TechCrunch Disrupt 2026’s biggest stage features leaders from Amazon, Replit, Tether, with much more to come

What happens when the architects of AI’s next wave gather on one stage? TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 isn’t just another conference — it’s a pulse check on the forces reshaping software, hardware, and society itself. The lineup speaks for itself: Amazon’s Panos Panay, Benchmark’s full partnership, Replit’s Amjad Masad, and Flock Safety’s Garrett Langley aren’t there to speculate — they’re there to reveal what’s working, what’s breaking, and what’s coming next.

This year’s theme — what it actually takes to build, fund, and scale in the age of AI — cuts through the noise. No vague predictions. Instead, real conversations about whether AI can keep scaling, how anyone can now build software, and what replaces the smartphone era. One session that stands out: Benchmark’s rare joint appearance. When all five partners take the stage to debate where startups are going wrong and where hidden opportunities lie, it’s not just insightful — it’s essential viewing for anyone trying to cut through the hype.

The inclusion of companies like Cerebras and Science Corp signals a shift too — we’re moving beyond software-only AI into deeper, more complex integrations with hardware, energy, and human interfaces. RJ Scaringe’s talk on building at the intersection of AI, robotics, and manufacturing underscores that today’s breakthroughs demand more than code. They demand endurance, capital, and a willingness to tackle physical-world challenges.

And let’s not overlook the stakes: AI in public safety, surveillance, and workforce transformation aren’t fringe topics — they’re central to how startups will be judged, funded, and scaled. The event’s structure — with dedicated stages on AI, smart money, systems, and builder tactics — ensures depth across every layer of innovation.

For founders preparing to pitch or scale, this isn’t just inspiration. It’s intelligence. Registering now isn’t just about access — it’s about staying ahead. The early pricing window is closing, and with over 10,000 leaders expected, the real value is in the conversations outside the sessions: the connections, the feedback, the partnerships formed in real time.

This is where the next era of tech gets built — not just talked about. See you at Moscone.