$KDDIF

KDDI and Broadcom partnered to advance AI data centers by reducing power consumption through optical-electronic convergence. They will jointly verify Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) technology, using Broadcom's Tomahawk 6 and Davisson components. The collaboration aims to improve network architecture in KDDI's data centers and explore next-gen FTTH for broadband services, enhancing AI service delivery.

KDDI has launched Number Verification v2 for Firebase, allowing apps to verify KDDI customer phone numbers without SMS codes. The service checks numbers against KDDI's records, reducing fraud risks like phishing. It works over Wi-Fi, VPN, and KDDI's network. KDDI and Google highlight its security benefits and compliance with industry standards. According to KDDI, the service aims to prevent misuse of AI in phishing and fraudulent registrations.

Kakaku.com (TSE:2371) plans to dissolve its capital alliance with KDDI Corp. while maintaining a business partnership. The company's stock has surged 68.49% year-to-date and 52.61% over one year, with a 3-year total return of 198.50%. Analysts have mixed views on its valuation, with a fair value estimate of ¥2,433.75, significantly lower than its current price of ¥3,802.0, suggesting a 56.2% overvaluation. However, the SWS DCF model values it slightly above its current price.

KDDI Corporation launched 'SASE Gateway powered by Palo Alto Networks,' integrating its closed network (WVS2) with Palo Alto's Prisma SASE for enhanced Zero Trust security. The service, featuring SP Interconnect, aims to simplify security management and support AI-driven enterprises. KDDI positions it as a key milestone for its 2028 'KDDI AccelWaves Network' vision. Palo Alto Networks highlights the solution's role in secure digital transformation for Japanese enterprises.

KDDI, NTT DOCOMO, SoftBank, and Rakuten Mobile signed an MoU to study 5G millimeter-wave infrastructure expansion. The goal is to improve coverage and quality through cross-operator collaboration, addressing challenges like signal attenuation and the need for more base stations.

KDDI will reduce roaming services for Rakuten Mobile, ending coverage in areas where Rakuten has its own base stations. KDDI cites increased traffic load from Rakuten users. Rakuten has over 10 million mobile lines but lags in infrastructure with 100,000 base stations compared to rivals' 300,000-400,000. Rakuten plans to spend 200 billion yen on base station construction. KDDI's April-June 2026 results show 33.3 million smartphone subscriptions and a 1.17% churn rate. Rakuten Group reported an o

KDDI has launched an accelerator program to help Japanese startups expand into the US market. The initiative offers access to venture capital firms, corporate customers, mentoring, and office space. The goal is to assist startups in building a customer base and business track record overseas.

KDDI said AI integration and cybersecurity revenue rose 19.2% year over year in Q1 FY2027. Connectivity data center revenue grew 20.6% and EBITDA grew at a similar pace, with margin above 40%. The company plans JPY 1 trillion of growth investment over three years and reported Q1 operating revenue up 5.1% and adjusted operating income up 21.1%.

KDDI said first-quarter FY2027 revenue tied to AI integration and cybersecurity rose 19.2% year over year. Connectivity data center operating revenue grew 20.6% and EBITDA rose at a similar pace with margins above 40%, while cloud infrastructure revenue grew more than 30%. KDDI plans JPY 1 trillion growth investment over three years and kept its full-year operating revenue forecast at JPY 1.21 trillion.

KDDI launched Buffmee, a free AI app that uses content from Japanese media publishers. The company said the service is designed to improve reliability and expertise, with partners earning revenue tied to usage and citations back to original works. Buffmee includes features such as recipe search, bulk searches of railway magazine data, and exam practice questions, with about 150 content sources and plans to add more.