Will Avatars Turn Employees Into Surrogates In An AI Workforce?
Will Avatars Turn Employees Into Surrogates In An AI Workforce?
I've been playing around with a few online platforms that let you create an avatar of yourself that looks and sounds a lot like you. The one I tried most recently, VEED.IO, created a version of me where the mouth movements didn't quite match how I normally speak. It was basically my face, but the way the mouth moved gave it away. The voice was close, but not exact. Still, it reminded me of the Bruce Willis movie Surrogates. That film showed a world where people stayed home while sending robotic versions of themselves out to live their lives. We already have filters on Zoom that make us look less tired or smooth out a few wrinkles. But creating a video presence that speaks for us without us actually being there feels like a bigger shift. It raises some real questions, especially now that companies are experimenting with AI workforce tools that blur the line between showing up digitally and showing up in person.
How AI Workforce Technology Is Changing The Way Employees Show Up
Several platforms are pushing the limits of what is possible with AI avatars. With just a few clicks, someone can create a professional video of themselves delivering a message, hosting a training session, or participating in a meeting without ever being live. The message they deliver comes from a script that is just copied and pasted into the software, and then the avatar reads it. It's not unlike a video I saw of a complete standup routine that imitated George Carlin's voice and his style. His estate sued for that creation, but it's a different situation when we create avatars of ourselves.
It is easy to see the appeal. No more rushing to get camera ready for Zoom calls. No more worrying about lighting, background noise, or even your energy level. As AI workforce options expand, it becomes tempting to wonder if showing up personally is even necessary in every situation.
Why AI Workforce Solutions Are Appealing In A Remote Work Era
Remote work is not going away. In fact, many companies are embracing it more fully than ever. AI workforce solutions offer a way to stay visible and productive without the constant drain of live video appearances.
There are practical benefits. Employees who feel uncomfortable on camera might feel more confident sending an avatar. Teams can create consistent training content without repeating themselves. Leaders can appear across multiple meetings at once without ever leaving their office.
In a way, the rise of AI workforce tools feels like a natural next step in a world that is already blending digital and human experiences.
What AI Workforce Trends Could Mean For Trust And Authenticity
Even though the technology is impressive, it raises real questions about authenticity. If an AI avatar shows up for a meeting or delivers a message, how can you be sure the real person was involved?
In education, although not allowed, there have already been examples of online professors hiring others to teach courses under their names. Imagine how easy it would be to use AI workforce avatars to replicate a presence without any personal involvement.
How much trust might erode if we cannot tell whether we are interacting with a real colleague or just their digital twin.
How AI Workforce Innovations Raise New Questions About Responsibility
There is also the issue of responsibility. If an AI avatar says something inaccurate, misleading, or even offensive, who is accountable? Is it the employee, the company, or the technology provider?
As AI workforce innovations become more common, the lines could blur quickly. In fields like customer service, sales, and leadership communication, getting it wrong could have serious consequences.
The legal system has not fully caught up yet, leaving a lot of gray areas around what happens when avatars act on someone else's behalf. In the Carlin case, the lawsuit ended in a settlement, and the creators agreed to remove the content and stop using his likeness. It set an early precedent, but when people start creating avatars of themselves for work, it opens up a whole different category of questions the courts still haven't addressed.
Are AI Workforce Avatars Making Human Connection Harder To Build?
One thing to consider is the role imperfection plays in building trust. Live conversations are messy. People pause, stumble over words, laugh at unexpected moments, and show real emotion. Those small signs of humanity are part of what helps us connect.
If AI workforce avatars start replacing more human interactions, will we lose something important? A perfectly polished video presentation can deliver information, but can it create real relationships?
It is an open question, but it seems worth considering before we trade too much authenticity for convenience.
Real Companies Are Already Using AI Workforce Avatars
This may still feel futuristic, but some companies are already using AI avatars for real work. Synthesia is used by more than half of the Fortune 100, mostly for training videos and internal updates. BESTSELLER, a global fashion company, uses it to reach thousands of employees while cutting back on classroom time.
Other platforms like Hour One and Colossyan are being used to speed up everything from compliance videos to investor updates. Companies like HP, BMW, and Vodafone are already exploring these tools. Most current examples focus on communication and training, but with this kind of momentum, it's not hard to imagine how quickly that could expand into meetings, customer service, or even leadership messaging.
