Information processing device, information processing method, and recording medium

Abstract

An information processing device according to the present disclosure comprises a registration reception unit, an issuing unit, a trading management unit, a setting unit, an update unit, and a processing unit. The registration reception unit receives registration of content. The issuing unit issues an NFT associated with the registered content. The trading management unit receives a purchase of the registered content. The setting unit sets an expiration date of the NFT. The update unit updates the expiration date of the NFT. The processing unit executes predetermined processing on the NFT of which the expiration date has passed.

Description

Information Processing Apparatus, Information Processing Method, and Recording Medium

[0001] This disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program.

[0002] Related art to this disclosure is disclosed in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 discloses a medical data utilization system using NFT (Non-Fungible Token) and distributed storage. The system issues an NFT including an address for accessing medical data. For example, a researcher or the like purchases the NFT, accesses the medical data associated with the NFT, and uses the medical data for research or the like. Patent Document 1 describes that "at the time of issuing the NFT, a circulation period may be set, and automatic burning may be performed when the period has elapsed."

[0003] International Publication No. 2024 / 043255

[0004] According to the technology of setting some kind of deadline for NFT, effects such as controlling the circulation of NFT can be realized. However, there is room for improvement in this technology.

[0005] An example of the object of this disclosure is to provide a new technology related to the technology of setting a deadline for NFT.

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, there is provided an information processing apparatus having: registration reception means for receiving registration of content; issuance means for issuing an NFT associated with the registered content; trading management means for receiving purchase of the registered content; setting means for setting an expiration date of the NFT; update means for updating the expiration date; and processing means for executing a predetermined process on the NFT that has passed the expiration date.

[0007] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, an information processing method is provided in which one or more computers accept the registration of content, issue an NFT linked to the registered content, accept the purchase of the registered content, set an expiration date for the NFT, renew the expiration date, and perform a predetermined process on the NFT after its expiration date has passed.

[0008] Furthermore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, a program is provided that causes a computer to function as: a registration acceptance means for accepting registration of content; an issuing means for issuing NFTs linked to the registered content; a buying and selling management means for accepting purchases of the registered content; a setting means for setting an expiration date for the NFTs; an updating means for updating the expiration date; and a processing means for performing predetermined processing on NFTs that have expired.

[0009] According to this example of disclosure, new technologies related to the technology of setting expiration dates for NFTs will be realized.

[0010] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of an information processing device. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of an information processing device. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device. Figure 4 is a diagram showing another example of a functional block diagram of an information processing device. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of a UI (user interface) screen output by an information processing device. Figure 6 is a diagram showing another example of a UI screen output by an information processing device. Figure 7 is a diagram showing another example of a UI screen output by an information processing device.

[0011] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, the drawings are associated with one or more embodiments. In all drawings, similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted where appropriate.

[0012] <<First Embodiment>> Figure 1 is a functional block diagram showing an overview of the information processing device 10. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow executed by the information processing device 10.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 10 includes a registration reception unit 11, a sales management unit 12, an issuance unit 13, a setting unit 14, an update unit 15, and a processing unit 16. These functional units execute the processes shown in the flowchart of Figure 2.

[0014] First, the registration reception unit 11 accepts the registration of content (S10). Next, the issuing unit 13 issues an NFT linked to the registered content (S11).

[0015] Subsequently, the sales management unit 12 accepts the purchase of the registered content (S12). Then, the setting unit 14 sets the expiration date of the NFT (S13).

[0016] Subsequently, if the renewal conditions are met (Yes in S14), the renewal unit 15 renews the expiration date of the NFT (S15). Also, if the expiration date has passed (Yes in S16), the processing unit 16 performs a predetermined process (e.g., incineration) on the expired NFT (S17).

[0017] In this way, the information processing device 10 can set an expiration date for NFTs. Setting an expiration date for NFTs has effects such as controlling the circulation of NFTs. For example, even if an NFT is circulated illegally, the expiration date prevents the inconvenience of such NFTs circulating indefinitely.

[0018] However, if an expiration date or other deadline is set for an NFT, inconveniences may arise, such as the circulation of the NFT being hindered due to that deadline. For example, demand for NFTs nearing their expiration date decreases, making them difficult to circulate. To address this problem, the information processing device 10 can update the set expiration date of the NFT. For example, the information processing device 10 can extend the set expiration date of the NFT. With such an information processing device 10, the inconvenience of decreased demand for NFTs and the resulting hindrance to circulation due to an approaching expiration date can be suppressed.

[0019] Furthermore, for example, the information processing device 10 can also shorten the expiration date of a set NFT. If an NFT is being illegally distributed, the creator of the content associated with that NFT will want to stop the illegal distribution as soon as possible. By shortening the expiration date of a set NFT, the information processing device 10 can stop the illegal distribution of the NFT at an earlier stage. Also, in one aspect of this embodiment, there is an effect of reducing the amount of NFTs distributed. This is expected to reduce the computer resources required to manage NFTs. In addition to reducing computer resources, it is also expected to reduce power consumption.

