LG Teams up With Renowned Roboticist Dr. Dennis Hong

Robots have moved far beyond the ‘proof of concept’ prototypes to become indispensable solutions for a broad range of sectors. Able to provide reliable – and contactless – support in settings from healthcare to hospitality, LG’s family of CLOi service robots, which includes GuideBot, ServeBot, ChefBot and UV robot, is a fine example of how diverse, and how useful, autonomous innovations can be. To help push the capabilities of its cutting-edge robots even further, the company’s Advanced Robotics Lab last year joined forces with eminent roboticist, Dr. Dennis Hong.

Dr. Hong is the founding director of the Robotics & Mechanisms Laboratory (RoMeLa) of the Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Department at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). His research focuses on robot locomotion and manipulation, autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots, which has won him global notoriety and prestigious accolades including the National Science Foundation’s CAREER Award, SAE International’s Ralph R. Teetor Educational Award and the Freudenstein/General Motors Young Investigator Award from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

LG and Dr. Hong have been working closely together to develop more advanced and integrated robotic solution for the logistics sector that can manage every step of the order delivery process – from the warehouse to the customer’s front door. In addition to producing an efficient, high-tech system that will add immense value to the logistics industry locally and globally, LG hopes the collaboration with Dr. Hong will serve to promote advances in robotics technology to a wider audience. Moreover, the insight and guidance Dr. Hong has shared with the Advanced Robotics Lab is expected to have a lasting, positive impact on LG’s robot business.

In recent years, to grow its competitiveness in the fast-moving field of robotics, LG has actively engaged in several educational initiatives designed to enhance the knowledge and expertise of its dedicated team of researchers. In 2021, the company even helped to establish a program at RoMeLa that is already helping to develop the next generation of robotics research talent.

Its teaming up with Dr. Hong isn’t the first time LG has collaborated with a leading robotics expert. In 2020, the company began a partnership with Kim Sang-bae, a renowned robot scientist and professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Together, LG and Dr. Kim conducted research into methods for enhancing robots’ manipulation abilities, such as picking up and setting down of objects.

LG has also been working with its sister companies to accelerate the development of robot solutions, sharing knowhow and technologies to drive further innovation. Last year, LG Electronics partnered with LG Uplus, a South Korea-based mobile carrier, for an autonomous driving demonstration with a robot utilizing mobile edge computing (MEC) and a 5G core network based on Amazon Web Services’ cloud system. The demonstration formed part of the two companies’ efforts to commercialize 5G cloud robots, which are designed to perform a wide variety of tasks, including delivery and guidance, while lowering associated costs and energy usage.

Just one year ago, LG unveiled a four-wheeled delivery robot that can adjust the distance between its wheels in response to the type of terrain its traversing. LG’s delivery robot is also equipped with a 5G SA industrial terminal allowing for the transmission of high-resolution images to the MEC platform in real-time.

Through collaboration and the tireless pursuit of customer-driven innovation, LG will continue to develop diverse robots for industry and consumers that help make life easier.

Stay tuned to Beyond News to find out what else LG has in store!

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The Importance of Protecting the Planet in 3D

The gigantic LG ultra-high-definition digital billboard at New York’s Times Square is showcasing eye-popping 3D content that conveys the message that life is better when we take care of our environment. The mesmerizing digital show not only highlights the importance of LG’s Zero Carbon 2030 pledge but also the family friendly brand’s Life’s Good for All Lives message reminding audiences that climate change isn’t just a human problem, it affects every living organism on Earth.

Displayed in “forced perspective” 3D popping off the billboard located on the northeast corner of 45th Street and 7th Avenue is LG’s message welcoming in the new year for all living things, including polar bears. With its distinctive 90-degree curved design, the high-resolution electronic display delivers unforgettable visuals that bring LG’s Life’s Good philosophy to life, inspiring all who pass to take a more active role in protecting the Earth. The environmentally-themed 3D content will continue throughout the year with fresh content every half year.

Since the Zero Carbon 2030 pledge in 2019, LG has been implementing various initiatives in line with its promise to meet its commitments by the target date. By 2030, LG is on track to reduce carbon emissions generated at its worldwide business sites by 50 percent compared to 2017 figures, while simultaneously expanding its use of renewable energy.

LG’s enviable electronic billboard in Times Square, one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions, is unique because of its ability to reach 50 million people every year. Very few outdoor platforms can claim to reach as many pairs of captive eyes. And to keep things interesting, LG is adding fresh content more frequently so anyone in the area is encouraged to stop by to check out all the interesting things LG is doing in Times Square.

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A Greener Soundbar Lifecycle for a More Sustainable Tomorrow

An image of a soundbar with the phrase 'Thinking Bigger To Help the Planet' and 'Soundbars with Eco-minded Design'

Today’s enlightened consumers are far more likely to shop brands that share their desire to help protect the planet and create a sustainable future. LG Electronics, long at the forefront of adopting environmentally responsible practices, continues to innovate for better lifestyle today and a better world tomorrow.

Most representative of these efforts are the company’s soundbars. Greener at every stage of the product lifecycle, LG’s premium sound solutions employ reused and easily recyclable materials, consume less power during usage than many competing products and have been shipping in innovative, eco-conscious packaging since last year.

Every 2021 LG Soundbar product features a durable, sturdy inner casing constructed from recycled plastic with some models sporting an attractive jersey fabric covering made from recycled PET bottles.¹ LG uses an estimated total of 1.5 million 500 millimeter PET bottles per year to create the chic fabric for its soundbars, a stylish way to repurpose what is often discarded.²

For the packaging of its eco-minded soundbars, LG uses molded pulp made with recycled paper and cardboard instead of EPS foam and plastic which are difficult to break down and can further pollute the environment by off-gassing. By switching to molded pulp, LG is reinforcing its commitment to the planet and lowering the use of EPS foam by 250 tons annually. Using recycled plastics in every 2021 LG Soundbar allows the company to reduce plastic waste to the tune of approximately 300 tons per year.

