Edmonton Radio Station Launches AI DJ, Sparking Industry Discussions

A new artificial intelligence (AI) disc jockey named Sarah has begun broadcasting on Edmonton’s SONiC 102.9, marking a notable shift in radio programming. This AI host plays alt-rock music during a two-hour slot on Sunday nights, introducing songs with a blend of humor and personality. Her introduction includes a humorous reference to often being asked about “firmware updates,” suggesting a light-hearted approach to her role.

Rogers Sports & Media, which owns the station, confirmed that Sarah has been on air since a few years ago. The company emphasizes that her presence fills a time slot that previously went without a human DJ, thereby not displacing any current staff. “We’re using the technology to explore opportunities to improve the listener experience on radio during music-only programming,” a spokesperson stated.

The rise of AI hosts like Sarah is part of a broader trend observed in the radio industry, according to Lori Beckstead, a radio and sound studies professor at Toronto Metropolitan University. Beckstead noted that the advancement in AI technology now allows for the creation of voices that can mimic human personality traits, making them sound more relatable to audiences.

While the introduction of AI DJs has garnered interest, it has also raised concerns about the potential implications for human employment in the industry. Beckstead expressed discomfort about the commercialization of AI in this context. “In a commercial enterprise, the goal is to make as much money as possible,” she remarked, advocating for a society where displaced workers could receive a basic income.

The trend is not confined to Edmonton. Chris Byrnes, owner of Byrnes Communications Inc., launched AI hosts, Cleo and Layla, on his Ontario stations two years ago. Byrnes explained that their use was a necessity due to staffing challenges, particularly during overnight shifts. “We can’t find anybody to work overnights,” he noted, highlighting the practicality of integrating AI into their programming.

Initially, Cleo and Layla focused on playing music and discussing weather updates. However, they have evolved to include advertising for other shows and engaging with trending social media topics. “Once every hour, they pick a topic from a platform that scans social media to see what people are talking about,” Byrnes detailed. Their content undergoes a filtration process to eliminate misinformation before it airs.

Despite the innovative use of AI, Byrnes stressed that these programs are not intended to fully replace human talent. His stations have seen between 10,000 to 15,000 listeners overnight, but he believes that embracing AI technology is essential for the future. “I do think that those who don’t embrace AI will end up getting replaced,” he cautioned, recognizing the ubiquitous nature of AI in daily life.

As the radio industry continues to adapt to technological advancements, the introduction of AI hosts like Sarah, Cleo, and Layla raises important questions about the balance between innovation and human employment. The discussions surrounding their roles reflect broader societal changes in how technology is integrated into everyday experiences.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on August 30, 2025.