfer of account information upon receiving the input operation.

[0081] (S3) The account information sharing unit 45 of the first device, the display device 1a, registers the account information 101 obtained from the mobile terminal 2 as shared account information in the account information 504 of the user authentication information 503 in its own storage 26.

[0082] (S4) On the other hand, other display devices 1 on the home network 5, such as display device 1b, do not possess account information at the time of initial setup. Other display devices 1 such as display devices 1b to 1n are also referred to as "second devices" for explanatory purposes. The account information sharing unit 45 of the second device, display device 1b, queries other display devices 1 on the home network 5, such as display device 1a, regarding account information. This query asks whether the device possesses account information and includes a request for transfer if it does.

[0083] (S5) When the first device, the display device 1a, receives an inquiry from the second device, the display device 1b, it makes a response. The account information sharing unit 45 of the first device reads the account information already registered as shared account information in its storage 26 and transfers the information containing that account information to the second device, the display device 1b, which is the source of the inquiry.

[0084] (S6) When the querying display device 1b receives information including account information transferred as a response from the querying display device 1a, it registers that account information as shared account information in the account information 504 of the user authentication information 503 in its own storage 26. As a result, the account information is also held within the display device 1b. The same operation is performed on other display devices 1, such as display device 1n, so that the same account information is held in each display device 1. As a result, the initial setup is completed. The above operation is the same regardless of which of the multiple display devices 1 becomes the first device or the second device. For example, if the mobile terminal 2 is first connected to display device 1b, then display device 1b becomes the first device and the other display devices 1 become the second devices.

[0085] (S7) Subsequently, when user authentication is performed between the first device, the display device 1a, and the content distribution server 7, the user authentication unit 44 can use the account information registered in S3 to perform user authentication processing.

[0086] (S8) Suppose that user U1's mobile terminal 2 is then connected to the second device, display device 1b. In this case, since account information has already been registered in display device 1b in S6, there is no need to transfer account information from mobile terminal 2 to display device 1b, and the account registration process is unnecessary.

[0087] (S9) In the second device, the display device 1b, similar to the display device 1a, when user authentication is performed with the content distribution server 7, the user authentication unit 44 can use the account information registered in S6 to perform user authentication related processing.

[0088] [Processing Flow (1)] Figure 6 shows the processing flow during the initial setup of the display device 1 of Embodiment 1. Figure 6(A) shows the first processing flow corresponding to the "first device" in Figure 5. Figure 6(B) shows the second processing flow corresponding to the "second device" in Figure 5. Figure 6(A) has steps S101 to S105. The steps will be explained below in order.

[0089] (S101) The first device connects to the mobile terminal 2.

[0090] (S102) The account information sharing unit 45 requests the mobile terminal 2 to transfer the account information it has, thereby causing the mobile terminal 2 to transfer the account information to the display device 1. The account information sharing unit 45 receives and acquires the transferred account information.

[0091] (S103) The account information sharing unit 45 registers the account information obtained in S102 as shared account information in the account information 504 of the user authentication information 503 in the storage 26. Alternatively, the account information sharing unit 45 may pass the account information to the user authentication unit 44, and the user authentication unit 44 may register the account information.

[0092] (S104) The account information sharing unit 45 is waiting for an inquiry from a second device, which is another display device 1 on the home network 5. When the account information sharing unit 45 receives an inquiry from the second device (S104-Y), it proceeds to S105.

[0093] (S105) The account information sharing unit 45 determines whether it is acceptable to provide account information to the second device in response to an inquiry from the second device. After confirming that there is no problem, the account information sharing unit 45 reads the shared account information held in the account information 504 in the storage 26 and transfers the information including that account information to the second device that made the inquiry via the home network 5.

[0094] Figure 6(B) includes steps S111 to S115. The steps will be explained below in order.

[0095] (S111) The account information sharing unit 45 of the second device checks the account information 504 in its storage 26 to see if it has account information, that is, if shared account information is already registered. If it has account information (S111-Y), it terminates the initial setup process; otherwise, it proceeds to S112.

[0096] (S112) The account information sharing unit 45 checks whether another display device 1 is connected within the home network 5. This step can be omitted if the connection and the display device 1 are known in advance. If another display device 1 is connected (S112-Y), the process proceeds to S113; otherwise, the process ends (S112-N).

[0097] (S113) The account information sharing unit 45 transmits inquiry information regarding account information to other display devices 1 within the home network 5 via the home network 5. The other display device 1 to which the inquiry is received may be the first device or the second device.

[0098] (S114) If account information is transferred from the first device as a response (S114-Y), the account information sharing unit 45 proceeds to S115. If the information is not transferred, the other display device 1 being queried is the second device which does not possess account information. The account information sharing unit 45 queries in the same manner if there is another display device 1, and if no account information is transferred from any of the display devices 1 (S114-N), the process is terminated.

