Virtual influencers are transforming social media and influencer marketing. These AI-generated digital personalities interact with audiences like human influencers. They promote brands, engage followers, and create content across social media platforms. Companies use computer-generated personalities to control messaging and maintain brand safety.

Unlike real human influencers, virtual influencers do not face scandals or personal issues. Brands prefer them for marketing campaigns, audience engagement, and creative control. Luxury fashion brands, tech companies, and entertainment industries invest in virtual avatars to connect with digital audiences. These influencers exist only in the virtual world but gain millions of Instagram followers.

AI technology and metaverse advancements help them evolve and improve interaction. The virtual influencer trend continues to grow, shaping the future of social media marketing. This blog will explain their meaning, types, benefits, top influencers, and how brands can create their own virtual persona.

7 Key Takeaways You Should Know

1. Virtual influencers are AI-generated personalities used for social media marketing and brand partnerships.
2. Renowned brands use them to maintain brand safety, creative control, and consistent engagement.
3. These influencers attract millions of followers on Instagram, making them powerful in marketing campaigns.
4. Unlike real human influencers, they exist only in the digital world, ensuring adaptability and longevity.
5. Top virtual influencers like Lil Miquela, Lu of Magalu, and Shudu collaborate with luxury brands and fashion industries.
6. Brands must focus on transparency, authenticity, and ethical compliance when working with virtual models.
7. The future of influencer marketing will see deeper integration of AI and metaverse technology for enhanced audience engagement.

What is a Virtual Influencer?

A virtual influencer is a computer-generated personality that interacts with audiences on social media platforms. These digital influencers look and behave like real human influencers but exist only in the virtual world. They use artificial intelligence and CGI (computer-generated imagery) to create content, engage followers, and promote brands.

Brands design virtual influencers to fit specific marketing strategies. These digital characters have unique personalities, styles, and voices. Some act as fashion models, while others focus on music, gaming, or lifestyle content. Unlike real influencers, virtual influencers offer full creative control and avoid personal controversies.

The virtual influencer or digital human space is growing rapidly. Luxury fashion brands, tech companies, and entertainment industries invest in these AI-driven digital supermodels. Their steady popularity makes them a powerful tool in social media marketing and brand partnerships. Understanding how virtual influencers work helps brands explore new opportunities in the digital world.

Types of Virtual Influencers

Virtual influencers come in different forms. Each type serves a unique purpose in influencer marketing and brand partnerships.

1. AI-Generated Virtual Influencers

These influencers use artificial intelligence to create content and interact with followers. They learn from audience engagement and adapt to trends. AI and metaverse technology power their responses, making them feel more human-like.

2. Animated Virtual Characters

These influencers look like cartoon or anime-style avatars. Brands use them for marketing campaigns, digital entertainment, and social media presence. Their designs often reflect Japanese culture and the gaming industry.

3. Human-Assisted Virtual Influencers

These influencers have computer-generated appearances but are managed by real people. Creative agencies script their responses, plan content, and handle brand deals. This approach ensures a balance between automation and human touch.

4. Hybrid Virtual Influencers

These influencers combine real human influencers with virtual personas. They use CGI technology to enhance real-life content with digital elements. Brands use them for luxury fashion brands, digital marketing, and creative campaigns.

Understanding the types of virtual influencers helps brands choose the right one for their target audience and brand image.

How Do Virtual Influencers Work?

Virtual influencers use artificial intelligence, CGI, and deep learning technology to create content and engage audiences. They appear on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, just like real human influencers.

Brands and creative agencies control their actions. Teams of designers, marketers, and software developers manage their appearances, voices, and posts. AI-generated influencers respond to comments and interact with followers using pre-programmed or AI-driven responses.

These computer-generated personalities collaborate with leading brands for marketing campaigns and brand partnerships. They promote fashion brands, tech advancements, and lifestyle products while maintaining brand safety and audience sentiment.

Unlike real influencers, virtual influencers do not age, have scandals, or require breaks. Their content remains consistent, adaptable, and fully customizable. Brands use them for digital marketing, audience engagement, and influencer marketing strategies.

