In the latest episode of the We Call It Imagineering YouTube series, Walt Disney Imagineering has introduced the next generation of Audio-Animatronics. Disney says that the future of Audio-Animatronics includes things like real-time front projection faces and streamlined mechanical design. Disney even lists some characters that would benefit from this technology – perhaps even teasing a look at what could be on the way for Villains Land.
Next Generation of Audio-Animatronics: Real-Time Front Projected Faces
Building on Walt Disney’s legacy, the next generation of Audio-Animatronic technology combines real-time front projection mapping with streamlined mechanical design to enable greater depth, emotion, and expressiveness in the figures. Actions previously not possible like crying or blushing are now emotions in Disney’s storytelling toolkit and allow for a whole new level of immersive emotional connection for guests.
The improvement in Audio-Animatronics technology also lets Imagineers bring beloved characters from the screens to Disney parks faster and more accurately than before. Disney says that it’s especially transformative for characters who have traditionally challenging features to create. Disney lists characters such as Mike Wazowski, Lightning McQueen, and even Hades. Could this be a tease of what to expect from upcoming projects such as Monstropolis at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Piston Peak National Park in Magic Kingdom, or even Villains Land? We’ll have to wait and see!
For everything we know about the upcoming Villains Land at Magic Kingdom, check out our dedicated Villains Land page below!
For everything we know about the Cars-themed expansion to Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland, check out our dedicated project page below!
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!