Electronic device and method for continuously reproducing multimedia content in external electronic device

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes memory configured to store instructions, at least one communication circuitry, at least one display, and at least one processor, wherein at least one processor is configured to, when executing instructions, reproduce multimedia content in electronic device, identify, through at least one communication circuitry, whether electronic device is connectable with external electronic device interlocked with electronic device, before first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and superimpose and display, on a screen which is being displayed through the at least one display, a visual object indicating that the external electronic device is capable of continuously reproducing the multimedia content from a time at which reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device, based on identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is based on and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2018-0103063, filed on Aug. 30, 2018, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to an electronic device for enabling an external electronic device to continuously reproduce multimedia content and an operation method thereof.

2. Description of Related Art

The Internet is evolving to an Internet of things (IoT) network exchanging and processing information between dispersed elements such as things. An Internet of everything (IoE) technology, which is a combination of a big data processing technology, etc. through connection with a cloud server, etc. and IoT technology, is emerging. To implement IoT, technological elements such as a sensing technology, a wired/wireless communication and network infrastructure, a service interface technology, and a security technology are required, so technologies such as a sensor network for connection between things, machine to machine (M2M), machine type communication (MTC), etc. are being researched.

In the IoT environment, an intelligent Internet technology service of creating a new value for human life by collecting and analyzing data generated from connected things may be provided. IoT may be applied to a variety of fields such as a smart home, a smart building, a smart city, a smart car or connected car, a smart grid, a health care, a smart home appliance, an advanced medical service, etc. through fusion and combination between the existing information technology (IT) and various industries.

In a state of reproducing multimedia content by using an electronic device or in a state of stopping the reproduction of the multimedia content by using the electronic device, a user of an electronic device (e.g., a smart phone, etc.) may enter an environment with IoT. The environment with IoT may include other electronic devices (e.g., a TV, a speaker, a refrigerator, etc.) in addition to the electronic device. Accordingly, a solution for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the other electronic devices may be demanded.

Technological solutions the present disclosure seeks to achieve are not limited to the above-mentioned technological solutions, and other technological solutions not mentioned above would be able to be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art.

SUMMARY

An aspect of the present disclosure provides electronic device and a method thereof for providing an enhanced user experience (UX) in an IoT environment, by displaying a visual object for continuously reproducing multimedia content in an external electronic device.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a memory configured to store instructions, at least one communication circuitry, at least one display, and at least one processor, wherein the at least one processor is configured to, when executing the instructions, reproduce multimedia content in the electronic device, identify, through the at least one communication circuitry, whether the electronic device is connectable with an external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device, before a first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and superimpose and display, on a screen which is being displayed through the at least one display, a visual object indicating that the external electronic device is capable of continuously reproducing the multimedia content from a time at which reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device, based on identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a memory configured to store instructions, at least one communication circuitry, and at least one processor, wherein the at least one processor is configured to, when executing the instructions, reproduce multimedia content in the electronic device, identify, through the at least one communication circuitry, whether the electronic device is connectable with an external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device, before a first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and send, to the external electronic device through the at least one communication circuitry, a request message requesting the external electronic device to provide a notification indicating that the external electronic device is capable of continuously reproducing the multimedia content from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device, based on identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a memory configured to store instructions, at least one communication circuitry, at least one display, and at least one processor, wherein the at least one processor is configured to, when executing the instructions, identify, through the at least one communication circuitry, that a connection with an external electronic device which is reproducing multimedia content is released, receive, through the at least one communication circuitry, a message for displaying a visual object indicating that the electronic device is capable of continuously reproducing the multimedia content from a time at which reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the external electronic device, before a first time elapses from identifying that the connection with the external electronic device which is reproducing multimedia content is released, and, in response to receiving the message, superimposing and displaying the visual object on a screen which is being displayed through the at least one display.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Terms used in the present disclosure are used to describe certain embodiments, but are not intended to limit the present disclosure. An expression in a singular form may include an expression in a plural form unless otherwise clearly indicated in the context. The terms used herein may have the same meanings as those generally understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art disclosed in the present disclosure. Among the terms used in the present disclosure, terms defined in a general dictionary may be interpreted as having the same or similar meanings as the contextual meanings of a related technology, but are not intended to be interpreted as having ideal or excessively formal meanings unless clearly defined in the present disclosure. According to a particular case, even the terms defined in the present disclosure may not be construed as excluding an embodiment of the present disclosure.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure described below, a hardware access method is disclosed as an example. However, various embodiments of the present disclosure include a technology using hardware and software, so various embodiments of the present disclosure do not exclude a software based access method.

FIG. 1is an illustration of an environment100including an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 1, the environment100may include an electronic device110, an access point (AP)120, a first external electronic device130, a second external electronic device140, a first server150, a second server160, and a third server170.

In an embodiment, the electronic device110may be a device having mobility or portability. For example, the electronic device110may be a mobile phone, a smart phone, a music player, a portable game console, a navigation system, a laptop computer, etc. The electronic device110may refer to a user equipment (UE), a mobile station, a portable terminal, a station (STA), a user device, etc.

In an embodiment, the electronic device110may be carried by a user, and may be moved by the user who carries the electronic device110. For example, the electronic device110may be moved to an area (e.g., a house) with an IoT device (e.g., the first external electronic device130and/or the second external electronic device140) by the user who carries the electronic device110and may be moved from the area with the IoT device to an external area.

In an embodiment, the electronic device110may reproduce multimedia content. For example, the electronic device110may reproduce multimedia content stored in the electronic device110. For example, the electronic device110may reproduce multimedia content based on a streaming service provided from the first server150located outside the electronic device110. To receive the streaming service from the first server150, the electronic device110may use a first user account registered in the first server150. For example, for the sake of the streaming service, the electronic device110may access the first server150through a first application installed in the electronic device110by using the first user account, and the first server150may, based on the electronic device110accessing the first server150, provide the streaming service to the electronic device110.

In an embodiment, to provide an IoT service, the electronic device110may be interlocked with an IoT device (e.g., the first external electronic device130and/or the second external electronic device140). The electronic device110may be connected with the IoT device through the AP120. The electronic device110may be connected with the IoT device through a direct communication path between the IoT device and the electronic device110. The electronic device110may receive an IoT service from the second server160. The second server160may be used to manage a connection between the electronic device110and the IoT device. For example, the second server160may obtain information about a connection state between the electronic device110and the AP120from the AP120or the electronic device110, and, based on the obtained information, provide the information about the connection state in a user interface of a second application for the IoT service displayed through a display of the electronic device110. By confirming the user interface of the second application, a user may identify the connection state between the electronic device110and the IoT device. For example, the second server160may obtain the information about the connection state between the IoT device and the AP120from the AP120or the IoT device, and, based on the obtained information, provide the information about the connection state in the user interface of the second application installed in the IoT device. In order for the second server160to provide the IoT service, a second user account may be registered in the second server160. The electronic device110and the IoT device may share the second user account. The second server160may store data indicating that the IoT device is a device supporting the continuous reproduction of the first server150. For example, the second server160may store a list of the first server150supporting the continuous reproduction and a list of IoT devices, in order to indicate that the IoT device is an IoT device supporting the first server150among IoT devices connected through the second user in the electronic device110.

The second user account may be registered in, and be managed by, the third server170. For example, the third server170may receive a request related with the second user account from the second server160for providing the IoT service to the electronic device110or the IoT device. For example, the third server170may store information about the second user account as associated with information about the first user account, in order for the IoT device to continuously reproduce the multimedia content which the electronic device110has reproduced based on the streaming service provided from the first server150. On the other hand, the first server150may store the information about the first user account as associated with the information about the second user account, in order for the IoT device to continuously reproduce the multimedia content which the electronic device110has reproduced based on the streaming service provided from the first server150. Based on the association between the first user account and the second user account, the IoT device may continuously reproduce, with the first user account, the multimedia content which the electronic device110has reproduced based on the streaming service provided from the first server150.

The second server160and the third server170may be managed as a single server.

The electronic device110may perform operations for identifying that the electronic device110enters an area with an IoT device by communicating with at least one of the AP120, the first external electronic device130, the second external electronic device140, the first server150, the second server160, and the third server170, and, based on the identifying that the electronic device110enters an area with an IoT device, displaying a notification message for allowing the IoT device to continuously reproduce multimedia content which has been reproduced in the electronic device110, and, based on an input to the notification message, continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the IoT device.

FIG. 2is a block diagram of the electronic device110illustrated inFIG. 1.

Referring toFIG. 2, the electronic device110may include a processor210, a memory220, a display230, and communication circuitry240.

The processor210may control general operations of the electronic device110. For example, the processor210may send or receive a signal through the communication circuitry240. The processor210may record data in the memory220, and read data recorded in the memory220. The processor210may include a plurality of processors. For example, the processor210may include an application processor controlling an upper layer such as an application program, etc., a communication processor (CP) performing control for communication, a display controller for controlling a screen displayed on the display230, etc.

The processor210may be configured to implement a procedure and/or a method disclosed in the present disclosure.

