Is this still me or where do I end?
Name(s) of graduate(s):Leonidas von Bothmer
2026
Webseite
Description
The rise of LLMs is disrupting digital services markets. Underlying, we can observe a paradigm shift from conventional GUIs to conversation: language is becoming an interaction pattern. With that shift, the economic logic adapts. Instead of monetising attention, firms begin to monetise the formation of intent. Specially outcome driven markets incentivise manipulation and expand the space for manipulation through interpretive ambiguity, turn‑taking and hyper-personalisation.
This thesis contributes twofold: First, the manipulation space is structured through a framework of manipulation opportunities. Second, through a speculative approach employing a design fiction, the effects of these manipulative efforts in the context of the mobile OS are made experiential with the goal of opening discussion about the implications: The locus of control shifts from user to system creating immediate cultural and economic impact, as market power consolidates in one interaction and orchestration layer.
Leonidas von Bothmer
2026
Description
The rise of LLMs is disrupting digital services markets. Underlying, we can observe a paradigm shift from conventional GUIs to conversation: language is becoming an interaction pattern. With that shift, the economic logic adapts. Instead of monetising attention, firms begin to monetise the formation of intent. Specially outcome driven markets incentivise manipulation and expand the space for manipulation through interpretive ambiguity, turn‑taking and hyper-personalisation.
This thesis contributes twofold: First, the manipulation space is structured through a framework of manipulation opportunities. Second, through a speculative approach employing a design fiction, the effects of these manipulative efforts in the context of the mobile OS are made experiential with the goal of opening discussion about the implications: The locus of control shifts from user to system creating immediate cultural and economic impact, as market power consolidates in one interaction and orchestration layer.