Physical AI in spotlight at Tokyo tech expo

An artificial intelligence exhibition is underway in Tokyo and physical AI is taking center stage. The technology can make decisions on its own, allowing robots and machines to act autonomously.

About 100 companies providing AI-related technologies and services are taking part in the two-day event through Thursday.

Tokyo-based venture firm Donut Robotics has developed AI for humanoid robots. It can respond to instructions made by hand or finger movements, without a voice command.

The company says it plans to make the technology commercially available for use on construction sites and factories.

Donut is currently using its AI model to operate a Chinese-made robot, but it aims to produce its own robotic components in the future.

The company's CEO Ono Taisuke said: "Japan is lagging in the AI industry. But when it comes to physical AI, the country is very strong in hardware."

He added, "Now the technology is being rolled out for real-world use, it's time for Japanese firms to shine."

One of the exhibits is a robot that can make similar movements to human joints. The developer says it is eyeing potential uses including in disaster situations.

China has identified physical AI as a new growth industry and is stepping up development efforts.

Japan is also working on the technology to improve factory automation by making use of accumulated data on manufacturing.