WO2025258744A1 - Electronic device for playing recommended content - Google Patents

Abstract

An electronic device for playing recommended content, according to the present disclosure, comprises: a display configured to display a first screen including an icon for selecting specific content and a thumbnail screen of a channel playing the specific content in conjunction with an application program installed on the display device; and a processor operably coupled to the display and controlling the display to detect a touch input in an area of the thumbnail screen and display a second screen including a second area of the thumbnail screen, a channel name, and detailed information about the channel.

Description

Electronic devices that play recommended content

The present disclosure relates to an electronic device for playing recommended content. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an electronic device for playing recommended content and a content playing system including the same.

In recent years, digital TV services utilizing wired or wireless communication networks have become widespread. Digital TV services can offer a variety of services not available with existing analog broadcasting services.

For example, IPTV (Internet Protocol Television), a type of digital TV service, and SMART TV service provide interactivity that allows users to actively select the type of program to watch and the viewing time.

IPTV and smart TV services, based on this interactivity, can also offer a variety of additional services, such as internet search, home shopping, and online games. Thus, a diverse and plentiful amount of content is being produced and supplied these days. Therefore, it is possible to understand what types of content are playing on the user's display device. Furthermore, the importance of content recommendation services, which can identify preferred content on the user's display device and recommend content, is growing.

Furthermore, content recommendation services and playback of selected content need to be implemented not only on display devices but also on electronic devices such as mobile terminals carried by users. In this regard, it is necessary to understand the intentions of mobile terminal users to provide optimal content services.

The present disclosure aims to solve the aforementioned problems and other problems, and provides an electronic device for playing recommended content and a content playing system including the same.

The present disclosure provides different screens for content recommendation on the screen of an electronic device depending on whether the user of the electronic device is in the same space as the display device, thereby improving user convenience and expanding content services.

The present disclosure is intended to improve user convenience by displaying on a thumbnail screen whether content can be played on a display device and/or electronic device depending on the content.

The present disclosure is intended to improve user convenience by displaying on a thumbnail screen whether the user is at home or away from home, whether the user has previously accessed the content, and whether the content can be played on a display device and/or electronic device.

The present disclosure is intended to prevent an increase in server load due to an increase in connections between a content server or web server and an electronic device by revoking the user's right to play specific content on an electronic device based on the user's previous access history and content.

To achieve the above or other purposes, an electronic device for playing recommended content according to the present disclosure includes a display configured to display a first screen including an icon for selecting specific content and a thumbnail screen of a channel playing the specific content in conjunction with an application program installed on the display device; and a processor operably coupled to the display and controlling the display to detect a touch input in an area of the thumbnail screen to display a second screen including a second area of the thumbnail screen, a channel name, and detailed information about the channel. The processor can determine whether the electronic device is connected to the same network as the display device. The processor can display screens associated with different contents according to a result of the determination.

According to an embodiment, if it is determined that the electronic device is connected to a different network from the display device, the processor may display the first screen on the display. If it is determined that the electronic device is connected to the same network as the display device, the processor may display a third screen on the display. The first screen may include the icon and the thumbnail screen for selecting the specific content available for free viewing. The third screen may include a second icon for selecting the content provided on the display device and thumbnail screens of channels that play the content.

According to an embodiment, the processor may detect a second touch input of a third icon positioned in a lower area of an area of the thumbnail screen on the first screen or a fourth icon positioned in a lower area of an area of the detailed information displayed on the second screen. When the second touch input is detected, the processor may display a fourth screen in which the specific content is played on the first screen area of the display. The processor may display thumbnail screens, titles, and additional information of the specific content being played and other content available for free viewing on the second screen area of the display.

According to an embodiment, following the thumbnail screen of the most recently played channel among the channels included in the channel list, the processor may display a first screen including an icon for selecting the specific content and a thumbnail screen of the channel playing the specific content. The identifier of the channel playing the specific content may be set to a value greater than 1 than the number of channels included in the channel list.

According to an embodiment, the processor may detect a third touch input on a fifth icon for including the specific content in a favorite channel list in an area adjacent to an area where the channel name is displayed on the second screen. When the third touch input is detected, the processor may store the channel of the specific content in the favorite channel list. The processor may display a phrase indicating that the channel of the specific content has been stored in the favorite channel list in an area where the fourth icon is placed.

In an embodiment, the processor may detect a fourth touch input on the second phrase "list view" adjacent to the phrase in the area where the fourth icon is placed. When the fourth touch input is detected, the processor may display the favorite channel list including thumbnail screens of favorite channels, channel names, and additional information on the display.

According to an embodiment, the processor may display a fourth screen in which the specific content stored in the preferred channel list is played on the first screen area of the display. The processor may display thumbnail screens, titles, and additional information of the specific content being played and other content belonging to the preferred channel list on the second screen area of the display.

According to an embodiment, the processor may determine whether the processor has a first right to play the specific content on the display device and a second right to play the specific content on the electronic device. The processor may display a first thumbnail of the first content having both the first right and the second right in an area of the thumbnail screen of the first screen. When a touch input is detected in an area of the thumbnail screen of the first screen, the processor may display selection icons for selecting a device to play the first content in an area of the second screen where the fourth icon is displayed.

According to an embodiment, when a touch input is detected on a first selection icon among the selection icons, the processor can control the first content to be played on the display device. When a touch input is detected on a second selection icon among the selection icons, the processor can control the first content to be played on the electronic device.

According to an embodiment, when a touch input is detected on a first selection icon among the selection icons, the processor may control the display device to display a first thumbnail screen of the first content in a playlist on a home screen of the display device. When a touch input is detected on a second selection icon among the selection icons, the processor may control the electronic device to display a second thumbnail screen of the first content in a playlist on a specific screen of the electronic device.

According to an embodiment, the processor may sequentially display contents having the first right and the second right through a swipe input in an area of a thumbnail screen of the first screen. When a swipe input is detected in an area of a thumbnail screen of the last content having the first right and the second right, the processor may display a second thumbnail of the second content having the first right in an area of the thumbnail screen of the first screen. When a swipe input is detected in an area of a thumbnail screen of the last content having the first right, the processor may display a third thumbnail of the third content having the second right in an area of the thumbnail screen of the first screen.

According to an embodiment, the processor may display the third screen with the second icon activated on the display. The processor may display the first screen with the icon activated on the display under a specific condition. The specific condition may be a touch input for an icon for selecting the specific content on the third screen or a touch input for an icon associated with a full view of a lower area of an area of the thumbnail screen.

According to an embodiment, the processor may display the third screen with the second icon activated on the display in conjunction with the first server. The processor may display the first screen with the icon activated on the display in conjunction with the second server under specific conditions. The first server may control the display device so that first recommended contents are displayed on the display device. The second server may control the display device and the electronic device so that second recommended contents are displayed by installing a specific application program that recommends and controls channels and contents on the display device and the electronic device.

According to an embodiment, the processor may display a first thumbnail for the first content having both the first authority and the second authority in an area of the thumbnail screen. When the electronic device is connected to the same network as the display device, the processor may control a first selection icon to be displayed in a first sub-area at the bottom of the area of the thumbnail screen and a second selection icon to be displayed in a second sub-area. When the electronic device is connected to a different network from the display device, the processor may control the first selection icon to be displayed in the entire area at the bottom of the area of the thumbnail screen.

According to an embodiment, the processor may determine a specific time period during which a user of the electronic device is determined to be in a home environment based on a history associated with an access time interval during which the electronic device accessed the application program through the display device while connected to the same network as the display device. The processor may transmit a permission revocation request to a first server to revoke a second permission to play the specific content on the electronic device during the specific time period. Upon receiving a response to the permission revocation request from the first server, the processor may control the first selection icon to be displayed in the entire area below the area of the thumbnail screen during the specific time period.

According to an embodiment, the processor may determine whether a first ID that accessed the application program through the electronic device is the same as a second ID that accessed the application program through the display device. If the electronic device is connected to the same network as the display device, and the first ID and the second ID are different, the processor may control a first selection icon to be displayed in a first sub-region at the bottom of the area of the thumbnail screen and a second selection icon to be displayed in a second sub-region. If the electronic device is connected to the same network as the display device, and the first ID and the second ID are the same, the processor may transmit a permission retrieval request to a first server to revoke a second permission to play the specific content on the electronic device. If a response to the permission retrieval request is received from the first server, the processor may control the first selection icon to be displayed in the entire area at the bottom of the area of the thumbnail screen.

