News Reporter

Steel Workers’ Union of Taubaté The past year has been one of the most challenging periods in recent history for many businesses. So it’s especially meaningful that in Brazil, LG Electronics is accelerating efforts to expand its production facilities, creating much-needed work for local contractors and ultimately lead to many new roles within the company itself. On May 11, the Brazilian government approved LG’s plan to expand its Manaus plant, located in the northwestern state of Amazonas, by 12,000 square meters. The BRL 325 million (USD 62 million) project is expected to commence operations in July and will see the establishment of new production lines for LG laptops and monitors even as LG winds down its smartphone operations. Once work has been completed and the new facilities fully operational, LG will become the fourth largest employer in Amazonas, adding 150 jobs and growing its local workforce to 2,200 members. “The plant will create more than twice as many employment opportunities as originally projected and will help stimulate economic growth in the region, making it a win-win for everyone,” said Wilson Lima, governor of Amazonas. After the announcement in April that LG would be exiting the mobile industry, the decision was made to relocate the monitor and laptop manufacturing lines from Taubaté on the east coast to Manaus. While the company will continue to operate its customer call center from Taubaté, all of LG’s Brazilian manufacturing will be consolidated in Manaus going forward. “We will continue to provide local employment opportunities and ensure uninterrupted service to our customers and partners across South and Central America,” said Seo Young-moo, senior vice president of LG Brazil Manaus production. “The Manaus expansion allows us to achieve both goals and we are extremely grateful to the Brazilian government and the state of Amazonas for supporting the project and recognizing its value to the local economy and community.” Established in 1995, the Manaus plant was originally established to manufacture TVs, microwave ovens and DVD players, with air conditioners added in 2001. In 2005, the Taubaté site went into operation, producing mobile phones, laptops and monitors. With the expansion of its Manaus site, LG is helping to stimulate the local economy in Amazonas while demonstrating its commitment to keeping as much production as possible in Brazil. By staying strong during challenging times and working together with the communities it serves, LG is continuing to ensure that life’s good. # # # View the full article

LG Calls on Young Musicians and Creators to Express Their Own “Life’s Good” Message SEOUL, May 27, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) today announced that its 2021 Life’s Good campaign will consist of two exciting components: Life’s Good Music Project in collaboration with acclaimed singer, songwriter and producer Charlie Puth and the Life’s Good Film, to be directed by rising star Jackson Tisi. LG’s Life’s Good campaign gives young people around the world the opportunity to let their creativity and talent shine. First launched last year, the Life’s Good Music Project calls on aspiring, young performers to share their own compositions expressing LG’s uplifting Life’s Good message. Anyone who loves music and can hum a tune is invited to submit an original accompaniment based on the 2021 version of the Life’s Good song, produced by Charlie Puth. The talent behind the winning entries will receive OLED TVs along with other LG products and the opportunity to complete and perform the song with Puth. Submissions to the Life’s Good Music Project can be made by posting to Instagram or YouTube with the hashtag #LifeisGoodMusic_LG until June 27. Full entry details can be found here. “I can’t wait to listen to everyone’s submissions and hear their take on the melody and chorus,” said Puth. “Music has always been a source of healing and empowerment for me, and I know this is going to be a memorable experience for everyone.” This year’s Life’s Good Film will be directed by Jackson Tisi, who won Gold at the Young Director Award 2020 for his moving short documentary, LEON. LG is further challenging the next generation of filmmakers to visually capture the moments and places that have meaning in their lives and how they interpret LG’s Life’s Good philosophy. The accompanying Life’s Good Film Project is intended to convey a universal message of hope and celebrate the diversity of experiences and viewpoints of young auteurs from all over the globe through their inspiring, unique stories. Submissions can be made by posting to Instagram or YouTube with the hashtag #LifeisGoodFilm_LG until June 27. Details for participation in the Life’s Good Film Project can be seen here. “I believe there’s something profound in our everyday thoughts and the places we go to seek inspiration or solace,” said Tisi. “By sharing what we find in our everyday, this film will convey a resonating message of what life still holds.” To accompany the 2021 Life’s Good campaign, LG has also created a brand channel on GIPHY offering a variety of cheerful GIF stickers – including those from both the Life’s Good Music Project and Life’s Good Film Project – for use on Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and other social platforms. For more on the 2021 Life’s Good campaign, stay tuned to LG’s Global YouTube channel and Instagram. # # # View the full article

Diverse Material and Color Choices to Match Any Décor; Comes with LG’s Renowned Performance and Quality SEOUL, May 26, 2021 — LG Electronics (LG) announces the commencement of the international launch of LG Objet Collection, designed to meet the growing consumer demand for personalized, stylish and functional home appliances. Debuting as Furniture Concept Appliances at CES 2021, the LG Objet Collection’s Fridge and Freezer pair will debut in China, a market with already robust demand for LG premium appliances. Availability in key markets of Asia and Europe will follow soon thereafter. Blurring the line between state-of-the-art home appliances and designer furnishings, the LG Objet Collection boasts a modern, minimalist design language that elevates and blends in effortlessly in any indoor environment. With a range of luxurious materials and subtle, sophisticated colors that can be mixed and matched according to preference, the collection provides a compelling way for customers to express their unique personalities tailored to suit personal tastes and the existing décor. The LG Objet Collection Fridge and Freezer offer a chic, understated aesthetic that complements any style of kitchen, as well as outstanding performance with LG’s industry-leading refrigeration technologies. The pair presents consumers with a selection of timeless, high-quality finishes, including stainless steel and glass. The stainless steel option offers three color variations (green, silver and matte black) for a chic, modern look, while the glass finish comes in four elegant tints (mint, pink, beige and silver) that allow the appliances to fit in seamlessly with any kitchen design.1 With LG’s proven refrigeration system, LINEARCooling, the Fridge guarantees outstanding cooling performance. LINEARCooling helps maintain a precise, even internal temperature with minimal fluctuations (±0.5 degrees Celsius), helping to keep food items, such as fruits and vegetables, fresh for up to seven days.2,3 LG plans to expand its LG Objet Collection of premium kitchen appliances with more striking products such as InstaView refrigerator and Styler wardrobe management system to achieve a unified, visually-harmonious living environment. “The launch of the LG Objet Collection in international markets marks the beginning of an era of the personalized appliance,” said Lyu Jae-cheol, president of LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. “Offering understated design and different options of materials and colors to choose from, LG’s stylish innovations help make it possible for consumers to create a space that truly reflects their unique sensibilities.” # # # 1 Color and material options may vary by country and market. 2 Based on TÜV Rheinland test results using LG’s internal testing method measuring average peak to peak temperature fluctuation in fresh food compartment of LG refrigerator model GLT51PZGSZ. No load and normal temperature setting. Results may vary in actual usage. 3 Based on TÜV Rheinland test results using LG’s internal testing method measuring the time required for specific food stored in the fresh food compartment of LG refrigerator model GLT51PZGSZ to decrease in weight by five percent. Results may vary in actual usage. View the full article

For global companies like LG Electronics which operates in more than 100 locations worldwide, it is crucial that they participate in initiatives to promote mutual growth with local communities and have a robust strategy in place to demonstrate socially responsible behavior. And under an overarching vision that sees various aspects of society working together to achieve a better life for all, LG is committed to social contribution activities that deliver sustainable growth to local communities. LG has three main goals: to help solve social problems through its products and technologies, establish a foundation for growth and ensure the independence of stakeholders through trusted partnerships, and encourage employee volunteering to promote a sharing culture. Let’s look at some of LG’s global social contribution activities aiming to bolster vulnerable communities while nurturing talents and promoting innovative technologies that care. Global LG Ambassador Challenge The LG Electronics Ambassador Program is an annual social initiative founded in Bangladesh in 2017 which was expanded regionally last year. Individuals and organizations are invited to submit solution ideas for local issues and, with help from local NGOs, the best ideas are awarded LG Ambassador status and provided with grants and donations to implement their work even further. In the capital city of Nairobi, Kenya, one winning project focused on supporting needy students at Kilimani Primary School, an integrated primary school with a unit that caters for visually impaired students. LG donated 10 braille machines to the school, enabling more students to read and enhancing their learning experience. Another winning project focused on empowering young women to break the poverty cycle. Based in rural Kajiado County in Kenya, Beula Girls Empowerment reaches out to vulnerable girls across the region to give them a new chance in life through mentorships, education programs and training workshops to develop trade skills. LG is supporting this valuable cause by donating various essentials, such as tents, chairs, audio systems and projectors. Last but not least, offering various activities, including soccer training, competitions and community work, to keep at-risk youth engaged, the Limuru Soccer Academy was selected as the third winning project in Kenya. LG donated a van to help the academy drive kids to and from activities as well as generate income when not in use at the academy, through integration into the public transport system. The remainder of the monetary aid went towards purchasing sports equipment and football kits. LG-KOICA HOPE TVET College As a part of LG’s youth support program and in collaboration with the local Ethiopian government, the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and several NGOs, LG established the LG-KOICA HOPE TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) College in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa. Since 2014, the program has provided young, eager Ethiopians with vocational training to teach them how to repair electronics and home appliances as well as information and communication technologies. This year, the initiative produced 57 bright graduates with some receiving internships and full-time jobs at LG’s Dubai service center. LG Inverter Class in Bangladesh In Bangladesh, youth unemployment has been rising for years, reaching a high of 11.9 percent in 2019.* To help address this issue, LG partnered with KOICA and Bangladesh’s BMET (Bureau of Manpower Employment and Training) to establish LG Inverter Class, a job training program held at the Korea-Bangladesh Vocational Training Center in the city of Dhaka. Due to Bangladesh’s high temperatures and humid climate, air conditioners and related services are always in high demand. With this in mind, the educational course was created to train 40 highly motivated locals each year on repairing and servicing LG’s air solution products based on a comprehensive curriculum and textbooks developed directly by LG as well as work experiences interning at service centers in Bangladesh. These are just some of the ESG activities that LG is engaged in needy communities to ensure a better life. # # # * Tackling the COVID-19 youth employment crisis in Asia and the Pacific: International Labour Organization, Bangkok (Thailand), and Asian Development Bank, Manila (Philippines), 2020 View the full article

New Yorkers and Londoners in Times Square and Piccadilly Circus are being treated to an immersive 3D art experience displayed on LG’s massive, high-definition digital billboards in the two international cities. The 75-second video showcase is a stunning 3D work of art that celebrates the relationship between art and technology, the connection that lies at the heart of LG SIGNATURE’s core philosophy, Art Inspires Technology, Technology Completes Art. Titled Art Revolution, the exclusive artwork by David McLeod represents the ongoing evolution of LG SIGNATURE products and the seamless convergence of advanced technology and striking design that has come to define the premium brand. Designed to captivate all passersby, the electronic billboards fill up with animated, three-dimensional bubbles that flow playfully through LG SIGNATURE’s premium products before escaping the constraints of the gigantic screens and floating weightlessly into the sky. The innovative artwork draws inspiration from each of the brand’s distinctive products, expressing their unique advantages through dynamic, abstract images. For example, the animation for LG SIGNATURE Refrigerator symbolizes the product’s connection to fresh foods and the art for LG Washing Machine focuses on clothing and fabric care. Plump grapes illustrate the function of the Wine Cellar while LG’s brilliant OLED TV is represented by infinite, rich colors. Photo Credit: David McLeod The visually arresting art is the work of Australian artist and 3D illustrator, David McLeod. Known for his multi-disciplinary approach, McLeod began his career designing websites and digital ad campaigns before becoming an in-demand 3D artist. Art and technology played a key role in this transition, as the rapid development of technology in the 3D space enabling David to take his art to a whole new level. Throughout his career, McLeod has always focused on his audience’s emotional response to texture and motion, translating these elements into his own visual language. By seamlessly bringing together art and technology, LG SIGNATURE continues to break new ground with its innovative, luxury lifestyle solutions, embodying the brand’s Art of Essence vision. # # # View the full article

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Digital signage to most people conjure up images of giant stadium scoreboards and downtown city billboards on top of buildings. But today’s digital signage is far more ubiquitous than that and are used across a wide range of settings such as displaying appointment times in a doctor’s office, foreign exchange rates in banks, even animated artwork in public spaces. Leading manufacturers in this space continue to expand and improve their offerings, creating solutions that deliver even better picture quality, more versatility and easier (and cheaper) installation, among other benefits. What’s more, the industry has seen a surge in interest since the beginning of the pandemic, with many businesses seeking ways to communicate information and engage employees and customers while limiting face-to-face interactions. A longtime trusted provider of innovative signage solutions, LG Electronics’ refreshed online showroom, LG Digital Connect (DC) 2021, is a smorgasbord of information, delivered 100 percent virtually. The showcase gives prospective customers and interested visitors an intuitive, interactive way to experience LG’s digital signage products complete with detailed product features, technical specification and useful case scenarios. Upon entering LG DC 2021, visitors find themselves in the experience hall where products with similar characteristics are grouped together in sections for convenient exploration. Each section features a Virtual Zone, where detailed three-dimensional images of products can be viewed in different types of settings. In addition to the existing residential, education and hospitality virtual environments, new scenarios have been added for 2021, including a broadcasting station, presentation space, content creation studio, luxury retail stop, sports stadium and metro. The virtual showroom demonstrates how LG’s digital signage is suitable for a broad range of applications and how it can add value in nearly every situation. For example, LG offers a display for every usage scenario in the today’s modern, high-tech stadium, all connected and controllable via a comprehensive, cloud-base management solution. Whether it’s the general spectator section, concourse, club room or corporate box, LG has the right products for every space: LED signage, transparent OLED signage or something in between. LG’s Transparent OLED Signage is ideal for broadcast booths at live sporting events or in the studio for the half-time show because it can display relevant stats and player profiles without blocking the action going on in the background. LG LED Bloc is perfect for showing replays to fans in the stadium with its 1.25mm pixel pitch and α (Alpha) 7 Intelligent Processor for sharp pictures with realistic color and contrast. LG’s solutions are also a perfect fit for executive briefing centers – dedicated spaces where companies can engage directly with clients and demonstrate their products and services. Automatic sliding doors integrated with LG Transparent OLED Signage deliver a powerful first impression to guests as they enter the space, even displaying personalized messages to make them feel more welcome. Designed for easy installation and management and excellent image quality that looks just as good when viewed up close, LG MAGNIT and LG LED Bloc are also great options for communicating visually with customers. LG’s innovative digital signage can enhance a visitor’s sense of exclusivity at luxury brand stores and provide an unparalleled advertising platform that grabs the attention of every commuter over the course of the workday. With high-quality, state-of-the-art displays suitable for multiple spaces and uses that are easy to install and configure, LG remains at the forefront of the expanding digital signage market. At LG Digital Connect 2021, visitors can experience their own personal virtual tour to see which solutions are the best fit for their needs. # # # View the full article

Connecting with consumers is critical to gaining their attention in a cluttered environment. To drive home the superiority of LG OLED TVs with consumers, LG in the USA has launched Only on OLED, a campaign and content strategy that positions LG as the necessary and exclusive partner to the biggest moments in entertainment. Focusing on key consumer passions that are drivers for TV purchases, the campaign will feature unparalleled access to unique events and moments best enjoyed on LG OLED TVs. The key components of Only on OLED include a live celebrity gaming showdown series, docu-style short films featuring professional star athletes and exclusive sneak peeks at never-before-seen content from some of this year’s most anticipated movie releases available only on LG TV’s FOMO Channel app on the webOS smart TV platform. “The Only on OLED program embraces the entertainment passion points of our consumers taking them beyond the actual movie, sporting event or gaming play with never-before-seen events and behind-the scenes content best experienced on OLED TVs,” said Peggy Ang, LG US’s senior vice president of marketing. The campaign kicked off last week with the first LG OLED Ultimate Gaming Showdown featuring multi-platinum-selling music mogul DJ Khaled and world-renowned actor Megan Fox. The two stars competed in a head-to-head Fortnite battle, live streamed on professional esports team Evil Geniuses’ Twitch Channel. The event, which generated more than one million live views, focused on LG OLED’s unrivaled superiority as the best TV for gaming. PR coverage in lifestyle and gaming publications including People Magazine and Hypebeast, and a series of witty social media videos featuring Fox and Khaled were the key drivers generating consumer attendance. Khaled and Fox were both coached by Evil Geniuses talents Justin “FearItSelf” Kats and Wilton “Zews” Prado. Fox’s celebrity boyfriend Machine Gun Kelly also made an unexpected cameo appearance. Following the live event, LG TV owners will have exclusive access to behind-the-scenes content plus the ability to watch the event on-demand on LG’s exclusive FOMO Channel app. Future Gaming Showdown participants and battles will be announced throughout the year. Only on OLED will also deliver exclusive sports and movie experiences featuring star athletes and some of the most anticipated movie releases of 2021. Launching this spring, Only on OLED will debut two bespoke short films featuring professional football and basketball superstars taking fans behind-the-scenes for a glimpse into the story behind the player. And this summer, LG TV owners will have access to exclusive content from a few of this year’s highly anticipated Warner Bros. Pictures film releases. More details on these programs will be announced at a later date. Contributed by LG USA # # # View the full article