The memory220may store an instruction, a control command code, control data, or user data controlling the electronic device110. For example, the memory220may store an application, an operating system (OS), middleware, and/or a device driver.

The memory220may include at least one or more of a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory. The volatile memory may include a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), a phase-change random access memory (PRAM), a magnetic random access memory (MRAM), a resistive random access memory (RRAM), a ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), etc. The non-volatile memory may include a read only memory (ROM), a programmable ROM (PROM), an electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), an electrically erasable ROM (EEROM), a flash memory, etc.

The memory220may further include a non-volatile media such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state disk (SSD), an embedded multimedia card (eMMC), and/or a universal flash storage (UFS) device.

The memory220may be operably or operatively coupled with the processor210.

The display230may be implemented in various forms. For example, the display230may be implemented as multiple displays including a plurality of displays. For example, the display230may be implemented as an edge display which includes a planar portion and at least one curved portion extending from the planar portion. For example, the display230may be implemented as a foldable display. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

To receive a touch input, the display230may be implemented as a touch screen. For example, the touch input may include at least one of a single tap input, a double tap input, a hovering input, a hold and release input, and a drag and drop input.

The display230may be operatively coupled with the processor210.

The communication circuitry240may provide various communication functions (for example, cellular communication, Bluetooth, near field communication (NFC), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), etc.) for communication between the electronic device110and at least one external device e.g., the AP120, the first external electronic device130, the second external electronic device140, the first server150, the second server160, the third server170, etc. In other words, the communication circuitry240may establish communication between the electronic device110and the at least one external device.

The communication circuitry240may be operatively coupled with the processor210.

By using at least one of the memory220, the display230or the communication circuitry240under the control of the processor210, the electronic device110may perform operations for identifying that the electronic device110enters an area with an IoT device (e.g., the first external electronic device130, the second external electronic device140, etc.), and, based on identifying that the electronic device110enters an area with an IoT device, displaying a notification message for allowing the IoT device to continuously reproduce multimedia content which has been reproduced in the electronic device110, and, based on an input to the notification message, continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the IoT device.

An electronic device may include a memory storing instructions, at least one communication circuitry, at least one display, and at least one processor. The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, reproduce multimedia content in the electronic device, identify, through the at least one communication circuitry, whether the electronic device is connectable with an external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device, before a first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and superimpose and display, on a screen which is being displayed through the at least one display, a visual object indicating that the external electronic device is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device, based on identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device.

The at least one processor may be further configured to, when executing the instructions, while displaying the visual object through the at least one display, receive a user input to an object included in the visual object and displayed, in order to allow the external electronic device to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, and, in response to receiving the user input, send a message requesting the external electronic device to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, to a server (e.g. the server160) interlocked with the external electronic device and the electronic device. The message sent to the server may include data about a user account of a first application which is used to reproduce the multimedia content in the electronic device, and data about a user account of a second application which is used to identify whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device.

The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, reproduce the multimedia content in the electronic device by using a first application, identify whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device by using a second application distinguished from the first application, before the first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and display the visual object by using the second application, based on identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device.

The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, while reproducing the multimedia content in the electronic device, receive an input for stopping the reproduction of the multimedia content in the electronic device, and identify whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device, before a specified time elapses from a time of receiving the input.

The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, while reproducing the multimedia content in the electronic device, identify whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device.

The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, identify whether the electronic device is connectable with a plurality of external electronic devices interlocked with the electronic device, before the first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and, in response to identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the plurality of external electronic devices, identify the external electronic device corresponding to the type of the multimedia content among the plurality of external electronic devices, and, in response to identifying whether the external electronic device is connectable with the plurality of external electronic devices interlocked with the electronic device, display the visual object through the at least one display.

The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, identify whether the electronic device is connectable with a plurality of external electronic devices interlocked with the electronic device, before the first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and, in response to identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the plurality of external electronic devices, identify the external electronic device located in a place closest to the electronic device among the plurality of external electronic devices, and, in response to identifying that the external electronic device is located in the place closest to the electronic device among the plurality of external electronic devices, display the visual object through the at least one display.

The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, identify whether the electronic device is connectable with a plurality of external electronic devices interlocked with the electronic device, before the first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and, in response to identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the plurality of external electronic devices, identify the external electronic device corresponding to a context of the multimedia content obtained based on recognizing the multimedia content among the plurality of external electronic devices, and, in response to identifying that the external electronic device corresponds to the context of the multimedia content, display the visual object through the at least one display. Recognizing the multimedia content may be performed by recognizing at least one keyword included in the multimedia content or may be performed based on metadata of the multimedia content.

An electronic device may include a memory storing instructions, at least one communication circuitry, and at least one processor. The at least one processor is configured to, when executing the instructions, reproduce multimedia content in the electronic device, and identify, through the at least one communication circuitry, whether the electronic device is connectable with an external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device, before a first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and send, to the external electronic device through the at least one communication circuitry, a request message requesting the external electronic device to provide a notification indicating that the external electronic device is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device, based on identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device.

The electronic device may further include a display. The at least one processor may be further configured to, when executing the instructions, receive a response message responsive to the request message from the external electronic device through the at least one communication circuitry, and identify whether the external electronic device is allowed to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, in the response message, and, in response to identifying that the external electronic device is allowed to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, display, through the display, a user interface including at least one executable object for controlling the multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device. The at least one processor may be further configured to, when executing the instructions, receive a user input to the at least one executable object, and, in response to the receiving of the user input, send, to the external electronic device through the at least one communication circuitry, a control message for controlling the multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device.

The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, identify whether the electronic device is connectable with a plurality of external electronic devices interlocked with the electronic device, before the first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and, in response to identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the plurality of external electronic devices, identify the external electronic device corresponding to a current time among the plurality of external electronic devices, and, in response to identifying that the external electronic device corresponds to the current time among the plurality of external electronic devices, send the request message to the external electronic device. The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, obtain information on a history of use of each of the plurality of external electronic devices, and identify the external electronic device corresponding to the current time among the plurality of external electronic devices, based on the information on the history of use.

An electronic device may include a memory storing instructions, at least one communication circuitry, at least one display, and at least one processor. The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, identify, through the at least one communication circuitry, that a connection with an external electronic device which is reproducing multimedia content is released, and receive, through the at least one communication circuitry, a message for displaying a visual object indicating that the electronic device is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the external electronic device, before a first time elapses from the identifying, and, in response to the receiving, superimpose and display the visual object on a screen which is being displayed through the at least one display.

The at least one processor may be further configured to, when executing the instructions, while displaying the visual object through the at least one display, receive a user input to an object included in the visual object and displayed, in order to allow the electronic device to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, and, in response to the receiving of the user input, send a request message requesting the electronic device to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, to a server (e.g., the second server160) interlocked with the external electronic device and the electronic device. The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, in response to the request message, receive a response message for continuously reproducing the multimedia content from the server, and continuously reproduce the multimedia content by using a second application distinguished from a first application which is used to identify that the connection with the external electronic device is released, based on the response message.

The message may include information on a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the external electronic device.

The at least one communication circuitry may include a first communication circuitry configured to support a first communication technique, and a second communication circuitry configured to support a second communication technique distinguished from the first communication technique. The at least one processor may be configured to, when executing the instructions, identify that the connection with the external electronic device is released, through the first communication circuitry, and receive the message for displaying the visual object, through the second communication circuitry.

FIG. 3is a flowchart of a method of an electronic device according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110, or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

FIG. 4is an illustration of a screen displayed in a display of an electronic device of an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 3, in step301, the processor210may reproduce multimedia content in the electronic device110. The type of the multimedia content may include at least one of a text, music, a moving picture, or a still picture. To reproduce the multimedia content, the processor210may use a first application installed in the electronic device110. While reproducing the multimedia content by using the first application, the processor210may display a user interface of the first application by using the display230. For example, referring toFIG. 4, as in a state410, while reproducing the multimedia content, the processor210may display a user interface415of the first application. The processor210may reproduce the multimedia content by using a file (e.g., an audio file and/or a video file) stored in the electronic device110. The processor210may reproduce the multimedia content, based on a streaming service provided from the first server150. For example, the processor210may access the first server150through the first user account defined above with reference toFIG. 1by using the first application, and, based on accessing the first server150through the first user account, reproduce the multimedia content through the streaming service provided from the first server150.

In step303, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is connectable with an external electronic device. For example, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device. The processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device (e.g., the first external electronic device130and/or the second external electronic device140) interlocked with the electronic device110, before a first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content. Below, the first external electronic device130may be referred to as the external electronic device130. For example, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130interlocked with the electronic device110, before a specified time elapses from a time of stopping reproducing the multimedia content. For example, while reproducing the multimedia content, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130interlocked with the electronic device110. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. After identifying that the electronic device110is connectable with the external electronic device, the processor210may identify whether the external electronic device is a device capable of continuously reproducing the multimedia content. The processor210may identify that the electronic device110enters an environment with an IoT device, through identifying whether the external electronic device is a device capable of continuously reproducing the multimedia content.

