SoftBank Launches New CM Featuring Takuya Sorimachi and Asuka Saito for Smartphone Debut Campaign

Exciting New Phase for SoftBank Smartphone Campaign

Starting from November 13, 2025, SoftBank will launch its latest TV commercial titled 'Smartphone Debut Festival', featuring actor Takuya Sorimachi and former Nogizaka46 member Asuka Saito for the first time together. This new initiative aims to showcase the benefits of the SoftBank Debut Discount designed for children aged 5 to 18 who are stepping into the world of smartphones.

The commercial features Sorimachi dressed as a cowboy, riding a rhinoceros through an exciting blend of urban settings. Throughout the advertisement, he delivers an enthusiastic invitation to parents to visit SoftBank stores during the ongoing 'Smartphone Debut Festival'. It uses humor to highlight that under certain conditions, children can enjoy using the Smartphone Debut Plan + Basic (with 20GB of data) for a whole six months for free!

Alongside Sorimachi, Asuka Saito appears as a crew member at a SoftBank store where she humorously adopts the nickname 'Sai-to Asuka'. The commercial plays off the iconic tune of the group Shibugakitai's classic song 'NAI・NAI 16', remixed specifically for this campaign, showcasing a whimsical and comedic interpretation featuring rhinoceroses.

In addition to this TV spot, a web commercial titled 'Smartphone Debut Festival Home Visit' will debut on the same day on YouTube, capturing Sorimachi and Saito as they burst into a home of a family contemplating their child's smartphone debut, explaining the benefits of the Debut Discount.

What's Inside the Campaign?

The SoftBank Debut Discount was created to facilitate smartphone entry for children. Provided a parent subscribes to specific plans, kids can access their new smartphone plans entirely free for six months. This campaign emphasizes that with parental guidance and encouragement, transitioning to a smartphone can be both fun and financially advantageous.

A Hilarious Journey Through the Ad

The TV commercial opens with Sorimachi energetically riding through the savannah, declaring, 'Parents of Japan! Sorry from atop my rhino!'. His comedic aura continues as he calls on parents to swing by the store for great smartphone debuts for their kids. In a vibrant role, Saito sings a playful parody reflecting their festive theme, bridging the laughter and engagement among audiences while emphasizing the package benefits.

Behind the Scenes

During the filming, Sorimachi exhibited sheer delight as he interacted with the specially crafted green-screen rhinoceros, candidly showing awe and joy while negotiating the filming's challenges. Meanwhile, Saito, returning after nine years to SoftBank's commercials, expressed her overall excitement and satisfaction at finally collaborating with Sorimachi, highlighting their palpable chemistry on set.

Perspectives from the Stars

Following the shoot, both stars shared insights on their collaboration:

- Regarding the shoot: Sorimachi remarked how delightful it was to ride a rhino, expecting a delightful commercial as a result.
- As for their impressions of each other: Saito expressed surprise at Sorimachi riding a rhino, admiring his effortless charm even pre-effects.

Further Engagements

Wondering how to watch the action? Catch the commercials here:

In summary, SoftBank’s Smartphone Debut Festival combined innovation, humor, and star power to create a compelling commercial that speaks to both parents and young users, encouraging a smooth entry into the smartphone world. For those interested in more details about the SoftBank Debut Discount, visit SoftBank’s Special Site.