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Redesigned Interface and Popular K-Content Makes the Viewing Experience Even More Enjoyable And Engaging on LG Smart TVs SEOUL, Aug. 10, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) is upgrading its free, premium content streaming service, LG Channels, to provide an enhanced viewing experience for LG smart TV customers. In addition to the redesigned UI, the upgrade introduces more channels and a wider range of content for viewers to enjoy, including popular K-content, movies, sports, music and news, increasing its current 1,600+ channels to 1,900 channels.* With viewership and viewing time of LG Channels doubling compared to last year, LG is expanding LG Channels’ global availability from 14 to 25 countries, tripling its European coverage by the end of the year. LG Channels will also be coming to more than 30 brands of smart TVs powered by LG’s own webOS TV platform, including Motorola, JVC, Polaroid and MASTER-G. LG Channels’ new UI is designed to help users navigate more intuitively and easily with an enhanced content recommendation function that analyzes viewing preferences to suggest the most relevant offerings from its broad library of free content. The new UI is available for LG smart TV models running webOS versions 5.0 and newer, with a version for webOS 3.0 through 4.5 coming soon. The LG Channels app for smartphones will launch later this year starting in North America, giving users another convenient way to enjoy the content. With LG’s partnership with the South Korean digital media platform company, NEW ID, LG Channels has been adding fresh, compelling K-content to the LG Channels library since 2020. As part of its service expansion, LG is set to launch more channels and expand availability to more countries. The premium Korean movie channel, NEW K.MOVIES, launched in Europe and will soon be available in North America and Mexico where interest in Korean entertainment is at an all time high. And LG will continue to expand its collaboration with leading global and local content providers to enrich the viewing experience on LG TVs, further diversifying its programming for new audiences with channels such as Rakuten Viki, OnDemandChina, BABY SHARK TV and Kids Pang TV. Rakuten TV, already featured on LG Channels in major European markets, offers the best selection of curated content from different categories including comedy, action, drama and Rakuten Stories. The Rakuten TV app can be quickly and conveniently accessed via a dedicated hot key on the latest LG Magic Remote. Additionally, more than 100 Pluto TV channels will be coming to LG Channels later this year in select countries in Europe and Latin America. Pluto TV offers a curated selection of unique channels with local and international fare for all interests and ages, such as Pluto TV Action, Masterchef, Pluto TV Cinema, Pluto TV Telenovelas and Pluto TV Anime. And thanks to LG’s distribution partnership with Amagi, renowned producer Quincy Jones’ global hub for music and culture Qwest TV will be launching on LG TVs in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Brazil and Mexico by the end of 2021. As an added bonus local services such as Hollywire will be coming to Brazil and Mexico while Spanish viewers will be able to enjoy TV UP. # # # * Availability of channels to vary by region and country. View the full article

Growing Demand for Large-scale LED Digital Signage Solutions at Major Venues as Live Spectator Sports Return SEOUL, Aug. 9, 2021 — Fans of UEFA Euro 2020 in London were the first to experience LG Electronics’ LED High Brightness digital signage installed in time for the eagerly awaited games. Visible above the main entrance of Wembley Stadium connected by EE, one of the most iconic sporting and entertainment venues in the world, LG’s advanced digital signage was the stadium’s most significant upgrade in decades as it welcomed sports fans back as a host of key matches and the FA Community Shield, the traditional curtain-raiser to the English football season. The new signages at Wembley include a 424.5 square meter LED façade erected at the venue’s Great Hall and two accompanying 207.9 square meter units flanking the larger LED. LG’s LED High Brightness are ideal for announcements – whether they be in the form of video, image or text – through the day and night. The system boasts a structure and cabinet design that still allows people inside the Great Hall to enjoy the vista outside, even when content is being displayed. Moreover, due to their size, brightness and picture quality, LG’s digital signages provide venues such as Wembley with an effective as well as attention-grabbing means of communicating with guests as well as the general public. Other outdoor LED signage solutions to debut this sports season at Wembley include LG’s signages with various formats and different types as well as one indoor LED signage. Strategically positioned on the parapet, letterbox, gantry, and within two of the lift shafts, LG’s solutions will not only provide information and entertainment but seating directions as well. LG’s advanced signage solutions are ideal for showing live footage, replays, announcements and more, expanding and adding value to the spectator’s overall entertainment experience. By leveraging its expertise in display technology and know-how in providing versatile solutions suitable for a wide range of sectors, LG is strengthening its status as a key player in the commercial signage sector. “It’s an honor to have our LED High Brightness greet visitors to London’s Wembley Stadium,” said Paik Ki-mun, senior vice president and head of the Information Display business unit of LG Electronics Business Solutions Company. “By showcasing our solutions at international landmarks, we’re able to demonstrate the advantages of our advanced LED technology to a global audience.” “Wembley Stadium is an iconic venue which plays host to some of the world’s biggest sporting events and entertainment acts,” said Liam Boylan, Wembley Stadium Director. “We’re always looking to improve the audience experience and that’s why we’re excited to add LG’s LED High Brightness signage to our facility.” In addition to Wembley, LG digital signage solutions can be found at other major stadiums in the UK including Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City F.C., and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, home to North London’s Tottenham Hotspur. # # # View the full article

LG OLED TVs are one the most powerful mediums for contemporary fine arts and high fashion thanks to its impeccable display, unique design and premium aesthetics that set it apart from the conventional. To prove this, LG Electronics recently collaborated with talented artists from all around the world. “Effect of Spring at Giverny” by Claude Monet displayed on LG G1 OLED at Zoulias’s showroom In Greece, LG worked with the country’s most gifted fashion designers, Vassilis Zoulias and Stelios Koudounaris, who have deemed highly of LG’s self-lit OLED technology to feature exquisite detail of high fashion and have LG OLED G1 TVs proudly displayed in their ateliers to bring inspirations to their artwork. Fashion designer Vassilis Zoulias (right) and interior designer Georgios Carabellas pictured with LG G1 OLED displaying “Self-Portrait” by Paul Cézanne at Zoulias’s showroom Vassilis Zoulias has been shaping fashion trends in Europe. He’s especially loved by movie stars, celebrities and politicians, who love his elegant garments that bring powerful emotions to life in various shapes and patterns. Zoulias pursues a sophisticated and contemporary style that is easy to wear and fits comfortably for all body types. And, while working with LG, Zoulias found that the sleek and minimal LG OLED G1 TV blends seamlessly into his atelier and, thanks to its special Gallery stand, could be placed wherever he felt the art-like device best complemented his latest work. Designer Stelios Koudounaris pictured with LG G1 OLED at his showroom Representing the new generation of Greek fashion, Stelios Koudounaris has run 24 women and 13 men’s collections to his name. Since introducing his very first collection in 2008 when he was only 27 years old with his own unique aesthetic identity, Koudounaris has risen as one of the most prominent and influential designers among a new generation of Greek fashion. At his showroom, LG OLED G1 TV’s Gallery Mode displays his collections and fashion shows with life-like details of the unique textures and fabrics of his pieces, so visitors can experience his whole collection vividly on LG OLED G1 TV. Influencer Eliana Chrysikopoulou pictured with LG G1 OLED at Koudounaris’s showroom Thanks to its advanced self-lit pixels, LG OLED TV opens up new possibilities in various fields of arts including fashion design, providing outstanding picture quality along with a touch of sophistication and elegance to any room on top of the latest cutting-edge technologies that come together for a completely unique viewing experience. What’s more, to give consumers around the globe complete access to selected art works through the flawless screen of LG OLED TVs, LG Greece has collaborated with the Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation. This magnificent collection focuses on new and contemporary art as well as masterpieces by Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh and Monet. Stay tuned for LG’s continuous effort to delve into unique spheres to shed light on its innovative products that offer both high quality and aesthetic appeal. Contributed by LG Greece # # # View the full article

