What do you think about Audible offering an AI reader for books... like for indie authors who can't afford a professional reader?
Better than nothing?
Or not worth it?
AI is just so thoroughly reviled that it seems like a bad move. And yet, it's important for accessibility.
Thoughts?
Better than nothing?
Or not worth it?
AI is just so thoroughly reviled that it seems like a bad move. And yet, it's important for accessibility.
Thoughts?
Comments
We need to adapt to a society where AI is a reality. It could be a golden age where we only need to work 20 hours a week or it could be the next great depression.
I got my mug on one side and my wamp on the other. I see both sides of it.
I'm capable of realizing that a pro reader is going to mean, "That writer could afford it."
But we're in a world now where AI is still a kiss of death.
You do you. I'm wanna get your book ...
But take care! This is also a skill! And, heaven help me, I can't begin to suggest where you must go to begin the learning of it ...
record yourself reading in the pace and intonation that feels right for your material (the creative half)
then use voice-to-voice to get the voice tone & quality you want
best of both worlds, maybe? 🙂
Plus, the author definitely knows how all the names are pronounced!! lol
I despise when people try to justify AI by hiding behind “accessibility.”It is hard to find a job if you are disabled
AI narration will destroy that.
I know a lot of out of work voice actors looking for work.
I am poor. There are a lot of things I do not have because I cannot afford them. I cannot afford advertising art. I am doing it myself. I cannot afford cover art. I’m doing it myself.
I’m actually one of the disabled people who benefit from audiobooks. I can listen and clean, I can’t read and clean. I have a long TBR list
I would rather not have something I want than let AI gain anymore purchase in this world.
LibraVox does free public domain recordings of volunteers. There’s a section of Ulysses that’s recorded in a pub on a potato that gets tons of complaints
If you can't afford a professional reader, I'd say there are better solutions, like crowdfunding to afford one. People want your book. Let them support it.
https://scribemedia.com/how-much-does-making-audiobooks-cost/
There are also grants writers can apply for--again, not simple, but an option. Or microloans. Or a yard sale.
Bought the e-book
Supported the crowd funding
Bought the audio book
Bought it again through a different vendor
Twice.
Just to skip the AI.
I'm not sure where the line is here, honestly.
Why would AI be any different?
In that instance the author and listing for the book was upfront about it being AI narration and the price reflected it also.
Thinking of all the voice actors who got cheated out of their pay to create that.
And I'm saying that as someone who would really benefit from listening to scholarly books.
https://bsky.app/profile/cpcwrites.bsky.social/post/3lmzfxjevdc2s
1. Nothing can replace a human narrator.
2. AI narration is getting better and can be an accessibility tool.
3. Transparency is key! Don't hide the fact that it's an AI narration if that's what you choose to go for - make sure people know what they're buying.
4. We already...
5. Text only books already come in different versions - incl. e-readers that may have built in AI narration.
6. Be TRANSPARENT about the use of AI
I see it as charging for accessibility.
Audiobooks should be human. Accessibility should be free.