KDDI Corp. has opened a 57,000‑square‑meter AI data center in Sakai, Osaka, equipped with the latest Nvidia GPUs and dedicated to running Google’s Gemini generative‑AI model. The facility delivers high‑performance, low‑latency AI processing for enterprise workloads and immersive AR applications, positioning KDDI as a key provider of domestic AI services.
Transforming a Former LCD Plant into an AI Hub
Rapid Conversion and Sustainable Power
KDDI repurposed an idle Sharp LCD plant, leveraging existing power‑distribution and cooling systems to complete the conversion in six months. The center draws 48 megawatts of renewable energy—enough for roughly 12,000 households—demonstrating a commitment to sustainable AI operations.
Cutting‑Edge Nvidia Hardware Powers Generative AI
Performance Gains with Latest GPUs
The data center’s fleet of Nvidia GPUs processes AI workloads up to four times faster than previous installations. Paired with the Gemini model, this hardware enables a secure, high‑throughput platform for generative AI that operates on dedicated telecommunications lines.
Early Enterprise Use Cases
Accelerating Pharma Research
KDDI’s initial focus targets the pharmaceutical sector, where AI‑driven analysis of electronic medical records can shorten research cycles and lower costs.
Supporting Autonomous Vehicles and Robotics
The high‑throughput environment also serves industries such as autonomous‑vehicle development and advanced robotics, which require intensive AI training and real‑time inference.
Enabling Immersive AR Experiences
Real‑Time AI‑Driven Interactions
Low‑latency, high‑bandwidth connections allow the data center to render AI‑generated dialogue and visual effects on the fly, opening possibilities for consumer‑facing AR applications.
“Ghost in the Shell” Showcase
One flagship project will deliver an AR experience where visitors converse with a virtual Tachikoma and explore a cyber‑dive environment, illustrating the synergy of generative AI and immersive storytelling.
Strategic Impact on Japan’s AI Landscape
Reducing Dependence on Overseas Cloud Services
By localizing cutting‑edge AI infrastructure, KDDI helps Japanese firms keep critical data within national jurisdiction and lessens reliance on foreign cloud providers.
Aligning with Climate Commitments
The renewable‑energy footprint of the facility supports Japan’s broader climate goals and positions KDDI as a model for environmentally responsible AI deployment.
Future Expansion Plans
Scaling Capacity and Adding New Models
KDDI intends to expand the center’s capacity, upgrade to next‑generation Nvidia hardware, and integrate additional AI models beyond Gemini, ensuring the hub can meet growing demand for generative AI workloads.
