Disney is unveiling some brand new robots that look like they walked straight out of a sci-fi film. Instead, you can check them out at Galaxy’s Edge.
First unveiled at the International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems in Detroit in early October, these robots are as state-of-the-art as possible. They can walk on their own (even if it looks more like a waddle) and react to their surroundings as well as commands. Made with 3D printers and inspired by the spark of animation, these robots are a huge step forward for Disney.
Speaking to IEEE Spectrum, Disney research scientist Morgan Pope said, “Most roboticists are focused on getting their bipedal robots to reliably walk. At Disney, that might not be enough—our robots may have to strut, prance, sneak, trot, or meander to convey the emotion that we need them to.”
Now, the robots have made their debut with videos from Disney's accounts, showing a trio of them traveling around Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland.
New visitors were spotted in Batuu! 🤖 Disney Imagineers hosted a 1-day playtest at @Disneyland with these droids in training, and we can’t wait to see where this exploration might go! 💫#StarWarsGalaxysEdge #StarWars pic.twitter.com/BTVBfk0qAy
— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) October 13, 2023
The robots look both adorable and amazing in how well they operate with some voice commands but still seem more realistic than any of the AA droids around. Walt Disney Imagineering also shared a video on the development of the robots and their amazing new technology.
This is simply amazing as a breakthrough for Disney Imagineering and how a trip to Galaxy’s Edge feels more out of this world than before.