Artificial intelligence in the Spanish radio ecosystem: perceptions, uses and ethical dilemmas among professionals and audiences

Abstract

Introduction: This article analyzes the perceptions of radio professionals and the Spanish audience regarding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the radio ecosystem, considering its current uses, perceived changes in professional routines, and associated ethical dilemmas. Methodology: A mixed-methods, exploratory approach is adopted, combining semi-structured interviews with ten radio professionals and an online survey of 2,500 radio listeners in Spain. The qualitative phase examines professional discourse on AI in relation to production processes and news practices, while the quantitative phase analyzes audience perceptions, paying particular attention to the acceptance of synthetic voices and generational differences. Results: The results indicate selective acceptance of AI as a support tool for technical and documentary tasks, such as transcription, audio editing, and content management. However, both professionals and the audience show a majority rejection of the use of synthetic voices in news contexts, associating them with lower credibility and authenticity. Statistical analysis confirms the existence of a significant generational gap in the acceptance of AI. Conclusions: The study concludes that AI does not replace radio professionals, but rather redefines their role, reinforcing functions related to editorial judgment, ethical oversight, and mediation between automated systems and audiences. Transparency and human oversight emerge as key principles for the sustainable integration of AI in Spanish radio.