The Future of Mobility

The mobility landscape has been completely reshaped over the last few years with landmark achievements being made in electrification, connectivity and autonomous driving.¹ With next-generation electric vehicles and intelligent driving fast approaching, LG Electronics also has been hard at work developing future-enabling technologies to accelerate the electric vehicle industry to the next level.

Below, we take a look at some of those trends and LG’s response to them.

Telematics, or vehicle connectivity, is poised to explode on the back of 5G and advanced vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology, the system that transmits information at high speed via high-bandwidth, low-latency connection. LG’s In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) system, which leverages the combined strengths of webOS Auto and Microsoft Connected Vehicle Platform (MCVP), can collect and transmit a wide variety of information such as driver status, door status and app usage seamlessly.

LG Electronics is dedicated to developing highly competitive infotainment innovations including AVN, display systems, telematics and monitoring systems that account for more than 50 percent of the company’s total sales.

Infotainment systems provide drivers and passengers with helpful information, such as directions and weather forecasts, on top of in-vehicle entertainment that lets them listen to podcasts, make hands-free calls and check messages. The fast-growing global vehicle infotainment market is projected to increase from USD 24.3 billion in 2019 to USD 54.8 billion in 2027 (CAGR of 10.7 percent).² And with the increase in demand for more safety and security solutions, in-vehicle communication features and technologies will only become more important.

According to the Boston Consulting Group, the market for partially and fully autonomous cars will make up approximately 25 percent of new-vehicle sales by 2035.³ With the advancement in self-driving vehicles, one of the biggest concerns for car companies is safety which may explain why the global driving assist market is expected to grow from USD 1.9 billion in 2019 to USD 10.7 billion in 2027 (CAGR of 23.9 percent).⁴

LG Electronics is also actively developing components for driver assistance, such as the LG-designed ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) which utilizes a front camera to collect traffic information so drivers can make better decisions and roads can be made safer. ADAS can also recognize and respond to surrounding environments – even through busy intersections.

According to IHS Markit, global sales of electric vehicles hit 10 million units in 2020 and is expected to exceed 20 million units in 2022 and 40 million vehicles in 2025. Along with the growth of electric vehicles, relevant components such as motors and inverters are naturally expected to grow as well.

LG Electronics is working closely with Magna to develop cutting-edge technologies for components of electric vehicles. Under a new joint venture to launch next month, LG Magna e-Powertrain will produce EV components that benefit from Magna’s strength in electric powertrain systems and world-class automotive manufacturing as well as LG’s expertise in developing components for e-motors and inverters.

To respond to the rapidly changing automotive industry, LG is pursuing a strategy of strategic alliances and partnerships to develop industry-leading innovations for global automakers. In addition to LG Magna e-Powertain, LG and Luxoft created Alluto to drive the commercialization of production-ready digital cockpit, infotainment and ride-hailing systems based on LG’s webOS Auto platform. And in 2018, LG brought on board leading automotive lighting and headlight systems provider ZKW Group in a deal worth more than EUR 1.1 billion.

With vehicles of tomorrow just a few years away from becoming commonplace, LG is well positioned to be a leading provider of technologies for future mobility.

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¹https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/automotive-and-assembly/our-insights/the-future-of-mobility-is-at-our-doorstep#
²https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/in-car-vehicle-infotainment-ici-systems-market-538.html
³ https://www.bcg.com/publications/2015/automotive-consumer-insight-revolution-drivers-seat-road-autonomous-vehicles
⁴ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/highway-driving-assist.asp

The Future of Mobility

[AI Experience] Inspiring Trust in AI

An illustration of a man learning about the fundamental structure of AI in terms of transparency

In part three of the AI Experience series, we discuss the importance of transparency in the evolution of artificial intelligence.

Trust is the foundation of any good relationship. It is what allows us to feel confident that we can rely upon someone, or something, without reservation. When it comes to our relationships with government institutions, companies and other individuals, what’s crucial in developing trust is knowing that any personal information they know about us remains confidential. This is especially important in creating public acceptance of AI.

Trust takes years to build, seconds to break.

Data breaches and the misuse of sensitive information in the name of business has eroded consumers’ trust in AI solutions as the nascent industry attempts to find its footing.^* In a recent study published by Capgemini, 75 percent of respondents surveyed said they wanted more transparency from services powered by AI and 76 percent felt there should be more regulation on how companies use AI. It goes without saying that the challenge for AI developers is how to secure and further improve consumers’ trust, not only in the technology itself, but in their own intentions, motivations and policies.

According to Dr. Christina J. Colclough who advocates for global workers’ rights in the digital age, AI developers have an obligation to “introduce or enable trust in these systems.” The way to do that, she says, “is by having demands for transparency, fairness, and auditability, so that humans don’t feel that they are controlled by this algorithmic system, which knows more about me than I do.”

Transparency in AI can be broken down into five key areas – explainability, communication, purpose, data privacy and interface, all which we’ll take a closer look at below.

Explainability

With machines now making more and more decisions that affect human lives, it’s important to be able to understand the process by which such decisions are reached. For this to happen, AI developers must be more open about their systems so that consumers and regulators can have a better understanding of what’s going on under the hood. This will allow users and other key stakeholders to decide whether or not they think the recommendations or findings of AI-based systems come from processes that reliably prioritize fairness and accuracy.

“We need to build explainability into the process,” said Sri Shivananda, senior vice president and CTO of PayPal. “A customer should be able to see why something happened on a product or an experience and platforms need to be able to explain why any choice was made.”

