They Stole Your Attention
Research by Gloria Mark indicates that the average human attention span on digital screens has remained stagnant at 47 seconds since 2016. The data suggests that constant digital interruptions significantly hinder productivity, requiring long recovery times for deep focus.
Why it matters
Understanding the impact of digital distraction on cognitive performance is critical for the future of work and the design of attention-based business models.
Back to Blog Surf the Singularity #019 February 2026 They Stole Your Attention Trillion-dollar machines compete for your next 47 seconds. Here are the logs.
Logged screen focus, knowledge workers & students Gloria Mark, UC Irvine
150s 75s 47s 47s 2004 2012 2016 2025 reaffirmed steady state data table year avg seconds 2004 ~150 2012 75 2016 47 (median 40) 2025 47, reaffirmed (replications 44 - 50) Measured by unobtrusive computer logging, workplace and home. The famous "goldfish attention span" stat is folklore; these are logged durations. The 2025 column marks Mark's January 2025 reaffirmation: the average has held at 47 seconds since ~2016, a steady state. Whisker shows the 40 - 50s band across the median and independent replications. After a diversion from an active task, re-immersion takes about 25 minutes.
Focus interval vs cost to re-immerse Gloria Mark, UC Irvine
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