LG and Clearbrook Announce Strategic Investment Fund to Accelerate Global Innovation
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By News Reporter
AI as Key Driver for Future Growth and Customer Experience Innovation
SEOUL, May 13, 2024 — LG Electronics’ (LG) CEO, William Cho, has embarked on a strategic business trip to the tech-rich western United States, a hotspot for global tech titans and dynamic AI dialogues. Throughout his week-long visit, Cho will focus on key tasks such as attracting top-tier AI talent, communicating the company’s vision and strategy to global investors and attending the influential MS CEO Summit. These endeavors are integral to LG’s comprehensive strategy to accelerate the incorporation of AI into all its business sectors.
AI as a Crucial Catalyst for Future Growth and Customer Experience Innovation
Throughout his trip, Cho aims to secure top-notch expertise in the AI field, an area that has recently surfaced as a critical turning point in the industry. He plans to leverage this as a springboard for transforming LG’s future business portfolio and revolutionizing the customer experience.
Annually, LG introduces approximately 100 million products to the market. Given a product lifespan of seven years, it’s estimated that nearly 700 million LG products are currently in use worldwide. Furthermore, the usage data gained from customers interacting with these devices exceeds 700 billion hours. Cho anticipates this enormous pool of usage data will help accelerate LG’s AI progression and the 700 million products will function not just as customer touchpoints but also as service platforms.
“AI, Cloud, and Big Data are new opportunities for LG”
Cho commenced his itinerary by hosting a tech conference in North America on the 11th in Cupertino, California. This program is aimed at drawing in top-notch talent from abroad. Key participants included LG’s AI Lab management team and executives from LG’s various businesses including Park Hyoung-sei, president of the LG Home Entertainment Company; Eun Seok-hyun, president of LG Vehicle component Solutions Company; Dr. Kim Byoung-hoon, CTO and executive vice president; Kim Weon-bum, CHO and executive vice president; and Dr. Sokwoo Rhee, head of LG’s North America Innovation Center.
LG extended invitations to about 50 AI experts currently working in large tech firms and startups in the Bay Area, as well as doctoral researchers from renowned universities in North America. The conference focused on discussions about the company’s vision, R&D strategy and the future trajectory of AI technology development.
Cho expressed, “In the face of transformative shifts such as electrification, servitization and digitalization sweeping across diverse industries, the application of AI, cloud and big data is paving the way for novel approaches and opportunities.” He further elaborated, “These emerging opportunities represent a new potential frontier for us, given our extensive accumulation of core technologies and expertise.”
He also provided detailed insights into LG’s AI vision of ‘Affectionate Intelligence’, which was unveiled earlier this year at CES 2024. Cho emphasized that “AI should fundamentally be used to care for and empathize with customers, provide tangible benefits and improve the customer experience,” a sentiment that deeply resonated with the attendees.
Following this, he announced, “LG is transcending its status from a global leader in the home appliance and consumer electronics to transform into a ‘Smart Life Solution Company’ that expands and interconnects various customer spaces and experiences.” He added, “I envision us collaborating to reinvent dreams as we undertake bold ventures, fueled by optimism for a brighter future and a better life.”
At the event, CTO Kim Byung-hoon spoke on the subjects of ‘Paradigm Shift’ and ‘LG’s Innovation Roadmap for the Future’, and vice president Han Eun-jung of AI Lab discussed ‘Daily Life with AI’. Professors from the University of Southern California and New York University were also invited to present on generative AI and robotics technology. A panel discussion on the theme of ‘Evolution of AI’ also attracted significant interest from the attendees.
Transition from a Leading Home Appliance Brand to a Smart Life Solution Company
Cho’s second agenda includes hosting a non-deal roadshow (NDR) on May 13, where he will interact with key executives from globally influential investment firms based in San Francisco. His strategy aims to depict LG’s transformation to a comprehensive ‘Smart Life Solution Company’. This transition is anchored in broadening the company’s business portfolio, which includes accelerating B2B business in areas such as EV components, HVAC, built-in appliances’ and signage solutions. The expansion of platform-based services like webOS, and venturing into new areas for LG such as robotics and EV charging, are also integral to this transformation plan.
In particular, Cho plans to highlight how LG is proactively engaging in the development and application of AI in its business operations. He aims to stress that creating tangible customer touchpoints is more crucial than merely having superior AI to provide authentic value and experience to customers.
In this regard, LG’s customer touchpoints, secured through its 700 million devices spanning diverse spaces from homes to vehicles and commercial areas, present a significant advantage that is unmatched by other global companies. LG’s goal is to realize Affectionate Intelligence in our daily lives by leveraging extensive real-time life data and expertise orchestrating devices and services to accelerate AI development using its devices as platforms.
