Masayoshi Son, the CEO of SoftBank, has expressed his belief that artificial intelligence (AI) will surpass human intelligence within the next decade. Speaking at a corporate conference in Tokyo, Son predicted that “artificial general intelligence will surpass the total intelligence of humankind by 10 times in 10 years.”
According to Son, the impact of AI will be felt across various industries, including transportation, pharmaceuticals, finance, manufacturing, logistics, and more. He emphasized that companies and individuals that embrace AI will lead the way in the next 10 to 20 years.
Son, a prominent figure in Japan’s business world and the founder of SoftBank, has a history of identifying technological trends early. He previously recognized the potential of the internet and is now actively seeking to invest in AI-related companies.
He stressed the importance of staying on the cutting edge of technological progress, saying, “It would be sad to be on the side that gets left behind, like an old, shuttered high street,” and called on Japanese companies to “wake up” to the AI-driven future.
In May, the Group of Seven (G7) leaders agreed to promote reliable AI, and Japan’s government is working toward international rule-making for the responsible use of AI. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has acknowledged the potential of generative AI but also highlighted the need to address concerns related to disinformation, privacy, and copyright.
Son cautioned against repeating the mistakes of the past when Japan lagged behind during the internet age. He urged companies not to be deterred by fears of data leaks and other potential risks associated with AI.
SoftBank recently expanded the Nasdaq listing of its chip subsidiary, Arm Holding Plc, which Son acquired in 2016. Son emphasized that this British unit would play a crucial role in AI development.