Actors raise concern at "groundbreaking" SAG-AFTRA AI voice agreement
eurogamer.netActor's union SAG-AFTRA has introduced a «groundbreaking» AI voice agreement to allow voice artists to «safely explore» opportunities for their digital voice replicas, sparking concern among a number of actors.
The agreement is in conjunction with AI voice technology company Replica Studios, and will allow game studios to work with Replica to access SAG-AFTRA talent under a «fair, ethical agreement to safely create and licence a digital replica of their voice».
A press release from the union states the agreement has been approved by affected members. It establishes minimum terms and conditions, ensures performer consent and negotiation for AI usage, and requires performers have the opportunity to opt out of AI use in new works.
«Artificial intelligence has dominated the headlines, and for most performers, the best protection against the unauthorised digital simulation of their voice, likeness and/or performance is a SAG-AFTRA contract. We are so happy to partner with Replica Studios, because this is a great example of AI being done right,» said SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.
SAG-AFTRA national executive director and chief negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland added: «With this agreement, we have achieved fully informed consent and fair compensation when it comes to the use of our members' voices and performances. We are proud to work with Replica in leading the way to make it easy for these companies to access SAG-AFTRA's world-renowned talent in an ethical manner that ensures consent and fair compensation for their contributions. This agreement also paves the way for other companies to follow their lead.»
Shreyas Nivas, CEO of Replica Studios, also commented: «Our voice actor agreements ensure that game developers
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