Autonomous AI agents could fundamentally reshape the internet economy, potentially replacing online advertising as the dominant business model, according to Andreessen Horowitz’s crypto division.
In a recent blog post, Merit Systems co-founder Sam Ragsdale argued that traditional advertising relies on capturing human attention. That’s something AI agents simply don’t respond to. Unlike users browsing websites, AI systems complete tasks without distraction, removing the core mechanism that powers digital ads.
The global online advertising market, led by Google, reached nearly $291 billion in 2025. However, this model could erode as AI agents increasingly handle purchasing decisions.
Ragsdale pointed to emerging tools like in-chat checkout features on platforms such as ChatGPT, which allow users to buy products without visiting external websites.
He argued that the future lies in open protocols enabling AI agents to independently discover and transact with merchants. Such systems could improve efficiency, increase conversion rates, and ultimately replace ads with direct, automated commerce flows.
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