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Vodafone’s latest advertising campaign has ignited a debate about authenticity in marketing by featuring an AI-generated influencer. The telecommunications giant confirmed that it was “testing different styles of advertising — this time with AI.” The advertisement, notable for its sometimes unsettling realism, underscores the burgeoning trend of virtual influencers in advertising, a path already tread by figures like Lil’ Miquela, who has partnered with numerous major brands. The use of AI personas in marketing raises significant questions about the future of human representation and the potential impact on consumer trust.