Alternatively, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110enters the environment with the IoT device, by identifying that the electronic device110is pairable with the AP120instead of the external electronic device130, before a first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content. Alternatively, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110enters the environment with the IoT device, by providing a state of the electronic device110, before the first time elapses from the time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content. For example, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110enters the environment with the IoT device, by providing the use of an electronic key which is stored in the electronic device110and which is for releasing a door lock of a house. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

In step305, the processor210may display a visual object for indicating that the external electronic device130is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content. The visual object may be configured with a notification message. The visual object may be displayed in response to converting the display230from an inactive state to an active state. The visual object may be displayed through the display230by a second application distinguished from the first application. The visual object may be replaced with a feedback having another type. For example, instead of displaying the visual object through the display230, the processor210may output, through a speaker, a voice signal for indicating that the external electronic device130is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, or provide a tactile indication for indicating that the external electronic device130is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content. Based on identifying that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130, the processor210may display, through the display230, the visual object which is superimposed on a screen displayed through the display230and which is for indicating that the external electronic device130is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device110. For example, referring toFIG. 4, as in a state420, the processor210may display a notification message425superimposed on a wall paper420. The notification message425may include at least one text for indicating that the external electronic device130is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content. The notification message425may include at least one of a visual object427for allowing the external electronic device130to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, an object429for delaying, a specified time later, identifying whether to continuously reproduce the multimedia content in the external electronic device130, or an object431for rejecting continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130. A screen disposed under the notification message425may become different depending on a use state of the electronic device110. For example, the notification message425may be superimposed on a lock screen. For example, the notification message425may be superimposed on a user interface of the first application. For example, the notification message425may be superimposed on another application distinguished from the first application. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The notification message425may be displayed in a quick panel which is displayed based on a drag input of going from a side area of the display230to another area of the display230.

The processor210may perform various operations, based on an input to an object among objects included in the notification message425. For example, in response to receiving an input to the object427, the processor210may perform operations for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130. For example, in response to receiving an input to the object429, the processor210may identify displaying the notification message425after a specified time, and again display the notification message425through the display230after the specified time elapses from a time of receiving the input to the object429. For example, in response to receiving an input to the object431, the processor210may stop a process for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

As described above, the electronic device110may display a notification message, based on the electronic device110identifying that the external electronic device130distinguished from the electronic device110is able to continuously reproduce multimedia content which has been reproduced in the electronic device110. Based on an input to the notification message, the electronic device110may perform operations for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130. In other words, by using the notification message, the electronic device110may bypass inputs required for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130(e.g., an input required for executing the first application in the external electronic device130, an input required for reproducing the multimedia content in a user interface of the first application displayed in the external electronic device130, etc.). In other words, the electronic device110may provide an intuitive UX through the notification message.

FIG. 5is a flow diagram of an electronic device and other electronic devices for continuously reproducing multimedia content in an external electronic device according to an embodiment. The flow diagram may be performed by the electronic device110, the external electronic device130, the first server150, the second server160, and the third server170.

Referring toFIG. 5, in step501, the electronic device110may display a notification message425, shown inFIG. 4, for indicating that the external electronic device130is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device110. Step501may correspond to step305illustrated inFIG. 3.

In step503, while displaying the notification message, the electronic device110may receive an input for indicating continuously reproducing the multimedia content. For example, referring toFIG. 4, the electronic device110may receive an input to the object427included in the notification message425.

In step505, in response to receiving the input, the electronic device110may directly send the second server160a message for requesting continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130, or send the second server160the message through the AP120. The electronic device110may send the second server160the message, by using the second application for managing a connection between the electronic device110and the external electronic device130. The message may be used to request for providing the external electronic device130with an authentication code for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130. The second server160may receive the message from the electronic device110.

In step507, the second server160may request an authentication code from the third server170. The authentication code may be used to receive the issuance of a token that will be used in the first server150for providing a streaming service of the multimedia content. The third server170may receive the request for the authentication code from the second server160.

On the other hand, in step509, the electronic device110may directly send the second server160information about the multimedia content that will be continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130, or send the second server160the information through the AP120.FIG. 5illustrates an example of performing step509after performing step505, but step505and step509may be performed inversely and may be performed concurrently.

On the other hand, in step511, the third server170may send the authentication code to the second server160, based on receiving the request for the authentication code. For example, the third server170may receive the request for the authentication code, in a state of storing information about the second user account which is stored in the third server170and which is used in the electronic device110and the external electronic device130. The information about the second user account may include a globally unique identifier (GUID) of the second user account. The information about the second user account may be stored in the third server170as associated with information about the first user account for accessing the first server150. The information about the first user account may include a GUID of the first user account. In response to receiving the request, the third server170may obtain the authentication code for receiving, by the external electronic device130, the issuance of the token for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130by accessing the first server150by using the first user account associated with the second user account, and provide the authentication code to the second server160. The second server160may receive the authentication code.

In step513, the second server160may send the external electronic device130the authentication code provided from the third server170. The external electronic device130may receive the authentication code from the second server160. For example, the external electronic device130may receive the authentication code by using the second application installed in the external electronic device130.

In step515, the second server160may provide the information received in step509, to the external electronic device130. For example, the second server160may provide the information to the external electronic device130wherein the external electronic device130may specify what the multimedia content is, and specify a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device110. The external electronic device130may receive the information from the second server160. For example, the external electronic device130may receive the information by using the second application.

FIG. 5illustrates an example of performing step515after performing step513, but step513and step515may be performed inversely and may be performed concurrently.

In step517, the external electronic device130may send the first server150a message for requesting the token, by using at least one of the authentication code received from the second server513and the information received from the second server513. For example, the external electronic device130may access the first server150by using the authentication code received from the second server513. Sending the message may be performed by the second application. On the other hand, the first server150may receive the message from the external electronic device130. The first server150may receive the message from the external electronic device130, in a state of storing the information about the first user account (e.g., the GUID of the first user account) stored as associated with the information about the second user account (e.g., the GUID of the second user account). In response to receiving the message, the first server150may identify that the information about the first user account is associated with the information about the second user account, based on the authentication code. In response to receiving the message, the first server150may authenticate the external electronic device130, based on the authentication code. Based on the message, the first server150may obtain or provide the token for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device110.

In step519, the first server150may send the token to the external electronic device130. The external electronic device130may receive the token from the external electronic device130.

In step521, by using the token, the external electronic device130may continuously reproduce the multimedia content in the external electronic device130from the time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device110.

Step505to step519are performed through signaling of the electronic device110, the external electronic device160, the first server150, the second server160, and the third server170, thus, step505to step519may be transparent to a user. In other words, as in step503, the electronic device110may provide a service of continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device110, through an intuitive input to an object included in the notification message. In other words, the electronic device110may provide an enhanced UX.

FIG. 5exemplifies operations of continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130by using a streaming service, but the electronic device110may continuously reproduce the multimedia content in the external electronic device130through mirroring to the external electronic device130. For example, in response to receiving (e.g., step503) an input of indicating that the external electronic device130continuously reproduces the multimedia content, the electronic device110may execute the first application for reproducing the multimedia content in the electronic device110, and send the external electronic device130information provided from the first application. The external electronic device130may continuously reproduce the multimedia content, based on the information received from the electronic device110. Executing the first application, sending the information, and receiving the information may be progressed on a background. In other words, executing the first application, sending the information, and receiving the information may be transparent to a user. In other words, the electronic device110may provide a service of continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device110, through an intuitive input to an object included in the notification message. In other words, the electronic device110may provide an enhanced UX.

FIG. 6is a flowchart of a method of an electronic device for identifying whether to display a notification message according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

In step601, while reproducing the multimedia content by using the first application, the processor210may receive an input for stopping the reproduction of the multimedia content. For example, the processor210may receive an input to an object (e.g., a stop button, a pause button, etc.) included in a user interface of the first application displayed while the multimedia content is displayed, or receive an input for stopping the execution of the first application.

In step603, after receiving the input, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130. For example, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130, based on identifying that the electronic device110accesses the same AP120as the external electronic device130. For example, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130, based on information received from the second server160. For example, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130, based on a use state of the electronic device110. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

In step605, the processor210may identify whether a specified time elapses from a time of receiving the input, based on identifying that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130. The specified time may be altered according to a user setting. The specified time may be set by a system application of the electronic device110. The specified time may be previously identified. The specified time may be configured in the electronic device110in order to check whether it is a state in which it is required that the external electronic device130continuously reproduces the multimedia content. Based on identifying that the specified time elapses from the time of receiving the input, the processor210may stop a process for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130. Based on identifying that the specified time does not elapse from the time of receiving the input, the processor210may perform step305in order to inquire whether to continuously reproduce the multimedia content in the external electronic device130.

Alternatively, instead of identifying whether the specified time elapses from the time of receiving the input, the processor210may identify a time duration from the time of receiving the input to a time of identifying that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device, and identify whether the time duration is shorter than a specified time duration. In other words, various methods for identifying whether to display the notification message may be applied in the electronic device110.

