SAG-AFTRA and Replica Studios Sign Landmark AI Voice Deal

SAG-AFTRA and Replica Studios, a leading AI voice technology company, have unveiled a groundbreaking agreement on the use of artificial intelligence in voice work. The pact seeks to promote the responsible and ethical use of AI-generated voices in creative projects, ensuring fair and equitable employment opportunities for voice actors. According to the announcement, licensed voices can now be utilized in video game development and other interactive media projects, from pre-production to final release. SAG-AFTRA's national executive director, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights of voice talent in the face of rapidly evolving AI technology. This development comes after concerns were raised in 2023 about the potential for AI to be used unregulated in video game production. Recent months have seen several high-profile instances of AI use in game development, including Embark Studios' admission of using AI-generated audio and Genvid's denial of using AI to write dialogue for Silent Hill: Ascension. Bandai Namco also recently refuted claims that it used AI voice technology in its Naruto x Boruto game.