Information processing device, content distribution system, and method

Abstract

Provided are an information processing device, a content distribution system, and a method which, on the basis of a condition when reading identification information from content, can determine, from among other content set with respect to said content, one or more items of content. A processor of a center server functioning as an information processing device acquires a QR code read from a photographic print on which photographic content is printed, the QR code serving as a starting point for access to additional contents (benefits) set for the photographic content, and conditions such as application software, services, and the like used when reading the QR code, and determines one or more additional contents among the additional contents on the basis of the acquired QR code and the acquired conditions.

Description

Information Processing Apparatus, Content Delivery System, and Method

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, a content delivery system, and a method, and particularly relates to a technique for determining additional content for content.

[0002] As a method of adding additional content other than the photo content to the content (photo content) used for photo printing, identification information (for example, QR code (registered trademark)) capable of specifying the additional content is added to the photo content, and the additional content obtainable by reading the QR code from a photo print on which the photo content with the QR code is printed is uniquely determined.

[0003] When considering making one content widely available across multiple services, it is difficult to provide a privilege (additional content) to be added to the content as a privilege that commonly satisfies the characteristics of each service, the user attributes using it, and the use case.

[0004] On the other hand, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for selling digital content (products) by adding a plurality of privileges (digital privileges different from the digital content included in the CD, tickets for events such as live performances, privilege tickets, etc.) to digital content such as music and images included in a compact disc (CD).

[0005] Patent Document 1 suggests that a two-dimensional code attached to a product can be read to obtain a plurality of privileges. A user can purchase a product from an EC (Electronic Commerce) site by using a user terminal on which a dedicated app is downloaded and starting the dedicated app, and can obtain a plurality of privileges attached to the product. This can increase the user's willingness to purchase the product and provide a sense of satisfaction in purchasing the product.

[0006] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2023 - 76329

[0007] One embodiment of the technology of this disclosure provides an information processing device, a content distribution system, and a method that can determine one or more other contents set for a given content based on conditions for reading identification information from that content.

[0008] The invention according to the first aspect is an information processing device equipped with a processor, wherein the processor acquires identification information read from a first content, which is identification information that serves as the starting point for accessing a second content set for the first content, and conditions for reading the identification information, and determines one or more second contents from among the second contents based on the identification information and conditions.

[0009] In the second aspect of the present invention, the information processing device, in the first aspect, preferably includes information that identifies the first content.

[0010] In the third aspect of the present invention, the information processing device, in the first or second aspect, preferably has a first content which is a photographic content and identification information which is assigned to the photographic content.

[0011] In the information processing device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in any of the first to third aspects, the second content preferably includes a plurality of additional contents added to the first content.

[0012] In the fifth aspect of the present invention, in any of the first to fourth aspects, the processor preferably acquires identification information read by a terminal having a reading function from the terminal.

[0013] In the sixth aspect of the present invention, the information processing device, in the fifth aspect, preferably includes the type of application software used by the terminal when acquiring identification information.

[0014] In the sixth embodiment, the information processing device according to the seventh aspect of the present invention preferably includes one or more of the following types of application software: a content distribution service app that requests the distribution of a first content and allows printing of at least the distributed first content; a companion app that operates a printer or camera, edits captured images, sends captured images to a printer, or takes photographs using a terminal held by the user; an event photography service app that combines an event-limited template with event participants and takes a photograph; an ID service app that creates and reads ID cards with photographs; and a print scan app that allows automatically cropping and reading an image from a photograph print containing the first content, which is photographic content, and recording the read image.

[0015] In the sixth embodiment of the information processing device according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, it is preferable that the type of application software includes a print scan application that allows recording an image read from a photo print on which an image containing a first content, which is a photographic content, is printed.

[0016] In the ninth aspect of the present invention, the information processing device, in the eighth aspect, is an application software in which the print scan application records an image read from a photo print by image scanning onto the terminal's storage medium or another storage medium.

[0017] In the tenth aspect of the present invention, in any of the fifth to ninth aspects, the condition preferably includes at least the type of print service at the terminal that performs the print service, or the type of terminal.

[0018] In the 11th aspect of the present invention, the information processing device preferably includes, in the 10th aspect, at least one of a first print kiosk terminal that provides a self-service printing service and a second print kiosk terminal that provides a photo booth service as the terminal that provides the printing service.

[0019] In the 11th embodiment of the information processing apparatus according to the 12th aspect of the present invention, the first print kiosk terminal receives an image transfer from a terminal which is a user terminal and outputs it as a photo print, or outputs the first content which is photo content as a photo print, and the second print kiosk terminal photographs the user in a shooting booth and outputs the captured image as a photo print.

[0020] In the information processing device according to the 13th aspect of the present invention, in any of the first to 12 aspects, the second content preferably includes at least one of the following: audio data, AR effects, decorative materials, benefits for using an image storage site, event tickets, and coupons.

[0021] In the information processing device according to the 14th aspect of the present invention, in any of the first to 13 aspects, the second content is preferably content related to the content holder of the first content.

[0022] In the information processing apparatus according to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in any of the first to fourteenth aspects, it is preferable that the processor acquires user attribute information of a terminal owned by the user and changes the number or content of the second content according to the user attribute information.

[0023] In the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in any of the first to fifteenth aspects, the processor preferably provides additional information to the user based on the type of service or the output destination of the photo print when the user obtains a photo print corresponding to the first content from the terminal.

[0024] The invention according to the 17th aspect is a content distribution system in which a first server that distributes first content to a terminal, a terminal that receives the first content, and a second server that distributes second content set for the first content to the terminal are connected via a network, wherein the first server assigns identification information to the first content and distributes the first content including the identification information to the terminal, the terminal prints the first content with the assigned identification information using a printer connected to the terminal to output a photo print, the terminal reads the identification information from the photo print and transmits the identification information and the conditions for reading the identification information to the first server, the first server determines one or more of the second content from among the second content based on the identification information and conditions and grants the terminal access rights to the determined one or more second content, and the terminal obtains the one or more second content to which it has been granted access rights from the second server.

[0025] In the 17th embodiment, the content distribution system according to the 18th aspect of the present invention preferably includes a print kiosk terminal, where the print kiosk terminal reads identification information from a photo print and transmits the identification information and the conditions for reading the identification information to a first server, the first server determines one or more second contents from among the second contents based on the identification information and conditions, grants the print kiosk terminal access rights to the determined one or more second contents, and the print kiosk terminal obtains the one or more second contents to which it has been granted access rights from the second server.

[0026] In the 19th aspect of the present invention, the content distribution system, in the 17th or 18th aspect, includes a first server that comprises part or all of a second server.

[0027] The invention according to the 20th aspect is a content distribution method used in a content distribution system in which a first server that distributes first content to a terminal, a terminal that receives the first content, and a second server that distributes second content set for the first content to the terminal are connected via a network, and the method includes the steps of: the first server assigning identification information to the first content and distributing the first content including the identification information to the terminal; a printer connected to or built into the terminal receiving the first content to which the identification information has been assigned from the terminal, printing the first content and outputting a photo print; the terminal obtaining the identification information from the photo print; the terminal transmitting the identification information and the conditions for reading the identification information to the first server; the first server determining one or more second contents from among the second contents based on the identification information and the conditions, and granting the terminal access rights to the determined one or more second contents; and the terminal obtaining one or more second contents to which access rights have been granted from the second server.

[0028] In the 21st aspect of the present invention, the content distribution method preferably includes, in the 20th aspect, a terminal including a print kiosk terminal, the steps of: when the print kiosk terminal reads identification information from a photo print, it transmits the identification information and the conditions for reading the identification information to a first server; the first server determining one or more second contents from among the second contents based on the identification information and conditions, and granting the print kiosk terminal access rights to the determined one or more second contents; and the print kiosk terminal obtaining the one or more second contents to which it has been granted access rights from a second server.

