Even as venture capital pours into artificial intelligence at record rates, a notable counter-trend is emerging in the startup world. A growing number of entrepreneurs are focusing on ventures that encourage people to disconnect from their devices and engage with the physical world. This movement isn't just about reducing screen time, it's about fostering in-person connections and hands-on experiences, a stark contrast to the digital-first ethos dominating much of tech.
One prominent example is Board, a new startup from Brynn Putnam, founder of the successful fitness company Mirror. Board recently secured funding for its mission to bring people together through in-person games and social activities. This isn't about digital games on a screen, but rather tangible, shared experiences designed to foster community. It represents a belief that even in our hyper-connected age, there's a deep human need for physical gathering and interaction.
Beyond social experiences, this trend extends to hardware. The 'cyberdeck' movement, for instance, involves creators building whimsical, often DIY, portable computers that are designed to be used outdoors or in unconventional settings. These devices aren't about maximizing processing power or sleek aesthetics, but about encouraging users to interact with their environment, perhaps even to 'touch grass' as the viral meme suggests. They are a playful rebellion against the sleek, always-on devices that define modern life.
This shift isn't merely a rejection of AI or technology itself. Instead, it feels like a deliberate effort to balance our digital lives with more analog, human-centric activities. Unlike earlier movements that simply advocated for less screen time, these startups are actively building the infrastructure for alternative forms of engagement. They are creating new products and services that offer a different kind of value, one rooted in presence and tangible interaction rather than digital convenience.
What to watch next: Keep an eye on how these 'offline-first' startups attract funding and user adoption. Their success will indicate whether a significant portion of the market is ready to invest in experiences that prioritize real-world connection over digital immersion, potentially signaling a broader cultural shift in our relationship with technology.
