Ingka Group, which owns Swedish furniture giant Ikea, has joined the Partnership on AI (PAI.)

PAI is an international organisation focused on shaping the future of AI in a way that benefits people, communities and the environment.

The move is part of Ikea’s commitment to responsible innovation, with Ingka saying its membership will ensure that AI is developed and applied ethically, aligning with its values of inclusiveness, sustainability, and care for people and the planet.

PAI has over 100 partners including companies such as Apple, Microsoft and Google, as well as non-profit organisations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch.

Through the partnership, Ingka said it will contribute to global conversations around the ethical use of AI.

Ikea has already made a start with initiatives such as implementing a robust digital ethics framework, focusing on responsible automation and launching AI training for around 3500 employees.

The retailer is also using a number of AI tools across the business, including a copilot tool developed in collaboration Microsoft to help employees with image creation and generating ideas.

Ikea has also invested in an accelerator programme for those holding a master’s degree or PhD qualification in data science, machine learning or large language models.

PAI has led several initiatives to make sure AI technology is beneficial and inclusive, including the AI and Shared Prosperity Initiative, which aims to create frameworks that promote AI’s role in enhancing economic equality and job creation.

It has also created the AI Incident Database (AIID), a global open-source repository that tracks AI-related harms across industries.

The tool helps developers and policymakers understand the real-world impacts of AI systems, aiming to prevent repeated mistakes and promote safer AI deployment.

“Our participation in this partnership reflects our belief that AI has the potential to enhance our mission of creating a better everyday life for the many, while helping address some of the most pressing challenges facing society today, from climate change to resource management,” said Parag Parekh, chief digital officer for Ikea Retail. “This includes leveraging AI for good to drive positive, long-lasting change.

“We are committed to this journey for the long term.”

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