[0020] <<Second Embodiment>> <Overview> The information processing device 10 of the second embodiment is a concrete implementation of the configuration of the information processing device 10 of the first embodiment. The information processing device 10 can set an expiration date for the NFT and renew the expiration date when the renewal conditions are met. A detailed explanation follows below.

[0021] <Hardware Configuration> First, an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described. Each functional unit of the information processing device 10 is realized by any combination of hardware and software. Those skilled in the art will understand that there are various variations in the implementation method and the device. The software includes programs that are pre-installed at the time of shipment of the device, as well as programs downloaded from recording media such as CDs (Compact Discs) or from servers on the Internet.

[0022] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10. As shown in Figure 3, the information processing device 10 includes a processor 1A, memory 2A, input / output interface 3A, peripheral circuitry 4A, and bus 5A. The peripheral circuitry 4A includes various modules. The information processing device 10 does not necessarily have peripheral circuitry 4A. The information processing device 10 may also be composed of multiple physically and / or logically separated devices. In this case, each of the multiple devices may have the above hardware configuration.

[0023] Bus 5A is a data transmission path for the processor 1A, memory 2A, peripheral circuit 4A, and input / output interface 3A to send and receive data to and from each other. The processor 1A is a processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). Memory 2A is a memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or ROM (Read Only Memory). The input / output interface 3A includes interfaces for acquiring information from input devices, external devices, external servers, external sensors, cameras, etc., and interfaces for outputting information to output devices, external devices, external servers, etc. The input / output interface 3A also includes interfaces for connecting to a communication network such as the Internet. Input devices include, for example, a keyboard, mouse, microphone, physical buttons, touch panel, etc. Output devices include, for example, a display, projection device, speaker, printer, mailer, etc. The processor 1A can issue commands to each module and perform calculations based on their calculation results.

[0024] <Functional Configuration> Next, the functional configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described in detail. The information processing device 10 is a server and can, for example, provide an NFT marketplace (platform). Users can convert content into NFTs, sell content, buy content, and transfer content through this platform. The content that is sold, bought, or transferred is linked to an NFT, and a user who purchases the content can also own the NFT linked to that content. For this reason, the sale, purchase, or transfer of content can also be considered as the sale, purchase, or transfer of the NFT linked to that content.

[0025] Figure 4 is an example of a functional block diagram of the information processing device 10. As shown in the figure, the information processing device 10 includes a registration reception unit 11, a sales management unit 12, an issuance unit 13, a setting unit 14, an update unit 15, a processing unit 16, and a UI unit 17.

[0026] The registration reception unit 11 accepts content registrations.

[0027] "Registered content" is linked to newly issued NFTs and can be bought and sold on the NFT marketplace. For example, various digital data such as images, videos, text data, games, music, memberships, and tickets can be registered as content. The examples of content given here are merely examples and are not limited to those given.

[0028] The registration reception unit 11 accepts content registrations from users. Users perform preliminary preparations such as user registration, account opening, and wallet creation by operating a terminal device. After completing the preliminary preparations, users access the NFT marketplace by operating the terminal device and display, for example, a UI screen provided by the registration reception unit 11 on the terminal device. The user then specifies the content to register on the UI screen and performs the operation to register the specified content. At this time, the user may also register the product name, sales price, thumbnail image, etc. of the content to be registered.

[0029] For example, the content creator, an administrator commissioned by the content creator, or the content owner can register the content.

[0030] The registration reception unit 11 stores the registered content in a predetermined storage device. The predetermined storage device may be located within the information processing device 10, or it may be located within an external device that is communicatively connected to the information processing device 10. The predetermined storage device exists outside the blockchain on which the NFTs are recorded. The same premise for the predetermined storage device applies below. As a variation, the content may be included in the NFTs recorded on the blockchain.

[0031] The issuing unit 13 issues NFTs linked to the content registered by the registration acceptance unit 11.

[0032] The issued NFT functions as a certificate proving a specified right to the linked content. This specified right may be ownership of the content itself, the right to perform a specified action on the content, or other rights. Examples of specified actions on the content include, but are not limited to, viewing, watching, or using the content.

[0033] The issuance of NFTs by the issuing unit 13 can be achieved using widely known blockchain technology. For example, the issuing unit 13 can issue NFTs by having blockchain nodes execute smart contracts.

[0034] A "blockchain" is a type of database that is constructed by connecting terminals on a network. Blockchain processes and records transaction records in a distributed manner. Such a blockchain is called a distributed ledger. Blockchain has the elemental technologies of a data structure (data linked by hash values ​​and digital signatures), a P2P (Peer-to-Peer) network, and a consensus algorithm (a mechanism for multiple nodes to perform the same actions). Known types of blockchains include public chains, private chains, and consortium chains. The information processing device 10 may use any type of blockchain.

[0035] A "blockchain node" is a node that makes up a blockchain. Multiple blockchain nodes communicate with each other. Blockchain nodes execute smart contracts that they have pre-programmed.

