Smart Glasses 'SABERA' and Palabra Launch Joint Demonstration to Display Subtitles for Hearing-Impaired Theatergoers

jig.jp (Headquarters: Sabae, Fukui; TSE Growth: 5244; CEO: Masaru Kawamata) and Palabra (Headquarters: Shinjuku, Tokyo; CEO: Shoko Yamagami), a company specializing in accessibility support for arts and culture, have announced the start of a joint development and demonstration project using the next-generation smart glasses (AR glasses) 'SABERA' to support barrier-free theater and movie viewing for the hearing impaired.

Overview: This initiative aims to provide a more natural viewing experience by displaying necessary subtitle information directly on the lenses of the 'SABERA' glasses, rather than on external devices like tablets, eliminating the need for significant eye movement.

Background and Purpose: Currently, barrier-free environments in theaters and cinemas often rely on handheld devices to display subtitles. By using 'SABERA' to project subtitles directly into the user's field of view, this project aims to provide a more intuitive and immersive experience. By combining existing expertise with the latest technology, the companies aim to expand options for a more comfortable and enriched viewing experience. 'SABERA' is designed for lightweight, daily use, making it highly compatible with theater viewing. By combining Palabra's extensive experience in subtitle and audio guide production with jig.jp's technology, the companies are launching this demonstration to realize an environment where hearing-impaired individuals can enjoy performances more comfortably.

Initial Demonstration: As the first step, a demonstration was conducted at the Saitama Arts Theater during the performance of the Saitama Shakespeare Series 2nd Vol.3 'King Lear,' utilizing Palabra's real-time subtitle system 'UDCast LIVE' with a 'SABERA' prototype. The test verified an environment where subtitles were displayed on the glasses, allowing users to focus on the stage without looking down at a device. The results showed promise in terms of natural eye movement and immersion, and the companies will continue to refine the system for practical use.

Testimonials: - Participant A: "It was a fresh experience, like a child seeing a play for the first time. I could focus on the acting and the performers' faces without any distractions." - Participant B: "Previous subtitle tablets required looking back and forth, causing neck and eye fatigue. These glasses allow me to focus on the performance without moving my eyes much. They are surprisingly light and comfortable."

Comments from Leadership: Masaru Kawamata (CEO, jig.jp): "We are pleased to contribute to an environment where everyone can enjoy entertainment by collaborating with Palabra. We will continue to reflect user feedback to shape a richer experience." Shoko Yamagami (CEO, Palabra): "Celebrating the 10th anniversary of UDCast, I am confident that our collaboration with jig.jp's 'SABERA' will expand the possibilities of subtitles, evolving support from 'special assistance' to a 'freely selectable option.'"

Future Outlook: Moving forward, the companies plan to expand demonstrations in actual cinemas and theaters, aiming to integrate with 'UDCast MOVIE' and 'UDCast LIVE' systems to provide new viewing options.