The Most Interesting Startups Right Now Want to Get You Off Your Phone

In a technology landscape dominated by artificial intelligence fundraising records and ever-expanding digital ecosystems, a counter-movement is quietly gaining momentum. A growing number of founders and creators are building products with a deliberately different goal: helping people spend less time on their phones.

Board Games and Real-World Connections

Brynn Putnam, the founder of the fitness mirror company Mirror, has raised funding for a new venture called Board. The startup is focused on bringing people together through in-person games and social experiences, a direct pivot from the screen-based fitness platform she previously built and sold. Board aims to create structured, engaging activities that require physical presence, not digital interfaces.

The move reflects a broader shift in consumer behavior. After years of rapid adoption of digital tools for work, fitness, and socializing, many users are reporting fatigue and a desire for more tangible, offline interactions. Board’s approach is to offer curated experiences that are designed to be played in groups, at home, or in social venues, without requiring a phone or tablet as the primary interface.

The Rise of the Cyberdeck

Alongside venture-backed startups, a more grassroots movement is also gaining attention. Cyberdeck creators are going viral on social media by crafting whimsical, portable DIY computers that are intentionally designed to encourage users to step away from their desks and go outside. These devices often feature retro-futuristic designs, physical keyboards, and limited connectivity, making them ideal for writing, note-taking, or simple computing in parks, cafes, or other outdoor settings.

Unlike the minimalist “dumb phone” trend or the growing market for distraction-free browsers, the cyberdeck community emphasizes creativity and personalization. Builders share their designs, schematics, and code openly, turning the act of creating the device into a social and educational experience. The result is a product that is both functional and expressive, appealing to those who want technology that serves them without demanding constant attention.

Why This Matters Now

This wave of offline-first innovation is not merely a backlash against technology. It represents a more nuanced understanding of digital wellness, one that does not reject technology outright but seeks to redesign its role in daily life. The success of companies like Lululemon, Peloton, and even the resurgence of board game cafes suggests that consumers are willing to pay for experiences that foster real-world connection.

For investors, this signals a potential shift in where venture capital flows. While AI continues to attract the majority of funding, startups focused on intentional living, community building, and physical interaction may represent a less crowded, high-growth niche. Board’s funding round and the viral popularity of cyberdecks indicate that there is genuine market demand for products that help people reclaim their time and attention.

Conclusion

The most interesting startups right now are not trying to keep users glued to their screens. They are building tools and experiences that make it easier to step away. From Brynn Putnam’s Board to the growing cyberdeck community, these projects offer a compelling alternative to the always-on digital lifestyle. As the conversation around screen time and mental health continues to evolve, expect more founders to look for opportunities in the offline space.

FAQs

Q1: What is the startup Board?
Board is a new company founded by Brynn Putnam, previously the founder of Mirror. It focuses on creating in-person games and social experiences designed to bring people together without relying on screens or digital interfaces.

Q2: What are cyberdecks?
Cyberdecks are portable, DIY computers often built with retro-futuristic designs. They are intentionally limited in connectivity and functionality, encouraging users to work or play in outdoor or social settings rather than being tied to a desk or smartphone.

Q3: Why are offline-focused startups gaining attention now?
After years of rapid digital adoption, many consumers are experiencing screen fatigue and seeking more meaningful, in-person interactions. This has created a market for products and services that promote intentional living and real-world connection, attracting both founders and investors.