SoftBank Corp. and the University of Tokyo have agreed to open artificial-intelligence centers staffed with specialists from the university and around the world, to swiftly turn research into profitable business ventures so Japan can keep up with the U.S. and China.
"If they are stuck with research ... their funds and passions will drain away," SoftBank Group CEO Masayoshi Son said at an event announcing the joint project at the prestigious university.
"By teaming with the University of Tokyo, we want to give students a chance to learn and start a business," said Son, who has stressed the importance of AI for years.