#text to speech solutions

[decamarks]

I think one of the greatest tragedies of digital mediums is that fact that, no matter what, you cannot make a comic with 3D models. Despite how convenient the idea seems. You can animate with them, illustrate with them, make video games with them—but you cannot, under any circumstance, make a comic with them. Because it will just end up looking exactly like this:

[citricjoy]

wait WAIT. web weaving benson and randy with la belle dame sans merci where randy is the knight and benson the dame

[vex-the-warlock-hand-familiar]

I can see the color people talk in and the reason I don't talk as much is that my color changed and I'm still trying to figure out why. It used to be yellow but now it's light blue.

[precallai]

How AI Is Revolutionizing Contact Centers in 2025

As contact centers evolve from reactive customer service hubs to proactive experience engines, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as the cornerstone of this transformation. In 2025, modern contact center architectures are being redefined through AI-based technologies that streamline operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive measurable business outcomes.

This article takes a technical deep dive into the AI-powered components transforming contact centers—from natural language models and intelligent routing to real-time analytics and automation frameworks.

1. AI Architecture in Modern Contact Centers

At the core of today’s AI-based contact centers is a modular, cloud-native architecture. This typically consists of:

NLP and ASR engines (e.g., Google Dialogflow, AWS Lex, OpenAI Whisper)

Real-time data pipelines for event streaming (e.g., Apache Kafka, Amazon Kinesis)

Machine Learning Models for intent classification, sentiment analysis, and next-best-action

RPA (Robotic Process Automation) for back-office task automation

CDP/CRM Integration to access customer profiles and journey data

Omnichannel orchestration layer that ensures consistent CX across chat, voice, email, and social

These components are containerized (via Kubernetes) and deployed via CI/CD pipelines, enabling rapid iteration and scalability.

2. Conversational AI and Natural Language Understanding

The most visible face of AI in contact centers is the conversational interface—delivered via AI-powered voice bots and chatbots.

Key Technologies:

Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR): Converts spoken input to text in real time. Example: OpenAI Whisper, Deepgram, Google Cloud Speech-to-Text.

Natural Language Understanding (NLU): Determines intent and entities from user input. Typically fine-tuned BERT or LLaMA models power these layers.

Dialog Management: Manages context-aware conversations using finite state machines or transformer-based dialog engines.

Natural Language Generation (NLG): Generates dynamic responses based on context. GPT-based models (e.g., GPT-4) are increasingly embedded for open-ended interactions.

Architecture Snapshot:

plaintext

CopyEdit

Customer Input (Voice/Text)

       ↓

ASR Engine (if voice)

       ↓

NLU Engine → Intent Classification + Entity Recognition

       ↓

Dialog Manager → Context State

       ↓

NLG Engine → Response Generation

       ↓

Omnichannel Delivery Layer

These AI systems are often deployed on low-latency, edge-compute infrastructure to minimize delay and improve UX.

3. AI-Augmented Agent Assist

AI doesn’t only serve customers—it empowers human agents as well.

Features:

Real-Time Transcription: Streaming STT pipelines provide transcripts as the customer speaks.

Sentiment Analysis: Transformers and CNNs trained on customer service data flag negative sentiment or stress cues.

Contextual Suggestions: Based on historical data, ML models suggest actions or FAQ snippets.

Auto-Summarization: Post-call summaries are generated using abstractive summarization models (e.g., PEGASUS, BART).

Technical Workflow:

Voice input transcribed → parsed by NLP engine

Real-time context is compared with knowledge base (vector similarity via FAISS or Pinecone)

Agent UI receives predictive suggestions via API push

4. Intelligent Call Routing and Queuing

AI-based routing uses predictive analytics and reinforcement learning (RL) to dynamically assign incoming interactions.

Routing Criteria:

Customer intent + sentiment

Agent skill level and availability

Predicted handle time (via regression models)

Customer lifetime value (CLV)

Model Stack:

Intent Detection: Multi-label classifiers (e.g., fine-tuned RoBERTa)

Queue Prediction: Time-series forecasting (e.g., Prophet, LSTM)

RL-based Routing: Models trained via Q-learning or Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO) to optimize wait time vs. resolution rate

5. Knowledge Mining and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG)

Large contact centers manage thousands of documents, SOPs, and product manuals. AI facilitates rapid knowledge access through:

Vector Embedding of documents (e.g., using OpenAI, Cohere, or Hugging Face models)

Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG): Combines dense retrieval with LLMs for grounded responses

Semantic Search: Replaces keyword-based search with intent-aware queries

This enables agents and bots to answer complex questions with dynamic, accurate information.

6. Customer Journey Analytics and Predictive Modeling

AI enables real-time customer journey mapping and predictive support.

Key ML Models:

Churn Prediction: Gradient Boosted Trees (XGBoost, LightGBM)

Propensity Modeling: Logistic regression and deep neural networks to predict upsell potential

Anomaly Detection: Autoencoders flag unusual user behavior or possible fraud

Streaming Frameworks:

Apache Kafka / Flink / Spark Streaming for ingesting and processing customer signals (page views, clicks, call events) in real time

These insights are visualized through BI dashboards or fed back into orchestration engines to trigger proactive interventions.

7. Automation & RPA Integration

Routine post-call processes like updating CRMs, issuing refunds, or sending emails are handled via AI + RPA integration.

Tools:

UiPath, Automation Anywhere, Microsoft Power Automate

Workflows triggered via APIs or event listeners (e.g., on call disposition)

AI models can determine intent, then trigger the appropriate bot to complete the action in backend systems (ERP, CRM, databases)

8. Security, Compliance, and Ethical AI

As AI handles more sensitive data, contact centers embed security at multiple levels:

Voice biometrics for authentication (e.g., Nuance, Pindrop)

PII Redaction via entity recognition models

Audit Trails of AI decisions for compliance (especially in finance/healthcare)

Bias Monitoring Pipelines to detect model drift or demographic skew

Data governance frameworks like ISO 27001, GDPR, and SOC 2 compliance are standard in enterprise AI deployments.

