In an era where artificial intelligence and virtual reality are rapidly evolving, Kazutaka Yonekura, the CEO of Tokyo-based startup Alt, envisions a world where everyone possesses their own digital clone. This isn’t just any virtual avatar, but a sophisticated digital double – an online presence that mirrors its owner’s likeness, voice, and even preferences.
According to Yonekura, these digital clones could significantly streamline our daily lives. Imagine an online representation attending a preliminary job interview on your behalf, or a digital physician carrying out initial patient screenings. During a demonstration, Yonekura’s own clone provided insight into his musical tastes. Though the response seemed slightly mechanical, Yonekura emphasizes the technology’s personal touch. This isn’t a generic AI like Siri or ChatGPT; it’s uniquely you, and, crucially, it belongs to you, not a tech conglomerate.
Creating these clones isn’t a straightforward process. Vast amounts of personal data are harvested from social media platforms and public records. This data undergoes constant updates to stay aligned with the individual’s evolving preferences. However, acquiring a digital twin comes at a hefty price. With a current price tag of approximately 20 million yen (US$140,000), it’s not yet a luxury everyone can afford.
While Yonekura and his startup, backed by investments exceeding 6 billion yen and collaborations with institutions like the University of Southern California and the University of Tokyo, are pioneers in this field, they’re not the only ones in Japan harnessing technology to replicate human traits. INCS toenter, another Tokyo startup, has gained popularity with its Vocaloid artists—synthesized singers often associated with anime or manga characters. These Vocaloid creations, like Alt’s digital clones, reflect Japan’s affinity for blending the digital realm with human likeness.
However, cultural analyst Matt Alt (of AltJapan) observes that the appeal of having a digital doppelganger might have its roots deeply embedded in Japanese culture. Historical warriors like ninjas employed techniques that created illusionary doubles to deceive adversaries. Contemporary Japanese video games, manga, and novels frequently incorporate this theme. In contrast, the Western perspective on having a clone is tinged with apprehension, evident in movies like “Invasion of the Body Snatchers.”
Digital doubles and Vocaloids represent Japan’s unique approach to blending human identity with technology. While digital assistants and computerized music have found a niche in the West, they lack the personal essence inherent in Japan’s versions. As Yu Tamura, CEO of INCS toenter, suggests, outside of dedicated Japanophiles, these innovations might be perceived as quirky or overly whimsical by international audiences.
In conclusion, as Japan continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the virtual space, the rest of the world watches with anticipation, curiosity, and a hint of skepticism. The future of these digital twins remains to be seen, but their potential impact on how we navigate our digital lives is undeniable.
READ MORE: