#Japan #Tokyo #AI service #COHACO #Memorial Device

Innovative AI-Powered Altar 'COHACO' Unveiled

In a groundbreaking approach to modern memorial practices, the AI-equipped smart altar "COHACO" is set to be unveiled at the 2025 Ending Industry Expo on September 10 and 11. Developed by COHACO Inc. and acquired by Alpha Club Musashino, this innovative device offers a new way for individuals to communicate with their loved ones who have passed away.

The recent trend towards smaller funerals due to Japan's aging population and declining birthrate has resulted in a decrease in physical spaces for remembrance. Despite these changes, the desire to honor and remember loved ones remains universal. With this context in mind, COHACO will present a solution that integrates cutting-edge technology to facilitate connections with the deceased.

Experience COHACO at the Expo

The upcoming 2025 Ending Industry Expo will feature the latest model of COHACO at a designated area within Alpha Club Musashino's booth. Attendees will experience firsthand how digital innovations are reshaping contemporary memorial practices in response to evolving societal needs.

The Vision Behind COHACO

As rituals and spaces for honoring the deceased diminish, COHACO emerges as a bridge connecting the past with present technology. This modern altar not only provides a contemplative space but also encourages an interactive engagement with memories through AI technology. Users can summon a loved one's image simply by calling their name, while features like "Time Messages" allow them to relive cherished moments or receive messages on specific dates.

Design and Functionality

COHACO's design harmonizes with contemporary home aesthetics. It serves not only as a traditional altar but also as a memorial device, ensuring it fits seamlessly into diverse interior styles. Its voice recognition technology allows users to interact with it in an intimate manner. Beyond just displaying images of the deceased, it can also connect loved ones through pre-recorded messages that surface on designated occasions.

The altar includes multiple features:

• - Voice Recognition: Simply call the deceased's name to view their photos and videos, invoking beautiful memories.
• - Motion Sensors: Automatically activates when an individual stands nearby, creating a natural flow of interaction.
• - Clear Sounds: Touching the device gently activates a chime, aiding in the initiation of prayer moments.
• - Storage: Up to four memorial plaques can be stored within the altar, allowing families to commemorate their ancestors together.
• - Time Capsules: Users can schedule the playback of recorded videos or images on significant dates, creating a personal touch in commemorative practices.
• - Memory Storage: The altar houses a compartment for safely storing mementos of the deceased.

The Emergence of New Rituals

As it redefines the role of altars, COHACO aims to address the challenges posed by changing lifestyles. The goal is to create a device that resonates with both past traditions and present-day expectations while fostering meaningful interactions with memories. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving connections, even as physical spaces for memorialization grow scarce.

Attending the Expo

The 11th Edition of the Ending Industry Expo 2025 is slated for September 10 and 11 at the Ariake GYM-EX. As Japan’s largest exhibition for funeral, burial, and memorial services, individuals attending will have the unique opportunity to interact with COHACO and explore various aspects of the industry that address contemporary needs.

Exhibition Details:

• - Dates: September 10 (Wednesday) & 11 (Thursday)
• - Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• - Location: Japan, Koto City, Ariake 1-10-1, Booth Number G-25
• - Access: A five-minute walk from Ariake Tennis Forest Station.

Conclusion

COHACO represents a significant leap in memorial practices by combining technology and emotion, allowing families to maintain cherished bonds with their loved ones. As society evolves, so too must the methods we use to honor and remember those who have left us. The launch of COHACO signifies hope for future generations and their legacy of remembrance.