Patent Description:
Conventionally, a system is known in which a home network is constructed in a house, and a reproduction apparatus connected thereto reproduces a content such as music and video. For example, in a reproduction system disclosed in Patent Literature <NUM>, a control apparatus used by a user detects a nearby reproduction apparatus by using near field communication. Further, a reproduction apparatus capable of being communicated with a server apparatus that holds a content selected by the user via a network is detected. In the case where the reproduction apparatuses capable of being communicated with the server apparatus include nearby reproduction apparatuses, a list is displayed in which the nearby reproduction apparatuses are arranged on an upper portion thereof. This enables a user to easily select a nearby reproduction apparatus, and thus a content can be reproduced (paragraphs [<NUM>] to [<NUM>] and the like in the description of Patent Literature <NUM>).

As described above, in a system that controls reproduction of a content via a network and the like, a technology capable of improving convenience of a user is being demanded.

In view of the circumstances as described above, an object of the present technology is to provide a reproduction apparatus capable of improving convenience of a user which relates to reproduction control of a content, an information processing method, and a program.

The above object is achieved by a reproduction apparatus according to claim <NUM> and by a method according to claim <NUM>. A reproduction apparatus includes a reproduction unit, a detection unit, and a generation unit.

The reproduction unit is capable of reproducing a content.

The detection unit receives a beacon signal transmitted from a different reproduction apparatus capable of reproducing the content, and detects one or more nearby reproduction apparatuses that are located in a vicinity.

The generation unit generates an operation image including a first area in which an own apparatus is displayed and a second area in which the detected one or more nearby reproduction apparatuses are displayed in an order based on the received beacon signal.

In the reproduction apparatus, by receiving the beacon signal, the nearby reproduction apparatus is detected. Then, the operation image including the own apparatus and the nearby reproduction apparatus. As a result, the reproduction of the content by the own apparatus, the reproduction of the content by the nearby reproduction apparatus, and the like can be easily controlled, with the result that it is possible to improve the convenience of a user.

The reproduction apparatus further includes a reproduction control unit that causes the reproduction unit to reproduce the content in a case where the one or more nearby reproduction apparatuses are not detected.

As a result, for example, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the content is not reproduced and the like.

The first area may be set above the second area in the operation image.

As a result, for example, it is easily for the user to select the reproduction apparatus.

The generation unit may cause the one or more nearby reproduction apparatuses to be displayed in the second area in an order in which an intensity of the received beacon signal is large.

As a result, the nearby reproduction apparatuses are displayed in the order of a closer distance, which makes selection of the reproduction apparatus easier.

The reproduction control unit selects, from the one or more nearby reproduction apparatuses displayed in the second area, the different reproduction apparatus as a subject that is instructed to reproduce the content.

As a result, for example, it is possible to automatic reproduction of the content while saving a selection operation of the reproduction apparatus and the like.

The reproduction control unit may instruct the nearby reproduction apparatus to reproduce the content displayed on an uppermost position in the second area.

As a result, for example, when the user who holds the reproduction apparatus approaches the desired different reproduction apparatus, it is possible to cause the different reproduction apparatus to reproduce the content.

The generation unit may cause at least one of a distance from the reproduction apparatus to each of the nearby reproduction apparatuses and apparatus information relating to the nearby reproduction apparatuses to be displayed in the second area as information of the nearby reproduction apparatuses.

As a result, for example, it is easy for the user to select the reproduction apparatus.

The apparatus information relating to the nearby reproduction apparatuses may include information of functional components that constitute the nearby reproduction apparatuses.

As a result, for example, it is possible to select on the basis of a function of the reproduction apparatus and the like.

The generation unit may cause a displaying order at a time of displaying in the second area in a past to be displayed in the second area as information of the nearby reproduction apparatuses.

The generation unit may cause the different reproduction apparatus that is detected as the nearby reproduction apparatus in a past, and is not detected as the nearby reproduction apparatus currently to be displayed in the operation image recognizably.

As a result, it is possible to easily grasp the different reproduction apparatus which is detected in the past but is not detected currently.

The generation unit selects, from the one or more nearby reproduction apparatuses displayed in the second area, the nearby reproduction apparatus optimal for reproduction of the content, and cause the optimal nearby reproduction apparatus to be displayed in the second area recognizably.

The detection unit may detect the different reproduction apparatus that transmits the beacon signal as the nearby reproduction apparatus in a case where an intensity of the received beacon signal is equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value.

As a result, it is possible to detect the nearby reproduction apparatus with high accuracy.

The detection unit may detect the different reproduction apparatus that transmits the received beacon signal as the nearby reproduction apparatus.

As a result, it is possible to reduce a process load on the nearby reproduction apparatus.

The reproduction apparatus may be capable of being held by the user.

By holding this reproduction apparatus, the convenience of the user relating to the reproduction control for the content is improved.

An information processing method is an information processing method performed by a computer system, the method including receiving a beacon signal transmitted from a different reproduction apparatus capable of reproducing a content, and detecting one or more nearby reproduction apparatuses that are located in a vicinity.

