Do you own your voice? As AI voice tech booms, UK law needs an answer

AI voice technology, exemplified by ElevenLabs, is experiencing rapid growth, with the British-founded company recently achieving a $22bn valuation. As the technology becomes increasingly mainstream, concerns arise about the ownership and protection of voice actors' voices. An open letter from 80 actors, including Nicola Coughlan and Hugh Bonneville, calls for stronger legal safeguards against AI voice cloning.

Currently, UK law does not provide a standalone right to voice ownership; performers must rely on contractual and existing legal protections. However, AI can also offer benefits, such as improved dubbing and new revenue streams for performers through voice licensing. The key issue is whether performers should receive compensation when their voices are used by AI.

Paramount-Warner Bros' consolidation of content presents opportunities and challenges, including fewer subscription fees but potentially less competition and original content. A potential partnership between BBC and Channel 4 could help preserve distinctive British content amidst the shift to streaming platforms.