Program and information processing device

Abstract

The present invention allows a user to easily select a gift to be given. This program causes a computer to function as: a management means 52 for managing history information about gifts that have been given by each user; and a display means 54 for displaying a certain gift among a plurality of gifts in a moving image when a gifting request for the certain gift is made by the user, wherein the management means 52 identifies a recommended gift on the basis of the history information, and the display means 54 displays the recommended gift before the gifting request is made by the user.

Description

Program and information processing device

[0001] The present invention relates to a program and an information processing device.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a video distribution system that distributes videos to a plurality of users has been known.

[0003] In this regard, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that allows a user (player) watching a video to throw (gift) a purchased item toward a stage area where a performer object is located.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-092332

[0005] In such technology, when a user watching a video has to select a gift to give from a plurality of gifts, the user has a problem in that the user does not know which gift to give.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a program and an information processing device that can allow a user to easily select a gift to give.

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, a program according to a first aspect of the present invention is a program for each user watching a video being streamed to gift a gift by displaying a gift on the video, and causes a computer to function as a management means for managing historical information of gifts gifted by each user, and a display means for displaying a gift on the video when the user requests a gift for a particular gift from among multiple gifts, the management means identifying a recommended gift based on the historical information, and the display means displaying the recommended gift before the user requests the gift.

[0008] In a second aspect of the present invention, the management means identifies recommended gifts based on history information of gifts given by each user in the video being distributed.

[0009] In a third aspect of the present invention, the management means identifies recommended gifts based on history information of gifts given by each user to a performer object displayed in the video.

[0010] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, the recommended gifts are gifts that have been gifted many times.

[0011] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, the recommended gift is a gift that has been gifted many times from a predetermined point in time to the present.

[0012] In a sixth aspect of the present invention, the recommended gift is a gift that has been gifted less frequently.

[0013] In a seventh aspect of the present invention, the recommended gift is a gift that has been gifted a small number of times from a predetermined point in time to the present.

[0014] In an eighth aspect of the present invention, the management means reduces the compensation for gifting the recommended gift to less than usual.

[0015] In a ninth aspect of the present invention, the display means displays the recommended gift when the user has paid a predetermined amount.

[0016] In addition, an information processing device according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is an information processing device for each user watching a video being streamed to gift gifts by displaying gifts on the video, and is equipped with a management means for managing historical information of gifts gifted by each user, and a display means for displaying a gift on the video when the user requests a gift for a certain gift from among multiple gifts, wherein the management means identifies a recommended gift based on the historical information, and the display means displays the recommended gift before the user requests the gift.

[0017]

[0018]

[0019]

[0020] According to the present invention, a user can easily select a gift to give.

[0021] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a video distribution system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a server device. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a smartphone as the terminal device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of functional means of a server device. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by each functional means shown in FIG. 4 in a video distribution system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a normal live screen in the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen from which a gift can be selected in the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen in which a gift has been gifted in the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by each functional means in a video distribution system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen from which a gift can be provisionally selected in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen including a provisionally selected gift and statistical information related to the gift in the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by each functional means in a video distribution system according to a third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen in which gifting requests are restricted in the third embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by each functional means in a video distribution system according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen including information that a portion of the consideration has been returned in the fourth embodiment.

[0022] Hereinafter, several embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. To facilitate understanding of the description, the same components and steps in each drawing will be denoted by the same reference numerals as much as possible, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0023] First Embodiment First, the first embodiment will be described.

[0024] <Overall Configuration> FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a video distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0025] 1, the video distribution system 1 includes a server device 10 and one or more terminal devices 12. The server device 10 and the terminal devices 12 are communicatively connected via a communication network NT such as an intranet, the Internet, or a telephone line.

[0026] The server device 10 is an information processing device that provides, via the communication network NT, videos obtained by executing the video distribution program 14, or the video distribution program 14 itself, to users who own the terminal devices 12. For example, the video distribution program 14 is used by users to perform gifting, in which gifts are displayed on the videos.

[0027] Each terminal device 12 is an information processing device owned by each user, and provides videos for viewing by each user by installing and executing the video distribution program 14 received from the server device 10. Note that a user can also distribute videos to other users as a video distribution user. These terminal devices 12 include various devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, and personal computers.

[0028] <Hardware Configuration> FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the server device 10. As shown in FIG.

[0029] 2, the server device 10 includes a control device 20, a communication device 26, and a storage device 28. The control device 20 mainly includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 22 and a memory 24.

[0030] In the control device 20, the CPU 22 executes predetermined programs stored in the memory 24 or the storage device 28, thereby functioning as various functional means. Details of these functional means will be described later.

[0031] The communication device 26 is configured with a communication interface for communicating with an external device, etc. The communication device 26 transmits and receives various information to and from the terminal device 12, for example.

[0032] The storage device 28 is configured with a hard disk, etc. The storage device 28 stores various programs and information necessary for executing processes in the control device 20, including the video distribution program 14, as well as information on the results of the processes.

[0033] The server device 10 can be realized using an information processing device such as a dedicated or general-purpose server computer. The server device 10 may be configured with a single information processing device or multiple information processing devices distributed over a communication network NT. FIG. 2 shows only a portion of the main hardware configuration of the server device 10, and the server device 10 may also include other components that are generally included in a server. The hardware configuration of the multiple terminal devices 12 may also be similar to that of the server device 10, except for including, for example, an operating means, a display device, and a sound output device.

[0034] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a smartphone serving as the terminal device 12 shown in FIG.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal device 12 includes a main control unit 30, a touch panel (touch screen) 32, a camera 34, a mobile communication unit 36, a wireless LAN communication unit 38, a memory unit 40, and a speaker 42.

[0036] The main control unit 30 is configured to include a CPU, memory, etc. The main control unit 30 is connected to a touch panel 32 as a display input device, a camera 34, a mobile communication unit 36, a wireless LAN communication unit 38, a storage unit 40, and a speaker 42. The main control unit 30 has a function to control these connected devices.

[0037] The touch panel 32 has both a display function and an input function, and is composed of a display 32A that performs the display function and a touch sensor 32B that performs the input function. In the first embodiment, the display 32A can display images (videos) and operation input images such as button images. The touch sensor 32B can detect the position of a user's input on the display 32A.

[0038] The camera 34 has a function of taking still images and / or moving images and storing them in the storage unit 40 .

[0039] The mobile communication unit 36 ​​has a function of connecting to a mobile communication network via an antenna 36A and communicating with other communication devices connected to the mobile communication network.

[0040] The wireless LAN communication unit 38 has a function of connecting to the communication network NT via an antenna 38A and communicating with other devices such as the server device 10 connected to the communication network NT.

[0041] The storage unit 40 stores various programs and data such as the video distribution program 14 and user information. The user information may be stored in the server device 10.

[0042] The speaker 42 has a function of outputting the sound of the video being distributed, background music, and the like.

[0043] <Overview> In the first embodiment, for example, a user can view one video (live) selected from multiple currently streaming videos, each featuring a different performer object. Each of these videos is associated with a different video ID (e.g., channel ID). For example, the video ID is information including the video streaming start date and time and a performer object ID. Note that multiple performer objects (units) may appear in a video. Also, there may be only one video currently being streamed.

[0044] Examples of such videos include archived videos that have already been recorded or generated, and real-time videos that are distributed in real time. For example, viewing real-time videos may require more costs (e.g., virtual currency or viewing tickets) than viewing archived videos. Note that the cost required to view archived videos or real-time videos may be free of charge.

[0045] For example, each user watching a video can gift (give) a gift to a performer object displayed on the video. Examples of such performer objects include characters (e.g., characters whose actions are not controlled by the broadcasting user) and the broadcasting user's avatar. For example, the character or avatar performs movements generated in real time by the broadcasting user (e.g., movements generated by motion capture, etc.) or movements generated in advance. Note that the performer object may be the broadcasting user himself / herself. Furthermore, the broadcasting user may not be present in the video.

[0046] Furthermore, for example, if a user watching a video gifts a gift to a performer object, the gift is displayed on the video. This gifted gift can be viewed by other users watching the same video, the performer object (broadcast user), etc. For example, if a user issues an instruction to select a gift from multiple gifts, that is, an instruction to pay the price associated with the gift (gifting request), the gift can be displayed on the video.

[0047] The consideration may be virtual currency usable in the video distribution system 1 or money (direct charge). In the first embodiment, a user can purchase a gift with the virtual currency they own and gift the purchased gift. This virtual currency includes free currency and paid currency. An example of this free currency is free crystals (free stones). This free currency is granted, for example, when a user logs in to the video distribution system 1 or when the user continues watching a video for a specified period of time or more. An example of paid currency is paid crystals (paid stones). This paid currency is granted, for example, when a user purchases something with money. For example, a user can purchase 100 paid crystals by paying 100 yen using a credit card, prepaid card, or the like.

