ai: The ‘together tech’ wave might be the most intriguing startup bet
Amidst record-breaking AI investments, a new trend called "together tech" is emerging, focusing on human connection and real-world experiences. Startups like Brynn Putnam's Board and the cyberdeck movement are gaining traction by prioritizing in-person social interaction over purely digital engagement, signaling a compelling counter-narrative in the startup landscape.
In an era where the artificial intelligence fundraising machine continues to shatter records, a compelling counter-narrative is emerging in the startup world. Dubbed ‘together tech,’ this nascent wave prioritizes human connection and real-world experiences, presenting what many consider the most intriguing startup bet of 2026. Rather than merely being a backlash against AI, this trend reflects a genuine societal gravitation towards more human-centric technologies and interactions.
Leading this charge is Brynn Putnam, founder of the successful Mirror fitness company, who recently secured funding for her new venture, Board. This startup is dedicated to fostering in-person games and social experiences, directly addressing a demand for tangible, shared activities. Concurrently, the ‘cyberdeck’ movement is gaining significant traction online. Creators are going viral with whimsical DIY computers designed to encourage users to disconnect digitally and ‘touch grass’—a literal call to engage with the physical world.
Divergent Paths in the Tech Landscape
These human-focused initiatives stand in stark contrast to the relentless pace of AI investment. Giants like Alphabet recently completed a record-breaking $80 billion raise for Google’s AI business, while leading AI lab Anthropic has confidentially filed for an IPO, signaling massive capital inflows into the sector. However, the rise of ‘together tech’ suggests a diversifying investment landscape, where founders and investors are beginning to explore opportunities beyond the immediate gravitational pull of AI.
The appeal of ‘together tech’ appears to stem from a desire for more authentic engagement, rather than just a rejection of AI. It taps into a growing sentiment for technologies that facilitate genuine human interaction and appreciation for the physical environment.
Broader Trends in Human-Centric Innovation
The ‘together tech’ phenomenon is not entirely isolated. Other significant funding rounds this week highlight a broader interest in ventures that consciously diverge from the AI-first mindset. Mike Schroepfer, former Meta CTO, raised a substantial $250 million fund specifically for climate tech, opting to ‘zig when most are zagging’ in a climate-skeptical market. Similarly, rocket engine startup Impulse secured an impressive $500 million, making a point to emphasize that these funds would be directed towards hiring people, not automating with AI.
These examples, alongside the growing interest in platforms like DuckDuckGo offering AI-free search, underscore a subtle yet significant shift where value is increasingly placed on human capital, environmental impact, and real-world engagement over purely digital advancements.
Implications and Future Outlook
The emergence of ‘together tech’ indicates a potential maturation in the tech industry, where the pendulum may be starting to swing back towards valuing authentic human experiences and tangible interactions. For investors, these startups represent a compelling alternative to the intensely competitive and often speculative AI market. Their focus on community, physical activity, and human connection could tap into deeper societal needs, potentially yielding robust, long-term returns.
As the world becomes increasingly digitized and AI-driven, the appeal of technologies that actively pull people together in the real world is likely to grow, making ‘together tech’ a space to watch closely in the coming years. This shift suggests a more balanced future for innovation, one that acknowledges the profound impact of technology on human well-being and social fabric.
FAQ
Q: What is "together tech"?
A: "Together tech" refers to a new wave of startups and technologies designed to foster human connection, in-person social experiences, and engagement with the physical world, often in contrast to purely digital or AI-driven platforms.
Q: How does "together tech" differ from typical tech trends?
A: Unlike many current tech trends dominated by AI and digital interfaces, "together tech" actively encourages users to interact face-to-face, participate in physical activities, or engage with their immediate environment, rather than solely through screens.
Q: What are some examples of "together tech" companies?
A: Key examples include Board, a startup by Mirror founder Brynn Putnam focused on in-person games and social experiences, and the viral "cyberdeck" movement, which involves crafting DIY computers that promote outdoor interaction.
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