As described above, the electronic device110may identify whether it is required that the external electronic device130continuously reproduces the multimedia content, by using a timer. The electronic device110of the present disclosure may enhance a user's convenience through the identifying.

FIG. 7is a flowchart of a method of an electronic device for identifying an external electronic device according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

In step701, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with a plurality of external electronic devices including the external electronic device130. Step701may correspond to step303ofFIG. 3. For example, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with the plurality of external electronic devices including the external electronic device130, before a first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content. The plurality of external electronic devices may indicate electronic devices accessing the AP120. The plurality of external electronic devices may refer to electronic devices that are controlled using the second user account used by the electronic device110. Step701may be performed through the second application.

In step703, the processor210may identify at least one external electronic device corresponding to the type of the multimedia content among the plurality of external electronic devices. For example, the processor210may identify the at least one external electronic device corresponding to the type of the multimedia content, based on identifying that the electronic device110is pairable with the plurality of external electronic devices. For example, in response to identifying that the electronic device110is pairable with the plurality of external electronic devices, the processor210may identify whether the type of the multimedia content is multimedia content (e.g., a still picture, a moving picture, or a text) requiring the provision of visual information or is multimedia content (e.g., music) not requiring provision of visual information. For example, the processor210may identify whether the type of the multimedia content is multimedia content requiring provision of visual information or is multimedia content not requiring provision of visual information, based on the kind of a service provided by the first application which is used to reproduce the multimedia content. For example, the processor210may identify whether the type of the multimedia content is multimedia content requiring provision of visual information or is multimedia content not requiring provision of visual information, based on metadata of the multimedia content. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

For example, in response to the multimedia content being multimedia content requiring provision of visual information, the processor210may identify, as the at least one external electronic device, an electronic device (e.g., a TV, a display of a refrigerator, a digital signboard, etc.) including a display capable of providing visual information among the plurality of external electronic devices. For example, in response to the multimedia content being music not requiring provision of visual information, the processor210may identify, as the at least one external electronic device, an electronic device capable of reproducing music among the plurality of external electronic devices.

In response to the number of the external electronic devices identified among the plurality of external electronic devices exceeding 1, the processor210may identify one external electronic device, based on the priority of the identified external electronic devices. For example, in response to the multimedia content being music, the processor210may identify, as the one external electronic device, a speaker having the highest priority among the external electronic devices identified among the plurality of external electronic devices.

In response to the number of the external electronic devices identified among the plurality of external electronic devices exceeding 1, the processor210may identify all of the identified external electronic devices as the at least one external electronic device. For example, in response to the multimedia content being a video, the processor210may identify a TV among the identified external electronic devices, as a device for reproducing a moving picture, and identify a speaker among the identified external electronic devices, as a device for outputting a sound of the moving picture.

As described above, by identifying at least one external electronic device according to the type of the multimedia content that will be continuously reproduced, the electronic device110may bypass receiving a user input for selecting the at least one external electronic device. In other words, by identifying the at least one external electronic device according to the type of the multimedia content, the electronic device110may decrease the number of inputs required to continuously reproduce the multimedia content.

FIG. 8is a flowchart of a method of an electronic device for identifying an external electronic device according to an embodiment. This method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

In step801, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with a plurality of external electronic devices including the external electronic device130. Step801may correspond to step303ofFIG. 3or step701ofFIG. 7.

In step803, the processor210may identify the external electronic device130located in a place closest to the electronic device110among the plurality of external electronic devices. For example, the processor210may obtain information on a received signal strength (RSS) of a signal received directly from each of the plurality of external electronic devices, by using the communication circuitry240, and, based on the RSS, identify each distance between the plurality of external electronic devices and the electronic device110, respectively. The processor210may identify the external electronic device130located in a place closest to the electronic device110among the plurality of external electronic devices, based on identifying the distances between the plurality of external electronic devices and the electronic device110, respectively. For example, the processor210may obtain, from the AP120, information about an RSS of a signal sent to the AP120from each of the plurality of external electronic devices and information about an RSS of a signal sent to the AP120from the electronic device110. Based on the information obtained from the AP120, the processor210may identify each location relationship between the plurality of external electronic devices and the electronic device110, and, based on identifying the location relationships between the plurality of external electronic devices and the electronic device110, identify the external electronic device130located in a place closest to the electronic device110among the plurality of external electronic devices. For example, based on the information about the RSS of the signal sent to the AP120from each of the plurality of external electronic devices and the information about the RSS of the signal sent to the AP120from the electronic device110, the processor210may receive, from the AP120, information about the location relations between the plurality of external electronic devices and the electronic device110identified by the AP120, and based on the received information, identify the external electronic device130located in a place closest to the electronic device110among the plurality of external electronic devices. For example, by comparing a strength of a voice signal received by the electronic device110and a strength of a voice signal received by each of the plurality of external electronic devices at a time at which the electronic device110receives the voice signal, the processor210may identify the external electronic device130located in a place closest to the electronic device110among the plurality of external electronic devices. The information about the strength of the voice signal received by each of the plurality of external electronic devices may be received by the electronic device110from each of the plurality of external electronic devices through the AP120, or be directly received by the electronic device110from each of the plurality of external electronic devices. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

As described above, by identifying an external electronic device located in proximity to the electronic device110as an external electronic device continuously reproducing the multimedia content, the electronic device110may provide an enhanced convenience to a user.

FIG. 9is a flowchart of a method of an electronic device for identifying an external electronic device according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

In step901, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with a plurality of external electronic devices including the external electronic device130. Step901may correspond to step303ofFIG. 3or step701ofFIG. 7.

In step903, the processor210may identify the external electronic device130located in a place closest to a user of the electronic device110among the plurality of external electronic devices. For example, the processor210may obtain information about distances between the user and each of the plurality of external electronic devices, by using the second application. For example, each of the plurality of external electronic devices may obtain a voice signal of the user by using a microphone of each of the plurality of external electronic devices, and provide information about a strength of the obtained voice signal to the electronic device110through the AP120by using the second application or directly provide the information to the electronic device110. The processor210may obtain information about distances between the user and each of the plurality of external electronic devices, based on the information provided from each of the plurality of external electronic devices. For example, each of the plurality of external electronic devices may obtain an image including a visual object corresponding to the user by using a camera of each of the plurality of external electronic devices, and provide information about the image to the electronic device110through the AP120by using the second application or directly provide the information to the electronic device110. The processor210may obtain information about distances between the user and each of the plurality of external electronic devices, based on the information provided from each of the plurality of external electronic devices. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The processor210may identify the external electronic device130located in a place closest to the user among the plurality of external electronic devices, based on the information about the distances between the user and the plurality of external electronic devices.

As described above, the electronic device110may provide an enhanced convenience to a user of the electronic device110, by identifying an external electronic device located in proximity to the user of the electronic device110as an external electronic device continuously reproducing multimedia content, in consideration of where the user of the electronic device110does not carry the electronic device110.

FIG. 10is a flowchart of a method of an electronic device for identifying an external electronic device according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

In step1001, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with a plurality of external electronic devices including the external electronic device130. Step1001may correspond to step303ofFIG. 3or step701ofFIG. 7.

In step1003, the processor210may identify the external electronic device130corresponding to a context of multimedia content that will be continuously reproduced among the plurality of external electronic devices. For example, in response to identifying that the electronic device110is pairable with the plurality of external electronic devices, the processor210may identify the context of the multimedia content. For example, the processor210may identify the context of the multimedia content from elements (e.g., a text, a visual object, etc.) configuring the multimedia content. For example, the processor210may identify the context of the multimedia content from metadata of the multimedia content. For example, in response to the multimedia content having a context for providing a food recipe, the processor210may identify, as the external electronic device130, a refrigerator located in a dining room among the plurality of external electronic devices. For example, in response to the multimedia content having a context of a health guide, the processor210may identify, as the external electronic device130, a TV located in a living room among the plurality of external electronic devices. For further example, in response to the multimedia content having a context requiring an exchange of a voice signal with the user, the processor210may identify, as the external electronic device130, a speaker located in the living room among the plurality of external electronic devices. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

As described above, the electronic device110may provide an enhanced convenience to the user, by identifying the external electronic device based on a context of multimedia content that will be reproduced continuously.

FIG. 11is a flowchart of a method of an electronic device for identifying an external electronic device according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

In step1101, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with a plurality of external electronic devices including the external electronic device130. Step1101ofFIG. 11may correspond to step303ofFIG. 3or step701ofFIG. 7.