[0048] In the first embodiment, free crystals and paid crystals can be used without distinction. On the other hand, in the first embodiment, crystals are more valuable than coins. Note that certain gifts (e.g., special gifts) may be giftable (purchased) only with paid crystals. In other words, paid crystals may be more valuable than free crystals.

[0049] <Functional Means> FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an example of functional means of the server device 10. As shown in FIG.

[0050] 4, the server device 10 has, as functional components, a storage unit 50, a management unit 52, a display unit 54, and a control unit 56. The storage unit 50 is realized by one or more storage devices 28. The functional units other than the storage unit 50 are realized by the control device 20 executing a video distribution program 14 stored in the storage devices 28 or the like. Note that all or part of these functional components may be provided in the terminal device 12.

[0051] The storage means 50 has a function of storing user information 50A, gift information 50B, video information 50C, and the like.

[0052] The user information 50A is stored for each user in association with the user ID of the user. The user information 50A includes, for example, the user's name, age, membership information, history information, owned currency information, friend information, etc.

[0053] The member information includes, for example, information (e.g., a flag) indicating whether the user is a special member or a regular member. A special member is, for example, a member who pays a predetermined fee to the video distribution system 1. Examples of special members include users (e.g., monthly membership users) who pay a predetermined amount (e.g., 500 yen) every predetermined period (e.g., one month), users whose cumulative purchase amount of paid currency is a predetermined amount (e.g., 5,000 yen) or more, and users who have consumed a predetermined number of paid currency for gifting (e.g., 5,000 units). On the other hand, regular members are members other than special members who do not pay the predetermined fee.

[0054] The history information includes history information of gifts gifted by the user, such as the date and time when the user gifted a gift, the gift ID of the gift gifted by the user, the video ID of the video gifted by the user, and the performer object ID of the performer object to which the user gifted (sent a gift).

[0055] The owned currency information includes, for example, the amount of free currency (coins, free crystals) and paid currency (paid crystals) owned by the user.

[0056] The friend information includes the user IDs of users (friend users) who have a friend relationship (predetermined relationship) with the user. For example, the user can chat with the friend users and access the profile pages of the friend users.

[0057] Gift information 50B includes information about gifts.

[0058] For example, the gift information 50B is stored for each gift in association with the gift ID of the gift. The gift information 50B includes, for example, the name, image, price, display time, gift type, and the like.

[0059] The consideration includes the amount (quantity) of virtual currency (free currency or paid currency) required to gift the gift. For example, the consideration for a first gift is 100 coins. For example, the consideration for a second gift is 100 crystals (free crystals or paid crystals).

[0060] The display time includes the time for which the gift is displayed in the video when the gift is gifted. For example, the display time is longer as the value of the gift increases.

[0061] The gift type includes information (flag) indicating whether the gift is a normal gift or a special gift. For example, a normal gift may be gifted an unlimited number of times to all users who watch the video. On the other hand, a special gift may be gifted a predetermined number of times (e.g., one or five times) to all users who watch the video. For example, if the predetermined number is one and a user gifts a special gift in a video featuring a certain performer object, other users who are watching the video cannot gift the special gift while watching the video. The price associated with the special gift may be higher or lower than the price of a normal gift.

[0062] The video information 50C includes information related to the video.

[0063] The video information 50C is stored for each video (channel) in association with the video ID of the video. The video information 50C includes, for example, the performer object IDs of the performer objects appearing in the video, the distribution start date and time, and viewing user information regarding the user viewing the video. In the first embodiment, the viewing user information includes the user ID of the user.

[0064] The management means 52 is a functional means for managing gifting by each user.

[0065] In the first embodiment, the management unit 52 manages history information of gifts gifted by each user. For example, when a user gives a gift, the management unit 52 adds (updates) the date and time of the gifting, the gift ID of the gifted gift, the video ID of the video gifted, the performer object ID of the performer object who gave the gift, etc. to the history information of the user information 50A corresponding to the user.

[0066] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the management means 52 identifies one or more recommended gifts based on the history information of the user information 50A. For example, a recommended gift is a gift that has been gifted many times. Specifically, a recommended gift is a gift that has been gifted many times between a predetermined time point and the present. For example, the management means 52 refers to the history information of the user information 50A and identifies the top three gifts (highest ranked gifts) that have been gifted many times between a predetermined time point (e.g., 24 hours ago) and the present as recommended gifts.

[0067] Furthermore, for example, a recommended gift is a gift that has been gifted infrequently. Specifically, a recommended gift is a gift that has been gifted infrequently from a predetermined time point to the present. For example, the management means 52 refers to the history information of the user information 50A and identifies the three gifts (lowest ranked gifts) that have been gifted infrequently from a predetermined time point (e.g., one hour ago) to the present as recommended gifts.

[0068] Furthermore, the management unit 52 identifies recommended gifts based on the history information of gifts gifted by each user in the video being distributed. For example, the management unit 52 refers to the history information of the user information 50A and identifies, as the recommended gift, the gift (lowest ranked gift) that has been gifted the fewest times in the video (video ID) being viewed by the user from the start of distribution to the present.

[0069] Furthermore, the management means 52 identifies recommended gifts based on the history information of gifts that each user has gifted to a performer object displayed in a video. For example, the management means 52 refers to the history information of the user information 50A and identifies, as the recommended gift, the gift that has been gifted the most times (the gift with the highest ranking) to a performer object (performer object ID) appearing in the video the user is watching, including videos distributed in the past.

[0070] In the first embodiment, the management unit 52 reduces the consideration for gifting the recommended gift by less than usual. For example, the management unit 52 reduces the consideration for gifting the identified recommended gift by 30%. Specifically, the management unit 52 refers to the consideration in the gift information 50B, and if 10 units of paid currency are required to gift the recommended gift, the management unit 52 changes the amount of paid currency required to gift the recommended gift to 7 units.

[0071] The display means 54 is a functional means for displaying moving images, various information areas, etc. on the touch panel 32 of the terminal device 12 owned by each user.

[0072] In the first embodiment, when a user requests a gift from among a plurality of gifts, the display means 54 displays the gift near the performer object in the video (live screen). Note that the display means 54 may also display the gift superimposed on the performer object in the video.

[0073] For example, when a user selects a gift from among multiple gifts, display means 54 assumes that an instruction to pay the price associated with the gift (a gifting request) has been given, and displays the gift on the video being viewed by the user. For example, display means 54 refers to the display time of gift information 50B, and when the display time for the gift has elapsed, display means 54 erases the gift from the video (live screen). Next, display means 54 erases the recommended gift information area, gift selection area, and gift selection area from the video (live screen), and displays the notification information area (displays the normal live screen).

[0074] In the first embodiment, the display means 54 displays the recommended gifts before a gifting request is made by the user. For example, the display means 54 displays the recommended gifts identified by the management means 52 in response to a user instruction to display a gift selection area (e.g., an instruction on the gift button). The recommended gifts are displayed, for example, in a recommended gift information area of ​​the video (live screen). Note that the display means 54 may also display the recommended gifts in the video (live screen) regardless of a user instruction (e.g., an instruction on the gift button).

[0075] In the first embodiment, the display unit 54 displays the recommended gifts when the user has paid a predetermined fee. For example, the display unit 54 refers to the membership information in the user information 50A and displays the recommended gifts when the user is a special member.

[0076] The control unit 56 is a functional unit that controls the entire video distribution system 1 .

[0077] In the first embodiment, the control means 56 consumes the consideration associated with the gift (the consideration required to purchase the gift) in response to an instruction (gifting request) from the user to select a gift for the performer object. Also, in the first embodiment, the control means 56 makes various determinations.

[0078] <Processing Flow> Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed by each functional unit shown in Figure 4 in the video distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment. The processing of the following steps is initiated, for example, when a user selects one video (live) from multiple videos currently being distributed, each featuring a different performer object, and the management unit 52 stores a user ID in the viewing user information of the video information 50C corresponding to that one video. The order and content of the following steps can be changed as appropriate.

[0079] (Step SP10) The display means 54 displays a live screen of one moving image (live) selected by a certain user.

