3 days ago
Meet the future of radio: AI RJ Steve
Ravi Muni: The UAE is globally recognised as a hub for innovation, be it in space exploration, renewable energy, or artificial intelligence. The country's commitment to future readiness is evident in its decision to introduce artificial inteligence (AI) courses in schools, preparing the next generation for a digital-first future. In such a bold and visionary environment, it's only fitting that radio keeps pace and Channel 4 Radio Network is doing just that.
'Keeping with the UAE's tech-forward vision, Channel 4 Radio Network proudly launches 'AI RJ Steve' – the UAE's only AI radio jockey on its English station, 104.8 Channel 4 FM.'
Radio thrives on immediacy, intimacy and innovation. It's one of the most agile and adaptive media platforms that constantly evolves to stay ahead of the curve. From analogue to digital, from frequency dials to mobile apps and CarPlay, radio embraces the latest technological advancements like no other. It is a medium built for the audience, shaped by their preferences and driven by their changing needs. And now, as artificial intelligence begins to shape every aspect of modern life, radio is once again ready to lead.
Keeping with the UAE's tech-forward vision, Channel 4 Radio Network proudly launches 'AI RJ Steve' – the UAE's only AI radio jockey on its English station, 104.8 Channel 4 FM. With this revolutionary launch, the network once again sets a benchmark in innovation, audience engagement, and broadcasting excellence.
Since its inception in 1997, Channel 4 Radio Network has continually evolved with changing media consumption habits. We were among the first commercial radio stations to offer a complete package of music, news, RJ talk, sport, business, culture and entertainment updates, appealing to both locals and expats residing in the UAE. We were the first in the region to merge traditional radio with digital interactivity, creating a seamless audio experience on-air and video experience on social media for our listeners. We also led the way as the first radio network in the UAE to launch its own app and expand beyond radio podcasting.
The introduction of AI RJ Steve marks a bold leap into the next era of broadcasting where cutting-edge technology meets compelling storytelling, and where artificial intelligence transforms how audiences connect, engage and experience audio content like never before.
Mohammad Jundi: Powered by advanced generative AI, Steve is designed to deliver a smarter, more interactive radio experience. A lot of attention has gone into Steve's voice, too. It has been carefully crafted to be radio-friendly, emotionally expressive and neutral in accent, making it easily understood by the multicultural audience in the UAE. Steve is built with the same passion and purpose that has kept radio thriving through generations.
For a medium like radio, where content is king, the ability to consistently generate high-quality feature segments with the right delivery, modulation and energy is a game-changer. In many ways, Steve complements our human RJs, and listeners will get a glimpse of this in the Morning Show, where RJ Faris and Georgina will interact with Steve in an exclusive segment.
Listeners can expect a fresh radio experience tailored to the trends and moods of the day. An AI RJ allows us to experiment with newer, more diverse narratives and innovative formats. From intelligent summaries of world events to decoding complex scientific theories in simple words, Steve will make niche topics accessible and entertaining, especially for our younger and knowledge-hungry audiences.
For advertisers, AI RJ Steve opens an exciting new frontier in audio and visual branding. Steve can be programmed to deliver highly customised brand messaging, seamlessly adapting to real-time trends, listener behaviour and topical moments.
What makes Steve stand out is his multi-platform potential. Branded content voiced and performed by the AI RJ can be extended across media ecosystems – from on-air radio features to podcasts, social media snippets, web platforms and even branded RJ videos for product demos and store walkthroughs. This not only enhances brand visibility but also ensures interconnected storytelling and broader reach.
We're incredibly excited to share this next chapter with our listeners and advertisers. Our AI RJ is more than just a tech upgrade; it's a statement of intent. It reaffirms Channel 4 Radio Network's vision to stay ahead of the game and keep delivering innovative, listener-first content in the most engaging ways possible.
The fusion of AI and Radio opens endless possibilities. Steve is our pilot project, and soon we will be launching more AI RJs on our Arabic, Hindi and Malayalam stations.
The future of radio is smarter, faster, more engaging – and it's already on-air. Stay tuned.
By Ravi Muni, Group Deputy CEO & Group CFO – Al Murad Group and Channel 4 Radio Network (right), and Mohammad Jundi, Network Sales Director (left), Channel 4 Radio Network.