In step1103, the processor210may identify the external electronic device130among the plurality of external electronic devices, based on a user's history of use. For example, the electronic device110or the second server160interlocked with the electronic device110may store information about the user's history of use through steps ofFIG. 12AandFIG. 12Bdescribed below in greater detail. The information about the history of use may include data about the history of use that is based on a type of multimedia content. In this case, the electronic device110may identify the external electronic device130among the plurality of external electronic devices, based on the information about the history of use which includes data indicating that multimedia content of a type A is continuously reproduced in a TV among the plurality of external electronic devices, multimedia content of a type B is reproduced in a refrigerator among the plurality of external electronic devices, and multimedia content of a type C is reproduced in a speaker among the plurality of external electronic devices. The information about the history of use may include data on the history of use that is based on a type of an application used to reproduce the multimedia content in the electronic device110. In this case, the electronic device110may identify the external electronic device130among the plurality of external electronic devices, based on the information about the history of use which includes data indicating that multimedia content having been reproduced in the electronic device110by using a first application is continuously reproduced in the TV among the plurality of external electronic devices, and multimedia content having been reproduced in the electronic device110by using a second application is continuously reproduced in the refrigerator among the plurality of external electronic devices, and multimedia content having been reproduced in the electronic device110by using a third application is continuously reproduced in the speaker among the plurality of external electronic devices. The information about the history of use may include data about the history of use that is based on a time duration of continuously reproducing the multimedia content. In this case, the electronic device110may identify the external electronic device130among the plurality of external electronic devices, based on the information about the history of use which includes data indicating that, in response to a current time corresponding to morning, multimedia content having been reproduced in the electronic device110is continuously reproduced in the TV among the plurality of external electronic devices, in response to the current time corresponding to evening, the multimedia content having been reproduced in the electronic device110is continuously reproduced in the refrigerator among the plurality of external electronic devices, and, in response to the current time corresponding to night, the multimedia content having been reproduced in the electronic device110is continuously reproduced in the speaker among the plurality of external electronic devices. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

FIG. 12Ais a flowchart of a method of an electronic device for refining a history of use according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

FIG. 12Bis an illustration of a notification message displayed in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 12A, in step1201, the processor210may display a notification message for inquiring whether the external electronic device130will continuously reproduce multimedia content which has been reproduced in the electronic device110. For example, referring toFIG. 12B, the processor210may display a notification message1210for inquiring whether to continuously listen to music with a TV by using an application A. For example, the processor210may display a notification message1220for inquiring whether to continuously listen to music with a refrigerator by using the application A. For example, the processor210may display a notification message1230for inquiring whether to continuously listen to music with the TV by using an application B. For example, the processor210may display a notification message1240for inquiring whether to continuously listen to music with the TV by using the application A. For example, the processor210may display a notification message1250for inquiring whether to continuously listen to music with a speaker by using the application B. For example, the processor210may display a notification message1260for inquiring whether to continuously listen to music with the TV by using the application B. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. On the other hand, the application A and the application B may each correspond to the first application, in view of the fact that the application A and the application B are applications used for the reproduction of the multimedia content.

In step1203, the processor210may receive an input to the notification message. In an embodiment, because the input is able to reflect a user's intention for the notification message, the input may be used to refine the history of use.

In step1205, the processor210may refine the history of use, based on the received input. For example, the information about the history of use may store data about a probability of recommending that each of the plurality of external electronic devices continuously reproduce the multimedia content, as associated with each of the plurality of external electronic devices (or an identifier (ID) of each of the plurality of external electronic devices). The processor210may refine the history of use, by altering the data on the probability based on the user's intention expressed through the received input.

For example, referring toFIG. 12B, the processor210may receive an input1265of dragging the notification message1210in a first direction. The processor210may recognize that the input1265indicates not preferring to continuously listening to music with the TV by using the application A, and, based on the recognition result, decrease the probability of recommending continuously reproducing music with the TV by using the application A. For example, the processor210may receive an input1270to an object1268included in the notification message1220. The processor210may recognize that the input1270indicates preferring to continuously listening to music with the refrigerator by using the application A, and, based on the recognition result, increase the probability of recommending continuously reproducing music with the refrigerator by using the application A. For example, the processor210may receive an input1274to an object1272included in the notification message1230. The processor210may recognize that the input1274indicates preferring to continuously listening to music with the TV by using the application B, and, based on the recognition result, increase the probability of recommending continuously reproducing music with the TV by using the application B. For example, the processor210may receive an input1278to an object1276included in the notification message1240. The processor210may recognize that the input1278indicates preferring to continuously listening to music with the TV by using the application A, and, based on the recognition result, increase the probability of recommending continuously reproducing music with the TV by using the application A. For example, the processor210may receive an input1282to an object1280included in the notification message1250. The processor210may recognize that the input1282indicates not preferring to continuously listening to music with the speaker by using the application B, and, based on the recognition result, decrease the probability of recommending continuously reproducing music with the speaker by using the application B. For example, the processor210may receive an input1286to an object1284included in the notification message1260. The processor210may recognize that the input1286indicates delaying the identifying of continuously listening to music with the TV by using the application B, and, based on the recognition result, maintain the probability of continuously reproducing music with the TV by using the application B. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

As described above, by refining a history of use based on a user input to a notification message, the electronic device110may recommend an external electronic device suitable to the use's intention, as an external electronic device which will continuously reproduce multimedia content.

FIG. 13is a flowchart of a method of an electronic device for identifying an external electronic device according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

Referring toFIG. 13, in step1301, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with a plurality of external electronic devices including the external electronic device130. Step1301may correspond to step303ofFIG. 3or step701ofFIG. 7.

In step1303, the processor210may display, as a list, a plurality of objects indicating the plurality of external electronic devices, respectively. For example, the list may be displayed instead of a notification message. For example, the list may be provided from a notification message. For example, the processor210may provide a notification message in an extended window, based on an input of dragging the notification message in a downward direction. The processor210may display the list in the extended window. For example, the list may be displayed in a quick panel. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

In step1305, the processor210may receive an input to at least one object among the plurality of objects.

In step1307, the processor210may identify at least one external electronic device indicated by the at least one object, as an external electronic device for continuously reproducing the multimedia content. In response to performing step1307, the processor210may perform operations for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the at least one external electronic device.

FIG. 14is a flow diagram of an electronic device, an external electronic device, and a second server for providing a notification in the electronic device or the external electronic device according to an embodiment. The flow diagram may be performed by the electronic device110, the external electronic device130, and the second server160.

Referring toFIG. 14, in step1401, the electronic device110may stop reproducing multimedia content in the electronic device110by using a first application. For example, while reproducing the multimedia content by using the first application, in response to receiving an input for stopping the reproduction of the multimedia content through a user interface of the first application, the electronic device110may stop reproducing the multimedia content.

In step1403, the electronic device110may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130by using a second application, before a specified time elapses from a time of receiving the input.

In step1405, the electronic device110may identify whether the multimedia content is a first type or not. The multimedia content of the first type may indicate multimedia content (e.g., a video) not requiring a provision of visual information. The multimedia content that is not of a first type (e.g., multimedia content of the second type) may indicate multimedia content (e.g., music) requiring a provision of visual information. In response to the multimedia content being of the first type, the electronic device110may perform step1407. In response to the multimedia content not being of the first type (e.g., the multimedia content being of the second type), the electronic device110may perform operation1409.

In step1407, the electronic device110may display the notification message defined in step305ofFIG. 3, based on identifying that the multimedia content is of the first type.

In step1409, the electronic device110may send the second server160information for providing a notification for inquiring whether the external electronic device130will continuously reproduce the multimedia content, based on identifying that the multimedia content is not of the first type (e.g., the multimedia content is of the second type). The second server160may receive the information from the electronic device110. In response to receiving the information, the second server160may identify or monitor a state of the external electronic device130during a specified time. For example, in response to receiving the information, the second server160may identify whether the external electronic device130is in a turned-on state during the specified time.

In step1411, the second server160may identify that the external electronic device130is in a turned-on state at a time of receiving the information, or identify that the external electronic device130is converted into the turned-on state through a user input, before a specified time elapses from the time of receiving the information.

In step1413, in response to identifying that the external electronic device130is in a turned-on state, the second server160may request the external electronic device130to provide the notification. The external electronic device130may receive the request from the second server160.

In step1415, in response to receiving the request to provide the notification, the external electronic device130may provide the notification. For example, in response to receiving the request, the external electronic device130may display a notification message superimposed on a screen which is being displayed through a display of the external electronic device130. The notification message may have the same or similar format with the notification message described above with reference toFIG. 3. For example, in response to receiving the request to provide the notification, the external electronic device130may provide the notification configured with a voice signal through a speaker of the external electronic device130. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

In response to the media content not being of the first type, in step1417, the electronic device110may identify or monitor whether the electronic device110executes the first application during a specified time from a time of identifying that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130in step1403. In response to the first application not being executed during the specified time from the time, the electronic device110may stop a process of the electronic device110for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130in step1421. In response to the first application being again executed within the specified time from the time or the first application being converted into a foreground state, the electronic device110may perform step1419.

In step1419, in response to identifying that the first application is again executed within the specified time from the time or the first application is converted into the foreground state, the electronic device110may display the notification message as described above with reference toFIG. 3through the display230.

In an embodiment, in response to step1415being performed, step1417and step1419may be bypassed or may not be performed. In an embodiment, step1417and step1419may be performed independently from step1415.

As described above, in response to the multimedia content being multimedia content requiring visual information, the electronic device110, the external electronic device130, and the second server160may adaptively provide the notification or the notification message according to a user's action. In other words, the electronic device110may provide an enhanced UX.