[0029] In the content distribution method according to the 22nd aspect of the present invention, in the 20th or 21st aspect, the first server includes part or all of the second server.

[0030] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram showing an embodiment of the content distribution system according to the present invention. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of multiple products that can be used in the content distribution system. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the hardware configuration of a center server that functions as an information processing device according to the present invention. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the hardware configuration of a user terminal that constitutes the content distribution system shown in Figure 1. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of an instant photo print. Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the hardware configuration of a bonus distribution server that constitutes the content distribution system shown in Figure 1. Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the hardware configuration of a print kiosk terminal that constitutes the content distribution system shown in Figure 1. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the types of apps / services and an overview of apps / services. Figure 9 is a diagram showing a first embodiment of the method for determining additional content determined by the center server. Figure 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between the conditions for reading a QR code (app / service) and the operation after reading the QR code. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of the content distribution method according to the present invention. Figure 12 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the method for determining additional content determined by the center server. Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment that provides users with additional useful information based on the source of their instant prints.

[0031] Preferred embodiments of the information processing apparatus, content distribution system, and method according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0032] [Content Distribution System] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram showing an embodiment of the content distribution system according to the present invention.

[0033] The content distribution system 1 shown in Figure 1 includes a first server (center server) 100 that functions as a content distribution server for distributing content, various terminals (user terminals 200, content holder terminals 500, print kiosk terminals 600), and a second server (bonus distribution server) 300 for distributing additional content (bonuses), all of which are connected to each other via a network NW so that they can communicate with each other.

[0034] Furthermore, a mobile printer 400 can be connected to the user terminal 200. The user terminal 200 is, for example, a smartphone with various application software (also simply called "apps") installed, and transmits the first content (in this example, photo content) distributed from the center server 100 to the mobile printer 400 wirelessly or via wired connection. The mobile printer 400 prints the photo content received from the center server 100 via the user terminal 200.

[0035] Furthermore, the user terminal 200 has a camera function and can send images taken with the user terminal 200 to the mobile printer 400, or to the print kiosk terminal 600, which is a first print kiosk terminal that provides a self-printing service, and print photos from the printer built into the mobile printer 400 or the print kiosk terminal 600.

[0036] Figure 2 is a diagram showing examples of several products that can be used in a content distribution system.

[0037] In Figure 2, the mobile printer is a portable personal printer owned by the user. The printer-integrated digital camera is a digital camera with the functionality of a mobile printer, capable of printing images taken with the digital camera, and also has the function of printing photo content received via the user terminal 200.

[0038] The print kiosk terminal 600 consists of a first print kiosk terminal for self-service printing and a second print kiosk terminal for photo booth services. The print kiosk terminal 600 is a housing equipped with a large LCD display (including an operation section such as a touch panel), payment functions, and printing functions. Furthermore, the print kiosk terminal 600 for photo booth services is equipped with a photo booth (shooting booth) and a digital camera, providing a photo booth service that takes photos of users on the spot and prints them out.

[0039] [Information Processing Device] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the hardware configuration of a center server that functions as an information processing device according to the present invention.

[0040] The central server 100 shown in Figure 3 is composed of, for example, a computer, a workstation, etc., and includes a communication unit 110, a processor 120, memory 130, a content database (content DB) 140, a user management DB 150, and a content holder management DB 160, etc.

[0041] As shown in Figure 1, the communication unit 110 communicates with the user terminal 200, the bonus distribution server 300, the content holder terminal 500, and the print kiosk terminal 600 via the network NW and exchanges necessary information.

[0042] The system consists of a processor 120, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and other components, and controls all parts of the center server 100, as well as distributing the first content (hereinafter referred to as "photo content") to the user terminal 200. The processor 120 can also transmit event-specific templates such as design frames to the user terminal 200, which is the terminal of a photography company that provides event photography services, and transmit templates used for template photography to the print kiosk terminal 600, which provides booth photography and printing services.

[0043] Furthermore, the processor 120 determines one or more additional content items from among the second content items (also referred to as "additional content" or "bonus items") which are other content set for the photo content. The processor 120 grants access rights to acquire the determined additional content and makes the additional content available for acquisition through a terminal (user terminal 200 or print kiosk terminal 600). Here, additional content (bonus items) includes various digital content, services, etc., and acquiring additional content includes receiving services.

[0044] The determined one or more additional contents (bonuses) may be provided from the bonus distribution server 300, or the center server 100 may provide part or all of the determined bonuses. Note that the additional contents set for the photo content include a plurality of additional contents added to the photo content, but there may be cases where only one additional content is set. Details of the method for determining one or more of the set additional contents will be described later.

[0045] The memory 130 includes a flash memory, a ROM (Read-only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a hard disk device, and the like.The flash memory, ROM, or hard disk device is a non-volatile memory that stores various programs including an information processing program for causing an operation system and a general-purpose computer to function as the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0046] The RAM functions as a work area for processing by the processor 120. It also temporarily stores various programs stored in the flash memory or the like, and data used for arithmetic processing. Note that the processor 120 may incorporate a part (RAM) of the memory 130.

[0047] The content DB 140 is a database that manages photo contents and the like uploaded from a content holder terminal 500 (see FIG. 1) owned by a content holder (the copyright owner of the photo content).

[0048] The content holder includes an artist (idol, talent, singer, actor, etc.) in the fields of entertainment, music, etc., or an office to which the artist belongs, and uploads photo contents in which the artist is photographed from the content holder terminal 500 to the center server 100. Note that as the content holder terminal 500, a smartphone, a tablet terminal equipped with a video shooting function, or the like can be applied, and it is preferable that an application for the content holder is installed.

[0049] The content database 140 registers and manages photo content uploaded from the content holder terminal 500, associating it with uniquely identifiable information (e.g., image ID (identification)). Furthermore, it is preferable that the content database 140 manages bonus information indicating additional content (bonuses) set for the photo content, the distribution period of the photo content, and an ID indicating the content holder that provided the photo content (content holder ID), associating these with the image ID. In addition, the content database 140 can manage templates and other information associated with artists, in addition to photo content.

[0050] The user management database 150 is a database that manages information about users who receive photo content from the central server 100. The user management database 150 registers information such as the user's name, account details, gender, age, and whether they are a paying or non-paying user. It can also register other information, such as the terminal identification information of the user's terminal 200 and the printer identification information (e.g., serial number) of the mobile printer 400.

[0051] The Content Holder Management DB 160 is a database that manages information about content holders that provide photo content. The Content Holder Management DB 160 manages the name or title of the content holder, account, and compensation information for photo content provided to users, etc., associated with an identification information (Content Holder ID) that uniquely identifies the content holder. The hardware in which some or all of the data sets of the Content DB 140, User Management DB 150, and Content Holder Management DB 160 are stored can be the internal memory of the center server 100 or external memory accessible by the center server 100.

[0052] Furthermore, when the processor 120 distributes photo content to the user terminal 200, it adds (embeds) identification information that identifies the photo content to be distributed to the photo content before distribution. Here, the identification information that identifies the photo content is identification information that serves as the starting point for accessing one or more additional contents set for that photo content, and preferably includes the image ID of the photo content, a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) indicating the storage location of the photo content, etc. Moreover, the identification information embedded in the photo content can be visualized as a two-dimensional code (for example, QR code®).

[0053] Furthermore, the identification information embedded in the photo content is not limited to QR codes; it may also include, for example, information consisting of invisible, extremely small dots, or information such as digital watermarks.

[0054] [User Terminal] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the hardware configuration of a user terminal that constitutes the content distribution system shown in Figure 1.

[0055] The user terminal 200 shown in Figure 4 consists of smartphones, laptops, tablet devices, etc., owned by general users, but the following explanation will use a smartphone as an example.

[0056] The user terminal 200 includes a processor 210, memory 220, operation unit 230, wireless communication unit 240, display 250, camera 260, short-range wireless communication unit 270, microphone, speaker, etc. (not shown).

