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Japan urgently needs an AI vibe shift
Japan, once a pioneer in AI and neural network research, is now lagging in the technology's development and adoption compared to the U.S. and China. Despite Japan's high-tech reputation, it has produced no foundation models from 2019 to 2023, unlike the U.S. (182) and China (30). Recent gains have occurred but remain limited in scope.
Key points
- Japanese scientists were early pioneers in AI and neural networks.
- Japan helped lay the groundwork for current global AI advancements.
- Currently, Japan lags behind the U.S. and China in AI development and adoption.
- Between 2019 and 2023, Japan produced no foundation models, whereas the U.S. produced 182 and China 30.
- Recent efforts in Japan's AI sector show limited gains but have not matched global competitors.
Why it matters
- The current tech landscape showcases AI developments primarily from the U.S. and China, especially as they lead in foundational models.
- The need for an AI innovation shift in Japan mirrors global trends in the digital economy emphasizing competition in AI technology as a vital economic driver.
- By 2025, the AI market is expected to grow significantly, increasing the urgency for Japan to enhance its position in this space.
Japan must leverage its historical strengths in AI to revitalize its position in the global technology landscape or risk falling further behind in the rapidly evolving AI market.