SoftBank
Founded in 1981 by Masayoshi Son, SoftBank Group is a multifaceted Japanese conglomerate recognized for its major influence in the telecommunications, tech investment, and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors. This company, which started as a software distributor, is now a key player in the global digital transformation through its numerous strategic investments and international collaborations.
Read more of the profile Updated on 5 June 2026
SoftBank has made its mark through investments in disruptive technologies such as AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics. Among its notable achievements is the Vision Fund, a $100 billion investment fund launched in 2017, which has supported leading companies like Uber, WeWork, and ARM Holdings. This fund was primarily financed by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, marking a significant international collaboration.
In robotics, SoftBank acquired Aldebaran Robotics, renamed SoftBank Robotics, and developed iconic humanoid robots like NAO and Pepper. Despite commercial challenges, these robots have impacted the industry with their ability to interact with humans in various environments.
Recent Contributions and Notable ProjectsIn 2025, SoftBank partnered with OpenAI to launch "SB OpenAI Japan," a joint venture aimed at developing AI solutions tailored for Japanese businesses. This partnership includes the deployment of "Cristal Intelligence," an enterprise AI service, within SoftBank Group companies, including Arm. This commitment underscores SoftBank's ambition to democratize AI in Japan and enhance business productivity through artificial intelligence.
Another major project is "Stargate," a colossal initiative in collaboration with OpenAI and Oracle, aiming to build the world's largest AI infrastructure with a planned investment of $500 billion. This project, led by Masayoshi Son, marks a significant step in SoftBank's aspiration to dominate the AI sector globally.
Position in the Tech EcosystemSoftBank positions itself as a global leader in the tech sector, primarily due to its ability to raise significant funds and invest in innovative companies. The group has created a global network of partner companies, thereby strengthening its influence in various tech sectors. Its collaboration with giants like NVIDIA to build next-generation data centers in Japan illustrates its commitment to staying at the forefront of tech innovation.
Recent Developments and NewsRecently, SoftBank announced a strategic partnership with the Japanese start-up Telexistence, specializing in robotics, thereby strengthening its presence in the global robotics market. In parallel, the group has invested in the "GreenBox" project with Symbotic, aimed at transforming the supply chain through automation and AI.
After experiencing significant financial losses, SoftBank has adopted a "counter-offensive" strategy to reposition itself as a leader in the AI revolution. Masayoshi Son has affirmed his intention to lead this transformation, focusing the group's resources on innovative projects with high growth potential.
In conclusion, SoftBank continues to play a crucial role in the global tech landscape, thanks to its strategic vision, bold investments, and collaborations with industry leaders. By engaging in ambitious projects and enhancing its technological capabilities, SoftBank ensures a prime position in the global digital future.
SoftBank Corp. est une société holding japonaise qui fait partie de l'indice TOPIX 100. Les fournisseurs d'accès internet ODN et Yahoo! BB, le portail d'internet Yahoo!
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