#Japan #Tokyo #TIER IV #Autoware #Open Invention Network

Tier IV's Commitment to an Open-Source Future

Tier IV, based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, and led by CEO Shinpei Kato, has made a significant stride in advocating for the democratization of autonomous driving by joining the Open Invention Network (OIN) 2.0. OIN provides a global framework to protect open-source software from patent risks, facilitating a more robust environment for innovation.

Founded with a vision to democratize autonomous driving, Tier IV has spearheaded the development of Autoware, an open-source software tailored for self-driving technologies. With its recent membership in OIN 2.0, Tier IV aims to minimize patent threats to open-source software, allowing automakers, suppliers, and semiconductor manufacturers to utilize this technology without fear of legal repercussions.

The Open Invention Network, comprising thousands of companies and organizations worldwide, promotes the growth of open-source software through a framework that encourages non-aggression in patents. By mutually cross-licensing patents related to the Linux system, participants in OIN strive to mitigate patent risks associated with open-source software. The launch of OIN 2.0 in January 2026 broadened the scope of the Linux systems involved, expanding the range of patents that are non-contentious.

Autoware, the platform that Tier IV has championed since its launch in 2015, is grounded in technologies like Linux and ROS. Utilizing this software platform, Tier IV is actively working on actualizing autonomous driving solutions that meet market demands. The collaboration with various stakeholders—automakers, suppliers, and semiconductor firms—has been central to Tier IV’s approach, emphasizing an open technological foundation for advancing the autonomous driving ecosystem.

As Tier IV collaborates with global partners to implement autonomous driving systems in real-world scenarios, it recognizes the dual importance of proprietary technology development and fostering a robust ecosystem based on open-source software. Reducing patent risks associated with open-source technologies is integral to achieving this aim, and Tier IV’s partnership with OIN 2.0 marks a significant step in this direction.

By joining OIN 2.0, Tier IV is not only contributing to enhancing governance and non-contentious patent strategies but also striving towards a harmonious balance between the utilization of open-source assets and the protection of intellectual property. This initiative is crucial for ensuring the sustainable and healthy development of an open-source ecosystem that supports the evolution of autonomous driving.

About Tier IV

Tier IV is a deep tech entity with a focus on autonomous driving, championing the development of Autoware since its inception in 2015. The company not only provides a software platform but also tailors various services relevant to autonomous driving based on market needs. By fostering an ecosystem around Autoware, Tier IV collaborates with partners worldwide, aspiring to broaden the possibilities of autonomous driving and promote a safe and sustainable society.

Company Profile:

• - Name: Tier IV Co., Ltd.
• - Location: Shinagawa, Tokyo
• - Website: Tier IV
• - Established: December 2015
• - Main Activities:

- Development of autonomous driving platform
- Development of web services for autonomous driving
- Sale of autonomous driving system development kits
- Education in autonomous driving technologies

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Tier IV's name and logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Tier IV Co., Ltd. in Japan and other countries. All other company names, product names, service names, and logos mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Autoware is a registered trademark of The Autoware Foundation.