According to the present disclosure, an electronic device for displaying and playing recommended content to a user and a content playing system including the same can be provided.

According to the present disclosure, different screens and user interfaces for content recommendation are provided on the screen of the electronic device depending on whether the user of the electronic device is in the same space as the display device, thereby improving user convenience and expanding content services.

According to the present disclosure, user convenience and intuitiveness can be improved by displaying different icons on a thumbnail screen to indicate whether content can be played on a display device and/or an electronic device depending on the content.

According to the present disclosure, user convenience and intuitiveness can be enhanced by displaying thumbnails on the screen, depending on whether the user is at home or away, their previous access history, and whether the content is playable on a display device and/or electronic device. Furthermore, by eliminating unintended connection methods, the increased server load resulting from increased connections between the content server or web server and the electronic device can be prevented.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent an increase in server load due to an increase in connections between a content server or web server and an electronic device by revoking the user's right to play specific content on an electronic device based on whether the user is at home or away from home, previous access history, and content.

FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration of an electronic device for playing recommended content according to the present disclosure and a content providing system including the same.

Fig. 2 shows a block diagram of an electronic device of the content provision system of Fig. 1.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a display device according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing servers according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a channel selection screen provided through a first server according to the present disclosure and a second screen showing detailed information according to touch input.

Figure 6 shows a channel selection screen provided through a second server and a second screen showing detailed information according to touch input.

Figure 7 shows a screen that switches when the thumbnail screen associated with the channel selection of Figure 5 is touched.

Figures 8 and 9 illustrate an embodiment of including a thumbnail screen of a specific channel in a channel list.

Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment in which a thumbnail screen of the content of a specific channel included in a channel list and additional information are displayed in a second screen area of the display.

Figure 11 shows a thumbnail screen of a specific channel that has permission to view specific content on both a display device and an electronic device.

Figure 12 shows screen configurations depending on whether or not a user has the authority to view specific content on a display device or electronic device.

Figure 13 shows the configuration of the home screen of the display device.

Figure 14 shows the configuration of the home screen of an electronic device on which a specific application program is executed.

FIG. 15 illustrates a flowchart of a method for playing recommended content according to the present disclosure on one of a display device and an electronic device.

FIG. 16 illustrates a flowchart of a method for playing recommended content on one of a display device and an electronic device based on a viewing history according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 illustrates a flowchart of a method for playing recommended content on one of a display device and an electronic device based on a user ID according to the present disclosure.

It should be noted that the technical terms used herein are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, singular expressions used herein include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The suffixes "module" and "part" used in the following description for components are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not in themselves have distinct meanings or roles.

In this specification, the terms “comprises” or “includes” should not be construed to necessarily include all of the components or steps described in the specification, and some of the components or steps may not be included, or additional components or steps may be included.

In addition, when describing the technology disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the technology disclosed in this specification, the detailed description is omitted.

In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention. In addition, not only each embodiment described below, but also a combination of embodiments may correspond to the spirit and technical scope of the present invention as modifications, equivalents, or substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in the present specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Fig. 1 illustrates a configuration of an electronic device for playing recommended content according to the present disclosure and a content providing system including the same. Fig. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device of the content providing system of Fig. 1. Referring to Fig. 1, a content providing system (1000) may be configured to include an electronic device (100), a display device (200), a content server (300), a first server (400), and a second server (500).

Referring to FIG. 2, the electronic device (100) may include a wireless communication unit (130), an input unit (140), an output unit (150), a sensing unit (160), a processor (170), an interface unit (181), a memory (182), a power supply unit (190), etc. The components illustrated in FIG. 2 are not essential for implementing a mobile terminal, and thus, the mobile terminal described in this specification may have more or fewer components than the components listed above.

More specifically, among the above components, the wireless communication unit (130) may include one or more modules that enable wireless communication between the electronic device (100) and a wireless communication system, between the electronic device (100) and another electronic device (100), or between the electronic device (100) and an external server. In addition, the wireless communication unit (110) may include one or more modules that connect the electronic device (100) to one or more networks.

The wireless communication unit (130) may include at least one of a broadcast reception module (131), a mobile communication module (132), a wireless Internet module (133), a short-range communication module (134), and a location information module (135).

The input unit (140) may include a camera (141) or a video input unit for inputting a video signal, a microphone (142) or an audio input unit for inputting an audio signal, and a user input unit (143, for example, a touch key, a mechanical key, etc.) for receiving information from a user. Voice data or image data collected by the input unit (140) may be analyzed and processed into a user's control command.

The output unit (150) is for generating output related to visual, auditory, or tactile sensations, and may include at least one of a display (151), an audio output unit (152), a haptic module (153), and an optical output unit (154). The display (151) may be formed as a touch sensor and a mutual layer structure or formed as an integral part, thereby implementing a touch screen. This touch screen may function as a user input unit (143) that provides an input interface between the electronic device (100) and the user, and at the same time, provide an output interface between the electronic device (100) and the user.

The sensing unit (160) may include one or more sensors for sensing at least one of information within the mobile terminal, information about the surrounding environment surrounding the mobile terminal, and user information.

In addition to operations related to applications, the processor (170) typically controls the overall operation of the electronic device (100). The processor (170) processes signals, data, information, etc. input or output through the components discussed above, or operates an application program stored in the memory (182), thereby providing or processing appropriate information or functions to the user.

In addition, the processor (170) can control at least some of the components discussed with reference to FIG. 2 to drive an application program stored in the memory (182). Furthermore, the processor (170) can operate at least two or more of the components included in the electronic device (100) in combination with each other to drive the application program.

The interface unit (181) serves as a passageway for various types of external devices connected to the electronic device (100). In response to the external device being connected to the interface unit (181), the electronic device (100) can perform appropriate control related to the connected external device.

Additionally, the memory (182) stores data that supports various functions of the electronic device (100). The memory (182) can store a plurality of application programs (or applications) running on the electronic device (100), data for the operation of the electronic device (100), and commands. At least some of these application programs can be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication.

The power supply unit (190) receives external power and internal power under the control of the processor (170) and supplies power to each component included in the electronic device (100). The power supply unit (190) includes a battery, and the battery may be a built-in battery or a replaceable battery.

At least some of the above components may cooperate with each other to implement the operation, control, or control method of the mobile terminal according to the various embodiments described below. Furthermore, the operation, control, or control method of the mobile terminal may be implemented on the mobile terminal by running at least one application program stored in the memory (182).

Fig. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a display device according to the present disclosure. Referring to Fig. 3, the display device (200) may include a broadcast receiving unit (230), an external device interface unit (235), a storage unit (240), a user input interface unit (250), a processor (270), a wireless communication unit (273), a voice acquisition unit (275), a display (280), an audio output unit (285), and a power supply unit (290).

The broadcast receiving unit (230) may include a tuner (231), a demodulation unit (232), and a network interface unit (233).

The tuner (231) can select a specific broadcast channel according to a channel selection command. The tuner (231) can receive a broadcast signal for the selected specific broadcast channel.

The demodulator (232) can separate the received broadcast signal into a video signal, an audio signal, and a data signal related to the broadcast program, and can restore the separated video signal, audio signal, and data signal into a form that can be output.

The network interface unit (233) may provide an interface for connecting the display device (200) to a wired/wireless network including the Internet. The network interface unit (233) may transmit or receive data to or from other users or other electronic devices via the connected network or another network linked to the connected network.

The network interface unit (233) can access a predetermined web page through a connected network or another network linked to the connected network. That is, by accessing a predetermined web page through a network, data can be transmitted or received with the corresponding server.

In addition, the network interface unit (233) can receive content or data provided by a content provider or network operator. That is, the network interface unit (233) can receive content such as movies, advertisements, games, VOD, broadcast signals, etc. and information related thereto provided from a content provider or network provider via a network.

