LG UPBEAT ON AI-ENABLED PRODUCTS
Firm expects ThinQ series to help it become mart leader in one to three years
SOUTH Korean multinational LG Electronics Inc is positive about Malaysian consumers acceptance of its recently launched artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled appliances, thus significantly boosting sales in the next one to three years.
LG Electronics (M) Sdn Bhd managing director KT Kim said it would be a long journey to get consumers to fully adopt AI-enabled electronics and appliances — under its LG ThinQ series — but emphasised its optimism on prospects in Malaysia.
“It may not have a material impact this year as it is a long process for consumers to buy AIenabled appliances for their home. But this is just the beginning.
“But we are giving out a strong message to consumers that we are leading this innovation, and I believe we could become the leader in smart life innovator for this market in one to three years,” he said on the sidelines of LG Innofest 2018, here, yesterday.
LG will be launching its organic light-emitting diode (OLED) and super ultra-high-definition (UHD) TVs — the first of LG ThinQ series — in Malaysia next month.
The new TVs feature the company’s exclusive ThinQ AI technology and advanced (Alpha) processor, which is leading the way in solidifying LG’s position in the global market for premium TVs.
Sales for OLED TVs are forecast to hit 2.5 million units this year from 1.6 million last year.
Kim said TVs are currently the most popular product for LG in Malaysia.
Other ThinQ line-ups include SKY10 soundbar home speakers, 24-inch high-tech dryer, TWINWash washing machine and InstaView Door-in-Door refrigerator.
Kim said the LG group is looking to achieve another doubledigit growth in revenue this year, following the launch of new products.
After previous stops in Cape Town in South Africa and Cannes in France, LG has brought its annual InnoFest roadshow to Asia. The event has been ongoing at the new LG Science Park here since April 23 until today.
More than 250 representatives from LG, its distribution/retail partners and members of the media from across the region are taking part in event, themed “An Invitation to the AI Home That Thinks of You”.
This year, LG is showcasing a variety of AI-enabled appliances that are compatible with global platforms, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant which VIP guests can experience for themselves in a natural home environment.
LG global marketing centre vice-president Han Chang-hee said LG InnoFest is the perfect platform to introduce the group’s unique ThinQ AI-enabled products to partners in key regions.
“AI technology is fast becoming part of our world but the realisation of how fast this revolution is coming is still unrealised by many consumers.
“InnoFest allows us to bring our partners — who are engaging local customers — into the fold,” said Han.