Generating an operation image including a first area in which an own apparatus is displayed and a second area in which the detected one or more nearby reproduction apparatuses are displayed in an order based on the received beacon signal is performed.

As described above, according to the present technology, it is possible to improve the convenience of a user relating to the reproduction control for the content. It should be noted that the effects described herein are not necessarily limited, and any effect described in this disclosure may be exerted.

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present technology will be described with reference to the drawings.

<FIG> is a schematic view showing a configuration example of a content reproduction system according to an embodiment of the present technology. A content reproduction system <NUM> includes a home network <NUM> constructed in a house, a plurality of reproduction apparatuses <NUM> connected to this, a server apparatus <NUM> that provides contents, and a mobile terminal <NUM>.

The plurality of reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, the server apparatus <NUM>, and the mobile terminal <NUM> are connected to the home network <NUM> via an access point <NUM> by wireless LAN communication such as WiFi and the like. As the home network <NUM>, for example, a network compliant with a DLNA (registered trademark) (Digital Living Network Alliance) standard is used.

For example, the plurality of reproduction apparatuses <NUM> functions as a DMR (Digital Media Renderer), and the server apparatus <NUM> functions as a DMS (Digital Media Server). Further, the mobile terminal <NUM> functions as a DMC (Digital Media Controller). It should be noted that the present technology can be applied to the case where a network that uses another protocol is constructed.

As shown in <FIG>, the plurality of reproduction apparatuses <NUM> are disposed in a living room, a hobby room, and a bed room, respectively. The mobile terminal <NUM> uses, for example, a control message or the like of UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) to transmit, to the respective reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, an instruction to obtain a content from the server apparatus <NUM> and reproduce the content.

Thus, a user operates the mobile terminal <NUM>, thereby making it possible to control reproduction operations of the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> disposed in the respective rooms. For example, it is possible to perform various kinds of control including power supply control for the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> (for example, switching between a standby state and an active state), control of a reproduction volume of a content, switching of contents to be reproduced, and fade-in/fade-out of a content.

Further, the assumption is made that the home network <NUM> and a global network are connected with each other via a home gateway (not shown). In this case, by operating the mobile terminal <NUM>, a content in a content server that exists on the global network (on a cloud) can be reproduced through the respective reproduction apparatuses <NUM>.

Further, it is also possible to perform transfer or streaming delivery of a content stored in the mobile terminal <NUM> to the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> and reproduce the content, and reproduce a local content in the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>. The local content in the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> refers to a content read through a CD or a USB and a content taken through a radio or the like, for example.

In this embodiment, it is also possible to reproduce a content by the mobile terminal <NUM>. For example, the mobile terminal <NUM> obtains and reproduces a content in a content server of the server apparatus <NUM> or on the global network. Alternatively, the mobile terminal <NUM> obtains and reproduces a content stored in the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>. Of course, it is also possible to reproduce a content in the mobile terminal <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the mobile terminal <NUM> corresponds to a "reproduction apparatus". Further, the reproduction apparatus <NUM> corresponds to a "different reproduction apparatus". The numbers of reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, server apparatuses <NUM>, and the like are not limited.

In this embodiment, by the plurality of reproduction apparatuses <NUM> and the mobile terminal <NUM>, a music content is reproduced. However, the present technology can be applied not only to reproduction of music contents but also to reproduction of various contents such as videos.

As the reproduction apparatus <NUM>, for example, various CE (Consumer Electronics) apparatuses such as a television set, PC (Personal Computer), an audio-video receiver, a video monitor, and a home game machine are used. Further, a vehicle-mounted audio mounted on a vehicle, a headphone put on a user, and the like are used as the reproduction apparatus <NUM>.

As the server apparatus <NUM>, for example, a PC, a network-compatible HDD (NAS), or the like is used. Typically, the mobile terminal <NUM> has a configuration held by the user, and various PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, and the like are used. In addition, various computers capable of reproducing contents may be used.

<FIG> is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the mobile terminal <NUM>. The mobile terminal <NUM> includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) <NUM>, a ROM (Read Only Memory) <NUM>, a RAM (Random Access Memory) <NUM>, a speaker <NUM>, a display <NUM>, and a touch panel <NUM>. Further, the mobile terminal <NUM> includes an infrared (IR) communication unit <NUM>, an external interface <NUM>, a key/switch <NUM>, and an image pickup unit <NUM>. Further, the mobile terminal <NUM> includes a network module <NUM> and a Bluetooth (registered trademark) module <NUM>.

The CPU <NUM> transmits and receives signals to and from respective blocks of the mobile terminal <NUM> to perform various calculations, and performs overall control of various processes executed in the mobile terminal <NUM>, such as a reproduction instruction of a content to the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, displaying a GUI (Graphical User Interface) on the display <NUM> (touch panel <NUM>), and the like.

The ROM <NUM> stores various kinds of data to be processed by the CPU <NUM>, such as image data and metadata and various programs such as an application. The RAM <NUM> is used as a work area for the CPU <NUM>. At a time when a program such as an application is executed, various kinds of data necessary for the execution is read into the RAM <NUM>.