Additionally, the network interface unit (233) can receive firmware update information and update files provided by the network operator, and can transmit data to the Internet or content provider or network operator.

The network interface unit (233) can select and receive a desired application from among applications open to the public via a network.

The external device interface unit (235) can receive an application or a list of applications in an adjacent external device and transmit it to the processor (270) or storage unit (240).

The external device interface unit (235) can provide a connection path between the display device (200) and the external device. The external device interface unit (235) can receive one or more of images and audio output from an external device connected to the display device (200) wirelessly or by wire, and transmit the received images and audio to the processor (270). The external device interface unit (235) can include a plurality of external input terminals. The plurality of external input terminals can include an RGB terminal, one or more HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) terminals, and a component terminal.

A video signal of an external device input through the external device interface unit (235) can be output through the display (280). A voice signal of an external device input through the external device interface unit (235) can be output through the audio output unit (185).

An external device that can be connected to the external device interface unit (235) may be any one of a set-top box, a Blu-ray player, a DVD player, a game console, a sound bar, a smartphone, a PC, a USB memory, and a home theater, but this is only an example.

Additionally, some content data stored in the display device (200) can be transmitted to a selected user or electronic device among other users or other electronic devices pre-registered in the display device (200).

The storage unit (240) stores programs for each signal processing and control within the processor (270), and can store signal-processed images, voices, or data signals.

In addition, the storage unit (240) may perform a function for temporary storage of video, audio, or data signals input from an external device interface unit (235) or a network interface unit (233), and may also store information about a specific image through a channel memory function.

The storage unit (240) can store an application or a list of applications input from the external device interface unit (235) or the network interface unit (233).

The display device (200) can play content files (video files, still image files, music files, document files, application files, etc.) stored in the storage unit (240) and provide them to the user.

The user input interface unit (250) can transmit a signal input by the user to the processor (270) or transmit a signal from the processor (270) to the user.

In addition, the user input interface unit (250) can transmit control signals input from local keys (not shown) such as a power key, channel key, volume key, and setting value to the processor (270).

An image signal processed by the processor (270) may be input to the display (280) and displayed as an image corresponding to the image signal. In addition, an image signal processed by the processor (270) may be input to an external output device through an external device interface unit (235).

The voice signal processed by the processor (270) can be output as audio to the audio output unit (285). In addition, the voice signal processed by the processor (270) can be input to an external output device through the external device interface unit (235).

In addition, the processor (270) can control the overall operation within the display device (200).

Additionally, the processor (270) can control the display device (200) by a user command or internal program input through the user input interface unit (150). The processor (270) can connect to a network and enable the user to download a desired application or application list into the display device (200).

The processor (270) enables the user-selected channel information, etc. to be output through the display (280) or audio output unit (285) together with the processed image or audio signal.

In addition, the processor (270) allows a video signal or audio signal from an external device, for example, a camera or camcorder, input through the external device interface unit (235) to be output through the display (280) or audio output unit (285) in accordance with an external device video playback command received through the user input interface unit (150).

Meanwhile, the processor (270) can control the display (280) to display an image, and for example, can control the display (280) to display a broadcast image input through the tuner (231), an external input image input through the external device interface unit (235), an image input through the network interface unit, or an image stored in the storage unit (240). In this case, the image displayed on the display (280) can be a still image or a moving image, and can be a 2D image or a 3D image.

In addition, the processor (270) can control the playback of content stored in the display device (200), received broadcast content, or external input content input from the outside, and the content can be in various forms such as broadcast images, external input images, audio files, still images, connected web screens, and document files.

The wireless communication unit (273) can communicate with an external device via wired or wireless communication. The wireless communication unit (273) can perform short-range communication with an external device.

The voice acquisition unit (275) can acquire audio. The voice acquisition unit (275) can include at least one microphone (not shown) and can acquire audio around the display device (200) through the microphone (not shown).

The display (280) can generate a driving signal by converting a video signal, data signal, OSD signal processed by the processor (170) or a video signal, data signal, etc. received from the external device interface unit (235) into R, G, B signals, respectively.

Meanwhile, since the display device (200) illustrated in FIG. 3 is merely an embodiment of the present invention, some of the illustrated components may be integrated, added, or omitted depending on the specifications of the display device (200) actually implemented. That is, two or more components may be combined into one component, or one component may be subdivided into two or more components, as needed. In addition, the functions performed by each block are intended to explain an embodiment of the present invention, and the specific operations or devices thereof do not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

Meanwhile, FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating servers according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, a content server (300) may be configured to include a communication interface (310), a memory (320), and a processor (330). A first server (400), which may be implemented as a web server, may be configured to include a communication interface (410), a memory (420), and a processor (330). A second server (500), which may be implemented as a web server, may be configured to include a communication interface (510), a memory (520), and a processor (530).

Servers (300, 400, 500) can transmit and receive data through wired/wireless communication with at least one display device (100) and electronic device (200) via a communication interface (310, 410, 510).

The memory (320, 420, 520) may include a content information database (321, 421, 521). The content information database (321, 421, 521) may store information related to content played on each device. For example, the content information database (321, 421, 521) may store content playback information, content setting information, or application installation information in association with identification information of each device.

When a processor (330, 430, 530) receives a content recommendation request from an electronic device (100) or a display device (100), it can recommend content optimized for each device based on data stored in a content information database (321, 421, 521).

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, an application program (10) configured to provide recommended content to an electronic device (100) and a display device (200) may be installed. The display device (200) may display thumbnail screens of content provided by the first server (400) on the display (280) in conjunction with a first server (400). The display device (200) may play selected content according to a touch input on the thumbnail screen of content provided by the first server (400).

Meanwhile, while the application program (10) is running, the display device (200) can display thumbnail screens of contents provided by the second server (500) on the display (151) by linking with the second server (500). The display device (200) can play selected contents according to a touch input on the thumbnail screen of contents provided by the second server (500).

An electronic device (100) having an application program (10) installed can display thumbnail screens of contents provided by the second server (500) on a display (151) by linking with a second server (500). Even if the application program (10) is not executed, the electronic device (100) can display thumbnail screens of contents provided by the second server (500) on the display (151) under specific conditions. The electronic device (100) can play selected contents according to a touch input on the thumbnail screen of contents provided by the second server (500).

The electronic device (100) can display thumbnail screens of contents provided by the first server (400) on the display (151) under different conditions. The electronic device (100) can play selected contents according to a touch input on the thumbnail screen of contents provided by the first server (400).

Hereinafter, the operation process of the content provision system based on content playback time according to the present disclosure will be described. In this regard, FIG. 5 illustrates a channel selection screen provided through a first server according to the present disclosure and a second screen displaying detailed information according to touch input. FIG. 6 illustrates a channel selection screen provided through a second server and a second screen displaying detailed information according to touch input. FIG. 7 illustrates a screen that switches when the thumbnail screen associated with channel selection in FIG. 5 is touched.

Referring to FIG. 5, the first screen (100R1) of the mobile terminal is a screen displayed on a server provided by a service operator that provides multiple content programs through multiple channels. In this regard, the mobile terminal can port the channel web, which includes multiple channels, to the application program in an in-app manner, where the channel web is implemented on the application program. Accordingly, the content service of the service operator that provides channels of specific content in conjunction with a specific application program installed on a display device can be expanded. In other words, the same specific content program channel can be provided on both the display device and an electronic device such as a mobile terminal. Since the user watches a specific content program through a web page provided by the service operator on an electronic device such as a mobile terminal, the service can be expanded even when the user is at home.

On the first screen (100R1), an icon (102) for selecting content of a specific channel provided by a service operator is displayed in an activated state. On the other hand, on the first screen (100R1), a second icon (101) for selecting content of a specific channel provided by a display device linked to a mobile terminal is displayed in an inactivated state.

The first screen (100R1) may be configured to include a first region as an upper region in the vertical axis direction, a second region as a lower region, and a third region between the first region and the second region. A search window and icons (101, 102) may be arranged in the first region of the first screen (100R1). Icons of a plurality of application programs that execute a program providing a paid content service may be arranged in the second region of the first screen (100R1). A thumbnail screen (103) of a specific channel and a third icon (104) that can play a program of the specific channel may be arranged in the third region of the first screen (100R1). The third icon (104) may be arranged in a lower region of the region of the thumbnail screen (103).

