Press Release

[Hong Kong , 28 June 2017]  Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Limited (“ICBC (Asia)”) and the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited (“ASTRI”) signed a Memorandum of Understanding and announced the launch of ICBC (Asia)-ASTRI FinTech Innovation Laboratory (“the Laboratory”), aiming to develop latest financial technology (“FinTech”) applications in banking business and promote the development of FinTech in Hong Kong.

 

Mr Wang Chaoming, Assistant Chief Executive & Chief Information Officer of ICBC (Asia), said: “The establishment of the FinTech Innovation Laboratory with ASTRI is a significant step towards driving continuous innovation of ICBC (Asia). The research result will become an important basis of future success of our business, mobilizing the development of different areas including payment and clearing, lending and finance services, direct banking, wealth management and insurance, etc. Leveraging on the technological strength of our parent bank ICBC, ICBC (Asia) will continue to pursue innovation in FinTech areas, and proactively partner with different sectors, and groups, to enhance and support the sustainable development of FinTech ecosystem in Hong Kong as advocated by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority.”

 

“ASTRI is pleased to collaborate with ICBC (Asia), the overseas’ flagship banking wing of ICBC, the largest commercial bank in China. By establishing a joint-lab in Hong Kong, we will work together in a series of FinTech initiatives. Among which, AI-assisted Customer Service, Robo-advisor and the Multi-language Social Data Analytics Platform are brand-new ideas in the market. AI-assisted Customer Service will use chatbots to take inbound calls in both Chinese and English, to identify customers’ needs and provide them with relevant information and services. The Robo-advisor idea aims to provide investment advice to clients based on their investment portfolio and rebalance the portfolio from time to time to meet expected returns. The Multi-language Social Data Analytics Platform collects data from various digital media. It can read Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese and English characters, and conducts big data analysis. These new capabilities will strengthen the local FinTech environment, and also add strong, practical value to the financial services industry. Once these technologies become available to the market, they will bring significant benefits to the entire sector,” said Dr Frank Tong, Chief Executive Officer of ASTRI.

 

The Laboratory carries out research and development with focus on blockchain technology, big data analytics, behavioral biometrics authentication, artificial intelligence customer service, artificial intelligence on Chinese characters recognition, internet finance and cyber security and so on. ICBC (Asia) and ASTRI shall together exert influence by making use of each financial and technological expertise, not only to promote the FinTech development of ICBC (Asia) for more innovative, high-end and convenient banking services to customers, but to facilitate the development and application of FinTech in Hong Kong.

 

Witnessed by honored guests, Mr Jiang Yisheng (left), Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer of ICBC (Asia) and Dr Frank Tong (right), Chief Executive Officer of ASTRI signed the Memorandum of Understanding and announced the launch of ICBC (Asia)-ASTRI FinTech Innovation Laboratory.

 

(From left to right) Mr Wang Chaoming, ICBC (Asia) Assistant Chief Executive & Chief Information Officer; Mr Jiang Yisheng, ICBC (Asia) Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer; Mr Yi Huiman, ICBC Chairman; Mr Wong Ming-yam, SBS, JP, Chairman of ASTRI and Dr Frank Tong, CEO of ASTRI take photo together in the event.

 

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Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Limited

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Limited (“ICBC (Asia)”) is a licensed bank incorporated in Hong Kong. It has 59 retail outlets (including 28 “Elite Club” Wealth Management Centres) and 3 commercial business centres in Hong Kong. It is engaged in commercial banking, investment banking and other financial services including securities, insurance and funds, with a focus on commercial and retail banking as well as financial market related businesses. The total assets of ICBC (Asia) amounted to HK$798.7 billion at the end of 2016. Chinese Mercantile Bank and ICBC (Asia) Investment Management Company Limited, two wholly-owned subsidiaries of ICBC (Asia), are specialized in RMB services in Mainland China and the investment management business with a focus on Asia respectively. ICBC (Asia) is the flagship for the overseas banking business of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited (“ICBC”) – currently the largest commercial bank in China.

 

Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited

Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited (ASTRI) was founded by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in 2000 with the mission of enhancing Hong Kong’s competitiveness in technology-based industries through applied research. ASTRI’s core R&D competences in various areas are organised under seven Technology Divisions, namely Communications Technologies, Electronics Components, IC Design (Analog), IC Design (Digital), Opto-electronics, Security and Data Sciences, and Software and Systems. Five areas of applications including financial technologies, intelligent manufacturing, next generation network, health technology, and smart city are identified for major pursuit. For further information about ASTRI, please visit www.astri.org.