Photo Credit: Cadillac In this segment of On the Job, we take a look at user experience (UX) designers and the crucial role they play in LG’s Vehicle component Solutions Company. The future of mobility is fast approaching, with software predicted to account for 90 percent of all vehicle-related innovation within a decade.1 According to some estimates, around 461 million vehicles will have been equipped with digital head units – the control center for an automobile’s information and entertainment center – and 115 million with digital cockpit architecture, between the years 2020 and 2030.2 And it’s software that gives digital dashboard displays, head units, cockpits among other in-vehicle systems, their ability to enhance the overall driver and passenger experience. And as an expert in both plastic OLED (P-OLED) and user experiences (UX), LG is helping to shape the future of mobility with advanced in-vehicle digital displays. Photo Credit: Cadillac As the automotive interior becomes more complex and more informative, the role of the UX designer is growing in importance. While UX design may not be as well-known as a car’s exterior design, there is no question that it’s one of the most dynamic fields related to design today with much room to evolve. Currently, the UX in vehicles relates to three main elements: traditional driver clusters such as speedometers and odometers; rear-seat entertainment (RSE); audio, video and navigation (AVN). From left: Park Ji-yeong, Yoo Ah-yeon , Ko Seung-yeon, Oh Ji-won, Jeong Hye-in, Ahn Jong-yoon From concept to production, the development cycle of a car today takes years. The whole time, LG’s UX designers are involved every step of the way, considering every angle, every possible experience. Safety and convenience are of the greatest importance to LG UX designers, especially when it relates to AVN and driver cluster displays. Details from font, text size, screen brightness and visibility at different times of the day to accessibility of commonly-used functions is factored in to produce an optimized graphical user interface (GUI). And because drivers’ preferences differ widely, both physical controls must coexist seamlessly with more flexible touch displays without confusing the vehicle’s occupants. But beyond usability and safety, LG’s in-car displays must also deliver exceptional style. The integrated infotainment system must exude a sleek, modern aesthetic that complements the interior and makes the driver and passengers feel as though they’ve stepped into a luxurious cockpit. But a UX designer’s role doesn’t just stop at the drawing board or the CAD system. LG UX designers are also well versed in customer service. “While working on the digital cockpit for a client, I took up residence in their offices for many months because the collaboration with our clients doesn’t simply end with the design,” said Park Ji-yeong, senior UX designer at LG Electronics. “Automobile software is updated for years, even for models launched almost a decade ago, so we make it a priority to follow up with our clients regularly.” As UX designers at LG work to advance the in-vehicle experience, the information and entertainment technology inside the vehicle cabin will continue to evolve and become more complex. So it’s a fairly sure bet that the job of a vehicle user experience designer will only be more vital to the driving experience, even if the driving is mostly done by the car. # # # 1 https://www.ibm.com/thought-leadership/institute-business-value/report/auto-2030 2 https://www.abiresearch.com/press/digital-cockpit-be-mainstream-2030-due-major-restructure-connected-automotive-infotainment-architecture/ View the full article

In the Middle East, smartphone apps have become the preferred mode of communication, with 88 percent of the people using social media every day.1 And the pandemic has accelerated this adoption, with 75 percent of those surveyed in the region saying that their time on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok has increased over the past year.2 To engage this growing audience in the region, LG’s Middle East and Africa office introduced “The Spot”, an online space where visitors can enter competitions to win exclusive experiences and amazing prizes to engage digitally-savvy Gen Z fans in the region. LG invited food enthusiasts across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kenya, Egypt and Turkey to visit “Life’s Good Restaurant” inside The Spot to share the stories behind their favorite foods. Each sumptuous dish is published on social media for followers to peruse and to learn exactly how each culinary creation came to be. LG partnered with renowned celebrity chefs across the MEA region who will judge which inventions come out on top, attempting to re-create the very best for winners at their restaurants or through a convenient home delivery service. Along with a custom-made meal prepared by a celebrity chef, winners will receive one of LG’s diverse collection of state-of-the-art kitchen appliances such as LG NeoChef Microwave Oven & Grill or LG InstaView Door-in-Door® Refrigerator. During the campaign, Life’s Good Restaurant chefs have been actively engaging fans on social media, openly sharing their selection process so fans can feel vested in going along for the journey until the best dish is announced. Throughout the year, LG will introduce more competitions and giveaways, covering fields as diverse and engaging as dancing and gaming, and will continue to actively communicate with consumers in the Middle East and Africa and showcase how technology and innovation can make our lives better. By LG Middle East and Africa Staff # # # 1 https://www.meltwater.com/en/blog/top-3-social-media-trends-middle-east 2 “Transitioning to the new normal: Middle East Updates.” PwC Middle East, 14 July 2020. View the full article

