JP2019165505A - System, method and program for distributing digital content - Google Patents

Abstract

To make it possible to easily grasp conditions of viewed content or promote input of appropriate input information by a user viewing digital content.SOLUTION: A distribution system according to one embodiment is configured to: present, in a first mode to a viewer user, a distribution screen in which digital content distributed by a distributor user is played; and change modes of the distribution screen from the first mode to a second mode so as to present the distribution screen in the second mode to the viewer user. In addition, input information input by the viewer user is received via the distribution screen in each of the first mode and the second mode. In the distribution screen, the input information that can be input in the first mode is different from the input information that can be input in the second mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a system, method, and program for distributing digital content.

  Conventionally, there is a system in which a user who views digital content such as a moving image can input input information such as an evaluation and a comment on the content. For example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2015-143919 discloses a system configured such that a user who views live content can input an item for evaluation during viewing. The input information such as the evaluation item is typically reflected on a screen for reproducing the content according to the input, and as a result, shared with other users. Therefore, the user can not only view the content but also participate in the content distribution through the input of input information, and enjoy communication with other users.

JP2015-143919A

  However, for example, a user who has viewed digital content from the middle does not know the content of the content before the viewing start time, so the status of the content at that time (for example, the status of live performance, event, etc.) It is difficult to grasp. In particular, when content is viewed using a device such as a smartphone having a small screen, the amount of information obtained from the screen is likely to be limited, and thus the situation can be more difficult to grasp.

  If the situation at that time cannot be grasped, it becomes difficult to appropriately input input information such as evaluations and comments on the digital content, and there may be a user who hesitates to input the input information. As a result, there is a possibility that the excitement of content distribution and the activation of communication through input of input information may be hindered.

  An embodiment of the present invention has an object to make it easy to grasp the status of content to be viewed. An object of the embodiment of the present invention is to promote input of appropriate input information by a user who views content. Other objects of the embodiments of the present invention will become apparent by referring to the entire specification.

  A system according to an embodiment of the present invention is a system that includes one or more computer processors and distributes digital content, wherein the one or more computer processors execute readable instructions. A step of presenting a distribution screen for reproducing digital content distributed by the distribution user to the viewing user in a first mode; and a step of receiving input information input by the viewing user via the distribution screen in the first mode; Changing the mode of the distribution screen from the first mode to the second mode, presenting the distribution screen to the viewing user in the second mode, and via the distribution screen of the second mode Receiving the input information input by the viewing user, and when the distribution screen is in the first mode And power possible input information, the input can be input information when said second mode is different.

  A method according to an embodiment of the present invention is a method for distributing digital content that is executed by one or a plurality of computers, and in which a distribution user playing digital content distributed by a distribution user is viewed in a first mode. Presenting, the step of receiving input information input by the viewing user via the distribution screen in the first mode, and changing the mode of the distribution screen from the first mode to the second mode, Presenting the distribution screen to the viewing user in the second mode, and receiving input information input by the viewing user via the distribution screen in the second mode, the distribution screen comprising: The input information that can be input in the first mode is different from the input information that can be input in the second mode.

  A program according to an embodiment of the present invention is a program for distributing digital content, and is a digital distributed by a distribution user to one or a plurality of computers in response to being executed on the one or a plurality of computers. Presenting a distribution screen for reproducing content to a viewing user in a first mode; receiving input information input by the viewing user via the distribution screen in the first mode; and a mode of the distribution screen. Changing from the first mode to the second mode, presenting the distribution screen to the viewing user in the second mode, and input input by the viewing user via the distribution screen in the second mode An information receiving step, wherein the distribution screen includes input information that can be input in the first mode, and the second And it can be input input information at the time of the over-de-is different.

  Various embodiments of the present invention may facilitate understanding of the status of content to be viewed or facilitate input of appropriate input information by a user viewing digital content.

1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing a configuration of a network including a distribution system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing functions of a distribution system 10. FIG. The figure which shows an example of the information managed in the user management table 411. The figure which shows an example of the information managed in the delivery space management table. The flowchart which shows an example of a content delivery process. The figure which shows an example of the main screen. The figure which shows an example of the delivery room creation screen. The figure which shows an example of the delivery screen 80 for delivery users. The figure which shows an example of the delivery screen 80 for delivery users. The figure which shows an example of the delivery screen 90 for viewing users of normal mode. The figure which shows an example of the item selection screen. The figure which shows an example of the viewing-user distribution screen 90 of a special mode. The figure which shows an example of the viewing-user distribution screen 90 of evaluation mode.

 Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing a configuration of a network including a distribution system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the distribution system 10 is connected to a plurality of user terminals 30 (30-1, 30-2,... 30-N) via a network 20 such as the Internet, A content distribution service is provided that distributes digital content (hereinafter, also simply referred to as “content”) such as video or audio (including performance) to the plurality of user terminals 30.

  The distribution system 10 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, a CPU (computer processor) 11, a main memory 12, a user I / F 13, a network I / F 14, and storage (memory). Device) 15, and these components are electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

  The CPU 11 reads various programs stored in the storage 15 or the like into the main memory 12 and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 12 is configured by, for example, a DRAM.

  The user I / F 13 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with the user. The user I / F 13 includes, for example, an information input device such as a keyboard and a pointing device (for example, a mouse and a touch panel), a voice input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. The user I / F 13 includes an information output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

  The network I / F 14 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various types of communication software, and combinations thereof, and is configured to realize wired or wireless communication via the network 20 or the like.

  The storage 15 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, or the like. The storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, and the like.

  In the present embodiment, the distribution system 10 can be configured using a plurality of computers each having the hardware configuration described above. For example, the distribution system 10 can be configured by one or a plurality of server devices.

  The distribution system 10 configured as described above has functions as a web server and an application server, and executes various processes in response to requests from a web browser installed in the user terminal 30 and other applications. Then, screen data (for example, HTML data), control data, and the like corresponding to the result of the processing are transmitted to the user terminal 30. On the user terminal 30, a web page based on the received data and other screens are displayed.

  The user terminal 30 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, a CPU (computer processor) 31, a main memory 32, a user I / F 33, a network I / F 34, and storage (memory) Device) 35, and these components are electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

  The CPU 31 reads various programs stored in the storage 35 and the like into the main memory 32 and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 32 is configured by, for example, a DRAM.

  The user I / F 33 is various input / output devices for exchanging information with the user. The user I / F 33 includes, for example, an information input device such as a keyboard and a pointing device (for example, a mouse and a touch panel), a voice input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. The user I / F 33 includes an information output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

  The network I / F 34 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various types of communication software, and combinations thereof, and is configured to realize wired or wireless communication via the network 20 or the like.

  The storage 35 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, or the like. The storage 35 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, and the like. The program stored in the storage 35 may include various applications downloaded and installed from the application market or the like.

  In the present embodiment, the user terminal 30 may be configured as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable device, a personal computer, a game dedicated terminal, or the like.

  The user of the user terminal 30 configured as described above performs content distribution provided by the distribution system 10 by executing communication with the distribution system 10 via a web browser or other application installed in the storage 35 or the like. You can use the service.

  Next, functions of the distribution system 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the functions of the distribution system 10. As shown in the figure, the distribution system 10 includes an information storage management unit 41 that stores and manages various information, a basic function control unit 43 that controls basic functions of a content distribution service, and a content distribution control that controls the distribution of content. Part 45. These functions are realized by the cooperation of hardware such as the CPU 11 and the main memory 12 and various programs and data stored in the storage 15 and the like. For example, the functions are read into the main memory 12. This is realized by the CPU 11 executing instructions included in the program. 2 may be realized by the cooperation of the distribution system 10 and the user terminal 30, or may be realized by the user terminal 30.

  The information storage management unit 41 stores and manages various information in the storage 15 and the like. As shown in FIG. 2, the information storage management unit 41 includes, for example, a user management table 411 that stores various information related to users who use the content distribution service, and a distribution space that is a virtual space for distributing content. A distribution space management table 412 for managing various information related to

  The basic function control unit 43 of the distribution system 10 executes various processes related to control of the basic function of the content distribution service. For example, the basic function control unit 43 transmits HTML data or control data of various screens related to the basic function to the user terminal 30, and responds to an operation input by the user via the screen displayed on the user terminal 30. Various processes are executed, and HTML data or control data corresponding to the result of the process is transmitted to the user terminal 30. The basic functions controlled by the basic function control unit 43 include, for example, login authentication, billing control, user management (for example, update of the user management table 411), and the like.

  In the present embodiment, the basic function control unit 43 can present a list of a plurality of digital contents being distributed distributed by a plurality of distribution users who distribute digital contents to the user. The list of the plurality of digital contents may be configured such that digital contents whose distribution screen mode is a first mode, which will be described later, can be identified from digital contents that are not in the first mode.

