Personalizing mobile phones with keitai straps | Yes, our cell/mobile phones are now fashion statements, and after replaceable fronts and funny ring tones, it is time for the keitai strap (Japanese for cell phone strap).
A massive success in Japan for a while now, equally mobile-phone-crazy Europe could be next. Adorn your phone with 1 euro bead-straps or super-deluxe 100 euro Prada and Gucci hangers, and the world will not only hear but also see what you’re about.
Sure, some of the real Strap Fanatics have turned their phones into cellular Christmas trees, transforming their ultra light phones to early-90’s heavy bricks, but it’s all about standing out in the crowd.
Opportunities
This could make creative entrepreneurs, from mass-manufacturers to independent jewelry makers, some serious money outside Japan. It’s a great opportunity for those who still feel bitter that they missed out on the ring tone bonanza or SMS explosion. Investments are low, though a weekend trip to Tokyo would be a good start. Only hurdle: not all phones have the small built-in hook to attach the straps to. Which is why one seller of straps, Strapya, is now selling adhesive strap-stickers.
I am looking for manufactures of cell phone straps, charms etc. Please email me if you know of any.
Thanks,
Dominique*
I sell hand-made keitai straps, specializing in Meccha-Kawaii and Chinese Traditional, as well as Bohemian and Soho styles.
If you want information like pricing (Almost all are under 5USD) and pictures about styles and such, just email me (soteniliene at gmail.com) without the spaces.