IOWN

Next-generation optical communication technology IOWN has entered an implementation phase, with NTT's Kawazoe discussing its potential as a foundation for sovereign AI.

• •IOWN has moved beyond proof of concept (PoC) into an implementation phase for physical AI that operates in the real world
• •NTT's Yuhiko Kawazoe was interviewed following an annual mid-term meeting held in the Netherlands
• •The interview covered the prospects of IOWN as a foundation for sovereign AI to counter US and Chinese tech giants, as well as the outlook for social implementation

As the explosion in generative AI demand strains available capacity in European data centers, NTT's next-generation optical technology IOWN is gaining attention as a potential solution to the power crisis.

• •The explosion in generative AI demand has strained available capacity in European data centers
• •NTT's next-generation optical technology 'IOWN' is gaining attention as a key to breaking the power crisis
• •The article follows the frontline of the optical communication revolution through on-site reporting in the Netherlands

NTTの投資ファンド「IOWN AI Fund」が初号投資として、AIデータセンター向けプログラマブル光ネットワーク技術を開発するiPronicsに出資したと発表した。

• •IOWN AI FundはIOWNエコシステム構築と新事業創出を目的とした投資ファンドである
• •出資先であるiPronicsは、AIデータセンターの高速通信を支える光回路スイッチ技術を有している
• •この出資は同ファンド設立後初めての投資案件であり、AIインフラ強化への意志表明となる

Reflects on 2023 communication technology advancements, including Wi-Fi 7 approval and IOWN 1.0 launch, which supported the return of social and economic activities to pre-pandemic levels.

• •The practical implementation of the Wi-Fi 7 standard and the start of IOWN 1.0 achieved significant evolution in communication infrastructure.
• •Changes in the Infectious Diseases Control Law significantly eased action restrictions and border measures that had continued for about three years.
• •Technological innovation and regulatory relaxation combined to restore social, economic activities, and daily life to pre-pandemic conditions.