When a touch input is applied to the thumbnail screen (103), the first screen (100R1) can be switched to a second screen (100R2) that includes detailed information about the content of a specific channel. The length of the second screen (100R2) along the vertical axis can be formed to be smaller than the length of the first screen (100R1) along the vertical axis, so that it can be displayed on the mobile terminal as a pop-up screen. The length of the second screen (100R2) along the vertical axis can be formed to be the same as the length of the first screen (100R1) along the vertical axis, so that it can be displayed on the entire screen of the mobile terminal.

The second screen (100R2) may be configured to include a first area where a thumbnail screen (103) is displayed and a second area where a channel name (104), detailed information (105), and a fourth icon (105) for playing specific content on the electronic device (100) are displayed.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5, the first screen (100R1) and the second screen (100R2) are screens displayed on an electronic device (100), which is a mobile terminal of a user who has executed a specific application program installed on a display device (200). The first screen (100R1) and the second screen (100R2) are screens provided from the first server (400) to the display device (200) on which the specific application program is installed and to the electronic device (100) of the user.

Referring to FIG. 6, the third screen (100R3) of the mobile terminal is a screen displayed on a server provided by the manufacturer of the display device. On the third screen (100R3), the second icon (101) for selecting content of a specific channel provided by the manufacturer of the display device linked to the mobile terminal is displayed in an activated state. On the other hand, the icon (102) for selecting content of a specific channel provided by the service operator on the third screen (100R3) is displayed in an inactivated state.

The third screen (100R3) may be configured to include a first region as an upper region in the vertical axis direction, a second region as a lower region, and a third region between the first region and the second region. A search window and icons (101, 102) may be arranged in the first region of the third screen (100R3). Icons of a plurality of application programs that execute a program providing a paid content service may be arranged in the second region of the third screen (100R3). A thumbnail screen (103b) of a specific channel and a third icon (104) that can play a program of the specific channel may be arranged in the third region of the third screen (100R3). The third icon (104) may be arranged in a lower region of the region of the thumbnail screen (103).

When a touch input is applied to the thumbnail screen (103b), the third screen (100R3) can be switched to the second screen (100R2) that includes detailed information about the content of a specific channel. The length of the second screen (100R2) along the vertical axis can be formed to be smaller than the length of the third screen (100R3) along the vertical axis, so that it can be displayed on the mobile terminal as a pop-up screen. The length of the second screen (100R2) along the vertical axis can be formed to be the same as the length of the third screen (100R3) along the vertical axis, so that it can be displayed on the entire screen of the mobile terminal.

The second screen (100R2) may be configured to include a first area where a thumbnail screen (103b) is displayed and a second area where a channel name (104b), detailed information (105b) and a fourth icon (105) for playing specific content on the display device are displayed.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 6, the second screen (100R2) and the third screen (100R3) are screens displayed on an electronic device (100), which is a mobile terminal of a user who has executed a specific application program installed on a display device (200). The second screen (100R2) and the third screen (100R3) are screens provided from a second server (500) to the display device (200) on which a specific application program is installed and to the electronic device (100) of the user.

Fig. 7 illustrates a screen configuration that changes when a thumbnail screen (103) associated with channel selection of Fig. 5 is touched. Referring to Figs. 5 and 7, a display of an electronic device such as a mobile terminal may include a first screen area (151R1) and a second screen area (151R2). The first screen area (151R1) of the display may be configured to play specific content provided by a first server. The second screen area (151R2) of the display may display thumbnail screens, titles, and additional information of the specific content currently being played and other content available for free viewing.

In this regard, if the display device and electronic device are connected to the same network within the home, channels operated by the service operator of the first server may be displayed on the screen of the electronic device. Conversely, if the display device and electronic device are connected to different networks, channels operated by the display device manufacturer of the second server may be displayed on the screen of the electronic device.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7, an electronic device and a content playback system for playing recommended content according to the present disclosure will be described. The content playback system may be configured to include an electronic device (100), a display device (200), a first server (400), and a second server (500). The first server (400), which is linked to a specific application program installed on the display device (200), may provide screens associated with first channels of specific content programs. The first server (400) may display screens associated with first channels of specific content programs on the electronic device (100) and the display device (200).

A second server (500) operated by the manufacturer of the display device (200) can provide screens associated with content programs of second channels of specific content programs. The second server (500) can display screens associated with second channels of specific content programs on the electronic device (100) and the display device (200).

Meanwhile, the electronic device (100) may be configured to include a display (151) and a processor (170). In this regard, in order to support the first channels of specific content programs outside the home, a display device (200) needs to be registered with a specific application program of the electronic device (100). In this regard, a display device (200) of a specific model and a specific version or higher may be registered with the application program (10). Accordingly, a user needs to be supported with a UX for viewing specific content programs broadcast or played on the first channels on the application program (10).

In this regard, a specific function for changing the screen layout may be activated in the application program (10) by registering the display device (200) in the application program (10) or depending on user interaction. As the specific function for changing the screen layout is activated, the electronic device (100) may request specific information from the display device (200) and the first server (100) linked thereto. The electronic device (100) may request specific information from the display device (200) and the first server (100) linked thereto or may access the display device (200) and the first server (100) linked thereto through a specific link. In addition, the electronic device (100) requires processes for storing/extracting the received data and transmitting it to the display device (200) and the first server (100) linked thereto.

Meanwhile, the first server (400) linked to the display device (200) may grant the user the right to view content on the electronic device (100) based on whether the user is in the home area or outside the home area and other user information. In addition, the first server (400) may also revoke the right to view content on the electronic device (100) based on whether the user is in the home area or outside the home area and other user information.

In this regard, other user information may include connection history between the application program (10) and the display device (200) and/or the electronic device (10), content service level, etc. The content service level may be determined based on the fee paid by the user or the total time spent watching a specific content program and/or a specific channel.

Meanwhile, the display (151) may be configured to display a first screen (100R1) including an icon (102) for selecting specific content and a thumbnail screen (103) of a channel playing the specific content. The icon (102) may be displayed on the display (151) to select specific content in conjunction with an application program installed on the display device (200).

The processor (170) may be operatively coupled to the display (151). The processor (170) may detect a touch input in an area of a thumbnail screen (103) of the display (151). When a touch input is detected in an area of the thumbnail screen (103), the processor (170) may switch the first screen (100R1) to a second screen (100R2). When a touch input is detected, the processor (170) may control the display (151) to display a second screen (100R2) including a second area of the thumbnail screen (103), a channel name (104b), and detailed information (105b) about the channel.

The processor (170) can determine whether the electronic device (100) is connected to the same network as the display device (200). Depending on the result of determining that the electronic device (100) is connected to the same network as the display device (200), the processor (170) can display screens associated with different contents.

If it is determined that the electronic device (100) is connected to a different network than the display device (200), the processor (170) may display a first screen (100R1) with an icon (102) activated on the display (151). In this regard, if a user carrying the electronic device (100) is in an outdoor environment, it may be determined that the electronic device (100) is connected to a different network than the display device (200).

Additionally, even if a user carrying an electronic device (100) is in a home environment, if the display device (200) is in a state where a wireless connection such as Wi-Fi is disabled, the electronic device (100) may be determined to be connected to a different network from the display device (200). When the electronic device (100) is connected to a different network from the display device (200), content recommended by a second server (500) associated with a specific application program may be preferentially displayed.

If it is determined that the electronic device (100) is connected to the same network as the display device (200), the processor (170) can display a third screen (100R3) on the display (151) in which the second icon (101) is activated. In this regard, if a user carrying the electronic device (100) is in a home environment, it can be determined that the electronic device (100) is connected to the same network as the display device (200). If the electronic device (100) is connected to the same network as the display device (200), content recommended by the first server (400) associated with the display device (200) can be preferentially displayed.

