An OpenAI and Disney deal is creating a blueprint for IP licensing in the AI era through a $1 billion investment and carefully structured agreement. The three-year partnership grants Sora character access while establishing licensing frameworks that could guide future AI content deals.
Disney announced Thursday that the partnership allows Sora users to create short social videos featuring beloved characters through text-based prompts. These AI-generated videos can be shared and viewed by fans, with the agreement’s structure—including character rights, talent protections, and defined scope—potentially becoming a template for how entertainment companies license intellectual property to AI platforms. The terms specifically exclude any use of talent likenesses or voices.
The collaboration extends throughout Disney’s operations. The entertainment company will deploy OpenAI’s tools for new product development and experiences, while implementing ChatGPT for employee productivity. This comprehensive partnership demonstrates how IP licensing can be structured to enable AI innovation while maintaining protective boundaries.
Bob Iger, Disney’s chief executive officer, framed the collaboration as marking a critical moment for the entertainment sector. He stressed that Disney would approach generative AI thoughtfully and responsibly, ensuring the technology extends the company’s storytelling capabilities while protecting creators and their contributions. This structured licensing approach could define how entertainment IP is licensed to AI platforms.
Hollywood has generally resisted AI companies, concerned about data usage and union relations. OpenAI has engaged with several major studios about Sora’s potential, but Disney’s structured licensing framework provides a workable model. The updated Sora platform, launched in September with invitation-only access, allows users to generate videos from text prompts, explore content from other users, and create realistic AI avatars with user-granted permissions.