NVIDIA’s role in Japan’s big AI ambitions

Japan is on a mission to become a global AI powerhouse, and it’s starting with some impressive advances in AI-driven language models. Japanese technology experts are developing advanced models that grasp the unique nuances of the Japanese language and culture—essential for industries such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing – where precision is key.

But this effort isn’t Japan’s alone. Consulting giants like Accenture, Deloitte, EY Japan, FPT, Kyndryl, and TCS Japan are partnering with NVIDIA to create AI innovation hubs across the country. The centres are using NVIDIA’s AI software and specialised Japanese language models to build tailored AI solutions, helping industries boost productivity in a digital workforce. The goal? To get Japanese companies fully on board with enterprise and physical AI.

One standout technology supporting the drive is NVIDIA’s Omniverse platform. With Omniverse, Japanese companies can create digital twins—virtual replicas of real-world assets—and test complex AI systems safely before implementing them. This is a game-changer for industries such as manufacturing and robotics, allowing businesses to fine-tune processes without the risk of real-world trial and error. This use of AI is more than just innovation; it represents Japan’s plan for addressing some major challenges ahead.

Japan faces a shrinking workforce presence as its population ages. With its strengths in robotics and automation, Japan is well-positioned to use AI solutions to bridge the gap. In fact, Japan’s government recently shared its vision of becoming “the world’s most AI-friendly country,” underscoring the perceived role AI will play in the nation’s future.

Supporting this commitment, Japan’s AI market hit $5.9 billion in value this year; a 31.2% growth rate according to IDC. New AI-focused consulting centres in Tokyo and Kansai give Japanese businesses hands-on access to NVIDIA’s latest technologies, equipping them to solve social challenges and aid economic growth.

Top cloud providers like SoftBank, GMO Internet Group, KDDI, Highreso, Rutilea, and SAKURA Internet are also involved, working with NVIDIA to build AI infrastructure. Backed by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, they’re establishing AI data centres across Japan to accelerate growth in robotics, automotive, healthcare, and telecoms.

NVIDIA and SoftBank have also formed a remarkable partnership to build Japan’s most powerful AI supercomputer using NVIDIA’s Blackwell platform. Additionally, SoftBank has tested the world’s first AI and 5G hybrid telecoms network with NVIDIA’s AI Aerial platform, allowing Japan to set a worldwide standard. With these developments, Japan is taking big strides toward establishing itself as a leader in the AI-powered industrial revolution.

(Photo by Andrey Matveev)

See also: NVIDIA’s share price nosedives as antitrust clouds gather

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Tags: artificial intelligence, machine learning, Nvidia