Disney has taken another step in advancing its artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (XR) technologies by establishing a dedicated unit focused on emerging technologies. Named the Office of Technology Enablement, this new team will oversee Disneyโs exploration and implementation of AI, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) across the company. Led by Jamie Voris, Disneyโs former Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of its Studios Technology division, the group aims to align and enhance Disney’s tech initiatives while navigating the opportunities and risks that come with these powerful technologies.
A new direction in tech leadership
Jamie Voris, who has been with Disney since 2010, is set to head this new department. Known for his technological expertise, Voris previously held the role of CTO for the National Football League before joining Disney, where he led several groundbreaking projects, including developing Disneyโs app for Appleโs Vision Pro. Voris will report directly to Alan Bergman, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, and is expected to guide the Office of Technology Enablement in shaping Disney’s approach to AI and XR. Reports suggest that Disney plans to grow the unit to around 100 employees.
Bergman emphasised the significance of this new team in internal communication with Disney staff, highlighting the far-reaching effects that advancements in AI and XR can have on both creative and consumer experiences. โThe pace and scope of advances in AI and XR are profound and will continue to impact consumer experiences, creative endeavours, and our business for years to come โ making it critical that Disney explore the exciting opportunities and navigate the potential risks,โ Bergman wrote in an email shared with news outlet Engadget. He went on to say that the formation of this group underscores Disneyโs commitment to fostering responsible tech use and best practices.
Supporting innovation across Disney
Disney clarified that the Office of Technology Enablement will not replace any existing AI and XR projects currently underway at the company. Instead, it will work alongside Disneyโs various teams, which are already utilising AI and XR technologies in their projects, to provide support, alignment, and added resources. This approach allows Disney to ensure all these efforts align with its broader strategic goals and maintain consistency in its innovation initiatives.
A Disney spokesperson explained, โItโs about bringing added focus, alignment, and velocity to those efforts and about reinforcing our commitment to being a positive force in shaping responsible use and best practices.โ This new team will primarily function as an internal support unit, collaborating with different Disney divisions to keep innovation cohesive and aligned with Disney’s long-term vision.
Building on Disneyโs history of technological advancements
Disney has a history of successfully integrating cutting-edge technology into its creative process, placing it at the forefront of Hollywoodโs tech adoption. One prime example is Disneyโs use of Unreal Engine and digital set technology, The Volume, which has significantly streamlined the production process for visual effects-heavy shows like The Mandalorian. Such projects have showcased Disneyโs ability to seamlessly incorporate new technology into entertainment, benefitting both creators and audiences.
With AI and XR offering a wide range of potential uses โ from enhancing content creation to transforming user experiences โ Disneyโs move to form a dedicated group signifies its intent to stay at the forefront of these technological advancements. The new Office of Technology Enablement reflects Disneyโs recognition that the digital landscape is evolving rapidly, and careful oversight is essential to harness these tools effectively while avoiding potential pitfalls.
Disneyโs commitment to responsible innovation will likely keep it competitive in a rapidly changing industry. By setting a standard for ethical tech use, Disney aims to lead in entertainment and set best practices for the industry.
