Live streaming apps are so plentiful these days that there's already an astonishing number to choose from. From old-timers like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Periscope, to Twitch, TikTok, just to name a few. In Japan, the popular ones are Showroom, 17live, Pococha, and that's not even getting into the virtual variety.

But what most of these live-streaming apps have in common is they focus on a personality or performer actively doing something in front of the camera.

Newcomer Casty proposes a different model of entertainment: "Room-peeping"


Heya wo nozokimi Casty 部屋をのぞき見 Casty

This new mobile app and service allows users to view the entire room of the live-streamer of their choice as seen from a fixed camera position, and make comments to communicate with them.

In spite of the risque connotation suggested by heya wo nozokimi 部屋をのぞき見, which literally means "peering into rooms," the live-streamers are all willing participants. Moreover, Casty has lofty goals. According to their press release, "Casty wants to create a new level of awareness and connection between people through their service, and create a positive change in the world by sharing the private space of their rooms."


Details

  • Service time: 20:00 to 24:00 (JST) for now
  • Platform: iOS (Android and PC ver. in development)
  • Official website: Casty
  • Link to app (iOS): Casty

As explained in their online registration form, you can become a Casty live-streamer if you pass their screening, are at least 15 years old and are able to broadcast for a total of at least 6 hours a week and between 2 to 4 hours per broadcast. Also, parents of minors (and adults who are concerned about their safety) should also know that live-streamers stream at their own risk, since Casty isn't responsible for disputes between live-streamers and third parties arising from such things as live-streamers' identities or locations being discovered.


By - grape Japan editorial staff.