Walt Disney Studios has appointed Accenture Interactive as a founding member and innovation partner of its StudioLAB.
StudioLAB is an initiative dedicated to reimagining and designing new entertainment experiences and production capabilities using innovative technologies.
Accenture Interactive and its design and innovation unit, Fjord, will help to establish StudioLAB, as well as define and develop cutting-edge entertainment technology. They will also assist Walt Disney Studios in applying emerging technologies in innovative ways.
The initial focus of StudioLAB will be on immersive entertainment, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, the future of film production and next-generation cinematic platforms.
Baiju Shah, chief strategist for Accenture Interactive, said: “Accenture is uniquely positioned to bring together the full set of diverse skills – from strategy, design and technology innovation, across emerging technologies like immersive entertainment, artificial intelligence, and IoT — needed to run a first-class innovation lab and deliver the next generation of entertainment experiences.”
In additional to collaboration on research and development, Accenture will also support the operational functions of StudioLab as part of a three-year deal. Accenture will be responsible for co-crafting the charter and governance, physical lab design and business operations.
Jamie Voris, chief technology officer of Walt Disney Studios, said that Accenture was chosen due to its design and innovation capabilities as a digital agency as well as its research and development department in Accenture Labs.
“Technology is an essential component of how we make characters, stories and worlds come alive at Disney, and we’re looking forward to the possibilities of what we can imagine and build together,” he added.
Walt Disney Studios produces feature films from Disney and includes Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, Marvel Studios, and Lucasfilm. It also brings music and stage plays to consumers via The Disney Music Group and Disney Theatrical Group.
