A recent livestream event by Baidu featuring AI-generated digital avatars attracted over 13 million viewers and generated significant sales.
Successful Livestream with AI Avatars
Baidu hosted an event featuring AI-generated avatars, including an exact digital double of top Chinese streamer Luo Yonghao. The stream lasted over six hours on Baidu’s ‘Youxuan’ platform, attracting over 13 million viewers and generating over RMB 55 million (USD 7.65 million) in gross merchandise value. Luo mentioned it was his first experience using virtual human technology for sales in livestreaming.
Growing Livestream Market in China
Livestream shopping has gained popularity in China since the pandemic, with businesses adapting to new sales methods. Last year, Douyin surpassed JD.com, becoming the second-largest e-commerce platform in the country. However, analysts warn about high return rates for items purchased during livestream events.
Challenges and Future of Digital Humans
Despite the success of AI avatars, there are challenges for virtual humans in livestreaming business. Wu Jialu noted that the main issue is compliance with platform and advertising regulations. In the future, digital humans might be used for livestreams beyond China in multiple languages.
The technology of virtual humans in livestream shopping opens new opportunities for the Chinese market but requires careful attention to compliance and regulations.