Even Zoom is experimenting with AI avatars. They are working on photorealistic avatar options that would let you record messages or participate in meetings asynchronously, which is something that takes all this to another level.
We are not talking about future tech anymore. These tools are here, and companies are already testing how far they can go.
What Companies Can Do To Prepare Now For An AI Workforce
Whether or not companies adopt AI avatars this year, it makes sense to start talking about what this kind of presence means. Is it okay to use an avatar in a team meeting? When is live participation required? What kind of training should be offered to help people use these tools responsibly?
Companies that begin defining expectations now will be in a better position later. It is easier to build trust when people know the rules and understand how these new tools fit into workplace culture.
Final Thoughts On Where The AI Workforce Might Take Us
The idea of outsourcing our real selves to technology is no longer just a movie plot. As AI workforce tools become more advanced and accessible, they are shaping the way businesses operate and how people show up professionally. There is no clear roadmap yet. Some companies will likely embrace AI workforce avatars quickly. Others will move more cautiously, trying to protect human connection wherever possible. As exciting as the technology is, I keep coming back to the same feeling I had when I first saw Surrogates. Just because we can send a version of ourselves into the world does not mean we always should. Maybe the real question is not whether avatars will become part of the AI workforce. It is how much of ourselves we are willing to hand over to them.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time Business News
13 hours ago
- Time Business News
The Best Laptops of 2025 Ranked: Which One Should You Buy
Choosing the right laptop in 2025 means balancing power, portability, battery life, and total cost of ownership. Whether you're a hybrid office worker, creative professional, or work-from-anywhere entrepreneur, our ranked list offers clarity, real-world context, and actionable insight. We've tested and fact‑checked the top contenders, so here's what you should seriously consider: Why it leads: The MacBook Air M4 remains the gold standard for most business users—boasting industry‑leading battery life (up to 18 hours reported), fanless cooling, and compatibility with top office suites like Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Zoom . Real-world example: A financial analyst reports 'colleagues often forget my Air is even on standby—it's that efficient.' Pros & Cons: Pros: Lightweight (~2.7 lb); stellar battery; strong resale value ($999+ MSRP). Lightweight (~2.7 lb); stellar battery; strong resale value ($999+ MSRP). Cons: Max 24GB RAM; limited port options (2× USB‑C only). Ideal for: Managers, consultants, and creatives who value silent performance and longevity. Why it stands out: Blurring the line with MacBook, this ARM‑powered device offers stellar battery life (15–22 hours) and fanless efficiency . Windows on ARM is maturing fast. Real-world example: A software developer appreciates the 'built-in Copilot key' for boosting productivity and AI prompts. Pros & Cons: Ideal for: Hybrid professionals needing Microsoft ecosystem with exceptional battery life. Why it shines: A premium Windows option with AMOLED display, minimal aesthetic, and 'all‑day productivity' reliability . Real-world example: A business consultant uses it for multi-tab Excel sessions and client presentations without lag. Pros & Cons: Pros: Vibrant screen; stylish; reliable performance; good battery. Vibrant screen; stylish; reliable performance; good battery. Cons: Limited upgradeability; fairly premium price. Ideal for: Professionals seeking Apple‑like polish with Windows flexibility. Why it's a value pick: Known for portability (under 1 kg), military-grade build, and long battery life, it packs Snapdragon X with 32GB RAM & 1TB SSD Pros & Cons: Pros: Ultra-light; robust ports (USB4, HDMI 2.1); vibrant OLED. Ultra-light; robust ports (USB4, HDMI 2.1); vibrant OLED. Cons: Base price $1,099; modest performance for demanding tasks. Ideal for: Travelers and executives who prioritize weight and durability. Why it's unique: Delivers true sustainability via modular, repairable design—upgradable RAM, SSD, ports, even DIY builds from $899 Real-world example: A remote educator swapped in his own Wi‑Fi 7 card and bumped memory—no service center needed. Pros & Cons: Pros: Repairable; future‑proof; excellent community support. Repairable; future‑proof; excellent community support. Cons: Base i3 config underwhelms for power users; DIY not for everyone. Ideal for: IT‑savvy users and green‑tech advocates. Why it's powerful: A Windows powerhouse with Intel Ultra CPUs, RTX 