Best AI-Generated Models: The New Face of Advertising (2025)
The world of advertising is shifting faster than ever, and artificial intelligence is leading the charge. Among the most disruptive innovations is the rise of AI-generated models—digital beings designed by algorithms to look, pose, and perform just like real human models. As fashion, tech, and e-commerce industries embrace this futuristic trend, AI-generated models are rapidly becoming the new face of advertising.
But why are brands replacing real humans with code and pixels? Is this just a fleeting fad or the beginning of a marketing revolution?
Let’s explore how AI-generated models are transforming the way brands connect with audiences—and what it means for the future of advertising.
What Are AI-Generated Models?
AI-generated models, also known as virtual influencers or CGI models, are computer-generated characters designed using artificial intelligence tools, 3D rendering software, and machine learning algorithms. They can look hyper-realistic, surreal, or stylized based on the creator’s vision.
These digital beings:
- Never age, fall sick, or miss photoshoots.
- Can be tailored perfectly to a brand’s aesthetic.
- Can be multilingual, multicultural, and multi-dimensional.
Some popular tools used to create them include Runway ML, Daz 3D, Midjourney, and Synthesia.
The Rise of Virtual Models in Advertising
Virtual models have evolved from niche experiments to mainstream advertising staples. Brands like Prada, Balmain, and Samsung have already adopted digital humans in their marketing campaigns.
Why the sudden boom?
- Cost Efficiency: Unlike human models, AI-generated models don’t need makeup artists, travel, or catering.
- Creative Freedom: Brands can visualize the model in any setting—on Mars, under the sea, or walking through Times Square—without renting a location.
- Complete Control: From facial expressions to fashion poses, every pixel can be directed precisely.
Top Industries Using AI Models
1. Fashion
Luxury brands are leading the charge in AI modeling. Shudu, the first digital supermodel, has been featured in campaigns for Balmain, Fenty Beauty, and Vogue. Virtual fashion shows, 3D clothing try-ons, and AI stylists are becoming the norm.
2. Technology
Tech giants like Samsung have integrated AI avatars into product demonstrations and smart assistants. AI-generated models help humanize tech, making it more relatable and less robotic.
3. E-Commerce
Online stores like Yoox and Zalando now use digital models to showcase different outfits, reducing reliance on expensive photo shoots and improving content scalability.
4. Entertainment
AI avatars are now appearing in music videos, TikTok dances, livestreams, and even TV shows. Virtual influencers like Lil Miquela have millions of followers on Instagram and work with top fashion and music brands.
Benefits of AI-Generated Models in Advertising
✅ Always Available
AI models are accessible 24/7. They don’t need sleep, travel time, or breaks.
✅ Highly Scalable
One AI model can represent hundreds of styles, ethnicities, and scenarios across multiple platforms instantly.
✅ Customizable Identity
Need a model with purple hair, golden eyes, and tattoos for a Gen Z campaign? No problem—AI can make it happen in minutes.
✅ Global Reach
With multilingual programming, AI models can “speak” any language, making international campaigns seamless.
✅ Diversity & Inclusion
Brands can create inclusive representations that might be difficult to cast in real life—e.g., models with disabilities, diverse backgrounds, or gender fluid identities.
Challenges and Ethical Concerns
Despite the appeal, AI-generated models aren’t free from controversy.
❌ Authenticity Issues
Many consumers prefer real, authentic human experiences. AI models can feel “fake” or soulless if not used thoughtfully.
❌ Job Displacement
Human models, photographers, and stylists face competition from pixels and code, raising concerns about creative industry job loss.
❌ Deepfake Dangers
The line between ethical digital modeling and malicious deepfakes is thin. Misuse can result in identity theft or misleading advertising.
❌ Representation Bias
If not programmed carefully, AI models may reinforce beauty stereotypes or exclude certain body types, ethnicities, or gender expressions.
Real-World Examples of AI in Ads
- Shudu: Created by The Diigitals agency, Shudu has modeled for Fenty and Balmain.
- Lil Miquela: A virtual influencer with over 2.6 million Instagram followers, she has collaborated with Calvin Klein, Prada, and Samsung.
- Imma: A Japanese digital model known for her neon-pink bob, featured in IKEA and Puma campaigns.
- Noonoouri: A stylized CGI influencer working with luxury brands like Dior and Versace.
These digital influencers often receive real engagement from human audiences—likes, comments, shares—blurring the lines between reality and simulation.
How AI Models Are Created
AI-generated models rely on a mix of the following tech:
- GANs (Generative Adversarial Networks): Used to create hyper-realistic human faces.
- 3D Modeling Software: Tools like Blender or ZBrush design body structure and clothing.
- Motion Capture & Animation: Adds realistic movement and expressions.
- AI-Powered Editing Tools: Used for auto-tuning, pose generation, and emotion rendering.
Some platforms like Ready Player Me or DeepMotion offer full-body avatars with facial tracking for social media and video content.
The Future of AI-Generated Models
Here’s what we can expect in the next 3–5 years:
🌐 Integration with AR/VR
Imagine trying on clothes in virtual malls with digital models as your guide—fully immersive, fully personalized.
📱 AI-Powered Social Engagement
AI influencers will hold real-time conversations using natural language models like ChatGPT, responding to comments, giving shoutouts, and more.
🧠 Predictive Modeling
AI models may analyze user behavior and adapt their look or language to better convert audiences—becoming dynamic advertising engines.
💬 Real-Time Brand Ambassadors
AI avatars will represent brands 24/7 in customer support, virtual shopping assistants, and influencer campaigns.
Conclusion: Embracing the Future of AI in Advertising
AI-generated models aren’t here to replace humans—they’re here to enhance creativity, speed up production, and unlock marketing possibilities we could only dream of a few years ago. For advertisers, this means more personalized, scalable, and boundary-pushing campaigns.
But with great power comes great responsibility. Ethical design, transparency, and inclusivity must stay at the core of AI modeling practices.
So, whether you’re a brand owner, influencer, or marketer—now’s the time to embrace this digital evolution. The face of advertising has changed forever—and it just might be AI.
