DIY Gadgets: A Rejection of AI and Mass Production

In a cultural pushback against the uniformity of generative AI and mass-produced electronics, a niche movement of DIY computer builders is gaining traction on social media. These homemade devices, known as cyberdecks, are being celebrated not just as functional gadgets but as artistic statements against corporate technology. The trend has found a particularly enthusiastic audience among young creators, especially women, who are sharing their custom designs online and framing them as alternatives to the “predictable flatness” of mainstream tech.

The Rise of the Cyberdeck

The concept of the cyberdeck—a portable, often hand-built computer—is not new. Its roots trace back decades to cyberpunk literature and early hacker culture, where the idea of a personalized, anti-establishment machine was a central theme. However, the recent resurgence of interest in cyberdecks is tied to a broader disillusionment with the direction of consumer technology. Builders are rejecting the sleek, minimalist designs of commercial devices in favor of highly individualized, often whimsical creations that reflect their personalities and values.

One of the most visible figures in this movement is Annike Tan, a 22-year-old London-based creator and model who has become a prominent voice in the DIY tech community. Tan, who posts under the name Ube Boobey, first gained attention in March 2026 when she shared a video of her building a cyberdeck housed inside a clamshell purse. The device was adorned with gold accents, pearls, and even fake moss, giving it the appearance of a “fantastical mermaid’s laptop.” The video, captioned with the provocative phrase “fuck it. Cunty cyberdeck,” quickly went viral, amassing over 32 million views across her TikTok channel.

Tan’s designs are more than just aesthetic experiments. In a video with nearly 4 million views, she explicitly frames cyberdecks as a form of resistance against the dominance of AI and corporate technology. “What we should do with cyberdecks is gatekeep them from AI and megacorp,” she says, encapsulating the movement’s ethos. For many builders, the appeal lies in the ability to create something entirely unique—a device that is not only functional but also a rejection of the homogenized, algorithm-driven products that dominate the market.

Why Cyberdecks Are Gaining Popularity

The growing interest in cyberdecks can be attributed to several factors. First, the movement taps into a broader cultural fatigue with the uniformity of modern technology. As generative AI tools become more pervasive, many users feel that devices and software are increasingly designed to be interchangeable, lacking the personal touch that once defined tech culture. Cyberdecks offer a way to reclaim agency over technology, allowing builders to tailor their devices to their specific needs and aesthetics.

Second, the rise of social media platforms like TikTok has provided a powerful outlet for DIY tech enthusiasts to showcase their creations. Tan’s success is a prime example of how these platforms can amplify niche trends, turning them into broader cultural phenomena. Her videos, which blend technical tutorials with artistic flair, have inspired a wave of imitators and collaborators, many of whom are women eager to participate in a tech space that has historically been male-dominated.

Finally, the cyberdeck movement is part of a larger shift toward repairability, sustainability, and anti-consumerism in technology. Many builders use recycled or upcycled materials, and the emphasis on customization means that devices can evolve alongside their users’ needs. This stands in stark contrast to the planned obsolescence of many commercial products, which are designed to be replaced rather than repaired or upgraded.

The Technical Side of Cyberdecks

While cyberdecks are often celebrated for their artistic value, they are also functional computers. Builders typically start with a single-board computer, such as a Raspberry Pi, and then customize the hardware and software to suit their needs. The cases are where the creativity truly shines, with builders using everything from vintage suitcases to 3D-printed enclosures to house their components. Some cyberdecks are designed for portability, while others prioritize raw computing power or specific use cases, such as gaming or digital art.

The software side of cyberdecks is equally diverse. Many builders opt for open-source operating systems like Linux, which allow for greater customization and control. Others experiment with niche or retro operating systems, further distancing their devices from mainstream tech. The emphasis on open-source tools aligns with the movement’s anti-corporate ethos, as it reduces reliance on proprietary software and platforms.

The Broader Implications

The cyberdeck movement is still relatively small, but its growing visibility raises important questions about the future of technology. As AI continues to shape the development of consumer devices, the pushback against uniformity and corporate control is likely to intensify. Cyberdecks represent one way for users to assert their individuality in an increasingly standardized tech landscape.

the movement highlights the potential for social media to democratize tech culture. Platforms like TikTok have lowered the barrier to entry for DIY tech projects, allowing creators like Tan to reach global audiences and inspire others to experiment with building their own devices. This could have long-term effects on how technology is consumed and perceived, particularly among younger generations who are increasingly skeptical of corporate influence.

However, the cyberdeck movement is not without its challenges. Building a functional computer from scratch requires a certain level of technical expertise, which may limit its appeal to a broader audience. The movement’s anti-corporate stance could alienate some users who rely on mainstream tech for work or daily life. Despite these hurdles, the growing interest in cyberdecks suggests that there is a significant appetite for alternatives to the status quo.

What’s Next for the Cyberdeck Movement?

As the cyberdeck trend continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether it will remain a niche interest or gain broader traction. For now, the movement is thriving on social media, where builders share their latest creations and collaborate on new projects. Tan and other prominent figures in the community are likely to play a key role in shaping its future, particularly as they explore new ways to make cyberdecks more accessible and functional.

One potential avenue for growth is the development of more user-friendly tools and resources for building cyberdecks. As the community expands, there may be opportunities to create kits or tutorials that simplify the process, making it easier for newcomers to get involved. The movement could intersect with other tech trends, such as the growing interest in retro computing or the push for more sustainable electronics.

the cyberdeck movement is a reminder that technology does not have to be uniform or corporate-controlled. For those who participate, it offers a way to reclaim creativity and individuality in an era dominated by AI and mass production. Whether or not cyberdecks become mainstream, their rise reflects a broader desire for technology that is personal, expressive, and free from the constraints of the status quo.