**Exploring Digital Humans: Evolution, Applications, and Future Predictions of AI-Generated Entities **
Hpone Myat Min discusses the concept and evolution of “digital humans,” essentially AI-generated representations of human beings, using technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Natural Language Processing, and 3D modeling. This technology, which dates back to the 1950s, enables the creation of virtual entities that can mimic human actions and behaviors, with applications across various industries.
The digital human technology has undergone significant advancements since the publication of the Turing test, leading to the creation of chatbots and 3D models with realistic human features. The current state of digital humans incorporates technologies like machine learning, natural language processing, speech-to-text, text-to-speech, recommending algorithms, and 3D modeling and animation. Various tech giants, including Samsung, have contributed innovations in this field, creating entities capable of human-like behaviors such as blinking and eyebrow movement.
Digital humans hold several advantages, including their ability to work continuously, interact with multiple users simultaneously, understand multiple languages, and create immersive and engaging communications. They find application in sectors like mental counseling, where individuals might feel more comfortable opening up to a non-human entity. However, there are also challenges, including privacy and security concerns, the complexity of technology, lack of emotional intelligence, and reliance on technology which might lead to problems in case of technological issues.
The speaker also emphasizes the potential of digital humans in contributing to immersive experiences in developments like the metaverse and virtual worlds and their utility in retail and customer services. However, there are associated risks, such as potential job losses due to automation and ethical concerns due to the lack of sufficient regulation on the use of digital humans.
Currently, digital humans are in the early stage of innovation, and it is projected that mainstream adoption will occur in six to eight years. The market value of digital human technology, estimated at $11.3 billion in 2021, is expected to reach $440.3 billion by 2031. Current applications of digital humans are prominent in the gaming industry, social media platforms, customer service, and CGI in movies and games.
To sum up, the speaker concludes that digital humans are virtual replicas of humans, created using advanced technologies, and their evolution and applications are anticipated with much excitement and interest.