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This week: AI Brings Celebrity Voices Back to Life

This week: AI Brings Celebrity Voices Back to Life

Brett Bouchard
July 06, 2024

Wise Tech - Technology news for seniors.

Does listening to news articles with celebrity voices sound like something you’d try?

1. AI Brings Deceased Celebrity Actors’ Voices Back to Life

What’s the tech? A company called ElevenLabs has introduced an app called Reader, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to recreate the voices of deceased celebrities like Judy Garland, James Dean, and Burt Reynolds. This app allows users to listen to these iconic voices narrate audiobooks and other texts.

How it's used: Users can download the Reader app and select from a variety of content narrated by these AI-generated voices. The app aims to make content more accessible and engaging across different languages and genres. You can download the Reader app at ElevenLabs Reader.

Why it's news now: The app's launch has sparked discussions about the ethical and legal implications of using AI to recreate voices of deceased individuals. While ElevenLabs has collaborated with the estates of these stars, there are ongoing debates about copyright laws and the ownership of synthesized voices. This trend is not limited to ElevenLabs; other companies like NBC are also exploring AI-generated voiceovers for their events. The rise of this technology could reshape the entertainment industry by introducing new ways of creating and consuming content.

A nostalgic appeal: Many of you may fondly remember the golden days of Hollywood, with Judy Garland singing "Over the Rainbow," James Dean captivating audiences in "Rebel Without a Cause," and Burt Reynolds charming viewers in "Smokey and the Bandit." Hearing their voices again can bring back great memories, making stories come alive in a familiar and comforting way.

2. US Government Tests Online Passport Renewals

What’s the tech? The US government has started a "beta" (a testing phase where a new service or product is made available to a limited number of users to identify any issues before a full release) program for online passport renewals. This new system offers a potentially faster and more convenient alternative to the traditional mail-in process.

How it's used: Applicants who meet specific criteria can use the online system to renew their passports. They can fill out the necessary forms and submit digital photos from the comfort of their homes. Some users have reported receiving their new passports in as little as five to six days.

Why it's news now: The "beta" program has shown promising results in terms of efficiency, even though the State Department officially maintains a 6-8 week processing time. The program is currently limited to a daily quota of applications to ensure smooth processing. This initiative aims to modernize and streamline the passport renewal process, making it more user-friendly and reducing the wait time for travelers.

3. Schools Are Banning Cell Phones for Students – Does It Help?

What’s the tech? Many schools across the United States are implementing bans on cell phones during school hours to improve student focus and encourage face-to-face interactions.

How it's used: Different schools have adopted various approaches to enforce these bans. Some have implemented blanket bans, while others use "phone hotels" where students can store their devices during class. These measures aim to minimize distractions and promote better learning environments.

Why it's news now: The movement to ban cell phones in schools is gaining traction, with states like Florida and Indiana leading the way and others like California and New York considering similar measures. The debate is closely linked to concerns about social media's impact on children's mental health. Educators and parents generally support these bans, believing they help improve student engagement and behavior, despite challenges in enforcement.

Bonus Topic: New Website “One Million Checkboxes” Goes Viral

What is it? A new online game called "One Million Checkboxes" has become incredibly popular. The game, created by 25-year-old developer Neal Agarwal, challenges players to manually check one million boxes.

How it's used: Players visit the website and start clicking boxes. The simplicity of the task and the goal of checking one million boxes has proven to be highly addictive. Some players have even formed communities to share strategies and discuss their progress. Check it out yourself at onemillionboxes.com

Why it's popular: Since its launch in June, the game has attracted over 4 million players. Its popularity underscores the human desire for achievable goals and the satisfaction of completing repetitive tasks. The game's success shows how simple digital activities can create significant social interactions and engagement.

Conversation Starter: "Have you heard about the game where you have to check one million boxes? It's amazing how something so simple can become such a big hit!"

Read more on New York Times (free gift article)

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