Key Points
- Melania Trump launches an AI-narrated audiobook of her memoir, calling it a “new era in publishing.”
- The seven-hour audiobook uses an AI-generated voice trained to mimic Melania’s own, developed by ElevenLabs.
- The memoir covers her childhood, marriage to Donald Trump, and political disagreements.
- Melania made a rare White House appearance to support the “Take It Down Act,” banning AI-generated pornography.
- She warns about the risks of AI and social media, calling them “digital candy” for the next generation.
New Delhi: US First Lady Melania Trump has broken new ground in the world of publishing by releasing an audiobook version of her personal memoir, narrated entirely by an artificial intelligence replica of her own voice. The project, which Melania described as “a new era in publishing,” leverages cutting-edge AI technology to deliver her story to a global audience in multiple languages.
AI Technology Brings Melania’s Voice to Life
The audiobook, which runs for just over seven hours, features a voice generated by ElevenLabs, a leader in AI voice synthesis. The company worked closely with Melania to ensure the AI voice was authentic and true to her unique accent and intonation. “I am honored to bring you Melania – The AI Audiobook – narrated entirely using artificial intelligence in my own voice,” she announced on X (formerly Twitter). She emphasized that the process was conducted “under my strict supervision,” aiming to create an “unforgettable connection” between her story and listeners worldwide.
ElevenLabs CEO Mati Staniszewski praised the collaboration, calling it a “first-of-its-kind audiobook” and a major milestone for both the publishing and AI industries.
Memoir Offers Personal and Political Insights
Originally released last year, Melania Trump’s memoir provides an intimate look at her early life, her journey to the United States, her marriage to former President Donald Trump, and her experiences as First Lady. The book also delves into moments of disagreement with her husband on key issues, including abortion, giving readers a rare glimpse into her personal convictions.
Advocating for AI Safety at the White House
Coinciding with the audiobook’s release, Melania made a rare public appearance at the White House to support the “Take It Down Act.” This new legislation, signed into law by President Trump, specifically targets the growing problem of AI-generated pornography and non-consensual intimate imagery. “This legislation is a powerful step forward in our efforts to ensure that every American, especially young people, can feel better protected from their image or identity being abused,” she said during the signing ceremony.
Warning on the Dangers of AI and Social Media
Melania Trump used the opportunity to highlight the potential dangers of emerging technologies. Drawing a vivid analogy, she called artificial intelligence and social media “digital candy” for the next generation “sweet, addictive, and engineered to have an impact on the connectivity development of our children.” She warned that, unlike sugar, these technologies can be weaponized, shape beliefs, and deeply affect emotions.