Securing Global AI Allies and Discovering New Business Opportunities at the MS CEO Summit
Cho is also scheduled to attend the MS CEO Summit, a private, invitation-only event taking place in Seattle, where Microsoft’s headquarters is located, for three days starting from May 14. This summit serves as a platform for CEOs and representatives of globally leading companies to discuss and exchange ideas on various topics, including the economic and business environment, as well as industry trends.
LG is diligently working to establish world-class AI capabilities, guided by a ‘3B strategy’ that focuses on Building internal capabilities or Borrowing and Buying external resources. Given LG’s extensive global customer touchpoints and its possession of a vast amount of multi-faceted data and customer insights, the opportunities for future collaborations with globally influential tech companies are expected to become increasingly diverse.
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By News Reporter
With a 360-degree Rotatable Handle and Auto Screen Adjustment Feature, the Latest
CineBeam Model Delivers High-quality Content Consumption Anytime, Anywhere
SEOUL, Mar. 15, 2023 — LG Electronics (LG) is set for the global launch of the LG CineBeam Q (model HU710PB). The LG CineBeam Q will be available for pre-orders from March 18 with exclusive benefits.1 The global release will begin in South Korea this month and will roll out in other markets, including US, Canada, Australia, Germany, Spain, France, UK, several countries in Asia and the Gulf region from April. Furthermore, the innovative projector aims for further expansion into additional countries.
Unveiled at CES 2024, the LG CineBeam Q projector is designed to complement users’ lifestyles, offering maximum portability with its compact design featuring a 360-degree rotatable handle. Intended for seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor settings, the CineBeam Q caters to users seeking elevated entertainment experiences free from constraints of location.2
The LG CineBeam Q provides flexibility for effortless content consumption anytime, anywhere.2 Whether used as an educational aid for families or a movie screen for social gatherings, the versatile lifestyle companion integrates into any room or outdoor area. When not in use, the CineBeam Q projector acts as a chic interior accessory, complementing any space with its minimal design. Additionally, users can activate the Light Drawing function to enhance the ambiance of a space with captivating digital images. This image-mapping feature projects images onto the wall, elevating the room with tranquil mood lighting.
Extending beyond its portable design, the CineBeam Q refuses to compromise outstanding picture quality, projecting stunning 4K UHD resolution images up to 120 inches and delivering vibrant, vivid pictures with a remarkable 450,000:1 contrast ratio and 154 percent coverage (overall) of the DCI-P3 color gamut.
The CineBeam Q projector boasts versatile and convenient features that effectively solve portability issues associated with conventional projectors, which can be a hassle to set up and move around. Equipped with Auto Screen Adjustment, the auto-focus feature optimizes image placement and size, creating an immersive viewing experience in any space, while eliminating the inconvenience of the setup process.3 Further enhanced by the latest version of the intuitive LG webOS platform, viewers can watch all their favorite shows with seamless access4 to popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video and YouTube.5 Additionally, it allows users to effortlessly share content from their smart devices via AirPlay 2 and Miracast.6
“The LG CineBeam Q stands out as a truly unique projector, not only for its exceptional picture quality and impressive visuals but also for its ability to seamlessly blend into any home environment as a stunning art piece,” said YS Lee, vice president and head of the IT business unit of LG Business Solutions Company. “Content lovers will be delighted by the portability of the projector lineup, which delivers unparalleled cinematic viewing experiences anytime, anywhere.”
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1 Benefits for pre-order purchase may vary by country.
2 The projector operates solely through external power sources and does not feature a built-in battery. It necessitates connection to a power cord or external battery. Also, the model requires space suitable for projection such as walls, ceilings and similar surfaces.
3 If the distance from the screen exceeds 2 meters or the angle of placement is over 25 degrees, the auto screen adjustment may not work properly.
4 Available when the device is connected to Internet or Wi-Fi network.
5 Many streaming apps available on webOS require a paid subscription. Support for specific streaming apps may vary by country. Users are required to have an account for the streaming services.
6 Available when the device is connected to Internet or Wi-Fi network.
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By News Reporter
Company Aims to Lead Shift to Software-Defined Robotics
SEOUL, Mar. 12, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is making a strategic investment move to expedite the advancement of its capabilities in service robotics, a key new business area of the company.
LG has executed a stock purchase agreement to acquire a stake in Bear Robotics, a prominent Silicon Valley-based startup specializing in AI-driven autonomous service robots, through an investment of USD 60 million.
