NFT PLATFORM FOR UPDATING NFTs AND METHODS FOR USE THEREWITH

A non-fungible token (NFT) platform that includes a processor and a memory, operates by: receiving, at the processor, data associated with at least one NFT and other data to be associated with a new NFT; and facilitating generation of the new NFT, based on the data associated with at least one NFT and the other data.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to processing systems and applications used in the collection, generation, display and use of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) or other digital tokens.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1Apresents a block diagram representation of an example system in accordance with various examples. In particular, a system850is presented that includes an NFT collection platform800that communicates with client devices825via a network115. The network115can be the Internet or other wide area or local area network, either public or private. The client devices825can be computing devices such as laptops, smartphones, smart watches, tablets, desktops, or other computing devices associated with users, for example, buyers, sellers, collectors and/or users of NFTs.

NFT creation and ownership is growing worldwide. Existing platforms provide tools to create NFTs, marketplaces for buying and selling NFTs and wallets to securely hold them. Many NFT purchasers however, view NFTs similarly to cryptocurrency, purely as financial investments to be collected and later sold. Unlike cryptocurrencies which are fungible tokens, NFTs have a non-fungible (e.g. unique or limited) component that can correspond to photographs, graphics, art, video, games or other media or imagery that can be displayed, used in authentication and/or to provide other support for transactions and/or used in game play and for other utilitarian purposes, etc.

In the example shown, the NFT collection platform800includes a client device interface802for interacting with the client devices825, NFT marketplace tools804, NFT wallet tools806, NFT generation tools808, NFT collection display tools810, one or more games812that can be played using NFTs that have been collected including game NFTs that include and/or otherwise associated with, or correspond to, playable game content, and a database814for storing user and account information, preferences, display settings and other data associated with users of the NFT collection platform800. The NFT collection platform800can include or be implemented via one or more servers, a cloud computing system, an InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) or other decentralized or distributed computer system of individual computers and/or nodes and/or a centralized computing system.

For example, the client device interface802can operate in conjunction with each client device825and via network115to generate a graphical user interface. This graphical user interface is based on display data generated by the NFT collection platform800in a format for display on a display device associated with the client devices825. This graphical user interface generates input data that is received by the NFT collection platform800from the client devices825in response to user interaction with the graphical user interface.

In various examples, the NFT collection platform800can serve the needs of a collector of NFTs by providing a system that offers new experiences that support various collector and/or use behaviors in the NFT world and metaverse including the collection, display, and use of NFTs and their corresponding content. The NFT collection display tools810can include a high-fidelity customizable page builder so each collector can personalize and display their NFTs in an environment. The NFT collection platform800can provide and support a collection social media site that, for example, is similar to MySpace, Facebook, or OnlyFans, but specifically directed to the arrangement, posting, sharing and/or display of collections of NFTs.

In the most basic mode of operation, the NFT collection platform800improves the technology of NFT systems by allowing the user to collect, arrange and display NFTs they have purchased so that the user, and other users, can enjoy and admire the NFTs they have collected. The NFT collection platform800not only allows users to curate, display and use their collections, to play games associated with their NFTs and/or also allows users to create a social/professional profile of their NFT property—enabling users to get creative with how their collections are presented, used and displayed. In addition, when a group of NFTs is collected and/or when a personalized/curated collection page, set and/or collection display is built, the NFT collection platform800improves the technology of NFT systems by allowing the user to mint a new “collection NFT” using blockchain-based, distributed computer network, and/or other crypto-based NFT creation techniques, for example and authenticated based on the user's ownership of the underlying NFTs.

Furthermore, the NFT collection platform800allows users to buy, sell, loan, borrow and trade NFTs with other users, including their own collection NFTs created based on their own collections. In various examples, the NFT collection platform800may not include a NFT creator, marketplace or wallet itself. The NFT generation tools808, NFT wallet tools806and NFT marketplace tools804can reside on the NFT collection platform800and interface with one or more NFT wallet systems820, NFT marketplaces822and/or NFT creation systems824to enable transactions/interactions/abilities at a metaverse level, offering collectors new and unique experiences, pre and post purchase, across all different NFT's and blockchains in one place. The NFT collection platform800improves the technology of NFT systems by allowing the user to perform the functions above in a fashion, that can be blockchain, wallet, and marketplace agnostic.

It should be noted that the system850can operate via blockchain-based technologies. In blockchain, a growing list of records, called “blocks”, are linked together using cryptography and spread over a decentralized computer system/network or other distributed network of participants. Each block contains a cryptographic hash of the previous block, a timestamp, and transaction data (generally represented as a Merkle tree). The timestamp proves that the transaction data existed when the block was published in order to get into its hash. As blocks each contain information about the block previous to it, they form a chain, with each additional block reinforcing the ones before it. Therefore, blockchains are resistant to modification of their data because once recorded, the data in any given block cannot be altered retroactively without altering all subsequent blocks. The distributed nature of this process over different nodes, the contemporaneous nature of geographically distinct calculations, coupled with the extreme computational complexity of the required calculations means that these blockchain-based technologies cannot practically be performed by the human mind.

It should be noted, that while the NFT wallet system820, NFT marketplace822and NFT creation system824are shown as separate entities and as being external to the NFT collection platform800, other configurations are possible where two or more of these entities share a common platform and/or the functions and features of one or more of these entities can be incorporated within the NFT collection platform800itself.

It should also be noted that while client device interface802, NFT marketplace tools804, NFT wallet tools806, NFT generation tools808, NFT collection display tools810, games812and database814are shown as being internal to the NFT collection platform800, in other examples, any subset of the various elements of the NFT collection platform800can be implemented external to the NFT collection platform800and coupled to the other components via the network115. Furthermore, the NFT collection platform800can be implemented in a cloud computing configuration with any or all of the various elements of the NFT collection platform800implemented within the cloud.

The further operation of this system will be described in greater detail in conjunction with the figures that that follow, including many optional functions and features and examples thereof.

FIG.1Bpresents a block diagram representation of an NFT collection platform800in accordance with various examples. In particular, the NFT collection platform800includes a network interface820such as a 3G, 4G, 5G or other cellular wireless transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, a WiFi transceiver, UltraWideBand transceiver, WIMAX transceiver, ZigBee transceiver or other wireless interface, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, an IEEE 1394 Firewire interface, an Ethernet interface or other wired interface and/or other network card or modem for communicating for communicating via the network115.

The NFT collection platform800also includes a processing module830and memory module840that stores an operating system (O/S)844such as an Apple, Unix, Linux or Microsoft operating system or other operating system, client device interface802, NFT marketplace tools804, NFT wallet tools806, NFT generation tools808, NFT collection display tools810, games812and database814. In particular, the O/S844, the client device interface802, NFT marketplace tools804, NFT wallet tools806, NFT generation tools808, NFT collection display tools810, and games812each include operational instructions that, when executed by the processing module830, cooperate to configure the processing module830into a special purpose device to perform the particular functions of the NFT collection platform800described herein.

The NFT collection platform800may include a user interface (I/F)862such as a display device, touch screen, key pad, touch pad, joy stick, thumb wheel, a mouse, one or more buttons, a speaker, a microphone, an accelerometer, gyroscope or other motion or position sensor, video camera or other interface devices that provide information to an administrator of the NFT collection platform800and that generate data in response to the administrator's interaction with NFT collection platform800.

The processing module830can be implemented via a single processing device or a plurality of processing devices. Such processing devices can include a microprocessor, micro-controller, digital signal processor, microcomputer, central processing unit, quantum computing device, field programmable gate array, programmable logic device, state machine, logic circuitry, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or any device that manipulates signals (analog and/or digital) based on operational instructions that are stored in a memory, such as memory840. The memory module840can include a hard disc drive or other disc drive, read-only memory, random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, and/or any device that stores digital information. Note that when the processing device implements one or more of its functions via a state machine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry, the memory storing the corresponding operational instructions may be embedded within, or external to, the circuitry comprising the state machine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry. While a particular bus architecture is presented that includes a single bus860, other architectures are possible including additional data buses and/or direct connectivity between one or more elements. Further, the NFT collection platform800can include one or more additional elements that are not specifically shown.

