The most interesting startups right now want to get you off your phone

Editor's take

A new wave of startups, exemplified by Board, is prioritizing real-world interactions over digital engagement, bucking the trend of AI-driven screen time. This pivot, backed by significant venture capital, suggests a growing recognition of consumer fatigue with constant connectivity and a desire for tangible experiences.

This trend matters because it challenges the dominant narrative of AI solely enabling more sophisticated digital tools. It taps into a fundamental human need for connection and community, potentially impacting the design and deployment of future AI applications. Companies like Mirror, which previously focused on connected fitness, are now investing in physical social spaces, signaling a broader industry shift.

Future developments will reveal if this is a niche movement or a significant recalibration of AI's role in society. Key questions include the scalability of these in-person AI-enhanced experiences and whether other AI companies will follow suit by developing "unplugged" solutions. The success of Board and similar ventures could redefine the metrics for AI's positive impact, moving beyond screen time and engagement to genuine human connection.