Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Proof of Attention?
Proof of Attention (PoA) is a framework for measuring and validating genuine human focus. Unlike traditional engagement metrics that track clicks and time spent, PoA measures the quality of attention—the actual cognitive state of focused awareness. It combines behavioral signals, cognitive markers, and entropy reduction to create a comprehensive picture of attention quality.
How is this different from screen time tracking?
Screen time tracking measures quantity—how long you're on a device. PoA measures quality—how focused you are during that time. You could spend 10 minutes in deep, focused reading or 10 minutes mindlessly scrolling. Screen time treats these the same. PoA distinguishes between them, recognizing that attention quality matters more than duration.
Is this invasive? What about privacy?
Privacy is fundamental to PoA. We follow three principles:
- •Transparent measurement: You always know what's being tracked and why
- •Local processing: Data stays on your device whenever possible
- •User control: You own your attention data and decide how it's used
Can attention really be measured?
Yes. While attention is subjective, its effects are measurable. Neuroscience can track neural patterns associated with focus. Behavioral science can identify patterns in how we interact with information. Information theory can quantify the reduction of cognitive entropy. PoA combines these approaches to create a reliable measure of attention quality.
Won't this just create another metric to optimize?
This is a critical concern. PoA is designed to be restorative, not exploitative. The goal isn't to maximize your PoA score—it's to help you understand your attention patterns and strengthen your focus capacity. Think of it like a heart rate monitor: it provides feedback to help you improve, not a target to obsess over.
Who is this for?
PoA is being developed for:
- •Individuals: Anyone wanting to understand and improve their focus
- •Educators: Teachers helping students develop attention skills
- •Researchers: Scientists studying attention and consciousness
- •Developers: Creators building human-centered technology
When will this be available?
We're currently in the research and development phase. We're looking for early participants to help us design and test the first prototype. If you're interested in being part of this project, please get in touch.