As the first social generation to have grown up with access to the internet and digital technology from an early age, members of Generation Z have become today’s cultural opinion leaders all over the world. To connect with this demographic audience, LG launched the 2021 Life’s Good global campaign in May and called on young aspiring musicians and filmmakers to share their thoughts on what makes life special. The second year of the campaign recruited the help of singer/songwriter Charlie Puth to spearhead the Life’s Good Music Project and director Jackson Tisi to headline the Life’s Good Film Project. The two-month campaign provided a platform for young talent to showcase their personal take on LG’s familiar theme and generated more than 100 million total views on various social media platforms. In total, the music and film campaigns attracted submissions from more than 1,600 entries from 48 countries, all conveying a sense of hope and optimism for the future. Clockwise from top left: Sade Whittier, Dani Kim, Stacey Capers, Stacey Ryan The Music Project alone showcased the unique artistic sensibilities of over a thousand participants from 36 countries. From this diverse group of creative talents, four lucky artists from different backgrounds united by their passion for music were chosen to represent the 2021 Life’s Good Music Project in collaboration with Charlie Puth: Stacey Capers and Sade Whittier of the USA, Stacey Ryan of Canada and Dani Kim of South Korea. The selected winners will get the opportunity to complete and perform the song in a music video with Puth as well as receive OLED TVs along with other LG products. “In the collaborative process of bringing a song to life, it’s always beautiful to touch on the shared experience despite any differences in our personal experiences, history, culture, or where we grew up,” said Puth. “We can come together through the universal language of music and our shared belief that Life’s Good.” Hundreds of burgeoning video auteurs from 33 countries captured the footage of their own diverse and inspiring Life’s Good moments and submitted their works to the Film Project. The submissions showed how places, spaces and happy moments held special meanings in their lives and in the lives of their loved ones. Related posts on social media have garnered over 44 million views total to date, reaching a truly global audience. LG’s 2021 Life’s Good global campaign reminds us of the limitless possibilities we have to create our own lives as we wish. With inspiring submissions embodying the immense talent and enthusiasm of the next generation of artists, LG hopes to share the message of hope and togetherness with the world. The inaugural 2021 Life’s Good Film will be unveiled on August 27 while the song and music video will drop next month. For more on the 2021 Life’s Good global campaign, stay tuned to LG’s Global YouTube channel and Instagram. # # # View the full article

According to the report Global EV Outlook 2021, sales of electric vehicles (EV) around the world grew 41 percent in 2019 and despite the downturn in overall car sales in 2020 due to the pandemic, EV sales still managed to increase 4.6 percent in 2020. It’s this USD 120 billion industry that LG had in mind when it launched its Vehicle component Solutions (VS) Company in 2013 to target the growing trend of electrified vehicles. Now eight years on, LG is seeing a very bright future for its EV-focused business unit, reporting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.2 percent in period covering 2019 to 2020. With such success follows much interest. LG’s VS Company is proud to announce its new Future Mobility website to actively communicate with global partners and interested consumers about its current business and future innovation. This new site is completely dedicated to mobility and focuses on LG’s innovative technologies and products related to the fast-growing segment of electric vehicles. The new Future Mobility website introduces EV-related information selectively so that the company’s business partners can find related information more conveniently. Business partners also can make use of the useful Inquiry menu option to get answers to various business-related questions. And other visitors including interested customers can find specific information they’re looking for more easily. Upon entering the site, visitors are presented with four main menus – Cockpit Electronics, Connectivity, Automotive Vision System (AVS) and Future Innovation – in which LG’s main technological strengths in mobility are highlighted. Cockpit Electronics includes LG’s automotive display and cockpit domain controller innovations, Connectivity covers telematics and wireless charging, AVS includes information on vehicle cameras and Future Innovation focuses primarily on the digital cockpit. In addition to the diverse content related to mobility technology, the website also includes news and a blog to tell LG’s mobility story to a new audience. In addition to this site, interested parties can also find more information on LG Vehicle component Solutions on social media at its LinkedIn page. # # # View the full article

According to a latest report by the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.3 million lives are cut short by traffic accidents every year.1 In an effort to lower this alarming figure and make vehicle travel safer for everyone, governments and manufacturers around the globe continue to look to technology for solutions. Self-driving cars may be the answer but wide acceptance of such technology is still years, maybe decades away. In the meantime, technology companies such as LG are creating solutions today that could potentially save thousands of lives if these solutions are widely implemented. DMS and IMS Among LG’s next-generation in-vehicle cabin camera solutions are the driver monitoring system (DMS) and interior monitoring system (IMS). These state-of-the-art solutions leverage sophisticated technologies including high-performance cameras and artificial intelligence to prevent driver error, by far the most common cause of traffic accidents and the loss of life. Face mask detection LG’s cabin camera solution detects the occupants of a vehicle with an innovative micro camera and AI to learn multiple drivers’ behavior patterns, optimizing the human machine interface (HMI). The DMS is even able to monitor and interpret the driver’s face even if he or she is wearing a face mask. Driver identification and spoofing detection Advanced driver identification and spoofing detection can be enabled to prevent unauthorized drivers from accessing the vehicle. These features will become mandatory for highly automated driving and will provide drivers and passengers a fully personalized experience in a vehicle. Object detection In the United States alone, nearly a 1,000 children have died since 1990 from being left unattended in hot cars.2 LG’s IMS is intelligent enough to determine if an object in the car is a purse, package or child, alerting the driver if a child is left in the vehicle inadvertently. LG’s cabin camera solutions are already being mass produced and are currently being supplied to global automakers. LG’s solutions can easily be integrated in in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) systems found in many new vehicles and are key building blocks for a safer future on the world’s roads. As an Innovation Partner for Future Mobility, LG’s is delivering differentiated in-vehicle experiences while helping automakers meet and surpass current and upcoming government regulations and global NCAP. By providing solutions that may mean the difference between life and death, LG is utilizing its technological know-how to provide immeasurable value to its industry partners so they can focus on making vehicles as safe and enjoyable as possible. # # # 1 https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/road-traffic-injuries 2 https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2019/08/02/hot-car-deaths-why-they-keep-happening-and-how-stop-them/1861389001/ View the full article