[0036] A "smart contract" is a program that automatically executes on the blockchain when certain conditions are met. Smart contracts can perform actions such as issuing NFTs, registering changes to NFT ownership, burning NFTs, and updating NFT metadata.

[0037] The issuing unit 13 passes the NFT issuance request to the smart contract along with the "various information regarding the content" that the registration acceptance unit 11 has received for registration. The smart contract issues the NFT in response to the request.

[0038] A smart contract issues an NFT containing content identification information, information indicating the content's storage location (URI: Uniform Resource Identifier), information indicating the NFT's owner, and information indicating the ownership change history, and records it on the blockchain. The NFT may also include the content itself instead of information indicating its storage location.

[0039] The trading management unit 12 accepts purchases of content that has been registered by the registration acceptance unit 11 and linked to NFTs. The purchase of content can also be considered as the purchase of the NFT linked to that content.

[0040] The trading management unit 12 can accept content purchases using widely known NFT marketplace technology. For example, an NFT marketplace provides a UI screen that displays a list of content and detailed information about each content item. The UI screen may also provide a function to search for content using information such as the selling price, content type, content seller, and content author as keys. Such related content information may be pre-stored in a predetermined storage device linked to each content item (each NFT). In addition, NFTs recorded on the blockchain may also contain this information.

[0041] The trading management unit 12 accepts content purchases from users. Users first perform preliminary steps such as user registration, account opening, and wallet creation by operating a terminal device. After completing these preliminary steps, users access the NFT marketplace by operating the terminal device and display, for example, a UI screen provided by the trading management unit 12 on the terminal device. The user then specifies the content to purchase on the UI screen and performs the operation to purchase the specified content. The trading management unit 12 can accept content purchases through such user operations.

[0042] When the content purchase management unit 12 receives a purchase of content, it executes a process of changing the ownership of the NFT associated with the content to the user who purchased the content. "Changing the ownership of the NFT" means updating the information indicating the owner of the NFT recorded on the blockchain. The change of the ownership of the NFT by the content purchase management unit 12 can be realized by using widely known blockchain technology. For example, the content purchase management unit 12 passes a request to update the owner of the NFT to the smart contract together with the content identification information and the information indicating the new owner. The smart contract updates the NFT in response to the request.

[0043] The setting unit 14 sets the expiration date of the NFT. For example, the setting unit 14 sets the expiration date of the NFT associated with the content in response to the receipt of the purchase of the content by the content purchase management unit 12. In advance, the expiration period of the NFT is determined. The setting unit 14 sets the date when the expiration period has elapsed since the day the content was purchased as the expiration date.

[0044] The expiration period may be a common value for all contents, or may be different for each content. For example, the user who registered each content may be able to set the expiration period.

[0045] The setting unit 14 can store the expiration date set for the NFT in a predetermined storage device in association with the NFT (or the content associated with the NFT). In addition, the setting unit 14 may record information indicating the expiration date in the NFT and record it on the blockchain. In this case, the setting unit 14 passes a request to update the NFT to the smart contract together with the content identification information and the information indicating the expiration date. The smart contract updates the NFT in response to the request.

[0046] The update unit 15 updates the expiration date of the NFT when a predetermined update condition is satisfied.

[0047] "Updating the expiration date" includes at least one of extending the expiration date and shortening the expiration date.

[0048] The "update condition" is that there has been an update request from the user. In the following embodiments, other examples of the update condition will be described.

[0049] For example, the update unit 15 can receive a request for extension or shortening of the NFT from the user who "registered the content associated with the NFT and issued the NFT (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the'registered user')". The update unit 15 can receive a request for extension or shortening of the NFT from the registered user even when another user has purchased and owns the NFT. The registered user can update the expiration date of the NFT associated with the content registered by himself / herself.

[0050] In addition, the update unit 15 may be able to receive a request for extension or shortening of the NFT from the administrator of the NFT marketplace. The administrator of the NFT marketplace may be able to update the expiration dates of all NFTs issued in the NFT marketplace.

[0051] The user or administrator who requests the extension or shortening of the NFT may be able to specify the extension period or shortening period. For example, the upper and lower limits of the extension period and shortening period that can be specified in advance may be defined. And the user or administrator may be able to specify the extension period or shortening period within that range.

[0052] The update unit 15 updates the expiration date registered by the setting unit 14. When the setting unit 14 stores the expiration date of the NFT in a predetermined storage device, the update unit 15 updates the expiration date of the NFT stored in the predetermined storage device. On the other hand, when the setting unit 14 includes information indicating the expiration date in the NFT and records it on the blockchain, the update unit 15 updates the expiration date recorded on the blockchain. In this case, the update unit 15 passes a request for updating the expiration date included in the NFT, together with the content identification information and the information indicating the expiration date, to the smart contract. The smart contract updates the NFT in response to the request.

[0053] The processing unit 16 monitors whether the expiration date set for each NFT has passed. And the processing unit 16 executes a predetermined process on the NFT whose expiration date has passed.

