Hey there, tech enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into an exciting development in the world of artificial intelligence.

SoftBank is making significant strides in its bid to strengthen its AI operations in Japan, confirming its recent acquisition of an old Sharp plant for a whopping $676 million.

This facility, previously dedicated to producing LCD panels, will be transformed into a cutting-edge artificial intelligence data center. This move is crucial for SoftBank as it positions itself at the forefront of the ongoing AI revolution.

By acquiring both the land and the structures of the Sharp Sakai Plant in Osaka, SoftBank is setting the stage for major advancements in AI technology. It recognizes that robust data center capabilities are essential for training models and hosting various AI services.

In a recent discussion, a SoftBank representative hinted at the company’s partnership with OpenAI to leverage this new data center for deploying more advanced AI applications, known as “Cristal Intelligence,” across Japan.

OpenAI reportedly plans to utilize this facility to introduce its foundational AI models to the Japanese market, utilizing powerful GPUs for model development.

The joint venture, SB OpenAI Japan, will focus on training AI models using data collected from client interactions, ultimately offering customized AI solutions tailored to specific needs.

SoftBank’s commitment to this initiative underscores its determination to expand its partnership with OpenAI, further bolstered by previous collaborations aimed at developing multiple AI data centers in the U.S.

Moreover, SoftBank isn’t just about this acquisition; it is also rumored to be considering a massive investment of up to $25 billion in OpenAI, showcasing its unwavering confidence in the future of AI technology.

The plan is to have this data center operational by 2026. It is projected to initially utilize about 150 megawatts of power capacity, which will later be scaled up to over 240 megawatts.

This Sakai facility marks SoftBank’s third data center, complementing its existing sites in Tokyo and a new one under construction in Hokkaido. It’s all systems go for SoftBank as they embrace the future of AI!