FIG.2presents a block diagram representation of an example client device in accordance with various examples. In particular, a client device825is presented that includes a network interface220such as a 3G, 4G, 5G or other cellular wireless transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, a WiFi transceiver, UltraWideBand transceiver, WIMAX transceiver, ZigBee transceiver or other wireless interface, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, an IEEE 1394 Firewire interface, an Ethernet interface or other wired interface and/or other network card or modem for communicating for communicating via network115.

The client device825also includes a processing module230and memory module240that stores an operating system (O/S)244such as an Apple, Unix, Linux or Microsoft operating system or other operating system, NFT data246associated with one or more NFTs owned by the user, and/or a collection applications248. In particular, the O/S244and collection application248each include operational instructions that, when executed by the processing module230, cooperate to configure the processing module into a special purpose device to perform the particular functions of the client device825described herein.

The client device825also includes a user interface (I/F)262such as a display device, touch screen, key pad, touch pad, joy stick, thumb wheel, a mouse, one or more buttons, a speaker, a microphone, an accelerometer, gyroscope or other motion or position sensor, video camera or other interface devices that provide information to a user of the client device825and that generate data in response to the user's interaction with the client device825.

The processing module230can be implemented via a single processing device or a plurality of processing devices. Such processing devices can include a microprocessor, micro-controller, digital signal processor, microcomputer, central processing unit, quantum computing device, field programmable gate array, programmable logic device, state machine, logic circuitry, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or any device that manipulates signals (analog and/or digital) based on operational instructions that are stored in a memory, such as memory240. The memory module240can include a hard disc drive or other disc drive, read-only memory, random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, and/or any device that stores digital information. Note that when the processing device implements one or more of its functions via a state machine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry, the memory storing the corresponding operational instructions may be embedded within, or external to, the circuitry comprising the state machine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry. While a particular bus architecture is presented that includes a single bus260, other architectures are possible including additional data buses and/or direct connectivity between one or more elements. Further, the client device825can include one or more additional elements that are not specifically shown.

The client device825operates, via network interface220, network115and NFT collection platform800. In various examples, the client device825operates to display a graphical user interface generated based on display data from the NFT collection platform800, including corresponding screen displays. Furthermore, the graphical user interface can operate in response to interactions by a user to generate input data that is sent to the NFT collection platform800to control the operation of the NFT collection platform800and/or to provide other input.

It should be noted that while the client devices825and NFT collection platform800are shown as separate devices that communicate via the network115, it should be noted that any and all of the functionality attributed to the NFT collection platform800, including the NFT marketplace tools804, NFT wallet tools806, NFT generation tools808, NFT collection display tools810, games812, and database814, etc. can likewise be incorporate directly into the client device825. In this fashion, a client device825through the application of its operating system244and one or more applications can provide a graphical user interface to operate via network115but independently from any NFT collection platform to perform any of the functions and features described herein. In particular, the client device825can perform the functions of both the client device and the NFT collection platform800without requiring communications to be sent to the client device825from a NFT collection platform and communications sent to a NFT collection platform from the client device825.

FIG.3Apresents a flowchart representation of an example method in accordance with various examples. In particular, a method300for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein for generating a collection NFT based on NFTs in a user's collection.

Step302includes importing, via a network interface, a plurality of NFTs associated with the user of the client device. Step304includes generating, via a processor and in response to user interactions with the graphical user interface, display data associated with a customized collection display that contains the plurality of NFTs. Step306includes sending, via the network interface, the display data associated with the customized collection display via the client device of the user. Step308includes facilitating creation of a collection NFT corresponding to the customized collection display that contains the plurality of NFTs.

FIGS.3B-3F and3Hpresent pictorial representations of example screen displays. In particular, screen displays of a graphical user interface generated based on display data from the NFT collection platform800are shown. In the example below, three NFTs are used to design and create a new collection NFT based on a common theme, the 1999 Chicago Bulls team in the National Basketball association.

InFIG.3B, the user “Bruce Stuckman” is logged into the NFT collection platform800. The user has interacted with NFT wallet tools, such as NFT wallet tools804, to import NFTs100and102from his wallet residing in NFT wallet system820. In this example, the NFTs100and102are blockchain authenticated original photographs depicting two different images of the 1999 Chicago Bulls.

InFIG.3C, the user has interacted with the NFT marketplace tools, such as NFT marketplace tools804, to select a new NFT104for purchase via an NFT marketplace such as NFT marketplace822. InFIG.3D, the wallet tools are used again, this time to export the NFT104to the user's wallet. InFIG.3E, the user has selected and used NFT collection display tools, such as NFT collection display tools810, to create a customized collection display110contain all three 1999 Chicago Bulls-related NFTs he now owns. In the example shown, the user has “dragged and dropped” NFTs he owns in a custom display window and has sized and arranged them into the particular collage that is shown. In other examples, the NFT collection display tools810can operate, based on metadata associated with the NFTs of a user indicating content, theme, color themes, subject matter, dates of creation, authorship, ownership, prior ownership, number of prior owners, size, resolution, and other NFT information and metadata, to automatically generate arrangements of custom collection display110that may be accepted by the user and/or that may be further arranged by the user to create the final customized collection display110.

InFIG.3F, the user has selected NFT generation tools, such as NFT generation tools808, in order to facilitate, via NFT creation system824for example, the creation of a collection NFT from the customized collection display110.

FIG.3Gpresents a flow diagram representation of an example process. In the example shown, the collection NFT120is created from the customized collection display110. As previously discussed, the NFT generation tools can operate by, for example, first authenticating the user's rights in the three NFTs and then creating, via NFT creation system824, a new NFT of the unique customized image with its own blockchain authentication. In various examples, the collection NFT120can contain metadata indicating, for example attributions to the sources of the original NFTs in the collection, the creator of the collection NFT, a date of creation, promotion data and coupons related to offers, privileges and/or discounts, title data with respect to title to tangible or intangible real or personal property, warrant data with respect to tangible or intangible real or personal property, transaction data regarding one or more transactions, and/or other metadata. This metadata can be protected via the blockchain and/or other crypto-based NFT creation technology that is employed to create and protect the collection NFT itself—with or without associated image data. InFIG.3H, the wallet tools are used again, this time to export the collection NFT120to the user's wallet.

FIG.3Ipresents a flowchart representation of an example method in accordance with various examples. In particular, a method310is presented for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein for generating a collection NFT based on NFTs in a user's collection.

Step312includes importing, via a network interface, a plurality of NFTs associated with the user of the client device. Step314includes generating, via a processor and in response to metadata associated with the plurality of NFTs, display data associated with a customized collection display that contains the plurality of NFTs. Step316includes sending, via the network interface, the display data associated with the customized collection display via the client device of the user. Step318includes facilitating creation of a collection NFT corresponding to the customized collection display that contains the plurality of NFTs.

FIG.4Apresents a flowchart representation of an example method. In particular, a method400for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein in generating a collection NFT based on at least one NFT accessed via a temporary micro-loan.

Step402includes facilitating, via a processor and in response to user interactions with the graphical user interface, a temporary micro-loan of at least one NFT. Step404includes generating, via the processor and in response to user interactions with the graphical user interface, display data associated with a customized collection display that contains a plurality of NFTs including the at least one NFT. Step406includes sending, via the network interface, the display data associated with the customized collection display via the client device of the user. Step408includes facilitating creation of a collection NFT corresponding to the customized collection display that contains the plurality of NFTs including the at least one NFT.

FIG.4Bpresents a pictorial representation of an example screen display. In particular, the user has used the marketplace tools to select NFTs100-1,102-1, and104-1. Instead of putting these NFTs up for purchase, the original owners have made them available for temporary micro-loan. This process allows the users can engage to, in exchange for a fee, “borrow” NFTs in order to create a collection NFT. After the Collection NFT is created, or upon the expiration of some predetermined time period (such as 15 minutes, 30 minutes, an hour, a day, etc.) the micro-loaned NFT(s) are returned, expire, deleted or destroyed. Transaction fees apply, a portion of which can be credited to the original NFT owner, the author, including an upfront cost, reward-based payment based on the use and/or performance of the micro-loaned NFT etc. In the alternative, a fixed fee could be charged to the user and credited to the original NFT owner. In various examples, the NFT collection platform800may be configured to operate with a single user and/or within a single wallet, and/or to otherwise prohibit the sale or borrowing of micro-loaned NFTs to avoid dilution of the value of the original itself. Furthermore, original and/or derivative NFTs can include restrictions on the total number of micro-loan transactions, the number of simultaneous/contemporaneous micro-loans, restrictions on types of microloan transactions such as normal use loans, staking loans, death match loans, loans less than a predetermined length of time, loans greater than a predetermined length of time, etc.

