Who We Are
We develop practical applications of
cutting-edge technologies.
Preferred Networks (PFN) rapidly realizes practical applications of deep learning and other emerging technologies
in order to solve real-world problems that are difficult to address with existing technologies.
Mission
Make the real world computable
and create the future together
We are a company committed to vertical integration of computer science—from semiconductors and computing infrastructure to solutions and applications—to optimally implement cutting-edge technologies where they matter most in society.
Together with everyone, we will create a future where advanced hardware and software work in harmony with people.
Technology
Contributing to the world with technologies that only PFN can realize
Deep learning is a powerful and flexible solution for dealing with complicated phenomena or dynamic environments that are difficult to handle with conventional rule-based programming.
PFN’s strength is to combine a profound knowledge of deep learning together with expertise in various other fields to develop state-of-the-art technologies.
We have been engaged in challenges beyond boundaries ― from developing the core deep learning framework Chainer, to building large-scale compute clusters, to exploring a wide variety of domains (including robotics, life science, and others) ― with the aim of contributing to the world with technologies that only PFN can realize.
PFN is engaged in a variety of projects
ProjectManufacturing
PFN has been collaborating with FANUC to make intelligent industrial robots and machine tools since 2015, and with ENEOS to optimize and automate large-scale oil refineries since 2019.
ProjectMaterials Informatics
PFN supports companies to discover innovative materials for a sustainable future through Matlantis™, a universal atomistic simulator co-developed by PFN and ENEOS Corporation.
ProjectDrug Discovery
PFN has been developing several technologies for drug discovery using its deep learning expertise and in-house computing resources. In a joint research project with Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, PFN used one of its technologies that led to the discovery of multiple lead compounds for COVID-19 treatment.
ProjectDeep Learning Frameworks
PFN develops and provides open-source deep learning libraries that support research and development in advanced, practical deep learning applications. PFN has driven the advancement of deep learning technology since June 2015 when it open-sourced Chainer™, the deep learning framework that became first in the world to adopt the define-by-run approach.
