February 17, 2026 is the 20th anniversary of the Vocaloid KAITO. To celebrate the event, Crypton Future Media opened a special webpage where you can look back on KAITO’s history or see what’s on the horizon for him. Hints at different types of merchandise tied to him, such as SuperGroupies accessories, a Nendoroid, and themed drinks also appeared.
KAITO came out in February 2006 for the first Vocaloid engine, with Yamaha Corporation originally developing him. He is notable for being the first Japanese male vocal released, though he initially suffered from poor sales. It’s likely due to Crypton only marketing him (and MEIKO) in DTM, which had a high male reader base. As more producers began using him in songs and showcasing what he can do, his popularity grew.
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of KAITO, many companies are releasing KAITO-related merchandise. SuperGroupies announced that it’s preparing some special collaboration items that’ll appear in Summer 2026. A Cantarella version of him will appear as a Nendoroid, and pre-orders are open until March 18, 2026. Kuroe LLC will release a KAITO botanical drink and gin, complete with themed bottles, with them shipping out in mid-April 2026.
Singer Naoto Fuga provided the voice samples for KAITO. Popular Vocaloid songs that originally feature KAITO include “Cantarella,” “Snowman,” and “Shanti.”
Here’s “Cantarella,” as an example of what to expect from him.
The special Piapro website for the KAITO 20th anniversary will announce more collaborations and commemorative songs.