Thanks to LG’s thoughtful design and advanced manufacturing processes, these soundbars deliver a minimized carbon footprint with the benefit of easier recycling and less CO₂ emissions. As such, LG’s 2021 soundbars recently received the Product Champion Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a special accolade bestowed on the company for demonstrating significant environmental, social and economic outcomes that surpass the requirements of the EPA’s Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) Electronics Challenge.³

The 2022 LG Soundbar lineup boasts an even greater focus on sustainability than last year’s impressive range. Most new soundbars from LG have earned SGS Eco-Product recognition for their minimal environmental impact, confirmation that LG Soundbars are the responsible choice when it comes to high quality audio solutions. What’s more, the newest soundbars contain parts fabricated from recycled plastic resin and has been validated by UL’s Environmental Claim Validation Procedure (ECVP), while featuring polyester jersey fabric made from recycled materials that meets the Global Recycled Standard (GRS).⁴

LG’s 2022 soundbars are also ENERGY STAR^® certified thanks to their minimal and efficient use of power. By maximizing energy efficiency, products bearing the ENERGY STAR logo can help consumers play a part in protecting the environment.

So whether it’s soundbars, TVs, washing machines or ovens, consumers can be confident that LG is fully dedicated to delivering sustainable innovations that make life better now and well into the future.

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¹ Models SP7Y and QP5 contain recycled fabric.
² Approximately 6.5 half-liter PET bottles are used to make the jersey fabric for each SP7Y model.
³ EPA SMM Product Champion Award recipients include LG Soundbar models SP11RA, SP9YA, SP8YA, SP7Y, SPD7Y, QP5.
⁴Materials certified by UL 2809 Environmental Claim Validation Procedure (ECVP) for recycled content applies to 2022 LG Soundbar models S95QR, S90QY, S80QR, S80QY, S75Q, S65Q, S60Q, S40Q, SH7Q, SPQ8-S. Amount of recycled fabric varies by model and LG Soundbar models, which come with polyester jersey fabric made from recyled material that meets Global Recycled Standard, are S95QR, S90QY, S80QR, S80QY, S65Q, S60Q, S40Q, SH7Q.

LG Bolsters Leadership in 5G Vehicle Connectivity

Global Leader in Advanced Connectivity to Supply Premium
European Carmaker with Next-generation Telematics

SEOUL, Feb. 25, 2022 — LG Electronics (LG) continues to raise the ante in the automotive connectivity market with recent deals to supply 5G telematics solutions to premium European automaker. Already an established player in telematics, a field that combines several disciplines including telecommunications and vehicle parts technologies, LG’s Vehicle component Solutions (VS) Company has proven that it has the technological knowhow and experience to lead the auto industry in the 5G era.

According to market research firm Strategy Analytics, by 2026 approximately 67 million new vehicles worldwide will be equipped with telematics capabilities. 5G telematics communications modules, introduced only last year, are expected to account for more than 25 percent of the total vehicle telematics market by 2026. With its highly-evolved and wide-ranging core technologies, LG has already secured a competitive advantage in 5G standards, accounting for about 10 percent of global 5G standard patent approvals and ranked second globally.

From vehicle-to-everything (V2X) systems to integrated hardware and software packages and in-vehicle communications gateways, LG’s cutting-edge 5G telematics innovations deliver a new level of on-road connectivity and safety. An essential component in autonomous vehicles, V2X enables vehicles to communicate in real-time with other vehicles, nearby pedestrians and infrastructure to create a safer environment for all. Fast approaching the threshold for Society of Autonomous Engineer (SAE)’s Level 4 in which autonomous vehicles no longer require human interaction for operation, LG’s 5G-V2X technology delivers more consistent vehicle data transmission speeds. Faster, more stable communications means vehicles can recognize and respond to a variety of road conditions and driving situations instantaneously while the high-precision positioning technology, known as Advanced Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), can pinpoint a vehicle’s exact location to within 40 centimeters even when traveling at high speeds.

Utilizing Dual SIM Dual Active (DSDA) technology, LG’s solutions simultaneously support connected car and autonomous driving functionalities, enabling vehicle occupants to enjoy entertainment services, convenient functions and enhanced safety. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Release 16^* 5G module boasts significantly improved performance and more reliable connections. What’s more, the smart, flat antenna allows automakers to maintain the aerodynamic lines of their original designs which would have been impossible with traditional “shark fin” antennas.

“Thanks to our experience and expertise in vehicle telematics, LG has been successful in winning a number of new contracts with established global automakers,” said Eun Seok-hyun, president of the LG Vehicle component Solutions Company. “With solutions that are extremely easy to implement in various vehicle models thanks to our embedded modular design, LG’s telematics hardware and software systems offer an unmatched level of flexibility for manufacturers and diverse services for end-users. A trusted partner to automakers worldwide, LG is helping to create a safer, better future on the world’s roads with its growing portfolio of advanced mobility innovations.”

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* 3GPP Release 16 enables more advanced features for autonomous vehicle, brings about smart city capabilities through advancements in industrial IoT and enhances wireless speeds and data rate transmission for millions of devices. Source: www.3gpp.org/release-16.

LG to Close Solar Panel Business

Company Ending Solar Panel Production and Sales,
Committing More Resources to Growth Business Areas

SEOUL, Feb. 23, 2022 – LG Electronics Inc. (LG) is closing the solar panel business. The decision was approved by the board of directors last night. The decision comes as uncertainties in the global solar panel business continue to increase due to a variety of contributing factors, including the intensification of price competition and the rising cost of raw materials.

LG will continue to stand behind its brand and the company will maintain support for customers of existing LG solar panels for a period of time after the business’s closure has been completed. Solar panel production itself will continue until the second quarter this year to maintain adequate inventory for future service support.

LG’s Business Solutions (BS) Company, which operates the solar panel business, will reorganize its portfolio around the key pillars: Information Technology (IT) and Information Display (ID). The company aims to accelerate growth with its diverse lineups of advanced products and tailored services.

Going forward, LG will leverage its renewable energy expertise to unlock value for its customers. The company will concentrate on growth sectors and plug into a new era of sustainability through rapidly evolving products and solutions including Energy Storage System (ESS), energy management solutions and other yet-to-be-announced advancements.