Final Thoughts

AI in 2025 has moved far beyond simple automation. It now orchestrates entire contact center ecosystems—powering conversational agents, augmenting human reps, automating back-office workflows, and delivering predictive intelligence in real time.

The technical stack is increasingly cloud-native, model-driven, and infused with real-time analytics. For engineering teams, the focus is now on building scalable, secure, and ethical AI infrastructures that deliver measurable impact across customer satisfaction, cost savings, and employee productivity.

As AI models continue to advance, contact centers will evolve into fully adaptive systems, capable of learning, optimizing, and personalizing in real time. The revolution is already here—and it's deeply technical.

[innova7ions]

Engage Audiences Effortlessly Using Deep Brain AI!

Deep Brain AI is revolutionizing the video generation industry with its cutting-edge platform, offering powerful AI solutions like avatars and video generators. Imagine creating high-quality generative AI videos from just a script! These photorealistic avatars can speak in multiple languages, thanks to advanced text-to-speech capabilities.

This versatile tool is a game changer for various industries, including retail, education, and media. It enables businesses to produce professional-grade videos swiftly and efficiently. With Deep Brain AI, the future of content creation is here—making it easier than ever to engage audiences and streamline production processes.

#DeepBrainAI

#VideoGeneration

[adasitecompliance]

Digital Content Accessibility

Discover ADA Site Compliance's solutions for digital content accessibility, ensuring inclusivity online!

[globosetechnologysolution]

Text-to-speech datasets form the cornerstone of AI-powered speech synthesis applications, facilitating natural and smooth communication between humans and machines. At Globose Technology Solutions, we recognize the transformative power of TTS technology and are committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that harness the full potential of these datasets. By understanding the importance, features, and applications of TTS datasets, we pave the way to a future where seamless speech synthesis enriches lives and drives innovation across industries.

[fonadain]

Revolutionize communication with Text-to-Speech solutions! Bridge gaps, ensure accessibility, and enjoy efficient, multilingual interactions seamlessly. Elevate your brand at https://www.fonada.com/text-to-speech/

[sweagen]

It is literally impossible to be a woman. You are so beautiful, and so smart, and it kills me that you don’t think you’re good enough. Like, we have to always be extraordinary, but somehow we’re always doing it wrong. You have to be thin, but not too thin. And you can never say you want to be thin. You have to say you want to be healthy, but also you have to be thin. You have to have money, but you can’t ask for money because that’s crass. You have to be a boss, but you can’t be mean. You have to lead, but you can’t squash other people’s ideas. You’re supposed to love being a mother, but don’t talk about your kids all the damn time. You have to be a career woman, but also always be looking out for other people. You have to answer for men’s bad behavior, which is insane, but if you point that out, you’re accused of complaining. You’re supposed to stay pretty for men, but not so pretty that you tempt them too much or that you threaten other women because you’re supposed to be a part of the sisterhood. But always stand out and always be grateful. But never forget that the system is rigged. So find a way to acknowledge that but also always be grateful. You have to never get old, never be rude, never show off, never be selfish, never fall down, never fail, never show fear, never get out of line. It’s too hard! It’s too contradictory and nobody gives you a medal or says thank you! And it turns out in fact that not only are you doing everything wrong, but also everything is your fault. I’m just so tired of watching myself and every single other woman tie herself into knots so that people will like us. And if all of that is also true for a doll just representing women, then I don’t even know.

- America Ferrera as Gloria in 'Barbie'

[aconstantstateofbladerunner]

Fanfic Thieves on Youtube

A collection of youtube channels have been uploading preexisting fanfictions in videos with little to no credit to the original authors. These are not podfics, these channels copy-paste the fics into text-to-speech readers then upload the unaltered audio over static or unrelated backgrounds, either art that is also stolen or mobile game footage. In addition to not naming the authors, they alter the title to make it that much harder for readers to recognize or find the original uploads. Some go so far as to pretend they themselves are creating the fics in question. Many claim that their stealing actually helps give fics "exposure" despite the intentional steps they take to conceal the origins of the fics they profit off of. However, this practice has lead many authors to discontinue fics after the frustration of having their hard work stolen. Many of these channels claim they will remove videos upon request, but will either argue with the author in order to keep it up, or simply unlist the video for a time until they think the author isn't paying attention anymore. And their solution to receiving strikes against their channels in the past has been to further obfuscate the origins of their content instead of even considering asking first.

”I got caught stealing, so instead of not stealing anymore, I’m doubling down on stealing even more so it’s harder for people to find out and prove I’m stealing. Stealing doesn't count if the specific person I stole from didn't call me out. I am the real victim.”

That, plus the incessant tag scumming in all the videos (spamming unrelated tags in order to appear in more search results) proves to me that these are lazy attention seekers who don't want to put in creative effort when they could just leech off of the passion of others.

In order to report them, go to their channel's "About" page and click the flag icon. Said icon might be behind the three dots in the top bar on mobile. Go to "Report User" at the bottom and tick the "spam and scams" button. This will allow you to list multiple videos as offenders instead of reporting them individually. Youtube's policy states that video spam constitutes:

Massively uploading content that you scraped from other creators.

Auto-generated content that computers post without regard for quality or viewer experience.

If you recognize one of your fics among the stolen, say so in the additional comments box, and perhaps call out the channel directly in the video's comments. If you recognize someone else's fic, please let the original author know so they can report the channel as well. Many have been confronted for stealing previously and refuse to admit wrongdoing.

Most of what I've found has been My Hero Academia fics since that's my fandom and those are the ones I can recognize as stolen, but there are many other channels that steal from other fandoms, so I invite anyone and everyone to reblog this with their own findings.

The reality is that this extremely low-effort content and new youtube channels are both very easy to make, so most likely they'll start new channels once the ones on this list are run through. But hopefully, if we all work together and keep whacking these moles, perhaps we can instill that same defeatism they caused so many creators who didn't deserve it, and eventually they'll give up.

My sincerest thanks to everyone who helped bring additional channels to my attention. A special thanks to ao3 user InArduisFidelis who brought the initial attention to the issue, and @owlf45 whose work was stolen.

