Photo by Live 95.5
Portland, Oregon— In a groundbreaking move that marks a pivotal moment in the history of radio broadcasting, Live 95.5 in Portland, Oregon, unveiled its newest radio personality last June – “AI Ashley.” This AI-powered radio host is a digital doppelganger of the station’s midday host, Ashley Elzinga, and is making waves in the world of media with its ability to engage listeners, share information, and transform the radio landscape.
Developed with the full consent of Ashley Elzinga, “AI Ashley” was crafted by a dedicated team of programmers and engineers. Their mission? To create an AI-based DJ that captures the charisma and charm of a human host. Utilizing cutting-edge technology known as “RadioGPT,” which harnesses the power of GPT-4, AI Ashley delivers scripts based on current news events with an artificial voice, providing listeners with a seamless and captivating experience.
One of AI Ashley’s standout features is its real-time interaction capabilities. This AI host can swiftly respond to listener comments and questions, displaying remarkable speed and accuracy. Moreover, it has been programmed to share insightful facts across a diverse range of topics, making it an engaging conversationalist on matters spanning from current events to one-on-one interviews.
The decision to integrate AI into the realm of radio broadcasting is partly driven by cost-cutting measures, as media companies, including iHeartMedia, have invested in AI technologies to streamline operations.
However, fears of AI replacing human DJs have been allayed by Live 95.5’s parent company, Alpha Media. They have assured that the real Ashley Elzinga will remain an integral part of the station. Phil Becker, Alpha Media’s EVP, explained that it’s a “hybrid situation” where both human and AI hosts coexist harmoniously. During segments featuring AI Ashley, the real Ashley can focus on community engagement, social media management, and other aspects of her multifaceted role.
This innovative fusion of human and artificial intelligence in radio broadcasting is drawing attention from across the industry. As the technology continues to evolve, the possibilities are endless, offering opportunities for even more interactive and dynamic radio experiences.
AI Ashley’s presence on Live 95.5 exemplifies the potential for AI to enhance and transform traditional media platforms while preserving the unique qualities that make human hosts irreplaceable. This pioneering endeavor sets a trend for the future, where radio entertainment will be shaped by the synergy of human and AI talent, ushering in a new era of broadcasting.
