Last Updated: 29 November 2024
Bertelsmann, one of Europe's largest media companies, has announced a new partnership with London-based AI specialist ElevenLabs. Together, they aim to leverage ElevenLabs' cutting-edge AI audio technologies—like lifelike voice and sound generation—to support production and pre-production efforts across Bertelsmann's wide range of media properties.
Bertelsmann operates in multiple media and service sectors. Its subsidiaries include RTL Group, which runs major TV channels in Germany, the Netherlands, France, Hungary, and Luxembourg, as well as the well-known production company Fremantle. The company also owns Penguin Random House, the world's largest book publisher; music powerhouse BMG; the service provider Arvato Group; Bertelsmann Marketing Services; Bertelsmann Education Group; and Bertelsmann Investments.
ElevenLabs is an AI company that creates advanced audio tools for creators, media companies, and businesses. They specialize in text-to-speech generation, translation, and high-quality voice modeling. The company has made a name for itself by building AI models based on licensed material and working with famous figures in the media and entertainment industry.
The main goal of this collaboration is to see how ElevenLabs' AI solutions can help Bertelsmann create new products and improve how they produce, market, and distribute existing content. By bringing AI-driven audio tools into the mix, Bertelsmann hopes to:
"With Bertelsmann’s Tech & Data Alliance and its recently founded AI Hub, we have been at the forefront of applying new technologies across our businesses and building partnerships to accelerate the adoption of GenAI solutions in our businesses. ElevenLabs’ sophisticated AI solutions are cutting edge, ensuring high quality and multi-language audio experiences."
Rhys Nölke, Chief Data Officer of Bertelsmann
ElevenLabs will provide Bertelsmann with state-of-the-art AI tools, including realistic voice and sound generation and an upcoming music model. These technologies are designed to help in both production and pre-production stages, enabling creators to deliver richer audio experiences and speed up content delivery.
"Together with Bertelsmann, we want to push what’s possible in storytelling...Whether it’s crafting richer audio, speeding up production, or making content accessible across languages, our work together is about finding new ways to bring creators and their audiences closer."
Mati Staniszewski, CEO of ElevenLabs
Using ElevenLabs' AI tools is expected to have a significant impact on Bertelsmann's various companies. The AI dubbing platform, for instance, will be key in delivering content to audiences in their native languages, making it more accessible worldwide. By automating certain parts of production, employees can spend more time on creative tasks, which could lead to exciting new products.
