ScotRail Removes AI Announcer After Voiceover Dispute

ScotRail has decided to replace its controversial AI voice announcer, known as 'Iona,' after significant backlash from the public and the professional voiceover artist, Gayanne Potter, whose voice data was used without her consent. Initially, ScotRail maintained it had no plans to change the AI-generated voice, attributing the dispute to the Swedish company ReadSpeaker that developed the AI system. However, after complaints grew and concerns were raised by ministers and the public, Transport Scotland confirmed it is sourcing an alternative voice, though it has not specified whether this will be human or AI. Potter expressed feeling 'violated' and criticized the use of a robotic version of her voice, highlighting broader concerns about AI's impact on creative professionals. Her union, Equity, supports the removal of the AI voice and calls for transparency, consent, and fair remuneration in AI applications. Additionally, some politicians urged ScotRail to replace the artificial voice with authentic Scottish voices performed by skilled local voice actors.