An information processing device includes a control unit configured to launch a second application while a first application is running, the second application being launched through an extension application that provides an extended function to the first application, and display a screen of the second application superimposed on a screen of the first application.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present technique relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program.

BACKGROUND ART

A variety of highly entertaining applications have been developed in recent years. Techniques are also being proposed which create various types of added value by connecting to such applications to add extended functions. For example, PTL 1 discloses a technique for taking an image of a user playing a game application and compositing the image on a game screen for distribution.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

SUMMARY

Technical Problem

When adding an extended function to an application, it is important to ensure a pleasant user experience.

Accordingly, the present disclosure proposes a technique that makes it possible to provide a more pleasant user experience.

Solution to Problem

An information processing device according to the present technique includes a control unit configured to launch a second application while a first application is running, the second application being launched through an extension application that provides an extended function to the first application, and display a screen of the second application superimposed on a screen of the first application.

Additionally, an information processing method according to the present technique includes launching a second application while a first application is running, the second application being launched through an extension application that provides an extended function to the first application, and displaying a screen of the second application superimposed on a screen of the first application.

Additionally, a program according to the present technique causes an information processing device to execute processing of launching a second application while a first application is running, the second application being launched through an extended function that provides an extension application to the first application, and displaying a screen of the second application superimposed on a screen of the first application.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

An embodiment will be described hereinafter according to the following order.<1. Functional Configuration><2. Extended Function><3. Example of Hardware Configuration><4. Conclusion and Variation>

Note that in the present specification and the drawings, substantially identical parts are given identical reference signs, and redundant descriptions are omitted. In the following descriptions and the drawings, “application” may be shortened to “app”.

1. FUNCTIONAL CONFIGURATION

First, an example of the functional configuration of an information processing device10according to the present embodiment will be described.

The information processing device10may be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or tablet personal computer (PC) capable of running various applications, or may be a stationary terminal installed at a user's home or office.

FIG.1is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device10according to the present embodiment. As illustrated inFIG.1, the information processing device10includes an operation unit110, a storage unit120, an image capturing unit130, a sensor unit140, a display unit150, an audio input unit160, an audio output unit170, a screen capturing unit180, and a control unit190.

The operation unit110detects various operations by the user, such as device operations made for an app. The device operations include, for example, touch operations, pressing operations, the insertion of an earphone jack into the information processing device10, and the like. Here, “touch operation” refers to various contact actions made on the display unit150, such as tapping, double-tapping, swiping, pinching, and the like, for example. Touch operations also include, for example, moving an object such as a finger close to the display unit150. “Pressing operation” refers to an operation in which the operation unit110is pressed down. To that end, the operation unit110includes a touch panel, buttons, a keyboard, a mouse, a proximity sensor, and the like, for example. The operation unit110inputs information pertaining to the detected user operation to the control unit190.

The storage unit120is a storage area for temporarily or permanently storing various programs and data. For example, the storage unit120may store programs and data for the information processing device10to execute various functions. As a specific example, the storage unit120may store programs for executing various applications, management data for managing various settings, and the like. Of course, this is merely an example, and the types of data stored in the storage unit120are not particularly limited.

The image capturing unit130captures images of, for example, the face of the user operating the information processing device10, based on control by the control unit190. To that end, the image capturing unit130includes an image sensor. A smartphone, which is an example of the information processing device10, includes a front camera, which is located on the display unit150side to capture images of the user's face and the like, and a main camera, which is located on the back side of the display unit150to capture images of scenery and the like. In the present embodiment, the control unit190controls the capturing of images by the front camera, as an example.

The sensor unit140has a function of collecting sensor information pertaining to user behavior using various sensors. The sensor unit140includes, for example, an accelerometer, a gyrosensor, a terrestrial magnetism sensor, a vibration sensor, a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal receiver, and the like. The sensor unit140uses the gyrosensor to detect that the user is holding the information processing device10in landscape orientation, and inputs the detected information to the control unit190, for example.

The display unit150displays various types of visual information based on control by the control unit190. The display unit150may, for example, display images pertaining to applications. To that end, the display unit150includes various types of display devices, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) device, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display device, or the like. The display unit150can also superimpose a user interface (UI) of another application on a layer higher than the image of the application being displayed.

The audio input unit160collects voice and the like from the user based on control by the control unit190. To that end, the audio input unit160includes a microphone or the like.

The audio output unit170outputs various types of audio. The audio output unit170outputs audio or sound according to the status of the application, based on control by the control unit190, for example. To that end, the audio output unit170includes a speaker, an amplifier, and the like.

The screen capturing unit180takes screenshots (SS), moving images, and the like of the screen displayed in the display unit150and stores those items in the storage unit120based on control by the control unit190.

The control unit190controls each constituent element of the information processing device10. The control unit190also controls function extensions to applications. Note that function extensions to an application are made by another application. To distinguish between the application for which functions are to be extended and the other application that extends the functions, the applications with be called a “first application” and an “extension application”, respectively.

When extending functions, the control unit190launches the extension application in addition to the first application and controls both applications simultaneously. As an example of function extension, the control unit190causes an application different from the first application and the extension application to be launched (executed) through the extension application. The application launched through the extension application will be called a “second application”.

Details of the functions of the control unit190will be described later.

Although an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device10has been described thus far, the functional configuration described with reference toFIG.1is merely an example, and the functional configuration of the information processing device10is not limited to this example.

For example, the information processing device10does not necessarily have to include all of the constituent elements illustrated inFIG.1, and each constituent element, such as the audio input unit160, can be provided in another device different from the information processing device10. In other words, the functional configuration of the information processing device10can be modified in a flexible manner according to the specifications and operations.

The functions of each constituent element may be performed by an arithmetic device such as a central processing unit (CPU) reading out a control program describing a processing sequence for realizing those functions from a recording medium such as a read-only memory (ROM) or a random access memory (RAM) that stores the control program, and interpreting and executing the program. Accordingly, the configuration to be used can be changed appropriately in accordance with the technical level when carrying out the present embodiment. An example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device10will be described later.

2. EXTENDED FUNCTION

[2.1 Overview of Extension Application]

The functions of the information processing device10will be described next.

One feature of the control unit190of the information processing device10is to control the execution of the extension application that provides an extended function to various types of the first application.

The first application is, for example, a game application. However, the first application is not limited to a game application, and includes various types of applications installed in the information processing device10and used by the user, such as a drawing application, an editing application, a music application for listening to music and viewing movies, an application for recording audio and video, and the like.

An extension application can easily provide extended functions to various types of the first application without editing the source code thereof. When providing extended functions, the extension application can also operate in such a way that it does not interfere with user operations in the first application or the operating system (OS) and the behavior of the first application.

FIG.2is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation involved in displaying a menu of the extension application.

InFIG.2, the user has put the information processing device10in portrait orientation, which is detected by the sensor unit140, and the screen in the display unit150is displayed in portrait mode by the control unit190.

The left side ofFIG.2illustrates a state in which the control unit190has already launched the first application (in this case, a game application) and the screen of the first application is displayed in full screen mode in the display unit150. In the following, the screen of the first application may be referred to as a “first application screen201”.

