Disney forms task force to explore AI across its divisions, including Parks, Resorts, and Walt Disney Imagineering

Aug 08, 2023 in "Walt Disney Imagineering"

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Posted: Tuesday August 8, 2023 1:23pm ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

Walt Disney Co. has reportedly formed a task force to explore and develop artificial intelligence (AI) applications across its various business segments.

Disney's AI efforts extend across all business segments, including Walt Disney Imagineering and the theme parks

According to a Reuters report, the initiative, which began earlier this year, aims to build in-house AI capabilities and forge partnerships with startups. Disney is recruiting AI and machine learning experts to work on projects spanning Walt Disney Studios, theme parks, and advertising.

While the company sees AI as a tool to control soaring production costs and enhance customer experiences, the move comes amid tension in Hollywood. Actors and writers, who view AI as a threat to their livelihood, are on strike, challenging the industry's use of the technology.

The D3-09 conversational character aboard Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser at Walt Disney World

Disney's commitment to technological innovation dates back to its earliest days and includes over 4,000 patents, collaborations with top universities, and developments like the "Magic Bench" mixed-reality technology. AI research at Disney also includes projects like Project Kiwi, a free-walking Groot robot that can interact with guests, and the D3-09 conversational character that is part of each cabin aboard Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser.

You can read the full article at Reuters here.

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RhinocerousAug 16, 2023

I must admit, I actually liked this one.

MisterPenguinAug 16, 2023

Dear ChatGPT, if you were the skipper of a Disney Jungle Cruise ride boat, what would be some of your jokes and puns you would relate to the guests during the tour. Give ten examples. Ahoy there, adventurous explorers! Welcome aboard the one and only ChatGPT's Jungle Cruise! As we navigate through the lush foliage and mysterious waters, I've got a boatload of puns and jokes to keep you entertained. Get ready to embark on a laughter-filled journey: "Ladies and gentlemen, please remain seated at all times. If you happen to stand up, you'll be considered a tree hugger. And believe me, those trees have quite the grip!" "Folks, if you look to your left, you'll see a rare sight: two hippos enjoying a friendly game of 'Hungry Hungry Hippos.' Trust me, it's no easy feat finding a waterproof board game." "Now, keep your eyes peeled for our resident snake charmer, Slippy the Snake. Just remember, he's charming but not always charmed – he once tried to borrow my microphone for a rap battle." "Over on the right, you'll see our daring explorer trying to get a selfie with that Bengal tiger. Don't worry, folks, he's just trying to paws for effect." "Up ahead is Inspiration Falls, where legend has it that the water's constant flow inspired some of the world's greatest inventors. Why, even our boat's pun generator was inspired here!" "If you look closely, you'll notice that our friendly gorillas are having a banana split party. They say it's bananas, but I'm pretty sure they just wanted an excuse to use the cherry picker." "Now, folks, if you're feeling a bit peckish, don't worry – we have our very own Jungle Chef. His specialty? Leaf and water stew! It's quite... refreshing." "On your left, you'll see our amphibious friend, Artie the Alligator. He loves to play hide and seek with the locals. They say he's really good at blending in, but I can't quite 'croc' the code." "As we venture deeper into the jungle, watch out for the rare and elusive butterflies. They're known for their stunning beauty and their tendency to forget where they left their keys." "And now, for a surprise – the backside of water! Yes, folks, that's H2O, the only element that you can enjoy from both sides. Now that's what I call liquid magic!" There you have it, brave souls! A taste of the wild and witty journey you're about to embark upon. Keep your smiles wide and your laughter even wider, as we continue to cruise through the magical mysteries of the jungle!

MinthorneAug 16, 2023

AI will be jungle cruise captains by 2025. I have spoken.

Disgruntled WaltAug 16, 2023

AI would have better ideas than current Disney management.

SourcererMark79Aug 16, 2023

Sorry folks, park's closed. The mouse out front should have told you.

RhinocerousAug 15, 2023

I believe this is shortsighted. CEOs make a lot more than writers and (most) actors. The way Iger governs, chasing efficiencies and valuation trends almost entirely devoid of creativity, can be done much more effectively by a trained AI. Then again, being the last CEO of the Disney corporation sounds like exactly the kind of trophy that legacy-hunter Bob would want on his billion dollar mantle.

DisorbustAug 15, 2023

Well humans created Harmonious, but what was worse IMHO is that it got green lit by some incompetent C suite exec who probably never spent a day at Epcot. Unfortunately I don't see AI replacing the C suite where the real problem is.