[0054] One example of a predetermined process is incineration. The predetermined process may be any other process that prevents the NFT and its associated content from being distributed. For example, an incinerated NFT is moved to a special account that no one can access. The update unit 15 passes the NFT incineration request, along with the content identification information, to the smart contract. The smart contract incinerates the NFT in response to the request.

[0055] The UI unit 17 transmits and displays the various UI screens of the NFT marketplace described above to the user's terminal device. The UI unit 17 can then receive various inputs from the user through these UI screens.

[0056] Next, an example of the processing flow of the information processing device 10 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 2. The purpose here is simply to explain the processing flow. Details of each process have been described above, so explanations will be omitted here as appropriate.

[0057] First, the information processing device 10 accepts content registration from the user (S10). Next, the information processing device 10 issues an NFT linked to the registered content (S11).

[0058] Subsequently, the information processing device 10 accepts the purchase of the registered content (S12). Then, the information processing device 10 sets the expiration date of the NFT (S13).

[0059] Subsequently, if the renewal conditions are met (Yes in S14), the information processing device 10 renews the expiration date (S15). Also, if the expiration date has passed (Yes in S16), the information processing device 10 performs a predetermined process (e.g., incineration) on the NFT that has expired (S17).

[0060] <Effects and Effects> The information processing device 10 of the second embodiment can achieve the same effects and effects as the information processing device 10 of the first embodiment.

[0061] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can receive requests from registered users who have registered content linked to an NFT and issued that NFT to extend or shorten the validity period of that NFT. The information processing device 10 can receive requests from registered users to extend or shorten the validity period of an NFT even if another user has purchased and owns that NFT. Registered users can also renew the expiration date of NFTs linked to content they have registered.

[0062] With such an information processing device 10, registered users can control the distribution of content they have registered and the NFTs associated with them. For example, by extending the expiration date of an NFT, a registered user can allow that NFT and the associated content to be distributed for a longer period. Alternatively, by shortening the expiration date of an NFT, a registered user can limit the distribution period of that NFT and the associated content, or even stop its distribution altogether.

[0063] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can receive requests from the NFT marketplace administrator to extend or shorten the validity period of an NFT. The NFT marketplace administrator may also renew the validity period of all NFTs issued on the NFT marketplace.

[0064] With such an information processing device 10, the administrator of the NFT marketplace can control the distribution of content and associated NFTs circulating on the NFT marketplace. For example, the administrator of the NFT marketplace can, in response to requests from users or content creators, shorten the expiration date of illegally circulating NFTs, thereby limiting the distribution period of those NFTs and associated content, or even stopping their distribution altogether.

[0065] <<Third Embodiment>> The information processing device 10 of the third embodiment differs from that of the second embodiment in the content of the conditions (renewal conditions) for executing the renewal of the NFT's expiration date. The information processing device 10 can renew the NFT's expiration date in response to the actions of the user who owns the NFT. This will be explained in detail below.

[0066] Figure 4 is an example of a functional block diagram of the information processing device 10. As shown in the figure, the information processing device 10 includes a registration reception unit 11, a sales management unit 12, an issuance unit 13, a setting unit 14, an update unit 15, a processing unit 16, and a UI unit 17.

[0067] The update unit 15 detects a predetermined action performed by a user who has purchased and owns the content (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "owning user"). The update unit 15 then updates the expiration date of the NFT in response to the detection of the predetermined action. In the third embodiment, the condition for updating the NFT is the detection of a predetermined action performed by the owning user. The update condition may also include the conditions described in the second embodiment.

[0068] The specified actions include at least one of the following: • Promoting purchased and owned content; • Promoting and purchasing related content associated with purchased and owned content; • Promoting and purchasing designated content specified by the registered user (registrant) who registered the owned content; • Transferring owned content to another user; • Paying extension fees.

[0069] "Promoting purchased and owned content" Owners can extend the expiration date of NFTs associated with their owned content by promoting it using pre-specified promotion methods. Any widely known technology can be used for promotion methods and the criteria by which the update unit 15 determines that promotion has taken place. An example is described below, but the system is not limited to this example.

[0070] For example, the information processing device 10 can utilize an affiliate system. The owner user posts information (such as a URL or an advertising image with a link) that directs users to a designated webpage on their own website, blog, or SNS (Social Networking Service). The designated webpage includes, for example, content advertising information. The update unit 15 provides the owner user with information that directs users to the designated webpage.

[0071] In this example, the advertising effect can be calculated using an affiliate mechanism. For example, the number of times a designated webpage is accessed via information posted by the user who owns the webpage may be calculated as the advertising effect. Alternatively, the number of times a designated webpage is accessed via information posted by the user who owns the webpage and then performs a designated action on that webpage (number of actions) may be calculated as the advertising effect. The designated action here is exemplified by, but is not limited to, purchasing content.

[0072] The update unit 15 may determine that the user has performed advertising if the advertising effect meets the criteria. The update unit 15 may also determine the extension period of the NFT's validity period based on the advertising effect. The update unit 15 can extend the NFT's validity period if the advertising effect is high (i.e., the number of accesses or actions is high). For example, an extension period determination model is provided in advance to determine the extension period from the advertising effect. The extension period determination model may be a calculation formula that calculates the extension period from the advertising effect, or it may include a table that shows the correspondence between the advertising effect and the extension period. The update unit 15 can determine the extension period of the NFT's validity period based on the extension period determination model.

