Microsoft has rolled out a Text to Speech Avatar feature in its Azure AI Speech service. The new tool enables developers to convert text into digital videos where realistic avatars speak in natural tones. Avatars can either be selected from a prebuilt library or be custom-designed, providing a flexible way to generate unique and engaging content.
Features and Tools
Notable functions of this service include transforming text into speaking avatars with photorealistic human appearances generated by Azure AI text to speech. Developers can choose between asynchronous batch synthesis and real-time synthesis through an API. The Speech Studio content creation tool offers an easy way to produce video content without the need for coding skills. Furthermore, a live chat avatar tool in Speech Studio supports real-time avatar interactions.
The service is accessible in several Azure regions, such as Southeast Asia, North Europe, West Europe, Sweden Central, South Central US, and West US 2. Costs are calculated based on the length of the video output, and additional charges are applicable for other Azure services used in conjunction with the Text to Speech Avatar service. TTS provided a showcase of how the avatar AI characters work.
Ethical AI Practices
Microsoft is highlighting its commitment to ethical AI with this service. The Custom Avatar feature is only available through a controlled application and review process. By integrating with Azure OpenAI Service GPT-4, developers can build realistic chatbots and real-time avatars. Safety measures include transparency notes, invisible watermarks, and content moderation to ensure responsible usage.
ThE tool is being adopted across various industries, including customer service, e-commerce, and content delivery. Companies like KPMG, Fujifilm, MAPFRE, Dentsu Digital, Bank SinoPac, Herbalife, Coca Cola, and Mediapro are leveraging it to enhance customer engagement and improve business operations.
Microsoft continues to upgrade other facets of Azure AI. Recently, it introduced AI voices that sound more authentic and added the Mistral small language model to the Azure AI suite. These enhancements aim to offer developers more advanced tools for creating sophisticated AI-driven applications.
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 3:11 pm CET
