SKT, KT, Kakao: "AI for Everyone" Services Launch

SK Telecom, KT, and a Kakao consortium will launch new AI services this year. They were selected for the "AI for Everyone" project, which aims to build AI services for the entire population. Each group will launch a public-facing AI service, using their lead organization's strengths. The Ministry of Science and ICT selected these consortiums after evaluating six bidders. They looked at technical suitability, AI models, and service plans. They also assessed convenience, user acquisition, quality, safety, and contributions to the AI ecosystem. SKT plans an "action-oriented AI" for digitally vulnerable groups, usable by phone and text. KT aims to bundle public and everyday services into a single conversational AI. Kakao focuses on an AI agent distribution ecosystem, allowing reservations and payments through its messenger. These new services could significantly change how people interact with AI in their daily lives.