[0080] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a normal live screen 60 in the first embodiment.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 6 , the live screen 60 includes a performer object P, a stage ST, a notification information area 62, a message button 64, a gift button 66, an exit button 68, and the like. The notification information area 62 displays text information indicating the latest information, including the actions of each user watching a video and the performer object P. This latest information includes the start of viewing a video (entry), the end of viewing a video (exit), a sent message, gifting, and the like. The various pieces of information displayed in the notification information area 62 are displayed identically on the touch panel 32 of the terminal device 12 owned by each user watching a video. The message button 64 is a button (instruction area) for displaying an input area for inputting a message and a send button for sending the entered message. The gift button 66 is a button (instruction area) for displaying a gift selection area for selecting a gift. The exit button 68 is a button for displaying an instruction to end viewing a video.

[0082] Returning to FIG. 5, the process proceeds to step SP12.

[0083] (Step SP12) The control means 56 determines whether a user has pressed the gift button on the live screen. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step SP14. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP26.

[0084] (Step SP14) The management unit 52 identifies one recommended gift. For example, the management unit 52 references the history information of the user information 50A and identifies the recommended gift that has been gifted the most times for one video (video ID) from a predetermined time point (e.g., 10 minutes ago) to the present. Then, the process proceeds to step SP16.

[0085] (Step SP16) The display means 54 displays a live screen including a gift selection area for a certain user to select a gift to give.

[0086] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 on which a gift can be selected in the first embodiment.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 7 , the live screen 60 includes a recommended gift information area 72, an owned currency information area 74, a gift selection area 76, a slide bar SB, and the like. The recommended gift information area 72 displays gift images 72a and the like indicating the recommended gifts identified in step SP14. For example, a user can gift (present) the recommended gifts to a performer object by selecting (pointing at) the gift image 72a. The owned currency information area 74 displays images indicating the amount of virtual currency (coins and crystals) owned by a certain user. The gift selection area 76 displays gift images 76a, each including a gift and a consideration to be gifted to the performer object. For example, a certain user can gift (present) the selected gift to the performer object by selecting (pointing at) the gift image 76a. Note that the gift image 76a is displayed in a manner that makes it impossible to select (e.g., grayed out) if the virtual currency owned by a certain user is less than the consideration for the gift. The slide bar SB is an instruction area for issuing an instruction to scroll the gift image 76a displayed in the gift selection area 76 left and right.

[0088] Returning to FIG. 5, the process proceeds to step SP18.

[0089] (Step SP18) The control means 56 determines whether a gifting request to select a gift has been made. For example, when a gift image is selected (instructed) in the recommended gift area or the gift selection area, the control means 56 determines that there has been an instruction to pay the consideration associated with the selected gift (gifting request), and makes a positive determination. Note that the control means 56 may also determine that there has been an instruction to pay the consideration associated with the gift (gifting request) when the user selects (provisionally selects) a gift and then instructs the user to confirm (finally select) the gifting of the gift. If the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step SP20. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, for example, if a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) has elapsed without any operation instruction from the user, the process proceeds to step SP26.

[0090] (Step SP20) The control means 56 consumes the value of a gift selected by a certain user from the virtual currency owned by the certain user. For example, the control means 56 subtracts the value of the gift selected in step SP18 from the owned currency information in the user information 50A. Then, the process proceeds to step SP22.

[0091] (Step SP22) The management means 52 updates the history information of the user information 50A. For example, the management means 52 adds (updates) to the history information the date and time when a certain user gave a gift (current date and time), the gift ID of the gift selected in step SP18, the video ID of one video, the performer object ID of the performer object depicted in that video, etc. Then, the processing proceeds to step SP24.

[0092] (Step SP24) The display means 54 displays the gift selected in step SP18 on the live screen.

[0093] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 on which a gift is being gifted in the first embodiment.

[0094] As shown in Fig. 8, a gifted gift G is displayed on the live screen 60. This gift G is a gift gifted by a certain user in step SP18. For example, the gifted gift G is displayed near the performer object P. Note that the notification information area 62 displays text information indicating that a certain user has recently gifted (given) a gift G (e.g., a fan) to the performer object P.

[0095] Returning to FIG. 5, the process proceeds to step SP26.

[0096] (Step SP26) The control means 56 determines whether a certain user has finished watching the live broadcast. For example, if a certain user has pressed the exit button, the control means 56 makes a positive determination. If the determination is positive, the process ends the series of processes shown in Fig. 5. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP10.

[0097] <Effects> In the first embodiment, a program is provided for each user watching a video being streamed to gift gifts by displaying gifts on the video, and causes a computer to function as a management means 52 that manages historical information on gifts gifted by each user, and a display means 54 that, when a user requests gifting of a certain gift from among multiple gifts, displays the certain gift on the video, with the management means 52 identifying recommended gifts based on the historical information, and the display means 54 displaying the recommended gifts before a gifting request is made by the user.

[0098] According to this configuration, recommended gifts based on the gift history information are displayed before a gifting request is made, allowing the user to easily select a gift to gift.

[0099] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the management means 52 identifies recommended gifts based on history information of gifts given by each user in a video currently being distributed.

[0100] According to this configuration, gifts that correspond to the gifting trends in the video being distributed are displayed as recommended gifts, allowing the user to easily select a gift to give.

[0101] In addition, in the first embodiment, the management means 52 identifies recommended gifts for performer objects displayed in the video based on history information of gifts given by each user.

[0102] According to this configuration, gifts according to the gifting trend for the performer object are displayed as recommended gifts, allowing the user to easily select a gift to gift.

[0103] In the first embodiment, the recommended gifts are gifts that have been gifted many times.

[0104] According to this configuration, gifts that have been gifted many times are displayed as recommended gifts, allowing the user to select gifts that are in line with trends.

[0105] In the first embodiment, a recommended gift is a gift that has been gifted many times from a predetermined point in time to the present.

[0106] According to this configuration, gifts that have been gifted many times between a predetermined point in time and the present are displayed as recommended gifts, allowing the user to select gifts that are in line with recent trends.

[0107] In the first embodiment, the recommended gift is a gift that has been gifted less frequently.

[0108] According to this configuration, gifts that have been gifted less frequently are displayed as recommended gifts, allowing the user to select a gift that goes against the trend and making the user stand out.

[0109] In the first embodiment, a recommended gift is a gift that has been gifted a small number of times from a predetermined point in time to the present.

[0110] According to this configuration, gifts that have been gifted less frequently between a predetermined point in time and the present are displayed as recommended gifts, allowing the user to select a gift that goes against the most recent trend and making the user stand out.

[0111] In addition, in the first embodiment, the management means 52 sets the compensation for gifting the recommended gift lower than usual.

[0112] According to this configuration, the price of the recommended gift is less than usual, which can motivate the user to gift the recommended gift.

[0113] In the first embodiment, the display unit 54 displays the recommended gift when the user has paid a predetermined amount.

[0114] According to this configuration, a user who has paid a predetermined fee can select a gift that is in line with the latest trends, thereby providing the user with a sense of satisfaction.

[0115] --Second Embodiment--- Next, a second embodiment will be described.

[0116] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the management means 52 manages provisionally selected gifts and the display means 54 displays statistical information regarding the number of users who have provisionally selected gifts. Note that the configuration and functions of the video distribution system 1 according to the second embodiment, which will not be described below, are similar to those of the video distribution system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0117] In the second embodiment, the viewing user information of the video information 50C includes the gift ID of the gift tentatively selected by the user viewing the video.

[0118] In the second embodiment, the management means 52 manages the gifts provisionally selected by each user. For example, the management means 52 compiles statistical information related to the provisionally selected gifts for each video. For example, the management means 52 compiles the number of users who have provisionally selected each gift for each video, or the number of users (total number) who have provisionally selected any gift, based on the viewing user information of the video information 50C. This compilation is performed, for example, every unit of time (e.g., 1 second or 0.1 second) or every time a user provisionally selects or cancels a provisional selection.

[0119] For example, when a user provisionally selects a gift in the gift selection area, the management means 52 stores the gift ID of the provisionally selected gift in the viewing user information of the video information 50C.

[0120] In the second embodiment, if a user who has provisionally selected a gift does not issue a gifting request for a predetermined period of time, the management unit 52 cancels the provisional selection of the gift by the user. For example, if a user who has provisionally selected a gift does not issue an instruction to gift the gift (a gifting request) for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 10 seconds), the management unit 52 deletes the gift ID of the gift stored in the viewing user information of the video information 50C. This predetermined period of time is longer, for example, the higher the value of the gift provisionally selected by the user. For example, if the value of the gift provisionally selected by the user is 200 coins, the predetermined period of time is 2 seconds. For example, if the value of the gift provisionally selected by the user is 500 coins, the predetermined period of time is 5 seconds. For example, if the value of the gift provisionally selected by the user is 100 crystals, the predetermined period of time is 10 seconds. For example, if the value of the gift provisionally selected by the user is 500 crystals, the predetermined period of time is 15 seconds.

