Wednesday, 2 April 2025
24.1 C
Singapore
31.1 C
Thailand
21.9 C
Indonesia
26.8 C
Philippines

Disney forms new AI and XR team to lead innovation across the company

Disney has launched the Office of Technology Enablement to oversee company-wide AI and XR initiatives, supporting innovation and responsible tech use.

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 Disney’s exploration and implementation of AI, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) across the company. Led by Jamie Voris, Disney’s 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 Disney’s app for Apple’s 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. “The 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 — making it critical that Disney explore the exciting opportunities and navigate the potential risks,” Bergman wrote in an email shared with news outlet Engadget. He went on to say that the formation of this group underscores Disney’s 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 Disney’s 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, “It’s 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.” 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 Disney’s history of technological advancements

Disney has a history of successfully integrating cutting-edge technology into its creative process, placing it at the forefront of Hollywood’s tech adoption. One prime example is Disney’s 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 Disney’s ability to seamlessly incorporate new technology into entertainment, benefitting both creators and audiences.

With AI and XR offering a wide range of potential uses — from enhancing content creation to transforming user experiences — Disney’s 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 Disney’s recognition that the digital landscape is evolving rapidly, and careful oversight is essential to harness these tools effectively while avoiding potential pitfalls.

Disney’s 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.

Hot this week

OpenAI pauses free GPT-4o image generation after viral Studio Ghibli trend

OpenAI halts free GPT-4o image generation after viral Studio Ghibli trend raises legal concerns, leaving paid users with continued access.

Google Pixel 9a arrives in Singapore this April for S$799

The Google Pixel 9a launches in Singapore in April 2025 with a Tensor G4 chip, 48MP camera, and seven years of updates, starting at S$799.

Google’s Gemini 2.5 Pro AI model is now available for all users

Google's Gemini 2.5 Pro AI model is now available for all users, offering advanced coding and reasoning abilities with a free trial for Gemini Advanced.

Chinese investor questions commercial future of humanoid robots

Chinese venture capitalist Allen Zhu questions the commercial potential of humanoid robots, sparking debate amid rising AI investment in China.

AI-generated Studio Ghibli art raises fresh copyright concerns

OpenAI’s AI image tool sparks controversy after generating Studio Ghibli-style art, raising new copyright concerns. Legal experts weigh in.

These robot vacuums are getting smarter with Apple Home support

Apple’s iOS 18.4 update adds Matter support for robot vacuums, enabling control via Apple Home. Roborock, iRobot, and Ecovacs are updating their devices.

Gmail introduces easier encryption for business emails

Google introduces a new encryption model for Gmail, making it easier for businesses to send secure emails without special software or certificates.

Nothing Phone (3a) Pro review: A mid-range marvel with standout zoom

Nothing Phone (3a) Pro blends standout design, powerful zoom camera, and smart features, making it a top choice in the mid-range segment.

Vivo challenges iPhone 16 Pro Max with X200 Ultra’s video stability

Vivo’s X200 Ultra teaser compares video stability with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, promising top-tier camera upgrades and advanced stabilisation.

Related Articles

Popular Categories