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
PGA Tour goes to Dallas for same course and new title. LIV Golf plays in Singapore
PGA TOURTHE CJ CUP BYRON NELSONSite: McKinney, Texas.Course: TPC Craig Ranch. Yardage: 7,414. Par: 72024-05-0149ers GM hopes to get Brandon Aiyuk contract extension done sooner rather than later
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Brandon Aiyuk is staying away from the San Francisco 49ers facility at th2024-05-01Twins send struggling Varland to Triple
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Twins sent struggling starting pitcher Louie Varland to Triple-A St2024-05-01Danny Mendick recalled, John Brebbia activated by struggling White Sox
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The major league-worst Chicago White Sox made five roster moves before Monday nig2024-05-01Select list of nominees for 2024 Tony Awards
NEW YORK (AP) — Select nominations for the 2024 Tony Awards, announced Tuesday.Best Musical: “Hell’s2024-05-01North Carolina severe weather: Trump cancels campaign rally
WILMINGTON, N.C. (AP) — Donald Trump had to cancel his first planned rally since the start of his cr2024-05-01
atest comment