U.S. technology giant Nvidia and Japanese telecommunications and computer manufacturer Fujitsu have announced a significant collaboration focused on advancing artificial intelligence. The agreement, forged in Tokyo, aims to develop smart robots and a wide array of other innovations, fundamentally powered by Nvidia’s advanced computer chips.

Jensen Huang, Nvidia’s Chief Executive, highlighted the urgency and potential of this partnership, stating, “The AI industrial revolution has already begun. Building the infrastructure to power it is essential in Japan and around the world.” He further expressed his belief that “Japan can lead the world in AI and robotics,” underscoring the strategic importance of this alliance. Takahito Tokita, Fujitsu’s counterpart, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing a “humancentric” approach aimed at bolstering Japan’s global competitiveness and addressing critical social issues.

The core of this collaboration involves constructing what the companies term “an AI infrastructure.” This foundational system will underpin various futuristic AI applications across diverse sectors including health care, manufacturing, environmental sustainability, next-generation computing, and customer services. The ambitious goal is to establish this comprehensive AI infrastructure for Japan by 2030. Initially, the system will be meticulously tailored for the Japanese market, capitalizing on Fujitsu’s extensive, decades-long experience within the country. However, there is a clear intention for potential global expansion in the future. The infrastructure will heavily leverage Nvidia’s Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), which are indispensable for modern AI computations.

While specific project details and financial investments were not disclosed, the companies did offer a glimpse into potential applications. One notable example cited was exploring a collaboration in AI for robots with Yaskawa Electric Corp., a prominent Japanese machinery and robot maker. The executives underscored that AI is a constantly evolving and learning field, indicating a dynamic and continuous development process.

This new agreement builds upon existing joint efforts between Fujitsu and Nvidia, which have already seen them working together on AI initiatives. These prior collaborations include speeding up manufacturing processes through the implementation of digital twins and robotics, a strategic response to Japan’s pressing labor shortages. Through this enhanced partnership, Fujitsu and Nvidia aim to create unprecedented technologies and contribute significantly to resolving serious societal challenges.