ElevenLabs CEO Envisions Voice as the Future Interface for AI
In a recent address at the Web Summit in Doha, Mati Staniszewski, co-founder and CEO of ElevenLabs, articulated a compelling vision for the future of artificial intelligence (AI): voice as the primary interface between humans and machines. He emphasized that as AI models evolve beyond text and visual interfaces, voice interactions will become central to our engagement with technology.
Staniszewski highlighted the advancements in voice models, noting that they have progressed from merely replicating human speech patterns to integrating seamlessly with the cognitive functions of large language models. This integration signifies a transformative shift in human-technology interactions. He expressed optimism that, in the near future, devices like smartphones will become less obtrusive, allowing users to engage more naturally with their surroundings, using voice commands to control technology.
This forward-thinking perspective has been a driving force behind ElevenLabs’ recent financial achievements, including a substantial $500 million funding round that elevated the company’s valuation to $11 billion. The broader AI industry shares this enthusiasm for voice interfaces. Leading organizations such as OpenAI and Google are prioritizing voice capabilities in their upcoming AI models. Apple is also making strategic moves in this direction, as evidenced by its acquisition of Q.ai, a company specializing in voice-related technologies. As AI becomes more integrated into various devices, from wearables to automobiles, voice control is emerging as a pivotal element in the next wave of AI development.
Seth Pierrepont, general partner at Iconiq Capital, echoed these sentiments during the Web Summit. He acknowledged that while screens will remain relevant for activities like gaming and entertainment, traditional input methods such as keyboards are becoming increasingly outdated. Pierrepont also noted that as AI systems become more autonomous, the nature of user interactions will evolve. Future models will incorporate safeguards, integrations, and contextual understanding, enabling them to respond effectively with minimal explicit input from users.
Staniszewski identified this shift toward more autonomous AI as a significant development. He envisions future voice systems that rely on persistent memory and accumulated context, resulting in more natural interactions that require less effort from users. This evolution will influence the deployment of voice models. Traditionally, high-quality audio models have been cloud-based. However, ElevenLabs is exploring a hybrid approach that combines cloud and on-device processing. This strategy aims to support emerging hardware, including headphones and other wearables, where voice becomes a constant companion rather than an optional feature.
ElevenLabs is already collaborating with Meta to integrate its voice technology into products like Instagram and Horizon Worlds, Meta’s virtual reality platform. Staniszewski expressed openness to further partnerships with Meta, particularly concerning the Ray-Ban smart glasses, as voice-driven interfaces continue to expand into new form factors.
However, the increasing prevalence of voice interfaces raises important concerns about privacy and data security. As voice-based systems become more embedded in daily life, questions arise about the extent of personal data they will collect and how that data will be used. Companies like Google have faced scrutiny over potential abuses of such data. Addressing these concerns will be crucial as voice interfaces become more integrated into our technological landscape.
