Disney Inks Blockbuster OpenAI Deal to Bring More Than 200 Characters to Sora Video Platform, Invests $1 Billion in AI Company

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• Michigan: How to Watch the College Football Rivalry Game Live Online Without Cable for Free Disney said the agreement does not include any talent likenesses or voices.
• Popular on Variety Among the characters fans will be able to use in their AI-generated creations are Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Lilo, Stitch, Ariel, Belle, Beast, Cinderella, Baymax, Simba and Mufasa, as well as characters from the worlds of “Encanto,” “Frozen,” “Inside Out,” “Moana,” “Monsters Inc.,” “Toy Story,” “Up” and “Zootopia.” Also included under the pact are animated and illustrated versions of Marvel and Lucasfilm characters like Black Panther, Captain America, Deadpool, Groot, Iron Man, Loki, Thor, Thanos, Darth Vader, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Leia, the Mandalorian, Stormtroopers and Yoda. Alongside the licensing agreement, Disney will become a major customer of OpenAI, using its APIs to build new products, tools, and experiences, including for Disney+, and deploying ChatGPT for its employees.
• As part of the agreement, Disney will make a $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI, and receive warrants to purchase additional equity.
• Under the agreement, Disney and OpenAI are “affirming a shared commitment to the responsible use of AI that protects user safety and the rights of creators.” “Together, the companies will advance human-centered AI that respects the creative industries and expands what is possible for storytelling,” Disney and OpenAI said. The transaction is subject to the negotiation of definitive agreements, required corporate and board approvals, and customary closing conditions.“Technological innovation has continually shaped the evolution of entertainment, bringing with it new ways to create and share great stories with the world,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said in a statement.