Communication

End users will place more trust in AI – and have more realistic expectations for the technology – when they have a better understanding how it works, making clear, accessible communications essential. AI developers have a responsibility to accurately portray how their products do what they do, being upfront about any and all uses of personal data and addressing potential concerns customers might have in a straight-forward, factual manner.

“You have to have an honest, authentic conversation with your consumers so that they know exactly what’s going on,” said Jeff Poggi, Co-CEO of the McIntosh Group, who sees simpler, more forthright communications as being critical to the wider adoption of AI.

Purpose

A clearly defined purpose is also essential, both for the AI system in question and any personal information the user must provide to take advantage of its features. This is so users can be sure their data and habits aren’t being used for unapproved reasons or to provide recommendations or functionalities that serve commercial interests rather than their own.

A full disclosure of purpose helps consumers assess if they’re comfortable or not sharing their information, allowing them to determine whether it is being used to enhance the capabilities of AI, or merely as a means to gather data about their behaviors and preferences for marketing purposes. Developers must also enact effective oversight to ensure that the AI systems and services they develop continue to operate on the premise of providing value to the customer.

Data Privacy

For over a decade now consumers have provided their personal data in exchange for access to apps and online services, and more recently, to make use of AI solutions. So, probably many aren’t fully aware of the potential consequences of having their information stolen by bad actors. In fact, in a recent survey by PwC, 55 percent of respondents said they would continue to use or buy services from companies even after a breach.

“I think the majority of ordinary citizens and ordinary workers cannot even imagine the power and potential of these technologies,” said Dr. Colclough. “We don’t know what the threats to our privacy and human rights are.”

As AI systems become more prevalent in all areas of daily life, the opportunity for sensitive information to be compromised increases. Companies will need to invest ever more resources in data security if they are to foster trust and ensure the future success of AI technology. But, equally, investment is also needed to educate consumers about the inherent risks of sharing their personal information.

Interface

Making user-AI interactions as intuitive and seamless as possible will help companies boost the uptake of their intelligent offerings. A system that can read and interpret one’s behaviors and predict actions ahead of time could potentially be viewed as more invasive than helpful, preventing people from sharing accurate data or enabling all recognition and learning features. The development of interfaces that can speak and comprehend conversational language and recognize needs without being asked will introduce a human-machine relationship that is more personal and natural, helping to bring about the next level of the AI experience.

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* https://www.edelman.com/news-awards/trust-technology-continues-erode-2020

Experience Your Favorite Sports Like Never Before

A screenshot from LG's ‘Light the game up’ YouTube video which displays a man playing soccer with the phrase ‘2021 LG OLEDevo Sports’

Summer is on its way, bringing with it the promise of better weather and a golden time of year for sports fans everywhere. And while some major sporting events have been cancelled or delayed, there’s plenty of first-class action to be had with football leagues up and running, basketball playoffs just around the corner, baseball in full swing, as well as tennis and auto racing. With so much to look forward to as we approach the second half or the year, now is the ideal moment to upgrade to a new TV – one that can light your game up and make you feel like you’re right there to witness all the exhilarating contests and mind-blowing plays as they unfold.

Video Light the game up

When it comes to shopping for a TV that’s great for watching sports, there’s more to consider than just screen size and color expression. To deliver that realistic stadium/arena feel, high-quality motion control handling is crucial. Because to keep up with the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it movements of the world’s top athletes, you’ll need a TV that can handle it all without any motion blur or drop off in detail. Let’s face it, there’s nothing more frustrating than trying to follow a flickering, blurry soccer ball stuttering its way across the screen, or watching a titanic battle between two star players reduced to a fuzzy, indistinct mess.

Luckily for sports fans, LG offers a variety of “premier league” TVs that can capture all the blistering action in absolute clarity. From multi-award-winning OLED TVs to the soon-to-launch QNED Mini LED TVs, and the more affordable yet highly capable NanoCell TVs; the company has all of your sports-viewing needs covered. With an advanced TV from one of LG’s championship 2021 lineups in the living room, you can watch live as sporting history is made, review the must-see highlights from every game or replay those legendary goals from classic matches.

Conveniently available on LG TVs, Sports Alert keeps you effortlessly up to date on your favorite teams.¹ Receive notifications when their games are about to begin, real-time scoring alerts and final results even while you’re watching other content. You can also easily check out your teams’ upcoming matches and other key information so you’re always in the know. Setting up Sports Alert is as easy as can be. Just press the Speak button on the LG Magic Remote and say “Sports Alert” and ThinQ instantly launches the app so you can select the sports leagues and teams you want to follow. After the initial setup, you can sit back, relax, and let LG’s customizable feature keep you abreast of the sports that matter most to you.

The company’s TVs deliver memorable sports-viewing experiences thanks to a combination of outstanding picture quality, large screen sizes, and superb surround sound via Dolby Atmos and LG’s exceptional sound engine, as well as compatibility with a range of external audio solutions. Along with realistic, three-dimensional images and sound, you can enjoy unique features created specifically for sports fans such as Sports Alert.

LG’s advanced motion handling technology allows its TVs to display action with incredible smoothness, even during the fastest periods of play. So the fuzziness, stuttering and juddering that detracts enjoyment of the game on other TVs won’t be an issue when you team up with LG. LG TVs also boast excellent contrast and the ability to make details sharper in every scene, ensuring every score or stat shown on screen and the names and numbers on players’ jerseys can be easy to read at all times.