[0099] (S115) The account information sharing unit 45 registers the account information received from the first device as shared account information in the account information 504 of the user authentication information 503 in its own storage 26. This completes the initial setup process.

[0100] As a variation, the confirmation of account information possession and the transfer request in the S113 query may be separated into different communication steps. Also, when the second device makes a query, it may similarly query all other display devices 1 in the home network 5, or it may query a specific display device 1. For example, if the account information sharing unit 45 knows the first device in the home network 5 in advance, it may send a transfer request only to that first device. Furthermore, when transferring account information between display devices 1, the account information may be encrypted or otherwise protected.

[0101] The account information sharing unit 45 may manage the status of ownership and sharing of account information among multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5 in a table. For example, for each account, the table may manage information such as the device ID of each display device 1, whether or not it owns the account information, and its role. The role may be the first device, the second device, etc.

[0102] [Effects, etc.] As described above, the content viewing system of Embodiment 1 ensures control over content viewing permissions using account information, while reducing the effort required for users to set account information on multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5, thus providing ease of use and high convenience in various environments and situations.

[0103] For example, during the initial setup, the user only needs to register the account information on their mobile device 2 to the first device, which is one of the display devices 1 on the home network 5. This automatically registers the account information on multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5, making them available for shared use. There is no need to register account information for each individual display device 1 on the home network 5, thus minimizing the effort required from the user.

[0104] Conventional technologies do not take into account the cooperation between mobile terminals and display devices, and even if account information is stored on the mobile terminal, it is not easy to share that account information across multiple display devices on a home network. On the other hand, according to Embodiment 1, such sharing can be easily achieved with simple operations.

[0105] The following is a modification of Embodiment 1. For example, initially, suppose there are a first television and a second television as multiple display devices 1 in the home network 5. Assume that the account information of the mobile terminal 2 is already registered in the first television. Assume that a third television is newly added to the home. When the account information sharing unit 45 of the third television is connected to the home network 5, it queries another display device 1 in the home network 5, for example, the first television, for its own initial setup. The first television, having received the query, transfers the account information to the third television. The third television registers that account information to itself and completes the initial setup. In other words, the account sharing function in the modification realizes a function that registers for account information sharing when a display device 1 is connected to the home network 5.

[0106] As a variation, the in-home system may be configured to enable communication between multiple display devices 1 and between a display device 1 and an external device without going through the in-home network 5. In that case, the account sharing function is a function that allows account information to be shared within that in-home system.

[0107] [First variation] As a first modification of Embodiment 1, the following is possible: The first device, which is a display device 1, registers the account information obtained from the mobile terminal 2 to itself and immediately transfers it to the second device, which is another display device 1 within the home network 5. The second device, upon receiving the immediately transferred account information, registers that account information to itself.

[0108] Figure 7 shows an example of the operation sequence between devices during initial setup in a first modified example of Embodiment 1. Figure 7 includes steps S11 to S16. The steps will be described below in order.

[0109] (S11~S13) In S11, user U1's mobile terminal 2 is connected to one of the display devices 1 on the home network 5, for example, display device 1a. In S12, the account information sharing unit 45 of the first device, display device 1a, transfers and obtains the account information 101 held by the mobile terminal 2 to the display device 1a. In S13, the account information sharing unit 45 registers the account information 101 obtained from the mobile terminal 2 as shared account information in its own user authentication information 503.

[0110] (S14) Furthermore, the account information sharing unit 45 of the first device, the display device 1a, immediately transfers the information including the account information from S13 to each of the other second devices, which are other display devices 1 within the home network 5. This immediately transferred information also serves as a registration instruction to the second devices. This immediate transfer may be, for example, a broadcast transmission to the other display devices 1 in the home network 5, or a sequential transmission in a predetermined order to each of the other display devices 1.

[0111] (S15) Meanwhile, each of the second devices, which are other display devices 1 on the home network 5, for example, display device 1b, receives the information for immediate transfer in S14 from the first device. The second device registers the account information as shared account information in its own user authentication information 503. As a result, the account information is also stored in display device 1b. Similarly, the account information is stored in each display device 1. This completes the initial setup. The above operation is the same regardless of whether any of the multiple display devices 1 are the first device or the second device.

[0112] (S16) Subsequently, when user authentication is performed with the content distribution server 7, the display device 1a and the display device 1b can use the account information already registered with them to perform the user authentication process.

[0113] In the first modified example of Embodiment 1, the aforementioned inquiry is unnecessary, and the time required for initial setup can be reduced by performing immediate transfer.

[0114] (Embodiment 2) The display device 1 and other components of Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described using Figures 8 to 9. The basic configuration of Embodiment 2 is the same as that of Embodiment 1. The following describes the components of Embodiment 2 that differ from those of Embodiment 1. Embodiment 2, like Embodiment 1, realizes account information sharing on the home network 5, but the processing method for this purpose differs in part from that of Embodiment 1.

