OpenAI Pauses ChatGPT Voice Over Similarity Concerns

Scarlett Johansson’s voice has been found eerily similar to ChatGPT’s AI-generated voice, codenamed Sky. Johansson has vehemently denied OpenAI’s request to use her voice, expressing shock and anger at the striking resemblance. OpenAI has since removed the Sky voice after facing legal inquiries from Johansson’s lawyers.

In September 2023, OpenAI introduced voice capabilities to ChatGPT, allowing users to engage in conversations using various voices. The feature became widely accessible in November with the release of the mobile app. OpenAI’s latest update, GPT-4o, enhances ChatGPT’s voice capabilities, enabling it to mimic human cadences, detect moods, and generate emotionally resonant responses. GPT-4o will be available to select users in the near future, with only paid ChatGPT Plus subscribers gaining access to the new voice mode.

Comparisons to the 2013 film “Her,” which featured a sentient AI voiced by Scarlett Johansson, have emerged due to GPT-4o’s advanced voice capabilities. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman hinted at this connection by posting “her” on social media. Interactions with GPT-4o have been described as flirtatious, sparking discussions about the use of gendered voice assistants. Critics have raised concerns about the “hardwired subservience” often programmed into female-voiced assistants. GPT-4o’s voice mode has reignited debates on the continued use of gendered voice assistants.

Scarlett Johansson’s Voice in ChatGPT

Scarlett Johansson’s distinctive voice has been the subject of much discussion after being found eerily similar to ChatGPT’s Sky voice. When approached by OpenAI to lend her voice, Johansson declined. She expressed disbelief and anger upon hearing the Sky voice, which she felt was a near-perfect imitation of her own. Following legal inquiries from Johansson’s lawyers, OpenAI removed the Sky voice from ChatGPT.

OpenAI, however, maintains that the Sky voice belongs to a different actress and has declined to reveal her identity, citing privacy concerns. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has apologized for the lack of communication surrounding the Sky voice and has paused its use pending further investigation.

The Rise of Gendered Voice Assistants

The introduction of voice capabilities to ChatGPT has ignited discussions about the prevalent use of gendered voice assistants. These assistants, often programmed with female voices, have been criticized for perpetuating stereotypes of “hardwired subservience.” As GPT-4o’s voice mode becomes more sophisticated, it raises questions about the continued relevance and appropriateness of gendered assistants.

Ethical Concerns

Beyond the concerns about gendered voices, critics have also raised ethical questions about the use of synthetic voices. Some argue that these voices, which can be indistinguishable from human speech, could be used for malicious purposes, such as identity theft or spreading misinformation. OpenAI has acknowledged these concerns and has stated that it is working on safeguards to prevent misuse.

Conclusion

OpenAI’s decision to pause the use of ChatGPT’s Sky voice highlights the complex ethical and societal issues surrounding the development of AI technology. As voice capabilities continue to advance, it is crucial for OpenAI and other companies to engage in transparent and responsible dialogue with the public to address concerns and ensure that AI is used for the benefit of society. The future of AI-powered voice assistants is uncertain, but it is clear that these technologies will have a profound impact on our interactions with technology and each other.