Otobank Joins ZAKONE to Address Japan's Sleep Challenges Through Sound

Otobank and Its Mission to Enhance Sleep Quality

In a notable development in addressing the sleep challenges in Japan, Otobank Inc., headquartered in Bunkyo, Tokyo, has announced its participation in a collaborative community called ZAKONE, which is organized by NTT DX Partners and East Japan Telecommunications. This initiative aims to tackle sleep-related issues through innovative business creation, service development, and community events focused exclusively on improving sleep quality.

The Formation of ZAKONE

Founded in September 2022, ZAKONE has rapidly grown into one of Japan's largest corporate communities, comprising over 200 companies dedicated to enhancing sleep quality. It serves as a platform for inter-industry collaboration where businesses can join hands to create new value and solutions that benefit society. The increasing collection of firms involved underscores a collective commitment to addressing a crucial issue; Japan's average sleep hours rank among the lowest globally, making the pursuit of better sleep prevalent and of utmost significance.

Otobank, known for operating audiobook.jp, the largest platform for audiobooks in Japan, sees a high synergy between audio content and sleep. Many users prefer listening to audiobooks and podcasts before bedtime, indicating a natural alignment between audio experiences and sleep enhancement. As part of ZAKONE, Otobank is set to accelerate collaborations with other member companies, focusing on innovative strategies to further leverage audio content in the sleep realm.

Innovative Solutions for Sleep Problems

Otobank's involvement in ZAKONE includes participation in a co-creation project, aiming to introduce a unique audio-only bedtime book titled “Oyasumi Shoten Mimimin,” designed to address the challenges parents face when putting their children to sleep. Research conducted showed a significant reduction in the time it takes for children to fall asleep when using this audio resource compared to traditional bedtime reading, which highlights the positive impact of audio content on sleep.

CEO Yuya Kubota expressed excitement regarding Otobank's new role in ZAKONE. He emphasized the importance of addressing sleep challenges, stating, “By contributing through the power of audio, we hope to bring positive change to Japan’s sleep issues.” He also noted the potential of well-created audio content to make a meaningful difference in sleep practices across the country. He remarked, “Our commitment lies in utilizing our capabilities from planning to editing and production to serve as a flexible content creation partner within ZAKONE.”

The Rise of Audiobooks as a New Reading Medium

An audiobook is a narrated version of a book, allowing for an immersive listening experience, reflecting the essence of “reading through listening.” It caters to various audiences, including those who find traditional reading challenging, as well as individuals looking to multitask during activities like running, commuting, or doing household chores.

In recent years, the growing adoption of smartphones and wireless headphones has transformed the consumption environment for audio content. More people are using audiobooks, further accelerated by subscription models offering unlimited listening at affordable rates. Audiobooks have evolved beyond just another format; they represent a significant third category of reading material alongside printed and e-books, seamlessly integrating into the daily lives of listeners.

About audiobook.jp

audiobook.jp is Japan’s foremost audiobook distribution service, operated by Otobank, which launched in 2007 as FeBe and rebranded in March 2018. With ongoing efforts to expand and popularize the audiobook category, the service recently surpassed 3 million subscribers as of February 2024. The service offers various subscription plans and individual purchasing options, making it accessible to a wide range of users eager for auditory literature experiences.

For those interested in exploring the world of audiobooks, check out audiobook.jp, where listening and enjoying literature has been made effortless and engaging.

Conclusion

Otobank's participation in ZAKONE signifies a step forward in addressing one of society's key challenges: improving sleep quality in Japan. By harnessing the power of sound through innovative audio content projects, Otobank is at the forefront of a movement aimed at creating a refreshed approach to sleep, underscoring the value and necessity of collaborative efforts in tackling complex societal issues.