[0115] In Embodiment 2, among the multiple display devices 1 in the home network 5, the first device, which is the display device 1 to which the account information of the mobile terminal 2 is registered, is designated as the "account server." Here, "account server" refers to the device and role that primarily manages account information within the home network 5. No account information is registered in the second device, which is another display device 1 within the home network 5. When the second device needs account information for user authentication, it accesses the first device, which is the account server, to refer to and use that account information.

[0116] [Operation Sequence] Figure 8 shows an example of the operation sequence between devices during the initial setup in Embodiment 2. Figure 8 includes steps S21 to S28. The steps will be described below in order.

[0117] (S21) User U1's mobile terminal 2 is connected to one of the display devices 1 on the home network 5, for example, display device 1a.

[0118] (S22) The account information sharing unit 45 of the first device, the display device 1a, obtains the account information 101 held in the mobile terminal 2 by transferring it to the display device 1a.

[0119] (S23) The account information sharing unit 45 registers the account information 101 obtained from the mobile terminal 2 as shared account information in the account information 504 of the user authentication information 503 in its own storage 26. The first device, the display device 1a, becomes an account server that manages the shared account information. At this point, the initial setup is basically complete.

[0120] Furthermore, after S23, a step may be added in which the first device, display device 1a, notifies each of the other second devices, which are other display devices 1, that display device 1a has become an account server.

[0121] (S24) On the other hand, the second device, which is another display device 1 on the home network 5, does not possess account information. Suppose that user authentication with the content distribution server 7 occurs on the second device, for example, display device 1b. That is, suppose that the need for account information arises for user authentication.

[0122] (S25) The account information sharing unit 45 of the second device sends a request to the account server, which is the first device on the home network 5, to access account information.

[0123] (S26) When the account information sharing unit 45 of the first device receives a reference request from the second device, it sends the account information it registered in S23 to the requesting second device as a response.

[0124] (S27) The account information sharing unit 45 of the second device does not register the account information received from the first device itself, but instead allows the user authentication unit 44 to use it for user authentication processing.

[0125] (S28) Subsequently, when user authentication is performed between the account server (display device 1a) and the content distribution server (7), the display device 1a can use its own account information to perform the user authentication process.

[0126] The above operation is the same regardless of which of the multiple display devices 1 becomes the first device or the second device. In the above example, only one display device 1a was used as the account server, but this is not limited to this; two or more devices may also be account servers. In that case, the second device only needs to access one of the account servers.

[0127] Furthermore, among the multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5, only a specific display device 1 may be configured to become an account server. For example, the user configuration function of display device 1 may be used to configure only display device 1a to become an account server. In that case, devices other than display device 1a will be controlled based on their settings so that they do not become account servers, even if a mobile terminal 2 is connected to them first.

[0128] [Processing flow] Figure 9 shows the processing flow during the initial setup of the display device 1 in Embodiment 2. Figure 9(A) shows the first processing flow corresponding to the account server, which is the first device. Figure 9(B) shows the second processing flow corresponding to the second device. Figure 9(A) includes steps S141 to S145. The steps will be described below in order.

[0129] (S141~S143) Steps S141~S143 are the same as S101~S103 in Embodiment 1.

[0130] (S144, S145) In S144, the account information sharing unit 45 of the first device, which is the account server, is waiting for a request to access account information from the second device, which is another display device 1 on the home network 5. When the account information sharing unit 45 receives a request to access account information, (S144-Y) proceeds to S145. In S145, the account information sharing unit 45 sends the account information it possesses to the second device as a response to the request to access account information.

[0131] Figure 9(B) includes steps S151 to S155. The steps will be explained below in order.

[0132] (S151~S153) In S151, the account information sharing unit 45 of the second device proceeds to S152 if user authentication by the user authentication unit 44, i.e., if the need for account information arises (S151-Y). In S152, the account information sharing unit 45 checks whether the account server, which is the first device, is connected to the home network 5. If it is connected (S152Y), proceeds to S152. In S153, the account information sharing unit 45 sends a request to the account server, which is the first device, to access account information.

[0133] (S154, S155) In S154, if the account information sharing unit 45 receives account information transferred as a response from the first device, the account server (S154), it proceeds to S155. In S155, the account information sharing unit 45 uses the account information received in S154 for user authentication by the user authentication unit 44, and terminates without registering it in its own storage 26.

[0134] [Effects, etc.] As described above, Embodiment 2 enables the sharing of account information on the home network 5, similar to Embodiment 1. In Embodiment 2, a step is required for the second device to access the first device during user authentication, but it has the advantage that the account information only needs to be securely stored on the first device. Furthermore, when making setting changes to disable the shared state, the shared account information only needs to be deleted on the first device.

[0135] (Embodiment 3) The display device 1 and other components of Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described using Figures 10 to 12. The basic configuration in Embodiment 3 is the same as in Embodiment 1. The following describes the components of Embodiment 3 that differ from Embodiment 1. Embodiment 3 assumes a situation that may occur when multiple account information from multiple mobile terminals 2 is registered in the display device 1 of the home network 5. Embodiment 3 has a function to delete the account information registered in the display device 1 as a setting change, depending on the situation.