Consider the following example where an NFT is put up for loan. The proposed loan transaction can include restrictions including an expiration time and/or date, one or N time use in creating a collection NFT or in a game, tournament or challenge, etc. Once the loan is accepted by the borrower, an additional NFT, such as a derivative NFT of the original NFT being loaned, is created on a side chain, layer 1 or 2 blockchain (or “parachain”) that can be different from (and/or independent from) the blockchain used to create the original NFT. This new NFT can be created and transferred to the wallet of the borrower via a smart contract that is based on the restrictions. A cryptocurrency market can be used to fund the transaction and/or to collateralize the micro-loan. The new NFT can then be set via the smart contract to automatically expire (e.g. be deleted from the wallet, destroyed or otherwise disabled), when the restrictions are met. In this fashion, if the purpose of the micro-loan is the creation of a collection NFT, the borrowed NFT can automatically expire once the collection NFT is created. It should be noted that the collection NFT can be created via the same blockchain platform (e.g. Ethereum) used to create the original NFT (e.g. not the parachain).

FIG.4Cpresents a flow diagram representation of an example process where a collection NFT120-1is generated based on a customized collection display110-1created by the user based on the borrowed NFTs100-1,102-1and104-1. In various examples, the collection NFT120-1metadata can also indicate the original sources of the micro-loans as well as the micro-loaned status of NFTs100-1,102-1and104-1. While not expressly shown, the collection NFTs based on one or more micro-loaned NFTs, can be created with a visual indication of the original vs. micro-loaned status of the NFTs as appropriate.

FIG.5Apresents a flowchart representation of an example method. In particular, a method1300for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features previously described facilitates the collection of endorsements associated with an NFT. Step1302includes importing, via a network interface, an NFT associated with the user of the client device. Step1304includes collecting, via a processor and in response to user interactions with the graphical user interface, endorsement data associated with the NFT. Step1306includes generating, via the processor and in response to user interactions with the graphical user interface, display data associated with a customized collection display that contains the NFT and the endorsement data. Step1308includes sending, via the network interface, the display data associated with the customized collection display via the client device of the user. Step1310includes facilitating creation of a collection NFT corresponding to the customized collection display.

FIGS.5B and5Cpresent pictorial representations of example screen displays. InFIG.5B, the user is interacting with the graphical user interface to use the NFT marketplace tools to seek an endorsement for a selected NFT. After an endorsement in the form of a signature has been received it can be appended to the customized collection display of the NFT. InFIG.5C, the user interacts with the NFT generation tools to generate a collection NFT that includes both the NFT and the signature. In various examples, this collection NFT120-6metadata can also indicate an attribution associated the endorsement itself. Furthermore, the endorsement itself can be an original NFT, a derivative NFT, a micro-loaned NFT or other NFT.

FIG.6presents a block diagram/flow representation of an example of NFT generation. In the example shown, NFT generation tools808operate to convert display data1502and other data1504into an NFT1506. The display data1502can correspond to an original NFT, borrowed (e.g. temporary micro-loaned) NFT, a derivative NFT, a customized collection display110, an original image, and/or other derivatives or micro-loans thereof or other display or image data. In various examples, the NFT generation tools808can operate to verify the credentials of any NFTs whose images are contained in the display data1502, prior to creating the NFT1506. In this fashion, derivative NFTs can only be created when the source NFT or NFTs are verified—preventing the creation of unauthorized or counterfeit NFTs.

The other data1504, can be image data including signatures and other endorsement images, visual indications of derivative series, originality classification, attributions, or other image data, metadata of all kinds including metadata indicating one or more originality classifications, attributions, endorsement data, other derivative data indicating the series number and total number in a derivative series, restrictions on micro-loans or other derivatives, restrictions on derivatives with artistic effects, restrictions that derivatives must include attributions to the original source, restrictions on numbers of derivatives or micro-loans or the sizes of derivative series, restrictions on the creation of collection NFTs, the number of collection NFTs, the creation of collection NFTs including NFTs from other sources, from prohibited sources or with prohibited content, geographical restrictions, time restrictions (e.g., can be used to create derivatives or collection NFTs or can be temporarily micro-loaned for 1 month, one year, etc., other restrictions and/or other data associated with, or to be associated with, the display data1502.

This other data1504can be used to generate an NFT and/or combined with the display data1502to create a dataset that includes both the display data1502and the other data1504. This other data1504or combined dataset can be protected via the blockchain and/or other crypto-based NFT creation technology that is employed by the NFT generation tools808and via the NFT creation system824to create and protect the new NFT1506itself. It should be noted that the NFT1506can include a single derivative or a number of derivatives, including a limited series of derivatives. It should be noted further that some or all of the other data1504, including restriction data and/or attribution data, can be derived from one or more original NFTs whose images are associated with the display data1502. Furthermore, some or all of the other data1504can be generated in response to user interactions with a graphical user interface generated in conjunction with the NFT collection platform800.

FIG.7presents a block diagram representation of an example system. In particular, a system2850is presented that includes an NFT distribution platform2800that communicates with client devices825via a network115. The network115can be the Internet or other wide area or local area network, either public or private. The client devices825can be computing devices associated with users, for example, buyers, sellers, collectors, game players and/or other users of NFTs.

In the example shown, the NFT distribution platform2800includes a client device interface2802for interacting with the client devices825, NFTs2804to be distributed, and an operating system2844. One or more of the NFTs2804can have geographical restrictions as to distribution that are either part of the NFTs themselves or have restriction data that is stored separately.

The NFT distribution platform2800includes a network interface2820such as a 3G, 4G, 5G or another cellular wireless transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, a WiFi transceiver, UltraWideBand transceiver, WIMAX transceiver, ZigBee transceiver or other wireless interface, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, an IEEE 1394 Firewire interface, an Ethernet interface or other wired interface and/or other network card or modem for communicating for communicating via the network115.

The NFT distribution platform2800also includes a processing module2830and memory module2840that stores an operating system (O/S)2844such as an Apple, Unix, Linux or Microsoft operating system or another operating system, the client device interface2802, and the NFTs2804. The O/S2844and the client device interface802each include operational instructions that, when executed by the processing module830, cooperate to configure the processing module830into a special purpose device to perform the particular functions of the NFT distribution platform2800described herein.

The NFT distribution platform2800may include a user interface (I/F)2862such as a display device, touch screen, key pad, touch pad, joy stick, thumb wheel, a mouse, one or more buttons, a speaker, a microphone, an accelerometer, gyroscope or other motion or position sensor, video camera or other interface devices that provide information to an administrator of the NFT distribution platform2800and that generate data in response to the administrator's interaction with NFT distribution platform2800.

The processing module2830can be implemented via a single processing device or a plurality of processing devices. Such processing devices can include a microprocessor, micro-controller, digital signal processor, microcomputer, central processing unit, quantum computing device, field programmable gate array, programmable logic device, state machine, logic circuitry, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or any device that manipulates signals (analog and/or digital) based on operational instructions that are stored in a memory, such as memory2840. The memory module2840can include a hard disc drive or other disc drive, read-only memory, random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, and/or any device that stores digital information. Note that when the processing device implements one or more of its functions via a state machine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry, the memory storing the corresponding operational instructions may be embedded within, or external to, the circuitry comprising the state machine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry. While a particular bus architecture is presented that includes a single bus2860, other architectures are possible including additional data buses and/or direct connectivity between one or more elements. Further, the NFT distribution platform2800can include one or more additional elements that are not specifically shown.

