Voice AI startup ElevenLabs has launched a groundbreaking new feature, GenFM, designed to create multispeaker, AI-generated podcasts from various content sources. Available now through the ElevenLabs Reader iOS app, GenFM supports 32 languages, including English, Hindi, Portuguese, Chinese, Spanish, French, German, and Japanese, making it a truly global tool for creators.
How GenFM Works
Using GenFM is simple: upload a YouTube video, text, or document, and the app will automatically select two voices from its library to narrate the content as a podcast. With over a dozen distinct voices to choose from, GenFM enables creators to personalize their audio projects.
An intriguing aspect of GenFM is its focus on adding a human touch. During the podcast generation process, the app incorporates natural speech elements such as pauses, filler words like “um” and “ah,” and even laughter and breathing sounds. These features, often eliminated by other tools, aim to enhance the realism and relatability of the generated content.
Jack McDermott, ElevenLabs‘ head of mobile growth, explained the reasoning behind this approach:
“We debated about how much to introduce ‘ums,’ ‘ahs,’ ‘mmhmms,’ laughter, and breathing. Our goal is to strike the right balance between creating a natural, human-like conversation and ensuring the content remains valuable and accessible.”
McDermott also highlighted that exceptional long-form podcasts often maintain a smooth conversational flow with minimal interruptions. This balance, he noted, is what GenFM strives to achieve.
Expanding the Boundaries of AI Podcasting
Looking ahead, ElevenLabs plans to introduce more customization options for GenFM, including support for combining multiple content sources into a single podcast. This positions the tool as a powerful resource for individuals and businesses aiming to create engaging audio narratives effortlessly.
The launch of GenFM also follows a trend in AI-driven podcasting innovation. In September, Google unveiled a similar feature for its NotebookLM tool, allowing users to create AI-generated conversations from their chosen sources. A month later, Google expanded the functionality to include customization of podcast outputs.
ElevenLabs’ Global Growth
ElevenLabs is actively expanding its presence globally. Earlier this month, the company announced a significant $11 million investment in the Polish startup ecosystem and the opening of a research and development hub in Warsaw. This new center aims to attract top AI talent to drive innovation further.
In addition, ElevenLabs is growing its operations in India, having recently hired a business lead and begun building a local team. These developments underscore the company’s ambition to be a leader in conversational AI and voice synthesis technology.
A New Era for AI Podcasts
With GenFM, ElevenLabs is pioneering a new approach to audio content creation, blending advanced AI capabilities with a human touch. Whether for casual creators, brands, or educators, GenFM offers an accessible and innovative way to craft engaging podcasts that resonate across languages and cultures.
Creators looking to explore GenFM can find it now on the ElevenLabs Reader iOS app.
