A unique radio experiment in Los Angeles is generating significant buzz as an artificial intelligence avatar captures the hearts of listeners. Broadcasting under the Entravision network, a virtual host named Coyotec not only presents programs in Spanish but also speaks openly about immigrants' rights and concerns. Starting with a weekend show in September 2025, this digital presenter has now become the co-host of the popular program Al Aire y Sin Permiso alongside human broadcaster Geraldine GeeGee Guzman.
Expanding Horizons of AI in Broadcasting
Coyotec's voice and demeanor resonate deeply with listeners, drawing inspiration from the culture of Mexicali and Boyle Heights. The virtual host's Instagram account is also very active, addressing serious topics such as the Dodgers, taco history, the Iran war, migrant workers, and racism. According to station executives, while there was initial uncertainty regarding such a project, the positive response from the audience has established it firmly in the mainstream.
Growing Popularity and Syndication Among Listeners
Recognizing the success of this unique partnership, Entravision expanded the program's broadcast schedule, placing it into the morning prime-time slot. Nielsen ratings indicate that listenership has grown significantly among Gen Z and millennial listeners following syndication across five new markets in California, Nevada, and Texas, with a particularly sharp increase in Hispanic female listenership.
Technical and Creative Development Process
LeaAnna Hernandez, Entravision's executive vice president of AI strategy, detailed the cutting-edge technologies used to build this virtual character. The setup utilizes Claude Haiku for response generation, Eleven Labs to bring the voice to life, ChatGPT for scripting, and Midjourney for visual storyboard creation. Guzman's parents also assisted in refining the Spanish pronunciation to ensure it matches local idioms naturally.
Other Industry Experiments and Future Outlook
This is not the first instance of AI in radio, as stations in Portland and Iowa have previously tested AI DJs, alongside similar ventures in Australia, Poland, and Israel. While this technological shift has raised concerns among some contractors and staff regarding job security, management maintains that the primary goal is to keep traditional radio relevant and vibrant in a changing media landscape.
