a16z Leads Investment in AI Virtual Character Startup, Targeting Platform Opportunities for 'AI Companions + Virtual IP'
4 day ago / Read about 0 minute
Author:小编   

In February 2026, a16z, the largest venture capital firm in the United States, led a seed round investment of approximately $15 million in Shizuku AI, an AI virtual character startup, valuing the company at around $75 million. Adam D"Angelo, a member of OpenAI's board of directors, also participated in the investment as an individual. This investment targets platform opportunities for 'AI companions + virtual IP,' aiming to leverage AI technology to generate virtual characters that enable functions such as voice chatting and retaining interaction memories, ultimately building an AI virtual character platform with global influence.