Links under the cut.

YurikoFanfics - Not only stole content, but acted in comments as though they were the one writing these stories.

https://href.li/?https://www.youtube.com/@YurikoFanfics

What-IF-Anime - Has the exact same "disclaimer" about not being the original author as the one above. Either they're the same person or the thieves are stealing from each other.

https://href.li/?https://www.youtube.com/@What-IF-Anime

quirkywhatif7 - Either an alt of the above, or all these people are talking to one another because this one made a community post identical to a comment the one above made in response to being called out (the above screenshots).

https://www.youtube.com/@quirkywhatif7/about

DekuFanfic - It's the same fucking guy again.

https://www.youtube.com/@DekuFanfic/about

InfiniteParadoxfanfics - Nothing notable, same deal as the others.

https://href.li/?https://www.youtube.com/@InfiniteParadoxfanfics/about

WhatIfAnimeChannel - Admits in their community posts that other people write the fics they post but still doesn't give credit. Migrated to a new channel after issues with youtube, likely being flagged previously.

https://href.li/?https://www.youtube.com/@WhatIfAnimeChannel/about

WhatIfAnimeAll - Alt of above.

https://href.li/?https://www.youtube.com/@WhatIfAnimeAll

FWNWorld - Makes sure to tell you that the videogame footage is theirs, but can't bother to credit anyone else.

https://href.li/?https://www.youtube.com/@FWNWorld/about

WTFW - Claims to have "[A] team of talented writers, voice actors, and artists work together to create immersive fan fiction stories that are sure to captivate your imagination." Just the same test-to-speech stolen content over videogames. So straight up lying claiming that everything is theirs (and that anything they make is quality).

https://href.li/?https://www.youtube.com/@WTFW

MHA2.0Fanfics - Lots of crossover theft.

https://www.youtube.com/@MHA2.0Fanfics/about

Collerwhatiif - Pretty sure this one is the same guy as the previous 2, also has one for another fandom.

https://www.youtube.com/@Collerwhatiif/about

https://www.youtube.com/@GoJoFanfiction/videos

ko_sensei - Another that claims to have a "team" that makes the stories they steal: " passionate about creating compelling and engaging fanfiction that explores the various "what ifs" in the anime universe."

https://www.youtube.com/@ko_sensei/about

FantasticWhatIf - Multifandom stealing, uses the exact same bs disclaimer as many others.

https://www.youtube.com/@FantasticWhatIf/about

LettuceHeadFanfics - No credit, no acknowledgement of anything. Next one is an alt.

https://www.youtube.com/@LettuceHeadFanfics/about

brocollifanfics - Alt of above, once again admits to stealing with a declaration of "☆If you want to takedown any videos. You can mail us or leave a comment below the video☆"

https://www.youtube.com/@brocollifanfics/about

whatifofficial786 - Focuses on MHA/Naruto crossovers. Identical format.

https://www.youtube.com/@whatifofficial786/about

NotWhatIf - I've lost track of who's an alt of who but yet another identical format, descriptions, and bullshit claims of "enhancing the viewer experience" by putting a robot voice over bootleg fortnite footage.

https://www.youtube.com/@NotWhatIf/about

weebxds - Same again.

https://www.youtube.com/@weebxds/about

ItachiFanfics - Naruto channel, we can at least confirm that this one is run by a human given the rare different descriptions and a real voice at the beginning of videos before the robot comes back.

https://www.youtube.com/@ItachiFanfics/about

WhatIfDN - As if mockingly, a bunch of videos have a "credit" section in their descriptions that is of course blank.

https://www.youtube.com/@WhatIfDN/about

SpiceandBooks and spiceandfiction - Apparently Youtube itself has started picking up on the bullshit, because this multifandom channel is being dinged as ai spam so they started a new one.

https://www.youtube.com/@SpiceandBooks/about

https://www.youtube.com/@spiceandfiction/about

theoriginalastra - Doesn't even bother with disclaimers, the following are multiple alts/potential alts for different fandoms.

https://www.youtube.com/@theoriginalastra/about

SillySenpai12 - Highschool DXD alt.

https://www.youtube.com/@SillySenpai12/about

RosieRealms - Naruto alt.

https://www.youtube.com/@RosieRealms/about

DekuWhatIfs - Potentially another astra alt but not sure, doesn't matter because all these channels do the same thing anyway.

AnimeStark688 - No credits or disclaimers.

https://www.youtube.com/@AnimeStark688/about

Please take the time to report these channels, spread this post around, and reblog with any additional offending channels you find.

[literaryvein-reblogs]

How would you go about writing in different languages? I struggle with a part where a group of characters are speaking in a language one of the mains does not know and the other one does, but i wish the reader knew what is being talked about. Another aspect is switching between languages when something is meant for the nonspeaker.

A expression in like of "switches to german" fills me with cringe and i feel like just wroting the part in german and adding translation is too confusing

Thanks for all the help with all the advice posted!

Writing Ideas: Using Different Languages in your Story

Keep both languages. Simply repeat the phrase. If you want your readers to understand the exact meanings of words from your source language, you can provide translations within the text. This strategy requires a lot of work for just a couple words, so it’s not practical to use it for large chunks of language. It works great if you only need to focus on a few crucial words.

Sprinkling of foreign language. Write in English, and use the foreign language as little as possible. If you can cut the foreign word out of the sentence without hurting anything, you’re probably fine. But if the meaning of the foreign word is key to understanding the sentence, then rework it.

Provide a glossary. The textbook method. The most comprehensive approach is to provide a glossary of non-English words used in your book. Nonfiction authors use glossaries much more often than fiction writers do. It might be an inappropriate solution if you are writing a lighter book. On the other hand, if your goal is complex cultural understanding, then this approach is by far the most thorough. Downside: The glossary approach requires significant reader buy-in. Not all readers will want to stop mid-paragraph to find a definition in a glossary.

