David Greene, Ex-NPR Host, Sues Google Over NotebookLM Voice Dispute
David Greene, former host of NPR’s “Morning Edition,” has initiated legal action against Google. He claims that the male podcast voice in Google’s NotebookLM tool closely resembles his own. This allegation has garnered attention following reports from The Washington Post.
Background of the Case
Greene became aware of the issue when friends and family began contacting him. They noted the striking resemblances between his voice and the AI voice produced by NotebookLM. Greene asserted that the artificial voice mirrors his unique cadence, intonation, and habitual phrases, such as “uh.” He stated, “My voice is, like, the most important part of who I am.”
About NotebookLM
Google’s NotebookLM features a tool that allows users to create podcasts using AI-generated voices. This particular application has generated discussion about its technology and ethical implications.
- NotebookLM generates audio content with AI-hosts.
- AI voice features have sparked controversy over voice imitation.
- Greene is currently the host of the KCRW show “Left, Right, & Center.”
Google’s Response
A spokesperson for Google addressed Greene’s claims. They emphasized that the male voice in NotebookLM is not based on Greene’s voice, stating, “The sound of the male voice in NotebookLM’s Audio Overviews is based on a paid professional actor Google hired.”
Wider Context of AI Voice Disputes
This legal dispute is not isolated. Previous instances have highlighted similar concerns regarding AI voices imitating real individuals. A prominent case involved actress Scarlett Johansson. She filed a complaint against OpenAI after discovering a ChatGPT voice mimicking her own.
As technology continues to evolve, discussions surrounding the ethical use of AI-generated voices remain crucial. Greene’s lawsuit against Google raises significant questions about identity, intellectual property, and the implications of AI in audio production.
