TechCrunch Disrupt 2026’s Real World AI Stage features robots, automated factories, and extinct animals

TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 will feature a new stage dedicated to exploring the convergence of artificial intelligence and the physical world, according to organizers. The Real World AI Stage will debut alongside the traditional AI Stage during the conference, which runs from October 13 to 15 at San Francisco's Moscone West. The new stage aims to highlight developments in autonomous hardware, including applications in public spaces, battlefields, homes, and even efforts to reintroduce extinct species to Earth. The Real World AI Stage will include presentations from several leading companies and researchers working at the forefront of AI integration with physical systems. Among the confirmed speakers are Nate Michael, Chief Technology Officer of Shield AI, who will address the challenges of deploying AI systems where failure carries severe consequences. His session, titled “Building AI Systems When Failure Is Not an Option,” will focus on creating a safety culture, testing and validating AI, navigating regulatory hurdles, and building trust in high-stakes environments. Another notable presentation comes from Ben Lamm, CEO of Colossal Biosciences, whose company has sparked controversy by pursuing the revival of extinct species through advanced biotechnology. Lamm will discuss the role of AI in modern biology and the ongoing debate surrounding whether such efforts represent a conservation breakthrough or a diversion from preserving existing ecosystems. A session led by Dr. Ali Agha, CEO and founder of FieldAI, along with Michelle Lee of Medra and Aidan Madigan-Curtis of Eclipse Ventures, will explore the challenges of implementing AI in environments where cloud connectivity is limited. These experts will share insights on designing AI systems that function effectively at the edge, where latency and reliability are critical concerns. John Mackey, CEO and co-founder of MBRYONICS, Boris Sofman, co-founder and CEO of Bedrock Robotics, and Adrian Macneil, CEO of Foxglove, will present on scaling prototypes into viable products. Their discussion will cover the common pitfalls faced by deep tech startups transitioning from laboratory settings to mass production, emphasizing the importance of understanding supply chain dynamics and manufacturing constraints. Organizers emphasized that the Real World AI Stage will provide attendees with a comprehensive look at the current state of AI deployment in tangible, real-world scenarios. The stage will serve as a platform for industry leaders to share their experiences, challenges, and innovations in integrating AI into physical systems. Tickets for the event are currently available with a discount valid until 11:59 p.m. PT on August 7, offering an additional $100 off registration through a specific link. The conference is expected to draw a wide range of participants, including technologists, investors, and policymakers interested in the future of AI and its impact on society. The expansion of the AI-focused content at TechCrunch Disrupt reflects the rapid evolution of AI technologies and their increasing presence in everyday life. As these technologies become more sophisticated and integrated into various sectors, the discussions at the Real World AI Stage aim to address the complex issues surrounding their deployment and regulation. The event underscores the growing recognition of AI's transformative potential across multiple domains, from healthcare and transportation to environmental conservation and national security. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the Real World AI Stage seeks to foster collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges associated with integrating AI into the physical world.