Release date: Oct. 7, 2026
Al Is Moving from the "Brain" to the "Body": The Evolution Towards Next-Generation Physical AI
On July 9, 2026, Reuters NEXT Asia was held in Singapore. The forum brought together political and economic leaders, investors and researchers from across Asia to discuss the challenges facing the region and the world, along with the opportunities for future growth. Taro Ikushima, Corporate Officer and General Manager, Strategy Headquarters at TDK Corporation, took the stage to set out his view of Physical Al and what electronic components will contribute to it.
Key Points
- The computing power of Al models increased ten-million-fold between 2012 and 2022. By 2030, the volume of data generated worldwide is expected to reach 600 zettabytes.
- Al has advanced quickly as a "brain" for learning, reasoning and problem-solving. However, for the “body” to work reliably in the physical world requires more than intelligence. It takes long-life batteries, highly sensitive sensors, high-quality components, optical connectivity and thermal management.
- Working with partner companies, TDK combines its technologies in batteries, sensors and electronic components to help make Physical Al real, in areas including predictive maintenance, smart glasses and photonics.
Taro Ikushima
Corporate Officer / General Manager, Corporate Strategy HQ
Joined TDK Corporation in 1993. After serving as General Manager of the Corporate Planning Division of the Electronic Components Business Company, he became Corporate Officer and CEO of the Electronic Components Business Company in 2021. He has held his current position since 2025.
