Exciting New Samsung Galaxy Featuring =LOVE Members Launches with Charming Alpaca Commercial!

SoftBank has officially launched its latest foldable smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy Z series, promising cutting-edge technology along with a charming commercial campaign. Set to air nationwide on July 23, 2026, the new TV commercial titled "The Alpaca Clan on the Highland" features members of the idol group =LOVE, including Mai Sakuraki, Emiri Otani, and Ikumi Noguchi. Highlights include Mai portraying an adorable alpaca while Emiri and Ikumi make their cinematic debuts in SoftBank commercials.

In this delightful 15-second TV spot, the audience is introduced to the whimsical dialogue between Mai's alpaca character and the classic SoftBank figure, the father of the Shirato family, with Ikumi serving as a translator. The commercial creatively showcases the innovative features of the foldable Samsung Galaxy through amusing alpaca language exchanges, emphasizing both the vibrant display and SoftBank's satellite service, "SoftBank Starlink Direct," which promises connectivity even when out of range.

Commercial Storyline

TV CM: The Alpaca Clan on the Highland (15 seconds)

Set against a vast highland populated by alpacas, we witness the charming interactions between Mai's alpaca character and the father as Ikumi interprets the unique alpaca language. The humor unfolds as the father exclaims, "Wow, it opens!" upon seeing the Samsung Galaxy in action, while Mai responds with delightful alpaca-speak: "Arutatapaka Galapakka Alpaa~ka!" When the father responds skeptically with, "Just speak normally!", the playful dialogue continues as Mai insists that the current smartphone era embraces foldable Galaxy models.

Viewing the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, which showcases three apps side by side, Ikumi translates the alpaca's complicated speech about multitasking. The fun continues when the father questions connectivity in remote areas, only for Mai to respond with amusing assurance that SoftBank ensures connection anywhere as long as the sky is visible.

The comical exchanges between the characters are accentuated by exaggerated alpaca language, creating a lighthearted atmosphere that captivates viewers. This light-hearted banter captures the product's essence while introducing audiences to the merchandise in an engaging manner.

Web Commercial: The Alpaca Clan on the Highland and The Alpaca Clan at the Mountain Hut (30 seconds each)

The web commercials expand on the humorous storyline, showcasing the vibrant dialogues with the same lovable characters in unique settings. Viewers will get to enjoy both 30-second versions starting from the same date on SoftBank's official YouTube channel, alongside behind-the-scenes footage featuring the cast's moments while interacting with each other and the camera.

Making of the Commercial

Aside from the delightful storyline, the behind-the-scenes footage reveals how the cast engaged comically, giving rise to charming interactions throughout the production. Mai, dressed in a fluffy alpaca suit, greeted the crew with joyful energy, instantly brightening the set. Meanwhile, Ikumi donned a stylish outfit, presenting a sophisticated contrast to Mai’s whimsical costume.

Emiri made quite an impression with her colorful attire as she participated in a photoshoot that complimented the commercial’s aesthetic. Each member played their role with harmonious teamwork, leading to a nearly flawless filming experience, with only a few humorous minor mishaps that added to the fun.

Ikumi narrated the progress through the filming challenges, particularly focusing on the smartphone's intricate functions, highlighting collaborative efforts from the crew to optimize the shots.

The Members on Their Characters and Experience

In an interview following the commercial shoot, the members shared their thoughts on embracing their unique characters. Mai expressed surprise at the realistic alpaca suit and how much fun it was to explore a fictional language. Emiri and Ikumi echoed their excitement about tackling the distinctive language used in the commercial, highlighting their incredible bond as a team.

Overall, this new campaign marks an entertaining fusion of technology and creativity, positioning SoftBank and Samsung Galaxy Z series as front-runners in the smartphone market while offering fans of =LOVE an enjoyable and memorable advertising experience that showcases their talents in a fresh light.