The first screen (100R1) may include an icon (102) and a thumbnail screen (103) for selecting specific content that can be viewed for free. In the first screen (100R1), the icon (102) may be displayed in an activated state and the second icon (101) may be displayed in an inactivated state. The third screen (100R3) may include a second icon (101) for selecting content provided on the display device (200) and a thumbnail screen (103b) of channels that play the content. In the third screen (100R3), the icon (102) may be displayed in an inactivated state and the second icon (101) may be displayed in an activated state.

When a touch input is detected in the area of the thumbnail screen (103b), the processor (170) can switch the third screen (100R3) to the second screen (100R2). When a touch input is detected, the processor (170) can control the display (151) so that the second screen (100R2) including the second area of the thumbnail screen (103b), the channel name (104b), and detailed information (105b) about the channel is displayed.

Meanwhile, the processor (170) may detect a second touch input of a third icon (104) placed in a lower area of an area of a thumbnail screen on the first screen (100R1). Alternatively, the processor (170) may detect a second touch input of a fourth icon (105) placed in a lower area of an area of a detailed information display on the second screen (100R2).

When a second touch input for the third icon (104) or the fourth icon (105) is detected, the processor (170) can display a fourth screen in which specific content is played on the first screen area (151R1) of the display (151). The processor (170) can display thumbnail screens, titles, and additional information of the specific content being played and other content available for free viewing on the second screen area (151R2) of the display (151).

In this regard, the processor (170) may be linked with the second server (500) so that the channels and contents provided by the second server (500) can be identified and executed by the application program of the display device (200) and the electronic device (100). In this regard, the channels and contents provided by the second server (500) in a web environment may be provided as an in-app API executable by the application program. The contents of the channels provided by the second server (500) in a web environment can be viewed on the electronic device (100) through in-app API-based porting of the application program.

Within an application program that can be linked with a second server (500), content of channels provided by a second server (500) can be viewed in an outdoor environment regardless of the wireless connection status of the display device (200). In other words, even if the display device (200) is not connected to the second server (500) and/or the electronic device (100) via a Wi-Fi connection, content viewed through the display device (200) can be viewed in an outdoor environment through the electronic device (100).

Meanwhile, contents of channels provided as a web environment from the second server (500) are provided to the electronic device (100) through a touch input to the third icon (104) or fourth icon (105) indicated as "Watch on Mobile" on the first screen (100R1) and the second screen (100R2). When a touch input to the third icon (104) or fourth icon (105) is detected, the processor (170) controls the display (151) to move to the streaming screen of the designated channel. For example, it is possible to switch to the streaming screen of the designated channel through the web address of the channel lineup called lgchannels.com/IP-208.

Figures 8 and 9 illustrate an embodiment of including a thumbnail screen of a specific channel in a channel list. Referring to Figure 8, a touch input may be detected on a fifth icon (106) for selecting a specific channel on a second screen (100R2) including a thumbnail screen (103b) of a specific channel. When a touch input is detected on the fifth icon (106), a message indicating that the specific channel has been saved to "My Wish List" may be displayed.

In this regard, the items selected and saved in "My Wishlist" may be specific channels. Specific content programs on specific channels may be live programs. Therefore, due to limitations of streaming services for live programs, the items selected and saved in "My Wishlist" may be specific channels that offer live programs, rather than live programs.

Referring to FIG. 9, a favorite channel list (151L) consisting of multiple channel thumbnails and channel names of multiple channels may be displayed on the display. A specific channel corresponding to the thumbnail screen (103b) of FIG. 8 may be displayed first in the favorite channel list (151L). A thumbnail screen (103c) of a specific channel most recently selected as "My Wish List" may be displayed in the first row of the favorite channel list (151L). A channel name (104c) may be displayed in the first row adjacent to the thumbnail screen (103c) of the specific channel.

The size of the thumbnail screen (103c) displayed in the preferred channel list (151L) is set smaller than the size of the thumbnail screen (103b) of the second screen (100R2). Accordingly, the resolution of the thumbnail screen (103c) displayed in the preferred channel list (151L) may be set to a lower value than the resolution of the thumbnail screen (103b) of the second screen (100R2).

Fig. 10 illustrates an embodiment in which a thumbnail screen of content of a specific channel included in a channel list and additional information are displayed in a second screen area of a display. Referring to Fig. 10, a fourth screen (100R4) in which specific content stored in a favorite channel list (151L) is played can be displayed in a first screen area (151R1) of a display (151). Meanwhile, a channel thumbnail (103c) and a channel name (104c) of a specific content currently being played can be displayed in the first row of the favorite channel list in a second screen area (151R2) of the display (151).

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 10, an electronic device for playing content according to the present disclosure will be described. A processor (170) may display a first screen (100R1) including an icon (102) for selecting specific content and a thumbnail screen (103) of a channel playing the specific content. The first screen (100R1) may be displayed following the thumbnail screen of the most recently played channel among the channels included in the channel list. Meanwhile, an identifier of a channel playing the specific content may be set to a value greater than 1 than the number of channels included in the channel list. The number of channels included in the channel list may be set according to popularity ranking or recommendation ranking. For example, if the number of channels included in the channel list is 20 or 50, the identifier of the channel playing the specific content may be set to 21 or 51.

The processor (170) may detect a third touch input to a fifth icon (106) in an area adjacent to an area where a channel name is displayed on the second screen (100R2) to include specific content in a preferred channel list (151L). When the third touch input is detected on the fifth icon (106), the processor (170) may store a channel of specific content in the preferred channel list (151L). When storing a channel of specific content in the preferred channel list (151L), a channel identifier (ID) and a URL of a channel thumbnail may be transmitted to the application program. The API linkage items of the application program between the electronic device (100) and the second server (500) may include a channel thumbnail (URL), a channel name, and a channel link URL.

The processor (170) may display a phrase indicating that a channel of a specific content is stored in the preferred channel list (151L) in the area where the fourth icon (105) is arranged. The processor (170) may detect a fourth touch input to the second phrase “View list” in the area where the fourth icon (105) is arranged. The second phrase “View list” may be arranged adjacent to the phrase indicating that the channel is stored in the preferred channel list (151L) within the area where the fourth icon (105) is arranged. When the fourth touch input to the second phrase “View list” in the area where the fourth icon (105) is arranged is detected, the processor (170) may display the preferred channel list (151L) on the display (151). Thumbnail screens of preferred channels, channel names, and additional information may be included in the preferred channel list (151L).

The processor (170) can display a fourth screen (100R4) in which specific content stored in the preferred channel list (151L) is played on the first screen area (151R1) of the display (151). The processor (170) can display thumbnail screens, titles, and additional information of the specific content being played and other content belonging to the preferred channel list (151L) on the second screen area (151R2) of the display (151).

Meanwhile, specific content may be provided with different user interfaces based on the viewing rights on the display device (200) and/or electronic device (100). FIG. 11 illustrates a thumbnail screen of a specific channel that has the rights to view specific content on both the display device and the electronic device.

Referring to FIG. 11, a first permission icon (111a) indicating that a first permission that can be viewed on a display device (200) is held may be displayed in a specific area of a thumbnail screen (103). A second permission icon (112a) indicating that a second permission that can be viewed in an environment in which a specific application program is executed may be displayed in a specific area of a thumbnail screen (103). The position at which the second permission icon (112a) is placed may be adjacent to the position at which the first permission icon (111a) is placed.

Figure 12 illustrates screen configurations depending on whether or not a user has permission to view specific content on a display device or electronic device. Figure 12 illustrates screen configurations displayed on a display device or electronic device when a specific selection icon is selected in the screen configuration of Figure 11.

Referring to Fig. 12(a), both the first selection icon (111) and the second selection icon (112) may be displayed. Content on the home screen of the display device may be viewed by a touch input of the first selection icon (111). Content provided by the application program may be viewed by a touch input of the second selection icon (112). Referring to Fig. 12(b), only the second selection icon (112) selected for viewing through the application program may be displayed. Referring to Fig. 12(c), only the first selection icon (111) selected for viewing through the display device may be displayed.

Fig. 13 illustrates the configuration of the home screen of a display device. Fig. 14 illustrates the configuration of the home screen of an electronic device on which a specific application program is executed. Referring to Fig. 13, a first thumbnail screen (103-1) of a first content may be displayed in a playlist on the home screen of a display device (200). In addition, a thumbnail screen (203) of a second content associated with the first content of the first thumbnail screen (103-1) may be displayed on the home screen of the display device (200). Accordingly, the second content associated with the most recently viewed first content may be displayed as recommended content on the screen of the display device (200).

