David Attenborough's Voice Cloned by AI Sparks Privacy and Copyright Concerns
November 18, 2024Renowned natural history presenter David Attenborough has voiced serious concerns regarding the unauthorized AI cloning of his voice.
In an interview with BBC News, he expressed that his identity is being misused by individuals who use his voice to convey messages he does not endorse.
A BBC News segment aired on November 17, 2024, showcased an AI-generated version of Attenborough's voice, revealing minimal differences from a real recording.
The issue of AI likeness has gained prominence in recent labor strikes within the entertainment industry, as unions strive to protect creative rights against unlicensed AI use.
In response to rising concerns about likeness cloning, the bipartisan No Fakes Act was introduced in August 2023 in the U.S., aiming to hold creators of such clones accountable.
Experts have pointed out that outdated privacy and copyright laws provide minimal legal recourse for individuals like Attenborough against AI misuse.
Voice actors have described AI-generated content as an 'invisible enemy,' raising alarms about its impact on the industry.
Dr. Jennifer Williams, an AI audio researcher, highlighted the serious implications of misusing Attenborough's voice, particularly regarding trust in communications on sensitive issues.
The proliferation of AI clones of Attenborough's voice online has sparked debates about copyright infringement and privacy violations.
Current laws offer minimal protection against AI incursions, leaving Attenborough with few options to combat the unauthorized use of his voice.
The BBC discovered the cloning incident and promptly informed Attenborough, who is currently narrating the series 'Asia,' focusing on nature across the continent.
Attenborough's ongoing work includes the BBC series 'Asia,' which premiered on November 3, 2023, co-produced by several prominent broadcasting entities.
Summary based on 10 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Nov 18, 2024
If you can’t trust the voice of David Attenborough, what can you trust?USA TODAY • Nov 18, 2024
David Attenborough is 'profoundly disturbed' by AI voiceVariety • Nov 18, 2024
David Attenborough 'Profoundly Disturbed' by AI Replica of His Voice