While AI has many interesting uses, that’s what draws the least attention. It’s what we’re seeing the least of. With the obsession that they can change the world, not only do many of those who advocate for them not realize that it generally only gets worse, but they can also be used to do interesting things. Perhaps not useful economically, but fascinating in creative terms. That doesn’t mean it’s not being done in some cases. Because from Japan, we get a use of AI that is nothing short of amazing.
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Anique, a company based in Tokyo, has created an AI-driven chatbot to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the cult anime and PlayStation game Serial Experiments Lain. To do this, they have used OpenAI, and to train the AI, they used scripts from the original anime series and voice files from Kaori Shimizu, the original voice actress for the protagonist, the eponymous Lain. This way, fans will be able to have real-time conversations with the anime’s protagonist in both English and Japanese. Over time, the AI will grow and learn from these conversations.
If any fan of the series is concerned about its integrity, they shouldn’t be. This project is supervised by Yasuyuki Ueda, the producer of the original anime, who ensures that the AI always strictly adheres to the character of the kind, albeit somewhat taciturn, protagonist.
Anique’s intention is for the personality of the Lain AI to grow over time, both on a personal and general level. Personally, the more conversations we have with her, the friendlier and more open she will become in our exchanges. Additionally, over the coming months, they will introduce different events and new enhancements that will add new layers to the character.
To interact with Lain AI, you only need a Google account. However, there’s a catch. Using a Google account will limit us to sending her 10 messages per day. If we want to interact with her without limits, we’ll need to subscribe for $20 per month or $120 for six months in advance. Because even talking to Lain, 25 years later, comes with a price tag.
