Dragonfly AI
Predicting human attention.


Dr Hamit Soyel
Research fellow
Dragonfly AI is an AI/ML Technology which predicts human attention. Originating as an app and now a comprehensive platform, Dragonfly uses a biologically inspired algorithm developed by scientists at Queen Mary University of London.
The platform empowers teams across s business to test and optimise creative content for any channel, market and audience before it reaches the consumer.
With a focus on integrating AI into creative processes for optimal content performance, Dragonfly stands out as a leader in the attention economy. The platform, evolving from its original app form, has become a full product suite widely adopted by industry leaders globally. It offers reliable visual predictive analytics grounded in biological foundations, continuously enhanced through innovative research.
Dragonfly has made significant contributions to global consumer brands such as Mars, GSK, Nestle, Danone, SCJohnson, and Coca-Cola. By enabling these brands to predict, analyse, and influence people’s attention, Dragonfly AI helps them stand out in a competitive market.
Dragonfly AI recently raised $6m in Series-A funding – and Queen Mary continues to partner with Dragonfly to keep their technology cutting edge.
Why did you start your spinout?
We founded our spin-out company with a clear vision to address the growing demand for enhanced insights into visual attention. Recognising the pivotal role of visual communication in various industries, we identified a significant gap in providing comprehensive analytics for visual content.
Our innovative approach leverages cutting-edge methodologies to offer unique insights into visual attention, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and optimize user experiences. The positive feedback and market validation we’ve received underscore the relevance of our services, and our passionate team is committed to contributing to the evolution of industries that heavily rely on visual elements.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurial academics?
For fellow scientists and collaborators, my advice is to embrace a holistic perspective when developing technology. While the innate drive is to push the boundaries of scientific accuracy, collaborating with industry partners has taught me the critical value of considering end users. Understand their challenges, preferences, and prioritise simplicity in your products.
Remember, it’s not always about achieving the highest precision in a lab setting; sometimes, sacrificing a bit of precision can significantly enhance the user experience. Striking a balance between accuracy and practicality ensures that your innovations have an immediate and positive impact on the end user.