The rise in AI technology has positively seen the birth of new forms of content creators. These new AI influencers are said to be extremely realistic and have the most diverse and stunning content on the Instagram platform.
What’s more, these AI influencers on Instagram are not only animated illustrations, they are the trendsetters of the new scope of social media across the entertainment, advertising and sociocultural industries.
In this article, we explore the top AI influencers on Instagram, diving into who they are, what makes them stand out, and why brands and audiences alike are drawn to their digital charisma.
The Rise of AI Influencers on Instagram
AI influencers and vtubers (what is a vtuber?) are changing the landscape of Instagram. These virtual personalities offer fresh content and endless creativity. Unlike human influencers, they can maintain a flawless image and never tire. Designed by teams of creators, they engage followers with perfect visuals and tailored storytelling.
What sets AI influencers apart is their blend of perfection and relatability. They engage with audiences through interesting posts and marketing campaigns and as their fame increases, brands recognize the unique ability of these digital figures to pull in new audiences.
AI influencers find suitable ground for growth at Instagram. This social media has an emphasis on visuals, and therefore these personas can demonstrate how technology and creativity coexist in the modern world of social media.
What Makes an AI Influencer Stand Out on Instagram?
To be effective as an AI influencer, one needs to feel “real” with the audience. They almost always have quite a unique character like humans, thus establishing different connections with followers.
An AI influencer is most successful when her images and the brand image are appealing. They team up with many brands and sponsors which enables them to work with the best.
Top AI Influencers on Instagram and Why They Stand Out
Here are the leading AI influencers, each unique in style and message, impacting audiences globally.
Lu do Magalu – @magazineluiza
Followers:7.2 million
Origin: Brazil
Lu do Magalu, or simply “Lu” made her first appearance back in 2003 as the face of the e-commerce portal of Magazine Luiza, and instantly made it to the list of household names in Brazil.
Some of the content that she posts on the platform include videos of unboxing, reviewing, and software tutorials in regard to the products of Magazine Luiza. She has a huge following but her engagement is only about 0.1%, likely due to her focus on the Brazilian market.
Lu’s partnership with artists and brands proves the impact she has. It also demonstrates the possible brand and consumer marketing strategies AI offers.
Lil Miquela – @lilmiquela
Followers: 2.5 million
Origin: Downey, California, USA
Lil Miquela, or Miquela Sousa, is a leading AI influencer on Instagram. Created by the startup Brud in 2016, she quickly became a cultural phenomenon, blending fashion, music, and activism in her content. She is among Time Magazine’s “25 Most Influential People on the Internet.”
Miquela has released popular singles like “Not Mine” and collaborated with artists such as Baauer. She has worked with top brands, including Prada, Calvin Klein, and Dior, showcasing her unique style. Additionally, she launched her clothing line, solidifying her status in the fashion world.
Her posts command impressive fees, reportedly over $10,000 each, contributing to her substantial net worth in the eight figures. Lil Miquela exemplifies the rise of virtual influencers, highlighting how AI personas can engage audiences and shape trends in the digital marketing landscape.
K/DA – @kda_music
Followers: Approximately 490,000
Origin: Created by Riot Games
K/DA is a virtual K-pop girl group from League of Legends, featuring four characters: Ahri, Akali, Evelynn, and Kai’Sa, voiced by Miyeon and Soyeon from (G)I-dle, Madison Beer, and Jaira Burns.
They debuted at the 2018 League of Legends World Championship with the hit “Pop/Stars,” which went viral, accumulating over 100 million views in a month and 550 million by May 2023. The track topped Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart and was certified platinum in 2022.
Thalasya – @thalasya
Followers: Approximately 456,000
Created by: Magnavem Studio
Focusing on lifestyle, fashion, and travel, Thalasya’s content embodies life experiences not only in Indonesia but overseas. She is the first AI influencer in Indonesia and a catapult for other powerful virtual figures.
Her brand collaborations include Canon Indonesia and Tokopedia, an e-commerce platform. She also co-owns a clothing store referred to as Yipiiiii.
With an engagement rate of about 1.13%, she also has a healthy interaction with her audience. Her image showcases the expanding territory of social media, where, instead of human influencers, AI avatars interact with followers.
Imma – @imma.gram
Followers: 394,000
Origin: Japan
Imma is a virtual influencer known for her unique blend of fashion, culture, and technology. Created by Aww Inc. and ModelingCafe, she debuted on Instagram in 2018. With her signature pink hair and expressive features, Imma quickly became a style icon.
Her content features high-fashion shoots with brands like Valentino and Chanel, as well as casual lifestyle moments. Imma collaborates with Adidas, KFC, and The North Face, often using witty captions to connect with followers.