In the second episode of the AI Experience series, we delve into the role of ethics in the evolution of artificial intelligence. The benefits of AI notwithstanding, there continues to exist concerns about the ethical implications of a technology that could potentially know more about its users than they do about themselves. And for as long as there have been intelligent machines, there have been skepticism and distrust. While some of this wariness could be traced back to the way artificial intelligence has been portrayed in science fiction books and movies, it’s no exaggeration to say that suspicion toward such technology is widespread. In fact, the late Stephen Hawking once said, “The development of full artificial intelligence could spell the end of the human race. It would take off on its own, and re-design itself at an ever-increasing rate.” Photo Credit: European Commission To prevent such scenarios from ever coming true, the European Union recently put into place regulations to ensure that “good ethics” are built into all AI technologies. Regarding the new guidelines, executive vice president of the European Commission for A Europe Fit for the Digital Age, said, “With these landmark rules, the EU is spearheading the development of new global norms to make sure AI can be trusted.”1 Before we delve into ethical AI, it is important to understand how AI learns – and what (and whom) it is learning from – in the first place. Because AI gains insight from data collected from existing societal structures and based on parameters set by human beings – such as researchers and developers – and the companies they work for, it is enevitable that the technology will reflect at least some of the biases, tendencies and preconceptions that exist within those separate but intimately related elements. “Human centric means to take into consideration the human aspect of how the tools are going to be used, for what purpose, and what’s the consequence for humans who use the tool,” said Yoshua Bengio, 2019 Turing Award-winning AI researcher and founder of Mila (originally Montreal Institute for Learned Algorithms). “It’s important because those tools are becoming more and more powerful, and the more powerful the tool is, the more we need to be careful about how to use it.” So now let’s take a look at five areas that are integral to the ethical development and use of AI, moving forward: inclusivity, values, governance, data privacy and purpose. Inclusivity Acknowledging and factoring in diversity is central to producing AI systems that meet the needs of a diverse global population. However, a study published by in 2019 concluded that there is an alarming lack of diversity in the AI field and that this is perpetuating all kinds of gender, race and religious biases.2 In response to this state of affairs, groups such as the African Institute for Mathematical Science, which launched courses to train young Africans in machine learning and its application to diversify the talent pipeline, are calling for initiatives to achieve a more equitable future for AI. But more consistent and far-reaching efforts are needed if there is to be better cultural and gender representation in the lab and in the industry. “If you don’t have diversity among the people who are doing the designing and the people doing the testing, the people who are involved in the process, then you’re all guaranteed to have a narrow solution,” says Charles Isbell, dean of computing at Georgia Tech and a strong advocate for increasing access to and diversity in higher education. Values To a great extent, the values of a nation determines the philosophy behind a country’s AI development. The decoupling of technology in such countries is often made on ethical grounds rooted in fundamental differences in ideologies and values. For example, there is wide disparity in how far governments can intrude upon people’s private lives from country to country. To alleviate this, private entities should consider universal human values when designing AI systems and be responsible for their products that strongly impact society. “That’s why it’s not just about maximizing their profits… but taking the responsibility, in the way that the action will have an impact on society,” explains Dr. Yuko Harayama of Japanese scientific research institute, RIKEN, and former executive member of Japan’s Council for Science, Technology and Innovation Cabinet Office. “It’s up to us because we are all human beings and that means you are responsible for your action, including your action within your company.” Governance According to a list of 20 AI-enabled crimes put together by researchers at University College London, the biggest threat to civil order comes not from the technology itself, but from humans using it to their own illegal ends. Using driverless vehicles as weapons was among the possible crimes presented in the study. Historically it has been the role of governments to ensure public safety through regulation and oversight but with AI, lawmakers are faced with the difficulty of legislating a technology that is constantly evolving and challenging to comprehend. Rather than leaving this matter exclusively in the hands of the government, a broad, interdisciplinary effort is required so that any legislation encompasses a wider range of viewpoints and is built on a deeper fundamental understanding of AI. Data Privacy AI systems for consumers have relatively few safeguards compared to those designed for industrial or military use, making them more susceptible to personal data breaches or misuse. This is why fostering trust is so important when it comes to human-centric AI systems – trust that users’ data is safe and protected and that it isn’t being used for purposes without owner consent. “I think the biggest things we need to consider is what data is being collected, who is collecting it, where it is staying, and how it is being used and reused,” said Alex Zafiroglu, deputy director at the 3A Institute of The Australian National University, emphasizing the need for transparency in the use and collection of data for consumer AI solutions. Purpose To deliver relevant services and maximum convenience, AI-based systems require users to share certain pieces of personal data. The more personalized the experience provided, the more private data the user has to share. It is critical, then, that the purpose for which this data is used is clearly defined at the outset, and strictly adhered to by the service providers and manufacturers concerned. If AI only employs collected data for a stated purpose, end users would feel less concerned sharing their personal information. This would enable intelligent products and services to deliver more value and the companies that produce them to better fine-tune their offerings. As its presence and uses continue to expand in all areas of life, artificial intelligence presents human society with the potential for incredible advancement. While significant risks exist, these can be effectively mitigated by making ethics the center of all AI development. # # # 1 https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_21_1682 2 https://ainowinstitute.org/AI_Now_2019_Report.html View the full article

In this installment of On the Job, we put the spotlight on a few of the talented and creative individuals who make our products come alive. From dazzling nighttime displays on buildings to state-of-the-art screens in stadiums, LEDs are literally everywhere. LED, or light-emitting diode, has become the lighting technology of choice in cars, homes and consumer electronics. Recently a new form of LED has entered our lexicon and piqued the public’s interest because of its size, or lack thereof – Micro LED. It would be a serious understatement to say that Micro LEDs are small. Micro LED refers to tiny, individually addressable, self-emissive LED light sources measuring between 10 to 100 micrometers in size. A Micro LED display comprises an array of microscopic LEDs with a gap no bigger than one millimeter between them. Turning this new LED technology into a viable commercial display was the challenge facing the LG MAGNIT product design team. To bring LG MAGNIT to life, the team at LG’s Design Lab aimed to create a slim, lightweight product that offered hassle-less installation, next-level flexibility and an attractive aesthetic. From left: Lee Yong-ho, Park Chan-woo, Kihl He-won, Hwang Jung-yeon LG MAGNIT is made up of an array of microscopic LEDs with a gap no bigger than one millimeter between them. These tiny LEDs are capable of improved brightness and color accuracy than conventional LCD displays and make it possible to produce a near-infinite variety of screen sizes. Micro LED displays also offer additional benefits such as energy efficiency and fast response time. The clever block-assembly design is one of the most creative features of LG MAGNIT. Each Micro LED “cabinet” links seamlessly to other cabinets, allowing installers to quickly and easily construct large-scale display on any site. Thanks to the MAGNIT design team’s use of non-contact connector technology, sending and receiving signals wirelessly between cabinets is a cinch, simplifying and reducing the time needed for cable management. The product design team also made sure that LG MAGNIT’s wireless data transfer technology made for easier content management as well. This design allows users to simultaneously display the same content across any number of LG MAGNIT solutions without having to configure a wired network connection. What’s more, the clever block-assembly power docking mechanism developed specifically for LG’s micro LED signage can shorten installation time by up to 33 percent. To create a visually-striking, premium look, the LG MAGNIT product design team opted to use pressed metal for the rear-casing instead of typical plastic. Not only does the metallic finish look great, but it also reduces the overall weight and cost of the product and offers excellent durability as well. With its distinctive triangular motif, the cover resembles an expertly-cut diamond that makes LG MAGNIT a pleasure to behold from all angles. The successful efforts of LG’s product designers to realize the sleek, premium design of LG MAGNIT have not gone unnoticed. With its innovative clever block-assembly concept, the Micro LED signage solution won a Bronze Award at the 2020 International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA), one of the world’s top three design competitions. The accolade was well deserved recognition for a team that continues to excel at finding new ways to solves problems and deliver on LG’s mission to make life better. # # # View the full article

As part of LG’s commitment to achieve net-zero carbon in less than a decade, LG offices all over the world are already actively engaged in initiatives toward the same goal. In Europe alone, many LG teams are working closely with like-minded local organizations to make a positive and lasting difference to the health of our planet. As part of its sustainability and social responsibility strategy in Portugal, LG is working in partnership with the European Recycling Platform (ERP) to combat electronic waste, a 53.6 million metric ton global problem. A recent study conducted by LG in Portugal found that although two-thirds of residents recycled electrical equipment, many still kept old appliances and devices at home as emergency backup, preventing these products from getting a second life. So to encourage people to turn in their old electronics, LG Portugal, in conjunction with ERP Portugal and Startup Lisboa, hosted the e-Waste Open Innovation challenge, which challenged local companies, groups and clubs to come up with ideas to help tackle the problem of e-waste. The winner of the contest, Trash4Goods, is a team of university students from Instituto Superior Técnico. The team cleverly gamified the collection of e-waste by creating an app-based system that rewards those who recycle electronics, kicking off a virtuous cycle that benefits everyone. Through initiatives like this, LG Portugal and its partners are helping to reshape attitudes towards the recycling of e-waste, paving the way to a cleaner, brighter environment. In 2018, LG Spain launched the LG Smart Green project to contribute to the national reforestation effort. Today, its Smart Green movement is still very active, supporting environmental causes and most recently, demonstrating how LG’s advanced solar technology can fulfill all the energy requirements that a high-tech company such as CyG IT Sustainable Tech needs in Spain. LG Spain partnered with CyG IT Sustainable Tech, a local company pioneering the use of AI and Big Data in the maintenance and repair of electrical devices, to create southern Europe’s first-ever carbon neutral tech lab. Using 115 highly-efficient LG NeON solar panels, the Seville-based company is now able to generate an average power energy of 33kW, eliminating 44 tons of CO2 from the air each year for complete energy autonomy and contributing to carbon neutrality. While electronics manufacturers have often been viewed as part of the problem rather than part of the solution, companies like LG are hoping to change that. And for its efforts to develop products and employ production processes that minimize damage to the environment, LG was awarded Platinum status by EcoVadis, an independent, globally-trusted provider of business sustainability ratings, putting LG in the top one percent of all companies in terms of sustainability initiatives. In France, LG and L’Arbre Vert have joined forces to highlight the issue of fashion waste, a significant contributor to global pollution. L’Arbre Vert was the first French brand to offer an eco-certified, allergy-friendly laundry detergent and has been educating consumers about the benefits of using ecologically-sound products for the past 15 years. In LG, the company saw the perfect partner to amplify its message and assist consumers in their journey to a more sustainable lifestyle. LG’s AI DD washing machines are better for users’ clothes, leveraging state-of-the-art AI and laundry technologies to reduce fabric damage by 18 percent. They’re also better for the planet, using less water and electricity. Combined with L’Arbre Vert’s natural detergents and fabric softeners, the company’s washers can keep garments looking good for a long time, lessening the need to purchase new items with the arrival of each new season. “With L’Arbre Vert, we have found the ideal partner to provide consumers with an extra layer of laundry care,” said Romain Gras, marketing director at LG Electronics France. “We are committed to responding to the growing ecological concern of French households and helping them adopt healthy lifestyle habits.” Through its actions and active collaboration with like-minded organizations worldwide, LG is doing everything it can to build a better tomorrow, because “Life’s Good” when we choose to make a difference. # # # View the full article