Understanding the types of virtual influencers in synthetic media helps brands choose the right one for their target audience and brand image.

Top 12 Virtual Influencers in 2025

Virtual influencers are reshaping the digital marketing landscape. Brands collaborate with these AI-generated personas to engage audiences and promote products. Here are some of the leading virtual influencers:

1. Lu do Magalu (@magazineluiza)

• Followers: 7.1 million on Instagram
• Country: Brazil
• Traits: Friendly and relatable brand ambassador for Magazine Luiza
• Creator: Frederico Trajano, CEO of Magazine Luiza
• Overview: Lu do Magalu, created in 2009, is one of the earliest virtual influencers. She engages her audience with unboxing videos, product reviews, and software tips, primarily appealing to the Brazilian market.

2. Lil Miquela (@lilmiquela)

• Followers: 2.6 million on Instagram, 3.4 million on TikTok
• Country: United States
• Traits: Virtual model and singer
• Creator: Brud, an American AI company
• Overview: Miquela Sousa, known as Lil Miquela, is a 19-year-old Brazilian-American virtual influencer. She has collaborated with high-end fashion brands like Prada and Calvin Klein and has been featured in various media outlets, including Vogue and The Guardian.

3. Barbie (@barbie)

• Followers: 3.5 million on Instagram, 12.4 million on YouTube
• Country: United States
• Traits: Empowering and fashionable icon
• Creator: Mattel
• Overview: The iconic Barbie doll has transitioned into a virtual influencer, sharing fashion-forward content and promoting empowerment to a diverse audience.

4. Guggimon (@guggimon)

• Followers: 1.3 million on Instagram, 11.7 million on TikTok (shared with Janky)
• Country: United States
• Traits: Dark humor and edgy style
• Creator: Superplastic
• Overview: Guggimon is known for his edgy personality and dark humor. He has collaborated with various brands and has a significant following on social media platforms.

5. Any Malu (@anymalu_real)

• Followers: 705,000 on Instagram, 2.6 million on TikTok
• Country: Brazil
• Traits: Energetic and relatable, appealing to Brazilian culture
• Creator: Combo Estúdio
• Overview: Any Malu is an animated virtual influencer who shares energetic and relatable content, resonating with the Brazilian audience.

6. Nikuro (@liam_nikuro)

• Followers: 11.7K on Instagram, 1.4K on X
• Country: Japan
• Traits: Music-focused and mysterious
• Creator: 1sec Inc.
• Overview: Nikuro is Japan's first male virtual influencer, known for his passion for music and enigmatic online presence. He engages with his audience through music-related content and has collaborated with various brands in the entertainment industry.

7. Shudu (@shudu.gram)

• Followers: 239K on Instagram
• Country: United States
• Traits: Elegant high-fashion model, promoting Black beauty
• Creator: Cameron-James Wilson
• Overview: Shudu is celebrated as the world's first Black virtual supermodel. Created in 2017, she has collaborated with luxury brands like Balmain and graced the cover of Vogue Czechoslovakia, embodying elegance and modern design.

8. Janky (@janky)

• Followers: 990K on Instagram
• Country: United States
• Traits: Quirky and playful
• Creator: Superplastic
• Overview: Janky is a virtual influencer known for his mischievous personality and distinctive design. He has collaborated with brands like Prada and Red Bull, and even became a character in the Fortnite game, showcasing his versatility and appeal.

9. Noonoouri (@noonoouri)

• Followers: 485K on Instagram, 73K on TikTok
• Country: Germany
• Traits: Sustainable fashion advocate
• Creator: Opium Effect
• Overview: Noonoouri is a 19-year-old virtual influencer recognized for her large, expressive eyes and commitment to sustainable fashion. She has partnered with top brands like Dior and Versace, using her platform to promote social causes and eco-friendly practices.

10. B. (Bee Influencer) (@bee_nfluencer)

• Followers: 222K on Instagram
• Country: France
• Traits: Non-human digital persona advocating for the environment
• Creator: The Fondation de France
• Overview: B. is the world's first virtual bee influencer, created to raise awareness about the importance of bees in our ecosystem. Through engaging content, B. educates followers on environmental issues and collaborates with eco-conscious brands to promote sustainability.

