Trial of Voice Translator on Spotify Podcasts Underway
According to Spotify Technology, they are currently experimenting with an AI-driven function that can convert podcasts by popular hosts like Dax Shepard and Lex Fridman into different languages. This move is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to leverage generative artificial intelligence, which has gained immense popularity following the success of ChatGPT, in order to attract more users and increase their revenue.
The translated versions, which use Microsoft-backed OpenAI’s recently released sound production technology, mimic the style of the original speaker and are more natural than traditional dubbing, Spotify said.
The company had also worked with other podcasters, including Monica Padman, Bill Simmons and Steven Bartlett.
Audio translations would be available in languages such as Spanish, French and German for select catalog episodes and future episode releases, Spotify said, which could expand the shows’ audience.
Spotify has aggressively leveraged its podcast business in recent years, hoping that the higher engagement levels offered by the format will bring in more advertisers.
However, it increased the company’s operating expenses, which rose twice as fast as its revenue growth last year. In addition, companies have also reduced their advertising expenses due to rising interest rates and high inflation.
