As physical AI, in which AI gains a physical body and begins operating in the real world, takes the lead in China, Japan is seeking opportunities by leveraging robots' physical bodies and real-world data. Nikkei Business reviews the latest developments.
An overview of the current state of physical AI highlights how Chinese companies are leading the technology and market. While efforts to incorporate AI into physical bodies and operate it in the field are gaining momentum, Japanese companies are working to close the gap by developing robots' physical bodies and leveraging real-world data.
The first installment of a new Nikkei Business series has published a ranking comparing patent-filing capabilities in physical AI, pointing out that Chinese companies occupy the top positions. Another analysis indicates that sales in China's humanoid market are surging against a backdrop of government support.
As for technological developments among US companies, collaboration between Nvidia and Japanese companies is progressing, and developments involving FRONTia, including the development of Japanese-developed foundation models, have been reported. Meanwhile, Japanese companies are considering strategies to strengthen domestic foundations for physical bodies and data.
Specific examples include FANUC and Yaskawa Electric advancing collaborations and strategies in physical AI, while Hitachi and Kawasaki Heavy Industries are also seeking to expand in the field through data utilization and fundraising. The automation of construction equipment and overseas expansion by robotics companies are also progressing, with the focus on how to enhance Japan's competitiveness.