The video explores the unique characteristics of Japanese web design, which contrasts with the minimalist trend prevalent elsewhere. Initially unsure if the differences still existed, the creator used AI analysis of global websites and found that Japanese sites indeed tend to be more colorful and dense. The investigation revealed that this distinct style is not due to language or culture but rather Japan's early adoption of mobile-friendly design, which diverged from Western practices due to Japan's advanced mobile technology at the time. The video concludes by reflecting on how web design influences our perception and interaction with information online.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The author researched the differences in web design between Japan and other countries.
2. The author used an AI to analyze 2,671 screenshots of websites across 200 countries.
3. The AI organized the screenshots into a clump, with Japan's websites forming a distinct group.
4. Japanese websites tend to be brightly colored and dense, with a lot of content.
5. The author tested three possible explanations for Japan's unique web design: characters, culture, and technology.
6. The author found that the use of CJK characters (Chinese, Japanese, and Korean writing systems) did not explain Japan's unique web design.
7. The author found that cultural differences did not explain Japan's unique web design.
8. The author found that technological differences, specifically the early adoption of smartphones in Japan, explained Japan's unique web design.
9. Japanese smartphones were ahead of the rest of the world in terms of features and functionality.
10. Japanese web designers did not need to adapt to mobile-friendly design when the Western web did, because Japanese people were already using advanced smartphones.
11. The author concludes that Japan's relationship with technology, specifically outdated technology, is the main reason why Japanese internet looks different.
12. The author notes that the internet's infrastructure shapes the way we consume information.
13. The author reflects on how current web technologies, such as infinite scrolling and algorithmically selected content, can impact us.