11. Imma (@imma.gram)

• Followers: 388,000 on Instagram, 471K on TikTok
• Country: Japan
• Traits: Trendy fashion sense, showcasing Japanese culture
• Creator: Aww Inc.
• Overview: Imma is Japan's first virtual influencer, known for her fashionable content and representation of Japanese culture.

• Japanese culture influencer, created by Aww Inc.

12. Kyra (@kyraonig)

• Followers: 266,000 on Instagram
• Country: India
• Traits: Dream chaser, model, and traveler
• Creator: Himanshu Goel
• Overview: Kyra is India's first virtual influencer, created in 2022. She shares content about her travels, yoga sessions, and empowerment, encouraging her followers to live their best lives.

These virtual influencers exemplify the diverse applications of AI-generated personas in digital marketing, each bringing unique value to their audiences and brand partnerships.

The Benefits of Virtual Influencers

Virtual influencers are transforming the social media scene and reshaping marketing-related purposes for major brands. These top virtual influencers offer unique advantages over traditional influencers. Brands prefer them for their digital nature, human-like appearance, and controlled content strategy.

1. Full Control Over Content

Brands control every aspect of a virtual model’s behavior, messaging, and appearance. Unlike a real person, virtual influencers never face scandals or controversies. Companies ensure consistent branding across their Instagram accounts and other platforms.

2. High Engagement & Scalability

The most popular virtual influencers attract millions of followers on Instagram. Their virtual life allows them to engage with audiences 24/7 without personal limitations. They exist only in the digital nature, making them adaptable to new trends.

3. Cost-Effective & Sustainable

Brands save money by investing in popular virtual influencers instead of high-cost celebrity endorsements. Unlike real influencers, they do not require travel, accommodations, or appearance fees in the physical world.

4. Adaptability Across Industries

From the fashion world to Japan’s economic entertainment industry, virtual influencers work seamlessly across different sectors. Companies use them for fashion campaigns, gaming promotions, designer toys, and lifestyle branding.

5. Positive Impact on Mental Health

Some virtual influencers promote well-being by advocating for self-love and mental health awareness. Unlike real-life influencers, they avoid spreading unrealistic beauty standards. Virtual girls like Noonoouri and Shudu represent diversity and inclusivity.

Virtual influencers exist primarily in the digital space, but their impact on marketing-related purposes continues to grow. Their human-like appearance and Instagram accounts make them valuable assets for major brands looking for innovative marketing strategies.

Virtual Influencers vs. Real Influencers: Key Differences

Things Brands Should Know Before Working with AI Influencers

Brands investing in popular virtual influencers must consider key factors before launching marketing-related purposes. Major brands use top virtual influencers for their Instagram accounts and digital campaigns, but working with AI personalities requires strategic planning.

1. Transparency & Authenticity

Brands must disclose that a virtual model is AI-generated. Consumers value authenticity, and misleading them can damage trust. A clear strategy helps maintain credibility in the social media scene and aligns with ethical marketing practices.

2. Brand Safety & Reputation

Unlike a real person, virtual influencers do not act independently. However, their content must align with a brand’s image and values. Misuse of AI-generated content can harm major brands, especially in sensitive industries like mental health and wellness.

3. Audience Sentiment & Engagement

Understanding how followers react to most popular virtual influencers is crucial. Some audiences embrace AI influencers, while others prefer human-like appearances in brand promotions. Brands should track engagement metrics and adapt strategies accordingly.

4. Creative Control & Adaptability

AI influencers allow full creative control, but brands must ensure they remain engaging and relatable. Unlike real-life influencers, AI-generated personalities lack spontaneous emotions. Brands must create compelling narratives to keep followers interested in the virtual life of these influencers.

5. Compliance with Social Media Regulations

Platforms like Instagram and TikTok require proper labeling of AI-generated content. Brands working with top virtual influencers must comply with transparency guidelines to maintain trust and avoid misleading consumers.

Virtual influencers exist primarily in the digital world, but their social media presence plays a significant role in modern marketing. Brands must carefully manage AI collaborations to ensure successful, ethical, and engaging influencer campaigns.