Highest Quarterly Sales Ever As Mobile Division Officially Winds Down SEOUL, July 29, 2021 — LG Electronics Inc. (LG) announced its highest quarterly revenues ever as the company continued to expand its market share for premium home appliances and consumer electronics outside of South Korea. Worldwide consolidated revenues of KRW 17.11 trillion (USD 15.26 billion) rose 48.4 percent from the second quarter a year ago. Second-quarter 2021 operating profit increased 65.5 percent from last year to KRW 1.11 trillion (USD 992.08 million). Results for the LG Mobile Communications Company, which officially winds down at the end of July, are considered discontinued operations and are no longer included in quarterly earnings reports. The LG Home Appliance & Air Solution Company reported revenues in the second-quarter of KRW 6.81 trillion (USD 6.08 billion), a healthy increase of 32.1 percent from the second quarter a year ago. Operating profit grew 6.8 percent from last year’s second quarter to KRW 653.60 billion (USD 582.75 million), mainly driven by stronger sales in markets outside of South Korea and improved resource management, although costs are expected to increase as raw materials become scarcer while the pandemic-impacted world begins to return to normal. Product competitiveness and operational efficiencies are expected to help LG maintain sales and profit momentum for major appliances in key markets. The LG Home Entertainment Company grew its revenues to KRW 4.04 trillion (USD 3.60 billion) in the second quarter, a substantial 79.1 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Operating profit soared to KRW 333.50 billion (USD 297.35 million), an increase of 216.4 percent year-on-year thanks to the growing popularity of premium OLED TV products and the recovery of the global TV market, which was negatively affected last year due to retail store shutdowns. With the price of TV panels continuing to rise, LG’s Home Entertainment strategy will center on growing the premium TV segment and nimble inventory management. The LG Vehicle component Solutions Company achieved second-quarter sales of KRW 1.88 trillion (USD 1.68 billion), a significant increase of 106.5 percent from the same period of 2020 as a result of the recovering automotive sector and increase in demand for electric vehicle (xEV) parts. The company experienced an operating loss of KRW 103.20 billion (USD 92.01 million) as the price of automotive semiconductors increased dramatically during the quarter. Leveraging its expertise in advanced electric vehicle components, LG’s previously announced joint venture with Magna International, a new company called LG Magna e-Powertrain, was officially launched this week. The LG Business Solutions Company recorded second-quarter revenues of KRW 1.69 trillion (USD 1.50 billion), a solid increase of 28.9 percent from a year ago largely driven by continued strong demand for PCs, monitors and gradual recovery of digital signage and hotel TVs. However, operating profit declined to KRW 61.70 billion (USD 55.01 million) because of higher price of key components such as LCD panels and solar wafers. Second-half plans for profitable growth hinge on continued B2B market recovery, coupled with stabilizing supply of major components and actively reducing costs. 2021 2Q Exchange Rates Explained LG Electronics’ unaudited quarterly earnings results are based on IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) for the three-month period ending June 30, 2021. 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 1,121.58 per USD. Earnings Conference and Conference Call LG Electronics will hold a Korean / English conference call on July 29, 2021 at 16:00 Korea Standard Time (07:00 GMT/UTC). Conference call participants are instructed to pre-register online to receive a private PIN, 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. # # # View the full article

New Company to Fuse Magna’s and LG’s Electric Powertrain Strengths to Accelerate E-Drive Component Development SEOUL, South Korea and AURORA, Ontario, Canada, July 28, 2021 – LG Electronics (LG) and Magna International Inc. (Magna) today signed the transaction agreement which establishes a joint venture between the two companies. The new company, to be called LG Magna e-Powertrain, is headquartered in Incheon, South Korea and will be led by a strong management team. Leading the new company will be CEO Cheong Won-suk, a 20-year LG veteran who was most recently vice president and head of the LG Vehicle component Solutions Company’s Green Business. Prior to LG, Cheong spent nearly a decade with Daewoo Motors R&D. Javier Perez, who has been with Magna since 2016, will be the new company’s COO. He will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the joint venture. Perez brings nearly a quarter century of automotive manufacturing and quality control experience to LG Magna e-Powertrain, 18 of those years based in Asia. The creation of the joint venture unifies Magna’s strength in electric powertrain systems and world-class automotive manufacturing with LG’s expertise in component development for e-motors and inverters. Announcing LG Magna e-Powertrain’s executive team marks a key milestone for the joint venture company, which will manufacture e-motors, inverters and on-board chargers and, for certain automakers, related e-drive systems. The design, engineering and manufacturing synergies created by LG Magna e-Powertrain is expected to enable both companies to quickly react to market trends and capitalize on the growing global shift toward vehicle electrification. The new company will develop powertrain components that offer automakers a scalable portfolio, from complete solutions enabling electrification and functionality to integrating intelligent operating software and controls in new e-drive systems. “Partnering with Magna enables LG to scale up its global production, provide additional business opportunities and offer synergies in procurement and technological innovation,” said CEO Cheong. “The integrated and collaborative approach is expected to deliver quickly for customers and capitalize on the rapid growth of the worldwide electric powertrain market.” “The market for e-motors, inverters and electric drive systems is expected to have significant growth between now and 2030. Our joint venture company brings together experts from Magna and LG to deliver a world-class portfolio of electric solutions,” said COO Perez. “Leveraging existing technologies, engineering capabilities and global footprints, LG Magna e-Powertrain seeks to enable advancements that help automakers achieve some of the biggest challenges ahead in electrifying their full vehicle lineups.” LG Magna e-Powertrain will be made up of more than 1,000 employees in the United States, South Korea and China. # # # View the full article

It was in 2018 that LG Electronics announced its sustainable management objectives and its strategy to achieve these goals. Earlier this year, LG embarked on an ESG-based directives largely rooted in the sustainability goals. Then on July 21, LG published its 2021 Sustainability Report, a “report card” of its progress over the past three years since the announcement. Here we take a look at some of LG’s key ESG priorities and future objectives. Key among LG’s ESG efforts is to move toward having zero negative environmental impact from its business activities. Progress is achieving 95 percent in waste recycling rate at production sites and reducing emissions during production by half of its 2017 emission and most significantly, transitioning to 100 percent renewable energy by 2050. LG is heavily invested in thoughtfully designing products and services that contribute to a sustainable future, with nearly 2,000 LG products recognized as environmentally responsible by third party certification bodies as of 2019. Last year, 432 products – from monitors and PCs to air conditioners and refrigerators – received the Energy Star certification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE). To contribute to the creation of an inclusive society, LG pursues growth through diverse activities that promote the coexistence of society and business, with a heavy focus on empowering local communities. For example, more than 71,000 individuals are currently participating in LG’s Technology That Cares program to improve social welfare through LG technology and products and almost 2.8 million around the world are involved in the Trustworthy Partnership initiative to support the growth and independence of LG business partners. Additionally, LG believes in the importance of creating social value by improving product accessibility so all customers can benefit from its products. Through the thoughtful application of its technologies and solutions at the beginning of the product development stage, LG is confident that it can make its products more convenient and accessible to the elderly, people with disabilities and other consumers with physical challenges. For all its challenges, LG’s leadership is committed to ESG compliance and developing an ESG management system to drive diversity, rationality and transparency by internalizing a culture of ESG within the company. The journey toward sustainable development by maximizing positive environmental values and pursuing inclusive growth for all is, at the end of the day, what LG’s Life’s Good philosophy is all about. Click here to download the full report to learn more about LG’s comprehensive ESG initiatives. # # # View the full article

The last year and a half have been the ultimate test of resilience for everyone and HR at LG has been at the forefront of managing these difficult times. Throughout the pandemic, the HR team navigated new ways for employees and management to work as the company has been forced to rethink and adapt to the new environment. Here at LG, the health and safety of our employees are our highest priorities. In this regard, we have always led by example such as the time we made the difficult decision to be the first multinational company to withdraw from Mobile World Congress, the largest trade show in the industry, at the start of the pandemic as we felt it was the only way of ensuring the safety of our employees, customers and partners. Since early last year, LG’s HR teams across the globe have been reinforcing business and organization sustainability as well as continuous internal communication and transparency at all levels. It is this close alignment in direction that has allowed HR to act swiftly and provide invaluable support across the organization and to our valued employees since the very beginning. To provide the best working environment possible, aligning LG’s HR leaders around the world immediately proved vital, with constantly open and transparent communication making this all possible. To guarantee that our global HR teams were on the same page, we created specific communication channels to deliver video presentations on the direction of our global HR strategy as well as employing more frequent virtual face-to-face discussions with HR leaders from around the globe. As well as taking care of employees’ physical health, LG made an equal effort to support their psychological and mental health. In India, one of the countries hit particularly hard, we went above and beyond to support the physical and mental health of our staff. First step was to implement a Happy Calling system which involved our HR staff calling each employee every four to five days to check on their well-being and ensure that they and their families are safe and well looked after. This system allowed us to help employees from the privacy of their homes by accepting all questions and requests confidentially. For global employees working from home, we wanted them to stay connected and collaborate as a team. To foster this, we hosted various online group activities including remote yoga classes, virtual lunches, happy hours and online cooking lessons for the whole family. We implemented various new programs because of our firm belief in the importance of human connections among employees. We have faith that these activities help our employees take on one of the most difficult times in modern history. Our health and well-being initiatives are not entirely new as we have been carrying out such activities for some time. These activities were already in place to cultivate growth among employees all around the world, regardless of their location. As a purpose- and principle-oriented company, LG’s people management philosophy pursues personal and professional growth in every single aspect, including health and well-being. As the global head of HR at LG, my focus has always been on supporting LG Electronics and its talented workers and preparing them for the future by transforming the way we work together, nurturing the talent and capabilities of our people so that we may succeed and grow together in a fast, innovative and highly competitive market. The pandemic showed us the importance of this goal in all its clarity. By Carlos Olave, LG Global HR Leader # # # View the full article