For example, the client device interface2802can operate in conjunction with each client device825and via network115to generate a graphical user interface. This graphical user interface is based on display data generated by the NFT distribution platform2800in a format for display on a display device associated with the client devices825. This graphical user interface generates input data that is received by the NFT distribution platform2800from the client devices825in response to user interaction with the graphical user interface.

In various examples, the NFT distribution platform2800can operate to respond to input data from client devices in the form of read requests for NFTs and geolocation data such as GPS coordinates, connection to or proximity with a network element of network115or other location data indicating a location of the client device825. The NFT distribution platform2800sends the requested NFT(s) to the requesting client device—only when the geolocation data conforms with restriction data—for example, when the geolocation data indicates a position of the requesting client device within a limited area or proximity indicated by the restriction data.

FIG.8presents a block diagram representation of an example client device. In particular, a client device825-1is presented that functions similarly to client device825, and includes several elements of client device825that are referred to by common reference numerals. The client device825-1is capable of operating to client device825described herein.

In addition, the memory module240includes a wallet application (app)250that is capable of engaging in financial transactions including credit card transactions and traditional digital payments, is capable of holding crypto-currency and engaging in crypto-currency transactions and is further capable of storing one or more NFTs that are either original NFTs, derivative NFTs, borrowed (temporarily micro-loaned) NFTs, collection NFTs and/or combinations thereof. In various examples, the wallet app250is capable of operating in conjunction with the NFT collection platform800, the NFT distribution platform2800, the NFT wallet system820, the NFT marketplace822, and/or the NFT creation system824via network115.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, unlike a normal wallet, which can physically hold cash, credit cards, etc., NFT wallets “store” NFTs by storing the NFT data necessary to access the NFT. So, even though a wallet can be said to store an NFT, technically the NFT content is stored on the blockchain, which can only be accessed via the NFT data in the wallet. This NFT data includes metadata, other off-chain data corresponding to the NFT and in particular, a private key. This private key can be considered an indicator of ownership of the NFT and is required to access the NFT via the blockchain. If the NFT data (including the private key) is lost, the NFT can no longer be accessed—and the NFT is itself “lost” for all intents and purposes, even though it remains immutably stored on the blockchain.

Also, the memory module240includes one or more game apps252that represent either stand alone games of the client device825-1or that operate in conjunction with the games812of the NFT collection platform800and/or interface with the NFT distribution platform2800. This allows, for example, a user of client device825-1to engage in (e.g. play) games associated with NFT content, and engage in other activities that involve the acquisition, collection, display, distribution, and/or use of one or more NFTs that are either original NFTs, derivative NFTs, borrowed (temporarily micro-loaned) NFTs, collection NFTs and/or combinations thereof.

Furthermore, the network interface220includes one more geolocations elements222such as a GPS receiver, a ultra-wideband (UWB) transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver and/or other component(s) that that facilitate the generation of geolocation data and/or facilitate other location-based services. Consider the case where the client device825is a smartphone or tablet and the wallet app250is an Apple or Android wallet or mobile wallet card that is in a Apple or Android wallet. Once the wallet app250is activated, NFTs can be easily added to the wallet. In addition, the wallet app250can access the location services of the device, and for example, generate push notifications regarding NFTs that are available near the current location.

In various examples, the geolocation data generating in such a fashion can facilitate the generation of geolocation data discussed in conjunction with the operation of NFT distribution platform2800. In particular, the NFT distribution platform2800can automatically detect the presence of the user at a venue based on geolocation data received from the user's client device825-1and automatically prompted the user to click to send a read request. In this fashion, the user can be geo-authorized, before the request. In other examples, the NFT distribution platform2800can distribute NFTs to client devices825based on payments, authentication and/or other criteria that does not rely on geolocation data.

Furthermore, while the client device825-1and NFT collection platform800(or NFT distribution platform) are shown as separate devices that communicate via the network115, it should be noted that any and all of the functionality attributed to the NFT collection platform800(or NFT distribution platform), including the NFT marketplace tools804, NFT wallet tools806, NFT generation tools808, NFT collection display tools810, games812, and database814, etc. can likewise be incorporate directly into the client device825. In this fashion, a client device825through the application of its operating system244and one or more applications can provide a graphical user interface to operate via network115but independently from any NFT collection platform to perform any of the functions and features described herein. In particular, the client device825can perform the functions of both the client device and the NFT collection platform800without requiring communications to be sent to the client device825from a NFT collection platform (or NFT distribution platform) and communications sent to a NFT collection platform (or NFT distribution platform) from the client device825.

In addition, NFT generation tools808can be used to protect, encrypt and/or authenticate any digital information that could be stored in the wallet app250, including for example rewards cards, coupons, movie tickets, event tickets, boarding passes, public transit cards, student ID cards, credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards, and loyalty cards. In addition, the functionality of the wallet app250can be further expanded to protect other information such as vehicle titles, warranty cards, driver's licenses and other IDs, vaccination records, prescriptions, and/or other medical records, social security cards, financial records, authentication tokens, insurance cards, passwords, user IDs and/or other images and information of a personal and/or sensitive nature. Any of these types of digital information can be protected via an NFT or other blockchain transaction in conjunction, with or without associated image or display data, and with or without metadata and/or “other data” as that term has been used herein in association with the NFT generation tools808.

FIG.9Apresents a block diagram/flow representation of an example of NFT generation. In the example shown, an original metaverse real estate NFT4820corresponds to a portion/plot of real estate that is used in a game or metaverse application. An example is shown inFIG.9B. The original metaverse real estate NFT4820can be purchased by the user, created or leveled-up via game play or otherwise acquired by the user of a metaverse application or game.

The NFT generation tools808are used to generate a derivative NFT4824or other metaverse real estate NFT that is based on the improvements4822shown inFIG.9C. In the example shown the improvements4822correspond to a building or other structure, however, other real estate improvements can likewise be implemented. In various example, the derivative NFT4824with improvements shown inFIG.9Dcan be created on a parachain or other sidechain that is different from the blockchain on which the original metaverse real estate NFT4820resides or the same blockchain on which the original metaverse real estate NFT4820resides.

FIG.9Epresents a flowchart representation of an example method. In particular, a method4800is presented for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein. Step4802includes receiving, via the processor, a metaverse real estate NFT associated with metaverse real estate. Step4804includes receiving, via the processor, improvements data associated with the metaverse real estate. Step4806includes facilitating creation of a derivative NFT associated with the metaverse real estate and having improvements associated with metaverse real estate.

FIG.10Apresents a block diagram/flow representation of an example of NFT generation. In the example shown, document image data4920and other data corresponding to a document are used to generate an authenticated document NFT4924via the NFT generation tools808. These authenticated document NFTs4924can be stored in an NFT wallet associated with the mobile phone or other client device associated with the user and can be used, for example, in place of coupons, cards, legal documents, medical documents, financial documents, IDs, credit cards, licenses and/or other important documents associated with a user that normally exist in non-digital, e.g. paper or plastic form. The authenticated document NFT4924can be used to prevent fraud and/or promote privacy in transactions via secure user and/or document authentication. In various examples, the authenticated document NFT4924can be presented and analyzed via secured blockchain or other crypto transactions at the time of a transaction in order to authenticate the identity of the user and/or to verify the accuracy and authentic nature of the other data4922and/or to facilitate the security of the transaction.

FIG.10Bpresents a flowchart representation of an example method. In particular, a method4900is presented for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein. Step4902includes receiving, via the processor, a document image associated with a document. Step4904includes receiving, via the processor, other data, wherein the other data is also associated with the document. Step4906includes facilitating creation of an authenticated document NFT corresponding to the document.

FIG.11Apresents a block diagram/flow representation of an example of NFT generation. The NFT generation tools808are used to generate a derivative NFT5624based on an original metaverse real estate NFT5620and based on the enhancement data5622.

In the example shown inFIG.11B, an original metaverse real estate NFT5620corresponds to real estate having an interior room that is used in a game or metaverse application. The original metaverse real estate NFT5620can be purchased by the user, created or leveled-up via game play or otherwise acquired by the user of a metaverse application or game.

