Japan targets 10 million AI robots by 2040 as workforce shrinks
Japan's government is aiming for 10 million AI robots by 2040. The country faces a severe worker shortage because of its aging population.
Japan's government has set a goal. It wants 10 million AI robots by 2040.
The country's aging and shrinking population means businesses lack workers. Tokyo startup Zeals Co showed its D1 humanoid robot in August.
The robot is 129 centimetres tall. It has a camera that lets it recognize faces and talk with people.
Each of its two arms can carry 5 kilograms. The robot costs 5 million yen.
Zeals aims to make 100 units by March 2027. In August, Zeals tested a D1 at a hospital in Nagoya.
It guided visitors and cleared dining tables. Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance plans to offer special insurance for D1 users.
This covers hotels, healthcare, manufacturing and logistics. Another Japanese firm, Kakuichi Co, plans to buy a Chinese robot called Noah.
It will start using it in April 2027. Zeals uses US and Chinese parts now.
The company hopes to get all parts from Japan later.
- 10 million AI robots
- Target by 2040
- 129 centimetres
- D1 robot height
- 5 kilograms each
- D1 arm capacity
- 5 million yen
- D1 price starting
Why it mattersJapan is using AI robots to solve a big problem. An aging population is turning into a chance for the country to grow.
AustraliaAustralia faces similar ageing demographics; watching Japan's robot strategy offers lessons for Australian businesses considering automation.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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