Tag: Japan

  • Japan Invests $65 Billion to Boost Semiconductor Industry

    Japan Invests $65 Billion to Boost Semiconductor Industry

    Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has unveiled an impressive plan worth 10 trillion yen (approximately $65 billion) aimed at rejuvenating Japan’s semiconductor and AI sectors. This substantial investment strategy is set to be introduced to parliament and intends to boost local chip production by the year 2030.

    Focus on Rapidus and AI Chips

    A key element of this initiative is the Rapidus project, which is Japan’s emerging chip manufacturing endeavor, alongside other firms focused on AI semiconductors. Rapidus commenced in 2022 with support from the government and eight leading companies, targeting mass production of 2-nanometer chips by 2027 in Hokkaido. To achieve this goal, they have formed partnerships with IBM and the Belgian research organization Imec.

    Economic Expectations

    The government anticipates a considerable economic effect, aspiring to generate around 160 trillion yen (close to $1 trillion) in financial benefits. They foresee approximately 50 trillion yen ($322 million) in total investment from both public and private sectors for semiconductor advancement over the next decade.

    Funding without Bonds

    Interestingly, Ishiba has noted that they won’t be utilizing deficit-covering bonds for financing this project. While he didn’t elaborate on the sources of funding, it’s evident that this marks a significant rise from Japan’s previous 2 trillion yen ($12.9 billion) investment in its semiconductor industry, highlighting the country’s commitment to regaining a prominent position in the global chip market.

    This initiative arrives as nations worldwide are working to strengthen their supply chains in response to recent market challenges and ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China. The entire economic package, which includes these semiconductor initiatives, is scheduled for cabinet approval on November 22. This is Japan’s most daring strategy in years to reclaim its status as a frontrunner in advanced chip manufacturing, reminiscent of its past dominance during the 1980s and 1990s.

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  • Ubisoft Announces Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, Release on Nov 15

    Ubisoft Announces Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, Release on Nov 15

    Ubisoft has revealed that Assassin’s Creed: Shadows will be released on November 15, 2024. Gamers can look forward to playing it on various platforms, such as Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Apple Silicon Macs.

    Setting and Customization

    Set in Japan, the game allows players to customize numerous elements. The official PlayStation Weibo account dropped the world premiere trailer, showcasing a gripping historical adventure in Japan. Players will take on the roles of two unique characters – a lethal ninja assassin and a formidable warrior – who must unite for a shared destiny. The game features a mix of action and stealth, offering players the chance to master various combat techniques, personalize their ninja hideout, and influence historical events.

    Open World and Technical Enhancements

    Ubisoft touts a vast open world brimming with life. The game promises diverse landscapes that change with the seasons, including lively port cities, peaceful shrines, extensive castle towns, and picturesque countrysides. Reports indicate that the game uses an upgraded Anvil Pipeline engine, which improves animations, the parkour system, and dynamic weather effects. This engine is also speculated to support advanced visual technologies like ray tracing and global illumination.

    Base-Building Elements

    In addition to stealth and combat, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows incorporates base-building components. Players can create their own hideouts, featuring armories for storing weapons, dojos for practicing combat, churches (with an unspecified role), and other functional buildings.

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  • Gachaco Introduces Innovative Battery-Sharing Service for Electric Scooters in Japan

    Gachaco Introduces Innovative Battery-Sharing Service for Electric Scooters in Japan

    Gachaco Revolutionizes Electric Scooter Industry with Battery Sharing Service

    Japan’s Gachaco is spearheading a significant transformation in the electric scooter sector through its innovative battery sharing service. Established by industry giants Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, and Eneos, this service aims to redefine personal electric transportation in Japan.

    Battery Sharing Services for Individual Customers in Tokyo

    Gachaco has recently made a groundbreaking announcement. Starting January 9, 2024, they will provide battery sharing services to individual customers in Tokyo. This move is particularly significant as Gachaco has predominantly focused on serving business clients with their battery swapping system.

    Collaboration for Market Revolution

    Currently, Gachaco’s swappable batteries are utilized in select Honda electric two- and three-wheelers. However, the scope of this initiative extends beyond a single brand. The collaborative effort between Japan’s top motorcycle manufacturers and Eneos ensures that these batteries could potentially power a variety of models, leading to a revolution in the market.

    Affordable Electric Scooters

    A standout feature of Gachaco’s service is its impact on the cost of electric scooters. For instance, by leasing the battery instead of purchasing it, the price of the Honda EM1 e-scooter dramatically decreases. This approach, combined with flexible subscription plans, makes electric scooters more accessible and affordable for a wider range of consumers.

    Overall, Gachaco’s battery sharing service is set to make a significant impact on the electric scooter industry in Japan. With its innovative approach and collaboration among industry giants, this service has the potential to redefine personal electric transportation and revolutionize the market. The launch of this service in Tokyo on January 9, 2024, marks a new era in sustainable and accessible mobility.

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  • SenseTime Introduces Yuanluobo AI Chess Robot Go Edition in Japan

    SenseTime Introduces Yuanluobo AI Chess Robot Go Edition in Japan

    SenseTime Introduces Yuanluobo AI Chess Robot to Japanese Market

    SenseTime, a leading Chinese AI company, has brought its groundbreaking "Yuanluobo AI Chess Robot" to the Japanese market. Originally launched in China in June last year, this innovative robot is specifically designed for the ancient game of Go (Weiqi) and is expected to revolutionize the way the game is played and learned in Japan.

    Bridging Tradition and AI in the World of Board Games

    Go, an ancient Chinese abstract strategy board game, lies at the heart of Yuanluobo's technology. With a history dating back over 2,500 years, Go is one of the oldest continuously played board games. The objective of the game is to surround more territory than the opponent, making it a game of strategic depth and complexity. Notably, Go gained significant attention from major tech companies when Google's AI program Alpha Go defeated a human Go world champion in 2016, marking a significant milestone in AI development. Go is classified under combinatorial game theory alongside chess, checkers, and Othello due to its deterministic strategy and perfect information.

    An Adaptive Learning Experience

    The AI Chess robot by Yuanluobo stands out for its ability to customize the initial chess skill levels and progressively unlock more challenging levels. This unique feature allows players to engage with the robot at over 20 different skill levels, offering a versatile and adaptive learning experience for Go enthusiasts of all proficiency levels.

    Embracing Cultural Significance

    The introduction of the Yuanluobo AI Chess Robot into the Japanese market is a strategic move that acknowledges the rich historical ties between China and Japan in the realm of Go. Mr. Shi Jun, Vice President of SenseTime Technology and President of the Asia-Pacific Business Group, emphasizes the cultural significance of this move, viewing it as a continuation of the long-standing cultural exchange between the two countries.

    Pricing and Availability

    Starting from January 5, 2024, the AI-powered chess robot will be available at various locations across Japan, including Go clubs, Go classrooms, Takashimaya department stores, and Amazon.

    While the pricing details for the Yuanluobo AI Go robot in Japan are currently uncertain, in China, it is available in two versions. The standard version is priced at 3,799 yuan (US$531), while the premium version, which includes a case and power bank, is priced at 4,999 yuan ($699).

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