  The content distribution control unit 45 of the distribution system 10 executes various processes related to content distribution control in the content distribution service. For example, the content distribution control unit 45 presents a distribution screen for reproducing the digital content distributed by the distribution user to the viewing user who views the digital content. For example, the content distribution control unit 45 receives the digital content from the user terminal 30 of the distribution user, and receives the HTML data or control data of the distribution screen having a reproduction area for reproducing the received digital content, as the user terminal 30 of the viewing user. Send to.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the digital content may include various electronic contents. For example, the digital content includes moving images or audio. In addition, the moving image or the sound is input via an input device such as a camera and a microphone of the user terminal 30 of the distribution user (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “photographed moving image”) and the user terminal 30. Those corresponding to the screen / sound output via an output device such as a display and a speaker (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “screen moving image”) are included. Further, such a captured moving image and a screen moving image are distributed (in real time) at the same time as input / output in the user terminal 30 of the distribution user, or temporarily stored in the distribution system 10 (for example, the storage 15), and then Can be delivered in non-real time.

  In addition, the content distribution control unit 45 changes the mode of the distribution screen and presents the distribution screen according to the mode to the viewing user. For example, the content distribution control unit 45 presents the distribution screen to the viewing user in the first mode, changes the mode of the distribution screen from the first mode to the second mode, and changes the distribution screen to the second mode. To the viewing user.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the distribution screen in the first mode and the distribution screen in the second mode may differ in at least a part of the appearance, output sound (sound effect, etc.) and the like. For example, the distribution screen is at least partially different between the background image in the first mode and the background image in the second mode.

  In the present embodiment, the change of the mode of the distribution screen can be executed at various timings according to various criteria. For example, the content distribution control unit 45 can change the mode of the distribution screen from the first mode to the second mode in response to an instruction from the distribution user. The content distribution control unit 45 can change the mode of the distribution screen from the first mode to the second mode when the duration of the first mode reaches the first time.

  Further, the content distribution control unit 45 receives input information input by the viewing user via the distribution screen. For example, when the viewing user inputs input information via the distribution screen displayed on the user terminal 30 of the viewing user, the content distribution control unit 45 receives the input information and receives the information storage management unit 41 (for example, the distribution) It is stored in the space management table 412). Further, the content distribution control unit 45 can execute various subsequent processes for the received input information. For example, the content distribution control unit 45 can execute various calculations based on the received input information (including calculation of rewards for distribution users) and various subsequent processes related to display.

  In the present embodiment, the distribution screen is configured such that input information that can be input in the first mode is different from input information that can be input in the second mode. For example, the distribution screen may be configured such that input information that can be input in the second mode is more limited than input information that can be input in the first mode. For example, the distribution screen can be configured such that a plurality of types of input information can be input in the first mode, and one specific type of input information can be input in the second mode. . In this case, specific types of input information that can be input in the second mode may be input in the first mode, or may not be input in the first mode. Further, for example, the distribution screen in the first mode can be configured not to accept any input information.

  In the present embodiment, the distribution screen has different input information that can be input in the first mode and / or the second mode and input information that can be input in the third mode to be described later. Can be configured.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the input information includes virtual items (including virtual currency, coins, and the like). In this case, the distribution screen can be configured such that at least a free item can be input in the first mode, and only a paid item can be input in the second mode.

  In the present embodiment, the content distribution control unit 45 can present the distribution screen to the viewing user in the third mode in response to the distribution user starting distribution of the digital content. Further, the content distribution control unit 45 can change the mode of the distribution screen from the third mode to the first mode, and present the distribution screen to the viewing user in the first mode. As described above, the distribution screen mode can be changed at various timings according to various criteria. For example, the content distribution control unit 45 changes the mode of the distribution screen in response to an instruction from the distribution user. The mode can be changed from the third mode to the first mode.

  In the present embodiment, the content distribution control unit 45 may change the mode of the distribution screen from the second mode to the third mode, and present the distribution screen to the viewing user again in the third mode. As described above, the change of the mode of the distribution screen can be executed at various timings according to various standards, but the content distribution control unit 45, for example, has reached the second time for the duration of the second mode Sometimes, the mode of the distribution screen can be changed from the second mode to the third mode. In this case, the delivery screen in the second mode may be configured to display the remaining time until the duration time of the second mode reaches the second time.

  In the present embodiment, the distribution screen in the second mode may be configured to display an input status of input information by a specific viewing user identified from among a plurality of viewing users. For example, the distribution screen in the second mode may be configured to identify a viewing user who has input the input information and notify the input content of the input information by the viewing user. Further, for example, the distribution screen in the second mode may be configured to identify a viewing user who has not input the input information and prompt the input of the input information by the viewing user.

