OpenAI, has recently announced the opening of its first Asian office in Tokyo, Japan. The move will uniquely position OpenAI to tap into Japan's thriving technology ecosystem and foster close collaborations with government, local businesses, and research institutions.
To spearhead the company's efforts in Japan, OpenAI has appointed Tadao Nagasaki as the President of OpenAI Japan. Nagasaki, formerly a key executive at Amazon Web Services (AWS) in Japan, will oversee commercial and market engagement efforts while building a local team focused on advancing global affairs, go-to-market strategies, communications, operations, and other functions.
One of the key initiatives of OpenAI's expansion in Japan is the introduction of a GPT-4 model specifically tailored for the Japanese language. This customised model aims to provide enhanced performance in translating and summarising Japanese text, operating up to three times faster than its predecessor. The development of a Japanese-specific GPT-4 model demonstrates OpenAI's commitment to addressing the unique needs and challenges of the local market.
Major Japanese companies, such as Daikin, Rakuten, and TOYOTA Connected, are leveraging ChatGPT Enterprise to automate complex business processes and optimise data analysis and internal reporting.
In addition to the private sector, local governments in Japan are also embracing AI technology to enhance public service delivery. Yokosuka City, for example, has reported a substantial increase in productivity among 80% of its workforce after implementing AI solutions.