'New world order': Asia's virtual influencers offer metaverse glimpse

This photo taken on October 14, 2021 shows Thai artist Adisak “Beam” Jirasakkasem (R) discussing campaign ideas for his newly launched virtual influencer Bangkok Naughty Boo with a representative from Morgan and Preston Models agency at a design studio in Bangkok. - A global phenomenon of fictional characters is blurring the lines between virtual and reality, as it establishes a foothold in the lucrative multi-billion-dollar influencer market, with a burgeoning crop of 'Made in Thailand' virtual influencers promising to stay forever young and on-trend. - AFP

BANGKOK, Nov 19, 2021 (AFP): Sporting neon hair and flawless skin, Bangkok Naughty Boo is one of a new generation of influencers in Asia promising to stay forever young, on-trend, and scandal-free -- because they are computer generated.

Blurring the lines between fantasy and reality, these stars are hugely popular with teenagers in the region and will yield increasing power as interest grows in the "metaverse", industry experts say.