Instead of or in addition to the ROM <NUM>, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a flash memory, or another nonvolatile memory such as a solid-state memory may be provided. Further, in the storage device, the various kinds of data and the programs described above may be stored.

The speaker <NUM> outputs reproduction of a music content, a voice guide to a user, and the like. The display <NUM> is a display device using liquid crystal, EL (Electro-Luminescence), or the like, for example, and displays various GUIs and the like. As shown in <FIG>, the display <NUM> is configured integrally with the touch panel <NUM>. In this embodiment, the speaker <NUM> and the display <NUM> (touch panel <NUM>) function as a reproduction unit capable of reproducing a content.

The IR communication unit <NUM> is a module for performing IR communication with an external apparatus. The external interface <NUM> is an interface for connecting with the external apparatus on the basis of, for example, a standard of a USB or an HDMI (registered trademark) (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), or the like.

The key/switch <NUM> receives, for example, power supply switch, a shortcut key, and the like, in particular, operations or the like by a user which cannot be input through the touch panel <NUM>. The image pickup unit <NUM> includes a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, a CCD (Charge Coupled Devices) sensor, or the like, and generates a digital image of a subject, for example.

The network module <NUM> is an interface for connecting to the home network <NUM>, and for example, a wireless LAN module such as WiFi is used therefor. When the network module <NUM> is operated, with the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> or with server apparatus <NUM>, wireless communication can be performed.

The Bluetooth module <NUM> is a module for performing near field communication compliant with the Bluetooth standard among the plurality of reproduction apparatuses <NUM>. In this embodiment, communication (BLE communication) compliant with the BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) standard and near field communication (BT communication) compliant with the Classic Bluetooth can be performed.

Through the BLE communication and the BT communication, it is possible to control the operation of the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>. For example, even with respect to a non-network-compatible reproduction apparatus which is not connected to the home network <NUM>, it is possible to control an operation thereof through the near field communication such as the BLE communication. For example, it is possible to give an instruction to reproduce a content, perform power supply control, and the like.

Further, the Bluetooth module <NUM> can receive a beacon signal compliant with the BLE standard. Information included in a received beacon signal is output to the CPU <NUM>, and various kinds of processes are performed. Further, on the basis of an intensity (radio field intensity) of the beacon signal, it is also possible to calculate a distance with the apparatus that outputs the beacon signal. It should be noted that near field communication and a beacon signal compliant with a different standard may be used.

The information processing by the mobile terminal <NUM> having the hardware configuration as described above is achieved in cooperation of software stored in the ROM <NUM> or the like and a hardware resource of the mobile terminal <NUM> with each other. For example, when the CPU <NUM> loads, into the RAM <NUM>, and executes a program (application) stored in the ROM <NUM> or the like according to the present technology, an information processing method according to the present technology is achieved.

As shown in <FIG>, in this embodiment, the CPU <NUM> executes a predetermined program, thereby achieving an apparatus detection unit <NUM>, a distance calculation unit <NUM>, a list generation unit <NUM>, and a reproduction control unit <NUM>, which are functional blocks. In order to achieve those blocks, dedicated hardware such as an IC (integrated circuit) or the like may be used as appropriate.

The program such as the application is installed from the global network into the mobile terminal <NUM>, for example. Alternatively, the program may be installed into the mobile terminal <NUM> through a recording medium.

<FIG> is a diagram schematically showing a connection form of the plurality of reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, the server apparatus <NUM>, and the mobile terminal <NUM>. It should be noted that, to the plurality of reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, a network module <NUM> and a Bluetooth module <NUM> are provided respectively.

As described above, the plurality of reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, the server apparatus <NUM>, and the mobile terminal <NUM> can be connected by the wireless LAN communication via the access point <NUM> (broken-line arrow L). The mobile terminal <NUM> transmits a control message or the like, thereby making it possible to control a reproduction operation of a content by the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>.

Further, by the BLE communication or the like, the mobile terminal <NUM> can be directly connected to the respective reproduction apparatuses <NUM> (solid-line arrow N). By the BLE communication or the like, it is possible to control the reproduction operation by the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>. Further, by the Bluetooth module <NUM> of the respective reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, a beacon signal <NUM> is output. The beacon signal <NUM> includes a unique ID such as equipment information including a model number and the like of the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> and a Bluetooth address.

Reproduction control for a content by the content reproduction system <NUM> will be described. First, detection of the reproduction apparatus <NUM> by the apparatus detection unit <NUM> will be described.

For example, by a user, an application for using the content reproduction system <NUM> is started. Via the home network <NUM>, from the mobile terminal <NUM>, a device search message (M-SEARCH message) is transmitted in a multicast manner. By the reproduction apparatus <NUM> connected to the home network <NUM>, in accordance with the device search message, a device response message (M-SEARCH message) is returned. As a result, the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is detected.

With respect to the detected reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, apparatus information relating to the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is requested. For example, request message that is generated by using a method such as HTTP GET or is used. As the apparatus information, a beacon ID of the beacon signal <NUM> transmitted by the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is included.

