Avatars are rapidly becoming a valuable tool in marketing and workplace communication.

From appearing in video ads across social media to enabling interactive digital experiences, they are no longer just a novelty—they’re part of the future of work.

This post is available as a podcast:

A couple of years ago, like many others, I created a basic avatar for occasional use in Zoom and Microsoft Teams meetings. But the technology has evolved far beyond that.

The future

Immersive virtual workspaces where personalized avatars participate in meetings, collaborate in real time, and interact with global teams.

• AI-generated video podcasts featuring two lifelike avatars created from a simple PDF or YouTube link.
• Conversational avatars so realistic, it feels like you’re talking to a real person (I tried this recently—mind-blowing).
• URL-to-video tech, transforming static webpages into engaging, avatar-led video narratives.

5 Avatar Business cases

See below 5 business cases. I mainly use them for marketing and content creation. It is the main reason why I suggest their use to my clients, and why I experiment with them. Conversational avatars are available now and provide a more human like experience. The last use case in this list is about virtual events. Some years ago I was asked to make pre-recorded videos to guide visitors around the event site. Today it is a no-brainer to use an avatar!

Marketing & Content Creation

• Use case: AI avatars deliver product demos, explainer videos, and social content
• Benefit: Scalable, multilingual content without the need for live actors
• Example: A virtual brand ambassador or spokesperson in YouTube or LinkedIn videos

Customer Service & Chatbots

• Use case: Conversational avatars in live chat or self-service portals
• Benefit: More engaging, human-like support experiences
• Example: Lifelike avatar-guided walkthroughs on websites or in apps

Virtual Meetings & Collaboration

• Use case: Personalized versions in platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or Meta Workrooms
• Benefit: Enhances presence and inclusivity in hybrid or remote meetings
• Example: Teams interacting in a virtual office using them that reflect their real identity

Training & Onboarding

• Use case: AI avatars delivering onboarding instructions or e-learning modules
• Benefit: Consistent, interactive learning at scale
• Example: A digital trainer that walks new hires through processes or compliance training

Virtual Events & Brand Experiences

• Use case: Hosting or participating in virtual conferences, expos, or immersive brand activations
• Benefit: Increases engagement and presence in digital environments
• Example: Branded versions guiding attendees through a virtual product showcase

Top Free Creation Tools

The buzz around AI continues to grow and now we see a lot of attention towards Avatars. The best way to start is by trying out free tools, which is what I did before deciding on a paid version that gave me what I am looking for. Here is a list of some free creation tools.

Ready Player Me

• Use for: Full-body 3D avatars for VR, metaverse, or games
• Highlights: Customizable from a selfie, usable across 700+ apps
  (https://readyplayer.me)

Zmoji / Bitmoji

• Use for: Fun, cartoon-style versions (social, casual branding)
• Highlights: Easy to personalize, integrates with social platforms
  (https://www.bitmoji.com)

Lensa (AI Magic Avatars)

• Use for: Stylized AI-generated
• Highlights: Upload photos, get dozens of themed versions.
• Limited free options before paid tiers
  (https://www.lensa-ai.com)

D-ID

• Use for: AI video versions from text, images, or documents
• Highlights: Realistic talking versions, great for explainer content
• Free plan includes limited credits
  (https://www.d-id.com)

Synthesia (Free Demo)

• Use for: Creating AI versions for business videos
• Highlights: Prebuilt, multilingual voiceovers
• Offers a free demo video
  (https://www.synthesia.io)

Avatoon

• Use for: Personalized cartoon-style
• Highlights: Good for social content, mobile-friendly
  (https://avatoon.me)

Tafi Avatar Creator

• Use for: Realistic for VR, gaming, and animation
• Highlights: High quality with cross-platform export
  (https://www.mytafi.com)

Key Takeaways

Do not waste your time playing around with Avatars if you have no solid business case or reason. Yes, you will have fun, but try and think of a good way to utilise them. Are you exploring how Avatars can enhance your marketing, communication, or team collaboration strategies? Or ore you looking to put a face to your social media marketing videos and podcasts?

Avatars will play a role in the future so why not follow me by dipping your feet in now and discover!