[0057] The processor 210 consists of a CPU and the like, and controls all parts of the user terminal 200. It also runs various application software to receive services provided by the center server 100, the benefit distribution server 300, etc., and exchanges various information with the center server 100 and the benefit distribution server 300. It also transmits image data for photo printing to the mobile printer 400 or the print kiosk terminal 600 that provides a self-print service, and causes the printer of the mobile printer 400 or the print kiosk terminal 600 to output the photo print.

[0058] Memory 220 includes flash memory, RAM, and flash memory, etc. Flash memory is a rewritable, non-volatile memory that stores the operating system, various application software, etc.

[0059] The various application software includes apps for content distribution services, event photography services, and ID services, as well as print and scan apps. Details of these apps will be provided later.

[0060] RAM functions as a workspace for processing by the processor 210. It also temporarily stores various programs stored in flash memory, etc., and data used for arithmetic processing. The processor 210 may also have built-in RAM.

[0061] The control unit 230 consists of hardware keys, such as power on / off and volume control key switches, and accepts commands from the user.

[0062] The wireless communication unit 240 is the part that communicates wirelessly with the center server 100, the benefit distribution server 300, and other external devices via the carrier's base station, other access points, and the network NW.

[0063] The display unit 250 is a touch panel type display unit equipped with a touch panel on its display surface. It displays images to be printed, and also functions as a user interface that accepts operation screen displays and touch panel operations.

[0064] Camera 260 can capture still images and videos depending on the selected shooting mode, but it also functions as a code reader to read QR codes attached to (embedded in) photo prints by taking a picture (scanning the image) of the photo print using the various application software mentioned above or a browser (the standard camera app, which is a code reading app).

[0065] The short-range wireless communication unit 270 is the part that performs short-range wireless communication with an external device that has been paired, for example, using Bluetooth (registered trademark). In this example, the short-range wireless communication unit 270 performs short-range wireless communication with a mobile printer 400 owned by the owner of the user terminal 200, or with a print kiosk terminal 600 that provides a self-printing service, and transmits images for printing (including distributed photo content) to the mobile printer 400 or print kiosk terminal 600.

[0066] The mobile printer 400 uses instant film (for example, Fujifilm's "Cheki film" ("Cheki" is a registered trademark)) as a printing medium. An exposure head exposes an image to the exposure area of ​​the Cheki film, and a developer is applied to the exposure area to print the image onto the Cheki film, outputting it as a photographic print (Cheki print).

[0067] Figure 5 shows an example of an Instax print.

[0068] As shown in Figure 5, the Instax print 402 is obtained by exposing and developing Instax film, and the Instax film has an exposure area 402a, a developing solution pod 402b containing the developing solution, and a trap section 402c containing an absorbent material.

[0069] As the Instax film is transported by the capstan roller of the mobile printer 400, the exposure area 402a is exposed to image light by the exposure head. Then, as the Instax film passes through a pair of unfolding rollers of the mobile printer 400, the developing solution from the developing solution pod 402b is squeezed out, and the film is unfolded and developed in the exposure area 402a. During this development, any excess developing solution is captured by the trap section 402c. In this way, the Instax film is exposed and developed by the mobile printer 400 and output as a photographic print.

[0070] Furthermore, in Figure 5, 404 is a QR code embedded in the distributed photo content and developed, and as mentioned above, the QR code 404 contains identification information that identifies the distributed photo content. The uses of this QR code 404 will be described later.

[0071] Furthermore, the Instax print 402 shown in Figure 5 is not limited to those printed from the mobile printer 400, but may also include those printed from a digital camera with an integrated printer, or those printed from the printer of a print kiosk terminal 600. In addition, the mobile printer 400 is not limited to an Instax printer that uses Instax film, but may also be an inkjet printer, a thermal printer, or other type of printer.

[0072] [Bonus Distribution Server] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the hardware configuration of the bonus distribution server that constitutes the content distribution system shown in Figure 1.

[0073] The content distribution system 1 shown in Figure 1 illustrates multiple bonus distribution servers 300, but the number of bonus distribution servers 300 can be one or multiple. If there are multiple bonus distribution servers 300, the additional content (bonuses) distributed by each bonus distribution server 300 will be different.

[0074] The bonus distribution server 300 shown in Figure 6 is composed of, for example, a computer, workstation, etc., and includes a communication unit 310, a processor 320, memory 330, an additional content DB 340, and a user management DB 350, etc.

[0075] As shown in Figure 1, the communication unit 310 communicates with the center server 100, user terminal 200, and print kiosk terminal 600 via the network NW and exchanges necessary information.

[0076] The processor 320 consists of a CPU and other components, and controls all parts of the bonus content distribution server 300, as well as performing processing to provide additional content (bonuses) added to the photo content to users who have purchased the photo content.

[0077] The memory 330 includes flash memory, ROM, RAM, hard disk drive, etc. The flash memory, ROM, or hard disk drive is a non-volatile memory that stores various programs, including programs that enable the operating system or general-purpose computer to function as a bonus distribution server.

[0078] RAM functions as a workspace for processing by processor 120. It also temporarily stores various programs stored in flash memory, etc., and data used for arithmetic processing. Note that processor 320 may also have a portion of memory 330 (RAM) built into it.

[0079] The additional content DB 340 is a database that manages additional content that content holders (copyright holders of photo content) have set as appropriate for the photo content they provide to users. The content holder uploads the photo content to the central server 100 using the content holder terminal 500, and sets one or more additional content to be added to the uploaded photo content, and also uploads the set additional content to the central server 100.

[0080] The central server 100 can transfer one or more uploaded additional content items to the bonus distribution server 300, where they can be managed in the bonus content database 340. Specifically, the additional content database 340 can manage additional content added to photo content, information indicating the type of additional content, etc., using identification information such as image IDs used for managing photo content as the primary key.

[0081] Additional content may include audio data (voice messages) from the artist who is the subject of the photo content, AR (Augmented Reality) effects associated with the artist, decorative materials, a service for saving images to a non-volatile storage medium within the user terminal 200 or to other storage media (storage medium of an image storage site (website)), notifications of secret information, event tickets, coupons (points, discounts), etc.

[0082] The content holder uses the content holder terminal 500 to send photo content to the central server 100, and also selects additional content to provide to the user from one or more additional content items that can be added to the photo content, and sends the selected additional content to the central server 100.

[0083] Furthermore, the content holder terminal 500 can be configured, for example, as a smartphone with a content holder application installed, and functions as a terminal for creating photo content and additional content, and for sending the created photo content and additional content to the central server 100.

[0084] The user management DB 350 is equivalent to the user management DB 150 of the central server 100 shown in Figure 3, and is used for exchanging information necessary for acquiring additional content between the user terminal 200 and the bonus distribution server 300, acquiring user information when providing additional content (digital content), and managing users who have acquired additional content. In the case of a system where communication between the user terminal 200 and the bonus distribution server 300 does not occur directly but goes through the central server 100, the user management DB 350 can be omitted by using the user management DB 150 of the central server 100.

[0085] [Print Kiosk Terminal] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the hardware configuration of a print kiosk terminal that constitutes the content distribution system shown in Figure 1.

[0086] The print kiosk terminal 600 shown in Figure 7 is a print kiosk terminal that provides a self-service printing service and is equipped with a communication unit 610, a processor 620, memory 630, a display 640, an operation unit 650, a printer 660, and a scanner 670, etc.

[0087] The communication unit 610 is the part that communicates with the center server 100, the user terminal 200, and the reward distribution server 300, and exchanges necessary information. As shown in Figure 1, the communication unit 610 communicates with the center server 100 and the reward distribution server 300 via the network NW, and can also exchange necessary information with the user terminal 200 via short-range wireless communication.

