The High Cost of “Cheap Innovation”: Technological Solutionism, Algorithmic Enshittification, and Unrealistic Representation in Marketing
The Agile Brand Guide — 2026 — Customer Experience
The article discusses the consumer backlash against AI-generated marketing and customer service, attributing it to a long-standing resistance to inauthenticity and deception. It highlights a growing trust deficit as brands prioritize efficiency over genuine human connection, leading to a demand for authenticity in marketing. The proposed Unified Theory for Measurement of Fauxlutions aims to quantify the impact of these technological interventions on consumer experience.
Key Statistics
- 61% of consumers want creative companies to be open about the AI they use
Key Takeaways
- Marketers should prioritize authenticity over automation to rebuild consumer trust.
- Brands must be transparent about their use of AI in marketing to align with consumer expectations.
- Companies should focus on enhancing the user experience rather than solely pursuing cost efficiencies.
Cite as: The Agile Brand Guide. (2026). The High Cost of “Cheap Innovation”: Technological Solutionism, Algorithmic Enshittification, and Unrealistic Representation in Marketing. Retrieved from https://research.agilebrandguide.com/research/the-high-cost-of-cheap-innovation-technological-solutionism-algorithmic-enshittification-and-unrealistic-representation-in-marketing