NTT Set to Roll Out Generative AI Platform for Businesses in March

In a move to stay competitive in the ever-evolving technological landscape, Japan's leading telecom operator, Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp. (NTT), is gearing up to release a generative artificial intelligence (AI) platform tailored for corporate clientele come March. This initiative is part of NTT's strategy to keep pace with international competitors that are currently dominating the rapidly growing sector.

Advanced Japanese Language Processing

NTT has announced that its upcoming platform will boast superior Japanese language processing capabilities when compared to the likes of ChatGPT, the popular AI chatbot by OpenAI. This development was highlighted earlier in the month as a significant achievement in enhancing the utility of AI systems for Japanese users.

Introducing Tsuzumi

The forthcoming platform, dubbed 'tsuzumi' after a traditional Japanese hand drum, will not just handle text-based interactions but will also have the ability to interpret documents that include charts and diagrams, adding a new layer of functionality to NTT's AI offerings.

A file photo from June 2021 displays the Tokyo headquarters of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp., signaling the technology giant's prominence in the industry.

Financial Aspirations

With aspirations to generate over 100 billion yen (approximately $670 million) in yearly sales by 2027, NTT is clearly aiming high for its AI platform business. NTT President Akira Shimada expressed optimism at a press conference, explaining that the market will only expand as more companies enter the AI space and competition intensifies.

Peers in the AI Race

NTT is not alone in pursuing advancements in generative AI for business. NEC Corp. has been offering a similar platform since July, while Hitachi Ltd. launched a service in June aimed at assisting companies with generative AI adoption. Furthermore, in March, telecom rival SoftBank Corp. established a subsidiary focusing on the development of Japanese language generative AI platforms.

Demonstrating AI Capabilities

NTT has already proven the capabilities of its AI model through various trial demonstrations, successfully achieving tasks such as the unification of data within electronic health records and summarizing call center conversation content, thus showcasing the potential applications of AI in streamlining business operations and data management.

NTT, AI, Japan