FIG. 15Ais a flowchart of a method of an electronic device for displaying a notification message according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

FIG. 15Bis an illustration of a screen displayed in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 15A, in step1501, the processor210may display a notification message. Step1501may correspond to step305ofFIG. 3. For example, referring toFIG. 15B, the processor210may display a notification message425superimposed on a screen displayed through the display230, based on identifying that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130. The notification message425may include an object427, an object429, and an object431.

In step1503, the processor210may receive an input to the notification message.

In step1505, in response to receiving the input to the notification message, the processor210may perform a function corresponding to the input.

For example, referring toFIG. 15B, the processor210may receive an input1501to the object427. In response to receiving the input1501, the processor210may display a window1510converted from the notification message425. The window1510may include a text indicating that the processor210is able to select an external electronic device continuously reproducing the multimedia content by using the first application (e.g., Samsung music). The window1510may further include an object1515indicating that operations (e.g., step505to step519ofFIG. 5) for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130(e.g., a TV) are being performed. The window1510may further include an object1520for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in another external electronic device (e.g., a refrigerator) instead of the external electronic device130. For example, in response to receiving an input to the object1520, the processor210may stop performing the operations for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130(e.g., the TV). For example, in response to receiving the input to the object1520, the processor210may send the second server160a message for indicating that the external electronic device continuously reproducing the multimedia content is altered into another external electronic device. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

For example, the processor210may receive an input1503to the object429. In response to receiving the input1503, the processor210may identify to display the notification message425after a specified time elapses, and again display the notification message425based on identifying that the specified time elapses.

For example, the processor210may receive an input1505to the object431. In response to receiving the input1505, the processor210may stop a process for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device.

For example, the processor210may receive an input1507of dragging the notification message425in a first direction. In response to receiving the input1507, the processor210may identify to display the notification message425after a specified time elapses, and again display the notification message425based on identifying that the specified time elapses.

For example, the processor210may receive an input1509of dragging the notification message425in a second direction opposite to the first direction. In response to receiving the input1509, the processor210may stop a process for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device.

As described above, the electronic device110may enhance a user's convenience, by providing mutually different functions according to an input received through a notification message.

FIG. 16is a flow diagram of an electronic device, a first external electronic device, a second external electronic device, and a second server for altering or adding an external electronic device continuously reproducing multimedia content according to various embodiments. The flow diagram may be performed by the electronic device110, the first external electronic device130, the second external electronic device140, and the second server160.

Referring toFIG. 16, in step1601, the electronic device110may display a notification message.

In step1603, the electronic device101may receive an input for indicating that the external electronic device130continuously reproduces the multimedia content, through the notification message.

In step1605, in response to receiving the input, the electronic device101may send the second server160a message for requesting to continuously reproduce the multimedia content. The second server160may receive the message from the electronic device101.

In step1607, in response to receiving the message for requesting to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, the second server160may send the first external electronic device130information for continuously reproducing the multimedia content. The first external electronic device130may receive the information from the second server160.

In step1609, the first external electronic device130may continuously reproduce the multimedia content, based on the information.

In step1611, the first external electronic device130may provide a specified event. The specified event may be an event for identifying that it is required to continuously reproduce the multimedia content in another external electronic device140. For example, the first external electronic device130may provide the event, by recognizing that a user is distant from the first external electronic device130while continuously reproducing the multimedia content, by using a camera of the first external electronic device130or a microphone of the first external electronic device.

In step1613, in response to the provision of the event, the first external electronic device130may send the second server160a message for requesting to continuously reproduce the multimedia content in another external electronic device. The message may include information about a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the first external electronic device130and information for indicating that the user is distant from the first external electronic device130. The second server160may receive the message from the first external electronic device130.

In step1615, in response to receiving the message for requesting to continuously reproduce the multimedia content in another external electronic device, the second server160may identify the second external electronic device140capable of continuously reproducing the multimedia content among a plurality of external electronic devices. For example, in response to receiving the message for requesting to continuously reproduce the multimedia content in another external electronic device, the second server160may send a signal requesting to monitor a user who is distant from the first external electronic device130to each of the plurality of external electronic devices, and identify that the user is located in proximity to the second external electronic device140, based on a response signal to the signal received from each of the plurality of external electronic devices. The second server160may send the second external electronic device140information for continuously reproducing the multimedia content, based on identifying that the user is located in proximity to the second external electronic device140. The second external electronic device140may receive the information from the second server160. In response to receiving the information, the second external electronic device140may continuously reproduce the multimedia content by using the information.

On the other hand, in step1617, the second external electronic device140may provide the specified event, while the first external electronic device130continuously reproduces the multimedia content from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device110. For example, the second external electronic device140may provide the specified event, by identifying that a user of the electronic device110is located in proximity to the second external electronic device140, by using a camera or microphone of the second external electronic device140.

In step1619, in response to the provision of the event, the second external electronic device140may send the second server160a message for requesting to continuously reproduce the multimedia content in the second external electronic device140. The second server160may receive the message. In response to receiving the message for requesting to continuously reproduce the multimedia content in the second external electronic device140, the second server160may request, to the first external electronic device130, information about the time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the first external electronic device130. In response to the request for information about the time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the first external electronic device130, the first external electronic device130may provide the information about the time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the first external electronic device130to the second server160. The second server160may provide the information to the second external electronic device140. The second external electronic device140may continuously reproduce the multimedia content from the time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the first external electronic device130, by using the information.

While the second external electronic device140continuously reproduces the multimedia content, an operation (e.g., step1609) of continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the first external electronic device130may be stopped, and may be kept. For example, in response to another user distinguished from the user through the camera of the first external electronic device130or the microphone of the first external electronic device130being provided, the first external electronic device130may maintain an operation of continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the first external electronic device130, independently from an operation of continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the second external electronic device140.

As described above, the electronic device110, the first external electronic device130, the second external electronic device140, and the second server160may enhance a user's convenience, by altering or adding an external electronic device continuously reproducing multimedia content according to a change of a use state of a user.

FIG. 17Ais a flow diagram of an electronic device, an external electronic device, and a second server for displaying a notification message differently in the external electronic device according to an embodiment. The flow diagram may be performed by the electronic device110, the external electronic device130, and the second server160.

FIG. 17Bis an illustration of a screen displayed in an external electronic device of an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 17A, in step1701, the electronic device110may display a notification message.

In step1703, the electronic device110may receive an input for indicating continuously reproducing the multimedia content through the notification message.

In step1705, in response to receiving the input for indicating continuously reproducing the multimedia content through the notification message, the electronic device110may send the second server160a message for indicating reception of the input. The second server160may receive the message from the electronic device110.

In step1707, in response to receiving the message for indicating reception of the input, the second server160may identify whether the external electronic device130has been turned on. For example, the second server160may identify whether the external electronic device130has been turned on, based on information provided from the AP120or information provided from the external electronic device130. In response to identifying that the external electronic device130has been turned on, the second server160may perform step1711. In response to identifying that the external electronic device130has been turned off, the second server160may perform step1709.

In step1709, the second server160may send a first control message to the external electronic device130, based on identifying that the external electronic device130has been turned off. The external electronic device130may receive the first control message. The external electronic device130receiving the first control message may alter a state of the external electronic device130from a turned-off state to a turned-on state, based on the first control message, and, in response to altering the state of the external electronic device130from a turned-off state to a turned-on state, continuously reproduce the multimedia content by using the whole display region of the external electronic device130. For example, referring toFIG. 17B, the external electronic device130may, as in a state1730, continuously reproduce the multimedia content by using the whole display region of the external electronic device130.

In step1711, the second server160may identify whether the external electronic device130is in a waiting mode, based on identifying that the external electronic device130has been turned on. The waiting mode may refer to a mode in which the external electronic device130is in a low power state. The waiting mode may refer to a mode of providing a waiting screen through a display of the external electronic device130. Based on identifying that the external electronic device130is in the waiting mode, the second server160may perform step1713. Based on identifying that the external electronic device130is not in the waiting mode (i.e., the electronic device130is in an active mode distinguished from the waiting mode), the second server160may perform step1715. The active mode may refer to a mode of providing another multimedia content distinguished from the multimedia content through the display of the external electronic device130.

In step1713, the second server160may send a second control message to the external electronic device130, based on identifying that the external electronic device130is in the waiting mode. The external electronic device130receiving the second control message may continuously reproduce the multimedia content, and while continuously reproducing the multimedia content, display a reduced user interface of the first application over a waiting screen for supporting the waiting mode. For example, referring toFIG. 17B, as in a state1740, while continuously reproducing the multimedia content, the external electronic device130may display a reduced user interface1745over the waiting screen1750.