[0073] As an alternative, the extension period for the NFT's validity period may be predetermined. The renewal unit 15 may then utilize that extension period. In this case, the extension period is constant regardless of the advertising effect.

[0074] "Promoting related content associated with purchased and owned content" In this example, the owner can extend the expiration date of NFTs linked to owned content by promoting related content that is associated with the owned content, rather than the owned content itself.

[0075] Multiple pieces of content are pre-grouped according to predetermined rules. For example, content by the same author may be grouped together. Alternatively, content in the same price range may be grouped together. Furthermore, content of the same type may be grouped together. Note that the grouping method is not limited to the examples given here.

[0076] The update unit 15 identifies the group to which the content owned by the user belongs, and then extracts at least one piece of content from the identified group as related content. The update unit 15 then provides the user with information (such as a URL or a linked advertising image) that directs them to a predetermined webpage containing, for example, advertising information for the related content. The user promotes the related content by posting this information on their own website, blog, social media, etc.

[0077] There are various methods for extracting at least one piece of content as related content from a identified group. For example, the update unit 15 may extract randomly, or it may extract content that satisfies predefined extraction conditions. The extraction conditions may be that the content has been extracted as related information the fewest times within the group, or other conditions may apply.

[0078] The update unit 15 can determine that the owner has promoted the content using the same method as in the example of "promoting purchased and owned content" described above. The update unit 15 can also determine the extension period of the NFT's validity period using the same method as in that example.

[0079] "Promotion of designated content specified by a registered user (registrant) who has purchased and registered the content they own." In this example, the owning user can extend the expiration date of the NFT associated with the owned content by promoting the designated content specified by the registered user of the owned content. The designated content may be owned content or content different from the owned content.

[0080] Registered users can pre-register designated content in the NFT marketplace (information processing device 10). The update unit 15 refers to this information to identify the designated content that the owner user has specified. The update unit 15 then provides the owner user with information (such as a URL or a linked advertising image) that directs them to a predetermined webpage containing, for example, advertising information for the designated content. The owner user promotes the designated content by posting this information on their website, blog, social media, etc.

[0081] The update unit 15 can determine that the owner has promoted the content using the same method as in the example of "promoting purchased and owned content" described above. The update unit 15 can also determine the extension period of the NFT's validity period using the same method as in that example.

[0082] "Transferring purchased and owned content to other users" Owners can transfer their owned content and associated NFTs to other users on the NFT Marketplace. That is, for example, an owner can transfer content purchased on the NFT Marketplace and associated NFTs to other users on the NFT Marketplace. The transfer may be for a fee or free of charge.

[0083] For example, the trading management unit 12 receives applications from owning users to sell content and associated NFTs. The selling price (resale price) may be determined by the owning user. In response to such applications, the trading management unit 12 sells the content and associated NFTs owned by the owning user on the NFT marketplace. Other users can purchase that content and associated NFTs. The configuration of an NFT marketplace providing such services can be realized using widely known technologies.

[0084] The trading management unit 12 executes a process to change the ownership of the NFT to the user who purchased the NFT and its associated content, in response to the completion of the transaction. For example, in response to the completion of the transaction, the trading management unit 12 passes a request to update the NFT's ownership, along with content identification information and information indicating the new owner, to the smart contract. The smart contract updates the NFT in response to the request.

[0085] The update unit 15 can determine that the update conditions are met when such content and associated NFTs are transferred.

[0086] For example, the update unit 15 may set the new expiration date to a period beyond the current expiration date. In this case, the extension period for the NFT's expiration date may be predetermined. Alternatively, the update unit 15 may set the new expiration date to a period beyond the current date. In this case, the reference period may be predetermined.

[0087] Furthermore, the update unit 15 may be configured not to extend the expiration date of the NFT if a predetermined error condition is met, even if the content and the NFT associated with it are transferred.

[0088] The error condition is that consent cannot be obtained from the registered user of the content.

[0089] The update unit 15, when a transfer of content and its associated NFTs occurs, can inquire with the registered user of the content whether or not they consent to the transfer and obtain a response. In this inquiry, the update unit 15 may present the registered user of the content with information that includes at least one of the following: • The NFT buying and selling history of the owning user • The period of ownership of the content being transferred by the owning user • The resale price of the content being transferred • The NFT buying and selling history of the user newly purchasing the content

[0090] The update unit 15 can receive the above-mentioned inquiries and responses, for example, on the UI screen of the NFT marketplace. If the content registrant's response indicates agreement, the update unit 15 performs the above-mentioned expiration date extension process and extends the expiration date. On the other hand, if the content registrant's response indicates disagreement, the update unit 15 does not perform the above-mentioned expiration date extension process and does not extend the expiration date.

[0091] "Payment of Extension Fees" Owners can extend the expiration date of their NFTs by paying an extension fee on the NFT Marketplace.

