A virtual influencer is a computer-generated fictional character that can be used for a variety of marketing-related purposes, but most frequently for social media marketing, in lieu of human "influencers". They are designed using computer graphics and motion capture technology to resemble real people in realistic situations. Virtual influencers are fundamentally synonymous with virtual idols, which originate from Japans anime and Japanese idol culture that dates back to the 1980s. They are becoming a real force to be reckoned with in the influencer marketing industry, with more of them emerging on Instagram every week and more brands queuing up to get involved with this futuristic means of marketing. Creators can pick the way they look, dress, and act, and they also decide who they hang out with. Virtual influencers offer nearly three times the engagement rates of real influencers. They are often purposefully made to look human-like to allow followers to connect with them and create a bond of trust that has the power to influence their purchasing decisions. A big benefit of working with virtual influencers is the possibility for brands to maintain absolute control over their projects from conception to completion.