A discussion of the current state and outlook for Japan's semiconductor and memory sectors, covering the spread of physical AI and developments in advanced memory technology. NVIDIA's new AI server concept and Vera Rubin's performance gains are also discussed.
The program discussed the vision for physical AI outlined by NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang and the expansion of the AI industry, with the view expressed that computing resources will continue to be expanded on both the data-center and robotics sides. It was also said that the emergence of Vera Rubin, which is expected to deliver a 230-fold performance improvement, and coordinated investment by multiple companies to make this possible will be key going forward.
In the memory field, the program explained the differing roles of D-RAM and NAND, attempts to repurpose D-RAM for AI, and the existence of specialized memory referred to as “memory processors.” The discussion centered on the progress of HBM4 development and consideration of HBF, a new technology beyond HBM.
Regarding the position of Japanese companies, it was noted that they maintain a share of memory in the “reactive materials” field and that Sony has strong technology in new-material image sensors. A shared view was that efforts in physical AI are being strengthened through cooperation with TSMC and US companies.
Concern was also expressed about developments among Chinese companies, with the view stated that they may imitate and compete with memory-processor-like technology using an extraction-like approach. The discussion concluded with the opinion that the international competitive environment surrounding memory and Japan's response will be the focus going forward.