SXSW 2025: Key Trends & What to Expect

TechCrunch at SXSW 2025: Tracking the AI Zeitgeist

TechCrunch’s coverage of SXSW 2025, the multifaceted conference encompassing tech, music, comedy, and film, commences Friday in Austin. Our focus will be identifying the defining spirit of this current, AI-driven period.

Indeed, even within the first sentence, the influence of AI is apparent. This is entirely fitting, as a review of the extensive SXSW schedule reveals AI’s prominent position—not only in Austin, but on a global scale.

A Shift Towards Practical AI Applications

Notably, this year’s event demonstrates a concentration on the practical implementation of AI in real-world scenarios, rather than solely focusing on hypothetical possibilities.

SXSW frequently mirrors the endeavors of the tech community, including both founders and investors. It often aligns with prevailing hype cycles.

Past Trends at SXSW

Previous areas of intense focus at SXSW include autonomous vehicles, the rise of scooters, cryptocurrency, and the exploration of psychedelics – each having experienced a period of significant attention.

The technological component of the annual event began Friday and continues through March 13th. Initial conference tracks align with TechCrunch’s core interests, encompassing the creator economy, cultural trends, startups, health and medtech, and energy solutions.

AI Takes Center Stage

While the official AI track begins Sunday, its presence is already felt. Meredith Whittaker, President of Signal, highlighted agentic AI as a potential threat to security and privacy during an onstage interview Friday. A health specialist also cautioned against over-reliance on AI for social connection.

Beyond AI: Deep Tech and Sustainability

Deep tech fields like space exploration and quantum computing will also be showcased. Furthermore, climate change and sustainability initiatives will be prominent, including a keynote address by Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe on March 11th. Transportation technologies will also be featured.

Robotaxis Arrive in Austin

Autonomous vehicles are making a return, this time as a tangible reality. Uber and Waymo recently launched a robotaxi service in Austin. This “Waymo on Uber” service is accessible to all Uber account holders. TechCrunch will be evaluating these services and gathering feedback from professional drivers.

Looking Ahead: Investment and Innovation

TechCrunch will engage with venture capitalists, founders, and industry leaders at SXSW to assess the tech world’s adaptation to the current political landscape and to identify emerging innovations.

Keynote Speakers and Industry Luminaries

We will also closely follow keynotes and interviews with prominent figures, including Alan Baratz of D-Wave Quantum, Cristiano Amon, President and CEO of Qualcomm, Ben Lamm, founder of Colossal Biosciences, and Rene Haas, CEO of Arm.

Of course, we plan to enjoy the event as well.