Why Some Tech CEOs Are Replacing Themselves With AI Avatars

In a move that signals a shift in how corporate communication is handled, major tech CEOs are beginning to hand the mic to AI. And it’s not just a one-time gimmick—these leaders are actively exploring ways to integrate AI versions of themselves into key company functions, starting with earnings calls.

This past week, Klarna and Zoom made headlines by having their AI-generated avatars speak on their behalf during their respective quarterly earnings presentations. The shift is more than just about convenience—it reflects how AI is becoming deeply woven into leadership strategies.

AI Avatars Are Taking the Spotlight

Klarna, a well-known name in the buy-now-pay-later space, used an AI-generated version of its CEO and co-founder, Sebastian Siemiatkowski, to deliver the company’s Q1 2025 earnings. The video, which lasted just over a minute, opened with a clear intro:

“This is me—or technically, my AI version—sharing our latest results,” the avatar said.

Instagram | @yetfreshmedia | Klarna’s CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski uses an AI avatar to share company news and show how AI is changing work.

The company has made no secret about how it’s integrating AI into various layers of its operations. Siemiatkowski recently explained that Klarna has reduced its workforce in part due to its growing reliance on AI. This isn’t the first time an avatar has taken the stage for Klarna’s earnings either. It’s slowly becoming the norm for them.

Zoom Brings AI to Its Own Meeting Room

Zoom, known for shaping how the world meets remotely, followed a similar path. For its Q1 2026 report, CEO Eric Yuan introduced his own digital counterpart. In a short video, Yuan’s avatar shared:

“Today, I’m using Zoom Clips with AI Companion to share my part of the earnings report. This marks one of the first times a CEO is presenting earnings with an avatar.”

Though the virtual version handled the scripted segment, Yuan did appear live to respond to questions. During the Q&A, he didn’t hold back his enthusiasm:

“Honestly, I really like using my AI avatar—it’s efficient, and I plan to keep using it.”

Yuan has been vocal about his broader vision for digital “twins” that can attend meetings and represent individuals virtually. The goal, it seems, is to make human presence optional—but not obsolete.

The Future of AI in Business

Freepik | The choice of avatars for earnings calls reflects CEOs’ growing comfort with technology’s role in leadership.

The use of AI isn’t just for automation anymore—it’s stepping into highly visible and traditionally human-centered spaces. CEOs choosing to appear as avatars during earnings calls show a growing comfort with blending tech and leadership in real-time communication.

Key Takeaways from This Shift:

1. Increased AI Integration – Companies like Klarna and Zoom are embedding AI not just behind the scenes but also in public-facing roles.
2. Workforce Reshaping – AI adoption continues to influence hiring strategies, with automation reducing the need for certain positions.
3. New Standards in Communication – Earnings calls might look different going forward—more scripted, controlled, and polished through AI-generated avatars.

There’s also an underlying efficiency factor. AI avatars can deliver messages consistently, manage tone, and even handle basic interactions. For fast-growing companies, this could become a time-saving solution without sacrificing clarity.

A Glimpse of What’s Next

With digital clones starting to speak for CEOs, this trend might only expand. Whether for presentations, interviews, or customer-facing videos, using an AI avatar could eventually become as routine as drafting an email.

But for now, these early moves by Klarna and Zoom offer a clear signal: AI isn’t just supporting business—it’s beginning to represent it. How this changes leadership perception and engagement is something the tech world will be watching closely.

As companies continue pushing boundaries, expect to see more AI front and center—not just running software, but shaping how the message gets delivered.