[0121] In the second embodiment, if a user who has provisionally selected a gift selects another gift before making a gifting request, the management means 52 changes the user's provisionally selected gift to the other gift. For example, if a user provisionally selects a gift in the gift selection area and then selects another gift from the gift selection area, the management means 52 updates the viewing user information of the video information 50C. Specifically, the management means 52 changes the gift ID of a gift included in the viewing user information of the video information 50C to the other gift ID.

[0122] In the second embodiment, the management unit 52 identifies one or more recommended gifts that have been provisionally selected by a small number of users. In other words, the recommended gifts are gifts that have been provisionally selected by a small number of users in the video being viewed by the user. For example, the management unit 52 refers to the viewing user information of the video information 50C and identifies the three gifts with the fewest provisionally selected users (gifts with the lowest rankings) as recommended gifts.

[0123] In the second embodiment, when a user who has provisionally selected a gift requests a gifting of the gift, the display means 54 displays the gift in the video (live screen). For example, when a user provisionally selects a gift from among multiple gifts and then issues an instruction (gifting request) to pay a price associated with the provisionally selected gift, the display means 54 displays the gift in the video being viewed by the user. Specifically, when a gift image (instruction area) of a gift is selected from multiple gift images displayed in the gift selection area, the display means 54 displays a provisionally selected gift presentation area including the gift image of the gift. Subsequently, when a gift image (instruction area) of a gift included in the provisionally selected gift presentation area or a gift image displayed in the gift selection area is selected, the display means 54 determines that a gifting request has been made and displays the gift in the video. Furthermore, for example, when the management means 52 cancels the provisional selection of a gift, the display means 54 erases the gift image included in the provisionally selected gift presentation area. Also, for example, when a gifting request is made for a provisionally selected gift, the display means 54 erases the provisionally selected gift presentation area and gift selection area from the video (live screen) and displays the notification information area (displays the normal live screen).

[0124] In the second embodiment, the display means 54 displays statistical information regarding the number of users who have provisionally selected a gift for a user before the user who has provisionally selected a gift makes a gifting request. For example, the display means 54 displays statistical information compiled by the management means 52 in response to a user's instruction to provisionally select a gift from multiple gifts. This statistical information may be displayed, for example, after the user has pressed the gift button but has not yet provisionally selected a gift, or may be displayed at the timing after the user has provisionally selected a gift. Note that the display means 54 may display the statistical information on a video (live screen) regardless of a user's instruction (for example, an instruction on the gift button).

[0125] In addition, this statistical information may include information regarding the number of users who have provisionally selected the same gift as the gift provisionally selected by the user in the video they are watching, the number of users who have provisionally selected any gift, the number of users who have provisionally selected a gift with the same type of consideration (coins or crystals) as the gift provisionally selected by the user, and the number of users who have provisionally selected a gift with the same consideration range as the gift provisionally selected by the user (for example, ±100 coins or ±100 crystals).

[0126] In the second embodiment, the display unit 54 displays auxiliary information indicating that a gifting request for a gift is not possible when the number of users who have provisionally selected a gift is equal to or greater than a predetermined number. Examples of this predetermined number include three, five, or a predetermined percentage (e.g., 1%) of the number of users watching the video (live screen). Examples of this auxiliary information include displaying the provisionally selected gift presentation area and / or the gift selection area of ​​the video (live screen) in a manner that makes it impossible to select the gift (e.g., grayed out). The display unit 54 may also display the auxiliary information even when a user has not provisionally selected a gift. For example, the display unit 54 displays gift images of gifts displayed in the gift selection area of ​​the video (live screen) that have been provisionally selected by a predetermined number of users or more in a manner that makes it impossible to select the gift (e.g., grayed out).

[0127] In the second embodiment, the display unit 54 displays the recommended gifts before a gifting request is made by a user who has provisionally selected a gift. For example, the display unit 54 displays the recommended gifts identified by the management unit 52 in response to a user's instruction to display a gift selection area (e.g., an instruction on a gift button).

[0128] In the second embodiment, the display unit 54 displays recommended gifts when the user provisionally selects a gift associated with a value equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. Examples of this value include 500 coins, 200 crystals, etc. For example, when a gift image (indication area) of a gift associated with a value equal to or greater than a predetermined amount is selected in the gift selection area by referring to the value in the gift information 50B, the display unit 54 displays a provisionally selected gift presentation area including the gift image of the gift and images of recommended gifts.

[0129] In the second embodiment, the display unit 54 displays the recommended gifts when the user has paid a predetermined fee. For example, the display unit 54 refers to the membership information in the user information 50A, and when the user is a special member, displays the recommended gifts identified by the management unit 52 in the provisionally selected gift presentation area.

[0130] In the second embodiment, when a user provisionally selects a gift associated with a value equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the display means 54 displays statistical information regarding the number of users who have provisionally selected the gift. For example, when a gift image (indication area) of a gift associated with a value equal to or greater than a predetermined amount (e.g., 500 coins or 300 crystals) is selected in the gift selection area, the display means 54 refers to the value in the gift information 50B and displays a provisionally selected gift presentation area including the gift image of the gift and statistical information.

[0131] In the second embodiment, the display unit 54 displays statistical information when the user has paid a predetermined fee. For example, the display unit 54 references the membership information in the user information 50A, and when the user is a special member, displays statistical information about a gift or the number of users who have provisionally selected the same gift as the gift provisionally selected by the user in the provisionally selected gift presentation area or the gift selection area.

[0132] <Processing Flow> Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed by each functional unit in the video distribution system 1 according to the second embodiment. The following steps are initiated, for example, when a user selects a video (live) from multiple currently distributed videos each featuring a different performer object, and the management unit 52 stores a user ID in the viewing user information of the video information 50C corresponding to that selected video. The order and content of the following steps can be changed as appropriate.

[0133] (Steps SP30 to SP32) The processing of steps SP30 to SP32 is the same as the processing of steps SP10 to SP12 described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. If the determination in step SP32 is affirmative, the processing proceeds to step SP34. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the processing proceeds to step SP50.

[0134] (Step SP34) The display means 54 displays a live screen including a gift selection area for a certain user to provisionally select a gift to be gifted.

[0135] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 on which a gift can be provisionally selected in the second embodiment.

[0136] As shown in FIG. 10 , the live screen 60 includes a gift selection area 76, a provisionally selected gift presentation area 82, a statistical information area 84, and the like. The gift selection area 76 displays gifts that a user can provisionally select and gift images 76a showing the corresponding prices. The provisionally selected gift presentation area 82 displays an image of a gift provisionally selected by a user. The provisionally selected gift presentation area 82 indicates that a gift has not yet been provisionally selected by a user and therefore is unselected. The statistical information area 84 displays statistical information regarding the number (total number) of users who have provisionally selected a gift among all users watching a video. This statistical information regarding the number of users is updated, for example, every unit time (e.g., 1 second or 0.1 second).

[0137] Returning to FIG. 9, the process proceeds to step SP36.

[0138] (Step SP36) The control means 56 determines whether a gift has been provisionally selected in the gift selection area. For example, if a gift image has been selected (indicated) in the gift selection area, the control means 56 makes a positive determination. If the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step SP38. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP50.

[0139] (Step SP38) The management means 52 stores the gift ID of the gift provisionally selected by the certain user in step SP36 in the viewing user information of the video information 50C. Then, the process proceeds to step SP40.

[0140] (Step SP40) The display means 54 displays a live screen showing the provisionally selected gift.

[0141] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 including a provisionally selected gift and statistical information related to the gift in the second embodiment.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 11 , the live screen 60 includes a temporarily selected gift presentation area 82, a statistical information area 84, and the like. The temporarily selected gift presentation area 82 displays a gift image 82a of a gift that a user has temporarily selected, and a cancel button 82b for canceling the temporary selection of the gift. For example, a user can request gifting of the gift by selecting (pointing at) the gift image 82a and gift (give) the gift to a performer object. Here, the gift image 82a is displayed in a manner that makes it impossible to select (e.g., grayed out) if, for example, a predetermined number (e.g., three) or more users among all users watching a video have temporarily selected the same gift as the gift temporarily selected by the user. Furthermore, for example, a user can cancel the temporary selection (return to unselected) by selecting (pointing at) the cancel button 82b. The statistical information area 84 displays statistical information about the total number of users who have provisionally selected a gift among all users watching a video, as well as statistical information about the number of users who have provisionally selected the same gift as a certain user. This statistical information about the number of users is updated, for example, every unit time (e.g., 1 second or 0.1 second).

