In this position paper, we argue that baseball-and sports more broadly-provide a unique and under-explored opportunity for researchers to study human-robot interaction (HRI) in real-world settings. Using the rise of robot umpires in baseball as a primary example, we examine emerging themes such as power dynamics among players and umpires, labor implications, and technical challenges. We emphasize the affordances and benefits of studying sports within HRI, including the integration of interdisciplinary perspectives, the large-scale deployment of robots, and the examination of their role in deeply rooted cultural practices.

Celebrities have used their imitated voices in media content for various purposes to entertain audiences. However, it is unclear how their fans perceive media content using synthetic celebrity voices. Fans are dedicated to celebrities and actively communicate with them on social media, sometimes resulting in the establishment of parasocial relationships. Focusing on simulated voice messages that mimic celebrities' communication behaviors, we explored how fans form parasocial relationships through synthetic media content. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 fans who used AI Private Call, an AI-based voice message service that employed K-Pop idols' synthetic voices. Findings show that the nature of synthetic voices could not provide impressive experiences related to their idols. However, participants believe that simulated voice messages can help make up for the limited opportunities to interact directly with idols. Based on the theoretical framework of parasocial relationship development, participants engaged with simulated voice messages, exhibiting various cognitive and behavioral actions that dynamically advanced the relationship. These behaviors include aligning voice content with idols' vocal characteristics, adhering to social norms in interactions, and confirming idols' involvement in content creation to demonstrate a sense of authenticity. Additionally, their communities associated with fandoms affect their experiences throughout the process. Based on the findings, we discuss how simulated voices might impact the relationship between fans and celebrities, highlighting the responsibility of communities and platforms. We also propose design guidelines for creating simulated celebrity voice content that fans can entertain.

In many creator economy platforms, algorithms significantly impact creators’ practices and decisions about their creative expression and monetization. Emerging research suggests that the opacity of the algorithm and platform policies often distract creators from their creative endeavors. To study how algorithmic platforms can be more ‘creator-friendly,’ we conducted a mixed-methods study: interviews (N=14) and a participatory design workshop (N=12) with YouTube creators. Through the interviews, we found how creators’ folk theories of the curation algorithm impact their work strategies — whether they choose to work with or against the algorithm — and the associated challenges in the process. In the workshop, creators explored solution ideas to overcome the aforementioned challenges, such as fostering diverse and creative expressions, achieving success as a creator, and motivating creators to continue their job. Based on these findings, we discuss design opportunities for how algorithmic platforms can support and motivate creators to sustain their creative work.