Former Social Media Experts Are Betting on New AI Trends

A group of twenty former employees from Snap — the company behind Snapchat — have started an investment fund called 'Ghost Angels'. Their goal is to support new businesses that are using artificial intelligence (AI) to build the next generation of social and consumer tech.

What's interesting is their belief that 'social' and 'media' have drifted apart. They’re looking to back companies that focus more on genuine connection and innovative AI tools, rather than the traditional, ad-heavy social media platforms we’re used to. They've already invested in five companies, with plans for at least 15 more in the next year.

This move signals a shift in thinking from people who truly understand how social platforms work. They're seeing a future where AI helps create more meaningful online experiences or entirely new ways for people to connect and interact, and potentially new consumer products that aren't primarily driven by advertising. For Australian small businesses, this could mean new opportunities to connect with customers or tools that help foster communities online in different ways.

While this fund is focused on early-stage startups, it reflects a broader trend of innovation. Keep an eye out for these new AI-powered social and consumer tools. They might just change how we interact online, offering alternatives to the current big players and potentially creating a less ad-cluttered, more engaging digital world.