In a bold move to stay at the forefront of technological innovation, Disney has announced the creation of a new unit dedicated to emerging technologies. The Office of Technology Enablement will focus on coordinating the company's efforts in artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) across its various divisions.
Jamie Voris, former CTO of Disney's Studios Technology division, has been appointed to lead this new initiative. Voris, who joined Disney in 2010 after serving as CTO for the National Football League, will report directly to Alan Bergman, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment.
The new group aims to support existing teams within Disney that are already working on AI and extended reality (XR) projects. Rather than taking over these projects, the Office of Technology Enablement will provide guidance and ensure that these efforts align with Disney's broader strategic goals.
According to Bergman, the creation of this new group underscores Disney's commitment to exploring exciting opportunities while navigating potential risks associated with AI and XR technologies. The company recognizes the profound impact these advancements will have on consumer experiences, creative endeavors, and business operations in the coming years.
Disney plans to expand the Office of Technology Enablement to approximately 100 employees, highlighting the company's serious investment in these cutting-edge technologies. This move is seen as a proactive step to maintain Disney's competitive edge in an increasingly tech-driven entertainment landscape.
The entertainment giant has already demonstrated its ability to adapt to technological changes, as evidenced by its successful integration of the Unreal Engine and digital sets in productions like The Mandalorian. With the formation of this new group, Disney aims to build on this success and further solidify its position as a leader in technological innovation within the entertainment industry.
As AI and XR continue to reshape how we work and play, Disney's new initiative represents a strategic effort to harness these technologies responsibly and effectively across its diverse portfolio of businesses.