OpenAI Signs Licensing Deal with Disney to Bring Iconic Characters to Sora Video App
OpenAI has signed its first major licensing deal with Walt Disney to incorporate Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars characters into the Sora video generation tool. This three-year agreement enables Sora users to generate and share videos featuring more than 200 characters, including Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, and Luke Skywalker.
The deal is part of a $1 billion Disney investment in OpenAI and includes plans to roll out ChatGPT to Disney staff, as well as expanding AI capabilities within the company. Additionally, some user-generated videos made with Sora will be available on the Disney+ streaming service.
As part of the agreement, Disney will hold an equity stake in OpenAI, providing governance to ensure the characters are used in a controlled and responsible manner. Both OpenAI and Disney have framed the collaboration as a commitment to advancing responsible AI and protecting creators' rights amid widespread concerns about copyright, misinformation, and the misuse of AI technology.
The partnership highlights a shared dedication to extending storytelling through generative AI while safeguarding the works and interests of creators.