  In the present embodiment, the distribution screen in the second mode may be configured to display the reception status of input information input by a plurality of viewing users. For example, the distribution screen in the second mode may be configured to display information related to the total number of input information input by a plurality of viewing users.

  Next, a specific operation of the distribution system 10 of this embodiment having such a function will be described using a specific example. As described above, the type of digital content distributed by the distribution system 10 of the present embodiment is not particularly limited. Hereinafter, a captured moving image or the like input via an input device such as a camera and a microphone of the user terminal 30 of the distribution user Is described as an example. Note that such distribution of photographed moving images or the like is sometimes referred to as “live distribution” or the like.

  FIG. 3 shows an example of information managed in the user management table 411 of the information storage management unit 41. The user management table 411 manages information related to users of the content distribution service. As shown in the figure, the user management table 411 is associated with a “user ID” that identifies an individual user, and the user basics such as account name, age, gender, and avatar. "Basic information" which is general information, "owned item information" which is information regarding virtual items held by this user, "distribution history information" which is information regarding content distribution history by this user, and other information by this user Information such as “viewing history information”, which is information related to the viewing history of the content distributed by the user.

  Among the information managed in the user management table 411, as basic information, information input by the user at the time of new registration (account creation) or the like is set, and then in accordance with an instruction from the user Updated as appropriate. Also, the distribution history information and the viewing history information are updated as appropriate according to the content distribution and viewing by the user.

  The possession item information includes the possession number for each item possessed by the user. This possessed item information is appropriately updated according to the acquisition and consumption (use) of items by the user. Items include free items and paid items. For example, the user obtains a free item at a timing such as when newly registering with the content distribution service or when the level is increased (for example, the level may be increased according to the number of contents viewed). . Further, the user obtains (purchases) a paid item via an item shop or the like.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of information managed in the distribution space management table 412. The distribution space management table 412 manages information related to a distribution room as a virtual space in which a user distributes content, and associates this distribution room with a “distribution room ID” that identifies an individual distribution room as illustrated. "Distribution user ID" for identifying a distribution user corresponding to the "distribution user ID", "room name" which is the name of this distribution room, "room description" which is a text describing this distribution room, and the distribution screen at the present time of this distribution room "Mode" indicating the mode of the image, "special mode remaining time" indicating the remaining time of the special mode (first mode) which is one of the modes of the distribution screen, and evaluation mode (first) of the mode of the distribution screen “Remaining evaluation mode time” indicating the remaining time in (2 mode), information on the viewing user who has entered this distribution room (viewing content) To manage information such as "viewing user information" is.

  In this example, there are a normal mode (third mode), a special mode (first mode), and an evaluation mode (second mode) as modes of the distribution screen, and the modes of the distribution space management table 412 include A value corresponding to one of these modes is set.

  Of the information managed in the distribution management table 412, the distribution room ID, the distribution user ID, the room name, and the room description are set when the user creates a distribution room. Further, the mode, the special mode remaining time, the evaluation mode remaining time, and the viewing user information are appropriately updated during the distribution of the content.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of content distribution processing executed by the distribution system 10. In the content distribution process, first, as shown in FIG. 5, content distribution is started in response to an instruction from the distribution user (step S100). The distribution start instruction by the distribution user is made via a content distribution service screen displayed on the user terminal 30. First, a specific example of a screen for content distribution service will be described.

  FIG. 6 shows an example of the main screen 60 that is a starting point when the user of the content distribution service uses the service. The main screen 60 is displayed when, for example, an application for content distribution service is started on the user terminal 30 or the user terminal 30 accesses a website for content distribution service provided by the distribution system 10 via a web browser. This is displayed when

  As shown in FIG. 6, the main screen 60 includes a genre selection area 62 for selecting a genre of content to be displayed (live distribution), and a content display area for displaying content being distributed corresponding to the selected genre. 64. The content display area 64 has a special mode list area 66 for displaying contents distributed in the special mode among the contents being distributed. In addition, a distribution start button 68 displayed as “Distribute” is arranged in the lower right corner of the content display area 64.

  In the content display area 64, the order of the contents currently being distributed corresponding to the genre selected in the genre selection area 62 according to a specific rule (for example, the order in which priority is given to the newer time at which distribution starts and the number of viewing users is The list is displayed in the order of priority, etc., as the number increases. The genre of the content (distribution room) can be managed in the distribution space management table 412, for example. Information on the displayed content includes the name of the distribution room (displayed as “XXX”, “YYY”, etc. in the example of FIG. 6), and information on the distribution user. As described above, since the content being distributed in the special mode among the content being distributed is displayed in the special mode list area 66, the main screen 60 displays the content in the special mode from the content in the mode other than the special mode. It can be said that it is displayed in an identifiable manner. The user can start viewing the content by selecting any of the content displayed in the content display area 64.

