Heavy AI use is associated with shorter focus sessions
ActivTrak Productivity Lab · ActivTrak Productivity Lab · 29 Oct 2026
Source finding
Uninterrupted focus sessions averaged 37.8 minutes for heavy AI users and 48.2 minutes for light users. Heavy means over 45 minutes and at least five AI sessions daily; light means under ten minutes.
Our interpretation
More AI use does not establish better work.
Method and evidence
Observed digital activity from 9,140 knowledge workers in 467 enterprises, 1 April–25 September 2026. Moderate evidence for associations; no random assignment.
Limitations and interests
No established cause or measured result quality or productivity. Group sizes, countries and statistical uncertainty are not specified in the published text. ActivTrak sells work-analytics software.
What businesses can do
Track interruptions and result quality alongside AI use. Compare similar tasks and roles before setting usage targets.
Where to start
Key findings and Research Methodology and Definitions; section 2 of the companion original analysis.