iMessage-Integrated Innovation: ‘Series’ Secures $5.1M to Redefine Social Networking

Apr 25, 2026 23:39

A new generation social networking platform, ‘Series’, has emerged using only iMessage—without requiring any separate app. Developed by two fourth-year Yale University students, Nathaneo Johnson and Sean Hargrove, the innovative initiative has impressed investors, securing $5.1 million in pre-seed funding.

How the Platform Works:

Simple Connectivity: Users send a text via iMessage to a designated number (Series AI), then they express intention to connect with and why.
AI Carousel: The AI then sends a “carousel” or list of 10 images, featuring profiles of other users with similar interests.
Privacy Protection: If users like a profile, they can start chatting directly without sharing personal phone numbers.
Conversation-Based Interface: Instead of traditional search engines, the platform uses AI-driven conversations to quickly find suitable connections.

Backed by Prominent Investors:

Several well-known figures from the tech world have invested in the startup, including:

Steve Huffman: CEO of Reddit
Iqram Magdon-Ismail: Co-founder of Venmo
Edward Tian: Founder of GPTZero

Growth and Current Status:

Currently, ‘Series’ is being used across more than 750 university campuses. CEO Nathaneo Johnson stated that the platform has achieved a retention rate of 82 percent, which is higher than Facebook’s early-stage performance.

Interestingly, the two young entrepreneurs are operating their office in Chelsea, New York, without dropping out of university. They believe that utilizing time outside academic commitments effectively can lead to significant achievements.

Primarily targeting Gen-Z and young professionals, the platform is gaining popularity not only for professional networking but also for friendships and dating.

DBTech/BMT/OR