SoftBank Launches AI Unit in Japan with NEC, Honda Among Eight Corporate Investors

Apr 14, 2026
Nikkei Asia
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Summary

SoftBank launches a new AI unit in Japan, backed by eight major corporate investors including NEC and Honda Motor, signaling a major push to develop homegrown artificial intelligence infrastructure across the country.

Key Points

  • SoftBank has established a new unit in Japan dedicated to developing homegrown artificial intelligence.
  • Eight companies, including NEC and Honda Motor, have invested in the newly formed AI unit.
  • The move aligns with SoftBank's broader push to build AI infrastructure in Japan, including expanded data center development.

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