Walt Disney Company is taking a significant step towards integrating advanced technologies by establishing a new business unit dedicated to the coordination of artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (XR) initiatives across its diverse operations. This new division, known as the Office of Technology Enablement, will be spearheaded by Jamie Voris, who currently serves as the Chief Technology Officer of the film studio. Voris has played a key role in developing Disney's application for the Apple Vision Pro mixed reality device. Following his transition, Eddie Drake will take over as the studio's CTO.

Alan Bergman, Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, emphasized the importance of this new office in a recent email, noting the profound impact AI and XR technologies will have on consumer experiences and creative processes within the company. "The pace and scope of the advances in AI and XR are profound and will continue to impact consumer experiences, creative endeavors, and our businesses for years to come," he wrote, highlighting the need for Disney to navigate both the opportunities and potential risks these technologies present.

The Office of Technology Enablement will not centralize projects but will ensure that various initiatives align with Disney’s overarching strategic goals. Initially starting with a core leadership team, the unit is expected to expand to around 100 employees, reflecting the company's commitment to exploring the rapid advancements in technology.

Disney's various divisions are currently exploring multiple applications of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality, which merges digital and physical experiences. The company has been building its expertise to leverage these technologies effectively. For instance, Kyle Laughlin, a veteran of Disney with experience in AR, VR, and AI, returned to the company as Senior Vice President of Research and Development for Walt Disney Imagineering earlier this year. Laughlin's previous role at Amazon involved leading the Alexa Gadgets division, further strengthening Disney's focus on cutting-edge technology.

In a competitive landscape where tech giants are rapidly advancing AR/VR technologies, Disney aims to harness these innovations to enhance guest experiences in its theme parks and at home. Recent data from market research firm IDC indicates that approximately 1.7 million AR/VR headsets have been sold in 2024, with Meta maintaining a dominant 60.5% market share. However, Disney is also aware of increasing competition from other companies such as Sony, Apple, and ByteDance, pushing the company to innovate and adapt in order to stay relevant in the evolving entertainment landscape.

The formation of the Office of Technology Enablement is a clear signal of Disney's intent to remain at the forefront of technological advancements while delivering engaging experiences to its audience. With a structured approach to integrating AI and XR across its operations, Disney is positioning itself to not only enhance its creative offerings but also to redefine the future of entertainment.

REUTERS