[0092] The update unit 15 can accept requests from the NFT owner to specify the NFT whose expiration date to be extended on the NFT marketplace UI screen, pay the extension fee, and extend the expiration date. The extension fee may vary depending on the extension period. In this case, the owner owner selects the desired extension period and pays the extension fee corresponding to the selected period.

[0093] The renewal unit 15 can determine that the renewal conditions are met when an extension fee is incurred.

[0094] Other configurations of the information processing device 10 can be the same as those in the first and second embodiments.

[0095] The information processing device 10 of the third embodiment can achieve the same effects as the information processing device 10 of the first and second embodiments. Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can update the expiration date of an NFT in response to an action taken by the user who owns the NFT.

[0096] For example, the information processing device 10 can extend the validity period of an NFT in response to the owner user promoting the content they own, related content, or designated content. In such a configuration, it is expected that the owner user will actively engage in the aforementioned promotion. As a result, excellent promotional effects can be expected.

[0097] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can determine the extension period based on the effectiveness of the advertising. In this configuration, it is expected that the owner will be more proactive in the advertising. As a result, a better advertising effect can be expected.

[0098] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can extend the validity period of an NFT in response to the transfer of content and associated NFTs to other users. In this configuration, it is expected that the owning user will actively transfer content and associated NFTs to other users. As a result, active distribution of content and associated NFTs is expected.

[0099] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can extend the validity period of the NFT in response to payment of an extension fee. In this configuration, it is expected that the owner will actively pay the extension fee. As a result, revenue from this extension fee is expected.

[0100] <<Fourth Embodiment>> The information processing device 10 of the fourth embodiment has a function to provide a distinctive UI screen related to the expiration date of the NFT. This will be described in detail below.

[0101] Figure 4 is an example of a functional block diagram of the information processing device 10. As shown in the figure, the information processing device 10 includes a registration reception unit 11, a sales management unit 12, an issuance unit 13, a setting unit 14, an update unit 15, a processing unit 16, and a UI unit 17.

[0102] The UI unit 17 provides a distinctive UI screen related to the expiration date of the NFT. This UI screen is displayed on the user's terminal device.

[0103] As shown in Figure 5, the UI unit 17 can output a UI screen that displays a list of content owned by the user, and further shows the remaining period (remaining days) until the expiration date of the NFT associated with each piece of content. The UI unit 17 may also highlight content with a remaining period below a threshold on the UI screen.

[0104] Such a UI screen allows users to easily understand the content they own, as well as the remaining validity period of NFTs associated with that content.

[0105] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the UI unit 17 can output a UI screen that notifies the user of content whose remaining time until expiration falls below a threshold. In this case, the UI unit 17 identifies content whose remaining time falls below the threshold by comparing the remaining time of the NFT associated with the content owned by the user with the threshold. Then, as shown in Figure 6, the UI unit 17 can output a UI screen that warns the user that the expiration date of the NFT associated with the identified content is approaching. For example, the UI unit 17 may display a pop-up notification as shown in Figure 6 when the NFT Marketplace app is launched on the user's terminal device.

[0106] Furthermore, a link may be provided in the notification on the UI screen, as shown in Figure 6. This link may also be a link to a guidance screen for renewing the expiration date. This guidance screen may explain the method for renewing the expiration date. The link may also be a link to a screen that initiates the process of renewing the expiration date. The screen that initiates the process of renewing the expiration date may have selection buttons such as "Promote Content," "Transfer Content," and "Pay Extension Fee." Depending on the operation of each selection button, the user may be redirected to a screen for initiating the respective action.

[0107] Such a UI screen allows users to easily identify NFTs and associated content that are nearing their expiration date.

[0108] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, the UI unit 17 can display the remaining period until the expiration date of the NFT associated with each piece of content being sold on the UI screen for purchasing content.

[0109] Figure 7 shows the purchase screen for manga C. This purchase screen displays a list of manga C titles currently on sale. The screen also shows the publisher, price, and remaining period (number of days remaining) for each manga C title. The number in parentheses (+50) in the remaining days in the figure indicates the period extended by the transfer of the content and its associated NFT. The "+50" in the figure indicates that the NFT's validity period is extended by 50 days upon transfer. The purchase screen in Figure 7 may also display additional benefits associated with each NFT (e.g., limited-edition first-edition bonuses, full-color pages, etc.).

[0110] This UI screen allows users to easily understand the remaining validity period of the NFTs associated with each piece of content being sold. Furthermore, users can easily understand the remaining validity period of the NFTs associated with each piece of content being sold, taking into account the extension of the NFT's validity period through NFT transfer.

[0111] Other configurations of the information processing device 10 can be the same as those of the first to third embodiments.

[0112] The information processing device 10 of the fourth embodiment can achieve the same effects as the information processing device 10 of the first to third embodiments. Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can display a characteristic UI screen as shown in Figures 5 to 7. Based on such a UI screen, the user can easily grasp the remaining period of an NFT in various situations. Based on the information grasped, the user can then decide whether or not to take action to extend the expiration date, select NFTs (content) to purchase, and so on.

