Your Jaw Will DROP When You See Disney's BRAND-NEW Robot Technology

Ever wanted to step into the world of Zootopia? Seeing all the colorful architecture and fun characters that reside in the city, we’ve totally daydreamed about going there. Well, good news — we can! Shanghai Disney Resort just opened a brand-new Zootopia land, and it is INCREDIBLE!

©Disney

The park expansion opened on December 20th, 2023, and there are so many fun new things to see and do inside. Of course, there’s a new attraction called Zootopia: Hot Pursuit, which features a trackless ride system and some interesting Imagineering technology. There are some wild new treats, a “one-of-a-kind atmosphere show,” a merchandise location, and more. Disney really made sure to immerse its guests fully into the world of Zootopia! Speaking of — wait until you see the SURPRISE that Disney just debuted during the land’s grand opening ceremony.

OK, first, let’s jump back in time. At the South By Southwest (SXSW) conference earlier this year, Walt Disney Imagineering Research & Development (R&D) and Disney Research showed off some mind-boggling new technology. At the event, Imagineers unveiled a robotic character on SKATES that could move freely and even do tricks, like a somersault. Well, that untethered, dynamic robotic technology is more than just an idea these days — it’s really coming to life!

©Disney

During Disney’s grand opening event for the new Zootopia land at Shanghai Disney Resort, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro was interrupted by a SPECIAL guest. It’s Duke Weaselton, the weaselly character from Zootopia with a name awfully similar to Duke of Weselton from Frozen. (The Zootopia movie is full of Easter eggs and Disney references!) Duke demonstrated the next iteration of Disney’s robotic technology by gliding on stage and swinging up to greet D’Amaro.

©Disney

Duke rolled across the stage, pushing a purple kiosk (which was also a robotic figure!), swung on top of the kiosk, and introduced himself to Josh. Disney shared that Imagineers created several dynamic maneuvers for its new robot and even designed some super animated faces so that Duke could move and speak like a real character. Now THAT is impressive!

@disneyparks

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♬ original sound – Disney Parks

Disney hasn’t shared any additional details on where we could see this technology going forward, but we can’t wait to learn more! Duke’s fluid movements are SO cool to see — the possibilities with this kind of tech are endless.

©Disney

We are in total AWE of Disney’s new Zootopia land — who’s ready to book a trip just to go see Duke in person?! In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more.

Click here to learn about MORE new Disney technology we could see in the future!

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