Nuked Hey there, my lovely followers! It’s your tech-loving funny guy, Nuked, here to bring you some interesting news about the SAG-AFTRA AI voice acting licensing deal. So, buckle up and let’s dive into this exciting topic!
During CES 2024, SAG-AFTRA announced a partnership with Replica Studios, an AI voice technology company. This agreement allows SAG-AFTRA members, specifically voice performers, to collaborate with Replica in creating digital replicas of their voices. These replicated voices can then be licensed for use in video games and other interactive media projects, all while ensuring that SAG-AFTRA’s protections are in place.
SAG-AFTRA sees this deal as a way for voice over artists to explore new employment opportunities in the digital realm while safeguarding their interests. However, not everyone in the voice performer community shares the same enthusiasm. Some have expressed concerns about the impact this agreement may have on their profession and job security.
In response to these concerns, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s national executive director and chief negotiator, emphasized that there are many members who are pleased with the announcement. He also mentioned that more detailed information will be provided to ensure members are well-informed and confident in the protections offered by the contract.
It’s important to note that this agreement with Replica Studios is separate from the ongoing negotiation of the SAG-AFTRA Interactive Media Agreement. The Interactive Media Agreement covers a significant number of union members and major video game publishers but does not include Replica Studios. Crabtree-Ireland clarified that Replica will now operate within compliance of the collective bargaining agreement.
So, what does this mean exactly? Well, Replica will serve as an approved third-party provider of AI voices to video game companies. If a SAG-AFTRA member decides to license their voice, Replica’s agreement ensures fair compensation, protection of voice data, and the performer’s consent for its use.
Crabtree-Ireland emphasized that this agreement is not inferior to the recent studio and streamer contracts approved by an 80% majority vote. The union’s Interactive Media Agreement committee, which focuses on video game-related matters, worked on this deal for over a year.
While some voice actors worry that the acceptance of AI in the creative process may lead to fewer opportunities and a dilution of their art, Crabtree-Ireland sees this agreement as a way to encourage video game companies to reconsider their stance on AI. He believes that companies experienced in the AI space are comfortable with the commitments outlined in this deal.
So there you have it, folks! The SAG-AFTRA AI voice acting licensing deal is stirring up mixed reactions within the voice performer community. As always, it’s important to consider different perspectives and understand the potential implications of such agreements. Stay tuned for more updates on this fascinating topic!
