Brynn Putnam Unveils ‘Board’: A New Era in Social Gaming
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Brynn Putnam, renowned for founding the connected fitness company Mirror, is making a significant return to the tech scene with her latest venture, ‘Board.’ This innovative gaming device is designed to foster face-to-face interactions, marking a departure from traditional screen-based gaming experiences.
A Visionary’s Journey
Putnam’s entrepreneurial journey began with Mirror, a fitness platform that seamlessly integrated virtual workouts into home environments. Launched in 2018, Mirror quickly gained traction, leading to its acquisition by Lululemon for $500 million in 2020. Following this success, Putnam took a brief hiatus, only to return with a renewed focus on enhancing in-person social interactions through technology.
Introducing ‘Board’
Set to debut in Fall 2025, ‘Board’ is a connected screen device that reimagines the gaming experience. Unlike conventional gaming consoles that often isolate players behind individual screens, ‘Board’ emphasizes collective engagement, encouraging users to gather around a single device for shared gaming sessions.
The Philosophy Behind ‘Board’
Putnam’s inspiration for ‘Board’ stems from a desire to counteract the isolating effects of modern technology. She envisions a product that leverages technological advancements to bring people together, rather than driving them apart. This approach aligns with a broader cultural shift towards valuing real-world connections in an increasingly digital age.
Technological Foundations
‘Board’ capitalizes on the convergence of mature display technologies, affordable components, and artificial intelligence capabilities. By utilizing existing, reliable technologies in innovative ways, ‘Board’ aims to deliver a seamless and engaging user experience without the need for cutting-edge hardware.
Market Position and Investment
The gaming industry is witnessing a resurgence in consumer hardware investments. Putnam’s track record with Mirror has instilled confidence among investors, leading to substantial backing for ‘Board.’ Notably, venture firm Lerer Hippeau, which led Mirror’s initial seed round, has invested in this new venture, signaling strong belief in Putnam’s vision.
Anticipation Builds
The official unveiling of ‘Board’ is scheduled for TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 at San Francisco’s Moscone West in October. This event is highly anticipated, as it will provide a platform for Putnam to showcase how ‘Board’ aims to redefine social gaming by blending technology with the timeless appeal of face-to-face interaction.
Conclusion
Brynn Putnam’s ‘Board’ represents a thoughtful response to the evolving dynamics of social interaction in the digital era. By prioritizing shared experiences over solitary screen time, ‘Board’ has the potential to carve out a unique niche in the gaming market, appealing to those seeking meaningful connections through technology.
