This paper describes a virtual agent model for mobile devices based on an Artificial Life and Evolutionary approach. The model is based on a bio-inspired metabolism and a "digital DNA". It includes a 3D face with real-time animation, natural language interaction and web access. Behaviors are scripted using the Scheme language and Genetic Programming. Rather than trying to strictly copy reality, the model sustains believability by applying the ten key characteristic qualities that animate synthetic characters as proposed by Hayes-Roth and Doyle.