When it comes to immersive sports viewing, sound quality is just as important as image quality. LG TV’s AI Sound Pro offers a dedicated mode for sports that lets you hear all the sounds of the game. Whether it’s the coach shouting orders, players directing their teammates or the ball flying off the boot, bat or racket, you won’t miss a sound. Dolby Atmos support means you can experience dynamic 3D audio at its best, while Bluetooth Surround Ready offers easy connection with LG’s powerful XBOOM speakers and wide selection of soundbars.

And with multiple AI assistants to choose from, including Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, you can control the entire viewing experience using just your voice so you’ll never again miss a key moment of the big match searching for the remote. The 2021 TVs even offer support for Apple AirPlay 2.²

The wealth of sports streaming apps available on LG’s webOS-based smart TVs makes it easy to keep up with all the leagues you love. Along with a significant number of local options, there are globally-popular services such as Fubo TV, BBC iPlayer, CBS All Access, ESPN and many, many more to choose from.

For the ultimate in realistic picture quality, LG OLED is your go-to option. Thanks to LG OLED’s self-lit pixels which can turn on and off independently, LG 2021 OLED TVs can display fast-moving sports with outstanding detail, color and contrast, no matter how hectic the action gets. OLED Motion Pro further enhances the impressive motion handling performance of LG’s next-gen TVs, allowing viewers to see the most subtle of details in every split-second play in every type of sport.³ And with screen options ranging from 48- to 88-inches, there’s an LG OLED for every space and every preference.

If you’re looking for a big screen that offers balanced light control along with great contrast, brightness and deeper blacks, QNED Mini LED TV is an excellent choice. LG’s pioneering TV combines Mini LED backlighting with Quantum Dot NanoCell color technology to deliver brighter, clearer images, while a larger number of dimming zones ensures precise backlight control and an ultra-high contrast ratio. The end result is a greater level of detail and more accurate color reproduction than other LG LCD TVs can provide.

Video introducing Sports Alert

The QNED Mini LED TV lineup also offers compelling large screen choices – 65-, 75-, and 86-inches – each working in harmony with LG’s latest audio products. Once you’ve paired an LG soundbar with the TV, you can use the TV’s Magic Remote to control the soundbar’s volume and sound modes.⁴

A solid all-rounder, LG NanoCell shouldn’t be overlooked in the ideal for watching sports TV stakes. In addition to providing all of LG’s sports-centric features and ultralarge screen sizes, LG NanoCell produces incredibly pure colors, leveraging 1nm nanoparticles to filter out color impurities and enhance color expression. With 100 percent color consistency, the TVs display colors with accuracy and vibrancy, making you feel as though you’re seated in the stands, witnessing the skill and passion of your sporting heroes in person.⁵The LG NanoCell range offers a wide selection of screen sizes, starting from a space-friendly 43 inches, and going all the way up to a mammoth 86 inches.

To learn more about why LG TVs are a sports fan’s dream, click here for OLED and here for NanoCell.

(Images simulated to enhance features. May differ from actual use.)

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¹ Available on 2020 and 2021 models. Sports and sports leagues supported may differ by country. Functionality and EPG limitations vary by country.
² Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa support varies by country.
³ OLED Motion Pro available in G1, C1 and B1 models.
⁴ Soundbar Mode Control only available with LG soundbar models SP11, SP9, SP8 and SP7.
⁵ Certified by Intertek for 100 percent color consistency measured to CIE DE2000 using 18-color Macbeth patterns with viewing angle ±30°.

Expanding Production to Create More Opportunities in Brazil

LG employees assembling electronics at the company’s Manaus plant

Steel Workers’ Union of Taubaté

The past year has been one of the most challenging periods in recent history for many businesses. So it’s especially meaningful that in Brazil, LG Electronics is accelerating efforts to expand its production facilities, creating much-needed work for local contractors and ultimately lead to many new roles within the company itself.

On May 11, the Brazilian government approved LG’s plan to expand its Manaus plant, located in the northwestern state of Amazonas, by 12,000 square meters. The BRL 325 million (USD 62 million) project is expected to commence operations in July and will see the establishment of new production lines for LG laptops and monitors even as LG winds down its smartphone operations. Once work has been completed and the new facilities fully operational, LG will become the fourth largest employer in Amazonas, adding 150 jobs and growing its local workforce to 2,200 members.

“The plant will create more than twice as many employment opportunities as originally projected and will help stimulate economic growth in the region, making it a win-win for everyone,” said Wilson Lima, governor of Amazonas.

After the announcement in April that LG would be exiting the mobile industry, the decision was made to relocate the monitor and laptop manufacturing lines from Taubaté on the east coast to Manaus. While the company will continue to operate its customer call center from Taubaté, all of LG’s Brazilian manufacturing will be consolidated in Manaus going forward.

“We will continue to provide local employment opportunities and ensure uninterrupted service to our customers and partners across South and Central America,” said Seo Young-moo, senior vice president of LG Brazil Manaus production. “The Manaus expansion allows us to achieve both goals and we are extremely grateful to the Brazilian government and the state of Amazonas for supporting the project and recognizing its value to the local economy and community.”

Established in 1995, the Manaus plant was originally established to manufacture TVs, microwave ovens and DVD players, with air conditioners added in 2001. In 2005, the Taubaté site went into operation, producing mobile phones, laptops and monitors. With the expansion of its Manaus site, LG is helping to stimulate the local economy in Amazonas while demonstrating its commitment to keeping as much production as possible in Brazil. By staying strong during challenging times and working together with the communities it serves, LG is continuing to ensure that life’s good.