  When the user selects the distribution start button 68 on the main screen 60, a distribution room creation screen 70 illustrated in FIG. 7 is displayed on the user terminal 30. As shown in the figure, the distribution room creation screen 70 is displayed with a name input area 72 for inputting the name of the distribution room, an explanatory text input area 74 for inputting an explanatory text of the distribution room, and “Register”. And a registration button 76.

  When the user inputs a desired name and an explanatory text in the name input area 72 and the explanatory text input area 74 and selects the registration button 76, the distribution room is registered and content distribution is started. Here, after registration of the distribution room, distribution may be further started through an instruction from the user. In addition, in the case of a user who has already registered a distribution room, when the distribution start button 68 on the main screen 60 is selected, distribution of content is started immediately without using the distribution room creation screen 70. good. When the distribution room is registered, a new record is created in the distribution space management table 412.

  FIG. 8 is an example of a distribution user distribution screen 80 displayed on the user terminal 30 of the distribution user immediately after the start of content distribution. As shown in the drawing, the distribution screen 80 for distribution user has a virtual space 200 corresponding to the distribution room displayed on the entire screen area, and a comment list display area 84 is arranged on the lower side of the screen. In the lower right corner, a distribution menu button 86 displayed as “distribution menu” is arranged in an overlapping manner. The comment list display area 84 is configured as an area having transparency, and the user can also visually recognize the virtual space 200 behind the area 84.

  The virtual space 200 includes a display object 202 that displays (reproduces) content, a stage 204, and a spectator area 206. The display object 202 displays content distributed by the distribution user. Specifically, the display object 202 displays real-time captured video (live video) input via an input device such as a camera and a microphone of the user terminal 30 of the distribution user. Is done. The stage 204 and the audience area 206 are areas where an avatar corresponding to the viewing user is displayed when the viewing user starts viewing the content (enters the distribution room).

  The distribution menu button 86 is a button for performing various settings / instructions regarding content distribution, for example, a button corresponding to a menu for performing an instruction for changing the mode of the distribution screen, an instruction to end the distribution, and the like. .

  When the distribution user starts distributing the content, the content is displayed in the content display area 64 of the main screen 60 as the content being distributed, and other users can view the content as a viewing user. FIG. 9 is an example of a distribution user distribution screen 80 when three users have started viewing the content (entering the distribution room). As illustrated, avatars 208 corresponding to the three viewing users are displayed in the audience area 206 of the virtual space 200.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 5, when content distribution is started, content distribution in the normal mode is continued until the distribution user gives an instruction to change to the special mode (step S110). FIG. 10 is an example of a normal user viewing user distribution screen 90 displayed on the user terminal 30 of the viewing user. As shown in the drawing, the viewing user distribution screen 90 is similar to the distribution user distribution screen 80, in which the virtual space 200 is displayed in the entire screen area, and the information display area 92 is overlaid on the lower side of the screen. The comment input area 94 is arranged so as to overlap the lower center of the screen, and the item input button 96 is arranged so as to overlap the lower right corner of the screen. The information display area 92 is configured as an area having transparency, and the user can also visually recognize the virtual space 200 behind the area 94.

  As shown in the figure, the information display area 92 is configured as a tab-type area in which three tabs of “distribution user”, “comment”, and “during distribution” can be switched. FIG. 10 is an example when the comment tab is selected, and comments input by the viewing user are displayed in a list in time series. In the information display area 92, when a distribution user tab is selected, information about the distribution user (for example, distribution history, etc.) is displayed. When a distribution tab is selected, other distribution-related content is displayed. A list of information is displayed. The viewing user can also change the content to be viewed (move to another distribution room) by selecting the other content being distributed displayed in the list.

  The comment input area 94 is configured so that the viewing user can input a desired character string or the like. When the viewing user instructs transmission of the input character string or the like, the comment input area 94 is displayed on the comment tab of the information display area 92. At the same time, the corresponding avatar 208 in the virtual space 200 is displayed in a balloon form. Thus, the viewing user is another user who is entering the same virtual space 200 (viewing the same content) by the comment displayed in the information display area 92 and the virtual space 200 (the balloon of the avatar 208). You can share the contents of comments and enjoy text chat. In addition, the comment input via the comment input area 94 is displayed on the distribution user distribution screen 80 in the same manner. Therefore, the viewing user can also enjoy communication with the distribution user by the text chat function.

