WOWOW and NTT Docomo to launch new joint venture Lemino

WOWOW and NTT Docomo have announced the establishment of a new company, ‘WOWOW Lemino’, scheduled to launch on October 1, 2026. This move follows a capital and business alliance aimed at expanding the content offerings of the ‘Lemino’ entertainment streaming service.

The new entity will be owned 51% by WOWOW and 49% by NTT Docomo. The partnership intends to combine WOWOW’s expertise in content production and procurement with NTT Docomo’s extensive subscriber base and distribution assets. The service will maintain its current name, ‘Lemino’, and a monthly fee of 1,540 yen. Key content areas for expansion include music, sports, and domestic dramas, with a goal of reaching 5 million paid subscribers.

In conjunction with its content strategy, Lemino will also host live streaming events, such as the Sakurazaka46 ‘15th Single BACKS LIVE!!’ scheduled for late September 2026, which will include a graduation ceremony for member Kira Masumoto.