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The anime studio TOEI animation, the Kodansha publishing house and the television station TBS have invested in the Japanese Ki Startup Preferred Networks (PFN) in order to advance the development of AI-based tools. We summarize.
Generous investment
The Japanese company Preferred Networks was founded in 2014 and has grown quickly since then through its work in the Deep Learning area for IoT applications. It is now considered one of Japan’s leading AI startup.
From its foundation until the end of 2024, PFN received a total financing of 190 billion yen (around 1.16 billion euros), which is largely from various media companies and large financial institutions.
Now TOEI animation, Kodansha and TBS are also investing a total of 50 billion yen (305 million euros). According to PFN, the new capital is intended to promote the development and provision of advanced AI solutions-especially in the area of ​​generative AI models, computer platforms and AI-oriented semiconductors.
Use of deep learning
In contrast to the other two companies, TOEI animation and Pfn have been maintaining relationships with each other since 2021 and working together on »Scenify«, a tool to support background images.
With the investment, you want to expand the partnership by integrating AI into the workflows and the operational efficiency is to be improved. In addition, the establishment of a joint venture is also considered.
Kodansha and TBS also promise much of their investments in the deep learning technology of PFN. This sees the publisher a way to improve storytelling and to expand the limits of the publisher and the development of content. The television station wants to rationalize production and experiment with new forms of visual expression.
The participation of the three companies in PFN illustrates the growing interest of the media industry in AI technologies and their importance for future production and development processes.
Via Animation Business
© Kouji Seo, Kodansha / Megami No Café Terrace Production Committee