In addition, the equipment information includes, for example, a model number of the reproduction apparatus <NUM>, a model name, a brand surface, an exterior color, and the like. Further, the apparatus information includes functional information such as a kind of a reproduceable content. Furthermore, the apparatus information includes functional components that constitute the reproduction apparatus <NUM>, for example, system information of a speaker, an amplifier, and the like. In addition, the apparatus information may include arbitrary information relating to the reproduction apparatus <NUM>. The obtained apparatus information is stored in the ROM <NUM> or the like of the mobile terminal <NUM>.

It is also possible to detect the reproduction apparatus <NUM> on the basis of the beacon signal <NUM> transmitted by the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>. For example, the beacon signals <NUM> transmitted from the reproduction apparatus <NUM> at a predetermined interval is received by the Bluetooth module <NUM> of the mobile terminal <NUM>. As a result, the apparatus detection unit <NUM> detects the reproduction apparatus <NUM> that transmits the beacon signal <NUM>.

To the detected reproduction apparatus <NUM>, a request of BLE connection is transmitted. In response to the request, the mobile terminal <NUM> and the reproduction apparatus <NUM> are brought into a BLE connection state, the BLE communication (arrow N shown in <FIG>) is established. Before the transmission of the request of the BLE connection, a list or the like of the detected reproduction apparatuses <NUM> may be displayed, and a user may select the reproduction apparatus <NUM> that performs the BLE connection.

When the BLE communication is established, with respect to the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, the apparatus information relating to the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> is requested. The beacon ID, the equipment information, and the like included in the beacon signal <NUM> are obtained along with reception of the beacon signal <NUM>. Therefore, information that is not included in the beacon signal <NUM> is requested to the reproduction apparatus <NUM>. The obtained apparatus information (including information included in the beacon signal <NUM>) is stored in the ROM <NUM> or the like.

It should be noted that the BLE connection can use a form in which pairing is performed or a form in which connection is performed without pairing. In the case where pairing is performed, between the mobile terminal <NUM> and the reproduction apparatus <NUM>, passkey authentication or the like is performed.

In order to establish the BT communication, the apparatus detection unit <NUM> transmits a request of the BT information by broadcasting. In the case where the reproduction apparatus <NUM> in a pairing mode exists, the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> returns BT information including a Bluetooth address and the like. As a result, it is possible to detect the reproduction apparatus <NUM>.

To the detected reproduction apparatus <NUM>, the pairing request is transmitted. In response to the request, when passkey authentication and the like are performed, the mobile terminal <NUM> and the reproduction apparatus <NUM> are brought into a pairing state, the BT communication is established. Before the transmission of the request of the pairing, through a list or the like of the detected reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, a user may select the reproduction apparatus <NUM> for which the pairing is performed.

When the BLE communication is established, to the reproduction apparatus <NUM>, apparatus information relating to the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is requested. Then, the apparatus information including the beacon ID, the equipment information, the functional information, system information, and the like is obtained. The obtained apparatus information is stored in the ROM <NUM> and the like of the mobile terminal <NUM>.

<FIG> is a flowchart showing an example of a reproduction process of a content. <FIG> are diagrams each showing an example of a GUI to be displayed on the touch panel <NUM> of the mobile terminal <NUM>. First, a content reproduction operation by a user is received (Step <NUM>). For example, as shown in <FIG>, from a content list <NUM> displayed on the touch panel <NUM>, a content which is desired to be reproduced is selected. The selection of the content is input as the reproduction operation. Of course, the reproduction operation is not limited to this.

It should be noted that a method of generating the content list <NUM> is not limited, for example, the list is generated on the basis of contents held in the server apparatus <NUM>, the mobile terminal <NUM>, and the like. Of course, a list of contents held in a content server on a global network may be displayed.

The beacon signal <NUM> transmitted from the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is scanned (Step <NUM>). On the basis of the beacon signal <NUM> received by the Bluetooth module <NUM>, the apparatus detection unit <NUM> performs neighborhood detection of the reproduction apparatus <NUM>. In this embodiment, the beacon ID included in the received beacon signal <NUM> and the beacon ID in the apparatus information stored in the ROM <NUM> and the like are checked, and the reproduction apparatus <NUM> that has transmitted the beacon signal <NUM> is identified.

It should be noted that this is not limited to the case where the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is already detected through the network communication, the BLE communication, or the like before the scanning of the beacon signal <NUM> in Step <NUM>. For example, by scanning in Step <NUM>, the reproduction apparatus <NUM> can be detected for the first time. In this case, on the basis of the beacon signal <NUM>, the BLE communication is established, and the apparatus information is obtained. As a result, it is possible to identify the reproduction apparatus <NUM> that has transmitted the beacon signal <NUM>.

In this embodiment, it is determined whether the reproduction apparatus <NUM> identified on the basis of the beacon ID by the apparatus detection unit <NUM> can reproduce the content selected by the user or not (Hereinafter, this is referred to as condition <NUM>). Further, the apparatus detection unit <NUM> determines whether the intensity of the received beacon signal <NUM> is equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value or not (Hereinafter, this is referred to as condition <NUM>). In the case where a result of the determination of the condition <NUM> is positive, and a result of the determination of the condition <NUM> is also positive, the reproduction apparatus <NUM> that has transmitted the beacon signal <NUM> is detected as the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N (see <FIG>) (Step <NUM>). As a result, it is possible to detect the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N with high accuracy. It should be noted that the threshold value may be arbitrarily set. In this embodiment, the Bluetooth module <NUM> and the apparatus detection unit <NUM> achieve a detection unit.

