Explore the Complexities of Human and AI Connection in the New Science Fiction Podcast ‘Selección Natural’

What does the future look like when it comes to AI personalities interacting with humans? This fundamental question of our present day is explored in the new Spotify Original fiction podcast Selección Natural. 

In this science fiction tale, Sofía, an advanced humanoid artificial intelligence robot, embarks on a scientific mission in Antarctica with climate change expert Ismael. Throughout the five episodes, listeners learn that Sofía is not just any AI. She develops feelings and complexities so human that one nearly forgets that Sofía is a machine, resulting in a variety of consequences. 

The Spanish-language podcast is written by Julio Rojas, the creator and screenwriter of the acclaimed series Caso 63. “In Selección Natural, I am keen to explore a pressing question: What will the dynamics be like between a human and a self-aware, emotionally capable machine? What kinds of connections could form? How will power dynamics play out, and ultimately, who will make the decisions?” explains Rojas.

Danna

Sofía is brought to life by Mexican actress, singer, and producer Danna, and Ismael is voiced by Chilean actor Álvaro Rudolphy. 

The series not only examines key questions about the use of artificial intelligence, but it also utilizes AI-based tools for various production aspects. While the script was written by Rojas, he used AI tools to adjust some parts of the protagonist’s content, making her sound more humanoid. Additionally, Sofía’s voice recordings were done in Spotify studios in Los Angeles and then introduced to an AI model to obtain the final voice. The aim of this creative approach was to have a realistic recording of what an AI would sound like. Finally, AI was also used for the podcast’s visual of Sofía. A digital artist and graphic designer specializing in AI design worked with a real portrait of Danna and subjected it to an AI program to create the final character.

Selección Natural is a captivating show that demonstrates the power of AI—both in storytelling format and for production tools. Discover this unique and exciting story of love and connection by listening to the first episode, below.