Krisp Launches Accent Modification Feature: A Game-Changer for Communication

In a move that could reshape how people communicate across language barriers, audio startup Krisp announced an exciting new feature this Wednesday that utilizes AI to modify accents during calls. The service is set to kick off with a focus on transforming Indian English accents into a U.S. English accent, promising clearer conversations for users.

A Personal Journey Inspires Innovation

The idea for this groundbreaking feature emerged from Krisp co-founder Arto Minasyan’s personal experiences. "Many people don’t understand my accent even though I am speaking English well," he explained. This inspired the team to explore how altering accents might enhance mutual understanding. After two years of development, the beta version is now available on the Krisp desktop app, allowing users to activate the feature anytime during their calls.

How It Works

Krisp’s accent conversion process aims to retain the essence of the speaker’s voice while adjusting phonetic elements to align with American pronunciation. In testing within enterprise environments, they reported impressive results, with a 26.1% rise in sales conversion rates and a staggering 14.8% increase in revenue per booking.

However, early users have noted some initial quirkiness; testing revealed that the processed voices can sound a bit unnatural and may occasionally miss words. Krisp acknowledges these issues as part of the beta experience, assuring users that improvements are underway.

Why Indian Accents First?

Krisp chose to focus on Indian accents due to the significant presence of Indian professionals in STEM industries worldwide. By addressing communication barriers, Krisp aims to empower these workers, enhancing their ability to connect in diverse workplaces. Future plans include the addition of support for other accents, such as Filipino.

The Landscape of Accent Technology

Krisp isn’t alone in this innovative space. Other startups like Sanas, backed by GV, have also begun implementing similar technologies in call centers. The competition is heating up, but Krisp differentiates itself through its real-time processing feature, which does not require any pre-training on a user’s voice.

What’s Next for Krisp?

In addition to expanding accent support, Krisp has ambitious plans to release mobile applications for iOS and Android within the year, further enabling in-person meetings. A new Chrome extension is also in development to enhance integration with platforms like Google Meet, ensuring seamless communication across various channels.

As we explore this evolving landscape of AI-driven communication tools, Krisp’s innovative feature represents a significant leap forward. By making conversations smoother and more accessible, it’s opening doors for improved collaboration across cultures.

The AI Buzz Hub team is excited to see where these breakthroughs take us. Want to stay in the loop on all things AI? Subscribe to our newsletter or share this article with your fellow enthusiasts.