Introduction to OpenAI and Disney Partnership
OpenAI has signed its first major licensing deal to bring popular characters to life with its video generation tool Sora. The company said the agreement with Walt Disney is part of an initiative to ensure creators’ rights in the generative artificial intelligence (AI) space amid growing concerns about copyright, fakes, and misinformation.
The $1 Billion Investment
It’s part of a $1 billion investment by Disney in OpenAI that will see the entertainment company introduce ChatGPT to its employees and expand its AI capabilities. The initial three-year licensing agreement allows Sora users to create and share videos based on more than 200 Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars characters. These include Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, and Luke Skywalker.
How Sora Works
Sora allows users to quickly create realistic clips based solely on text input. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we create and interact with digital content. With Sora, users can bring their favorite characters to life in a variety of scenarios, from simple animations to complex stories.
Responsible Use of AI
Disney and OpenAI said they are committed to using AI responsibly, even as critics responded to widespread misuse of generative AI in the social media space – a practice known as "AI slop." Some have depicted fake celebrity news and even used dead people. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, said: “This agreement shows how AI companies and creative leaders can responsibly work together to promote innovation that benefits society, respect the importance of creativity, and help works reach large new audiences.”
Benefits of the Partnership
His counterpart at Disney, Bob Iger, added that the partnership would "expand the reach of our storytelling through generative AI while respecting and protecting creators and their works." As part of the agreement, some user-generated Sora videos will be made available on the Disney+ streaming service. This partnership is a win-win for both Disney and OpenAI, as it allows Disney to leverage its popular brands in the world of AI while maintaining control of the intellectual property.
Impact on the Industry
Dan Coatsworth, market director at AJ Bell, said of the merger: "It’s a win-win for Disney and OpenAI. Disney can leverage its popular brands in the world of AI while maintaining control of the intellectual property." Fans can use Disney characters to create videos and take social media content to another level. This could drive significant traffic to OpenAI’s Sora social media platform and turn a relatively unknown company into a household name in an instant. The partnership is a significant advance for the concept of fanfiction, as it allows fans to create and share their own stories using beloved characters.