[0136] [Content viewing system] Figure 10 shows an example of a content viewing system and operation sequence in Embodiment 3. Figure 10 differs from Figure 1 in that User U2, a friend of User U1, is invited to User U1's home. User U1 possesses their own mobile device 2a, "Smartphone A," and User U2 possesses their own mobile device 2b, "Smartphone B." Similar to Embodiment 1, User U1 has account information 101 related to the content distribution service X1 on their mobile device 2a. User U2 also has account information 102 (indicated as A2) related to the content distribution service X1 on their mobile device 2b. Normally, User U2 can use the content distribution service X1 at their home or other location using their own display device, mobile device 2b, and their account information 102.

[0137] In the example shown in Figure 11, user U2 visits user U1's home, temporarily uses user U1's display device 1, and uses the content distribution service X1 with the account information 102 on the mobile terminal 2b to view content. Afterwards, user U2 leaves user U1's home and returns home. User U2 then uses the same content distribution service X1 from, for example, the display device at home. Embodiment 3 describes a function to control the shared account information of the display device 1 in user U1's home in such a situation.

[0138] [Operation Sequence] An example of the operation sequence of Embodiment 3 will be explained using Figure 10. Figure 10 includes steps S31 to S36. The steps will be explained below in order.

[0139] (S31) First, the operation of user U1 within the home is basically the same as the operation described in Embodiment 1. That is, the account information 101 held in the mobile terminal 2a is registered as shared account information in the display device 1a, for example.

[0140] (S32) User U2, a guest visiting User U1's home, has their mobile terminal 2b connected to, for example, the display device 1a.

[0141] (S33) The account information sharing unit 45 of the first device, the display device 1a, acquires the account information 102 held by the mobile terminal 2b by transfer. The display device 1a registers the account information 102 in the account information 504 of the user authentication information 503 in its own storage 26. The account information 504 now contains two sets of account information: the account information 101 of user U1 and the account information 102 of user U2.

[0142] In this example, as part of account information sharing, the guest's account information 102 is stored on only one display device 1a. However, this is not limited to this; similar to Embodiment 1, the account sharing function can be used to store the guest's account information 102 on multiple display devices 1 in the home network 5. In that case, the account information sharing unit 45 transfers account information between the display devices 1, similar to Embodiment 1. This allows user U2 to view content on each display device 1. Furthermore, the guest's mobile terminal 2b can be connected to any of the display devices 1 in the home network 5 to register the account information 102. As will be described later, user settings such as whether or not to allow the display device 1 to register the guest's account information are also possible.

[0143] (S34) User U2's account information 102 is now registered on the display device 1a. Therefore, user U2 can view content from the content distribution service X1 on the display device 1a through user authentication using the account information 102.

[0144] (S35) Afterwards, user U2 finishes viewing the content and leaves user U1's home, for example, to return home. State 1101 indicates that user U2's mobile terminal 2b is outside user U1's home, for example, at user U2's home. User U2 uses the content distribution service X1 from the content distribution server 7 via the external network 6 through the display device and mobile terminal 2b at home.

[0145] In this scenario, if the mobile terminal 2b, which initially registered account information 102 on the display device 1a while inside user U1's home, then leaves the home, user U2's account information 102 exists both inside and outside user U1's home. In such a situation, a conventional system might generate requests to the content distribution server from both inside and outside user U1's home. In that case, depending on the service design, the content distribution server might, for example, fail user authentication for one of the requests and deny viewing if it does not allow content viewing in different locations. Embodiment 3 is a technology that also takes such situations into consideration.

[0146] (S35) The account sharing unit 45 of the first device, the display device 1a, periodically checks the location of the mobile terminal 2, for example, mobile terminal 2b, which has registered account information. As part of the location check, the account sharing unit 45 detects and determines whether the registered mobile terminal 2 is located within the home network 5 associated with user U1's home network 5. This location check is implemented, for example, as follows.

[0147] Display device 1 may detect and determine whether the mobile terminal 2 is inside or outside the home by determining whether it is connected to the home network 5. This connection determination may be made by determining whether there is a wireless connection between display device 1 and mobile terminal 2, or by determining whether there is a connection between display device 1 and mobile terminal 2 via the home network 5. Alternatively, display device 1 may attempt to establish a wireless connection to mobile terminal 2 based on the information obtained when it first established a wireless connection with mobile terminal 2, and make a determination based on the result. That is, display device 1 may determine that the mobile terminal 2 is inside the home if a wireless connection can be established with mobile terminal 2 or if there is a response, and determine that it is outside the home if a wireless connection cannot be established or if there is no response. Display device 1 may also determine that the mobile terminal 2 is outside the home if the wireless connection is disconnected after the initial wireless connection, or if a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the disconnection.

