'AI City Brain' is for emergency services: govt

The government announced on Thursday that it will develop an integrated city management system featuring artificial intelligence by the first quarter of 2028, with the full system expected to mature over six to nine years. Officials emphasized that the AI City Brain will not be used for crime detection or surveillance, but rather to enhance everyday city management and emergency response.

The system will consolidate and link relevant big data, providing real-time information to government departments via advanced data analytics. Chief Secretary Eric Chan, who will oversee the initiative, mentioned that HK$200 million will be allocated for the first phase of the system's implementation. The total budget remains undisclosed, as it is uncertain how quickly or affordably IT technology may advance over the next six to nine years.

By the third quarter of 2028, the AI City Brain system is anticipated to connect to the 1823 Contact Centre and emergency services databases. Chan reiterated that the AI City Brain system is solely for city management and not intended for crime detection, emphasizing the importance of integrating computer systems into a unified platform.

Additionally, Secretary for Security Chris Tang stated that the new Huanggang port is expected to commence operations by the fourth quarter of this year. He also highlighted that over 100 system trials, stress tests, and drills have been carried out to address issues such as Wi-Fi connectivity and slippery driveways at the public transport interchange.