Post by : Badri Ariffin

Japan is set to embark on a bold initiative to roll out approximately 10 million AI-driven robots by 2040, as part of its vision for developing a national artificial intelligence model.

The government has earmarked around $6 billion for this project, which will be steered by the consortium Noetra, encompassing industry giants like SoftBank and Sony.

Commitment to Homegrown AI Solutions

Reports indicate that the government could inject up to one trillion yen (nearly $6.1 billion) over the next five years, contingent on the project's milestones and outcomes.

This initiative aligns with global trends, as various nations aim to develop independent AI technologies, reducing reliance on solutions sourced from the United States and China while bolstering local tech capabilities.

Noetra Consortium Expanding

The Nikkei business daily projects an increase in the number of companies in the Noetra consortium to 44, with participants hailing from sectors including automotive, electronics, manufacturing, finance, and logistics.

Such collaborations are envisioned to expedite Japan's AI evolution while fostering innovation in crucial industries.

Emphasis on Physical AI Integration

The focus of Noetra will largely be on physical AI, which integrates artificial intelligence into tangible settings beyond merely software-driven environments.

Physical AI encompasses technologies like:

• Autonomous vehicles
• Industrial automation robots
• Service robots
• AI technology for daily-life applications

Additionally, the Japanese government has revised its strategy for AI and robotics to bolster these efforts.

Target of 10 Million Robots Across Diverse Sectors

During a press conference, Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa highlighted that the refreshed strategy sets a goal of deploying around 10 million robots by 2040.

This expanded plan now covers the restaurant, food manufacturing, and medical sectors, increasing the total targeted industries to 18. Minister Akazawa remarked, "This strategy establishes a goal for approximately 10 million robots by 2040, enhancing implementation in a total of 18 fields."

He also emphasized the commitment to enhancing data infrastructure for physical AI, leveraging Japan's strengths.

Supporting an Ageing Workforce with Robots

With an ageing population, Japan is strategically looking to AI-oriented robots to mitigate workforce shortages across numerous sectors.

AI Strategy as Part of a Comprehensive Economic Plan

Last month, Japan rolled out a 14-year national growth strategy, targeting a total of 370 trillion yen (around $2.3 trillion) in combined public and private investments.

This investment scheme outlines priorities across 17 crucial sectors, including:

• Physical AI
• Semiconductor technology
• Quantum technology
• Nuclear fusion

South Korea Boosts AI Investment Strategies

Japan's plan comes in close succession to South Korea's announcement of substantial public and private AI investments totaling hundreds of billions over several years to enhance its AI data infrastructure and semiconductor production.

#Global News #Tech News #AI Technology #World News