Japan is planning to build the world's fastest supercomputer

It's already one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world, what with its robotic hotels and its typhoon-powered wind turbines, and now, Japan is looking to further cement its position at the forefront of digital innovation. And it's all contingent upon a new supercomputer that aims to be the fastest in the world. The goal, Reuters reports, is to create a machine that will help the country's scientists create or improve upon technologies like driverless cars, robotics, and medicine. The lofty challenge won't come cheap. Reports note that the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry will invest around $173 million on the project as Japan attempts to differentiate itself from fellow Asian technology superpowers China and South Korea.