The Rise of Virtual Influencers: Should Your Brand Use One? – By Marketing Mishrag
Introduction
What if your brand ambassador was not human—but entirely digital?
Welcome to the world of virtual influencers—computer-generated personalities with real followers, real influence, and growing brand appeal.
As digital marketing evolves in 2025, Marketing Mishrag takes a deep dive into whether your brand should jump on this futuristic trend.
What Are Virtual Influencers?
👾 Virtual influencers are fictional characters created using CGI, AI, and 3D modeling.
They’re managed by marketing teams or creative agencies, and behave like real influencers online—posting content, collaborating with brands, and even “interacting” with followers.
Examples include:
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Lil Miquela (3M+ followers)
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Imma (Japan's pink-haired digital star)
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Knox Frost (focused on health campaigns)
Why Are Virtual Influencers Gaining Popularity?
🔹 Full Control – Brands control every aspect of the influencer’s behavior, style, and messaging. No scandals, no surprises.
🔹 Cost-Effective in the Long Run – After setup, content creation can be faster and scalable without logistics or talent fees.
🔹 Always On – No sleep, no time zones. They’re global 24/7.
🔹 Innovation Appeal – Using a virtual influencer signals tech-savviness and innovation.
How Brands Are Using Virtual Influencers
🎯 Fashion – Virtual models walk digital runways or showcase new collections on Instagram.
🎯 Gaming & Tech – CGI influencers blend perfectly in digital universes.
🎯 Entertainment & Music – Virtual pop stars and DJs build entire fandoms.
🎯 Cause Marketing – Used in campaigns to raise awareness (e.g., WHO’s COVID info via Knox Frost).
Risks and Concerns
❌ Authenticity Questions – Can consumers connect emotionally with a non-human brand ambassador?
❌ Transparency Issues – Some audiences may not realize they're following a digital character.
❌ Ethical Dilemmas – Who is responsible for the influencer’s message or potential bias?
❌ Limited Spontaneity – Virtual influencers can't react naturally or build real relationships.
Is a Virtual Influencer Right for Your Brand?
✅ Choose it if your audience loves innovation, especially Gen Z and digital natives.
✅ Choose it if your brand operates heavily in fashion, tech, gaming, or futurism.
❌ Avoid it if your brand relies on human emotion, empathy, or authenticity, like mental health or family services.
Best Practices for Using Virtual Influencers
🔹 Be Transparent – Clearly label content as created by a virtual personality.
🔹 Blend Storytelling – Give your virtual influencer a backstory and personality to drive connection.
🔹 Integrate with Real World – Collaborate with human influencers for hybrid campaigns.
🔹 Monitor Sentiment – Track how audiences respond and adjust your approach.
Conclusion
Virtual influencers are not just hype—they're a powerful, controllable, and futuristic tool in a CMO's toolbox. But with great tech comes great responsibility.
Before jumping in, ensure the influencer aligns with your brand values, audience, and objectives.
As always, Marketing Mishrag helps you stay ahead with bold strategies, smart insights, and the human touch behind every digital move. 🤖📈
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