It should be noted that in this embodiment, on the basis of the intensity of the received beacon signal <NUM>, the distance calculation unit <NUM> calculates a distance from the mobile terminal <NUM> to the reproduction apparatus <NUM> that has transmitted the beacon signal. Instead of the condition <NUM>, whether or not the calculated distance is equal to or more than the predetermined threshold value may be determined. Further, in the case where the determination result is positive, detection may be performed as the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N.

Alternatively, instead of the condition <NUM>, existence or nonexistence of reception of the beacon signal <NUM> may be determined. In this case, the received reproduction apparatus <NUM> that has transmitted the beacon signal is detected as the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N. As a result, it is possible to reduce a process load on the detection of the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N. In addition, the method of detecting the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N is not limited. For example, the condition <NUM> may be omitted, and only on the basis of the condition <NUM> (which can be changed to determination of the distance or determination of whether existence or nonexistence of reception of the beacon signal), the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N may be detected.

The list generation unit <NUM> generates a reproduction apparatus list (Step <NUM>). <FIG> is a schematic diagram showing an example of the reproduction apparatus list. In this embodiment, the reproduction apparatus list corresponds to an operation image.

A reproduction apparatus list <NUM> includes a first area <NUM> in which the mobile terminal <NUM> as an own apparatus is displayed and a second area <NUM> in which one or more detected nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N are displayed. In the second area <NUM>, the detected nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N are displayed in an order based on the beacon signals <NUM> received by the mobile terminal <NUM>. Specifically, in an order of the strength of the received beacon signals <NUM>, the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N are displayed in a descending or ascending order. That is, in an order closer to the mobile terminal <NUM>, the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N are displayed. Of course, instead of the intensities of the beacon signals <NUM>, on the basis of the distance calculated by the distance calculation unit <NUM>, the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N may be arranged.

As shown in <FIG>, in the reproduction apparatus list <NUM>, the first area <NUM> is displayed on an upper side of the second area <NUM>. In the first area <NUM>, as the information of the mobile terminal <NUM>, an icon <NUM>, a model name, a brand name, and information indicating that this is the own device ("This Device") of the mobile terminal <NUM> are displayed. Those pieces of information are stored in the ROM <NUM> or the like of the mobile terminal <NUM> in advance.

In the second area <NUM>, as the information relating to the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N, an icon <NUM>, a model name, and a brand name of each of the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N are displayed. Further, as the information relating to the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N, a distance from the mobile terminal <NUM> to each of the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N and a mark <NUM> (WiFi mark 75a or Bluetooth mark 75b) that indicates a connection form with the mobile terminal <NUM> are displayed.

For example, the icon <NUM> is stored in the ROM or the like in advance and is read as necessary on the basis of the apparatus information. Alternatively, the icon <NUM> may be included in the apparatus information obtained from each of the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>. Alternatively, from a predetermined server on the global network, the icon <NUM> of each of the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> may be obtained. The model name and the brand name are displayed on the basis of the apparatus information. The distance from the mobile terminal <NUM> is calculated by the distance calculation unit <NUM>. The connection form is stored for each of the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> at a time when connection that allows communication with the mobile terminal <NUM> is established.

The reproduction control unit <NUM> controls reproduction of the content (Step <NUM>). In this embodiment, it is possible to execute an automatic reproduction mode in which the content is automatically reproduced and a manual reproduction mode in which reproduction apparatus <NUM> that reproduces the content is selected by the user. Typically, the automatic reproduction mode is set as default.

In the automatic reproduction mode, the reproduction control unit <NUM> automatically selects, from the one or more nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N displayed in the second area <NUM> of the reproduction apparatus list <NUM>, the reproduction apparatus <NUM> as a subject to which a content reproduction instruction is given. For example, to the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N listed on an uppermost portion in the second area <NUM>, that is, the reproduction apparatus 10N that is closest to the user who holds the mobile terminal <NUM>, the content reproduction instruction is automatically given. As a result, the user approaches a desired reproduction apparatus <NUM> and selects the content, thereby making it possible to cause the reproduction apparatus <NUM> (corresponding to the uppermost reproduction apparatus 10N) to reproduce the content. As a result, it is possible to improve convenience of the user.

<FIG> is a schematic diagram showing an example of a reproduction screen <NUM> displayed during reproduction of the content. The reproduction screen <NUM> includes a reproduction control unit <NUM>, an information display unit <NUM>, and a reproduction apparatus display unit <NUM>. In the reproduction control unit <NUM>, a plurality of control buttons for controlling the content reproduction, a volume adjustment bar, and the like are displayed. By operating the reproduction control unit <NUM>, it is possible to easily control the content reproduction.

In the information display unit <NUM>, information relating to a content which is being reproduced is displayed. For example, a content name, an artist image, a reproduction position, and the like are displayed.

