TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 Day 1: Rivian CEO, Startup Battlefield, and Science Corp

TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 kicked off today at Moscone West in San Francisco, marking the first of three days on the biggest stage in tech. The opening day focused on what it takes to build the seemingly impossible, whether AI can continue its rapid scaling, and a future where technology interacts directly with the human body. The event brought together industry leaders and innovators to explore these forward-looking themes. Among the highlights, RJ Scaringe, CEO of Rivian, took the stage to discuss his ambitions to transform Rivian into a company capable of designing, manufacturing, and scaling complex physical products beyond just cars. Andrew Feldman, CEO of Cerebras, addressed the critical question of whether AI can keep scaling, sharing insights from his work on advanced AI hardware. The day also featured the Startup Battlefield competition, where emerging startups pitched their groundbreaking ideas, and Science Corp showcased its work on integrating technology with human biology. As Day 1 wraps up, attendees are gearing up for two more days of cutting-edge discussions and networking. The event continues to be a focal point for the tech industry, offering a platform for thought leaders to share their visions and for startups to gain visibility. Stay tuned for more coverage from TechCrunch Disrupt 2026.