LG’s Innovative UV Earbuds Offer Even More Features Including Spatial Processing, 3D Sound Stage and Whispering Mode SEOUL, July 26, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) is updating its true wireless stereo listening experience with the announcement of the new 2021 LG TONE Free FP9 and FP8 earbuds. Ideal for those who lead active, high-energy lifestyles, the newest LG TONE Free models feature several enhancements to complement the already comfortable in-ear fit, advanced Meridian-tuned sound, powerful active noise cancellation and hygiene-boosting UVnano charging case. With fit and comfort top priorities for the LG TONE Free lineup, LG collaborated with a leading ergonomic design technology lab to analyze hundreds of subjects’ ears, resulting in Arc Design with an earbud stem 4.4 millimeters shorter than on previous models to create the perfect balance and fit for an active lifestyle.1 And because the FP9 and FP8 are IPX4 rated, both earbuds can be worn without worry during hard workout sessions or in the rain. New to LG TONE Free lineup is Headphone Spatial Processing from Meridian Audio which envelops the listener with sound that seems to originate from all directions. Another new enhancement is 3D Sound Stage, which expands the sound stage via spatial up-mixing to bring users more lifelike audio for a more captivating listening experience. With larger, upgraded drivers and diaphragms featuring silicone edging allowing for more flexibility and movement, the new TONE Free models now deliver more powerful bass without compromising clarity or detail. With three microphones in each earbud, the new FP9 and FP8 offer a better calling experience by making the user’s voice clearer and with less intrusive ambient noise getting in the way. New Whispering Mode allows for greater call privacy and clarity, allowing users to hold the right earbud close to their mouths as a dedicated microphone, the perfect solution for making and taking calls in environments such as a library or crowded subway. Active noise cancelling on both new TONE Free earbuds eliminates low-frequency sounds that can’t be completely blocked by the passive noise cancellation eartips. The microphones on the earbuds listen for ambient noises and neutralize them by producing identical sound waves that are inaudible to the listener, leaving just soundwaves from the music or podcast to enjoy. Again with the industry’s only auto-cleaning UVnano charging case to keep the eartips clean to reduce the chance of inner ear infections, the UV-C LED built into the TONE Free cases is tested to reduce bacteria on the earbuds’ speaker mesh by 99.9 percent in just five minutes when charging wired or wirelessly.2 For additional hygiene, both new models also feature medical-grade, hypoallergenic ear gels to reduce the risk of skin irritations in the ear canal.3 LG’s newest TWS earbuds now deliver greater user convenience with wider compatibility, simpler connectivity and maximum durability. LG FP9 and FP8 can quickly and easily pair with a wide range of devices including Windows PCs and laptops while FP9 with Plug & Wireless enables the charging case to double as a wireless dongle, especially handy on airplanes. By plugging the case into a smartphone, gaming console, or other compatible device via USB-C to AUX cable, users can experience both complete freedom and low-latency sound.4 For longer enjoyment and extended on-the-go convenience, LG’s new earbuds guarantee exceptional battery life, delivering up to 10 hours of playback time between charges for a total of 24 hours of usage when used with the charging case. And with quick charge, five minutes in the case equates to one full hour of listening, perfect for those times when you forget to charge the night before. For listeners who want wireless charging, LG TONE Free FP8 has that covered. Paired with the TONE Free app, LG’s newest earbuds deliver even more capabilities with access to an equalizer, Ambient Sound mode, touch control customization and Find My Earbuds to help locate either earbud when lost or misplaced. The app also features LAB, where users can access special settings such as Whispering Mode and Game Mode. The new LG TONE Free FP series will be available starting this month in key markets in a range of sophisticated colors such as Charcoal Black, Pearl White and Haze Gold. Specifications: FP9 FP8 FP5 Active Noise Cancelling O O O UVnano O (during wired charging) O (during wired & wireless charging) X Medical-grade Ear Gels O O O Sound Solution Meridian Meridian Meridian 3D Sound Stage O O O Plug & Wireless O X X Microphones 3 mics 3 mics 3 mics Ambient Mode / Chat Mode O O O Multi Pairing O O O Swift Paring O O O Wireless Charging X O X Battery Life (ANC off) Up to 24hrs (earbuds 10hrs) Up to 24hrs (earbuds 10hrs) Up to 22hrs (earbuds 8hrs) IP Rating IPX4 IPX4 IPX4 OS Compatibility Android / iOS Android / iOS Android / iOS Colors Charcoal Black / Pearl White / Haze Gold Charcoal Black / Pearl White / Haze Gold Charcoal Black / Pearl White # # # 1 Collaboration with the Ergonomic Design Technology Lab at POSTECH, one of Asia’s leading science and technology universities. 2 Independent testing shows UVnano charging case eliminates 99.9 percent of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia bacteria on earbuds within five minutes during charging. UV LED function works only during charging and the FP9 case must be connected to external power source. 3 Base material in silicone ear gel meets ISO 10993 and USP Class VI requirements. 4 Plug & Wireless feature not compatible with all gaming consoles. Disclaimer: Not a medical device, nor for use as or to replace a medical device. Device or any of its parts not intended or implied to prevent or treat any health conditions View the full article

Justine Buisson, Franck Riboud, Ko Jin-young, Park Sung-hyun and Heaven Lee Even while the home-bound lifestyle has been an adjustment for everyone, it has proved particularly challenging for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and their families. Having to study and keep up with the required schoolwork without the help of professional educators and their usual classroom environments cannot by easy for any students. Providing round-the-clock care and support while working remotely has especially placed the parents of kids with ASD under considerable stress. Since 2008, French organization Sur les bancs de l’école has dedicated itself to helping children with ASD and their families to overcome educational and life challenges. Currently it is supporting 200 affected youth and their loved ones in France. In recognition of Sur les bancs de l’école’s valuable work, LG SIGNATURE recently held an online charity auction ‘STRONGER TOGETHER’, for children with ASD in Paris from July 8 to July 18. The auction highlighted the brand’s ongoing partnership as well with the Amundi Evian Championship, one of the most prestigious tournaments in women’s professional golf. Ko Jin-young and Park Sung-hyun, two of the world’s top golfers and global ambassadors for LG SIGNATURE, gave up their time and prized possessions to support the auction and raise awareness for the brand’s chosen cause. The auction received considerable interest with bids coming in from all over the globe. STRONGER TOGETHER brought in an impressive tally of USD 114,825, all of which will go to Sur les bancs de l’école for children and families affected by ASD. The LG SIGNATURE OLED R, LG SIGNATURE Refrigerator and LG SIGNATURE Wine Cellar headlined the auction. Another popular item up for bid was a one-night stay at the luxurious Hotel Royal at the Evian Resort – the glamorous venue of the Amundi Evian Championship. Participants in the online auction were also delighted to have the opportunity to interact with Ko and Park virtually, who both kindly donated tournament-used equipment and apparel. The exclusive items included Ko’s Epic Flash driver used during the 2020 LPGA tour, and Park’s TaylorMade P750 8 iron, which golf fans might recognize from the TaylorMade promotional video she filmed with Tiger Woods. An official sponsor of the Amundi Evian Championship since 2017, LG SIGNATURE has great respect for, and a natural affinity with the artistry and technique of, the game’s top players. The brand has hosted unique events and marketing activities at the Evian Resort Golf Club every year of its partnership, including a culinary challenge featuring Europe’s top chefs and the renaming the eighth hole to LG SIGNATURE Hole and appliance prizes for any player who could sink a hole-in-one. LG SIGNATURE, as a proud supporter of the Evian Championship and Sur les bancs de l’école, is grateful to all the fans who participated in the charity auction benefitting ASD-affected families, delivering the message to the world that we’re stronger together, especially during these challenging times. # # # View the full article

