Fujitsu and leading Japanese robotics companies to use Nvidia technology in 'physical AI'

Fujitsu has announced a physical-AI initiative with Nvidia and three leading Japanese industrial-robot manufacturers: Fanuc, Yaskawa Electric, and Kawasaki Heavy Industries. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and Fujitsu CEO Takahito Tokita unveiled the effort in Tokyo alongside the robotics companies’ chief executives.

Physical AI describes robots designed to reason and operate more independently than machines that merely execute programmed instructions. The companies envision systems that can work safely near people in factories, homes, and hospitals. They said the technology could help respond to Japan’s severe labor shortage and support elderly people living alone as the country ages.

The announcement expands on an Nvidia-Fujitsu agreement disclosed last year. The participants said the collaboration’s first phase is planned for later in 2026, but did not provide a timetable for robots to reach everyday use. They also said no decision had been made to establish a joint venture, though one could be considered later.

Huang argued that Japan’s emphasis on manufacturing quality and precision suits physical AI, since independently moving robots may present safety risks. He pointed to the Japanese manufacturing principle of kaizen, or continuous improvement.

Japan has said it trails China and the United States in AI and seeks to catch up. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s government recently announced a plan to generate more than 370 trillion yen in public and private investment by 2040, covering areas including physical AI, semiconductors, and data centers. Nvidia has also pursued Japanese partnerships with banks, Toyota, Sega, and Riken.