NTT Docomo Ventures Invests in LinQ's Innovative Location Sharing App 'whoo'

In a significant move to enhance communication technology, NTT Docomo Ventures (NDV) has announced an investment in LinQ, a Tokyo-based company renowned for its location-sharing app 'whoo'. The investment will be facilitated through NDV’s managed fund, aimed at fostering technological innovation in communication applications.

The 'whoo' app stands out in today's digital landscape, allowing close friends to share their real-time locations effortlessly. This fascinating tool also has features that display online/offline status, time spent at a location, and battery power remaining. Moreover, it enables users to access maps and estimate travel time to friends and family, blending practicality with enjoyable communication. Such functionality is not just a gimmick but serves as a foundation for easy interactions in various everyday scenarios, whether it's for after-school meetups, travel excursions, or events.

Since its launch in December 2022, 'whoo' has rapidly gained traction, especially among teenagers and individuals in their twenties. As of September 2025, the app has reached over 30 million downloads, an impressive milestone that reflects its popularity and user-engagement capabilities.

In today’s rapidly evolving communication landscape, the way people connect has transformed significantly. As societal values and behaviors shift, LinQ has adapted by incorporating location data into the communication experience. This integration fosters more intuitive and natural interactions, helping users connect with each other seamlessly in both online and offline settings.

The NTT Docomo Group, since its inception, has been on a quest to create a new culture of communication, emphasizing the development of more personalized communication styles. In January 2026, the company established the 'Docomo Innovation Fund No. 4', targeting key investment areas like 'Communication & Community'. The initiative aims to identify and support projects that innovate how people connect and communicate. LinQ's endeavors, especially with their unique location-based approach, align perfectly with this vision, leading to the strategic decision to invest in the company.

This investment marks just the beginning of what NDV anticipates will be a fruitful collaboration. The partnership aims to deepen ties with LinQ, fostering the creation of new values and enhancing communication culture in the digital age.

About LinQ

- Company Name: LinQ Inc.
- Location: 3F, Daiichi-Akatsuki Building, 1-19-9 Dogenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
- CEO: Gousuke Harada
- Business Focus: Internet Services (development and management of communication apps)
- Website: https://www.linq.co.jp/

Through this strategic investment, NTT Docomo Ventures not only boosts LinQ's growth but also reinforces its commitment to leading the way in innovative communication solutions.