Disney is adding another layer to its AI and augmented reality strategies. As first reported Reutersthe company recently created a dedicated emerging technologies division. The group, called the Office of Technology Enablement, will coordinate the company’s exploration, adoption and use of artificial intelligence, AR and VR technologies.
It was shot Jamie Vorisformerly CTO of Studios Technology to oversee the effort. Prior to joining Disney in 2010, Voris was chief technology officer at the National Football League. Recently, he led the development of the company Apple Vision Pro program. The successor will report to Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman. Reuters The company says it plans to eventually grow the group to about 100 employees.
“The pace and scope of advances in AI and XR are profound and will continue to impact consumer experiences, creative endeavors and our business for years to come – making it critical that Disney explore exciting opportunities and manage potential risks,” Bergman said in an email shared with Disney Engadget. “The creation of this new group underscores our commitment to doing just that and being a positive force in shaping responsible use and best practices.”
A Disney spokesperson told Engadget that the Office of Technology Enablement will not take over existing AI and XR projects at the company. Instead, he will support Disney’s other teams, many of whom are already implementing those technologies, to ensure their work aligns with the company’s broader strategic goals.
“This is to bring added focus, alignment and momentum to these efforts and reinforce our commitment to being a positive force in shaping responsible use and best practices,” the spokesperson said.
It’s safe to say that Disney has handled technological change better than most of Hollywood over the past two decades. For example, the use of the company Unreal Engine along with the digital set known as Volume made it easier to produce VFX-heavy shows like The Mandalorian. Given augmented reality and artificial intelligence, especially the prospective changes in the way people work and play, it makes sense to add some additional control over how these technologies are used within the company.
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