Transliteration. Stick to one alphabet. Transliteration—the process of converting writing into a different alphabet—is a different issue than translation. Unless you have a specific, important reason to include words written in anything other than the Roman alphabet, transliteration is a more effective tactic. Things are more complicated when you are working with a language that does not share the Roman alphabet with English. Any English-reader can sound out Spanish words. The same isn’t true words written in Cyrillic or Hebrew text.

Don't fake it. Respect the language. Sometimes a project requires you to interact with a language you have no knowledge of. The simplest answer is to stick with the full translation method. This will allow you to bypass the problem altogether. However, if your project requires the actual inclusion of another language, you will have to do one of 2 things: (a) Consult a native speaker. (b) Study the language.

Play with language. In your first draft, you can let language run free. Write dialogue and narration in whatever way makes sense for your characters, your setting, and your own writing process. The collision of languages might lead you to unexpected and interesting places. You can—and will—worry about clarity problems when you get to the revision stage. Feedback from beta readers will help you determine what needs to be done for reader comprehension. If you find that you need to bring in any of the other strategies, you can do so at any point.

Full translation. Write it in English. Just because characters are speaking a language other than English does not necessarily mean that you need to actually write non-English words. Often, it is enough to simply indicate that a conversation is happening in another language. You can relate the speech through indirect dialogue. You can simply report the content of the speech, not delivering an exact quote. Because indirect dialogue is understood to be summary, it buys you leeway in how you render the translation. There is no expectation that you are capturing the actual words as spoken. But the full translation method can be used with direct dialogue as well. The 2 main types of translation: (a) Word-for-word translation is more literal, as it sticks to the strict meaning of source language words. (b) Sense-for-sense translation is looser, as it focuses on communicating ideas in the target language.

Narrative summary. Don't use this technique for crucial turning points in a scene. It's more of a shortcut so that you can get the point across quickly and then move on to the good stuff. But if all you need to do is get the point across quickly, then go ahead and summarize it. Sometimes, it's the most economical way to keep the story going, especially if your character doesn’t speak the language. What you lose in style you’ll gain in pace.

Untranslated. Some words are essentially untranslatable. Let it be. If you are depicting a language community where English and another language are routinely mixed together, you might leave some words untranslated. (This strategy can also apply when writing about a language community where people speak different forms of English.) The benefit of capturing the sound of speech can outweigh any reader confusion. Further, you might be writing for an audience who is used to hearing this mix of language.

Sources: 1 2 ⚜ More: References ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs

Here are some tips from the sources linked above. You can also find some examples using these strategies in the original articles. Try some of them and choose which ones suit your story. All the best with your writing!

[sweetkpopmusings]

dokyeom best friend headcanons <3

a/n: back at it again (finally) with best friend seventeen !!! one day i will finish all of these hcs and the boyfriend ones too.....until that day, please enjoy hundreds of words that represent my love for sweet dokyeom!!! pics not mine~

content: fluff | wc: 0.9k | warnings: none! | pairing: bestfriend!dokyeom x gn!reader | requests:open

dokyeom is sunshine personified which means he is literally the best friend anyone can ask for

like hello ??? a happiness virus by your side at all times ??? an angel being just a quick text or phone call away ??? a dream come true if you ask me 

he is a very sweet, casual best friend

he is so thoughtful, and he’s always checking up on you

but it’s not through grand gestures or cinematic speeches

he will text you during the day to see how you’re doing, remind you to drink water, or even ask about your chores (and if he can come over and “help” aka distract you lol)

dokyeom just cares so much about you :-( like you’re his BESTIE and he refuses to accept you having anything other than a perfect day every day

which means he is the absolute best source of comfort

he will always be a shoulder to cry on or a listening ear

and he comforts you in the ways that you respond to best

want advice? he’ll stay up for hours talking through all the possible solutions with you. want to vent? he will listen intently and validate every single feeling you have. want to forget about the world for a while? he’s taking you out to do your favorite activities or staying in with you and binging your favorite content to escape from the stresses of reality

dokyeom isn’t afraid to ask how he can support you best either like he’s always working to be the best friend he can be

and he is HONORED every time you support him

sweet baby actually cries whenever you’re there for him like he is so so grateful 

he can’t believe he’s lucky enough to have an amazing person like you as his closest friend

usually while you’re comforting him he’ll thank you profusely, cry, laugh at the fact he’s crying over how much he loves you YET again, and smile like everything is fixed

everything IS fixed when you’re by his side actually <333 dokyeom tells you this constantly and he means it.

okay back to him being literal sunshine because im getting emotional lolol

dokyeom laughs at EVERY. SINGLE. JOKE. YOU. MAKE.

like even if it's not that funny, he finds you trying to be funny so hilarious that he's giving you no less than a hearty chuckle for every joke or joke-adjacent thing you say

if you say something particularly funny, he is throwing himself onto the nearest surface (which could very well be you, if you're standing/sitting near each other) and cackling while smacking his hand down repeatedly because he just can't take The Comedy

deadass you're his favorite comedian 

and he LOVES to do bits with you!!!

y'all have a whole repertoire to pull out at any moment that calls for it or whenever you're in the mood

lowkey hoshi gets jealous but it’s fine because you and dokyeom let him in on the bits sometimes 

obviously he is THRILLED any time you laugh at one of his jokes

which is constantly because hello ?? he is a strange and silly boy like you are entertained 25/8

sometimes you two have to ditch your plans entirely because you get so caught up in joking around with each other you lose track of time

these are dokyeom’s favorite hangouts <33 he LOVES being in your own world together :,,,-)

lowkey he gets jealous if you spend a lot of time with any of his members

it’s not super serious, but he definitely pouts

that’s MY y/n !!! they’re MY best friend !!! not YOURS !!!