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2021 Life’s Good Campaign Kicks Off with Charlie Puth and Jackson Tisi

Life's Good Music Project with Charlie Puth

LG Calls on Young Musicians and Creators
to Express Their Own “Life’s Good” Message

SEOUL, May 27, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) today announced that its 2021 Life’s Good campaign will consist of two exciting components: Life’s Good Music Project in collaboration with acclaimed singer, songwriter and producer Charlie Puth and the Life’s Good Film, to be directed by rising star Jackson Tisi.

LG’s Life’s Good campaign gives young people around the world the opportunity to let their creativity and talent shine. First launched last year, the Life’s Good Music Project calls on aspiring, young performers to share their own compositions expressing LG’s uplifting Life’s Good message. Anyone who loves music and can hum a tune is invited to submit an original accompaniment based on the 2021 version of the Life’s Good song, produced by Charlie Puth. The talent behind the winning entries will receive OLED TVs along with other LG products and the opportunity to complete and perform the song with Puth.

Submissions to the Life’s Good Music Project can be made by posting to Instagram or YouTube with the hashtag #LifeisGoodMusic_LG until June 27. Full entry details can be found here.

“I can’t wait to listen to everyone’s submissions and hear their take on the melody and chorus,” said Puth. “Music has always been a source of healing and empowerment for me, and I know this is going to be a memorable experience for everyone.”

This year’s Life’s Good Film will be directed by Jackson Tisi, who won Gold at the Young Director Award 2020 for his moving short documentary, LEON. LG is further challenging the next generation of filmmakers to visually capture the moments and places that have meaning in their lives and how they interpret LG’s Life’s Good philosophy.

The accompanying Life’s Good Film Project is intended to convey a universal message of hope and celebrate the diversity of experiences and viewpoints of young auteurs from all over the globe through their inspiring, unique stories. Submissions can be made by posting to Instagram or YouTube with the hashtag #LifeisGoodFilm_LG until June 27. Details for participation in the Life’s Good Film Project can be seen here.

“I believe there’s something profound in our everyday thoughts and the places we go to seek inspiration or solace,” said Tisi. “By sharing what we find in our everyday, this film will convey a resonating message of what life still holds.”

To accompany the 2021 Life’s Good campaign, LG has also created a brand channel on GIPHY offering a variety of cheerful GIF stickers – including those from both the Life’s Good Music Project and Life’s Good Film Project – for use on Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and other social platforms.

For more on the 2021 Life’s Good campaign, stay tuned to LG’s Global YouTube channel and Instagram.

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LG Objet Collection Heralds Global Era of Tailored Home Appliances

LG Objet Collection convertible fridge and freezer become point item with pink color in simple kitchen.

Diverse Material and Color Choices to Match Any Décor;
Comes with LG’s Renowned Performance and Quality

SEOUL, May 26, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) announces the commencement of the international launch of LG Objet Collection, designed to meet the growing consumer demand for personalized, stylish and functional home appliances. Debuting as Furniture Concept Appliances at CES 2021, the LG Objet Collection’s Fridge and Freezer pair will debut in China, a market with already robust demand for LG premium appliances. Availability in key markets of Asia and Europe will follow soon thereafter.

Blurring the line between state-of-the-art home appliances and designer furnishings, the LG Objet Collection boasts a modern, minimalist design language that elevates and blends in effortlessly in any indoor environment. With a range of luxurious materials and subtle, sophisticated colors that can be mixed and matched according to preference, the collection provides a compelling way for customers to express their unique personalities tailored to suit personal tastes and the existing décor.

The LG Objet Collection Fridge and Freezer offer a chic, understated aesthetic that complements any style of kitchen, as well as outstanding performance with LG’s industry-leading refrigeration technologies. The pair presents consumers with a selection of timeless, high-quality finishes, including stainless steel and glass.

The stainless steel option offers three color variations (green, silver and matte black) for a chic, modern look, while the glass finish comes in four elegant tints (mint, pink, beige and silver) that allow the appliances to fit in seamlessly with any kitchen design.¹With LG’s proven refrigeration system, LINEARCooling™, the Fridge guarantees outstanding cooling performance. LINEARCooling helps maintain a precise, even internal temperature with minimal fluctuations (±0.5 degrees Celsius), helping to keep food items, such as fruits and vegetables, fresh for up to seven days.^2,3

LG plans to expand its LG Objet Collection of premium kitchen appliances with more striking products such as InstaView™ refrigerator and Styler wardrobe management system to achieve a unified, visually-harmonious living environment.

“The launch of the LG Objet Collection in international markets marks the beginning of an era of the personalized appliance,” said Lyu Jae-cheol, president of LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. “Offering understated design and different options of materials and colors to choose from, LG’s stylish innovations help make it possible for consumers to create a space that truly reflects their unique sensibilities.”

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¹ Color and material options may vary by country and market.
² Based on TÜV Rheinland test results using LG’s internal testing method measuring average peak to peak temperature fluctuation in fresh food compartment of LG refrigerator model GLT51PZGSZ. No load and normal temperature setting. Results may vary in actual usage.
³ Based on TÜV Rheinland test results using LG’s internal testing method measuring the time required for specific food stored in the fresh food compartment of LG refrigerator model GLT51PZGSZ to decrease in weight by five percent. Results may vary in actual usage.

