In the bustling world of influencers, a unique character has emerged, captivating the attention of thousands, unbeknownst to them that she is not real. Meet Aitana, a vivacious 25-year-old pink-haired woman from Barcelona, and the brainchild of The Clueless agency's founder, Rubén Cruz. Born out of a desire for autonomy in a challenging industry, Aitana has become a groundbreaking AI influencer, shaping a new era in digital branding.

Designing Aitana: An AI Creation for the Digital Age

Aitana's inception was a response to the challenges faced by The Clueless. Frustrated by the unpredictability of human influencers, Cruz and his team decided to craft their own model. Aitana, with her near-perfect physical appearance, now commands attention from brands seeking a reliable, ego-free influencer. Cruz proudly notes that Aitana's monthly income, averaging €3,000, offers stability that was previously elusive.

Aitana's Diverse Income Streams

Aitana's virtual presence extends across various platforms, earning her income from diverse sources. From advertising deals, where she can rake in over €1,000 per advert, to becoming the face of Big, a sports supplement company, and even sharing intimate photos on Fanvue, Aitana has become a lucrative entity. Her popularity on Instagram, amassing over 121,000 followers, has also led to private messages from celebrities who remain oblivious to her artificial origins.

The Making of Aitana's "Life"

Unlike traditional models, Aitana's life is not captured through photoshoots or wardrobe changes. Instead, the agency employs a combination of artificial intelligence and design expertise to craft her experiences. Weekly meetings determine Aitana's activities, locations, and photo uploads, weaving a narrative that resonates with her followers. Her carefully curated personality, described as outgoing and caring, adds a layer of relatability to the virtual influencer.

Expanding the AI Influence: Maia Joins the Scene

Aitana's success has prompted the agency to introduce Maia, a second virtual model with a slightly different persona. The names, deliberately chosen, both incorporate the acronym for artificial intelligence (AI). The overwhelming demand for personalized AI models from brands underscores the potential for a paradigm shift in digital branding.

Controversies and Criticisms: Balancing Innovation and Ethics

While the initiative has sparked interest from brands seeking cost-effective and reliable alternatives to human influencers, it has not escaped criticism. Concerns about the unrealistic standards set by AI models and their potentially harmful impact on body image have surfaced. The agency defends its approach, asserting that they are merely reflecting the existing aesthetic promoted by real influencers and brands.

The Future of AI in Influencer Marketing

As Aitana continues to thrive in the digital realm, the influence of AI in shaping brand identities and marketing strategies becomes more evident. The Clueless envisions a future where AI models could revolutionize advertising by offering continuity and cost savings for businesses of all sizes. However, the ethical considerations surrounding the perpetuation of unrealistic standards remain a point of contention. As Aitana blazes a trail, the world watches to see how AI will redefine the influencer landscape.