New AI Virtual Try-On Startup Doji Captivates Tech Fans

In a time when AI changes many areas, Doji stands out in virtual fashion. The startup launched in January 2024 from stealth mode. Doji grew fast and won interest from tech fans. Investors such as Alexis Ohanian, cofounder of Reddit, have backed it.

Changing the Dressing Room Experience

Doji lets users make an avatar that looks like them. They try on clothes in a virtual space. The app opened its private beta to many early users. Employees from Anthropic, Cursor, and Humane joined the test. These testers share images of their avatars in designer clothes on X and LinkedIn.

Alexis Ohanian voiced his support on X in January. He wrote, "Consumer is fun again thanks to AI" and showed images from the beta.

Backing from Well-Known Investors

Doji raised funds with support from Ohanian’s firm Seven Seven Six and Origins Fund. The company did not share the exact sum raised. This funding shows trust in the startup and its AI work. Chris Vanzetta, a partner at Seven Seven Six, said, "Doji brings a real dressing room feel to consumers with lifelike avatars." He praised the smart design and solid tech of the app.

Founders with a Love for Fashion and Tech

Doji was started by Dorian Dargan and Jim Winkens. Dargan worked at Meta and Apple. Winkens was part of Google DeepMind. They met on Twitter in 2022. They share a love for tech and clothes. Dargan said the app was built with users in mind. The pair aimed to give a tool that improves how users shop.

How Doji Works

Using the app is simple. Users upload a series of selfies from different angles. They also add two full-body images. In about 20 minutes, the AI makes an avatar that looks like the user. The app shows a set of designer items. Users can also bring online items using shoppable links. This setup lets the user buy clothes directly.

Reviving a Slow Market

The consumer startup market has been slow at times. AI apps like Doji bring new life to the field. Winkens said more money now goes to AI work that helps customers. His comment reflects a growing trend.

Doji is not alone. Another startup, Vybe, raised $4.75 million in seed funding. Vybe uses a browser extension that lets users try on clothes online.

Growing Hype Among Tech Circles

The beta version of Doji earns praise for its smart features. Jane Manchun Wong, a tech blogger, saw news of the app on X. Wong liked a tool that picks possible outfits, which makes choosing easier.

Karine Hsu, head of Slope, liked the tool’s accuracy even though some fits are a bit off. She enjoyed trying on luxury items and found that the tool helped her enjoy style without buying costly goods. Hsu also uses the app when she shops online for everyday items.

Conclusion

Doji works to grow its reach and smart AI. Strong backing from investors and good early feedback put the startup in a strong spot to change how buyers meet fashion online. AI and customer tech now join in fresh ways, and Doji stands at this point ready to grow.