 

Media Enquiries:

 

ICBC (Asia)

Ms. Ivy Lee, Public Relations Manager

Tel: (852) 3510 8386

Email: [email protected]

 

Ms. Christine Gu, Deputy Manager, Public Relations

Tel: (852) 3510 8914

Email: [email protected]

 

ASTRI

Ms. Eunice Cheng, Director, Public Affairs

Tel: (852) 3406 2517

Email: [email protected]

 

[Hong Kong, 28 Jun 2017] Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) is showcasing its latest next generation network technologies, that leverage value-added 4G platform to advance 5G, at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Shanghai 2017 in China. ASTRI’s advanced solutions drive technological breakthroughs in 4.5G and 5G technologies, and significantly improve the coverage, capacity, efficiency, and reliability of telecommunications infrastructure. These technologies, including the following ones, facilitate the deployment of innovative ideas and solutions towards smart city development.

1.SDN/NFV Core Network Turnkey Solution: virtual core network + SDN virtual platform + orchestrator

ASTRI is a pioneer in network function virtualisation (NFV) especially on virtualised core network.  Leveraging its extensive experience in NFV architecture and performance tuning, ASTRI is introducing the 3-in-1 turnkey NFV solution to significantly reduce the time and complexity of integrating, deploying and optimising virtualised network solutions. The 3-in-1 solution consists of (1) FastCloud virtual platform: a NFV platform which is easy and flexible to deploy with high throughput and Software-defined networking (SDN) capabilities; (2) FastCloud orchestrator; and (3) virtualised core network and IPSec security gateway: providing 10Gbps IPSec throughput with minimal CPU cores.

 2.Advanced Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) Platform

Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) is a network architecture concept that enables cloud computing capabilities and an IT service environment at the edge of the cellular network. Through the MEC platform, the end user can directly access to the data from the base stations without waiting for the response from remote server, thereby, network congestion can be reduced. On the other hand, the remote server does not need to respond to the user devices directly. The remote server manages a small volume of processed network data, therefore, reducing the traffic flow of the core network.

This demonstration showcases ASTRI’s (1) advanced Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) acceleration technology and (2) transparent network-deployment mode function. The software based TCP acceleration at mobile edge enhances the throughput of TCP applications over high latency links (e.g. satellite link, terrestrial radio link, etc.) with improved service quality and user experience. The transparent network-deployment mode function is related to MEC deployments – making it completely transparent to the 3GPP Network, and removing the need for network reconfigurations while deploying an MEC into a live network.

3.Application of MEC – Internet of Vehicles (IoV) for Road Safety

The demonstration features a prototype of an IoV management system for road safety. Built on a virtualised MEC platform, the IoV management system enables low-latency monitoring, as well as emergency and early warning capabilities for vehicles near the network edge. Together with advanced IoV technologies, including Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), LTE, MEC and next generation networks, several out-of-sight emergency cases can be detected, leading to warnings for brakes, blind intersections, ‘do-not-pass’, and vulnerable pedestrians. This smart city IoV platform makes it possible to rollout road safety and intelligent transportation systems throughout the city.

 4.Application of MEC – Virtual Reality (VR) Live Streaming

This end-to-end VR video live streaming demonstration was done through an LTE transmission, using the overall system developed by ASTRI including LTE base station, mobile core network (EPC), MEC platform and VR video streaming process/head-mounted display. The VR video input signal is processed at the MEC platform and transmitted to a wireless head-mounted VR display. The MEC platform can offload data traffic and process at the network edge cloud, thereby, optimising traffic latency and improving user experience during the VR video live streaming.

5.C-RAN reference design powering the 4G and 5G radio access

ASTRI’s C-RAN reference enables the design of next generation base-stations with high flexibility to support both 4G and 5G. The demonstration shows a Baseband Unit (BBU) pool design with a cost effective functional split to support a large coverage, where the L3 and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) are centralised with distributed Radio Remote Units (RRUs) for MAC and PHY processing. The architecture of BBU pool design is flexible enough to be extended for centralised MAC and PHY processing to support coordinated joint transmission and joint reception (JT/JR), with enhanced spatial efficiency. ASTRI’s BBU pool design can be scaled to support 3GPP release 15 NR specifications including digital beamforming, beam management, flexible frame structure and subcarrier spacing for high data rate, ultra-reliable and low latency applications.

