Edition: May 25, 2026

Pope Leo XIV has released a major encyclical calling for AI to be 'disarmed' in service of the common good, citing the need to free it from logics of domination and exclusion. The encyclical critiques AI-powered autonomous weapons and the hoarding of digital property. The Pope's statement emphasizes the need for words that can attract attention and awaken consciences.

ClickUp, a $4 billion collaboration software startup, has laid off 22% of its workforce, citing a radical shift towards AI that will propel the company to the next level, with plans to introduce million-dollar salary bands for employees who create outsized impact using AI. The move is part of a broader trend of companies using AI to automate tasks and increase productivity. ClickUp's approach is being closely watched as a potential model for the future of work.

Pope Leo XIV's encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, addresses the impact of artificial intelligence on humanity, focusing on issues of inequality, war, and the concentration of power. The pope argues that technology built and governed by a small elite cannot serve the common good and calls for clear criteria and effective oversight of AI development. The encyclical highlights the need to prevent the misuse of AI and its potential to amplify existing power imbalances.

Pope Leo XIV has released his first major papal document, warning of the risks of AI and calling for new legal and ethical frameworks to safeguard human dignity. The document, titled 'Magnifica Humanitas', discusses the dangers of AI-powered warfare and its effects on labor. The Pope stresses the need for protections to mitigate the economic and social upheaval caused by rapid AI adoption.

The increasing use of AI in bug hunting is creating an arms race, with tech companies facing a surge in vulnerability submissions and potential increases in bug bounty payouts, while also prompting concerns about the speed of patch releases and the role of AI in facilitating real-world attacks. Researchers predict a significant rise in bug bounty spending, with some companies potentially struggling to keep up. The evolving landscape is forcing institutions to reevaluate their security strategies and disclosure timelines.

Anthropic co-founder Chris Olah spoke at the Vatican City on the topic of AI, discussing the importance of external oversight and dialogue in ensuring the technology is developed safely and responsibly. Olah emphasized the need for a broader conversation beyond the AI research community, involving the humanities, religion, and philosophy. The event followed the release of Pope Leo XIV's encyclical 'Magnifica humanitas' on safeguarding humanity in the age of artificial intelligence.

The deadline to apply for Startup Battlefield 200, a program offering $100,000 in equity-free funding and global visibility, is May 27. The program is open to early-stage startups with innovative products and provides access to VC funding, TechCrunch coverage, and more. Selected startups will showcase on the Disrupt Stage in front of 10,000+ attendees and leading VCs.

The field of AI Agents is rapidly evolving, leading to confusion over key terms such as 'harness' and 'scaffold'. A new glossary aims to clarify these concepts, providing a practical mental model for discussions. The glossary covers terms relevant to building, deploying, and using AI agents, as well as training models.

TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is offering early bird savings of up to $410 on passes until May 29, providing founders, investors, and operators with access to networking opportunities, startup pitches, and insights from industry leaders. The event aims to compress fundraising cycles and advance deals. Registration is now open, with prices set to increase after the deadline.