Meta in Talks to Acquire Voice Cloning Startup Play AI, Expanding AI Features for Creators
Alongside bolstering its AI research talent pool, Meta appears to be focusing on enhancing its consumer-facing AI features. According to a Bloomberg report, the company is in discussions to acquire a voice cloning startup called Play AI. Meta aims to purchase Play AI's technology and bring some of its employees on board, the report indicates. Play AI's platform allows users to clone various types of voices for use in AI applications, such as customer service. The startup has raised a total of $23.5 million, with investors including 500 Startups, Kindred Ventures, Race Capital, 500 Global, and Soma Capital, according to Crunchbase. Meta's interest in Play AI aligns with its broader strategy to integrate advanced AI features into its social platforms. The company already enables creators to build their own chatbots and has enhanced its Meta AI chatbot with video editing capabilities. Adding voice cloning technology would further expand Meta's creative suite, allowing for more sophisticated and personalized audio experiences. When contacted for comment, Meta declined to respond, and Play AI did not immediately return a request for comment. If the acquisition goes through, it could signal a significant step in Meta’s efforts to keep pace with competitors in the rapidly evolving field of AI.
