ElevenLabs, a leading AI unicorn company, announced this week that it has struck deals with actors Michael Caine and Matthew McConaughey to create AI-generated versions of their voices. The company, backed by investors such as a16z and ICONIQ, will utilize these AI voices to translate McConaughey's newsletter into Spanish audio, while Caine's voice will be available for use in various brand campaigns.
According to ElevenLabs, the company is launching a marketplace that will allow brands to use authorized AI-generated voices of celebrities, including Caine, Liza Minnelli, and Dr. Maya Angelou. This move marks a significant development in the use of AI-generated voices in the entertainment industry, which has been a topic of debate in recent years.
"We're excited to be at the forefront of this technology and to be working with such iconic talent," said a spokesperson for ElevenLabs. "Our goal is to provide a platform for brands to access high-quality, AI-generated voices that can help them connect with their audiences in new and innovative ways."
The use of AI-generated voices raises important questions about the role of technology in the entertainment industry. Some have expressed concerns about the potential for AI to replace human talent, while others see it as a tool that can enhance and expand the possibilities of storytelling.
The announcement comes on the heels of a similar deal between Meta and actresses Kristen Bell and Judi Dench, who will provide voice assistants for the company's Meta AI platform. This development suggests that the use of AI-generated voices is becoming increasingly accepted in the industry.
ElevenLabs' move into the AI-generated voice market is also significant given the company's history of innovation. With a16z and ICONIQ as backers, ElevenLabs has been at the forefront of AI research and development, and its marketplace is likely to be a major player in the industry.
As the use of AI-generated voices continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the entertainment industry adapts and responds. For now, ElevenLabs' announcement marks a significant step forward in the use of this technology, and it will be worth watching to see how it develops in the months and years to come.
Share & Engage Share
Share this article