[0088] The processor 620 consists of a CPU and other components, and provides centralized control of all parts of the print kiosk terminal 600, as well as processing for providing the self-print service and processing charges for the self-print service. The detailed processing of the processor 620 when providing the self-print service will be described later.

[0089] The memory 630 includes flash memory, RAM, and flash memory, etc. The flash memory is a rewritable, non-volatile memory that stores the operating system, programs for running the self-print service, etc.

[0090] RAM functions as a workspace for processing by the processor 620. It also temporarily stores various programs stored in flash memory, etc., and data used for arithmetic processing. The processor 620 may also have built-in RAM.

[0091] The display 640 may be, for example, a large liquid crystal display, and may be used to display images for photo printing, as well as display a screen for operation, etc.

[0092] The operation unit 650 is a hardware key for operating the operation screen displayed on the display 640, and accepts instructions from the user. Note that if the display 640 includes an operation unit such as a touch panel, the operation unit 650 can be omitted.

[0093] The printer 660 is a printer built into the casing of the print kiosk terminal 600, and prints images onto Instax film.

[0094] The scanner 670 is a code reader that reads the QR code 404 embedded in the Instax print 402 (see Figure 4).

[0095] The print kiosk terminal 600 receives images stored in the user terminal 200 from the user terminal 200 via short-range wireless communication, or acquires images from a storage medium connected to a connector such as a card slot in the print kiosk terminal 600, and prints the images onto Instax film using the printer 660.

[0096] Here, if the scanner 670 reads the QR code 404 embedded in the Instax print 402 before printing, the print kiosk terminal 600 can print out an Instax print with the same QR code embedded as the read QR code.

[0097] Furthermore, the print kiosk terminal 600 can also be used by users who do not own a mobile printer 400 to print photo content distributed from the central server 100 to the user terminal 200 onto Instax film.

[0098] On the other hand, the print kiosk terminal 600 for photo booth services further includes a photo booth (shooting booth) and a digital camera installed in the photo booth to photograph users inside the photo booth.

[0099] The print kiosk terminal 600 for the photo booth service can perform template compositing and decorative effects when taking photos in the booth. If the scanner 670 reads the QR code 404 embedded in the Instax print 402 before printing, it can take photos using additional content set for the photo content of the Instax print 402 (for example, sound effects, AR effects, and decorative materials used during shooting).

[0100] [Applications / Services] Next, we will explain the types of application software installed on the user terminal 200 and the types of print services available at the print kiosk terminal 600.

[0101] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the types of applications / services and their overviews.

[0102] (1) The content distribution service (app) allows users to purchase photo content provided by content holders via the central server 100 through the content distribution service app on their user terminal 200, and print the purchased photo content onto Instax film.

[0103] (2) The printer / camera companion app is a smartphone application that allows the smartphone (user terminal 200) to operate the printer / camera, edit and send captured images to the printer, and print them.

[0104] (3) The event photography service (app) is used to photograph participants attending artist events and is a service (app) for photographers. A photographer's device with this app installed can create or obtain event-specific templates such as design frames, and can take composite photos by combining the event-specific template with event participants.

[0105] (4) The ID service is a service that allows a person to verify their identity using a photo ID card and their ID, and the ID service app is an app for creating and reading such a photo ID card.

[0106] (5) The self-print service using print kiosk terminals, as described above, allows users to transfer images from their smartphones (user terminal 200) to the print kiosk terminal and purchase instant prints of those images. This self-print service also allows users to edit images using templates and decorative materials before printing. Furthermore, the print kiosk terminals that provide the self-print service can be used to print photo content obtained through the content distribution service.

[0107] (6) The photo booth service using a print kiosk terminal is a service that takes photos of the user in the photo booth using a digital camera installed in the photo booth and outputs them as instant prints. The print kiosk terminal that provides the photo booth service can be decorated using templates and AR effects before taking photos in the booth, and can output instant prints with the decorations applied.

[0108] (7) The print scan application is an application that, when an Instax print is scanned on the user terminal 200, automatically crops the image area from the Instax print and allows the cropped image to be recorded as a digital image. For example, it can be recorded on a storage medium within the user terminal 200, or on an external storage medium of an image storage site (website). The print scan application also has a function to read a QR code when an Instax print is scanned on the application.

[0109] Incidentally, when a user selects and purchases desired photo content using the user terminal 200, the content distribution service application displays the photo content on the display unit 250 of the user terminal 200. However, the photo content sent from the central server 100 in this case is small in size or has a low resolution. When the content distribution service application sends the selected photo content to the mobile printer 400 or the print kiosk terminal 600 that provides a self-printing service, it receives photo content from the central server 100 that is larger in size or has a higher resolution than the photo content displayed on the display unit 250 (photo content suitable for instant printing) and transfers it to the mobile printer 400, etc.

[0110] Furthermore, the center server 100 also embeds a QR code in the photo content displayed on the display unit 250 of the user terminal 200, but in this case, the QR code is a dummy QR code. When the user terminal 200 issues a print command for the photo content, the center server 100 receives printer information such as the type or serial number of the destination printer from the user terminal 200, generates a QR code by adding the destination printer information to the identification information that identifies the photo content, and sends the photo content for Instax printing, with the generated QR code embedded, to the user terminal 200.

[0111] The content distribution service app is designed not to save photo content for instant camera prints to the non-volatile memory of the user terminal 200. Furthermore, the central server 100, once it sends photo content for instant camera prints to a user terminal 200, manages the system to prevent the same content from being sent to other user terminals 200 belonging to the same user. This is to prevent the duplication of instant camera prints printed with purchased photo content.

[0112] The aforementioned print scan application automatically crops the image area from the Instax print and saves the cropped image as a digital image to the user terminal 200 or a website. In this case, it is preferable for the print scan application to save the image at a lower resolution than the resolution of the image read from the Instax print. The print scan application can also generate and save an image with the QR code removed.

[0113] [Method for Determining Additional Content] Next, we will explain the method for determining additional content when a content holder has set up multiple additional content items for a photo content, and the method for determining one or more additional content items that can be provided to the user is determined based on the conditions for reading the identification information (QR code) attached to the photo content.

[0114] <First Embodiment of the Method for Determining Additional Content> Figure 9 is a diagram showing the first embodiment of the method for determining additional content determined by the central server.

[0115] Figure 9 shows that, based on the relationship between the multiple additional content items set by the content holder for the photo content and the conditions (app / service) for reading the QR code embedded in the Instax print, one or more additional content items that can be provided to the user are determined from among the multiple additional content items.

[0116] When the QR code 404 embedded in the Instax print 402 is read using an application installed on the user terminal 200 that includes a function to scan QR codes, or using the scanner 670 of the print kiosk terminal 600, the center server 100 obtains the QR code read from the user terminal 200 or the print kiosk terminal 600, as well as the conditions for reading the QR code.

[0117] Here, the QR code is, as mentioned above, identification information that can identify the photo content printed on the Instax print 402, and is identification information that serves as the starting point for accessing additional content set for that photo content.

[0118] Furthermore, the conditions for reading the QR code include the type of application software installed on the user terminal 200 that the user terminal 200 uses when reading the QR code 404.

[0119] The types of application software include one or more of the content distribution service app, printer / camera companion app, event photo shooting service app, ID service app, and print scanning app described in Figure 8, preferably two or more.

[0120] Other conditions for reading the QR code include the type of print service at the print kiosk terminal 600 that reads the QR code 404, such as a self-print service or a photo booth service, but it may also be the type of print kiosk terminal 600.

[0121] The processor 120 identifies additional content (benefits) set for the photo content identified by the QR code obtained from the user terminal 200 or print kiosk terminal 600. If two or more benefits are identified, the processor determines one or more benefits as shown in Figure 9, according to the above conditions (app / service) obtained along with the QR code.

