The device can also understand users' context of speech, and display search results on a TV screen, according to the company. Friends Plus users can also ask the AI-based device questions while watching TV. Friends also serves as an AI assistant when connected with Uplus' IPTV platform dubbed ‘UPlus TV’. By saying aloud one or two keywords of a certain movie or TV show, Friends will provide a full list of relevant content. The device can also recommend content depending on the users' tastes.
"With Friends, users do not have to struggle with their remote control, as the speaker can search and recommend any video content users are looking for in less than a few seconds with more accuracy", Uplus said.
The device also features AI speaker characteristics, such as connections with other internet of things (IoT) devices. "Friends Plus users can turn on and off any IoT devices, including rice cookers, humidifiers, air cleaners and closed circuit television (CCTV) used at households", the company said.
The AI speaker also features a shopping service. If a user says: "Please order bottles of water", Friends Plus responds by asking for detailed ordering processes, such as the amount to be ordered. The device also gives information regarding orders, including shipping charges. The device also remembers the users’ shopping habits, continuously learning their shopping patterns and recommending better options the next time they shop for similar products.
The Friends Plus device also includes a multilingual capability, offering real-time translation services to English, Chinese, Japanese and Korean. The AI speaker can serve as a language dictionary, as well as a real-time translator. LG Uplus teamed up with English courses services provider YBM to equip Friends Plus with English learning content, particularly for children.