Employees who will not be continuing with LG will be offered transition support and severance packages commensurate with their tenure with the company.

The closure of the solar panel business is expected to be completed by June 30.

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LG Supports Bid by Busan to Host World Expo 2030

LG's digital billboard in Time Square, New York displaying an image of Busan, South Korea to promote the city as a host to World Expo 2030

Kicks Off Campaign to Promote Korea’s Second Largest City with
Outdoor Video Push in New York City and London

SEOUL, Feb. 21, 2022 — With the selection of the location for World Expo 2030 to be held next year, LG Electronics (LG) is taking the initiative of promoting Busan, South Korea as the perfect host for the global exhibition in 2030. Spearheaded by a promotional video airing on LG’s large outdoor displays in Times Square, New York City and Piccadilly Circus, London until the end of March, the campaign is part of a larger effort to highlight the technological prowess of LG’s home country.

Titled The Panoramic-Haeundae by Korean multimedia artist Lee Sang-won, the large-screen video showcases Busan’s landmark Haeundae Beach and traditional ink painting to connect the audience to the unstoppable force that is “The wave from Busan, Korea.” The video was first screened on the world’s largest OLED screen in Dubai Mall where the delayed Expo 2020 Dubai is currently taking place. Measuring 50 meters wide and 14 meters high, the Dubai Mall display was constructed using 820 LG OLED signage panels, a new record for LG.

Although two other cities in South Korea – Daejeon in 1993 and Yeosu in 2012 – have hosted smaller Specialised Expos, a win by Busan would be a first World Expo for the country. Busan is bidding against Moscow, Rome, Odesa and Riyadh for the honor of being the host city, with a decision expected in 2023.

As part of the promotion to support South Korea’s second largest city’s bid for World Expo 2030, LG deployed its innovative LG CLOi GuideBot robot in the city last year to encourage residents to support the campaign and to showcase the advanced southern port city. LG is also participating at Expo 2020 Dubai with LG One:Quick, an advanced video conferencing display at the Korean Pavilion exhibit.

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Celebrating Random Acts of Kindness Day

Did you know that February 17 is Random Acts of Kindness Day? It reminds us how we can all do our part to make a better world with small acts of goodwill. Here are some suggestions to spread goodness to your family, your community and to the earth.

Being Kind to Your Family.

Send a Loving Message. Let your family know that they are loved by writing a thank-you note or a heartfelt letter. To show your appreciation, volunteer to do the chores – better yet, put on your chef’s hat to cook up a sumptuous family meal.

Spend Time Together. To make cherished memories that you’ll remember forever, plan a fun party or a barbeque cookout in the backyard. Throughout these countless precious moments, technology can add a bit of extra good and convenience to ensure that nothing gets in the way of family time – as spotlighted in LG’s “Rediscover Good” campaign in Australia, which inspires families to rediscover the good in their everyday.

Being Kind to Your Neighbors.

Help Out with Errands. If you can, check in with elderly neighbors living in the neighborhood to see if they need their groceries or prescriptions picked up. Or consider organizing playdates and carpools to lend a helping hand to busy parents you know.

Share Homemade Food. If you’re a budding cook, why not put your talents to use by sharing tasty homemade foods with a neighbor in need? Sign up with a non-profit called “Lasagna Love” and cook up some savory kindness while tackling food insecurity.

Being Kind to the Earth.

Practice the Three ‘R’s. By performing kind acts for the earth, you are also extending your kindness to countless lives that call this planet a home. Practicing the three Rs – reusing, reducing, recycling – is the first step in making a small but significant effort to conserve Mother Earth.

Support Conscious Providers. If possible, support providers that use recycled production and packaging like LG, which is committed to the 2030 Carbon Neutral initiative. You could also take part in a recycling program to responsibly dispose of used electronics.

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LG and Blackdove Deliver Seamless Digital Art Experience on LG LED Signage

The LG signage display in a lobby presenting the art of Jonathan McCabe

Partners Share Vision of Increasing Diversity of Art,
Access to Affordable Art Enjoyment

SEOUL, Feb. 16, 2022 — LG Electronics (LG) has entered into a global partnership with the US-based Blackdove to deliver seamless digital art experiences on LG’s advanced digital signage displays. Integrating software and curated art from Blackdove’s digital art gallery and NFT (non-fungible token) platform, LG’s high-quality, customizable display solution will provide a convenient way to showcase digital art, which has emerged as the dominant medium in the global art market.

LG’s vibrant digital displays are the superb medium for art installations and the perfect addition to corporate lobbies, galleries, luxury residences and countless other public settings. LG LED signage offer exceptional flexibility with simple-to-install, modular, scalable designs and premium picture quality with resolutions from Full HD (1,920 x 1,080) to 8K (7,680 x 4,320).

Available in markets worldwide starting this quarter, Blackdove curation software can be bundled with LG LED signage products including LG MAGNIT, LG LED Bloc, LED All-in-One and fine-pitch LED signage to deliver the gallery’s vast library of digital art assets. Hand-picked by Blackdove’s curatorial team, the selection of artworks by contemporary artists such as Jonathan McCabe, Kenneth Wayne, Meghan Cheng, Franck Lefebvre and Jamie Scott encompass a broad range of subjects and styles for both new and experienced fans of digital art.

“LG is delighted to partner with Blackdove as this partnership allows us to engage our LED signage customers with a benefit that is unique to LG,” said Paik Ki-mun, senior vice president and head of the Information Display business unit of LG Business Solutions Company. “The option to transform LG LED signage into digital canvases in spaces such as luxury residentials, corporate lobbies, hospitals and retail stores is something we think the public will have a very positive reaction to.”

“We are gratified to have been selected by such an extraordinary partner as LG,” said Marc Billings, CEO of Blackdove. “Digital art is the first form of art in history that can be experienced natively by the whole world in an instant, giving it universal appeal. This makes possible an exponential increase in both the amount and diversity of art, as well as a path to universal access to affordable art enjoyment and ownership.”