  The item input button 96 is a button for the user to input an item. In the item input button 96, an item selected in advance by the viewing user and the number of items held are displayed (in the example of FIG. 10, a star-shaped item is selected, and the star-shaped item is displayed. The number of items held is nine). The user can input (input) a preselected item by selecting the item input button 96. When an item is input, a visual effect (animation display) is executed in the virtual space 200 such that an item selected in advance is thrown in the direction of the display object 202 from an avatar corresponding to the viewing user. When an item is input, the number of items held in the user management table 411 is updated.

  FIG. 11 is an example of an item selection screen 100 for the viewing user to select an item to be input. The item selection screen 100 is displayed by long-pressing (long tapping) the item input button 96 on the viewing user distribution screen 90 or the like. As illustrated, the item selection screen 100 displays a list of items that can be input together with the number of possessed items. The user can select in advance an item to be input when the item input button 96 is selected by selecting a desired item on the item selection screen 100.

  As described above, items include free items and paid items. In this example, items that can be selected via the normal mode item selection screen 100 (that is, items that can be input via the normal mode viewing user distribution screen 90) include both free items and paid items. included. For example, in the example of FIG. 11, the star-shaped item is a free item, and the sun-shaped item is a paid item. For example, the viewing user can express a favorable feeling for the distribution user by inputting an item.

  Here, the visual effect executed in the virtual space 200, the reward acquired by the distribution user, the reward acquired by the viewing user, and the like are different depending on whether a free item is input or a paid item is input. Also good. For example, when a paid item is input, a rare visual effect is executed compared to a case where a free item is input, and the reward that the distribution user acquires is increased, and the viewing user Can increase the rewards earned.

  Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 5, when the distribution user gives an instruction to change to the special mode (step S110), the mode of the distribution screen is changed from the normal mode to the special mode (step S120). The change instruction is executed via the distribution menu 86 on the distribution user distribution screen 80 or the like. FIG. 12 is an example of the viewing user distribution screen 90 after the mode is changed to the special mode. On the distribution screen 90 for viewing users in the special mode, a special frame 202A is added to the outer edge of the display object 202 in the virtual space 200 as shown in the figure. Further, a temporary visual effect (for example, temporarily displaying an animation notifying that the mode has been changed to the special mode) may be executed at the timing when the mode is changed from the normal mode to the special mode.

  The special mode is operated as a mode in which the distribution user executes a special performance, for example. The distribution user instructs the change to the special mode and then distributes the state of executing the special performance to the viewing user as a live video.

  Thus, the viewing user distribution screen 90 is at least partially different between the background image in the normal mode (third mode) and the background image in the special mode (first mode). It is configured. Here, the background image difference (the presence or absence of the special frame 202A) in this example is an example of a background image that is at least partially different, and other components of the background image (for example, other objects in the virtual space 200) (Including the stage 204 and the audience area 206), or each of the components outside the virtual space 200 (including the information display area 92, the comment input area 94, and the item input button 96) may be different. The mode viewing user distribution screen 90 can also be configured.

  For example, the user who has viewed the content from the middle is viewing the special frame 202A of the display object 202 to change the content from the normal mode to the special mode (for example, a special performance has started, etc.) ) Can be recognized.

  Then, when a predetermined time T1 (for example, 5 minutes) elapses or when the distribution user instructs the end of the special mode (step S130), the special mode is changed to the evaluation mode. (Step S140). The instruction to end the special mode is executed via the distribution menu 86 on the distribution screen 80 for distribution users.

  FIG. 13 is an example of the viewing user distribution screen 90 after being changed to the evaluation mode. On the viewing user distribution screen 90 in the evaluation mode, a special frame 202B is added to the outer edge of the display object 202 in the virtual space 200 instead of the special frame 202A, as shown in the figure.

  In addition, in the distribution screen 90 for viewing users in the evaluation mode, items input in response to selection of the item input button 96 are limited to items dedicated to the evaluation mode (in the example of FIG. 13, coin-type items). . The item dedicated to the evaluation mode is a paid item.

  As described above, in the viewing screen 90 for the viewing user in the evaluation mode, the items that can be input (input information) are limited to only the items dedicated to the evaluation mode. Therefore, the user may be at a loss in selecting the item to be input. Absent.

