Nvidia announced a partnership with major Japanese firms, including Fanuc and Yaskawa Electric, to accelerate advancements in AI-driven robotics. Speaking at a Tokyo event, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang emphasized that AI will make robots smarter, more adaptable, and more accessible, noting that Japan currently lacks a strong presence in this emerging “physical AI” space. Highlighting this push, Noetra—a government-backed enterprise funded partly by Sony—announced plans to purchase 27,500 of Nvidia’s next-generation Rubin chips to develop physical AI systems. Noetra intends to begin constructing its operational facilities in April 2027, with a target launch date of June 2028.
Huang’s visit drew significant public and industry attention in Japan, a country that maintains a dominant position in specialized semiconductor materials and manufacturing equipment despite its shrinking share of global chip production since the 1980s. During his trip, Huang met with top executives from key supply chain partners, including the CEOs of Tokyo Electron and Kioxia, and attended an event hosted by gaming company Sega Sammy in Akihabara. His high-profile appearances and interactive gestures with media and onlookers generated substantial public excitement, drawing praise from attendees who viewed him as one of the tech sector’s most influential leaders.
The partnership comes amid a broader surge in global AI infrastructure investments. European chip equipment manufacturer ASML recently raised its sales projections and pledged to expand its capacity, while TSMC, the world’s largest contract chip manufacturer, reported record profits and increased its capital expenditure forecast. Concluding his visit at a government-sponsored AI conference, Huang shared a lighthearted moment with Japan’s Industry Minister, Ryosei Akazawa, who wore a matching leather jacket in a nod to the CEO’s signature style.
Click here for more on Technology
