Contents
Introduction
In a recent webinar hosted by aix, we unveiled the “Pick Keywords” that defined Japan in 2023, and at the forefront of this linguistic tapestry was the ubiquitous term “AI.” As we reflect on the year that was, it’s evident that artificial intelligence has not only transformed industries globally but has also become an integral part of Japan’s technological landscape. In this article, we will explore the waves of AI that swept Japan in 2023, examining viral trends and how businesses harnessed the power of AI to ride the tide of innovation.
If you missed our insightful webinar titled, Forecasting 2024 Marketing Streams in Japan, worry not – you can catch up and download the contents in this recap article. Our team navigated the currents of Japan’s 2023 marketing trends, offering a glimpse into what the business world can anticipate in the coming year.
The year 2023 has proven to be a rollercoaster ride of advancement and surprises in AI technology, not just within Japan but on a global scale. The enthusiasm surrounding AI has reached new heights, unveiling its potential in ways we hadn’t fathomed before.
AI Chat-Kun: A Viral Phenomenon
One notable development in 2023 was the emergence of AI Chat-Kun, a phenomenon that brought AI technology into the daily lives of not just tech enthusiasts but the general public. Developed using the API, chatting is possible on Japan’s main messaging application, LINE. The total number of users exceeded 200K within 3 days of its release and 1 million within 1 month. Recently, it has been enabled for use with SMS and GPT4. Let’s unravel the key factors that propelled AI Chat-Kun to viral success.
1. Accessibility: Making AI a Friend on LINE
AI Chat-Kun found its home on the popular messaging app LINE, making it exceptionally accessible for Japanese users. Through LINE’s official account feature, creating a chatbot became a breeze, allowing users to engage effortlessly. This simplicity not only encouraged tech novices but also streamlined the integration of new technology into daily life.
Pro tip: Create your brand’s official LINE account through LINE Business for seamless engagement with your audience.
2. Blended into Daily Life
Unlike previous applications of AI, AI Chat-Kun transcended complex tasks and found its place in casual conversations, advice-sharing, and everyday interactions. It became a platform where users could engage in everyday chatter, making AI approachable to those who might have shied away from its perceived technical complexities.
3. Overcoming Language Barriers
The introduction of a Japanese-friendly interface addressed a significant hurdle. With most AI platforms primarily in English, this Japanese-friendly approach drastically lowered the entry barrier for users in Japan, fostering a more inclusive AI experience.
4. Affordability: Breaking the Cost Barrier
While accessing GPT-4 typically comes with a $20 fee, AI Chat-Kun’s service, utilizing the same API, is available at a mere $6. This affordability factor played a crucial role in making AI technology accessible to a broader audience, democratizing its usage.
In summary, AI Chat-Kun’s journey is a fascinating case study illustrating how thoughtful integration into daily routines, accessibility, blending into everyday life, overcoming language barriers, and affordability can propel AI into the mainstream.
AI in Commercials: Itoen’s Historic Leap
In the advertising realm, history was made with Itoen’s TV commercial featuring the first-ever AI-generated talent. The campaign, themed ‘For a Healthy and Bright Future,’ explored the possibilities of illustrating the present and an elegantly aged self 30 years into the future using AI-generated talent.
While the use of AI talent brings versatility to creative endeavors, it also comes with considerations. The absence of a recognizable celebrity might impact brand and product recognition. Nevertheless, the experiment marks a leap forward in using AI to shape narratives and visions for the future.
AI in Web Advertising: Otakoi’s Surge
The landscape of web advertising witnessed a revolution as more companies embraced AI. Otakoi, a matching app service for otaku, experienced a surge in popularity through an AI-generated ad campaign featuring a two-shot photo of an overweight man and a pretty woman.
The success of this campaign highlights the transformative impact of smart, targeted advertising enhanced by AI. By doubling male members and increasing female members three to sevenfold, Otakoi showcased how AI can not only boost brand awareness but also alter user perceptions, breaking barriers to entry and appealing to new user segments.
AI in Cosmetic Surgery Advertising
Even cosmetic surgery clinics embraced AI to redefine their advertising strategies. From transforming single eyelids to double, AI played a pivotal role in crafting persuasive and personalized ads, showcasing the potential for technology to revolutionize the cosmetic industry.
Wrap-up
As we bid adieu to 2023, Japan stands as a beacon in the global AI landscape, showcasing the transformative power of this technology across various sectors. The journey has just begun, and we eagerly anticipate what 2024 will bring in the ever-evolving world of AI in Japan. Stay tuned for more trends and insights as we navigate the exciting intersection of technology and culture!
Webinar Links & Resources:
- Click here to watch the Forecasting 2024 Marketing Streams in Japan Webinar.
- Download the webinar contents for free here.
