TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: The Complete AI Stage Agenda

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: The AI Stage Lineup Revealed

The agenda for the AI Stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, scheduled for October 27-29 in San Francisco, has been finalized. This stage will showcase the companies and individuals at the forefront of artificial intelligence development.

Key Speakers and Companies

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from prominent leaders representing companies like Character.AI, Hugging Face, Mercor, Runway, and Wayve. A multitude of other influential figures in the tech industry will also be present.

Discussions will encompass a wide range of AI-related topics. These include generative AI, tools for developers, the advancement of autonomous vehicles, the creation of innovative machines, and considerations surrounding national security.

What to Expect

Founders will be granted exclusive early access to the technologies that are poised to drive the next significant wave of innovation. They will gain valuable insights directly from the teams responsible for building these advancements.

The AI Stage will serve as the central hub for exploring the future of AI. It will cover critical aspects such as scaling AI solutions, investment strategies, and the process of building AI-powered products.

Networking and Registration

Beyond the main stage presentations, the event will feature breakout sessions, roundtable discussions, and opportunities for networking. These additional elements are designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Registration is currently open, and significant savings are available for those who register before September 26 – potentially up to $668.

The Comprehensive AI Stage Schedule

A detailed overview of the agenda for the AI Stage, alongside the full schedule for TechCrunch Disrupt, is now available.

Navigating the AI Landscape: Venture Capital Perspectives

Featuring Aileen Lee, founder of Cowboy Ventures; Steve Jang, founder of Kindred Ventures; and Jon McNeill, founder of DVx Ventures, formerly COO of Lyft and president of Tesla

This session will dissect the current AI environment, distinguishing between genuine opportunities and inflated expectations. Founders will gain insights into navigating the evolving AI frontier and avoiding common obstacles.

Advancing Autonomous Systems with Artificial Intelligence

With Alex Kendall, CEO of Wayve

The development of self-driving vehicles powered by AI, trained using real-world data, is a rapidly progressing field. This discussion will highlight recent advancements and the remaining hurdles in achieving fully autonomous systems.

The Expansion of AI into the Physical Realm

With Jeff Cardenas, CEO of Apptronik, and Raquel Urtasun, CEO of Waabi

AI is extending its influence beyond digital applications and into the physical world, encompassing autonomous trucks and humanoid robotics. This panel will explore the timeline for widespread adoption and the challenges that must be overcome.

The Central Role of Search in the Age of Generative AI

With Edo Liberty, CEO of Pinecone

As generative AI transforms information access, vector search is becoming a crucial underlying technology. This session will examine the future trajectory of this technology and its implications for startups.

The AI Infrastructure Landscape: A Hugging Face Perspective

With Thomas Wolf, co-founder and CSO of Hugging Face

The foundational infrastructure supporting AI is undergoing rapid evolution. Hugging Face’s CSO will analyze the competition surrounding models, frameworks, and platforms that will shape the future AI stack.

Image Credits:Hugging Face

Beyond Novelty: AI Tools for Professional Developers

In collaboration with Kirill Skrygan, CEO of JetBrains

Moving past superficial applications, this discussion will focus on the practical impact of AI on developers’ daily workflows. JetBrains’ CEO will identify tools with lasting value and those likely to fade.

Character.AI: Redefining Human-Computer Interaction

With Karandeep Anand, CEO of Character.AI

Character.AI is pioneering lifelike digital personalities and advanced conversational bots. Founders working in conversational AI will benefit from unique insights presented in this session.

The Intersection of AI and Creativity

With Soyoung Lee, co-founder and GTM of Twelve Labs; Nikola Todorovic, co-founder and CEO of Wonder Dynamics, an Autodesk company; and Prateek Dixit, co-founder of PocketFM

Explore how AI is revolutionizing content creation and the innovative products startups are developing to engage audiences in media, entertainment, and education.

Image Credits:Diego Donamaria / Getty Images

Generative Video: From Advertising to Filmmaking

With Alejandro Matamala Ortiz, chief design officer of Runway

Generative video technology is transitioning from science fiction to a practical tool for advertising, filmmaking, and creative workflows. Runway’s co-founder will discuss the future direction of creative AI.

AI’s Impact on Relationships and Connection

With Dr. Amanda Gesselman, head of research analytics at the Kinsey Institute; Mark Kantor, head of product at Tinder; and Eugenia Kuyda, founder of Replika

AI is fundamentally altering how we form relationships and interact with others. This panel will explore the influence of intelligent algorithms on dating and connection, and what founders should consider.

Lessons in AI Implementation from Google Cloud

With Will Grannis, CTO of Google Cloud

Gain valuable, practical insights from one of the world’s leading AI organizations. This session will outline strategies startups can adopt, potential pitfalls to avoid, and methods for scaling AI effectively.

AI’s Role in Modern Defense Systems

With Ethan Thornton, CEO of Mach Industries

The defense sector is rapidly embracing AI as a key area of innovation. Mach Industries’ founder and CEO will discuss how startups are contributing to the next generation of national security technology.

Image Credits:Slava Blazer Photography / Flickr (opens in a new window)

The High-Stakes Innovation Race in AI and National Security

With Kathleen Fisher, director of DARPA; Sri Chandrasekar, managing partner of Point72; and Justin Fanelli, CTO of the U.S. Department of Navy

National security agencies are integrating AI at an unprecedented rate. This discussion will address the opportunities, challenges, and critical decisions shaping the future of defense technology.

The Future of Work Transformed by AI

With Brendan Foody, CEO of Mercor

AI and automation are actively reshaping hiring practices, training methodologies, and overall productivity. This session will explore the implications for the future of work and provide guidance for founders.

AI-Powered Transportation: A Vision of the Future

With Praveen Naga, CTO of Uber, and Dave Ferguson, co-founder and president of Nuro

This session will offer an exclusive preview of how AI is transforming ridesharing, delivery services, and the broader landscape of mobility.

Claim Your Spot at the AI Frontier and Benefit from Exclusive Discounts

Ensure you don't miss any developments shaping the landscape of artificial intelligence. TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 offers a comprehensive experience, encompassing everything from practical robotics showcases to critical debates surrounding AI’s ethical implications.

Currently, substantial savings of up to $668 are available on passes. This limited-time offer concludes on September 26th at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time, so immediate registration is advised.

Don't Delay – Secure Your Access Today

The event promises to be a pivotal moment in understanding the advancements and challenges within the AI sector.

By registering promptly, you guarantee your participation in these crucial conversations and demonstrations.

Image Credits:Noam Galai