In a significant move for the world of artificial intelligence (AI), SoftBank Group, the Japanese tech powerhouse, has become the first company to receive NVIDIA’s latest and most powerful GPU design, the Blackwell. This exclusive access marks a pivotal step in SoftBank’s ambitious plans to further enhance its AI supercomputer capabilities. The news was unveiled at an AI event held in Tokyo, Japan, where both SoftBank Group CEO Masayoshi Son and NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang were present.
The event saw a captivating ‘fireside chat’ between the two CEOs, where Jensen shared a humorous anecdote about a time when Son offered to lend him money to buy NVIDIA. This occurred back when NVIDIA’s value was not fully understood in the market. Jensen recounted with laughter: “He wanted to lend me money to buy NVIDIA. All of it. Now I regret not taking it.” This humorous recollection highlights the long-standing relationship between the two leaders and underscores the foresight Son had in recognizing NVIDIA’s future potential.
This latest collaboration follows a history of close ties between the two companies. A month before SoftBank acquired chip designer Arm, Son made an offer to Jensen to invest in NVIDIA. The Japanese billionaire later sold a stake in NVIDIA and attempted to sell Arm to the chip giant, but this deal faced regulatory hurdles worldwide. Despite these setbacks, NVIDIA has emerged as the world’s leading force in AI GPU technology, solidifying its position as a dominant player in the field.
The partnership between SoftBank and NVIDIA, marked by the exclusive delivery of the Blackwell GPU design, is a testament to their shared vision for accelerating AI advancements. SoftBank’s use of the Grace Blackwell chips in its supercomputer is poised to significantly boost its AI capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of artificial intelligence. This move signifies a significant stride towards a future where AI plays an increasingly integral role in various industries and aspects of our lives.
