you can soon attend zoom meetings as Zoom is set to enhance its video conferencing platform by introducing photorealistic AI avatars, allowing users to attend meetings as their digital likenesses.
you can soon attend zoom meetings as
Introduction to AI Avatars
Zoom’s vision of integrating artificial intelligence into its platform has taken a significant leap forward. On Wednesday, the company announced an upcoming feature that will enable users to create a “photorealistic” avatar of themselves. This innovation is particularly useful for those who may not feel “camera-ready” during meetings, providing an alternative for users who might have just rolled out of bed or are otherwise unprepared for a video call.
Feature Rollout and Functionality
The rollout of this feature is scheduled for December, specifically targeting Workplace users. The process to create an AI avatar is straightforward: users can upload a photo or capture a new image directly within the app. Once the image is processed, Zoom will generate a digital avatar that closely resembles the user.
Customization Options
After the avatar is created, users will have the ability to “dress” it in various professional outfits. This customization aspect allows individuals to present themselves in a manner that aligns with their professional image, even if they are not physically presentable. The avatar will also be capable of tracking the user’s movements during meetings, mimicking gestures and facial expressions in real time. This feature aims to enhance the interactive experience of virtual meetings, making them feel more personal and engaging.
Advancements from Previous Features
Zoom has previously allowed users to deliver prerecorded messages using AI avatars, but this new feature marks a significant advancement. The ability to appear as an AI clone in live meetings represents a shift towards more immersive and flexible virtual interactions. In an interview on the Decoder podcast in June 2024, Zoom CEO Eric Yuan discussed the concept of a “digital twin.” This idea encompasses an AI agent that uses a person’s likeness to perform various tasks, such as attending meetings and responding to emails on their behalf. While Zoom is not fully there yet, the introduction of photorealistic avatars is a step in that direction.
Security Measures and Safeguards
With the introduction of AI avatars, Zoom recognizes the potential for misuse and has announced several safeguards to ensure the integrity of the feature. According to Smita Hashim, Zoom’s chief product officer, the platform will implement “live camera authentication.” This measure is designed to verify that the user attending the meeting is indeed the person in the uploaded image. Such authentication is crucial in preventing impersonation and maintaining trust among meeting participants.
In-Meeting Notifications
Additionally, Zoom will include “in-meeting tile notices” that will inform participants when someone is using an AI avatar. This transparency is intended to mitigate any confusion or concerns regarding the authenticity of participants. Hashim emphasized that the feature remains in development, and specific enrollment and authentication processes may evolve before its general availability.
Complementary Features: Real-Time Voice Translation
Alongside the introduction of photorealistic AI avatars, Zoom is also launching a real-time voice translation feature. This update, set to be released in December, will utilize AI to translate spoken language in real time. Participants will be able to hear the speaker in their preferred language, enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in meetings that involve diverse linguistic backgrounds.
Supported Languages
The real-time voice translation feature will initially support a range of languages, including:
- English
- German
- Chinese
- French
- Spanish
- Arabic
- Japanese
- Portuguese
- Italian
This broad language support aims to facilitate smoother communication in international meetings, making it easier for participants from different regions to collaborate effectively.
AI Assistant Enhancements
In addition to the avatar and translation features, Zoom is also updating its AI assistant. This enhanced assistant will offer functionalities such as scheduling meetings and creating video clips. Notably, this month, Zoom will enable users to “bring” the AI assistant to in-person meetings and conferences on other platforms, including Microsoft Teams and Google Meet. In these settings, the assistant will be capable of taking notes, further streamlining the meeting process.
Implications for Remote Work
The introduction of these features comes at a time when remote work has become increasingly prevalent. As organizations continue to adapt to hybrid work environments, tools that enhance virtual communication are essential. The ability to use AI avatars and real-time translation can help bridge gaps in communication, making remote interactions feel more natural and inclusive.
Stakeholder Reactions
The announcement has garnered mixed reactions from stakeholders in the tech and business communities. Some view the introduction of AI avatars as a groundbreaking innovation that could redefine virtual meetings. Others express concerns about the potential for misuse, particularly regarding impersonation and privacy issues.
Concerns About Authenticity
Critics have raised questions about the authenticity of interactions when participants can appear as AI avatars. The concern is that this could lead to a lack of accountability in meetings, as individuals may feel less inclined to engage genuinely when represented by a digital likeness. This skepticism underscores the importance of Zoom’s proposed safeguards, which aim to maintain the integrity of virtual interactions.
Future of AI in Communication
As Zoom continues to innovate, the implications of AI in communication extend beyond just avatars and translation. The concept of a digital twin, as mentioned by Eric Yuan, hints at a future where AI could take on more significant roles in our professional lives. This could include automating routine tasks, managing schedules, and even participating in meetings on our behalf.
Broader Industry Trends
The trend toward AI integration in communication platforms is not unique to Zoom. Other companies are also exploring similar technologies, indicating a broader shift in how we interact in professional settings. As AI continues to evolve, its applications in communication will likely expand, leading to new tools and features that enhance productivity and collaboration.
Conclusion
The upcoming introduction of photorealistic AI avatars and real-time voice translation marks a significant milestone for Zoom and the future of virtual communication. While the technology presents exciting opportunities for enhancing remote interactions, it also raises important questions about authenticity and privacy. As Zoom prepares to roll out these features, the tech community will be watching closely to see how they are received and implemented in real-world scenarios.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: September 17, 2025 at 10:41 pm
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