🤖 Japan’s bold AI bet
Tokyo-based Sakana AI feels like Japan quietly re-entering the global AI race on its own terms. Founded by former Google Brain researchers David Ha and Llion Jones, the startup is building a new kind of AI lab far from Silicon Valley hype.
⚠️ The problem: Today’s AI world is dominated by massive, energy-hungry models controlled by a few US players, leaving little room for local nuance or efficiency.
💡 The solution: Sakana AI takes inspiration from nature. Instead of one giant model, it develops swarms of smaller, specialised AIs that work together — more flexible, more efficient, and easier to adapt to real-world use.
🔜 Traction & ambition: Backed by major Japanese corporates and global investors, Sakana AI aims to help Japan build a homegrown AI ecosystem for research and enterprise.
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