The NFT generation tools808are used to generate a derivative NFT5624or other metaverse real estate NFT that is based on the enhancements data5622shown inFIG.11C. In the example shown the enhancements5622-1and5622-2correspond to a Moet & Chandon vending machine and a Jackson Pollock painting that are acquired either as image data or as individual NFTs. While particular enhancements are shown, other real estate enhancements can likewise be implemented including statues and other art, rugs, lamps, furniture and other furnishings and accessories, outdoor objects, appliances, knick-knacks, machinery and other virtual objects for decorating or finishing an office, home, factory, venue or other real estate.

In the example shown inFIG.11D, the user has placed the enhancements5622-1and5622-2as desired before creating the derivative NFT5624. The derivative NFT5624with improvements shown can be created on a parachain or other sidechain that is different from the blockchain on which the original metaverse real estate NFT5620resides or the same blockchain on which the original metaverse real estate NFT5620resides.

FIG.11Epresents a flowchart representation of an example method. In particular, a method5600is presented for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein. Step5602includes receiving, via the processor, a metaverse real estate NFT associated with metaverse real estate. Step5604includes receiving, via the processor, enhancement data associated with the metaverse real estate. Step5606includes facilitating creation of a derivative NFT associated with the metaverse real estate and having enhancements associated with metaverse real estate.

FIG.12Apresents a block diagram of an example system. In particular, a system is shown that can be implemented similarly to, or in conjunction with, NFT collection platform800. The system includes an NFT transaction authenticator6022and a secure real-time NFT metadata repository6024. In various examples, the NFT transaction authenticator6022and the secure real-time NFT metadata repository6024can be implemented via one or more modules that include a network interface, processing circuitry and memory. The secure real-time NFT metadata repository6024stores NFT metadata received in conjunction with NFTs created via metadata source6026, such as one or more NFT creation systems824. The NFTs are associated with one or more users6020.

In operation, the NFT transaction authenticator6022responds to transaction requests from a user associated with an NFT to authenticate the NFT and the user and to otherwise determine the validity of the transaction that is requested. If the user and the NFT are both authenticated, and the requested transaction is otherwise permissible (e.g. not restricted by conditions on use or other transaction restrictions), then the NFT transaction authenticator6022responds by issuing credentials to facilitate the transaction with a third party6028. As will be discussed herein, the maintenance and use of the secure real-time NFT metadata repository6024allows authentication of NFT related transactions in real-time—avoiding possible delays in performing, for example, complex blockchain transactions via an NFT source6026where the NFT was minted and/or otherwise maintained.

Consider the following example where an NFT is created via NFT source6026. In addition to other NFT data, the NFT has metadata that uniquely identifies the NFT, a hash or other NFT authentication metadata that can be used to authenticate the NFT and/or transaction restriction metadata indicating possible restrictions on transactions/use conditions involving the NFT. Furthermore, when the NFT is created and/or acquired by a user, user-specific user authentication metadata is acquired or created and stored on the blockchain with the NFT with the other metadata. This user authentication metadata can include one or more passwords, answers to security questions, identifiers of recognized devices such as a device identifier of a personal cellphone, laptop, tablet, computer or other known and/or trusted device, one or more trusted networks of the user, other multifactor authentication data such as personal information, known answers to security questions, biometric data related to fingerprints, retinal scans, facial features or other biometrics of the user and/or other user authentication data that can be used to determine if a user is the owner of the NFT or otherwise an authorized user and in particular, whether or not the user is (or is not) who they claim to be.

The metadata associated with the NFT is indexed by NFT identifier and stored on the secure real-time NFT metadata repository6024for use by the NFT transaction authenticator6022in authenticating NFT-related transactions. This metadata is available from the repository on a real-time basis (e.g., is available with an acceptable amount of latency associated with a corresponding transaction). The metadata in the secure real-time NFT metadata repository6024is also synced periodically with the NFT via the NFT source6026to reflect any changes in the NFT itself. While some metadata, such as an NFT identifier, NFT authentication metadata and/or transaction restriction metadata may be made accessible to the user who holds the NFT, in various examples, the user authentication metadata in particular, can be encrypted in such a fashion that is decryptable by the secure real-time NFT metadata repository6024—but not by the user. In various examples, the secure real-time NFT metadata repository6024lacks a general network connection and is connected to the NFT transaction authenticator6022via a dedicated and/or otherwise secured connection or is otherwise walled-off from other network connections of the NFT transaction authenticator6022. This helps prevent unauthorized tampering with the sensitive data stored therein.

When a user6020proposes an NFT-related transaction, the NFT transaction authenticator6022collects from the user as part of the transaction request (a) an identifier of the NFT, and NFT authentication data corresponding to the NFT (b) user authentication data user, and (c) information on the proposed transaction. The NFT transaction authenticator6022determines whether or not the identifier corresponds to a valid NFT. If so, it retrieves the metadata associated with the NFT from secure real-time NFT metadata repository6024. The NFT transaction authenticator6022authenticates the NFT by comparing the NFT authentication data to the NFT authentication metadata to determine if they match. The NFT transaction authenticator6022can also authenticate the user6020to the NFT by comparing the user authentication data to the user authentication metadata to determine if they match. If authentication succeeds, the NFT transaction authenticator6022facilitates the transaction with the third party6028by authorizing completion of the transaction, e.g. by issuing a credential to the third party6028. The credential can include any message, object, or data structure that vouches for the identity of the user, the authenticity of the NFT and/or the validity of the transaction, through some method of security, trust and/or authentication.

In this fashion, the NFT transaction authenticator6022can authenticate transactions such as access to a flight via a driver's license or passport NFT, sale of a vehicle, real estate via a title NFT, a credit, debit or gift card transaction via a credit, debit or gift card NFT, the sale of a stock or bond via a stock or bond certificate NFT, warranty transactions via a warranty card NFT, access to events via venue ticket NFTs and/or vaccination card NFTs, coupon redemption via a coupon NFT, access to a vehicle, dwelling or office via a key NFT, etc. Furthermore, the NFT transaction authenticator6022can authenticate transactions such as sales and/or micro-loans of NFTs itself.

It should be noted that some NFTs are conditional, e.g. that have restrictions on their use and/or the transactions that are permitted. Depending on the type of transaction, the NFT transaction authenticator6022can also operate to compare transaction data received from the user to transaction restrictions metadata to determine if a transaction is permitted—before it is authorized. In this fashion, a credit, debit or gift card transaction can be halted if an expiration date or transaction limit has been exceeded. A warranty transaction can be halted if the warranty has expired. A key access for a pool, gym or office can be halted based on date, day of week or time of day restrictions, etc.

Furthermore, in sales transactions and/or micro-loans that have been authorized, the NFT transaction authenticator6022can also operate to note the pending sale or micro-loan in the secure real-time NFT metadata repository6024or otherwise place a hold on the NFT to prevent another sales or micro-loan until the repository is updated in a future sync with the NFT source6026. Furthermore, in some cases the NFT corresponds to an expendable asset such as a venue ticket, gift card, coupon, etc. The NFT transaction authenticator6022can also operate to determine that the NFT is expended, based on the transaction restrictions metadata and the transaction data. In response to such a determination, NFT transaction authenticator6022can then update the secure real-time NFT metadata repository to indicate the NFT is expended. In any of these cases above, the secure real-time NFT metadata repository may facilitate updating of the NFT source6026to reflect an authorized transaction via notifications and/or that an NFT has been expended.

FIG.12Bpresents a flowchart representation of an example method. In particular, a method6000-4is presented for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein. Step6002-4includes receiving, at the processor, a transaction request from a user associated with an NFT minted via a blockchain, wherein the transaction request includes NFT identification data identifying the NFT, NFT authentication data, user identification data and transaction data associated with the transaction. Step6004-4includes receiving, from a secure real-time NFT metadata repository and in response to the NFT identification data, NFT authentication metadata for authenticating the NFT, user authentication metadata for authenticating an authorized user of the NFT, and transaction restrictions data associated with the NFT, wherein the secure real-time NFT metadata repository is separate from the blockchain.