In step1715, the second server160may send a third control message to the external electronic device130, based on identifying that the external electronic device130is not in the waiting mode (e.g., the electronic device is in the active mode). The external electronic device130receiving the third control message may continuously reproduce the multimedia content, or display a notification message for inquiring whether to continuously reproduce the multimedia content through the display of the external electronic device130. For example, referring toFIG. 17B, as in the state1730, while continuously reproducing the multimedia content, the external electronic device130may display a user interface1755of the first application converted from another multimedia content which has been provided in the whole display region of the external electronic device130. For example, as in a state1760, the external electronic device130may display a notification message1770superimposed on another multimedia content1765which has been provided in the whole display region of the external electronic device130. For example, as in a state1775, while continuously reproducing the multimedia content, the external electronic device130may display a user interface1780of the first application superimposed on the another multimedia content1765. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

As described above, to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, the electronic device110, the external electronic device130, and the second server160may display a notification message or a user interface of an application by using various methods in the external electronic device130.

FIG. 18is an illustration of a screen displayed in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 18, as in a state1810, the processor210may display a user interface1815for controlling multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130, in a user interface of the second application. The user interface1815may include a text for indicating what the external electronic device130is, and a thumbnail image for the multimedia content, and objects1817for controlling the multimedia content. By providing the electronic device110with an input to at least one object among the objects1817, a user may control the multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130, by using the electronic device110.

As in a state1820, the processor210may display a user interface1825for controlling multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130, in a quick panel. The user interface1825may include a text for indicating what the external electronic device130is, and a thumbnail image for the multimedia content, and objects1827for controlling the multimedia content. By providing the electronic device110with an input to at least one object among the objects1827, the user may control the multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130, by using the electronic device110.

In response to receiving an input1830to the user interface1815displayed in the state1810or an input1835to the user interface1825displayed in the state1820, the processor210may display, as in a state1840, a user interface1850for controlling the multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130, in the whole display region. The user interface1850may include a text for indicating what the external electronic device130is, and a thumbnail image for the multimedia content, and objects1855for controlling the multimedia content. By providing the electronic device110with an input to at least one object among the objects1855, the user may control the multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130, by using the electronic device110.

FIG. 19Ais a flowchart of a method of an electronic device for displaying a user interface for controlling multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in an external electronic device according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

FIG. 19Bis an illustration of a screen displayed in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 19A, in step1911, the processor210may receive an input for controlling multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced. For example, referring toFIG. 19B, while continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the external electronic device130, in a state1920, the processor210may receive a drag input1925of going from a side region of the display230to another region of the display230. In response to receiving the drag input1925, in a state1930converted from the state1920, the processor210may display a quick panel1933. In the state1930, the processor210may receive an input1935to an object for calling the second application included in the quick panel1933.

In step1913, in response to receiving the input for to an object for calling the second application, the processor210may display a user interface for controlling the multimedia content. For example, referring toFIG. 19B, in response to receiving the input1935, the processor210may convert the state1930into a state1940. The state1940may indicate a state of displaying the extended quick panel1933. The state1940may indicate a state of displaying a user interface1943for controlling the multimedia content in the extended quick panel1933.

In step1915, the processor210may receive an input to the user interface for controlling the multimedia content. For example, referring toFIG. 19B, in the state1940, the processor210may receive an input1945to an object included in the user interface1943.

In step1917, in response to receiving the input to the user interface for controlling the multimedia content, the processor210may send a message for controlling the multimedia content. For example, the message may be sent to the second server160or to the external electronic device130. In response to receiving the input to the user interface for controlling the multimedia content, the processor210may alter the representation of the user interface. For example, referring toFIG. 19B, in response to receiving the input1945, the processor210may convert the state1940into a state1950. The state1950may indicate a state of sending the second server160or the external electronic device130a message for altering multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130, into multimedia content1955subsequent to the multimedia content, based on the input1945. The state1950may indicate a state of altering, based on the input1945, the representation of the user interface1943for controlling the multimedia content displayed in the extended quick panel1933. In the state1950, the altered representation of the user interface1943may indicate that the multimedia content1955is reproduced in the external electronic device130.

As described above, the electronic device110may provide enhanced accessibility to a user, by displaying a user interface for controlling multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced, through the display230of the electronic device110.

FIG. 20Ais a flowchart of a method of an electronic device for altering a user interface for controlling multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in an external electronic device, into a user interface for controlling content which is being provided in another external electronic device distinguished from the external electronic device according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

FIG. 20Bis an illustration of a screen displayed in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 20A, in step2005, the processor210may receive another input to a user interface for controlling multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130. For example, referring toFIG. 20B, in a state2010, the processor210may display a user interface2015which is included in a user interface of the second application and which is for controlling multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130. In the state2010, the processor210may receive an input2017of dragging the user interface2015in a first direction or an input2019of dragging the user interface2015in a second direction.

In step2007, the processor210may display a user interface for controlling another multimedia content which is being reproduced in another external electronic device140distinguished from the external electronic device130continuously reproducing the multimedia content. For example, referring toFIG. 20B, in response to receiving the input2017or the input2019in the state2010, the processor210may convert the state2010into a state2020. In the state2020, the processor210may display a user interface2025for controlling the other multimedia content which is being reproduced in the other external electronic device distinguished from the external electronic device130. The user interface2025may be converted from the user interface2015. The user interface2025may include information2027about the other external electronic device distinguished from the external electronic device130, and information2029about the other multimedia content which is being reproduced in the other external electronic device.

As described above, the electronic device110may enhance a user's convenience, by displaying not only a user interface for controlling the multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in an external electronic device but also another user interface for controlling multimedia content which is being reproduced in another external electronic device distinguished from the external electronic device.

FIG. 21is an illustration of a screen displayed in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 21, in a state2110, while continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the first external electronic device130(e.g., a speaker), the processor210may display a user interface2115for controlling the multimedia content in a quick panel. The user interface2115may include an object2120for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the second external electronic device140(e.g., a TV) distinguished from the first external electronic device130. In response to receiving an input2130to the object2120, the processor210may convert the state2110into a state2160. In the state2160, the processor210may perform a process for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the second external electronic device140, and display, in the second external electronic device140, a user interface2165for indicating that the second external electronic device140reproduces the multimedia content. The user interface2165may include an object2165for continuously reproducing the multimedia content in the first external electronic device130(e.g., a speaker) distinguished from the second external electronic device140. In response to receiving an input2170to the object2165, the processor210may convert the state2160into the state2110.

As described above, the electronic device110may provide an enhanced UX, by providing a user interface for altering an external electronic device which is continuously reproducing multimedia content, into another external electronic device.

FIG. 22Ais a flowchart of a method of an electronic device according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

FIG. 22Bis an illustration of a screen displayed in the external electronic device130of an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 22A, in step2201, the processor210may reproduce multimedia content in the electronic device110. Step2201may correspond to step301ofFIG. 3.

In step2203, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110is pairable with the external electronic device130, before a first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content. Step2203may correspond to step303ofFIG. 3. For example, referring toFIG. 22B, the processor210may identify that the electronic device110enters an environment (e.g., a house)2210including the external electronic device130.

In step2205, based on identifying that the electronic device110enters the environment2210, the processor210may send the external electronic device130a message for providing, in the external electronic device130, a notification for indicating that the external electronic device130is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device110. For example, the message may be sent to the external electronic device130through the AP120, or be directly sent to the external electronic device130. In response to receiving the message, the external electronic device130may provide the notification. The notification may be provided as visual information. For example, referring toFIG. 22B, in response to receiving the message, the external electronic device130may display, through a display of the external electronic device130, a notification message2220for indicating that the external electronic device130is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device110. The notification may be provided as auditory information or tactile information. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

On the other hand, the processor210of the electronic device101may receive another message for indicating that the external electronic device130is allowed (e.g., authorized) to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, based on receiving an input indicating that the external electronic device130is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content. For example, the other message may be received from the second server160or the external electronic device130. In response to receiving the other message, the processor210may display, through the display230, a user interface including at least one executable object for controlling the multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130. The processor210may receive a user input to the at least one executable object and, in response to receiving the user input, send the external electronic device130a message for controlling the multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device130, or send the second server160the message.

FIG. 23is a flow diagram of an electronic device, an external electronic device, and a second server for converting a user account in order to continuously reproduce multimedia content according to an embodiment. The flow diagram may be performed by the electronic device110, the external electronic device130, and the second server160.

Referring toFIG. 23, in step2301, the external electronic device130may reproduce first multimedia content, based on a first account.

In step2303, while the external electronic device130reproduces first multimedia content based on the first account, the electronic device110may be connected with the AP120. For example, the electronic device110may be connected with the AP120while the electronic device110reproduces second multimedia content distinguished from the first multimedia content based on a second account distinguished from the first account in the electronic device110or before a specified time elapses from a time of stopping reproducing, in the electronic device110, the second multimedia content based on the second account.

In step2305, in response to the connection with the AP120, the electronic device110may send the second server160a message for indicating that the electronic device110is located in a specified location (e.g., a house). The second server160may receive the message from the electronic device110. Alternatively, the message may be sent from the AP120instead of the electronic device110, to the second server160.

