Speech Synthesis (Text-To-Speech) API

What Is Speech Synthesis / Text-To-Speech?

Speech synthesis (also known as text-to-speech, voice synthesis, or voice generation) is about turning a piece of text into an audio. Let's see how to perform speech synthesis with Microsoft Speech T5 on NLP Cloud.

Simply send a piece of text and let the model generate the corresponding audio out of it (in English only).

Here is an example. Let's generate an audio from the following text:

This report summarizes a discussion between John and his doctor.

Here is the result:

You can also choose the type of voice you are using.

Speech synthesis

Why Use Text-To-Speech?

Text-to-speech is used in more and more applications as the last part of an AI pipeline. Many applications can be considered. Here are some examples:

Virtual Assistants

When used together with speech to text (see the OpenAI Whisper model for example) and generative models, it is possible to build fully fledged virtual assistants that understand human voice, and respond to it.

Assistive Technologies for the Visually Impaired

One of the most impactful uses of speech synthesis is in assistive devices and software for people who are visually impaired or have difficulty reading text due to dyslexia or other conditions. Applications and devices that convert text to speech allow these individuals to consume written content, such as books, emails, and web articles, through auditory means. This technology significantly enhances accessibility and independence by enabling users to "read" text without needing visual cues.

Language Learning Tools

Speech synthesis technology is implemented in language learning applications and software to help users develop pronunciation, listening skills, and conversational abilities in a new language. By hearing the text read aloud in the target language, learners can better understand the pronunciation and rhythm of the language. This is particularly useful for languages that have sounds or phonemes not present in the learner's native tongue or for complex tonal languages.

Personalized Voice Messages from AIs for Marketing and Customer Engagement

With advancements in speech synthesis and AI, businesses are now able to create personalized voice messages for marketing campaigns or customer engagement efforts. This technology allows companies to send customized audio messages to their clients, such as birthday wishes, reminders for appointments, or special promotions, using a synthesized voice that can be tailored to match the brand's identity or even mimic a human spokesperson's nuances. This innovative approach can enhance customer experience, making interactions feel more personal and engaging, thereby increasing brand loyalty and customer retention. It bridges the gap between traditional, impersonal automated messages and the need for scalable yet individualized communication strategies in the digital marketing landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is speech synthesis / text-to-speech / voice generation?

Speech synthesis, also known as text-to-speech or voice generation, is the computer-generated simulation of human speech from written text. It allows computers or other electronic devices to read out text with a voice that resembles human speech, making digital content accessible in audio form.

How does voice generation technology work?

Voice generation technology, typically works by converting written text into spoken words using deep learning algorithms that process and predict how the text should be pronounced and intonated. These algorithms are trained on large datasets of human speech, allowing the system to generate synthetic yet realistic-sounding human voices.

What are the ethical considerations surrounding speech synthesis?

Ethical considerations surrounding speech synthesis include the potential for misuse in creating deceptive or misleading content (e.g., deepfakes), and concerns about consent when using an individual's voice without permission. Additionally, there is anxiety about the impact on authenticity, privacy, and the value of human expression in an era where distinguishing between real and synthesized voices becomes increasingly challenging.

Can voice synthesis technology generate emotions and convey them convincingly?

Yes, modern voice synthesis technology can generate emotions and convey them convincingly by manipulating parameters like pitch, tone, and rhythm to mimic human emotional expressions. Advances in deep learning and AI have greatly improved its ability to generate speech that sounds natural and can effectively communicate a wide range of emotions.

How can someone detect if a voice is synthetic?

One way to detect if a voice is synthetic is by analyzing its spectral coherence and naturalness, observing for inconsistencies or artificial tonal qualities that don't match typical human voice patterns. Additionally, advanced software tools can also be used to compare the suspected voice against known characteristics of human voices for irregularities in fluency, emotion, and breathing patterns.

What languages does your AI API support for text-to-speech?

We support text-to-speech in English

Can I try your voice generation API for free?

Yes, like all the models on NLP Cloud, the voice generation API endpoint can be tested for free

How does your AI API handle data privacy and security during the speech synthesis process?

NLP Cloud is focused on data privacy by design: we do not log or store the content of the requests you make on our API. NLP Cloud is both HIPAA and GDPR compliant.