Author Jamin Warren traces the beginnings of virtual influencers back to the appearance of avatars, explaining why these synthetic characters don't have to be 'real' as much as they have to convey an authentic and coherent identity that clearly personifies a brand

The avatars can mimic human body language and react appropriately to happiness or sadness

Bridging the gap between reality and VR with likenesses as lifelike as the worlds they inhabit

Graphic designer takes the spotlight off women and make men take a look at the state of their bodies.

How to get over the uncanny feelings that digital versions of humans create.

A lie detector kiosk can identify whether flyers are telling the truth through their facial expressions, eye movement, and verbal responses.

Seyyer brings Ronald Reagan 'back to life' as an election commentator with their new technology.

Family Village helps people discover their personal family history and create avatars of their ancestors.

Scientist in Herzliya, Israel have developed an 'Avatar'-like computer interface that enabled a droid that was 1800 miles away to be moved using brain waves.

Scientists in Switzerland have demonstrated a robot that can be controlled by a quadriplegic wearing an EEG cap fitted with electrodes.

Yogurtistan's online retail universe lets users create and customize an avatar, interact with others and make purchases.

The military is taking inspiration from Second Life to develop a virtual simulation for soldiers.

In his weekly Consumed column in the NY Times magazine, Rob Walker has provided a great back-to-basics guide to Second Life - for all you folk who just need a recap - with some insights into how brands (real world and Second Life) can benefit the residents.