The initiative targets a digital-human sector valued at over $10 billion with more than 1.3 million active firms. Supporters say the IDs protect intellectual property and hold creator companies accountable for virtual actions, though critics warn the system may expand government surveillance. Some companies now pay citizens up to $20,000 to license their physical likenesses for virtual replicas as China builds the legal infrastructure for an AI to AI economy.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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China’s First State IDs for AI Persons Enable Legal Business
AI11 days ago
A pilot program in Beijing is assigning official identity cards to AI-generated virtual influencers to allow them to conduct banking and enter contracts. These state-issued IDs include the persona's name, birthday, address, and facial features, providing the legal capacity to open digital-currency wallets and form commercial partnerships. Yuri, a popular virtual artist and idol, is among the first personas recognized as a "digital resident" in the capital.
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