ScotRail faces backlash after introducing AI voice for announcements
- A synthetic AI voice named Iona has recently been introduced for ScotRail train announcements.
- Some passengers are unhappy with the change from human voices to AI-generated announcements.
- ScotRail encourages passengers to give the new voice time to adapt and potentially grow on them.
Scotland has recently begun introducing a new synthetic voice for delivering announcements on ScotRail trains. The AI voice, named Iona, replaces previously pre-recorded messages done by a Scottish voice artist. This change has sparked mixed reactions among passengers, with some voicing their discomfort regarding the replacement of real human voices with synthetic technology. The synthetic voice, utilizing artificial intelligence, is meant to deliver announcements in a Scottish accent, aiming to maintain some level of local identity despite being an AI creation. ScotRail is urging passengers to be patient and give the new system time, suggesting that it may grow on them as they become accustomed to it. Currently, the technology is in a phased rollout, with only certain services from Glasgow's train stations utilizing the AI voice. Despite the advancements in technology that allow for the creation of lifelike synthetic voices, there are concerns among industry professionals and passengers alike regarding the use of AI in roles traditionally held by humans. Rachel, a creative industry worker, highlighted the issue of AI not fully capturing linguistic nuances found in Scottish names, which could lead to dissatisfaction. Professor Peter Bell from the University of Edinburgh noted that while AI technology is progressing rapidly and can produce realistic-sounding speech, it often evokes an uncanny feeling among listeners, questioning whether the voice is genuine or synthetic. As the integration of AI in daily life continues, the debate about its implications on jobs and authenticity remains a pressing issue.