[0113] <<Modification>> As described in the third embodiment, according to the information processing device 10, an owner user who has purchased and owns NFTs and associated content can transfer them to other users.

[0114] In a modified version, the sales management unit 12 can determine the sales price (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "resale price") of content owned by the user and the NFTs associated with it.

[0115] For example, the trading management unit 12 may determine the resale price of the content and the NFT associated with it based on the remaining period until the NFT's expiration date. The longer the remaining period, the higher the resale price the trading management unit 12 can determine.

[0116] For example, a resale price determination model is provided that determines the resale price based on the initial selling price and remaining period set by the content's registrant. The resale price determination model may also be a formula that calculates the resale price from the initial selling price and remaining period set by the content's registrant. In addition, the resale price determination model may include a table that shows the correspondence between the initial selling price and remaining period set by the content's registrant and the resale price. The sales management unit 12 can determine the resale price based on the resale price determination model. The resale price determination model may also determine the resale price to be lower than the initial selling price set by the content's registrant.

[0117] The trading management unit 12 may, instead of determining the resale price, determine a lower limit and an upper limit for the resale price. The trading management unit 12 may also accept input from the owner user to determine the resale price within that range. The lower limit and upper limit for the resale price can be determined by various methods. For example, the trading management unit 12 may calculate the lower limit by subtracting a predetermined adjustment value from the resale price determined by the above resale price determination model. The trading management unit 12 may also calculate the upper limit by adding a predetermined adjustment value to the resale price determined by the above resale price determination model. The trading management unit 12 may also determine the upper limit as an amount lower than the sales price initially set by the content registration user.

[0118] As another variation, when the sales management unit 12 accepts a purchase of content, it may inquire with the registered user of that content whether or not they consent to its transfer and obtain a response. The sales management unit 12 can perform the above inquiry and receive the response, for example, on the UI screen of the NFT marketplace. If the registered user of the content responds in agreement, the sales management unit 12 can execute a process to change the ownership of the NFT associated with that content to the user who purchased the content. In this case, if the registered user of the content responds in disagreement, the sales management unit 12 does not execute the process to change the ownership of the NFT associated with the content as described above. This process can prevent the transfer of content against the will of the registered user of the content.

[0119] Although this disclosure has been described above with reference to embodiments, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications to the structure and details of this disclosure are possible, which can be understood by those skilled in the art within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0120] Furthermore, the flowchart used in the above explanation shows multiple steps (processes) in sequence. However, the execution order of the steps performed in each embodiment is not limited to the order in which they are described. In each embodiment, the order of the illustrated steps can be changed to the extent that it does not impede the content.

[0121] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following: 1. An information processing device having: a registration acceptance means for accepting registration of content; an issuance means for issuing NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) associated with the registered content; a buying and selling management means for accepting purchases of the registered content; a setting means for setting an expiration date for the NFTs; an update means for updating the expiration date; and a processing means for executing a predetermined process on the NFTs that have expired. 2. The information processing device according to 1, having a UI means for outputting a User Interface (UI) screen that shows a list of the content owned by the user and further shows the remaining period until the expiration date of the NFTs associated with each of the content. 3. The information processing device according to 1 or 2, wherein the update means detects a predetermined action by a user who has purchased and owns the content, and updates the expiration date in response to the detection of the predetermined action. 4. 3. The information processing device according to 3, wherein the predetermined action includes at least one of the following: promoting the content, promoting related content related to the content, promoting designated content specified by the registrant who registered the content, transferring the content to another user, and paying an extension fee. 5. The information processing device according to 4, wherein the update means detects at least one of the following as the predetermined action: promoting the content, promoting the related content, and promoting the designated content, calculates the promotional effect of the detected predetermined action, and determines the extension period of the validity period based on the promotional effect. 6. The information processing device according to 4, wherein the update means detects that ownership of the content has been transferred to another user as the predetermined action, obtains the registrant's response regarding whether or not they agree to the transfer of ownership of the content, extends the validity period if the response is an agreement, and does not extend the validity period if the response is an agreement. 7. The information processing device according to any one of 1 to 6, wherein the processing means incinerates the NFT if the validity period has expired.8. An information processing device according to any one of 1 to 7, comprising: an application acceptance means for accepting an application from a user who has purchased the content to sell the content to another user; and a determination means for determining the selling price of the content based on the remaining period until the expiration date of the NFT linked to the content. 9. An information processing method in which one or more computers accept registration of content, issue an NFT linked to the registered content, accept purchase of the registered content, set an expiration date for the NFT, renew the expiration date, and perform a predetermined process on the NFT after its expiration date has passed. 10. A program that causes a computer to function as: a registration acceptance means for accepting registration of content; an issuing means for issuing an NFT linked to the registered content; a sales management means for accepting purchase of the registered content; a setting means for setting an expiration date for the NFT; a renewal means for renewing the expiration date; and a processing means for performing a predetermined process on the NFT after its expiration date has passed.

