TechCrunch Equity podcast weighs 'together tech' trend against record AI capital flows
The latest episode of the TechCrunch Equity podcast examines the rise of 'together tech' ventures like Board and Cyberdeck, juxtaposing them against the massive capital inflows into artificial intelligence.
The TechCrunch Equity podcast has turned its attention to a contrasting trend within the technology sector, identifying a growing cohort of startups designed to reduce smartphone usage. While the artificial intelligence fundraising machine continues to break records, hosts Kirsten Korosec, Anthony Ha, and Sean O’Kane discussed how some founders are building in the opposite direction, focusing on human-centric interactions rather than digital engagement.
Central to this 'together tech' movement is Board, a venture founded by Brynn Putnam, the creator of the previously known company Mirror. Putnam has recently raised funds for Board, a startup focused on facilitating in-person games and social experiences. The podcast highlighted how this approach differs from mere digital backlash, suggesting a genuine shift towards activities that encourage face-to-face connection.
Parallel to this trend, the episode noted the viral popularity of Cyberdeck creators. These makers are crafting whimsical, do-it-yourself computers that physically encourage users to disconnect from screens and engage with the physical world. The hosts characterised this wave not as a rejection of technology per se, but as a gravitation towards experiences that feel more human in an increasingly digital landscape.
On the institutional side, the podcast addressed significant developments in the capital markets for artificial intelligence. The discussion covered Anthropic’s recent confidential filing for an initial public offering, a move occurring against a backdrop of unprecedented capital deployment. Specifically, the hosts examined the implications of Alphabet’s $80 billion investment in AI initiatives, questioning whether such massive sums are flowing back primarily to established industry giants.
The episode also touched upon market sentiment regarding artificial intelligence assets, with the hosts raising the possibility of a token bubble that may be starting to burst. While the specific financial details of Board’s funding round remain undisclosed, the broader narrative presented by TechCrunch highlights a divergence between the record-breaking AI fundraising environment and the emerging consumer demand for offline, tangible experiences.