The extension application may be launched by the control unit190upon detecting the first application being launched, or may be launched upon detecting a given operation while the first application is running. The given operation is, for example, a user operation detected by the operation unit110or the sensor unit140, or voice operations recognized by the audio input unit160. For example, the extension application may be launched when the GE icon202displayed in the display unit150is tapped by the user.

The extension application may be automatically launched when the OS of the information processing device10is launched.

Although the extension application may also be running while the first application is running, the GE icon202may not be displayed when the extension application is not being used by the user.

A logo or the like may be displayed when the extension application is launched, and for example, the logo may be controlled to automatically be displayed smaller or disappear after a set period of time by the control unit190. This enables the extension application to operate in a manner that does not interfere with user operations in the first application or the OS and the behavior of the first application when the extension application is not in use by the user.

The center ofFIG.2illustrates a user about to perform a touch operation on the display unit150in order to use the extension application.

The right side ofFIG.2illustrates the extended function menu200of the extension application superimposed on the first application screen201as a result of the user swiping from the edge of the screen in the display unit150.

The extended function menu200is a pull-down menu that expands from the edge of the screen in response to a swiping motion, for example. Although details will be given later, the extended function menu200is displayed when a menu bar203(the center ofFIG.3) is swiped. As such, strictly speaking, the operation unit110detects a touch operation on the display unit150, information on the detected operation and position (screen coordinates) are sent to the control unit190, and the control unit190determines whether to display the extended function menu200. When a condition for displaying the extended function menu200(a predetermined operation at a predetermined position) is met, the control unit190causes the display unit150to display the extended function menu200.

Note that the touch operation for displaying the extended function menu200is not limited to swiping, and may also be a tap, a double-tap, a pinch, or the like. The extended function menu200may also be displayed by tapping the GE icon202. The display position of the extended function menu200is not limited to the upper part of the display unit150as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.2, and may be at various positions in the display unit150.

Although not illustrated in the drawings, when the display unit150is set in what is known as landscape mode, the extended function menu200of the extension application is superimposed on the first application by the user swiping in the display unit150in the same manner as with the portrait mode illustrated inFIG.2.

FIG.3is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation position for displaying the extended function menu200. Fixing the operation position for displaying the extended function menu200of the extension application may significantly interfere with user operations in the first application and the OS, as well as the behavior of the first application.

For example, there are situations where the operation position is set to an operation button, an icon, or the like of the first application, a display part of the first application that the user wishes to always be able to see, or the like. Therefore, the operation position for displaying the extended function menu200is controlled by the control unit190so as to be freely changeable by the user.

The left side ofFIG.3illustrates a state in which the user is tapping a predetermined position on the display unit150to change the operation position for displaying the extended function menu200. The predetermined position here is, for example, a predetermined area in the vicinity of the position where the swipe is started to expand the extended function menu200(the center ofFIG.2).

The center ofFIG.3illustrates the extension application menu bar203displayed by a tap on the display unit150(the left side ofFIG.3). Note that the touch operation for displaying the menu bar203is not limited to tapping. Because the menu bar203is superimposed on the first application screen201, it is desirable that the menu bar203be of a shape, color, size, and transparency that does not interfere with the display of the first application screen201to the greatest extent possible. However, the menu bar203is not limited to such a shape and the like.

The menu bar203is also controlled by the control unit190to be hidden when an area of the display unit150aside from the menu bar203is tapped or the menu bar203has not been operated for a set period of time. In this manner, the menu bar203is also controlled by the control unit190to be hidden when not used by the user. This enables the extension application to operate in a manner that interferes even less with user operations in the first application or the OS and the behavior of the first application.

The right side ofFIG.3illustrates a state in which the user has moved the menu bar203, which had been displayed in an upper-right part of the display unit150, to an upper-left part of the display unit150through a drag-and-drop operation.

Through this, the display position of the menu bar203is changed from the upper-right part of the display unit150(the center ofFIG.3) to the upper-left part (the left side ofFIG.3). Note that the display position of the menu bar203is not limited to the upper-right part, the upper-left part, or the like of the display unit150.

Additionally, the post-change display position of the menu bar203, on the right side ofFIG.3, is stored in the storage unit120by the control unit190, and the menu bar203is displayed in the stored display position thereafter when using the extension application.

Furthermore, the display position of the menu bar203may be stored in the storage unit120for each first application, in association with that first application. This eliminates the need to change the display position of the menu bar203each time according to the first application when a variety of first applications are used.

FIG.4is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation involved in displaying a menu of the extension application and the OS.

As illustrated on the left side ofFIG.4, swiping from the edge of the screen can also be used to display an OS menu204. In other words, there are situations where the extended function menu200and the OS menu204are displayed by the same operation.

In such a case, the control unit190may perform control to prioritize the display of the extended function menu200(the left side ofFIG.4) in response to a swipe made at a predetermined position, and display the OS menu204(the center and the right side ofFIG.4) in response to swipes made at other positions.

To be more specific, for example, the OS menu204is originally displayed by swiping from any position at the edge of the screen in the upper part of the display unit150. However, the extended function menu200is set to be displayed in response to a swipe from an upper-left part of the display unit150, i.e., a swipe on the menu bar203, and thus the control unit190performs control for prioritizing the display of the extended function menu200(the left side ofFIG.4).

On the other hand, the control unit190performs control for displaying the OS menu204(the right side ofFIG.4) when a swipe is made from an upper-right part of the display unit150, i.e., from a position aside from the menu bar203(the center ofFIG.4).

Additionally, if the display position of the extended function menu200is set to a position aside from the upper part of the display unit150, the control unit190performs control for displaying the OS menu204regardless of which position a swipe is made from at the edge of the screen on the upper part of the display unit150.

This makes it possible for the extension application to operate in a manner that does not interfere with the user operations made in the OS.

FIG.5is a diagram illustrating an example of the extended function menu200. As illustrated inFIG.5, for example, a brightness adjustment bar display area210, a quick access icon display area220, and a menu icon display area230are provided in the extended function menu200of the extension application.

The brightness adjustment bar display area210is an area in which a brightness adjustment bar211is displayed. When the brightness adjustment bar211is dragged by the user, the control unit190changes the brightness of the display unit150to a brightness corresponding to the position to which the brightness adjustment bar211was dragged.

The quick access icon display area220is an area that displays icons for immediately using various functions from the extended function menu200. In the example illustrated inFIG.5, an SS icon221, a continuous SS icon222, a record icon223, and a limit all icon224are provided in the quick access icon display area220.

When the SS icon221is tapped by the user, the control unit190captures a single screenshot (image) of the screen displayed in the display unit150through the screen capturing unit180, and stores the captured image in the storage unit120.

When the continuous SS icon222is tapped by the user, the control unit190captures a plurality of screenshots of the screen displayed in the display unit150, continuously for a set period of time (what is known as “burst mode” shooting), through the screen capturing unit180. The control unit190then generates a data file of the plurality of screenshots captured in the set period of time, in a format such as the GIF format, and stores the data file in the storage unit120. This makes it possible to achieve a smaller file size than that of a moving image file while maintaining a high framerate (frames per second; fps), which makes it easier to capture a decisive moment during shooting, even with a smartphone or the like.

When the record icon223is tapped by the user, the control unit190performs control to capturing moving image of the screen displayed in the display unit150through the screen capturing unit180.