Referring to FIG. 14, the electronic device (100) can cause the first content of a specific channel to be played on the first screen area (151R1) of the display. The first content of the specific channel may be the most recently selected channel among multiple channels belonging to a playlist or a favorite channel list, but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application. When a touch input is detected on the second selection icon (112) of FIG. 12, the first content may be played on the first screen area (151R1) of the display of the electronic device (100).

Meanwhile, a second thumbnail screen (103-2) of the first content may be displayed on a playlist or preference list of a specific screen of the electronic device (100). In this regard, the second thumbnail screen (103-2) of the first content may be displayed on a second screen area (151R2) of the display (170).

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 14, a method for playing content according to the present specification will be described. The processor (170) determines whether a user has a first right to play specific content on a display device (200) and a second right to play specific content on an electronic device (100). In this regard, the first right and the second right refer to a first license and a second license, respectively, that allow viewing specific content on a display device such as a television and an electronic device such as a mobile terminal.

The processor (170) can display a first thumbnail of the first content having both the first authority and the second authority in an area of the thumbnail screen (103) of the first screen (100R1). A touch input can be detected in an area of the thumbnail screen (103) of the first screen (100R1). When a touch input is detected, the processor (170) can switch the first screen (100R1) to the second screen (100R2). The processor (170) can display selection icons (111, 112) for selecting a device to play the first content in an area of the second screen (100R2) where the fourth icon (105) is displayed.

The processor (170) can detect a touch input to the first selection icon (111) among the selection icons (111, 112). When a touch input is detected to the first selection icon (111), the processor (170) can control the first content to be played on the display device (200). Meanwhile, the processor (170) can control the display device (200) to display the first thumbnail screen (103-1) of the first content on the playlist of the home screen of the display device (200).

Additionally, the processor (170) can control the display device (200) to display a thumbnail screen (203) of second content associated with the first content of the first thumbnail screen (103-1). Accordingly, the second content associated with the most recently viewed first content can be displayed as recommended content on the screen of the display device (200).

The processor (170) can detect a touch input to the second selection icon (112) among the selection icons (111, 112). When a touch input is detected to the second selection icon (112), the processor (170) can control the first content to be played on the electronic device (100). In this regard, the first content can be played on the first screen area (151R1) of the display (170).

Meanwhile, the processor (170) can control the electronic device (100) to display a second thumbnail screen (103-2) of the first content in the playlist of a specific screen of the electronic device (100). In this regard, the second thumbnail screen (103-2) of the first content can be displayed in the second screen area (151R2) of the display (170).

The processor (170) can detect a swipe input in the area of the thumbnail screen (103) of the first screen (100R1). The swipe input includes an input in a first direction moving from left to right and an input in a second direction moving from right to left within the area of the thumbnail screen (103). The processor (170) can sequentially display contents having the first and second permissions through the swipe input.

The processor (170) can detect a swipe input in the area of the thumbnail screen (103) of the last content having the first and second rights. The first and second rights refer to the first and second licenses, respectively, that allow viewing of specific content on a display device such as a television and an electronic device such as a mobile terminal.

Accordingly, the content recommendation method described herein first recommends content from channels licensed for both web-based mobile environments and television. Next, it recommends content from channels licensed only for web-based mobile environments. Finally, it recommends content from channels licensed only for television.

When a swipe input is detected in the area of the thumbnail screen (103) of the last content having the first and second rights, the processor (170) can display a second thumbnail of the second content in the area of the thumbnail screen (103) of the first screen (100R1). The second content is the first content that has the first right and does not have the second right. The processor (170) can detect a swipe input in the area of the thumbnail screen (103) of the last content having the first right.

When a swipe input is detected in the area of the thumbnail screen (103) of the last content with the first authority, the processor (170) can display the third thumbnail of the third content in the area of the thumbnail screen (103) of the first screen (100R1). The third content is the first content that does not have the first authority but has the second authority.

Meanwhile, through the content recommendation method according to this specification, it is possible to switch from a screen recommending content of channels operated on a first server (400) to a screen recommending content of channels operated on a second server (500).

In this regard, the first server (400) can control the display device (200) so that recommended contents are displayed on the display device (200). By installing a specific application program that recommends and controls channels and contents on the display device (200) and/or the electronic device (100), the display device (200) and/or the electronic device (100) can be linked with the second server (500).

The processor (170) can display the third screen (100R3) with the second icon (101) activated on the display (151). The processor (170) can display the first screen (100R1) with the icon (102) activated on the display (151) under specific conditions. The specific conditions may be a touch input for an icon for selecting specific content on the third screen (100R3) or a touch input for an icon (107) associated with a full view of a lower area of an area of a thumbnail screen (103).

The processor (170) can display a third screen (100R3) with the second icon (101) activated on the display (151) in conjunction with the first server (400). The processor (170) can display a first screen (100R1) with the icon (102) activated on the display (151) in conjunction with the second server (500) under specific conditions.

As described above, the first server (400) can control the display device (200) to display first recommended contents on the display device (200). The second server (500) can control the display device (200) and/or the electronic device (100) to display second recommended contents by installing a specific application program that recommends and controls channels and contents on the display device (200) and/or the electronic device (100).

The first recommended contents may be selected based on popularity rankings associated with viewership ratings on the first server (400) or based on similarity to contents recently viewed by users using the display device (200). The second recommended contents may be selected based on popularity rankings associated with viewership ratings on the second server (500) or based on similarity to contents recently viewed by users using a specific application program.

Meanwhile, an electronic device that plays recommended content according to the present disclosure may be configured to play specific content only on a specific device, even though it has the authority to play specific content on multiple devices. In this regard, FIG. 15 illustrates a flowchart of a method for playing recommended content according to the present disclosure on one of a display device and an electronic device.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3 and FIGS. 11 to 15, the processor (170) can display a first thumbnail for a first content having both a first right and a second right in an area of a thumbnail screen (103). The first right for a specific channel/content means the right to view the specific channel/content on a display device (200). The second right for a specific channel/content means the right to view the specific channel/content on an electronic device (100).

When the electronic device (100) is connected to the same network as the display device (200), the processor (170) can configure the screen to select one of the electronic device (100) and the display device (200). In this regard, when the user of the electronic device (100) is in the same area of the house where the display device (200) is placed, the electronic device (100) can be determined to be connected to the same network as the display device (200). When the user of the electronic device (100) is in the same area of the house where the display device (200) is placed, the user can select on which device to play specific content.

When the electronic device (100) is connected to the same network as the display device (200), both the first selection icon (111) and the second selection icon (112) may be displayed. In this regard, the processor (170) may control the display of the first selection icon (111) in the first sub-area below the area of the thumbnail screen (103) and the display of the second selection icon (112) in the second sub-area. When a touch input is applied to the first selection icon (111), specific content displayed on the thumbnail screen (103) may be played through the display device (200). When a touch input is applied to the second selection icon (112), specific content displayed on the thumbnail screen (103) may be played through the electronic device (100).

Meanwhile, if the user of the electronic device (100) is in an outdoor area different from the home where the display device (200) is placed, it may be determined that the electronic device (100) is connected to a different network than the display device (200). If the user of the electronic device (100) is in an outdoor area different from the home where the display device (200) is placed, it may be determined that the user intends to play a specific channel/content viewed on the display device (200) on the electronic device (100).

When the electronic device (100) is connected to a different network than the display device (200), the processor (170) can control the first selection icon (111) to be displayed in the entire area below the area of the thumbnail screen (103). When a touch input is applied to the first selection icon (111), specific content displayed on the thumbnail screen (103) can be played through the electronic device (100).

Accordingly, the processor (170) can determine whether it has both the first authority and the second authority (S110). The first authority for a specific channel/content refers to the authority to view the specific channel/content on the display device (200). The second authority for a specific channel/content refers to the authority to view the specific channel/content on the electronic device (100). If it is determined that only one of the first authority and the second authority is held, the processor (170) can display only one of the first selection icon (111) and the second selection icon (112) (S115). If it is determined that only the first authority is held, the processor (170) can display only the first selection icon (111). If it is determined that only the second authority is held, the processor (170) can display only the second selection icon (112).

