BooQs Inc. (Headquarters: Iruma City, Saitama; CEO: Shinji Aikawa) announced on January 15th that it has released 55 new Japanese-based dictionaries for "DiQt," an AI dictionary and vocabulary app designed to ensure users never forget what they learn.
With this update, the app now provides dictionaries for a total of 83 languages accessible via Japanese, establishing a robust system to support learners across a diverse spectrum of languages, ranging from major global tongues to minority languages.
When Japanese speakers begin learning a new language—particularly a minority language—the lack of dictionaries and resources that allow for meaning verification in Japanese often becomes a significant barrier to continuing their studies.
DiQt was developed to bridge this gap by integrating dictionary searches with review-based learning, aiming to transform a one-time search into lasting knowledge. By releasing these 55 new Japanese-based dictionaries, the company aims to broaden the entry points for multilingual learning and support long-term retention.
DiQt is an AI-powered dictionary and vocabulary app featuring an automated review system to prevent vocabulary loss. When a user sets a review for a word found in the dictionary, the app generates practice questions at a later date. It automatically adjusts review intervals based on accuracy to ensure optimal memorization.
The service is available via Web, iOS, Android, and as a Chrome extension, allowing for flexible learning—such as looking up words on a PC and reviewing them on a smartphone. Furthermore, the app has been adopted by major institutions, including the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies. BooQs is also focusing on content creation, providing specialized vocabulary lists for the 28 languages majored in at the university.
Moving forward, BooQs plans to continue expanding its supported languages while improving examples, definitions, and the overall user experience, creating an environment where more learners can successfully pursue multilingual studies, including minority languages.
■ ICT Startup League
A support program launched in FY2023, sparked by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications' "Project for Supporting Seed-stage R&D for Startup Creation."
The ICT Startup League supports startups through four main pillars:
1. R&D Funding / Hands-on Support
R&D expenses of up to 20 million yen are provided in the form of subsidies. In terms of hands-on support, the selection committee members stay involved even after the selection process to accelerate growth. For companies highly valued by the committee, members provide personal support through business plan advice and growth opportunities—a support system akin to being a "super fan" (Oshikatsu).
2. Discovery & Nurturing
Providing opportunities for learning and networking to promote the business growth of league members. The program also seeks to discover aspiring entrepreneurs to broaden the startup ecosystem.
3. Competition & Co-creation
Designed like a sports league, this is a venue for positive competition where startups learn together and strive to secure necessary funding (up to 20 million yen). It also serves as a space for "co-creation," where league members can collaborate and expand their businesses through sessions with the selection committee.
4. Communication
Promoting the initiatives of league members in collaboration with the media. By increasing public awareness of these businesses, the program aims to expand opportunities for new matching and partnerships.
■ Related Websites
ICT Startup League
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BooQs Inc. (Official Site)
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BooQs Inc. (LEAGUE MEMBER)
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DiQt (Web Version)
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Original Press Release (Japanese)
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