Note that the extended function menu200is controlled to be hidden by the control unit190when the SS icon221, the continuous SS icon222, or the record icon223is tapped. This makes it possible to ensure the extended function menu200does not appear in the captured image.

When the limit all icon224is tapped by the user, the control unit190performs processing for limiting a plurality of functions all at once.

A game mode icon231, a focus icon232, a screen and sound icon233, a multitask icon234, a screenshot icon235, and a record icon236are displayed in the menu icon display area230.

The game mode icon231is an icon for displaying a UI for setting a game mode.

The focus icon232is an icon for displaying a UI for selecting the type of menu display, e.g., floating or the like.

As will be described in detail later, the multitask icon234is an icon for displaying a UI for causing another application, another function, or the like to be executed at the same time as the first application.

The screenshot icon235is an icon for displaying a UI for screenshot operations. The record icon236is an icon for displaying a UI for video recording (or video and audio recording) operations.

When the game mode icon231, the focus icon232, the screen and sound icon233, the multitask icon234, the screenshot icon235, or the record icon236is tapped, the control unit190displays the UI corresponding to the tapped icon in the display unit150.

Note that the display content of the extended function menu200illustrated inFIG.5is merely an example, and is not limited thereto. Icons, areas, and the like for using various functions providing extended functions to the first application may be added or removed, the arrangement thereof can be changed, and the like. Various shapes, colors, sizes, transparencies, and the like are also conceivable for the extended function menu200.

FIG.6is a diagram illustrating an example of a multitask UI240.

When the multitask icon234of the extended function menu200is tapped as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.6, the control unit190displays the multitask UI240instead of the extended function menu200, as illustrated in the center ofFIG.6.

The multitask UI240is provided with a return icon241, a web selection icon242, a video selection icon243, and an app selection icon244, as well as a task display area250provided below those icons.

When the return icon241is tapped by the user, the control unit190hides the multitask UI240and displays the extended function menu200again.

When the web selection icon242is tapped by the user, the control unit190displays a UI for displaying a website in the task display area250.

When the video selection icon243is tapped by the user, the control unit190displays a UI for playing back a video from a predetermined operation site in the task display area250.

When the app selection icon244is tapped by the user, the control unit190displays a plurality of app icons251in the task display area250, as illustrated in the center ofFIG.6.

The app icons251are icons for launching second applications, with one icon provided for a corresponding second application.

Here, the second applications are applications launched through the extension application, and include a variety of applications, such as, for example, an application for displaying websites, an application for a social networking service (SNS), an application for playing back video, and the like. The second applications are applications installed in the information processing device10, for example.

Then, the app icons251corresponding to all applications installed in the information processing device10are displayed in the task display area250. Note that the second applications may be stored in association with each first application, and the app icons251corresponding to the second applications associated with the first application that is running may be displayed in the task display area250.

Additionally, the app icons251may be displayed in the task display area250in order of the names (alphabetically) of the corresponding second applications. The control unit190may also count the number of times a second application has been launched for each first application and arrange the app icons251in order from the application which has been launched the greatest number of times.

In this manner, the order of the app icons251displayed in the task display area250may be any order.

Then, when one of the app icons251displayed in the task display area250is tapped, the control unit190launches the second application corresponding to the tapped app icon251. The control unit190then displays a screen of the launched second application (referred to as a “second application screen” hereinafter) superimposed over the first application screen201.

For example, in the example illustrated in the center ofFIG.6, the app icon251corresponding to the second application for displaying a website is tapped, and as a result, a screen of the second application for displaying a website is displayed in the display unit150, as illustrated in the right side ofFIG.6.

Note that in the following, the second application screen will be referred to as a “second application screen260” when the descriptions do not distinguish between individual second applications. Additionally, in the following, the second application for displaying a website will be referred to as a “browser app”, the second application for an SNS will be referred to as an “SNS app”, and the second application for playing back video will be referred to as a “video app”.

Furthermore, the second application screen corresponding to the browser app will be referred to as a “browser app screen260a”, the second application screen corresponding to the SNS app will be referred to as an “SNS app screen260b”, and the second application screen corresponding to the video app will be referred to as a “video app screen260c”.

Additionally, the size and position of the second application screen260displayed in the display unit150may be pre-set for each second application, and stored in association with the first application. Furthermore, the size and position of the second application screen260may be stored in the storage unit120for each second application when that second application is terminated, and the second application screen260may then be displayed at the stored size and position when the second application is launched again.

Additionally, when the app icon251corresponding to the browser app is tapped and the browser app screen260ais displayed in the display unit150, the control unit190performs control to continue to display the multitask UI240.

[2.2 Switching of Second Application]

FIG.7is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation involved in switching the second application.

In the information processing device10, the second application to be launched can be switched when in a single mode, in which only one second application is to be launched.

As described above, in the information processing device10, when one of the app icons251displayed in the task display area250is tapped, the second application corresponding to the tapped app icon251is launched, and the second application screen260is displayed in the display unit150.

However, many app icons251are displayed in the task display area250, and the user may therefore tap on the wrong app icon251. In such a case, if, for example, the extended function menu200is displayed again, the task display area250is displayed by tapping on the multitask icon234, and the app icon251corresponding to the desired second application is tapped by the user, this forces the user to perform touch operations multiple times.

Accordingly, as described above, the control unit190keeps the extended function menu200displayed even when the app icon251is tapped and the second application screen260is displayed.

Assume that, for example, the browser app is running and the browser app screen260ais displayed in the display unit150along with the extended function menu200, as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.7. If the app icon251corresponding to the SNS app is displayed in this state, the control unit190terminates the browser app and launches the SNS app. Additionally, as illustrated in the center ofFIG.7, the control unit190hides the browser app screen260aand displays the SNS app screen260bsuperimposed on the first application screen201.

The control unit190also performs control to keep the extended function menu200displayed when the SNS app screen260bis displayed.

Then, when the first application screen201or the second application screen260is tapped by the user as illustrated in the center ofFIG.7, the control unit190hides the multitask UI240and puts the application corresponding to the tapped screen into focus, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.7. Here, “focus” refers to a state in which an application is set to have a higher priority than other applications, such that when a user makes a touch operation, processing corresponding to that touch operation is executed.

For example, when the area where the first application screen201is displayed is tapped, the control unit190hides the multitask UI240and focuses on the first application. Then, when a touch operation is made on the display unit150, the control unit190executes processing corresponding to the touch operation for the first application.

Note that if the user taps the second application screen260while the first application is focused on, for example, the control unit190focuses on the second application instead.

In this manner, the control unit190launches the second application through the extension application while the first application is running, and displays the second application screen260superimposed on the first application screen201.

The control unit190can therefore execute the second application at the same time as the first application.

For example, when the user wishes to look up a strategy or the like for the first application on a website, the user can, by launching the browser app, look up the strategy or the like on a website while running the first application.

Additionally, if the user wishes to watch a video in their free time while running the first application, the user can, by launching the video app, watch a video while running the first application.

This enables the information processing device10to improve the user experience. In particular, executing an application installed in the information processing device10as a second application makes it possible to provide better usability to the user then when performing searches, playing back video, or the like through the extension application.

FIG.8is a diagram illustrating an example of another operation involved in switching the second application.

If a user operation for displaying the extended function menu200is made while the second application screen260(the SNS app screen260b, here) is displayed superimposed on the first application screen201, the control unit190displays the extended function menu200in the display unit150, as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.8.

