LG, University of Toronto partner on artificial-intelligence lab

South Korean consumer electronics giant LG Electronics Inc. is turning to the University of Toronto to build its artificial-intelligence muscle, as the university hopes to build a better reputation in applying its sought-after research in the real world. As first reported by The Globe and Mail in June, LG has been planning to develop an AI presence in Toronto since at least last year, posting job listings for a "Toronto AI lab" and sending a delegation to Canada's largest university. In an interview, LG's global president and chief technology officer, I.P. Park, confirmed the multinational manufacturer will establish both a five-year, multimillion-dollar research partnership with U of T and build an AI lab on its campus's southern border as soon as this fall. LG is the latest in a string of global giants, among them Fujitsu Laboratories and Huawei Technologies, to partner with the university for research. Mr. Park said the company is thrilled to tap U of T's foundational expertise in AI – in particular its prowess in the discipline and development of deep learning, led by professor emeritus Geoffrey Hinton.