Video: Bizarre AI Trend in China, People Earning Thousands by Licensing Their Faces

With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, new ways of content creation and monetization are emerging globally. However, a bizarre and fascinating trend has surfaced in China, where ordinary citizens are earning money by licensing their faces for digital use. AI content creation companies and creators are utilizing these faces in short dramas, advertisements, and digital gaming characters.

Earning Thousands Through Face Licensing

According to reports, the practice of ordinary people licensing their digital likeness is gaining immense traction in China. Individuals grant permission for their photos or facial structures to be used as digital avatars in AI-generated content. In return, they receive financial compensation. While some deals involve minor amounts, others have reportedly fetched thousands of dollars, ranging anywhere from $7 to as high as $15,000.

Highlighting one such instance, a bank employee reportedly sold the rights to use their facial likeness seven times over three days, earning around 2,500 yuan (approximately $370). This demonstrates that digital monetization is no longer restricted to professional actors or models, as regular citizens tap into AI income streams.

New Platforms and Open Market Growth

In May 2026, a platform named Yuanxiang Xinsheng was launched in Shenzhen, China, allowing individuals to register, verify their identities, and establish digital profiles. These profiles function similarly to digital actor portfolios, enabling content creators to legally license real human faces for their AI-driven projects.

Previously, such transactions were confined to private online groups within the film and television industry. However, the market has gradually transitioned to open online platforms, empowering everyday individuals to explore new economic opportunities through their digital identities.