A multitask running display area300and a multitask selection area310are provided in the extended function menu200displayed here, in addition to the brightness adjustment bar display area210and the quick access icon display area220. In other words, the extended function menu200when the second application is running differs from when the second application is not running in that the menu icon display area230is not provided, and instead, the multitask running display area300and the multitask selection area310are provided.

Text or the like indicating that the second application is running and that tapping the multitask running display area300will terminate the second application is displayed in the multitask running display area300.

When the multitask running display area300is tapped, the control unit190terminates the second application and hides the second application screen260.

The control unit190also displays the extended function menu200as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.6.

A multitask icon311, a running app icon312, and candidate app icons313are arranged and displayed in the multitask selection area310. The multitask icon311will be described in detail later.

The running app icon312is an icon corresponding to the second application currently running. The running app icon312is displayed further on the left of the screen than the candidate app icons313. An icon bar312a, which indicates that the corresponding second application is running, is displayed below the running app icon312.

The candidate app icons313are icons corresponding to second applications which are not running, and three of these icons are displayed, for example. The candidate app icons313may be displayed, for example, in alphabetical order for three applications installed in the information processing device10. The control unit190may also count the number of times a second application has been launched for each first application and arrange the candidate app icons313in order from the application which has been launched the greatest number of times.

For example, when the candidate app icon313corresponding to the video app, displayed in the multitask selection area310, is tapped as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.8, the control unit190terminates the SNS app that is running and launches the video app corresponding to the candidate app icon313that was tapped. In other words, the control unit190switches the second application and launches the new second application.

Additionally, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.8, the control unit190hides the SNS app screen260band displays the video app screen260csuperimposed on the first application screen201. Furthermore, the control unit190displays the icon corresponding to the video app as the running app icon312, and displays the icon corresponding to the terminated SNS app as a candidate app icon313.

Note that if the extended function menu200continues to be displayed when the video app screen260cis displayed, and the first application screen201or the second application screen260is tapped by the user, the control unit190hides the extended function menu200and focuses on the application corresponding to the tapped application screen.

Another method for switching the second application will be described next. Here, a multitask operation area270displayed along with the second application screen260will be described first, and the other method for switching the second application will be described thereafter.

FIG.9is a diagram illustrating an example of the multitask operation area270. As illustrated inFIG.9, the multitask operation area270is displayed above the second application screen260. Note that the multitask operation area270is hidden while the extended function menu200or the multitask UI240is being displayed in the display unit150(seeFIG.7), and is displayed above the second application screen260when the extended function menu200and the multitask UI240are hidden.

A close icon271, a maximize icon272, a minimize icon273, a multitask icon274, an add app icon275, and a change size icon276are provided in the multitask operation area270. In other words, it can be said that these icons are displayed in positions corresponding to the second application screen260.

The close icon271is an icon for terminating the corresponding second application. When the close icon271is tapped, the control unit190terminates the corresponding second application and hides the second application screen260.

The maximize icon272is an icon for maximizing the corresponding second application screen260. When the maximize icon272is tapped, the control unit190displays the second application screen260at the full size of the screen in the display unit150. Note that if the maximize icon272is tapped again while the second application screen260is maximized, the control unit190displays the second application screen260at the size and position from before the maximization. Accordingly, the control unit190stores the size and position of the second application screen260when the maximize icon272is tapped.

The minimize icon273is an icon for minimizing the second application screen260. When the minimize icon273is tapped, the control unit190hides the corresponding second application screen260. Note that when the minimize icon273is tapped, the control unit190hides the second application screen260, but does not terminate the second application.

The multitask icon274is an icon for switching between second applications that are running. The processing performed when the multitask icon274is tapped will be described in detail later.

The add app icon275is an icon for adding a second application to be launched.

The processing performed when the add app icon275is tapped will be described in detail later.

The change size icon276is an icon for changing the size of the second application screen260. When the change size icon276is dragged, the control unit190changes the size of the second application screen260in accordance with the position to which the icon has been dragged.

FIG.10is a diagram illustrating another example of an operation involved in switching the second application.

When the multitask icon274in the multitask operation area270displayed above the SNS app screen260bis tapped as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.10, the control unit190displays an app selection pop-up320above the multitask operation area270, as illustrated in the center ofFIG.10.

A running app icon321and candidate app icons322are arranged and displayed in the app selection pop-up320.

The running app icon321is an icon corresponding to the second application currently running. In the example in the center ofFIG.10, the icon corresponding to the SNS app, which is currently running, is displayed as the running app icon321.

The running app icon321is then displayed to the left of the candidate app icons322in the app selection pop-up320. An icon bar321a, which indicates that the corresponding second application is running, is displayed below the running app icon321.

The candidate app icons322are icons corresponding to second applications which are not running, and two of these icons are displayed, for example. Two of the candidate app icons322may be displayed, for example, in alphabetical order for applications installed in the information processing device10. The control unit190may also count the number of times a second application has been launched for each first application and arrange the candidate app icons322in order from the application which has been launched the greatest number of times.

For example, when the candidate app icon322corresponding to the video app, displayed in the app selection pop-up320, is tapped as illustrated in the center ofFIG.10, the control unit190terminates the SNS app that is running and launches the video app corresponding to the candidate app icon322that was tapped.

Additionally, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.10, the control unit190hides the SNS app screen260band displays the video app screen260csuperimposed on the first application screen201. Furthermore, the control unit190displays the icon corresponding to the video app as the running app icon321, and displays the icon corresponding to the terminated SNS app as a candidate app icon322.

Note that the app selection pop-up320remains displayed when the video app screen260cis displayed. Then, when the first application screen201or the second application screen260is tapped by the user, the control unit190hides the app selection pop-up320and focuses on the application corresponding to the tapped application screen.

Yet another method for switching the second application will be described next.FIG.11is a diagram illustrating another example of an operation involved in switching the second application.

When an operation for displaying the OS menu204is made by the user while the second application is running, the control unit190displays the OS menu204as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.11.

When the OS menu204is displayed while the second application is running, an extension app notification box330is displayed in the OS menu204.

The extension app notification box330is an area for making a notification pertaining to the extension application, and a multitask icon331, a running app icon332, and candidate app icons333are arranged and displayed therein. The multitask icon331will be described in detail later.

The running app icon332is an icon corresponding to the second application currently running. In the example on the left side ofFIG.11, the SNS app is currently running, and an icon corresponding to the SNS app is displayed as the running app icon332.

The running app icon332is displayed to the left of the candidate app icons333in the extension app notification box330. An icon bar332a, which indicates that the corresponding second application is running, is displayed below the running app icon332.

The candidate app icons333are icons corresponding to second applications which are not running, and three of these icons are displayed, for example. Three of the candidate app icons333may be displayed, for example, in alphabetical order for applications installed in the information processing device10. The control unit190may also count the number of times a second application has been launched for each first application and arrange the candidate app icons333in order from the application which has been launched the greatest number of times.

For example, when the candidate app icon333corresponding to the video app, displayed in the extension app notification box330, is tapped as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.11, the control unit190terminates the SNS app that is running and launches the video app corresponding to the candidate app icon333that was tapped.

