OpenAI Suspends Use of Controversial "Sky" ChatGPT Voice Amid Mimicry Accusations
Summary:
OpenAI pauses the use of its new chatbot voice, "Sky", amidst controversy over its selection process. This follows a complaint by actress Scarlett Johansson, who said her voice was mimicked without consent, despite having declined to provide vocals for OpenAI's ChatGPT. The company, however, refuted these claims, stating the voice belonged to another professional actress. This incident adds to the growing concerns surrounding unauthorized AI usage of personal likeness, an issue prominent figures have increasingly faced recently.
OpenAI, an artificial intelligence developer, is suspending the use of its new ChatGPT voice feature amid concerns about the origins and selection of the voice. The developer announced on May 20 on its website that it has received inquiries related to one of its chatbot voices named "Sky". OpenAI is currently putting the use of Sky on hold while addressing these inquiries.
This issue began when acclaimed actress Scarlett Johansson made a statement about her interactions with OpenAI and its CEO and co-founder, Sam Altman. The actress stated that Altman approached her to provide the voice for the ChatGPT 4.0 model, but she declined. Despite her refusal, it seems that a voice similar to hers was used for Sky, startling both her and those close to her. She expressed her shock and frustration and is now seeking legal counsel to ensure her likeness is protected, particularly in an era threatened by deepfakes.
Responding to these claims, OpenAI detailed how the voices for ChatGPT were chosen, emphasizing that it did not intentionally mimic Johansson’s voice. The voice of Sky, they clarified, belongs to a different actress using her natural tone. The company said it provided every actor with an overview of AI voice interactions and OpenAI's technology, along with its capabilities and potential risks.
Altman also addressed the controversy, denying any intent to make Sky sound like Johansson. Regardless, internet detectives have pointed out that Altman posted “her.” on X on May 13, possibly referring to the 2013 science fiction romance film "Her", where Johansson voices an AI system. This isn't the first time Johansson has had to contend with unauthorized AI use, having sued another AI company seven months ago for exploiting her likeness.
The issue of deepfakes has been widely discussed, especially in last year’s SAG-AFTRA union strikes in Hollywood, where actors protested the unrestricted use of their likeness in AI-generated content. High-profile individuals have also been victims of AI-fueled impersonation scams recently, from YouTube star Mr. Beast to leading actors and entrepreneurs.
However, Johansson is not alone in feeling victimized by AI voice use. Susan Bennett, the woman behind the voice of Apple's Siri, stated that she was unaware that the voice recordings she made in 2005 for ScanSoft would be used for Siri after Apple's acquisition. Bennett expressed initial concern that this widespread use might hinder her future job opportunities and mentioned receiving no remuneration or recognition from Apple.
Published At
5/21/2024 12:33:02 PM
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