TechCrunch has previewed the AI Stage programming for its Disrupt 2026 conference, running 13–15 October at Moscone Center in San Francisco. Presented by Google for Startups, the stage will focus on how AI is reshaping the way startups price products, secure their systems and build go-to-market strategies, reflecting broader industry shifts as AI models become commoditised and autonomous agents take on more sensitive tasks within enterprises.

Confirmed sessions include a talk with Databricks co-founder Arsalan Tavakoli on enterprise AI security and governance, a discussion on real-time video intelligence featuring Decart's Dean Leitersdorf and Luma AI's Amit Jain, and a session on the emerging "GTM engineer" role with Clay's Kareem Amin. The event will also host Startup Battlefield and other stages, with organisers noting over 10,000 startup, tech and VC attendees expected, alongside a reminder that discounted tickets (up to $300 off) are available for a limited time.