Breaking Away: How Startups Are Encouraging Us to Put Down Our Phones
Discover how innovative startups are shifting focus from digital engagement to real-world experiences, with examples like Mirror's Board and Cyberdeck's DIY computers.
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While the world of AI fundraising continues to break its own records, some entrepreneurs are taking a different approach. They’re building tech that encourages us to leave our phones behind and embrace real-life interactions.
Mirror’s Board: Bringing People Together Offline
Mirror founder Brynn Putnam recently raised funds for Board, an innovative startup centered around in-person games and social experiences. This move signals a significant shift towards tech that prioritizes human connection over digital immersion.
Cyberdeck’s Whimsical Approach to DIY Computing
Another example is the success of Cyberdeck, known for their quirky, user-friendly computers designed to be as fun and interactive as they are functional. These DIY kits encourage users to get creative and explore the world outside their screens.
The Together Tech Wave: More Than a Backlash
These developments go beyond mere backlash against AI and tech giants. They represent a genuine movement towards technologies that enhance our social interactions in a more human-centric way. This trend, dubbed “together tech,” is gaining momentum as people seek out experiences that feel more authentic and less mediated.
Digging into the Week’s Headlines
Join Equity podcast hosts Kirsten Korosec, Anthony Ha, and Sean O’Kane as they delve into this fascinating shift in technology. They explore how together tech is not just a reaction but a proactive step towards creating more meaningful human connections.
Listen to the latest episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, or any podcast platform you prefer. Follow Equity on X and Threads at @EquityPod for more updates!


