There's money to be made in AI startups that boost human connections, according to a VC
Menlo Ventures' recent "State of Consumer AI" report reveals categories the VC firm is eyeing.
Business Insider spoke with two partners at the firm about where Menlo is placing bets.
That's a question Menlo Ventures, a venture capital firm that's invested in companies like Uber, Tumblr, and Anthropic, wants to answer.
Connection is one of a handful of "white space opportunities" that Menlo Ventures is eyeing as fertile ground for new startups in consumer AI technology, according to the firm's recent "The State of Consumer AI" report.
Menlo Ventures and Morning Consult surveyed roughly 5,000 US-based adults in April about their feelings around AI and how they've used the tools within the past six months.
"Today, usage is dominated by these generalist AI systems," such as OpenAI's ChatGPT or Google's Gemini, Menlo Ventures partner Amy Wu Martin told Business Insider. "But we're seeing, starting with specific categories, this move into more specialized apps."
Menlo's research identified five broad categories where specialized AI apps are gaining traction: routine tasks, creative expression, physical and mental health, learning and development, and connection.
Dating, social networking, AI companions, and more
What falls under the connection umbrella?
One niche is dating. Menlo's market map of consumer AI tools highlighted AI-powered matchmaking apps like A16z Speedrun alum Sitch, Keeper, and Ditto. Then there are social networking apps that use AI agents to surface new people to meet, such as Gigi or professional-focused startups like Series or Boardy. Menlo also puts AI companions (think Character AI or Replika) and the turn-yourself-into-a-bot startup Delphi (a Menlo investment) under its connection thesis.
"People are starting to use AI as a bit of a crutch to actually figure out how to interact with people and feel less awkward," Martin said, pointing to examples of how people may use AI to prepare for a date or dinner party.
In addition to dating advice or social coaching, the technology can be a semi-social outlet in itself, enabling users to interact with AI-generated personas.
"The biggest gap in the AI connectivity is multiplayer mode," Martin said, referring to AI that facilitates and participates in group activities.
Social media has largely morphed into entertainment — propelled by the rise of influencers — instead of a place to foster real-life connections. Menlo thinks AI could help bring people together, especially in the still-untapped realm of multiplayer experiences.
"What is the tool that really just helps you be better in your relationships?" Menlo partner Shawn Carolan said. "I don't want more media coming my way. It's almost like the opposite of social media."
But people aren't running en masse to AI for connection just yet.
According to the report, only 14% of participants said they used AI for "staying in touch."
Investors are buzzing about consumer AI
A new crop of startups at the intersection of AI and social networking has stirred buzz with investors.
"We are trying to understand where the puck is going," Martin said. "The next phase, especially consumer, is around these specialized apps."
Menlo Ventures isn't the only firm betting on consumer AI applications.
Amber Atherton, a partner at early-stage consumer fund Patron, recently told BI about wanting to invest in startups that better help people find new relationships and maintain their existing ones.
Beyond connection, Menlo Ventures is also watching spaces like healthcare and wellness, financial management, personalized learning, home-related tasks, and family logistics as opportunities for startups.
Parents, for instance, are AI "power users," according to Menlo's survey.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Business Upturn
an hour ago
- Business Upturn
EPACK Durable partners with South Korea's Bumjin to enter smart audio segment
By Aditya Bhagchandani Published on July 25, 2025, 12:20 IST EPACK Durable Limited has entered into a strategic joint venture with South Korea-based Bumjin Electronics Co. Limited to manufacture soundbars, Bluetooth devices, and TV speakers in India. The deal, signed on July 24, 2025, is expected to kickstart manufacturing operations by Q3 FY26 and target a 30% market share in the segment. The partnership aims to leverage EPACK's large-scale manufacturing and Bumjin's expertise in speaker technology to develop AI-integrated, high-performance audio products. The collaboration also supports EPACK's plan to diversify beyond room air conditioners and into the broader smart consumer electronics space. EPACK Durable's MD & CEO Ajay DD Singhania said this alliance will help strengthen India's electronics manufacturing capabilities while delivering locally built products that match global standards. Executive Chairman Bajrang Bothra added that the joint venture aligns with the company's long-term roadmap and could reduce India's 25% import dependency in speaker systems. This collaboration is also expected to open up export opportunities while enabling the transfer of global best practices and advanced technologies into the Indian electronics ecosystem. Ahmedabad Plane Crash Aditya Bhagchandani serves as the Senior Editor and Writer at Business Upturn, where he leads coverage across the Business, Finance, Corporate, and Stock Market segments. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to journalistic integrity, he not only contributes insightful articles but also oversees editorial direction for the reporting team.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Samsung Launches Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Watch8 Series Globally Starting Today
Multimodal AI-powered foldables debut alongside ultra-comfortable smartwatches that deliver instant health insights — experience the latest devices at your nearby store Pre-orders for the latest Galaxy Z foldable smartphones have exceeded targets across Europe following their reveal at Galaxy Unpacked earlier in July SEOUL, Korea, July 25, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the global availability of its latest foldable smartphones, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7, as well as its new Galaxy Watch8 series. The Galaxy Z series models are proving popular in Europe, with pre-order targets exceeded before the end of the pre-order period. The flagship Galaxy Z Fold7 accounts for over half of pre-orders, and has seen a more than 50% increase in pre-orders from European consumers compared to previous Galaxy Z Fold models. The Z series has seen a higher year-on-year increase in pre-orders than the already successful S25 series, showing the increasing consumer interest in foldable handsets. Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7: Ultra-Thin and Light With Intuitive Intelligence Refined by years of breakthrough engineering and elevated with advanced intelligence, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 represent the next leap in smartphone innovation. Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 are Samsung's thinnest, lightest and most advanced Z series devices yet. Powered by cutting-edge performance and seamlessly integrated Galaxy AI,1 they are intelligent, adaptive companions that anticipate and respond to user needs in real time. With expansive, flexible displays, pro-grade cameras and context-aware intelligence, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 open up new realms of ultra experience with productivity, creativity and connection. Galaxy Z Fold7 brings Galaxy advancements together and broadens their scope, delivering an ultra-level experience in the thinnest, lightest and most advanced Z series yet. It offers immersive, high-octane performance on an expansive screen, empowering users to game, stream, connect and create all at once. Galaxy's true AI companion experience has also been optimized for the foldable format, enabling fluid interactions across more apps and the larger screen. And with camera and screen sharing with Gemini Live2, users can talk naturally to Gemini about what they're viewing. They can simply share a picture of a local delicacy while they're exploring a new city and ask Gemini whether there is a nearby restaurant where they can try it. Plus, Galaxy Z Fold7's ultra-grade 200 MP high-resolution camera gives the freedom to shoot at flexible angles, putting professional-quality content creation at users' fingertips. For example, convenient editing features like Generative Edit3 now automatically detect passersby in the background of photos and proactively recommend what to remove, eliminating the need to make manual selections and edits. Apart from these features, Galaxy Z Fold7 brings familiarity and durability in a head-turning new design that unfolds into something extraordinary. As for Galaxy Z Flip7, it distills flagship power, intelligence and personality into a compact and iconic form. With its edge-to-edge FlexWindow, users can express themselves, access key features at a glance, and stay connected — all without opening the device. Built for dynamic lifestyles, Galaxy Z Flip7 transforms the way users capture and share content, from flawless selfies to cinematic video, all with the agility and creativity only Flip devices can offer. Now Bar4 delivers helpful information