March 14, 2025:
SoftBank Acquires Sharp Plant for AI Data Center - SoftBank has acquired Sharp's former LCD plant in Osaka for $676 million to convert it into a major AI data center. This purchase supports its collaboration with OpenAI to facilitate their joint venture, SB OpenAI Japan, by training and deploying AI models.
The center will start at 150 megawatts, with plans to expand to over 240 megawatts, aiming for operations to commence in 2026. This acquisition highlights SoftBank's dedication to enhancing its AI capabilities and promoting OpenAI's models in Japan.
