Alexis Conneau, the mind behind ChatGPT's Advanced Voice Mode, has launched a new startup, WaveForms AI, with a mission to bring human-like voice technology to life. The startup has secured $40 million in seed funding, led by Andreessen Horowitz, to develop AI audio products that can rival those of OpenAI and Google.

Conneau's obsession with the movie "Her" has been well-documented, and it's clear that the film's portrayal of a dystopian future where humans develop intimate relationships with AI systems has had a profound impact on his work. However, Conneau is determined to use this technology for good, aiming to create a future where humans can interact with AI in a more natural and human-like way.

WaveForms AI is focused on developing audio LLM (large language model) technology that can process speech and respond in a way that's indistinguishable from human conversation. Conneau believes that this technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with technology, making it more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

The startup's goal is to release AI audio products in 2025 that can compete with the offerings of OpenAI and Google. To achieve this, Conneau is building a team of experts in AI, audio processing, and linguistics. The company is also developing its own foundation models, which will be smaller, less expensive, and faster to run than those currently available.

Conneau's vision for WaveForms AI is not just about creating a more advanced AI system, but about making AI more personable and enjoyable to interact with. He believes that people will choose to interact with AI systems that are more enjoyable and natural to talk to, rather than those that are simply more intelligent.

However, as AI companionship platforms become more popular, there are concerns about the potential risks of addiction and social isolation. Conneau acknowledges these risks and is committed to ensuring that WaveForms AI's technology is developed with the best interests of humans in mind.

Martin Casado, general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, who led the investment in WaveForms AI, believes that the startup's technology has the potential to be a game-changer. "I think it's an important question to study. I will not be surprised if it turns out that [talking to AI] is actually preferable," he said in an interview with TechCrunch.

As WaveForms AI navigates the complex landscape of AI development, it's clear that Conneau's passion and vision for human-like voice technology have the potential to make a significant impact on the industry. With $40 million in funding and a team of experts at the helm, WaveForms AI is poised to bring about a new era of AI interaction that's more natural, enjoyable, and accessible to everyone.