[0122] In the example shown in Figure 9, the following benefits are set for a particular photo content: benefits related to audio data, benefits related to AR effects usable during shooting, benefits related to decorative materials, benefits related to saving images acquired using a print scan app to a website, benefits related to adding secret information to the in-app notification section, benefits related to events (event tickets, benefits for registering events in the event calendar), and benefits related to obtaining coupons (points, discount coupons).

[0123] Next, we will specifically explain the benefits determined based on the conditions for reading the QR code, following the example shown in Figure 9.

[0124] (1) Content distribution service (app) When the user terminal 200 runs the content distribution service app, scans the Instax print with the app, and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print, the processor 120 of the center server 100 determines the following benefits: the ability to play and save the voice data of the artist who is the subject of the Instax print's photo content (voice message from an idol, etc.) within the app; the ability to take photos using AR effects and decorative materials related to the artist, and the ability to post the resulting image to the artist's fan page; the ability to add secret information related to the artist to the in-app notification section; the ability to register events related to the artist in the in-app event calendar; and the ability to acquire points, which are in-app currency that can be used within the app.

[0125] (2) When the printer / camera companion app user terminal 200 runs the printer / camera companion app, scans an Instax print image using the app, and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print, the processor 120 of the center server 100 determines the following benefits: setting a sound effect for when taking a photo using the app and generating that sound effect when taking a photo; enabling the use of AR effects and decorative materials related to the artist; and adding secret information related to the artist to the in-app notification section.

[0126] (3) Event Photography Service (App) The user terminal 200 of the photography company providing the event photography service can use event-specific templates such as design frames to photograph event participants. When the user terminal 200 of the photography company runs the event photography service app, scans an Instax print brought by a participant using the app, and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print, the processor 120 of the center server 100 determines the benefits related to the photography function, namely the benefit of adding audio data (printing a QR code) and the benefit of enabling the use of AR effects and decorative materials when taking photos.

[0127] (4) ID Service (App) When the user terminal 200 runs the ID service app, scans the Instax print using the app, and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print, the processor 120 of the center server 100 determines which of the benefits attached to the photo content of the Instax print are event tickets and coupons. By obtaining these benefits, the user can verify them as admission tickets or use them as discount coupons that can be used for shopping.

[0128] (5) Self-print service using a print kiosk terminal When a QR code embedded in an Instax print is read by the scanner 670 of the print kiosk terminal 600, the processor 120 of the center server 100 determines the following benefits: printing the same QR code (a QR code that can be used to play audio data) as the read QR code onto the user's image, adding decorative materials to the user's image, and providing a discount coupon.

[0129] (6) Photo booth service using a print kiosk terminal In a print kiosk terminal 600 that provides a photo booth service, when the scanner 670 of the print kiosk terminal 600 reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print, the processor 120 of the center server 100 sets a sound effect for when the user is photographed in the photo booth using a digital camera installed in the photo booth of the print kiosk terminal 600, and determines the benefit of playing that sound effect when the photo is taken, the benefit of adding decorative materials to the photo when the photo is taken in the booth, and the benefit of providing a discount coupon.

[0130] (7) When the Print Scan application user terminal 200 runs the Print Scan application, scans an Instax print image using the application, and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print, the processor 120 of the center server 100 determines the following benefits: the benefit of playing and saving the audio data of the artist who is the subject of the Instax print's photo content within the application, and the benefit of saving the image of the Instax print read by the Print Scan application to an internal storage medium of the user terminal 200 or another storage medium (for example, a website's storage medium).

[0131] (8) Browser (Standard Camera App) When the standard camera app set in the browser scans the Instax print and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print, the processor 120 of the center server 100 determines whether to play the audio data of the artist who is the subject of the Instax print's photo content in the browser, or to display a list of all the benefits set for the photo content and determine whether to view the benefits on the website.

[0132] [Actions after QR code reading] Figure 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between the conditions for reading a QR code (app / service) and the actions taken after the QR code has been read.

[0133] The following describes the actions taken after reading a QR code according to the conditions for reading the QR code, referring to Figure 10.

[0134] (1) Content distribution service (app) When the user terminal 200 scans the Instax print using the content distribution service app and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print, all the benefits determined for the content distribution service app are reflected in the content distribution service app after scanning.

[0135] (2) The printer / camera companion app user terminal 200 scans the Instax print image on the printer / camera companion app and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print. After scanning, it enters a shooting mode that reflects all the benefits determined for the printer / camera companion app.

[0136] (3) Event photography service (app) The user terminal 200 of the photography company providing the event photography service scans the Instax print on the event photography service app and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print. After scanning, the user enters a shooting mode that reflects all the benefits decided upon for the event photography service app.

[0137] (4) ID Service (App) When the user terminal 200 scans the Instax print using the ID service app and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print, the respective benefits determined for the ID service app are applied in each scene (reading mode).

[0138] (5) Self-print service using a print kiosk terminal When the print kiosk terminal 600 that provides the self-print service reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print by scanning the image, after scanning, the print kiosk terminal 600 that provides the self-print service enters a print order flow that reflects all the selected benefits.

[0139] (6) Photo booth service using a print kiosk terminal When the print kiosk terminal 600 that provides the photo booth service reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print by scanning the image, after scanning, the print kiosk terminal 600 that provides the photo booth service enters a shooting mode that reflects all the selected benefits.

[0140] (7) When the Print Scan app user terminal 200 scans an Instax print using the Print Scan app and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print, all the benefits (saving the scanned image, playing and saving the audio data) that were determined for the Print Scan app at the time of the print scan, which also includes scanning the QR code, are reflected in the Print Scan app.

[0141] (8) Browser (Standard Camera App) When the user terminal 200 scans the Instax print using the standard camera app set in the browser and reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print, all the selected benefits (display of a list of additional content (benefits), viewing of the selected benefit from the list, and playback of audio data) are reflected in the browser after scanning.

[0142] Furthermore, when displaying a list of services in a browser, it is preferable that, in addition to displaying a list so that all determined benefits can be viewed in the browser, the browser accesses location information via Bluetooth when the page is displayed to check whether there are any available services nearby, and displays a list so that users can see which ones are available.

[0143] [Content Distribution Method] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of the content distribution method according to the present invention.

[0144] The first embodiment shown in Figure 11 is a content distribution method applied to a content distribution system comprising a central server 100, a user terminal 200, and a bonus distribution server 300. However, the content distribution method can also be applied to a content distribution system that includes other terminals such as a print kiosk terminal 600 in addition to the user terminal 200, as shown in Figure 1, or to a content distribution system that includes other terminals such as a print kiosk terminal 600 instead of the user terminal 200. Furthermore, it can also be applied to a content distribution system in which the central server 100 also serves as part or all of the bonus distribution server 300.

[0145] Furthermore, the embodiment shown in Figure 11 illustrates a procedure for obtaining an Instax print 402 by using a content distribution service, where the user terminal 200 receives photo content from a central server 100, and prints the received photo content using a mobile printer 400. It also illustrates a procedure for obtaining additional content (bonuses) set for the photo content, which are determined by the content distribution service (app), by reading the QR code attached to the Instax print 402 using an application on the user terminal 200 (in the example shown in Figure 11, the content distribution service application).

[0146] Furthermore, the embodiment shown in Figure 11 illustrates the processing content of the processor 120 of the central server 100, the processor 210 of the user terminal 200, and the processor 320 of the benefit distribution server 300, and also includes the operation content of the user operating the user terminal 200.

[0147] In Figure 11, when a user uses a content distribution service to obtain (purchase) photo content featuring a desired artist from the central server 100 via the user terminal 200, the user launches the content distribution service application on the user terminal 200 (step S10).

[0148] The user requests a list of images (photo content) from the central server 100 via the content distribution service application on the user terminal 200. In this case, the user can select an artist and request a list of photo content featuring that artist.

