TechCrunch Disrupt expands AI programming with new Real World AI Stage

TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is expanding its AI programming with a new Real World AI Stage at the October 13-15 event in San Francisco, focusing on the intersection of digital technology and physical world applications. The stage will feature sessions on autonomous hardware deployment safety from companies like Shield AI, de-extinction technology from Colossal Biosciences, edge AI systems from FieldAI and Foxglove, and deep tech scaling challenges. The event will include fireside chats and panel discussions exploring how AI systems are being deployed in defense, space, industrial, and scientific applications where failure has real consequences.