Disney Forms Emerging Tech Unit To Drive AI, XR Innovation: Report
Jamie Voris, Disney’s former CTO for its Studios Technology division, will lead the group, reporting directly to Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman
Disney is doubling down on its AI and extended reality (XR) initiatives with the formation of a new unit, the Office of Technology Enablement, tasked with coordinating and advancing the company’s efforts in artificial intelligence, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR), as per a Reuters report.
Jamie Voris, Disney’s former CTO for its Studios Technology division, will lead the group, reporting directly to Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman. Voris, who has been with Disney since 2010 and previously served as CTO for the National Football League, recently oversaw the development of Disney’s app for Apple’s Vision Pro.
Disney reportedly plans to expand the team to around 100 employees as part of its commitment to pushing the boundaries of AI and XR in entertainment.
The new unit aims to bring a focused strategy to Disney’s tech projects, ensuring a cohesive approach across the company. According to Bergman, AI and XR technologies are rapidly evolving and poised to transform how consumers interact with entertainment, making it essential for Disney to explore these advancements while managing potential risks.
The Office of Technology Enablement will act as a support system for Disney’s various teams already working with AI and XR technologies. Rather than overseeing existing projects directly, it will provide alignment and additional resources to ensure that Disney’s technological pursuits meet strategic objectives and uphold the company’s values. A Disney spokesperson explained to Engadget that the new office will add focus, speed, and cohesion to ongoing projects, helping ensure that Disney remains a positive force in the responsible use of these transformative tools.
Disney has demonstrated a unique ability to adapt to technological change, especially through pioneering work with tools like Unreal Engine and digital set technology, which have revolutionized the production process for visually demanding shows like The Mandalorian.
