Core Insights - The virtual digital human industry has shifted from initial hype to facing significant operational challenges, including high costs and low returns, leading to a decline in market interest [1][2][3] Group 1: Industry Trends - The rise of virtual beauty influencers like "Liu Yexi" in 2021 sparked a wave of brand engagement with virtual endorsers, leading to a surge in stock prices for related companies [2] - The initial belief in quick returns from virtual digital humans has been challenged by high production costs and diminishing user interest, resulting in many virtual endorsers being removed from platforms [2][3] - A report from QuestMobile indicates that in 2023, the GMV of virtual streamers was less than one-fifth that of real streamers, with a significant drop in average viewing time and a high fan attrition rate [3] Group 2: Technological Advancements - The development of generative AI has led to the evolution of virtual digital humans into "smart humans," utilizing advanced technologies for more human-like interactions [4] - Companies are leveraging modular tools and SaaS platforms to reduce production costs and deploy digital humans in practical applications across various sectors, moving away from purely entertainment-focused roles [4][5] Group 3: Market Expansion - Despite existing challenges, the virtual digital human market is projected to grow significantly, with estimates suggesting a core market size exceeding 48 billion yuan by 2025 [6] - Investment activity in the sector has increased, with 23 funding cases reported in 2025, totaling over 3.5 billion yuan, indicating renewed interest from capital markets [6] - Government initiatives are supporting the development of the digital human sector, with various regions launching new digital human projects to enhance service delivery [6] Group 4: Legal and Ethical Considerations - The emergence of legal issues surrounding virtual digital humans, including copyright and data privacy concerns, is becoming more prominent, as evidenced by recent court rulings [7] - Platforms are enhancing governance measures to mitigate risks associated with AI-generated content, including the identification and removal of misleading accounts [7] Group 5: Future Outlook - The consensus in the industry is that within the next five years, virtual digital humans will transition from being seen as mere novelties to becoming essential tools for digital transformation and economic growth [7]