AI agents, IRL socializing, and vibe coding: Where top consumer investors are placing bets
Top consumer VCs are betting on AI apps that make the internet more social. They told us the trends they are watching.
Niko Bonatsos, Marina Girgis, and Amy Wu Martin, investors at Verdict Capital, Precursor Ventures, and Menlo Ventures respectively, are investing in AI-driven social startups. The investors believe that AI applications can reshape the way people connect and interact online. They are particularly interested in social apps that make the internet more social, such as vibe coding, AI dating, and IRL (in real life) social platforms.
Vibe coding involves creating and sharing mini-apps that can be remixed and built upon by others. This trend is particularly popular among younger internet users, with startups like Wabi and Sekai receiving significant investments from firms like Khosla, A16z, and Connect Ventures. Gaming platforms such as Lemonade and ForgeGUI are also attracting attention, as they allow users to create content using AI agents.
In the realm of AI dating, new players are challenging traditional platforms like Tinder and Bumble. AI dating app Overtone, founded by Hinge's Justin McLeod, has raised $18 million in funding. Other startups, such as Sitch and Known, are using AI to improve matchmaking and dating experiences. These apps aim to make the dating process more efficient and enjoyable for users.
Some investors are also exploring the potential of social apps that encourage users to disconnect from their devices and engage in real-life experiences. Abstract Ventures backed Corner, a social map for finding and sharing local spots, and Amo, a French app studio behind Bump, which lets users track friends. Posh, a platform for IRL events and ticketing, recently secured a $37 million Series B round.
Lastly, there is interest in AI agents and personal assistants designed to facilitate social connections. Town, an AI personal assistant for managing inboxes and calendars, recently raised $55 million in a Series A round led by A16z and Forerunner. While Town is currently focused on professionals, similar assistants for families and other groups are also emerging.
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