Dec 11, 2017 14:22 JST

Source: Hitachi, Ltd.

Hitachi Invests in Preferred Networks
Begins collaborative creation aimed at using deep learning and other AI technologies

TOKYO, Dec 11, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 650) and Preferred Networks, Inc. announced today that Hitachi made an investment in PFN, aimed at collaborative creation using "deep learning" and other forms of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The investment amount is approximately 500 million yen, and Hitachi received shares issued as a capital increase through a third-party allocation on November 30.

In recent years, the world has been changing dramatically due to rapid advances in digitalization; for example, as IoT (the Internet of Things) and digital technologies come to be used in a wide range of fields. In this context, in an effort to resolve social issues, Hitachi is focusing on the Social Innovation Business, which combines the OT (Operational Technology) and IT that it has accumulated up to now. Hitachi is also actively promoting the use of cutting-edge technologies such as AI and robotics in the Social Innovation Business.

PFN, meanwhile, is carrying out R&D on machine learning and deep learning since its foundation, and is also developing distributed computing and networking technologies aimed at achieving "edge-heavy computing," in which data is processed through distributed coordination of the cloud, network devices, and edge devices. It has also developed and provided "Chainer", an open source deep learning framework, driving innovations, and collaborating with various leading companies to promote the use of cutting-edge technologies in the real world.

Through this capital investment, Hitachi and PFN combine the strengths that each company has cultivated, and begin studies of collaborative creation aimed at achieving further innovations. Hitachi and PFN will strive to leverage AI technologies as part of efforts to achieve "Society 5.0," for example by applying AI technologies in edge computing, incorporating intelligence into existing systems, and developing next-generation control systems.

Outline of Preferred Networks

Founded in March 2014 with the aim of promoting business utilization of deep learning technology focused on IoT, PFN advocates Edge Heavy Computing as a way to handle the enormous amounts of data generated by devices in a distributed and collaborative manner at the edge of the network, driving innovation in various fields, with a focus on three business areas: transportation, manufacturing, and bio/healthcare. PFN develops and provides Chainer, an open source deep learning framework. PFN promotes advanced initiatives by collaborating with world leading organizations, such as Toyota Motor Corporation, FANUC CORPORATION, and the National Cancer Center. (https://www.preferred-networks.jp/en/)

Contact:
Hitachi Ltd
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-3258-1111
Source: Hitachi, Ltd.
Sectors: Cloud & Enterprise

Copyright ©2024 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. A division of Japan Corporate News Network.

Related Press Release


JFE Steel and Hitachi Jointly Started Providing Solutions for the Steel Industry
March 26 2024 18:04 JST
 
Hitachi Selected as CDP Supplier Engagement Leader for the Third Consecutive Year
March 22 2024 15:04 JST
 
Hitachi Collaborates with NVIDIA to Accelerate Digital Transformation with Generative AI
March 19 2024 18:11 JST
 
Hitachi Vantara Announces Collaboration with NVIDIA to Create New Portfolio of Industrial AI Solutions
March 19 2024 11:35 JST
 
Hitachi High-Tech Launches High-sensitivity and High-throughput Wafer Surface Inspection System LS9300AD for Wafer Manufacturers
March 15 2024 10:21 JST
 
Hitachi Forges a Three Year Strategic Alliance with AWS to Advance Hybrid Cloud Solutions
March 11 2024 15:44 JST
 
Hitachi Energy and TransnetBW make German grid fit for future
February 15 2024 10:22 JST
 
Contributing to Efficient Development of Metal Thin Film Materials by Using Chemicals Informatics and Materials Informatics
February 09 2024 12:41 JST
 
Sysmex and Hitachi High-Tech Agree to Collaborate on Development of New Genetic Testing Systems
February 08 2024 14:04 JST
 
Hitachi Recognized as 'A List' on Climate Change for the Third Consecutive Year
February 08 2024 12:00 JST
 
More Press release >>

Latest Press Release


More Latest Release >>