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2022 LG CineBeam Projectors Designed to Elevate the Home Cinema Experience to New Heights

User scenario 1 – Having a home cinema experience with LG CineBeam HU715Q

Led by LG’s Advanced Ultra Short Throw Model, These 4K Projectors
Should Be on the Short List of Every Serious Movie Lover

SEOUL, Feb. 14, 2022 — LG Electronics (LG) is upgrading the home cinema experience with CineBeam 4K laser projector models HU715Q and HU710P, the company’s advanced projectors to date. The new LG HU715Q Ultra Short Throw (UST) features sophisticated technologies such as auto brightness and the ability to create a 100-inch image¹ when placed only 21.7 centimeters from the wall, delivering stellar picture quality in a flexible, space-conscious design. The LG HU710P, a delivers brighter images and deeper blacks courtesy of a wheel-less hybrid laser.

The new CineBeam projectors are excellent choices for consumers looking to create their very own private cinemas with immersive, large-scale images that can be projected directly onto the wall or a dedicated screen. Compact and easy to set up, both models are suitable for most indoor spaces but also look great in backyards after the sun has set. Perfect for film buffs looking to add something special to their décor, LG HU715Q has been thoughtfully designed with a premium fabric cover courtesy of Danish textile company Kvadrat to harmonize with home furnishings and interiors.

With both units delivering 4K resolution with 3,840 x 2,160 vibrant pixels, the advanced laser technology in the new projectors delivers an impressive 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio and high peak brightness, elevating content by revealing more details in dark and bright scenes. hanks to keystone correction with 4-, 9- and 15-point warping, the projectors provide easy horizontal and vertical alignment which allows for flexible placement without distortion. Model HU715Q generates 2,500 ANSI lumens with a laser light source while LG HU710P delivers 2,000 ANSI lumens of brightness via laser-LED hybrid technology. Both are rated for 20,000 hours of use which translated to a lifespan four times longer than conventional projector lamps.

The new CineBeam projectors feature a number of advanced image-enhancing technologies for the optimal viewing experience:

Brightness Optimizer makes adjustments according to ambient light conditions.
Dynamic Tone Mapping analyzes and fine tunes each frame to support superior HDR performance for stunningly real, incredibly vivid images regardless of the content or light level of the room.
Filmmaker Mode displays movies the way their directors intended them to be seen, replicating the exact look and feel of a theatrical release by preserving the original aspect ratio, frame rate and colors.
LG’s webOS smart platform offers intuitive controls and navigation with easy access to a wide range of popular streaming services including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube and Apple TV.²
[LG HU715Q only] Built-in quad woofers and 2.2-channel stereo heighten the sense of immersion, addition of surround sound when connected to one or two Bluetooth speakers.³

“More and more consumers appreciate being able to watch their favorite content in real cinematic scale, which is why the home projector segment is experiencing such strong growth,” said Seo Young-jae, senior vice president and head of the IT business unit of LG Business Solutions Company. “Specifically designed for movie lovers and the residential home market, LG CineBeam offers outstanding brightness, excellent picture and sound quality as well as a choice of the most popular streaming apps on webOS. Anyone thinking of creating or upgrading a home theater system won’t be disappointed with a CineBeam projector from LG.”

LG CineBeam 4K laser projector models HU715Q and HU710P will be available in the first quarter of 2022 starting in key markets of North America, Europe and Asia followed by the Middle East and Latin America.

Specifications:

	HU715Q	HU710P
Resolution	4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160)	4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160)
Brightness	2,500 ANSI Lumens	2,000 ANSI Lumens
Light Source	Laser	Hybrid (Laser + LED)
Lamp Life	20,000 hours	20,000 hours
Brightness Optimizer	Auto Brightness + Adaptive Contrast	Iris Mode + Adaptive Contrast
TruMotion	Yes	Yes
Filmmaker Mode	Yes	Yes
Screen Size	80-120 inches	40-300 inches
Throw Distance	100-inch @ 21.7cm	100-inch @ 2.9-4.6m
Throw Ratio	0.22	1.3 – 2.08
Zoom	Fixed	x 1.6
Lens Shift	–	Horizontal ± 24%, Vertical ± 60%
Keystone Correction	4/9/15 Point Warping	4/9/15 Point Warping
webOS	Yes	Yes
Apple AirPlay 2 / HomeKit	Yes	Yes
Screen Share	Yes	Yes
Integrated Speakers	20W + 20W Stereo	5W + 5W Stereo
Remote Control	Yes (Magic Lighting Remote)	Yes (Magic Lighting Remote)
Inputs	HDMI x 3 with eARC / USB 2.0 x 2	HDMI x 3 with eARC / USB 2.0 x 2

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¹Measured diagonally.
²Internet connection and subscription to streaming services required. Supported services may differ by country. Streaming and mirroring content from iOS devices available via Apple AirPlay 2 and Apple HomeKit. iOS devices require software version 12.3 and above (macOS version 10.14.5 and above for Apple products) and must be on the same Wi-Fi network as LG CineBeam.
³ Compatibility guaranteed with LG Bluetooth speakers only.

LG NOVA Program Announces “First 50” Startups Advancing to Next Phase of Incubation Program

Entrepreneurs in Connected Health, Energizing Mobility, Smart Lifestyle, Metaverse
and Innovation for Impact Sectors Bring Futuristic Concepts to Mainstream in 2022

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 10, 2022 — LG Electronics’ North American Innovation Center, LG NOVA, has announced the inaugural “First 50” cohort of startups selected in its large-scale Mission for the Future global challenge competition. Chosen from a group of over 1,300 applicants, the companies represent new developments in the areas of Connected Health, Energizing Mobility, Smart Lifestyle, The Metaverse and Innovation for Impact, and will start to work with the LG NOVA team on their business concepts.

Selected by LG NOVA’s team of leading emerging technology and entrepreneurial experts, the first official “First 50” group represents innovations in industries that will have the most immediate impact on society now and in the future. Equipped with access to LG global network’s expertise, mentorship and capital, the startups will collaborate with LG NOVA’s incubation team to create a proposal for a joint business with LG and a proof-of-concept project to progress to the next phase of the competition – the selection of 20 companies that LG will fund for in-market pilot programs. As the competition progresses, LG NOVA will select a final group of up to 10 startups in an effort to launch joint business opportunities within the LG ecosystem.

