KDDI Technology Challenge seeks AI-enhanced devices and services

KDDI Technology, a subsidiary of Japanese telecom operator KDDI Group, has launched a new challenge aimed at AI-embedded devices and services for consumers and businesses.

With the rapid evolution of AI and devices, KDDI Technology seeks to continue providing value to customers by developing and providing innovative technologies such as IoT, AI, and XR.

The challenge invites partners to cooperate with KDDI Technology in delivering new services that enhance the experiences of consumers and businesses.

KDDI Technology will select applicants with AI-embedded devices or AI products that work with or are embedded in devices. The chosen applicants will have two options for collaboration with KDDI Technology.

They can opt for a joint proposal to KDDI Corporation, Japan’s number one mobile communication carrier in terms of sales, to market the product or service. Alternatively, KDDI Technology will sell the product or service to consumers or businesses if the results are valid in the Proof of Concept (PoC).

The selection criteria for the challenge include technical superiority and availability for demonstration. The selected applicants will also be able to use MoBagel’s product for free until the Demo Day. MoBagel is a cybersecurity and AI startup that KDDI Technology acquired in 2021.

KDDI Technology provides a one-stop service from technical support to system development and operation of mobile and IoT-related products. The company aims to put innovative technologies into practical use and supports customer DX to meet their true needs.

The application for the challenge opened on May 1st and will close on August 18th. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted on September 1st, and the Demo Day will take place in November.

The challenge offers an opportunity for partners to enter the Japanese market with one of the largest telecom operators in Japan.

KDDI Technology hopes to identify innovative technologies that can help it continue to deliver value to consumers and businesses, particularly those enabled by AI and devices.