Metachrosys Inc. (Headquarters: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Kohei Arai), a company developing digital human and apparel businesses utilizing 3D and generative AI, announced on March 18 that it has provided an AI model-based image processing and face-swapping service using its proprietary apparel-focused image generation service "FIGUR." This technology was utilized in the promotional campaign for Mizuno's new "Reshape Design T-shirt/Polo Shirt."
Through visuals that naturally fit individuals of various body types and atmospheres, this initiative promotes the core value of the new product: being "easy to wear and style for everyone."
In recent years, the apparel industry has seen an increasing demand for representation that shows products can be worn by anyone, regardless of age, body type, or gender. At the same time, challenges such as the high costs of hiring numerous models and concerns regarding the portrait rights and privacy of real individuals have become more prominent.
To realistically convey the product concept—"looking great regardless of body type"—Mizuno chose to photograph many of its own employees wearing the items. However, to address the privacy concerns of using employees in promotional materials, Metachrosys' "FIGUR" face-swapping technology was introduced.
The "AI Model Image Processing and Face Swapping Service" provided in this instance replaces only the face portion of product photos featuring real employees with unique AI-generated faces for each shot. A key feature of this technology is that body shape, posing, fabric texture, and lighting remain unchanged, allowing for a natural representation of diverse personas.
This approach creates the impression of a wide variety of people wearing the garments while achieving a visual expression that emphasizes how the product "fits each individual's personality." By utilizing AI-generated faces, the campaign enables promotional expressions that celebrate diversity while respecting privacy. The optimized image assets are being used for in-store POP displays, product introduction visuals, and promotional printed materials.
This case study demonstrates a new form of apparel promotion that simultaneously satisfies "live-action realism," "AI-driven flexible expression," and "cost efficiency." Metachrosys intends to continue fostering an environment where apparel companies can create promotional visuals more efficiently and flexibly through its "FIGUR" technology, model-less promotion, and visual generation for e-commerce.
■ ICT Startup League
This support program was launched in FY2023, sparked by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications' "Project for Supporting Seed-stage Research and Development for Startup Creation."
The ICT Startup League supports startups through four main pillars:
1. R&D Funding / Hands-on Support
R&D funding of up to 20 million yen is provided in the form of grants. In terms of hands-on support, selection committee members who participated in the screening process continue to stay close to the startups to promote growth. For companies that a committee member evaluates as a "must-adopt," the member provides ongoing support such as advice on business plans and offering growth opportunities—a support structure akin to "fan-based" advocacy.
2. Discovery and Mentorship
The program provides opportunities for learning and networking to accelerate the business growth of league members. It also seeks to discover aspiring entrepreneurs to expand the startup ecosystem.
3. Competition & Co-creation
Functioning like a sports league, it serves as a venue for positive competition where startups learn together and strive to win the necessary funding (up to 20 million yen). It also provides a space for "co-creation," where league members can collaborate to expand their businesses through various opportunities, including sessions with selection committee members.
4. Communication
The program collaborates with the media to broadcast the initiatives of league members! By sharing these businesses with a wider audience, the program aims to expand opportunities for new matching and business prospects.
■ Related Websites
ICT Startup League
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Metachrosys Inc. (Official Site)
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Metachrosys Inc. (LEAGUE MEMBER)
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Original Press Release (Japanese)
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