NTT Docomo Ventures has invested in Akaguma Co., Ltd., the operator of the innovative text calling application 'Jiffcy', to enhance its foothold in the evolving communications market.

Target Information

NTT Docomo Ventures, headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, led by CEO and CCO Yuko Sasahara, has made an investment in Akaguma Co., Ltd., which operates the text calling application ‘Jiffcy’. Akaguma, also based in Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, and led by CEO Seiji Nishimura, offers a communication platform that allows users to engage in text conversations that mimic the experience of voice calls.

‘Jiffcy’ features a real-time chat function that displays typed messages character by character once the call is connected, allowing for an immersive communication experience without the need for vocalization with friends, family, and partners. Since the app transitioned to a public invite system in July 2024, it has experienced consistent growth in its user base, notably with around half of its users being under the age of 18, reflecting significant popularity among younger demographics.

Industry Overview in Japan

Japan's communication technology sector has undergone substantial transformation in recent years, shaped by advancements in mobile technology and the rise of social media applications. The demand for diverse communication methods has driven innovat