In the reproduction apparatus display unit <NUM>, the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N selected by the reproduction control unit <NUM> is displayed. In the example shown in <FIG>, the uppermost reproduction apparatus 10N in the second area <NUM> is selected. The icon <NUM>, the model name, the brand name, and the distance from the mobile terminal <NUM> of the reproduction apparatus 10N are displayed. As a result, it is possible to easily grasp the reproduction apparatus <NUM> that is displaying the content at this time.

In the case where the automatic reproduction mode is set, displaying the reproduction apparatus list <NUM> generated by the list generation unit <NUM> may be omitted. That is, when a content is selected from the content list <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the reproduction screen <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be displayed without showing the reproduction apparatus list <NUM>.

In Step <NUM>, in the case where the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N is not detected, a reproduction apparatus list <NUM> shown in <FIG> is generated. That is, text information and the like is displayed indicating that in the second area <NUM>, the reproduction apparatus 10N is not displayed, and the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N is not detected.

In the case where the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N is not detected, the reproduction control unit <NUM> causes the mobile terminal <NUM> as an own apparatus to perform content reproduction. That is, by controlling the speaker <NUM> and the like that function as the reproduction unit, the content selected by the user is reproduced. As a result, it is possible to avoid a situation and the like in which the content is not reproduced. It should be noted that displaying the reproduction apparatus list <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be omitted, and a reproduction screen indicating that reproduction is performed in the mobile terminal <NUM> may be displayed.

In the case where the manual reproduction mode is set, the reproduction apparatus list <NUM> shown in <FIG> and the like is displayed. Further, the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N selected by the user is selected as the reproduction apparatus <NUM> to be a subject that is instructed to reproduce a content. The selected nearby reproduction apparatus 10N is instructed to reproduce the content. Of course, the mobile terminal <NUM> can be selected in some cases. In this case, the mobile terminal <NUM> reproduces the content.

In the second area <NUM>, the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N are arranged in an order closer from the user who holds the mobile terminal <NUM>. Thus, the user can easily grasp a correspondence relationship between the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N displayed in the reproduction apparatus list <NUM> and the reproduction apparatus <NUM> that exists in front thereof. That is, it is possible to easily determine that the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N positioned on the uppermost portion in second area <NUM> is the reproduction apparatus <NUM> closest from the user himself/herself.

As a result, it is possible to easily select a desired reproduction apparatus <NUM>. It should be noted that in this embodiment, on the basis of the apparatus information of reproduction apparatus <NUM>, the icon <NUM>, the model name, and the like are displayed. Further, a distance from the mobile terminal <NUM> is displayed. As a result, it is possible to more easily grasp a correspondence between the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N in the reproduction apparatus list <NUM> and the reproduction apparatus <NUM> that exists in front thereof. As a result, it is possible to reproduce the content by the desired reproduction apparatus <NUM>.

In the case where the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N is not detected, the reproduction apparatus list <NUM> shown in <FIG> is displayed. As a result, the user can easily grasp that the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N does not exist, and can move to a position where the reproduction apparatus <NUM> can be detected while holding the mobile terminal <NUM>. Alternatively, in the case where the reproduction apparatus <NUM> exists in front thereof, but is not detected, for example, it is possible to confirm the case where a main power supply of the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> is off, the case where another user restricts the reproduction operation, and the like. That is, a cue to confirm a cause of non-detection of the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is given, and it is possible to cope with this as appropriate.

It should be noted that in the manual reproduction mode, in the case where the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N is not detected, the mobile terminal <NUM> may automatically reproduce the content.

In this embodiment, during the content reproduction, the reproduction apparatus <NUM> can be changed. For example, the user selects the reproduction apparatus display unit <NUM> in the reproduction screen <NUM> shown in <FIG>. As a result, the change process for the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is performed. Of course, the operation for changing the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is not limited, and another operation may be input.

When a change operation for the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is input, the beacon signal <NUM> is scanned. A current reproduction apparatus list is generated, and is displayed on the touch panel <NUM>. The user selects a desired reproduction apparatus <NUM> (nearby reproduction apparatus 10N), and thus can easily change the reproduction apparatus <NUM> that reproduces the content. In the second area <NUM>, the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N are displayed in an order of a closer distance, so the desired reproduction apparatus <NUM> can be easily selected.

The change operation for the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is input, and the beacon signal <NUM> is scanner. The assumption is made the scanning shows a different result from the preceding scanning in that the closest reproduction apparatus <NUM> is different. In this case, as the closest reproduction apparatus <NUM>, to the detected reproduction apparatus <NUM>, newly the content reproduction may be instructed automatically. As a result, for example, in the case where the user who holds the mobile terminal <NUM> moves and the like, the assumption is made that the closest reproduction apparatus <NUM> is changed. In this case, only by inputting the change operation for the reproduction apparatus <NUM>, it is possible to cause the closest reproduction apparatus <NUM> to automatically reproduce the content. In this case, displaying the reproduction apparatus list may be omitted.

