On March 24, Bashow Inc. (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Masashi Hodotsuka) announced the launch of its proprietary AI "Timing Determination Function" within its smartphone app. This AI is designed to deliver specific content based on the surrounding environment and real-time situational data.
The company aims for this proprietary AI to serve as a foundational system for the numerous in-vehicle applications expected to be integrated into automobiles as the shift toward SDVs (Software Defined Vehicles) accelerates.
The company’s smartphone app, "Bashow" (available on iOS and Android), is a service that provides short audio updates about local topics to users on the move, such as those driving, every few minutes. The system generates a vast number of topics based on public information, with urban areas often containing over 100 topics per square kilometer.
The newly launched "Timing Determination Function" uses usage data collected by the app to determine in real-time "when, where, and under what circumstances" specific content should be presented to the user. This mechanism, which decides on content delivery based on real-world spatial data, represents a new category of AI that differs from traditional recommendation engines.
Initially, this function will be utilized within the Bashow app to select and present the single most relevant topic for a user at any given time and location from the vast pool of generated content.
As the automotive industry moves toward SDVs, a wide range of sophisticated in-vehicle apps is expected to emerge. Content for these apps—including video, music, sound effects, and voice information—must be delivered at the optimal moment, taking into account vehicle dynamics, navigation data, weather, and the user's mood within the constantly changing environment of a moving vehicle.
Bashow’s "Timing Determination AI" is positioned to serve as the infrastructure for deciding content delivery timing in the in-vehicle app market, which is projected to reach 20–30 trillion yen by the early 2030s. Moving forward, the company plans to adapt this technology for in-vehicle applications while deepening collaborations with app developers and automotive companies. Their ultimate goal is to create a world where digital content enriches the mobility experience.
■ ICT Startup League
A support program launched in FY2023, sparked by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications' "Project for Supporting Budding R&D for Startup Creation."
The ICT Startup League supports startups through four main pillars:
1. R&D Funding / Hands-on Support
Provides up to 20 million yen in R&D grants. Furthermore, the selection committee members who evaluate the startups continue to provide hands-on support to foster growth. For companies that committee members are particularly passionate about, they provide ongoing personal support, including advice on business plans and access to growth opportunities—a truly dedicated "fan-like" support system.
2. Discovery & Nurturing
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
Operating like a sports league, it provides a venue for positive competition where startups learn from and challenge one another to secure necessary funding (up to 20 million yen). It also offers a "co-creation" space where league members can collaborate and expand their businesses through sessions with selection committee members.
4. Communication
Promotes the initiatives of league members in collaboration with the media. By increasing public awareness of these businesses, the program aims to create new matching opportunities and expand horizons for the startups.
■ Related Websites
ICT Startup League
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Bashow Inc. (Official Site)
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Bashow Inc. (LEAGUE MEMBER)
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Our Vision for the Future (note)
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Original Press Release
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