[AI Innovators Forum 2026 Report] How will physical AI reshape industry? Professor Tetsuya Ogata (尾形 哲也) of Waseda University and Lower House member Daishiro Yamagiwa (山際 大志郎), chair of the Diet Robot Federation, discuss Japan’s path to success

At AI Innovators Forum 2026, hosted by ExaWizards Inc., the top-leader session in Hall A, “How Will Physical AI Reshape Industry?”, was held. Tetsuya Ogata (尾形 哲也) of Waseda University and Daishiro Yamagiwa (山際 大志郎), a Lower House member and chair of the Diet Robot Federation, spoke at the session, moderated by Tsuruyoshi Yukawa (湯川 鶴章). With more than 4,000 applicants and a hybrid format across 3 venues, the discussion continued for 40 minutes.

Ogata explained the current state and evolution of physical AI, noting that robots’ physical capabilities are improving rapidly. He described a new design in which generative AI directly learns robot movements, unlike conventional AI-based control, referring to it as “robots using AI,” and explained approaches including VLA models and world models.

Regarding why the government is betting on physical AI, Yamagiwa emphasized the importance of robots combining intelligence and physical capabilities, citing Japan’s accumulated expertise and philosophy. He identified the reliability of components and the strength of Japan’s domestic automotive industry as advantages that could differentiate the country in international markets.

As Japan’s path to success, Ogata cited experience and cultural philosophy, expressing the view that Japan’s perspective on humanoid robots, exemplified by Doraemon, could be a differentiating factor overseas. Regarding comparison with China, he said Japan should seek to balance quality with quantity.

The speakers also discussed investment in foundation models and the government’s support policies. Combining hardware and applications was identified as Japan’s path to success. The government has decided to invest in foundation models, organized 18 areas of opportunity in its robot strategy, and indicated that it would consider measures including support for initial demand and the development of security standards.