40-series GPU, up to 64GB RAM and OLED/4K screens . Pros & Cons: Pros: Large vibrant screen; high-end specs; premium build. Large vibrant screen; high-end specs; premium build. Cons: Soldered memory; expensive ($1,699+). Ideal for: Creative professionals—video editors, architects, big-data analysts. Why gamers and creators love it: Slim yet potent gaming rig with RTX 5090 GPU, OLED 240 Hz, strong performance in creative apps Pros & Cons: Pros: Top-tier performance; desktop-grade GPU; sleek RGB. Top-tier performance; desktop-grade GPU; sleek RGB. Cons: Battery life suffers; pricey (~$4,500). Ideal for: Power users needing desktop-level graphics in a portable form. Why consider it: Named 'best budget laptop' of 2025, offering compelling performance for under $800 Pros & Cons: Pros: Affordable; lightweight; dependable performance. Affordable; lightweight; dependable performance. Cons: Basic build; battery underwhelms. Ideal for: Entry-level professionals, interns, or everyday tasks. Our rankings are based on: Performance benchmarks from tested sources like Laptop Mag, Windows Central, The Verge. Real-world user feedback, including Reddit's r/BuyItForLife: 'A MacBook Air is honestly the best overall laptop for like 80% of people…' Battery life tests—Apple hits 18 hr, Surface 22 hr, others deliver 10–17 hrs based on usage. Portability & build—risks versus functionality; e.g., Dell XPS 16 sacrifices weight but maximizes power. Total cost of ownership, factoring in longevity, repairability, and resale potential. Use Case Top Pick Why Everyday Office & Travel MacBook Air M4 Lightweight, long battery, MacOS stability Windows-first Business Users Surface Laptop 7 Exceptional battery, touchscreen, Copilot AI keys Creative & Multimedia Dell XPS 16 Large OLED, powerful GPU Gamers/High-end Tasks Razer Blade 16 RTX 5090, professional-grade specs Budget-conscious Professionals Acer Swift Go 14 Under $800; fulfills core tasks Repairability & Sustainability Framework 13 Modular upgrade paths, right-to-repair champion For most US-based professionals, the MacBook Air M4 hits the perfect balance—performance, battery, and price. If your workflow centers on Windows, the Surface Laptop 7 offers equivalent longevity with new Copilot AI features. Need heavier specs? Choose the Dell XPS 16 or Razer Blade 16. For budget-minded simplicity, stick with the Acer Swift Go 14. And if repairability matters, nothing beats the Framework 13. If you're outfitting a team for remote projects or hosting a temporary event setup, consider a laptop rental to reduce upfront costs while maintaining access to top-tier devices. It's a practical approach that's gaining traction across industries from tech conferences to short-term training programs. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
a day ago
- Time Business News
10 Laptop Hacks Every User Wishes They Knew Sooner
Whether you're a remote worker, frequent traveler, event planner, or IT professional, your laptop is your lifeline. Yet, most users only scratch the surface of what their machines can do. From extending battery life to boosting performance, these ten laptop hacks can significantly improve productivity and ease of use — no new hardware required. Let's dive into the hacks every user wishes they'd learned years ago. Too many background apps starting with your laptop can drastically slow boot times. To streamline performance: Windows : Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable non-essential apps. : Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable non-essential apps. macOS: System Settings → General → Login Items → Remove unwanted apps. Real-World Example: A marketing agency noticed reduced boot time from 58 seconds to just 18 seconds by disabling Slack, Zoom, and Dropbox from startup. Battery life is precious, especially on the move. Nearly all laptops have built-in power-saving settings — but most users don't optimize them. Actionable Tip: On Windows , go to Settings → System → Power & Battery → Enable 'Battery Saver.' , go to Settings → System → Power & Battery → Enable 'Battery Saver.' On macOS, enable 'Low Power Mode' from System Preferences → Battery. Pair this with reduced screen brightness and Wi-Fi toggling when offline for even longer battery sessions. Using your laptop as a second screen boosts multitasking without spending on an external display. On Windows : Use the Project to This PC feature. : Use the feature. On macOS: Use Sidecar with an iPad or Luna Display for cross-device display. Example: Event organizers often use this trick to monitor registration tools on one screen and control digital signage from another. Running out of space? Don't rush to delete photos or documents — reclaim it intelligently. Try These: Windows : Use Storage Sense (Settings → System → Storage). : Use (Settings → System → Storage). macOS: Use