RTHK using AI presenters to 'enhance productivity,' relieve staff shortage
Hong Kong’s government-backed broadcaster RTHK has begun to use Artificial Intelligence-generated (AI) voices in place of some human presenters, saying that generative AI was increasingly pervasive and helped “relieve the staff shortage pressures.”
Journalist Aaron Busch spotted the AI voice being used to host sports news on RTHK English-language channel Radio 3 this week.
Meanwhile, AI virtual idol “Aida” has been hosting weather reports since last June. Aida also encouraged Hongkongers to vote in the “patriots-only” local elections last November.
On January 5, RTHK reported that it had signed agreements with the Science Park and a Chinese University of Hong Kong research centre to share data and test the use of AI in broadcasting.
China’s state-run outlet Xinhua first unveiled an AI news anchor in 2018, which it said was a world-first.
Last year, “Lisa” became India’s first AI news anchor after OTV rolled out the system for multilingual online news read-outs.
RTHK revamp
The government-funded broadcaster has undergone a major editorial revamp following the 2019 protests and unrest. The government ordered a review of its administration following pressure from the pro-Beijing camp, which alleged it was biased against the authorities.
Several programmes, including the city’s oldest satirical show Headliner and English-language current affairs programme The Pulse, were taken off air, as veteran hosts disappeared from the airwaves. Journalist Nabela Qoser – known for her tough questioning of officials – was among those whose employment was axed, whilst two radio show hosts were fired.
In recent years, it launched a chat show hosted by then-chief executive Carrie Lam, issued directives for staff to use Beijing-approved wording, and announced a partnership with Chinese state media outlet CCTV amid an exodus of senior editorial staff.
Related articles
Emily Ratajkowski dazzles in plunging spiral print dress at the 2024 Whitney Gala
Emily Ratajkowski, Clare Danes, and Ashley Olsen were among the stars enjoying a fashionable night o2024-05-17Any war in South China Sea 'threatens 90 per cent of Australia's fuel imports'
Your web browser is no longer supported. To improve your experience update it here2024-05-17Warhol portrait of Mao goes missing, college seeks return, ‘no questions asked’
Washington/Los Angeles —A California college is seeking the return, "no questions asked,"2024-05-17Could celebrity chef José Andrés help push the US to act in Gaza?
José Andrés at an event in New York City in March. Photo: Getty Images via AFP2024-05-17- Meghan Markle said she was upping the colourful outfits in her wardrobe for her visit to Nigeria, bu2024-05-17
Taylor Swift: Artist's music back on TikTok after dispute
Taylor Swift's new album is set for release this month. Photo: AFP / David Gray2024-05-17
atest comment