OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has introduced its latest artificial intelligence tool known as Voice Engine. This innovative tool has the capability to replicate real human voices by utilizing a 15-second sample of someone speaking. OpenAI recently shared samples from early tests, demonstrating how users can input a paragraph of text and have it read in the AI-generated voice.

According to OpenAI, this text-to-voice tool empowered by AI can have various applications such as aiding in translation, providing reading assistance for children, or assisting individuals who have lost their ability to speak. However, there are concerns among skeptics that this technology could potentially be misused for spreading disinformation or facilitating scams.

OpenAI acknowledges the serious risks associated with generating speech that closely resembles people’s voices, particularly in an election year. In a blog post, the company emphasized the need for significant changes as AI-generated audio becomes more accessible. Although OpenAI does not have immediate plans to release Voice Engine to the public, it recognizes the importance of phasing out voice-based authentication for bank accounts, among other measures.

Get ready to revolutionize your podcast experience with Apple’s latest update. Say hello to transcripts, a groundbreaking feature that aims to make podcasts more accessible and captivating for all users.

With transcripts, you now have the power to read the entire text of each episode, allowing you to effortlessly search for specific words or phrases and seamlessly navigate through the content. As you listen to the episode, every word is highlighted, immersing you in the experience like never before.

Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s senior director of Global Accessibility Policy & Initiatives, couldn’t contain her excitement about this launch. She expressed, “By introducing transcripts on Apple Podcasts, we are taking a step further in our commitment to creating products and services that cater to everyone.” This move perfectly aligns with Apple’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility across all its platforms.

The benefits of transcripts are truly endless. Now, you can catch every single word spoken by your favourite podcast hosts, learn new languages more effectively, and easily refer back to any important facts mentioned in episodes. Accessing transcripts is a breeze, simply locate them in the bottom-left corner of the Now Playing screen.

Apple has carefully designed transcripts with accessibility in mind, ensuring a user-friendly font and colour contrast that guarantees readability for all users, including those who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

At present, transcripts can be accessed for podcasts in English, French, Spanish, and German on iPhone and iPad devices running iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4. While transcripts do not offer translations between languages, they serve as a valuable tool for enhancing your podcast experience.

For creators who prefer to provide their own transcripts, options are available through RSS tags or Apple Podcasts Connect for subscriber episodes. Transcripts will be automatically generated for new episodes upon publication, and there are plans to transcribe previously released episodes over time.

Apple is truly revolutionizing the podcasting world with the introduction of transcripts. Get ready to dive into a whole new level of accessibility and engagement with your favourite podcasts.

On 25 March 2024, Florida has taken a bold step in restricting social media access for kids. Governor Ron DeSantis recently signed a bill into law that prohibits children under the age of 14 from having their own social media accounts. For those who are 14 and 15 years old, parental consent will be required. This move aims to protect young individuals and ensure their online safety.

The state of Florida is taking a firm stance on the well-being of its young citizens by holding social media companies accountable. Under the new law, these companies can be held liable for up to $50,000 per incident. This sends a powerful message that Florida is committed to protecting its youth in the digital age.

Interestingly, a recent survey conducted by Forrester revealed that a majority of US online adults support this law. It seems that there is widespread agreement among the public regarding the need to regulate social media access for children.

Furthermore, this legislation not only focuses on social media but also places restrictions on pornographic websites. Florida is joining other states in implementing laws that aim to safeguard young Americans from potential harm online.

While this law is a significant step forward, it is expected to face legal challenges similar to those seen in other parts of the country. However, unless these challenges alter the course, the law will come into effect on January 1 of next year.

Florida’s decision to restrict social media access for kids is a proactive measure to ensure their safety and well-being in the digital world. By implementing this law, the state is taking a stand and setting an example for others to follow.