Electronic Comics Day
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What Is Electronic Comics Day?
August 16th is "Electronic Comics Day" in Japan, established in 2014 by NTT Solmare Corporation, operator of the digital comics store "Comic Seymour." The day aims to energize Japan through the power of electronic comics.
Marking 10 Years Since the Service Began
The date behind this anniversary looks back on the origins of digital comics culture in Japan.
- The date's origin: tied to August 16, 2004, the day "Comic i," the predecessor site to "Comic Seymour," launched its service
- How it came about: established in 2014 to mark the 10th anniversary of that service launch
- Its purpose: to spread the appeal of electronic comics, easily readable on a smartphone or tablet, and energize Japan through reading
- Registration: recognized and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association in August 2014
Born in the Flip-Phone Era
"Comic i" began as a service for NTT docomo's i-mode mobile phones. In May 2005, "Comic Seymour" launched for au phones, and in May 2010 the two services were unified under the name "Comic Seymour" -- a name said to carry the wish to enjoy comics "more." Before smartphones, manga spread on the small screens of mobile phones, read one panel at a time.
From Paper to Screen: A New Way of Reading Manga
Electronic comics have spread rapidly in recent years thanks to the convenience of reading anywhere, plus the ability to catch up on the latest chapters of serialized titles without waiting for a print volume. They now offer readers a distinct experience alongside traditional paper comics.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Start reading a title you've had your eye on as an electronic comic
- Check for sales or campaigns at digital comics stores
- Compare the merits of print volumes versus digital editions
- Learn about the background and history behind the rise of electronic comics
A Reading Experience That Fits in Your Pocket, Anytime and Anywhere
Electronic comics have delivered a new form of reading, letting you step into a story's world anytime, anywhere, with just a smartphone. Let August 16th be a chance to open up a favorite title as an electronic comic.