Rather than seeking short-term returns, this strategic investment is aimed at bolstering LG’s portfolio for long-term growth. Upon closing the stock purchase, the company will hold the largest portion of shares in Bear Robotics on a single-shareholder basis.
At CES 2024, LG’s CEO William Cho had discussed such potential equity investments, stating, “In the service robotics market, we’re focusing primarily on areas such as delivery and logistics. However, we are carefully considering future directions, keeping open the possibility of equity investments or mergers and acquisitions.”
Founded in 2017 under the leadership of CEO John Ha, a former Senior Software Engineer and Technical Lead at Google, Bear Robotics has gained recognition for its AI-powered indoor delivery robots catering to markets in the United States, South Korea and Japan. The company boasts a team of skilled engineers, including its co-founder and CTO, with backgrounds in prominent tech companies. Notably, Bear Robotics is drawing attention for its expertise in platformizing service robotics software, robot fleet management technology and cloud-based control solutions.
Leading the Shift to Software-Defined Robotics and Enhancing Synergy in Robot Business
LG is preparing for a transition towards Software-defined Robotics (SDR), a shift from hardware to software emphasis, similar to what has been observed in the mobility industry. In anticipation of future growth, the company is committed to developing scalable service robots on an open architecture software platform so that it may cater to a variety of environments, recognizing the critical importance of standardizing AI-based autonomous robot platforms. With this understanding, LG views this strategic investment as a pivotal opportunity to propel its robot business capabilities.
With years of experience in the robot business, LG has accumulated expertise in deploying robot solutions across various commercial spaces such as airports, hotels, restaurants, hospitals, retail stores, museums, smart warehouses and golf courses. LG operates a facility dedicated to the production of service robots at the LG Future Park in Gumi and boasts world-class capabilities in management of quality, supply chain and customer services.
By combining Bear Robotics’ world-class R&D talents and software platform expertise with its own strengths, LG aims to spearhead efforts in standardizing robot platforms to significantly reduce market-entry costs, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and fostering synergies. “Just as Android revolutionized the smartphone era, standardized open platforms are essential for the activation of the robot market,” remarked Bear Robotics CEO John Ha.
Charting a Course for Future Growth in the Service Robotics Market
In recent years, LG has strategically reallocated resources towards high-growth sectors for the future, aligning with market dynamics and the strategic significance of its business models. The investment in Bear Robotics epitomizes LG’s dedication in accelerating the advancement of its service robot sector, a pivotal component of its future growth strategy.
LG has been nurturing its robot business as one of its future core pillars. From the deployment of guide robots at Incheon International Airport in 2017, it has progressively introduced tailored solutions for diverse commercial settings, encompassing delivery and disinfection functionalities. Since the preceding year, LG has actively pursued expansion into international markets including the United States, Japan and Southeast Asia.
The service robotics market is expected to experience rapid growth, propelled by the rapid advancement of technologies such as AI and communication. On a global scale, the market is anticipated to grow from USD 36.2 billion in 2021 to USD 103.3 billion by 2026.
Last year, LG unveiled its Future Vision 2030, outlining its goal of evolving into a Smart Life Solution Company that can seamlessly connect and expand customer experiences across various domains, including home, commercial, mobility and virtual spaces. Aligned with this vision, LG aims to achieve the ‘Triple Seven’ goal: an average growth rate and operating profit of seven percent or more, alongside an enterprise value translating into an EBITDA ratio of seven.
“As the service robot market enters a period of growth, this equity investment will significantly contribute to securing a ‘Winning Competitive-edge’ for the company,” emphasized Lee Sam-soo, chief strategy officer at LG Electronics. “From a mid- to long-term perspective, we will seek to develop our robot business into a new growth engine, exploring various opportunities through the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as Embodied AI and robotic manipulation.”
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By News Reporter
Features Seamless Integration With LG StanbyME Screens’ UX/UI and Sound System
to Enhance Home Entertainment or Works Effectively as a Highly Portable Speaker
SEOUL, Mar. 8, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) announces the global launch of the LG StanbyME Speaker (model XT7S), the company’s latest portable speaker which works in harmony with an LG StanbyME lifestyle screen or as a standalone speaker that can be taken anywhere.
Designed to enrich both indoor and outdoor entertainment, LG StanbyME Speaker’s compelling audio quality and remarkable versatility caters to the diverse lifestyles and preferences of today’s users. Ideal for design-conscious individuals who relish streaming content and music at home or on the go, this speaker hit the market in Korea and the U.S. and will be made available in more regions later.
Engineered to offer the complete entertainment experience when combined with a StanbyME screen, this speaker features seamless, intuitive pairing and control through the remote control that comes with the StanbyME screen. This allows users to effortlessly toggle their speaker and screen on and off with a single press, while also seamlessly connecting them via Bluetooth. LG StanbyME also boasts a dedicated widget with convenient one-stop control center and an overview of the speaker’s status.
