Austin Hirsh, a young tech entrepreneur from Seattle, is navigating a wave of nostalgia, finding solace in tactile experiences as a counter to the overload of digital engagement. This shift mirrors a broader cultural sentiment as many seek a reprieve from the constant barrage of social media, gravitating instead towards analog pleasures such as vinyl records and film photography. A University of Washington alumnus, Hirsh initially embarked on his entrepreneurial journey with The 2050 Company, which focused on producing smoothie powder from rescued produce. However, after four challenging years, he decided to shut down the startup, recognizing that his vision did not align with the long-term commitment he desired. His introspection led him to pose two critical questions: whether his project was a fit for his skills and if he was prepared to invest a decade into it, ultimately deciding he wasn’t entirely committed.
Currently, Hirsh is the co-founder and CEO of Mems, a startup aiming to tackle the pervasive issue of digital addiction by transforming the ways we network and express creativity in the physical realm. Partnering with Craig Sampson, an experienced design expert, Hirsh is cultivating a vision that diverges from merely enhancing digital media. He believes that to truly combat the ennui of technology, a fundamental shift in medium is also necessary. Drawing from his own experiences with music and photography, he appreciates the novelty that stems from engaging with physical forms, such as using disposable cameras instead of smartphones. This foundational philosophy underpins Mems’ inaugural product: the Mem-A-Ment.
The Mem-A-Ment is a Christmas ornament designed to resemble a vintage film slide, embedding near field communication technology that links the physical world with a digital gallery. Users can send these personalized ornaments to friends and family, who can then tap them with their smartphones to access additional images. This integration allows for shared digital experiences rooted in tangible objects. Hirsh envisions utilizing this device himself to connect with relatives, believing that such physical tokens can rekindle the meaningfulness lost in digitized communication.
Hirsh’s innovative approach to Kickstarter fundraising involves rolling out brief campaigns aimed at smaller groups of backers, each receiving their products quickly. This strategy not only tests his offerings in real-time but also nurtures a community of early adopters who will help shape the future of Mems. Future iterations of the Mem-A-Ment may serve varied purposes, from storing vacation memories to serving as personalized gifts, thereby enriching personal connections. Hirsh argues that while digital communications allow for quick sharing, the intrinsic value of having memories embedded in physical forms cannot be replicated in simple electronic exchanges.
The concept of physical interaction with photographs has been a pivotal aspect of Hirsh’s work, as he seeks to recreate experiences reminiscent of social engagements. In Seattle, he has initiated spontaneous “photobooths” equipped with upcycled film canisters at notable locations. By prompting users to take selfies and share them via a community portal, he not only reenvisions public spaces but also fosters social connections outside of virtual settings. His promotion of these photobooths through social media channels illustrates his commitment to blending technology with real-world interaction in a way that feels enriching rather than isolating.
Reflecting on the energy of the augmented reality game “Pokémon Go,” Hirsh recognizes how it transformed outdoor experiences into avenues for socializing and connection. He is inspired by the notion that technology, when used correctly, can enhance real-world interactions rather than detract from them. By positioning Mems as a bridge between the digital and tactile worlds, Hirsh aspires to restore meaningfulness to memories and connections, offering alternatives to disengagement that many have experienced in the wake of their digital lives. The mission of Mems, therefore, goes beyond product development; it is about evoking nostalgia, cementing memories, and nurturing relationships through the seamless blending of the digital and physical worlds.
