In 2025, AI influencers are on the rise, amassing millions of followers, securing luxury brand collaborations, and surpassing many human creators in engagement. However, emotional trust and authenticity still favor human influencers.
AI-generated personalities like Lil Miquela, Shudu, and Noonoo Uri are transforming the influencer marketing landscape. With advancements in generative AI, 3D design, and machine learning, brands can utilize hyper-realistic avatars to promote their products without the usual complications, delays, or high fees.
Why This is Important:
- Engagement Advantage: AI influencers can achieve engagement rates of up to 3%, outperforming many human creators.
- Round-the-Clock Availability: They operate continuously, never missing deadlines or deviating from brand messaging.
- Cost Efficiency: No travel or accommodations needed, leading to lower long-term costs.
The Limitation
Trust remains a fundamental issue—people still prefer humans.
According to Nielsen, 71% of consumers trust human influencers more than their AI counterparts. Authentic stories, vulnerability, and real-life experiences cannot be replicated, even by the most advanced avatars.
- Younger generations, including Gen Z and Gen Alpha, show a greater openness to AI influencers, particularly in fashion, gaming, and technology.
- Some users engage with virtual influencers unknowingly, mistaking them for real.
- Concerns regarding ethics persist, including issues with transparency, unrealistic beauty ideals, and potential job loss.
A Hybrid Outlook
Brands are now exploring the potential of human-AI combinations, with real influencers leveraging digital twins to expand their content and global audience. Sectors like fashion, gaming, and music are early adopters of this blended approach.
AI influencers won’t replace human creators but are likely here to stay.
In 2025, the most astute brands will blend the consistency and scalability offered by AI with the empathy and authenticity provided by real influencers.
