Avatars generated by artificial intelligence are revolutionizing the e-commerce industry in China. In a recent collaboration between tech giant Baidu and popular livestreamer Luo Yonghao, virtual human technology proved to be more successful in selling products than real people. Using digital avatars based on Baidu’s generative AI model, Luo and his co-host Xiao Mu engaged with viewers for over six hours on Baidu’s e-commerce livestreaming platform “Youxuan”, generating a staggering 55 million yuan ($7.65 million) in sales.
This innovative approach to livestreaming marks a significant shift in the way products are marketed and sold online. By leveraging AI avatars, companies can reduce production costs and stream content continuously without the need for breaks. Luo, who initially turned to livestreaming to pay off debts from his struggling smartphone company Smartisan, was amazed by the success of using virtual human technology to drive sales.
The development of AI-generated avatars represents a significant milestone in China’s livestreaming and digital human industry. Baidu’s advanced generative AI model, which draws from years of video data to replicate human mannerisms and style, has set a new standard for digital human technology. This progress signifies a major leap forward from the early days of livestreaming e-commerce.
Livestream shopping has gained momentum in China, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, as businesses seek alternative sales channels. Platforms like Douyin have seen a surge in livestreaming activity, surpassing traditional e-commerce giants like JD.com and Alibaba. The rise of virtual human technology extends beyond e-commerce, with companies like Tencent using digital avatars as news anchors.
While the technology behind virtual human livestreaming has advanced significantly, challenges remain in terms of compliance and platform regulations. Digital humans must adhere to advertising guidelines and platform rules, posing a new set of considerations for companies utilizing this technology. Despite these challenges, the potential for digital humans to reach global audiences in multiple languages highlights the promise of this emerging technology.
As the e-commerce landscape continues to evolve, the success of AI-generated avatars in driving sales underscores the transformative impact of technology on consumer engagement and marketing strategies. With virtual human technology reshaping the way products are marketed and sold online, the future of livestreaming looks increasingly digital and dynamic. The Rise of Sustainable Fashion: A Shift Towards Eco-Friendly Clothing
Sustainable fashion has been gaining momentum in recent years as consumers become more aware of the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry. This shift towards eco-friendly clothing is not only better for the planet, but also for the people who make our clothes.
The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world, with the production of clothing contributing to water pollution, deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions. Fast fashion, in particular, has been criticized for its high levels of waste and exploitation of workers in developing countries.
In response to these issues, many fashion brands are now focusing on sustainability and ethical practices in their production processes. This includes using organic and recycled materials, reducing water and energy usage, and ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for garment workers.
One of the key drivers of the sustainable fashion movement has been the rise of eco-conscious consumers who are willing to pay more for clothing that aligns with their values. According to a study by Nielsen, 73% of millennials are willing to pay extra for sustainable products, and this trend is expected to continue as younger generations become more environmentally conscious.
In addition to consumer demand, governments and non-profit organizations are also playing a role in promoting sustainable fashion. The United Nations has declared 2021 as the International Year of Creative Economy for Sustainable Development, recognizing the importance of the fashion industry in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
There are also a growing number of initiatives and certifications that aim to promote sustainability in the fashion industry, such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI). These organizations work with brands to ensure that their products meet certain environmental and social criteria, and provide consumers with transparency about where their clothes come from.
As the momentum for sustainable fashion continues to grow, there is hope that the industry can become more responsible and transparent in its practices. By choosing eco-friendly clothing and supporting brands that prioritize sustainability, consumers can help drive positive change in the fashion industry and protect the planet for future generations.
