.png)
LUO YONGHAO’S DIGITAL AVATAR PREMIERE
On June 15, 2025, renowned tech entrepreneur Luo Yonghao debuted his AI-generated avatar during a 2.5-hour livestream on Baidu’s Youxuan platform. Powered by Baidu’s ERNIE language model and Xiling engine, the avatar co-hosted with another AI avatar, showcasing over 30 products to more than 13 million viewers and generating around 55 million RMB in sales. Luo’s digital twin replicated his humor, gestures, and speaking style so accurately that many viewers did not realize they were watching an AI.
CORE TECHNOLOGIES BEHIND DIGITAL LIVESTREAMERS
AI digital avatars combine large language models like Baidu’s ERNIE or GPT, computer vision, motion capture, 3D rendering, and speech synthesis. These technologies enable lifelike facial expressions, gestures, and real-time speech, allowing avatars to interact naturally with viewers while providing accurate product information during livestreams.
CORE TECHNOLOGIES BEHIND DIGITAL LIVESTREAMERS
AI digital avatars combine large language models like Baidu’s ERNIE or GPT, computer vision, motion capture, 3D rendering, and speech synthesis. These technologies enable lifelike facial expressions, gestures, and real-time speech, allowing avatars to interact naturally with viewers while providing accurate product information during livestreams.
ADVANTAGES OF AI DIGITAL HUMAN LIVESTREAMING
AI avatars can operate 24/7, streaming across multiple platforms without additional labor costs. They ensure consistent brand messaging while reducing risks tied to human error. Although initial development requires investment, digital avatars lower long-term costs, accelerate content production, and can be tailored precisely to brand values and audience preferences.
HOW BRANDS AND PLATFORMS ARE USING AI AVATARS
Brands like Helena Rubinstein, Olay, and Huawei Cloud are already leveraging AI avatars for livestream selling. JD.com is leading in operationalizing this technology, running over 50 digital human livestreams during its 2025 “618” festival, with some streams lasting up to 16 hours. These AI avatars engaged with viewers live, achieving up to 80% of the sales performance of human hosts, demonstrating a scalable and efficient hybrid for e-commerce.
.png)
FINAL THOUGHTS: A NEW ERA IN LIVESTREAMING
AI-powered digital livestreamers are already reshaping e-commerce in China, offering brands the ability to enhance reach, maintain consistent engagement, and operate more efficiently. This new era of livestreaming blends technology with authentic customer interaction, positioning AI avatars as a powerful tool in the evolving e-commerce landscape.
