Microsoft to invest $2.9B in AI, cloud infrastructure in Japan

Microsoft announced it will invest $2.9B over the next two years to increase its hyperscale cloud computing and AI infrastructure in Japan. It will also expand its digital skilling programs with the goal of providing AI skilling to more than 3M people over the next three years, open its first Microsoft Research Asia lab in Japan, and deepen its cybersecurity collaboration with the Government of Japan. “These investments aim to support Japan’s key pillar to tackle deflation and stimulate the economy by expanding the infrastructure, skilled talent, and security required to accelerate Japan’s digital transformation and adoption of AI,” the company said. “The announcement coincides with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s state visit to the United States, where he was joined by Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith, and Microsoft Japan President Miki Tsusaka.”