Real influencers or AI influencers – Understanding digital marketing in 2025
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Khalid Al Mansoor
- . August 6, 2025
- . Update: August 6, 2025 6:28 pm
Social media has truly changed the digital marketing space for multiple brands across the globe. Companies operating in different sectors are finding social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok really helpful these days.
For a long time, brands have relied on human influencers – celebrities, content creators and niche experts – to promote their products. Some of these digital personalities earn in millions through brand partnerships, using their popularity and trust among their fans.
But a major shift is coming. AI influencers – digital personalities operated using artificial intelligence – are starting to take the limelight. They boast ultra-realistic appearances, unique traits and curated personas – capable of producing high-quality content almost 24/7.
The future of digital marketing: Let’s understand
Brands are increasingly exploring AI influencer marketing. This is because they find these digital personalities reliable, scalable and versatile. AI influencers also seem to be cost-efficient and accessible, companies seeking global reach but no logistical challenges.
Nonetheless, despite the rising popularity of AI influencers, real celebrities are still the real deal. They are authentic. Consumers often trust recommendations that come from real people. Human influencers also offer a greater sense of connection.
The future of digital marketing might not be about choosing either real influencers or AI influencers. It is about choosing both the options, as real celebrities offer authenticity and emotional engagement, and AI influencers are more consistent and cost-efficient.
