The 'together tech' wave might be the most intriguing startup bet of 2026Startups focus on in-person experiences as counterpoint to AI digitization.
- Counter-trend: While AI funding dominates, some founders are building physical, social experiences that get people offline.
- Notable examples: Mirror founder's Board startup focuses on in-person games, while cyberdeck creators promote tactile computing.
- Market opportunity: This isn't just backlash but a genuine market for technology that enhances rather than replaces human connection.
The Hidden Why: Behavioral Economics for UXNielsen Norman Group
Design
Behavioral economics frameworks help identify hidden user friction and design solutions.
- Framework application: Use behavioral economics principles to uncover non-obvious barriers preventing user action.
- Hidden friction: Many UX problems stem from psychological rather than interface design issues.
- Solution design: Design interventions that address cognitive biases and decision-making patterns, not just usability.
For design
Train your research team on behavioral economics basics—it's a more systematic way to find friction than traditional usability testing alone.
The Four Design Jobs AI Created (So Far)Nielsen Norman Group
Design
AI design work has evolved into four distinct specialized roles.
- Role diversification: What started as generic 'AI design' has split into four specific job functions with different skill requirements.
- Career clarity: Designers can now understand distinct career paths in AI rather than a vague 'AI design' category.
- Hiring precision: Teams can hire more precisely for specific AI design needs rather than hoping for generalist coverage.
For design
Review your design org structure—you likely need specialized AI design roles rather than asking existing designers to 'add AI' to their responsibilities.