IPL, a member company of the Born2Global Center, signed an agreement with Roobo on Nov. 11 for the distribution of its social robot “iJINI.” Under the agreement, IPL will provide iJINI and related AI services in China.

IPL CEO Kim Kyeungwook said, “We will launch iJINI in China by March 2017, and this agreement guarantees a minimum sales value of 16 billion won ($13.5 million), the biggest amount for a single item exported by a domestic robot producer.”


iJINI is a robot based on a new concept that combines robotics, IoT, machine learning, and user experience design (UX). The robot recognizes voices and faces and offers a variety of services: home automation, home security, information, and entertainment. IPL is currently developing technology to connect its proprietary Android robot module and OS to the LTE network in order to offer LTE-enabled smart home robot services.

In recognition of its design capability, the startup received the “Best Winner” award at the 2016 Red Dot Design Awards, one of the world’s top three design awards.

“Based on its differentiated robotics technology and aesthetic design, IPL plans to explore numerous global markets, including China,” Kim added.

(jshwang@heraldcorp.com)