A new digital trend is sweeping across social media platforms as users transform themselves into miniature, stylised avatars known as AI Chibi figures.
This latest wave follows the success of the AI action figure and Studio Ghibli trends, but adopts a more whimsical, cartoon-inspired aesthetic rooted in Japanese pop culture.
Photo: Instagram/ChatGPT
The term “Chibi” refers to a style of exaggerated caricature popularised in anime and manga, characterised by oversized heads and petite bodies. The trend has now made its way into the digital realm, where fans are turning full-length images of themselves into personalised, pocket-sized figures using AI tools such as ChatGPT.
Photo: Shutterstock
To join the trend, users begin by uploading a high-resolution, full-body photo to ChatGPT via its website or mobile app. A prompt must then be crafted describing the desired figure, including key details like hairstyle, outfit, and pose. For example, one popular format requests an image of a “Chibi-style, full-figure miniature version of the person in the uploaded photo” housed in a glass capsule.
Photo: Instagram/ChatGPT
Once generated, users can download their unique Chibi character and share it across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X, where the trend has rapidly gained traction. Public figures, including politicians and celebrities, have been reimagined in this style, contributing to the trend’s growing popularity.
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