Dentsu Inc. and Eje Co., Ltd. jointly developed "Chara Talker," a VTuber customer service featuring 3D virtual characters that can be introduced simply and affordably.

The text of the Dentsu Inc. news release distributed on December 11 is as follows.

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December 11, 2018

― First installment unveiled at Isetan Shinjuku Main Building Event Space from Dec. 12-24 ―

Dentsu Inc. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; President: Toshihiro Yamamoto) and Eje Inc. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; President: Chiaki Miyo; hereinafter "Eje") have jointly developed "Chara Talker" ( http://charatalker.info ), a VTuber customer service solution featuring 3D virtual characters that can be introduced simply and affordably.

Recently, 3D virtual characters have become widely established as creative characters appearing and active on video streaming services, commonly known as "VTubers." They are also being utilized in real communication settings, such as serving as promotional mascots for companies and local governments. Furthermore, they are expanding beyond the web, with talent appearances on television programs.

The reasons companies and municipalities employ VTubers include the ability to create characters tailored to specific promotions and the lower risk of scandals associated with cast members. However, a significant challenge has emerged: since these characters are often humanoid models requiring high expressiveness, they necessitate high-precision sensor devices for body movement tracking and expensive equipment. This technical complexity also demands specialized staff for operation.

Charatoaker achieves high-quality customer service character designs that enable anyone to express natural, rich facial expressions and gestures. This is realized by combining our company's planning and production capabilities with content creativity, and Eje Inc.'s advanced technical expertise in creating 3D characters and apps for smartphones.

Furthermore, its specialization in conversing with customers, emphasis on facial expressions, and smartphone-based character control enable simple and affordable implementation with minimal equipment and staff. It can be deployed across all corporate communication settings, including in-store digital signage, events, sales floors, and reception areas.

As the first initiative of this service, an event featuring the kitten character "Nateshi" (Copyright: Dentsu Inc. and Eje Inc.) will be held at "2018 ISETAN CHRISTMAS LAND," taking place from December 12th to 24th at the Main Building 6th Floor Event Hall of Isetan Shinjuku.

<Character Example: Cat Model "Nateshi">

Moving forward, with the cooperation of character rights holders, talent agencies, and voice actor agencies, we plan to fully launch the service by the first half of fiscal year 2019. This will involve expanding our service package lineup, including character variations and delivery systems, to meet a wide range of demands such as "in-house character development," "rapid implementation," and "low-cost operation."

<Service Structure Overview (Sales Floor Deployment Image)>

<Service Logo>

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Dentsu Inc. News Release
http://www.dentsu.co.jp/news/release/2018/1211-009662.html