BBC News | Why big tech is betting on cute mascots AI generated summary, Read the full article for complete information. Big tech companies are reviving cartoon mascots to humanize their brands and deepen customer connections. Microsoft introduced “Mico,” a friendly blob avatar for its Copilot AI, while Apple’s blue‑and‑white “Little Finder Guy” appears in promotional videos for its laptops. Experts note that mascots can boost market share and create lasting, warm brand associations, especially when they tap into innate responses to baby‑like features such as large heads and big eyes. Tech giants like Google, Reddit, Mozilla, and Duolingo have also refreshed existing characters or launched new ones, using them to personalize AI interactions and drive social‑media engagement. Critics, however, warn that the trend coincides with rising mistrust of tech firms and raises concerns about persuasive, one‑to‑one AI communication that could feel “creepy.” Despite this, companies report encouraging feedback, and the resurgence of mascots—now extending beyond tech to publishers like Penguin—suggests brands see them as effective tools for building familiarity and loyalty, even as some consumers remain skeptical of their appeal. Read more: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c99l1zzp8xzo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss #Microsoft #Apple #Google #Reddit #AnthonyPatterson #NathalieNahai