[0148] Location confirmation may be achieved using short-range wireless communication between the display device 1 or equipment constituting the in-house network 5 and the mobile terminal 2. Location confirmation may also be achieved by using a method in which the display device 1 detects beacons or the like emitted by the mobile terminal 2. That is, the display device 1 may determine that the mobile terminal 2 is outside the house when it leaves a predetermined radius range associated with the house.

[0149] In S35, the display device 1a detects that among the multiple mobile terminals 2 that were in user U1's home, a specific mobile terminal 2b that had registered account information is not in the home, i.e., it is outside the home.

[0150] (S36) Based on the detection of being outside the home in S35, the account information sharing unit 45 of the display device 1a deletes the account information 102 of the mobile terminal 2b that is registered to and owned by it. This updates the settings of the display device 1a and disables the account information 102 so that it cannot be used for user authentication. This prevents user U2 from continuing to use user U1's in-home display device 1 to view content.

[0151] [Processing flow] Figure 11 shows the processing flow of the display device 1 in Embodiment 3 as the first device. Figure 11 includes steps S161 to S165. The steps will be described below in order.

[0152] (S161~S163) In S161, the first device connects to the guest's mobile terminal 2, for example, the mobile terminal 2b of user U2. In S162, the account information sharing unit 45 of the first device obtains the account information of the guest's mobile terminal 2 by transfer. In S163, the account information sharing unit 45 registers the guest's account information in the account information 504 of the user authentication information 503 in its storage 26.

[0153] (S164, S165) In S164, the account information sharing unit 45 periodically checks the location of the guest's mobile device 2, which is the source of the account information registered in S163. If the account information sharing unit 45 detects and determines that the guest's mobile device 2 is not inside the home, i.e., is outside the home (S164-N), it proceeds to S165. In S165, the account information sharing unit 45 deletes the account information of the guest's mobile device 2 that is registered in the account information 504 of the user authentication information 503 in its storage 26.

[0154] [Effects, etc.] As described above, according to Embodiment 3, even when a friend or other person visiting the user's home temporarily uses the display device 1 on the home network 5 to view content, the settings can be easily configured. Furthermore, in this case, the guest's account information registered on the home display device 1 is deleted when the guest's mobile device 2 leaves the home. This eliminates concerns about the account information continuing to be used. It also prevents the guest user from viewing content using the display device 1 from outside the home.

[0155] [First variation] The following is a first modification of Embodiment 3. In this first modification, the location of the mobile terminal 2 and the deletion of account information are performed according to the result of user authentication.

[0156] Figure 12 shows the processing flow of the display device 1 as a first device in a first modified example of Embodiment 3. Figure 12 includes steps S171 to S176. The steps will be described below in order.

[0157] (S171) Similar to Embodiment 3, the account information of the guest's mobile terminal 2 is registered in the display device 1.

[0158] (S172, S173) In S172, user authentication with the content distribution server 7 occurs. Based on the guest user's operation, the display device 1 sends a content playback request, etc., to the content distribution server 7 according to the normal content viewing operation sequence. At that time, the user authentication unit 44 uses the guest account information already registered with it and sends user authentication information including that account information to the content distribution server 7. The user authentication unit 44 receives the result of user authentication from the content distribution server 7. In S173, if the user authentication result is a failure (S173-Y), the display device 1 proceeds to S174.

[0159] (S174, S175) In S174, the account information sharing unit 45 of the display device 1 checks the location of the guest's mobile device 2, which is the source of the registered account information. If the guest's mobile device 2 is inside the home (S174-Y), there is no problem and the process ends. If it is not inside the home (S174-N), the process proceeds to S175. In S175, the account information sharing unit 45 works in cooperation with the user authentication unit 44 to delete the account information of the guest's mobile device 2 that is registered to it.

[0160] Furthermore, when deleting account information, if the first device has access to that account information on multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5, it will also delete the account information on those multiple display devices 1. In this case, for example, the first device sends an instruction to the second device, which is another display device 1 on the home network 5, to delete the account information. Upon receiving this instruction, the second device deletes the corresponding account information registered on itself.

[0161] In the first modification of Embodiment 3, as described above, if user authentication fails when account information exists both inside and outside the home of user U1, the account information is deleted. This provides the same effect as in Embodiment 3. Alternatively, the location verification step in S174 may be omitted, and the account information may be deleted immediately if user authentication fails.

[0162] (Embodiment 4) The display device 1, etc., of Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described using Figures 13 to 16. The basic configuration of Embodiment 4 is the same as that of Embodiment 1. The following describes the components of Embodiment 4 that differ from Embodiment 1. In Embodiment 4, regarding the account sharing function, instead of having the same operation and settings for multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5, different operation and settings are made possible for each display device 1. In Embodiment 4, restrictions are placed on each display device 1 regarding the account sharing function. In Embodiment 4, it is possible to set whether or not to use the account sharing function, that is, whether or not to share account information, for each individual display device 1.