6.Broadband Trunking Communication (B-TrunC) System for Mission Critical Communications

ASTRI’s commercial LTE base-station reference design complies with the Broadband Trunking Communication (B-TrunC) international standard. The demonstration illustrates an end-to-end B-TrunC system performance in real-time bi-directional data streaming and broadband trunking services on multiple trunking mobile terminals. The trunking management system manages its core network and the base-station based on ASTRI’s reference design. It also allows different trunking services for critical communications such as Voice/Video Group Call, Dynamic Regrouping, Emergency Call, and Broadcasting Message Service. Our reference design supports high group call capacity (> 7.5 groups of voice calls per cell/MHz), low end-to-end latency (< 200ms), flexible deployment bandwidth and high reliability for private networks.

7.NB-IoT and BLE Technologies

ASTRI is one of the pioneers in Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) standardisation and development. ASTRI’s NB-IoT IP and reference design are used in various equipments including RF transceiver, integrated power amplifier and switch, integrated power management unit, digital baseband and System-on-Chip (SoC). A part of the global 3GPP Release 13 standard, NB-IoT is optimised for Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) applications, focusing on enhanced coverage, low cost, long battery life and massive deployment. It also allows numerous new IoT devices and services to be operational.

ASTRI’s Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) solutions – versions 4.2 and 5 – is a key enabler of short range wireless IoT applications and wearable electronics. The BLE demonstration collects and processes sensor data from ASTRI’s BLE 4.2 SoC, and feedbacks data to the user in Android application. BLE 5 quadruples the range, doubles the speed and increases data broadcasting capacity by 800%. BLE 5 RF transceiver IP is already available in ASTRI, and the baseband portion is under development right now.

The demonstrations take place at ASTRI’s booth (W5.H38) at the MWC Shanghai 2017 in China, being held at the Shanghai New International Exhibition Centre (SNIEC) from 28 June to 1 July 2017.

 

ASTRI’s technology expert (right) introduces the prototype of an IoV management system for road safety to the visitor.

 

About ASTRI

Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited (ASTRI) was founded by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in 2000 with the mission of enhancing Hong Kong’s competitiveness in technology-based industries through applied research. ASTRI’s core R&D competences in various areas are organised under seven Technology Divisions, namely Communications Technologies, Electronics Components, Mixed Signal Systems IC, Advanced Digital Systems, Opto-electronics, Security and Data Sciences, and Intelligent Software and Systems. Five areas of applications including financial technologies, intelligent manufacturing, next generation network, health technologies, and smart city are identified for major pursuit. For further information about ASTRI, please visit www.astri.org

 

Media enquiries:

For enquiries, please contact Ms Cherry Au (Tel: 3406 2993, email: [email protected])

 

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HONG KONG, June 26, 2017 – The Smart Mobility Consortium (SMC) has demonstrated for the first time in Hong Kong the use of Cellular-Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technology for connected cars.

Using C-V2X technology, cars may communicate with one another, pedestrians, and roadside infrastructure to enhance road safety and deliver a better driving experience. With the collective efforts of SMC members including Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI), HKT and Huawei, the C-V2X live demo took place today at Hong Kong Science Park during the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Asia-Pacific Forum 2017.

As a critical low-latency application towards 5G, the C-V2X technology enables vehicles to have a tactile exchange of information with other vehicles, pedestrians, and network infrastructure – bringing significant enhancements to driving assistance, traffic management and road safety for vehicles and pedestrians. The demonstration ran on HKT’s C-V2X trial network, with frequency bands 2.6GHz for Vehicle-To-Infrastructure (V2I) communications and 5.9GHz for Vehicle-To-Vehicle (V2V) communications.

Guests at the ITS Asia-Pacific Forum 2017 witnessed the demonstration on a regular vehicle fitted with C-V2X technology. It involved multiple scenarios of how connected vehicles can enhance road safety through:

• V2V Do Not Pass Warning (DNPW) – DNPW warns the driver when a vehicle cannot safely cross to the opposite side of traffic to overtake another vehicle because of oncoming traffic.
• V2P Vulnerable Road User (VRU) – In a non-line-of-sight situation, the vehicle can detect pedestrians’ presence in a ‘danger zone’ and alert the driver with ‘Pedestrian Crossing Warning’.
• V2V Blind Spot Warning / Lane Change Warning – The host vehicle driver can be warned whenever another vehicle on the adjacent lane is in a blind spot of the host vehicle.
• V2I Forward Collison (Emergency Stop) – Alerts can be sent to other vehicle drivers in the vicinity via a roadside unit in case the host vehicle has to make an emergency stop.
• V2I Intersection Collision Warning – A warning will be issued when two vehicles are approaching the intersection point out of the V2V communications coverage or in a non-line-of-sight condition.