Additionally, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.11, the control unit190hides the SNS app screen260band displays the video app screen260csuperimposed on the first application screen201. Furthermore, the control unit190displays the icon corresponding to the video app as the running app icon332, and displays the icon corresponding to the terminated SNS app as a candidate app icon333.

Note that the OS menu204remains displayed when the video app screen260cis displayed. Then, when the first application screen201or the second application screen260is tapped by the user, the control unit190hides the OS menu204and focuses on the application corresponding to the tapped application screen.

Yet another method for switching the second application will be described next.FIG.12is a diagram illustrating another example of an operation involved in switching the second application.

As illustrated on the left side ofFIG.12, when an operation for pressing an operation button110a, which serves as a predetermined operation unit110, is performed by the user while the second application is running, the control unit190displays an app selection pop-up340in (a corresponding position in) the vicinity of the operation unit110.

A running app icon341and candidate app icons342are arranged and displayed in the app selection pop-up340.

The running app icon341is an icon corresponding to the second application currently running (the SNS app, here). The running app icon341is then displayed to the left of the candidate app icons342in the app selection pop-up340. An icon bar341a, which indicates that the corresponding second application is running, is displayed below the running app icon341.

The candidate app icons342are icons corresponding to second applications which are not running, and two of these icons are displayed, for example. Two of the candidate app icons342may be displayed, for example, in alphabetical order for applications installed in the information processing device10. The control unit190may also count the number of times a second application has been launched for each first application and arrange the candidate app icons342in order from the application which has been launched the greatest number of times.

For example, when the candidate app icon342corresponding to the video app, displayed in the app selection pop-up340, is tapped, the control unit190terminates the SNS app that is running and launches the video app corresponding to the candidate app icon342that was tapped.

Additionally, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.12, the control unit190hides the SNS app screen260band displays the video app screen260csuperimposed on the first application screen201. Furthermore, the control unit190displays the icon corresponding to the video app as the running app icon341, and displays the icon corresponding to the terminated SNS app as a candidate app icon342.

Note that the app selection pop-up340remains displayed when the video app screen260cis displayed. Then, when the first application screen201or the second application screen260is tapped by the user, the control unit190hides the app selection pop-up340and focuses on the application corresponding to the tapped application screen.

In a multi mode, where multiple second applications are launched, the control unit190can launch multiple second applications using the extension application. Note that which of the single mode and the multi mode is selected may be set in advance or the like, or may be switched in response to a predetermined user operation. It is also possible to provide only one of the single mode or the multi mode.

FIGS.13and14are diagrams illustrating examples of operations involved in launching multiple second applications.

If a user operation for displaying the extended function menu200is made while the second application screen260(the SNS app screen260b, here) is displayed superimposed on the first application screen201, the control unit190displays the extended function menu200in the display unit150, as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.13.

Similar to the left side ofFIG.8, the multitask running display area300and a multitask selection area310are provided in the extended function menu200displayed here, in addition to the brightness adjustment bar display area210and the quick access icon display area220.

Then, when the multitask icon311of the multitask running display area300is tapped, the control unit190displays a launched app selection area400below the multitask selection area310in the extended function menu200, as illustrated in the center ofFIG.13. Accordingly, the multitask icon311also functions as an operator for displaying the launched app selection area400.

A thumbnail image401of the second application currently running, and an add app icon402, are displayed in the launched app selection area400.

The thumbnail image401is an image captured of the second application screen260immediately before the extended function menu200is displayed. Displaying the thumbnail image401of the second application currently running in this manner makes it possible for the user to recognize a second application that is minimized, for example.

The add app icon402is an icon for adding a second application to be launched. When the add app icon402is tapped, the control unit190displays an app selection pop-up403instead of the add app icon402, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.13.

Candidate app icons404are arranged and displayed in the app selection pop-up403. The candidate app icons404are icons corresponding to second applications which are not running, and three of these icons are displayed, for example. Three of the candidate app icons404may be displayed, for example, in alphabetical order for applications installed in the information processing device10. The control unit190may also count the number of times a second application has been launched for each first application and arrange the candidate app icons404in order from the application which has been launched the greatest number of times.

For example, when the candidate app icon404corresponding to the video app, displayed in the app selection pop-up403, is tapped, the control unit190launches the video app corresponding to the candidate app icon404that was tapped.

Additionally, the control unit190displays the video app screen260calong with the SNS app screen260bsuperimposed on the first application screen201.

Furthermore, the control unit190displays the thumbnail image401of the video app screen260cinstead of the app selection pop-up403, as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.14. Note that the add app icon402or the app selection pop-up403may be displayed in the launched app selection area400.

The control unit190also displays the running app icon312corresponding to the video app in the multitask selection area310. The control unit190also displays the icon bar312abelow the running app icon312corresponding to the video app.

Note that the extended function menu200remains displayed when the video app screen260cis displayed. Then, when the first application screen201or the second application screen260is tapped by the user, the control unit190hides the extended function menu200and focuses on the application corresponding to the tapped application screen, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.14.

Additionally, when multiple second applications are running, a priority order is set for the multiple second applications that are running, and the audio of the second application highest in the priority order is output from the audio output unit170, the refresh rate of the second application screen260highest in the priority order is set to be higher, and so on. In other words, the second application having the highest priority is executed preferentially.

The running app icons312are then displayed in the multitask selection area310in order of priority. Specifically, the priority of the second application corresponding to the running app icon312displayed furthest on the left is set to the highest priority, with the priority decreasing with progress to the right.

FIG.15is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation pertaining to the priority of the second applications.

Assume that, for example, the SNS app and the video app are running, and the SNS app is set to have a higher priority than the video app. In this case, the running app icon312corresponding to the SNS app is displayed furthest on the left in the multitask selection area310, and the running app icon312corresponding to the video app is displayed to the right thereof.

Accordingly, audio from the SNS app is output from the audio output unit170, whereas audio from the video app is not output from the audio output unit170. Additionally, the SNS app screen260bis displayed in a higher layer than the video app screen260c. Furthermore, the refresh rate of the SNS app screen260bis set to be higher than that of the video app screen260c.

Then, when the user wishes to listen to the audio of the video app, they change the priority of the video app.

Specifically, as illustrated by the arrow on the left side ofFIG.15, the running app icon312corresponding to the video app is dragged to the left side of the running app icon312corresponding to the SNS app. By doing so, the running app icon312corresponding to the video app is displayed on the left side, and the running app icon312corresponding to the SNS app is displayed on the right side, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.15. At this time, the control unit190sets the priority of the video app to be higher than that of the SNS app, and focuses on the video app.

Through this, the control unit190causes the audio of the video app to be output from the audio output unit170, and causes the video app screen260cto be displayed in a higher layer than the SNS app screen260b. The control unit190also sets the refresh rate of the video app screen260cto be higher than that of the SNS app screen260b.

Another method for launching multiple second applications will be described next.FIG.16is a diagram illustrating an example of other operations involved in launching multiple second applications.

When the add app icon275in the multitask operation area270is tapped as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.16, the control unit190displays the app selection pop-up320above the multitask operation area270, as illustrated in the center ofFIG.16.

For example, when the candidate app icon322corresponding to the video app, displayed in the app selection pop-up320, is tapped as illustrated in the center ofFIG.16, the control unit190launches the video app corresponding to the candidate app icon322that was tapped while leaving the SNS app running.

