The Walt Disney Company will invest $1 billion in OpenAI, the U.S.-based artificial intelligence leader, in a deal that could reshape how content is created across the entertainment industry. As part of the agreement, OpenAI will be allowed to use characters from major franchises such as Star Wars, Pixar, and Marvel in Sora, its image and video generation model, Reuters reported, citing Agerpres.
A milestone for generative AI adoption in Hollywood
Announced on Thursday, the partnership marks a significant step in Hollywood’s adoption of generative AI, despite ongoing concerns about the technology’s impact on creative jobs and intellectual property rights.
Read also: Ads may be coming to ChatGPT as OpenAI shifts its stance on platform monetization
Under the deal, starting in 2026, Sora and ChatGPT Images will be able to generate videos featuring Disney characters at fans’ request. The two companies will also collaborate on building new products, tools, and customer experiences powered by OpenAI’s models, including for Disney+ subscribers.
A curated selection of user-generated videos created with OpenAI technology will be made available for viewing on Disney+, representing a first for fan-created AI content on a major streaming platform. Additionally, Disney confirmed that OpenAI tools, including ChatGPT, will be adopted internally by employees.
The agreement highlights Disney’s strategy to combine cutting-edge technology with its globally recognized intellectual property at a time when major studios are exploring new ways to remain competitive. The investment further strengthens OpenAI’s role as a strategic partner for the global creative industry and accelerates the shift toward new forms of digital storytelling.
Photo: MSN
