Disney Invests $1 Billion in OpenAI, Licenses 200+ Characters for Sora and ChatGPT Videos

Overview

• The companies announced the deal but said it remains subject to a definitive agreement and approval by OpenAI’s board.
• Users will be able to generate short videos featuring characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars on Sora and ChatGPT, with a selection eligible to appear on Disney+.
• Disney will adopt OpenAI’s APIs and deploy ChatGPT for employees as it becomes a significant customer alongside its investment and option to buy additional shares.
• The license excludes actors’ voices and likenesses and includes safety policies, such as age-appropriate controls, bans on sex, drugs and alcohol, and limits on cross-company character interactions.
• Some terms are reported rather than confirmed, including a prohibition on using Disney IP to train models and a first-year exclusivity for OpenAI reported by the Financial Times.