48 Hours at SXSW Sydney: Tech, AI, and Attention in Focus

In just 48 hours, SXSW Sydney left an indelible mark on our team, and it wasn’t just because of the breathtaking Sydney skyline. Despite some uncharacteristically gloomy weather, the energy inside the activation spaces was as electric as ever. The branding and execution across the expo were nothing short of crisp, setting a professional yet buzzing atmosphere. But let’s dive deeper into the discussions and exhibitions that made the experience unforgettable for us—and for the future of commerce media.

Scaling at Speed: A Masterclass by AWS

In the AWS room, Chong Lee delivered a masterclass on scaling tech at unprecedented speeds. Using Amazon as the prime example, he walked us through how they manage billions of weekly shipments seamlessly with data-driven insights. His statement, "today’s WOW is tomorrow’s ordinary," struck a chord. At Vudoo, this sentiment underpins our mission: making in-stream shopping within content and ads the expected norm for digital shoppers.

Exploring the Expo: Innovation on Display

The expo floor was brimming with interactive exhibits from brands we admire, like Who Gives A Crap and Playe. It was a playground for tech enthusiasts, showcasing the best in creativity and functionality. Outdoor at Tumbalong Park, a blend of food trucks, the mainstage, and enticing setups from Commonwealth Bank and Suntory -196 kept the crowds well-fed and hydrated. The atmosphere was a perfect mix of cutting-edge tech and laid-back Sydney vibes. But while the sights and tastes were delightful, the conversations were the real star of the show.

"Email is Dead" – Not Quite, According to MailChimp

One of the most provocative exhibitions we attended was MailChimp's interactive display about the so-called death of email. Far from being obsolete, the piece revealed that email is more alive than ever, forming the backbone of our most important communications—from everyday correspondence to million-dollar deals. The evolution of email has shifted the landscape, deepening connections and integrating more personalised engagement, something that's essential in the growing realm of commerce media.

AI and Data: A Conversation Too Big to Ignore

Our SXSW journey took a deep dive into the world of AI and data, with discussions that truly resonated. Aubrey Blanche-Sarellano from Culture Amp, Claire Southey from Rokt, Janhvi Sirohi from OutRead, and T Guthrie from fellow Collingwood start-up WhyHive emphasised the growing importance of artificial intelligence in managing data at scale. Companies must embrace AI or risk being left behind in a data-driven world.

The talk illuminated how AI could potentially change the world, moving predictions for achieving Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) from 100 years to a mere 15 years. Beyond the technical possibilities, there were important conversations about inclusivity, especially in Australia, where 9.4% of the population remains digitally excluded. The rapid growth of AI requires economic and social innovation to ensure no one is left behind—whether in job displacement or digital literacy.

The Future of AI in Leadership: Enter the Chief AI Officer?

A standout session was the dynamic fireside chat between Famian Francis and Sabri Suby about the future of AI leadership. The idea of a new role—a Chief AI Officer—feels increasingly relevant as AI's influence spreads across industries. The future will likely see organisations appointing leaders to navigate this new, complex terrain, driving AI strategies forward.

The Crisis of Attention: Johann Hari’s Bold Insights

Johann Hari captivated us during his keynote on attention in the digital age. With the rise of platforms like TikTok and Instagram, our collective attention spans have plummeted. Hari explained how tech-driven distractions—enabled by AI—are costing us focus. It takes an average of 23 minutes to regain concentration after just one minute of distraction. Hari’s solution wasn’t just personal—he called for systemic changes in how we approach technology, urging a shift from surveillance capitalism to subscription models that prioritise user well-being. This session struck a chord with us at Vudoo because we KNOW what it's like to need to capture attention immediately and enable action in the moment of inspiration.

Twitch’s Empathy-Driven Leadership

On the leadership front, Dan Clancy, CEO of Twitch, offered insights into how empathy, curiosity, and customer obsession guide his philosophy. His experience, from NASA to his now-iconic “Dan in a Van” tour across 15 U.S. cities to connect with Twitch streamers, emphasises the importance of understanding diverse communities and the power of direct engagement. It’s this focus on customer experiences that resonates with us at Vudoo as we continue shaping the future of digital shopping.

SXSW Sydney was a glimpse into the future—one where AI, data, and user experience coalesce in unimaginable ways. As we walked away from the event, we couldn't help but feel energised by the possibilities. From email’s enduring relevance to the rise of AI in leadership, it’s clear that technology is reshaping how we work, connect, and shop. But also pertinent is the pace at which consumer preferences and demands are changing. 

Here at Vudoo, we’re excited to continue pushing the boundaries of commerce media, making digital interactions more seamless and impactful. Until next time, Sydney!