[0149] When the central server 100 receives a request for a list of photo content from the user terminal 200, it sends a list of corresponding images to the user terminal 200. The content DB 140 of the central server 100 stores photo content uploaded from the content holder terminal 500, and the central server 100 generates a list of photo content of artists that can be distributed and sends it to the user terminal 200. Here, the photo content of artists that can be distributed is photo content stored in the content DB 140 that falls within a predetermined distribution period (or distribution time), and the images in the list are reduced images (thumbnail images) or low-resolution images.

[0150] When a user selects a desired photo content from a list of received images and requests the distribution of the selected photo content (image) from the user terminal 200, the center server 100 reads the requested photo content from the content DB 140 (step S100) and sends the read photo content to the user terminal 200. The photo content sent in this case has a dummy QR code embedded in it and is of an image quality unsuitable for instant printing.

[0151] Therefore, even if another user terminal 200 scans the screen of user terminal 200 displaying photo content with an embedded dummy QR code, it is not possible to obtain the additional content (benefits) attached to the photo content.

[0152] Subsequently, when a user prints a photo content with a dummy QR code embedded in it using the mobile printer 400, the user terminal 200 sends information identifying the photo content (identification information) and information indicating that it will be printed by the mobile printer 400 (for example, the serial number of the mobile printer 400) to the center server 100. The center server 100 reads the photo content corresponding to the identification information identifying the photo content from the content DB 140, generates an image with a QR code (photo content) by embedding a QR code indicating the identification information identifying the photo content into the read photo content, and distributes the photo content with the QR code for printing by the mobile printer 400 (step S110). In this case, it is preferable that the QR code embedded in the photo content includes, in addition to the identification information identifying the photo content, the serial number of the mobile printer 400 or information indicating that it will be printed by the mobile printer 400.

[0153] The user terminal 200 outputs (transmits) the photo content with a QR code received from the center server 100 to the mobile printer 400, which is wirelessly connected to the user terminal 200 (step S20). The mobile printer 400 exposes the photo content with a QR code received from the user terminal 200 onto Instax film, and develops a developer in the exposed area to print the photo content with the QR code onto the Instax film, outputting it as an Instax print 402.

[0154] Furthermore, when a user prints photo content with a QR code to the mobile printer 400, they must turn on the power of the mobile printer 400 and ensure that the user terminal 200 and the mobile printer 400 are able to communicate with each other (i.e., paired).

[0155] Furthermore, when the printing of the photo content by the mobile printer 400 is successfully completed, it is preferable for the user terminal 200 to send information to the central server 100 indicating that the printing has been successfully completed. This is because the central server 100 processes charges for the printed output of the photo content with a QR code. Needless to say, the central server 100 acquires user information in order to process charges for the distribution of the printed photo content.

[0156] Subsequently, the user can obtain additional content (bonuses) set for the photo content printed on the Instax print 402 by having the user terminal 200 read the QR code on the Instax print 402.

[0157] In the example shown in Figure 11, the user launches the content distribution service application on the user terminal 200, uses the camera function of the user terminal 200 within the application to scan an Instax print and read the QR code (step S30).

[0158] The user terminal 200 transmits the scanned QR code and the conditions under which the QR code was scanned (in this embodiment, since the QR code was scanned using a content distribution service application, this information indicates the application) to the central server 100.

[0159] Based on the QR code transmitted from the user terminal 200 and the information of the content distribution service application used when acquiring (reading) the QR code, the central server 100 determines one or more additional content items from among the additional content items set for the photo content printed on the Instax print 402, and grants the user terminal 200 access rights to the determined additional content (step S120).

[0160] Here, the determination of one or more additional content items set for the photo content is made according to a table showing the relationship between the additional content (benefits) set by the content holder for the photo content identified by the QR code, as shown in Figure 9, and the conditions for reading the QR code (app / service).

[0161] In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the QR code embedded in the Instax print 402 is read by the content distribution service app, so one or more additional content items corresponding to the content distribution service app are determined. However, if the QR code embedded in the Instax print 402 is read by an app or service other than the content distribution service app, it goes without saying that the additional content will be determined according to the type of app or service other than the content distribution service app.

[0162] Furthermore, granting access rights to the decided additional content includes granting the user the authority to enjoy the additional content via the user terminal 200 or print kiosk terminal 600.

[0163] The central server 100 performs information processing to enable users to enjoy the determined additional content.

[0164] For example, if audio data (voice messages) is attached as additional content to the photo content, and that audio data is managed by the additional content DB 340 of the bonus distribution server 300, the central server 100 can generate link information that includes information for obtaining the audio data (for example, a URL indicating the location where the audio data is stored), send the generated link information to the user terminal 200, and display it on the user terminal 200.

[0165] When a user selects link information (additional content) displayed on the user terminal 200 (step S40), the user terminal 200 sends a request to the bonus distribution server 300 to send the additional content corresponding to the link information. The bonus distribution server 300 reads the corresponding additional content from the additional content DB 340 based on the link information and sends the read additional content to the user terminal 200 (step S200).

[0166] This allows the user to obtain the desired additional content from the determined additional content (step S50).

[0167] According to this embodiment, content creators / registrants can manage photo content and additional content for that photo content together, and regardless of which service the additional content (benefits) was obtained through, the benefits can be obtained equally across other related services. Furthermore, even if multiple types of additional content are set for a single photo content, the additional content can be obtained from the additional content automatically determined according to the app / service being used, making it easy for users to obtain the additional content they desire.

[0168] Furthermore, the center server 100 is not limited to generating and transmitting information such as link information for acquiring additional content; it may also automatically distribute additional content or have additional content automatically distributed from the bonus distribution server 300. For example, when a user prints their own image onto Instax film using a print kiosk terminal that provides a self-printing service, additional content such as embedding a QR code on the Instax film to enable the acquisition of audio data, or sound effects for booth photography at a print kiosk terminal that provides a photo booth service, can be automatically distributed when the service is used, eliminating the need to select additional content.

[0169] Furthermore, the distribution of additional content is not limited to the distribution of digital content. For example, additional content (benefits) such as adding secret information to the in-app notification section or registering events in the event calendar will be provided in cooperation with the app. In addition, confirmation of event ticket entry and the issuance of coupons (points, discount coupons) can be performed by information processing within the central server 100 or the benefit distribution server 300, in which case only the result of the benefit issuance needs to be notified to the user terminal 200 or made available for confirmation.

[0170] Furthermore, it is preferable that the central server 100 or the reward distribution server 300 restrict the use of rewards with a limited number of uses based on user information, so that the same user cannot use the same reward an unlimited number of times. For example, rewards such as event tickets (admission confirmation) are examples of rewards with a limited number of uses. It is also preferable to limit the issuance of coupons (points, discount coupons) to once per purchase of a single photo content.

[0171] <Second Embodiment of the Method for Determining Additional Content> Figure 12 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the method for determining additional content determined by the central server.

[0172] Figure 12 shows that when a content holder has multiple additional content items (audio data) of the same type set for a photo content, the content of the additional content provided to the user changes based on the type of app / service that reads the QR code and the attributes of the user using the app / service.

[0173] In the example shown in Figure 12, the attribute information indicating user attributes is attribute information indicating three membership types: paid member, free member, and non-member. User attribute information is managed by at least one of the user management DB 150 in the central server 100 and the user management DB 350 in the benefits distribution server 300.

[0174] Therefore, the processor 120 of the central server 100 (or the processor 320 of the bonus content distribution server 300) can determine whether a user requesting additional content is a paid member, a free member, or a non-member, based on the user attribute information included in the user information registered in the user management DB 150 (or user management DB 350). Furthermore, users not registered in the user management DB 150 (or user management DB 350) can be determined to be non-members.

[0175] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 12, three types of audio data are set as additional content (bonuses) of the same type for one photo content, and the conditions (app / service) for reading the QR code are shown as using a content distribution service (app) and a browser (standard camera app).

