TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is introducing a new "Real World AI Stage" to its event lineup. This new stage will complement the existing AI Stage, expanding the coverage of artificial intelligence topics at the conference. The event will take place from October 13 to 15 in San Francisco.
The Real World AI Stage will concentrate on the convergence of digital and physical AI, exploring how autonomous hardware is being deployed in various environments, including public spaces, homes, and specialized applications. This focus highlights the increasing integration of AI into tangible world applications beyond traditional software.
Scheduled sessions include discussions on the challenges of achieving general-purpose robotic intelligence, particularly addressing the data gap compared to large language models and self-driving cars. Les Karpas, Head of Physical AI at Nvidia, will speak on this topic. Another session will cover building AI systems where failure is not an option, focusing on safety, validation, and regulatory navigation for autonomous vehicles and defense technologies, featuring Nate Michael, CTO of Shield AI.
The stage will host speakers from companies such as Shield AI, Colossal Biosciences, FieldAI, and Foxglove. These organizations represent diverse applications of AI in the physical world, from defense technologies to de-extinction efforts.
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TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 will feature a new "Real World AI Stage" focusing on the intersection of digital and physical AI, including autonomous hardware and robotics. This expansion reflects the rapid development and widespread application of AI, with sessions on data gaps in robotics and AI system safety.