Meta to Launch AI Celebrity Voices from Judi Dench, John Cena, and Other Celebrities

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is set to introduce a new feature that will bring celebrity voices to its AI chatbot. According to a source familiar with the company’s plans via Reuters, Meta has secured agreements with renowned actors, leading to these interesting Meta AI celebrity voices.

This includes Judi Dench, Kristen Bell, John Cena, Awkwafina, and Keegan-Michael Key, allowing users to select these voices for the ChatGPT-like assistant.

Announcement at Meta Connect Conference

The official announcement of Meta AI celebrity voices is expected at Meta’s annual Connect conference today. The new voice capabilities are part of Meta’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience by integrating more engaging and interactive features into its apps. Initially, the celebrity voices will be available in the U.S. and other English-speaking markets. There are plans to expand further.

Meta’s push to integrate AI technology into its platforms comes as it races against competitors like OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, and Google’s Alphabet to lead the generative AI market. The addition of celebrity voices aims to make the AI assistant more appealing and personalized for its millions of daily users.

Expansion of AI and Augmented Reality Hardware

In addition to the AI chatbot enhancements, Meta is also expected to reveal the first version of its augmented-reality glasses at the Connect event. The company’s road map includes discussing advancements in other hardware products, such as its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which were the first to feature an audio version of the Meta AI assistant.

This focus on augmented reality and AI integration underscores Meta’s broader strategy of merging digital and physical experiences. CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently posted a promotional video featuring John Cena showcasing the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, further highlighting the company’s commitment to blending technology and entertainment.

Competing in the AI Space

The move to introduce Meta AI celebrity voices follows a similar effort by OpenAI earlier this year, which allowed users to interact with its chatbot using various voices. However, OpenAI faced criticism from some celebrities, such as Scarlett Johansson, who claimed the technology imitated her voice without permission. Meta appears to be navigating this space carefully by securing formal agreements with the actors involved.

This isn’t Meta’s first attempt to bring star power to its chatbot. Last year, the company experimented with text-based “character” versions of its assistant, inspired by celebrities like Paris Hilton and Snoop Dogg. However, these versions failed to gain significant traction, prompting Meta to shift its focus toward creating a more interactive and versatile AI product.

Looking Ahead: AI Studio for Content Creators

Beyond celebrity voices, Meta is developing an AI Studio product that allows content creators to develop chatbot versions of themselves. This new feature aims to give influencers and brands more control over their digital interactions, creating personalized experiences for their followers.

As Meta continues to invest in AI and augmented reality, the company is poised to redefine user interactions on its platforms. With the introduction of celebrity voices and upcoming hardware innovations, Meta is making a clear statement: it’s ready to lead the future of interactive digital experiences.

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