US First Lady Melania Trump has released the audiobook version of her memoir, “Melania.” This unique project uses an AI-created sound model of her own voice, marking a milestone as the first time a First Lady in the United States has used artificial intelligence to interpret a commercial publication.
The voice was developed under her supervision, in collaboration with AI audio startup ElevenLabs. The audiobook, which launched on Thursday, is available exclusively through the ElevenReader app for a price of $25. And that’s not all! There are plans to release Spanish, Portuguese, and Hindi versions in the coming weeks.
“I am honored to present to you Melania – The AI Audiobook – narrated entirely by artificial intelligence in my own voice,” Trump tweeted on Thursday. “Let the future of advertising begin.” The memoir offers an intimate look into her life, from her Slovenian childhood and modeling career to the memorable meeting with Donald Trump, a chance event that changed her life forever.
Using AI to mimic Melania Trump’s voice raises interesting technical and legal questions. Dhrupad Das, a Web3 attorney and founder of Panda Law, points out that while text-to-speech (TTS) technology is generally uncontroversial, cloning the voice of a public figure carries risks. Despite Trump licensing the rights to use her voice to ElevenLabs, there is a legal gray area when AI impersonates celebrities or political leaders, especially if their personality rights have not been explicitly licensed.
“As soon as you use a recognizable voice, you’re entering legal territory, even though the data comes from public sources,” Das adds. But he also sees potential: the AI technology behind voice translations could also help improve education, accessibility and government services.
At just over seven hours long, Melania Trump’s audiobook is part of ElevenReader’s growing catalogue of AI audio stories, which also includes works by icons like Maya Angelou and Deepak Chopra. Her return to public life comes shortly after her appearance at the White House to sign the “Take It Down Act.” The new law criminalizes the online publication of unconsensual intimate images, including AI-generated deepfakes, and requires platforms to remove such content within 48 hours.
“This legislation is a powerful step forward in our efforts to ensure that every American, especially young people, can feel better protected from the misuse of their image or identity,” Melania Trump said at the signing.
Do you also think that AI can help us create a more just world? Developments in this area are happening at a rapid pace and we are on the eve of countless possibilities that can transform our society. Stay curious and follow the changes closely!
Why did Melania Trump choose an AI sound model for her audiobook?
Because it's an innovative way to share her story, combining the power of technology and her own voice.
What is the “Take It Down Act”?
A recent law that criminalizes the online publication of unconsented intimate images and requires platforms to quickly remove such content.
What are the plans for the audiobook in other languages?
Versions in Spanish, Portuguese and Hindi are expected in the coming weeks, to reach a wider audience.