SAG-AFTRA has launched a new waiver to safeguard its members from unauthorized AI utilization of their voices in digital audio commercials. The Dynamic A.I. Audio Commercials Waiver sets out terms for using members’ voices when creating digital replicas for audio ads.
Under the waiver, performers must provide informed consent before their digital voice replicas are created and used in advertisements. Voice actors will be compensated $550 per AI-created commercial, covering multiple versions and revisions. Additionally, they will earn an extra 50% of a one-session fee ($275) for customization elements using the digital voice replica.
Companies can purchase unlimited use rights for these digital voice replicas within specific time frames, with fees ranging from $385 for four weeks to $1,210 for one year. This waiver applies only to digital audio commercials, such as those for streaming platforms or podcasts, and not to standard radio ads.
The waiver requires companies to implement security measures to prevent unauthorized third-party use of digital voice replicas. Performers retain the right to opt out at any time, and all copies of their voice recordings must be deleted after the maximum use period unless otherwise agreed.
This initiative by SAG-AFTRA aims to protect actors from the growing use of AI in the industry. The union has previously secured protections to ensure actors are fairly compensated when their voices are used to create AI-generated voice clones or deepfakes.
Recent high-profile cases of unauthorized voice use by AI companies have highlighted the importance of such protections. For instance, OpenAI had to remove a new voice option from ChatGPT after Scarlett Johansson alleged unauthorized use of her voice. Additionally, a group of actors sued Lovo, an AI voice generator company, for similar reasons.
“This agreement furthers the union’s goal of ensuring that whenever AI is used in ways that impact SAG-AFTRA members, appropriate protections, informed consent, and proper compensation are always required,” said Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s national executive director and chief negotiator.
Previously, SAG-AFTRA signed a deal with AI startup Replica, allowing its members to create and license digital versions of their voices, continuing its efforts to protect actors in the evolving landscape of AI technology.
