Enhancing Communication with Transparent Displays in Tokyo
As Tokyo gears up for significant international events, including the 2025 World Athletics Championships and the 2025 Deaflympics, the city is making strides towards becoming an inclusive environment. Using cutting-edge digital technology, Tokyo aims to ensure that everyone can connect anytime, anywhere, with anyone.
Since June of last year, the city has been working on installing transparent displays at various government facilities, and the initiative has garnered positive feedback from users. This year, Tokyo plans to expand the installation of these displays to
110 additional public facilities to promote even broader use of this innovative technology.
Installation Timeline and Locations
The installation of transparent displays is set to take place starting from
July 1, 2025. However, some facilities will begin installation as early as September 2025. Key locations for the installations include the
Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly and the
Tokyo Government Offices among others. A detailed list of all facilities can be found in supporting documents provided by the Tokyo government.
Operation Hours
The operational hours of the displays will align with the opening hours of the facilities they are installed in, providing users with ample opportunity to take advantage of this technological advancement.
Features of the Displays
The transparent displays come with remarkable features that promote effective communication across language barriers:
1.
Real-time Voice Conversion: The displays will convert spoken words into text in real-time, displaying information in
32 different languages. This feature ensures accessibility for individuals who speak different languages, fostering an inclusive atmosphere.
2.
Tablet Accessibility: For individuals with hearing impairments or those who may find it difficult to vocalize, the displays come with a supplementary tablet. Users can enter text using the tablet, which can then be displayed on the transparent screen.
Supported Languages
The range of languages supported includes English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai, Russian, French, and Italian, among others. This multilingual capability reinforces Tokyo's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in communication.
For more information on these displays and their operational mechanisms, you can refer to the following link:
Konicaminolta Kotobal.
Looking Ahead: Inclusion at the 2025 Events
The 2025 World Athletics Championships and the Deaflympics are not just sporting events; they are an opportunity for cities to demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity, technology integration, and effective communication among diverse populations. By installing transparent multilingual displays, Tokyo is positioning itself as a forerunner in utilizing technology to break down barriers and encourage interaction. This initiative aligns with global trends towards creating more accessible environments for everyone.
Through these efforts, Tokyo is aiming to enrich the experience of both residents and visitors, ensuring that everyone feels included in the vibrant life of the city, regardless of their linguistic or physical capabilities.
For inquiries regarding the initiatives, please contact the
Tokyo Sports Promotion Headquarters, International Sports Business Department at
03-5388-3893 or via email at
S1180908@section.metro.tokyo.jp.