As described above, in the content reproduction system <NUM> according to this embodiment, by receiving the beacon signal <NUM>, the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N are detected. Then, the reproduction apparatus list <NUM> including the own apparatus and the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N is generated. As a result, it is possible to easily control the content reproduction by the own apparatus, the content reproduction by the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N, and the like, which can improve convenience of the user.

Conventionally, in the case where the user selects a content and causes the control apparatus itself or a different reproduction apparatus to reproduce the content, it is necessary to select the reproduction apparatus through an apparatus-selection GUI and the like displayed on the control apparatus, and switch the reproduction apparatuses. To achieve this, the user has to learn a selection operation for the reproduction apparatus and a switching operation of the reproduction apparatus. Further, the selection operation becomes a troublesome operation in many cases.

Further, conventionally, the order of arrangement of the reproduction apparatuses displayed on the apparatus-selection GUI displayed on the control apparatus is an alphabetical order or an order of reproduction history. Therefore, to select a desired reproduction apparatus from the GUI, the user has to remember the name of the reproduction apparatus (model number and the like).

In this embodiment, by setting the automatic reproduction mode, for example, it is possible to cause the reproduction apparatus <NUM> (nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N displayed on the uppermost position) closest to the user who holds the mobile terminal <NUM> to reproduce the content automatically. As a result, learning of the selection method for the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> is unnecessary, and the trouble of selecting the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is saved. As a result, very high convenience is exerted.

Further, even in the case where the manual reproduction mode is set, in the second area <NUM> of the reproduction apparatus list <NUM>, the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N are displayed in the order closer to the user (mobile terminal <NUM>). Accordingly, even if the name (model number) and the like of the reproduction apparatus <NUM> is not remembered, on the basis of a distance to the reproduction apparatus <NUM> that exists in front thereof, the desired reproduction apparatus <NUM> can be easily selected from the reproduction apparatus list <NUM>. The same holds true for switching of the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, and very high convenience is exerted.

Further, in this embodiment, on the beacon signal <NUM>, the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N is detected. Accordingly, to perform the neighborhood detection of the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, there is no need to additionally mount a dedicated device such as a nearby sensor, a lens, and the like. As a result, it is possible to sufficiently suppress a device cost, and it is possible to achieve an improvement in price competitiveness of the device to control the content reproduction (in this embodiment, the mobile terminal <NUM>) and the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>.

The present technology is not limited to the embodiment described above, and different various embodiments can be achieved.

<FIG> and <FIG> are schematic diagrams each showing other examples of the reproduction apparatus list. In a reproduction apparatus list <NUM> shown in <FIG>, reproduction apparatuses 10P which are detected as the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N in the past, and are not detected as the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N currently are displayed in a reproduction apparatus list <NUM> so as to be recognizable. In the example shown in <FIG>, a background color is grayed (gray out). Of course, a recognizable display form is not limited.

Typically, information relating to the reproduction apparatuses 10P which are detected as the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N at a time of the preceding scanning and are not detected at a time of scanning at this time is displayed in a gray-out manner. Of course, instead, the detected reproduction apparatuses <NUM> may be displayed within the predetermined number of times in the past. The display position of the reproduction apparatuses 10P, which are detected in the past but are not detected currently are not limited, on arbitrary positions in the reproduction apparatus list <NUM>, the reproduction apparatuses 10P may be displayed. In the example shown in <FIG>, on the basis of the distance from the mobile terminal <NUM> at a time of the past detection, the display position is determined. That is, the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N currently detected, and the reproduction apparatuses 10P detected in the past are arranged in the order of the distance from the mobile terminal <NUM> at the time of the respective detections.

The reproduction apparatuses 10P, which are detected in the past but are not detected currently are displayed so as to be recognizable, with the result that the user can grasp a past reproduction environment and the like. By moving to an appropriate position and the like, it is possible to achieve a desired reproduction environment. For example, it is easily possible to reproduce a past reproduction environment.

Regarding the reproduction apparatus list <NUM> shown in <FIG>, by the reproduction control unit <NUM>, from the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N displayed in the second area <NUM>, a reproduction apparatus 10R which is selected by the user and is optimal to content reproduction is selected. For example, functional information and system information included in apparatus information of the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> are referred to, and the reproduction apparatus <NUM> for which an equalizer setting optimal to the selected content reproduction is selected. Alternatively, the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> having high-quality amplifier, speaker, and the like are selected. In addition, a method of selecting the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> optimal to the content reproduction is not limited.

As shown in <FIG>, the list generation unit <NUM> causes the optimal reproduction apparatus 10R selected by the reproduction control unit <NUM> is displayed in the second area <NUM> so as to be recognizable. For example, a frame and the like with an eye-catching color such as red and the like is displayed around the reproduction apparatus 10R. Alternatively, a text of "optimal", "recommend", or the like may be added thereto. In addition, the recognizable display form is not limited.

In the reproduction apparatus list <NUM>, the optimal reproduction apparatus 10R is displayed recognizably, with the result that it is possible to assist the user to select the reproduction apparatus <NUM>, which improves convenience for the user.

