OpenAI has temporarily halted the use of its new Sky voice in ChatGPT, following a controversy surrounding the selection and acquisition process. The developer responded to inquiries about Sky's voice, one of the five voices offered for its chatbot, on May 20, amidst public apprehension.

The controversy began when actress Scarlett Johansson claimed that OpenAI's Sky voice bore a striking resemblance to her own. Johansson revealed that OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, had initially proposed that she provide a voice for ChatGPT 4.0, an offer she declined. Despite this, Johansson was surprised to find that Sky's voice closely mirrored her own, leading her to express astonishment, anger, and disbelief. She stated, "When I heard the demo, I was shocked, angered, and in disbelief that Mr. Altman would pursue a voice that sounded so eerily similar to mine that my closest friends and news outlets could not tell the difference." As a result, Johansson has enlisted legal representation to address the matter.

OpenAI clarified its process for selecting voice actors for ChatGPT, asserting that Sky's voice is not an imitation of Johansson's. They emphasized their commitment to ethical AI usage and transparency, stating, "We believe that AI voices should not deliberately mimic a celebrity's distinctive voice—Sky's voice belongs to a different professional actress using her own natural speaking voice." OpenAI elaborated on the casting procedure, highlighting their dedication to responsible AI development.

This incident reflects Johansson's previous experiences with unauthorized AI utilization of her likeness. Last year, she filed a lawsuit against another AI company for similar reasons. The broader issue of AI impersonation has been a significant concern in Hollywood, underscored during the SAG-AFTRA union strikes, where actors demanded safeguards against studios' unauthorized use of their likenesses.

Various public figures, including YouTube personality Mr. Beast, actor Tom Hanks, and entrepreneur Elon Musk, have encountered AI-generated impersonation scams. Additionally, Susan Bennett, the original voice behind Apple's Siri, revealed she was unaware her recordings would be utilized for the assistant, receiving neither payment nor acknowledgment. As AI technology progresses, ethical guidelines and transparency become increasingly imperative to prevent misuse and safeguard individuals' rights. The resolution of this controversy may establish crucial precedents for the future of AI voice technology.

The pause on Sky's voice in ChatGPT serves as a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation surrounding AI ethics and accountability. As AI continues to advance and integrate into various aspects of life, it is essential to prioritize responsible development and address concerns around impersonation, consent, and transparency. By doing so, we can ensure that AI technology benefits both innovators and individuals, fostering a more ethical and harmonious relationship between humans and artificial intelligence.