it’s so endearing because he’s like a little kid who doesn’t want his friend playing with anyone else on the playground

he becomes the most excited puppy when you pay attention to him again though

the members tease him for this behavior but he just reminds them they don’t get it because you’re not their best friend >:-)

talk about a hype man

dokyeom is 1384302094503% dedicated to making you feel confident

he thinks you are incredible inside and out and he will not accept it if you don’t agree

whether he needs to buy you an entirely new wardrobe or script a full presentation on why you are the best person ever, dokyeom is Locked In on the loving y/n agenda 

your reputation absolutely precedes you whenever you meet someone from dokyeom’s life

they know all about you and are immediately obsessed with you because of everything dokyeom has told them

dokyeom will be by your side, smiling brightly, relishing in how much they already love you

he’ll even suggest stories for you to tell when you’re having conversations in a group because he knows how to highlight your best moments

honestly he would totally have a stan account for you and make “y/n funniest moments” compilations and things of that nature

he’s your #1 fangirl and he takes that role VERY seriously

why ?? because one of the proudest achievements in dokyeom’s life is being your best friend :,-) <333333

UGH i love dokyeom so much he is the sweetest boy ever and i need to look at pictures of his beautiful smile and cry because i’m so grateful to be in the world at the same time as him <3333

dokyeom if you’re taking applications for additional friends please let me know i’m eager to take advantage of this exciting opportunity

[thejakeformerlyknownasprince]

Writing Advice #?: Don’t write out accents.

The Surface-Level Problem: It’s distracting at best, illegible at worst. 

The following passage from Sons and Lovers has never made a whit of sense to me:

“I ham, Walter, my lad,’ ’e says; ‘ta’e which on ’em ter’s a mind.’ An’ so I took one, an’ thanked ’im. I didn’t like ter shake it afore ’is eyes, but ’e says, ‘Tha’d better ma’e sure it’s a good un. An’ so, yer see, I knowed it was.’”

There’s almost certainly a point to that dialogue — plot, character, theme — but I could not figure out what the words were meant to be, and gave up on the book.  At a lesser extreme, most of Quincey’s lines from Dracula (“I know I ain’t good enough to regulate the fixin’s of your little shoes”) cause American readers to sputter into laughter, which isn’t ideal for a character who is supposed to be sweet and tragic.  Accents-written-out draw attention to mechanical qualities of the text.

Solution #1: Use indicators outside of the quote marks to describe how a character talks.  An Atlanta accent can be “drawling” and a London one “clipped”; a Princeton one can sound “stiff” and a Newark one “relaxed.”  Do they exaggerate their vowels more (North America) or their consonants more (U.K., north Africa)?  Do they sound happy, melodious, frustrated?

The Deeper Problem: It’s ignorant at best, and classist/racist/xenophobic at worst.

You pretty much never see authors writing out their own accents — to the person who has the accent, the words just sound like words.  It’s only when the accent is somehow “other” to the author that it gets written out.

And the accents that we consider “other” and “wrong” (even if no one ever uses those words, the decision to deliberately misspell words still conveys it) are pretty much never the ones from wealthy and educated parts of the country.  Instead, the accents with misspelled words and awkward inflection are those from other countries, from other social classes, from other ethnicities.  If your Maine characters speak normally and your Florida characters have grammatical errors, then you have conveyed what you consider to be correct and normal speech.  We know what J.K. Rowling thinks of French-accented English, because it’s dripping off of Fleur Delacour’s every line.

At the bizarre extreme, we see inappropriate application of North U.K. and South U.S.-isms to every uneducated and/or poor character ever to appear in fan fic.  When wanting to get across that Steve Rogers is a simple Brooklyn boy, MCU fans have him slip into “mustn’t” and “we is.”  When conveying that Robin 2.0 is raised poor in Newark, he uses “ain’t” and “y’all” and “din.”  Never mind that Iron Man is from Manhattan, or that Robin 3.0 is raised wealthy in Newark; neither of them ever gets a written-out accent.

Solution #2: A little word choice can go a long way, and a little research can go even further.  Listen carefully to the way people talk — on the bus, in a café, on unscripted YouTube — and write down their exact word choice.  “We good” literally means the same thing as “no thank you,” but one’s a lot more formal than the other.  “Ain’t” is a perfectly good synonym for “am not,” but not everyone will use it.

The Obscure Problem: It’s not even how people talk.

Look at how auto-transcription software messes up speaking styles, and it’s obvious that no one pronounces every spoken sound in every word that comes out of their mouth.  Consider how Americans say “you all right?”; 99% of us actually say something like “yait?”, using tone and head tilt to convey meaning.  Politicians speak very formally; friends at bars speak very informally.

An example: I’m from Baltimore, Maryland.  Unless I’m speaking to an American from Texas, in which case I’m from “Baltmore, Marlind.”  Unless I’m speaking to an American from Pennsylvania, in which case I’m from “Balmore, Marlin.”  If I’m speaking to a fellow Marylander, I’m of course from “Bamor.”  (If I’m speaking to a non-American, I’m of course from “Washington D.C.”)  Trying to capture every phoneme of change from moment to moment and setting to setting would be ridiculous; better just to say I inflect more when talking to people from outside my region.

When you write out an accent, you insert yourself, the writer, as an implied listener.  You inflict your value judgments and your linguistic ear on the reader, and you take away from the story.

Solution #3: When in doubt, just write the dialogue how you would talk.

[skeletondeerart]

Sacred Waters, Sacred Hearts Chapter 8

A Male OC! Metkayina x Fem Human! Reader | Word Count: 2160 words

Masterlist & join the taglist

A/N: Both Rukan and reader are in their mid 20's | ALSO sorry I fell of the face of the planet for like a month... life is busy. ANYway, time for the Rukan and the reader to reunite!!! Some exciting stuff this chapter :)

" " = direct speech | ' ' = Metkayina sign language | Bold = English

POV (Y/N)

The lab lights bathed everything in a pale, sterile light. I followed closely behind Norm, who was in his human body, as he took me into the room housing the avatar tanks. My eyes flitted over Grace’s avatar suspended in the solution with a melancholic gaze. Yet on this occasion, I wasn’t here to voice my respects… I was here to view my avatar for the first time.

Norm gestures to the final tank in the room, multiple monitors were set up to display the avatar’s vital signs - temperature, pulse, breathing, and blood pressure all of which were shown in green text so I knew everything was going smoothly. I tentatively approach, my reflection bouncing off the curved glass of the cylindrical tank. I stepped closer, my heart thudding against my ribs as I peered into the solution. There, floating in the gentle currents, was her, or me I guess - the infant form of my Metkayina avatar. 

