Sam Blumenthal

In livestreaming e-commerce, however, AI hosts are still new players, according to experts from e-commerce platform Alibaba.

In fashion livestreams, viewers can use chat to ask influencers questions about sizing, request close-ups of fabrics, or discuss what accessories would look good with each outfit. Platforms can further enhances this experience by adding features such as bulletins announcing product lotteries when the stream reaches a certain number of likes, or an... See more

As gaming stars have attracted a wider range of brand sponsorships in recent years, more female gamers are receiving brand sponsorships too, said Neto. “A lot of work is still needed for more women to have the recognition that they deserve and for the gaming space to be a safe and empowering space for them,” she said.

By definition, a virtual influencer is a fictional AI-generated person with realistic characteristics, features and personalities of humans. They behave just like real-life influencers. They speak to the camera, share selfies, feelings and thoughts. The only difference is the content. And, well, the obvious – they’re computer-generated with... See more