Today’s brands are more challenged than ever as they try to find the perfect message for a demanding audience. LG is taking on this challenge with a new campaign that introduces audiences to the unique characteristics of OLED technology through LG’s next-generation OLED and LG OLED evo (model G1) TVs. With a TV commercial and four accompanying online videos, LG’s latest campaign, Light Up Your World, uses imagery and themes that resonate with its core audience to highlight the memorable, emotionally impactful user experience that is possible with LG OLED and its self-lit pixels. The title, Light Up Your World, is a nod to the self-emissive pixels unique to OLED technology which delivers superbly lifelike and nuanced images by virtue of its inherent characteristics and individual pixel-level control. The title also communicates the message that LG OLED TV not only offers a next-level viewing experience but also delivers light and joy into our daily lives. The main video of the campaign shows a woman following a hypnotic, floating point of light, much like Alice in Wonderland and the White Rabbit. On route to her unknown destination, she sees different objects that light up and lead her on a magical expedition before eventually arriving back home to her sofa and LG OLED TV after having experienced a world of breathtaking images, including a self-lit tree with luminescent leaves representing the light-emitting pixels of LG OLED technology. Four additional videos make up the full Light Up Your World collection. Each of the videos correspond to different aspects of LG’s “4S” keywords as it relates to LG OLED TV: Sharp, Swift, Smooth and Slim. Light the Story Up highlights the sharp picture quality and immersive cinematic experience offered by LG OLED. With millions of self-lit pixels, LG OLED TVs produce rich, sharp details and perfect blacks to make even the darkest of scenes come alive. And with even more brightness, the LG OLED evo panel delivers punchier images with improved clarity, transporting viewers into their favorite scenes, making them part of the action. In Light the Play Up, LG OLED TVs are shown their capability for fast gaming action via speedy response time and immersive big-screen experience. Thanks to blazing fast performance, gamer-centric features and support for the latest HDMI specifications and NVIDIA G-Sync, LG OLED evo guarantees stutter- and tear-free gameplay that gives gamers that performance edge to become the champions they were meant to be. The episode Light the Game Up highlights the incomparably smooth and natural motion of OLED, demonstrating how LG’s OLED Motion technology makes the fast-paced movements in exhilarating sporting events and action sequences smooth, clear and easy to follow. With LG OLED, those viewing at home will feel less like fans and more like one of their favorite superstars as the TV reveals the spin of the ball, droplet of sweat and blades of grass with absolute clarity. Lastly, Light the Space Up focuses on OLED’s slim design and its ability to help customers create a truly inspiring space in their home. LG’s Gallery Design unlocks a new world of TV aesthetics, featuring minimalist bezels and an impossibly slim profile that wouldn’t look out of place in an art gallery or museum. The design allows anyone to be an artist, free to curate his or her space exactly as imagined. The campaign also touches on topics important to every consumer: health and environment. LG is addressing consumers’ concerns and striving to make a better future for the planet. Its efforts in both areas are explored in videos soon available to view on LG’s official online channels. LG’s new campaign communicates the rewarding, personal viewing experiences that come with LG OLED and illustrates how the TVs’ self-lit pixels can light up any scenario with the most dynamic picture quality around. The global campaign signals a new direction for LG OLED storytelling at a time when its star is shining the brightest. And the story doesn’t end there… # # # View the full article

For companies involved in the business of automobiles, there’s nothing more important than safety. Safety is so important that for some, it’s the biggest selling point when promoting their products. Today’s consumers are too savvy to just believe the words in a brochure or commercial. Moreover, automotive components are even more challenging to communicate because consumers are unfamiliar with everything that goes into a car and what they do. For LG’s fast growing vehicle component solutions business, certification of functional safety technologies that are key to the future of the autonomous vehicle is especially rewarding. The ISO 26262 Functional Safety Product certificate for LG’s ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) front camera module was issued by TÜV Rheinland, one of the world’s leading global testing organizations. LG also received a Functional Safety Process certificate for the entire development progress from product design and verification to production. The ISO 26262 certification is an automotive international standard that guarantees the functional safety of each product and process by measuring the probability of an accident occurring due to a breakdown in automobile parts or error in the product development process. This certification is becoming more important as global automakers increasingly demand higher functional stability as a prerequisite for the supply of parts, especially for autonomous driving. LG’s ADAS front camera module plays the important role of being the “eye” of a self-driving car as it collects a multitude of traffic information in front of the vehicle. The ADAS module recognizes obstacles and makes quick decisions such as braking when there is a risk of collision. The module also helps ensure safer driving by tracking the lanes on the road and maintaining a certain distance from other vehicles. “Our organization is extremely happy and blessed to be LG’s partner in this kind of projects, as LG is one of the most successful companies in the area,” said Manual Diez, global field manager of cybersecurity and functional safety at TÜV Rheinland. “LG will be one of the main actors in the automotive world by keeping the high standards of quality LG is known for.” “As a Tier 1 global automotive parts supplier, it took a lot of effort and time from our team to obtain this certification,” said Dr. Kim Jin-yong, president of the LG Electronics Vehicle component Solutions Company. “We will strive to become an innovative partner for our customers in the auto parts industry by securing high quality and productivity.” Independent testing and certification firms play an important role in the automotive ecosystem by making sure the players deliver quality, reliable products. And that’s a role that all automobile and component makers should get behind. # # # View the full article

Unseen, unheralded and often underappreciated, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions are the unsung heroes of modern life that provide physical comfort and fresh air in all kinds of environments. Working unobtrusively in the background, HVAC is what keeps our homes, offices, hospitals, hotels, shopping malls and every indoor setting imaginable blissfully cool in the summer and delightfully warm in the winter while delivering fresh and healthy air all year around. For more than half a century, LG Electronics has been a leading innovator in the commercial HVAC solution space, supporting its customers to thrive and grow with its technologically advanced products. With an innovative product portfolio, solid R&D foundation and more than 50 educational academies around the world preparing highly skilled experts, LG has been strengthening its industrial leadership by offering a full range of optimal solutions for nearly every sector and setting imaginable. To showcase the value it brings to businesses worldwide and to share its vision for a more sustainable future, LG recently produced a brand video entitled “Ahead of the Expected.” Set to a dynamic beat, the uplifting video introduces the audience to the outstanding value offered by LG HVAC solutions, highlighting how LG is empowering its customers by providing an unrivalled level of “Integration, Commitment and Expertise.” The company’s integrated solutions leverage the latest technologies to deliver powerful performance and greater operational efficiency, ensuring a reduction in the total cost of ownership. LG’s commitment to its customers is also evident in the wealth of services it offers, from installation to system engineering to maintenance; all carried out by highly-skilled professionals. LG’s devotion to creating a sustainable future through environmentally responsible HVAC products is matched only by its drive and ability to maximize value for its clients today, and anticipate what they’ll need tomorrow. Thanks to its considerable expertise and know-how, LG can meet the unique demands of every business, providing solutions that guarantee fresh, clean indoor air tailored to the specific requirements of each building or facility. Although they may be out of sight and mind, LG HVAC solutions are right there next to us every day, doing what they’ve always done – making our lives more comfortable whether we’re sleeping, eating, working, shopping or just relaxing and having fun. Check out LG’s new “Ahead of the Expected” video here. # # # View the full article

