RNS: Moshe Nussbaum, a renowned Israeli TV journalist, is making a remarkable comeback after being diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive disease that had left him unable to speak clearly. Thanks to artificial intelligence (AI) software that recreates his distinctive gravelly voice, Nussbaum, 71, is returning to TV as a commentator for Channel 12 News.
According to the media reports, Nussbaum known for covering some of Israel’s most significant events over a 40-year career, Nussbaum had feared that ALS would end his career. He had vowed to continue working as long as he could physically manage, but the disease gradually made it more difficult to report. His inability to cover the Gaza war of October 2023 marked the first time he had ever missed reporting on a conflict in his career.
New Agency PTI reported that, “with the help of AI technology, which mimics his voice from thousands of hours of past recordings, Nussbaum will now produce commentary on crime and national security.” Channel 12 News has developed a unique system in which Nussbaum writes his reports, and the AI software uses his voice to read them, creating a realistic presentation with his signature tone and pacing, it stated.
Though AI technology is often criticized for its potential misuse, including deepfakes and spreading false information, Nussbaum sees its power to help those with speech impairments. He recognizes the technology as an essential tool for people with progressive disabilities like ALS to continue their professional careers.
Nussbaum’s return is seen as a “magic trick” that offers a sense of hope for people facing similar challenges, and it raises awareness about how AI can be used to support people with disabilities.
