April 16, 2025 -Nearthlab, a global leading drone AI company, has entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Japan’s SoftBank - marking a pivotal step in Nearthlab’s expansion into Japan’s advanced drone market. 

Through this partnership, Nearthlab and SoftBank will work together to accelerate the rollout of AiDEN, Nearthlab’s proprietary AI drone, along with its automated drone station. The joint goal is to scale adoption across key Japanese industries and significantly increase Nearthlab’s market share in one of the world’s most advanced robotics ecosystems.

The relationship dates to 2020, when Nearthlab first supplied SoftBank with drone inspection solutions. Since then, the two companies have continued to deepen their collaboration. In 2024, they co-exhibited AiDEN at Japan Drone, the country’s largest drone exhibition, capturing attention from industry leaders. 

Following the MOU signing, Nearthlab held a live demonstration in Chiba for SoftBank and its partners. Going beyond basic flight test, the demo simulated real-world operational scenarios, showing how AiDEN and the drone station operate in tandem to deliver hands-free, high-precision automation. The response from attendees was overwhelmingly positive.

SoftBank has been ramping up its AI investments globally, most notably leading a $40 billion investment in OpenAI. Its partnership with Nearthlab aligns with that broader strategy - cementing its foothold in the fast-growing drone AI sector.

“This is more than just a deal - it’s the result of years of trust and shared vision,” said Jay Choi, CEO of Nearthlab. “Working with SoftBank in Japan gives us a powerful platform to scale. We see this as a key inflection point in our journey.”