AI-Generated Virtual Influencers Gain Traction, Stir Controversy in $21B Content Creator Market
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Aitana Lopez is a fictional, AI-generated "virtual influencer" with 200k+ social media followers. Brands pay $1k for her to promote products.
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Hundreds of virtual influencers created with AI tools are breaking into the $21B content creator economy.
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Human influencers worry virtual ones are cannibalizing their income and livelihoods.
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Agencies creating virtual influencers argue they are just disrupting an overinflated market.
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Brand partnerships between luxury brands and virtual influencers are becoming more common (e.g. Kim Kardashian's brand with Noonoouri).