IA is a Japanese Vocaloid voicebank released by 1st Place in 2012 for Vocaloid3, with vocals sampled from singer Lia. The character quickly became popular in Vocaloid songs, fan art and covers shared on Nico Nico Douga and YouTube. Clips of IA speaking rather than singing spread later as fans cut short phrases for soundboards and edits. Aishiteru, meaning I love you, became a favourite because it captures her gentle tone in a single memorable confession that anime and Vocaloid fans instantly recognise.