In the past 16 months, the face mask has become a necessity – as well as an accessory – worn by billions of people across the globe. While effective, it’s no secret that face masks worn for extended periods of time can get uncomfortable. They fog up eyeglasses, make your jaw sweat more and can restrict airflow when breathing hard, such as during exercise. LG engineers experienced in air purification technologies looked into the challenge of staying safe while minimizing the inconveniences of face masks and have come up with a new personal air solution that is not only more effective than traditional masks, but looks stylish to boot. The latest iteration of LG PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier introduces a number of improvements to the earlier beta model. Employing LG’s unique air solution technology, the new PuriCare Wearable delivers enhanced all-around performance with a smaller, lighter, more efficient motor. What hasn’t changed are the reliable LG DUAL fans which control air flow automatically1 by sensing the user’s breathing patterns to make breathing easier and more natural. Photo Credit: Instagram (@ratchanokmay ) of Ratchanok Intanon, Thai badminton player The new PuriCare Wearable’s lightweight design makes it easier to wear throughout the day. Weighing in at only 94 grams, the device can be worn comfortably up to 8 hours with its 1,000mA which recharges in two hours with the included Easy Charge USB cable.2 The PuriCare Wearable’s sleek, ergonomic design minimizes air leakage around the nose and chin to create a tight but comfortable seal for hours. What wearers will appreciate most is the built-in microphone and speaker employing VoiceON technology, no longer requiring users to pull down their mask or raise their voice to carry on a conversation. VoiceON automatically recognizes when users are talking and amplifies their voice through the built-in speaker so listeners don’t have to strain or lean in to hear every word.3 The newest LG PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier was worn by 120 Thai athletes, coaches and staff as they departed Suvannabhumi Airport Bangkok for the summer games in Tokyo. The device will officially launch in Thailand in August, with other markets to follow once approved by local regulators. Improved for better breathing with the most advanced wearable technology in the industry, the lighter, slimmer, more advanced PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier will satisfy the needs of everyone seeking maximum convenience and comfort without compromising style and clean air. Take it from the best athletes in Thailand. # # # 1 Certified by Air Cleaning Association and observed by TÜV Rheinland for ability to adjust air flow automatically according to the breathing flow by testing automatic breathing interlock test through a breathing simulator under 10-40 LPM breathing test conditions at LG Electronics Gasan R&D Campus using test model AP551AWFA. 2 Weight not including accessories. Battery life varies by actual usage, and other external factors. 3 Certified by Korea Electronics Technology Institute, Next-Generation Sound Industry Support Center (NSSC) for obtaining over 0.75 (Excellent) on the STI (Sound Transmission Index) evaluation under the anechoic chamber and speaker test standards at Next Generation Sound Industry Support Center Test Lab using test model AP551AWFA. View the full article

As sports leagues around the world return to playing in front of spectators, global companies and brands are eager to be a part of the action. Well targeted sports marketing is a win for both sides; sports teams can give its fans a sense of belonging in their everyday life with products featuring the team’s logo, and brands can promote the product’s benefits to the fans.To give avid football fans even more to get excited about, LG is introducing a special edition of its true wireless stereo LG TONE Free FN6 in partnership with Germany’s beloved Eintracht Frankfurt football club of the Bundesliga. With the team’s logo prominently displayed on the box and charging cradle, there’s no doubt to the owner’s allegiance. The Eintracht Frankfurt TONE Free will only be available for sale at the club’s fan shop to accentuate its exclusivity. LG TONE Free is ideal for those who lead active lifestyles without worry about wires and tangles. The earbuds deliver a premium listening experience with tuning and technology by longtime LG partner, Meridian Audio. The realistic soundstage completely immerses listeners so they forget they’re even wearing earbuds at all. And just a simple tap lets in outside sounds for a quick conversation, when crossing the street or to hear a public transportation announcement without having to remove an earbud. And when it comes to hygiene, no other TWS earbuds on the market today can match the LG TONE Free FN6. Its innovative UVnano charging case that harnesses the power of ultraviolet-C light to refresh the earbuds’ speaker mesh effectively kills pathogens such as bacteria during the powered charging cycle.1 In just minutes the speaker mesh is germ-free and fully powered for hours of listening pleasure. The eartips are made from soft, medical-grade ear gel that is both non-toxic and hypoallergenic for all-day comfort.2 And because these buds are rated IPX4, there’s no need to worry when working out or running through the rain.Earlier this year LG teamed up with The Football Association to offer limited edition TONE Free (model FA4) for English fans to show their support during the postponed Euro 2020. Through its support of football and its loyal fans, LG is making a name for itself when it comes to premium sound quality with hygienic benefits, features that no other pair of earbuds can claim. # # # 1 Independent testing shows that the UVnano charging case eliminates 99.9 percent of bacteria on the earbud speaker mesh in ten minutes while charging. UV LED operates only when the case is charging. 2 Base material in silicone ear gel meets ISO 10993 and USP Class VI requirements. Disclaimer: Not a medical device, nor for use as or to replace a medical device. Device or any of its parts not intended or implied to prevent or treat any health conditions. View the full article

Commitment Expands Upon Promise of Zero Carbon by 2030 SEOUL, July 21, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) today made public its commitment to transition completely to renewable energy by 2050 as a key component of its sustainability strategy. The announcement in the just released LG Electronics Sustainability Report comes on top of its earlier promise to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 through the Zero Carbon 2030 initiative in which LG pledged to reduce carbon emissions in the production stage to 50 percent of 2017 standards by 2030. The transformation will be implemented region by region starting in North America where every office and manufacturing site will be powered by renewable energy within the year. LG manufacturing facilities outside of Korea are on target to convert 50 percent of their electricity needs to renewable energy in the next four years. Achieving this objective globally will require a diverse strategy, including installing high-efficiency LG solar panels on its buildings, utilizing power purchase agreements that allow companies to purchase electricity directly from suppliers, utilizing Renewable Energy Credit (REC) certificates and participating in the Green Premium program in Korea, LG’s home market to purchase clean energy directly from the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO). Currently LG is installing solar modules with a capacity of 3.2 MW on a manufacturing site in Noida, India, generating electricity to power LG’s administrative office as well. This project will be expanded as a part of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), allowing LG to secure carbon reduction certificates from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).* “Our commitment to creating a better life for all can best be actualized by LG transition to renewable energy and achieving carbon neutrality,” said Park Pyung-gu, senior vice president at LG Electronics Safety & Environment Division. “In today’s world, innovation doesn’t just happen in the lab, they must also happen in our factories and plants. Today’s manufacturers have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to give the next generation a world worth inheriting and at LG, we take this responsibility very seriously.” # # # * CDM project allows companies to earn certified emission reduction (CER) credits when investing projects in developing countries. CER can be traded, sold and used to meet a part of the emission reduction targets under the Kyoto Protocol. View the full article