Her tiny form bore a broad chest and long limbs with wide forearm fins built for the harsh waters of Pandora. The solution nudged her slightly as her face lulled to face me, the resemblance was uncanny, she had my face shape, the same lips even the same lashes and some faint eyebrows… it was starting to feel real. Her rippling markings were slowly emerging, they were faint right now but I knew they would gain their colour as she grew. She was beautiful, my eyes became misty as I watched her ebb with the gentle push and pull of the solution. All I ever wanted was to reach my hand into the tank and caress the short inky strands sprouting from her scalp.

Her chest fluttered with practising ‘breaths’ as the umbilical cord pulsed with life, her small webbed fingers twitched slightly like she was dreaming. I pressed my hand against the glass, not caring if I left handprints on the pristine glass, my fingers splaying out as if I could somehow reach her… cradle her in my arms… bond with her. She was so small, so fragile, yet so full of potential. My throat tightened as the weight of it hit me - this was my future, I could bond with Pandora as Eywa intended. I couldn't help but dream of the day I would swim with her… as her. But right now, she was just a delicate promise suspended in a tank, waiting for her to take her first breath, first dive… and I will be ready for her when that time comes.

I’m pulled from my stupor by Norm’s gentle voice. “Beautiful isn’t she, not a single complication. She's growing strong and healthy. I can see your features in her already.” he stated with a warm accomplished smile. “We have worked tirelessly to ensure she's developing correctly. Her lungs are on track, her fins are enlarging daily, and her tail is beginning to develop its paddle. Vital signs are steady. She’s one healthy baby girl!” Norm proudly rattles off the diagnostics from his tablet. His excitement is infectious. I grin, unable to take my eyes off her. Eighteen months to go… I think, mentally counting down the days. 

POV Rukan

The waves lapped at my feet as I carved another tally mark into a shell with my knife. Three weeks have passed since (Y/N) was taken for treatment and I began to grow restless. The days seem to drag on longer now that she’s gone, weeks stretching into the next with the same endless monotony. I’m staring out in the direction of the Omaticaya Clan more often than I’d like to admit, my gaze always drawn to the horizon where the forest meets the beach. Somewhere out there (Y/N) is recovering, but every moment without her feels like I’m desperately swimming to the surface trying to catch my breath, just waiting for her to return.

I can still hear her laugh - soft and genuine. She made everything feel… lighter, she could make any boring task the most fun I’ve ever had. Without her, the ocean feels quieter. Even Säyani’s presence, usually so overwhelming, can’t fill the space she left behind in my mind.

I shake my head pushing my damp fringe from my eyes. I was frustrated with myself. I’m being foolish. She’s only been gone three weeks. But the time apart has made me realise how much I’ve come to rely on her steady presence.

Yet all I can do is wait, watch the tides roll in and out, and hope that Eywa brings her back to me soon.

“Ru! Come out with us!” My ears prick up at Säyani’s voice ringing out. I sigh as I sheathe my knife pushing myself to stand with a groan, my feet tingle after sitting cross-legged for an hour now just reminiscing.

“Coming,” I say unenthusiastically as I pick up a light jog to meet with her little group of girls. I could tell they were trying to impress me. It didn't feel genuine. I flash a polite smile, unconvinced as Säyani eagerly took my hand into her own and dragged us over to a pod of Ilu. I bond with one and we all set out deeper into the reef. The girls do tricks and show off, seawater cascading around them elegantly as they breach the surface. I can’t help but have some fun as I urge my Ilu to leap into the air and splash causing a wave to wash over the girls. My chest rumbles with laughter as I watch them cry in surprise tumbling off their Ilu’s in a flurry of limbs. 

"Rukan!" Arohi squeals, her voice light with amusement. She’s already half-submerged, her legs sticking awkwardly above the water. Her short ponytail floats behind her, and a playful smile dances on her lips. Her pale markings crease with joy.

"Rukaann!" Tsevi yells, her voice high-pitched with mock annoyance. Her thigh-length goddess braids are tangled from the tumble, she glares at me with her piercing pale eyes contrasting greatly against her rich markings. She scowls, but I can see the glimmer of competition in her, eager to get me back.

"I hate you, Ru!" Säyani exclaims, her headpiece askew, shooting me an exaggerated pout. She swims up to me, her movements sharp with determination as she throws a half-hearted punch toward my shoulder. As it connects, I laugh it off. Her arms flail in the water as she splashes me back, grinning despite herself. “Alright girls, let's head off” She huffed “Ru is being a pain anyways-” She ordered as the girls rolled their eyes and swam down the reef wall with Säyani. My gaze soon drifted across the ocean towards (Y/N)’s mauri and I couldn’t help but urge my Ilu forward as if drawn in by a siren’s call.  

The familiar waters gave way to the beach where her mauri resided. I expected it to still be in ruin but was taken back to see a shiny new pod standing on the shore and the debris cleared. It was like nothing ever happened, I went up to investigate only to see tawtute boot print marks in the wet sand and I hummed in curiosity. They were here recently. I crouched down tracing the strange prints before the clattering of helicopter blades abruptly pulled me from my thoughts. I dove off the pier into the waves in a mindless panic. My teal skin blended seamlessly into the waters as I hid in the corals. My eyes widen as I watch the helicopter land with a thud. But to my surprise, a familiar face steps down onto the sandy shore, she brushes stray hairs from her mask as she turns to stare at the ocean.

My breath caught in my throat as the figure turned around, allowing me to catch a glimpse of her features. The sun beat down, basking her in an ethereal glow. (Y/N). She had finally returned to me.

For a moment,  my body floated motionless as if I was paralysed. She looked like the girl I bid goodbye to just a few weeks ago, yet she seemed to hold herself in a new light - like she carried a newfound weight. My fingers clutched the coral as she took a slow, hesitant step forward, scanning the beach like she wasn’t sure she was welcome here after such a long time.