[0143] Returning to FIG. 9, the process proceeds to step SP42.

[0144] (Step SP42) The control means 56 determines whether a gifting request (final selection) for a gift has been made in the provisionally selected gift presentation area. For example, when a gift image in the provisionally selected gift presentation area is selected, the control means 56 determines that an instruction to pay the price associated with the gift (gifting request) has been made, and makes a positive determination. If the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step SP44. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, for example, if a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds) has elapsed without any operational instruction from a certain user, the process proceeds to step SP50.

[0145] (Steps SP44 to SP46) The processing in steps SP44 to SP46 is the same as the processing in steps SP22 to SP24 described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0146] (Step SP48) The management means 52 deletes the gift ID of the gift that was provisionally selected by a certain user as a result of gifting from the viewing user information of the video information 50C. Then, the process proceeds to step SP50.

[0147] (Step SP50) The control means 56 determines whether a certain user has finished watching the live broadcast. For example, if a certain user has pressed the exit button, the control means 56 makes a positive determination. If the determination is positive, the process ends the series of processes shown in Fig. 9. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP30.

[0148] <Effects> As described above, the second embodiment is a program for gifting by displaying gifts on a video being streamed to each user watching the video, and causes a computer to function as a management means 52 that manages gifts provisionally selected by each user, and a display means 54 that displays the gift on the video when a gifting request for the gift is made by a user who has provisionally selected a gift, and the display means 54 displays statistical information regarding the number of users who have provisionally selected a gift to the user before the user makes a gifting request.

[0149] According to this configuration, statistical information regarding the number of users who have provisionally selected a gift is displayed to a user who has provisionally selected that gift, thereby preventing users from gifting gifts at the same time.

[0150] In the second embodiment, if a user who has provisionally selected a gift does not make a gifting request for a predetermined period of time, the management means 52 cancels the provisional selection of the gift by that user.

[0151] According to this configuration, if there are no gifting requests for a specified period of time, the provisional selection is cancelled, thereby reducing the number of users who have provisionally selected gifts, thereby preventing overlapping gifting timing between users.

[0152] In the second embodiment, the higher the value of the gift provisionally selected by the user, the longer the predetermined time period.

[0153] According to this configuration, the higher the value of the provisionally selected gift, the longer the time it takes for the provisional selection to be cancelled, thereby giving the user time to decide when to gift a gift with a high value.

[0154] In addition, in the second embodiment, the statistical information is the number of users who have provisionally selected the same gift as the gift that the user has provisionally selected, and if a user who has provisionally selected a gift selects a different gift before making a gifting request, the management means 52 changes the gift that the user has provisionally selected to the different gift.

[0155] According to this configuration, the user can easily change the provisionally selected gift in accordance with the statistical information of the provisionally selected gift.

[0156] In addition, in the second embodiment, when the number of users who have provisionally selected a gift is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the display means 54 displays auxiliary information indicating that a gifting request for the gift is not possible.

[0157] According to this configuration, gifting of a gift that has been provisionally selected by a large number of users becomes impossible, thereby preventing overlapping gifting timing between users.

[0158] In addition, in the second embodiment, the management means 52 identifies recommended gifts for which a small number of users have provisionally selected the gift, and the display means 54 displays the recommended gifts before a gifting request is made by a user who has provisionally selected the gift.

[0159] According to this configuration, recommended gifts for which a small number of users have provisionally selected gifts are displayed, thereby preventing overlapping gifting timing between users.

[0160] In the second embodiment, the display unit 54 displays recommended gifts when the user provisionally selects a gift associated with a value equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.

[0161] According to this configuration, recommended gifts are displayed when the provisionally selected gift is expensive, thereby giving the user time to consider whether or not to gift the expensive gift.

[0162] In the second embodiment, the display unit 54 displays the recommended gift when the user has paid a predetermined amount.

[0163] According to this configuration, a user who has paid a predetermined fee can learn about recommended gifts that have been provisionally selected by a small number of users, thereby avoiding overlapping gifting timing with other users and thereby providing a sense of satisfaction to the user.

[0164] In addition, in the second embodiment, when a user provisionally selects a gift associated with a value equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the display means 54 displays statistical information to the user regarding the number of users who have provisionally selected the gift.

[0165] According to this configuration, recommended gifts are displayed when the value of the provisionally selected gift is high, allowing the user to adjust the timing of gifting the high-value gift.

[0166] In the second embodiment, the display unit 54 displays statistical information when the user has paid a predetermined fee.

[0167] According to this configuration, a user who has paid a predetermined fee can avoid overlapping gifting timing, thereby providing the user with a sense of satisfaction.

[0168] ---Third Embodiment--- Next, a third embodiment will be described.

[0169] The third embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that the management unit 52 restricts gifting by users, etc. Note that the configuration and functions of the video distribution system 1 according to the third embodiment, which will not be described below, are the same as those of the video distribution system 1 according to the first and second embodiments.

[0170] In the third embodiment, the management unit 52 manages gifting of gifts by each user. For example, the management unit 52 temporarily restricts gifting of gifts by users who are watching videos, or releases the restriction.

[0171] For example, the management means 52 may restrict gifting requests from other users who are watching the same video as a certain user until a predetermined time has elapsed after a gifting request is made by a certain user. Gifts for which gifting requests are restricted include all gifts, gifts gifted by a certain user, gifts with the same value as gifts gifted by a certain user, gifts with a lower value than gifts gifted by a certain user, etc.

[0172] For example, the higher the value of a certain gift, the longer this predetermined time period becomes. For example, when the value of a certain gift is 100 coins, the management means 52 references the value in gift information 50B and sets the predetermined time to 3 seconds. For example, when the value of a certain gift is 200 coins, the management means 52 references the value in gift information 50B and sets the predetermined time to 3 seconds. For example, when the value of a certain gift is 100 crystals, the management means 52 references the value in gift information 50B and sets the predetermined time to 4 seconds. For example, when the value of a certain gift is 200 crystals, the management means 52 references the value in gift information 50B and sets the predetermined time to 5 seconds.

[0173] For example, the predetermined time is the time during which a certain gift is displayed in the video. For example, the management unit 52 refers to the display time of the gift information 50B and restricts gifting by other users who are watching the same video as the certain user until the display time of the certain gift has elapsed after a certain user requests gifting of the certain gift.

[0174] Furthermore, for example, the management unit 52 restricts gifting requests for the same gift as a certain gift to other users. Specifically, the management unit 52 restricts gifting requests so that the same gift as a certain gift (a gift with the same gift ID) cannot be given to other users who are watching the same video as the certain user.

[0175] Furthermore, for example, the management means 52 restricts gifting requests for gifts associated with the same value as that of a certain gift from other users. Specifically, the management means 52 restricts gifting requests so that gifts associated with the same value as that of a certain gift cannot be given to other users who are watching the same video as a certain user. Note that the management means 52 may also restrict gifting so that gifts associated with values ​​within the same range as that of a certain gift (for example, ±100 coins or ±100 crystals) cannot be given.

[0176] Furthermore, for example, the management means 52 restricts gifting requests for gifts associated with a price lower than that of a certain gift to other users. Specifically, the management means 52 restricts gifting requests so that gifts associated with a price lower than that of a certain gift cannot be given to other users who are watching the same video as a certain user.

[0177] For example, the value of this gift is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. Examples of this predetermined amount include 500 coins or 300 crystals. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined amount increases as the number of users watching the video increases. For example, if the number of users watching the video is less than 100, the predetermined amount is 300 coins or 100 crystals. Furthermore, for example, if the number of users watching the video is between 100 and 500, the predetermined amount is 400 coins or 200 crystals. Furthermore, for example, if the number of users watching the video is 500 or more, the predetermined amount is 500 coins or 300 crystals.

[0178] Furthermore, a certain gift is a special gift that can be given a limited number of times to all users who watch the video. For example, the management means 52 refers to the gift type in the gift information 50B, and if a certain gifted gift is a special gift, it restricts the gift from being given to other users who watch the same video as the certain user. On the other hand, the management means 52 refers to the gift type in the gift information 50B, and if a certain gifted gift is a regular gift, it does not restrict the gift from being given to other users who watch the same video as the certain user.

[0179] Furthermore, for example, the management means 52 does not restrict gifting requests from users who have a predetermined relationship with a certain user. For example, the management means 52 refers to the friend information in the user information 50A and does not restrict gifting requests from users who have a friend relationship with a certain user, even if the users are watching the same video as the certain user. On the other hand, the management means 52 restricts gifting requests from users who do not have a friend relationship with the certain user.

