The latest developments in photonics-electronics convergence, humanoid robots and quantum computers are excerpted as key topics from Nikkei's book Q&A: Understanding the News in the Japanese Economy — 2027 Edition. The current status and future areas of focus for the three technologies are explained.
Photonics-electronics convergence, humanoid robots and quantum computers are featured as the three advanced technologies expected to follow generative AI. The article is presented as the second installment, themed “Advanced Technologies,” excerpted and reconstructed from an explanatory book published by Nikkei Inc. It focuses on the realities and challenges of technologies considered close to practical application, as well as the importance of combining them with AI.
Photonics-electronics convergence has attracted attention as a technology that replaces electrical processing with optical processing to reduce energy consumption in AI data processing. The article details moves by US chipmaker Nvidia to invest heavily in related companies and to gain control of supply chains. It also introduces Japan's efforts, including NTT's IOWN concept and the establishment of an international organization to promote it.
Japan is said to be at risk of falling behind amid intense US-China competition in humanoid robot development. The article outlines progress toward demonstrations and practical use, including the Humanoid Summit and country-by-country comparisons of shipments, and contrasts past efforts by Japanese companies such as ASIMO with current developments.
Quantum computers are reported as a technology capable of increasing speed while maintaining computational accuracy, with applications expected in drug discovery and materials development. At the same time, challenges including error correction and large-scale hardware are highlighted. The article also expresses the view that deep-tech research and development requires a long-term perspective.