I should have rushed forward and called her name. But something held me back. I had spent so long imagining this moment, picturing the day she would return to me. Now that she was here, my chest tightened with something I couldn’t name.

Then, her gaze flickered to the water, her brows furrowing as she squinted through the water. My cover was blown as I stared at her through the water like a stunned mullet.

“Rukan?” she called, her voice cutting through the roar of the helicopter blades with an excited lilt.

I exhaled sharply as bubbles rose to the surface. Pushing off the coral, I swam toward her. The water dripped from my skin as I pulled myself onto the shore, furiously racking my fingers through my curls trying desperately to make myself more presentable. My teal fingers sink into the damp sand as I push myself to stand before her. 

(Y/N) stood there, hands on her hips, a lopsided grin tugging at her lips. For a moment, neither of us spoke. My mouth opened, yet no words came out.

The silence shattered as she spoke with a grin. “You should see your face right now Ru.”

I blink owlishly, my tail flicking behind me in embarrassment. “I-” I start trying to defend myself.

“I was gonna surprise you, you know,” she teased, crossing her arms. “But I guess you beat me to it… I didn’t expect to see you lurking here.”

I scoffed, crossing my arms with a pout. “I wasn’t lurking… I was just on patrol.” I stammered out trying to make a believable excuse for why I was out this far. 

“Oh, you liar.” She said jutting her hip out “You were snooping” she scolded, wagging her finger at me with a knowing grin. Rocking on her heels as she eyed me up and down. “Still my handsome boy, I see.”

Heat crept up my neck as I whipped my head around, astonished at her brazen words. flustered. I pretended to pick the sand from under my nails so I didn't have to look at her teasing grin. Soon we both fell silent as we listened to the lapping waves, the helicopter already far into the distance. 

After another beat of silence, I let out a drawn-out sigh. 

“You… came back,” I mumbled, looking at my feet. Unable to bear watching her crestfallen expression.

“Why wouldn’t I? I promised I’d come back.” She murmured concerned, I peered through my lashes as I watched her curl into herself, unsure where this conversation was going.

“I- uh I don’t know. I thought maybe you would like to be with the other tawtute more than being with me and would decide to stay… ah, don’t listen to me.” I stumble out trying to back out and make her forget about this conversation, I take a step back running my hand down my face angry at myself and how I openly expressed my baseless anxieties like that.

“Oh Ru…” she said softly, her teasing tone faded into something empathetic. “I’ll always come back for you… This is my home, the ocean… and you”

Something thick settled in my throat, an unspoken weight pressing between us as I raised my head to meet her eyes. I wanted to say something - anything - but all that came out was a strangled whimper.

“Why didn’t you tell me of your return?”

(Y/N) winced. “Well, I wanted to. But I had no way of contacting you remember? so I thought it’d be a nice surprise?” She gestured around vaguely trying to find the right words. “Didn’t think I’d nearly give you a heart attack, though.”

I huffed, shaking my head. “You are impossible.”

She grinned. “Yeah, but you missed me anyway.”

My ears flicked, and I tried to keep my face neutral, but the warmth in my chest betrayed me. “A little.”

“Just a little huh?” She laughed, almost stepping forward before hesitating like she wasn’t sure if she should hug me. I took matters into my own hands and strode up to her, embracing her tightly and lifting her to my chest. Her feet dangled but she couldn’t help but huff humorously wrapping her arms around my neck melting into me almost instantly.

“I really did miss you,” she mumbled into my chest.

I sighed, pressing my chin to the top of her head. “I know, me too.”

And just like that, the world felt right again. Just like Eywa intended.

Enjoy the next chapter in my Masterlist! & join the taglist

Taglist! @stag-symbolism @camiicazi @shadyd3ar @cocopuffff @etexin @nanaluvs-me @misplacedvibes @annoyingasexual @royaltysuite @lovemiss-vale @heyitsaliii @lunagala23 @darktrashpoetry @mojo-jojo-1 @samlove391 @ravenswife @ellizzen @nifujiswhore @gingersnap126126 @luckeclover

[mufos-photo-album]

Experiments in Wayfarer Language Visualizations

(Fancy words for "how I plan to represent the Wayfarer language in a webcomic format". Transcript at bottom of post)

[ID: Two screenshots of the Wayfarer language being spoken, represented by a yellow-colored text bubble with Journey symbols underneath the written text]

Up until now, I depicted the Wayfarer language by using some combo of yellow-colored text bubble and over/underlaying some Journey symbols underneath.

When it comes to adapting this for a webcomic, I wanna change this up, since grabbing/cropping the symbols is too time-consuming, but only having a yellow-colored text bubble feels plain (even though it gets the message across that what is being spoken is a different language).

The complexity factor is important to me since the Journey/Wayfarer calls are a lot more layered/complex than other calls in Sky. This auditor[y] aspect is something I wanna convey visually.

Below is the solution I have cooked up for this future problem. No more symbols (unless the contents are deliberately obscured from the reader), and auditor[y] complexity is conveyed by the complexity of the text bubble itself. I hope to make replicating this effect easier for myself in the future by having a template I can trace over.

[ID: A linear scale measuring level of fluency (of the Wayfarer language). The left side is "fluent" and the right side is "doesn't understand". 4 characters are arranged across the scale indicating their level of fluency. Piripu is most fluent, Odiwa's Wayfarer is pretty good, Kucevoz's could use some work, and Mufotsuki doesn't speak Wayfarer. Each of them has a differently styled speech bubble to convey this information.]

This kind of set up would allow for some fun language-based interactions.

Pictured to the left: When everyone at the function is speaking a language you don't understand, and the only word you recognize is your own name.

[ID: A simple doodle of Piripu and Mufotsuki talking. Piripu, in Wayfarer, says: "... It's nice and all, however Mufotsuki tends to talk a lot in her sleep". Mufo, only able to recognize her name, replies: "Are you talking about me...?"]

[adasitecompliance]

AI Influences Web Accessibility

The Future Of AI And Web Accessibility

In our increasingly digital world, equal access to information is crucial. However, many individuals with disabilities face challenges in accessing online content, such as websites, articles, and videos, due to various barriers.

