SoftBank accelerates its net-zero journey with AI-powered base station sleep control saving 5 million kWh annually and hybrid solar-wind self-powered stations. Learn how Japan's telecom giant is revolutionizing green infrastructure.
Japanese researchers from RIKEN, Nippon Medical School, and Tohoku University developed a breakthrough AI method for cancer prognosis prediction. By incorporating medical knowledge through "intermediate reasoning scores," the system overcomes the dual challenges of institutional and specimen variations, achieving consistent predictions across different hospitals.
Japan unveils groundbreaking automated rare metal recovery system developed over 30 years by AIST's Dr. Tatsuya Oki. Combining AI detection with air-based sorting technology, this world-first facility in Osaka began testing in September 2025. The system automatically extracts up to 10 types of rare metals from six categories of small electronics including smartphones and tablets, targeting commercial operation by 2028. Learn how this innovation could transform Japan's resource security and reduce dependence on Chinese imports.
Sumitomo Bakelite acquires Kyocera's semiconductor chemical business for ¥30 billion, targeting AI data center market growth. The world's leading semiconductor encapsulant manufacturer strengthens its portfolio with epoxy molding compounds and bonding pastes amid explosive memory demand.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have developed an AI system that automatically detects whip sounds in horse racing. Using 192kHz high-fidelity audio and deep learning, the technology achieves 70% accuracy with potential for real-time detection—advancing race fairness and animal welfare.
Even TSMC's record 9 trillion yen investment can't meet AI chip demand. Amid supply shortages, Japan's Rapidus challenges 2nm mass production. We analyze Japan's semiconductor comeback potential through short TAT strategy and economic security perspectives.
Sharp's iconic Sakai LCD factory, once the symbol of "LCD Sharp," is being transformed into one of Asia's largest AI data centers by KDDI and SoftBank. By repurposing the massive power and cooling infrastructure from the ¥430 billion facility, they brought a cutting-edge AI hub online in under a year, a powerful symbol of Japan's industrial transformation in the AI era.
SETI researchers propose revolutionary communication protocols using AI and large language models for extraterrestrial contact. Learn how humanity's first interstellar conversation could happen through AI ambassadors carrying our knowledge across the cosmos.
A comprehensive guide to next-gen AI chips announced at CES 2026: NVIDIA's Vera Rubin, AMD's Instinct MI500/Ryzen AI 400, and Intel's Core Ultra 300 Panther Lake. Compare performance specs and understand how the AI semiconductor battle is reshaping data centers and consumer PCs.
The Duolingo English Test introduces "Ear Scan" technology that uses machine learning to detect hidden wireless earbuds and audio devices, helping keep online testing fair for university admissions worldwide.
Kyushu Electric's CEO predicts 20-30% power demand increase by 2034 due to TSMC semiconductor expansion and AI data center growth. Japan's 7th Basic Energy Plan emphasizes renewables and nuclear power to meet surging electricity needs.
According to the latest forecast by SEAJ (Semiconductor Equipment Association of Japan), sales of Japanese-made semiconductor manufacturing equipment are projected to reach ¥5.5 trillion in FY2026, up 12% YoY, exceeding ¥5 trillion for the first time in history. Expanding investment in advanced AI semiconductors is driving growth, with Japanese companies like Tokyo Electron expected to gain global market share.
Author Ken Honda cites a ghostwriter charging 50,000 yen, about $350, per letter. Actual Japanese market rates run 1,000 to 5,500 yen, an order of magnitude lower. So what does it say that the price can be argued for at all in the AI era?
JTB Research Institute's 2025 survey reveals 70% of travelers book via smartphone, with generative AI usage surging from 9.7% to 28.8%. Discover how technology is reshaping Japan's travel landscape, from AI trip planning to e-sports tourism.
Japan's Fair Trade Commission launches investigation into unauthorized use of news articles by AI search services. Major newspapers sue Perplexity for copyright infringement. Analysis of antitrust concerns and market dominance issues in generative AI industry.
Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry allocates approximately 300 billion yen for generative AI in its 2026 budget proposal. Supporting domestic AI development with 1 trillion yen over 5 years in partnership with private companies like SoftBank. Also advancing next-generation nuclear reactor development to strengthen Japan's industrial competitiveness.
On December 22, 2025, Japan's Ministry of Education proposed incorporating AI and data science fundamentals into mandatory high school subject "Mathematics I." Starting 2032, all students regardless of major will learn these skills. Emphasizing real-world connections through "Mathematics for Understanding Society," accelerating digital talent development. Includes reactions from educators and global trends.
As generative AI drives data center construction boom, Japan faces severe power supply constraints. Peak power demand from new data centers and chip plants is projected to grow about 13-fold by fiscal 2034. GPU servers consume 10x more power than conventional systems, requiring massive cooling energy. Exploring Japan's infrastructure challenges and solutions.
Philosophy-related skills on LinkedIn increased 6x in 5 years. Learn why global giants like Google and Apple hire in-house philosophers and their crucial role in AI ethics, governance, and corporate compliance in the modern business landscape.
Japan's ¥3 trillion ($20 billion) public-private push for domestic AI is underway. Noetra, a new company founded by SoftBank, NEC, Sony Group, and Honda, has been selected for ¥387.3 billion in government support for fiscal 2026. A look at Japan's bid to build a 1-trillion-parameter foundation model and physical AI.