“These companies represent the top of the diverse pool of innovative ideas and companies who applied to our Mission for the Future challenge to address the challenges facing our community. In these companies, we see great potential opportunities to explore transformative changes that will take our commitment of innovating for a better life to the next phase,” said LG NOVA Head Dr. Sokwoo Rhee, senior vice president for innovation at LG Electronics. “Our work with these companies will be guided by our role as a leading global innovator of next-generation products, technologies and services as we help them accelerate their growth and deliver positive impact to the world.”

Some examples of innovations from promising entrepreneurs and startups selected among the “First 50” include AcceXible’s development of an early mental health detection and monitoring platform in Connected Health, EVE’s solution for assessing, tracking and improving corporate fleet electrification strategies for Energizing Mobility, AirSpeQ’s work on airborne particulate matter detection for Smart Lifestyle, Kabuni’s development of a children’s education platform for The Metaverse and Sovrinti’s machine learning-driven at-home activity detection Innovation for Impact project.

List of “First 50” companies selected in the Mission for the Future challenge:

Connected Health

AcceXible – Platform for the early detection and monitoring of mental conditions through speech analysis.
Attune Neurosciences – Improves human health and performance with clinically proven, non-invasive neurostimulation products.
CurieAi, Inc. – Tech-enabled, virtual respiratory care provider that makes it easy to take the unknown and unmanageable out of respiratory illness and give control back to the patients suffering from it.
LifeNome – Award-winning precision (biology-personalized) health enterprise platform powered by genomics and AI.
MayaMD – Conversational digital human-AI health assistant.
medZERO – Employer-sponsored buy now, pay later financial wellness platform that gives employees a smarter way to pay for healthcare.
Mindset Medical – Delivers a portfolio of proprietary virtual technologies that advance the full continuum of patient care.
NousLogic Telehealth – Connective health technology delivering home solutions for wellness, acute care and smart lifestyle services at the point-of-need.
PyrAmes – Enhances health and wellness through continuous and non-invasive monitoring of blood pressure and other vital signs.
Selfit – Digital robotic care focusing on the aging population, physical and cognitive health.
Somatix, Inc. – Artificial intelligence-powered remote patient monitoring wearable technology.
TRIPP, Inc. – XR wellness platform pioneering innovative health and wellness technologies that deepen connection to self through fully immersive alternate realities.
XRHealth Virtual Clinic – Integrates VR/AR, licensed clinicians and real-time data analytics.
Zeit Medical – AI-powered sensing technology for immediate stroke detection at home.

The Metaverse

Bigthinx – Artificial intelligence technology focusing on fashion retail, wellness and the metaverse with products for body scanning, digital avatars and virtual fashion.
BrandXR – No-code AR platform and award-winning XR creative studio.
ByondXR – Provides retail 3D virtual experiences that are fast, scalable and in line with the latest metaverse technologies.
echo3D – Cloud platform for 3D/AR/VR that provides tools and network infrastructure to help quickly build and deploy 3D/metaverse apps, games and content.
EKTO VR – Transforms workforce training by simulating the world’s most complex and hazardous environments with wearable technology.
HEXA – Unique immersive OS with 3D tech stack to create, manage, display and analyze 3D projects.
I3M – Provides “experience-as-a-service” for brands to rapidly create and deploy hyper-realistic interactive and immersive metaverse experiences that exponentially increase user engagement and revenue.
iQ3Connect – Provides a no-code platform to enable enterprises to create, deliver and consume complex 3D enterprise applications in the metaverse in a web browser on any AR, VR or 2D device.
Kabuni – Metaverse education platform focused on providing the safest place in the metaverse for kids to explore, learn and grow, both within a classroom environment and at home.
NeuroTrainer, Inc. – Virtual reality brain training company that helps reclaim focus in an increasingly distracted world.
Snickerdoodle Labs – Uses blockchain to build agnostic data-sharing layer that enables individuals to control and even monetize their personal data through a tokenized data architecture.
swIDch – Provides secure, next-generation authentication for every digital identity environment, even off-the-network.
Xplorit Virtual Travel – Real-world metaverse platform that offers experiential virtual travel and immersive storytelling experiences.
YBVR – Virtual reality technology that brings live event emotions closer to fans through personalized, immersive and interactive experiences.

Energizing Mobility

BeChained Artificial Intelligence Technologies SL – Smart energy platform for reducing production energy cost and decarbonizing the energy system.
Driivz – Global provider of EV charging and energy management software platform.
DUCKT – Universal charging infrastructure solution dedicated to micromobility vehicles: bikes, e-bikes and scooters.
Eatron Technologies – Intelligent production-ready software solution for the automotive industry and mobility.
EVE – Electric Vehicle Ecosystem – E-mobility analytics solution for assessing, tracking and improving corporate fleet electrification strategies.
Faction – Unique approach to driverless technology and light electric vehicles that will dramatically impact how goods and people are moved.
I-EMS Group, Ltd. – AI, blockchain and optimization-based software solutions provider for smart cities, smart homes and e-mobility.
MET3R – Unique smart charging and energy storage services to bridge the gap between electric mobility and the smart grid to support the decarbonization of the energy sector.
SparkCharge – Affordable and convenient way for all-electric vehicle owners to charge their EVs at home or on the go.

Smart Lifestyle

AirSpeQ – Provides sensors for fine and ultrafine airborne particulate matter (PM) detection and monitoring.
allt – Brings together the world of entertainment and engagement by connecting apps on phones and devices in the home to movies, shows and music.
Chefling – State-of-the-art smart kitchen solution for planning, shopping and cooking for smart appliances and connected health applications.
Everykey – Universal smart key that unlocks phones, laptops, tablets, websites and other devices and applications based on proximity.
Fast Sense H2 – Nano-sized quantitative, mixed gas sensor and analyzer for industrial, environmental and security applications.
Food Haven – Online platform dedicated to reducing food waste by partnering with local food businesses to sell surplus food at discounted prices.
Roving Blue – Develops products featuring Power of EO3^®, a new way to dissolve ozone into the water, to kill unwanted microorganisms in water, foods and surfaces.
Tanvas, Inc. – Haptics innovation company pioneering multi-touch surface haptic technologies for automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics.

