China’s state news agency has unveiled a virtual newsreader sporting a sharp suit and a somewhat robotic voice.
Xinhua News claims the presenter “can read texts as naturally as a professional news anchor”, though not everyone may agree.
“Hello, you are watching English news programme,” says the English-speaking presenter at the start of his first report.
Sogou, a Chinese search engine, was involved in the system’s development.
“I will work tirelessly to keep you informed as texts will be typed into my system uninterrupted,” says the presenter in an introductory video.
“I look forward to bringing you the brand new news experiences.”
There is also a Chinese-speaking version with a different face.
Xinhua says the presenters can “work” 24 hours a day on its website and social media channels, “reducing news production costs”.
The agency points out that they may be particularly useful for disseminating breaking news reports in a timely manner.
An artificial intelligence (AI) system has been used to synthesise the presenters’ voices, lip movements and expressions.
They are based on those of real Xinhua presenters.
