Disney has a history of investing in technological innovation, holding over 4,000 patents with applications in theme parks, films, and merchandise. The company's research group has developed a mixed-reality technology called "Magic Bench" and has been exploring AI, machine learning, and visual computing. The company's Medusa performance capture system has been used in over 40 films. Disney Imagineering recently unveiled the D3-09 cabin droid, an AI-driven character experience in the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser hotel.
Key takeaways:
- Walt Disney has created a task force to study artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential applications across the entertainment conglomerate, including in-house development and partnerships with startups.
- Disney currently has 11 job openings seeking candidates with expertise in AI or machine learning, with positions spanning from Walt Disney Studios to theme parks and the advertising team.
- AI could potentially help control the high costs of movie and television production, and enhance customer support or create novel interactions in Disney's parks business.
- Disney has a long history of investing in technological innovation, with current research exploring AI, machine learning, and visual computing, and has developed AI-driven character experiences such as the D3-09 cabin droid in the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser hotel.