[0176] In the example shown in Figure 12, when a user scans a QR code on the content distribution service app on the user terminal 200 and requests the distribution of audio data (bonus) from the user terminal 200, the processor 120 of the center server 100 (or the processor 320 of the bonus distribution server 300) acquires the user's attribute information. If the user's attribute information indicates a paid member, the paid member is granted the bonus of receiving three types of audio data. If the user's attribute information indicates a free member, the free member is granted the bonus of receiving two types of audio data. Note that the content distribution service app is downloaded to the user terminal 200 of users who purchase photo content (i.e., registered paid members or free members), so the content distribution service app is not downloaded to the user terminal 200 of non-member users.

[0177] On the other hand, non-members can use a browser (standard camera app) to scan a QR code and request the distribution of audio data (benefits) from their user terminal 200. In this case, the processor 120 of the center server 100 (or the processor 320 of the benefit distribution server 300) can obtain the user's attribute information (attribute information indicating the type of non-member). If the user's attribute information indicates that they are a non-member, the non-member can be granted the benefit of receiving one type of audio data.

[0178] In other words, if a non-member scans the QR code with the standard camera app, only one type of audio data can be played and saved; if a free member scans the QR code with the content distribution service app, two types of audio data can be played and saved; and if a paid member scans the QR code with the content distribution service app, three types of audio data can be played and saved. The number of audio data that can be played and saved is determined differently depending on the user's attribute information.

[0179] In the second embodiment of the method for determining additional content shown in Figure 12, three types of audio data are set as additional content of the same type. Furthermore, when the conditions for reading the QR code are to use a content distribution service app or a browser (standard camera app), and the user's attribute information indicates membership type (paid member, free member, or non-member), the number of additional content (audio data) is changed according to the conditions for reading the QR code and the user's attribute information. However, additional content of the same type is not limited to audio data; it can also be applied to other additional content such as sound effects during shooting or decorative materials. Moreover, the user's attribute information is not limited to information indicating membership type (paid member, free member, or non-member). Furthermore, it is not limited to changing the number of additional content of the same type that can be obtained according to the user's attribute information. If multiple additional content of the same type are ranked, the content of the additional content may also be changed according to the user's attribute information.

[0180] <Providing additional information based on the acquisition route of Instax prints> Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment that provides users with useful additional information based on the acquisition route of Instax prints.

[0181] In the example shown in Figure 13, four different methods are shown for a user to obtain an Instax print, as follows:

[0182] (1) A user of the content distribution service (app) + mobile printer can use the user terminal 200 to obtain (purchase) photo content with a QR code on the content distribution service app, and then send the photo content with the QR code to the mobile printer 400 which is wirelessly connected to the user terminal 200, thereby obtaining an Instax print with the photo content with the QR code printed on it.

[0183] The QR code embedded in the Instax print serves as the starting point for accessing additional content set for the purchased image (photo content) printed on that Instax print. As mentioned above, this QR code also includes information indicating that it was printed by the mobile printer 400.

[0184] (2) A user of the content distribution service (app) + self-print service uses the user terminal 200 to obtain photo content on the content distribution service app and has the central server 100 send the obtained photo content via the user terminal 200 to the print kiosk terminal 600 that provides the self-print service. The print kiosk terminal 600 receives the photo content with a QR code and prints an Instax print using the printer inside the print kiosk terminal 600.

[0185] Thus, users who do not own a mobile printer 400 can obtain instant prints using the print kiosk terminal 600, which provides a self-service printing service.

[0186] The print kiosk terminal 600, which provides a self-service printing service, will charge users for the Instax prints (including the purchased photo content). Furthermore, each purchased Instax print has a QR code embedded within it that serves as a starting point for accessing additional content set for the printed photo content. This QR code also includes information indicating that it was printed by the print kiosk terminal 600, as mentioned above.

[0187] (3) Photo booth service users can use the print kiosk terminal 600 that provides the photo booth service to obtain an instant photo print that combines their own image taken in the booth with a template related to the artist. The template has a QR code embedded in it that serves as the starting point for accessing additional content set for that template (photo content), and this QR code also has information attached to it indicating that it was printed by the print kiosk terminal 600 that provides the photo booth service.

[0188] (4) Event Photography Service + Printer (Owned by the Photography Company) At the event venue, the user terminal 200 of the photography company providing the event photography service can use an event-specific template to take photos of event participants (users) superimposed on the template. The printer owned by the photography company receives the images taken from the photographer's user terminal 200 and prints the images onto instant film. As a result, users can obtain instant prints in which their images are superimposed on the event-specific template. The event-specific template has a QR code embedded in it that serves as a starting point for accessing additional content set for that template (photo content), and this QR code also has information attached indicating that it was taken and printed using the event photography service.

[0189] Next, when a user obtains an Instax print as described above, or when a user uses an obtained Instax print to receive additional content (benefits), the processor 120 of the center server 100 provides the user with useful additional information different from the benefits, based on the type of service or the output destination of the Instax print.

[0190] In the example shown in Figure 13, if the user obtains an Instax print through the acquisition method described in (1) above (using their own mobile printer), it is presumed that they are also interested in obtaining an Instax print through the acquisition method described in (3) above (using a photo booth service). Therefore, the processor 120 provides the user with additional information, such as instructions on how to take a template photo at the photo booth.

[0191] In this case, additional information is provided to the user at the time the output destination (mobile printer 400) for the photo content is determined. Furthermore, when the user acquires photo content using the content distribution service (app) and sends the photo content from the user terminal 200 to the mobile printer 400, the processor 120 can acquire information that the distributed photo content will be printed by the mobile printer 400. Therefore, at the time the output destination (mobile printer 400) is determined, the processor 120 provides the user with additional information through the user terminal 200.

[0192] Furthermore, if a user obtains an Instax print through the acquisition method described in (2) above (self-print service), it is presumed that the user does not own a mobile printer. Therefore, the processor 120 provides the user with additional information, including information introducing mobile printers and information that a discount coupon can be used to purchase a mobile printer.

[0193] In this case, additional information is provided to the user at the time the destination for the photo content (the print kiosk terminal 600 that provides the self-print service) is determined. Furthermore, when the user acquires photo content using the content distribution service (app) and sends the photo content from the user terminal 200 to the print kiosk terminal 600, the processor 120 can acquire information that the distributed photo content will be printed by the printer in the print kiosk terminal 600. Therefore, at the time the destination (print kiosk terminal 600) is determined, the processor 120 provides the user with additional information through the user terminal 200.

[0194] If a user obtains an Instax print through the acquisition method described in (3) above (photo booth service), it is presumed that the user may also be interested in the acquisition method described in (1) above (obtaining an Instax print through a content distribution service). Therefore, the processor 120 provides the user with additional information, including information introducing the content distribution service and information that there are benefits such as the awarding of points, which are the in-app currency of the content distribution service.

[0195] In this case, the additional information is provided to the user when the user terminal 200 reads the QR code embedded in the Instax print obtained from the photo booth service, and the central server 100 determines one or more additional contents (benefits) based on the read QR code and the conditions (app / service) for reading the QR code. Since the QR code embedded in the Instax print obtained from the photo booth service contains information indicating the template, which is the photo content, and information indicating that the Instax print was printed at the print kiosk terminal 600 that provides the photo booth service, the processor 120 can provide the additional information to the user through the user terminal 200 at the time the benefits are determined as described above.

[0196] Furthermore, if a user obtains an Instax print through the acquisition method described in (4) above (event photo shooting service), it is presumed that the user may be interested in obtaining Instax prints through all of the acquisition methods described in (1) to (3) above. Therefore, the processor 120 provides the user with all of the additional information described in (1) to (3) above.

[0197] In this case, the additional information is provided to the user when the user terminal 200 reads the QR code embedded in the instant photo print obtained from the event photo shooting service, and the central server 100 determines one or more additional contents (benefits) based on the read QR code and the conditions (app / service) for reading the QR code. Since the QR code embedded in the instant photo print obtained from the event photo shooting service contains information indicating the event-limited template, which is the photo content, and information indicating that the instant photo print was printed by the photographer providing the event photo shooting service, the processor 120 can provide the additional information to the user via the user terminal 200 at the time the benefits are determined as described above.