Qai Qai – @realqaiqai
Followers: Approximately 336,000
Origin: Created as part of Serena Williams’ family
Qai Qai is an AI influencer famous for her fun and energetic nature. Once a doll, she evolved into a captivating virtual character that entertains with her odd fashion sense.
Her Instagram account is filled with colorful pictures of her unusual appearance which includes a purple tutu, bald head, dark complexion, and a pink ribbon. She engages the audience by posting content such as dance videos and Q&A sessions while interacting with her fans.
Qai Qai demonstrates how a virtual influencer connects reality with a digital avatar. Her trajectory underscores the changing world of social media and the possibility of artificial figures being able to engage people genuinely.
Shudu Gram – @shudu.gram
Followers: Approximately 239,000
Origin: Created in South Africa
The world’s first digital supermodel, Shudu Gram, was created by Cameron-James Wilson in April 2017. She was actually designed as a Barbie based on a South African princess and her appearance is photorealistic which goes against the conventional beauty standards.
Her high-fashion modeling photographs include collaborations with Vogue, Balmain, and Cosmopolitan. Shudu’s posts combine fashion photography with art and are suitable for various people.
Her existence elicits debates about the representation of a black woman created by a white man. However, she remains an advocate of virtual influencers’ position in the fashion world, depicting how technology can alter the perception of beauty.
Bermuda (@bermudaisbae)
Followers: Approximately 221,000
Origin: Created in Los Angeles, California
Bermuda, developed by Brud in 2016, is a standout AI influencer known for her striking looks and charisma. Identifying as a “robot queen,” she merges beauty and humor in her content.
Her Instagram showcases glamorous fashion and lifestyle posts, often accompanied by witty captions like, “Not sure if botox works on robots, but it’s my duty to society to find out.” With an engagement rate of around 10.63%, she connects strongly with her audience.
Bermuda inspires girls to enter a robotics and technology profession. Together with other virtual influencers, she showcases the possibilities of cross-promotional strategies. Her presence points out how artificial intelligence can redefine beauty and affect contemporary culture.
Aitana Lopez (@fit_aitana)
Followers: Over 330,000
Origin: Spain
Aitana Lopez is a vibrant AI influencer known for her pink-haired persona. Managed by The Clueless, she blends fitness and gaming culture in her content.
Her Instagram features workout routines, health tips, and gaming posts. Collaborations with brands like BERSHKA and Victoria’s Secret showcase her appeal. Aitana engages authentically with her audience and monetizes content through platforms like Fanvue.
As a pioneering AI influencer, she highlights the growing influence of digital personas in niche interests, emphasizing their role in brand collaborations.
Ion Göttlich (@iongottlic)
Followers: Approximately 73,000
Origin: South Africa
Ion Göttlich is a virtual influencer and cycling enthusiast known for his humorous approach to the biking community. Created by Claudio Pavan, he debuted in February 2015 with a confident, sometimes arrogant persona.
His Instagram features cycling adventures and humorous commentary on biking culture, which resonates with his audience. Ion actively interacts with notable cycling figures, adding to his appeal.
As an early virtual influencer in cycling, he blends entertainment with sports. His unique approach connects authentically with followers and has attracted interest from professional cycling teams, including UCI WorldTeam BORA. Ion’s journey reflects the rising acceptance of AI-generated personas in niche social media spaces.
Common Themes Among the Top AI Influencers
Fashion, Lifestyle, and Art
Influencers like Lil Miquela, Imma, and Shudu blend fashion and art, offering followers fresh, contemporary styles. Their curated aesthetics inspire people, bridging the digital and physical worlds through style.
Entertainment and Humour
AI influencers like Qai Qai and Ion Göttlich showcase the fun side of digital personas. Their humor and relatability help them connect with a broader audience, proving that AI influencers don’t need to be distant or robotic.
Inspiration and Empowerment
Many AI influencers use their platforms for empowerment. Bermuda promotes women in tech, while Thalasya shares aspirational content. By aligning with values of inspiration and strength, they influence young audiences positively.
Conclusion: The Influence of AI Personas on Instagram
The rise of AI influencers marks a thrilling evolution in social media. These virtual personalities, like Lu do Magalu, Lil Miquela, Thalasya, and others, engage audiences in fresh and exciting ways. They blend creativity with technology, reshaping marketing and cultural conversations.
As AI continues to grow, it opens doors for new opportunities in brand partnerships and consumer interactions. Embracing these innovations can lead to unique connections and enhanced engagement.
The future of influence is digital, and it’s filled with potential for both creators and audiences alike.
