Empowered by machine learning and neural networks, AI-powered voice cloning is a rapidly evolving technology generating lifelike human speech and customizable voices. With high-powered text-to-speech platforms that emulate the intricacies of the human brain and deep learning capabilities that capture nuances like pitch, tone and speed, AI voice cloning has many applications for business communication and marketing across the direct sales channel.
Using lifelike voices, businesses can effortlessly produce high-quality audio content without the need for professional voice actors. This can save time and offer flexibility in content creation for podcasts, video scripts, narration, translation and much more. Some tools can edit out the unnecessary “ums” or pauses, while others provide voice audio from complete scripts. “Make sure the script you are using is clear and concise, as this will make it easier for the voice-over generator to understand and produce accurate speech,” advised Speaktor.com. “Use the generated voice-over in a way that sounds natural and professional, this will make it hard for listeners to tell that the voice is generated.”
By converting text into spoken words using generated voices, businesses can offer an enhanced audio experience for their audience. Narrating text such as policies and procedures; distributor training; the option of having online text read to you; or having a voice guide you through details of a compensation plan can provide various audiences with choices to consume important content.
Several companies are dabbling in the virtual reality and augmented reality world, creating online avatars for employees and distributors used for meetings and presentations. Voice cloning can be used to further customize these avatars. For example, someone could select a specific avatar and voice when watching a business presentation. Some voice platforms can seamlessly translate into other languages while maintaining the same voice. This allows for localized content with authentic pronunciation with diverse audiences, breaking down language barriers especially when expanding internationally.
Virtual customer service is another area in which voice cloning can be used. According to Hubspot, 66 percent of customers expect companies to understand their needs and expectations. This means a personalized experience. Virtual customer service representatives with natural-sounding voices can handle customer inquiries; provide product information; and even assist in troubleshooting common issues. This can also be implemented in the form of an online chat where the agent guides the customer to the solution in a step-by-step, personalized way.
There are some potential downsides to this technology. Some voice generation can create awkward pauses or slight cadence misalignments, creating an overall robotic sound. Others don’t pronounce some words correctly, especially unique product names or words that can be pronounced different ways. There is a potential for misuse or abuse of cloned voices, leading to fraudulent activities such as deep-fake voice impersonations. Regulating the use of voice cloning among the distributor field will be a new frontier, and the corporate side will need to determine the most effective applications in line with company policies.
9 Voice Cloning Tools to Check Out
- ElevenLabs: Realistic voice cloning
- Descript: Voice cloning and video/podcast editing
- Resemble AI: Real-time voice cloning, text-to-speech converter
- WaveNet: Synthesized text-to-speech
- Rephrase AI: Build custom avatars
- Amazon Polly: Customized voice plus banks of lifelike voices
- Respeecher: Voice cloning for filmmakers and game developers
- Hour One: Build virtual twins with cloned voices
- Colossyan: Customize avatars that look and sound like you
From the September 2023 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.
