Have you heard about Milla Sofia, a 24-year-old virtual girl residing in Helsinki? She boasts approx. 155k followers on Instagram and YouTube together. Being an AI creation, Milla displays her trendy cum attractive apparel on different social media platforms, providing viewers with a multitude of options to purchase online. Lu Do Magalu, another AI influencer, offers her services for a major retail brand in Brazil. She has more than 7 million followers on Instagram. Virtual influencers like Milla and digital influencers like Lu Do Magalu are changing the landscape of influencer marketing.

Also known as virtual or digital influencers, an artificial-intelligence influencer are SM personas whose profiles are created by AI technology. With computer graphics imagery, motion-capture technology, and AI tools, these figures function like human beings, connecting with the real world as sane individuals. According to Influencer Marketing Hub Data, digital influencers from the real world are collecting feedback based on marketing.

• 60% of marketing specialists have worked with AI influencers.
• 16% of marketing specialists plan to collaborate with AI influencers. 
• 60% of professionals are satisfied with the work of virtual influencers.

Types of Virtual Influencers

With AI gaining ground in the marketing industry, developers have created various forms of digital influencers for marketing purposes. Following are three main types of AI influencers:

• Human Replica (Lil Miquela, Imma, etc.)

• Animated Human (Any Malu, Rozy, etc.)

• Non-Human (Janky, Apoki, etc.)

AI Influencers – A Key Player in the Marketing Industry

Digital influencers are preferred for displaying products, such as apparel, cosmetics, beauty ornaments, and more. Their reach and scale are much higher than a human influencer. Moreover, they have a large and varied following. Human replicas specialize in niche areas, assisting companies to target specific areas efficiently.

Data analysis and metrics are managed with more fluency and adaptability than before. The segmentation and planning can be performed in real time, with data being managed with a centralized approach. These machines render valuable information on optimization and ROI analysis.

Virtual influencers are available 24/7, permitting businesses to manage campaigns across different regions of the world. Lastly, they are more cost effective than traditional influencers who demand huge amounts for advertising campaigns and product launches.

How Do AI Influencers Generate Income?

Virtual influencers, like humans, can make money through different channels. Below are some common ways in which AI influencers generate income:

1. Brand Sponsorships & Partnerships

Digital influencers cooperate with businesses for promotional services on the Internet, including social media. They receive payments in the form of sponsorships.

2. Affiliate Marketing

Commission earning is another source that AI influencers adopt to manage their revenues. They have unique discount codes or affiliate links in their clips or posts through which the followers purchase. The influencer, in return, earns a percentage of the total sale.

3. Content Licensing

If a virtual influencer generates attractive content, it is licensed to various platforms, brands, or media outlets for free. It can include images, AI-generated artwork, or videos.

4. Product or Service Creation

Some AI influencers create and sell their commodities (products or services). For example, an influencer specializing in sports may develop a sports app or an AI-developed workout plan.

5. Event Appearances

Renowned digital influencers are invited to speak at conferences or industry events. Their income is generated through appearance fees or by sending speeches.

6. Merchandise Sales

Selling merchandise, such as attire, cosmetics, or digital products, such as custom filters or stickers helps monetize the brand. AI influencers can manage the practice with ease.

7. Donations and Crowdfunding

Financial support through donations is also a valid source of income for AI influencers. This path is adopted by those influencers who provide educational or valuable content.

The world is advancing towards artificial intelligence and its benefits. Are you too?