In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has undergone explosive growth and is revolutionizing more and more fields. One of the most exciting and at the same time most controversial applications is voice cloning, or as it is now called, AI voice cloning. Today, we are not only able to create an exact digital replica of a person’s voice, but can also present it in authenticated, professional quality.
But how does this technology work? What is it used for? What risks does it pose? In this article, we provide a detailed overview of how AI-based voice cloning works, its applications, and the associated risks.
What is AI-based voice cloning?
The essence of AI voice cloning is to use artificial intelligence to learn and digitally recreate a person’s voice. The result is a synthetic voice that can perform new texts with natural sound, true to the character of the target person.
How does the technology work?
Collecting voice samples
The first step is to have a sufficient quantity and quality of voice samples.
Typically, at least 1-5 minutes of clear speech is enough for basic models, but for professional results, 20-60 minutes or more of recordings in various situations (mood, intonation, volume) are best.
Training the model
The recorded voice samples are analyzed by neural networks. These models learn to capture:
- tone of voice
- speech rate
- pronunciation characteristics
- rhythm
- language patterns
Deep learning algorithms can even detect nuances, so the generated voice can often fool even family members.
Synthesizing text
The trained model can then read any text with the learned voice characteristics, including:
- new sentences
- foreign languages
- jokes, parodies
The result can be used in real-time or pre-recorded.
What tools can be used for AI voice cloning?
Public AI tools
- ElevenLabs
- iSpeech
- PlayHT
- Resemble AI
- Uberduck.ai
- Voicemod
Open source solutions
- Tacotron 2 (Google)
- ESPnet
- YourTTS
- RVC (Retrieval-based Voice Conversion)
These systems are available as APIs or can run locally, giving users full control.
Where is AI-based voice cloning used?
Dubbing and localization
Movies, series, and games are increasingly dubbed using AI voice clones, especially in smaller language markets.
Digital assistants
Virtual characters (e.g. Siri, Alexa) achieve more human-like voices with AI-generated speech.
Preserving voice archives
Digitizing the voices of deceased artists and public figures for memorial projects.
Gaming industry
Creating dynamically changing dialogues using AI voice models.
Marketing and advertising
Personalized advertisements or localized marketing materials.
Accessibility
Reconstructing the voices of individuals with speech impairments.
Risks and potential for misuse
Deepfake scams
AI-generated voice clones can be used in phone calls or emails to fraudulently request money or information.
Political manipulation
Generating fake speeches by public figures.
Reputational damage
Creating compromising audio about private individuals.
Spreading disinformation
Creating fake news audio using AI.
How to create authenticated AI voice cloning?
The goal of authentication is to clearly indicate to listeners or systems that the voice is AI-generated and not a real recording.
Possible solutions:
- Embedding metadata in the audio file
- Inserting a digital watermark in the frequency spectrum (inaudible signal)
- Using AI origin labels on sharing platforms
Many organizations are working on global standards, such as the C2PA (Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity).
Legal regulation
Current status
Legal regulation is lagging behind the technology worldwide.
Typical regulatory directions
- Consent requirement for voice cloning
- Mandatory labeling when AI-generated voice is used
- Penalties for deceptive uses
The EU AI Act and US AI regulations are also addressing these issues.
How can we protect against misuse?
- Using voice fingerprinting algorithms
- Employing authenticity verification software (e.g. Deepware Scanner)
- Awareness campaigns
- Two-factor authentication, especially for financial transactions
The future: what can we expect?
Further quality leaps
Within 1-2 years, we will see real-time, completely convincing AI voices.
Harmonization of regulations
International standards and unified AI content labeling.
Broader positive applications
- Education
- Art
- Accessibility
AI-based voice cloning technology offers both advantages and risks. Responsible use depends on transparent communication, compliance with laws, and mindful application of the technology.
As technology evolves, society must also prepare for new challenges and opportunities.