The digital era has been evolving continuously, and within the changing sphere of social media, a new marvel has emerged: virtual influencers. AI technology has reshaped influencer marketing and brand marketing strategies. The spread of virtual influencers raises questions about whether this will affect traditional influencers.
Who is a Virtual Influencer?
Virtual Influencers created by AI and CGI technology have perfect appearances and constant social presence. Digital Virtual influencers such as Miquela, who has 2.6M followers, and Shudu, who has 241K followers, are incredibly detailed.
They have a powerful influence over the audience. They appeal to their followers based on their ability to surpass human limitations and present an idealized state that aligns with their follower’s expectations.
Challenges Faced by Traditional Influencers
The birth of virtual influencers has proved to be a turning point for traditional influencers. Human influencers with authentic and genuine content find it difficult to connect with their fans. According to a survey, 58% of the users follow at least one virtual influencer, and 35% of the participants bought a product recommended by them.
Virtual Influencers based on perfection have raised the question of how human influencers will overcome this bond with their content. Can influencers be human in such a digital era?
The Perks of Virtual Influencers
Life is unpredictable, and so are humans, whereas virtual influencers are not. They are predictable, have flawless images, and are not constrained to aging and life restrictions. These characteristics make them attractive to brands. Moreover, their adaptability made them the apple of the eye. They can quickly adapt themselves to the trends.
The Strength of Human Authenticity
Nevertheless, the genuine emotional connection built by traditional influencers is matchless. Although AI has created virtual influencers flawlessly, the audience relates better to human influencers’ life experiences, flaws, unfiltered emotions, and feelings. Relatability is the only rational or winning edge for traditional influencers in the realms of digitalization.
Collaboration and Integration of the Both Worlds
Virtual influencers have transformed traditional influencers to collaborate or integrate rather than reflecting them as enemies. Change is the single constant in life, so some of the traditional influencers have not only created their virtual personas but also teamed up to have a broader reach. The mixture of both worlds harnesses the strength of authenticity with perfection.
Adaptation and Innovation
Influencer marketing is continuously evolving; this gives rise to innovation and adaptability. The rise of virtual influencers does not mean the decline of traditional influencers. To flourish in influencer marketing, one needs adaptability and an innovative approach, a mixture of the best features from both worlds. In 2024, a modern strategy to craft compelling content is required.
In a nutshell, virtual influencers are the apple of everyone’s eye, yet traditional influencers have retained the matchless human emotional connection. As the digital world evolves, the mutual connection between traditional and virtual influencers forecasts a future where the mixture of both worlds will cater to a diverse audience.
For more such insights, subscribe to Xemoto Media.
