At a time when Twitch live broadcasts are becoming massively viral, popular, and well-known (for example, we recently learned that a streamer had gone live non-stop for more than 30 days, breaking all records for the platform), as many specialists agree, it seems that VTubers are transforming the creation of online content, by changing the way people look, act and sound.
What exactly is a VTuber?
Simply put, a VTuber is a term that links the virtual or digital YouTuber, or a content creator who uses a digital avatar to take the place of a classic video webcam, with their viewers.
In fact, it is characterized as an acronym for the phrase “virtual YouTuber .” And it consists of a term used for a type of online content creator who uses a digital avatar, generated virtually, while broadcasting live to their audience .
We find them mainly on live streaming platforms, and for sharing videos, such as Twitch, TikTok or YouTube. And although in the West it may seem strange and novel, the reality is that VTubers are not new .
Most are from Japan and tend to create content in English, although many of these influencers have taken the step to have a global audience. In fact, it was in the 2010s that a wide variety of Japanese content creators, using digital avatars to provide a unique type of mascot or character with which to build and present their content, became hugely popular.
For this reason, VTubers avatars are often designed to resemble characters from popular Japanese cartoons , being particularly inspired by manga or anime. And it has been from 2016 when they have become even better known, especially after the birth of Kizuna AI.
Since then, in mid-2018 there had been an increase in the number of active creators in the VTubers sector, reaching 4,000 creators. It was from that moment that fashion exploded and reached other countries, such as China or South Korea.
What does a VTuber do?
VTubers generally create the same types of content as an original YouTuber (so to speak). That is, they play consoles and computer games on live broadcasts, participate in viral trends, collaborate with other influencers, and talk to their subscribers. What’s more, they can also create original content related to their characters or even participate in dubbing work.
But one of the most essential characteristics is that the VTuber tries to build his own personality . That is, it tends to
In turn, most earn income through advertising revenue earned through their videos, from donations made by their subscribers or from the sale of products.
How can I become a VTuber?
The technology behind the VTuber programs is very similar to the Animoji developed by Apple, and about which we have already spoken to you on other occasions. Not surprisingly, there are currently dozens of programs available that offer the possibility of achieving the desired avatar appearance, as well as for the creation of the corresponding videos.
One of the best known applications is VRoid Studio , which allows you to create a personalized avatar for free.
And how are the videos created? The programs use motion capture technology in order to capture facial movements and expressions, adjusting the avatar accordingly.
Who is Kizuna AI?
Kizuna AI is considered the first VTuber in the world, although it is true that this way of presenting content in Japan existed for a few years before. In other words, she was the first to use the real term “Virtual YouTuber.” It was officially born on June 30, 2016. And, currently, it has two YouTube channels (called “AIChannel and“ AIGames ”) that today accumulate more than 4 million subscribers and 375 million visits.
Not surprisingly, in just 10 months this animated character accumulated more than 2 million subscribers. And she has come to be listed as a cultural ambassador for the Japan National Tourism Organization.