Local Initiatives, Global Benefits

Young and eager Ethiopian trainees learning how to repair appliances under the teacher's guidance

For global companies like LG Electronics which operates in more than 100 locations worldwide, it is crucial that they participate in initiatives to promote mutual growth with local communities and have a robust strategy in place to demonstrate socially responsible behavior. And under an overarching vision that sees various aspects of society working together to achieve a better life for all, LG is committed to social contribution activities that deliver sustainable growth to local communities.

LG has three main goals: to help solve social problems through its products and technologies, establish a foundation for growth and ensure the independence of stakeholders through trusted partnerships, and encourage employee volunteering to promote a sharing culture. Let’s look at some of LG’s global social contribution activities aiming to bolster vulnerable communities while nurturing talents and promoting innovative technologies that care.

Global LG Ambassador Challenge
The LG Electronics Ambassador Program is an annual social initiative founded in Bangladesh in 2017 which was expanded regionally last year. Individuals and organizations are invited to submit solution ideas for local issues and, with help from local NGOs, the best ideas are awarded LG Ambassador status and provided with grants and donations to implement their work even further.

In the capital city of Nairobi, Kenya, one winning project focused on supporting needy students at Kilimani Primary School, an integrated primary school with a unit that caters for visually impaired students. LG donated 10 braille machines to the school, enabling more students to read and enhancing their learning experience.

Another winning project focused on empowering young women to break the poverty cycle. Based in rural Kajiado County in Kenya, Beula Girls Empowerment reaches out to vulnerable girls across the region to give them a new chance in life through mentorships, education programs and training workshops to develop trade skills. LG is supporting this valuable cause by donating various essentials, such as tents, chairs, audio systems and projectors.

Last but not least, offering various activities, including soccer training, competitions and community work, to keep at-risk youth engaged, the Limuru Soccer Academy was selected as the third winning project in Kenya. LG donated a van to help the academy drive kids to and from activities as well as generate income when not in use at the academy, through integration into the public transport system. The remainder of the monetary aid went towards purchasing sports equipment and football kits.

LG-KOICA Hope TVET College

As a part of LG’s youth support program and in collaboration with the local Ethiopian government, the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and several NGOs, LG established the LG-KOICA Hope TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) College in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa.

Since 2014, the program has provided young, eager Ethiopians with vocational training to teach them how to repair electronics and home appliances as well as information and communication technologies. This year, the initiative produced 57 bright graduates with some receiving internships and full-time jobs at LG’s Dubai service center.

LG Inverter Class in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, youth unemployment has been rising for years, reaching a high of 11.9 percent in 2019.^* To help address this issue, LG partnered with KOICA and Bangladesh’s BMET (Bureau of Manpower Employment and Training) to establish LG Inverter Class, a job training program held at the Korea-Bangladesh Vocational Training Center in the city of Dhaka.

Due to Bangladesh’s high temperatures and humid climate, air conditioners and related services are always in high demand. With this in mind, the educational course was created to train 40 highly motivated locals each year on repairing and servicing LG’s air solution products based on a comprehensive curriculum and textbooks developed directly by LG as well as work experiences interning at service centers in Bangladesh.

These are just some of the ESG activities that LG is engaged in needy communities to ensure a better life.

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* Tackling the COVID-19 youth employment crisis in Asia and the Pacific: International Labour Organization, Bangkok (Thailand), and Asian Development Bank, Manila (Philippines), 2020

Ginormous 3D Artwork Celebrates the Intersection of Art and Technology

A passerby taking a picture of LG's massive, high-definition digital billboard in Time Square, New York displaying the artwork of David McLeod

New Yorkers and Londoners in Times Square and Piccadilly Circus are being treated to an immersive 3D art experience displayed on LG’s massive, high-definition digital billboards in the two international cities. The 75-second video showcase is a stunning 3D work of art that celebrates the relationship between art and technology, the connection that lies at the heart of LG SIGNATURE’s core philosophy, Art Inspires Technology, Technology Completes Art.

Titled Art Revolution, the exclusive artwork by David McLeod represents the ongoing evolution of LG SIGNATURE products and the seamless convergence of advanced technology and striking design that has come to define the premium brand. Designed to captivate all passersby, the electronic billboards fill up with animated, three-dimensional bubbles that flow playfully through LG SIGNATURE’s premium products before escaping the constraints of the gigantic screens and floating weightlessly into the sky.

The innovative artwork draws inspiration from each of the brand’s distinctive products, expressing their unique advantages through dynamic, abstract images. For example, the animation for LG SIGNATURE Refrigerator symbolizes the product’s connection to fresh foods and the art for LG Washing Machine focuses on clothing and fabric care. Plump grapes illustrate the function of the Wine Cellar while LG’s brilliant OLED TV is represented by infinite, rich colors.

Photo Credit: David McLeod

The visually arresting art is the work of Australian artist and 3D illustrator, David McLeod. Known for his multi-disciplinary approach, McLeod began his career designing websites and digital ad campaigns before becoming an in-demand 3D artist. Art and technology played a key role in this transition, as the rapid development of technology in the 3D space enabling David to take his art to a whole new level. Throughout his career, McLeod has always focused on his audience’s emotional response to texture and motion, translating these elements into his own visual language.

By seamlessly bringing together art and technology, LG SIGNATURE continues to break new ground with its innovative, luxury lifestyle solutions, embodying the brand’s Art of Essence vision.

