AI Tech Porn: Have We Learned Nothing?

There are lessons from the dotcom boom that today’s AI enthusiasts—including clinicians and providers—should take to heart. Back then, companies crammed every flashy new tech into their websites, creating cluttered, confusing, and downright annoying user experiences. We called it “tech porn”—a chaotic overload of technology for technology’s sake.

Fast forward to today, when I spent much of the last four months talking to technologists, designers, and users navigating AI-infused interfaces. It felt like déjà vu, all over again–thank you, Yogi Berra! I’m constantly running across page after page drowning in AI features, often slapped together with little thought to usability. I’d call it “AI porn,” but given that AI is already being used to generate actual porn material (a match made in hell), I’ll stick with tech porn.

Here’s the thing: many frustrations with AI—especially LLMs—stem from poor designs, tools, and training, combined with improper use. The problem isn’t these technologies themselves; it’s how they are deployed, presented, and used. I incorporated these insights in our latest video, with a touch of humor to support these points. 

I’ll follow up with experiences that I suspect many of you can relate to. It doesn’t have to be this way. Do you have feedback and insights to share? Post them in the comments. Need help coping, grasping, and leveraging AI? Let’s talk. Solutions often start with a conversation. ozzie@oprhealth.com/303-332-5363.