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Truecaller To Use Microsoft Azure AI Speech For Call Answering

The new service features a powerful speech generation tool to allow users to create AI versions of their voices.

Published

1 month ago

May 27, 2024

Nour Nasir

Truecaller

Truecaller, a well-known app for identifying and blocking spam calls, is enhancing its services by allowing users to create AI versions of their voices. The new feature, available to those with access to Truecaller’s AI Assistant, stems from a partnership with Microsoft and its Azure AI Speech tool, allowing the generation of realistic AI voices that accurately mimic users’ speech patterns and tone.

“This groundbreaking capability not only adds a touch of familiarity and comfort for the users but also showcases the power of AI in transforming the way we interact with our digital assistants,” explained Truecaller product director and general manager Raphael Mimoun in a recent blog post.

The AI Assistant in Truecaller screens incoming calls, informing recipients of a caller’s purpose. Based on this information, users can decide whether to answer the call themselves or let the AI Assistant handle it.

When the feature was introduced in 2022, users could only choose from a collection of preset voices. The ability to record one’s own voice represents a significant step towards the complete personalization of the service.

Also Read: Getting Started With Google Gemini: A Beginner’s Guide

Azure AI Speech, showcased during the last Build conference, only recently added a personal voice feature that lets people record and replicate voices. Microsoft explained in a blog post, however, that Personal Voice is available on a limited basis and only for specific use cases like voice assistants.

To maintain ethical standards, Microsoft’s Azure AI Speech automatically adds watermarks to AI-generated voices. Additionally, a code of conduct requires companies to obtain full consent from individuals being recorded and prohibits impersonation.

Related Topics:Artificial Intelligence Microsoft Truecaller

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Coursera Report Shows Surge In UAE Interest In AI Upskilling

The Emirates lead the Middle East and North Africa for skill proficiency and come second globally for business.

Published

2 days ago

July 2, 2024

Nour Nasir

coursera report shows surge in uae interest in ai upskilling

Applications for generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) courses in the UAE have rocketed by over 1,100% during the past year, according to Coursera’s Global Skills Report 2024.

The enrolment rate easily surpassed the MENA region’s already impressive 861% year-on-year growth and the worldwide rate of 1,060%, signifying an increase in interest from UAE learners in AI and machine learning skill sets.

“Compared to other markets, the UAE has a higher number of expats, so the workforce structure may be more inclined to adopt technology-related or technology-impacted roles,” said Nikolaz Foucaud, Coursera’s managing director for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

According to Coursera, the Emirates is now a leader in AI education, ranking third globally in the GenAI sector behind the USA and China. During the first quarter of 2024, over 1 million UAE users were active on the platform, with a median age of 35.

The MENA region is set to become a key player in digital transformation and trade, according to the report, as significant investments continue to be made in technology infrastructure and logistics. However, there is still a pressing need to boost technology skills proficiency, which currently sits at around 40%.

Also Read: The Most AI-Proof Career Opportunities In The Middle East

“When you speak to employers, they emphasize skills that AI disruption cannot easily replace or enhance in the short term – social skills, human skills, interpersonal skills, the ability to collaborate, lead teams, and communicate effectively, including public speaking,” Coursera’s Foucaud added.

Coursera’s report also highlights the importance of career-focused, accessible skill development, along with initiatives to further gender inclusivity in the online learning sector. Women in the UAE currently comprise 33% of Coursera learners, with 27% studying science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects.