Join us at PyCon US 2026 in Long Beach - we have new AI and security tracks this year

2026-04-17 · Source: Simon Willison's Weblog · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Software Development & Engineering, Cybersecurity & Data Privacy · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

PyCon US 2026 will take place in Long Beach, California, from May 13th to May 19th, with core conference talks scheduled from May 15th to May 17th. This marks the conference's return to the West Coast since 2017 and California since 2013. The event introduces two new dedicated tracks: an AI track on Friday, May 15th, and a Security track on Saturday, May 16th. The AI track, chaired by Silona Bonewald and Zac Hatfield-Dodds, features eight presentations covering topics such as AI-assisted contributions, AI-powered education, low-resource language identification, practical quantization for LLMs on laptops, distributing AI in the browser, Python async patterns for AI agents, GPU hardware knowledge for Python developers, and building real-time voice agents in Python. The conference also emphasizes community aspects like lightning talks, the PyLadies auction, sprints, and open spaces for discussions.

Key takeaway

For Python developers interested in AI or security, attending PyCon US 2026 offers dedicated tracks and community engagement opportunities. You should consider the specific AI track sessions on May 15th, which cover practical topics like running LLMs on laptops and building real-time voice agents, to enhance your skills and network with experts. Booking accommodation within the official hotel block also supports the Python Software Foundation.

Key insights

PyCon US 2026 introduces new AI and Security tracks, highlighting practical applications and community engagement.

Principles

• Community focus is central to PyCon's mission.
• Practical application drives AI track content.

Method

The AI track schedule demonstrates a focus on practical Python applications, including LLM quantization, edge inference, async patterns for agents, and real-time voice agent development.

In practice

• Explore practical quantization for LLMs.
• Implement Python async patterns for AI agents.
• Build real-time voice agents in Python.

Topics

• PyCon US 2026
• AI Track
• Security Track
• Python Community
• Large Language Models

Code references

• simonw/rodney

Best for: AI Student, Software Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Simon Willison's Weblog.