[0163] The display device 1 of Embodiment 4 provides a user setting function that allows settings related to the account sharing function to be configured as user settings. This user setting function is implemented using the user setting unit 46 shown in Figure 4. The user setting unit 46 works in conjunction with the account information sharing unit 45. The status of the user settings is managed using setting information 505. The account information sharing unit 45 controls whether or not to share account information for each display device 1 based on the setting information 505 of the user setting unit 46.

[0164] In the display device 1 of Embodiment 4, when initial setup of account information related to the account sharing function is performed, an account registration screen is provided and an account registration process is carried out. The first device registers the account information through the account registration screen.

[0165] In the display device 1 of Embodiment 4, a settings screen is displayed on the display device 1 using a user setting function. The user can configure settings related to the account sharing function for multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5 while viewing the settings screen.

[0166] Depending on the settings made using the user configuration function, the user can select and set the method to be used from the various methods shown in Embodiments 1 to 3 described above. For example, it is possible to configure a specific display device 1 so that it can become the first device, as in Embodiment 1, and not be able to become the first device. It is also possible to configure a specific display device 1 so that it can become an account server, as in Embodiment 2, and not be able to become an account server. Furthermore, it is possible to configure a specific display device 1 so that it can become the first device capable of registering guest account information, as in Embodiment 3.

[0167] In Embodiment 4, the following settings are also possible for the account sharing function: When a single mobile device 2 has multiple account information, it is possible to select to register only some of the account information on the display device 1, rather than registering all of it. Also, when there are multiple mobile devices 2 that have account information, it is possible to select to register only some of the account information on the display device 1, rather than registering the account information on all of them. Furthermore, it is possible to set which content can be viewed and which cannot be viewed among the content group of the content distribution service associated with the account information.

[0168] Account information sharing settings can be configured for each account and for each mobile device 2. For example, suppose the first mobile device has both the first and second account information. In the user settings, the first account information can be shared on all display devices on the home network 5, while the second account information can be kept only on a specific display device 1.

[0169] The user setting unit 46 displays a setting screen on the display unit 20, and the user can configure settings by viewing the setting screen and performing input operations through the input means 23 to the display device 1. Alternatively, as described above, the user may also operate the display device 1 from a mobile terminal 2, thereby enabling user configuration in the same way. In this case, the user setting unit 46 may display the setting screen on the screen of the mobile terminal 2.

[0170] The following are possible timings for performing user settings using the user settings function: Users can access and use the settings screen via the user settings function at any time by operating the display device 1 or mobile terminal 2. For example, user settings can be performed before the initial setup. User settings can also be performed after the initial setup. During the initial setup, an account registration screen is displayed, and it is possible to transition to the settings screen at that time as well.

[0171] [Content viewing system] Figure 13 shows an example of a content viewing system and operation sequence in Embodiment 3. Figure 13 differs from Figure 1 in that user U1 has account information 111 (indicated as A001) on mobile terminal 2A and another account information 112 (indicated as A002) on another mobile terminal 2B. Account information 111 is for content distribution service X1 of content distribution server 7a, and account information 112 is for content distribution service X2 of content distribution server 7b.

[0172] The display device 1a, via the user setting unit 46, displays an account registration screen during the initial setup and also displays a settings screen at any time.

[0173] [Operation Sequence] Using Figure 13, an example of the operation sequence during the initial setup in Embodiment 4 will be explained. In this example, account information 111 held in mobile terminal 2A is registered with display device 1a and shared with all display devices 1 on the home network 5. Account information 112 held in mobile terminal 2B is registered only with a specific display device 1 based on user settings. Figure 13 includes steps S41 to S48. The steps will be explained below in order.

[0174] (S41) First, let's explain the registration of account information 111. For example, a mobile terminal 2A is connected to the display device 1a.

[0175] (S42) The user setting unit 46 of the first device, the display device 1a, displays an account registration screen (Figure 14, described later) on the display unit 20 of the display device 1a during the initial setup. The user looks at the account registration screen and confirms whether or not to register the account information 111 held on the mobile terminal 2A as shared account information for all display devices 1, including the display device 1a. If the user wishes to register, they input an indication that they wish to register.

[0176] (S43) The user setting unit 46 performs account registration processing based on the user confirmation input via the account registration screen in S42 and registers account information 111 in the display device 1a. Specifically, this process includes S44 to S46.

[0177] (S44~S46) In S44, the account information sharing unit 45 acquires account information 111 from the mobile terminal 2 by transfer. In S45, the account information sharing unit 45 registers the account information 111 as shared account information in the account information 504 of the user authentication information 503 in the storage 26. In S46, the account information sharing unit 45 performs transfers, etc., in the same manner as in Embodiment 1, etc., so that the account information 111 is shared among multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5. For example, the account information sharing unit 45 of display device 1n registers the account information 111 transferred from display device 1a to itself.