right on Galaxy Z Flip7's FlexWindow to help users stay in control of their day, such as what song is playing, workout progress and even rideshare ETAs at a glance. Gemini Live also allows users to share what they see through their camera and chat with Gemini in real time directly on FlexWindow. So, they can ask for travel tips while road tripping with their dog or outfit suggestions based on the day's weather. Users can also simply share the camera in Flex Mode and converse with Gemini hands-free. Galaxy Z Flip7's FlexCam makes it easier than ever to capture the perfect selfie. Real-time filters on the FlexWindow instantly enhance users FlexCam selfies, so that they can be ready to post or share without the need for any extra editing. And with fun new features like Portrait Studio5 for pets, users can instantly transform any snapped or downloaded pet photo into a work of art. They can choose from styles that resemble artistic paintings, 3D cartoons, fisheye lens photos or professional-quality portraits, and create frame-worthy masterpieces with one quick tap. Years of breakthrough engineering have led foldables to become flexible canvases for the new AI experience. As a new class of smartphones designed to fit in with and elevate user lives, Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 represent this achievement. Familiar yet transformative, they blend power, portability, style and substance, whether users seek a revolutionary, ultra-level experience or an AI powerhouse that fits in their pocket. As form factors evolve to look and think differently, this generation of foldables represents the next leap in smartphone innovation. Galaxy Watch8 Series: Ultra-Comfort Meets Real-Time Health Motivation Completing the Galaxy ecosystem, the Galaxy Watch8 series — including Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic — brings the same spirit of re-engineering found in the new phones to the wrist. Galaxy Watch8 features advanced sensor technology and creates an intuitive AI-powered experience to help users fulfill a healthier, more connected life, while its ultra-thin cushion design and Dynamic Lug system flex naturally for all-day comfort and more precise sensor contact. Leveraging Samsung's BioActive Sensor for continuous health tracking, the watches deliver real-time insights and instant rewards or alerts across sleep, stress, nutrition and activity, turning healthy intentions into immediate, motivating feedback6. Plus, for the first time in a smartwatch, Galaxy Watch8 has introduced the Antioxidant Index7, enabling users to measure carotenoid levels in just five seconds and make informed lifestyle choices for healthy aging. Hands-On With the Galaxy Z Series and the Watch8 Series at Galaxy Experience Spaces After Unpacked, Samsung opened its Galaxy Experience Spaces in major cities including Dubai, London, New York, Paris and Seoul. Designed to offer consumers an early, hands-on experience of the newest Galaxy devices, these spaces featured interactive zones that highlighted the devices' design, performance and Galaxy AI features. Samsung also partnered with local communities including running, photography, and skateboarding groups to host various sessions, teaching visitors how they can get the most out of their new devices. In addition, Samsung launched a new Experience Store locator feature on making it easier for users to find nearby stores and try the newest devices in person. Availability Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7, Galaxy Watch8, and Galaxy Watch8 Classic will be available for purchase at and in stores across 49 markets starting July 25, before being made available in over 110 markets worldwide. Galaxy Z Fold7 is offered in Blue Shadow, Silver Shadow, Jetblack8 and an online-exclusive Mint9. Galaxy Z Flip7 comes in Jetblack, Blue Shadow, Coralred10 and an online-exclusive Mint.11 Galaxy Z Flip7 FE, which brings the foldable experience to a wider audience, is available in Black or White. So far, Blue Shadow has emerged as the most popular color globally for both Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, accounting for nearly 40% of pre-orders for both devices. Galaxy Watch8 is available in two sizes — 44 mm and 40 mm — and comes in Graphite or Silver. Galaxy Watch8 Classic comes in 46 mm with Black or White options, while the new Galaxy Watch Ultra is offered in four titanium finishes, including the new Titanium Blue. For greater peace of mind, Samsung Care+12 offers comprehensive coverage for accidental damage, repairs and replacements. Plus, for users who love having the latest technology, Samsung is introducing the New Galaxy Club. Users can get expanded access to Google AI Pro and 2 TB of cloud storage for 6 months at no cost with Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 FE. For more information about the Galaxy Z series and Galaxy Watch8 series, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, and About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances and network systems, as well as memory, system LSI and foundry. Samsung is also advancing medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions and robotics, while creating innovative automotive and audio products through Harman. With its SmartThings ecosystem, open collaboration with partners, and integration of AI across its portfolio, Samsung delivers a seamless and intelligent connected experience. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at 1 Samsung Account login may be required to use certain AI features. Samsung does not make any promises, assurances or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the output provided by AI features. Availability of Galaxy AI features may vary depending on the region/country, OS/One UI version, device model and phone carrier. Galaxy AI features will be provided for free until the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices. Different terms may apply for AI features provided by third parties. Galaxy AI service may be limited for minors in certain regions with age restrictions over AI usage. 2 Gemini Live feature requires internet connection and Google Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language, device model. Features may differ depending on subscription and results may vary. Compatible with certain features and certain accounts. Only available to users 18 years or older. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. 3 Generative Edit feature for Photo Assist requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Editing with Generative Edit may result in a resized photo. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed. 4 Availability of functions supported within the apps may vary by country. Some functional widgets may require a network connection and/or Samsung Account login. 5 Portrait Studio feature for Photo Assist requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Editing with Portrait Studio results in a resized photo. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed. 6 Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis or treatment. Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. The result is for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice. 7 Antioxidant index available on Android phones (Android 10 or above) and requires the Samsung Health app (v6.30 or above). Samsung account login required. To measure, place the center of your finger on the sensor at the back of the Watch and hold it for 5 seconds. While Anti-oxidant index can be measured using any finger, the thumb is recommended for the most accurate result. Repeat measurement due to uneven skin texture may lead to inaccurate results. Antioxidant index is for fitness and wellness only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Please consult a medical professional for advice if you're concerned about your antioxidant level. This is a Labs feature that you can preview before its official launch. If you don't want to use this experimental feature, you can turn it off in Samsung Health settings. 8 Color availability may vary depending on market, country or carrier. 9 Online exclusive colors only available on 10 Color availability may vary depending on market, country or carrier. 11 Online exclusive colors only available on 12 Terms and conditions apply. Samsung Care+ coverage, service type and promotion details may vary by country/region and deductible (service fee) may apply. To be eligible for Samsung Care+ promotion benefit, registration may be required. For detailed Samsung Care+ information, please visit View source version on Contacts 登入存取你的投資組合
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Applied Materials' Quarterly Earnings Preview: What You Need to Know
Santa Clara, California-based Applied Materials, Inc. (AMAT) is a provider of manufacturing equipment, services, and software to the semiconductor, display, and related industries. With a market cap of $150.1 billion, Applied Materials operates through Semiconductor Systems, Applied Global Services, and Display and Adjacent Markets segments. The tech giant is expected to announce its third-quarter results on Thursday, Aug. 21. Ahead of the event, analysts expect AMAT to report a profit of $2.34 per share, up 10.4% from $2.12 per share reported in the year-ago quarter. Furthermore, the company has surpassed the Street's bottom-line projections in each of the past four quarters. More News from Barchart 2 Recession-Proof Dividend Stocks to Buy for the Second Half of 2025 UnitedHealth Stock Spirals Lower Again. Don't Buy the Dip. Auto Revenue Keeps Plunging at Tesla. Should You Buy the TSLA Stock Dip or Run Far Away? Tired of missing midday reversals? The FREE Barchart Brief newsletter keeps you in the know. Sign up now! For the full fiscal 2025, analysts expect AMAT's EPS to come in at $9.47, up a notable 9.5% from $8.65 reported in fiscal 2024. In fiscal 2026, its earnings are expected to further grow 5.6% year-over-year to $10 per share. AMAT's stock prices have dropped 8.9% over the past 52 weeks, notably underperforming the S&P 500 Index's ($SPX) 17.3% surge and the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund's (XLK) 21.1% returns during the same time frame. Despite delivering record earnings, Applied Materials' stock prices dropped 5.3% in the trading session after the release of its Q2 results on May 15. The company's topline for the quarter increased 6.8% year-over-year to $7.1 billion, falling short of the Street expectations by a small margin, which increased investor skepticism, which was already heightened due to concerns over the impact of potential tariffs on the semiconductor industry. Nonetheless, the company's overall performance remained more than impressive, its adjusted EPS increased 14.4% year-over-year to $2.39, beating the consensus estimates by 3.5%. Further, its operating cash flows surged 12.9% year-over-year to $1.6 billion. The consensus view on AMAT stock is optimistic, with a consensus 'Moderate Buy' rating overall. Of the 34 analysts covering the stock, opinions include 22 'Strong Buys,' three 'Moderate Buys,' and nine 'Holds.' Its mean price target of $205.68 suggests a 9.3% upside potential from current price levels. On the date of publication, Aditya Sarawgi did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data