The processor (170) can determine whether the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to the same network (S120). If the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to the same network, the processor (170) can display both the first selection icon (111) and the second selection icon (112) (S130). If the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to different networks, the processor (170) can display only the first selection icon (111) (S140).

Meanwhile, if the user is at home, the user's viewing privileges through the electronic device (100) can be restricted during a specific time interval based on the user's content viewing pattern via the first server (300). Whether the user is at home can be determined by whether the electronic device (100) is connected to the same network as the display device (200). In this regard, FIG. 16 illustrates a flowchart of a method for playing recommended content on one of a display device and an electronic device based on a viewing history according to the present disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, 11 to 14 and 16, a method for playing recommended content on one of a display device and an electronic device based on a viewing history according to the present disclosure is described.

The processor (170) can determine a specific time interval during which the user of the electronic device (100) is determined to be in a home environment while the electronic device (100) is connected to the same network as the display device (200). The time interval during which the user of the electronic device (100) is determined to be in a home environment can be determined based on a history associated with an access time interval during which the user accessed the application program (10) through the display device (200).

The processor (170) may transmit a request for revocation of authority to the first server (400) based on a history associated with a connection time period during which the application program (10) was accessed via the display device (200). The processor (170) may transmit a request for revocation of authority to the first server (400) to reclaim the second authority to play specific content on the electronic device (100) during a specific time period determined to be present in the home environment.

When a response to a request for authorization revocation is received from the first server (400), the processor (170) can control the first selection icon (111) to be displayed in the entire area below the area of the thumbnail screen (103) for a specific time period. When a touch input is applied to the first selection icon (111), specific content displayed on the thumbnail screen (103) can be played through the display device (200). Meanwhile, as the user moves from an indoor environment to an outdoor environment, the processor (170) can control both the first selection icon (111) and the second selection icon (112) to be displayed.

Accordingly, the processor (170) can determine whether it possesses both the first authority and the second authority (S110). If it is determined that it possesses only one of the first authority and the second authority, the processor (170) can display only one of the first selection icon (111) and the second selection icon (112) (S115). If it is determined that it possesses only the first authority, the processor (170) can display only the first selection icon (111). If it is determined that it possesses only the second authority, the processor (170) can display only the second selection icon (112).

The processor (170) can determine whether the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to the same network (S120). If the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to different networks, the processor (170) can control to display only the first selection icon (111) (S140).

When the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to the same network, the processor (170) can determine whether the user will be in the home environment during a specific time period (S210). In this regard, the processor (170) can determine the specific time period during which the user will be in the home environment based on a history associated with an access time interval during which the user accessed the application program (10) via the display device (200).

If it is determined that the user will be in the home environment during a specific time period, the processor (170) may transmit a request for permission revocation to the first server (400) (S220). The processor (170) may determine whether a response to the permission revocation request has been received from the first server (400) (S225). If no response is received from the first server (400), the process of transmitting the permission revocation request to the first server (400) (S220) may be repeated until a response is received from the first server (400). If a response is received from the first server (400), the processor (170) may control only the first selection icon (111) to be displayed (S230).

If it is determined that the user will not be in the home environment during a specific time period, the processor (170) may display both the first selection icon (111) and the second selection icon (112) (S240). Based on the history associated with the access time period, the processor (170) may determine whether the time period during which the user is determined to be in the home environment includes a broadcast time period of content of a specific channel.

Meanwhile, if a user logs into an electronic device with a different ID than the user identifier used to log into the display device, the device for playing content can be adaptively selected based on the user's intent and convenience. This improves the convenience of users logging into electronic devices with different IDs, and reduces the server's traffic burden by increasing connectivity between devices and the content server and web server. In this regard, FIG. 17 illustrates a flowchart of a method for playing recommended content on one of a display device and an electronic device based on a user ID according to the present disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, 11 to 14, and 17, a method for playing recommended content on one of a display device and an electronic device based on a viewing history according to the present disclosure is described.

Meanwhile, if a user accesses the application program (10) using different user IDs on the electronic device (100) and the display device (200), the second user's permission to play specific content on the electronic device (100) can be revoked. The second user accessing the application program (10) using a different user ID may intend to view different content than the first user. Accordingly, different content can be viewed through the display device (200) and the electronic device (100) even in a home environment.

In this regard, the processor (170) can determine whether the first ID that accessed the application program (10) through the electronic device (100) is the same as the second ID that accessed the application program (10) through the display device (200). The second ID that accessed the application program (10) through the display device (200) may be the most recently accessed ID.

If the electronic device (100) is connected to the same network as the display device (200) and the first ID and the second ID are determined to be different, the processor (170) can control the display of a first selection icon (111) and a second selection icon (112). The first selection icon (111) can be displayed in a first sub-area at the bottom of the area of the thumbnail screen (103). The second selection icon (112) can be displayed in a second sub-area at the bottom of the area of the thumbnail screen (103). Accordingly, by touching the first selection icon (111) or the second selection icon (112), specific content can be selectively played on the display device (200) or the electronic device (100).

When the first selection icon (111) is touched, specific content can be played on the display device (200). In this regard, the electronic device (100) can function as a remote control device that controls the playback of specific content on the display device (200). When the second selection icon (112) is touched, specific content can be played on the electronic device (100). Accordingly, a user of the electronic device (100) and a user of the display device (200) can view different content in the same home area.

If the electronic device (100) is connected to the same network as the display device (200) and the first ID and the second ID are determined to be the same, the processor (170) may transmit a request for revocation of permission to the first server (400) to revoke the second permission. The processor (170) may transmit a request for revocation of permission to the first server (400) to revoke the second permission to play specific content on the electronic device (100).

Upon receiving a response to a request for authorization revocation from the first server (300), the processor (170) can control the display of a first selection icon (111) in the entire area below the area of the thumbnail screen (103). Accordingly, by touching the first selection icon (111), specific content can be played on the display device (200). In this regard, the electronic device (100) can operate as a remote control device that controls specific content to be played on the display device (200).

If the electronic device (100) is connected to a different network than the display device (200) and the first ID and the second ID are determined to be the same, the processor (170) can control the display of the first selection icon (111). Accordingly, the processor (170) can display a screen for selecting a specific channel/content of the display device (200).

If the electronic device (100) is connected to a different network than the display device (200) and the first ID and the second ID are determined to be different, the processor (170) can control the display of the second selection icon (112). Accordingly, the processor (170) can display a basic screen for selecting a specific channel/content on the electronic device (100).

Accordingly, the processor (170) can determine whether it possesses both the first authority and the second authority (S110). If it is determined that it possesses only one of the first authority and the second authority, the processor (170) can display only one of the first selection icon (111) and the second selection icon (112) (S115). If it is determined that it possesses only the first authority, the processor (170) can display only the first selection icon (111). If it is determined that it possesses only the second authority, the processor (170) can display only the second selection icon (112).

The processor (170) can determine whether the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to the same network (S120). The processor (170) can determine whether the first ID and the second ID are the same (S310). If the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to the same network and the first ID and the second ID are the same, the processor (170) can transmit a request for authorization revocation to the first server (400) (S220).

The processor (170) may determine (S325) whether a response to the permission revocation request has been received from the first server (400). If no response is received from the first server (400), the process of transmitting the permission revocation request to the first server (400) (S320) may be repeated until a response is received from the first server (400). If a response is received from the first server (400), the processor (170) may control (S330) to display only the first selection icon (111). If the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to the same network and the first ID and the second ID are different, the processor (170) may display both the first selection icon (111) and the second selection icon (112) (S340).

Meanwhile, if it is determined that the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to the same network, the processor (170) can determine whether the first ID and the second ID are the same (S350). If the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to different networks and the first ID and the second ID are the same, the processor (170) can display only the first selection icon (112) (S330). If the electronic device (100) and the display device (200) are connected to different networks and the first ID and the second ID are different, the processor (170) can display only the first selection icon (111) (S360).