To further elevate audio-visual pleasure through audio quality, LG StanbyME Speaker’s WOW Orchestra feature combines it with the StanbyME screen’s built-in audio system, creating a unified audio setup and delivering an outstanding sound experience. What’s more, LG StanbyME’s α (Alpha) 7 Gen 6 AI processor optimizes sound by content type, while the 20-millimeter dual tweeters on the StanbyME speaker deliver clear, highly detailed high frequency stereo sound. The dual passive radiator on this speaker also creates deeper, more compelling bass.
Offering multifaceted versatility, the all-new StanbyME speaker can seamlessly complement the StanbyME screen or be used as a standalone speaker anywhere, providing users with the remarkable level of flexibility that serves all their sound entertainment needs. Thanks to a dedicated cradle, the speaker attaches to LG StanbyME effortlessly, allowing users to place it in the perfect position for enhanced sound.
Moreover, with an IPX5 rating and up to 16 hours of playback, this portable speaker ensures consistent audio performance everywhere they go. With its compact and lightweight body (78-millimeter height, 326-millimeter width, 87-millimeter depth and 0.9 kilograms), LG StanbyME Speaker can be carried from one place to another with ease, while its ‘edge lighting’ feature offers eye-pleasing lighting effects that add a subtle yet visually captivating element to lift the mood and atmosphere of any setting or occasion.
LG StanbyME Speaker is currently available from LG.com website in Korea and the U.S. and is scheduled to roll out in other major markets worldwide.
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By News Reporter
In the ever-evolving world of home entertainment, LG stands as an undeniable leader for its groundbreaking contributions to the global TV market. Dominating the global OLED TV market for 11 consecutive years, the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence shines brighter than ever, with differentiated consumer experiences that distinguish LG TVs from the rest.
According to market research firm Omdia, LG topped the global OLED market last year with shipments totaling 3 million OLED TV units. Boasting an impressive 53 percent share of the global OLED TV market based on shipment, LG has firmly held its premier spot as the undisputed leader of the OLED TV market with an array of form factors and size options.
In an era of “the bigger, the better,” the desire for extra-large, premium TVs continues to rise and last year was no different. Amidst increasing demand, the share of TVs sized 75 inches and above exceeded 20 percent based on revenue in premium TV markets, including North America and Europe.
The shipments of OLED TVs sized 75 inches and above have seen explosive growth, surpassing 25 percent based on revenue in the entire OLED TV market. With an ultra-large model accounting for one out of every four OLED TVs sold, the trend has approached an annual average increase of nearly 70 percent over the last five years, including last year.
LG reaffirms its market dominance with a monumental share approaching 60 percent in total shipments of OLED TVs over 75 inches. LG is actively broadening its lineup of wireless OLED TVs, introducing 97-inch, 83-inch and 77-inch models with its groundbreaking 4K/120Hz wireless transmission solution, extending the availability of wireless OLED TVs while meeting the growing demand for ultra-large premium options in the North American and European markets.
As the demand for premium ultra-large TVs continues to soar, LG is bolstering its OLED TV lineup with an expanded range of wireless OLED TV models as well as elevated picture and audio quality with advanced AI processors, including the α (Alpha) 11 AI processor. LG’s latest OLED TVs will also offer an even more personalized home entertainment experience with the webOS smart TV platform.
The combined shipments of LG’s OLED and LCD TVs last year totaled over 22.53 million units, marking a 16.3 percent share in the global TV market in 2023 based on revenue. With further options that demonstrate the company’s prowess in the global TV market, LG QNED TVs boast LG’s Quantum Dot and NanoCell color technologies for precise and vibrant colors. Driven by these remarkable QNED models, LG ranked second in the quantum dot LCD TV market last year with a 14.7 percent revenue share, excluding LG NanoCell TVs from this figure.
The latest LG QNED TVs feature Mini LED technology and an Alpha 8 AI Processor which boasts a 1.3-fold increase in AI performance compared to its predecessor, the Alpha 7 Gen 6 processor, for more precise gradations of color. With a diverse lineup, customers can select their preferred model with sizes ranging from 43 inches to the massive 98-inch model.
The global TV market’s shipments exceeded 201 million last year overall, a slight decrease compared to the previous year. LCD TV shipments remained below 200 million units for the second consecutive year, while OLED TV shipments, including LG’s, reached 5.6 million units.
Discover the most recent updates in the home entertainment industry and explore LG’s cutting-edge innovations by visiting the
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