Google backs Japan's Sakana AI to expand Gemini chatbot reach
23 Jan 2026, 05:54 PMSakana AI had previously secured $135 million in a Series B round in November 2025.
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Google has invested in Tokyo-based artificial intelligence startup Sakana AI as part of efforts to strengthen its Gemini chatbot's footprint in Japan.
The fresh capital is expected to help Sakana AI accelerate its AI research initiatives and bolster its position in Japan, where businesses and government agencies are rapidly embracing artificial intelligence technologies.
The financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.
Sakana AI was established in 2023 by former Google researchers David Ha and Llion Jones. Ha previously led AI research at Google Brain and Stability AI, while Jones co-authored the influential
The Tokyo-headquartered startup specializes in nature-inspired AI systems, taking an evolutionary approach to building artificial intelligence.
The company previously secured $135 million in a Series B round during November 2025, at a valuation of around $2.6 billion. New Enterprise Associates and Khosla Ventures led that financing round, joined by earlier backers such as Lux Capital.
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