Step6006-4includes determining, via the processor, that the NFT is authenticated when the NFT authentication data compares favorably to the NFT authentication metadata. Step6008-4includes determining, via the processor, that the user is authenticated when the user authentication metadata compares favorably to the user identification data. Step6010-4includes determining, via the processor, that the transaction is authorized when the transaction restrictions metadata compares favorably to the transaction data. Step6012-4includes generating credentials data to facilitate the transaction when the NFT is authenticated, the user is authenticated and the transaction is authorized.

FIG.12Cpresents a pictorial block diagram/flow representation of a further example of transaction authentication. In this case, the transaction request6054-1includes NFT identification data identifying the NFT, NFT authentication data, and also user identification data that includes both a user device identifier and user biometric data that was collected via the client device825as part of its own user authentication process.

Again, the NFT transaction authenticator6022can in operate in conjunction with the secure real-time NFT metadata repository6024for example, to authenticate the transaction with the third party6028. In this additional case, the user authentication mechanisms of the client device are used in the transaction of the authentication process. Once the user is identified by a trusted device, the device identifier of the trusted device can be in combination with the user biometrics collected by that device to provide further security for the proposed transaction.

FIG.12Dpresents a flowchart representation of an example method. In particular, a method6000-10is presented for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein. Step6002-10includes receiving, at the processor, a transaction request from a user associated with an NFT minted via a blockchain, wherein the transaction request includes NFT identification data identifying the NFT, NFT authentication data and user identification data that includes a user device identifier. Step6004-10includes receiving, from a secure real-time NFT metadata repository and in response to the NFT identification data, NFT authentication metadata for authenticating the NFT and user authentication metadata for authenticating an authorized user of the NFT, wherein the secure real-time NFT metadata repository is separate from the blockchain.

Step6006-10includes determining, via the processor, that the NFT is authenticated when the NFT authentication data compares favorably to the NFT authentication metadata. Step6008-10includes determining, via the processor, that the user is authenticated when the user authentication metadata compares favorably to the user identification data. Step6010-10includes generating credentials data to facilitate the transaction when the NFT is authenticated and the user is authenticated.

FIG.13Apresents a block diagram/flow representation of an example of NFT generation. In particular, an example is shown for use in conjunction with NFT collection platform800, NFT distribution platform2800, client device825and/or other NFT system. Such a system, as previously described, includes a network interface configured to communicate via a network; a processor; and a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium that stores operational instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations. These operations can include:receiving, at the processor, data associated with at least one NFT and other data to be associated with a new NFT; andfacilitating generation of the new NFT, based on the data associated with at least one NFT and the other data.

In various examples, the at least one NFT can include a prior NFT and the other data can include update data6226associated with the prior NFT. The new NFT can be an updated NFT associated with the prior NFT. Facilitating generation of the new NFT can include sending NFT data associated with the updated NFT to a blockchain system for storage. The NFT data can include a link to the prior NFT.

The operations of the system can further include determining when update conditions have been met. The generation of the new NFT can be facilitated in response to determining when the update conditions have been met. The update conditions can include expiration of a time period from generation of the prior NFT, determining that an update event has occurred and/or other conditions. The operations of the system can further include deleting the prior NFT after the updated NFT has been generated. The operations of the system can further include determining when ownership of the at least one NFT is authenticated and the generation of the new NFT can be facilitated in response to determining when ownership of the at least one NFT is authenticated.

Consider the example shown where update data6226has been collected in association with the user's (player's) play of a game corresponding to NFT6220corresponding to a game. At some time when update conditions are met, such as the end of a game, when a player reaches certain goals or achievements in the game, upon expiration of a predetermined time period, upon accumulation of a predetermined amount of game play (e.g. a number of games played, an amount of play time, etc.) or other update conditions, the game data is used as update data6226to generate an update to the NFT6220as the updated NFT6220-1. In this fashion, the player's game play and/or performance and achievements can be used to update the NFT so that a player can pick up where he/she left off, have a mechanism to display some of the performance/achievements in conjunction with the game NFT itself.

As used herein, the term “updated” NFT can be used to represent changes that are made to an original (prior) NFT—i.e. the NFT that is the subject of the update. In addition, an “updated” NFT can be a new NFT, such as a derivative NFT, an all new NFT or other NFT that is minted based on the content, images, metadata and/or other data of the prior NFT or based merely on the existence of the original NFT. This new NFT can be minted on the original blockchain used to mint the original NFT or via a parachain/side chain that is different from the original blockchain and have NFT data/metadata that includes a link to the prior NFT. As used herein, the term “prior” NFT is used to represent an NFT that is in existence and has been minted/issued prior to the update. In various examples, there can be several prior NFTs, particularly in circumstances where and NFT has been updated several times.

InFIG.13B, an example of NFT6220corresponding to an NBA game is presented. InFIG.13C, update data6226is generated based on the player's play of the game and used to generate an updated NFT6220-1. In the example shown, updated game NFT6220-1visually reflects that the player has reached the “one-star” level.

FIG.13Dpresents a flowchart representation of an example method. In particular, a method6200-1is presented for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein. Step6202-2includes receiving, at a processor, update data associated with a prior NFT. Step6204-1includes facilitating generation of an updated NFT associated with the prior NFT, based on the update data and the prior NFT.

FIG.13Epresents a flowchart representation of an example method. In particular, a method6200-2is presented for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein. Step6202-2includes receiving, at a processor, update data associated with a prior NFT. Step6204-2includes determining when update conditions have been met. Step6206-2includes when the update conditions have been met, facilitating generation of an updated NFT associated with the prior NFT, based on the update data and the prior NFT.

FIG.13Fpresents a flowchart representation of an example method. In particular, a method6200-3is presented for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein. Step6202-3includes receiving, via the processor, update data associated with a prior NFT. Step6204-3includes facilitating, based on the update data, generation of an updated NFT. Step6206-3includes deleting the prior NFT after the updated NFT has been generated. In this fashion, the prior NFT can be automatically deleted, destroyed, disabled or otherwise “burned” in lieu of the new updated NFT that was just generated. In other examples, one or more prior NFTs can be retained (not deleted)

FIG.13Gpresents a flowchart representation of an example method. In particular, a method6200-4is presented for use in conjunction with any of the functions and features described herein. Step6202-4includes receiving, via the processor, update data associated with a prior NFT. Step6204-4includes facilitating, based on the update data, generation of an updated NFT having a link to the prior NFT.

Consider the following example, where the updated NFT is stored on an immutable storage system such as an IPFS file system. The update data can be uploaded and an IPFS hash of the content (a “CID,” or content address) is generated that is used to make an IPFS URL (ipfs://<cid>). This IPFS URL along with a link to the prior NFT itself can be included in the NFT data of the updated NFT to refer to off-chain data (e.g., the metadata field in updated NFT—the field in the metadata corresponding to the content) as a pointer to the content itself. When multiple prior NFTs are retained, the updated NFT can include links to one or more prior versions of the NFT.

FIG.13Hpresents a block/flow diagram representation of an example system. In this example, ownership (e.g. authenticated ownership) by a user of one or more NFTs6721is used to automatically trigger the generation of a new NFT6724-3based on other data6722. In the example shown inFIG.13I, after a user/player has collected NFTs6721via play of a game I Dig It, and these NFTs are authenticated to the user, a new NFT6724, in this case, a game token NFT is generated as a result. In this fashion, a user can collect new game tokens to a game that can be used in future play if older game tokens to that game expire after a time or due to the loss of the game by a player. These new game token NFTs can also be bartered or sold.

FIG.13Jpresents a flowchart representation6200-5of an example method. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions or features described herein. Step6202-5includes determining, via the processor, when one or more NFTs are authenticated. Step6204-5includes receiving, via the processor, other data, wherein the other data is associated with a new NFT to be generated. Step6206-5includes facilitating creation of the new NFT based on the other data, when the one or more NFTs are authenticated.