[0122] Some or all of the appendices 2 to 8, which are dependent on the information processing device described in appendice 1 above, may also be dependent on the information processing method in appendice 9 and the program in appendice 10 in the same dependent relationship as between appendice 1 and appendices 2 to 8. Furthermore, within the scope of not departing from each of the embodiments described above, some or all of the configurations described as appendices can be realized in various hardware, software, various recording means for recording software, or systems.

[0123] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-180701, filed on 16 October 2024, and incorporates all of its disclosures herein.

[0124] 10 Information Processing Unit 11 Registration Reception Unit 12 Sales Management Unit 13 Issuance Unit 14 Setting Unit 15 Update Unit 16 Processing Unit 17 UI Unit 1A Processor 2A Memory 3A Input / Output I / F 4A Peripheral Circuits 5A Bus

Claims

1. An information processing device comprising: a registration acceptance means for accepting registration of content; an issuance means for issuing NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) linked to the registered content; a trading management means for accepting purchases of the registered content; a setting means for setting an expiration date for the NFTs; an update means for updating the expiration date; and a processing means for executing a predetermined process on NFTs that have expired.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising UI means for outputting a User Interface (UI) screen that displays a list of the content owned by the user, and further displays the remaining period until the expiration date of the NFT associated with each of the contents.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the update means detects a predetermined action by a user who has purchased and owns the content, and updates the expiration date in response to the detection of the predetermined action.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined action includes at least one of the following: promoting the content, promoting related content related to the content, promoting designated content specified by the registrant who registered the content, transferring the content to another user, and paying extension fees.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the update means detects at least one of the following as a predetermined action: advertising the content, advertising the related content, and advertising the designated content; calculates the advertising effect of the detected predetermined action; and determines the extension period of the expiration date based on the advertising effect.

6. The information processing device according to claim 4, wherein the update means detects that ownership of the content has been transferred to another user as a predetermined action, obtains a response from the registrant indicating whether or not they consent to the transfer of ownership of the content, extends the expiration date if the response indicates consent, and does not extend the expiration date if the response indicates disconsent.

7. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the processing means incinerates the NFT when the expiration date has passed.

8. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising: an application receiving means for receiving an application from a user who has purchased the content to sell the content to another user; and a determination means for determining the selling price of the content based on the remaining period until the expiration date of the NFT linked to the content.

9. An information processing method comprising one or more computers that accepts registration of content, issues an NFT linked to the registered content, accepts purchase of the registered content, sets an expiration date for the NFT, renews the expiration date, and performs a predetermined process on the NFT after its expiration date has passed.

10. The information processing method according to claim 9, wherein one or more computers output a UI screen that shows a list of the content owned by the user, and further shows the remaining period until the expiration date of the NFT associated with each of the contents.

11. The information processing method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein one or more computers detect a predetermined action by a user who has purchased and owns the content, and updates the expiration date in response to the detection of the predetermined action.

12. The information processing method according to claim 11, wherein the predetermined action includes at least one of the following: promoting the content, promoting related content related to the content, promoting designated content specified by the registrant who registered the content, transferring the content to another user, and paying extension fees.

13. The information processing method according to claim 12, wherein one or more computers detect at least one of the following as a predetermined action: advertising the content, advertising the related content, and advertising the designated content; calculate the advertising effect of the detected predetermined action; and determine the extension period of the expiration date based on the advertising effect.

14. The information processing method according to claim 12, which detects that one or more computers have transferred ownership of the content to another user as a predetermined action, obtains a response from the registrant indicating whether or not they consent to the transfer of ownership of the content, extends the expiration date if the response indicates consent, and does not extend the expiration date if the response indicates refusal to consent.

15. A recording medium on which a program is recorded that causes a computer to function as: a registration acceptance means for accepting registration of content; an issuing means for issuing NFTs linked to the registered content; a sales management means for accepting purchases of the registered content; a setting means for setting an expiration date for the NFTs; an updating means for updating the expiration date; and a processing means for performing a predetermined process on the NFTs that have expired.

16. The program according to claim 15, which records the program that causes the computer to function as a UI means that outputs a UI screen that shows a list of the content owned by the user and further shows the remaining period until the expiration date of the NFT associated with each of the contents.

17. The recording medium according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the updating means detects a predetermined action by a user who has purchased and owns the content, and updates the expiration date in response to the detection of the predetermined action.

18. The recording medium according to claim 17, wherein the predetermined action includes at least one of the following: promoting the content, promoting related content related to the content, promoting designated content specified by the registrant who registered the content, transferring the content to another user, and paying extension fees.

19. The recording medium according to claim 18, wherein the updating means detects at least one of the following as a predetermined action: advertising the content, advertising the related content, and advertising the designated content; calculates the advertising effect of the detected predetermined action; and determines the extension period of the expiration date based on the advertising effect.

20. The recording medium according to claim 18, wherein the update means detects that ownership of the content has been transferred to another user as a predetermined action, obtains a response from the registrant indicating whether or not they consent to the transfer of ownership of the content, extends the expiration date if the response indicates consent, and does not extend the expiration date if the response indicates disconsent.

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