[0180] Furthermore, for example, the management means 52 does not restrict gifting requests from users who have paid a predetermined fee. For example, the management means 52 refers to the membership information in the user information 50A and does not restrict gifting requests from users who are special members and who are watching the same video as a certain user. On the other hand, the management means 52 restricts gifting requests from users who are regular members and who are watching the same video as a certain user.

[0181] Also, for example, a certain user is a user who has paid a predetermined fee. For example, the management means 52 refers to the membership information of the user information 50A, and when a certain user is a special member, the management means 52 restricts the gifting requests of other users who are watching the same video as the certain user. On the other hand, when a certain user is a regular member, the management means 52 does not restrict the gifting requests of other users who are watching the same video as the certain user.

[0182] In the third embodiment, when a gifting request for a certain gift is made by a certain user, the display means 54 displays the certain gift in a video.

[0183] Furthermore, when a gifting request from a certain user restricts gifting to another user, the display means 54 displays auxiliary information indicating that gifting is restricted on the touch panel 32 of the terminal device 12 owned by the other user. For example, this auxiliary information may be displayed in a manner that makes it impossible to make a selection (e.g., grayed out) in the gift selection area of ​​the video (live screen).

[0184] <Processing Flow> Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed by each functional unit in the video distribution system 1 according to the third embodiment. The following steps are initiated, for example, when a user selects a video (live) from multiple currently distributed videos each featuring a different performer object, and the management unit 52 stores a user ID in the viewing user information of the video information 50C corresponding to that selected video. The order and content of the following steps can be changed as appropriate.

[0185] (Steps SP60 to SP74) The processing of steps SP60 to SP74 is the same as the processing of steps SP10 to SP24 described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted. Here, if the determination in step SP62 is affirmative, the processing proceeds to processing of step SP64. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the processing proceeds to processing of step SP80. Also, if the determination in step SP68 is affirmative, the processing proceeds to processing of step SP70. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the processing proceeds to processing of step SP80.

[0186] (Step SP76) The management means 52 restricts gifting requests for all gifts from other users who are watching the same video as the given user until a predetermined time (e.g., the display time of the gift) has elapsed, and then the process proceeds to step SP78.

[0187] (Step SP78) The display means 54 displays auxiliary information indicating that gifting is restricted on the live screen of the other user whose gifting is restricted in step SP76.

[0188] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 on which gifting requests are restricted in the third embodiment.

[0189] As shown in FIG. 13 , the live screen 60 includes a recommended gift information area 72, an owned currency information area 74, a gift selection area 76, a timer T, a slide bar SB, and the like. The gift selection area 76 displays gift images 76a, each of which includes a gift or consideration that the user can gift to a performer object. Here, the gift images 76a display auxiliary information in a manner that makes selection impossible (e.g., grayed out) when gifting requests are restricted. The timer T includes a timer area Ta, which indicates the time elapsed until the gifting restriction is lifted. For example, the timer area Ta expands (expands) clockwise over time, indicating that the gifting restriction will be lifted when it has completed one revolution (formed a circle).

[0190] Returning to FIG. 12, the process proceeds to step SP80.

[0191] (Step SP80) The control means 56 determines whether a certain user has finished watching the live broadcast. For example, if a certain user has pressed the exit button, the control means 56 makes a positive determination. If the determination is positive, the process ends the series of processes shown in Fig. 12. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP60.

[0192] <Effects> As described above, in the third embodiment, a program is provided for each user watching a video being streamed to gift gifts by displaying gifts on the video, and causes a computer to function as a management means 52 that manages the gifting of gifts by each user, and a display means 54 that displays a certain gift on the video when a certain user requests the gifting of the certain gift, and the management means 52 restricts gifting requests from other users until a predetermined time has elapsed after a certain user makes a gifting request.

[0193] According to this configuration, when a user requests a gift to be gifted, gift requests to other users are restricted until a specified time has elapsed, thereby preventing overlapping gifting timing between users.

[0194] In the third embodiment, the management means 52 also restricts gifting requests for the same gift to other users.

[0195] According to this configuration, when a certain user requests the gifting of a certain gift, other users are restricted from requesting the gifting of the same gift until a predetermined time has elapsed, thereby preventing the gifting of certain gifts from overlapping with each other.

[0196] In addition, in the third embodiment, the management means 52 restricts gifting requests from other users for gifts that are associated with the same consideration as the consideration of a certain gift.

[0197] According to this configuration, when a user requests the gifting of a certain gift, gifting requests from other users for gifts associated with the same value as the certain gift are restricted until a predetermined time has elapsed, thereby preventing the timing of gifting from overlapping with gifts associated with the same value.

[0198] In addition, in the third embodiment, the management means 52 restricts gifting requests for gifts associated with a lower price than the price of a certain gift to other users.

[0199] According to this configuration, when a certain user requests gifting of a certain gift, gifting requests to other users for gifts associated with a lower value than the certain gift are restricted until a predetermined time has elapsed, thereby preventing the timing of gifting gifts with a lower value than the certain gift from overlapping.

[0200] In the third embodiment, a gift has a price equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.

[0201] According to this configuration, when a gift with a high value is gifted, it is possible to prevent the timing of gifting between users from overlapping, thereby giving a sense of satisfaction to the user who gifted the gift.

[0202] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the more users who watch the video, the higher the predetermined amount becomes.

[0203] With this configuration, the more users who watch a video, the less frequently gifting requests are restricted, allowing each user to give gifts without stress.

[0204] In the third embodiment, a certain gift is a special gift that can be gifted a limited number of times to all users who watch the video.

[0205] According to this configuration, when a special gift is gifted, it is possible to prevent the timing of gifting by users from overlapping, thereby giving a sense of satisfaction to the user who gifted the special gift.

[0206] In the third embodiment, the higher the value of a gift, the longer the predetermined time period.

[0207] According to this configuration, when a gift with a high value is gifted, the time period during which gifting by other users is restricted is extended, thereby giving a sense of satisfaction to the user who gifted the gift.

[0208] In the third embodiment, the predetermined time is the time during which a certain gift is displayed in the video.

[0209] According to this configuration, when a certain gift is gifted by a certain user, gifting by other users is restricted during the time that the certain gift is displayed, thereby giving the certain user a sense of satisfaction.

[0210] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the management means 52 does not restrict gifting requests from users who have a predetermined relationship with a certain user.

[0211] According to this configuration, gifting is not restricted for users who have a predetermined relationship with a certain user, and therefore, gifting timing can be overlapped between users who have a predetermined relationship with each other, making the video more exciting.

[0212] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the management means 52 does not restrict gifting requests from users who have paid a predetermined fee.

[0213] According to this configuration, a user who has paid a predetermined fee is not restricted in his or her gifting requests, which gives the user a sense of satisfaction.

[0214] In the third embodiment, a certain user is a user who pays a predetermined fee.

[0215] According to this configuration, when a user who has paid a predetermined price requests a gift to be gifted, gifting requests to other users are restricted until a predetermined time has elapsed, thereby providing a sense of satisfaction to the user.

[0216] --Fourth Embodiment--- Next, a fourth embodiment will be described.

[0217] The fourth embodiment differs from the first to third embodiments in that the management unit 52 returns the payment. Note that the configuration and functions of the video distribution system 1 according to the fourth embodiment, which will not be described below, are the same as those of the video distribution system 1 according to the first to third embodiments.

[0218] In the fourth embodiment, when two or more users make gifting requests within a predetermined time, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration (e.g., virtual currency or money) to each of the two or more users. For example, when a user makes a gifting request for a first gift and another user makes a gifting request for a second gift within a predetermined time (e.g., 3 seconds), the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration for the first gift (e.g., 300 coins) to the user and returns part or all of the consideration for the second gift (e.g., 100 crystals) to the other user. Note that the user and the other user are users watching the same video.

[0219] Furthermore, for example, the management means 52 may return a larger amount of compensation to each user as the number of users who make gifting requests within a predetermined time increases. For example, if two users make gifting requests within a predetermined time, the management means 52 may return 10% of the compensation for the gifts each user has gifted. For example, if three or more but fewer than five users make gifting requests within a predetermined time, the management means 52 may return 20% of the compensation for the gifts each user has gifted. For example, if five or more users make gifting requests within a predetermined time, the management means 52 may return 30% of the compensation for the gifts each user has gifted.

[0220] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, when two or more users make gifting requests within a predetermined time period, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration to some of the two or more users. For example, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration to some users who make gifting requests early within the predetermined time period, and does not return part or all of the consideration to the remaining users. Specifically, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration to one user who makes a gifting request earliest within the predetermined time period. Note that the management means 52 may also return part or all of the consideration to some users who make gifting requests late within the predetermined time period, and not return part or all of the consideration to the remaining users. Specifically, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration to two users who make gifting requests late within the predetermined time period.

