Shinhan Bank in South Korea has implemented AI avatars across various sectors, including retail, education, banking, and financial investment. These AI avatars provide detailed product information, personalized investment advice, and educational lessons. However, the rapid growth of AI avatars raises concerns about potential job loss due to automation and privacy risks from data misuse. Responsible development and regulation are essential to address these challenges.
In retail, DeepBrain AI has pioneered an unmanned convenience store in Seoul, where AI avatars offer real-time communication with customers, providing information about products, promotions, and practical details like the weather and directions. This AI-powered store aims to streamline the shopping experience and reduce labor costs for store owners.
In banking, AI avatars are taking over roles traditionally performed by human workers. Shinhan Bank has introduced AI-powered bank tellers that closely resemble human employees. These avatars offer personalized financial advice and manage various tasks at bank counters, enhancing customer service quality and efficiency.
Samsung Securities has also introduced an AI analyst that delivers real-time investment insights on its YouTube channel. This virtual analyst, developed in collaboration with DeepBrain AI, presents investment data in a natural and polished manner, allowing human analysts to focus on core tasks like market research.
In the education sector, AI tutors are offering affordable alternatives to traditional learning methods. SpeakNow and KyoWon have integrated AI tutors into their platforms, allowing students to engage in personalized, one-on-one learning experiences with AI educators. These AI tutors cover a variety of subjects and aim to make the learning process engaging and entertaining.
While AI avatars offer numerous benefits, their rapid proliferation raises challenges and ethical concerns, including potential job loss and privacy risks. Companies utilizing AI avatars should establish AI ethics committees and collaborate with legal professionals to prevent data misuse and ensure responsible development and regulation. Addressing these challenges is crucial to harnessing the full potential of AI technology in various sectors.