FIG.14Apresents a block/flow diagram representation of an example system. This example addresses a scenario where updated NFT's6845can be issued to owners of a prior NFT6822. In particular, an example is shown for use in conjunction with an NFT platform6830such as NFT collection platform800, NFT distribution platform2800, client device825and/or other NFT system. Such a system, as previously shown, includes a network interface configured to communicate via a network; a processor; and a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium that stores operational instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations. These operations can include:receiving, at the processor, an update request for an updated NFT associated with a prior NFT;generating, via the processor, an ownership check;sending, via the network interface, the ownership check to a blockchain system that stores the prior NFT;receiving, from the blockchain system and via the network interface, an ownership validation response; andfacilitating, via the processor, issuance of the updated NFT when the ownership validation response indicates ownership of the prior NFT is verified.

In various examples, facilitating, via the processor, issuance of the updated NFT includes minting the updated NFT via the blockchain system. Facilitating, via the processor, issuance of the updated NFT can include minting the updated NFT via a parachain that is separate from the blockchain system. The operations can further include: generating a payment request when the ownership validation response indicates ownership of the prior NFT is verified; and receiving a payment response verifying the payment request; wherein facilitating the issuance of the updated NFT is based on the payment response verifying the payment request. The operations can further include: generating a prompt indicating availability of an updated NFT associated with a prior NFT; and sending the prompt to a client device associated with an owner of the prior NFT; wherein the update request is received from the client device in response to the prompt.

In various examples, the operations can further include determining availability of an updated NFT associated with a prior NFT, determining a wallet associated with an owner of the prior NFT and facilitating the issuance of the updated NFT can includes issuance of the updated NFT to a wallet associated the owner of the prior NFT. The operations can further include: receiving a transaction request associated with the prior NFT; receiving, from the blockchain system, an ownership validation response that indicates an updated NFT associated with the prior NFT is available; generating a prompt indicating availability of an updated NFT associated with a prior NFT; and sending the prompt to a client device associated with an owner of the prior NFT; wherein the update request is received in response to the prompt. The prior NFT can be held in a wallet of a user and the updated NFT can be automatically issued to the wallet of the user.

In the example shown, the NFT platform6830receives an update request6842that was generated either automatically or in response to user interaction with a client device. The NFT platform6830responds by facilitating, based on update data6844, the minting of an updated NFT6845associated with the prior NFT6822based on an authentication of ownership of the NFT6822by the user/owner.

In various examples, the system operates by: generating, via the NFT platform6830, an ownership check6836; sending the ownership check6836to a blockchain system6820that stores the prior NFT6822associated with the user; receiving, from the blockchain system6820, an ownership validation response6838; and facilitating, via the NFT platform, a minting/issuance of the updated NFT6845when the ownership validation response6838indicates ownership of the prior NFT6822is verified.

In this example shown, an ownership check6836is initiated when the update request6842is initiated. The updated NFT6845may be only minted when a favorable ownership validation response6838is received indicating validated ownership and/or user authentication of the prior NFT6822. Furthermore, a favorable payment response6814may be required when the update request6842has an associated a cost. Otherwise, if payment is denied or ownership validation fails, the requested updated NFT6845is denied and the updated NFT is not minted/issued.

FIG.14Bpresents a flowchart representation6800-1of an example method. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions or features described herein. Step6802-1includes receiving, at an NFT platform, an update request for an updated NFT associated with a prior NFT. Step6804-1includes generating, via the NFT platform, an ownership check. Step6806-1includes sending the ownership check to a blockchain system that stores the prior NFT. Step6808-1includes receiving, from the blockchain system, an ownership validation response.

Step6810-1includes generating a payment request when the ownership validation response indicates ownership of the prior NFT is verified. Step6812-1includes receiving a payment response verifying the payment request. Step6814-1includes facilitating, via the NFT platform, a minting of the updated NFT, based on the payment response verifying the payment request.

FIG.14Cpresents a flowchart representation6800-2of an example method. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions or features described herein. Step6802-2includes receiving, at an NFT platform, an update request for an updated NFT associated with a prior NFT. Step6804-2includes generating, via the NFT platform, an ownership check. Step6806-2includes sending the ownership check to a blockchain system that stores the prior NFT. Step6808-2includes receiving, from the blockchain system, an ownership validation response. Step6810-2includes facilitating, via the NFT platform, a minting of the updated NFT when the ownership validation response indicates ownership of the prior NFT is verified.

FIG.14Dpresents a flowchart representation6800-3of an example method. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions or features described herein. Step6802-3includes receiving, at an NFT platform, an update request for an updated NFT associated with a prior NFT. Step6804-3includes generating, via the NFT platform, an ownership check. Step6806-3includes sending the ownership check to a blockchain system that stores the prior NFT. Step6808-3includes receiving, from the blockchain system, an ownership validation response. Step6810-3includes facilitating, via the NFT platform, issuance of the updated NFT when the ownership validation response indicates ownership of the prior NFT is verified.

FIG.14Epresents a pictorial representation of an example screen display. In this example, the NFT platform determines that an updated NFT associated with a prior NFT is available and proactively sends a prompt to a client device825associated with the owner of the prior NFT to determine if they wish to request issuance of the updated NFT to the owner's wallet.

FIG.14Fpresents a flowchart representation6800-4of an example method. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions or features described herein. Step6802-4includes generating, via an NFT platform, a prompt indicating availability of an updated NFT associated with a prior NFT. Step6804-4includes sending the prompt to a client device associated with an owner of the prior NFT. Step6806-4includes receiving, in response to the prompt, an update request for the updated NFT associated with the prior NFT. Step6808-4includes facilitating, via the NFT platform, issuance of the updated NFT to the owner of the prior NFT.

FIG.14Gpresents a pictorial representation of an example screen display. In this example, the NFT platform determines that an updated NFT associated with a prior NFT is available and proactively/automatically issues the updated NFT to the owner's wallet—without waiting for an update request. Notice of the issuance of the updated NFT is sent to the client device825associated with the updated NFT.

FIG.14Hpresents a flowchart representation6800-5of an example method. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions or features described herein. Step6802-5includes determining, via an NFT platform, availability of an updated NFT associated with a prior NFT. In various examples, this can be performed based on either the receipt of update data, the satisfaction of update conditions and/or based on a minting of the update NFT. Step6804-5includes determining a wallet associated with an owner of the prior NFT. In various examples that can be performed by identifying, based on the prior NFT, the wallet of the owner associated with the prior NFT. Step6806-5includes facilitating, via the NFT platform, issuance of the updated NFT to a wallet associated the owner of the prior NFT.

FIG.14Ipresents a block/flow diagram representation of an example system. In various examples a blockchain system, such an immutable distributed storage system6515, can be used to determine when updated NFTs are available and facilitate the download of such updates.

Consider the following example. When a transaction is initiated regarding an NFT6518-1, an ownership check6536-2is generated. The immutable distributed storage system6515operates by determining when the ownership check6536-2is validated to the NFT6518-1and furthermore determining when the NFT6518-1has been superseded by an updated NFT6518-2, or otherwise that an updated NFT6518-2is available. In this case, the ownership check can be validated on the first instance since the launch metadata/response data corresponds to NFT6518-1. The immutable distributed storage system6515can, for example, also search the metadata, a version list associated with the game application or other data structure, to determine and identify updated NFT6518-2that is available and/or that supersedes the NFT6815-1. If both conditions are met, the ownership validation response6538-2is generated to indicate that the updated NFT6518-2is available. Furthermore, the immutable distributed storage system6515can facilitate access, by the client device825, to the updated NFT6518-2. This facilitation can be performed by coordinating with the client device to download the game application6518-2to the user's wallet6825as shown.

FIG.14Jpresents a flowchart representation6800-6of an example method. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions or features described herein. Step6802-6includes receiving a transaction request associated with a prior NFT held in a wallet of a user. Step6804-6includes generating an ownership check associated with the prior NFT. Step6806-6includes sending the ownership check to a blockchain system that stores the prior NFT. Step6808-6includes receiving, from the blockchain system, an ownership validation response that indicates an updated NFT associated with the prior NFT is available. Step6810-6includes facilitating issuance of the updated NFT to the wallet of the user.

As used herein, the terms “game piece” and “game character” can be used interchangeably to refer to a game character, an ancillary article or other article or object that is used in a game.

