(Telecompaper) IBM is planning to open a base for its Watson artificial intelligence system in New York to fuel the adoption of the technology and to show how it is being used, and can be used further, for cognitive computing cloud capabilities on a global scale. The Watson headquarters will have 600 employees, from the more than 2,000 IBMers dedicated to Watson worldwide. The centre will also be available for area developers and entrepreneurs, industry workshops, seminars and networking opportunities. IBM, which launched the IBM Watson Group in January, said it will invest USD 1 billion into the group, focusing on development and research and bringing cloud-delivered cognitive applications and services to market. This includes USD 100 million available for venture investments to support IBM's ecosystem of start-ups and businesses building cognitive apps made with Watson. With this announcement, IBM unveiled Ecosystem Partners and new, powered-by-Watson apps. Built on IBM Cloud with SoftLayer at its base, IBM said the apps use Watson's cognitive intellect in areas as diverse as helping physicians work with patients to better manage their health, assist veterinarians in providing the best possible care to animals, or tapping into personal preferences to help travelers plan the perfect vacation.