Want to Create a Virtual Influencer for Your Brand?

Renowned brands are investing in AI-driven influencers to engage their audiences and boost digital marketing efforts. With millions of followers on Instagram, top virtual influencers are proving to be valuable assets for major brands. If your company wants to create a virtual model, here’s how to get started.

1. Define Your Virtual Influencer’s Identity

A successful AI influencer needs a clear personality, style, and purpose. Decide whether your virtual persona will be a fashion world icon, lifestyle blogger, or entertainment figure. The influencer should align with your brand's image and appeal to your target audience.

2. Choose the Right AI & CGI Technology

Creating a human-like appearance requires computer-generated imagery (CGI) and AI technology. Brands use advanced AI and metaverse technology to build realistic digital influencers that engage with followers on Instagram and other platforms.

3. Develop a Content Strategy

AI influencers need a consistent social media presence to stay relevant. Plan engaging content, brand collaborations, and interactive storytelling to attract millions of followers. Marketing campaigns should include AI-generated videos, interactive posts, and strategic partnerships with renowned brands.

4. Work with AI & Creative Agencies

Brands without in-house AI expertise can collaborate with leading creative agencies specializing in AI influencers. Companies like Superplastic, Brud, and Aww Inc. create some of the most popular virtual influencers in the industry.

5. Ensure Brand Safety & Compliance

AI influencers must follow ethical marketing practices. Brands should disclose that their influencers are AI-generated, follow ethical way of deepfake technology, and ensure compliance with social media platform regulations. Transparency helps build trust with audiences and Instagram followers.

Top Platforms to Create Virtual Influencers

If you’re looking to develop a digital character, here are some top AI platforms that help brands create virtual influencers:

• Unscript – AI-powered solutions for brand-specific virtual influencers.
• Superplastic – Known for creating designer toys and virtual personalities.
• Brud – The creators of Lil Miquela, one of the top virtual influencers.
• Aww Inc. – Specializes in Japanese culture virtual models like Imma.

Virtual influencers are shaping the future of digital marketing. With the right strategy, brands can create AI-driven personalities that connect with audiences and gain millions of followers on Instagram and TikTok.

Conclusion

Virtual influencers are revolutionizing the social media scene and reshaping influencer marketing. Renowned brands use them to maintain brand safety, creative control, and audience engagement. These AI-driven personalities attract millions of followers on Instagram, making them valuable for marketing campaigns.

Unlike real human influencers, they exist only in the digital world, ensuring adaptability and consistency. As AI and metaverse technology evolve, virtual models will continue to impact the fashion world, entertainment industry, and luxury brands. Businesses investing in top virtual influencers must ensure authenticity, transparency, and ethical marketing practices to build trust and drive engagement.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Should your brand work with a virtual influencer?

Virtual influencers work well for brand safety, scalability, and digital marketing. They are cost-effective and adaptable compared to real-life influencers.

Who are the most followed virtual influencers?

Some of the most popular virtual influencers include Barbie (12.4M YouTube), Lil Miquela (3.4M TikTok), and Lu of Magalu (7.1M Instagram).

What are virtual influencers?

Virtual influencers are AI-generated or animated digital personas that act like real-life influencers on social media platforms.

How do virtual influencers work?

They use computer-generated imagery (CGI) and artificial intelligence to interact with audiences, promote brands, and influence trends.

Where are virtual influencers most popular?

They are widely used in the fashion industry, digital marketing, and Japan’s entertainment culture.

Why are virtual influencers trending?

Brands prefer them for brand safety, creative control, and adaptability in marketing campaigns.

Can virtual influencers be as effective as human influencers?

Yes, many luxury brands and established companies now prefer them for consistent messaging and controlled brand partnerships.

What resources can help me partner with virtual influencers?

Creative agencies like Brud, Superplastic, and Aww Inc. specialize in digital character creation and influencer marketing.

Which virtual influencer is most talked about online?

Lil Miquela and Barbie dominate discussions, followed by Guggimon and Noonoouri in the virtual influencer space.

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