A NEW type of influencer has been taking the internet by storm earning big bucks and racking up a “phenomenal” 250,000 Instagram followers in just six months.
Aitana Lopez is a sight to behold and with her luscious pink locks, snatched waist and flawless skin she is envied by many – but she has one astonishing secret.
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The 25-year-old – who models for Spanish fashion agency The Clueless – is a state-of-the art AI creation designed to save the company money and time.
Despite her computer-generated status being revealed in her Instagram bio, fans of the model still believe she’s the real deal and invite her to socialise and spend time with them.
Diana Nunez, who co-founded The Clueless with Rubén Cruz, told The Sun how the “incredibly convincing” influencer was born.
“Initially, most of her followers didn’t question her authenticity, they genuinely believed in her existence,” she said.
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“From day one, we received compliments on her beauty, invitations to hang out in the city, and more.
“Even after the media revealed she was an AI creation, many followers still expressed their love for her.”
She described the design process for Aitana as “intensive” as it took just two months before she was a finished product.
Diana described how hours of “homework” was done to check what was “trendy and relevant in the market”.
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She said: “We took inspiration from real-life events. We also jumped on the fitness lifestyle trend that’s catching popularity among the younger crowd for a healthier lifestyle.
“And we couldn’t ignore the hype around video gaming and anime – everyone’s itching to be a gamer and go livestreaming on Twitch.
“By keeping tabs on these trends, we knew we could build a community around Aitana.”
Although the pink-haired beauty is not made of flesh and blood, her creators still envision what type of person she would be if she did exist.
“If Aitana were real, we envision her as a bold and determined influencer, Independent and generous.
“Despite occasional humour and self-centeredness, she has an extroverted nature and striking character.
“She would be very passionate and showcasing her intensity and a commitment to her well-being,” Diana said.
Aitana cost £3,500 to create – which saves a huge amount when set against the cost of real influencers who charge at least £5,000 per shoot.
She can also earn a whopping £900 for just one Instagram post.
It is not only the cost of real influencers that can be a issue for fashion companies – but they can also be more high maintenance.
With Aitana this isn’t a concern as The Clueless have “direct control over every aspect”.
“When working with real influencers, challenges often arise related to negotiations, financial matters, special requirements, and additional needs,” she said.
“Dealing with ego-related issues and conflicts can complicate the workflow.”
Despite everything appearing to be smooth sailing in the life of the AI superstar – as she poses in designer outfits and struts her stuff on the beach – her existence is fraught with controversy.
Aitana seems less-than progressive as she flaunts her impossibly perfect complexion and sculpted hourglass figure.
The bombshell influencer has come under fire for promoting products like Olaplex that can’t be accredited for her stunning looks.
A body positive content creator, Danae Mercer, has shared concerns about Aitana on social media saying: “One, a man is making money off our bodies. But also, also also, THIS is the beauty standard our children will have to compete with.
“If brands are sponsoring fake women, and fake women are becoming increasingly popular online, where does it all stop?”
Danae’s followers were quick to comment on the post with one going as far as to write: “This is actually terrifying.”
However another disagreed and said: “I honestly think it’s fascinating.”
Diana said she understands that “AI models like Aitana can contribute to the pressure on women to meet unrealistic beauty standards,” but said her aim is to explore capabilities of AI.
She also told The Sun that the wheels are already in motion for Laila – a curvy model from Mexico – to help “broaden representation” and, Maia Lima, an Argentine girl – @limaiaaa on Instagram – already exists.
There are also plans to introduce male models and have a “diverse and inclusive range” of AI influencers.
Every detail of Aitana’s design has been thought out, and careful planning is made for each Instagram post.
Even her name carries a “dual significance” as it pays homage to her AI identity.
Not only does the name have the letters AI at the beginning but it’s also widely recognised as a common Spanish name.
This “adds a touch of familiarity and cultural resonance,” according to Diana.
There is also a scrupulous “weekly” planning process that is responsible for all of the models’ looks and Instagram post settings.
Diana explained: “We curate her outfits to suit each day or specific occasions. Our dedicated team of professional re-touchers and photo editors ensures seamless execution of these creative decisions.”
Although Aitana is cheaper option and doesn’t need to eat or sleep she does have limitations.
It is a “challenge” to create video content with her – which prevents the star from interacting with fans in this way.
She will also need to have an “authentic voice” designed so she can speak which could be a lengthy process.
The Clueless believe that rather than AI models replacing real ones they will co-exist together.
Diana said: “We think in a way it will be the future of modelling.
“Although, we don’t foresee real models becoming obsolete or replaced by AI-generated models like Aitana.
“In our view, they can coexist as another competition of the industry.”
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She added: “We anticipate certain brands may lean towards AI-generated models for their efficiency in cutting costs and time.
“It’s about embracing new possibilities while acknowledging the diverse landscape within the industry.”
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