What happened
Interest in physical AI is growing among Japanese companies, which see it as a next growth area amid expected technological progress and market expansion.
Many of these firms remain unsure about what exactly to develop and where the business opportunities lie.
Akira Yamauchi, president and CEO of IP Landscape, discussed his reasons for focusing on physical AI and the opportunities it presents in an interview with Nikkei CrossTech.
His analysis was based on patents held by leading companies worldwide.
Why it matters
The read suggests that Japan's existing strength in industrial robotics could serve as a foundation for competing in physical AI, rather than starting from scratch.
For companies weighing entry into the field, patent-based analysis may help clarify where incumbents are already active and where openings might remain.
The uncertainty described among Japanese firms indicates that strategic direction, not just technical capability, could shape how much of the market they capture.
Key facts
Physical AI is expected to see technological progress and market expansion.
A growing number of Japanese companies view physical AI as a next growth field.
Many companies are unsure what to develop and where the business chances are.
The analysis was based on patents from leading global companies.
Akira Yamauchi is president and CEO of IP Landscape.
The interview was conducted by Nikkei CrossTech.
What to watch next
How Japanese industrial robot companies translate their existing position into physical AI products and partnerships.
Whether patent landscapes like the one discussed become a common tool for firms deciding where to invest in the field.
Whether the companies currently unsure about their strategy settle on concrete development targets as the market matures.