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LG Electronics’ SELF-LIT campaign kicks off with a collaboration with Italian luxury brand BVLGARI for its exhibition in Seoul, BVLGARI Colors. Established in Rome in 1884, BVLGARI is revered worldwide for its exclusive collections of watches, fragrances and accessories. But arguably it is jewelry that the design house is best known for. Featuring beautiful, precision-cut gemstones, precious metals of the highest grade and BVLGARI’s iconic, bold style, the prestige pieces are a gorgeous interplay of colors and textures. For a work of art to truly be appreciated, it must be presented in the exact color or effect the creator intended. LG’s self-lit OLED technology has been deemed by BVLGARI as the only display capable of capturing the vibrancy and exquisite detail of the brand’s jewelry in all its glory. With their ability to convey immaculate color reproduction and infinite contrast, the self-lit pixels deliver exceptionally lifelike colors as well as deep blacks and a contrast ratio that provides an incredible sense of weight and three-dimensionality. To truly showcase the mesmerizing beauty and variety of BVLGARI’s masterpieces, intriguing digital works of art by top Korean artists are displayed alongside the jewelry on LG self-lit based OLED screens. Divided into four themes titled Red, Blue, Green and Multicolored, the exhibition promises to offer an exhilarating experience that combines the best of traditional craftsmanship and the epitome of technological innovation from LG and BVLGARI, the two masters of colors. BVLGARI Colors is the first in LG’s SELF-LIT Art project series of global exhibits celebrating the heritage and history of OLED technology. LG will again partner with BVLGARI in Milan to turn premium shopping destinations including the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and BVLGARI’s flagship Serpenti Gallery in Rome into SELF-LIT Streets during Milan Design Week. What’s more, LG’s SELF-LIT Museum will see LG’s stunning OLED TVs displaying art at the world’s best-known museums while SELF-LIT Masterpiece will focus on the creativity of contemporary artists at renowned international art galleries. The self-lit technology of LG’s next-generation TVs boasts the accuracy and the color palette required to convey artists’ intentions without any compromise. Back in Seoul at the end of the year, LG’s SELF-LIT Bridge project will express the unique value of LG OLED and LG’s determination to bring consumers the best viewing experiences possible. It’s rare for a technology to be called a work of art and yet, there is perhaps no better way to describe LG OLED. Stay tuned to see how LG OLED continues to redefine the definition of art in a way no other technology can. # # # View the full article

Perfect for Small Spaces, LG Eclair Features Immersive Dolby Atmos Sound and Robust Bass With Low-Vibration SEOUL, July 19, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) announces the rollout of LG Eclair (model QP5) soundbar, its most compact model to date, starting in North America followed by other regions around the world. A 2021 CES Innovation Award Honoree, this soundbar is a great fit for contemporary lifestyles thanks to its sleek, compact design that fits well in limited spaces while still being able to deliver immersive sound. Despite its compact size, LG Eclair delivers powerful performance with Dolby Atmos® and DTS:X support while still keeping peace with the neighbors with its low vibration, power bass subwoofer. Measuring only 296 x 59.9 x 126mm – only one-third the width of LG’s previously smallest 3.1.2 channel Atmos soundbar, SP8YA – LG Eclair features a chic oval design and jersey fabric in classic black or white that blend in seamlessly with any modern décor. LG Eclair’s advanced, 3.1.2 channel system with wireless subwoofer employs Meridian Audio’s tuning and technology to deliver exceptional detail and spatiality. Meridian’s Horizon technology up-mixes two channel stereo content into immersive, multichannel audio to deliver a wider soundstage for a truly immersive listening experience with tonal balance that remains authentic to the original recording. LG Eclair offers an enhanced viewing experience thanks to 4K pass-through support which allows viewers to enjoy stunning 4K and HDR content, including Dolby Vision, on their favorite streaming services. What’s more, adaptive LG AI Sound Pro analyzes the content being played and automatically applies the best sound settings, depending on which genre of content the user is enjoying, whether it’s news, music or cinema. Not only does LG Eclair make sound come alive, it’s also designed with convenience in mind, requiring fewer cables without sacrificing sound quality. This is possible because enhanced audio return channel (eARC) support allows for the lossless transmission of 5.1-channel, 7.1-channel and immersive audio such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X on compatible TVs. Owners of 2021 LG TVs will also benefit from authentic and clear sound with TV Sound Mode Share, which combines the processing power of LG’s latest α (Alpha) AI processors and AI Sound Pro to reveal rich nuances of the content source.1 Beyond sound performance, LG designed the Eclair not only to elevate the home viewing experience but to reduce its impact on the environment. This effort has resulted in LG Eclair being recognized as an Eco-Product by SGS Société Générale de Surveillance SA of Switzerland.2 # # # 1 TV Sound Mode Share and AI processor version vary by TV model. 2 SGS Eco-Product certification based on several categories including use of recycled materials in packaging. The soundbar ships in eco-conscious packaging with internal packing material made from recycled molded pulp, an alternative to polystyrene foam and plastic. View the full article

With one of the most aggressive vaccination campaigns on Earth, Israel has demonstrated the efficacy of the coronavirus vaccine as the country nears herd immunity. With the light emerging at the end of the tunnel for Israelis, LG in Israel saw an opportune moment to celebrate the citizenry’s efforts and the country’s cautious emergence from the darkness of the pandemic. So with lockdown restrictions eased and more people returning to life as it used to be, LG Israel felt it was the perfect time for a real live event to celebrate the local launch of LG’s 2021 TV lineup. In cooperation with its exclusive home entertainment product distributor, H.Y.E. Group, LG Israel last month invited 1,100 special guests to see the newest LG TVs in all their vibrant glory. Under the theme of LG OLED: The King of TVs, the venue showcased the complete lineup of LG’s newest OLED TVs – LG OLED G1, C1, B1 and A1 – as well as some of the company’s NanoCell and QNED MiniLED TV models. Here, the special guests could see for themselves the just how much better LG’s OLED technology is across various TV sizes, because sometimes you just have to see to believe. As a part of the LG’s Light Up Your World campaign, the large space was separated into four distinct zones representing key TV segments: sports, cinema, design and gaming. Each interactive area was faithfully designed to emphasize the various elements and unique values the impressive TVs have to offer every kind of viewer. With food and drinks galore, attendees sang passionately along during the concert of popular Israeli singer Itay Levi taking to the stage to make it an even more memorable night to remember. As one of the region’s first major offline events in more than a year, the electricity in the atmosphere was palpable. Israelis who had been patiently waiting for the end of social distancing were finally able to release all their pent-up energies in one fell swoop. And they had good reason to be hopeful. With one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, Israelis had good reason to start enjoying life again. In the meanwhile, LG will continue to pursue unique and safe ways to introduce its innovative products to consumers around the globe. Contributed by LG Israel # # # View the full article

