Big Ideas 2026: Voice Agents and High-Stakes Trust

Voice is becoming one of the fastest paths for AI to do real work, especially in regulated environments where accuracy and compliance matter. In this episode, we look at voice agents replacing and augmenting phone-based workflows, what trust and measurement look like when AI runs sensitive interactions, and how healthcare and consumer products shift toward continuous monitoring and deeper connection. The throughline is simple: as AI enters higher-stakes moments, the winners will be the systems people can trust and actually rely on.

 

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Read more all of our 2026 Big Ideas

Part 1: https://a16z.com/newsletter/big-ideas-2026-part-1

Part 2: https://a16z.com/newsletter/big-ideas-2026-part-2/

Part 3: https://a16z.com/newsletter/big-ideas-2026-part-3/

 

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Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

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