While the AI fundraising machine keeps breaking its own records, some founders are building in the other direction, according to TechCrunch. A new crop of startups is explicitly focused on getting people off their phones, tapping into a desire for more human connection and physical experiences. On the latest Equity podcast, hosts Kirsten Korosec, Anthony Ha, and Sean O'Kane discussed this "together tech" wave and what it means for the tech landscape.
The Rise of Together Tech
One standout startup in this space is Board, founded by Brynn Putnam, who previously founded Mirror. Putnam just raised money for Board, a startup focused on bringing people together through in-person games and social experiences, TechCrunch reported. This is not an isolated phenomenon but part of a broader shift where founders and consumers are gravitating toward products that feel more human.
Cyberdeck and the DIY Movement
Alongside Board, Cyberdeck creators are going viral, crafting whimsical DIY computers that literally encourage users to "touch grass," TechCrunch noted. These custom-built machines are designed to be engaging without the addictive pull of smartphones, appealing to enthusiasts who want a more intentional computing experience. The trend reflects a genuine gravitation toward things that feel a little more human, rather than just a backlash against AI.
Contrast with the AI Boom
The "together tech" wave is unfolding against a backdrop of massive AI investment. The Equity podcast also discussed Anthropic's confidential IPO filing and Alphabet's $80 billion AI raise, according to TechCrunch. While these headlines dominate the tech press, the rise of phone-avoidance startups suggests a counter-current: entrepreneurs betting that people will pay for experiences that reduce screen time.
| Category | Example Startups | Core Idea |
|---|---|---|
| Together Tech | Board (Brynn Putnam) | In-person games and social experiences |
| DIY Computers | Cyberdeck creators | Whimsical, non-addictive computing devices |
Implications for Enterprise Technology Leaders
For CTOs and digital transformation leaders, this trend offers a signal about employee and consumer preferences. As workers seek more meaningful engagement, enterprise tools may need to incorporate principles of deliberate design—less addictive, more human-centered. While the startups highlighted are consumer-focused, the underlying philosophy could influence how enterprise software is built, prioritizing user well-being alongside productivity. However, as TechCrunch noted, it remains to be seen whether the money will all flow back to the big guys anyway.
The Equity podcast episode underscores that innovation isn't solely about AI. Founders are exploring tangible, offline experiences, and the market is responding. For technology procurement leaders monitoring startup ecosystems, Board and Cyberdeck represent a niche but telling direction. The shift toward "together tech" may not dominate the $80 billion AI wave, but it offers a human-scale alternative worth watching.
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