ChatGPT used to enable communication with a virtual YouTuber in Ibaraki, Japan
The Japanese prefecture of Ibaraki, which is located near Tokyo, has recently employed ChatGPT to enable communication with a virtual YouTuber, as part of an effort to attract more tourists and promote its products. The virtual character used by Ibaraki prefecture is called Ibara Hiyori, and it has been designed and used as an official mascot to represent the prefecture. This AI technology allows the character to respond to people's questions and to have a conversation with them.
The use of ChatGPT in Ibaraki prefecture marks the first time that a local municipality in Japan has used artificial intelligence to enhance an official virtual YouTuber. The prefecture's officials recently created a synthesized voice for Ibara Hiyori using ChatGPT, enabling the character to interact with people in a more natural way.
During a recent video posted by the prefecture, Ibara Hiyori can be seen speaking with a human reporter, answering questions about her favorite foods, which are dried sweet potatoes and locally made chestnuts, both of which are specialties of the region. Ibara Hiyori speaks with the Ibaraki dialect to make the experience more authentic and local.
The prefecture plans to set up a booth at an upcoming event in Chiba Prefecture at the end of April, where visitors will have the opportunity to converse with Ibara Hiyori and experience the AI technology first-hand. Officials also plan to review the accuracy and effectiveness of the AI technology to determine whether it can be put into full-scale use.
The AI technology used in Ibaraki prefecture is an innovative approach to promoting the region's public image. By introducing cutting-edge technology, the prefecture's publicity team hopes to attract more tourists and increase Ibaraki's reputation as a prefecture that is quick to embrace new and innovative ideas.
