South Korea-based KT opened an innovation hub aimed at driving AI transformation (AX) among local businesses in partnership with Microsoft, building on an existing strategic alliance.

The 595-square-metre KT Innovation Hub showcases the companies’ latest AI technologies and applications.

A joint statement explained AX experts from KT and Microsoft will work with customers to develop a business innovation roadmap and provide technical advice. Customers can also create workable prototypes within five days, validating the technology’s practicality for customers.

KT Strategy and Business Consulting Division head Jeong Woo-jin noted by working with Microsoft, “KT is achieving meaningful results”, including progress in its internal AX transition. He added it will use the hub as a base for “building and accelerating the AX ecosystem in domestic vertical markets”.

The operator added its specialised AX consulting division will make use of the hub’s facilities to provide practical experience to customers, with support from Microsoft technical experts.

Last September, the two companies signed a five-year agreement to advance AI services in South Korea and upgrade the operator’s infrastructure.