- OpenAI to launch its first Asian office in Tokyo, following a meeting with Japan’s PM.
- Countries like Singapore and UAE vie for a share of the generative AI market.
- TikTok’s parent company ByteDance also makes significant moves in the AI space.
OpenAI, the developer of the popular ChatGPT, is set to launch its first Asian office in Tokyo, according to sources cited by Nikkei Asia. The Japan-based office will likely hire local talent to provide customer support to companies using OpenAI’s technology.
This move follows a meeting between OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida last year. Altman expressed interest in the region and pledged to work with the Japanese government to protect user privacy and safety.
Countries compete for a share of the generative AI market
As AI garners widespread global attention, numerous countries are vying to secure a share of the generative AI market.
Singapore’s Temasek Holdings is reportedly in early-stage discussions to invest in OpenAI, aligning with the city-state’s efforts to become an Asian AI powerhouse. Singapore has set aside roughly US$742 million for investments in the sector.
Additionally, Altman is in talks with the government of the United Arab Emirates to raise funds for AI chip development.
ByteDance makes moves in the AI space
ByteDance, the China-based company behind TikTok, is also making significant moves in the AI space. The firm recently posted over 100 job openings related to generative AI, around 40 of which are for Singapore-based roles focusing on large language models.
This development highlights the growing interest and investment in AI technologies across the Asia-Pacific region.
To read the original article: https://www.techinasia.com/openai-open-doors-asia-office-tokyo-report