[0178] (S47) Subsequently, for example, a user can connect a mobile terminal 2A to the display device 1n and use the content distribution service X1 from the display device 1n. In this case, since the account information 111 has already been registered in the display device 1n as shared account information, the display device 1n does not output an account registration screen. Based on the user operation, the display device 1n requests content C1 from the content distribution server 7a. When authenticating the user, the display device 1n creates user authentication information using the account information 111 it possesses and sends it to the content distribution server 7a. As a result, the user can view content C1 from the content distribution server 7a on the display device 1n without the hassle of registering account information.

[0179] (S48) The registration of account information 112 on the mobile terminal 2B is as follows: User U1 calls up the user setting function by performing an input operation on any of the display devices 1, for example, display device 1a. At this time, user U1 may connect the mobile terminal 2B to the display device 1a and perform the input operation. The user setting unit 46 displays a setting screen (Figure 15 described later) on the display device 1a. The setting screen has setting items for each of the multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5, such as whether or not to share account information. If user U1 wants to register account information 112 only on, for example, display device 1a, he selects on the setting screen to register only on display device 1a. The user setting unit 46 saves this setting state in setting information 505. If user U1 then wants to complete the registration of account information 112, he connects the mobile terminal 2B to, for example, display device 1a. The account information sharing unit 45 of the display device 1a registers the account information 112 in its own storage 26 based on the configuration information 505, and does not register it in other display devices 1.

[0180] [Account registration screen] Figure 14 shows an example of the account registration screen output by the display device 1 to which the mobile terminal 1 is connected during the initial setup. This account registration screen includes items f1, f2, and f3.

[0181] Item f1 displays a registration confirmation message, etc. In this example, item f1 displays, "Do you want to register the account information on your mobile device as shared account information for all TVs, including "TV1"?" Item f1 also displays the contents of that account information for confirmation. Item f1 also displays "Yes" and "No" buttons to indicate whether or not to register. The user can choose whether or not to register in item f1. If "Register" (Yes) is selected, it corresponds to setting all display devices 1 on the home network 5 to use the account sharing function. Then, the operation sequence shown in Embodiment 1, etc., is automatically executed.

[0182] Additionally, if "Do not register" (No) is selected in item f1, item f2 may be displayed. Item f2 corresponds to the case where account information is registered on only one display device 1, as in the conventional method. In this example, item f2 displays "Do you want to register the account information on your mobile device as account information only on "TV1"?". If "Register" (Yes) is selected, the account sharing function will not be applied, and the account information will not be registered on other display devices 1 on the home network 5.

[0183] Additionally, item f3 displays a button that allows user settings related to the account sharing function. If item f3 is selected, the user will be taken to a settings screen as shown in Figure 15.

[0184] [Settings screen] Figure 15 shows an example of a settings screen displayed by the user settings function of the user settings unit 46. This settings screen includes items g1 to g5. This example shows the display during the initial setup.

[0185] Item g1 is for setting whether or not to use the account sharing function for multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5. Users can select whether or not to use it. If "Use" is selected for item g1, the account sharing function described in Embodiment 1, etc., will be enabled and applied, and further details can be set in items g2 and below. If "Do not use" is selected for item g1, the function will not be applied, and the system will operate as before.

[0186] Item g2 is a setting item that determines whether or not to perform individual settings for each device. Users can choose whether or not to perform individual settings. If individual settings are selected in item g2, the details can be configured in item g4.

[0187] Item g3 is a setting item for determining whether or not the account sharing function for the guest's mobile device 2, as in Embodiment 3, can be applied. If sharing is enabled in item g3, the content can be similarly configured in another item (not shown).

[0188] Item g4 is an item for individual settings for each device. In this example, item g4 displays a table for settings. The user setting unit 46 displays a table with content corresponding to the current setting state based on the setting information 505. This table has items such as the name of the device, the device ID, account sharing enabled / disabled, and content enabled / disabled. The "Account Sharing Enable / Disabled" item allows setting whether or not to apply the account sharing function for each device 1 indicated by the device ID. The user can set the enable / disabled status for each device 1 in the "Account Sharing Enable / Disabled" item, for example, by operating a check button. A device 1 set to enable in this item will operate using the account sharing function. A device 1 set to disable in this item will not operate using the account sharing function. For example, the device 1n indicated by "TVn" in the fourth row is set to disable, and will not become the first or second device mentioned above, nor will it possess account information.

[0189] Item g4 is an example of the display during the initial setup before registering account information, and does not show items related to individual account information or mobile device 2. Items that allow individual settings for each account and each mobile device 2 can be implemented in a similar manner.

