From Reels to Robots: Why Perplexity's CEO Wants You to Rethink Screen Time

Image Via: Subhaan Saleem on Unsplash

Aravind Srinivas, CEO of rising AI search engine Perplexity, just made the headlines with one powerful message:

“If you are watching Instagram reels for three hours daily, spending even one hour of that time on AI tools can change your life.”

It's the kind of comment that sounds bold... because that's exactly what it is. But it also comes from a place of real-world urgency, especially for young people who are beginning to navigate careers, creativity and a digital landscape that's changing fast.

The Attention Dilemma

We live in a world where it's easier than ever to consume short-form video, algorithmic timelines, and endless dopamine loops. But Srinivas isn't saying "don't watch reels", he's saying:

• Swap some of your scroll time for skill time

• Shift from passive watching to active learning

• and lean into tools like AI that can boost your future, not just your FYP

This advice isn't coming from a parent or teacher; it's coming from a tech founder who helped build the next generation of AI search. Srinivas isn't gatekeeping; he's opening up the door. AI isn't just for coders; it's for creators, writers, streamers, marketers, and editors, you name it, and there is going to be a way for them to fit AI into their workflow.

Just spending 30-60 minutes with AI a day can teach you:

• Script smarter content

• Automating time-draining tasks

• Launch projects that you once thought were out of reach

From Doomscrolling to Dreambuilding

Here's a challenge for you:

This week, take 1 hour of doomscrolling for 1 hour of learning how to use AI to power your creativity.

• Use ChatGPT to plan your next blog post

• Use Perplexity to research your niche

• Try Notion AI or Descript to automate busywork

• Make a stream overlay or a social media post with Midjourney or Canva AI

Final Thoughts

The future isn't about being perfect; it's about being curious and breaking the mould. And if you're already spending you're spare time scrolling on your phone, why not use some of that time to build the skills that could unlock your next move?