Additionally, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.16, the control unit190displays the video app screen260csuperimposed on the first application screen201along with the SNS app screen260b. Furthermore, the control unit190displays the icons corresponding to the SNS app and the video app as the running app icons321. Note that in this example, the control unit190sets the priority of the second application launched after (the video app) to be higher than the priority of the second application that was already running (the SNS app).

Note that if the app selection pop-up320continues to be displayed when the video app screen260cis displayed, and the first application screen201or the second application screen260is tapped by the user, the control unit190hides the app selection pop-up320and focuses on the application corresponding to the tapped application screen.

Yet another method for launching multiple second applications will be described next.

FIG.17is a diagram illustrating an example of other operations involved in launching multiple second applications.

If a user operation for displaying the OS menu204is made while the second application screen260(the SNS app screen260b, here) is displayed superimposed on the first application screen201, the control unit190displays the OS menu204in the display unit150.

At this time, in addition to the multitask icon331and the running app icon332, an add app icon410is displayed in the extension app notification box330, as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.17.

The add app icon410is an icon for adding a second application to be launched. When the add app icon410is tapped, the control unit190arranges and displays candidate app icons411below the add app icon410, as illustrated in the center ofFIG.17.

The candidate app icons411are icons corresponding to second applications which are not running, and three of these icons are displayed, for example. Three of the candidate app icons411may be displayed, for example, in alphabetical order for applications installed in the information processing device10. The control unit190may also count the number of times a second application has been launched for each first application and arrange the candidate app icons411in order from the application which has been launched the greatest number of times.

For example, when the candidate app icon411corresponding to the video app, displayed in the extension app notification box330, is tapped, the control unit190launches the video app corresponding to the candidate app icon411that was tapped.

Additionally, the control unit190displays the video app screen260calong with the SNS app screen260bsuperimposed on the first application screen201. The control unit190further displays the icon bar332abelow the running app icon332corresponding to the video app, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.17. Note that in this example, the control unit190sets the priority of the second application launched after (the video app) to be higher than the priority of the second application that was already running (the SNS app).

Note that if the OS menu204continues to be displayed when the video app screen260cis displayed, and the first application screen201or the second application screen260is tapped by the user, the control unit190hides the OS menu204and focuses on the application corresponding to the tapped application screen.

FIG.18is a diagram illustrating an example of a display pertaining to the priority of the second applications. Assume that multiple second applications (the SNS app and the video app) are running, and the SNS app is set to have a higher priority than the video app. In this case, the running app icons332corresponding to the second applications that are running are arranged and displayed in the extension app notification box330of the OS menu204, as illustrated inFIG.18.

The icon bar332ais displayed below the running app icons332, as are and audio on/off mark421and a refresh rate422.

The audio on/off mark421is a mark indicating whether audio is being output based on the priority. For example, below the running app icon332corresponding to the SNS app (the left side), the audio on/off mark421is displayed as a mark indicating audio is being output. On the other hand, below the running app icon332corresponding to the video app, the audio on/off mark421is displayed as a mark indicating audio is not being output.

The refresh rate422indicates the refresh rate of the second application screen260based on the priority. For example, below the running app icon332corresponding to the SNS app (the left side), the refresh rate422is displayed as an indication that the screen is refreshed at 120 Hz. On the other hand, below the running app icon332corresponding to the video app, the refresh rate422is displayed as an indication that the screen is refreshed at 60 Hz.

Then, when the running app icon332corresponding to the video app is tapped, the control unit190sets the priority of the video app corresponding to the tapped running app icon332to be higher than that of the SNS app. Then, for example, the audio on/off mark421is displayed as a mark indicating that audio is being output below the running app icon332corresponding to the video app, and the audio on/off mark421is displayed as a mark indicating that audio is not being output below the running app icon332corresponding to the SNS app.

By displaying the audio on/off mark421and the refresh rate422in association with the running app icons332in this manner, the user can easily determine the second application having the highest priority.

FIG.19is a diagram illustrating another example of a display pertaining to the priority of the second applications. Assume here, too, that multiple second applications (the SNS app and the video app) are running, and the SNS app is set to have a higher priority than the video app.

The running app icons332corresponding to the second applications that are currently running (the SNS app and the video app) are displayed in the extension app notification box330. In this example, the second application corresponding to the running app icon332displayed on the left is set to the highest priority.

Then, as illustrated by the arrow on the left side ofFIG.19, the running app icon332corresponding to the video app is dragged to the left side of the running app icon332corresponding to the SNS app. In response, the control unit190sets the video app to have a higher priority than the SNS app. Additionally, the running app icon332corresponding to the video app is displayed on the left side, and the running app icon332corresponding to the SNS app is displayed on the right side, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.19.

Through this, the control unit190causes the audio of the video app to be output from the audio output unit170, and causes the video app screen260cto be displayed in a higher layer than the SNS app screen260b.

FIG.20is a diagram illustrating another example of a display pertaining to the priority of the second applications. Note that in this example, multiple second applications (the SNS app and the video app) are running, and the video app is set to have a higher priority than the SNS app.

The running app icons332corresponding to the second applications that are currently running (the SNS app and the video app) are displayed in the extension app notification box330of the OS menu204. At this time, the running app icon332displayed on the left side is displayed superimposed on the running app icon332displayed on the right side, as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.20. This makes it possible for the user to easily determine the second application for which the highest priority is set.

Additionally, a numeric display335, starting from the number1, may be displayed in the vicinity of the running app icons332displayed in the extension app notification box330, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.20. This makes it possible for the user to easily determine the second application for which the highest priority is set.

Another method for launching multiple second applications will be described next.FIG.21is a diagram illustrating an example of other operations involved in launching multiple second applications.

As illustrated on the left side ofFIG.21, when an operation for pressing an operation button110a, which serves as a predetermined operation unit110, is performed by the user while the second application (here, the SNS app) is running, the control unit190displays the app selection pop-up340in (a corresponding position in) the vicinity of the operation button110a, as illustrated in the center ofFIG.21.

A running app icon341and candidate app icons342are arranged and displayed in the app selection pop-up340.

The running app icon341is an icon corresponding to the second application currently running. The running app icon341is then displayed to the left of the candidate app icons342in the app selection pop-up340. An icon bar341a, which indicates that the corresponding second application is running, is displayed below the running app icon341.

The candidate app icons342are icons corresponding to second applications which are not running, and two of these icons are displayed, for example. Two of the candidate app icons342may be displayed, for example, in alphabetical order for applications installed in the information processing device10. The control unit190may also count the number of times a second application has been launched for each first application and arrange the candidate app icons342in order from the application which has been launched the greatest number of times.

For example, when the candidate app icon342corresponding to the video app, displayed in the app selection pop-up340, is tapped, the control unit190launches the video app corresponding to the candidate app icon342that was tapped.

Additionally, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.21, the control unit190displays the video app screen260csuperimposed on the first application screen201along with the SNS app screen260b. Furthermore, the control unit190displays the icons corresponding to the SNS app and the video app as the running app icons321.

Note that the app selection pop-up340remains displayed when the video app screen260cis displayed. Then, when the first application screen201or the second application screen260is tapped by the user, the control unit190hides the app selection pop-up340and focuses on the application corresponding to the tapped application screen.

