#Japan #Tokyo #NTT DOCOMO #Jiffcy #Anaguma

NTT Docomo Ventures Invests in Anaguma's Jiffcy App

In a significant move to enhance communication technology, NTT Docomo Ventures (NDV), headquartered in the Minato district of Tokyo, has announced an investment in Anaguma Co., Ltd., which operates the innovative text-calling application, Jiffcy. This investment was made through an NDV-managed fund.

Jiffcy offers a unique way to communicate by allowing users to engage in text-based calls that simulate the feeling of a traditional phone conversation. Users can initiate a call in a similar manner to traditional phone calls; once the other party accepts, their typed characters appear on-screen in real-time. This functionality promotes a feeling of immediacy and connection, making communication seamless for users who prefer to remain silent, whether chatting with friends, family, or significant others.

Since the app's invitation-only model was lifted in July 2024, its user base has been experiencing consistent growth. Notably, around half of these users are under 18, highlighting the app's popularity among younger demographics. This significant interest underscores the potential for Jiffcy to lead a new wave of communication among youth, as conventional methods are gradually being redefined.

NTT Docomo Group aims to foster a new era of personal communication, aspiring to create a fresh cultural landscape within the realm of interaction. The partnership between NDV and Anaguma not only marks a financial commitment but also a strategic collaboration to explore and expand the possibilities of text-based communication. Together, they plan to push the boundaries of communication technology, evolving how people connect in their daily lives.

About Anaguma Co., Ltd.

Founded in Tokyo's Shinjuku area, Anaguma is committed to providing innovative internet services designed to enhance the way we communicate. The company is led by CEO Naruhiko Nishimura, and it focuses on aligning technology with the modern user's needs, particularly in the realm of communication.

Their official website can be found at https://anaguma.co.jp/. For anyone interested in the future of communication or the potential implications of text-based calling apps, Anaguma presents a fascinating case study.