  On the viewing user distribution screen 90 in the evaluation mode, the live character 210 and the item reception status gauge 212 are displayed so as to overlap the information display area 92. The live character 210 is configured to notify various information via a balloon. For example, the live character 210 notifies information related to the remaining time in the evaluation mode. In addition, for example, the live character 210 identifies one viewing user from among a plurality of viewing users, and notifies a comment corresponding to the item input status by the identified viewing user. For example, the live character 210 identifies the viewing user who has input the item, and notifies the information of the item (for example, “user A, thank you for 3 items!”) Together with the account name of the viewing user. Further, for example, the live character 210 identifies a viewing user who has not entered an item, and a comment that prompts the user to input an item together with the account name of the identified viewing user (for example, “User B, soon, do not enter an item !?”). Etc.). The content (actual content) notified by the live character 210 is not limited to those exemplified here, and the live character 210 can notify various situations in the evaluation mode.

  The item reception status gauge 212 displays the reception status of items input by a plurality of viewing users. In this example, the target value of the number of items input from the viewing user in the evaluation mode is set for the distribution user. Then, the item reception status gauge 212 displays the ratio (progress degree) of the total number of items actually received for the target value.

  Further, a temporary visual effect (for example, temporarily displaying an animation notifying that the mode has been changed to the evaluation mode) may be executed at the timing when the mode is changed from the special mode to the evaluation mode.

  As described above, the viewing user distribution screen 90 is at least partially different between the background image in the special mode (first mode) and the background image in the evaluation mode (second mode). It is configured. Here, the difference in the background image in this example (difference between the special frame 202A and the special 202B, the presence / absence of the live character 210 and the item reception status gauge 212) is an example of a background image that is at least partially different. The viewing user distribution screen 90 in each mode can also be configured so that some or all of the other components are different.

  For example, a user who views the content from the middle visually recognizes that the content has been changed from the special mode to the evaluation mode by visually checking the special frame 202B, the live character 210, and the item reception status gauge 212 of the display object 202. Can be recognized.

  In addition, a user who views the content from the middle can grasp the input / acceptance status of items by other viewing users based on the display contents of the live character 210 and the item acceptance status gauge 212.

  The evaluation mode is operated as a mode in which the viewing user evaluates the special performance executed in the special mode, for example. This mode can also be called a mode in which the viewing user gives a reward for a special performance to the distribution user. Therefore, a special reward may be given to the distribution user in response to input of an item dedicated to the evaluation mode or in response to the number of input items reaching the target value.

  Then, when a predetermined time T2 (for example, 30 seconds) elapses in the evaluation mode (step S150), the evaluation mode is changed to the normal mode again (step S160). The distribution screen 90 for the viewing user in the normal mode has already been described. Thereafter, the distribution of the content is terminated in response to the instruction from the distribution user (step S170), and the content distribution process is terminated.

  Here, in the specific example described above, items (input information) that can be input via the viewing user distribution screen 90 are not changed between the normal mode (third mode) and the special mode (first mode). However, the items that can be input between the modes may be changed. For example, the distribution screen 90 for viewing users in the special mode can be configured such that no item can be input. For example, when the special mode is operated as a mode in which the distribution user performs a special performance, it is possible to urge the viewing user to concentrate on viewing the performance by making it impossible to input items.

  The distribution system 10 according to the present embodiment described above presents the distribution screen for reproducing the digital content distributed by the distribution user to the viewing user in the first mode, and changes the distribution screen mode from the first mode to the second mode. The mode is changed to the mode, and the distribution screen is presented to the viewing user in the second mode. Therefore, the viewing user can easily grasp the status of the content depending on the mode of the presented distribution screen.

  In addition, the distribution system 10 according to the present embodiment accepts input information input by the viewing user via each of the first mode and second mode distribution screens, and the distribution screen is in the first mode. The input information that can be input to and the input information that can be input in the second mode are different. Accordingly, it is possible to input appropriate input information for each mode, and as a result, the viewing user can easily input appropriate input information.

  As described above, the embodiment of the present invention makes it possible to easily grasp the status of content to be viewed or to facilitate the input of appropriate input information by a user who views digital content.

  The processes and procedures described in the present specification are implemented by software, hardware, or any combination thereof other than those explicitly described. For example, the processes and procedures described in this specification are realized by mounting logic corresponding to the processes and procedures on a medium such as an integrated circuit, a volatile memory, a nonvolatile memory, and a magnetic disk. The processing and procedure described in this specification can be implemented as a computer program corresponding to the processing / procedure and executed by various computers.

  Even if the processes and procedures described herein are described as being performed by a single device, software, component, or module, such processes or procedures may be performed by multiple devices, multiple software, multiple Component and / or multiple modules. Also, the software and hardware elements described herein can be implemented by integrating them into fewer components or by disassembling them into more components.

