AI Actress Fang Taozi Endorses Contact Lenses, Chinese Netizens Skeptical

A recent advertisement featuring Fang Taozi, a breakout AI character, has ignited a heated online debate in China over the appropriateness of using virtual avatars to endorse products intended for human use. The ad, which promoted contact lenses, was met with widespread skepticism from Chinese netizens, who questioned whether AI figures should be trusted to represent consumer goods that directly affect human health and well-being. The controversy highlights the growing intersection of artificial intelligence and marketing in China, where virtual influencers are becoming increasingly prevalent. Critics argue that AI endorsements lack the authenticity and accountability of human endorsements, while proponents see them as a cost-effective and innovative marketing tool. The discussion reflects broader societal concerns about the role of AI in daily life and the ethical implications of its use in commercial contexts. The advertisement's reception suggests that while AI technology is advancing rapidly, public acceptance of AI in certain roles remains uncertain.