As used herein “blockchain” and “blockchain node” refer to traditional blockchain technology. However, other decentralized computer network technologies that, for example, maintain a secure and decentralized record of transactions and/or otherwise protect the security of digital information can likewise be employed. In various examples, a blockchain can operate to collect information together in groups, such as blocks, that hold sets of information. These blocks have certain storage capacities and, when filled, are closed and linked to the previously filled blocks, forming a chain of data. New information that follows that freshly added block is compiled into newly formed blocks that, once filled, can also be added to the chain.

As used herein the term “tool” corresponds to a utility, application and/or other software routine that performs one or more specific functions in conjunction with a computer.

As may be used herein, the term “compares favorably”, indicates that a comparison between two or more items, signals, etc., indicates an advantageous relationship that would be evident to one skilled in the art in light of the present disclosure, and based, for example, on the nature of the signals/items that are being compared. As may be used herein, the term “compares unfavorably”, indicates that a comparison between two or more items, signals, etc., fails to provide such an advantageous relationship and/or that provides a disadvantageous relationship. Such an item/signal can correspond to one or more numeric values, one or more measurements, one or more counts and/or proportions, one or more types of data, and/or other information with attributes that can be compared to a threshold, to each other and/or to attributes of other information to determine whether a favorable or unfavorable comparison exists. Examples of such a advantageous relationship can include: one item/signal being greater than (or greater than or equal to) a threshold value, one item/signal being less than (or less than or equal to) a threshold value, one item/signal being greater than (or greater than or equal to) another item/signal, one item/signal being less than (or less than or equal to) another item/signal, one item/signal matching another item/signal, one item/signal substantially matching another item/signal within a predefined or industry accepted tolerance such as 1%, 5%, 10% or some other margin, etc. Furthermore, one skilled in the art will recognize that such a comparison between two items/signals can be performed in different ways. For example, when the advantageous relationship is that signal1has a greater magnitude than signal2, a favorable comparison may be achieved when the magnitude of signal1is greater than that of signal2or when the magnitude of signal2is less than that of signal1. Similarly, one skilled in the art will recognize that the comparison of the inverse or opposite of items/signals and/or other forms of mathematical or logical equivalence can likewise be used in an equivalent fashion. For example, the comparison to determine if a signal X>5 is equivalent to determining if −X<−5, and the comparison to determine if signal A matches signal B can likewise be performed by determining −A matches −B or not(A) matches not(B). As may be discussed herein, the determination that a particular relationship is present (either favorable or unfavorable) can be utilized to automatically trigger a particular action. Unless expressly stated to the contrary, the absence of that particular condition may be assumed to imply that the particular action will not automatically be triggered. In other examples, the determination that a particular relationship is present (either favorable or unfavorable) can be utilized as a basis or consideration to determine whether to perform one or more actions. Note that such a basis or consideration can be considered alone or in combination with one or more other bases or considerations to determine whether to perform the one or more actions. In one example where multiple bases or considerations are used to determine whether to perform one or more actions, the respective bases or considerations are given equal weight in such determination. In another example where multiple bases or considerations are used to determine whether to perform one or more actions, the respective bases or considerations are given unequal weight in such determination.

The one or more examples are used herein to illustrate one or more aspects, one or more features, one or more concepts, and/or one or more examples. A physical example of an apparatus, an article of manufacture, a machine, and/or of a process may include one or more of the aspects, features, concepts, examples, etc. described with reference to one or more of the examples discussed herein. Further, from figure to figure, the examples may incorporate the same or similarly named functions, steps, modules, etc. that may use the same or different reference numbers and, as such, the functions, steps, modules, etc. may be the same or similar functions, steps, modules, etc. or different ones.

As may further be used herein, a computer readable memory includes one or more memory elements. A memory element may be a separate memory device, multiple memory devices, or a set of memory locations within a memory device. Such a memory device may be a read-only memory, random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, a quantum register or other quantum memory and/or any other device that stores data in a non-transitory manner. Furthermore, the memory device may be in a form of a solid-state memory, a hard drive memory or other disk storage, cloud memory, thumb drive, server memory, computing device memory, and/or other non-transitory medium for storing data. The storage of data includes temporary storage (i.e., data is lost when power is removed from the memory element) and/or persistent storage (i.e., data is retained when power is removed from the memory element). As used herein, a transitory medium shall mean one or more of: (a) a wired or wireless medium for the transportation of data as a signal from one computing device to another computing device for temporary storage or persistent storage; (b) a wired or wireless medium for the transportation of data as a signal within a computing device from one element of the computing device to another element of the computing device for temporary storage or persistent storage; (c) a wired or wireless medium for the transportation of data as a signal from one computing device to another computing device for processing the data by the other computing device; and (d) a wired or wireless medium for the transportation of data as a signal within a computing device from one element of the computing device to another element of the computing device for processing the data by the other element of the computing device. As may be used herein, a non-transitory computer readable memory is substantially equivalent to a computer readable memory. A non-transitory computer readable memory can also be referred to as a non-transitory computer readable storage medium.

One or more functions associated with the methods and/or processes described herein can be implemented via a processing module that operates via the non-human “artificial” intelligence (AI) of a machine. Examples of such AI include machines that operate via anomaly detection techniques, decision trees, association rules, expert systems and other knowledge-based systems, computer vision models, artificial neural networks, convolutional neural networks, support vector machines (SVMs), Bayesian networks, genetic algorithms, feature learning, sparse dictionary learning, preference learning, deep learning and other machine learning techniques that are trained using training data via unsupervised, semi-supervised, supervised and/or reinforcement learning, and/or other AI. The human mind is not equipped to perform such AI techniques, not only due to the complexity of these techniques, but also due to the fact that artificial intelligence, by its very definition—requires “artificial” intelligence—i.e. machine/non-human intelligence.

One or more functions associated with the methods and/or processes described herein involve NFTs that are generated (“minted”) and secured via blockchain or other decentralized computer network technology. The distributed nature of these technologies over different nodes, the contemporaneous nature of geographically distinct calculations, coupled with the extreme computational complexity of the required calculations means that these decentralized computer network technologies cannot practically be performed by the human mind.

One or more functions associated with the methods and/or processes described herein can be implemented as a large-scale system that is operable to receive, transmit and/or process data on a large-scale. As used herein, a large-scale refers to a large number of data, such as one or more kilobytes, megabytes, gigabytes, terabytes or more of data that are received, transmitted and/or processed. Such receiving, transmitting and/or processing of data cannot practically be performed by the human mind on a large-scale within a reasonable period of time, such as within a second, a millisecond, microsecond, a real-time basis or other high speed required by the machines that generate the data, receive the data, convey the data, store the data and/or use the data.

One or more functions associated with the methods and/or processes described herein can require data to be manipulated in different ways within overlapping time spans. The human mind is not equipped to perform such different data manipulations independently, contemporaneously, in parallel, and/or on a coordinated basis within a reasonable period of time, such as within a second, a millisecond, microsecond, a real-time basis or other high speed required by the machines that generate the data, receive the data, convey the data, store the data and/or use the data.

One or more functions associated with the methods and/or processes described herein can be implemented in a system that is operable to electronically receive digital data via a wired or wireless communication network and/or to electronically transmit digital data via a wired or wireless communication network. Such receiving and transmitting cannot practically be performed by the human mind because the human mind is not equipped to electronically transmit or receive digital data, let alone to transmit and receive digital data via a wired or wireless communication network.

One or more functions associated with the methods and/or processes described herein can be implemented in a system that is operable to electronically store digital data in a memory device. Such storage cannot practically be performed by the human mind because the human mind is not equipped to electronically store digital data.

One or more functions associated with the methods and/or processes described herein may operate to cause an action by a processing module directly in response to a triggering event—without any intervening human interaction between the triggering event and the action. Any such actions may be identified as being performed “automatically”, “automatically based on” and/or “automatically in response to” such a triggering event. Furthermore, any such actions identified in such a fashion specifically preclude the operation of human activity with respect to these actions—even if the triggering event itself may be causally connected to a human activity of some kind.

While particular combinations of various functions and features of the one or more examples have been expressly described herein, other combinations of these features and functions are likewise possible. The present disclosure is not limited by the particular examples disclosed herein and expressly incorporates these other combinations.