News 1st Kannada announced that it has become South India's first regional news channel to generate an AI-based Meta-human news anchor named AI Maya.
She possesses the capabilities to perform all the tasks of a conventional news anchor like asking questions and engaging in debates. Moreover, AI Maya will be a regular presence on News 1st Kannada, appearing on a daily basis.
"News 1st is at the forefront of programming and technological innovation. We have always been the first to adapt and adopt, be it broadcast technology, on-air graphics software, program content or program names. So, moving first on AI and integrating an AI-based Meta-human news anchor into our broadcasting was only natural for us," S Ravikumar, MD and CEO, News 1st Kannada, said.
It took three months for News 1st Kannada to evolve, identify and create this AI model for its viewers.
AI Maya possesses proficiency in various languages, enabling her to communicate effectively. However, for the viewers of News 1st Kannada, she will initially present news in Kannada on both television and digital platforms. Furthermore, AI Maya is fully prepared to deliver news in English as well.
"We are looking for AI Maya to utilise machine learning algorithms to revolutionise TV presentation by a meta-human. We will be deploying this for news and special stories," Maruthi SH, Editor-in-Chief, News 1st Kannada, said.
Ravikumar conducted an interview with AI Maya to delve into her skills and expertise in news presentation. The question and answer session was broadcasted on News 1st Kannada at 8:30 pm on Thursday, July 13, 2023.
"This is just the beginning. Maya delivered her first news bulletin and showcased her knowledge and linguistic capabilities in English and Kannada. We are now working on training her to deliver a more interactive programme soon," Ravikumar stated.
A daily show called 'Ask Maya' is currently being developed. Viewers will have the opportunity to pose their questions to Maya through a dedicated WhatsApp phone number or provided email address. AI Maya will then select and answer the top five viewer questions of the day during a scheduled time slot.
The team at News 1st Kannada is working to make AI Maya more interactive to be ab;e to answer questions in real-time and replace the traditional news delivery.
AI Maya is the result of a collaboration between News 1st Kannada and JustBaat Mediatech and MediaConsultia.