The ‘together tech’ wave might be the most intriguing startup bet of 2026

Editor's take

A new wave of startups, dubbed "together tech," is emerging, prioritizing in-person social interaction over purely digital experiences, even amidst record AI investment. This trend, exemplified by Mirror founder Brynn Putnam's new venture, Board, suggests a counter-movement to hyper-connected digital lives, seeking to address growing concerns about social isolation and the superficiality of some online communities.

This shift matters because it acknowledges a fundamental human need for tangible connection that current AI-driven platforms may not fully satisfy. It could impact how we design future social technologies, potentially leading to hybrid models that blend digital convenience with real-world engagement, and could resonate with a demographic increasingly disillusioned with screen-centric interactions.

The critical question is whether this "together tech" can scale effectively and achieve profitability without compromising its core mission. Success will depend on founders' ability to create compelling, accessible, and sustainable in-person experiences that genuinely foster community, and how well these ventures can attract and retain users in an attention economy dominated by digital alternatives.