Startups shift focus to in-person social experiences and offline tech
5 reported
According to a TechCrunch report, while AI fundraising continues to break records, some founders are building startups aimed at getting people off their phones. Mirror founder Brynn Putnam has raised money for Board, a startup focused on in-person games and social experiences. Cyberdeck creators are going viral with whimsical DIY computers designed to encourage users to spend time outdoors. The report suggests this trend is not just a backlash against AI but also a genuine gravitation toward more human-centered activities. The Equity podcast hosts discussed these developments alongside other tech headlines, including Anthropic’s confidential IPO filing and Alphabet’s $80 billion AI raise.
What’s reported
Mirror founder Brynn Putnam raised money for Board, a startup focused on in-person games and social experiences.
Cyberdeck creators are going viral crafting whimsical DIY computers that encourage users to “touch grass.”
The trend is described as “together tech” and not just a backlash against AI.
Alphabet raised $80 billion for AI.
Anthropic filed a confidential IPO.
Key figures
Brynn Putnam, founder of Mirror and Board
Kirsten Korosec, Equity podcast host
Anthony Ha, Equity podcast host
Sean O’Kane, Equity podcast host
Sources: TechCrunch
