# SoftBank has set up a new company in Japan with backing from major players across industries.

*genai · news · 2026-04-13 · India Today*

## Key points

- SoftBank is developing a 'physical AI' system to directly control robots and machines.
- A new company backed by NEC, Honda, Sony, and major banks is leading this initiative.
- The AI model aims for 1 trillion parameters and will process images, video, audio, and text.
- A former Sharp LCD factory in Osaka will be converted into a domestic AI data center.
- This project seeks to reduce Japanese industry reliance on US and Chinese AI platforms.

**Companies:** SoftBank, Honda Motor, Sony Group, NEC, MUFG Bank, Preferred Networks
**Countries:** Japan

[Read the full story on India Today](https://www.indiatoday.in/technology/story/softbank-is-building-a-physical-ai-model-to-autonomously-control-robots-2895402-2026-04-13)

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