Meta has acquired AI audio startup WaveForms for $160 million to bolster its metaverse and voice technology capabilities. The startup, founded by ex-Meta, OpenAI, and Google veterans, specialized in human-like AI speech synthesis and emotional intelligence. This marks Meta's latest AI-focused acquisition following its purchase of PlayAI, signaling aggressive expansion in digital innovation. The deal has sparked renewed discussions about ethical concerns surrounding AI-generated content, particularly regarding deepfake risks and transparency in synthetic media.