Another method for launching multiple second applications will be described next.FIG.22is a diagram illustrating an example of other operations involved in launching multiple second applications.

When an operation for pressing an operation button110a, which serves as a predetermined operation unit110, is performed by the user while the second applications (here, the SNS app and the video app) are running, the control unit190displays an app selection pop-up500in the vicinity of the operation button110a, as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.22.

Thumbnail images501of the second applications currently running are displayed in the app selection pop-up500.

The thumbnail image501is an image captured of the second application screen260immediately before the extended function menu200is displayed. Displaying the thumbnail image501of the second application currently running in this manner makes it possible for the user to recognize a second application that is minimized, for example.

Then, for example, using a similar method as that illustrated inFIG.13, the control unit190launches multiple second applications, and displays the second application screen260corresponding to each launched second application superimposed on the first application screen201, as illustrated on the right side ofFIG.22. When the thumbnail image501corresponding to the video app is tapped, the control unit190sets the priority of the tapped thumbnail image501to be higher than that of the SNS app.

3. EXAMPLE OF HARDWARE CONFIGURATION

An example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device10according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described next.FIG.23is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device10.

As illustrated inFIG.23, the information processing device10includes a processor871, a ROM872, a RAM873, a host bus874, a bridge875, an external bus876, an interface877, an input device878, an output device879, storage880, a drive881, a connection port882, and a communication device883, for example. Note that the hardware configuration illustrated here is merely an example, and some of the constituent elements may be omitted. Additionally, constituent elements aside from those illustrated here may be further included.

The processor871functions as, for example, an arithmetic processing device or a control device, and controls all or some of the operations of the constituent elements based on various types of programs, data, and the like recorded in the ROM872, the RAM873, the storage880, or a removable recording medium901.

The ROM872is a means for storing programs loaded by the processor871, data used for computations, and the like. Programs loaded by the processor871, various types of parameters and the like that change as appropriate when executing the programs, and the like, for example, are stored in the RAM873temporarily or permanently.

The processor871, the ROM872, and the RAM873are connected to each other by, for example, the host bus874, which is capable of high-speed data transmission. Meanwhile, the host bus874is connected to the external bus876, which has a relatively low data transmission speed, by the bridge875, for example. The external bus876is connected to various constituent elements by the interface877.

A mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, buttons, switches, levers, and the like are used for the input device878, for example. Further, as the input device878, a remote controller capable of transmitting a control signal using infrared rays or other radio waves may be used. The input device878includes an audio input device such as a microphone.

The output device879is, for example, a device capable of notifying users of obtained information visually or audibly, including a display device such as a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, an LCD, or an organic EL display, an audio output device such as a speaker or a headphone, a printer, a mobile phone, a facsimile device, or the like. The output device879according to the present disclosure includes various types of vibration devices capable of outputting tactile stimuli.

The storage880is a device for storing various types of data. As the storage880, for example, a magnetic storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a semiconductor storage device, an optical storage device, a magneto-optical storage device, or the like is used.

The drive881is a device that reads out information recorded on the removable recording medium901, which is a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a semiconductor memory, or the like, or writes information to the removable recording medium901, for example.

The removable recording medium901is, for example, a DVD medium, a Blu-ray (registered trademark) medium, an HD DVD medium, various types of semiconductor storage media, or the like. Naturally, the removable recording medium901may be, for example, an IC card equipped with a non-contact type IC chip, an electronic device, or the like.

The connection port882is a port for connecting an external connection device902, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, an IEEE 1394 port, a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI), an RS-232C port, an optical audio terminal, or the like, for example.

The external connection device902is, for example, a printer, a portable music player, a digital camera, a digital video camera, an IC recorder, or the like.

The communication device883is a communication device for connecting to a network, and is, for example, a communication card for wired or wireless LAN, Bluetooth (registered trademark), or Wireless USB (WUSB), a router for optical communication, a router for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), or a modem for various types of communication.

The configuration of the information processing device10described above can be thought of as the configuration of a terminal device in which the first application is run (a smartphone, a PC, or the like) for example. The configuration can also be thought of as that of an information processing device serving as the above-described server device.

4. CONCLUSION AND VARIATION

The embodiment described above provides the following effects.

The embodiment includes a control unit configured to launch a second application while a first application is running, the second application being launched through an extension application that provides an extended function to the first application, and display a screen of the second application superimposed on a screen of the first application.

This makes it possible to easily execute the second application at the same time as the first application through the extension application.

Accordingly, the information processing device10can improve the user experience.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to display icons of a plurality of applications (the app icons251) in the extended function menu200of the extension application, and when a user selects one of the icons displayed in the extended function menu, launch the second application corresponding to the selected icon and keep the extended function menu displayed (FIG.6).

Through this, even if the user accidentally taps an app icon251, the user can immediately tap another app icon251and launch the second application corresponding to that app icon251. In other words, the information processing device10makes it possible to switch the second application with ease.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to hide the extended function menu200when the first application screen201or the second application screen260is operated by the user, and focus on an application corresponding to the operated screen (FIG.7).

This makes it possible for the user to immediately operate the application corresponding to the screen they touched.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to, when one of the icons displayed in the extended function menu200(the app icons251) is selected by the user while the second application is running, terminate the second application that is running and launch the second application corresponding to the selected icon; and display a screen of the second application corresponding to the selected icon superimposed on the screen of the first application (FIG.7).

This makes it possible to easily change the second application screen displayed superimposed on the first application screen.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to hide the screen of the second application (the second application screen260) that has been terminated. This makes it possible to display the screen of the newly-selected second application in an easily viewable manner.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to provide a display area (the multitask running display area300) for displaying an indication that the second application is running in the extended function menu200when the second application is running (FIG.8).

This makes it possible to confirm that the second application is running in the display area.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to terminate the second application when the display area (the multitask running display area300) is operated (FIG.8).

This makes it possible to easily terminate the second application. Furthermore, even if multiple second applications are running, those second applications can be terminated all at once.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to display a predetermined icon (the running app icon321and the candidate app icon322) in a position corresponding to the screen of the second application, and switch the second application that is launched in response to an operation made on the icon (FIG.10). This makes it possible to easily switch the second application without displaying the extended function menu200in the display unit150.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to launch a plurality of second applications, and display screens of the plurality of second applications that are running superimposed on the screen of the first application (FIG.14).

Through this, multiple second applications can be launched simultaneously in addition to the first application, and the screens thereof can be viewed by the user. Accordingly, the information processing device10can improve the user experience.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to arrange and display icons of the second applications that are running (the running app icons312) in the extended function menu200.

This makes it possible to confirm the second applications that are running in the extended function menu200.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to change a priority order of the second applications in response to a user operation of the icons (the running app icons312) (FIG.15).

This makes it possible, for example, to preferentially output the audio and video of a second application higher in the priority order.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to display a predetermined icon (the candidate app icon342) in a position corresponding to the second application screen260, and launch a second application selected in accordance with an operation made on the icon (FIG.21).

Through this, multiple second applications can be launched easily, and the screens of those second applications can be viewed by the user with ease.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to display an icon of the second application (the candidate app icon411) in a notification menu of an operating system (the OS menu204), and launch the second application corresponding to the icon in accordance with an operation made on the icon (FIG.17).

