Auto-Tune
A pitch correction software that adjusts vocal intonation, also used as a deliberate vocal effect.
In Depth
Auto-Tune was created by Andy Hildebrand, an engineer who had previously developed algorithms for oil exploration. When set to subtle correction, it invisibly fixes pitch problems in vocal recordings. When set to zero correction speed, it creates the distinctive robotic vocal effect popularised by Cher and later by T-Pain. Auto-Tune became so ubiquitous in pop music that its artificial sound is now an accepted vocal timbre rather than a correction tool.
Cher's Believe (1998) was the first major hit to use Auto-Tune as an audible effect, and the producers initially tried to keep the technology secret, telling journalists it was a vocoder.