The recognition of environmental issues has come a long way in the past six decades since the publication of Rachel Carson’s book Silent Spring. Today, nations, international organizations and even brands are working to alleviate greenhouse gases, save plants and animals on the brink of extinction and enrich the biodiversity of our lands. For average people without billion dollar budgets, simply taking a reusable shopping bag to the grocery store, eating more environmentally-friendly foods or factoring the environment into purchasing decisions can make a difference. With the well-being of our planet in mind, LG Electronics (LG) has been helping consumers make smarter, greener choices for years. With a long history of innovation in home appliances, residential heating and cooling systems, LG has been setting an example for consumer electronics companies to follow by developing world-class sustainable technologies that take care of chores and keep homes fresh and comfortable without leaving a large environmental footprint. Natural Power of Steam The TrueSteam technology featured in LG’s dishwasher, dryer and Styler harnesses the natural power of steam to cut through dirt and food debris and eliminate the fabric stains you can see – and the bacteria and odors you can’t.* The high-temperature steam is created by boiling water inside the appliance, which means less harmful detergent finds its way into our wastewater systems. Next-Generation Refrigerant By adopting a low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant, LG is taking its ecological responsibility to the next level by presenting solutions that pose less threat to the environment. R32, the industry’s next-generation refrigerant, has 70 percent lower GWP and requires 20 percent less gas than R410A, making the company’s heating and hot water system, Therma V, and air conditioning system, Multi V S, more environment friendly. What’s more, LG upgraded its DUAL Inverter Heat Pump dryer lineup by switching refrigerants from R314A to R290 – one of the lowest-GWP refrigerants currently available. LG dryers meet the high standards of TÜV Rheinland required for Green Product certification thanks to their sustainable use of resources and climate change mitigation. The restoration of our ecosystem is everyone’s responsibility. Governments, businesses, communities and individuals across the world all have a vital part to play and there’s no better time to begin our eco-friendly mission than today. It’s time to make those small, smarter changes to everyday life that will help make a better tomorrow possible. # # # * Availability of TrueSteam on dryer products vary by region. Dishwasher certified by Korea Testing & Research Institute for reducing 99.9 percent of Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium operating on Sanitizing Wash cycle (3-4 times final rinsing and steam emission) for 39 minutes. Dryer tested by Korean Apparel Testing and Research Institute (KATRI) showing Steam Hygiene option sanitizes 99.99 percent of harmful bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pneumococcal bacillus in 6.4 kilograms load (international test standard). Styler endorsed by the British Allergy Foundation (BAF) for reducing live house dust mite and bacteria with Sanitary Normal cycle, and viruses (H3N2, H1N1, PEV, IBRV, ICHV, PEDV, MHV, and hCoV-229E) with Sanitary Heavy Duty cycle. Certified as an asthma and allergy friendly® appliance by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). Certified by Korea Apparel Testing & Research Institute (KATRI) comparing results using Refresh cycle. View the full article

Alexa Delivers User-friendly Features and Seamless Voice Control Via LG’s Magic Remote SEOUL, July 14, 2021 — For the first time, Amazon Alexa will be coming to a wide range of third-party TVs powered by webOS, LG Electronics’ proprietary TV platform. TV brands such as Advance, Blaupunkt, Eko, JSW, Manta, Polaroid, RCA, Seiki and Skytech as well as original design manufacturers Ayonz, Dualshine, Konka, Silicon Player, Skyworth and Xianyou, among others, will soon be offering this capability in their compatible webOS-powered TVs with Magic Remote so even more consumers can enjoy the intelligent voice recognition capabilities of Alexa. LG’s proprietary ThinQ AI and voice recognition technologies allow webOS TV owners to simply speak into the advanced Magic Remote to get things done or get the information they need. With its point and click capability, LG Magic Remote is extremely intuitive to use and automatically recognizes and connects to set-top boxes and other compatible devices such as soundbars. Simply long pressing the Amazon Prime Video button and speaking into the Magic Remote opens up a whole new level of convenience, enabling webOS TV owners to adjust the TV volume, change channels, play music, read news, control a smart home, tell a joke and more. For example, simply say “Alexa, open YouTube” or “Alexa, suggest comedy movies” into the remote and Alexa will respond immediately, displaying viewing options on the screen for one’s enjoyment. “The addition of Amazon Alexa to the long list of webOS features will enhance the user experience and boost the value of our growing smart TV ecosystem,” said Jung Sung-hyun, head of content services at LG Home Entertainment Company. “Bringing together the capabilities of Alexa with the convenience of webOS to third-party TVs is a win-win-win for TV brands, customers and developers.” The built-in Alexa feature will be activated over-the-air starting in the third quarter in North America followed by other regions including Europe and Asia. # # # View the full article

From newly designed street wear, injections of color and wearable art, it was clearly out with the old and in with the new at Australia’s highly anticipated fashion event of the year last month. Afterpay Australian Fashion Week (AAFW) provided Australian designers with the opportunity to launch their latest fashion lines to influential industry members and technology was at the forefront of this year’s longstanding fashion event, enhancing show formats and experiences both on the runway and behind the scenes. And who better than LG Electronics in Australia to educate guests about technological advancements in garment care? So it made perfect sense for LG to team up with AAFW as the official laundry appliance partner at this year’s event. Not only did LG Electronics get to introduce the large capacity LG Styler and LG WashTower to the Australian market for the first time, the sponsorship also provided an opportunity to connect with new consumer segments and collaborate with influential fashion industry personalities. Right in the heart of the central hall at AAFW where some of Australia’s most iconic designers and personalities wandered in between shows, LG Electronics had its brand activation set up with its Styler and WashTower products. The space known as the LG Refresh Zone mimicked the design of a luxury walk-in wardrobe. Guests had the opportunity to experience the unique benefits of the LG Styler, whereby they could refresh their coats, jackets and other garments by checking them in between shows. Adhering to COVID-19 local government requirements and to ensure the safety of all attendees at AAFW and those who entered the LG Refresh Zone, guests were required to check-in using the Service NSW app and have their temperatures checked upon entry. Guests were furthermore encouraged to wear face masks during the shows and whilst visiting the LG Refresh Zone. At the same time, capacity was monitored and hand sanitizer was readily available throughout the venue. The activation saw several high-profile guests stop by, including well-known bohemian-inspired Australian fashion designer, Camilla Franks. In addition, LG Electronics partnered with style icon and E! Online Australia host, Tammy White, who utilized her strong social presence to create content around “a week in the life of AAFW with the LG Styler”. This partnership created online traction and buzz about the new LG Styler and the company’s affiliation with AAFW. During the same week, LG Electronics Australia collaborated with sought-after Australian designer to the stars, Michael Lo Sordo, whose looks were previously worn by Kourtney Kardashian, Sarah Hellen, Solange Knowles and Jeffree Star, to launch his Resort ‘22 collection. As a leading sponsor of Michael’s exclusive and intimate dinner and presentation, One Night in Paris, the LG Styler was used backstage to refresh his new line made of textures and fabrications including wools, cottons, leathers and silks. Simultaneously, LG gram laptops were integrated into the presentation to demonstrate how seamlessly the device could integrate with modern luxury designs as an accessory. Michael Lo Sordo’s Resort ’22 collection represents a fusion of casual glamour and modernity that can be worn from day to night. The LG gram range was integrated effortlessly in Michael’s presentation, as the laptop boasts the same flexibility to suit a range of lifestyles, delivering a simple yet stylish design whilst enhancing productivity. Contributed by LG Australia # # # View the full article

