Spotify tests AI-powered voice translation for podcasts

Spotify is venturing into the realm of AI-driven voice translation for podcasts, and the innovation is turning heads. Known as “Voice Translation,” this tool utilizes OpenAI’s cutting-edge voice generation technology to perform translations while retaining the unique vocal style of the original podcaster.

Voice Translation by Spotify aims to revolutionize the podcast experience by ensuring that the translated content sounds as if it were spoken by the original creator. The AI technology replicates the podcaster’s voice style, maintaining authenticity even in different languages.

Spotify has collaborated with several renowned podcasters to showcase the capabilities of Voice Translation. This includes prominent figures such as Dax Shepard, Monica Padman, Lex Fridman, Bill Simmons, and Steven Bartlett. Together, they are working on providing AI-powered voice translations in languages like Spanish, French, and German.

“By matching the creator’s own voice, Voice Translation gives listeners around the world the power to discover and be inspired by new podcasters in a more authentic way than ever before,” Ziad Sultan, VP of Personalization stated in the introduction news post. “We believe that a thoughtful approach to AI can help build deeper connections between listeners and creators, a key component of Spotify’s mission to unlock the potential of human creativity.”

Spotify has ambitious plans for Voice Translation, intending to include prominent podcasts like Dax Shepard’s “eff won with DRS,” “The Rewatchables” from the Ringer, and Trevor Noah’s upcoming podcast, set to launch later this year.

Spotify’s Voice Translation for podcasts represents an exciting advancement in the podcasting landscape, promising a more inclusive and immersive experience for audiences worldwide. 

Recently, YouTube announced that they were bringing podcasts to YouTube Music. The company’s decision was expected as they were planning to expand their podcast advertising in late 2022. 

In addition, a couple of weeks ago, WPP announced a partnership with Spotify to give its customers early access to Spotify’s ad products, first-party intelligence, and novel ways to reach engaged audiences at scale.