OpenAI Debuts at IVS2026, One of Japan's Largest Startup Events

Jun 18, 2026 | News On Japan

KYOTO - IVS2026, one of Japan's largest startup events, will open in Kyoto on July 1, bringing together entrepreneurs and investors from Japan and abroad, with OpenAI, the U.S. developer of ChatGPT, taking part for the first time.

Details of the three-day event, which will be held in Kyoto from July 1, were announced at Kyoto Prefectural Government offices on June 18. Organizers said many companies involved in artificial intelligence and semiconductors are expected to participate, creating opportunities for business talks and collaboration.

Last year's event drew more than 13,000 participants and generated more than 3,900 business meetings, according to organizers.

An event official said IVS2026 is expected to become a forum where concrete discussions can lead to major decisions, including possible policy measures, and where the public and private sectors can work together to help drive Japan's economy.

Source: Television OSAKA NEWS

Typhoon No. 7 Mekkhala Could Fuel Heavy Rain Across Japan Next Week

As of 9 p.m. on June 20, Typhoon No. 7 (Mekkhala) was gradually developing over waters far south of Japan and is expected to strengthen into a strong typhoon early next week before possibly moving toward the Sakishima Islands, while moist air around the storm could later feed a rainy season front stalled near Honshu and raise the risk of heavy rain across western and eastern Japan.

Japan Finds Unexpected Support in Monterrey

Japan will face Tunisia in its second match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on June 21 in Monterrey, a northern Mexican city known for its mountains, modern skyline and unexpectedly strong connections with Japan.

Risk Of Major Mosquito Outbreak This Summer

Mosquitoes are appearing earlier than usual this year, raising fears of a major summer outbreak as experts warn that warm May weather and repeated light rain have created ideal breeding conditions across residential areas.

Bears Growing More Aggressive in June and July

Bear attacks and sightings are increasing across Japan, with multiple people injured on June 17 and experts warning that bears are becoming more accustomed to human environments, potentially leading to more dangerous and unpredictable encounters in the years ahead.

Supreme Class Debuts on Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen

JR Central and JR West on June 17 announced pricing and service details for the new private-room seating that will be introduced on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen from October, creating a new top-tier class above the existing Green Car service.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Web3 NEWS

AI Medical System Strengthens Disaster Bed Coordination

Osaka General Medical Center in Osaka's Sumiyoshi Ward has begun introducing artificial intelligence to strengthen its system for accepting patients during disasters, using electronic medical records to visualize in real time each patient's risk of deterioration and other key information so hospital beds can be coordinated more quickly.

What Makes Online Entertainment So Engaging?

Online entertainment holds attention because it blends speed, choice, and emotion in one screen.

50 Future Jobs For The AI Age

A Tokyo exhibition is offering a look at 50 possible professions that could emerge in the AI age, from skin bacteria pharmacists who analyze microbes on the skin to ad walkers who use electronic textiles to deliver advertising while moving through the city.

OpenAI Debuts at IVS2026, One of Japan's Largest Startup Events

IVS2026, one of Japan's largest startup events, will open in Kyoto on July 1, bringing together entrepreneurs and investors from Japan and abroad, with OpenAI, the U.S. developer of ChatGPT, taking part for the first time.

AI-Powered Ride-Share Data Collection Begins in Osaka for Self-Driving Taxis

Taxi operator newmo has opened a data collection hub for autonomous driving in Osaka's Joto Ward, launching what the company says is Japan's first initiative to use ride-share services to gather road data for AI training.

Token Extensions are quietly rewriting how stablecoins work on Solana

When Token Extensions launched on Solana in early 2024, most coverage framed it as an incremental upgrade to the SPL token standard.

AI Sovereignty Key to Japan's Future Strategy

As international competition over artificial intelligence intensifies, Japan must pursue a strategy that secures its own technological independence while remaining connected to the global innovation ecosystem, according to a new policy proposal compiled by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

Local Governments in Japan Tap Into AI

Artificial intelligence is being rapidly adopted by local governments across Tokyo, with municipalities using the technology for crime prevention, public services, and disaster management.

< 2 3 4 5 >