[0198] [Other] In this embodiment, the central server constituting the content distribution system according to the present invention functions as an information processing device according to the present invention. However, the invention is not limited to this, and other devices constituting the content distribution system, such as user terminals and bonus distribution servers, may also be equipped with the functions of an information processing device. In this case, the device equipped with the functions of an information processing device needs to store a dedicated application for functioning as an information processing device, and the tables shown in Figure 9, etc., in its memory.

[0199] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the processing performed by the central server, the benefit distribution server, the user terminal, and the print kiosk terminal is executed on any computer. Alternatively, any computer may execute these processes using a processor as hardware, a program as software, or a combination thereof. In this case, the processor is configured to work in cooperation with the program to execute the various processes in this embodiment and can function as a unit or means in this embodiment. The execution order of the processes by the processor is not limited to the order described and may be changed as appropriate. Any computer may be a general-purpose computer, a computer designed for a specific purpose, a workstation, or any other system capable of executing the processes.

[0200] A processor may consist of one or more hardware components, and the type of hardware is not limited. For example, a processor may consist of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a programmable logic device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a dedicated circuit for executing a specific process such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a GPU (Graphic Processing Unit), or an NPU (Neural Processing Unit). Furthermore, the type of hardware may be a combination of different types of hardware. When multiple hardware components are configured to execute one or more processes of a processor, these multiple hardware components may reside in physically separate devices or in the same device. Also, in any embodiment, the order of each process performed by the processor is not limited to the order described above and may be changed as appropriate. Hardware is composed of electrical circuits (circuitry) that combine circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0201] Furthermore, the program may be firmware or software such as microcode. Alternatively, the program may be, for example, a set of program modules, each function of which may be implemented by a processor configured to perform its respective function. The program may be program code or multiple code segments stored on one or more non-temporary computer-readable media (e.g., storage media or other storage devices). The program may be divided and stored on multiple non-temporary computer-readable media located on physically separate devices. Program code or code segments may represent any combination of procedures, functions, subprograms, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, classes, or instructions, data structures, or program statements. Program code or code segments may be connected to other code segments or hardware circuits by sending and receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents.

[0202] Furthermore, the present invention includes a program that, when installed on a computer, causes the computer to function as an information processing device according to the present invention, and a non-volatile storage medium on which this program is recorded.

[0203] Furthermore, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0204] 1...Content distribution system 100...Central server 110...Communication unit 120...Processor 130...Memory 140...Content DB 150...User management DB 160...Content holder management DB 200...User terminal 210...Processor 220...Memory 230...Operation unit 240...Wireless communication unit 250...Display unit 260...Camera 270...Short-range wireless communication unit 300...Bonus distribution server 310...Communication unit 320...Processor 330...Memory 340...Additional content DB 350...User management DB 400...Mobile printer 402...Instax print 402a...Exposure area 402b...Developing solution pod 402c...Trap unit 404...QR code 500...Content holder terminal 600...Print kiosk terminal 610...Communication unit 620...Processor 630...Memory 640...Display 650...Operation Unit 660...Printer 670...Scanner NW...Network S10-S50...Steps indicating processing by the user terminal S100-S120...Steps indicating processing by the central server S200...Steps indicating processing by the bonus distribution server

Claims

1. An information processing device equipped with a processor, wherein the processor obtains identification information read from a first content, which is identification information set for the first content and serves as the starting point for accessing a second content, and conditions for reading the identification information, and determines one or more of the second content based on the identification information and the conditions.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the identification information includes information that identifies the first content.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first content is photographic content, and the identification information is assigned to the photographic content.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second content includes a plurality of additional contents added to the first content.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the processor acquires the identification information read by the terminal having a reading function from the terminal.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the condition includes the type of application software used by the terminal when acquiring the identification information.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the types of application software include one or more of the following: a content distribution service app that requests the distribution of the first content and is capable of printing at least the distributed first content; a companion app that operates a printer or camera, edits captured images, sends captured images to the printer, or takes photographs using the terminal held by the user; an event photography service app that combines an event-limited template with event participants and takes photographs; an ID service app that creates and reads ID cards with photographs; and a print scan app that allows automatic cropping and reading of images from a photograph print containing the first content, which is photographic content, and recording of the read images.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the type of application software includes a print scan application that allows recording an image read from a photographic print on which an image containing the first content, which is photographic content, is printed.

9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the print scan application is application software that records an image read from the photo print by image scanning onto the storage medium of the terminal or another storage medium.

10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the conditions include at least the type of print service at the terminal that provides the print service, or the type of the terminal.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the terminal that provides the print service includes at least one of a first print kiosk terminal that provides a self-service print service and a second print kiosk terminal that provides a photo booth service.

12. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the first print kiosk terminal receives an image transfer from the terminal which is a user terminal and outputs it as a photo print, or outputs the first content which is photo content as a photo print, and the second print kiosk terminal photographs the user in a shooting booth and outputs the captured image as a photo print.

13. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the second content includes at least one of the following: audio data, AR effects, decorative materials, benefits for using an image storage site, event tickets, and coupons.

14. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the second content is content related to the content holder of the first content.

15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor acquires user attribute information of a terminal owned by the user and changes the number or content of the second content according to the user attribute information.

16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor distributes the first content to a terminal and provides the user with additional information based on the type of service or the output destination of the photo print when the user obtains a photo print corresponding to the first content.

17. A content distribution system comprising a first server that distributes first content to a terminal, a terminal that receives the first content, and a second server that distributes second content set for the first content to the terminal, all connected via a network, wherein the first server assigns identification information to the first content and distributes the first content including the identification information to the terminal; the terminal prints the first content with the identification information assigned to it using a printer connected to the terminal to produce a photo print; when the terminal reads the identification information from the photo print, it transmits the identification information and the conditions for reading the identification information to the first server; the first server determines one or more of the second content from among the second content based on the identification information and the conditions, and grants the terminal access rights to the determined one or more of the second content; and the terminal obtains one or more of the second content to which it has been granted access rights from the second server.

18. The content distribution system according to claim 17, wherein the terminal includes a print kiosk terminal, the print kiosk terminal reads the identification information from the photo print and transmits the identification information and the conditions for reading the identification information to the first server, the first server determines one or more of the second contents from the second contents based on the identification information and the conditions, grants the print kiosk terminal access rights to the determined one or more of the second contents, and the print kiosk terminal obtains one or more of the second contents to which it has been granted access rights from the second server.

19. The content distribution system according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the first server includes part or all of the second server.

20. A content distribution method used in a content distribution system in which a first server that distributes first content to a terminal, a terminal that receives the first content, and a second server that distributes second content set for the first content to the terminal are connected via a network, the method comprising: the first server assigning identification information to the first content and distributing the first content including the identification information to the terminal; a printer connected to or built into the terminal receiving the first content to which the identification information has been assigned from the terminal, printing the first content and outputting a photo print; the terminal obtaining the identification information from the photo print; the terminal transmitting the identification information and the conditions for reading the identification information to the first server; the first server determining one or more second content from among the second content based on the identification information and the conditions, and granting the terminal access rights to the determined one or more second content; and the terminal obtaining one or more second content to which access rights have been granted from the second server.

21. The content distribution method according to claim 20, comprising: the terminal including a print kiosk terminal, the print kiosk terminal reading the identification information from the photo print, transmitting the identification information and the conditions for reading the identification information to the first server; the first server determining one or more second contents from among the second contents based on the identification information and the conditions, and granting the print kiosk terminal access rights to the determined one or more second contents; and the print kiosk terminal obtaining one or more second contents to which access rights have been granted from the second server.

22. The content distribution method according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the first server includes part or all of the second server.

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