What is an AI avatar?


There are many definitions for an avatar, but it is usually a digital representation of a human in the online space.

The first thing that probably comes to mind is a cartoon avatar, used by people on their social profiles in place of a photo.

At Synthesia, we define an AI avatar as a photo-realistic digital representation of a human, that can be used for creating videos in 120+ languages.

This sounds like a mouthful, so let's break this down with Synthesia's own avatar, Anna.

How are Synthesia AI Avatars created?PlayWhat are AI avatars useful for?


Let's say you need to create a whole bunch of videos, and you don't have a lot of time or money to spare.

Think training videos, explainer videos, how-to videos, and the like.

AI video generation tools like Synthesia allow you to create those videos in your browser window without any cameras or actors, all by using AI avatars.

Here's how.
How to make an AI avatar for videos


You can create a professional video with an AI avatar in minutes in 4 simple steps.
Step 1: Type in text


Take your video script and type or paste it into the script box.

Synthesia will use that text to generate a text-to-speech voiceover for your avatar.

Here's an amazing bonus: you can make your avatar speak in more than 120 languages by simply typing in text in your target language.
Step 2: Choose an AI avatar


Now it's time to add a face to that voice-over in the form of an AI avatar.

Synthesia has 85+ avatars of every face shape, hairstyle, eye color, and clothing option, with or without facial hair.

To add an AI avatar, click 'Avatar' on top of the video canvas and choose an avatar style you like. Switch between the full-body view, circle view, or voice only.
Step 3: Edit your video


Now it's time to customize your video with visuals.

You can add shapes, text, colors, animations, transitions, screen recordings, music, and more.

You can upload your own photo and video footage or search through our stock footage collection.
Step 4: Generate and download video


Your video with a photo-realistic AI avatar is done!

Click on 'Generate' and let Synthesia do its magic. 🪄
Bonus: Create your own custom video avatar



If you want to create videos, but don't feel comfortable in front of a camera, or just want to make videos faster, make a realistic avatar of yourself using Synthesia.

Curious to see how it looks? Here's a custom avatar created by Cyber Inc.:

Demo video, Cyber Inc.Play
If you want to make your own avatar, here's what you'll need:

• a Synthesia STUDIO account
• a green screen
• a camera and good lighting
• 10-15 minutes of footage or you reciting a script

For more detailed instructions read our full guide on creating a custom avatar.