GMA Network introduces PH's first AI-generated sportscasters!

GMA Network introduces a daring move regarding the future of sports broadcasting by launching the PH's first AI-generated sportscasters.

Maia and Marco as AI news reporter NCAA

GMA announces Philippines' first AI sportscasters!

This is done through the collaboration between GMA Integrated News (GMAIN), GMA New Media Inc. (NMI). and GMA Synergy. The said digital effort is expected to be revealed tomorrow September 24, Sunday at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 99.

The said Kapuso AI sportscasters are named Maia and Marco who are tasked to deliver NCAA Season 99 news including local and international sports updates featuring Filipino athletes on social media platforms of GMAIN, GMA Sports, and GMA Synergy.

According to Senior VP and Head of Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver B Amoroso, the unveiling of the first AI sportscaster by GMA Integrated News is a groundbreaking move that significantly impacts the firm's objective of "Mas Malaking mission, Mas malawak na paglilingkod sa bayan". He continued that it aligns with GMA's mission to serve all communities within the nation and promote the inclusivity of reporting.

Amoroso also added that the adoption of AI technology shows their commitment to innovation in the industry of news reporting. He said that GMA is embracing rising breakthroughs to stay at the forefront of the media industry by giving their audience a "modern and engaging sports news experience".

Aileen Rae Perez, AVP and Deputy Head for GMA Integrated News Social Media showed her excitement regarding the aforementioned project. 

With the latest developments in generative AI, our team is always on the lookout for ways to deliver information in the most exciting and engaging manner. We’re glad that we also get the opportunity to collaborate with our partners from NMI Studios and GMA Synergy for this groundbreaking project,” Perez said

According to GMA, both Maia and Marco are created by Artificial Intelligence using Image Generation and text-to-speech AI Voice Synthesis/generation and Deep Learning Face Animation Technology.

More views of Maia and Marco AI

Based on NMI Studios Head of Creatives, Ramil Escarda explained that the rise of generative AI not only transforms how they share news and information but also works as a drive to their creative process and redefines the landscape of modern video production. He mentioned that "it doesn't replace human ingenuity, but rather amplifies it" making their news reporting more powerful and accessible.

Again you may catch the said AI news casters on media platforms like GMAIN, GMA Sports, and GMA Synergy or simply watch NCAA Season 99 starting at 2PM PH time on SM MOA on GMA and GTV.

What do you guys think?

Source: GMA