Innovation for Impact

A.kin AI – Virtual assistant technology to support daily living activities for people living with disability and neurodiversity.
Alteria Automation Smart Sensor – Advanced IoT technology that monitors air quality providing traceability on the cloud and automated actions to building management systems.
Digbi Health – Gut microbiome, genetic-based virtual care platform to equitably treat polychronic mental and physical illnesses.
Jara – Ensures K-12 students and teachers in low-connectivity/low-electricity communities globally can access distance learning anytime, anywhere, through the Jara Unit – an award-winning off-grid charging education solution.
Hygge Power – Ensures everyone is comfortably powered with clean, reliable energy through proprietary software that accelerates electricity decarbonization and empowers renters, homeowners and businesses.
Sanctuary – Creates technology applications for Activated Experiential Environments.
Sovrinti – Provides machine learning-driven activity change detection for healthy aging and person-centered care in the comfort and privacy of home.

For descriptions of the First 50 companies, visit www.lgnova.com/first-50. Learn more about LG NOVA at www.lgnova.com.

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LG’s Newest Signature Kitchen Suite Refrigerator Is a Showcase of Food Storage Innovations

Signature Kitchen Suite built-in French Door refrigerator is displayed with other kitchen appliances in the LG booth at Kitchen and Bath Industry Show 2022

Debuting at KBIS 2022, Premium 48-Inch Wide French Door Refrigerator Delivers
Unmatched Flexibility, Precise Temperature Control, Optimal User Experience

SEOUL, Feb. 9, 2022 — LG Electronics (LG) unveiled its latest Signature Kitchen Suite built-in French Door refrigerator at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) 2022, taking place in-person in Orlando, Florida (USA) from February 8-10. The 48-inch wide French-Door refrigerator, the latest addition to LG’s premium built-in kitchen appliance brand, boasts the flexibility and convenience of a convertible drawer and a sleek, functional design that delivers superior style and ease-of-use.

The new refrigerator’s convertible drawer offers a wide temperature range of -21 to 5 degrees Celsius (-6 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit), offering five tailored storage settings for different items and different user needs including Chilled Wine, Fridge/Deli, Beverage, Freezer, Meats and Seafood. LG’s Lift and Go™ drawers and fully-adjustable door bins further extend the usability of the advanced refrigerator, making it easier to access stored ingredients. The individual freezer drawers provide more usable space for keeping frozen foods at a low, stable temperature until they’re needed.

The Signature Kitchen Suite Built-in French Door model incorporates the versatile Signature Fit™ Integrated Design, which allows for proud – with the front set forward – or flush installation with the surrounding cabinetry. The refrigerator’s drawers align perfectly with standard countertop height, ensuring clean, uninterrupted lines that elevate the kitchen environment. LG’s sophisticated French-Door refrigerator is available in stainless steel and panel-ready options.

Thanks to its dual compressors and metal interior, this large-capacity refrigerator provides the ideal conditions for preserving all kinds of foods. As well as minimizing temperature fluctuations to keep stored items fresher for longer, the model is ENERGY STAR^® certified for its conservative usage of electricity. What’s more, the new eco-conscious model also employs lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) R600A Iso-Butane refrigerant to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing performance.

With a host of thoughtfully designed and seamlessly integrated features, the Signature Kitchen Suite 48-inch French-Door refrigerator provides a truly user-friendly experience. Through Wi-Fi connectivity, users can easily manage and monitor the fridge remotely via other smart devices. What’s more, the ThinQ Care, LG’s popular Proactive Customer Care, offers users helpful maintenance tips to keep the appliance performing at its very best, offering advice about potential issues before they occur. Convenience is further enhanced with Dual Ice Maker with Craft Ice™, soft yet illuminating LED lighting, a built-in water dispenser with filtration, easy-to-read digital controls, adaptive defrost and special modes including Ice Plus and Sabbath Mode.

“Our Signature Kitchen Suite refrigerator being showcased at KBIS this week features LG’s award-winning innovations for unmatched versatility, outstanding performance and stylish design,” said Lyu Jae-cheol, president of LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. “We’re pleased we could be a part of KBIS this year because there’s no comparison to seeing this impressive refrigerator in real life.”

For more information on Signature Kitchen Suite’s full portfolio of built-in kitchen appliances, visit www.signaturekitchensuite.com.

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The Oldest Washing Machine in the Country

The promotional image of LG Peru's "The Oldest Washer in Peru" contest

After the house and the car, home appliances are usually the next most expensive item consumers buy. Because of its cost, the lifespan of an appliance is one of the most important factors consumers take into consideration when making a purchase. Just as important is reliabililty because a refrigerator breaking down has far greater consequences than a TV that needs repairing. With this in mind, the LG team in Peru introduced a unique contest last month called The Oldest Washer in Peru to demonstrate the exceptional durability of LG washing machines through real life examples.

More than a thousand LG washing machine owners in Peru took part in the campaign, some with machines more than a decade old. But even they didn’t stand a chance next to the ultimate winner: a 1993 Goldstar model belonging to Carmen Mayhua of Lima.

A loyal companion for twenty-eight years and still counting, the washing machine isn’t the only vintage Goldstar product in the Mayhua household – the family also owns a working Goldstar TV that was purchased in the same year as the washer, a demonstration of the quality and durability of LG products. To reward the Mayhuas for their loyalty, LG gifted them a premium, modern LG Top Load Washer featuring TurboWash3D™ Technology.

A YouTube and Facebook video featuring the story of the Mayhua family and their beloved washing machine has already been viewed more than 1.5 million times with 12 million impressions.

