Aitana Lopez is an AI-generated influencer created by the Barcelona-based tech agency The Clueless. She reportedly earns up to $10,000 each month from modeling work and brand deals. 33 billion in 2024.
AI influencers like Aitana Lopez have content barely distinguishable from classic Instagram influencers, including get-ready videos, workout pictures, and iced coffees. Some AI influencers include famous faces like Kardashian-Jenner siblings and Hailey and Justin Bieber in their content to get more attention. There are thousands of virtual influencers operating on Instagram and TikTok.
Events like Coachella represent business opportunities for influencers who plan content strategies for the festival. Sam Mintesnot, a content creator, secured a festival invite from YouTube two days before Coachella started. Coachella has sold out both weekends, but viewers worldwide can watch YouTube's livestream of performances.
Creators document more than just musical performances at Coachella, including brand activations, free goodies, and queues for toilets and food. It remains unknown whether people commenting on AI influencer posts realize they are not real humans. How celebrities feel about their likenesses being used in AI-generated content without permission has not been publicly documented.
The impact of AI influencers on traditional influencer business models at events like Coachella is still emerging. The long-term sustainability and ethical implications of AI-generated influencers in social media marketing continue to be subjects of industry discussion.