In China, the use of “digital people” has been a common practice, with virtual newsreaders and celebrity idols being prominent examples. Chinese tech giant Tencent offers the service of turning individuals into digital avatars, allowing them to interact with others in a virtual environment. CNA journalist Melody Chan decided to explore this phenomenon and underwent the process of becoming a digital avatar herself.
The process of turning into a digital avatar involves capturing high-resolution images of the individual from multiple angles and using sophisticated algorithms to create a lifelike 3D model. The individual’s voice and movements are also recorded to ensure a realistic digital representation. The end result is a virtual version of the person that can be integrated into various digital platforms for different purposes.
Melody Chan’s experience of becoming a digital avatar was both fascinating and surreal. She described the process as being meticulous and time-consuming, with the need to stay still for a long period while her images were being captured. Despite the effort involved, the end result was a strikingly accurate digital version of herself that could interact with others in a virtual setting.
The use of digital avatars has become increasingly popular in China for a variety of purposes, including advertising, entertainment, and social media. Companies like Tencent are at the forefront of this technology, offering individuals the opportunity to become part of the digital world in a way that was previously unimaginable. The possibilities for using digital avatars are endless, with potential applications in areas such as gaming, virtual events, and even healthcare.
As technology continues to advance, the line between the physical and digital worlds is becoming increasingly blurred. The concept of digital avatars raises important questions about identity, privacy, and the implications of creating virtual replicas of ourselves. While the creation of digital avatars can be a fun and exciting experience, it also raises ethical concerns about how these virtual representations may be used and exploited in the future.
In conclusion, the use of digital avatars is a fascinating phenomenon that is gaining traction in China and around the world. Companies like Tencent are leading the way in offering individuals the opportunity to become digital versions of themselves, opening up a whole new world of possibilities for interaction and engagement in the digital realm. While the technology is still in its early stages, the potential for using digital avatars in various industries and applications is vast, and it will be interesting to see how this technology continues to evolve in the future.
