NTT West to launch voice rights consultation desk for generative AI era

NTT West Corporation’s VOICENCE Company, in collaboration with attorney Tadashi Idei and Kotto-dori Law Office, will launch a ‘Voice Consultation Desk’ on September 28, 2026. The initiative aims to address growing concerns regarding the unauthorized generation and use of voices through generative AI.

According to research by the Right of Publicity Protection Monitoring Organization, over 40,000 instances of unauthorized AI-generated images and videos featuring celebrities and voice actors have been identified, with estimated economic losses ranging from 2 billion to 4.5 billion yen. While the Ministry of Justice released guidelines in August 2026 regarding civil liability for unauthorized use of likeness and voice, these serve as interpretations of existing laws rather than new protective legislation.

The consultation desk will serve performers—including voice actors, actors, artists, and narrators—as well as talent agencies and corporate marketing professionals. It will provide a primary contact point for general knowledge and guidance on ethical AI usage, contract precautions, and initial responses to unauthorized use. While the desk will not provide direct legal judgments, it will refer users to external legal experts when necessary.