Through this, the second application can also be launched through the extension application by an operation made in the notification menu of the operating system, which makes it possible to further improve the user experience.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to display the icon of the second application (the running app icon332) in the notification menu (the OS menu204) in accordance with a priority order (FIG.19).

Through this, the priority order of the second applications can be understood through the notification menu of the operating system as well.

In the embodiment, the control unit190is configured to display an icon of the second application (the running app icon341and the candidate app icon342) near the operation button110awhen the operation button is operated by a user, and switch the second application that is launched in response to an operation made on the icon (FIG.12).

This makes it possible to switch the second application corresponding to an operation made on a physical operation button.

An information processing method according to the embodiment includes launching a second application while a first application is running, the second application being launched through an extension application that provides an extended function to the first application, and displaying a screen of the second application superimposed on a screen of the first application.

A program according to the embodiment causes an information processing device to execute processing of launching a second application while a first application is running, the second application being launched through an extension application that provides an extended function to the first application, and displaying a screen of the second application superimposed on a screen of the first application.

This program is a program executed by the processor871of the information processing device10.

The program that realizes the information processing device10can be recorded in advance in an HDD serving as a recording medium embedded in a device such as a computer device or a ROM or the like in a microcomputer that includes a CPU. Alternatively, the program can be stored (recorded) temporarily or perpetually on a removable recording medium such as a flexible disc, a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a magneto optical (MO) disc, a digital versatile disc (DVD), a Blu-ray Disc (registered trademark), a magnetic disk, a semiconductor memory, or a memory card. The removable recording medium can be provided as so-called package software.

The program can be installed from the removable recording medium on a personal computer or the like and can also be downloaded from a download site via a network such as a local area network (LAN) or the Internet.

Such a program is suited to providing the information processing device10of the embodiment over a broad scope. For example, by downloading the program to a mobile terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet, a mobile phone, a personal computer, a game console, a video device, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), or the like, it is possible to cause the smartphone or the like to function as the information processing device10according to the present disclosure.

Note that the effects described in the present specification are merely exemplary and not intended to be limiting, and other effects may be provided as well.

Additionally, the above-described methods for switching the second application and launching multiple second applications are merely examples, and it is sufficient for the information processing device10to be capable of executing at least one of the methods.

Additionally, when multiple second application screens260are displayed in the display unit150, the positions, sizes, transparencies, and hierarchical order may be changed as appropriate. For example, if the position of the user's line of sight can be detected, the second application screen260corresponding to the position of the user's line of sight may be displayed at a larger size.

Additionally, the audio output corresponding to the plurality of second application screens260may be changed as appropriate. For example, if the position of the user's line of sight can be detected, the audio of the second application screen260corresponding to the position of the user's line of sight may be made louder, and the audio of the second application screen260not in the position of the user's line of sight may be made quieter.

Additionally, when minimizing the second application screen260, an icon bar indicating that the second application screen is minimized may be displayed below the corresponding running app icons312and332in the extended function menu200, the OS menu204, or the like.

For example, assume that the SNS app and the video app are running, and the SNS app screen260band the video app screen260care displayed, as illustrated on the left side ofFIG.24. In such a case, when the minimize icon273of the multitask operation area270corresponding to the SNS app screen260bis tapped, the control unit190minimizes (hides) the SNS app screen260bas illustrated on the right side ofFIG.24. Additionally, when the OS menu204is displayed, the control unit190may display an icon bar332b, which indicates that the corresponding SNS app (second application) is minimized, below the running app icon332corresponding to the SNS app in the OS menu204.

Additionally, when displaying multiple second application screens260in the display unit150, it may be made possible to set a second application screen260for which a screenshot is to be captured and a second application screen260for which a screenshot is not to be captured.

For example, the control unit190displays a display icon600indicating whether a screenshot is to be captured in the vicinity of the second application screen260or in the multitask operation area270, as illustrated inFIG.25. Note that the display icon600is displayed as either a display active icon600aindicating that a screenshot is to be captured or a display hidden icon600bindicating that a screenshot is not to be captured, and these are associated with the corresponding second applications (second application screens260). Then, when the display icon600is tapped, the control unit190switches the display active icon600aor the display hidden icon600bthat was displayed before the tap to a different icon for display.

When capturing a screenshot, the control unit190captures the second application screen260associated with the display active icon600atogether, and does not capture the second application screen260associated with the display hidden icon600b.

The control unit190may also distinguish between a second application important to the user and other second applications, and display the second application screen260corresponding to the important second application at a larger size, increase the volume of the audio, and the like.

The present technique can also be configured as follows.

An information processing device including:a control unit configured to:launch a second application while a first application is running, the second application being launched through an extension application that provides an extended function to the first application; anddisplay a screen of the second application superimposed on a screen of the first application.

The information processing device according to (1),wherein the control unit is configured to:display icons of a plurality of second applications in an extended function menu of the extension application; andwhen a user selects one of the icons displayed in the extended function menu, launch the second application corresponding to the selected icon and keep the extended function menu displayed.

The information processing device according to (2),wherein the control unit is configured to hide the extended function menu when the screen of the first application or the screen of the second application is operated by the user, and focus on an application corresponding to the operated screen.

The information processing device according to (2) or (3),wherein the control unit is configured to:when one of the icons displayed in the extended function menu is selected by a user while the second application is running, terminate the second application that is running and launch the second application corresponding to the selected icon; and display a screen of the second application corresponding to the selected icon superimposed on the screen of the first application.

The information processing device according to (4),wherein the control unit is configured to hide the screen of the second application that has been terminated.

The information processing device according to any one of (2) to (5),wherein the control unit is configured to provide a display area for displaying an indication that the second application is running in the extended function menu when the second application is running.

The information processing device according to (6),wherein the control unit is configured to terminate the second application when the display area is operated.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (7),wherein the control unit is configured to:display a predetermined icon in a position corresponding to the screen of the second application; andswitch the second application that is launched, in accordance with an operation made on the icon.(6)

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (8),wherein the control unit is configured to:launch a plurality of second applications; anddisplay screens of the plurality of second applications that are running, superimposed on the screen of the first application.

The information processing device according to any one of (2) to (7),wherein the control unit is configured to arrange and display icons of the second applications that are running in the extended function menu.

The information processing device according to (10),wherein the control unit is configured to change a priority order of the second applications in response to a user operation of the icons.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein the control unit is configured to:display a predetermined icon in a position corresponding to the screen of the second application; andlaunch a second application selected in accordance with an operation made on the icon.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (12), wherein the control unit is configured to:display an icon of the second application in a notification menu of an operating system; andlaunch the second application corresponding to the icon in accordance with an operation made on the icon.

The information processing device according to (13),wherein the control unit is configured to display the icon of the second application in the notification menu in accordance with a priority order.

The information processing device according to (10), wherein the control unit is configured to:display an icon of the second application near an operation button when the operation button is operated by a user; andswitch the second application that is launched, in accordance with an operation made on the icon.

An information processing method including:launching a second application while a first application is running, the second application being launched through an extension application that provides an extended function to the first application; and displaying a screen of the second application superimposed on a screen of the first application.

A program that causes an information processing device to execute processing of: launching a second application while a first application is running, the second application being launched through an extension application that provides an extended function to the first application; anddisplaying a screen of the second application superimposed on a screen of the first application.

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