The above describes an electronic device for displaying and playing recommended content according to the present disclosure and a content playback system including the same. The technical effects of the electronic device for displaying and playing recommended content according to the present disclosure and the content playback system including the same can be summarized as follows, but are not limited thereto.

According to the present disclosure, an electronic device for displaying and playing recommended content to a user and a content playing system including the same can be provided.

According to the present disclosure, different screens and user interfaces for content recommendation are provided on the screen of the electronic device depending on whether the user of the electronic device is in the same space as the display device, thereby improving user convenience and expanding content services.

According to the present disclosure, user convenience and intuitiveness can be improved by displaying different icons on a thumbnail screen to indicate whether content can be played on a display device and/or an electronic device depending on the content.

According to the present disclosure, user convenience and intuitiveness can be enhanced by displaying thumbnails on the screen, depending on whether the user is at home or away, their previous access history, and whether the content is playable on a display device and/or electronic device. Furthermore, by eliminating unintended connection methods, the increased server load resulting from increased connections between the content server or web server and the electronic device can be prevented.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent an increase in server load due to an increase in connections between a content server or web server and an electronic device by revoking the user's right to play specific content on an electronic device based on whether the user is at home or away from home, previous access history, and content.

The present invention described above can be implemented as computer-readable code on a medium in which a program is recorded. Computer-readable media include all types of recording devices that store data that can be read by a computer system. Examples of computer-readable media include hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state disk drives (SSDs), silicon disk drives (SDDs), ROMs, RAMs, CD-ROMs, magnetic tapes, floppy disks, optical data storage devices, etc., and also include media implemented in the form of carrier waves (e.g., transmission via the Internet). In addition, the computer may include a processor (170) of a terminal. Therefore, the above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in all respects, but should be considered as illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims (16)

In an electronic device that plays recommended content, A display configured to display a first screen including an icon for selecting specific content and a thumbnail screen of a channel that plays the specific content in conjunction with an application program installed on the display device; and A processor operatively coupled to the display and configured to detect a touch input in an area of the thumbnail screen and control the display to display a second area of the thumbnail screen, a second screen including a channel name and detailed information about the channel, The above processor, Determining whether the electronic device is connected to the same network as the display device; An electronic device that displays screens associated with different contents based on the results of the above judgment. In the first paragraph, The above processor, If it is determined that the electronic device is connected to a different network from the display device, display the first screen on the display; If the electronic device is determined to be connected to the same network as the display device, a third screen is displayed on the display; The first screen above includes the icon and the thumbnail screen for selecting the specific content available for free viewing, An electronic device wherein the third screen includes a second icon for selecting contents provided on the display device and a thumbnail screen of channels that play the contents. In the second paragraph, The above processor, Detecting a second touch input of a third icon placed in a lower area of the area of the thumbnail screen on the first screen or a fourth icon placed in a lower area of the area of the detailed information displayed on the second screen; When the second touch input is detected, the fourth screen on which the specific content is played is displayed in the first screen area of the display, An electronic device that displays thumbnail screens, titles, and additional information of the specific content being played and other content available for free viewing on a second screen area of the display. In the first paragraph, The above processor, A first screen is displayed, following the thumbnail screen of the most recently played channel among the channels included in the channel list, including an icon for selecting the specific content and a thumbnail screen of the channel playing the specific content, An electronic device in which the identifier of the channel that plays the specific content is set to a value greater than 1 than the number of channels included in the channel list. In the third paragraph, The above processor, Detecting a third touch input on a fifth icon for including the specific content in the favorite channel list in an area adjacent to the area where the channel name is displayed on the second screen; When the third touch input is detected, the channel of the specific content is stored in the favorite channel list, An electronic device that displays a phrase indicating that the channel of the specific content has been saved in the preferred channel list in the area where the fourth icon is placed. In paragraph 5, The above processor, Detecting a fourth touch input in the second phrase called list view adjacent to the phrase in the area where the fourth icon is placed; An electronic device that, when the fourth touch input is detected, displays a list of favorite channels including thumbnail screens of favorite channels, channel names, and additional information on the display. In paragraph 5, The above processor, Displaying a fourth screen in which the specific content stored in the above preferred channel list is played in the first screen area of the display, An electronic device that displays thumbnail screens, titles and additional information of the specific content being played and other content belonging to the preferred channel list on a second screen area of the display. In paragraph 5, The above processor, Determine whether the user has the first right to play the specific content on the display device and the second right to play the specific content on the electronic device; Displaying a first thumbnail of the first content having both the first authority and the second authority in the thumbnail screen area of the first screen, An electronic device that, when a touch input is detected in an area of a thumbnail screen of the first screen, displays selection icons for selecting a device to play the first content in an area of the second screen where the fourth icon is displayed. In paragraph 8, The above processor, When a touch input is detected on a first selection icon among the above selection icons, the first content is controlled to be played on the display device, An electronic device that controls the first content to be played on the electronic device when a touch input is detected on a second selection icon among the above selection icons. In paragraph 8, The above processor, When a touch input is detected on a first selection icon among the above selection icons, the display device is controlled to display a first thumbnail screen of the first content in a playlist on the home screen of the display device, An electronic device that controls the electronic device so that a second thumbnail screen of the first content is displayed in a playlist on a specific screen of the electronic device when a touch input is detected on a second selection icon among the above selection icons. In paragraph 8, The above processor, By swiping input in the area of the thumbnail screen of the first screen, contents having the first right and the second right are sequentially displayed, When a swipe input is detected in the area of the thumbnail screen of the last content having the first authority and the second authority, the second thumbnail of the second content having the first authority is displayed in the area of the thumbnail screen of the first screen, An electronic device that, when a swipe input is detected in the area of the thumbnail screen of the last content having the first right, displays a third thumbnail of the third content having the second right in the area of the thumbnail screen of the first screen. In paragraph 5, The above processor, Displaying the third screen with the second icon activated on the display, Displaying the first screen with the icon activated on the display under certain conditions; An electronic device wherein the above specific condition is a touch input for an icon for selecting the specific content on the third screen or a touch input for an icon associated with a full view of a lower area of an area of the thumbnail screen. In Article 12, The above processor, In conjunction with the first server, the third screen with the second icon activated is displayed on the display, Under certain conditions, the first screen with the icon activated is displayed on the display by linking with the second server, The first server controls the display device so that first recommended contents are displayed on the display device, An electronic device in which the second server controls the display device and the electronic device to display second recommended contents by installing a specific application program that recommends and controls channels and contents on the display device and the electronic device. In paragraph 8, The above processor, Displaying a first thumbnail for the first content having both the first right and the second right in the area of the thumbnail screen, When the electronic device is connected to the same network as the display device, a first selection icon is displayed in a first sub-area at the bottom of the area of the thumbnail screen and a second selection icon is displayed in a second sub-area, An electronic device that controls the display of the first selection icon in the entire area below the area of the thumbnail screen when the electronic device is connected to a different network from the display device. In paragraph 9, The above processor, Based on a history associated with an access time interval during which the electronic device accessed the application program through the display device while the electronic device was connected to the same network as the display device, a specific time interval during which the user of the electronic device is determined to be in a home environment is determined, Transmit a request for revocation of permission to the first server to reclaim the second permission to play the specific content on the electronic device for the specific time period; An electronic device that, upon receiving a response to the request for revocation of the authority from the first server, controls the first selection icon to be displayed in the entire area below the area of the thumbnail screen during the specific time period. In paragraph 9, The above processor, Determine whether the first ID that accessed the application program through the electronic device is the same as the second ID that accessed the application program through the display device; If the electronic device is connected to the same network as the display device, and the first ID and the second ID are different, a first selection icon is displayed in a first sub-area at the bottom of the area of the thumbnail screen, and a second selection icon is displayed in a second sub-area. If the electronic device is connected to the same network as the display device, and the first ID and the second ID are the same, a request for retrieving permission is sent to the first server to retrieve the second permission to play the specific content on the electronic device, An electronic device that, when receiving a response to the request for revocation of the authority from the first server, controls the first selection icon to be displayed in the entire area below the area of the thumbnail screen.