NTT will establish an investment fund this month to accelerate the global deployment of its next-generation communications infrastructure titled IOWN. According to Jiji Press, the fund is expected to reach around JPY80bn ($500mn) and will include participation from companies in South Korea and Taiwan, among others.

IOWN, or Innovative Optical and Wireless Network, is designed to enable large-volume data communications with low latency and lower power consumption. NTT plans to promote practical applications of the technology, including linking data centres, as artificial intelligence continues to evolve and gain wider adoption.

Speaking on June 10, NTT said the fund would be managed with support from South Korean conglomerate SK Group, Taiwanese telecommunications company Chunghwa Telecom, the Development Bank of Japan and US venture investor Young Sohn.

A dedicated fund management company will also be established this month. It will operate offices in both Tokyo and Silicon Valley.