Amazon to discontinue celebrity voice feature in Alexa, no more Bachchan's voice
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Amazon has decided to discontinue the Alexa feature that provided celebrity voices. Customers will not be able to buy or access the voices of celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Samuel L. Jackson, and Melissa McCarthy.
On the product pages, a note reads that the voices are no longer available for purchase. A spokesperson for the company told The Verge: "We are winding down celebrity voices. Customers will be able to continue using these voices for a limited time, and can contact our customer service team for a refund." A note on Amitabh Bachchan's page says: "This skill is no longer available for purchase. Customers who previously purchased this experience will continue to have access for one year from the date of purchase."
The feature was launched in 2019. It became available in India the next year with Amitabh Bachchan's voice. "The baritone that has enchanted the Indian film industry for over five decades will soon deliver a unique voice experience to the many Indian customers who use Alexa," said Amazon.
Voices of McCarthy and former professional basketball player Shaquille O'Neal will be available till September 30. Jackson's voice will be gone after June 7.