An AI-based "virtual manager" has been introduced to the live streaming ecosystem.

SOOP said on June 9 it unveiled a beta version of its SARSA 2.0 AI manager service to support streamers' broadcast operation and user communication.

The update focuses on securing "continuity" so a stream can continue without breaking its flow even when a streamer steps away or falls asleep. While the previous version remained in a supporting role such as helping with broadcast settings, AI broadcast summaries and chat management, version 2.0 takes a leading role by directly communicating with users.

The most notable part is the "persona" function that absorbs a streamer's distinctive traits as they are. SARSA 2.0 intensively learns from a streamer's VODs and broadcast data to reproduce the streamer’s tone and the atmosphere of the broadcast.

According to the company, the function goes beyond simple mechanical responses by prompting natural conversation suited to user chat and real-time broadcast situations. It runs the broadcast while reflecting the streamer’s preferred topics and content tendencies. When a streamer is absent, the AI fills the communication gap by recommending customised content to users or watching VODs together while interacting.

It also operates by linking with the streamer-only broadcasting program FreakShot Plus. In the broadcast setup process, streamers can decide whether to use the AI manager. If an away status is detected for a certain period, the AI automatically takes over the broadcast baton.

SOOP applied SARSA 2.0 on a trial basis on June 6 through a broadcast by streamer Murdoch (머독). While Murdoch was away, "Murdoch SARSA", appearing as a virtual avatar, held conversations with users without a sense of incongruity based on the streamer’s actual voice and manner of speaking, drawing a positive response.

SOOP said it plans to first apply SARSA 2.0 to some streamers and then gradually expand the scope of the service based on actual usage patterns and user feedback. It said it would continue to enhance the service so the AI manager can be used across various broadcast environments.