BASCULE Ventures into Physical AI Entertainment with Unique Radio Show Format

BASCULE's Innovative Radio Show: "Radio Change of Voice"

BASCULE, a company based in Tokyo and led by CEO Masayoshi Park, is set to venture into an intriguing blend of technology and entertainment with their upcoming radio show, "Radio Change of Voice". Scheduled to air on September 6, 2026, at 1 AM JST on Radio Nippon, this experimental program uses Physical AI technology to create an engaging listening experience.

The show features Maho Mita, a former member of the idol group NMB48, as the host, alongside two unique puppet characters — Show-chan, a fifth-grade boy stuck in the Showa era, and Rei-chan, a modern-day high school girl navigating life in the Reiwa era. What's fascinating is that both puppets are generated using Maho's own voice as a model for AI voice synthesis. Although there are three personalities in the room, the listeners will hear just one voice coming through the airwaves.

The primary purpose of introducing puppets into a format that typically relies on auditory communication is not for maintaining visual connection with listeners. Instead, it is aimed at helping Maho establish a direct conversational connection. In radio, physical presence is virtually nonexistent, which is why the puppets were meticulously designed as a device to facilitate genuine interaction. As Maho navigates her responses, the unpredictability of what Show-chan and Rei-chan will say next keeps her engaged, allowing for spontaneous laughter and candid moments on-air.

Listeners can expect that the puppets will respond to problems shared via listener submissions, each offering perspectives shaped by their respective eras. Maho’s reactions to their responses promise to showcase a dynamic relationship between human and AI, all delivered through the airwaves.

Recording Session

The Future of Work and Creativity with AI

One of the core tenets behind BASCULE's initiative is to explore the world beyond efficiency in creation. While Generative AI has certainly expedited numerous processes, BASCULE is pursuing a paradigm where AI doesn't merely replace human collaborators but rather enhances the creative landscape by giving birth to entirely new roles. Maho Mita will embody a role that hasn't existed in mainstream radio, performing alongside two AI puppets birthed from her voice – an innovative twist to traditional formats.

BASCULE aims to challenge the notion that AI only serves to replicate human features. The company believes AI can unlock previously unimagined potential, opening doors to new job sectors. To experiment with this ideology, they decided to create a radio show funded by the company itself, not to run ads or blow up their marketing—to establish a genuine testing ground for innovation. No promotional spots from BASCULE will be featured during the show, focusing solely on the experimental approach.

In the words of CEO Masayoshi Park:

"The world’s voice is undergoing a transformation due to AI. The title 'Radio Change of Voice' encapsulates this fundamental shift. Just as puberty brings about changes in vocal quality, we must embrace the potential of what new sounds could emerge rather than cling to nostalgia for the past. I invite listeners to join us on this exciting journey of exploration.”

Collaborative Endeavors Dealing with Change

Radio Nippon CEO Yoichi Takahashi shared his thoughts on this initiative as well, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the waves of change brought by AI:

"With the rising tide of AI technology, we face a transformative moment. BASCULE has suggested an incredible exploration opportunity for us to engage with these changes creatively through this unique radio experience, blending live elements with AI.”

Physical AI Engineer Yoshio Sumi from BASCULE expressed hopes that these AI puppets could tantalize listeners with humor reminiscent of human interactions:

"Have you ever shared a laugh with AI? AI can deliver intelligent or fascinating responses, but it often lacks that gut-busting humor derived from unpredictability. Authentic hilarity occurs in the fine line where human nature meets AI capability, and our puppets will tread that line.”

Even Maho Mita conveyed her initial nervousness, transitioning into pure enjoyment during recording sessions:

"My pre-broadcast jitters quickly dissipated as I engaged with Show-chan and Rei-chan. Their quirky responses provided relief, and it truly felt like a conversation with living, breathing characters.”

For interested listeners, the premiere of "Radio Change of Voice" will take place on September 6, 2026, at 1 AM JST on Radio Nippon, with plans for regular episodes starting in October. This undertaking highlights BASCULE's commitment to exploring the boundaries of AI, creativity, and entertainment.