News On Japan

How Japan’s largest AI unicorn is shaping the future of deep learning

Mar 26 (CNBC International) - Widely considered Japan's leading artificial intelligence startup, Preferred Networks is on a mission to tackle "real-world" challenges through deep learning.

Founded in 2014, the company has embarked on several joint projects, ranging from autonomous driving to cutting-edge semiconductors.

By attracting major investors like Toyota, Preferred Networks has grown into Japan's largest unicorn, a private company valued at over $1 billion.

"We are trying to create a lot of new value in the world by focusing on computers and computer science, which we love," CEO Toru Nishikawa told CNBC's Christine Tan in the latest episode of Managing Asia.

"Our vision is to make the world a better place by making the latest technology available in the shortest possible time," Nishikawa added.

One of Preferred Networks' most ambitious projects to date is the development of AI-powered autonomous trucks, which aim to address Japan's declining and aging workforce in the trucking industry.

News On Japan
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At least 24 mountain climbing accidents have occurred in Nagano Prefecture since the start of the Golden Week holidays in late April, resulting in four fatalities.

Head lice, small parasitic insects that feed on blood from the scalp, are once again spreading among children in Japan as physical contact increases following the COVID-19 pandemic. In Sapporo, where outbreaks have been reported in schools, local officials are urging caution.

A wooden church in Kasamatsu, Gifu Prefecture collapsed on Saturday evening, after years of delayed demolition plans due to financial constraints.

Reporters Without Borders has released its 2025 World Press Freedom Index, ranking Japan 66th out of 180 countries and regions surveyed, just behind Timor-Leste (65th) and Fiji (64th).

The Trump administration has imposed a 25% additional tariff on imported auto parts, including engines and transmissions, with the measure taking effect at 1:01 p.m. Japan time on May 3rd.

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