Are Digital Humans the Future Face of Artificial Intelligence?
Meet Dex, the virtual DJ and aspiring model who isn't real. Learn how 'digital humans' like Dex are revolutionizing the approachability of chatbots in the AI realm.
When you scroll through DJ and aspiring model Dex's Instagram account, you'll see her in new outfits, performing at shows worldwide, and interacting with her thousands of followers about her hobbies.
But there's something unique about Dex - she is a completely virtual "digital human" created by a startup in the UK.
Dex is showcased in performances either on a video screen or as a holographic projection, with her mixes being curated by humans. She is brought to life through Unreal Engine, a popular 3D modeling software often used in video games, combined with motion capture technology. Through generative artificial intelligence, Dex is able to retain information and engage in conversations, responding to questions with a voice also generated by AI.
According to Denise Harris, the Chief Creative Officer of startup Sum Vivas, Dex stands out as one of the few digital humans in the performance realm that can hold conversations and interact with the audience. She possesses a vast knowledge of music and can provide insights on various topics.
Dex recently showcased her modeling skills at Digital Fashion Weeks in major fashion capitals like New York, Paris, and Milan. She walked the virtual runways wearing designs from top fashion houses like Prada and Louis Vuitton.
In a different role, Dex is also the face of Sum Vivas, a Liverpool-based company working on innovative digital human technology. These digital humans, such as "Shellie" and "Arif", are designed to interact with people in real-time. "Shellie" acts as an avatar providing product information on websites, while "Arif" serves as a multilingual concierge at airports, directing passengers and answering their queries.
CEO and founder Rob Sims believes that digital humans can play a crucial role in connecting AI technology with people. When individuals interact with a digital human, they tend to suspend disbelief quickly, as shared by Sims in an interview with CNN. The experience becomes natural and immersive.
Virtual DJ Dex has performed at Digital Fashion Weeks around the world.
Virtual DJ Dex has performed at Digital Fashion Weeks around the world.
Sum Vivas
Ever since the release of OpenAI's ChatGPT in November 2022, there has been a lot of excitement around the possibilities of generative AI. This type of artificial intelligence is fueled by massive amounts of data and can produce text in a conversational manner.
Record levels of investment in generative AI have been seen, with more than $21 billion invested in the industry in the first nine months of last year, according to data insights company Pitchbook. Google introduced Bard (now known as Gemini) in March 2023, while Anthropic launched its AI assistant Claude around the same time. As generative AI chatbots become more common, Sum Vivas is among the companies striving to make them more human.
A detailed view of the match ball prior to the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Arsenal FC at Turf Moor on February 17, 2024 in Burnley, England.
A detailed view of the match ball prior to the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Arsenal FC at Turf Moor on February 17, 2024 in Burnley, England.
Marc Atkins/Getty Images
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UneeQ, a company based in the US and New Zealand, has created animated "digital humans" that can act as virtual sales representatives and customer service agents on company websites. This month, they introduced Sama 2.0, an animated cabin crew member that can answer questions on Qatar Airways' website and app.
Microsoft recently made an announcement that users of its Azure software will now have the ability to create lifelike avatars that can transform text prompts into animated speech. Despite this exciting development, there are concerns about how AI advancements could impact the job market.
Jennifer Ding, a senior researcher at the Alan Turing Institute, questions the skills we may be losing when we rely on automated tools. She sees AI as a tool that can assist and enhance our work, but also notes a growing fear of being replaced.
On the other hand, Harris highlights the potential for new opportunities in digital human design and development. She believes that with every new scenario, jobs are being created and people are working together in harmony, rather than jobs being taken away.
Sims emphasizes the importance of digital humans collaborating with human colleagues. In the future, digital humans are expected to be integrated as regular team members, offering additional benefits for the team and the customers they assist.
Editor's P/S:
The article showcases the advancement of digital humans, highlighting their potential to revolutionize industries such as entertainment, fashion, and customer service. Dex, the virtual DJ and model, demonstrates the capabilities of digital humans to engage with audiences, interact in conversations, and showcase their skills in various domains. The use of AI and motion capture technology brings these digital creations to life, blurring the lines between reality and the virtual world.
However, the article also raises concerns about the potential impact of AI on the job market. As digital humans become more sophisticated, there is a fear that they may replace human workers in certain roles. However, experts suggest that AI should be seen as a tool to enhance and assist human capabilities, creating new opportunities in digital human design and development. The article emphasizes the importance of collaboration between digital humans and human colleagues, highlighting the potential for a harmonious integration of technology and humanity in the workplace.