  In the present specification, when the constituent elements of the invention are described as one or a plurality, or when they are described without being limited to one or a plurality of cases, they should be understood separately in context. The component may be either singular or plural.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Distribution system 20 Network 30 User terminal 41 Information storage management part 43 Basic function control part 45 Content distribution control part 60 Main screen 70 Distribution room creation screen 80 Distribution user distribution screen 90 Viewing user distribution screen 100 Item selection screen

Claims (19)

A system comprising one or more computer processors for distributing digital content comprising:
In response to executing the readable instructions, the one or more computer processors
Presenting a distribution screen for reproducing digital content distributed by the distribution user to the viewing user in the first mode;
Receiving input information input by a viewing user via the distribution screen in the first mode;
Changing the mode of the distribution screen from the first mode to the second mode, and presenting the distribution screen to the viewing user in the second mode;
Receiving input information input by a viewing user via the distribution screen in the second mode,
In the distribution screen, input information that can be input in the first mode is different from input information that can be input in the second mode.
system.   2. The system according to claim 1, wherein input information that can be input in the second mode is limited to input information that can be input in the first mode.   3. The distribution screen is capable of inputting a plurality of types of input information in the first mode, and inputting one specific type of input information in the second mode. system. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The input information includes a virtual item;
In the first mode, the delivery screen can input at least a free item, and in the second mode, only a paid item can be input.
system.   The system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the distribution screen in the second mode is configured to display a reception status of input information input by a plurality of viewing users.   6. The system according to claim 1, wherein at least a part of the distribution screen is different between a background image in the first mode and a background image in the second mode.   The step of presenting the distribution screen in the second mode includes changing the mode of the distribution screen from the first mode to the second mode in response to an instruction from the distribution user. Item 7. The system according to any one of Items 1 to 6.   The step of presenting the distribution screen in the second mode is configured such that when the duration of the first mode reaches the first time, the mode of the distribution screen is changed from the first mode to the second mode. The system according to claim 1, comprising changing to a mode. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The one or more computer processors further perform the step of presenting the distribution screen to the viewing user in a third mode in response to the distribution user starting to distribute digital content;
The step of presenting the distribution screen in the first mode changes the mode of the distribution screen from the third mode to the first mode, and presents the distribution screen to the viewing user in the first mode. Including
system.   The step of presenting the distribution screen in the first mode includes changing the mode of the distribution screen from the third mode to the first mode in response to an instruction from the distribution user. Item 9. The system according to item 9.   The one or more computer processors further change the mode of the distribution screen from the second mode to the third mode, and present the distribution screen to the viewing user again in the third mode. 11. A system according to claim 9 or 10 for execution.   The step of presenting the distribution screen again in the third mode includes changing the mode of the distribution screen from the second mode to the third mode when the duration of the second mode reaches the second time. 12. The system of claim 11 including changing to a different mode.   The system according to claim 12, wherein the distribution screen in the second mode is configured to display a remaining time until the duration time of the second mode reaches the second time.   The system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the distribution screen in the second mode is configured to display an input status of input information by a specific viewing user identified from among a plurality of viewing users. 15. A system according to any of claims 1 to 14, wherein
The one or more computer processors further execute a step of presenting a list of a plurality of digital contents being distributed to a viewing user distributed by a plurality of distribution users,
The list of the plurality of digital contents is configured such that digital contents whose mode of the distribution screen is the first mode can be identified from digital contents that are not the first mode.
system.   The system according to claim 1, wherein the digital content includes a moving image or sound.   The system according to claim 16, wherein the digital content includes a real-time video or audio transmitted from a user terminal of a distribution user. A method for delivering digital content, executed by one or more computers, comprising:
Presenting a distribution screen for reproducing digital content distributed by the distribution user to the viewing user in the first mode;
Receiving input information input by a viewing user via the distribution screen in the first mode;
Changing the mode of the distribution screen from the first mode to the second mode, and presenting the distribution screen to the viewing user in the second mode;
Receiving input information input by a viewing user via the distribution screen in the second mode,
In the distribution screen, input information that can be input in the first mode is different from input information that can be input in the second mode.
Method. A program for distributing digital content,
In response to being executed on one or more computers, the one or more computers,
Presenting a distribution screen for reproducing digital content distributed by the distribution user to the viewing user in the first mode;
Receiving input information input by a viewing user via the distribution screen in the first mode;
Changing the mode of the distribution screen from the first mode to the second mode, and presenting the distribution screen to the viewing user in the second mode;
Receiving the input information input by the viewing user via the distribution screen in the second mode,
In the distribution screen, input information that can be input in the first mode is different from input information that can be input in the second mode.
program.

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