Manage Storage in About This Mac → Storage tab → Optimize Storage. Clear temporary files, duplicates, and cached data. Tools like CCleaner or CleanMyMac can automate the process. Cutting down on mouse usage can significantly boost your workflow. Popular Shortcuts: Alt + Tab (Windows) or Cmd + Tab (Mac) : Switch between apps quickly. or : Switch between apps quickly. Windows + V : Access clipboard history. : Access clipboard history. Cmd + Space (Mac): Launch Spotlight search. Pro Tip: Learn shortcuts for your favorite apps like Excel, Zoom, or Adobe Creative Suite — it pays off fast. Juggling multiple projects? Use virtual desktops to separate workspaces by task or client. Windows : Press Windows + Tab → Add Desktop. : Press Windows + Tab → Add Desktop. macOS: Use Mission Control → '+' sign in the top right. This setup helps IT staff or freelancers isolate browser sessions, presentations, or development tools without clutter. When your touchpad fails — or you want hands-free control — turn your smartphone into a trackpad. Apps like Unified Remote, Remote Mouse, or Apple's Remote App allow seamless control for presentations, media, and navigation. Use Case: At corporate events or training sessions, users often pair phones to control slides without standing near the laptop. Most laptops default to 'Balanced' mode, but you can create custom profiles for performance, meetings, or travel. On Windows : Control Panel → Power Options → Create a power plan. : Control Panel → Power Options → Create a power plan. On macOS: Use third-party apps like Turbo Boost Switcher or set up automation via Shortcuts. Hack: Create a 'Zoom mode' with reduced screen brightness, camera optimization, and Wi-Fi preference for smooth video calls. Overheating causes throttling, reduced performance, and shorter hardware life. Tips: Use a laptop stand to improve airflow. Clean out vents monthly with compressed air. Avoid placing your laptop on soft surfaces like beds or couches. Bonus Tip: Keep Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (Mac) open to spot resource-heavy apps heating up your system. Many users delay backups because they don't want another subscription. But Windows and macOS offer built-in, free solutions. Windows : File History → External drive or network location. : File History → External drive or network location. macOS: Time Machine → External drive setup. Schedule weekly backups, especially before travel or updates. If you're using laptop rental devices for events or short-term projects, backups become even more critical to prevent data loss. Laptops are more than just mobile computers — they're powerful tools, often underutilized. Whether you're managing a team, running a business, or organizing a conference, these laptop hacks can save time, improve performance, and simplify your tech life. Explore which ones fit your routine and start implementing them today. And if you're working temporarily or organizing an event, laptop rental services can help you access high-performance devices without the long-term investment. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
2 days ago
- Time Business News
Laptop Guide 2025 – Top Picks & Rental Options
In 2025, laptops will have evolved beyond simple workstations. Whether you're managing business operations, creating content, gaming competitively, or running an event, choosing the right laptop is crucial to performance, productivity, and portability. This complete Laptop Guide for 2025 covers the best laptops by category—from business and creative work to gaming and short-term rental needs—along with smart tips on when to buy and when to rent. Category Best Model Key Specs Price (Approx.) Business Dell Latitude 9450 Ultra Intel Core Ultra 7, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD $2,300 Creative Work MacBook Pro M3 Max (16') Apple M3 Max, 64GB RAM, 2TB SSD $3,999 Gaming Alienware x16 R2 Intel Core Ultra 9, RTX 4090, QHD+ 240Hz $3,500 Portability ASUS Zenbook S14 OLED Intel Core Ultra 5, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD $1,300 Value for Money Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 Gen 9 AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD $900 2-in-1 Productivity HP Spectre x360 14 Intel Core Ultra 7, OLED Touch, 16GB RAM $1,650 Why It Stands Out: Built for executives and remote professionals, the Latitude 9450 features AI-enhanced battery life, top-tier privacy tools, and seamless Zoom/Microsoft Teams integration. Built for executives and remote professionals, the Latitude 9450 features AI-enhanced battery life, top-tier privacy tools, and seamless Zoom/Microsoft Teams integration. Ideal For: Corporate users, remote work, enterprise IT teams Corporate users, remote work, enterprise IT teams Rent Option: Available from One World Rental for daily, weekly, or monthly use during events, conferences, or