Following the viral Studio Ghibli art trend, a new ChatGPT-fueled phenomenon has taken over LinkedIn: users are transforming themselves into AI-generated action figures. The ‘AI Action Figure’ trend involves creating plastic toy versions of oneself, complete with typical accessories like a laptop, book, and coffee cup – a perfectly LinkedIn-esque image. Variations include emulating famous brands like Barbie, leading to a ‘Barbie Box Challenge’.
While initially confined to LinkedIn, the trend is slowly spreading to other platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. However, its popularity pales in comparison to the Ghibli art craze, which remains far more dominant in online searches. Unlike the Ghibli trend, which faced criticism regarding ethical and copyright concerns, the action figure trend has seen less backlash – at least for now.
Interestingly, ChatGPT is the go-to AI image generator for this trend. Its recent text-to-image update was so successful that OpenAI had to temporarily limit image generation and restrict access to free accounts due to server overload. This action figure trend, though smaller than the Ghibli trend, further cements ChatGPT’s position as a leading AI service for everyday users.
The majority of participation remains within LinkedIn’s professional network, primarily among marketers and aspiring thought leaders. Engagement levels are relatively low, and major brands aside from a few like Mac Cosmetics and NYX Cosmetics, haven’t fully embraced it. Even notable influencers seem uninterested, with the most high-profile participant being Marjorie Taylor Greene – a fact that speaks volumes about the trend’s overall reach and impact.
In conclusion, while the AI-generated action figure trend provides a glimpse into the creative potential of ChatGPT, its limited appeal and low engagement suggest it’s more of a fleeting LinkedIn quirk than a major cultural moment. It highlights the rapid evolution and widespread adoption of AI tools, but also underscores the often-inconsequential nature of online trends.
