Pictoria Inc., a company that plans, develops, and operates AI characters, has announced that it has raised a total of 330 million yen in funding.
This fundraising round is through a third-party allocation of shares to Canon Marketing Japan Inc., Mizuho Capital Co., Ltd., GOLDEN EGG Ventures Inc., and Skyland Ventures. It also includes loans from Mizuho Bank, Kiraboshi Bank, and Japan Finance Corporation.
Pictoria has primarily focused on developing AI character businesses for consumers. Their AI VTuber, “Tsumuginen,” boasts a large number of subscribers on YouTube and interacts with listeners in real-time through unscripted live streams. Their one-on-one conversation app, “AI Boyfriend-kun,” features characters with unique personalities and memories for each user, allowing them to deepen their relationship through daily conversations. Through these services, the company has accumulated knowledge and data regarding AI characters.
For corporate clients, they offer comprehensive support using their own technology platform, from AI character planning to AI development, speech synthesis, 3D character asset creation, and operation. They have implemented their solutions in a wide range of industries, including publishing, securities, real estate, banking, airports, professional sports, local governments, karaoke, and commercial facilities.
The funds raised will be used for a full-scale expansion into the corporate sector. Through collaboration with partners with a nationwide customer base, including Canon Marketing Japan, we aim to deliver AI characters to a variety of fields.
This article is an English translation of an original Japanese article, translated by the Mogura VR editorial team.
