Two college kids raise a $5.1 million pre-seed to build an AI social network in iMessage

2026-04-24 · Source: TechCrunch · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Software Development & Engineering, Emerging Technologies & Innovation · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, short

Summary

Series, a social networking app, has successfully raised a $5.1 million pre-seed funding round, attracting investors such as Venmo co-founder Iqram Magdon-Ismail, Pear VC, Reddit CEO Steve Huffman, and GPTZero founder Edward Tian. Founded by Yale seniors Nathaneo Johnson and Sean Hargrow, Series operates entirely through iMessage, allowing users to connect by texting a phone number (Series AI) to describe their networking needs. The AI then presents "shares"—carousels of 10 images with user photos and requests—enabling private conversations without sharing personal numbers. The platform, which targets Gen Z and professionals, has expanded beyond its college base, with students using it across over 750 campuses and achieving an 82% Day 30 retention rate. The new capital will be used to hire engineers and enhance product capabilities, with the company planning to remain on the East Coast.

Key takeaway

For product managers considering new social networking or connection platforms, your focus should shift towards conversational interfaces and AI-first design. Series' success demonstrates that leveraging existing messaging platforms like iMessage can achieve high user retention and significant funding, even for pre-seed ventures. Prioritize seamless, private connection mechanisms over traditional profile-based interactions to capture Gen Z and professional audiences.

Key insights

Series leverages iMessage and AI to facilitate "warm connections" through a conversation-first social networking platform.

Principles

• Conversation interfaces are replacing traditional UIs.
• AI-first inception offers a competitive advantage.

Method

Users text Series AI via iMessage, state connection goals, and receive "shares" (image carousels) of matching profiles to initiate private chats.

In practice

• Explore iMessage as a platform for new app development.
• Design AI for conversational user experiences.

Topics

• AI Social Network
• iMessage Integration
• Pre-seed Funding
• Conversation Interfaces
• Gen Z Engagement

Best for: Product Manager, Entrepreneur, Investor, AI Product Manager

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by TechCrunch.