SK Telecom Co. announced that it would partner with Samsung Electronics Co. and Kakao Corp. to build up an artificial intelligence (AI) platform that could perform a COVID-19 risk analysis system per region to aid in combating the pandemic.
The three companies established a joint research and development team to develop an application programming interface (API) system that would allow public access and integration. The AI data system could analyze and predict high-risk COVID 19 areas and recommend preventive measures to its users. Other developers and public institutions could also access and integrate the system into their products and services.
A spokesperson from Kakao said that other companies, aside from SK, Samsung, and Kakao, could utilize the system. When using a navigation system, the AI service alerts drivers from destinations with high risk of COVID-19.
The software program could forecast the risk of exposure by compiling public data regarding an individual’s movements before the infection. The API system could also provide answers and solutions to disaster-related inquiries through voice calls.
Park Jung-ho, SK Telecom’s CEO, presented a project proposal about the API pandemic monitoring system last March, which started the union between the three companies. The CEO highlighted the significance of cooperation between companies and establishments to combat the pandemic at the CES 2020.
Aiming to Solve Global Issues
The companies pledged to undertake pandemic issues, large-scale problems related to the aging population, and air pollution produced by fine dust. The cooperation also held meetings every other week to talk over possible projects and ventures addressing the pandemic and other issues.
The three firms provide AI services related to different fields, such as Kakao’s AI speakers, Samsung’s voice assistant, Bixby, and SK Telecom’s Nugu.
SK Telecom stated that the companies would expand the group, including local and foreign companies, to form a global alliance.
Kakao and SK Telecom strengthened their ties with this partnership with Samsung after they undertook a share-swap deal last year. SK Telecom holds a stake in Kakao, which amounts to 2.5 percent, and Kakao owns a 1.6 percent stake at SK Telecom.
