Tech BBQ - A more human internet
Exploring the Future of Digital Interaction at TechBBQ
In September 2022, TechBBQ, one of the leading tech and innovation summits in Europe, set the stage for critical conversations about the digital future. Among the highlights of the event, I had the opportunity to moderate a panel on the Immersive Web and Web3 alongside a stellar lineup of experts: Indra Sharma, Morten Rongaard, and Mads Stolberg-Larsen. Together, we unpacked the implications of emerging technologies and their transformative potential for industries and communities worldwide.
Additionally, I delivered a keynote titled “A More Human Internet,” which drew a full house and sparked meaningful dialogue about the evolving relationship between people and technology.
The Panel: Exploring the Immersive Web and Web3
The panel discussion brought together diverse perspectives from trailblazers shaping the future of the immersive web and Web3.
Key themes included:
The Promise of Web3: How decentralization and blockchain technology empower individuals and redefine digital ownership.
Building in the Immersive Web: What it takes to create meaningful, immersive experiences for brands and communities in virtual spaces.
Sustainability in Innovation: The importance of designing technologies with ethical considerations and long-term impact in mind.
Opportunities for Collaboration: How stakeholders across industries can come together to explore and unlock the potential of these cutting-edge technologies.
It was a dynamic conversation that showcased not just the technical innovations but the human-centered challenges and opportunities that come with the immersive web and Web3.
Keynote Spotlight: “A More Human Internet”
In my keynote, “A More Human Internet,” I delved into the pressing issue of what the internet has become and the consequences of its current design paradigms.
The Internet Today
The internet has transformed into a space dominated by the attention economy, where social media addiction and endless scrolling are byproducts of platforms designed to maximize engagement rather than enhance human well-being. This model prioritizes clicks, likes, and time spent on screens, often at the cost of mental health and meaningful interaction.
A New Vision for Digital Behavior
The question I posed was simple yet profound: Can we change people’s digital behaviour by redesigning internet experiences? My answer is a resounding yes. By rethinking how we structure online interactions, we can create a more intentional, human-centric digital space.
Examples of Change in Action
During the keynote, I highlighted tangible examples of how thoughtful design can shift behaviors:
Digital Minimalism: Platforms like BeReal, which emphasize authenticity and reduce the pressures of performance, offer a glimpse of an alternative social media experience.
Gamification with Purpose: Leveraging game design principles to promote healthier habits and deeper engagement with educational or cultural content.
Immersive Learning Environments: Using virtual spaces in the metaverse to provide engaging and distraction-free education or collaboration.
The underlying message was clear: A more human internet is not just a dream—it’s a necessity. The way forward involves blending empathy with innovation, ensuring technology works to enhance lives rather than detract from them.