business travel. Why It Stands Out: The M3 Max chip blows away the competition in 4K video editing, 3D rendering, and audio production. The M3 Max chip blows away the competition in 4K video editing, 3D rendering, and audio production. Ideal For: Designers, filmmakers, developers, and media professionals Designers, filmmakers, developers, and media professionals Rental Use Case: Rent from One World Rental for short-term production work, on-site editing at events, or trade show content creation. Why It Stands Out: Powered by RTX 4090 and a Core Ultra 9 CPU, this beast handles AAA titles at max settings with superior thermals and visuals. Powered by RTX 4090 and a Core Ultra 9 CPU, this beast handles AAA titles at max settings with superior thermals and visuals. Ideal For: Competitive gamers, streamers, and gaming expos Competitive gamers, streamers, and gaming expos Rental Advantage: One World Rental provides preconfigured high-performance gaming laptops for esports tournaments and influencer marketing campaigns. Why It Stands Out: Ultra-lightweight (under 1kg), stunning OLED display, and efficient performance for travel and meetings. Ultra-lightweight (under 1kg), stunning OLED display, and efficient performance for travel and meetings. Ideal For: On-the-go professionals, students, and business trips On-the-go professionals, students, and business trips Why Rent?: Great for attendees, speakers, or media crews needing a reliable yet portable device at events. Why It Stands Out: Excellent AMD Ryzen power for under $1,000. Solid display, performance, and build quality. Excellent AMD Ryzen power for under $1,000. Solid display, performance, and build quality. Ideal For: Everyday use, business interns, admin teams Everyday use, business interns, admin teams Rental Perks: Available in volume for temporary offices, staff onboarding, or training workshops. Why It Stands Out: Combines flexibility, premium design, and touch-enabled productivity in one compact package. Combines flexibility, premium design, and touch-enabled productivity in one compact package. Ideal For: Presenters, sales teams, hybrid workers Presenters, sales teams, hybrid workers Rental Insight: A favourite for short-term projects or executive-level users at business conferences. Choosing between buying and renting depends on your usage frequency, budget, and purpose. Here's a simple breakdown: You need it every day (business, study, gaming) You plan to customise or upgrade your system You want full ownership and long-term ROI You only need it for a few days or weeks You're attending or hosting an event You want to test a high-end model before buying You're running a seasonal campaign or pop-up event Factor Buy Rent (via One World Rental) Cost High upfront investment Lower initial cost (daily/weekly rates) Usage Period Long-term Short-term or project-based Flexibility Limited High – return or upgrade anytime Support Manufacturer warranty Full setup & tech support included Ideal For Full-time users Events, short projects, travel One World Rental is a trusted provider of business-grade laptops, gaming laptops, MacBooks, and 2-in-1 devices across the UK, Spain, Europe, and APAC regions. With over 50 countries serviced and full event support available, you can: Access the latest models pre-configured to your specs Enjoy flexible rental periods (1 day to 30+ days) Receive delivery, setup, and remote/on-site technical support Bundle laptops with accessories like WiFi kits, printers, and displays Always book in advance for events and peak seasons. for events and peak seasons. Bundle with accessories like mice, keyboards, stands, and monitors. like mice, keyboards, stands, and monitors. Request pre-installation of required apps or platforms (Zoom, Teams, design software, games). of required apps or platforms (Zoom, Teams, design software, games). Ask about bulk discounts for 10+ units or multiple locations. 🎤 Event check-in stations and registration desks 🎮 Esports tournaments and gaming expos 💼 Remote training or onboarding sessions 🛫 International business trips 📽️ Creative agency pop-up studios In 2025, laptops will be more powerful and varied than ever. From ultra-light productivity machines to powerhouse gaming rigs and content-creation beasts, there's a laptop to match every task—and every budget. But not everyone needs to own a device full-time. With One World Rental, you can access high-performance laptop rentals when you need them, without the commitment, maintenance, or delay. Whether you're planning a one-day workshop or a 10-day gaming event, renting gives you the flexibility to scale. Need laptops for your next project, event, or short-term campaign? Contact One World Rental today for expert advice, fast delivery, and competitive rental options across the globe. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