Imagine a world where technology empowers everyone to access information effortlessly, regardless of their abilities. Thanks to artificial intelligence (AI), this vision is becoming a reality. AI is breaking down barriers and making technology more accessible.

By improving information accessibility, AI not only aids individuals with disabilities but also enhances the overall user experience for everyone. ChatGPT-3 has accelerated AI-driven innovation, and while the future of AI and website accessibility is unknown, innovative technologies like GPT-5 have immense potential to enhance accessibility.

We at ADA Site Compliance have a team of accessibility experts who stay updated with the latest regulatory trends and emerging technology. They help organizations like yours ensure that all digital content meets accessibility standards.

Exploring the Future Potential of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) involves creating computer systems designed to mimic human intelligence. A fundamental aspect of AI is machine learning algorithms, a subset that allows computers to learn and evolve based on experience without explicit programming.

Technological advancements have unlocked AI’s vast potential, enabling intelligent devices to perform tasks that once were solely within the realm of human cognition.

What is AI?

To grasp how AI influences web accessibility, we first need to define it.

Artificial Intelligence involves developing software and systems that perform tasks requiring human intelligence. AI achieves this through various technologies, including natural language processing and computer vision. As these functions become more accessible, they benefit society even more

What Are Accessibility Technologies?

Accessibility technologies provide tools and solutions to ensure that people with disabilities can access and use web content effectively. These technologies, including AI-powered tools like chatbots, digital platforms like GPT, screen readers, and alternative input devices, are designed to enhance digital accessibility and foster inclusivity.

Current AI Technologies

AI is rapidly enhancing web accessibility. Improved computer vision algorithms are making it easier for visually impaired users and seniors to understand web content through better descriptions of visual content.

Here are a few examples of current AI technologies:

1. GPT-4:

OpenAI’s newest chatbot, GPT-4, enhances accessibility for third-party companies. In partnership with Be My Eyes, GPT-4 introduces an AI-powered Virtual Volunteer to assist visually impaired individuals.

2. Apple’s Accessibility Features:

Apple continues to set the standard in accessibility with a suite of new tools launched on Global Accessibility Awareness Day. These enhancements include improved Voice Control, customizable Siri options, and a unique Assistive Access mode to simplify device usage for people with motor or cognitive disabilities.

3. Google’s Enhanced Navigation Features:

In October, Google upgraded its navigation features for Google Maps and business pages. These enhancements include wheelchair-accessible walking routes, improved Live View for visually impaired users, and a new identity attribute label to help locate disabled-owned businesses.

4. Natural Language Processing (NLP):

NLP enhances text readability, aiding individuals with cognitive disorders, learning disabilities, and age-related cognitive decline.

Despite these advancements, this cutting-edge technology is not yet perfect. Image recognition still struggles with complex scenes and context, and NLP-based text simplification can sometimes lead to a loss of significance. Nevertheless, these developments represent a promising beginning for enhanced digital accessibility.

Examples of How AI Enhances Digital Accessibility

Individuals with visual, auditory, or mobility impairments often face challenges in navigating the digital landscape of the web. Here are some ways AI is making accessibility improvements:

1) Speech Recognition

Speech recognition technology is incredibly beneficial for those with physical limitations, restricted mobility, or typing difficulties. AI-powered speech and voice recognition technologies enable users to control devices and navigate the web using voice commands, significantly enhancing their online accessibility and overall experience.

2) Enhanced Browsing Experience

Did you know that AI-powered virtual assistants and chatbots can significantly enhance online browsing?

These technologies provide personalized support, helping individuals with disabilities access important information and navigate websites more effectively. Accessible websites perform better in search engines but also offer a superior user experience for everyone.

3) AI-Enhanced Visualization for Visually Impaired Users

Imagine a world where images and text describe everything around you. AI-powered screen readers and text-to-speech technologies make written content accessible for visually impaired individuals. Additionally, image recognition systems can describe photos, videos, and live scenes, offering valuable assistance to those with visual impairments.

A crucial accessibility element for visually impaired users is “alt text.” AI can automatically generate alt text for images and videos, ensuring quick and accurate descriptions that describe images. This allows screen readers to interpret and explain on-screen images, making web content more inclusive and accessible.

AI Benefits for Web Accessibility

AI is revolutionizing web accessibility, offering numerous benefits that enhance the online experience for individuals with disabilities. Here are some key advantages AI brings to web accessibility:

a) Enhanced Access

AI has significantly advanced web accessibility for individuals with disabilities. It removes obstacles, enabling users to navigate websites, consume multimedia content more, and engage in online communities more effectively.

b) Boosted Independence and Autonomy

AI empowers individuals with disabilities to use the internet independently. This innovation allows them to manage their online activities without assistance, fostering greater inclusion and promoting autonomy.

Challenges Posed by AI on Web Accessibility

AI enhances online accessibility, but it also introduces several challenges. Here are some key issues AI poses for web accessibility:

i) Accuracy Challenges

Despite advancements, AI often struggles with providing reliable captions, descriptions, translations, and voice recognition. Errors in these areas can make it difficult for users to understand content, thereby limiting the effectiveness of accessibility features.

ii) Over-Reliance

Relying too heavily on AI to improve web accessibility can result in overlooking other essential aspects of accessible design. Use AI alongside comprehensive other accessibility guidelines and principles and not seen as a universal solution.

Future of AI-Driven Web Accessibility

With AI becoming more advanced, it will continue enhancing technology usability and improving web accessibility. Developers will save time and resources when using these tools to discover and fix accessibility issues.

Remember that automated tools cannot guarantee accessibility compliance.

Human knowledge and manual testing by experienced accessibility auditing specialists will still be needed to discover complicated issues and create a fully inclusive user experience for elders and disabled people.

This is where we at ADA Site Compliance can help. We have a team of accessibility experts and web developers who stay updated with the latest regulatory trends to help organizations like yours ensure all web content meets accessibility standards.

For all your website and digital content accessibility needs, contact ADA Site Compliance today!