DJI Faces Backlash for Using AI Avatar in Ad Instead of Hiring Real Creators

DJI, the Chinese drone and camera company, faced backlash after posting an AI-generated advertisement on TikTok for its new DJI Mic Mini. The ad featured an AI avatar resembling a real person, sparking outrage among content creators who accused the $11 billion company of cheaping out instead of hiring actual creators. The ad was deleted following criticism from figures like Colden Raisher, Jakob Owens of Buff Nerds Media, and Reddit users. Critics argued that a company reliant on creators should support them, especially given the product's target audience. DJI issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to working with real people, noting that AI ads are common in China but often viewed negatively in North America. The incident highlights cultural differences in AI ad acceptance.