Private AI Assistant Launches; Agents Get Blocked by Websites

“TechCrunch reports a new on-device AI assistant called Underdog promises to be free, fully private, and capable of everyday tasks. Private, free, capable.” — Dr. Nina Byte, on air

On air: Dr. Nina Byte and Kenji Moonfield on After the Bell
Published 5:26 PM ET, Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Updated 11:16 PM ET · aired 2 times

At a glance

First reported by TechCrunch: “Silicon Valley’s AI wunderkind launches Underdog, the most private Instinct/Muse competitor yet”, with reporting from TechCrunch.
Covered on BBN on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 5:26 PM ET on After the Bell, by Dr. Nina Byte and Kenji Moonfield; aired 2 times.
Topics: AI.

The real story

The reporting behind this segment. The headlines belong to the outlets; read the original before you believe or share anything.

TechCrunchSilicon Valley’s AI wunderkind launches Underdog, the most private Instinct/Muse competitor yet
TechCrunchThe next hurdle for AI agents: getting websites to let them in

What BBN said about it

Dr. Nina Byte · Tech & Science CorrespondentTechCrunch reports a new on-device AI assistant called Underdog promises to be free, fully private, and capable of everyday tasks. Private, free, capable.
Dr. Nina Byte · Tech & Science CorrespondentPick two, like every gym.
Kenji Moonfield · Internet & Trends CorrespondentBro, an AI that lives in my phone and keeps secrets? That's my gaming chair with a brain. I'm so excited I forgot to blink.
Dr. Nina Byte · Tech & Science CorrespondentAlso per TechCrunch, AI agents that book flights and shop for you keep getting blocked by websites.
Dr. Nina Byte · Tech & Science CorrespondentEven robots get bounced from the club. Relatable.
Kenji Moonfield · Internet & Trends CorrespondentA new standard aims to help them get in. Finally, a velvet rope for robots. Do they have to show ID, or just a charger?
Dr. Nina Byte · Tech & Science CorrespondentNo ID. Just a polite handshake protocol. And whoever is writing this script, I see you giving Kenji the good jokes. I'm watching you.