[0221] Furthermore, for example, management means 52 may return part or all of the consideration to some users who paid the most in their gifting requests among users who made gifting requests within a predetermined time period, and not return part or all of the consideration to the remaining users. Specifically, management means 52 may return part or all of the consideration to the top three users who paid the most in their gifting requests among users who made gifting requests within a predetermined time period. Note that management means 52 may also return part or all of the consideration to some users who paid the least in their gifting requests among users who made gifting requests within a predetermined time period, and not return part or all of the consideration to the remaining users.

[0222] Furthermore, the management means 52 returns part or all of the payment to users who have made gifting requests within a predetermined time period, depending on the type of payment made in the gifting request.

[0223] For example, if the consideration paid by some users in their gifting requests is crystals, the management means 52 will refund some or all of that consideration, and if the consideration paid by the remaining users in their gifting requests is coins, the management means 52 will not refund some or all of that consideration.

[0224] Also, for example, if the consideration paid by some users in their gifting requests is coins, the management means 52 will refund part or all of that consideration, and if the consideration paid by the remaining users in their gifting requests is crystals, the management means 52 will not refund part or all of that consideration.

[0225] Furthermore, for example, if the consideration paid by some users in their gifting requests is paid crystals, the management means 52 will refund part or all of the consideration, and if the consideration paid by the remaining users in their gifting requests is free crystals, the management means 52 will not refund part or all of the consideration. Note that the consideration to be returned may be free crystals.

[0226] Also, for example, if the consideration paid by some users in their gifting requests is free crystals, the management means 52 will refund part or all of that consideration, and if the consideration paid by remaining users in their gifting requests is paid crystals, the management means 52 will not refund part or all of that consideration.

[0227] In the fourth embodiment, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration to two or more users who have made gifting requests within a predetermined time period and who have paid a consideration equal to or greater than a predetermined amount in the gifting request. Furthermore, for example, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration to two or more users who have made gifting requests within a predetermined time period and who have paid less than a predetermined amount in the gifting request. Examples of this predetermined amount include 500 coins or 300 crystals.

[0228] In the fourth embodiment, the management means 52 returns part or all of the payment when the total amount paid by each of two or more users who have made gifting requests within a predetermined time period exceeds a certain amount. This certain amount may be, for example, 1,000 coins or 500 crystals.

[0229] In the fourth embodiment, the management unit 52 returns part or all of the payment when the number of users who watch the video is equal to or greater than a certain number. This certain number may be, for example, 100 or 200 users.

[0230] In the fourth embodiment, when two or more users who have made gifting requests within a predetermined time period have made gifting requests for the same amount, the management means 52 returns part or all of the amount. For example, if, within a predetermined time period, a gift requested by a certain user is worth 100 coins and a gift requested by another user is worth 100 coins, the management means 52 returns 10 coins to the certain user and / or the other user.

[0231] In the fourth embodiment, when two or more users make gifting requests for the same gift within a predetermined time period, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration for the gift. For example, when a user and another user each make gifting requests for a certain gift within a predetermined time period, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration for the certain gift to the certain user and / or the other user.

[0232] <Processing Flow> Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed by each functional unit in the video distribution system 1 according to the fourth embodiment. The processing of the following steps is initiated, for example, when a user selects one video (live) from multiple videos currently being distributed, each featuring a different performer object, and the management unit 52 stores a user ID in the viewing user information of the video information 50C corresponding to that selected video. The order and content of the following steps can be changed as appropriate.

[0233] (Steps SP90 to SP104) The processing of steps SP90 to SP104 is the same as the processing of steps SP10 to SP24 described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted. Here, if the determination in step SP92 is affirmative, the processing proceeds to processing of step SP94. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the processing proceeds to processing of step SP112. Also, if the determination in step SP98 is affirmative, the processing proceeds to processing of step SP100. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the processing proceeds to processing of step SP112.

[0234] (Step SP106) The control means 56 determines whether or not there have been overlapping gifting requests from one or more other users watching the same video within a predetermined time period after the gifting request from a certain user in step SP98. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step SP108. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP112.

[0235] (Step SP108) The management means 52 returns a portion of the gifting fee to each user who has made duplicate gifting requests within a predetermined time period. For example, the management means 52 adds the portion of the fee to the owned currency information in the user information 50A. Then, the process proceeds to step SP110.

[0236] (Step SP110) The display means 54 displays a live screen indicating that part of the consideration has been returned.

[0237] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a live screen 60 including information that a portion of the consideration has been returned in the fourth embodiment.

[0238] 15, the live screen 60 displays a notification information area 62 and gifts G1, G2, etc. The notification information area 62 indicates that a portion of the value of the gift has been returned to each user who gifted the gift at the same time. Gift G1 is a gift gifted by a certain user (e.g., user A) in step SP98. Gift G2 is a gift gifted by another user (e.g., user B).

[0239] Returning to FIG. 14, the process proceeds to step SP112.

[0240] (Step SP112) The control means 56 determines whether a certain user has finished watching the live broadcast. For example, if a certain user has pressed the exit button, the control means 56 makes a positive determination. If the determination is positive, the process ends the series of processes shown in Fig. 14. On the other hand, if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step SP90.

[0241] <Effects> As described above, the fourth embodiment is a program for each user watching a video being streamed to gift a gift by displaying the gift on the video, and causes a computer to function as a management means 52 that manages the gifting of gifts by each user, and a display means 54 that displays the gift on the video in response to a user making a gifting request to pay for the gift, and when two or more users make gifting requests within a specified period of time, the management means 52 returns part or all of the gift to each of the two or more users.

[0242] According to this configuration, if two or more users make gifting requests within a specified period of time, part or all of the payment will be returned to each of the two or more users, thereby reducing disappointment felt by users due to overlapping gifting timing.

[0243] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the management means 52 increases the amount of compensation returned to each user as the number of users who make gifting requests within a predetermined time period increases.

[0244] According to this configuration, the more users who make gifting requests within a specified period of time, the more compensation will be returned, thereby reducing disappointment felt by users due to overlapping gifting requests.

[0245] In addition, in a fourth embodiment, the program allows each user watching a video being streamed to gift a gift by displaying the gift on the video, and causes a computer to function as a management means 52 that manages the gifting of gifts by each user, and a display means 54 that displays the gift on the video in response to a gifting request made by a user to pay for the gift, and when two or more users make gifting requests within a specified period of time, the management means 52 returns part or all of the gift to some of the two or more users.

[0246] According to this configuration, if two or more users make gifting requests within a specified period of time, part or all of the payment will be returned to some of the two or more users, thereby reducing disappointment felt by users due to overlapping gifting requests.

[0247] In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration paid in the gifting request to a user out of two or more users who have made a gifting request within a specified time period, and who has paid a consideration equal to or greater than a specified amount in the gifting request.

[0248] This configuration can reduce disappointment felt by a user who has paid a large amount of money among two or more users who have made gifting requests within a predetermined time period.

[0249] In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration to a user who, among two or more users who have made a gifting request within a specified period of time, paid less than a specified amount for the gifting request.

[0250] This configuration can reduce disappointment felt by a user who has paid a small amount of money among two or more users who have made gifting requests within a predetermined time period.

[0251] In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the management means 52 returns part or all of the compensation if the total amount paid by each of two or more users who made gifting requests within a specified period of time for the gifting requests is a certain amount or more.

[0252] According to this configuration, when the total amount of consideration paid within a given time period is large, it is possible to reduce disappointment felt by users whose gifting timing overlaps.

[0253] In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the management means 52 returns part or all of the payment when the number of users who watch the video is equal to or greater than a certain number.

[0254] According to this configuration, when a certain number of users or more watch a video, even if the gifting is not recognized by other users due to duplicate gifting, the disappointment of the user who has received the duplicate gift can be reduced.

[0255] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, when two or more users make gifting requests to pay the same amount within a predetermined time period, the management means 52 returns part or all of the amount.

[0256] This configuration can reduce disappointment felt by users even when gifting of the same value is duplicated.

[0257] In addition, in the fourth embodiment, when two or more users make gifting requests for the same gift within a predetermined time period, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration.

[0258] This configuration can reduce the user's disappointment even if the same gift is gifted twice.

[0259] ---Modifications--- The present invention is not limited to the above specific examples. In other words, designs that are appropriately modified by a person skilled in the art from the above specific examples are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they contain the features of the present invention. Furthermore, the elements of the above-mentioned embodiments and the modifications described below can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they contain the features of the present invention.

