SAG-AFTRA, the actors’ union of America, has signed an agreement with artificial intelligence service Ethovox in an ongoing effort to protect performing artists.

The service offers a “fully authenticated AI base model for voice” that provides the basis for digital replicas. With this new agreement, SAG-AFTRA aims to ensure that performing artists are protected and will be fairly compensated for their work.

Video game performers from The SAG-AFTRA union is currently on strike following a dispute over the use of AI in game development. As the union’s chief negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland explained, SAG-AFTRA aims to recognize AI companies to ensure the protection of its artists.

“What will protect voice actors’ livelihoods in the age of AI is more contract protection, not less,” Crabtree-Ireland said. “That’s why SAG-AFTRA will continue to recognize AI companies, like Ethovox, that agree with our union’s AI guidelines. Not everyone will want to work with an AI company, and that’s understandable. But for those who intend to use the opportunities provided by AI. , it is important that agreements require companies to obtain informed consent and provide fair compensation Without informed consent and fair compensation, this new era will become a ‘Wild West’ of the misuse and exploitation of AI.”

Ethovox was co-founded by BAFTA award-winning actor Cissy Jones, known for his roles in Firewatch as well as expressing the characters in GTA 5, Life is strange, Baldur’s Gate 3and many others.

“Ethovox is the only voice AI company owned and operated by voice actors, and we are excited to partner with SAG-AFTRA to build a grassroots voice AI model that prioritizes the interests of voice actors,” she said. “AI should be a choice. That’s why we reached out to the voice actor community throughout this process. Ethovox will continue to do so, proving that artists can and should be compensated for contributing to the ethical development of AI at the same time. maintaining consent and control over their voice data.”

Voice actors were generally skeptical about the use of AI. last month, Mass effect and the Metal Gear Solid actor Jennifer Hale described AI like a hammer that can “crush your skin and destroy who you are.”

British actors’ union Equity has not authorized its own equivalent strikebut said he was “in solidarity” with the sister union. This is partly due to the restrictive nature of British industrial relations legislation.