 

Dr Frank Tong Fuk-kay, CEO of ASTRI, highlighted the Institute’s contributions to building a “connected car ecosystem for Hong Kong”, and said, “We pursue R&D in both software and hardware aspects including C-V2X network, management system, algorithm design, and related infrastructure.” Dr Tong added, “We seek to implement a comprehensive smart mobility system for Hong Kong, and to support the Government’s Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) strategy. As one of the largest Government-funded R&D institutions, we hope the experience and innovation from this project can also help other cities in this region, particularly in the South China Greater Bay Area.”

Mr Alex Arena, Group Managing Director of HKT, said, “Three months ago, we shook hands and signed the MoU to establish the Smart Mobility Consortium. Today, we are working hand-in-hand to bring the first demonstration of C-V2X technology for pushing safe mobility in Hong Kong. The demonstration shows how C-V2X alerts drivers to dangers under different use cases on the road and emergency traffic conditions, which will make the roads safer and Hong Kong a better city to live in. Being the mobile network technology leader in Hong Kong, HKT will continue to push and realise C-V2X technology & applications, in support of the Government’s Smart City vision and strategy.”

Mr Veni Shone, President of TDD Product Line and Acting President of Cellular V2X Solutions, Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., said, “Together with our partners in the Smart Mobility Consortium, we have taken a big step forward by bringing you the first demonstration of the Cellular V2X technology. We aim to embrace the new technology to achieve safer, more efficient, comfortable, reliable, and eco-friendly transportation services that benefit riders and road users. With our long history of successful joint innovation, Huawei is very pleased to pioneer the Cellular V2X solution development to serve the needs of the future intelligent transport system.”

A collective effort of three organisations, the SMC has successfully conducted this ground-breaking demonstration in Hong Kong. The SMC will continue to work alongside the Government, automobile industry, and other relevant industry stakeholders to push C-V2X commercialization. Upon successful completion and rollout, the project is expected to lead to further opportunities for related sectors including shipment, ridesharing, home-delivery, insurance, infotainment, and mobile healthcare, etc.

About ASTRI

Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited (ASTRI) was founded by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in 2000 with the mission of enhancing Hong Kong’s competitiveness in technology-based industries through applied research. ASTRI’s core R&D competencies in various areas are organised under seven Technology Divisions, namely Communications Technologies, Electronics Components, Mixed Signal Systems IC, Advanced Digital Systems, Opto-electronics, Security and Data Sciences, and Intelligent Software and Systems. Five areas of applications including financial technologies, intelligent manufacturing, next generation network, health technology, and smart city are identified for major pursuit. Please visit www.astri.org for further information about us.

About HKT

HKT (SEHK: 6823) is Hong Kong’s premier telecommunications service provider and leading operator in fixed-line, broadband and mobile communication services. It meets the needs of the Hong Kong public and local and international businesses with a wide range of services including local telephony, local data and broadband, international telecommunications, mobile, and other telecommunications businesses such as customer premises equipment sales, outsourcing, consulting, and contact centers.

HKT offers a unique quadruple-play experience in Hong Kong delivering media content on its fixed-line, broadband Internet access and mobile platforms jointly with its parent company, PCCW Limited.

HKT also provides a range of innovative and smart living services beyond connectivity to make the daily lives of customers more convenient, whether they are at home, in the workplace, or on the go.

For more information, please visit www.hkt.com.

About Huawei

Huawei is a leading global ICT solutions provider. As a responsible and robust business player, innovative information society enabler, and cooperative industry contributor, Huawei is committed to building a Better Connected World. Through our dedication to customer-centric innovation and strong partnerships, we have established end-to-end capabilities and strengths across carrier, enterprise, consumer, and cloud computing domains. Huawei’s 180,000 employees worldwide create maximum value for telecom operators, enterprises and consumers. Our innovative ICT solutions, products and services have been deployed in over 170 countries and regions, serving more than one-third of the world’s population. Founded in 1987, Huawei is a private company that is fully owned by its employees. For more information, please visit Huawei online at www.huawei.com.

For more information, please contact:

Eunice Cheng ASTRI Tel:     +852 34062517 Email: [email protected]	Stella Wong HKT Tel:     +852 2888 2253 Email: [email protected]
Fiona Cheuk Huawei Tel:     +852 2125 3509 Email: [email protected]