From attention to intention, AI agents and blockchain technology can create a more user-centric, intent-driven digital ecosystem.
Opinion by: Arunkumar Krishnakumar, head of institutional growth at Marinade Finance
The rise of the internet and social media has redefined how brands reach out to billions of users worldwide. There is constant competition for users’ attention, to the extent that the digital ecosystem is meticulously engineered for distraction. Welcome to the attention economy, where engagement metrics are prioritized over meaningful user experiences.
People are bombarded with notifications, advertisements and content optimized to capture clicks rather than fulfill needs. A 2020 study by The Economist Intelligence Unit found that 28% of working hours in the US in knowledge work are lost to distraction, highlighting the economic effect of this relentless pursuit of attention. The race for users’ attention has led to significant cognitive, financial and social costs, necessitating a more user-centric framework called the intention economy.
