Microsoft, in a new study, found that the average attention span of humans has dropped sharply over the last decade. In 2000, a person on an average could concentrate on any particular task for 12 seconds, but that time has now fallen to 8 seconds as of 2013, about a second less than a goldfish.
Technology lowers attention span, improves multitasking
The decline in the attention span arises from the mix of smartphones and slew of content. Youngsters keep on checking their phone frequently, and a range of things to do on the web contribute to diversions.
The 54-page study was conducted to ascertain the impact of technology on the attention span. Researchers studied over 2,000 Canadians above the age of 18. The respondents were asked to play games and interact with the scientists to determine the impact of the technology. Their brain activity and behavior was recorded while they were interacting with various social media platforms across devices and in different scenarios. The researchers measured the participant’s attention levels and the activities to determine how their attention varied by screen, task, content type and structure.
A decline in the attention span was witnessed across all ages and genders. “Out of the 18 to 24 age group, more than half admit to checking their phone every 30 minutes or less and over three-fourths used their portable devices while watching TV,” noted the researchers.
However, the study also suggests a positive, as in technology has allowed people to enhance their abilities to both multitask and concentrate over a short period. Users are able to figure out things that should be prioritized, and thus need more focus, and things that they should keep in their memory.
Microsoft Windows 10 to curb piracy
In separate development, Microsoft development executive Jerry Nixon recently said that Windows 10 would be the “last version” of the desktop software and Windows 8.1 version was just a defense to finalize Windows 10.
According to the analysts, users will need to pay for the upgraded version of the Windows and essential features after one-year free use. After selling the operating system as a service, Windows 10 will be closely related to Microsoft, and thus will require continuous updates, which unlicensed Windows would not be able to do in real time. According to analysts, Windows 10 will help check software copyright issues.