Last month, residents in New South Wales (NSW), Australia experienced one of the biggest flood disasters to hit the state in more than 50 years when persistent storms saw thousands of residents evacuate more than 18 communities. Days and nights of what seemed like never-ending rain resulted in widespread property damage and a growing number of residents stranded without their homes and personal belongings. LG Electronics’ Australian office is truly passionate about helping its community in a time of need and that is why they teamed up with the country’s biggest radio show KIIS 1065’s Kyle & Jackie O Show, to support local families who lost everything in floodwaters within a matter of hours in NSW. In a KIIS 1065 giveback segment, Kyle and Jackie O invited three unassuming families from NSW to sit down with them and share their flood experience first-hand with listeners in studio. After listening to their harrowing stories of loss, with tears in their eyes, the presenters surprised these families by announcing LG Electronics Australia would replace their damaged household appliances to help them get back on their feet as they rebuild their homes in the coming weeks and months. Products would include much needed home appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines and microwave ovens. During the KIIS 1065 segment, Kyle and Jackie O told their listeners that LG Electronics Australia had committed to replacing damaged household appliances in 150 homes impacted by the floods, providing approximately AUD 230,000 in support packages to be distributed to flood affected families as a small gesture to help rebuild their homes. Listeners were asked to nominate families via the KIIS 1065 website detailing the stories of those most in need for new LG home appliance relief packages. Alongside this relief initiative, LG Electronics Australia will re-launch its LG Local Legends program next month. The program rewards and celebrates everyday people, charity groups, and community organizations throughout Australia that go above and beyond to make everyone’s life that little bit better. Last year the program supported more than 30 families, with 24 LG Local Legends coming from a range of worthy causes. Here are some of their inspiring stories. Global events from the past year and historic local events of the present have shown Australians the power of community spirit when it comes to supporting those in need. LG Electronics in Australia is honored to have played a part in helping families affected most during these difficult times. Equally, the company looks forward to continuing to recognize local community legends for the duration of this year. By LG Australia Staff # # # View the full article

Since the initiation of the environmental movement in the 1960s, the fragility of our world has become a global topic, requiring united social action and even multinational companies to reconsider their strategies. That focus has also shifted in a more sustainable direction that puts nature conservation first, a change that can be seen in the attitude of today’s rapidly growing eco-conscious consumers. In matters relating to conscious spending, there isn’t a more active group than Gen Z, with 89 percent of Gen Z-ers saying they prefer buying from brands that actively support social and environmental causes over those that do not. Society’s youngest consumers are now the ones informing the public on all things green, making this generation the leaders of real societal change. On a governmental level, the EU introduced new Energy Labels on March 1, taking a stricter stance on products that wish to be labeled green. Such environmental labels are important because they provide insightful energy consumption and environmental data that today’s consumers expect before purchase. The new energy designation replaces the outdated system by providing manufacturers with added incentive to improve energy efficiency. Photo Credit: European Commission A washing machine’s spin efficiency could be crucial in determining the energy consumption of a dryer, since low spin performance increases running time and uses more energy. When it comes to noise, although the difference between 72dB and 73dB may seem small, the new rules could have an appliance demoted an entire letter grade.1 As part of its commitment to reduce its carbon footprint, LG has converted all DUAL Inverter Heat Pump Dryers to use only R290 refrigerant, which has a lower global warming potential (GWP) than R134a refrigerant.2 As a result, LG’s DUAL Inverter Heat Pump Dryer earned the Green Product Mark from TÜV Rheinland for meeting the requirements of pollution prevention, sustainable use of resources and climate change mitigation.3 And in an effort to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions, LG makes every effort to make products lighter, using fewer resources during the production process. LG is developing and supplying energy-efficient products that carry the Energy Star label and are certified by the European Commission for contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and helping to modify usage behavior for a greener lifestyle. For example, the Inverter Linear Compressor found in LG’s refrigerators efficiently keep food fresh longer and noise levels lower compared to LG’s conventional models.4 LG’s world-class inverter technology regulates the speed and revolution of motors and compressors depending on the situation to optimize operation. The unique linear motion of the compressor enables LG refrigerators to reach target temperatures quickly while reducing friction points for heightened durability and less noise. For LG washers with LG Inverter DirectDrive technology, the motor is directly connected to the drum without the use of a belt or pulley, allowing for greater durability and energy efficiency while reducing noise compared to models without DirectDrive. LG is so confident of the durability of its core technologies that all inverter components are backed with a 10-year warranty. Photo Credit: Corporate Knights LG’s contributions for a greener world have been recognized both globally and locally. LG was ranked the 13th most sustainable global corporation by Corporate Knights and As You Sow’s annual 2021 Carbon Clean 200 list. In its home country, LG claimed This Year’s Green Product award from the non-profit civic group Korea Green Purchasing Network (KGPN) for the eleventh straight year and also took KPGN’s Award of Green Masterpiece (AGM), an accolade exclusively for businesses that have made a significant contribution to the conservation of the environment. The damage inflicted on our planet and all the life on it is one of the greatest threats we face as a global community. Overcoming such a global problem is only possible with the support of all members of society. Through its products, LG will continue to set an example that responsible products and good business can go hand in hand. # # # 1 The acoustic airborne noise emission class of a household washing machine is determined on the basis of acoustic airborne noise emission at spinning phase. A-grade is assigned to noise level below 73dB (https://t.ly/ZyGH). 2 GWP for R290 is 3 versus 1,430 for R134a. 3 Tested by TÜV Rheinland in August 2020 with R290 applied to LG dryer models RC*0***V**. 4 Tested by VDE by comparing energy consumption between LG model GBB530NSCXE (LG Inverter Linear Compressor) and GBB530NSQWB (LG conventional reciprocating compressor). Energy consumption test based on ISO 15502 standard. View the full article

The changing of the seasons is a great time to refresh and revitalize your home with a seasonal reset. Cleaning your dwelling from top to bottom may never be fun, but it can be done smarter and easier with the help of the LG ThinQ app. 1. Lighten your load Thanks to the ThinQ app’s Routine feature, you can apply customized settings to all connected appliances in the house in one step. Select Fresh Air Mode, for example, and the air purifier starts up, the robot vacuum begins roaming and the ceiling fan starts spinning. Now with LG’s smart appliances doing their part to lighten the load, it’s time to get cleaning! 2. Take breaks in between With the ThinQ app and LG’s smart appliances, you have more me time because you won’t have to constantly check on the progress. You’ll never have to run back and forth checking on the laundry because the ThinQ app can tell you exactly how much time is left and send you a notification when your sheets and pillowcases are clean or dry. With ThinQ by your side (or in your pocket), you can afford to sit back, relax and enjoy the new season. 3. Your personal technician Don’t let a glitch in your appliance put everything on hold. With the ThinQ app’s Smart Diagnosis and Proactive Customer Care, you can identify and resolve issues without having to call or wait for a customer service representative or repair technician.1 The ThinQ app even informs you when you’ve put too much detergent in the washing machine and when to change the water filter in the refrigerator. 4. Go green When you’re taking care of your home, also think about taking care of your planet. With the ThinQ app’s Energy Dashboard, you can easily monitor how much energy every LG smart appliance is consuming so you can adjust settings accordingly to save electricity. LG’s eco-conscious appliances help reduce your home’s carbon footprint thanks to their efficient use of energy and water. 5. Replenish and reorder effortlessly When it comes to keeping LG appliances running their very best, there’s no need to head to the store with ThinQ. For consumables such as detergent and filters, use the Store feature on the ThinQ app and have them delivered right to your front door. You can also take advantage of Amazon smart reorders by linking the ThinQ app with Alexa. Once connected, you can receive notifications when it’s time to replenish essential items such as laundry detergent to easily reorder from Amazon using voice commands.2 With the ThinQ app from LG, undertaking a residential reset for the new season is a much smarter and simpler affair. Learn more about LG’s smart appliances and the ThinQ app at www.LGThinQ.com. # # # 1 PCC available in the North America and Europe. 2 Amazon smart reorders available only in Germany, UK and US. Products available for smart reorder differ by country. View the full article

