KBOO.FM Embraces AI Voice for Unique Listening Experience

Published Date : 07/02/2025 

KBOO.FM has introduced a groundbreaking radio show featuring an AI-generated voice, adding a new dimension to its programming. The voice, named Angel Aura, is a creation of Jamaal Hale, co-founder of Parsing Sound, and offers a feminine, slightly British accent that captivates listeners. 

KBOO.FM, a community radio station based in Portland, Oregon, has taken a bold step into the future by incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) in its programming.

The station recently launched a new show that features an AI-generated voice, marking a significant shift in how content is produced and delivered.

The voice, named Angel Aura, is a sophisticated creation by Jamaal Hale, co-founder of Parsing Sound, a company specializing in AI voice technology.

Angel Aura's voice is described as feminine and faintly British, adding a unique and engaging quality to the show.

This innovative approach not only enhances the listening experience but also opens up new possibilities for content creation and audience engagement.

on KBOO.FM

KBOO.FM is a non-profit, listener-supported radio station that has been serving the Portland community since 1973.

Known for its diverse and eclectic programming, KBOO.FM prides itself on being a platform for underrepresented voices and grassroots movements.

The station's mission is to provide a forum for local artists, activists, and community members, ensuring that a wide range of perspectives are heard.

The use of AI in radio is not a new concept, but it is still relatively rare, especially in community radio.

KBOO.FM's decision to integrate an AI-generated voice is a testament to their commitment to innovation and staying ahead of the curve.

Jamaal Hale, the creator of Angel Aura, is no stranger to pushing the boundaries of technology.

Parsing Sound, the company he co-founded, has been at the forefront of developing AI voice models that are natural-sounding and versatile.

Hale explains, 'Our goal with Angel Aura was to create a voice that is not only realistic but also distinct.

We wanted to give KBOO.FM something that stands out and adds value to their programming.

Angel Aura's voice is designed to be soothing and engaging, making it perfect for a variety of content types, from news broadcasts to music segments.'

The integration of AI-generated voices in radio has several advantages.

For one, it can significantly reduce production costs and time.

With AI, stations can generate content more efficiently, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their programming.

Additionally, AI voices can be customized to fit the station's brand and audience, ensuring a consistent and high-quality listening experience.

However, the use of AI in media also raises important ethical questions.

Critics argue that AI-generated content could potentially replace human hosts, leading to job losses and a loss of the unique human touch that many listeners appreciate.

KBOO.FM is aware of these concerns and is approaching the integration of AI with caution and consideration.

According to a spokesperson for KBOO.FM, 'While we are excited about the possibilities that AI brings, we are also mindful of the potential impact on our community.

Our goal is to use technology in a way that complements and enhances our human hosts, not replace them.

We believe that the combination of AI and human talent can create a richer and more engaging listening experience for our audience.'

The feedback from listeners has been overwhelmingly positive.

Many appreciate the new and unique sound that Angel Aura brings to the station.

Some even find it hard to distinguish between the AI voice and a human host.

KBOO.FM is currently gathering data and insights from its audience to refine the use of AI in its programming.

As more radio stations explore the use of AI, the future of broadcasting is likely to see a blend of technology and human creativity.

KBOO.FM's pioneering approach is a step in this direction, setting a precedent for other stations to follow.

on Parsing Sound

Parsing Sound is a tech company based in Portland, Oregon, that specializes in the development of AI voice technology.

Founded by Jamaal Hale and a team of experienced software engineers, the company is dedicated to creating natural-sounding and versatile AI voices that can be used in a wide range of applications, from radio broadcasting to virtual assistants.

Their commitment to innovation and ethical AI use has made them a leader in the industry. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS):

Q: What is KBOO.FM?

A: KBOO.FM is a non-profit, listener-supported radio station based in Portland, Oregon, known for its diverse and eclectic programming that includes local artists, activists, and community members.

Q: Who created the AI voice used on KBOO.FM?

A: The AI voice used on KBOO.FM, named Angel Aura, was created by Jamaal Hale, co-founder of Parsing Sound, a company specializing in AI voice technology.

Q: What are the advantages of using AI-generated voices in radio?

A: The advantages include reduced production costs and time, customizable voices to fit the station's brand and audience, and the ability to generate content more efficiently while maintaining a high-quality listening experience.

Q: What ethical concerns are associated with using AI in radio?

A: Ethical concerns include the potential for AI-generated content to replace human hosts, leading to job losses and a loss of the unique human touch that many listeners appreciate.

Q: How is KBOO.FM addressing these ethical concerns?

A: KBOO.FM is using AI with caution and consideration, ensuring that the technology complements and enhances their human hosts rather than replacing them, and they are gathering feedback from their audience to refine the use of AI. 

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