In this final episode of our six-part AI Experience series, we examine the dynamics of the human-AI relationship and what that will mean for the evolution of the technology. Throughout history, humans have always been masters of the technologies and machines they have created. But with artificial intelligence, the dynamics of this relationship may change. Distinct from other technologies in that it can learn from interactions and usages, AI is perhaps most recognizable today as the virtual assistants we call by name when we want something, whether that be information or the kitchen lights to turn off. As AI continues to evolve, it is expected to outgrow this role as helper to become more of a companion. Even now, AI-enabled devices are able to provide some degree of companionship. For the elderly or others living on their own, products such as smart speakers can offer a valuable sense of connection, responding verbally to queries in more conversational ways. Beyond the comfort of another voice and the feeling of a sympathetic (and synthetic) ear, AI machines can also provide a degree of safety by connecting users to relevant services when needed. If we take that one step further, AI systems will in the future be able to perceive changes in our behavior to determine our moods and respond appropriately, making it easy for humans to forget that they’re still communicating with a machine. Below, we take a look at five different areas concerning the constantly evolving relationship between humans and AI. Collaboration Human-AI collaboration is already having an impact on how we perform tasks and make decisions, although its scope is somewhat limited at this time. Once the technology has reached a certain point where we can better understand context, motivation and non-verbal cues, AI will then be able to contribute to genuinely collaborative endeavors, meaningfully helping us to increase our capabilities and knowledge in almost every arena imaginable. “We are all interesting creatures, not because we exist in a vacuum and we can just think on ourselves, we’re interesting because we interact with others,” said Charles Lee Isbell Jr., dean of computing at Georgia Institute of Technology. “We learn by interacting with others, they get transferred knowledge generation to generation. And I think that is sort of where the sweet spot is around AI.” Learning Collection of data is crucial to machine learning and its continuing improvement. Going forward, it’s critical that what AI learns should be made as transparent as possible. Experts from a diverse range of disciplines should be actively involved throughout AI’s development to ensure the learning process itself is robust, representative and ethically sound. Learning about AI and its implications is something everyone – not just those directly involved in its creation – should invest time in, as education may help us to predict and avert future challenges and threats. Professor Zafiroglu of 3A Institute advocates a multidisciplinary approach, urging the next generation of AI practitioners to “go out into the world and work in a variety of settings, from policy and industry to academia and education at the non-university level to think tanks as well as product and strategy teams.” Incorporating different perspectives and learnings into AI will help to forge intelligent systems that can work with, as well as for us. Empathy Having empathy means the ability to understand and share someone else’s feelings, a distinctly human trait. For AI to be able to detect the emotional state of a user and respond appropriately, it will need the capacity to recognize body language, tone of voice and most probably, physiological changes. Once it can do all of these things, and accurately interpret the demands of the specific context, AI will become immeasurably more helpful. For instance, recognizing an individual’s concern about a job interview, an empathetic AI could help alleviate this concern by generating a list of interview questions, providing feedback on answers or recommending the optimal route to the interview venue. With the obvious benefits of an AI with high emotional quotient also come considerable risks with regards to privacy so a safety net should be put in place to prevent its misuse. The European Union and many governments worldwide are currently addressing the question of how to ensure effective oversight for high risk AI technologies. At the same time, the companies providing these technologies will need to demonstrate that next to delivering value, user safety is their main concern. Fallibility As with any relationship, the human-AI relationship will require time and effort to develop properly. Humans must accept that AI will take a certain amount of time to learn from and adapt to their behaviors and preferences and to acquire new skills. Users should also understand that fallibility is not a one way street as AI is learning from them. Users also have to contend with any biases, preconceptions or misconceptions they may have, which can affect the nature or outcome of an interaction. Whether AI incorporates bias purposefully or not, we must consider the consequential nature of decisions that AI systems are making. Either way, our relationship with AI will be just like our relationship with each other. In other words, it’s going to take time and effort. Interface The way we interact with an AI solution is directly influenced by the design of its interface. Some forms of AI are more collaborative in nature, requiring frequent human input to deliver maximum value, while others run quietly in the background, automating our lives and supporting us with infrequent interaction. Different types of systems obviously necessitate different kinds of interfaces but it must ultimately be intuitive to use if it is to gain greater acceptance and wider adoption. Along with ease of use, interoperability is something that companies must work towards if AI is to flow seamlessly from one area of our lives to another. “There are no standards of interoperability,” states Gabi Zijdervel, chief marketing officer and head of product strategy at Affectiva. “I believe a consortium of industry will have to come together to solve this, cross-vertical and cross-use cases.” Although some still fear that AI will replace actual humans, the more likely future is one companionship and partnership. With the foundation already in place, we can look forward to a more equal and rewarding relationship with AI, not to mention a shining new chapter in the history of humankind. For more on this topic, visit www.AIXexchange.com. Developers and potential partners interested in LG’s ThinQ Platform should check out thinq.developer.lge.com. # # # View the full article

10-Day Online Event Highlights Partnership with Amundi Evian Championship and World’s Top Golfers SEOUL, July 9, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) announces the start of its 10-day online charity auction STRONGER TOGETHER to benefit Sur les bancs de l’école, a French organization that supports families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The auction highlights LG SIGNATURE’s partnership with the Amundi Evian Championship 2021, one of the most renowned major tournaments in women’s golf played at the Evian Resort Golf Club in France. In addition to benefiting a worthy cause, the auction will provide fans the opportunity to interact virtually with two of the biggest names in women’s golf. All proceeds from the auction will be donated to Sur les bancs de l’école, which was founded in 2008 and currently supports 200 families daily. The pandemic and studying at home affected autistic students especially hard and LG is proud to support the work of the organization as it helps affected families begin the long journey back to normal life. Running until July 18 at 14:59 (GMT), the STRONGER TOGETHER charity auction will feature top female golfers Ko Jin-young and Park Sung-hyun of South Korea, who LG has sponsored since 2020 and 2016, respectively. Golf fans can participate in the auction and bid on exclusive items, highlighted by the Amundi Evian Championship Package featuring LG SIGNATURE OLED R, the world’s only rollable TV complete with custom engraving option and a fabric speaker covering available in four exclusive colors, and three tickets to the Pro-Am event during next year’s the Amundi Evian Championship. LG SIGNATURE Refrigerator and LG SIGNATURE Wine Cellar will also be auctioned off during the 10-day event. Also available for bid are items donated by defending champion Ko who is donating her Epic Flash Driver used in 2020 after the pandemic hiatus while Park is donating autographed shirts and gloves. All auction items will be framed, authenticated and ready for winners to display as enviable additions to any golf aficionado’s collection. “Like the very best in women’s golf, LG SIGNATURE products are known for delivering unparalleled performance,” said Lee Jeong-seok, head of LG Electronics’ Global Marketing Center. “Run in partnership with the Amundi Evian Championship, the STRONGER TOGETHER charity auction will bring fans closer to some of the game’s brightest stars but more importantly, help support the important work of Sur les bancs de l’école.” More information can be found at LG SIGNATURE.com and official Instagram and Facebook accounts. # # # View the full article

Delivering Efficient, Responsive Cloud-based Customer Service Solution With the Help of Amazon Connect and Genesys Cloud SEOUL, July 8, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) announced the opening of its new Cloud Call Center in the United States, elevating the company’s rapid digital transformation while further improving the quality and efficiency of its customer service. Following North America, LG plans to open Cloud Call Centers in a dozen additional countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Italy and Vietnam this year and in its home market of South Korea in early 2022. Implementation of the cloud-based system will create a better customer experience and more positive outcome. The system allows LG’s customer service representatives to work collaboratively and effectively from different locations, eliminating the need to be in the same physical space, reducing the likelihood of a quarantine situation. And with new speech to text (STT) capability that quickly and accurately converts voice calls into written text, customer service representatives can easily and quickly research and respond to reoccurring issues and repeat questions. If there is a backlog due to a high call volume, the Cloud Call Center suggests an alternative faster option, such as “talking” to a chatbot on LG’s customer service site or another social media platform. An accurate estimate of the wait time will be available in the near future. The system is powered by either Amazon Connect or Genesys Cloud. “LG’s new Cloud Call Center actively upgrades and refines our service delivery and helps us to ensure the best possible customer outcomes,” said Yoo Kyu-moon, executive director of the Customer Service Management Center at LG Electronics. “With more helpful options to choose from, LG customers can receive the support they need in the way they prefer to receive it.” # # # View the full article