AI short videos impact human attention spans

AI-generated short videos are reportedly reshaping the human brain by diminishing attention spans. According to an analysis by author GhostAI on the Chinese social media platform Zhihu, the rapid production of AI content—ranging from scripts and voiceovers to visuals—has led to an unprecedented explosion of digital material.

As the cost of producing content drops, human attention has become a scarce and valuable commodity. Platforms and creators use AI to maximize engagement through high-density scripts, intense visual stimulation, and rapid emotional shifts. This constant stream of instant feedback can lead users to spend hours consuming content unconsciously, potentially making it difficult for individuals to maintain patience for deep reading or profound reflection.