#Japan #Tokyo #MoQ Protocol #AIAI Service #VR Events

Japan's First Commercial Use of Next-Generation Protocol MoQ at Live VR Events

On September 1, 2026, BootStrap Co., Ltd., based in Tokyo and led by CEO Hiroshi Kawada, conducted the first commercial application of MoQ (Media over QUIC) during a VTuber fan meeting featuring Shion Gato at the KAIWAI Hatsudai event space. This groundbreaking implementation signifies Japan's inaugural utilization of MoQ in the context of in-person VTuber events, allowing fans to connect with virtual talents from the comfort of their homes.

MoQ, which is currently undergoing standardization by the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force), is a new media transfer protocol designed for high-quality, low-latency communication. It enables the transmission of 4K audio and video from the talent's home studio to the event venue and facilitates real-time feedback from fans during the event. This innovative approach blurs the lines between virtual and physical spaces, simulating an authentic interaction environment for both talents and their fans.

One of the major advantages of MoQ is its ability to significantly modify the preparation for talents. Traditional methods required the downloading of high-resolution 3D model data to venue computers, which were then rendered live during events. However, with MoQ, the raw video feed can be sent directly, allowing talents to use their usual streaming setups—such as OBS Studio or VTube Studio—without additional preparation. For talents who typically stream on platforms like YouTube, this means they can easily transition to live events without cumbersome setup processes.

Implementation Details

The AIAI service, provided by BootStrap, is specifically designed to support virtual talents in engaging with their fans in physical spaces, streamlining the entire process from planning to technical operation on the event day. The integration of the MoQ protocol enhances this service by ensuring that high-quality 4K video and audio are transmitted with minimal latency.

During the event, attendees were able to speak with Shion Gato, receiving immediate responses that created the illusion of being in the same space together. This dual-directional communication system revolutionizes fan interactions, moving beyond traditional formats.

Key Event Details

• - Date: September 1, 2026
• - Venue: KAIWAI Hatsudai, Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Featured Talent: Shion Gato
• - Event Scale: Small fan meeting
• - Technical Support and Management: BootStrap Co., Ltd., AIAI

Differences from Conventional Methods

Historically, delivering high-resolution VTuber visuals to the venue proved to be challenging. The common practice involved downloading the talent's 3D model data to the venue’s computer and sending control data on the event day, requiring real-time rendering onsite. The lack of low-latency solutions often led to opting out video transmission altogether, resulting in audio control data being the primary focus due to its lightweight nature. However, this posed several limitations:
1. The need for dedicated rendering PCs at the venue, along with skilled operators to manage them.
2. Talents could not bring their usual streaming environments to the venue.
3. Multiple events meant repeatedly transferring the talent's 3D model data, raising security and management concerns.

MoQ changes this foundational premise. By enabling the transmission of 4K video with low latency, the need for such workaround approaches is eradicated. Talents can now produce their streaming output using familiar tools, sending it directly to the venue without the complication of data transfers.

Safeguarding Model Data

An essential aspect of this method is that 3D models, which represent the talents themselves, remain on the talent's equipment. There is no requirement to transfer model data to venue systems, which poses a substantial advantage from both management and rights protection perspectives. Talents and rights holders can thus focus more on the event without concern for where their model data may reside, ensuring a more streamlined experience.

Instant Dialogue and Feedback

Perhaps the most significant innovation is the establishment of a conversation sequence between the home studio and the venue. Fans’ voices can be communicated back to the talent in real-time, who can respond immediately. This bi-directional connection was traditionally managed by WebRTC. However, MoQ sets itself apart by addressing disparate requirements for different data types.

The Evolutionary Nature of MoQ

The MoQ protocol was born out of a desire to address the fragmented nature of media transfer protocols that have long dominated the industry. By utilizing QUIC, MoQ provides fast congestion detection without compromising on media quality, allowing for enhanced streaming capabilities suitable for live events. Its design philosophy emphasizes that the trade-offs between latency and quality should be managed by applications, not dictated by protocols. This flexibility empowers creators to tailor their experiences precisely as needed.

The debut use of MoQ at a VTuber fan meeting is not just a step forward for live virtual events in Japan; it represents a fundamental shift in how talents can engage with their audiences, fostering a richer and more interactive experience. BootStrap Co., Ltd. plans to continue using the MoQ protocol within their AIAI service while also expanding its scope to accommodate more events and services tailored to VTubers and virtual talents across various contexts.

Future Prospects

The company is set to broaden its venue partnerships and refine its offerings for event organizers. Additionally, plans are underway to SaaS the MoQ broadcasting framework for broader commercial applications across different fields requiring low latency and high-definition media delivery. Experience gained from this operation will be shared back with the technology community, promoting collaboration and further advancements in the field.

For inquiries about the service opportunities or potential collaborations, interested parties are encouraged to contact BootStrap.