Sajid Shoaib
Coca-Cola has once again released its annual “Holidays Are Coming” Christmas campaign — and for the second year in a row, it’s powered by AI-generated visuals. Despite strong criticism last year, the company is leaning even more into AI creativity this time.
The ad was created in collaboration with San Francisco-based studios Secret Level and Silverside AI, with Coca-Cola claiming it used even fewer human creators than before. “We need to keep moving forward and pushing the envelope,” the company said. “The genie is out of the bottle, and you’re not going to put it back in.”
On YouTube, the ad’s caption reads, “The holidays are here, so grab a Coca-Cola and spread the cheer!”
However, the response online has been largely negative. Social media users called the ad “soulless,” “a sloppy eyesore,” and “absolutely shameful.” Many fans argued that Coca-Cola should use its massive marketing budget to support real artists instead of relying on AI-generated art.
Critics say the brand’s use of generative AI makes the ad feel cold and unnatural, while others warn that AI tools could harm the future of creative jobs in advertising.
Still, Coca-Cola executives are defending their decision. Pratik Thakar, the company’s Global VP & Head of Generative AI, described the campaign as “a transformational leap into the future of creativity and technology.”
Jason Zada, founder of Secret Level, said his team was “incredibly proud to bring magic across the globe.” Both believe AI is not replacing creativity but expanding its boundaries.
Read More: Coca-Cola Launches ‘Coca-Cola Utha, Zone Mein Aa’ Campaign to Inspire Living in the Moment
The ad marks a new phase in Coca-Cola’s AI marketing strategy, blending tradition with technology to stay ahead in the digital advertising landscape. As brands increasingly experiment with AI-driven campaigns, Coca-Cola’s move may signal where the future of holiday advertising is headed.
FAQs
1. Why is Coca Cola using AI for its Christmas ad?
Coca-Cola says it wants to explore the future of creativity through AI innovation and push the boundaries of digital storytelling.
2. Why are people criticizing the new Coca Cola AI ad?
Many viewers believe the ad lacks emotion and originality. They argue that AI-generated art feels soulless and could replace real creative professionals.
3. Who helped Coca Cola create the AI ad?
The ad was produced in collaboration with Secret Level and Silverside AI, two San Francisco-based studios specializing in AI film production.
4. Did Coca Cola use human artists at all?
Yes, but far fewer than before. The company stated it used minimal human involvement this year to focus more on AI tools.
5. Will Coca Cola continue using AI for future ads?
Most likely. Executives have said the brand plans to expand its use of AI across global campaigns as part of a long-term creative strategy.
