There is no denying that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been making significant strides in recent years. In fact, there is enough evidence to suggest that computers are getting better at natural language processing and machine learning with each successive generation. However, the thought of an AI-based tool finding its way into mainstream usage as soon as 2023 was far-fetched for even the most ardent AI enthusiasts. Thanks to recent developments in the field of generative AI, many of these people are now being forced to think otherwise. The newfound global interest in AI could be attributed to the immense popularity of ChatGPT -- a chatbot released by Microsoft-backed AI-focused research lab OpenAI late last year.

Fred, a trans man, clicked his mouse, and his tenorful tones suddenly sank deeper. He'd switched on voice-changing algorithms that provided what sounded like an instant vocal cord transplant. "This one is'Seth,'" he said, of a persona he was testing on a Zoom call with a reporter. Then, he switched to speak as "Joe," whose voice was more nasal and upbeat. Fred's friend Jane, a trans woman also testing the prototype software, chuckled and showcased some artificial voices she liked for their feminine sound.