In March, Spotify launched its first AI-powered feature with the debut of its AI DJ — a smart audio guide with a convincingly realistic voice. That AI persona was actually based on a real person, as it turns out — Spotify’s Head of Cultural Partnerships, Xavier “X” Jernigan, who had the honor of becoming the first voice model for the AI feature.
TechCrunch sat down with Jernigan to learn more about the process for training the AI and Spotify’s future plans for its AI DJ efforts.
The new AI DJ personalizes the music listening experience for listeners, curating a selection of music based on their interests. It also has spoken commentary about each song — much like a real radio host.
In addition to Jernigan’s primary role at Spotify, he’s also the host of various Spotify podcasts, including “The Window,” “Showstopper” as well as the no...
