AI virtual hosts are virtual characters created and operated by artificial intelligence technology. They combine AI technology, speech synthesis, virtual character design, and digital media platforms, enabling them to host shows, report news, and live stream games just like real human anchors. These AI hosts have multiple features, including the use of highly realistic speech synthesis technology, making their voices sound similar to real humans. Some AI hosts also have virtual character designs, with facial expressions and movements generated by specialized algorithms or animation techniques, making them appear more lifelike. In addition, AI hosts can automatically generate scripts based on preset topics or themes to conduct conversations and reporting. More advanced AI hosts can even interact with audiences in real time, answering questions and engaging in dialogue. Thanks to advances in speech synthesis technology, some AI hosts can also host in multiple languages, expanding their audience reach and operating 24/7 without time limitations.

Compared to human anchors, AI virtual hosts have several notable advantages. First, they can work 24/7 without interruption, meeting the demands of round-the-clock broadcasting. AI hosts can translate into target languages in real time, eliminating the need to hire anchors fluent in local languages and reducing personnel costs. Moreover, brands can create AI influencers that perfectly match their corporate identity, avoiding the time-consuming task of finding real influencers who fit the brand image and reducing the risk of PR crises. AI hosts can also incorporate more creativity, such as animations and special effects, to attract more traffic and attention.

AI virtual hosts have been applied in various fields, especially in the news media sector. Since news media requires the production of a large volume of content with immediacy as a core feature, AI can quickly handle massive and frequently updated information. The application process of AI anchors is relatively simple, making it easy for news organizations to adopt. For example, SET News collaborated with ChoozMo to create a unique AI version of the famous anchor Fei-Chuan Chen using AI technology. Clone-Chuan and Chen co-host the news remotely, delivering a distinctive broadcasting experience. In e-commerce live streaming, AI anchors can interact with viewers and fans bidirectionally. Additionally, AI virtual hosts are being used in education, such as online learning platforms that employ AI to provide problem-solving explanations.

Although AI virtual hosts offer many advantages, they also face some challenges and limitations. First, deep learning technology in AI can be misused, such as generating fake images, videos, and audio, which could influence public opinion, affect elections, and even cause social panic or legal issues. Secondly, AI models are trained on human data, which may carry long-standing ideological biases, potentially reinforcing prejudice and discrimination. Moreover, AI influencers require significant time and resources for development, training, and fine-tuning, and must build recognition from scratch, leading to increased promotional costs.