Photo credit: www.theverge.com
SoftBank and OpenAI Forge New Path with Upcoming AI Joint Venture
In a significant move for the advancement of artificial intelligence in Japan, SoftBank is not only part of a massive $500 billion investment in Project Stargate aimed at enhancing American AI infrastructure for OpenAI, but it is also embarking on a joint venture with the tech giant. This initiative involves a commitment of $3 billion to implement OpenAI technologies across SoftBank’s various business entities, with aspirations to transform operations using a novel AI platform referred to as “Cristal Intelligence.” The announcement made by SoftBank indicates strong ambitions for AI’s role in business.
During a press event in Tokyo, SoftBank’s CEO, Masayoshi Son, expressed his belief that the arrival of artificial general intelligence (AGI) might be imminent, arriving “much earlier” than his earlier estimates of two to three years. The Wall Street Journal reported on Son’s comments, which may also reflect evolving definitions of AGI, as indicated by Sam Altman, co-founder of OpenAI.
The initiative emphasizes the potential of AI agents to streamline daily operations related to knowledge work. SoftBank conveyed how Cristal Intelligence is expected to enhance productivity within its subsidiaries. For instance, Arm, which is a significant player in chip design for AI technologies, plans to leverage the new platform to foster innovation and efficiency across its operations. Similarly, SoftBank Corp aims to implement the system to automate over 100 million workflows, anticipating increased operational efficiency and the fostering of new business avenues within its network.
Son presented Cristal Intelligence to the audience with a visual metaphor, holding a crystal ball, symbolizing foresight into the future capabilities of AI technology.
The joint venture established between SoftBank and OpenAI, named “SB OpenAI Japan,” will operate with each company holding a 50% stake. According to the press release, the collaboration will focus on exclusively marketing Cristal Intelligence to significant corporations throughout Japan, marking a pivotal development in the integration of advanced AI into business practices on a national scale.
Source
www.theverge.com