Traditionally, book presentations are one-directional experiences: the author speaks, the audience listens, and meaningful interaction is minimal. Dimitris wanted to challenge that format. His goal was to demonstrate that a writer can be fully present in every discussion — even simultaneously in multiple conversations — creating a more dynamic and engaging exchange around the themes of his book “2049-A User’s Guide to the Future of Humanity.”
To transform the experience, we created an interactive AI avatar of Dimitris using the HeyGen platform. Training videos and voice samples were used to replicate his visual appearance and tone of voice accurately. We also uploaded curated content and key themes from “2049-A User’s Guide to the Future of Humanity” into the avatar’s knowledge base, enabling it to respond with the same depth and authenticity as the author himself.
This innovative approach debuted at the Thessaloniki International Book Fair 2025, where Dimitris and his AI avatar appeared side by side on stage. The audience interacted with both in real time — asking questions, exchanging ideas, and experiencing a new dimension of storytelling. The project redefined what it means for an author to be present, demonstrating how technology can deepen audience connection and turn passive observation into active engagement.