The information relating to the own apparatus (mobile terminal <NUM>) and the information relating to the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N displayed in the reproduction apparatus list <NUM> are not limited, and arbitrary information may be displayed. For example, arbitrary information including apparatus information, functional information, system information, and the like obtained from the reproduction apparatuses <NUM> may be displayed. For example, a speaker, an exterior color, and the like that constitute the reproduction apparatus <NUM> are reflected, and the icon <NUM> of the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N may be generated. As a result, it is easily select the reproduction apparatus <NUM>.

Further, as the information relating to the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N, a display order at a time of displaying in the past in the second area <NUM> may be displayed. For example, in the case where the reproduction apparatus is currently displayed fourthly and displayed secondly in the past, this is displayed. As a result, it is possible to grasp the past reproduction environment and the like.

In the above description, in the second area <NUM>, the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N are displayed in the order in which the intensity of the beacon signal <NUM> is larger. The order is not limited to this. In another order based on the beacon signal <NUM>, the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N may be displayed. For example, on the basis of the information included in the beacon signal <NUM>, the displaying order may be decided.

In the automatic reproduction mode, on the basis of the apparatus information relating to the reproduction apparatuses <NUM>, the reproduction apparatus <NUM> which is instructed to reproduce the content may be selected. For example, to the reproduction apparatus 10R optimal for reproduction of the content described above, the content reproduction may be automatically instructed.

In the above description, the first area <NUM> in which the own apparatus is displayed is displayed on the upper area of the second area <NUM> in which the nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N are displayed. As a result, it is possible to easily discriminate and recognize the own apparatus and nearby reproduction apparatuses 10N, which makes the selection of the reproduction apparatus <NUM> easy. It should be noted that the positional relationship between the first and second areas <NUM> and <NUM> is not limited, and may be set as appropriate.

In the above description, the reproduction apparatus which can reproduce the content selected by the user and is disposed in the vicinity is selected as the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N. However, irrespective of whether the content selected by the user can be reproduced or not, the reproduction apparatus <NUM> which is determined to be located in the vicinity may be displayed in the second area <NUM> as the nearby reproduction apparatus 10N. In this case, the reproduction apparatus <NUM> which cannot reproduce the content selected by the user may be displayed so as to be recognizable, for example, in a gray-out display manner and the like.

In the above description, as the reproduction operation received in Step <NUM>, the example of selecting the content from the content list <NUM> is cited. The example of the reproduction operation is not limited to this. The content may be searched for by voice, and a reproduction instruction may be input. For example, when the user inputs voice of "I want to listen to (music name)" and the like, a reproduction operation to reproduce the content of the music name is received. For the user, inputting the music name of desired music achieve automatic reproduction by the reproduction apparatus <NUM> which exists in the vicinity thereof. As a result, it is possible to listen or view music, video, or the like without a trouble.

In the above, the description is given on the case where by the computer such as the mobile terminal <NUM> and the like operated by the user, the information processing method according to the present technology is executed. However, by another computer capable of performing communication with the computer operated by the user via the network or the like, the information processing method and the program according to the present technology may be executed. Further, the computer operated by the user and another computer may construct the content reproduction system according to the present technology in conjunction with each other.

That is, the information processing method and the program according to the present technology can be executed not only by a computer system constituted of a single computer but also by a computer system in which a plurality of computers are operated in conjunction with each other. It should be noted that in this disclosure, the system means a set of a plurality of components (apparatuses, modules (parts), and the like) irrespective of whether all the components are provided in the same casing or not. Thus, a plurality of apparatuses which are stored in separate casings and are connected via a network and one apparatus in which a plurality of modules are stored in one casing are systems.

The execution of the information processing method and the program by the computer system according to the present technology includes, for example, the case where the detection of the nearby reproduction apparatus and the generation of the reproduction apparatus list are performed by a single computer and the case where the respective processes are performed by different computers. Further, the execution of the respective processes by the predetermined computer includes causing another computer to perform a part or all of the process and obtain the result.

That is, the information processing method and the program the present technology can be applied to a configuration of cloud computing in which one function is shared by a plurality of apparatuses via a network and processed in cooperation with one another.

Claim 1:
A reproduction apparatus (<NUM>), comprising:
a reproduction unit capable of reproducing a content;
a detection unit (<NUM>) adapted to detect two or more nearby reproduction apparatuses (<NUM>) that are located in a vicinity of the reproduction apparatus by receiving beacon signals transmitted from the two or more nearby reproduction apparatuses;
wherein the two or more nearby reproduction apparatuses are capable of reproducing the content; and
a generation unit (<NUM>) adapted to generate an operation image including a first area in which an own apparatus (<NUM>) is displayed and a second area in which the detected two or more nearby reproduction apparatuses are displayed in an order based on the strength of received beacon signals;
means adapted to select one reproduction apparatus of the two or more nearby reproduction apparatuses which has the beacon signal with the highest strength,
means adapted to send the content to the selected reproduction apparatus;
further comprising:
a reproduction control unit (<NUM>) adapted to cause the reproduction unit to reproduce the content in a case where the two or more nearby reproduction apparatuses (<NUM>) are not detected or one more nearby reproduction apparatus is not detected.