The story of the amazing durability of LG appliances can be seen world-over. In Korea, a 20-year-old Goldstar dryer was returned to LG by its owners as they felt it was a shame to throw away such a great product that still worked well. The lifelong customers said that the dryer was the best appliance they had ever owned.

These marvelous products were made possible thanks to LG’s innovative technology accumulated and developed over many years. The contest in Peru was a great opportunity to prove how reliable and durable LG washers are. Through continuous innovation, LG will continue to introduce even more differentiated home appliances that satisfy the needs of consumers.

Contributed by LG Peru

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LG Electronics Returns to AHR Expo With Debut of 2022 HVAC Portfolio

Many participants of AHR Expo visiting LG Booth at the event

Industry-Leading VRF Technologies, Energy Efficient Heat Pump Systems, IAQ Solutions
and Flexible Controls Headline Offerings at World’s Largest HVAC Conference

SEOUL, Feb. 2, 2022 – Air conditioning technologies leader LG Electronics (LG) is showcasing its robust 2022 lineup of commercial, light commercial and residential HVAC solutions – including industry-leading Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) technology, latest energy efficient heat pump systems, indoor air quality solutions and flexible building automation and connectivity products – this week at the 2022 AHR Expo in Las Vegas.

One of the key highlights is the official debut of LG’s Inverter Scroll Heat Pump Chiller (ISHPC). Bringing innovation to the air-cooled chiller category, the LG ISHPC utilizes inverter technology to provide hot and cold water for both comfort and process applications, delivering powerful performance without sacrificing quiet operation, flexibility or energy efficiency. By marrying key design attributes of VRF technology with chilled water production, LG raises the standard for air-cooled chillers with a robust set of high-performance features, providing engineers with a flexible, cost-effective and properly sized solution for air-source heat pump heating and cooling. In tandem with the market’s growing trend towards electrification, the high heating low ambient performance of the new LG ISHPC is a viable engineering solution that meets hot water heating requirements while supporting a carbon reducing strategy.

“After many months, we’re excited to join the industry in returning to AHR Expo – both virtually and in-person,” said Steve Scarbrough, senior vice president, Air Conditioning Technologies, LG Electronics USA. “We’re looking forward to sharing LG’s latest offerings and product innovations in air quality, electrification and smart connectivity as we exhibit our most innovative lineup of industry-leading tools for commercial and residential applications, this year and beyond.”

Attendees of the world’s largest industry trade show for HVAC engineers, contractors, distributors and other trade professionals visiting LG’s booth #N7906 can interact with the latest LG air conditioning technologies and award-winning products and controls.

In addition to the LG Inverter Scroll Heat Pump Chiller, AHR attendees can expect to see the following solutions:

LG Split Compact DOAS (Dedicated Outdoor Air System)

An AHR 2022 Innovation Award finalist in the ventilation category, LG Split Compact DOAS features a main coil and hot gas reheat coil and fully dehumidifies, cools, or heats outdoor air needed to ventilate an occupied space, particularly for retrofit applications with limited ceiling, pipe or ductwork space. Garnering a finalist distinction in the AHR 2022 Innovation Award indoor air quality category, the Split Compact DOAS features a factory-installed heat recovery section, built-in graphics in the DOAS controller and optional AC Smart^® touchscreen controller. The integration of the DOAS controls with the LG VRF system provides for efficient day-to-day monitoring and control by facilities managers.

LG Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater

LG’s Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater is an energy efficient alternative to electric resistance or gas water heaters. Ideal for residential applications, the LG Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater delivers hot water with an ENERGY STAR^® certified efficiency of 3.75 UEF. The Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater features LG inverter compressor, quiet operation at 42 dB(A) and Wi-Fi capability for remote management using the LG ThinQ^® smartphone app.

LG Multi F MAX with LGRED° [36K, 42K, and 48K Units]

A multi-zone heat pump system with single outdoor unit that can connect up to eight indoor units, the LG Multi F MAX with LGRED° heating technology provides continuous heating down to -25°C and 100 percent of rated capacity at -15°C. Ideal for residential and light commercial applications, Multi F Max with LGRED° is designed to allow individual indoor units to be placed in respective rooms, enhancing space comfort by enabling individual temperature settings, while avoiding over-cooling and/or heating and thus minimizing uncomfortable temperature swings.

LG MultiSITE™ VM3

The MultiSITE™ VM3 offers central control of LG’s innovative VRF technology and non-VRF building systems. Powered by the industry leading Niagara Framework^®1, the VM3 offers a HTML5 web-based graphical user interface that can easily be customized to address building or customer requirements. MultiSITE VM3 is scalable and IoT ready.

LG ThinQ^® App

The LG ThinQ App allows remote control of LG HVAC equipment, along with other LG home appliances. ThinQ features include voice-activated commands, the ability to authorize remote access for technicians and schedule comfort conditions on an individual room basis. With Smart Diagnosis™, users can ask system experts questions directly to ensure proper system performance and maintenance.

For more information on LG products featured at the 2022 AHR Expo, visit the LG Electronics booth #N7906. Additional information on the complete portfolio of LG’s air conditioning systems can be found at lghvac.com.

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Road of Hope Leads to Brighter Future for Job Seekers

For many Koreans, Ethiopia is more than just a developing country in East Africa known for its famous coffee. The history between the two countries runs deep and since 2013 LG has designated the African nation a key priority for the company’s community-building activities including the construction of new housing for Korean War Veteran decedents to teaching new job skills.

Under its overarching vision to nurture local communities, LG has collaborated with KOICA (Korean International Cooperation Agency) to establish a tuition-free training program to teach competitive job skills to the next generation of Ethiopians. LG-KOICA Hope TVET College, founded in 2014, has recruited students who are descendants of Korean War veterans, from low income family and or the physically challenged.

Approximately 30 students are selected every year through an admission process that tests their their knowledge of physics, mathematics and English. Once accepted into the no tuition three-year program, the students are also provided with free meals and transportation. In addition to the regular training courses, experts from LG’s Regional Training Center in Dubai make annual visits to provide on-site training as well.