A day in life of most people now revolves around video calls, virtual classes and online games. This means owning the perfect laptop has never been more important, since we use them all day long for work, play, socializing and everything in between. For everyday use, it doesn’t get much better than a portable computer, but getting the right hardware and knowing how to get the most out of them are crucial to getting through the day stress-free. Here are five ways your laptop can help out during periods of social-distancing, and why LG gram is ideal for getting you to where you want to be – without actually being there yourself. Live Performances At Home New Zealand band Six60 recently performed in front of a 50,000-strong crowd at Eden Park rugby stadium in Auckland, making headlines as the largest concert in the world since the pandemic began. Millions more enjoyed the show on a screen. With a multitude of streaming platforms available today, all you really need is a laptop that delivers immersive multimedia experiences that make you feel like you’re there in person, and a large display always rules supreme when it comes to bringing streams to life. The LG gram uses a tall 16:10 aspect ratio boasting a high resolution to help users tackle every daily task with ease. Whether you’re watching videos online, surfing the web or handling your work away from the office, the LG gram range has you covered. Connecting From Home Who would have thought a video call would become the primary form of communication with our loved ones and colleagues for millions? With video conferencing tools now essential for work and socializing, more screen real estate that allows us to do more things at once is a necessity. With its wider screen, LG gram allows users to watch presentations while searching the web or taking notes through split screen mode, with everything still clearly visible. In short, multitasking during work meetings helps us be more productive on the job, saving time and effort that could be better spent elsewhere. Home Education And Upskilling More home time creates the opportunity to pick up new skills or hobbies, and having a state-of-the-art laptop on hand certainly makes it easier to do just that. If you’re looking to try new things, a laptop with a high resolution is a great place to start. It’ll make instructions easier to read, methods easier to follow and more information visible at once. That’s great if you don’t want the awkwardness of flipping between tabs. Even better if your laptop is slim, light and robust because you can move around with your machine should housemates or family members interrupt and break your concentration. Easy Photo And Video Editing If you’re like most people, your use of social media has skyrocketed since a year ago in an attempt to stay connected to the people we care about most. The best way to keep family and friends involved in our lives is by sharing daily photo and video updates that show all the mind-numbingly boring things we did today that they simply can’t live without. Photo and video editing tools certainly have a learning curve but the very best laptops can help you make the most of your multimedia apps. This is where laptops with wider screens and 16:10 aspect ratios can make a real difference, the extra display space perfect for showing media-editing timelines or multi-tasking across different apps. Color accuracy is a must too. Catch Up On Favorite Shows To pass the time, people are catching up on the films and TV boxsets they’ve always wanted to watch but never had the time. Laptops provide us with a portable TV screen we can use to watch new and old content anywhere, so whether you’re cooking in the kitchen, chilling in the garden or need something to fall asleep to, there’s always a screen close by. A display with a wide color gamut makes colors pop and naturally the larger the screen the more absorbing the media, so think about an aspect ratio that gives you more room to play with. Of course, a laptop opens up more places where you can consume your content, whether you’re on a train, plane or a long road trip. And LG gram’s long-lasting battery life means you’ll be set for hours without running out of power. Not All Upgrades Are The Same There are now more reasons to upgrade your laptop and the latest LG gram devices boast slim and lightweight designs, meaning performance doesn’t have to come at the expense of portability. The laptop range is surprisingly powerful too, with Intel 11th Gen CPU internals and excellent high-resolution displays that utilize a brilliant, non-conventional 16:10 aspect ratio. Now available in 14, 16 and 17 inches, the new and impressive LG gram lineup offers fantastic screen quality with powerful components, unbelievable battery life and a convenient light design. # # # View the full article

Highest Quarterly Revenue and Operating Profit in Company’s History SEOUL, Apr. 29, 2021 — LG Electronics Inc. (LG) today announced first-quarter 2021 consolidated sales of KRW 18.81 trillion (USD 16.90 billion) and operating profit of KRW 1.52 trillion (USD 1.36 billion) – the highest quarterly results in the company’s history with the 8.1 percent operating profit being a first-quarter record. Compared with the first quarter a year ago, revenues grew by 27.7 percent and profitability soared by 39.1 percent, reflecting very strong demand for LG home appliances and home entertainment products as consumers around the world continue to spend more time at home. The LG Home Appliance & Air Solution Company generated first-quarter sales of KRW 6.71 trillion (USD 6.03 billion), an increase of 23.8 percent from the previous year. Operating profit of KRW 919.90 billion (USD 826.39 million) was 22.1 percent higher than the first quarter last year. For the second consecutive quarter the appliance business division saw significant growth year-on-year in North America and Europe as well as in its home market of South Korea where the rental business is particularly healthy. Profitability was accompanied by stable growth led by strong sales of premium products in North America and Europe. The business unit expects to see continued growth by expanding overseas sales in new products. The LG Home Entertainment Company recorded sales of KRW 4.01 trillion (USD 3.60 billion) in the first quarter, an increase of 34.9 percent from the same period a year ago. Operating income grew 23.9 percent year-on-year to KRW 403.80 billion (USD 362.75 million), buoyed by strong sales in North America and Europe. Premium products led by OLED and NanoCell TVs continued to experience strong demand as the pandemic effect continued in most of the world. To maintain this success in 2021, LG will continue to enhance its premium product lineup, further expand online sales, optimize resources and streamline asset management. The LG Mobile Communications Company reported sales in the first quarter of KRW 998.70 billion (USD 897.18 million) with an operating loss of KRW 280.10 billion (USD 251.63 million). Operating loss deteriorated 28 percent from the same quarter a year ago due to the lack of new products in light of the public announcement earlier this month that LG will exit the smartphone business at the end of July. Profit and loss for discontinued operations – including a breakdown of continuing and discontinued operations – will be included in the second quarter results. The LG Vehicle component Solutions Company achieved first-quarter sales of KRW 1.89 trillion (USD 1.70 billion), an increase of 43.5 percent from the same period last year. Operating loss narrowed to KRW 700 million (USD 629,000), which can be attributed to the recovery of the automotive sector in North America and Europe as well as increased revenues from new projects in the e-Powertrain and infotainment sectors and better cost management. The LG Business Solutions Company saw improved first-quarter revenues of KRW 1.86 trillion (USD 1.67 billion), an increase of 9.1 percent from a year ago and 23.6 percent higher than the previous quarter largely on the back of strong demand for products such as monitors and PC products in the era of remote working and online learning. Operating profit of KRW 134 billion (USD 120.38 million) declined from the same quarter last year due to the increasing cost of components such as LCD panels and semiconductors. 2021 1Q Exchange Rates Explained LG Electronics’ unaudited quarterly earnings results are based on IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) for the three-month period ending March 31, 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 1,113.16 per USD. Earnings Conference and Conference Call LG Electronics will hold a Korean / English conference call on April 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 number then call +82 31 810 3130 and enter passcode 6418# and the private PIN number. The audio webcast of the call will be available for streaming as well. The corresponding presentation file can be downloaded from the LG Electronics website before the call. # # # View the full article