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Ginormous 3D Artwork Celebrates the Intersection of Art and Technology

Digital Signage Solutions Take Virtual Center Stage

The inside of a subway train with LG signage used to display information or views on the windows which can be experienced through the company's virtual tour

Digital signage to most people conjure up images of giant stadium scoreboards and downtown city billboards on top of buildings. But today’s digital signage is far more ubiquitous than that and are used across a wide range of settings such as displaying appointment times in a doctor’s office, foreign exchange rates in banks, even animated artwork in public spaces.

Leading manufacturers in this space continue to expand and improve their offerings, creating solutions that deliver even better picture quality, more versatility and easier (and cheaper) installation, among other benefits. What’s more, the industry has seen a surge in interest since the beginning of the pandemic, with many businesses seeking ways to communicate information and engage employees and customers while limiting face-to-face interactions.

A longtime trusted provider of innovative signage solutions, LG Electronics’ refreshed online showroom, LG Digital Connect (DC) 2021, is a smorgasbord of information, delivered 100 percent virtually. The showcase gives prospective customers and interested visitors an intuitive, interactive way to experience LG’s digital signage products complete with detailed product features, technical specification and useful case scenarios.

Upon entering LG DC 2021, visitors find themselves in the experience hall where products with similar characteristics are grouped together in sections for convenient exploration. Each section features a Virtual Zone, where detailed three-dimensional images of products can be viewed in different types of settings. In addition to the existing residential, education and hospitality virtual environments, new scenarios have been added for 2021, including a broadcasting station, presentation space, content creation studio, luxury retail store, sports stadium and metro.

The virtual showroom demonstrates how LG’s digital signage is suitable for a broad range of applications and how it can add value in nearly every situation. For example, LG offers a display for every usage scenario in the today’s modern, high-tech stadium, all connected and controllable via a comprehensive, cloud-base management solution. Whether it’s the general spectator section, concourse, club room or corporate box, LG has the right products for every space: LED signage, transparent OLED signage or something in between.

LG’s Transparent OLED Signage is ideal for broadcast booths at live sporting events or in the studio for the half-time show because it can display relevant stats and player profiles without blocking the action going on in the background. LG LED Bloc is perfect for showing replays to fans in the stadium with its 1.25mm pixel pitch and α (Alpha) 7 Intelligent Processor for sharp pictures with realistic color and contrast.

LG’s solutions are also a perfect fit for executive briefing centers – dedicated spaces where companies can engage directly with clients and demonstrate their products and services. Automatic sliding doors integrated with LG Transparent OLED Signage deliver a powerful first impression to guests as they enter the space, even displaying personalized messages to make them feel more welcome. Designed for easy installation and management and excellent image quality that looks just as good when viewed up close, LG MAGNIT and LG LED Bloc are also great options for communicating visually with customers.

LG’s innovative digital signage can enhance a visitor’s sense of exclusivity at luxury brand stores and provide an unparalleled advertising platform that grabs the attention of every commuter over the course of the workday.

With high-quality, state-of-the-art displays suitable for multiple spaces and uses that are easy to install and configure, LG remains at the forefront of the expanding digital signage market. At LG Digital Connect 2021, visitors can experience their own personal virtual tour to see which solutions are the best fit for their needs.

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Connecting to Consumer Passion Points With “Only on OLED”

A promotional image for the LG OLED Ultimate Gaming Showdown on Fortnite between DJ Khaled and Megan Fox

Connecting with consumers is critical to gaining their attention in a cluttered environment. To drive home the superiority of LG OLED TVs with consumers, LG in the USA has launched Only on OLED, a campaign and content strategy that positions LG as the necessary and exclusive partner to the biggest moments in entertainment. Focusing on key consumer passions that are drivers for TV purchases, the campaign will feature unparalleled access to unique events and moments best enjoyed on LG OLED TVs.

The key components of Only on OLED include a live celebrity gaming showdown series, docu-style short films featuring professional star athletes and exclusive sneak peeks at never-before-seen content from some of this year’s most anticipated movie releases available only on LG TV’s FOMO Channel app on the webOS smart TV platform.

“The Only on OLED program embraces the entertainment passion points of our consumers taking them beyond the actual movie, sporting event or gaming play with never-before-seen events and behind-the scenes content best experienced on OLED TVs,” said Peggy Ang, LG US’s senior vice president of marketing.

The campaign kicked off last week with the first LG OLED Ultimate Gaming Showdown featuring multi-platinum-selling music mogul DJ Khaled and world-renowned actor Megan Fox. The two stars competed in a head-to-head Fortnite battle, live streamed on professional esports team Evil Geniuses’ Twitch Channel.

The event, which generated more than one million live views, focused on LG OLED’s unrivaled superiority as the best TV for gaming. PR coverage in lifestyle and gaming publications including People Magazine and Hypebeast, and a series of witty social media videos featuring Fox and Khaled were the key drivers generating consumer attendance.

Khaled and Fox were both coached by Evil Geniuses talents Justin “FearItSelf” Kats and Wilton “Zews” Prado. Fox’s celebrity boyfriend Machine Gun Kelly also made an unexpected cameo appearance.

Following the live event, LG TV owners will have exclusive access to behind-the-scenes content plus the ability to watch the event on-demand on LG’s exclusive FOMO Channel app. Future Gaming Showdown participants and battles will be announced throughout the year.

Only on OLED will also deliver exclusive sports and movie experiences featuring star athletes and some of the most anticipated movie releases of 2021. Launching this spring, Only on OLED will debut two bespoke short films featuring professional football and basketball superstars taking fans behind-the-scenes for a glimpse into the story behind the player. And this summer, LG TV owners will have access to exclusive content from a few of this year’s highly anticipated Warner Bros. Pictures film releases. More details on these programs will be announced at a later date.

