OpenAI Suspends Use of AI Voice Similar to Scarlett Johansson, Faces Sampling Questions

OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has decided to suspend the use of one of its AI voices due to its resemblance to the voice of actress Scarlett Johansson. The voice mode function, which was launched in 2023, enables users to interact with ChatGPT through spoken commands and also provides a text-to-speech feature with five voice options.

The specific voice in question, called Sky, has been temporarily disabled by OpenAI following user concerns about its similarity to Scarlett Johansson's voice. Despite OpenAI's assurance that the voice is not that of Scarlett Johansson, the company has acknowledged these concerns and is working to address them.

Selection Process for AI Voices

OpenAI explained that the voices for ChatGPT were selected in collaboration with casting professionals and voice actors, who were chosen from a pool of 400 options. The chosen actors receive compensation for the use of their voices in ChatGPT. The selection criteria included factors such as timelessness and user-friendliness of the voices.

Some users have expressed disappointment over the suspension of the Sky voice, citing it as their favorite among the available options. OpenAI has not provided a specific timeline for when the voice will be reinstated for use.

It is yet to be known why OpenAI decided to take down the voice, especially if it was sourced from a paid actor. The company has not communicated a specific date for the re-introduction of the voice.