Japan plans homegrown AI model and 10 million robots by 2040

Japan plans to develop a homegrown artificial intelligence model and deploy 10 million AI-equipped robots across more than a dozen sectors by 2040, the government said. The country will reportedly invest around $6 billion in the model, which will be developed by Noetra, a consortium that includes SoftBank and Sony.

Media reports said the government would provide up to 1 trillion yen over the next five years, depending on results.

Expanded sectors and physical AI focus The number of companies investing in Noetra is expected to reach 44, covering automotive, electronics, manufacturing, finance and logistics, the Nikkei business daily reported. Officials also released a revised AI robotics strategy on Tuesday.

The strategy targets physical AI applications such as self-driving cars, factory robots and service androids. It adds the restaurant, food manufacturing and medical sectors to reach a total of 18 fields.

Workforce and investment context Industry minister Ryosei Akazawa told reporters the goal is to promote social implementation of the technology. He said the government will build data infrastructure that uses Japan’s strengths in physical AI and robotics.

Last month officials announced a 14-year growth strategy that includes public and private investment of 370 trillion yen across 17 sectors, among them physical AI, chips, quantum technology and nuclear fusion. South Korea this week announced record public-private investments in AI data centers and chipmaking.