Hatsune Miku is a Vocaloid software voicebank developed by Crypton Future Media, released on August 31, 2007. She uses Yamaha’s Vocaloid 2 engine and was the first of Crypton's "Character Vocal Series". Her voice is modeled after Japanese voice actress Saki Fujita.
Beyond software, Miku became a worldwide icon thanks to user-generated music, fanart, and 3D live concerts. She's performed “live” via hologram technology across Japan, the US, Europe, and Asia. She represents a unique blend of fandom-driven content and virtual celebrity.
2007: Hatsune Miku is released. Viral videos on NicoNico Douga skyrocket her popularity.
2009: First 3D projection live performance at Animelo Summer Live.
2011: Miku performs on David Letterman in the US; begins international tour career.
2014: Collaborates with Lady Gaga as opening act for her ArtRave tour.
2020s: Miku remains a symbol of internet creativity, appearing in games, anime, and fashion.