Mirror Founder Brynn Putnam Launches Gaming Hardware Startup at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

Brynn Putnam Returns to TechCrunch Disrupt with New Venture

After a seven-year interval since the unveiling of Mirror at TechCrunch Disrupt 2018, Brynn Putnam is scheduled to reappear on the same stage that launched her previous success. The accomplished entrepreneur, responsible for transforming a fitness idea into a $500 million acquisition by Lululemon, will introduce her newest undertaking at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 in San Francisco’s Moscone West this October.

The Success of Mirror and Strategic Timing

Putnam’s journey from her initial Disrupt presentation to the present day exemplifies astute timing. Mirror, a connected fitness system delivering boutique workout classes directly to homes, was launched coinciding with the pandemic’s surge in demand for at-home fitness options. This proved remarkably prescient, leading to Lululemon’s acquisition of the company for $500 million a mere two years following its Disrupt debut.

A Shift Towards Social Connection

Currently, Putnam is anticipating another significant cultural evolution – the increasing inclination to disconnect from screens and foster in-person connections with family and friends. Her new company, still operating privately, is developing consumer gaming hardware intended to facilitate face-to-face interactions, rather than isolating individuals.

Putnam recently shared with TechCrunch at a StrictlyVC event that “a golden age of hardware is imminent.” She highlighted the convergence of advanced display technologies, cost-effective components, and artificial intelligence capabilities, which are enabling the creation of novel interactive devices.

Prioritizing Shared Experiences

This new venture signifies a change in Putnam’s focus. While Mirror centered on individual achievement and self-improvement, her current project prioritizes shared experiences and strengthening interpersonal relationships. She envisions technology as a facilitator for enhanced human connections, rather than the central experience itself.

Leveraging Established Technology

Drawing inspiration from Nintendo’s approach of utilizing “withered technology with lateral thinking” – combining mature, affordable components with innovative experiences – Putnam is replicating the strategy that propelled Mirror to success. Instead of striving for technological breakthroughs, she is concentrating on crafting compelling user experiences with proven hardware.

From Fitness to Gaming: A Natural Progression

The gaming sector represents a logical next step for Putnam, who has established a reputation for understanding how technology can influence behavioral changes. Her experience with boutique fitness studios taught her how to cultivate engaging group dynamics, lessons she applied to Mirror’s virtual classes and is now adapting to gaming scenarios that promote face-to-face interaction.

Strong Investor Confidence

Lerer Hippeau, the venture capital firm that spearheaded Mirror’s $3 million seed funding round, has already participated in a competitive funding round for Putnam’s new company. This demonstrates substantial investor confidence in her ability to identify and capitalize on evolving consumer trends.

Resurgence in Consumer Hardware Investment

This timing also corresponds with a broader revival in consumer hardware investment. Following a period of emphasis on enterprise software and AI infrastructure, investors are demonstrating renewed interest in consumer-facing hardware that can leverage AI and mature component ecosystems to establish new device categories.

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: A Milestone Event

Putnam’s participation at Disrupt 2025 coincides with TechCrunch’s 20th anniversary. Attendees can anticipate insights from leading figures in the tech industry regarding the future of innovation.

For entrepreneurs and investors monitoring consumer tech trends, Putnam’s return to the Disrupt Stage will offer an opportunity to observe how a highly successful founder is positioning herself for the next wave of innovation. Don’t miss this event. Register now for Disrupt 2025 to witness Brynn Putnam’s latest unveiling, and save up to $668 by September 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

The event will be held from October 27-29 at San Francisco’s Moscone Center.

An Investor Pass, including access to the StrictlyVC event at Disrupt and exclusive benefits, is available – click here to learn more and secure yours.