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With millions of pounds of clothing ending up in U.S. landfills each year and COVID-19 hygiene concerns challenging donations, LG Electronics USA is helping take action with “Second Life” – a campaign to raise awareness of clothing waste and inspire consumers to take responsible action through fabric care, donations and upcycling. A leader in laundry innovation, LG kicked off its efforts with a seven-city road tour running from April 25 – May 9 to collect used clothing and recycle 100 percent of items received. Plus, the brand is also encouraging clothing reuse by inviting attendees to exchange unwanted items in a clothing swap stocked with rare vintage finds from thrift chain Round Two. While LG’s top-rated laundry appliances help millions of Americans take the very best care of their fabrics, styles change, tastes change, even sizes change – and most unwanted textiles end up in landfills. In fact, the average American generates 81 pounds (37 kg) of textile waste each year, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “As a leader when it comes to fabric care, LG is invested in how to care for your clothes throughout their lifecycle – from how you wash them to how you ultimately dispose of them,” said Peggy Ang, head of marketing at LG Electronics USA. “With Second Life, we’re aiming to help raise awareness and inspire consumers to care for what they wear by taking responsible action throughout the entire lifecycle of their clothes.” To bring the tour one step closer to circularity, and to illustrate how to care for what you wear, LG is also raising awareness around upcycling and partnering with designer Nicole McLaughlin to upcycle leftover items from the clothing drive into a limited-edition capsule collection to be unveiled later this fall. The LG Second Life Road Tour As part of the Tour, LG is committing to collecting up to 10,000 pounds of clothing to be donated to local organizations to help support families in need of clean clothes. The company is creating a wash center fully equipped with ultra-capacity LG washers and dryers and LG Styler steam closets in Los Angeles to clean, sanitize and sort clothing donations before donating them to local beneficiaries. All unusable items will be upcycled so that 100 percent of collected items are given a “second life.” LG Second Life is just getting started and has exciting activities planned to help raise awareness around clothing care and clothing waste, as well as tips and resources designed to inspire people to upcycle and recycle their once loved items. Learn more at www.LGSecondLife.com. Do Good, Feel Good, Life’s Good The Second Life campaign, along with LG’s commitment to carbon neutrality in all of its operations by 2030, are only some of the steps LG is taking toward its ESG (environmental, social and corporate governance) philosophy to make the world a better place. With ENERGY STAR® certified appliances and its expanding eco-friendly businesses such as electric vehicle (EV) components and solutions and renewable energy, LG is committed to doing its part. # # # View the full article

In this episode of On the Job, we take a look at the pivotal role played by the LG’s unsung brand and packaging designers. In the consumer electronics industry, the term “design” usually conjures up images of gadgets and devices on a drawing board. Although the way a product looks is without a doubt a key factor to its popularity, so too are the way it’s packaged and branded. Done well, these two elements can go a long way toward creating a unique, instantly recognizable identity, one that resonates with consumers and communicates the core values of a product or lineup and the company that made them. At LG, the responsibilities of brand and package design fall on the visual identity (VI) team at LG Corporate Design Center. When designing a logo or package for a new model or product range, the VI team considers a range of factors such as consumers’ needs, legibility and usability, never losing sight of their goal to establish a clear identity that creates a good first impression but also an instant understanding of what the brand stands for. A distinctive logo is at the heart of any good brand’s visual identity. LG’s VI team develops a symbol that embodies the essence of every product and effectively communicates their differentiated values. LG SIGNATURE, LG PuriCare, LG CordZero, LG OLED TV and LG UltraGear are just a handful of the globally recognized logos the team has created to date. Able to enhance a product’s appeal and reinforce its overall aesthetic, packaging design gives the VI team another way to express the identity of each LG brand, in addition to affording adequate protection for the company’s diverse offerings. LG UltraGearTM gaming monitors have made a name for themselves among serious gamers worldwide by providing great picture quality and performance. Seeking to match the monitors’ strong reputation with an equally dynamic symbol, LG introduced a new UltraGear logo in 2020. In order to convey that LG UltraGear is a key “weapon in the quest for gaming victory and glory,” the VI team set about researching the legendary weapons of mythical heroes and gods, such as the shield of Isis, King Arthur’s Excalibur, and the Harpe of Perseus. The team ultimately drew inspiration from the famous Greek sculpture known as the Winged Victory of Samothrace – also known as the Nike of Samothrace – representing action and triumph. The winged motif seemed like the perfect choice for the UltraGear emblem due to the prevalence and significance of wings throughout gaming history. Wings symbolize many things: aerial superiority over opponents, fast travel to new destinations, tactical advantage by surveying from above. The final version of the logo depicts Nike’s wings in the form of a stylized U and G in two versions, one flat and the other in 3D. From left: Seo Young-seok, Jun A-reum, Nam A-ran “Creating and developing LG UltraGear’s emblem was a meaningful and rewarding process,” stated Seo Young-seok of LG’s VI team. “We feel that it successfully expresses the identity of our premium gaming monitor brand and how seriously LG takes the needs of the gaming community.” To increase consumer awareness and raise the profile of the new emblem at launch, LG hosted an art contest to involve fans in the creative process because there is nothing more powerful than visually communicating the value of a product through great design to grab the attention of consumers in a crowded market. # # # View the full article

In this first of six episodes of AI Experience, we’ll take a closer look at the influence of public perception in the future direction of artificial intelligence. The European Union’s recent proposals to strictly regulate the use of artificial intelligence in its borders are likely to have significant consequences on AI development. The guidelines are designed to address the human and societal rights that may be at risk due to AI’s potential in surveillance and identification. For nations and people to make the right decisions, it’s important that there be public discourse on what AI is and what it should be. LG Electronics has already begun this process. Developed last year in partnership between LG and Element AI, the report AIX Exchange: The Future of AI and Human Experience covers the challenges of the artificial intelligence experience (AIX) across the six core themes of public perception, ethics, transparency, user experience, context and relationship. Public perception, the way people think and feel about a subject, plays an important role in the kind of AI products and services consumers choose to adopt. This, in turn, influences the direction of AI development and advancement. For example, if consumers are obsessed with intelligent toasters, there’s a strong chance many AI companies will pour their resources into coming up with a new AI toaster that can top the current AI toaster. Here, we’ll take a look at five areas that greatly influence the public’s opinion and awareness of AI: news and pop culture, language, marketing, design and education. News and Pop Culture From 1927’s Metropolis to 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) to Ex Machina in 2015, AI rarely paints a bright future that offers us hope. Although there are many stories in the news media about how AI is improving lives, there are as many that portray the technology as the villain, stealing jobs and futures. Those involved in developing the technology are acutely aware of the impact this has on consumer confidence and trust, and just how important it is to separate fact from fiction when communicating AI. Language Words can sometimes be open to interpretation, and this seems to be especially true where AI is concerned. The world “learning” could make a person believe that a machine that “learns” can do far more than what it was programmed to do, creating fear and mistrust. As AI is such a vague and amorphous concept for many, companies in the AI sector need to take great care when describing their products and services, leaving no room for misunderstanding. Choosing words wisely may help to better deliver the promise of AI. Marketing On a daily basis, consumers are exposed to marketing that promotes AI products and services – most of which offer convenience by managing simple tasks independently or with little user input. But there are many situations where the marketing suggests these innovations will revolutionize users’ way of life, which raises expectations for AI beyond what is currently possible. The overpromising marketing bubble can lead to disappointment and negatively affect public perception, fueling a phenomenon known as AI winter. AI winter refers to setbacks in the development of AI resulting from a lack of enthusiasm and interest among consumers and investors. Because the technology is not advancing as fast as people had hoped, and doesn’t yet resemble the AI of Hollywood movies, companies should be wary of overstating what their offerings can do. In this way, they can avoid contributing to negative public sentiment and allow users to fully appreciate what the technology can deliver right now. Design The experience that users have when interacting with AI is another critical element in determining public perception. Personal AIX stories – good and bad – are shared every day on social media, reconfirming people’s positive or negative perceptions and influencing the opinions of those who have yet to use any AI-based solutions. To ensure better experiences with AI, the adoption of a human-centered approach to AI design is critical. A thorough examination of what consumers need and desire, as well as pain points that detract from a product’s value, are essential to the development of capabilities that deliver greater practical value in daily life. Education “Technology literacy is not only important for the people who are building the systems to help them think about the impact of what they’re building,” said Charles Lee Isbell, Dean of the College of Computing at the Georgia Institute of Technology. “It is at least as important, perhaps more important that we teach people who are not going to build those systems, but are going to be impacted by those systems.” The more the public is educated about AI, the faster it will adapt to and appreciate the benefits the technology can bring. Conversely, more education will also help the public understand what AI isn’t and that the machine overlord takeover will not be the inevitable consequence of letting a smart speaker into the home. At the end of the day, there are a variety of factors that impact the public’s perception of AI and the impact of that perception is larger than one might be led to think. Through consumer-centric AIX, companies can help create a path to where the direction and development of AI results in the greatest benefit to humankind. # # # View the full article