In step2307, in response to receiving the message indicating that the electronic device110is located in the specified location, the second server160may send the external electronic device130a message for requesting to convert the first account into a second account. While reproducing the first multimedia content based on the first account, the external electronic device130may receive the message requesting to convert the first account into the second account sent from the second server160.

In step2309, in response to receiving the message requesting to convert the first account into the second account, the external electronic device130may convert the first account into the second account.

In step2311, in response to converting the first account into the second account, the external electronic device130may reproduce the second multimedia content, based on a history of use of the second account. For example, the external electronic device130may continuously reproduce, in the external electronic device130, the second multimedia content which has been reproduced in the electronic device110.

As described above, the electronic device110, the external electronic device130, and the second server160may continuously reproduce, in the external electronic device130, multimedia content which has been continuously reproduced in the electronic device110, through the account conversion.

FIG. 24is a flowchart of a method of an electronic device according to an embodiment. The method may be performed by the electronic device110or the processor210included in the electronic device110.

Referring toFIG. 24, in step2401, the processor210may identify that a connection with the external electronic device130(or the AP120connected with the external electronic device130) which is reproducing multimedia content is released.

In step2403, the processor210may receive a message for displaying a notification message for indicating that the electronic device110is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the external electronic device130, before a first time elapses from the identifying. For example, the message may be received from the second server160or be received from the external electronic device130. The message may be received through another communication circuitry distinguished from a communication circuitry which is used to identify that the connection with the external electronic device130is released.

In step2405, in response to the receiving the message, the processor210may display, through the display230, the notification message superimposed on a screen which is being displayed through the display230.

While displaying the notification message superimposed on the screen, the processor210may receive a user input to an object which is included in the notification message, which is for allowing the electronic device110to continuously reproduce the multimedia content. In response to receiving the user input, the processor210may send a message requesting continuous reproduction of the multimedia content in the electronic device, to the second server160interlocked with the external electronic device130and the electronic device110. In response to the message requesting continuous reproduction of the multimedia content in the electronic device110, the processor210may receive a message for continuously reproducing the multimedia content from the second server160. The processor210may continuously reproduce the multimedia content, based on the message for continuously reproducing the multimedia content. The message for continuously reproducing the multimedia content may include information about a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the external electronic device130.

As described above, the electronic device110may perform operations for continuously reproducing multimedia content, not only when the electronic device110enters an environment including an IoT device but also in a situation in which the electronic device110breaks away from the environment. The electronic device101may provide an enhanced UX, through the performing of these operations.

A method for operating an electronic device as described above includes reproducing multimedia content in the electronic device, identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with an external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device, before a first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and superimposing and displaying, on a screen which is being displayed, a visual object indicating that the external electronic device is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device, based on identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with an external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device.

The method may further include, while displaying the visual object, receiving a user input to an object included in the visual object and displayed, in order to allow the external electronic device to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, and, in response to receiving the user input, sending a message requesting the external electronic device to continuously reproduce the multimedia content to a server interlocked with the external electronic device and the electronic device. The message sent to the server may include data about a user account of a first application which is used to reproduce the multimedia content in the electronic device and data about a user account of a second application which is used to identify whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device.

Reproducing the multimedia content may include reproducing the multimedia content in the electronic device by using a first application. Identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device may include identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device by using a second application distinguished from the first application, before the first time elapses from the time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content. Displaying the visual object may include displaying the visual object by using the second application, based on identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device.

Identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device may include, while reproducing the multimedia content in the electronic device, receiving an input for stopping the reproduction of the multimedia content in the electronic device, and identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device, before a specified time elapses from a time of receiving the input.

Identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device may include, while reproducing the multimedia content in the electronic device, identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device.

Identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device may include identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with a plurality of external electronic devices interlocked with the electronic device, before the first time elapses from the time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and, in response to identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the plurality of external electronic devices, identifying the external electronic device corresponding to the type of the multimedia content among the plurality of external electronic devices. Displaying the visual object may include, in response to identifying the external electronic device, displaying the visual object through the at least one display.

Identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device may include identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with a plurality of external electronic devices interlocked with the electronic device, before the first time elapses from the time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and, in response to identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the plurality of external electronic devices, identifying the external electronic device located in a place closest to the electronic device among the plurality of external electronic devices. Displaying the visual object may include, in response to the identifying of the external electronic device, displaying the visual object through the at least one display.

Identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device may include identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with a plurality of external electronic devices interlocked with the electronic device, before the first time elapses from the time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and, in response to identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the plurality of external electronic devices, identifying the external electronic device corresponding to a context of the multimedia content obtained based on recognizing the multimedia content among the plurality of external electronic devices. Displaying the visual object may include, in response to the identifying of the external electronic device, displaying the visual object through the at least one display. The multimedia content may be recognized based on at least one keyword included in the multimedia content or metadata of the multimedia content.

A method for operating an electronic device includes reproducing multimedia content in the electronic device, and identifying, through the at least one communication circuitry, whether the electronic device is connectable with an external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device, before a first time elapses from a time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and sending, to the external electronic device through the at least one communication circuitry, a request message requesting the external electronic device to provide a notification indicating that the external electronic device is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the electronic device, based on identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with an external electronic device interlocked with the electronic device.

The method may further include receiving a response message responsive to the request message from the external electronic device through the at least one communication circuitry, and identifying whether the external electronic device is allowed (e.g., authorized) to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, in the response message, and, in response to identifying that the external electronic device is allowed to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, displaying, through the display, a user interface including at least one executable object for controlling the multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device. The method may include receiving a user input to the at least one executable object, and, in response to receiving the user input, sending, to the external electronic device through the at least one communication circuitry, a control message for controlling the multimedia content which is being continuously reproduced in the external electronic device.

Identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device may include identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with a plurality of external electronic devices interlocked with the electronic device, before the first time elapses from the time of initiating the reproduction of the multimedia content, and, in response to identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the plurality of external electronic devices, identifying the external electronic device corresponding to a current time among the plurality of external electronic devices. Sending the message may include, in response to the identifying of the external electronic device, sending the request message to the external electronic device. Identifying whether the electronic device is connectable with the external electronic device may include obtaining information on a history of use of each of the plurality of external electronic devices, and identifying the external electronic device corresponding to the current time among the plurality of external electronic devices, based on the information on the history of use.

A method for operating an electronic device includes identifying, through the at least one communication circuitry, that a connection with an external electronic device which is reproducing multimedia content is released, and receiving, through the at least one communication circuitry, a message for displaying a visual object indicating that the electronic device is able to continuously reproduce the multimedia content from a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the external electronic device, before a first time elapses from the identifying, and, in response to the receiving, superimposing and displaying the visual object on a screen which is being displayed through the at least one display.

The method may further include, while displaying the visual object through the at least one display, receiving a user input to an object included in the visual object and displayed, in order to allow the electronic device to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, and, in response to the receiving of the user input, sending a request message for requesting the electronic device to continuously reproduce the multimedia content, to a server interlocked with the external electronic device and the electronic device. The method may further include, in response to the request message, receiving a response message for continuously reproducing the multimedia content from the server, and continuously reproducing the multimedia content by using a second application distinguished from a first application which is used to identify that the connection with the external electronic device is released, based on the response message.

The message may include information on a time at which the reproduction of the multimedia content has been progressed in the external electronic device.

The at least one communication circuitry may include a first communication circuitry configured to support a first communication technique and a second communication circuitry configured to support a second communication technique distinguished from the first communication technique. Identifying that the connection with the external electronic device is released may include identifying that the connection with the external electronic device is released through the first communication circuitry, and receiving the message may include receiving the message for displaying the visual object through the second communication circuitry.

Methods of the present disclosure may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

In response to being implemented by software, a non-transitory computer-readable storage media storing one or more programs (i.e., software modules) may be provided. The one or more programs stored in the non-transitory computer-readable storage media may be configured to be executable by one or more processors of an electronic device. The one or more programs may include instructions for enabling the electronic device to execute methods of the present disclosure.

Programs (i.e., software modules and/or software) may be stored in a RAM, a non-volatile memory including a flash memory, a ROM, an electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), a magnetic disc storage device, a compact disc-ROM (CD-ROM), digital versatile discs (DVDs), an optical storage device of another form, and/or a magnetic cassette. In addition, the program may be stored in a memory that is configured in combination of some or all of the above-identified storage devices. In addition, each configured memory may be included in plural.

Furthermore, the program may be stored in an attachable storage device that may be accessed through a communication network such as the Internet, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wireless LAN (WLAN), or a storage area network (SAN), or a communication network configured in combination thereof. The storage device may access a device performing an embodiment of the present disclosure through an external port. In addition, a separate storage device on the communication network may access the device of the present disclosure.

In the aforementioned embodiments of the present disclosure, elements included in the present disclosure have been expressed in the singular form or plural form according to a certain embodiment. However, the expression of the singular form or plural form is selected suitable to a given situation for the sake of description convenience, but the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to singular or plural elements. An element expressed in the plural form may be constructed in the singular form, and an element expressed in the singular form may be constructed in the plural form.

While a detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure has been described above, various modifications are available without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.