Quantum technology uses the special rules that govern the extremely small world of atoms and electrons. In our everyday world, objects usually exist in only one state at a time. For example, a coin is either heads or tails. In the quantum world, however, particles can exist in multiple states at once. This is called superposition.

This digest summarizes the latest research and trends in the rapidly advancing field of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. It features a wide range of AI related topics, including the current state of research in Japan and international comparisons, the future of AI development, and AI startups.

Looking back, I realized I had naturally become a researcher. In high school, I only studied biology during my first year, but I became fascinated by the stories shared by a student teacher, which led me to major in biology at university.

As concerns in Japan continue to mount over the impact of high crude oil prices on energy costs, one country has effectively harnessed its own geothermal resources, creating a contrasting energy landscape.

In the segment 'A Look Around Innovation,' we introduce research and development (R&D) sites that have led to real-world applications.

A research group including the Institute of Industrial Science at the University of Tokyo has researched the interlocking condition of the plate boundary within the focal region of the anticipated Nankai Trough mega-earthquake.

Scientific progress increasingly depends on the movement of people, ideas, and expertise across borders, and India has emerged as an increasingly important partner in Japan's science, technology, and innovation (STI) landscape.

The Asia Pacific Research Center (JST) collects a wide range of information on science and technology innovation policies, R&D trends, and related economic and social conditions in the Asia and Pacific regions and conducts focused surveys and analyses that respond to today's issues and needs. Click here for more information.

The strategic importance of STI is growing in today's society, and countries are competing to achieve excellence in this field. Innovation is facilitated in an environment where diverse human resources interact, collaborate, and compete.

The Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a key player in global economic growth and technological innovation.