As part of the program, six exceptional students and the two best trainers from each department travel to LG’s regional headquarters in Dubai every year for additional training. For seven days the group is trained in customer service and receive additional job skills. LG’s regional office makes available internship opportunities and has hired LG-KOICA TVET College graduates who have demonstrated strong technical skills, knowledge and attitude.

The program has proven to be a success. Over the past five years, 91 percent of LG-KOICA Hope TVET College students have passed the Ethiopian government’s Certificate of Competency exam compared to the national passing average of 47 percent. Since 2014, the government has recognized the college as the best performing school in the country, an accolade which has helped students land even better jobs upon graduation.

Even after graduation, the college continues to provide support and guidance to its students, arranging job fairs and project exhibitions with companies in Ethiopia. As a result, 100 percent of the 324 graduates succeeded in finding jobs: 77 percent at companies and 23 percent self employed.

To encourage creative thinking and entrepreneurship as part of the training, LG and KOICA established the Incubation Center in 2018 as a place where students can turn their innovative ideas and prototype products into a business strategy. A steam bread maker, modernized three-wheel tuktuk and TV module for training are just some of the ideas that got their start at the Incubation Center.

In addition to job skill training, LG-KOICA Hope TVET College provides opportunities to participate in sports. The school is home to the continent’s first women’s baseball team, an inspiration to all girls in Africa who know no limits.

LG-KOICA Hope TVET College is an example of a responsible company making a difference through its adherence to LG’s philosophy of effecting Sustainable Changes in Society. Through its multi-faceted partnership with KOICA and the Ethiopian government, LG is sharing its values not only with the youth of Ethiopia but with everyone who is committed to making the world a better place.

Contributed by LG Ethiopia

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LG Announces 2021 Financial Results

A picture of LG Twin Towers in the daytime

Highest Full-Year and Fourth-Quarter Revenues in LG Electronics’
History Driven by Strong Demand in Premium Home Appliances and TVs

SEOUL, Jan. 27, 2022 — LG Electronics Inc. (LG) continued its strong performance in 2021, achieving the highest annual revenues in its history with full-year sales of KRW 74.72 trillion (USD 65.32 billion). This increase of 28.7 percent over 2020 was attributed primarily to stronger sales of premium home appliances and OLED TVs. Operating profit of KRW 3.86 trillion (USD 3.38 billion) was essentially unchanged, declining 1 percent from the previous year.

LG also reported record sales in the fourth quarter with revenues of KRW 21.01 trillion (USD 17.76 billion), an increase of 20.7 percent from the same quarter the previous year. Operating profit of KRW 677.7 billion (USD 572.87 million) in the quarter declined 21.4 percent from the same quarter a year earlier due in large part to factors such as higher raw material and global logistics costs. As challenging business conditions persist into 2022, LG is staying the course to strengthen competitiveness by further improving its cost structure and continuing to expand the presence of its premium appliances and TVs in the global market.

The LG Home Appliance & Air Solution Company saw another record-setting year with 2021 revenues of KRW 27.11 trillion (USD 23.70 billion), an increase of 21.7 percent from the previous year, driven largely by strong performance in new appliance categories such as hygiene products. Annual operating profit of KRW 2.22 trillion (USD 1.94 billion) was 2.9 percent lower than in the previous year due to higher costs for raw materials and global logistics. Record fourth-quarter revenues of KRW 6.52 trillion (USD 5.52 billion) were 17.7 percent higher than the same period 2020.

The LG Home Entertainment Company reported 2021 revenue growth of 30.6 percent to KRW 17.22 trillion (USD 15.05 billion) with operating profit increasing 18.1 percent over the previous year to KRW 1.1 trillion (USD 961.45 million), reflecting LG’s success in responding to the higher demand for premium TVs during the pandemic. Revenues in the quarter of KRW 4.99 trillion (USD 4.21 billion) were 16.4 percent higher than fourth quarter the prior year and up 19.2 percent from the previous quarter owing to the growth in demand for premium OLED and large-screen TVs in key regions of Europe and North America.

The LG Vehicle component Solutions Company increased revenues by 24 percent in 2021 from 2020 to KRW 7.19 trillion (USD 6.29 billion), exceeding KRW 7 trillion for the first time. Revenues in the fourth quarter of KRW 1.68 trillion (USD 1.42 billion) declined 12.3 percent from the same quarter the previous year. Under the cloud of uncertainty created by the new COVID-19 variant, the global automotive market experienced significant disruption due to the shortage of automotive semiconductors.

The LG Business Solutions Company achieved 2021 revenues of KRW 6.96 trillion (USD 6.09 billion), a 15.8 percent increase over the previous year while higher material costs and supply chain challenges resulted in an annual operating profit of KRW 144.3 billion (USD 126.15 million). Fourth-quarter revenues increased 14 percent from the same period in 2020 to KRW 1.72 trillion (USD 1.46 billion) on the back of strong demand for premium PCs and gaming monitors. An increase in cost of global logistics and slowdown of solar module sales due to increased competition contributed to a fourth-quarter operating loss of KRW 35.1 billion (USD 29.67 miillion).

2021 Exchange Rates Explained

LG Electronics’ unaudited quarterly earnings results are based on IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) for the three-month period ending December 31, 2021. For 2021 4Q revenues and operating profit, amounts in Korean won (KRW) are translated into U.S. dollars (USD) at the average rate of the three-month period of the corresponding quarter — KRW 1,182.99 per USD.

LG Electronics’ unaudited annual earnings results are based on IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) for the twelve -month period ending December 31, 2021. For 2021 annual revenues and operating profit, amounts in Korean won (KRW) are translated into U.S. dollars (USD) at the average rate of the twelve-month period of 2021 — KRW 1,143.89 per USD.

Earnings Conference and Conference Call

LG Electronics will hold a Korean / English conference call on January 27, 2022 at 16:00 Korea Standard Time (07:00 GMT/UTC). Conference call participants are instructed to pre-register online to receive a private PIN. To participate in the conference call, dial +82 31 810 3130, enter passcode 6418# and then the PIN. The corresponding presentation file will be available for download at the LG Electronics website before the call.

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LG Newsroom