Re: Text to Speech API License

nikhiljais

I am considering using the Google Text-to-Speech (TTS) API to generate audio data from my text corpus. The generated audio would be utilized to train an Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) model. This ASR model is intended for integration into a commercial solution, where it will function as the Speech-to-Text (STT) module to recognize user utterances.

Before proceeding, I would like to confirm whether this intended usage complies with Google’s terms of service for the TTS API. Specifically, I am concerned about potential legal or licensing restrictions regarding the use of generated audio data for training models.

My concern arises from the information provided in the following article: (URL Removed by Staff)
The article states that while customers may use the audio generated via Google TTS technology freely, it is not permitted to use the service to train another speech synthesis algorithm or to improve a competing product.

Given this context, could you please advise whether my intended use case would violate any of Google’s terms?

Thank you for your guidance.

a_aleinikov

Hi @nikhiljais
You're right.
According to Google's Text-to-Speech API Terms of Service, you can use the generated audio for many purposes, but you cannot use it to train a competing speech synthesis (TTS) system or improve one.
However, training an ASR (speech-to-text) model — as you described — is generally allowed, because you are not creating a competing TTS product. That said, for full certainty, it's best to consult Google's official legal documentation or contact Google Cloud support directly, especially since terms may change. Good luck with your project!

nikhiljais

Thanks @a_aleinikov for providing your valuable suggestion.

Can you please let me know how can I connect with Google's official legal documentation team for the same? I tried to connect with Google Cloud support but did not get a satisfactory response.

nikhiljais

@a_aleinikov Can you please let me know how can I connect with Google's official legal documentation team for the same? I tried to connect with Google Cloud support but did not get a satisfactory response.

a_aleinikov

Try this @nikhiljais

https://cloud.google.com/contact
If you have a paid support plan, you can also open a support case directly in the Google Cloud Console.