The ‘together tech’ wave might be the most intriguing startup bet of 2026
As the AI fundraising machine continues to break its own records, some founders are building the other way.
Mirror founder Brynn Putnam just raised money for Board, a startup focused on bringing people together through personal games and social experiences. The makers of Cyberdeck are going viral, creating whimsical DIY computers that literally encourage users to touch grass. Unlike the AI-free browser crowd, this feels not just like a backlash, but like people actually gravitating towards things that feel a little more human.
In this episode of TechCrunch’s Equity podcast, Kirsten Korosec, Anthony Ha, and Sean O’Kane dive into the week’s headlines, from the “together tech” wave to what Anthropic’s confidential IPO means against the backdrop of Alphabet’s $80 billion AI raise, and whether the money will flow back to the big boys at all.
Listen to the full episode and hear:
- How rocket engine startup Impulse raised $500 million — and loudly insists that money will be spent on people, not AI
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