text-to-speech Archives - WellSaid Labs

From Pages to Playbacks: How TTS is transforming audiobook production

September 20, 2023

Audio by Patrick K. using WellSaid Labs

From the intimate rustling of paper pages to the soothing cadence of a narrator, books have undergone a melodious metamorphosis into audiobooks. Today, not only has audiobook usage surged by 70% in the USA in 2022—1 in every 5 US denizens has let their ears feast on an audiobook within the past year.

The allure? Audiobooks can be a reader’s multitasking buddy or a beacon of accessibility for kiddos, the visually impaired, and budding linguists. Yet, producing them traditionally can be akin to herding cats: costly and, at times, maddeningly inconsistent. Plus, let’s not forget the onerous task of keeping up with the literary avalanche of new book releases.

AI Ethics 101: Making machines morally mindful

September 19, 2023

Audio by Tobin A. using WellSaid Labs

Since time immemorial, ethics have acted as society’s compass, guiding civilizations through the murky waters of moral dilemmas. And in our digital age? It’s no different.

The chatter around AI ethics has grown from a murmur to a roar. Consider this: submissions to FAccT, a premier AI ethics conference, surged tenfold since 2018, and more than doubled just from 2021.This spike isn’t just statistical white noise—it underscores a collective epiphany. As of 2022, a staggering 77% of companies dabbled with AI. And why not? It’s a game-changer, proving its mettle not just in dazzling feats like autonomous vehicles but also in the humdrum of everyday back-office operations.

How the World is Using Custom Voice Today

September 6, 2023

Audio by Donna W. using WellSaid Labs

Imagine a world where you could perfectly replicate your voice, down to the slightest inflection or pausing patterns. No, this isn’t a new sci-fi flick. It’s today’s reality with custom voice technology.

While the headlines may occasionally fill with cautionary tales about voice cloning scams, the truth is, custom voice isn’t the big, bad wolf everyone thinks it is. Implemented correctly, it might just be the hero in your next business or personal venture.

WellSaid Labs Makes Business Insider’s Most Promising AI Startups in 2023!

August 31, 2023

Audio by Lyric K. using WellSaid Labs

We always strive to stay humble at WellSaid Labs, but today we’re going to let ourselves shine just a bit brighter! We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve made Business Insider’s list of top AI startups for 2023.

In a year that McKinsey labeled as Generative AI’s “breakout year”, with numerous AI companies popping up, making this list feels especially important. So, how did we earn this spot and what does being a “promising AI startup” mean to us?

Let’s explore.

Charting the Future of Voice: Beyond simple TTS to Generative Voiceovers

August 30, 2023

Audio by Gia V. using WellSaid Labs

The world of audio content creation is on the brink of a powerful metamorphosis. And it’s starting now.

After all, while visual content can paint a picture, it’s the auditory layer that adds depth and emotion to an experience. Think of your favorite movie scene or game. Would it evoke the same feelings without the rich tapestry of sound and voice?

The answer, more often than not, is no. The timbre of a voice, the rise and fall in its cadence, and the subtle intonations make it memorable. This depth is what we’re striving to achieve with our technologies, ensuring AI-generated voice isn’t just a robotic overlay but an experience in itself.

NEW Tactics for Amplifying Your Podcast Potential with AI Voice

August 23, 2023

Audio by Ramona J. using WellSaid Labs

In recent years, podcasts have become our trusted companions, whispering stories and insights as we navigate our day. The numbers say it all–in 2019, 274.8 million ears were tuned into podcast episodes worldwide. Fast forward to 2023, and that number has soared to 464.7 million—a whopping 70% increase. What’s the magic behind this surge?

Ease of accessibility. Simply click, listen, and go!
Doing dishes? Driving? Gyming? Podcasts are there to keep you company. Multitasking? Check.
From crafting aficionados to sci-fi fanatics, there’s a niche for everyone. It’s an ideal space for building, building upon, and creating communities.
Hearing a voice is intimate and engaging.

Audio Foundation Models (AFM), More Than a Marketing Stunt

August 22, 2023

Audio by Paula R. using WellSaid Labs

Ever watched a movie without its score? Or imagined a game without its defining sound effects? Audio is an unsung hero, subtly crafting experiences that evoke emotion, tell stories, and define entire genres. Now, imagine a world where this symphony of sounds, from the deepest bass notes to the gentlest whispers, could be synthesized by a single generative AI model.

Welcome to the world of Audio Foundation Models (AFM). 🌎🗣️

The Psychology Behind Fine-Tuned Voices That Resonate

August 21, 2023

Audio by Ali P. using WellSaid Labs

Ever noticed the heartwarming flutter at the chirping of birds or the involuntary shiver from nails on a chalkboard? Sounds are more than auditory experiences. They’re deeply woven into our emotional tapestry.

With the meteoric rise of Text-To-Speech (TTS) software, the voices we invite into our lives have a profound effect on our psyche. From a booming $2.8 billion market in 2021 to a projected symphony of $12.5 billion by 2031, the landscape of auditory experiences is expanding.

And as the horizon broadens, understanding the psychological underpinnings of our voice choices becomes paramount. So, how do we hit the right note, every single time?

Let’s explore the labyrinth of voice psychology. And hear from a couple of our stellar voices along the way! 🗣️🗣️🗣️

Access All Areas: 12 steps to making your product accessible in 2023

August 17, 2023

Audio by Eric S. using WellSaid Labs

Remember when PlayStation showcased Project Leonardo at CES back in January? With its adaptive controller made for physically disabled individuals, it showcased an era of inclusivity in tech. But, despite hardware making many strides, in 2021 an analysis of over 30,000 websites found an average of 110 accessibility errors per page. So, we all still have a long road ahead.

After all, a staggering 16% of the population lives with disabilities. This, combined with the ADA’s legal imperatives, means that accessibility isn’t just an added feature—it’s an imperative one. Thankfully, your path to an accessible product might be smoother than you think.

Let’s dive into the 12 ways to ensure you’re on the right track!

Leveling up at WellSaid Labs: Celebrating our SOC2 Type 2 certification!

August 15, 2023

Audio by Terra G. using WellSaid Labs

Remember back in March when we jubilantly announced achieving our SOC2 Type 1 compliance? Well, we’re back, and this time, we’re super thrilled to proclaim our SOC2 Type 2 certification!

It’s all part of our steadfast commitment to fortify the trust between us and you. Conducted within the esteemed framework of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ (AICPA) AT-C 205, this certification is more than a badge. It’s a testament to our dedication to security, availability, and confidentiality.

Here’s what you need to know.