Audible Introduces AI-Powered Voice Replica Technology For Narrators

Audible, a subsidiary of Amazon, announced today the launch of a beta program enabling narrators to create and monetize AI-generated replicas of their own voices. This new feature, available exclusively in the United States, aims to expand the catalog of audiobooks and provide narrators with additional earning opportunities.

The voice replica technology will allow narrators to take on more projects simultaneously, ensuring a steady stream of income. Narrators will still have full control over the projects they choose to audition for and can use either their live voice or the AI-generated replica.

To create a voice replica, narrators will submit a sample recording, which ACX, Audible’s content distribution platform, will transform into a high-quality digital representation. This replica can then be used to narrate audiobooks, with narrators maintaining the ability to edit pronunciation and pacing for optimal results.

Audible emphasizes that the voice replica technology is designed to benefit both narrators and authors. The company will closely monitor the impact of the beta on its catalog and community and has implemented a labeling system to indicate titles narrated using AI-generated voices.

Audible is exploring new methods to expand its exclusive content offerings. Despite introducing virtual voice tools a year ago, 96% of self-published titles on Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing still lack audiobook versions, according to a report by Bloomberg. Increasing the variety of voices available could help boost those numbers.

This development mirrors recent advances in other areas of the entertainment industry, such as the Hollywood union SAG-AFTRA’s recent agreement with Narrativ, which allows actors to license their digital voice replicas to advertisers.

This agreement ensures actors maintain control over the use of their voices, addressing concerns about AI’s impact on their livelihoods.

Both SAG-AFTRA’s deal and Audible’s beta prioritize creators’ rights to approve projects using their voice replicas, highlighting the growing need for consent and fair compensation in AI-driven content creation.