Contributed by LG USA

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[On the Job] Accelerating UX Design Into the Future

An image showing the front interior design of a Cadillac with LG’s infotainment system on show

Photo Credit: Cadillac

In this segment of On the Job, we take a look at user experience (UX) designers and the crucial role they play in LG’s Vehicle component Solutions Company.

The future of mobility is fast approaching, with software predicted to account for 90 percent of all vehicle-related innovation within a decade.¹ According to some estimates, around 461 million vehicles will have been equipped with digital head units – the control center for an automobile’s information and entertainment center – and 115 million with digital cockpit architecture, between the years 2020 and 2030.²

And it’s software that gives digital dashboard displays, head units, cockpits among other in-vehicle systems, their ability to enhance the overall driver and passenger experience. And as an expert in both plastic OLED (P-OLED) and user experiences (UX), LG is helping to shape the future of mobility with advanced in-vehicle digital displays.

Photo Credit: Cadillac

As the automotive interior becomes more complex and more informative, the role of the UX designer is growing in importance. While UX design may not be as well-known as a car’s exterior design, there is no question that it’s one of the most dynamic fields related to design today with much room to evolve. Currently, the UX in vehicles relates to three main elements: traditional driver clusters such as speedometers and odometers; rear-seat entertainment (RSE); audio, video and navigation (AVN).

From left: Park Ji-yeong, Yoo Ah-yeon , Ko Seung-yeon, Oh Ji-won, Jeong Hye-in, Ahn Jong-yoon

From concept to production, the development cycle of a car today takes years. The whole time, LG’s UX designers are involved every step of the way, considering every angle, every possible experience. Safety and convenience are of the greatest importance to LG UX designers, especially when it relates to AVN and driver cluster displays.

Details from font, text size, screen brightness and visibility at different times of the day to accessibility of commonly-used functions is factored in to produce an optimized graphical user interface (GUI). And because drivers’ preferences differ widely, both physical controls must coexist seamlessly with more flexible touch displays without confusing the vehicle’s occupants.

But beyond usability and safety, LG’s in-car displays must also deliver exceptional style. The integrated infotainment system must exude a sleek, modern aesthetic that complements the interior and makes the driver and passengers feel as though they’ve stepped into a luxurious cockpit.

But a UX designer’s role doesn’t just stop at the drawing board or the CAD system. LG UX designers are also well versed in customer service.

“While working on the digital cockpit for a client, I took up residence in their offices for many months because the collaboration with our clients doesn’t simply end with the design,” said Park Ji-yeong, senior UX designer at LG Electronics. “Automobile software is updated for years, even for models launched almost a decade ago, so we make it a priority to follow up with our clients regularly.”

As UX designers at LG work to advance the in-vehicle experience, the information and entertainment technology inside the vehicle cabin will continue to evolve and become more complex. So it’s a fairly sure bet that the job of a vehicle user experience designer will only be more vital to the driving experience, even if the driving is mostly done by the car.

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¹ https://www.ibm.com/thought-leadership/institute-business-value/report/auto-2030
²https://www.abiresearch.com/press/digital-cockpit-be-mainstream-2030-due-major-restructure-connected-automotive-infotainment-architecture/

Uniting the Middle East With Good Food

An illustration of the Life’s Good Restaurant on wheels with a male and female chef behind

In the Middle East, smartphone apps have become the preferred mode of communication, with 88 percent of the people using social media every day.¹ And the pandemic has accelerated this adoption, with 75 percent of those surveyed in the region saying that their time on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok has increased over the past year.²

To engage this growing audience in the region, LG’s Middle East and Africa office introduced “The Spot”, an online space where visitors can enter competitions to win exclusive experiences and amazing prizes to engage digitally-savvy Gen Z fans in the region. LG invited food enthusiasts across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kenya, Egypt and Turkey to visit “Life’s Good Restaurant” inside The Spot to share the stories behind their favorite foods.

Each sumptuous dish is published on social media for followers to peruse and to learn exactly how each culinary creation came to be. LG partnered with renowned celebrity chefs across the MEA region who will judge which inventions come out on top, attempting to re-create the very best for winners at their restaurants or through a convenient home delivery service.

Along with a custom-made meal prepared by a celebrity chef, winners will receive one of LG’s diverse collection of state-of-the-art kitchen appliances such as LG NeoChef™ Microwave Oven & Grill or LG InstaView™ Door-in-Door^® Refrigerator. During the campaign, Life’s Good Restaurant chefs have been actively engaging fans on social media, openly sharing their selection process so fans can feel vested in going along for the journey until the best dish is announced.

Throughout the year, LG will introduce more competitions and giveaways, covering fields as diverse and engaging as dancing and gaming, and will continue to actively communicate with consumers in the Middle East and Africa and showcase how technology and innovation can make our lives better.

By LG Middle East and Africa Staff

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¹https://www.meltwater.com/en/blog/top-3-social-media-trends-middle-east
² “Transitioning to the new normal: Middle East Updates.” PwC Middle East, 14 July 2020.

[AI Experience] Building Ethics Into Artificial Intelligence

An illustration of a man being influenced by AI and lectures to represent the theme, 'AI ethics'

In the second episode of the AI Experience series, we delve into the role of ethics in the evolution of artificial intelligence.

