Meta, formerly known as Facebook, is in talks with Hollywood celebrities like Awkwafina, Judi Dench, and Keegan-Michael Key to use their voices in a new AI project called MetaAI. This project aims to create a conversational generative AI similar to Siri and Google Assistant. The company plans to incorporate these celebrity voices into various platforms such as Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, WhatsApp, and even the Ray-Ban Meta glasses.
Negotiations between Meta and the actors have been ongoing, with both parties struggling to agree on the terms for voice usage. Currently, they have agreed on a time limit for the use of the recorded voices, but discussions are still ongoing for potential renewals or extensions of the contracts. SAG-AFTRA, the actors’ union, has reportedly reached an agreement with Meta on terms to protect actors from potential job loss due to AI-generated likeness.
If Meta finalizes deals with the actors before its Connect conference in September, it could result in millions of dollars in fees for the celebrities involved. Last year, Meta introduced a chatbot platform with 28 celebrity “characters,” but this project has since been scrapped. The company is now focusing on launching new AI products at the upcoming conference.
The use of celebrity voices in AI projects raises questions about privacy, consent, and the potential impact on the entertainment industry. As technology continues to advance, it’s crucial for companies like Meta to establish clear guidelines and protections for actors and their likeness in AI applications. The evolving landscape of AI and entertainment poses both opportunities and challenges for creators, performers, and consumers alike.
