TikTok May Enable Brands To Generate AI Bots to Pitch Products

11 Apr 2024

TikTok is reportedly working on a new option that would enable brands to deploy virtual influencers, who would then be able to sell their products on their behalf via videos and live-streams in the app.

Which is no surprise, given that the Chinese version of the app already hosts a range of big-name virtual influencers along the same lines. Though it will be interesting to see whether Western audiences are as receptive to these digital characters, and might also be willing to then spend more in TikTok as a result.

“The feature, which is still under development, would generate a script for a video ad based on a prompt submitted by the advertiser, as well as an AI-generated influencer to perform in the video, according to an advertiser who has seen plans for the tool. TikTok Shop merchants could also use the AI influencer tool to promote their goods, said two other people told about the idea by TikTok staff.”

Which, as noted, is already in effect in Douyin, the Chinese version of the app.