[0190] Furthermore, the "Content Availability" item is a setting item related to the availability of each piece of content on the display device 1, indicated by the device ID. The content of the "Content Availability" item can be set in item g5. Item g5 is a setting item for the availability of each piece of content. In item g5, the ID of the content distribution service associated with the account information can also be selected. In item g5, a list of content is displayed for each account information and content distribution service. The display device 1 obtains content list information based on communication with the content distribution server 7. In this example, item g5 displays a table of content corresponding to a certain account information. However, it is not limited to this, and a format in which icons for each piece of content are displayed may also be used. Each piece of content in the list has items such as descriptive information (not shown) and availability. The user can set the availability of each piece of content in the "Availability" item, for example, by operating a check button. Note that it is also possible to set all content to be shared by default and allow the user to select non-shared content, or to set all content to non-shared and allow the user to select shared content.

[0191] [Settings Information] Figure 16 shows an example of the configuration of the setting information 505 table managed by the user setting unit 46. The table in Figure 16 has columns for account information, mobile device ID, display device ID, shareability, and content availability. The first column, "Account Information," shows the account information held by mobile device 2. The second column, "Mobile Device ID," shows the device ID of mobile device 2. The third column, "Display Device ID," shows the device ID of display device 1, for example, its MAC address. The fourth column, "Shareability," is a flag indicating whether display device 1 (column 3) holds and shares the account information (column 1). The fifth column, "Content Availability," shows the setting value for viewing availability for each piece of content. For example, "ALL" indicates a setting value that makes all content of the content distribution service associated with the account information viewable. Individual content IDs can also be written in this column, and it is possible to set which content is viewable and which is not.

[0192] Lines 1-3 show the settings for sharing account information "A001" across three display devices 1 using the account sharing function. Lines 4-6 show the settings for registering account information "A002" only on display device 1a among the three display devices 1. For account information "B001", the settings indicate that it will be stored on display device 1a, but only specific content "C00003" will be viewable.

[0193] [Effects, etc.] As described above, Embodiment 4 provides user setting functions related to the account sharing function, allowing users to easily register accounts and configure user settings while viewing the screen. The configuration can be performed directly on the display device 1 or from the mobile terminal 2. Using the user setting function, users can easily configure all settings related to the account sharing function for multiple display devices 1 on the home network 5 on the screen of either the display device 1 or the mobile terminal 2. Therefore, compared to the conventional method of individually configuring account information for multiple devices, this reduces the effort required from the user and prevents configuration errors.

[0194] Although the present invention has been specifically described above based on embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be modified in various ways without departing from its essence. Combinations of the above-described embodiments, substitutions, additions, and deletions of components are also possible. Each component and means can be implemented by software program processing or hardware circuits, etc. Various data, information, and programs within the device may be stored on an external recording medium or on a device on an external network. [Explanation of symbols]

[0195] 1, 1a, 1b, 1n... Display device, 2... Mobile terminal, 5... Home network, 6... External network, 7... Content distribution server, 8... Broadcasting station, 42... Content playback unit, 44... User authentication unit, 45... Account information sharing unit, 46... User settings unit, 101... Account information.

Claims

1. A first display device and a second display device that can communicate via a home network, A terminal device capable of communicating with the first display device and the second display device, A method for processing information of the first display device in a system comprising: The first step is for the first display device to obtain account information from the terminal device that enables content viewing using the content distribution service provided by the terminal device, The first display device shares the account information obtained in the first step with the second display device connected to the home network, It has, In the second step, the first display device displays the account information in the second It is possible to configure it so that it is not shared with the display device. Information processing methods.

2. A display device that can communicate via a home network and can communicate with other display devices, A portable terminal capable of communicating with the aforementioned display device, The display device in a content viewing system comprising: The system communicates with the aforementioned mobile terminal and obtains account information from the mobile terminal to enable content viewing using the content distribution service available on the mobile terminal. The acquired account information is shared with the other display device connected to the home network. The display device can be configured not to share the account information with other display devices. Display device.

3. A display device according to claim 2, The display device is characterized in that it can receive content distributed from a server on an external network and display it on the display unit.

4. A display device according to claim 3, The display device is characterized in that it can perform user authentication for a content distribution service provided by a server on an external network using the account information obtained from the mobile terminal.

5. A display device according to claim 2, The method is characterized by communicating with the mobile terminal via the home network, sending a request to transfer the account information, and receiving the account information transferred from the mobile terminal to the display device.

6. A display device according to claim 2, The system is characterized by storing the account information obtained from the mobile device in storage.

7. A display device according to claim 2, The system is characterized by sharing the account information obtained from the mobile terminal by transferring it to the other display device in response to an inquiry about the account information from the other display device connected to the home network.

8. A display device according to claim 2, The system is characterized by obtaining the account information from the mobile terminal and then sharing the obtained account information by transferring it to the other display device.

9. A display device according to claim 2, The display device is characterized in that it displays an initial setup screen on its display unit in advance, which asks whether or not to share account information with the other display device, and the user setting information on the initial setup screen is stored in storage.

10. A display device according to claim 2, The mobile terminal and the display device communicate either directly or via the home network.

11. A display device according to claim 2, The display device is characterized in that it can receive broadcast programs via broadcast waves and display them on the display unit.

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