Meta Negotiating to Buy Voice AI Startup Play AI
▼ Summary
– Meta is in talks to acquire Play AI, a voice cloning startup, to expand its consumer-facing AI features.
– The acquisition would involve buying Play AI’s technology and hiring some of its staff.
– Play AI allows users to clone voices for AI applications like customer service, according to its website.
– The startup has raised $23.5 million from investors including 500 Startups and Kindred Ventures.
– Meta aims to integrate voice features into its creative tools, building on its existing AI chatbot and video editing capabilities.
Meta is reportedly in advanced talks to acquire Play AI, a cutting-edge voice cloning startup, as part of its broader push into artificial intelligence. According to sources familiar with the matter, the social media giant aims to integrate Play AI’s technology and talent into its ecosystem, potentially enhancing its consumer-facing AI tools.
Play AI specializes in voice replication technology, enabling users to generate synthetic voices for applications like customer service, content creation, and interactive experiences. The startup has attracted significant investor interest, securing $23.5 million in funding from notable backers such as 500 Startups, Kindred Ventures, and Race Capital.
For Meta, this acquisition could mark a strategic expansion of its AI capabilities. The company has already introduced chatbot creation tools for creators across its platforms and recently upgraded its Meta AI assistant with video editing features. Adding voice cloning technology would further diversify its creative suite, offering users more dynamic ways to engage with AI-driven content.
Neither Meta nor Play AI has officially confirmed the discussions. Representatives from both companies declined to comment when approached for clarification. If finalized, the deal could signal Meta’s growing ambition to compete in the rapidly evolving AI space, where voice and audio innovations are becoming increasingly critical.
(Source: TechCrunch)
