The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is currently growing rapidly, simplifying many tasks—from creating images to producing videos and advertising materials. However, a new way to earn income using AI has emerged in China that may surprise many. Some people are making money by providing their face for digital use.
Companies that create AI-based content, as well as the creators themselves, utilize these faces in various digital products such as short dramas, advertisements, and games.
According to a report, the practice of licensing ordinary people's faces for digital application is becoming increasingly common in China. This means that an individual grants permission for their photograph or face to be used in AI-generated content as a digital character. They are paid for this. The amounts can vary: in some cases they are very small, while others are offered income up to thousands of dollars.
The report notes that transactions in such deals range from approximately $7 to $15,000.
An example provided is a bank employee. An advertising company acquired the right to use his face seven times over three days. He was paid about 2,500 yuan for this, equivalent to approximately $370. This demonstrates that ordinary citizens, not just actors or models, can now earn money from the digital use of their faces.
In Shenzhen, China, a platform called Yuanshang Xinsheng was launched in May 2026. Here, users can create their digital profile after registration and identity verification. This profile functions as a digital actor profile. Subsequently, content creators can obtain licenses to use these faces in their AI-based projects as needed.
According to the report, previously, similar transactions involving the use of faces were limited to private online groups related to the film and television industry. However, after April, such transactions began appearing on open online platforms. This indicates that this activity is no longer exclusive to industry representatives, and ordinary people are also seeking ways to earn money from the digital use of their appearance.
Thanks to AI assistance, it has become easier to create short videos, advertisements, games, and other digital stories, which could potentially increase the demand for various faces. For content creators, obtaining a license for a real person's face can be one option. Nevertheless, some believe that ordinary faces can also be generated using AI, while celebrities' faces are more appealing due to their recognizability.
Amidst the growing use of AI, new monetization methods are emerging. The trend of providing one's face for digital use in China is an example of this change. Previously, people earned money by using their photos, videos, or social media content. But in the age of AI, a face can be used as a digital asset. It is crucial, however, that any use of a person's face or identity occurs with their consent and in accordance with established terms.