HK establishes AI lab to promote tech, innovation

World
Europe

02:21

AI, or artificial intelligence, an area of computer science that emphasizes the creation of intelligent machines, has made it possible for machines to learn from experience, adjust to new inputs and perform human-like tasks. It is transforming economic growth and people’s lifestyle with an array of applications.

To ride on the trend of AI development, Hong Kong launched an AI Lab this week with support from tech giant Alibaba, AI company Sense Time, and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation. Located at the HK Science Park, the Lab is tasked with advancing the frontiers of AI, and helping startups commercialize their inventions.

The lauch ceremony of Hong Kong AI Lab, May 21, 2018 /CGTN Photo

Xu Li, CEO of Sense Time, HKAI Lab’s technology service provider, said that Hong Kong has relatively sound finance, law and intellectual property protection systems, but it is lagging behind the innovation of new applications of AI. Xu hoped that the huge demand from the Chinese mainland could drive Hong Kong’s research, and bring in more funding and talent.

The most common examples of AI are face recognition and move tracking technologies that are inserted in mobiles phones and surveillance systems. With the advancing of machine learning and human interaction with virtual environment, more possibilities are expected to be unleashed.

AI can be used to develop face-recognition and many other technologies. /CGTN Photo

The Lab comes as the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government is pushing forward innovation and technology, especially after President Xi Jinping directed state agencies to give the SAR’s scientists greater access to national funding.

HKAI LAB will help start-ups in funding, tech and business advising. /CGTN Photo

HKAI Lab’s first initiative is a six-month Accelerator Program to cultivate a local community of talents and startups in AI and data science. The Program will start in September, with two intakes annually selecting six to 10 start-ups each time. Selected start-ups will receive up to 100,000 US dollars in funding, as well as AI Solutions and IT Support. They will be supported by an advisory board.