The benefits of AI notwithstanding, there continues to exist concerns about the ethical implications of a technology that could potentially know more about its users than they do about themselves. And for as long as there have been intelligent machines, there have been skepticism and distrust. While some of this wariness could be traced back to the way artificial intelligence has been portrayed in science fiction books and movies, it’s no exaggeration to say that suspicion toward such technology is widespread. In fact, the late Stephen Hawking once said, “The development of full artificial intelligence could spell the end of the human race. It would take off on its own, and re-design itself at an ever-increasing rate.”

Photo Credit: European Commission

To prevent such scenarios from ever coming true, the European Union recently put into place regulations to ensure that “good ethics” are built into all AI technologies. Regarding the new guidelines, executive vice president of the European Commission for A Europe Fit for the Digital Age, said, “With these landmark rules, the EU is spearheading the development of new global norms to make sure AI can be trusted.”¹

Before we delve into ethical AI, it is important to understand how AI learns – and what (and whom) it is learning from – in the first place. Because AI gains insight from data collected from existing societal structures and based on parameters set by human beings – such as researchers and developers – and the companies they work for, it is enevitable that the technology will reflect at least some of the biases, tendencies and preconceptions that exist within those separate but intimately related elements.

“Human centric means to take into consideration the human aspect of how the tools are going to be used, for what purpose, and what’s the consequence for humans who use the tool,” said Yoshua Bengio, 2019 Turing Award-winning AI researcher and founder of Mila (originally Montreal Institute for Learned Algorithms). “It’s important because those tools are becoming more and more powerful, and the more powerful the tool is, the more we need to be careful about how to use it.”

So now let’s take a look at five areas that are integral to the ethical development and use of AI, moving forward: inclusivity, values, governance, data privacy and purpose.

Inclusivity

Acknowledging and factoring in diversity is central to producing AI systems that meet the needs of a diverse global population. However, a study published by in 2019 concluded that there is an alarming lack of diversity in the AI field and that this is perpetuating all kinds of gender, race and religious biases.²

In response to this state of affairs, groups such as the African Institute for Mathematical Science, which launched courses to train young Africans in machine learning and its application to diversify the talent pipeline, are calling for initiatives to achieve a more equitable future for AI. But more consistent and far-reaching efforts are needed if there is to be better cultural and gender representation in the lab and in the industry.

“If you don’t have diversity among the people who are doing the designing and the people doing the testing, the people who are involved in the process, then you’re all guaranteed to have a narrow solution,” says Charles Isbell, dean of computing at Georgia Tech and a strong advocate for increasing access to and diversity in higher education.

Values

To a great extent, the values of a nation determines the philosophy behind a country’s AI development. The decoupling of technology in such countries is often made on ethical grounds rooted in fundamental differences in ideologies and values. For example, there is wide disparity in how far governments can intrude upon people’s private lives from country to country.

To alleviate this, private entities should consider universal human values when designing AI systems and be responsible for their products that strongly impact society.

“That’s why it’s not just about maximizing their profits… but taking the responsibility, in the way that the action will have an impact on society,” explains Dr. Yuko Harayama of Japanese scientific research institute, RIKEN, and former executive member of Japan’s Council for Science, Technology and Innovation Cabinet Office. “It’s up to us because we are all human beings and that means you are responsible for your action, including your action within your company.”

Governance

According to a list of 20 AI-enabled crimes put together by researchers at University College London, the biggest threat to civil order comes not from the technology itself, but from humans using it to their own illegal ends. Using driverless vehicles as weapons was among the possible crimes presented in the study.

Historically it has been the role of governments to ensure public safety through regulation and oversight but with AI, lawmakers are faced with the difficulty of legislating a technology that is constantly evolving and challenging to comprehend. Rather than leaving this matter exclusively in the hands of the government, a broad, interdisciplinary effort is required so that any legislation encompasses a wider range of viewpoints and is built on a deeper fundamental understanding of AI.

Data Privacy

AI systems for consumers have relatively few safeguards compared to those designed for industrial or military use, making them more susceptible to personal data breaches or misuse. This is why fostering trust is so important when it comes to human-centric AI systems – trust that users’ data is safe and protected and that it isn’t being used for purposes without owner consent.

“I think the biggest things we need to consider is what data is being collected, who is collecting it, where it is staying, and how it is being used and reused,” said Alex Zafiroglu, deputy director at the 3A Institute of The Australian National University, emphasizing the need for transparency in the use and collection of data for consumer AI solutions.

Purpose

To deliver relevant services and maximum convenience, AI-based systems require users to share certain pieces of personal data. The more personalized the experience provided, the more private data the user has to share.

It is critical, then, that the purpose for which this data is used is clearly defined at the outset, and strictly adhered to by the service providers and manufacturers concerned. If AI only employs collected data for a stated purpose, end users would feel less concerned sharing their personal information. This would enable intelligent products and services to deliver more value and the companies that produce them to better fine-tune their offerings.

As its presence and uses continue to expand in all areas of life, artificial intelligence presents human society with the potential for incredible advancement. While significant risks exist, these can be effectively mitigated by making ethics the center of all AI development.

Visit www.AIXexchange.com to discover the perspective of AI experts and leaders in various fields such as design, anthropology, policy, consumer and employee advocacy. LG ThinQ platform (thinq.developer.lge.com) is also available to external partners and developers to accelerate the development of its AI technology.

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¹ https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_21_1682
² https://ainowinstitute.org/AI_Now_2019_Report.html

LG Newsroom

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Uniting the Middle East With Good Food

[AI Experience] Building Ethics Into Artificial Intelligence

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