SoftBank

The main activity of the company SoftBank is the provision of telecommunications services and technological solutions. SoftBank primarily offers mobile services, high-speed Internet access, fixed-line telephony solutions, as well as cloud and IoT (Internet of Things) services. The company also provides products and services related to artificial intelligence, robotics, and digital transformation for businesses. SoftBank serves both the consumer and corporate markets, primarily in Japan, but also internationally through its investments and subsidiaries.

SoftBank is a major Japanese company in the telecommunications and technology sector. Here are the key milestones in its history and development:

Founding and early days:
SoftBank was founded in 1981 by Masayoshi Son. Originally, the company focused on software distribution. It quickly diversified into publishing and distributing computer magazines, then into organizing technology-related trade shows.

Expansion into telecommunications:
In the 1990s and 2000s, SoftBank made a strategic shift toward telecommunications. In 2006, it acquired the Japanese subsidiary of Vodafone, marking its major entry into the mobile phone market in Japan. This acquisition enabled SoftBank to become one of the country’s leading mobile operators.

Development of products and services:
Today, SoftBank offers a wide range of products and services: mobile phones (with offers on the latest models such as the iPhone 17, Galaxy S26, Google Pixel 10), fixed internet (SoftBank Air, SoftBank Hikari), electricity (おうちでんき), and solutions for businesses (generative AI, digital solutions, etc.).

Partnerships and innovations:
SoftBank has stood out through numerous strategic partnerships, notably with Apple, Samsung, Google, and initiatives in artificial intelligence to address societal challenges. The company has also developed bundled offers and loyalty programs, such as PayPay points.

Acquisitions and diversification:
Over the years, SoftBank has multiplied its acquisitions, not only in telecoms, but also in technology, finance (PayPay), energy, and investment (notably through the SoftBank Vision Fund, although the latter is managed by the parent company SoftBank Group).

Recent strategic changes:
SoftBank continues to innovate, focusing on 5G, AI, business digitalization, and diversifying its services (energy, mobile payment, etc.). The company is also committed to sustainable development and social responsibility initiatives.

Today, SoftBank is a key player in Japan’s digital transformation, with a strong presence in telecommunications, internet, energy, and digital solutions for individuals and businesses.

The founder of SoftBank is Masayoshi Son, who also serves as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the group. SoftBank Group Corp. is a major Japanese conglomerate, active in telecommunications, technology, and investment, notably through the SoftBank Vision Fund, one of the largest technology investment funds in the world.

Among the main members of the SoftBank Group executive team are:

• Masayoshi Son: Founder, Chairman, and CEO
• Yoshimitsu Goto: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO)
• Ken Miyauchi: President and CEO of SoftBank Corp. (the group's telecom branch)
• Rajeev Misra: CEO of SoftBank Investment Advisers (managing the Vision Fund)
• Michel Combes: President of SoftBank Group International

The SoftBank Vision Fund, the group's main investment fund, is led by Rajeev Misra, with an international team of managers and investors specializing in technology.