Luisa Crawford
April 12, 2025 00:36
Nvidia is working with SoftBank to quickly deploy AI factories using DGX SuperPod technology, telling us key steps in Japan’s AI innovation environment.
In a remarkable advancement in AI technology, Nvidia is working with SoftBank to accelerate the deployment of AI factories in Japan using cutting-edge NVIDIA DGX SuperPods. According to Nvidia, the initiative is part of Softbank Corporation’s ambitious vision to integrate AI into social infrastructure.
Fast deployment and collaboration
The AI factory in Japan was developed at an unprecedented pace. The facility, which did not exist a year ago, now exists as evidence of SoftBank’s commitment to AI-driven innovation. Collaboration with Nvidia has created two of the most sophisticated computing clusters around the world. These clusters are designed to process large amounts of data at high speeds, critical to developing large-scale language models through the intuition of SoftBank subsidiary SB.
Nvidia’s infrastructure specialists (NVIS) played a pivotal role in this achievement. NVIS leveraged its expertise to ensure that AI infrastructure is ready for production at a record time, quickly and efficiently converting bare metal into functional AI systems.
Accuracy and agility to overcome challenges
The deployment project faced several challenges, including limited power availability and connectivity issues. However, the NVIS team managed these obstacles accurately, conducted tests outside of business hours, creatively reusing parts from one cluster to maintain a schedule for another cluster. This meticulous management ensured that the deployment was on track.
The DGX SuperPod deployment involved connecting a 510 NVIDIA DGX B200 system, resulting in impressive processing capabilities. This infrastructure sets new standards for AI development in Japan, positioning SoftBank as a leader in the AI ecosystem.
Impact on Japan’s AI ecosystem
SoftBank’s AI factory is more than just a technical feat. This represents a strategic leap into Japan’s AI capabilities. The platform is set up to support both internal projects such as LLM development and provide resources to external companies, strengthening Japan’s broader AI ecosystem.
The deployment illustrates the NVIS playbook, focusing on speed, accuracy and collaboration. By leveraging advanced networking technologies such as the Nvidia Quantum-2 Infiniband and the Nvidia Air, the project ensured smooth operation from start to finish.
The strategic importance of speed
For businesses that employ Nvidia’s technology, speed is a strategic asset. Fast deployment reduces downtime costs and accelerates revenue generation from AI-driven products. Nvidia’s analysis shows that reducing installation times can save businesses on significant costs associated with long-term deployment periods.
This rapid deployment feature allows businesses to operate without delay and unlock revenue opportunities that could otherwise be lost. The collaboration between Nvidia and SoftBank highlights the potential of AI technologies to drive innovation and efficiency across a variety of industries.
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