Disney’s research division has just announced a new partnership to leverage AI technology developed by Google DeepMind and tech giant NVIDIA in its theme park robotics program. 

Called Newton, this new open-source physics engine will make it possible for Disney’s robots to handle complex tasks like grasping and moving objects with greater precision. NVIDIA unveiled its GROOT N1 framework software for humanoid robots yesterday at a GTC conference keynote, where a BDX droid from Star Wars named Blue joined CEO Jensen Huang on stage. 

Disney Imagineering’s research and development SVP Kyle Laughlin says the BDX droids are just the beginning of this partnership, which will see Disney create a new generation of expressive and interactive robots that can roam freely around its theme parks and liaise directly with guests. The Newton engine will also play a key role in helping Disney’s Imagineering team teach robots to replicate unique character movements from its films. The BDX droids will make an appearance in the upcoming Star Wars film The Mandalorian & Grogu before joining Walt Disney World’s roster of park characters later this year. 

In addition to this robotics partnership, Disney invested US$1.5 billion in Epic Games a year ago to expand the reach of its IPs in video games, and it also continues to run an annual Disney Accelerator program to uncover new emerging technologies.