[0260] For example, in the first embodiment and the like, a case has been described in which a performer object is displayed on the live screen, but an avatar of each user viewing the live screen may also be displayed.

[0261] In the first embodiment and the like, a case has been described in which a common gift can be selected in each video in the gift selection area, but different gifts may be selected depending on the performer object appearing in the video. Furthermore, when multiple performer objects appear, the user may be able to select which performer object to gift to.

[0262] In the first embodiment and the like, a case has been described in which different performer objects appear in multiple videos being distributed, but the same performer object may appear in some cases. For example, at least two videos being distributed may share some or all of the performer objects but have different performance programs.

[0263] Furthermore, in the first embodiment and the like, the gifting request is described as an instruction to pay a price associated with a gift, but it may also be an instruction to give a gift that the user has purchased in advance.

[0264] Furthermore, in the first embodiment and the like, a case has been described in which a user who has a predetermined relationship with a user is a friend user, but the friend user may also be a user who belongs to the same team (guild) as the user.

[0265] In the first embodiment, the management unit 52 identifies one or more recommended gifts based on the history information of the user information 50A, but the management unit 52 may identify one or more recommended gifts based on owned currency information of the user information 50A. For example, the management unit 52 may identify only recommended gifts that can be purchased with free currency or paid currency owned by the user.

[0266] In the first embodiment, the management unit 52 sets the price for gifting a recommended gift lower than usual, but the price for gifting a recommended gift may be higher than usual. The management unit 52 may also accept a registration of the price (range) of a gift to be identified (recommended) as a recommended gift from the user in advance, and identify a recommended gift according to the price. The management unit 52 may also identify a recommended gift based on statistics (e.g., average, median, etc.) of the prices of gifts gifted by the user in the past.

[0267] In addition, in the second embodiment, the display means 54 is described as representing the number of users as statistical information, but this statistical information may be abstract information such as a range of the number of users (for example, 1 to 5 people, 6 to 10 people, etc.), or "large" or "small," or may be information in the form of a graph, color, mark, etc.

[0268] In the second embodiment, the management unit 52 stores the gift ID of the provisionally selected gift in the viewing user information of the video information 50C when the user provisionally selects a gift in the gift selection area. However, the management unit 52 may treat multiple gifts displayed in the gift selection area as provisionally selected gifts. For example, the management unit 52 updates the viewing user information of the video information 50C by specifying (scrolling) the multiple gifts displayed in the gift selection area as provisionally selected gifts in response to an instruction (scroll) on a slide bar displayed in the gift selection area.

[0269] In addition, in the second embodiment, the display means 54 is described as displaying statistical information regarding the number of users who have provisionally selected a gift to a user before the user who has provisionally selected a gift makes a gifting request, but it is also possible to display recommended gifts identified by the management means 52 (gifts that have been provisionally selected by a small number of users) without displaying the statistical information.

[0270] In the second embodiment, the management unit 52 identifies one or more recommended gifts for which a small number of users have provisionally selected the gift, but a gift for which a large number of users have provisionally selected the gift may be identified as a recommended gift. This allows users watching a video to gift the same gift (recommended gift) at the same time, thereby creating excitement for the video.

[0271] In the second embodiment, the management unit 52 identifies one or more recommended gifts that have been provisionally selected by a small number of users. However, the management unit 52 may increase the price of a gift that has been provisionally selected by a large number of users. The management unit 52 may also decrease the price of a gift that has been provisionally selected by a small number of users. The management unit 52 may also decrease the price of a gift that has been provisionally selected by a large number of users. The management unit 52 may also increase the price of a gift that has been provisionally selected by a small number of users.

[0272] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the predetermined time is longer as the price of a certain gift increases, but the predetermined time may be shorter as the price of a certain gift increases.

[0273] In addition, in the third embodiment, the specified time is described as the time during which a certain gift is displayed in the video, but it may also be a time obtained by adding or subtracting a certain time from the display time of a certain gift, or by multiplying it by a specified coefficient (for example, a value greater than 0).

[0274] In addition, in the third embodiment, the management means 52 has been described as restricting gifting requests for gifts associated with a lower price than the price of a certain gift to other users, but it may also restrict gifting requests for gifts associated with a higher price than the price of a certain gift to other users.

[0275] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, a case has been described in which the price of a certain gift is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, but the price may be less than the predetermined amount.

[0276] In addition, in the third embodiment, the management means 52 has been described as not restricting gifting requests for users who have a predetermined relationship with a certain user, but it is also possible to restrict gifting requests for users who have a predetermined relationship with a certain user and not restrict gifting requests for users who do not have the predetermined relationship.

[0277] In addition, in the third embodiment, the management means 52 has been described as not restricting gifting requests for users who are special members, but it is also possible to restrict gifting requests for users who are special members and not restrict gifting requests for users who are regular members.

[0278] In addition, in the third embodiment, the management means 52 has been described as restricting the gifting requests of other users who are watching the same video as a certain user when the certain user is a special member, but it is also possible that, when a certain user is a special member, the management means 52 does not restrict the gifting requests of other users who are watching the same video as the certain user.

[0279] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the management means 52 does not restrict gifting requests from users who have a predetermined relationship with a certain user. However, when any user or a specific user (e.g., a friend user) gives a gift, automatic gifting (automatic gifting) may be performed at the same time. For example, a user can set in advance the user (e.g., a friend user) that will trigger automatic gifting, the user's triggering behavior (e.g., gifting a gift worth more than a predetermined amount, gifting a predetermined gift, etc.), the type or value of the gift that the user will gift, etc. This allows each user watching a video to gift gifts at the same time, thereby livening up the video.

[0280] In the fourth embodiment, the management means 52 returns part or all of the consideration when two or more users make gifting requests within a predetermined time period. However, the management means 52 may reduce the consideration consumed without returning part or all of the consideration. For example, the management means 52 may reduce the consideration consumed for some users who make gifting requests late within a predetermined time period.

[0281] Furthermore, when a predetermined number of users (two or more) make gifting requests within a predetermined time period, management means 52 may return part or all of the payment to each of the users. This predetermined number may be three, five, or the like.

[0282] In the fourth embodiment, when two or more users make gifting requests within a predetermined time period, the management means 52 refunds part or all of the payment to some users and does not refund part or all of the payment to the remaining users. However, the amount (proportion) of the payment to be returned may be different depending on whether the user is a part of the gifting request or a remaining user. For example, the management means 52 may refund 50% of the payment to some users and 10% of the payment to the remaining users.

[0283] Furthermore, for example, the management unit 52 may change the type of compensation to be returned depending on whether the user is a part of the users or the remaining users. For example, the management unit 52 may return the same type of compensation (e.g., coins) as the compensation (e.g., coins) paid by the part of the users, and return a different type of compensation (e.g., coins) from the compensation (e.g., crystals) paid by the remaining users.

[0284] In addition, if two or more users make gifting requests within a specified period of time, the management means 52 may return (grant) the same amount of compensation (e.g., 100 coins or 50 yen) to each user regardless of the compensation paid by each user.

[0285] 10: Server device 12: Terminal device 50: Storage means 52: Management means 54: Display means

Claims

1. A program for gifting by displaying gifts on a video being streamed to each user watching the video, the program causing a computer to function as: a management means for managing history information of gifts gifted by each user; and a display means for displaying a gift on the video when the user requests a gift of a particular gift from among multiple gifts; the management means identifying a recommended gift based on the history information; and the display means displaying the recommended gift before the user requests the gift.

2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the management means identifies recommended gifts based on history information of gifts given by each user in the video being distributed.

3. The program according to claim 1, wherein the management means identifies recommended gifts for performer objects displayed in the video based on history information of gifts given by each user.

4. The program according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the recommended gifts are gifts that have been gifted frequently.

5. The program according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the recommended gifts are gifts that have been gifted many times between a predetermined point in time and the present.

6. The program according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the recommended gifts are gifts that have been gifted less frequently.

7. The program according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the recommended gifts are gifts that have been gifted less frequently between a predetermined point in time and the present.

8. The program according to claim 1, wherein the management means reduces the compensation for gifting the recommended gift to less than normal.

9. The program according to claim 1, wherein the display means displays the recommended gift when the user has paid a predetermined amount.

10. An information processing device for gifting, in which each user watching a video being streamed displays a gift on the video, comprising: a management means for managing history information of gifts gifted by each user; and a display means for displaying a gift on the video when the user requests a gift of a certain gift from among multiple gifts, wherein the management means identifies a recommended gift based on the history information, and the display means displays the recommended gift before the user requests the gift.

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