aiqbench analysis
Amidst a surge in AI capital, a counter-movement is emerging where founders are securing funding for "together tech" initiatives that prioritize in-person interaction and tangible hardware over screen-centric engagement. This shift suggests a market correction where investors are recognizing genuine demand for human-centric experiences rather than viewing them merely as a reaction to AI fatigue. The focus is moving toward startups that facilitate real-world social connection through games, DIY computing, and physical experiences.
The most interesting startups right now want to get you off your phone

While the AI fundraising machine keeps breaking its own records, some founders are building in the other direction. Mirror founder Brynn Putnam just raised money for Board, a startup focused on bringing people together through in-person games and social experiences. Cyberdeck creators are going viral crafting whimsical DIY computers that literally encourage users to touch grass. Unlike the AI-free browser crowd, this doesn’t just feel like backlash, […]
While the AI fundraising machine keeps breaking its own records, some founders are building in the other direction. Mirror founder Brynn Putnam…
Excerpt shown under the publisher's RSS terms · 22 words · full text and figures are on the publisher's site
Related coverage

Benn Jordan on Flock, privacy, and the new surveillance backlash
The Verge · Oct 15, 2026

Can John Ternus find Apple’s next big thing?
The Verge · Sep 21, 2026

I Did This Without Your Knowledge
LessWrong · Oct 17, 2026

Apple’s OpenAI lawsuit is about who gets to define the post-smartphone era
The Verge · Jul 23, 2026